Thanks to NetGalley and Random House for this free digital copy in exchange for an honest review. This book is out now! 🙂
I think many of us can agree that especially in the last few years, books have provided even more of an escape than usual. Since the pandemic, I have been seeking out fewer “dramatic” novels and instead have thrown myself into sweet romances and cozy mysteries (a different kind of drama). This all brings me to today’s book: When in Rome by Sarah Adams. If you’re feeling in need of a low-key, low-stress romcom “escape” story, this one is for you!
When in Rome was just adorable. Stressed-out pop stars falls for small-town pie baker? Sign me up. I loved Amelia and Noah and how cute they were together. The grumpy/sunshine trope comes through in a big way and I’m a sucker for it. Also, as a huge Audrey Hepburn fan, I love how Amelia turned to Audrey in times of turmoil and even channeled her style. I too have often turned to Hepburn’s films–Sabrina and My Fair Lady in particular–when I have needed comfort and escape.
While at times the writing fell kind of flat for me, I kept reading because I was so invested in these characters and their love story. More and more, I am finding that I LOVE a dual POV in a romance story and this was no exception. Amelia and Noah both worked through a lot in order to come together and I found it all very heart-warming. Plus! The side characters! I was SUCH a fan of them and can’t wait to see more of them in upcoming books.
Steam: open-door scenes but not detailed. Satisfying, but mild.
I’m so looking forward to checking out Adams’s backlist, because I have heard good things about other books of hers as well!
Tell me in the comments or DM on IG (@bookish.bird): What is your favorite “escape read” genre?
The Bookish Bird 