This was such a pleasant surprise for me. My first experience with this author did not go well. I tried The Friend Zone and ended up DNFing it because it simply was not for me. I honestly thought this author might not be a match for my reading tastes. But several readers suggested skipping her first trilogy and trying her second series, which begins with Part of Your World. I decided to give her another chance, and I am really glad I did because I truly enjoyed this story.

There is quite a bit of strong language along with crude humor, open-door spicy scenes that felt like a two pepper level, and some elements that lean a little too woke for my personal taste. Those things are not what I like in my books, but I was able to set them aside and still have a good time with the story. Sensitive readers should check content warnings since this book includes emotional and mental abuse as well as domestic and physical abuse.

I listened to the audiobook and absolutely loved the performance. Julia Whelan is one of my favorite narrators, and she delivered again. The dual POV format works beautifully with both a male and female narrator, and they made the characters feel genuine and vivid.

At first, I thought I would struggle with the main character, Alexis. She is not very likable in the beginning, and her friend group felt shallow to me. They talk about relationships and intimacy in a way that does not feel appealing. Alexis is almost a decade older than Daniel, yet she behaves younger in many ways, which became frustrating. She makes selfish choices and puts far too much pressure on herself to please her parents. What I did enjoy was watching her grow. She transforms from a judgmental city girl who cannot cook, clean, or function outside her bubble into someone far more grounded and capable.

Daniel completely won my heart. He is the sweetest cinnamon roll-type of hero. Thoughtful, kind, gentle, attentive, and quietly confident. He has a baby goat that wears pajamas and a loyal hunting dog, and they are both adorable. Every scene with him added warmth to the story.

The romance is so sweet and filled with charm. It starts with a spark that might feel close to insta-love, but it quickly deepens into something meaningful. This book gives the impression of a light romantic comedy, and while it certainly has plenty of sweetness and humor, it also carries emotional weight. The story handles difficult subjects in an honest and heartfelt way. I appreciated that the relationship did not stay stuck in surface-level attraction but grew into something sincere and supportive.

If you enjoy small-town cozy romances, an age gap, a big city girl falling for a handsome country guy, Schitts Creek-style charm, a baby goat in pajamas, and a blend of humor and tenderness, this is a wonderful choice. I gave it four stars and look forward to continuing the series. Definitely recommend!