I LOVED this book!! This was my first time reading anything by this author, and I can confidently say she’s now one of my favorite clean, closed-door romance writers. This story was so deeply relatable that it has earned a spot as one of my all-time favorite romcoms! (There’s no language and no spice.)

Going in, I expected a light, fluffy romance—but what I got was so much more. This book was emotional, raw, and profoundly moving. I connected with Nora in a way I’ve never connected with another book character before. Her struggles, her pain, and her resilience resonated with me on such a deep level that I found myself tearing up multiple times—and by the end, I was full-on sobbing. It was one of the most heartfelt, authentic character journeys I’ve ever read.

And then there’s Duke—what an incredible book boyfriend! I adored him from the very beginning. He’s witty, charming, kind, and genuinely thoughtful. He doesn’t just treat Nora with kindness—he treats her as an equal, never making her feel less than because of their differences in wealth or circumstances. His playful banter with both his friends and Nora was so much fun, providing plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, but he also had such a swoony, tender side that made their dynamic feel even richer.

One of the things I loved most was how safe and comfortable Nora felt with Duke. She didn’t have to guard herself or fear judgment—she could be open about her struggles without feeling inferior. Their relationship wasn’t just built on flirty moments (though those were fantastic!); it was rooted in friendship, trust, and emotional connection. Given Nora’s difficult, unstable upbringing and deep-seated trust issues, Duke’s steady presence in her life was exactly what she needed.

I also have to highlight the exceptional writing. Romcoms can sometimes feel predictable, cheesy, or filled with forced dialogue, but this book broke the mold. It had unexpected twists and turns that kept me fully engaged, and the dialogue was some of the best I’ve ever read in the genre. The conversations between Nora and Duke felt real, natural, witty, and raw in all the right moments. Nothing felt cringy or forced, which made their chemistry even more believable.

This book completely stole my heart! I can’t recommend it enough. If you love romcoms that go beyond being just sweet and funny—ones with true depth, emotional weight, and unforgettable characters—you need to pick this one up. It’s thoughtful and impactful, and it left a lasting impression on me. I can’t wait to read more from this author!

**This book is part of a contemporary romance real-time reaction episode, which you can listen to here.