Stone has basically known Arianna for her whole life. She was always his best friend Alex's annoying little sister... until she wasn't. When he noticed her all grown up and gorgeous, he couldn't act on it. Not only was she his friend's sister, she was also eleven years younger than him. He was certain it was wrong, but he couldn't help the attraction.
There was so much depth to the characters. I learned about their backstories, what they'd dealt with while growing up... Each had been through a lot, though their experiences were completely different. And while they'd known each other forever, neither was aware of what the other had lived through. I was so happy to see them opening up and getting to really know each other.
There were some dangers and difficulties that they went through that had me on the edge of my seat, lest you think it was all just banter and shmexy times. They dealt with a villain, weather, and dangerous conditions, and it was unclear how they'd come out on the other side.
This author has a straight line to my attention and to my heart. I didn't think I could like anyone more than Luca, and boy, was I wrong. Stone! I get the draw, Arianna, I really do. The grump is bejeweled, knows what he's doing, and is a fantastic dirty talker... The tension between them from the very beginning is delicious and enticing, and left me waiting and wondering when they'd finally give in and get together. And when they did - - - I was not disappointed!
The relationship between the two of them, once they get out of their own ways, is so incredibly sweet and supportive, and I loved watching how they came together.
Arianna's family, as always, is a highlight of the book; I was so happy to see them all again. The close knit Italian family is always there for one another, looking out for each other, and trying to keep their significant others away from Nonna's pinchy fingers, all while running the hotel and trying to raise the next generation of Santos kids. I can't wait to come back and read about Dom and Kate!
Thank you so much to Jennifer J Williams and to The Author Agency for my gifted ARC. I am happy to share my honest and voluntary review.