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The Love Hotel #3
Too Hard to Resist
Welcome to the Love Hotel 🏝️🌞💖 Check in for a hilarious and spicy opposites attract summer romance set in a matchmaking hotel in Italy 🇮🇹 NEW FROM BESTSELLING AUTHOR OLIVIA SPRING Perfect for fans of Abby Jimenez, Meghan Quinn and Sarah Adams!
🏝️ Opposites attract
🏝️ Forbidden romance (staff and hotel guest)
🏝️ Banter to b*nging
🏝️ Forced proximity
🏝️ Grumpy sunshine
🏝️ Matchmaking
🏝️ Spicy !!!!
Sparks Fly…but with the wrong guy?
Sammie Gordon knows of The Love Hotel’s infamous reputation for making happy ever afters a reality. So when she gets her coveted invite to the hotel’s exclusive resort in Italy she’s packed her bags before she’s signed on the dotted line. What could be more perfect than sun, sea, culture and… her perfect match?
Except Sammie doesn’t get the immediate flutters of excitement when she meets her date. He may be perfect on paper, but their connection is more lukewarm than red hot passion! And when he leaves abruptly, Sammie is left alone in paradise. This is a disaster!
But The Love Hotel always goes above and beyond for their guests. And so Love Alchemist Romeo steps into the breach to keep her company on all the planned dates and intimate dinners. In a professional capacity… obviously! When sparks fly instantly, Romeo knows he’s in trouble. With a strict no-dating guests rule, Romeo has to try and keep things professional. But like magnets, Sammie and Romeo are drawn to each other. Their chemistry is forbidden and so they must, at all costs resist the temptation to cross the line…
Praise for Olivia
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'ADORE Olivia’s pitch perfect romances - one of the few who can have me swooning over her male characters.' Bestselling author Kristen Bailey
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'I was hooked from the first chapter. An absolute delight!' Bestselling author Laura Carter
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'Through Olivia’s wonderful writing style, I honestly felt as though I was there' Reader Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'Well what can I say apart from this book is a rare gem. It has everything book lovers will adore' Reader Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'Once you get hooked into the story you won’t want to put it down.' Reader Review
🏝️ Opposites attract
🏝️ Forbidden romance (staff and hotel guest)
🏝️ Banter to b*nging
🏝️ Forced proximity
🏝️ Grumpy sunshine
🏝️ Matchmaking
🏝️ Spicy !!!!
Sparks Fly…but with the wrong guy?
Sammie Gordon knows of The Love Hotel’s infamous reputation for making happy ever afters a reality. So when she gets her coveted invite to the hotel’s exclusive resort in Italy she’s packed her bags before she’s signed on the dotted line. What could be more perfect than sun, sea, culture and… her perfect match?
Except Sammie doesn’t get the immediate flutters of excitement when she meets her date. He may be perfect on paper, but their connection is more lukewarm than red hot passion! And when he leaves abruptly, Sammie is left alone in paradise. This is a disaster!
But The Love Hotel always goes above and beyond for their guests. And so Love Alchemist Romeo steps into the breach to keep her company on all the planned dates and intimate dinners. In a professional capacity… obviously! When sparks fly instantly, Romeo knows he’s in trouble. With a strict no-dating guests rule, Romeo has to try and keep things professional. But like magnets, Sammie and Romeo are drawn to each other. Their chemistry is forbidden and so they must, at all costs resist the temptation to cross the line…
Praise for Olivia
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'ADORE Olivia’s pitch perfect romances - one of the few who can have me swooning over her male characters.' Bestselling author Kristen Bailey
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'I was hooked from the first chapter. An absolute delight!' Bestselling author Laura Carter
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'Through Olivia’s wonderful writing style, I honestly felt as though I was there' Reader Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'Well what can I say apart from this book is a rare gem. It has everything book lovers will adore' Reader Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'Once you get hooked into the story you won’t want to put it down.' Reader Review
- GenresChick Lit
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 8, 2025
143 people are currently reading
178 people want to read
About the author
Olivia Spring
28 books169 followersOlivia Spring is the bestselling author of fifteen romantic comedy and women’s fiction books.
Whether you want to fake date a hot Hollywood movie star in London, jet off to Paris with a handsome billionaire, enjoy some sun, sand and sea with a gorgeous Spanish DJ in Marbella or attend a castle wedding in the South of France, Olivia’s books will help you to escape reality and transport you to a dreamy romantic location. No ticket or passport required!
Olivia was born and raised in London and divides her time between the UK and Spain.
When she's not writing new steamy romcoms, Olivia can be found reading on the beach, enjoying cupcakes and cocktails and of course, seeking inspiration for her next book!
For exclusive updates, join the Olivia Spring VIP club at
https://www.oliviaspring.com/
Whether you want to fake date a hot Hollywood movie star in London, jet off to Paris with a handsome billionaire, enjoy some sun, sand and sea with a gorgeous Spanish DJ in Marbella or attend a castle wedding in the South of France, Olivia’s books will help you to escape reality and transport you to a dreamy romantic location. No ticket or passport required!
Olivia was born and raised in London and divides her time between the UK and Spain.
When she's not writing new steamy romcoms, Olivia can be found reading on the beach, enjoying cupcakes and cocktails and of course, seeking inspiration for her next book!
For exclusive updates, join the Olivia Spring VIP club at
https://www.oliviaspring.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
June 13, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for this arc. I really enjoyed this book from start to finish. The idea of the Love Hotel was one I haven’t read before and so I really enjoyed it. I love a good forbidden romance and this one is at the top of my list. Sammie is a very realistic character with how the dating world is. Props to Sammie for not giving up and still making the most 😉 of her trip. Romeo was not how I expected him to be but in a good way. I think all of the characters were really well written and enjoyable to read about. I also feel like the whole book flowed really well and was also easy to follow along with. The spice was the perfect amount of slow burn and yearning which I loved!!! Overall I really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend! I hope I get to read more of Olivia Spring!
June 8, 2025
This is just the summer travel romance I needed right now - a couple with instant chemistry and a love and passion too hard to resist, the beautiful attractions in this Italian coastal town, and friends and family who are supportive and encouraging. This is the third book in The Love Hotel series. It can be read as a standalone but I enjoyed the other book I read in this series so you might want to read the whole series. Thank you to Olivia Spring, Boldwood Books and Love Books Tours for the opportunity to read this book early.
July 10, 2025
If you want to read this book, just read the second one because they’re exactly the same, the sex is even more boring and the main character IS SO FUCKING ANNOYING. Honestly it’s unrealistic that she pulls him. I would say this a do not bother situation.
May 7, 2025
she knew exactly what she was doing when she said:
“let’s throw a hopeless romantic in a hot italian hotel and make her fall in love with the one man she literally cannot touch.”
let’s set the scene:
you’re in italy. you’re in a love hotel. your “perfect match” dips on you. and the only man around to take you on your romantic itinerary full of wine tastings and boat rides? the staff member (love alchemist) assigned to you. aka: romeo. aka: mr. grumpy italian dreamboat.
trope rundown:
• forbidden romance (staff x hotel guest)
• opposites attract (grumpy x sunshine)
• fake dating energy but not really
• forced proximity
• matchmaking but make it ✨cursed✨
now the facts:
1. romeo & sammie had chemistry. like, real chemistry. their banter? banging. like i’d watch them flirt in a reality show kind of way. romeo is moody, sarcastic, and hot. sammie’s a certified lover girl who keeps getting her heart stomped on by men with the emotional range of a teaspoon. they balance each other out like gelato and heartbreak.
“they always leave me.”
girl. same. same. same. sammie speaks for the broken-hearted and slightly delulu.
2. the concept eats. a matchmaking hotel in italy? i’m eating that up like tiramisu. it’s giving love island x hallmark x open door romance. i was ✨invested✨.
3. the writing? light + breezy. you can read this with two brain cells and a matcha latte. and that’s a compliment. the chapters are short (bless up), the pacing is solid, and it doesn’t pretend to be deeper than it is. it’s just a sweet lil getaway read. like a vacation romance you pretend didn’t mean anything until you start crying on the plane home.
4. what didn’t work? ok let’s be real. the forbidden romance tension was basically… nonexistent. like y’all keep saying “we shouldn’t” but then proceed to do it anyway with zero inner turmoil. where’s the angst?? the slow burn? the pining? give me some emotional damage!!
and yeah, some of the dialogue had me side-eyeing my kindle. romeo would switch to italian mid-spice scene and i’d be like… pls. not now. it got corny. but not enough to ruin the vibe?
⸻
final thoughts:
this book isn’t revolutionary. it’s not gonna leave you wrecked and sobbing on the bathroom floor. but it will make you smile. it’ll make you blush. it’s sweet, flirty, and hella readable. like a fizzy prosecco on a hot day — not deep, but hits the spot.
very cute. very fun. very 3.75 stars.
romeo, call me.
*thank you netgalley, the author, and the publishing team for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
“let’s throw a hopeless romantic in a hot italian hotel and make her fall in love with the one man she literally cannot touch.”
let’s set the scene:
you’re in italy. you’re in a love hotel. your “perfect match” dips on you. and the only man around to take you on your romantic itinerary full of wine tastings and boat rides? the staff member (love alchemist) assigned to you. aka: romeo. aka: mr. grumpy italian dreamboat.
trope rundown:
• forbidden romance (staff x hotel guest)
• opposites attract (grumpy x sunshine)
• fake dating energy but not really
• forced proximity
• matchmaking but make it ✨cursed✨
now the facts:
1. romeo & sammie had chemistry. like, real chemistry. their banter? banging. like i’d watch them flirt in a reality show kind of way. romeo is moody, sarcastic, and hot. sammie’s a certified lover girl who keeps getting her heart stomped on by men with the emotional range of a teaspoon. they balance each other out like gelato and heartbreak.
“they always leave me.”
girl. same. same. same. sammie speaks for the broken-hearted and slightly delulu.
2. the concept eats. a matchmaking hotel in italy? i’m eating that up like tiramisu. it’s giving love island x hallmark x open door romance. i was ✨invested✨.
3. the writing? light + breezy. you can read this with two brain cells and a matcha latte. and that’s a compliment. the chapters are short (bless up), the pacing is solid, and it doesn’t pretend to be deeper than it is. it’s just a sweet lil getaway read. like a vacation romance you pretend didn’t mean anything until you start crying on the plane home.
4. what didn’t work? ok let’s be real. the forbidden romance tension was basically… nonexistent. like y’all keep saying “we shouldn’t” but then proceed to do it anyway with zero inner turmoil. where’s the angst?? the slow burn? the pining? give me some emotional damage!!
and yeah, some of the dialogue had me side-eyeing my kindle. romeo would switch to italian mid-spice scene and i’d be like… pls. not now. it got corny. but not enough to ruin the vibe?
⸻
final thoughts:
this book isn’t revolutionary. it’s not gonna leave you wrecked and sobbing on the bathroom floor. but it will make you smile. it’ll make you blush. it’s sweet, flirty, and hella readable. like a fizzy prosecco on a hot day — not deep, but hits the spot.
very cute. very fun. very 3.75 stars.
romeo, call me.
*thank you netgalley, the author, and the publishing team for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2025
This is the second book in The Love Hotel series and I hadn't realised, so have not read the first book yet.
This actually didn't really impact my reading of this book as we mainly follow Sammie and Romeo's story here.
There is some mention of the other characters and I'm assuming that they will form the focus of the other books - so some slight spoilers I guess - but with this genre, I think the outcomes are pretty much a given anyway.
I loved the concept of this one and it really gave me Love Island / First Dates / MAFS vibes.
Sammie is having no luck when it comes to men until she finds out that she's got a place at the Love Hotel, where she'll be matched up with her perfect man and they'll have 2 weeks together to fall in love.
Sammie heads off to the glorious Italian Love Hotel and I was so looking forward to escaping to the sunshine along with her for some fun.
I won't say too much more about the plot but chaos ensues and things don't quite go as planned - but will there still be a happy ending for Sammie?
This was a pretty standard summer romance read and it was fairly obvious how things would play out - I worked out most of the plot within the first quarter of the book - but this still had potential to be a great read.
I loved this first quarter and found myself really connecting with the characters and even had a few laughs out loud moments - yep, I was in public too!
However, I do feel like after this, it fell a little flat for me.
The spicy scenes seemed quite clunky or forced, with little build up of the atmosphere and the characters behaviours didn't seem consistent throughout.
I also wish that more had been made of the wonderful setting.
We head off to some of the most beautiful and romantic areas, but there was little scene setting or descriptive writing during the outings and the story was very much more dialogue based.
Still, I really enjoyed the concept and this was overall a good read.
I feel like you all know me well enough - and know that I'll still most likely grab the rest of the series, just to see how the other characters get on!
Watch this space.....
This actually didn't really impact my reading of this book as we mainly follow Sammie and Romeo's story here.
There is some mention of the other characters and I'm assuming that they will form the focus of the other books - so some slight spoilers I guess - but with this genre, I think the outcomes are pretty much a given anyway.
I loved the concept of this one and it really gave me Love Island / First Dates / MAFS vibes.
Sammie is having no luck when it comes to men until she finds out that she's got a place at the Love Hotel, where she'll be matched up with her perfect man and they'll have 2 weeks together to fall in love.
Sammie heads off to the glorious Italian Love Hotel and I was so looking forward to escaping to the sunshine along with her for some fun.
I won't say too much more about the plot but chaos ensues and things don't quite go as planned - but will there still be a happy ending for Sammie?
This was a pretty standard summer romance read and it was fairly obvious how things would play out - I worked out most of the plot within the first quarter of the book - but this still had potential to be a great read.
I loved this first quarter and found myself really connecting with the characters and even had a few laughs out loud moments - yep, I was in public too!
However, I do feel like after this, it fell a little flat for me.
The spicy scenes seemed quite clunky or forced, with little build up of the atmosphere and the characters behaviours didn't seem consistent throughout.
I also wish that more had been made of the wonderful setting.
We head off to some of the most beautiful and romantic areas, but there was little scene setting or descriptive writing during the outings and the story was very much more dialogue based.
Still, I really enjoyed the concept and this was overall a good read.
I feel like you all know me well enough - and know that I'll still most likely grab the rest of the series, just to see how the other characters get on!
Watch this space.....
May 8, 2025
This is actually book number three from ‘The Love Hotel’ series but can very easily be read as a stand alone although it does contain some recurring characters and continuing storylines too. To be quite honest all these books are so good you just need to read them all!!
Right from the very beginning I was pulled into this amazing story and it held my attention all of the way through until I had turned the last page and very easily devoured it all!
The main setting for this book is Puglia, Italy and through Olivia’s wonderful, descriptive writing it was very easy to imagine what all the places looked like.
As always with Olivia’s main characters I soon fell in love with both Romeo and Sammie. The chemistry between them both sizzled and oh the banter they shared was absolutely hilarious and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Also, the humour in this book is extremely top notch and it definitely had me laughing out loud in many places throughout the story!
I love the little cameo mentions of some of the previous characters and having a little catch-up of their lives too. There were also a few extra side characters who I really enjoyed getting to know and maybe I would like a continuation of their story at some point…
There were lots of romantic and swoonworthy parts and mixed with the humour this made for the most perfect rom com story.
All-in-all this book was all kinds of perfect and was everything that I could wish for from a rom-com. There was romance, hilarity, forbidden love, an all important happy-ever-after and of course a liberal sprinkling of spiciness too - amazing!
Right from the very beginning I was pulled into this amazing story and it held my attention all of the way through until I had turned the last page and very easily devoured it all!
The main setting for this book is Puglia, Italy and through Olivia’s wonderful, descriptive writing it was very easy to imagine what all the places looked like.
As always with Olivia’s main characters I soon fell in love with both Romeo and Sammie. The chemistry between them both sizzled and oh the banter they shared was absolutely hilarious and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Also, the humour in this book is extremely top notch and it definitely had me laughing out loud in many places throughout the story!
I love the little cameo mentions of some of the previous characters and having a little catch-up of their lives too. There were also a few extra side characters who I really enjoyed getting to know and maybe I would like a continuation of their story at some point…
There were lots of romantic and swoonworthy parts and mixed with the humour this made for the most perfect rom com story.
All-in-all this book was all kinds of perfect and was everything that I could wish for from a rom-com. There was romance, hilarity, forbidden love, an all important happy-ever-after and of course a liberal sprinkling of spiciness too - amazing!
May 10, 2025
I took a chance starting The Love Hotel series with book three, but it turned out to be a great decision! Even though there are connections to the previous books, this one stands on its own, so I never felt lost.
The concept had me hooked right away—a love hotel that finds your perfect match? Yes, please! This book has so many great romance elements: forbidden love, forced proximity, witty laugh-out-loud banter, and matchmaking gone wrong. Oh, and the setting? Puglia, Italy—an absolute dream. Olivia managed to make me feel like I was right there alongside them!
Sammie and Romeo’s chemistry was undeniable. Every interaction made me fall in love with them more, and I couldn’t help but root for them. It was impossible not to devour this book as quickly as I could!
By the time I finished, I knew one thing—I’ll definitely be reading more Olivia Spring books!
The concept had me hooked right away—a love hotel that finds your perfect match? Yes, please! This book has so many great romance elements: forbidden love, forced proximity, witty laugh-out-loud banter, and matchmaking gone wrong. Oh, and the setting? Puglia, Italy—an absolute dream. Olivia managed to make me feel like I was right there alongside them!
Sammie and Romeo’s chemistry was undeniable. Every interaction made me fall in love with them more, and I couldn’t help but root for them. It was impossible not to devour this book as quickly as I could!
By the time I finished, I knew one thing—I’ll definitely be reading more Olivia Spring books!
June 9, 2025
I loved this book. I thought the story was excellent and fun to read. It's very educational. I've learned a few Italian swear words!!!!
The cover is cute. The colours are so light and sunny. It's beautifully designed!
The book is very well written and flows nicely. The descriptions are stunning. Puglia sounds gorgeous. All the other places Sammie visited sound just beautiful. Wonderful job, Olivia!
The characters are fun. They all fit in well. Sammie is fun, sweet and kind. Edward didn't deserve her. He gave me the ick as did Ronald. Romeo. What can I say? Dreamy Italian man. What's not to love. He's definitely getting added to the book boyfriend ranks!!!
The writing for the genre is on point. It does get very spicy. Blushes are not spared with this one!! You may even swoon over Romeo!
I definitely recommend this. It's definitely suitable as a standalone
The cover is cute. The colours are so light and sunny. It's beautifully designed!
The book is very well written and flows nicely. The descriptions are stunning. Puglia sounds gorgeous. All the other places Sammie visited sound just beautiful. Wonderful job, Olivia!
The characters are fun. They all fit in well. Sammie is fun, sweet and kind. Edward didn't deserve her. He gave me the ick as did Ronald. Romeo. What can I say? Dreamy Italian man. What's not to love. He's definitely getting added to the book boyfriend ranks!!!
The writing for the genre is on point. It does get very spicy. Blushes are not spared with this one!! You may even swoon over Romeo!
I definitely recommend this. It's definitely suitable as a standalone
June 18, 2025
This book was pure sunshine and spice. Set along the Italian coast, it follows Sammie as she shakes off the past and finds herself tangled up with Romeo, a walking fantasy in the form of a local dreamboat. Their chemistry is immediate and delicious, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments and a few blush-worthy scenes that definitely deliver on the heat.
Even though it’s the third in The Love Hotel series, it works perfectly on its own. The concept is fun, the banter is sharp, and the setting is described so vividly you’ll feel like you’re sipping wine in Puglia right alongside them.
Sammie is easy to love, and Romeo earns his spot on the book boyfriend list without even trying. The writing is light, flirty, and full of charm. If you’re looking for a feel-good summer romance that’s equal parts steamy and sweet, this one should be on your list.
Even though it’s the third in The Love Hotel series, it works perfectly on its own. The concept is fun, the banter is sharp, and the setting is described so vividly you’ll feel like you’re sipping wine in Puglia right alongside them.
Sammie is easy to love, and Romeo earns his spot on the book boyfriend list without even trying. The writing is light, flirty, and full of charm. If you’re looking for a feel-good summer romance that’s equal parts steamy and sweet, this one should be on your list.
June 8, 2025
Received this book from Netgally
I loved this book, I’d not read the previous books in the series but will be adding them to my kindle soon.
Sammie and Edward are matched to find love hopefully with each other but he then disappears back to London with no one able to contact after.
Romeo works at the hotel as someone to help the matches on their journey to find love. Sammie and Romeo have to hang out so that Sammie isn’t on her own on trips
As news comes to light about Edward and why he disappeared Romeo and Sammie get closer but what will happen if someone finds out what’s happening between them….and what happens when they go back to their normal lives…
I loved this book, I’d not read the previous books in the series but will be adding them to my kindle soon.
Sammie and Edward are matched to find love hopefully with each other but he then disappears back to London with no one able to contact after.
Romeo works at the hotel as someone to help the matches on their journey to find love. Sammie and Romeo have to hang out so that Sammie isn’t on her own on trips
As news comes to light about Edward and why he disappeared Romeo and Sammie get closer but what will happen if someone finds out what’s happening between them….and what happens when they go back to their normal lives…
August 4, 2025
Full of cheeky charm and irresistible moments, an interesting read 🌸
November 10, 2025
I do love this series and this one was another great read. Sammie and Romeo's story was a fun read their chemistry and banter were jumping off the page.
June 18, 2025
3.5 Stars rounded up.
This is book 3 of the Love Hotel series and the second one I have read. For the most part, they can be read as stand alones. This one follows Romeo and Sammie. Sammie was picked to go to the Love Hotel to meet her Love match. When she gets there, she is matched with Mr. Douche canoe himself (I forgot his name). He was super judgmental and based everything on her looks without even getting to know her. He would make comments about what she ate, get angry with her when she didn't do things right etc. In the end, he ended up leaving and she is left on holiday for 2 weeks without her match. Sammie decides to stay as she paid for her trip and had already taken the time off work. She starts to get close with her Love Alchemist Romeo and he tries to make sure that she has a good holiday. Romeo and Sammie didn't get off on the right foot but as their time together went on, they started to get closer. Due to him working there and it being forbidden that you date the guests, Romeo is walking on thin ice and needs to be careful as he already has a target on his back. The story was good and I enjoyed Sammie's journey. She continued to power through and make the best of her trip even though she watched all the other couples fall in love around her. Overall, this was a quick read and a great summer book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book for my honest review.
This is book 3 of the Love Hotel series and the second one I have read. For the most part, they can be read as stand alones. This one follows Romeo and Sammie. Sammie was picked to go to the Love Hotel to meet her Love match. When she gets there, she is matched with Mr. Douche canoe himself (I forgot his name). He was super judgmental and based everything on her looks without even getting to know her. He would make comments about what she ate, get angry with her when she didn't do things right etc. In the end, he ended up leaving and she is left on holiday for 2 weeks without her match. Sammie decides to stay as she paid for her trip and had already taken the time off work. She starts to get close with her Love Alchemist Romeo and he tries to make sure that she has a good holiday. Romeo and Sammie didn't get off on the right foot but as their time together went on, they started to get closer. Due to him working there and it being forbidden that you date the guests, Romeo is walking on thin ice and needs to be careful as he already has a target on his back. The story was good and I enjoyed Sammie's journey. She continued to power through and make the best of her trip even though she watched all the other couples fall in love around her. Overall, this was a quick read and a great summer book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book for my honest review.
June 10, 2025
If you think a guy like Romeo knows a thing or two about romance, you'd be right. He's got rizz, he's got swagger and he's got an endless supply of pastries, ladies!😍
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
When Sammie Gordon gets the opportunity to vacation at the luxurious Love Hotel and be matched with her soulmate, she's on a plane so fast! The Love Hotel is everything she dreamed of, stunning Italian scenery, delicious food prepared by world-renowned chefs and her dream date. Things go south very quickly when Sammie realizes her match doesn't quite feel like her match and she starts having swoony thoughts about her Love Alchemist, Romeo. Though they try to fight their attraction, forced proximity is very, very hard to resist, and this secret romance does not stay a secret for long! Pick up this book if you like forbidden romance, sexy pottery classes, Italian lessons, sightseeing, and delicious food, all in a romantic Italian setting.
Favourite quote from Samantha:
"I'd been telling myself that it was just sex and I wouldn't catch feelings, but it was too late. Feelings had been caught, big time."
See my full review @mimigunnbooks
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
When Sammie Gordon gets the opportunity to vacation at the luxurious Love Hotel and be matched with her soulmate, she's on a plane so fast! The Love Hotel is everything she dreamed of, stunning Italian scenery, delicious food prepared by world-renowned chefs and her dream date. Things go south very quickly when Sammie realizes her match doesn't quite feel like her match and she starts having swoony thoughts about her Love Alchemist, Romeo. Though they try to fight their attraction, forced proximity is very, very hard to resist, and this secret romance does not stay a secret for long! Pick up this book if you like forbidden romance, sexy pottery classes, Italian lessons, sightseeing, and delicious food, all in a romantic Italian setting.
Favourite quote from Samantha:
"I'd been telling myself that it was just sex and I wouldn't catch feelings, but it was too late. Feelings had been caught, big time."
See my full review @mimigunnbooks
September 14, 2025
This time we are following Sammie and Romeo as they try to stay away from each other as it’s forbidden for Staff and guests to be together . Sparks Fly…but with the wrong guy?
This romcom had me laughing out loud and cringing in embarrassment for the characters. The author's writing is effortless, and loved the banter and all of the characters in this book . Beyond the humor, the story delivers heartwarming moments and swoon-worthy scenes. The perfect blend of spice, romance, and comedy makes this book a must-read for fans of the genre.
If you're looking for a lighthearted, engaging romance with a dash of spice, this book is for you. With its relatable characters, witty dialogue, and heartfelt moments, it's a true page-turner.
I look forward to reading all Olivia’s next Love Hotel story set in California and highly recommend to all spicy romance loving friends.
I requested and received an advance reader’s copy from NetGalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
This romcom had me laughing out loud and cringing in embarrassment for the characters. The author's writing is effortless, and loved the banter and all of the characters in this book . Beyond the humor, the story delivers heartwarming moments and swoon-worthy scenes. The perfect blend of spice, romance, and comedy makes this book a must-read for fans of the genre.
If you're looking for a lighthearted, engaging romance with a dash of spice, this book is for you. With its relatable characters, witty dialogue, and heartfelt moments, it's a true page-turner.
I look forward to reading all Olivia’s next Love Hotel story set in California and highly recommend to all spicy romance loving friends.
I requested and received an advance reader’s copy from NetGalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
May 23, 2025
Hard To Resist had an intriguing plot concept, but the execution fell flat. The plot was predictable, the pacing dragged, and the writing leaned heavily on repetition. The characters felt one-dimensional, often annoying, and lacked the complexity to carry the story forward. While it may appeal to a younger YA audience, more seasoned readers will likely find it underwhelming. Overall, a missed opportunity with a promising premise.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review
June 20, 2025
My Initial Thoughts
I knew I was going to enjoy this, based on the blurb and the cover is beautiful. Straight away this gave Love Island, The Bachelor vibes. I loved Samantha straight away and maybe that was more because of my own name to. Who doesn’t love a character they share a name with. I hated Edward straight away, what a jerk!
Plot
I loved the development of Romeo and Sammie throughout the plot, it was slow but so passionate and romantic. Swoon! It made me want to visit Italy to, everything is written in such details that it was easy to form a picture in my mind eyes. The banter and sarcasm from Sammie and then Romeo.. Especially Mr Bean!
I loved the fact that the writing and story telling had me laughing throughout and what an ending!
Characters
I loved the characters, bar Edward, I don’t admire people that are so judgemental on others looks. Romeo Is such a gentleman and everything he does for his mum and the final chapters with Linda was lovely and if I had a son, I’d be so proud of him. Samie is another great FMC, with her pink in her hair and the amount of banter she uses. She is absolutely the perfect fit for Romeo. I just loved these two MCs.
Recommend
If you’re a fan of love reality shows, then you will enjoy this!
Favourite Quote
“To anyone who has ever dated someone who made you question your worth. You are worthy of love. You are enough.”
Favourite Chapter/s
My favourite chapters 3, 23, 31 and 42.
Summed up in one sentence
The perfect written love reality plot line.
Overall Wrap up
I really enjoyed this and the development of the love for the MCs. The swimming pool scene had me howling with laughter, especially Jasmine’s and Stella’s response. This was a book that brought laughter, cringe moments and lots of romance. One I definitely recommend.
Stars & Spice – 4.5 stars and 3 chilli’s spices.
Book Information – Too Hard To Resist by Olivia Spring.
Genre – Romance.
Pages – 330 pages.
Tropes –
Forbidden romance.
Instant attraction.
Holiday romance.
Opposite attract.
Grumpy x sunshine.
Available on Kindle Unlimited – Yes, this is available on kindle unlimited, as is book 1 of the series.
Available Formats – Available on kindle, audiobook, paperback and hardcover.
Publishing Information – Published on 8th June 2025 by Boldwood Books.
Format in Which I Read – I read this on my kindle.
Where my copy come From – My copy came from Netgallery.
POVs – This is written in dual POV – Sammie and Romeo.
Single/Dual/Multiple Timelines – This is written on a single timeline.
1st, 2nd or 3rd person – This is written in 1st person.
HEA, HFN or Cliff hanger – This ends in a HEA.
Series or Standalone – This is part of an interconnected series, book 2, in The Love Hotel series.
Trigger Warnings – Please check content warnings before reading if necessary and please always remember that your mental health matters.
I knew I was going to enjoy this, based on the blurb and the cover is beautiful. Straight away this gave Love Island, The Bachelor vibes. I loved Samantha straight away and maybe that was more because of my own name to. Who doesn’t love a character they share a name with. I hated Edward straight away, what a jerk!
Plot
I loved the development of Romeo and Sammie throughout the plot, it was slow but so passionate and romantic. Swoon! It made me want to visit Italy to, everything is written in such details that it was easy to form a picture in my mind eyes. The banter and sarcasm from Sammie and then Romeo.. Especially Mr Bean!
I loved the fact that the writing and story telling had me laughing throughout and what an ending!
Characters
I loved the characters, bar Edward, I don’t admire people that are so judgemental on others looks. Romeo Is such a gentleman and everything he does for his mum and the final chapters with Linda was lovely and if I had a son, I’d be so proud of him. Samie is another great FMC, with her pink in her hair and the amount of banter she uses. She is absolutely the perfect fit for Romeo. I just loved these two MCs.
Recommend
If you’re a fan of love reality shows, then you will enjoy this!
Favourite Quote
“To anyone who has ever dated someone who made you question your worth. You are worthy of love. You are enough.”
Favourite Chapter/s
My favourite chapters 3, 23, 31 and 42.
Summed up in one sentence
The perfect written love reality plot line.
Overall Wrap up
I really enjoyed this and the development of the love for the MCs. The swimming pool scene had me howling with laughter, especially Jasmine’s and Stella’s response. This was a book that brought laughter, cringe moments and lots of romance. One I definitely recommend.
Stars & Spice – 4.5 stars and 3 chilli’s spices.
Book Information – Too Hard To Resist by Olivia Spring.
Genre – Romance.
Pages – 330 pages.
Tropes –
Forbidden romance.
Instant attraction.
Holiday romance.
Opposite attract.
Grumpy x sunshine.
Available on Kindle Unlimited – Yes, this is available on kindle unlimited, as is book 1 of the series.
Available Formats – Available on kindle, audiobook, paperback and hardcover.
Publishing Information – Published on 8th June 2025 by Boldwood Books.
Format in Which I Read – I read this on my kindle.
Where my copy come From – My copy came from Netgallery.
POVs – This is written in dual POV – Sammie and Romeo.
Single/Dual/Multiple Timelines – This is written on a single timeline.
1st, 2nd or 3rd person – This is written in 1st person.
HEA, HFN or Cliff hanger – This ends in a HEA.
Series or Standalone – This is part of an interconnected series, book 2, in The Love Hotel series.
Trigger Warnings – Please check content warnings before reading if necessary and please always remember that your mental health matters.
September 10, 2025
Happily After Ever???
The Love Hotel is a luxury matchmaking service where a perfect love match is guaranteed. Sammie Gordon thought she would find her perfect match after years of picking pretty boys and players and the wrong one time after time. Romeo was her Love Alchemist, who worked at the hotel to ensure that matched couples fell in love.
Sammie was matched with Edward. It seems that the Love Hotel delivered exactly what she wanted: he was decent looking, had a good job, wanted to settle down and have children, and even shared her love of swimming. In spite of their matches, she didn't feel anything with Edward.
Romeo knew from the first day that Edward was a jerk and no match for Sammie but his job was to make sure that they fell in love. Edward left the hotel after two days and Romeo was told to keep Sammie happy so the hotel wouldn't get any bad publicity. She was moved to a separate villa, allowed to complete her vacation by completing the dates even though she was alone and would receive a full refund - all in the name of good publicity.
Romeo ended up being with Sammie on the group dates as everyone else had a match and they were getting along extremely well. After the first week, the couples were assigned to individual romantic dates which would have been awkward for Sammie. However, Romeo was told by his boss to make sure that Sammie remained happy, but to be discreet. Of course both Romeo and Sammie felt sparks and were sexually attracted to each other.
There was very little that was believable about this book, especially the crude, graphic sex that Romeo and Sammie engaged in with its vulgar, descriptive language. The book had little that was interesting. Sammie often appeared foolish by saying anything that came up and Romeo was too perfect too be true. The plot was so thin that it was practically non-existent. The book was boringly repetitious. I almost did not finish it but needed it for a 2025 Reading Challenge. The book's premise made you think it would be a very good interracial romance but failed to live up to its promise.
The Love Hotel is a luxury matchmaking service where a perfect love match is guaranteed. Sammie Gordon thought she would find her perfect match after years of picking pretty boys and players and the wrong one time after time. Romeo was her Love Alchemist, who worked at the hotel to ensure that matched couples fell in love.
Sammie was matched with Edward. It seems that the Love Hotel delivered exactly what she wanted: he was decent looking, had a good job, wanted to settle down and have children, and even shared her love of swimming. In spite of their matches, she didn't feel anything with Edward.
Romeo knew from the first day that Edward was a jerk and no match for Sammie but his job was to make sure that they fell in love. Edward left the hotel after two days and Romeo was told to keep Sammie happy so the hotel wouldn't get any bad publicity. She was moved to a separate villa, allowed to complete her vacation by completing the dates even though she was alone and would receive a full refund - all in the name of good publicity.
Romeo ended up being with Sammie on the group dates as everyone else had a match and they were getting along extremely well. After the first week, the couples were assigned to individual romantic dates which would have been awkward for Sammie. However, Romeo was told by his boss to make sure that Sammie remained happy, but to be discreet. Of course both Romeo and Sammie felt sparks and were sexually attracted to each other.
There was very little that was believable about this book, especially the crude, graphic sex that Romeo and Sammie engaged in with its vulgar, descriptive language. The book had little that was interesting. Sammie often appeared foolish by saying anything that came up and Romeo was too perfect too be true. The plot was so thin that it was practically non-existent. The book was boringly repetitious. I almost did not finish it but needed it for a 2025 Reading Challenge. The book's premise made you think it would be a very good interracial romance but failed to live up to its promise.
May 24, 2025
⋆⁺₊⋆☽⋆ 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐨 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞 ⋆☾⋆⁺₊⋆
ꔫ — ∘♡༉∘ — ✩ — ∘༉♡∘ — ꔫ
౨ৎ𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 ♥ 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲౨ৎ
౨ৎ24.05.25౨ৎ
— ∘♡༉∘ — 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 — ∘༉♡∘ —
∘༉♡∘ 𝑆𝑝𝑖𝑐𝑒 ∘༉♡∘
🌶 = minimal/mentioned but not full detail
🌶🌶 = The heat is coming and so are they 😏
🌶🌶🌶 = The spice is spicing and now your squirming
🌶🌶🌶🌶 = Is it hot in here or is it just this book?!
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶= HOLY MOTHER OF GOODNESS this is 🥵
∘༉♡∘ 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐵𝑢𝑟𝑛 ∘༉♡∘ (more fire the faster the burn)
🔥 = SLOW GIRL THIS IS A SLOWWWWW BURN
🔥🔥 = okay things are happening
🔥🔥🔥 = we are in full burn mode BAM its all on fire
∘༉♡∘ 𝑆𝑡𝑎𝑟 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 ∘༉♡∘
✨ = really didnt enjoy
✨✨ = it was okay
✨✨✨ = a mid tier book could be better
✨✨✨✨ = i enjoyed it
✨✨✨✨✨ = i loved it and this will live in my head rent free forever
ꔫ — ∘♡༉∘ — 𝐌𝐲✩𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 — ∘༉♡∘ — ꔫ
🌶🌶
🔥🔥
✨✨✨✨✨
ꔫ — ∘♡༉∘ — ✩ — ∘༉♡∘ — ꔫ
ꔫ — ∘♡༉∘ — 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀✩ — ∘༉♡∘ — ꔫ
🏝️ Opposites attract
🏝️ Forbidden romance (staff and hotel guest)
🏝️ Banter to banging
🏝️ Forced proximity
🏝️ Grumpy sunshine
🏝️ Matchmaking
— ∘♡༉∘ — 𝗔𝗿𝗰 ♥ 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 — ∘༉♡∘ —
Thank you netgalley for this arc
This was such a fun and cute (slightly steamy) 'forbidden' romance.
Sammi signs up to go to the 'love hotel' to find her Mr Right, but when her perfect match on paper doesnt give her the sparks she hopes for and then suddenly leaves her hanging and alone, Sammi gets sparks for the 'wrong' guy... or maybe he was really the right guy all along ;)
To make sure sammi has a good time after the match they chose for her abruptly leaves, Romeo is tasked with making sure she is happy and given whatever she 'wants' to make up for the disaster of her perfect match not working out.
Things start getting a little bit steamy between romeo and sammi, could the mr right the matchmakers chose for her really be her perfect guy?? or would she find her true love herself?
ꔫ — ∘♡༉∘ — ✩ — ∘༉♡∘ — ꔫ
ꔫ — ∘♡༉∘ — ✩ — ∘༉♡∘ — ꔫ
౨ৎ𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 ♥ 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲౨ৎ
౨ৎ24.05.25౨ৎ
— ∘♡༉∘ — 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 — ∘༉♡∘ —
∘༉♡∘ 𝑆𝑝𝑖𝑐𝑒 ∘༉♡∘
🌶 = minimal/mentioned but not full detail
🌶🌶 = The heat is coming and so are they 😏
🌶🌶🌶 = The spice is spicing and now your squirming
🌶🌶🌶🌶 = Is it hot in here or is it just this book?!
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶= HOLY MOTHER OF GOODNESS this is 🥵
∘༉♡∘ 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐵𝑢𝑟𝑛 ∘༉♡∘ (more fire the faster the burn)
🔥 = SLOW GIRL THIS IS A SLOWWWWW BURN
🔥🔥 = okay things are happening
🔥🔥🔥 = we are in full burn mode BAM its all on fire
∘༉♡∘ 𝑆𝑡𝑎𝑟 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 ∘༉♡∘
✨ = really didnt enjoy
✨✨ = it was okay
✨✨✨ = a mid tier book could be better
✨✨✨✨ = i enjoyed it
✨✨✨✨✨ = i loved it and this will live in my head rent free forever
ꔫ — ∘♡༉∘ — 𝐌𝐲✩𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 — ∘༉♡∘ — ꔫ
🌶🌶
🔥🔥
✨✨✨✨✨
ꔫ — ∘♡༉∘ — ✩ — ∘༉♡∘ — ꔫ
ꔫ — ∘♡༉∘ — 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀✩ — ∘༉♡∘ — ꔫ
🏝️ Opposites attract
🏝️ Forbidden romance (staff and hotel guest)
🏝️ Banter to banging
🏝️ Forced proximity
🏝️ Grumpy sunshine
🏝️ Matchmaking
— ∘♡༉∘ — 𝗔𝗿𝗰 ♥ 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 — ∘༉♡∘ —
Thank you netgalley for this arc
This was such a fun and cute (slightly steamy) 'forbidden' romance.
Sammi signs up to go to the 'love hotel' to find her Mr Right, but when her perfect match on paper doesnt give her the sparks she hopes for and then suddenly leaves her hanging and alone, Sammi gets sparks for the 'wrong' guy... or maybe he was really the right guy all along ;)
To make sure sammi has a good time after the match they chose for her abruptly leaves, Romeo is tasked with making sure she is happy and given whatever she 'wants' to make up for the disaster of her perfect match not working out.
Things start getting a little bit steamy between romeo and sammi, could the mr right the matchmakers chose for her really be her perfect guy?? or would she find her true love herself?
ꔫ — ∘♡༉∘ — ✩ — ∘༉♡∘ — ꔫ
May 26, 2025
Sammie and Romeo 😻
Edward 🚮
I am totally obsessed with any book that Olivia writes and this one was no different, her romance books always have a cute / happy ending. They are the ultimate comfort romance, so easy to read and get sucked into.
This is the third instalment of The Love Hotel series, this time based in stunning, sunny Italy!
‘Romeo had more green flags than a St Patrick’s Day Parade’ ☘️
When Sammie arrives at the hotel, it seems that her match is perhaps not what she was expecting 🤢. When things take an unpredictable turn, Sammie is left with some time to entertain herself. Determined to not let this get the better of her or ruin her experience, The Love Hotel boss, Victoria suggests that Romeo does whatever it takes to ensure that Sammie has a good experience!
Neither Sammie nor Romeo had the best first impression of the other and spending more time with each other doesn’t sound like the best idea. Romeo and Sammie spend a lot of time together; sparks fly but they both know the rules, staff and guest relationships are a strict no no. 🙊
🖊️….
Okay so the chemistry in this was fab! I also adored how Sammie is connected to Jasmine and Stella and think the way the three books are connected and cross referenced was done so well,
The story is written in such a way where even though it feels like nothing happens for ages, when the moment happens it is like everything else falls into place.
The location of each Love Hotel is written so well that as a reader you feel present in the scenes - disappointing to look up and see cloudy London and not sunny Italy 🤣.
I think one of my favourite things about this series is how connected I’ve felt to the characters and their experiences.
I adored how Romeo from the get go is a good guy, has pure intentions and is well rounded character.
Edward 🚮
I am totally obsessed with any book that Olivia writes and this one was no different, her romance books always have a cute / happy ending. They are the ultimate comfort romance, so easy to read and get sucked into.
This is the third instalment of The Love Hotel series, this time based in stunning, sunny Italy!
‘Romeo had more green flags than a St Patrick’s Day Parade’ ☘️
When Sammie arrives at the hotel, it seems that her match is perhaps not what she was expecting 🤢. When things take an unpredictable turn, Sammie is left with some time to entertain herself. Determined to not let this get the better of her or ruin her experience, The Love Hotel boss, Victoria suggests that Romeo does whatever it takes to ensure that Sammie has a good experience!
Neither Sammie nor Romeo had the best first impression of the other and spending more time with each other doesn’t sound like the best idea. Romeo and Sammie spend a lot of time together; sparks fly but they both know the rules, staff and guest relationships are a strict no no. 🙊
🖊️….
Okay so the chemistry in this was fab! I also adored how Sammie is connected to Jasmine and Stella and think the way the three books are connected and cross referenced was done so well,
The story is written in such a way where even though it feels like nothing happens for ages, when the moment happens it is like everything else falls into place.
The location of each Love Hotel is written so well that as a reader you feel present in the scenes - disappointing to look up and see cloudy London and not sunny Italy 🤣.
I think one of my favourite things about this series is how connected I’ve felt to the characters and their experiences.
I adored how Romeo from the get go is a good guy, has pure intentions and is well rounded character.
June 7, 2025
"𝙎𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙨 𝙛𝙡𝙮… 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙜𝙪𝙮"
𝘛𝘰𝘰 𝘏𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘛𝘰 𝘙𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘵 is a perfect escape-read for anyone craving sunshine, sass, and slow-burn romance with serious tension.
This gave me Love Island/First Dates/other reality TV vibes and I was ready to live for it!
I was unaware this was part of a series and there is mention of other characters, but I deffo didn’t feel the need to read another book to understand this one.
Set in the idyllic region of Puglia, Italy, this book follows Sammie, who signs up for the exclusive Love Hotel program in a last-ditch effort to find her Mr. Right. But when her match leaves early, Sammie finds herself drawn to Romeo—the gorgeous, rule-following Love Alchemist who’s definitely off-limits. Cue forbidden chemistry, witty banter, and some seriously swoon-worthy moments. 🥵
Sammie is funny, relatable, and refreshingly imperfect, and Romeo? The grumpy-to-golden retriever trope is strong with this one. Their dynamic is addictive but I do feel it fell flat and predictable early on.
The characters have genuine chemistry and I ate it up like a melting gelato in the Italian sun. But for me that is what was missing, the beautiful scenery and descriptive writing that would have taken me there. I wanted to want to book a flight but I ended up googling pics instead.
This book was an enjoyable easy read but dialogue heavy and predictable early on. It’s not going to change your life, but it will give you something to read while on the beach, sipping a cocktail and laughing at everyone back home in the rain.
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
❌ Forbidden romance
😏 Banter to b*nging
🍆 Forced proximity
🌦️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🖤 Matchmaking mayhem
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨:
Plot: 💜💜💜💜
Characters: 🤩🤩🤩
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Writing: ✍🏼✍🏼✍🏼
Overall 🌟🌟🌟.5 (rounded up)
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this ARC opportunity.
𝘛𝘰𝘰 𝘏𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘛𝘰 𝘙𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘵 is a perfect escape-read for anyone craving sunshine, sass, and slow-burn romance with serious tension.
This gave me Love Island/First Dates/other reality TV vibes and I was ready to live for it!
I was unaware this was part of a series and there is mention of other characters, but I deffo didn’t feel the need to read another book to understand this one.
Set in the idyllic region of Puglia, Italy, this book follows Sammie, who signs up for the exclusive Love Hotel program in a last-ditch effort to find her Mr. Right. But when her match leaves early, Sammie finds herself drawn to Romeo—the gorgeous, rule-following Love Alchemist who’s definitely off-limits. Cue forbidden chemistry, witty banter, and some seriously swoon-worthy moments. 🥵
Sammie is funny, relatable, and refreshingly imperfect, and Romeo? The grumpy-to-golden retriever trope is strong with this one. Their dynamic is addictive but I do feel it fell flat and predictable early on.
The characters have genuine chemistry and I ate it up like a melting gelato in the Italian sun. But for me that is what was missing, the beautiful scenery and descriptive writing that would have taken me there. I wanted to want to book a flight but I ended up googling pics instead.
This book was an enjoyable easy read but dialogue heavy and predictable early on. It’s not going to change your life, but it will give you something to read while on the beach, sipping a cocktail and laughing at everyone back home in the rain.
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
❌ Forbidden romance
😏 Banter to b*nging
🍆 Forced proximity
🌦️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🖤 Matchmaking mayhem
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨:
Plot: 💜💜💜💜
Characters: 🤩🤩🤩
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Writing: ✍🏼✍🏼✍🏼
Overall 🌟🌟🌟.5 (rounded up)
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this ARC opportunity.
May 31, 2025
Great setting with crossed lovers, even a Romeo!🌅
3.5🌟 stars
I loved the out of the mainstream setting in the southern Italy province of Puglia, with jaunts to the trulli World Heritage village of Alberobello and cliff-hugging Matera, sun and beautiful seas and beaches. What a great backdrop for a love connection, even if it's not with the guy that was selected for you as perfectly compatible! This fun in the sun romance is heavily steam oriented with clandestine trysts to escape notice of the hotel management that could easily scuttle Romeo's career.
As to Romeo, the Italian hotel worker male lead, yeah, I liked how the author shaped his character as a walking dream who is kind, considerate and supportive of his beleaguered mother. Despite his drop dead looks and being the object of frequent flirting, no big-headed ego for him.
Sammie the female lead has some self confidence issues after numerous men have criticized her appearance, but, for me, sympathy for her on that issue did not overcome some misgivings I had about her personality that down rated my review of the romance. Okay, I have no problem with a character who speaks their mind and doesn't think before they speak. But when you ask the man you are in love with if his mother was a MILF?! Just one example of her comments that rubbed me the wrong way. Sammie was a bit too brash and crude for me. And even after the relationship is well along she is still focusing on the guy's looks and prowess. That didn't really scream romantic, love that will endure, to me, though the couple's separate efforts to keep the love alive at the end did redeem it somewhat.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
3.5🌟 stars
I loved the out of the mainstream setting in the southern Italy province of Puglia, with jaunts to the trulli World Heritage village of Alberobello and cliff-hugging Matera, sun and beautiful seas and beaches. What a great backdrop for a love connection, even if it's not with the guy that was selected for you as perfectly compatible! This fun in the sun romance is heavily steam oriented with clandestine trysts to escape notice of the hotel management that could easily scuttle Romeo's career.
As to Romeo, the Italian hotel worker male lead, yeah, I liked how the author shaped his character as a walking dream who is kind, considerate and supportive of his beleaguered mother. Despite his drop dead looks and being the object of frequent flirting, no big-headed ego for him.
Sammie the female lead has some self confidence issues after numerous men have criticized her appearance, but, for me, sympathy for her on that issue did not overcome some misgivings I had about her personality that down rated my review of the romance. Okay, I have no problem with a character who speaks their mind and doesn't think before they speak. But when you ask the man you are in love with if his mother was a MILF?! Just one example of her comments that rubbed me the wrong way. Sammie was a bit too brash and crude for me. And even after the relationship is well along she is still focusing on the guy's looks and prowess. That didn't really scream romantic, love that will endure, to me, though the couple's separate efforts to keep the love alive at the end did redeem it somewhat.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
June 17, 2025
Olivia never fails me. Not only do her books have some of the most beautiful romances in them, but they show relationships really forming. This one is hands-down one of my favorites. I’ve loved the Love Hotel series so much. Starting with Stella and Max, then going on to Jasmine and Jala, Alejandro. And now with Sammy and Romeo, I just can’t get enough.
I loved this book with my whole heart. My favorite thing about it was how Love shows up in the story. Sammy is at the Love Hotel, looking for Love, and her match really isn’t the person for her. It is such a great plot. I love that they didn’t make him completely a terrible person, but he also was really a horrible person lol. I love the idea that Romeo had to be the one to take her out and show her a good time so that she could keep the experience.
One of my favorite scenes in the whole book is when they’re on the boat. The boat scene is truly immaculate. I also really loved the amount of detail that each character paid attention to the other person. Like I love that he knew her favorite pastry, and she knew how much he cared about his dog. Their love was just so unmatched, and I love that it was because they were both at the Love Hotel.
The banter in this book is probably the best thing. The banter is perfect carry it, super cute, and it actually makes you laugh. I felt like I really understood the characters and their personalities because of the amount of banter they had. They just enjoyed each other and I love that so much in a book.
Thank you again Olivia for letting me read these wonderful stories. I can’t get enough of them and I cannot wait for another. I know you have a good one coming through with the Love Hotel and I am just so excited to see what you create.
I loved this book with my whole heart. My favorite thing about it was how Love shows up in the story. Sammy is at the Love Hotel, looking for Love, and her match really isn’t the person for her. It is such a great plot. I love that they didn’t make him completely a terrible person, but he also was really a horrible person lol. I love the idea that Romeo had to be the one to take her out and show her a good time so that she could keep the experience.
One of my favorite scenes in the whole book is when they’re on the boat. The boat scene is truly immaculate. I also really loved the amount of detail that each character paid attention to the other person. Like I love that he knew her favorite pastry, and she knew how much he cared about his dog. Their love was just so unmatched, and I love that it was because they were both at the Love Hotel.
The banter in this book is probably the best thing. The banter is perfect carry it, super cute, and it actually makes you laugh. I felt like I really understood the characters and their personalities because of the amount of banter they had. They just enjoyed each other and I love that so much in a book.
Thank you again Olivia for letting me read these wonderful stories. I can’t get enough of them and I cannot wait for another. I know you have a good one coming through with the Love Hotel and I am just so excited to see what you create.
May 7, 2025
I want to say thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for allowing me the privilege of being able to read this book.
Apart from the slightly awkward (not in a bad way) intimate scenes, which seemed to lean more porn story cheesy (my only issue) this was a fantastic book, and an amazing summer read or anytime read! I really thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters had depth, which is missing a lot in some romance books lately, they made you fall in love with them. Except for the jerk she matched with, you will completely agree with me on that. I love the descriptions of everywhere and everything they were perfectly done and not way too much detail that you just loose interest. I also didn't realize it was part of a series but you can completely read it without reading the others!
I couldn't put this book down, I loved the banter, I loved the main characters. As soon as I started it I fell in love and hated when I had to put it down. It's draws you in and I finished it in a couple hours, and it's going to live rent free in my mind for a while. Apart from a few emotional scenes and moments this was sweet and cute and hot and in a way really cozy. I've really missed true romance books that actually make you feel something and immerse you in the story so you never want to leave. It's been a while since I've had a book I really didn't want to put down! So if you need a great anytime, or great summer/ beach/ vacation read, this is it. I will hype this book up always as the perfect fit for all of those!
Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to read this book and fall in love with it!
Apart from the slightly awkward (not in a bad way) intimate scenes, which seemed to lean more porn story cheesy (my only issue) this was a fantastic book, and an amazing summer read or anytime read! I really thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters had depth, which is missing a lot in some romance books lately, they made you fall in love with them. Except for the jerk she matched with, you will completely agree with me on that. I love the descriptions of everywhere and everything they were perfectly done and not way too much detail that you just loose interest. I also didn't realize it was part of a series but you can completely read it without reading the others!
I couldn't put this book down, I loved the banter, I loved the main characters. As soon as I started it I fell in love and hated when I had to put it down. It's draws you in and I finished it in a couple hours, and it's going to live rent free in my mind for a while. Apart from a few emotional scenes and moments this was sweet and cute and hot and in a way really cozy. I've really missed true romance books that actually make you feel something and immerse you in the story so you never want to leave. It's been a while since I've had a book I really didn't want to put down! So if you need a great anytime, or great summer/ beach/ vacation read, this is it. I will hype this book up always as the perfect fit for all of those!
Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to read this book and fall in love with it!
June 3, 2025
3.5/5 stars
Too Hard to Resist is a steamy, sun-soaked rom-com set against the gorgeous backdrop of Puglia, Italy—and it delivers on both the romance and the laughs. Though it’s the third book in The Love Hotel series, it works well as a standalone, with some fun cameos from familiar characters for returning readers.
The setting is one of the book’s highlights. From the charming trulli houses of Alberobello to the dramatic cliffs of Matera, Olivia Spring’s vivid descriptions make it easy to picture the romantic Italian landscape. It’s the perfect place for a love story—even one that’s forbidden.
The chemistry between Sammie and Romeo is undeniable. Their banter is sharp and often hilarious, and their secret rendezvous add a dose of drama as they try to hide their growing connection from hotel management. Romeo is a genuinely sweet and grounded male lead, which makes him all the more likable. Sammie, on the other hand, is bold, outspoken, and sometimes a bit too brash for my taste. While her confidence struggles made her relatable, a few of her more inappropriate comments pulled me out of the romance.
Still, the book has a lot to love—plenty of humor, steamy moments, romantic tension, and a satisfying happily-ever-after. It's a fun escape with heart, heat, and just enough emotional depth to keep things interesting. If you're in the mood for a playful, spicy rom-com with a dreamy Italian setting, this one’s worth checking out.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Too Hard to Resist is a steamy, sun-soaked rom-com set against the gorgeous backdrop of Puglia, Italy—and it delivers on both the romance and the laughs. Though it’s the third book in The Love Hotel series, it works well as a standalone, with some fun cameos from familiar characters for returning readers.
The setting is one of the book’s highlights. From the charming trulli houses of Alberobello to the dramatic cliffs of Matera, Olivia Spring’s vivid descriptions make it easy to picture the romantic Italian landscape. It’s the perfect place for a love story—even one that’s forbidden.
The chemistry between Sammie and Romeo is undeniable. Their banter is sharp and often hilarious, and their secret rendezvous add a dose of drama as they try to hide their growing connection from hotel management. Romeo is a genuinely sweet and grounded male lead, which makes him all the more likable. Sammie, on the other hand, is bold, outspoken, and sometimes a bit too brash for my taste. While her confidence struggles made her relatable, a few of her more inappropriate comments pulled me out of the romance.
Still, the book has a lot to love—plenty of humor, steamy moments, romantic tension, and a satisfying happily-ever-after. It's a fun escape with heart, heat, and just enough emotional depth to keep things interesting. If you're in the mood for a playful, spicy rom-com with a dreamy Italian setting, this one’s worth checking out.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 14, 2025
This is an irresistibly fun, steamy, and heartwarming summer romance set against the dreamy backdrop of Italy. It's filled with sparkling banter, forbidden attraction, and just the right amount of emotional depth to keep you turning the pages with a smile.
The story follows Sammie Gordon, a romance enthusiast who lands an invite to the exclusive and luxurious Love Hotel—a matchmaking resort known for turning perfect matches into love stories. She's ready for sunshine, pasta, and passion... but when her match turns out to be more dud than dream, Sammie finds herself alone in paradise. Enter Romeo, the hotel’s brooding and off-limits Love Alchemist, who steps in to accompany her on the scheduled dates. Their instant connection is electric, but with a strict no-dating policy between staff and guests, they’re both forced to resist the growing tension between them.
What unfolds is a deliciously slow-burning romance filled with laugh-out-loud moments, flirty one-liners, and undeniable chemistry. Sammie is the kind of heroine you want to be friends with—vibrant, funny, and relatable in her messy search for love. Romeo, despite his name, is all grump and guarded charm, making their opposites-attract dynamic feel fresh and addictive. Their relationship builds beautifully from flirty banter to fiery intimacy, and it’s impossible not to root for them.
This book is the perfect romantic getaway—funny, flirty, and full of feels!
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
The story follows Sammie Gordon, a romance enthusiast who lands an invite to the exclusive and luxurious Love Hotel—a matchmaking resort known for turning perfect matches into love stories. She's ready for sunshine, pasta, and passion... but when her match turns out to be more dud than dream, Sammie finds herself alone in paradise. Enter Romeo, the hotel’s brooding and off-limits Love Alchemist, who steps in to accompany her on the scheduled dates. Their instant connection is electric, but with a strict no-dating policy between staff and guests, they’re both forced to resist the growing tension between them.
What unfolds is a deliciously slow-burning romance filled with laugh-out-loud moments, flirty one-liners, and undeniable chemistry. Sammie is the kind of heroine you want to be friends with—vibrant, funny, and relatable in her messy search for love. Romeo, despite his name, is all grump and guarded charm, making their opposites-attract dynamic feel fresh and addictive. Their relationship builds beautifully from flirty banter to fiery intimacy, and it’s impossible not to root for them.
This book is the perfect romantic getaway—funny, flirty, and full of feels!
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
June 7, 2025
I enjoyed the second book in the the love hotel series and enjoy the her writing style x
Here is the blurb
Perfect for fans of Abby Jimenez, Meghan Quinn and Sarah Adams!
Tropes:
🏝️ Opposites attract
🏝️ Forbidden romance (staff and hotel guest)
🏝️ Banter to b*nging
🏝️ Forced proximity
🏝️ Grumpy sunshine
🏝️ Matchmaking
🏝️ Spicy !!!!
Sparks Fly…but with the wrong guy?
Sammie Gordon knows of The Love Hotel’s infamous reputation for making happy ever afters a reality. So when she gets her coveted invite to the hotel’s exclusive resort in Italy she’s packed her bags before she’s signed on the dotted line. What could be more perfect than sun, sea, culture and… her perfect match?
Except Sammie doesn’t get the immediate flutters of excitement when she meets her date. He may be perfect on paper, but their connection is more lukewarm than red hot passion! And when he leaves abruptly, Sammie is left alone in paradise. This is a disaster!
But The Love Hotel always goes above and beyond for their guests. And so Love Alchemist Romeo steps into the breach to keep her company on all the planned dates and intimate dinners. In a professional capacity… obviously! When sparks fly instantly, Romeo knows he’s in trouble. With a strict no-dating guests rule, Romeo has to try and keep things professional. But like magnets, Sammie and Romeo are drawn to each other. Their chemistry is forbidden and so they must, at all costs resist the temptation to cross the line…
Here is the blurb
Perfect for fans of Abby Jimenez, Meghan Quinn and Sarah Adams!
Tropes:
🏝️ Opposites attract
🏝️ Forbidden romance (staff and hotel guest)
🏝️ Banter to b*nging
🏝️ Forced proximity
🏝️ Grumpy sunshine
🏝️ Matchmaking
🏝️ Spicy !!!!
Sparks Fly…but with the wrong guy?
Sammie Gordon knows of The Love Hotel’s infamous reputation for making happy ever afters a reality. So when she gets her coveted invite to the hotel’s exclusive resort in Italy she’s packed her bags before she’s signed on the dotted line. What could be more perfect than sun, sea, culture and… her perfect match?
Except Sammie doesn’t get the immediate flutters of excitement when she meets her date. He may be perfect on paper, but their connection is more lukewarm than red hot passion! And when he leaves abruptly, Sammie is left alone in paradise. This is a disaster!
But The Love Hotel always goes above and beyond for their guests. And so Love Alchemist Romeo steps into the breach to keep her company on all the planned dates and intimate dinners. In a professional capacity… obviously! When sparks fly instantly, Romeo knows he’s in trouble. With a strict no-dating guests rule, Romeo has to try and keep things professional. But like magnets, Sammie and Romeo are drawn to each other. Their chemistry is forbidden and so they must, at all costs resist the temptation to cross the line…
June 3, 2025
Too Hard to Resist by Olivia Spring once again takes readers to the Love Hotel where true love is carefully cultivated and packaged. Sammie Gordon has been unlucky at love and is tired of trying to make a connection on her own. With inspiration from her friends, Stella and Jasmine (happy in successful matches) Sammie is ready to let the professionals handle her heart! Love Alchemist Romeo is incredibly handsome and does his job wonderfully. However, his good looks and charm are often a source of unwanted attention when he is interacting with clients and management has warned him to keep his exchanges above board. However, after a series of missteps and misunderstandings, Romeo finds himself unavoidably in Sammie’s enchanting company. The setting of Ms. Spring’s latest book is the gorgeous Italian countryside, and our MFC Sammie has high hopes for a love connection in the country of romance. Using the tropes of proximity, grumpy/sunshine and matchmaking Ms. Spring has created a cute, hot love story with two extremely engaging characters. Of course, the story contains some areas of conflict and uncertainty, however, readers firmly root for the pair, and I personally look forward to the next story in the series!
Thank you to Olivia Spring, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the eARC.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/too-ha...
Thank you to Olivia Spring, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the eARC.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/too-ha...
June 8, 2025
I received this is an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the concept of this book. It has Love Island / First Dates / MAFS vibes.
Sammie is having no luck when it comes to men with bad date after bad date. That is until she finds out she's scored a place at the ‘Love Hotel’ in Italy. Here, she'll be matched up with her perfect man and they'll have 2 weeks together to fall in love.
I won't say too much more about the plot but essentially things don't quite go as planned - but will there still be a happy ending for Sammie?
For me, this was a pretty good summer beach read. It’s fairly obvious how things are going to end up but that’s not a bad thing, right? We all want a nice HEA from our summer reads. The predictability of the plot didn’t detract from the enjoyment. The characters are well developed, I could connect with them and there were some laugh out loud moments together with some that made me cringe.
The spicy scenes weren’t overly spicy and sometimes the dialogue felt a bit ‘clunky’, throughout.
I enjoyed the setting of the book but feel like more could have been made out of it. It felt like there was little scene setting or descriptive writing during the outings.
But overall, I enjoyed the concept and this was overall a good read that took me less than a day to finish.
I loved the concept of this book. It has Love Island / First Dates / MAFS vibes.
Sammie is having no luck when it comes to men with bad date after bad date. That is until she finds out she's scored a place at the ‘Love Hotel’ in Italy. Here, she'll be matched up with her perfect man and they'll have 2 weeks together to fall in love.
I won't say too much more about the plot but essentially things don't quite go as planned - but will there still be a happy ending for Sammie?
For me, this was a pretty good summer beach read. It’s fairly obvious how things are going to end up but that’s not a bad thing, right? We all want a nice HEA from our summer reads. The predictability of the plot didn’t detract from the enjoyment. The characters are well developed, I could connect with them and there were some laugh out loud moments together with some that made me cringe.
The spicy scenes weren’t overly spicy and sometimes the dialogue felt a bit ‘clunky’, throughout.
I enjoyed the setting of the book but feel like more could have been made out of it. It felt like there was little scene setting or descriptive writing during the outings.
But overall, I enjoyed the concept and this was overall a good read that took me less than a day to finish.
June 26, 2025
This is the third book in the Love Hotel series, each book can easily be read as a standalone novel. These are such cute books. They are the perfect amount of romance, spice and cuteness.
Sammie Gordon believes the love hotel will bring her her true love and life partner. She spends her life savings to sign up for the love hotel, she finally gets word that a match has been found for her at the Love Hotel in Italy. When Sammie arrives in Italy, she has met by Romeo her love alchemist, a very attractive man whom she assumes is a player. Sammie finally meets her match Edward, she is less than excited about him, but decides to give it her all as this man is a match on paper to everything she wants.
When Romeo first meets Sammie, he thinks that she is a party girl, but he finds her overwhelmingly attractive. Romeo has gotten in trouble for the clients hitting on him and has been told to keep his distance.
As the book progresses, Sammie and Romeo find themselves drawn to one another more and more; and of course, fate throws them together quite often.
This was a super cute book, really enjoyable to read. A great summer romance. I look forward to more books in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishing house, Boldwood books and the author for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of this book in return for review based up upon my honest opinion
Sammie Gordon believes the love hotel will bring her her true love and life partner. She spends her life savings to sign up for the love hotel, she finally gets word that a match has been found for her at the Love Hotel in Italy. When Sammie arrives in Italy, she has met by Romeo her love alchemist, a very attractive man whom she assumes is a player. Sammie finally meets her match Edward, she is less than excited about him, but decides to give it her all as this man is a match on paper to everything she wants.
When Romeo first meets Sammie, he thinks that she is a party girl, but he finds her overwhelmingly attractive. Romeo has gotten in trouble for the clients hitting on him and has been told to keep his distance.
As the book progresses, Sammie and Romeo find themselves drawn to one another more and more; and of course, fate throws them together quite often.
This was a super cute book, really enjoyable to read. A great summer romance. I look forward to more books in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishing house, Boldwood books and the author for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of this book in return for review based up upon my honest opinion
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