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Romancing the Ruins #2
Troy Story
The friendship that launched a thousand adventures is about to embark on the greatest one of all…
Ever since Stuart Carlson and Dusty Danforth met as kids on a dig in Egypt, they've been best friends, supporting each other through heartaches, triumphs, and countless archaeological expeditions. So when Stuart gets hired to help run the American excavations at Troy, he asks Dusty to join him as the site illustrator.
For Dusty, the Troy project isn't just another adventure. It’s the chance to tell Stuart how she really feels. After years of pining for him, she’s ready for more than friendship.
But soon after they arrive at the site in Turkey, they're caught up in a feud with a group of German archaeologists. While both teams are eager to make a major find, Stuart's boss is so determined to beat his rivals that he's willing to break a few rules. Or laws.
As Stuart and Dusty work together to keep the dig on track, they give in to the passion that's been simmering under the surface. But will their romance survive when their boss's scheme puts the entire project in jeopardy?
Ever since Stuart Carlson and Dusty Danforth met as kids on a dig in Egypt, they've been best friends, supporting each other through heartaches, triumphs, and countless archaeological expeditions. So when Stuart gets hired to help run the American excavations at Troy, he asks Dusty to join him as the site illustrator.
For Dusty, the Troy project isn't just another adventure. It’s the chance to tell Stuart how she really feels. After years of pining for him, she’s ready for more than friendship.
But soon after they arrive at the site in Turkey, they're caught up in a feud with a group of German archaeologists. While both teams are eager to make a major find, Stuart's boss is so determined to beat his rivals that he's willing to break a few rules. Or laws.
As Stuart and Dusty work together to keep the dig on track, they give in to the passion that's been simmering under the surface. But will their romance survive when their boss's scheme puts the entire project in jeopardy?
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 23, 2023
11 people are currently reading
411 people want to read
About the author
Carla Luna
22 books161 followersCarla Luna writes contemporary romance with a dollop of humor and a pinch of spice. A former archaeologist, she still dreams of traveling to far-off places and channels that wanderlust into the settings of her stories.
When she’s not writing, she works in a spice emporium where she gets paid to discuss food and share her favorite recipes. Her passions include Broadway musicals, baking, whimsical office supplies, and pop culture podcasts. Though she has roots in Los Angeles and Victoria, B.C., she currently resides in Wisconsin with her family and her feisty Siberian cat.
When she’s not writing, she works in a spice emporium where she gets paid to discuss food and share her favorite recipes. Her passions include Broadway musicals, baking, whimsical office supplies, and pop culture podcasts. Though she has roots in Los Angeles and Victoria, B.C., she currently resides in Wisconsin with her family and her feisty Siberian cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
July 25, 2025
call me INSANE if you’d like but … zero chemistry ??? I was shocked ? and then INSANE of me to say as well but TOO much focus on one archaeological issue that could have easily been solved with one call to the department’s chair I’m just saying
July 15, 2024
I loved Dusty's and Stuart’s chemistry. Just like in the first book, I just loved the secondary characters again, for me they make the whole dynamic complete.
I also loved the setting of the book, this time it was set in Turkey. The whole book was just such a great summer read. I really recommend this book and the previous book. Especially the audiobooks are great, easy to follow and the narrators are nice to listen to.
I also loved that we got a small cameo of Olive, I love when series do that.
I also loved the setting of the book, this time it was set in Turkey. The whole book was just such a great summer read. I really recommend this book and the previous book. Especially the audiobooks are great, easy to follow and the narrators are nice to listen to.
I also loved that we got a small cameo of Olive, I love when series do that.
May 25, 2023
I really like this author and enjoyed the first book in this series so was excited for this one! I really liked the new dig site with a different historical aspect that our characters were working on. It was neat to think about this area in Turkey, when I usually really only think about Egypt or Greece or other parts for big historical digs. The characters were great best friends, not wanting to ruin their friendship even though they both liked the other more than friends and wanted more.
There was a really good bad guy, Dr. Hughes, and boy did he really fit the part and messed so many things up. I liked the way the characters dealt with him. It made a lot of sense. A lot of times I think it is stupid when a character doesn’t tell the other because they are trying to protect them, but the way Hughes handled things, it made sense that he’d put the fear into Dusty so that she wouldn’t want to mess up Stuart’s new job and career. Especially with her own career/life choices kind of up in the air.
I also like how the other characters in the story that may have seemed like they would also be problems were able to be redeemed in things they did or as Dusty and Stuart got to know them better. We did get a few moments with Olivia and Rick, the main characters from the last book, Field Rules. The sexy times were perfectly fit into the story and added to the couple and their relationship and the directions the story took. And I loved the way that Dusty was able to put a stop to the big disaster waiting to happen at the end.
Normally it is when a book isn’t well written that it inspires me to get back to my own writing. But in this case, the way the whole excitement in the book developed and wrapped up in the end actually gave me a spark of an idea to get back to the first novel I ever started writing, and some ways to maybe get it fixed up and back on track since it features a paleontologist and his own kind of feud with a publicity hound type of guy like Dr. Hughes in this book.
Now I’m just eager for the next book in the series as we got to know the couple in this story and I’m looking forward to seeing how they will end up with their own HEA.
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
There was a really good bad guy, Dr. Hughes, and boy did he really fit the part and messed so many things up. I liked the way the characters dealt with him. It made a lot of sense. A lot of times I think it is stupid when a character doesn’t tell the other because they are trying to protect them, but the way Hughes handled things, it made sense that he’d put the fear into Dusty so that she wouldn’t want to mess up Stuart’s new job and career. Especially with her own career/life choices kind of up in the air.
I also like how the other characters in the story that may have seemed like they would also be problems were able to be redeemed in things they did or as Dusty and Stuart got to know them better. We did get a few moments with Olivia and Rick, the main characters from the last book, Field Rules. The sexy times were perfectly fit into the story and added to the couple and their relationship and the directions the story took. And I loved the way that Dusty was able to put a stop to the big disaster waiting to happen at the end.
Normally it is when a book isn’t well written that it inspires me to get back to my own writing. But in this case, the way the whole excitement in the book developed and wrapped up in the end actually gave me a spark of an idea to get back to the first novel I ever started writing, and some ways to maybe get it fixed up and back on track since it features a paleontologist and his own kind of feud with a publicity hound type of guy like Dr. Hughes in this book.
Now I’m just eager for the next book in the series as we got to know the couple in this story and I’m looking forward to seeing how they will end up with their own HEA.
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
May 26, 2023
4.5 stars
I read the first book in this series last year and fell in love with it. Despite being on a break from doing blog tours when Rachel email me asking if I would be interested in reading and reviewing the second book I couldn't pass up the chance.
Everything I said about the first book holds true for this book as well. If you want to see my review for that one you can click here. Basically I was still fascinated by the Archeological aspect of this book even though it wasn't as detailed as it was in the first book. I still think that I would have liked being an Archeologist even though I'm not really a big history buff my favorite part would have been the digs and get to travel to so many different amazing places. I kept waiting for there to be drama with everyone in the group but aside from the one bad guy everyone was there for each other which is a welcome change because usually you always get some girl hate.
As for the romance in this book. It's a childhood friends to lovers romance. Dusty and Stuart have been friends for 20 years and they've both secretly been in love with the other one for years but somehow neither one of them knows how the other one feels. There's a little bit of romantic drama but it gets resolved quickly. The characters are pretty good at communicating with each other for the most part. There were some times where I was like oh my gosh just talk to them don't keep it to yourself. Carla describes her books as romance with a dollop of humor and a pinch of spice and I think that's the perfect description. Dusty brings the humor to this book. She doesn't have a filter and she pretty much says whatever comes to her mind which with straight laced Stuart it was kind of funny getting his reactions to them. If you know me I love all the juicy details when it comes to the spice. We don't get that in these books but what we do get is good. It's just enough for it not to feel like a closed door romance book and that's really all I care about. Also when we had those spicy scenes both of the characters came across as being a little naive despite both of them being adults and previous relationships under their belts.
My only complaint about this book is how in the end when the bad guy is caught he doesn't really put up much of a fight with anyone. He literally barely tried to fight it despite everything he did. Other than that this was another great read by this author and once again I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I read the first book in this series last year and fell in love with it. Despite being on a break from doing blog tours when Rachel email me asking if I would be interested in reading and reviewing the second book I couldn't pass up the chance.
Everything I said about the first book holds true for this book as well. If you want to see my review for that one you can click here. Basically I was still fascinated by the Archeological aspect of this book even though it wasn't as detailed as it was in the first book. I still think that I would have liked being an Archeologist even though I'm not really a big history buff my favorite part would have been the digs and get to travel to so many different amazing places. I kept waiting for there to be drama with everyone in the group but aside from the one bad guy everyone was there for each other which is a welcome change because usually you always get some girl hate.
As for the romance in this book. It's a childhood friends to lovers romance. Dusty and Stuart have been friends for 20 years and they've both secretly been in love with the other one for years but somehow neither one of them knows how the other one feels. There's a little bit of romantic drama but it gets resolved quickly. The characters are pretty good at communicating with each other for the most part. There were some times where I was like oh my gosh just talk to them don't keep it to yourself. Carla describes her books as romance with a dollop of humor and a pinch of spice and I think that's the perfect description. Dusty brings the humor to this book. She doesn't have a filter and she pretty much says whatever comes to her mind which with straight laced Stuart it was kind of funny getting his reactions to them. If you know me I love all the juicy details when it comes to the spice. We don't get that in these books but what we do get is good. It's just enough for it not to feel like a closed door romance book and that's really all I care about. Also when we had those spicy scenes both of the characters came across as being a little naive despite both of them being adults and previous relationships under their belts.
My only complaint about this book is how in the end when the bad guy is caught he doesn't really put up much of a fight with anyone. He literally barely tried to fight it despite everything he did. Other than that this was another great read by this author and once again I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
June 12, 2023
I’m always a sucker for friends to lovers.
I also am super interested in the archaeological world. It’s great that Luna is an archaeologist and is writing from her own experience, besides just research on the field.
This story was such a fun read. It can be read as a standalone but I do also recommend reading the first book in the series, Field Rules.
I also am super interested in the archaeological world. It’s great that Luna is an archaeologist and is writing from her own experience, besides just research on the field.
This story was such a fun read. It can be read as a standalone but I do also recommend reading the first book in the series, Field Rules.
February 10, 2024
I received this as an ARC from the author. I absolutely adore Carla Luna books. That being said. This was a DNF for me. I made it about 60% through. I just was not interested. I felt zero connection to the characters. I wasn't into the archeological aspect. The characters weren't even that likeable.
I wanted to love this book. It just wasn't for me. That being said...read it. Why would you take some random chick's word for it? Lol
I wanted to love this book. It just wasn't for me. That being said...read it. Why would you take some random chick's word for it? Lol
August 1, 2024
*3.5 stars
This is a fun audiobook with the typical romance tropes. I really like the archeology aspects of the book
**Listened via Everand
This is a fun audiobook with the typical romance tropes. I really like the archeology aspects of the book
**Listened via Everand
October 27, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️
🌶️
Read
March 25, 2025This series is so fun and the archeology angle is so interesting. I loved Field Rules, but the sequel wasn’t as captivating.
October 13, 2024
I expected Dusty to be an educated smart woman who was falling in love with Stuart on a dig… however, she could have not been more gullible getting blackmailed or convinced to do things against her wishes. She wouldn’t stand up for herself or do the right thing throughout the book. I kept getting so annoyed with her. I did expect it to be a light romance, which it was, but I wanted a stronger female lead.
May 12, 2023
Troy Story is the second book in Carla Luna’s series, Romancing the Ruins. It’s another archaeological romcom that readers will really dig. We’re officially introduced to Dusty Danforth, an incredibly likable heroine. She’s challenged with an intimidating mother, a hot summer in Turkey and an even hotter best friend, Stuart Carlson.
While Dusty’s searching for her dissertation topic, she’s resolute in facing her feelings for her friend Stuart. Spending this summer on another archeological expedition gives Dusty the perfect opportunity to accomplish both of her dilemmas.
Both having parents deep in academics and archeology, Dusty and Stuart have romped around the world and together learned how to survive with a constantly changing home full of unearthed treasures. Dusty grew up appreciating always winging it, while Stuart needed to be grounded.
In his newly minted university position as an assistant excavation director, Stuart heads to the legendary city of Troy in Canakkale, Turkey. He faces monumental pressure as he’s saddled with working for Professor Rutherford Hughes. A controversial academic with a shady past. Having his good friend Dusty along with him on the dig eases his concerns and will make the job easier. Especially since his trust in her runs deep. Except his feelings are deeper and this time he may need to unearth that truth.
At the dig, a team of students and professors gather for the project. The familiar face of TJ Mayer appears and a new face, Emilia Flores joins the site. Mortimer Jones is a wannabe archeologist and with his daughter Clarissa, they make this dig even more fun. The smarmy Dr. Hughes needs a big win and when “Operation Odysseus” goes awry, his dirt is exposed. Leaving Dusty and Stuart to pick up his mess without jeopardizing their careers.
A delicious assortment of mouth-watering mezes are spread out throughout the story. They will inspire your taste buds and readers may find themselves craving some baklava.
With the Iliad, Trojan War and Greek Gods hovering around the site – this friendship with Dusty and Stuart heats up. They discover their friendship isn’t a zone but a solid base for a loving relationship.
I was lucky enough to get an early copy. Readers, this friends to lovers story is a gem so don’t let it get buried in your TBR pile. Troy Story will be available May 23rd and if you haven’t already, pick up the first book in the series, Field Rules.
TQAL
While Dusty’s searching for her dissertation topic, she’s resolute in facing her feelings for her friend Stuart. Spending this summer on another archeological expedition gives Dusty the perfect opportunity to accomplish both of her dilemmas.
Both having parents deep in academics and archeology, Dusty and Stuart have romped around the world and together learned how to survive with a constantly changing home full of unearthed treasures. Dusty grew up appreciating always winging it, while Stuart needed to be grounded.
In his newly minted university position as an assistant excavation director, Stuart heads to the legendary city of Troy in Canakkale, Turkey. He faces monumental pressure as he’s saddled with working for Professor Rutherford Hughes. A controversial academic with a shady past. Having his good friend Dusty along with him on the dig eases his concerns and will make the job easier. Especially since his trust in her runs deep. Except his feelings are deeper and this time he may need to unearth that truth.
At the dig, a team of students and professors gather for the project. The familiar face of TJ Mayer appears and a new face, Emilia Flores joins the site. Mortimer Jones is a wannabe archeologist and with his daughter Clarissa, they make this dig even more fun. The smarmy Dr. Hughes needs a big win and when “Operation Odysseus” goes awry, his dirt is exposed. Leaving Dusty and Stuart to pick up his mess without jeopardizing their careers.
A delicious assortment of mouth-watering mezes are spread out throughout the story. They will inspire your taste buds and readers may find themselves craving some baklava.
With the Iliad, Trojan War and Greek Gods hovering around the site – this friendship with Dusty and Stuart heats up. They discover their friendship isn’t a zone but a solid base for a loving relationship.
I was lucky enough to get an early copy. Readers, this friends to lovers story is a gem so don’t let it get buried in your TBR pile. Troy Story will be available May 23rd and if you haven’t already, pick up the first book in the series, Field Rules.
TQAL
May 24, 2023
As a big archeology and Greek mythology nerd, I was so happy to get my hands on this book. It's filled to the brim with romance, two likable and competent leads, and with solid details about this storied profession, history, and the technical details about the dig that the main characters are working on at the historical site of Troy in Turkey.
Friends to lovers is a favorite trope of mine, and here it's done well. Dusty and Stuart are best friends having spent most of their childhood at various digs where their archeologist parents were collaborating. Sometime in their teens, feelings shifted toward romance for both of them, but neither said a word, not wanting to ruin their friendship. Now, years later, Stuart has just obtained his dream job as a tenure track professor, while Dusty, although a talented site illustrator, is struggling with her PhD and not sure of her path forward. Stuart invites Dusty to work as the site illustrator at a summer dig he's organizing, and they are both determined to finally seize their chance to deepen their friendship, not realizing the other has the exact same idea.
Throw in a toxic, boastful lead archeologist determined to reclaim former glory at any price, his rivalry with a competing German expedition, and an enjoyable cast of supporting characters, and there are lots of issues and problems for Stuart and Dusty to deal with. I loved that more often than not, when there was conflict or a problem between two characters, the author chose to show them working it out as adults rather than pouting and running off. For example, Dusty initially is jealous of and intimidated by a beautiful amateur illustrator who joins the dig due to her father's generous contribution to the university, but as they get to know each other they become good friends rather than rivals.
It's also clear that the author has an archeology background and is skilled in giving enough detail to provide color and interest to the setting and story without overwhelming it. Now I'm looking forward to more books in this series, as well as going back to the first one, Field Rules. I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Friends to lovers is a favorite trope of mine, and here it's done well. Dusty and Stuart are best friends having spent most of their childhood at various digs where their archeologist parents were collaborating. Sometime in their teens, feelings shifted toward romance for both of them, but neither said a word, not wanting to ruin their friendship. Now, years later, Stuart has just obtained his dream job as a tenure track professor, while Dusty, although a talented site illustrator, is struggling with her PhD and not sure of her path forward. Stuart invites Dusty to work as the site illustrator at a summer dig he's organizing, and they are both determined to finally seize their chance to deepen their friendship, not realizing the other has the exact same idea.
Throw in a toxic, boastful lead archeologist determined to reclaim former glory at any price, his rivalry with a competing German expedition, and an enjoyable cast of supporting characters, and there are lots of issues and problems for Stuart and Dusty to deal with. I loved that more often than not, when there was conflict or a problem between two characters, the author chose to show them working it out as adults rather than pouting and running off. For example, Dusty initially is jealous of and intimidated by a beautiful amateur illustrator who joins the dig due to her father's generous contribution to the university, but as they get to know each other they become good friends rather than rivals.
It's also clear that the author has an archeology background and is skilled in giving enough detail to provide color and interest to the setting and story without overwhelming it. Now I'm looking forward to more books in this series, as well as going back to the first one, Field Rules. I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 28, 2023
Carla Luna continues to impress with another wonderfully written romance with a bit of spice and minimal angst. Her knowledge of archaeology shines as she reminds us of the most cutthroat of battlefields: academia. From the hallowed halls of learning to a dig site in Turkey, the quest for recognition seems more trouble than it’s worth!
Dusty Danforth can’t settle on a thesis topic or keep a lid on her temper, and she is still trying to get out from the shadow of her intimidatingly successful mother. I might sign at her choices when she flies off the handle (even though I completely understand why) but she always has a good heart and definitely keeps things interesting!
Poor sweet Stuart is doing his best but when caught between a shady dig director and his burgeoning academic career, he isn’t sure where to turn, making him very relatable. Being together honestly causes Dusty and Stuart to make worse choices until they learn how to make each other better.
The background characters were great - I liked that all of the on page women were different and it worked for them, and that the petty rivalries and jealousy were on the whole worked out so the girls really banded together. I’m especially glad to see that Emilia and TJ are in line for the next book!
If you love archaeology, romances with a setting outside the usual, or characters with jobs that matter to them, please pick up this book!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own. For more reviews, check out my blog !
Dusty Danforth can’t settle on a thesis topic or keep a lid on her temper, and she is still trying to get out from the shadow of her intimidatingly successful mother. I might sign at her choices when she flies off the handle (even though I completely understand why) but she always has a good heart and definitely keeps things interesting!
Poor sweet Stuart is doing his best but when caught between a shady dig director and his burgeoning academic career, he isn’t sure where to turn, making him very relatable. Being together honestly causes Dusty and Stuart to make worse choices until they learn how to make each other better.
The background characters were great - I liked that all of the on page women were different and it worked for them, and that the petty rivalries and jealousy were on the whole worked out so the girls really banded together. I’m especially glad to see that Emilia and TJ are in line for the next book!
If you love archaeology, romances with a setting outside the usual, or characters with jobs that matter to them, please pick up this book!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own. For more reviews, check out my blog !
April 16, 2023
I stayed up late to finish reading this smart, sexy contemporary romance between two archaeologists on a dig at the ruins of Troy.
27-year-old Dusty Danforth has been friends with Stuart Carlson since childhood, and secretly in love with him for almost as long. She worries about ruining their friendship, and she’s also navigating new friendships with a crew of archaeologists and wealthy patrons. Meanwhile, Dusty’s high-powered mother gives Dusty an ultimatum to finish her PhD or be cut off. But Dusty is more interested in doing archaeological illustration. Pressure builds when Professor Hughes, Stuart’s boss, blackmails Dusty and threatens to ruin Stuart. Dusty is forced into some hard choices.
“Troy Story,” set in Turkey (Türkiye), is the second book in Carla Luna’s “Romancing the Ruins” series, but each book can stand alone because it follows a different couple. The first book in the series was set in Cyprus, and third will be set in Italy. Luna has experience as a real archaeologist, and she’s able to infuse a lot of interesting details about the art and science of archaeology.
Luna is also something of a foodie and writes mouthwatering descriptions of the cuisine in the “Romancing the Ruins” series, as well as her previous “Blackwood Cellars” series.
In “Troy Story,” the heroine, Dusty, is smart and funny, yet still struggles with some insecurities about love, family and career. The love story was fun, yet there was so much more happening in this book.
The author sent me a digital copy of the book to review, and all opinions here are my own.
27-year-old Dusty Danforth has been friends with Stuart Carlson since childhood, and secretly in love with him for almost as long. She worries about ruining their friendship, and she’s also navigating new friendships with a crew of archaeologists and wealthy patrons. Meanwhile, Dusty’s high-powered mother gives Dusty an ultimatum to finish her PhD or be cut off. But Dusty is more interested in doing archaeological illustration. Pressure builds when Professor Hughes, Stuart’s boss, blackmails Dusty and threatens to ruin Stuart. Dusty is forced into some hard choices.
“Troy Story,” set in Turkey (Türkiye), is the second book in Carla Luna’s “Romancing the Ruins” series, but each book can stand alone because it follows a different couple. The first book in the series was set in Cyprus, and third will be set in Italy. Luna has experience as a real archaeologist, and she’s able to infuse a lot of interesting details about the art and science of archaeology.
Luna is also something of a foodie and writes mouthwatering descriptions of the cuisine in the “Romancing the Ruins” series, as well as her previous “Blackwood Cellars” series.
In “Troy Story,” the heroine, Dusty, is smart and funny, yet still struggles with some insecurities about love, family and career. The love story was fun, yet there was so much more happening in this book.
The author sent me a digital copy of the book to review, and all opinions here are my own.
June 4, 2023
There’s a point when you realize that the legends of ancient Greece live on in the world today. One such battlefield is thought to be in Turkey, at the site of the fabled city of Troy. Imagine being part of an archaeological dig at Hisarlik, looking for proof of the ancient battleground—while fighting your personal battles of love and war.
Feature a young woman of artistic talent, Dusty, who is thrown into the trenches with her childhood friend Stuart, newly appointed professor at the University of Boston. Deep feelings have been submerged, but now are smoldering just beneath the surface. Plot complications arise in the form of an aging professor who will stop at nothing—including theft and blackmail—in an attempt to redeem his reputation. Passionate feelings burst forth; hearts hang in the balance. How will the seemingly insurmountable issues be resolved?
Luna’s novel is especially gripping because of the vivid character portrayal and the accurate description of daily life on an archeological excursion. As a trained archaeologist who has participated in digs, the author is able to write about the background in detailed, picturesque prose—including food descriptions that make me hungry for borek, crusty bread, and other delights.
I’d rather be in Turkey, with a world of possibilities opening before me, falling into the arms of a lusty archaeologist and discovering treasure…but since I am having a quiet “hammock summer” in my back yard, I am delighted to have discovered Troy Story. I recommend this charming romance for a mini-vacation.
Feature a young woman of artistic talent, Dusty, who is thrown into the trenches with her childhood friend Stuart, newly appointed professor at the University of Boston. Deep feelings have been submerged, but now are smoldering just beneath the surface. Plot complications arise in the form of an aging professor who will stop at nothing—including theft and blackmail—in an attempt to redeem his reputation. Passionate feelings burst forth; hearts hang in the balance. How will the seemingly insurmountable issues be resolved?
Luna’s novel is especially gripping because of the vivid character portrayal and the accurate description of daily life on an archeological excursion. As a trained archaeologist who has participated in digs, the author is able to write about the background in detailed, picturesque prose—including food descriptions that make me hungry for borek, crusty bread, and other delights.
I’d rather be in Turkey, with a world of possibilities opening before me, falling into the arms of a lusty archaeologist and discovering treasure…but since I am having a quiet “hammock summer” in my back yard, I am delighted to have discovered Troy Story. I recommend this charming romance for a mini-vacation.
May 15, 2023
One of the things I'm coming to truly love about Carla Luna's books are how they make you feel like you're there with the characters. I've never been to a dig site but somehow after reading Troy Story I felt like I was right along side Dusty, Stuart and their colleagues discovering artifacts from a long gone civilisation. It feels like such a summer read being able to almost feel the sun on my skin (although I could probably do without the dust and dirt under my fingernails). I could completely understand why some of the characters were so eager to join the academics in the trenches.
The characters are all interesting to follow as we witness Dusty and Stuart navigate their changing relationship. The side characters are particularly strong and I'm already looking forward to the third book in the Romancing the Ruins series because I want to spend more time with all of them again. I didn't feel the romance as strongly as I had in Field Rules but that didn't make the novel any less compelling or fun. I like how smart the characters are. Dusty isn't just a woman who we are told is smart - we are shown through her actions. I did like the drama and how everything played out in the end.
This book works perfectly as a standalone and is full of tension, friendship and fun. Although it might leave you with the desire to run off and join an archaeological dig (or just rewatch Troy and read the Iliad instead).
The characters are all interesting to follow as we witness Dusty and Stuart navigate their changing relationship. The side characters are particularly strong and I'm already looking forward to the third book in the Romancing the Ruins series because I want to spend more time with all of them again. I didn't feel the romance as strongly as I had in Field Rules but that didn't make the novel any less compelling or fun. I like how smart the characters are. Dusty isn't just a woman who we are told is smart - we are shown through her actions. I did like the drama and how everything played out in the end.
This book works perfectly as a standalone and is full of tension, friendship and fun. Although it might leave you with the desire to run off and join an archaeological dig (or just rewatch Troy and read the Iliad instead).
November 1, 2025
Stuart and Dusty have known each other since they were kids – both of their parents work in the archaeological field, bringing them to a dig site in Egypt that set off a lifetime friendship between them… though that friendship has been something more for a while. More and unexplored. But when Stuart is hired to help run a dig at the confirmed location of Troy, Dusty offers to head there and help him… and finally tell him how she feels. But with an on-going feud between the Germans and Americans because of a past history between their bosses, it becomes clear that this dig isn’t going to be as smooth as they would have hoped. And as they begin to explore everything between them, they’ll have to hope it can hold up to the antics of their boss… who may or may not be breaking a few laws behind the scenes.
This was a cute friends-to-lovers romance that takes place on an archaeological dig. I loved the moments between them when they finally opened up about their true feelings. I loved the whole plot of their boss being a lying, thieving piece of garbage. I loved the friendships, the characters, the banter. I loved the spice (which was very nice). I loved the archaeology and the science we get to see. I honestly do enjoy these books and I was excited that this took place in Troy. I think I would’ve appreciated it if we got to see more of, well, everything, and less of the angst between them as they tried to open up to one another.
This was a cute friends-to-lovers romance that takes place on an archaeological dig. I loved the moments between them when they finally opened up about their true feelings. I loved the whole plot of their boss being a lying, thieving piece of garbage. I loved the friendships, the characters, the banter. I loved the spice (which was very nice). I loved the archaeology and the science we get to see. I honestly do enjoy these books and I was excited that this took place in Troy. I think I would’ve appreciated it if we got to see more of, well, everything, and less of the angst between them as they tried to open up to one another.
May 29, 2023
You'll be Digging this book in now time! 🤣
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫 4.5 / 5
This was a great fun read and a wonderful romance clearly written by someone who knows their subject. As a real Time Team and Documentary watcher, it was great to read a book that used both history and archaeology not just as a backdrop or set up for the action, but as a key aspect of their story while at the same time not weighing down the book with technical terms or esoteric ideas. The romance, the history, and the archaeology are equally well integrated into the story line filled with friends to lovers romance, childhood sweethearts finally realizing how they feel, and a nice bit of tension from ‘the bad guy’. I love when books have an authenticity to them that takes a story to a new level, and Luna’s own background clearly adds an extra dimension and depth to this story. This was the first book in this series that I have read and I can say that this can be read as fully self-contained stand alone, but based on the quality of the writing, the romance between the leads, and my interest in this subject I will be getting Book One shortly and will be there when Book Three is released!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫 4.5 / 5
This was a great fun read and a wonderful romance clearly written by someone who knows their subject. As a real Time Team and Documentary watcher, it was great to read a book that used both history and archaeology not just as a backdrop or set up for the action, but as a key aspect of their story while at the same time not weighing down the book with technical terms or esoteric ideas. The romance, the history, and the archaeology are equally well integrated into the story line filled with friends to lovers romance, childhood sweethearts finally realizing how they feel, and a nice bit of tension from ‘the bad guy’. I love when books have an authenticity to them that takes a story to a new level, and Luna’s own background clearly adds an extra dimension and depth to this story. This was the first book in this series that I have read and I can say that this can be read as fully self-contained stand alone, but based on the quality of the writing, the romance between the leads, and my interest in this subject I will be getting Book One shortly and will be there when Book Three is released!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 2, 2025
Troy Story is the second book in Carla Luna's Romancing the Ruins series.
It follows Dusty and Stuart, childhood friends with parents who would take them along to dig sites growing up. Now adults, Stuart is beginning a job as a professor, and Dusty is still trying to pin down a dissertation topic to finish her Ph.D. They are both in Turkey working on an archeological dig of the ancient Troy, and have started thinking of each other as more than just friends.
I love how Carla brings in her archeological background to make her books feel real. This book isn't the Indiana Jones view full of danger and adventure. It talks about how hot the days get, how sometimes shards are all they find, how not every dig places them in housing that has a laundry facility. It just felt very real, and went into a lot of detail explaining how digs work, without getting boring or sounding like a history class. It also set up for better understanding the political power dynamics of academia.
The relationship between the two main characters felt a lot more real than the first book in the series. Since this is still a standalone, I'd recommend this one more.
This book is great for those who want to feel like they're getting a PhD in archeology, love ancient history, or love a good friends to lovers story.
Would recommend!
It follows Dusty and Stuart, childhood friends with parents who would take them along to dig sites growing up. Now adults, Stuart is beginning a job as a professor, and Dusty is still trying to pin down a dissertation topic to finish her Ph.D. They are both in Turkey working on an archeological dig of the ancient Troy, and have started thinking of each other as more than just friends.
I love how Carla brings in her archeological background to make her books feel real. This book isn't the Indiana Jones view full of danger and adventure. It talks about how hot the days get, how sometimes shards are all they find, how not every dig places them in housing that has a laundry facility. It just felt very real, and went into a lot of detail explaining how digs work, without getting boring or sounding like a history class. It also set up for better understanding the political power dynamics of academia.
The relationship between the two main characters felt a lot more real than the first book in the series. Since this is still a standalone, I'd recommend this one more.
This book is great for those who want to feel like they're getting a PhD in archeology, love ancient history, or love a good friends to lovers story.
Would recommend!
April 30, 2023
I’m running out of superlatives for Carla Luna’s writing. It seems each novel bests the one that came before it. Now on her sixth novel, Ms Luna has reached a level of storytelling and writing style to match any best-selling contemporary romance author. I adored her first three, the Blackwood Cellar Series. But this new series, Romancing the Ruins, speaks to her personal experience as an archeologist. Without overwhelming readers with minute details or archeology-speak, she eases us into a world she knows well, shows us both the day-to-day drudge as well as the thrill of discovery. But that’s the backdrop. The real story is the love, the romance between the main characters. In Troy Story, it’s Stuart and Dusty, characters we met in book one of the series. Both Stuart and Dusty are about to take two big leaps. One is a leap in their professional ambitions and the other is a leap of faith into the arms of the other. Is Dusty ready to catch Stuart and never let him fall? And Will Stuart set aside his burdens to welcome Dusty into his heart without reservation? Everyone knows, there can be no happily ever after without sacrifice. What are they willing to sacrifice for love? Whoo! I love this story. Five stars.
February 27, 2025
Gosh I laughed so hard, these two are so adorable, relatable, and authentically real, and the STORY holy s*** the plot gave me real life shockwaves I gasped out loud more than once at the sheer audacity of some people…. Even if you didn’t like the others (which of course I did), read this one!
One of the things that make me angry sometimes about friends to lovers stories is when I feel like the characters wasted so much time by simply not being honest or reading the signs correctly and not getting together sooner. But with these two, it felt like fate, perfect timing. They both had to go through what they did and live the different ways they did to end up in the right position in life to allow themselves to be fully invested in this relationship. When it’s done right (like it was here), friends to lovers is the truest form of love in my book, both in fiction and in real life 🥰
This is not to say there were some things I didn’t love about some interactions… but nothing was too bad to intrude on my pure joy of listening throughout the entire book (listen on Everand, great narration too! So many different accents to help distinguish the different characters, everything was on point)
All in all - a 4.75 rounded up to 5 * 🫶
One of the things that make me angry sometimes about friends to lovers stories is when I feel like the characters wasted so much time by simply not being honest or reading the signs correctly and not getting together sooner. But with these two, it felt like fate, perfect timing. They both had to go through what they did and live the different ways they did to end up in the right position in life to allow themselves to be fully invested in this relationship. When it’s done right (like it was here), friends to lovers is the truest form of love in my book, both in fiction and in real life 🥰
This is not to say there were some things I didn’t love about some interactions… but nothing was too bad to intrude on my pure joy of listening throughout the entire book (listen on Everand, great narration too! So many different accents to help distinguish the different characters, everything was on point)
All in all - a 4.75 rounded up to 5 * 🫶
April 25, 2023
I adore this book. I didn’t even know I needed a friends to lovers until I read it. It was super good. I’ve always enjoyed secret pinning and this was made better by the fact that the plot also had adventure and archeology. History is fascinating to me and I liked the little things we learn along the way. Stuart was too cute when you meet him in field rules and I was very happy we got his and Dusty’s story. I knew I’d love it when we were teased in book 1! I also can’t wait for TJ and Emilia’s story set in Italy! I just know I’m going to love theirs.
While this book could have had a third act breakup it did not and I was so grateful for that. Those can be over used in rom coms but this storyline made way more sense. I enjoyed how they didn’t let miscommunication win and trusted their feelings in each other.
This had the tropes: friends to lovers, mutual pining, he fell first, coworkers, secret crush, “forced proximity”(I say lightly), and blind to love(everyone else can see it)
Spice: 🌶️.5
Steam: 🔥🔥.5
Sweetness: 💗💗💗💗
While this book could have had a third act breakup it did not and I was so grateful for that. Those can be over used in rom coms but this storyline made way more sense. I enjoyed how they didn’t let miscommunication win and trusted their feelings in each other.
This had the tropes: friends to lovers, mutual pining, he fell first, coworkers, secret crush, “forced proximity”(I say lightly), and blind to love(everyone else can see it)
Spice: 🌶️.5
Steam: 🔥🔥.5
Sweetness: 💗💗💗💗
May 24, 2023
I would firstly just like to say a big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of this book, for my kindle, in return for my honest review.
This is actually book number two from the ‘Romancing The Ruins’ series but can very easily be read as a stand alone with no problems at all.
If you are an archeology and Greek mythology fan then you are going to love this book that is set at the historical site of Troy. It is also full of wonderful romance and a friends to lovers trope, with two wonderful lead characters.
Dusty and Stuart have been best friends since childhood and along the way their feelings have changed to romantic ones but neither one has said anything……… yet!
I couldn’t read this book fast enough and just had to keep turning the pages so that i could find out what was going to happen next!!
One word of warning though……do NOT read this book when you are hungry as it is full of mouth watering food - delicious…….
This is actually book number two from the ‘Romancing The Ruins’ series but can very easily be read as a stand alone with no problems at all.
If you are an archeology and Greek mythology fan then you are going to love this book that is set at the historical site of Troy. It is also full of wonderful romance and a friends to lovers trope, with two wonderful lead characters.
Dusty and Stuart have been best friends since childhood and along the way their feelings have changed to romantic ones but neither one has said anything……… yet!
I couldn’t read this book fast enough and just had to keep turning the pages so that i could find out what was going to happen next!!
One word of warning though……do NOT read this book when you are hungry as it is full of mouth watering food - delicious…….
May 25, 2023
Really loved this one! It's the second in this series, and even though you get to see some of the characters of the previous book, it can definitely be read as a stand-alone.
So, this is set in Turkey and we're able, once more, to feel a little bit of what's like to be part of an excavation site. It's so well written that I was really transported to the scenes as though I was seeing a movie.
The MC's practically grew together and are best friends, however... both harbour secret feelings for each other and we see those feelings and them evolve to so much more.
It has cool banter, friendship, love, steam, some corruption and shadiness and a guaranteed HEA.
Absolutely loved it and highly recommend!
Ps: Can't wait for the next one in the series!
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
So, this is set in Turkey and we're able, once more, to feel a little bit of what's like to be part of an excavation site. It's so well written that I was really transported to the scenes as though I was seeing a movie.
The MC's practically grew together and are best friends, however... both harbour secret feelings for each other and we see those feelings and them evolve to so much more.
It has cool banter, friendship, love, steam, some corruption and shadiness and a guaranteed HEA.
Absolutely loved it and highly recommend!
Ps: Can't wait for the next one in the series!
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 25, 2023
This was a Friends To Lovers and Archaeologist Trope.
This was book 2 in Romancing The Ruins series.
Like the 1st book I loved everything about this story. I've always been fascinated by ancient ruins and I have learnt so much from these books.
I've even written down few places for me to visit!
I loved Dusty from book 1.
Dusty and Stuart have been best friends nearly their whole life..
She didn't want to ruin it and because he wasn't available.
Now he is single again, she is at wars with her feelings for him.
But to our surprise Stuart has always loved her too..
So while these to are exploring all their feelings and sizzling chemistry, there is more going behind the doors with lead Archaeologist.
Read and find out, if that person is successful in his betrayel and evil plan.
This book had Suspense, drama, humour, Love and steam.
This was book 2 in Romancing The Ruins series.
Like the 1st book I loved everything about this story. I've always been fascinated by ancient ruins and I have learnt so much from these books.
I've even written down few places for me to visit!
I loved Dusty from book 1.
Dusty and Stuart have been best friends nearly their whole life..
She didn't want to ruin it and because he wasn't available.
Now he is single again, she is at wars with her feelings for him.
But to our surprise Stuart has always loved her too..
So while these to are exploring all their feelings and sizzling chemistry, there is more going behind the doors with lead Archaeologist.
Read and find out, if that person is successful in his betrayel and evil plan.
This book had Suspense, drama, humour, Love and steam.
May 27, 2023
Stuart and Dusty . . .
Stuart Carlson and Dusty Danforth bonded as best friends when their parents took them along on a dig in Egypt. Now Stuart is running the next excavation at Troy and invites Dusty along to be the site illustrator. The two have known each other for a long time and Dusty is finally ready to talk to Stuart and admit her feelings for him. She wants to move out of the “friend zone” and become a couple.
A German team is also aggressively pursuing a major find and Stuart’s boss, Professor Rutherford Hughes, will make sure he wins no matter what rules he has to break or harm he causes. Stuart and Dusty have much to lose if Hughes dishonors the team. Will Stuart and Dusty still reveal their love for each other, and can that love survive if their boss creates a scandal that threatens the project?
Stuart Carlson and Dusty Danforth bonded as best friends when their parents took them along on a dig in Egypt. Now Stuart is running the next excavation at Troy and invites Dusty along to be the site illustrator. The two have known each other for a long time and Dusty is finally ready to talk to Stuart and admit her feelings for him. She wants to move out of the “friend zone” and become a couple.
A German team is also aggressively pursuing a major find and Stuart’s boss, Professor Rutherford Hughes, will make sure he wins no matter what rules he has to break or harm he causes. Stuart and Dusty have much to lose if Hughes dishonors the team. Will Stuart and Dusty still reveal their love for each other, and can that love survive if their boss creates a scandal that threatens the project?
February 5, 2024
4.25/5 stars
1.5/5 spice
Another fun love story with great details about the archeological life.
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Archeological setting
Professor MMC
Illustrator FMC
Close proximity
Secret pining
Dual POV
I really loved how the relationship developed and there wasn't too much time spent on secret pining or miscommunication. The heavy topics added a bit of drama, but overall, the romance was lighthearted. Dusty and Stuart had a really strong friendship, and it worked naturally that their feelings developed into love. They did have some moments that could have damaged their romance, but that friendship foundation really helped bring them back together.
A great read for fans of romance in academia and friends to lovers.
Trigger/Content warnings:
Sexual harassment, misogyny, coercion/blackmail, mild sexual content, and explicit language
1.5/5 spice
Another fun love story with great details about the archeological life.
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Archeological setting
Professor MMC
Illustrator FMC
Close proximity
Secret pining
Dual POV
I really loved how the relationship developed and there wasn't too much time spent on secret pining or miscommunication. The heavy topics added a bit of drama, but overall, the romance was lighthearted. Dusty and Stuart had a really strong friendship, and it worked naturally that their feelings developed into love. They did have some moments that could have damaged their romance, but that friendship foundation really helped bring them back together.
A great read for fans of romance in academia and friends to lovers.
Trigger/Content warnings:
Sexual harassment, misogyny, coercion/blackmail, mild sexual content, and explicit language
May 12, 2023
The series starter of Romancing the Ruins (Field rules) already acquainted me with the setting of an archaeological site. I really enjoyed the first book and was looking forward to the story of Dusty in Troy Story (great title by the way). The romance between two good friends is one of my favorites and Carla Luna definitely doesn't disappoint. I as well liked the way Dusty is trying to figure out what to do with her life.
Although I loved the book and would recommend you reading it. I've one small remark, but this is quite personal. I always find it hard to read when the character is taking an action of which you know it might not a good idea. But let that not keep you reading this great book.
Happy reading!!
Although I loved the book and would recommend you reading it. I've one small remark, but this is quite personal. I always find it hard to read when the character is taking an action of which you know it might not a good idea. But let that not keep you reading this great book.
Happy reading!!
May 22, 2023
Archaeology, history,
Shenanigans and mystery,
Time to give romance
A real chance?
Best friends since childhood, but wanting more
Could this be the chance for love to explore?
An archaeological dig could be the chance to reveal
Just how about the other they feel.
A feud with another archaeologist team
Maybe this won't be quite the dream?
Their team lead has dreams of his own
And an attitude that makes the others groan!
With rivalries, schemes and dangerous threats
Will this really be their best chance yet?
Teamwork, angst, turmoil and blackmail, too,
How can they decide just what to do?
An intriguing read with romance and drama, too,
Makes this a book I highly recommend to you.
For my complementary copy I say thank you
Whilst sharing with you my honest review.
Shenanigans and mystery,
Time to give romance
A real chance?
Best friends since childhood, but wanting more
Could this be the chance for love to explore?
An archaeological dig could be the chance to reveal
Just how about the other they feel.
A feud with another archaeologist team
Maybe this won't be quite the dream?
Their team lead has dreams of his own
And an attitude that makes the others groan!
With rivalries, schemes and dangerous threats
Will this really be their best chance yet?
Teamwork, angst, turmoil and blackmail, too,
How can they decide just what to do?
An intriguing read with romance and drama, too,
Makes this a book I highly recommend to you.
For my complementary copy I say thank you
Whilst sharing with you my honest review.
May 23, 2023
📚review📚 86th book finished in 2023
Thank you so much Carla Luna and Rachel’s random resources for gifting me a digit copy of 'Troy story' in exchange for an honest review.
This is a standalone book in the Romancing the ruins series, I was so excited to read book 2 having read Field Rules last year. This time we follow Stuart Carlson and Dusty Danforth life long friends with feelings yet to be discovered will their past stop their potential future?
I really love this series as I have a passion for archaeology and the idea of on site romances is brilliant. In Turkey with enemy teams, hidden gems and an obnoxious boss, I enjoyed seeing how things developed between Dusty and Stuart.
#gifted #giftedbook #booktour
Thank you so much Carla Luna and Rachel’s random resources for gifting me a digit copy of 'Troy story' in exchange for an honest review.
This is a standalone book in the Romancing the ruins series, I was so excited to read book 2 having read Field Rules last year. This time we follow Stuart Carlson and Dusty Danforth life long friends with feelings yet to be discovered will their past stop their potential future?
I really love this series as I have a passion for archaeology and the idea of on site romances is brilliant. In Turkey with enemy teams, hidden gems and an obnoxious boss, I enjoyed seeing how things developed between Dusty and Stuart.
#gifted #giftedbook #booktour
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