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The French Connection #2
Diving Into Her
Kim Richmond is a 5’5” sassy blonde bombshell with a love of vintage dresses and killer heels. She is also a woman on the edge of losing her mind after her boyfriend cancels their holiday again. Accepting a two-week trip to the south of France courtesy of her best friend is the just what she needs. Staying at the five-star luxury Sapphire Hotel and Spa is like a dream come true. That is, until it all comes crashing down.
Helene DuBois has been dumped again! The cosmos really has it out for her, well that’s how she sees it. There’s only one thing for it, she needs a holiday. A break away from her messy life. Sun, sea, scuba diving and absolutely NO women. A trip to Saint Tropez should do the trick. Rest and relaxation with no drama, perfect! What could go wrong? Seeing Kim Richmond sobbing in the hotel lobby would be one clue. Offering to share her suite with the blonde beauty would be the second.
Helene DuBois has been dumped again! The cosmos really has it out for her, well that’s how she sees it. There’s only one thing for it, she needs a holiday. A break away from her messy life. Sun, sea, scuba diving and absolutely NO women. A trip to Saint Tropez should do the trick. Rest and relaxation with no drama, perfect! What could go wrong? Seeing Kim Richmond sobbing in the hotel lobby would be one clue. Offering to share her suite with the blonde beauty would be the second.
497 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2023
156 people are currently reading
631 people want to read
About the author
Alyson Root
23 books227 followersAlyson was born and raised in the heart of England. She moved to Paris in 2015 when she met her wife. Together they moved to the west of France where they now live with their two dogs and pet bird. Alyson spends her time running a small campsite and holiday home. During her off time, she loves to read lesbian romance books, write and Scuba Dive.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
March 28, 2025
Okay read!
Enjoyed Sam & Anna -- but just could not connect with the main couple (Kim & Helene): annoying behavior, that ex-boyfriend etc...
Enjoyed Sam & Anna -- but just could not connect with the main couple (Kim & Helene): annoying behavior, that ex-boyfriend etc...
February 8, 2023
I have a problem where I have to read a book series in order or else I’ll explode, so I sped through A Dance Toward Forever before reading Diving Into Her. If you also suffer from this condition and are coming from the first book, I definitely think this one is worth your time. Honestly, I loved them both, but Diving Into Her was by far my favorite of the two. I hate to compare, because they’re both so good, but this one seemed to flow a lot more naturally and (in my opinion) had a richer storyline.
We follow Kim and Helene, aka Anna’s assistant and Sam’s French boss from the first book, as they fall for each other. After coincidentally ending up in the same hotel, they spend a beautiful getaway together, but, unfortunately, they can’t escape their lives in Paris forever. I don’t think returning to reality after vacationing in the south of France would be super fun for anyone, but it proves especially difficult for these two as they seem to return with more problems than when they left.
To me, the mark of a well-written character is when you want to strangle them, but you still empathize and want the best for them. That being said, Kim and Helene were both very well-written. Similar to Sam and Anna, they get dangerously close to driving each other away. Even so (or maybe as a result), I couldn’t help but tear through the book to see how they came out the other end.
I was happy that Anna and Sam were still a part of this story too. They join a wonderful group of side characters who are all distinct and vibrant. Actually, I think that’d be the word that I’d choose to describe the book as a whole: vibrant. The landscape is gorgeous and the characters are so real, but fun and fresh at the same time.
Overall, I absolutely loved this book. I have no idea if the author plans on writing more books in this series, but I really really hope she does. I’ll definitely keep an eye out for whatever comes next from Alyson Root, and you should too!
We follow Kim and Helene, aka Anna’s assistant and Sam’s French boss from the first book, as they fall for each other. After coincidentally ending up in the same hotel, they spend a beautiful getaway together, but, unfortunately, they can’t escape their lives in Paris forever. I don’t think returning to reality after vacationing in the south of France would be super fun for anyone, but it proves especially difficult for these two as they seem to return with more problems than when they left.
To me, the mark of a well-written character is when you want to strangle them, but you still empathize and want the best for them. That being said, Kim and Helene were both very well-written. Similar to Sam and Anna, they get dangerously close to driving each other away. Even so (or maybe as a result), I couldn’t help but tear through the book to see how they came out the other end.
I was happy that Anna and Sam were still a part of this story too. They join a wonderful group of side characters who are all distinct and vibrant. Actually, I think that’d be the word that I’d choose to describe the book as a whole: vibrant. The landscape is gorgeous and the characters are so real, but fun and fresh at the same time.
Overall, I absolutely loved this book. I have no idea if the author plans on writing more books in this series, but I really really hope she does. I’ll definitely keep an eye out for whatever comes next from Alyson Root, and you should too!
January 27, 2025
Kim is on holiday to get some time away from her long term boyfriend. Botched accommodation leaves her without a room, when she is rescued by a friend of a friend Helene, who offers her refuge in her penthouse suite, owned by her brother. Dual narrative with likeable leads, but when they move to a diving expedition on her brother's yacht, which turns out to be 300 feet long, it lost me. Cannot tolerate billionaire anythings, so DNF at 45% after starting out so well. 2 stars for the two leads until the story sank for me. Sometimes it helps to read the blurb closer, which I rarely do.
August 22, 2024
"Diving Into Her" by Alyson Root is a stellar getaway novel, offering readers a chance to escape to the sun-soaked beaches of Saint Tropez while diving into a steamy and heartfelt romance. This is the second installment in "The French Connection" series, and it’s a delightful continuation that delivers on all fronts—whether you’re here for the romance, the setting, or the irresistible characters.
Kim Richmond is a sassy, vintage-loving bombshell in desperate need of a break from her life’s disappointments, while Helene DuBois is just as desperate to avoid any more romantic entanglements after yet another heartbreak. When these two women’s paths cross at the luxurious Sapphire Hotel and Spa, their lives take an unexpected turn. What starts as a generous offer from Helene to share her suite quickly evolves into something more as the two navigate their growing attraction in the midst of their own personal turmoil.
One of the highlights of this novel is Root’s writing. Her ability to bring Saint Tropez to life is nothing short of magical. From the luxury of a five-star hotel to the thrill of sailing on a mega yacht and the serenity of scuba diving, the setting is every vacation dream come true. Root captures the essence of these experiences, making it easy for readers to feel like they are right there with Kim and Helene.
The characters themselves are wonderfully crafted. Kim and Helene’s friends-to-lovers journey is both sweet and steamy, with plenty of moments that will have you rooting for their happily ever after. The exploration of a first-time relationship with a woman, especially within a femme/femme dynamic, is handled with care and authenticity. The presence of Sam and Anna from the first book, with their ongoing HEA, adds a lovely continuity to the series, making it a treat for returning readers.
Root doesn’t shy away from deeper themes, either. The novel touches on the impact of addiction through a side character, adding an emotional layer that enriches the story without overshadowing the romance. It’s a thoughtful inclusion that shows how addiction affects not just the individual but also their loved ones.
The steamy scenes in "Diving Into Her" are exactly that—steeeeeeamy. Root knows how to build tension and deliver on the heat, making this a must-read for fans of sizzling romance.
On the audio front, Lilla Green continues to do a great job with her narration. The little extras, like sound effects during texting or changes in sound when characters are on the phone, add a unique touch that enhances the listening experience. Green’s ability to give distinct voices to each character also adds depth to the story, making it even more engaging.
"Diving Into Her" is a wonderful addition to "The French Connection" series, offering a wonderful blend of romance, personal growth, and escapist fantasy. Whether you’re a fan of friends-to-lovers stories, steamy sapphic romances, or just in need of a mental vacation, this book is sure to satisfy. I’m eagerly looking forward to the next installment and more from Alyson Root.
Thank you Alyson Root for a copy of this audiobook!
Kim Richmond is a sassy, vintage-loving bombshell in desperate need of a break from her life’s disappointments, while Helene DuBois is just as desperate to avoid any more romantic entanglements after yet another heartbreak. When these two women’s paths cross at the luxurious Sapphire Hotel and Spa, their lives take an unexpected turn. What starts as a generous offer from Helene to share her suite quickly evolves into something more as the two navigate their growing attraction in the midst of their own personal turmoil.
One of the highlights of this novel is Root’s writing. Her ability to bring Saint Tropez to life is nothing short of magical. From the luxury of a five-star hotel to the thrill of sailing on a mega yacht and the serenity of scuba diving, the setting is every vacation dream come true. Root captures the essence of these experiences, making it easy for readers to feel like they are right there with Kim and Helene.
The characters themselves are wonderfully crafted. Kim and Helene’s friends-to-lovers journey is both sweet and steamy, with plenty of moments that will have you rooting for their happily ever after. The exploration of a first-time relationship with a woman, especially within a femme/femme dynamic, is handled with care and authenticity. The presence of Sam and Anna from the first book, with their ongoing HEA, adds a lovely continuity to the series, making it a treat for returning readers.
Root doesn’t shy away from deeper themes, either. The novel touches on the impact of addiction through a side character, adding an emotional layer that enriches the story without overshadowing the romance. It’s a thoughtful inclusion that shows how addiction affects not just the individual but also their loved ones.
The steamy scenes in "Diving Into Her" are exactly that—steeeeeeamy. Root knows how to build tension and deliver on the heat, making this a must-read for fans of sizzling romance.
On the audio front, Lilla Green continues to do a great job with her narration. The little extras, like sound effects during texting or changes in sound when characters are on the phone, add a unique touch that enhances the listening experience. Green’s ability to give distinct voices to each character also adds depth to the story, making it even more engaging.
"Diving Into Her" is a wonderful addition to "The French Connection" series, offering a wonderful blend of romance, personal growth, and escapist fantasy. Whether you’re a fan of friends-to-lovers stories, steamy sapphic romances, or just in need of a mental vacation, this book is sure to satisfy. I’m eagerly looking forward to the next installment and more from Alyson Root.
Thank you Alyson Root for a copy of this audiobook!
April 29, 2024
Didn’t have empathy with either character and found their behaviour often unpleasant and self centred. Shame, enjoyed number 1 & have already brought number 3….
November 29, 2024
Helene and Kim from A Dance Towards Forever have returned for their own shot at a hea. It was fun getting a bit more of Anna and Sam as well!
They meet in a paradise that both had gone to to get away from reality for bit. Friendly but not truly friends, Helene offered one of the rooms in her suite for Kim to have her getaway. Both happy to get to know each other.
Their connection was palpable, both in becoming friends and also in attraction and chemistry. There was such ease and communication between them until they are back to reality. Old habits and survival instincts flare. Can they get past the walls and continue to grow together?
They meet in a paradise that both had gone to to get away from reality for bit. Friendly but not truly friends, Helene offered one of the rooms in her suite for Kim to have her getaway. Both happy to get to know each other.
Their connection was palpable, both in becoming friends and also in attraction and chemistry. There was such ease and communication between them until they are back to reality. Old habits and survival instincts flare. Can they get past the walls and continue to grow together?
June 3, 2023
Unfortunately AC recommended Always Emilie to me first and since I just love stories involving musicians I read that one first and absolutely loved it.
While it was nice to get the background on Kim and Héléne I of course knew that they'd end up together from the third volume. In any case I think there is definitively a development from this to the third volume, so If you read this series in the right order you have something even better to look forward to.
While it was nice to get the background on Kim and Héléne I of course knew that they'd end up together from the third volume. In any case I think there is definitively a development from this to the third volume, so If you read this series in the right order you have something even better to look forward to.
November 16, 2024
I’m not quite sure how I felt about this one. It was definitely better than Dance Toward Forever in terms of spice, but some stuff just didn’t click for me. This story follows Kim and Helene, mostly on holiday in the south of France. Anna and Sam show up from time to time and it’s nice to see them.
I don’t fully buy into Kim and Helene and their insta-love. Kim is about a week away from breaking up with her very long term boyfriend. The only person she’s ever been with, no less. Helene is just thirsty and dying to find someone. One messed up reservation later and they have forced proximity.
The complete and total overuse of the word “doll” just did me in. Just no. Once or twice is fine, but every sentence is not ok. Kim’s boldness in her first experience with a woman just didn’t work for me. The spice was pretty good and frequent, but it didn’t feel like this couple had anywhere to go since there was no build up.
I don’t fully buy into Kim and Helene and their insta-love. Kim is about a week away from breaking up with her very long term boyfriend. The only person she’s ever been with, no less. Helene is just thirsty and dying to find someone. One messed up reservation later and they have forced proximity.
The complete and total overuse of the word “doll” just did me in. Just no. Once or twice is fine, but every sentence is not ok. Kim’s boldness in her first experience with a woman just didn’t work for me. The spice was pretty good and frequent, but it didn’t feel like this couple had anywhere to go since there was no build up.
May 18, 2023
Kim's boyfriend Greg is blowing her off again. They were supposed to go on vacation together, and this is the 5th time he changed plans. In talking to her friend Sam, she offered Kim a week at a luxury resort the south of France. Kim agrees, but when she gets there a problem, an intern canceled her reservation and she has no place to go. In walks Helene', an acquaintance, who offers her a room in her suite. And then things summer. I couldn't put it down! Sensual, angsty, great sex, and a very good story! 5 stars!
February 6, 2023
ARC review for Diving into Her for an honest review.
Let me start off by saying I’m not a huge romance novel kind of gal. But I really enjoyed this novel quite a bit. It was an easy read that kept my attention the entire time with a decent amount o spice.
We start off with Kim who just wants to take a munch needed vacation with her long term boyfriend Greg. Kim is a fierce and fiery character who loves a good pair of heels! Unfortunately for her Greg keeps blowing her off. She gets fed up and goes on vacation by herself.
In walks Helene. After some issues with Kim’s hotel reservation she ends up staying with Helene, a rich heiress who loves diving.
Over a few weeks they bond and fall in love. I’m skipping over a lot of details here so as not to ruin the story but what I will say is the dialog between the two is a lot of fun.
Something that stood out to me is how the author handled the relationship between Greg and Kim was incredibly thoughtful. There are themes of very strong friendships throughout the book. The diving descriptions were fun and a nice add to the book.
The tension/drama in the book is just enough to add some excitement but not so much that would cause any anxieties while reading it. There are themes of drugs and some domestic abuse but only briefly. I only mention it for the sake of any triggers a reader may have.
I recommend picking up this book if you’re looking for an easy, fun, and happy book! As I mentioned, this kind of book isn’t my normal read but I really enjoyed it.
Let me start off by saying I’m not a huge romance novel kind of gal. But I really enjoyed this novel quite a bit. It was an easy read that kept my attention the entire time with a decent amount o spice.
We start off with Kim who just wants to take a munch needed vacation with her long term boyfriend Greg. Kim is a fierce and fiery character who loves a good pair of heels! Unfortunately for her Greg keeps blowing her off. She gets fed up and goes on vacation by herself.
In walks Helene. After some issues with Kim’s hotel reservation she ends up staying with Helene, a rich heiress who loves diving.
Over a few weeks they bond and fall in love. I’m skipping over a lot of details here so as not to ruin the story but what I will say is the dialog between the two is a lot of fun.
Something that stood out to me is how the author handled the relationship between Greg and Kim was incredibly thoughtful. There are themes of very strong friendships throughout the book. The diving descriptions were fun and a nice add to the book.
The tension/drama in the book is just enough to add some excitement but not so much that would cause any anxieties while reading it. There are themes of drugs and some domestic abuse but only briefly. I only mention it for the sake of any triggers a reader may have.
I recommend picking up this book if you’re looking for an easy, fun, and happy book! As I mentioned, this kind of book isn’t my normal read but I really enjoyed it.
February 7, 2023
First of all, thank you to Alyson for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
This novel gave me all of the "feels". I really enjoyed all of the character-building, especially that of the secondary characters. They are integral to the story and knowing what made them tick helped prevent those dreaded plot holes.
I also enjoyed the growth in the characters as the story moved forward. Reading about women discovering themselves and learning how to put their own wants and needs first was a breath of fresh air.
Finally, the spice was delicious. While their attraction to each other clearly drives the plot, it doesn't completely overtake it. This created quite a buildup waiting for the spice to happen and when it did, oh was it good!
I will note that I wasn't a fan of Helene. Her behaviour makes the story go 'round but I do wish she worked past more of her insecurities by the end of the novel rather than Kim just putting up with them.
Overall I rated this book 5 stars ⭐️. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, and once I started, I could not stop. I look forward to seeing what else this new author brings us!
This novel gave me all of the "feels". I really enjoyed all of the character-building, especially that of the secondary characters. They are integral to the story and knowing what made them tick helped prevent those dreaded plot holes.
I also enjoyed the growth in the characters as the story moved forward. Reading about women discovering themselves and learning how to put their own wants and needs first was a breath of fresh air.
Finally, the spice was delicious. While their attraction to each other clearly drives the plot, it doesn't completely overtake it. This created quite a buildup waiting for the spice to happen and when it did, oh was it good!
I will note that I wasn't a fan of Helene. Her behaviour makes the story go 'round but I do wish she worked past more of her insecurities by the end of the novel rather than Kim just putting up with them.
Overall I rated this book 5 stars ⭐️. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, and once I started, I could not stop. I look forward to seeing what else this new author brings us!
January 14, 2024
i started reading this and a day later my cat ran away so i couldn’t read anymore. then she came back, i finished the book and it’s an ok read
February 22, 2023
I was generously gifted an ARC from author Alyson Root for Diving Into Her for my honest review. Thank you so much Ms. Root, I enjoyed this story immensely!
**Life is wonderful all on it's own, but living it with the person who was made just for you is priceless. No amount of uncertainty or fear is worth missing out on it**
I am the type of reader who absolutely HAS to read books in order and I quickly read through the first book in this series "A Dance Toward Forever" it was nice to have that smidgen of backstory with Helene & Kim and knowing how they actually know one another. It was also really cool to see Sam & Anna again in this story as well!
Let me start off by saying that from the perspective of someone who has her own relationship anxieties with fears of abandonment, I feel totally seen and a sort of kindred spirit to Helene.
The story flows beautifully and you definitely feel all of the feels, sometimes strongly, for our two main characters. I don't want to add spoilers, so all I'll tell you is to grab a glass of your favorite wine, your warmest blanket and find your comfiest chair because you're not going to want to put this book down! There's jealousy, betrayal, romance, sexiness, moments of sheer joy and times where you find yourself yelling at the book but it's all very well worth it. There are mentions of drug and domestic abuse as well, which can be triggering for some readers so be mindful, although they're only briefly touched upon, both being pivotal moments for the overall arc of the story so bear with, please.
However, having read this it makes me want to abscond to the south of France and hopefully find my own Helene who would whisk me away on a beautiful vacation and a whirlwind romance, just sans the ex-bf drama!
**Life is wonderful all on it's own, but living it with the person who was made just for you is priceless. No amount of uncertainty or fear is worth missing out on it**
I am the type of reader who absolutely HAS to read books in order and I quickly read through the first book in this series "A Dance Toward Forever" it was nice to have that smidgen of backstory with Helene & Kim and knowing how they actually know one another. It was also really cool to see Sam & Anna again in this story as well!
Let me start off by saying that from the perspective of someone who has her own relationship anxieties with fears of abandonment, I feel totally seen and a sort of kindred spirit to Helene.
The story flows beautifully and you definitely feel all of the feels, sometimes strongly, for our two main characters. I don't want to add spoilers, so all I'll tell you is to grab a glass of your favorite wine, your warmest blanket and find your comfiest chair because you're not going to want to put this book down! There's jealousy, betrayal, romance, sexiness, moments of sheer joy and times where you find yourself yelling at the book but it's all very well worth it. There are mentions of drug and domestic abuse as well, which can be triggering for some readers so be mindful, although they're only briefly touched upon, both being pivotal moments for the overall arc of the story so bear with, please.
However, having read this it makes me want to abscond to the south of France and hopefully find my own Helene who would whisk me away on a beautiful vacation and a whirlwind romance, just sans the ex-bf drama!
February 17, 2023
⭐️3.5
First of all I wanted to say I love both Helene and Kim and for some reason I kept picturing Helene as the Helena Peabody from the L word.
When it to came to the struggles and problems I liked that I saw and felt where Kim and Helene were coming from and I liked the appearance of Sam and Anna and I didn’t appreciate another third act break up,I didn’t like that in the first book and at least there wasn’t no other people sex scenes gladly.
What I loved most about the book is you can see how perfect Kim and Helene are for each other if only they would tell each other how they feel and talk about their insecurities without feeling like they are burdening the other person but they got through it and have their HEA Also to anyone was hasn’t read it,give it a chance you won’t regrets it.
And I also wanted to Thank Alyson root for giving me this arc of the great book and I can’t wait to see where any future books take us.
First of all I wanted to say I love both Helene and Kim and for some reason I kept picturing Helene as the Helena Peabody from the L word.
When it to came to the struggles and problems I liked that I saw and felt where Kim and Helene were coming from and I liked the appearance of Sam and Anna and I didn’t appreciate another third act break up,I didn’t like that in the first book and at least there wasn’t no other people sex scenes gladly.
What I loved most about the book is you can see how perfect Kim and Helene are for each other if only they would tell each other how they feel and talk about their insecurities without feeling like they are burdening the other person but they got through it and have their HEA Also to anyone was hasn’t read it,give it a chance you won’t regrets it.
And I also wanted to Thank Alyson root for giving me this arc of the great book and I can’t wait to see where any future books take us.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2023
The way the two characters meet in the beginning was entirely random and captured me right away. It was different but you certainly felt for both their situations, instantly. It had a good pace to it and was apparent the two main characters had significant struggles in their lives. This was my first book I’ve read by Aly but I couldn’t put it down and finished it in 2.5 days! The words delivered to Helene from Kim in the end I absolutely loved and had to reread. Emotional with still some of her sass, tugged at the heart strings. I highly recommend this book !
February 7, 2023
What an amazing book. Seriously couldn’t put this down. The chemistry between Kim and Helene is through the roof and I found myself rooting for them from the first moment in the hotel lobby. Kim is just so funny and out there which really compliments Helene and brings are out of her shell. Didn’t realise this was the 2nd book in a series so it might be a bit backwards but now going back to book 1 to follow another story. Worth the read a thousand times over!!!
February 4, 2023
Once I started this book I couldn't put it down! I loved the character development of the side characters. Now to the juicy....oh my Helene and Kim were 😍💥🔥 The way their history was woven into the present was just like reading about real life, well real life that's a little steamier than my own but damn it was entertaining!
February 14, 2023
🌟🌟🌟🌟
First off, I’m so thankful to received an advanced reading copy from this lovely author and honestly I was so excited to dive into this book🥹*
**
What a good love story. A slow burn in the beginning, but good. It was heartwarming to see true sapphic romance, and acceptance all throughout the book. Two people happen to go on vacay to escape their lives and they just happen to fall in love. But, figuring out how the love and complexities of life translates in real life is quite difficult. I loved seeing them find love in each other, and find love and peace within themselves. And, don’t get me started on spice🌶️🌶️🌶️ . Whew, I had to fan myself, ok. I also loved that the drama and things that come up for the characters don’t override the love storyline and friendship/thoughtfulness is at the forefront of the books themes.
This is one of those stories that make you smile bc it’s so sweet. I’m now also convince I need to go to France, buy a boat, and go diving 💦
First off, I’m so thankful to received an advanced reading copy from this lovely author and honestly I was so excited to dive into this book🥹*
**
What a good love story. A slow burn in the beginning, but good. It was heartwarming to see true sapphic romance, and acceptance all throughout the book. Two people happen to go on vacay to escape their lives and they just happen to fall in love. But, figuring out how the love and complexities of life translates in real life is quite difficult. I loved seeing them find love in each other, and find love and peace within themselves. And, don’t get me started on spice🌶️🌶️🌶️ . Whew, I had to fan myself, ok. I also loved that the drama and things that come up for the characters don’t override the love storyline and friendship/thoughtfulness is at the forefront of the books themes.
This is one of those stories that make you smile bc it’s so sweet. I’m now also convince I need to go to France, buy a boat, and go diving 💦
February 6, 2023
Kim is the definition of dynamite comes in small packages. She is a firecracker in heels. She is stuck in a relationship with her high school sweetheart that is less than fulfilling. She decides she needs some time away from him and takes a vacation. There are some hiccups in her plans and fate lands her sharing a room with an acquaintance. Helene has the worst luck in relationships. She is taking a much needed vacation after her latest attempt at love went south. She is looking forward to some relaxation without the distraction of women but, the universe has other plans. This book covers a bunch of real life issues which makes it super relatable. Not to mention, the spicy scenes are written to perfection. I recommend reading the first book in this series to give you a better sense of the character's personalities but, it could be read and enjoyed stand alone.
February 9, 2023
Received this as an ARC and let me tell you I am so glad I did.
I had not read anything by Alyson and also did not realize that this was book 2 of a series. It truly did not matter as the story flowed so well. I will be going back to read the first book.
With all that said I truly loved the book. It was a true beginning, middle and end. Some books it seems they all blend together but not this one.
The beginning we meet was a hotel meeting , Kim who didn't have a room available and Helene who offered to share their room.
From there was a beautiful yacht adventure. This is where I loved it the most. The writing so descriptive I truly could feel the sun on my face and during the dives I could picture all the fish swimming with them.
The end after a little angst was a wonderful HEA.
The book dealt with real, relatable issues and terrific character development and enough spice to keep things interesting.
I truly enjoyed this book and should be on everyones TBR pile.
I had not read anything by Alyson and also did not realize that this was book 2 of a series. It truly did not matter as the story flowed so well. I will be going back to read the first book.
With all that said I truly loved the book. It was a true beginning, middle and end. Some books it seems they all blend together but not this one.
The beginning we meet was a hotel meeting , Kim who didn't have a room available and Helene who offered to share their room.
From there was a beautiful yacht adventure. This is where I loved it the most. The writing so descriptive I truly could feel the sun on my face and during the dives I could picture all the fish swimming with them.
The end after a little angst was a wonderful HEA.
The book dealt with real, relatable issues and terrific character development and enough spice to keep things interesting.
I truly enjoyed this book and should be on everyones TBR pile.
February 18, 2023
ARC: I received an ARC, all opinions are my own.
3.5 stars
This is a 🌶️ open door F/F romance.
Overall, this was a quick and fun read! Some of the wording became repetitive, such as one of the characters referring to people as “doll.” As someone who has never been scuba diving I had some issues picturing some of the equipment named as I had no frame of reference.
The book felt bit disjointed sometimes, felt like an event happened then we go back in time a bit again/relieve the same event twice. I wish more that one POV had been picked with and stuck with, or the chapter headings clearly stated the date and the narrator.
For as long as the build up and peak tension in the book were, the ending seemed to fizzle out and I was hoping for more emotional closure than 🌶️.
3.5 stars
This is a 🌶️ open door F/F romance.
Overall, this was a quick and fun read! Some of the wording became repetitive, such as one of the characters referring to people as “doll.” As someone who has never been scuba diving I had some issues picturing some of the equipment named as I had no frame of reference.
The book felt bit disjointed sometimes, felt like an event happened then we go back in time a bit again/relieve the same event twice. I wish more that one POV had been picked with and stuck with, or the chapter headings clearly stated the date and the narrator.
For as long as the build up and peak tension in the book were, the ending seemed to fizzle out and I was hoping for more emotional closure than 🌶️.
February 7, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. I really felt the difficulty that Kim faced with not wanting to leave a long term/high school relationship that started from a friendship, confusing being in love with loving someone, etc. The dynamic between Helene and Kim had me pulling for them from the get-go. I loved the banter and understanding that they showed one another throughout, as well as insecurities playing a huge part in a relationship. I could not put this book down.
February 12, 2023
When I agreed to do an ARC review I was surprised at the quality of writing in this book. I don’t tend to prefer wanderlust or vacation books and really dislike books with “witty banter” but this book still managed to draw me in. She creates a believable and strong connection between the main characters and has enough steam to keep it interesting. I am looking forward reading more from this author in the future.
February 15, 2023
I received an ARC copy of this work and am summiting a review.
This journey starts down a road of calamity to a friends to lovers tale. The passion is fire hot and amazing as the holiday continues. The characters draw you in to the adventure. The scenery and diving descriptions have me wanting to try it myself!
Unfortunately the couple has to return to their lives at home and then the rollercoaster amps up! Ingrained fears and reality rear their ugly heads. The heartache is palpable until bravery and love wins out!
This author specializes in amazing location description, witty banter, and steamy sceans!
So glad to discover a new author and can't wait to read more from her!
This journey starts down a road of calamity to a friends to lovers tale. The passion is fire hot and amazing as the holiday continues. The characters draw you in to the adventure. The scenery and diving descriptions have me wanting to try it myself!
Unfortunately the couple has to return to their lives at home and then the rollercoaster amps up! Ingrained fears and reality rear their ugly heads. The heartache is palpable until bravery and love wins out!
This author specializes in amazing location description, witty banter, and steamy sceans!
So glad to discover a new author and can't wait to read more from her!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2023
I enjoyed this story. Maybe because I was new to the author or because of the format of the ARC (neither of which affects your enjoyment!) I found the start a slower buildup but after a few chapters, I was hooked.
Kim and Helene are deep, complex characters who each have holes in their hearts. The story takes them through love, sex, heartbreak and friendships.
Certainly worth reading if you like twisty turny love stories.
Reviewed an ARC but review is uninfluenced.
Kim and Helene are deep, complex characters who each have holes in their hearts. The story takes them through love, sex, heartbreak and friendships.
Certainly worth reading if you like twisty turny love stories.
Reviewed an ARC but review is uninfluenced.
March 22, 2025
Diving Into Her
This is Hélène and Kim's story now!
Trust that it's a great story with a lot of the same great characters, but this one has so many romantic locations! A vacation romance with lots of fun and drama! Loved it!!
This is Hélène and Kim's story now!
Trust that it's a great story with a lot of the same great characters, but this one has so many romantic locations! A vacation romance with lots of fun and drama! Loved it!!
February 4, 2023
What an excellent story. So much going on. I was rooting for Kim and Helene from the get go.
I do love a story that transports me to the locations with great descriptions, felt like I was on a summer holiday.
The pace of the story was also good, not rushed, like some books that seem to wrap up far too quickly.
1st book I've read by Alyson Root. It won't be the last.
I'm looking forward to reading Sam and Anna's story.
I do love a story that transports me to the locations with great descriptions, felt like I was on a summer holiday.
The pace of the story was also good, not rushed, like some books that seem to wrap up far too quickly.
1st book I've read by Alyson Root. It won't be the last.
I'm looking forward to reading Sam and Anna's story.
February 4, 2023
I loved every minute I spent reading this book.
The characters were all awesome and intriguing. The way they made love was explosive.
The personal issues that Kim and Helene faced kept me glued to the book , wondering if they would be able to resolve them.
I loved the detailed descriptions of the places they went to, because it added so much to my enjoyment.
I just wanted it to never end.
So , I can’t wait to read more of Alyson’s novels and maybe I will just read this one again!!
The characters were all awesome and intriguing. The way they made love was explosive.
The personal issues that Kim and Helene faced kept me glued to the book , wondering if they would be able to resolve them.
I loved the detailed descriptions of the places they went to, because it added so much to my enjoyment.
I just wanted it to never end.
So , I can’t wait to read more of Alyson’s novels and maybe I will just read this one again!!
February 5, 2023
This is my first Alyson Root book and F/F book. I actually really enjoyed it. The story was funny and sweet and at a few moments had me wanting to strangle Kim, Helen and Greg. I liked that she used common problems in relationships like education, careers, family, friendships and addiction. It really makes the story more relatable. I am definitely looking forward to reading Sam and Anna's story and more books from Alyson
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