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Love in Translation: A Spicy Opposites Attract Forced Proximity Romance
This could be their greatest adventure yet…
A stressed-out translator on the brink of a meltdown and a thrill seeker with a serious case of wanderlust find love outside their comfort zones.
Up until a few months ago, Rheo Whitlock had it all. Stability, self-confidence and a safe job as an interpreter for the United Nations… It was the predictable sort of existence she, as a dedicated homebody, had always dreamed of—the security she’d needed thanks to her nomadic #vanlife upbringing. But ever since an unfortunate “hot mic” moment threw her career into a tailspin, she’s been struggling—really struggling—with fear, anxiety and uncertainty. A calculated escape is in order, and Rheo knows just the place: her grandmother’s secluded hideaway in the breathtaking town of Gilmartin.
Except she won’t be alone, thanks to a random twist of fate…
Fletcher Wright lives for adrenaline, always chasing the next high. So when he learns he’ll have to share his rental accommodations with Rheo—a stranger, basically—he simply chalks it up to another challenge. It doesn’t hurt that there’s an immediate attraction between them, which neither can explain. Before long, they’re not just sharing a house and new experiences—they’re sharing a bed. But when it’s time for Fletcher to move on to the next adventure, he and Rheo will both have to decide—are they ready to take the biggest risk of all?
From showing up to glowing up, the characters in Afterglow Books are on the path to leading their best lives and finding sizzling romance along the way. Don’t miss any of these other fun titles…
The Bookbinder’s Guide to Love by Katherine Garbera
Swap and Smell the Roses by Karen Booth
Never Date a Roommate by Paula Ottoni
Meet Me in a Mile by Elizabeth Hrib
A stressed-out translator on the brink of a meltdown and a thrill seeker with a serious case of wanderlust find love outside their comfort zones.
Up until a few months ago, Rheo Whitlock had it all. Stability, self-confidence and a safe job as an interpreter for the United Nations… It was the predictable sort of existence she, as a dedicated homebody, had always dreamed of—the security she’d needed thanks to her nomadic #vanlife upbringing. But ever since an unfortunate “hot mic” moment threw her career into a tailspin, she’s been struggling—really struggling—with fear, anxiety and uncertainty. A calculated escape is in order, and Rheo knows just the place: her grandmother’s secluded hideaway in the breathtaking town of Gilmartin.
Except she won’t be alone, thanks to a random twist of fate…
Fletcher Wright lives for adrenaline, always chasing the next high. So when he learns he’ll have to share his rental accommodations with Rheo—a stranger, basically—he simply chalks it up to another challenge. It doesn’t hurt that there’s an immediate attraction between them, which neither can explain. Before long, they’re not just sharing a house and new experiences—they’re sharing a bed. But when it’s time for Fletcher to move on to the next adventure, he and Rheo will both have to decide—are they ready to take the biggest risk of all?
From showing up to glowing up, the characters in Afterglow Books are on the path to leading their best lives and finding sizzling romance along the way. Don’t miss any of these other fun titles…
The Bookbinder’s Guide to Love by Katherine Garbera
Swap and Smell the Roses by Karen Booth
Never Date a Roommate by Paula Ottoni
Meet Me in a Mile by Elizabeth Hrib
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 24, 2024
23 people are currently reading
6065 people want to read
About the author
Joss Wood
623 books386 followersJoss Wood loves books and travelling— especially to the wild places of Southern Africa and, well, anywhere.
She’s a wife, a mom to two teenagers, and is bossed around by two cats and a Great Dane X the size of a baby cow. After a career in local economic development, she now writes full time.
Be sure to follow Joss on BookBub for the latest on my releases https://www.bookbub.com/profile/joss-...
She’s a wife, a mom to two teenagers, and is bossed around by two cats and a Great Dane X the size of a baby cow. After a career in local economic development, she now writes full time.
Be sure to follow Joss on BookBub for the latest on my releases https://www.bookbub.com/profile/joss-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
August 26, 2024
I got distracted by this book.
I literally accomplished nothing today because I was consumed with it.
So, here I am 8 hours later and let me take you on a little journey.
I received this book from NetGalley and the author- thank you, this made my little crazy Monday much more enjoyable. I kept putting it down and telling myself to go to chores, but my Kindle found it's way back into my hand each time. THAT's a sign of a good book, right?..One that makes you forget a rough Monday?
Rheo has also had a rough Monday. In fact, she's a lot of rough Mondays. When we meet her she is running from very tidy little life: her boyfriend, her job at the UN and her home in Brooklyn. Not a metaphysical running, but a literal run to her Grandmother's home in the PNW, which also happens to be pink. This is a quaint little detail that warmed my heart, but back to the journey...
Insert Fletcher, an outdoorsy, rugged character who makes knee jerk decisions. He just might be the exact opposite of Rheo. He's also not too hard on the eyes...
So when Fletch arrives at Grandma's house we get a rather interesting predicament of who exactly is supposed to be there.
The rest is worth the read, and includes some definite spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️ action.
Schedule for release on 12/24/2024, keep your Christmas wishlist open!
I literally accomplished nothing today because I was consumed with it.
So, here I am 8 hours later and let me take you on a little journey.
I received this book from NetGalley and the author- thank you, this made my little crazy Monday much more enjoyable. I kept putting it down and telling myself to go to chores, but my Kindle found it's way back into my hand each time. THAT's a sign of a good book, right?..One that makes you forget a rough Monday?
Rheo has also had a rough Monday. In fact, she's a lot of rough Mondays. When we meet her she is running from very tidy little life: her boyfriend, her job at the UN and her home in Brooklyn. Not a metaphysical running, but a literal run to her Grandmother's home in the PNW, which also happens to be pink. This is a quaint little detail that warmed my heart, but back to the journey...
Insert Fletcher, an outdoorsy, rugged character who makes knee jerk decisions. He just might be the exact opposite of Rheo. He's also not too hard on the eyes...
So when Fletch arrives at Grandma's house we get a rather interesting predicament of who exactly is supposed to be there.
The rest is worth the read, and includes some definite spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️ action.
Schedule for release on 12/24/2024, keep your Christmas wishlist open!
September 24, 2024
Okay, so this is a case of never judging a book by its cover!
When I first saw this super cute cover, I initially thought that this was going to be a sweetly tender and cutesy book - oh, boy was I wrong, yes it's sweet, but there is also spice which turns the temperature up a notch,...or ten, yup there's saucy as well as spice!
Slow-burning romances aren't always my catnip, I have nothing against them I just have a very short attention span, LOL! Despite that there is an instant attraction between Rheo and Fletcher, I felt it more to be a slower approach, there are a fair few longing glances and it takes its time, which I think benefits the story and the characters far better, there's no rushing straight to bed for a quick romp, the chemistry builds naturally and the result is a sizzling passionate (and yes quite hot) moment which neither character (or reader) will forget.
I enjoyed the journey and watching Rheo and Fletcher peel back the layers of themselves, it is a story of discovery, learning how to be yourself and finding happiness.
The opening pulled at the heartstrings, and Rheo finds herself in a pretty dark place, she's sunken into a rut and can't seem to find the motivation, or the ability to climb out. She's struggling, emotional with fear and anxiety, her world in her eyes has collapsed around her, her career at the UN is in question and she is far too in the dark to find any source of light to see that all's not as bad as she thinks!
She grabs hold of a lifeline, in the form of running away to the middle of nowhere to her grandmother's cabin in the woods, so to speak, it's a little town called Gilmartin, but hey, still the middle of nowhere.
Hiding away, finding peace amongst the notice of her head is just what she needs, to evaluate life.
But...isn't there always a but?!
This one is a rather fine specimen too!
Fletcher just happens to have rented Rheo's grandmother's house as a bit of a stopgap between his adventures, it's a bit of a twist of fate bringing two as different as can be people together to share one house for a time. Fletcher is a free spirit, chilled out and happy to go along with living at the house, after all, it's not for long. He's an instantly likeable chap and very, very easy on the eye.
Nothing will happen, neither is looking for romance, each has their agenda, one is out for the thrill of life and the other just wants to put her life together, what could go wrong?
Yup, they fall for each other!!
Love in Translation is a wonderful mix of small-town romance with forced proximity, and little opposites attract for added drama; a city girl running from life meets a rugged, rough-around-the-edges adrenaline junkie who makes her heart skip a beat!
I liked how the story flowed, the fun plot and narration kept me engaged, it's a breezy and very enjoyable read the chemistry between the characters sparkled and then turned to red-hot lust, and the ending felt satisfying and fit the story well.
Highly recommended!
When I first saw this super cute cover, I initially thought that this was going to be a sweetly tender and cutesy book - oh, boy was I wrong, yes it's sweet, but there is also spice which turns the temperature up a notch,...or ten, yup there's saucy as well as spice!
Slow-burning romances aren't always my catnip, I have nothing against them I just have a very short attention span, LOL! Despite that there is an instant attraction between Rheo and Fletcher, I felt it more to be a slower approach, there are a fair few longing glances and it takes its time, which I think benefits the story and the characters far better, there's no rushing straight to bed for a quick romp, the chemistry builds naturally and the result is a sizzling passionate (and yes quite hot) moment which neither character (or reader) will forget.
I enjoyed the journey and watching Rheo and Fletcher peel back the layers of themselves, it is a story of discovery, learning how to be yourself and finding happiness.
The opening pulled at the heartstrings, and Rheo finds herself in a pretty dark place, she's sunken into a rut and can't seem to find the motivation, or the ability to climb out. She's struggling, emotional with fear and anxiety, her world in her eyes has collapsed around her, her career at the UN is in question and she is far too in the dark to find any source of light to see that all's not as bad as she thinks!
She grabs hold of a lifeline, in the form of running away to the middle of nowhere to her grandmother's cabin in the woods, so to speak, it's a little town called Gilmartin, but hey, still the middle of nowhere.
Hiding away, finding peace amongst the notice of her head is just what she needs, to evaluate life.
But...isn't there always a but?!
This one is a rather fine specimen too!
Fletcher just happens to have rented Rheo's grandmother's house as a bit of a stopgap between his adventures, it's a bit of a twist of fate bringing two as different as can be people together to share one house for a time. Fletcher is a free spirit, chilled out and happy to go along with living at the house, after all, it's not for long. He's an instantly likeable chap and very, very easy on the eye.
Nothing will happen, neither is looking for romance, each has their agenda, one is out for the thrill of life and the other just wants to put her life together, what could go wrong?
Yup, they fall for each other!!
Love in Translation is a wonderful mix of small-town romance with forced proximity, and little opposites attract for added drama; a city girl running from life meets a rugged, rough-around-the-edges adrenaline junkie who makes her heart skip a beat!
I liked how the story flowed, the fun plot and narration kept me engaged, it's a breezy and very enjoyable read the chemistry between the characters sparkled and then turned to red-hot lust, and the ending felt satisfying and fit the story well.
Highly recommended!
November 30, 2024
Rheo is an interpreter at the UN, currently hiding out in her grandmother's holiday house after having issues at work. Fletcher is an adventurer with his own documentary series who has rented the house for a few weeks. As these very different people are thrown together, sparks fly!
I picked up this book as I'm a translator and couldn't resist the title! This was a fun opposites-attract romance that made for a pleasant read. I really enjoyed the sentences in French, Spanish, and Portuguese peppered throughout the book.
A recommended read for fans of opposites-attract romance with emotional and spicy scenes.
Thank you to Netgalley and Mills & Boon for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I picked up this book as I'm a translator and couldn't resist the title! This was a fun opposites-attract romance that made for a pleasant read. I really enjoyed the sentences in French, Spanish, and Portuguese peppered throughout the book.
A recommended read for fans of opposites-attract romance with emotional and spicy scenes.
Thank you to Netgalley and Mills & Boon for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2025
ORIGINAL RATING : 2⭐️
FINAL RATING : 2⭐️
SPICE LEVEL : 2🌶️
This book was ok. Nothing too special, it was not for me. Written in third person (not my favorite) the MMC was an asshole urghhh!!! He pissed me off ALOT. I am so sorry Joss Wood i tried to like it…..
FINAL RATING : 2⭐️
SPICE LEVEL : 2🌶️
This book was ok. Nothing too special, it was not for me. Written in third person (not my favorite) the MMC was an asshole urghhh!!! He pissed me off ALOT. I am so sorry Joss Wood i tried to like it…..
September 24, 2025
TOP THREE REASONS TO READ THIS BOOK
1. You love third person narratives in a romance novel.
2. You want your main characters to have no chemistry what so ever but they are in love just because they say so. I mean they see each other and described them as “not handsome enough to be on a magazine cover” and “she wasn’t conventionally pretty”. They should have just said three drinks in and you’ll do.
3. You love books that have no business being a published novel.
Luckily this book was quick but it was NOT painless.
1. You love third person narratives in a romance novel.
2. You want your main characters to have no chemistry what so ever but they are in love just because they say so. I mean they see each other and described them as “not handsome enough to be on a magazine cover” and “she wasn’t conventionally pretty”. They should have just said three drinks in and you’ll do.
3. You love books that have no business being a published novel.
Luckily this book was quick but it was NOT painless.
September 1, 2024
I found myself completely captivated by I Like Second Chances in a Small Town. The dynamic between the outdoorsy man and the city girl was incredibly engaging, with their instant attraction sparking right from the beginning. The way their opposite personalities played off each other kept me eagerly turning the pages, as I was drawn into their world and the tension that brewed between them.
The forced proximity trope added an exciting layer to the story, making their interactions even more intense. The chemistry between the characters was palpable, and while some scenes were quite graphic, it only heightened the depth of their connection. I truly enjoyed every moment of this book and was hooked from start to finish.
February 10, 2025
I’ve read many of the books Joss Wood has written for Harlequin’s Desire line (the series From Mavericks to Married, The Ballantyne Billionaires, and Love in Boston are a few of my favourites) but with the shutdown of the Desire imprint (a sad reality; I still really miss their Blaze and Temptation lines, too) the author has turned to writing for Harlequin Afterglow (along with many other Desire authors). Love in Translation is a delightful opposite attracts romance about a translator dealing with burnout and an adventurer taking a physical break who end up as roommates and then more.
Rheo Whitlock has always prided herself on her stable and precise career as a UN interpreter. But when a stray comment made on what turned out to be a live microphone becomes a viral moment and her career and confidence take a dive, she ends up on stress leave, holed up in her grandmother’s secluded (and currently empty) vacation home – fondly called the Pink House – in small town Gilmartin, Washington, an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. But Rheo doesn’t care about that – she’s not the outdoorsy type, and she’s just there to lick her wounds and figure out how to resuscitate her career. No-one in her family, including her grandmother, knows that she’s there, and the only person she talks to regularly and who knows of her plight is her new friend Abi, owner of a local deli and coffee shop. So when a dusty SUV pulls up and a handsome, rugged, guy knocks on her door, no-one is more surprised than Rheo is.
As a teenager, Fletcher Wright spent several months in bed suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome. Now he lives every day to the fullest. As an adventurer and filmmaker, he’s always looking for the next thrilling journey. But his friend and doctor, Seb, responsible for the regular medical checkups that enable him to have health insurance on all his trips, insists that he take a three month break to recover from the recent illnesses (malaria, pneumonia, frostbite) he’s endured during his hikes, mountain climbs, and other athletic endeavours. When his good friend Carrie clears the way for him to rent her grandmother’s Pink House for a few weeks as part of his recovery, a place where he can enjoy the outdoor scenery and get his hiking fixes in without overexertion, he looks forward to some rest and relaxation. What’s he’s not expecting is to find the house already occupied.
While Fletcher has the right to have the house to himself, it’s clear that Rheo is living there and from her panicked expression, doesn’t have anywhere to go. The house is big, with more than enough bedrooms for the two of them, so Fletcher offers to let her continue to stay there, at least until Rheo’s cousin Carrie shows up, by which time Rheo is going to have to confess to her family (and especially her grandmother) that she’s been occupying the house without their knowledge. The attraction between Fletch and Rheo is instantaneous and leads to some sexy times, with both knowing that there is a time limit on their vacation romance. But sharing their problems draws them closer together emotionally, leading to stronger feelings. With Rheo hoping to return to her career in New York and Fletcher unhappy staying in one place for long, is there any hope for a long-term future together?
For more of this review please visit All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher.
Rheo Whitlock has always prided herself on her stable and precise career as a UN interpreter. But when a stray comment made on what turned out to be a live microphone becomes a viral moment and her career and confidence take a dive, she ends up on stress leave, holed up in her grandmother’s secluded (and currently empty) vacation home – fondly called the Pink House – in small town Gilmartin, Washington, an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. But Rheo doesn’t care about that – she’s not the outdoorsy type, and she’s just there to lick her wounds and figure out how to resuscitate her career. No-one in her family, including her grandmother, knows that she’s there, and the only person she talks to regularly and who knows of her plight is her new friend Abi, owner of a local deli and coffee shop. So when a dusty SUV pulls up and a handsome, rugged, guy knocks on her door, no-one is more surprised than Rheo is.
As a teenager, Fletcher Wright spent several months in bed suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome. Now he lives every day to the fullest. As an adventurer and filmmaker, he’s always looking for the next thrilling journey. But his friend and doctor, Seb, responsible for the regular medical checkups that enable him to have health insurance on all his trips, insists that he take a three month break to recover from the recent illnesses (malaria, pneumonia, frostbite) he’s endured during his hikes, mountain climbs, and other athletic endeavours. When his good friend Carrie clears the way for him to rent her grandmother’s Pink House for a few weeks as part of his recovery, a place where he can enjoy the outdoor scenery and get his hiking fixes in without overexertion, he looks forward to some rest and relaxation. What’s he’s not expecting is to find the house already occupied.
While Fletcher has the right to have the house to himself, it’s clear that Rheo is living there and from her panicked expression, doesn’t have anywhere to go. The house is big, with more than enough bedrooms for the two of them, so Fletcher offers to let her continue to stay there, at least until Rheo’s cousin Carrie shows up, by which time Rheo is going to have to confess to her family (and especially her grandmother) that she’s been occupying the house without their knowledge. The attraction between Fletch and Rheo is instantaneous and leads to some sexy times, with both knowing that there is a time limit on their vacation romance. But sharing their problems draws them closer together emotionally, leading to stronger feelings. With Rheo hoping to return to her career in New York and Fletcher unhappy staying in one place for long, is there any hope for a long-term future together?
For more of this review please visit All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher.
Read
December 6, 2024Rheo’s career as an interpreter at the United Nations is temporarily derailed when she has a hot mic moment. After that she is overwhelmed with anxiety and embarrassment and makes mistakes at her job and is therefore unable to work. She heads to her grandma’s cabin to be alone. Unbeknownst to her - her cousin has arranged for her thrill seeker friend to stay there too. It doesn’t take long for Rheo and Fletcher to realize they have chemistry but they have two totally different approaches to how to live their lives. I liked seeing the personal growth of the characters and how they remained their authentic selves. The dialogue was good and their relationship was fun. It was great to learn about Rheo’s fascinating profession. Overall an engaging and interesting story.
November 29, 2024
Two people at a crossroads- one from a mistake, one from an illness- end up sharing a house and learning to be comfortable with themselves again!
While this didn’t have a ton of ~substance~ or a deep connection in the characters that we were able to see, it was a quick and easy read that left me feeling introspective. It’s okay to make mistakes as long as you try to learn from it!
Thank you so much to Joss Wood and NetGalley for a chance to read this in exchange for an honest review!
While this didn’t have a ton of ~substance~ or a deep connection in the characters that we were able to see, it was a quick and easy read that left me feeling introspective. It’s okay to make mistakes as long as you try to learn from it!
Thank you so much to Joss Wood and NetGalley for a chance to read this in exchange for an honest review!
November 25, 2024
Thank you to Mills and Boon for sending me a ARC copy of this book.
This book is witty and funny from the first page. I’m asking from the beginning what did Rheo do?
Rheo, the FMC is an interpreter which is a pretty unusual job and she’s also a perfectionist - I can relate to that. The book has good descriptive writing, you feel the pressure Rheo is under to get back to work. You really get the sense that she feels everything is on top of her. The setting for the book, Gillmartin sounds like somewhere I want to be. There’s a forest and river and it’s described as quaint and quirky. I feel like Rheo could be a bestie = she likes food and books and she hates exercise. The MMC, Fletcher gives Sam Heughan vibes which I’m down for and the book has dual POV. It also touches on chronic illness and potentially some neurodiversity. The spice starts early on with the first full scene in chapter 7. But it’s tastefully done and isn’t in your face every single page. Ultimately this story is about facing your fear and finding your self confidence. It also touches on addressing tricky family relationships. I’d love to hear more from the Whitlock family maybe room for another book or three? I’m giving this 4.5 stars and think it is a excellent read
This book is witty and funny from the first page. I’m asking from the beginning what did Rheo do?
Rheo, the FMC is an interpreter which is a pretty unusual job and she’s also a perfectionist - I can relate to that. The book has good descriptive writing, you feel the pressure Rheo is under to get back to work. You really get the sense that she feels everything is on top of her. The setting for the book, Gillmartin sounds like somewhere I want to be. There’s a forest and river and it’s described as quaint and quirky. I feel like Rheo could be a bestie = she likes food and books and she hates exercise. The MMC, Fletcher gives Sam Heughan vibes which I’m down for and the book has dual POV. It also touches on chronic illness and potentially some neurodiversity. The spice starts early on with the first full scene in chapter 7. But it’s tastefully done and isn’t in your face every single page. Ultimately this story is about facing your fear and finding your self confidence. It also touches on addressing tricky family relationships. I’d love to hear more from the Whitlock family maybe room for another book or three? I’m giving this 4.5 stars and think it is a excellent read
May 23, 2025
2.5 24th on kindle
January 6, 2025
Very cute story and a great little read for a palette cleanser or to help get you out of a reading slump! I loved that they didn’t change who they were just so they could be together.
May 18, 2025
cute. the end revelations really brought it together for me. could have used more time to fully work thru all the personal growth.
June 5, 2025
This was such an easy, binge worthy romance read! The perfect palate cleanser 👌🏻
I really enjoyed the main characters in this book, particularly the FMC! She felt so relatable in her troubles, and I loved the character growth she had throughout the book!
what to expect:
— forced proximity
— fast paced
— opposites attract
my rating: 4⭐️
thank you so much HQ & Romance.com.au for providing a copy to read and review 💛
I really enjoyed the main characters in this book, particularly the FMC! She felt so relatable in her troubles, and I loved the character growth she had throughout the book!
what to expect:
— forced proximity
— fast paced
— opposites attract
my rating: 4⭐️
thank you so much HQ & Romance.com.au for providing a copy to read and review 💛
August 29, 2024
2⭐
2🌶️
Remember when you were in school and you had to write a report that had to meet a minimum word count, so you over explained and reiterated things just to meet that requirement? That's what reading this felt like.
I was so excited to receive this ARC from NetGalley. I love the concept, I really do- but the execution was lacking. I wanted to be able to say that it was a real page-turner- that I couldn't out it down, but unfortunately, I couldn't stop putting it down. Let's get into it-
✨ Instant Attraction
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Opposites Attract
We have Rheo, our FMC, who I was SO excited about. She's a translator for the UN. As someone who wanted to be a linguist and has studied several languages, I was so excited to see that represented in a romance novel. Unfortunately, that's where my excitement for the character ends. She's not likeable. She's really pretty terrible. She's got an awful personality, doesn't communicate well and jumps to ridiculous conclusions about people.
Partnered with Fletch- hot adventure guy who can't be tied down because he's got mountains to climb and jungles to explore. He's almost equally unlikeable.
The writing is odd and repetitive. It almost feels robotic. The dialogue is all very unnatural. The spice had me grimacing. It wasn't a long book and it managed to feel both rushed and like it was too drawn out. (Like those essays you'd write in school. Remember? Like writing a book report when you only read the Spark Notes.) It lacked real substance.
I usually enjoy a good Insta-love/attraction as a fun, quick read- but the writing in this had me rolling my eyes and saying "are you actually kidding me right now?" to my Kindle at their first kiss.
I wanted so badly to like this book. I put it down several times and came back to it to give it a chance and to make sure it wasn't just me, but I really had to force myself through it. I'm sorry. Really, loved the idea behind it, but again- the execution just isn't there.
2🌶️
Remember when you were in school and you had to write a report that had to meet a minimum word count, so you over explained and reiterated things just to meet that requirement? That's what reading this felt like.
I was so excited to receive this ARC from NetGalley. I love the concept, I really do- but the execution was lacking. I wanted to be able to say that it was a real page-turner- that I couldn't out it down, but unfortunately, I couldn't stop putting it down. Let's get into it-
✨ Instant Attraction
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Opposites Attract
We have Rheo, our FMC, who I was SO excited about. She's a translator for the UN. As someone who wanted to be a linguist and has studied several languages, I was so excited to see that represented in a romance novel. Unfortunately, that's where my excitement for the character ends. She's not likeable. She's really pretty terrible. She's got an awful personality, doesn't communicate well and jumps to ridiculous conclusions about people.
Partnered with Fletch- hot adventure guy who can't be tied down because he's got mountains to climb and jungles to explore. He's almost equally unlikeable.
The writing is odd and repetitive. It almost feels robotic. The dialogue is all very unnatural. The spice had me grimacing. It wasn't a long book and it managed to feel both rushed and like it was too drawn out. (Like those essays you'd write in school. Remember? Like writing a book report when you only read the Spark Notes.) It lacked real substance.
I usually enjoy a good Insta-love/attraction as a fun, quick read- but the writing in this had me rolling my eyes and saying "are you actually kidding me right now?" to my Kindle at their first kiss.
I wanted so badly to like this book. I put it down several times and came back to it to give it a chance and to make sure it wasn't just me, but I really had to force myself through it. I'm sorry. Really, loved the idea behind it, but again- the execution just isn't there.
February 1, 2025
After a huge career misstep, Rheo is "encouraged" to take a sabbatical and seeks shelter in a place that was always "home" to her - the pink house. Her grandmother's home was a safe haven to her as a teen when she tired of her parents adventure seeking, nomadic lifestyle. There she found the safety and stability she craved. Little did she know that she would be joined by Fletcher who, like her parents, was an adventure seeking nomad, and she absolutely never expected to fall in love.
I thought this was a fun book. I love languages and was drawn in by Rheo's character. How exciting to be a translator for the UN. Her hot mic moment was unfortunate and so was the way it shook her confidence. The sabbatical was Rheo's time to recover and recenter but after several months, she was still struggling to find her words. When Fletch arrived, there was a physical attraction but a HUGE fundamental difference in their lifestyles. They shouldn't work, but he had a way of making her feel safe and gave Rheo the support she needed to find her way back to herself.
There were a few other threads related to Rheo's relationship with her family, and I was happy with the way those were wrapped up. But even better was the way Rheo and Fletch worked things out. If I had to pick a theme, it was about acceptance. Rheo had to accept who her parents were, and she and Fletch had to accept each other. It was about loving the person as is and meeting them where they were, not trying to change them. I liked that.
Overall, I enjoyed watching Fletch and Rheo fall in love as they discovered a lot about themselves and their changing goals and needs.
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I thought this was a fun book. I love languages and was drawn in by Rheo's character. How exciting to be a translator for the UN. Her hot mic moment was unfortunate and so was the way it shook her confidence. The sabbatical was Rheo's time to recover and recenter but after several months, she was still struggling to find her words. When Fletch arrived, there was a physical attraction but a HUGE fundamental difference in their lifestyles. They shouldn't work, but he had a way of making her feel safe and gave Rheo the support she needed to find her way back to herself.
There were a few other threads related to Rheo's relationship with her family, and I was happy with the way those were wrapped up. But even better was the way Rheo and Fletch worked things out. If I had to pick a theme, it was about acceptance. Rheo had to accept who her parents were, and she and Fletch had to accept each other. It was about loving the person as is and meeting them where they were, not trying to change them. I liked that.
Overall, I enjoyed watching Fletch and Rheo fall in love as they discovered a lot about themselves and their changing goals and needs.
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March 2, 2025
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for the arc copy of this book. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Rheo Whitlock is the ideal adult: she has a fancy job at the UN as a translator, her own apartment in Brooklyn, and a good relationship. When she accidentally has a hot mic at work that leads to more mistakes and her boss putting her on a sabbatical, a meltdown ensues. Her relationship ends and Rheo flees to her grandmother Paddy's "pink house" to hide out for months without telling anyone. Since Paddy is unaware of Rheo's living situation, she rents out the pink house to Fletcher, a friend of Rheo's cousin Carrie. Like Carrie, Fletcher is an nature loving thrill junkie who makes documentaries about his adventures. With his doctor's orders, Fletcher has to take a few months off and let his body recuperate. Fletcher and Rheo agree to live in the house together, as long as Fletcher doesn't spill her secret to Carrie. Pretty quickly the pair become friends with benefits and spend the next 6 weeks fighting developing feelings.
Overall, this book was fine, but not something I would read again. I found it repetitive and Rheo was a very annoying FMC. Some of the writing doesn't make sense. For example, there's a scene where Fletcher has his forehead against Rheo's and then on the next page it says he rolls over to face her. I wish more of the book would have been from Fletcher's POV as I enjoyed his parts much more. I also wish there would've been an epilogue, the book just ends. I am interested in reading more from Joss Wood.
Rheo Whitlock is the ideal adult: she has a fancy job at the UN as a translator, her own apartment in Brooklyn, and a good relationship. When she accidentally has a hot mic at work that leads to more mistakes and her boss putting her on a sabbatical, a meltdown ensues. Her relationship ends and Rheo flees to her grandmother Paddy's "pink house" to hide out for months without telling anyone. Since Paddy is unaware of Rheo's living situation, she rents out the pink house to Fletcher, a friend of Rheo's cousin Carrie. Like Carrie, Fletcher is an nature loving thrill junkie who makes documentaries about his adventures. With his doctor's orders, Fletcher has to take a few months off and let his body recuperate. Fletcher and Rheo agree to live in the house together, as long as Fletcher doesn't spill her secret to Carrie. Pretty quickly the pair become friends with benefits and spend the next 6 weeks fighting developing feelings.
Overall, this book was fine, but not something I would read again. I found it repetitive and Rheo was a very annoying FMC. Some of the writing doesn't make sense. For example, there's a scene where Fletcher has his forehead against Rheo's and then on the next page it says he rolls over to face her. I wish more of the book would have been from Fletcher's POV as I enjoyed his parts much more. I also wish there would've been an epilogue, the book just ends. I am interested in reading more from Joss Wood.
August 24, 2024
3.5/5
This book isn’t what I was expecting it to be but I liked it. I really liked Rheo’s character I think she made a lot of sense and was extremely well written. I would've loved to see more scenes with Rheo and her family discussing her childhood because I think that while they love her I feel like even after their discussion they didn't truly understand the effect her childhood had on her. Fletcher on the other hand I think he had the right idea about some things with getting Rheo out of her comfort zone but I think he wanted it too much for him and not what's best for her. I think he could’ve benefited from seeing a professional about his issues about staying in one place or in a confined space for too long. I also don't think he understood how Rheo's childhood affected her. Physically these two were very compatible and as a fling they worked out fantastic but since this is a romance and they need a happily ever after they really could use a lot more communication. I also think that this is one of those books where a third act breakup was a good thing, I think it helped them realize that they loved each other despite their differences and it was something they were willing to work on if the alternative was to not see each other again. This book had extremely real characters with flaws that they acknowledged and tried to work through and I really appreciated that.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of this book!!!
This book isn’t what I was expecting it to be but I liked it. I really liked Rheo’s character I think she made a lot of sense and was extremely well written. I would've loved to see more scenes with Rheo and her family discussing her childhood because I think that while they love her I feel like even after their discussion they didn't truly understand the effect her childhood had on her. Fletcher on the other hand I think he had the right idea about some things with getting Rheo out of her comfort zone but I think he wanted it too much for him and not what's best for her. I think he could’ve benefited from seeing a professional about his issues about staying in one place or in a confined space for too long. I also don't think he understood how Rheo's childhood affected her. Physically these two were very compatible and as a fling they worked out fantastic but since this is a romance and they need a happily ever after they really could use a lot more communication. I also think that this is one of those books where a third act breakup was a good thing, I think it helped them realize that they loved each other despite their differences and it was something they were willing to work on if the alternative was to not see each other again. This book had extremely real characters with flaws that they acknowledged and tried to work through and I really appreciated that.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of this book!!!
October 14, 2024
The perfect example of opposites attracting - a talented interpreter and a fearless explorer brought to you by Joss Wood...
On the brink of a career disaster, Rheo, a multilingual translator and interpreter has hidden herself away in the Pink House, a place where she thinks she could maintain her perfect-life back and regain her confidence, yet her life is turned more upside down when an attractive explorer, Fletcher, claims to have rented the house to him through her cousin.
Despite their opposite characters, Rheo and Fletcher cannot hide their instant attraction. Rheo is a consummate idealist and perfectionist. Her upbringing, shaped by her parents’ van life and her grandmother, who is her perfect role model, clashes with Fletcher’s adventurous spirit. His purpose in life is dedicated to explore the unexplored area, a life that Rheo hates because of her family.
I loved the way the attraction instantly sparked during their first encounter, and their decision to have an affair added a fun, spicy twist to the story. From hot and spicy moments to entertaining and unexpected situations, this book keeps you hooked.
It’s thanks to Joss Wood for letting me read it. Slow burn that becomes hot and spicy, loads of passion, the plot that flows until I didn’t realize it was over. Joss Wood’s writing kept me hooked from the beginning. If you want a relaxing read with a spicy scene, a pleasing plot and a resolved and happy ever after ending, this is absolutely for you.
On the brink of a career disaster, Rheo, a multilingual translator and interpreter has hidden herself away in the Pink House, a place where she thinks she could maintain her perfect-life back and regain her confidence, yet her life is turned more upside down when an attractive explorer, Fletcher, claims to have rented the house to him through her cousin.
Despite their opposite characters, Rheo and Fletcher cannot hide their instant attraction. Rheo is a consummate idealist and perfectionist. Her upbringing, shaped by her parents’ van life and her grandmother, who is her perfect role model, clashes with Fletcher’s adventurous spirit. His purpose in life is dedicated to explore the unexplored area, a life that Rheo hates because of her family.
I loved the way the attraction instantly sparked during their first encounter, and their decision to have an affair added a fun, spicy twist to the story. From hot and spicy moments to entertaining and unexpected situations, this book keeps you hooked.
It’s thanks to Joss Wood for letting me read it. Slow burn that becomes hot and spicy, loads of passion, the plot that flows until I didn’t realize it was over. Joss Wood’s writing kept me hooked from the beginning. If you want a relaxing read with a spicy scene, a pleasing plot and a resolved and happy ever after ending, this is absolutely for you.
December 14, 2024
Love in Translation by Joss Wood
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 2/5 🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Harlequin, Afterglow Books, Netgalley, and the author for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Love in Translation is entertaining from the very first chapter! Filled with wit, banter, spice, and a great overarching message.
Rheo, the FMC, is an interpreter and also a huge perfectionist. The book has great descriptive writing and you can feel the pressure Rheo is under when it comes to work. Fletcher, the MMC, lives for adrenaline and adventure instead of routine and perfection.
Their opposite personalities worked well together and kept me engrossed in the story as I was definitely drawn into their world and the tension between them which continuously escalates. The forced proximity trope added an even more exciting layer to the story overall, making their interactions intense and intriguing. The chemistry between the MCs was also certainly palpable throughout.
This book focuses on overcoming your fears and making the most of your life. It also touches on the outdoors, the role work plays in a person’s life, and the support loved ones provide. Overall, a really good book! Would definitely recommend, especially if you’re interested in a romcom with an element of the outdoors or languages!
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 2/5 🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Harlequin, Afterglow Books, Netgalley, and the author for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Love in Translation is entertaining from the very first chapter! Filled with wit, banter, spice, and a great overarching message.
Rheo, the FMC, is an interpreter and also a huge perfectionist. The book has great descriptive writing and you can feel the pressure Rheo is under when it comes to work. Fletcher, the MMC, lives for adrenaline and adventure instead of routine and perfection.
Their opposite personalities worked well together and kept me engrossed in the story as I was definitely drawn into their world and the tension between them which continuously escalates. The forced proximity trope added an even more exciting layer to the story overall, making their interactions intense and intriguing. The chemistry between the MCs was also certainly palpable throughout.
This book focuses on overcoming your fears and making the most of your life. It also touches on the outdoors, the role work plays in a person’s life, and the support loved ones provide. Overall, a really good book! Would definitely recommend, especially if you’re interested in a romcom with an element of the outdoors or languages!
April 7, 2025
*sigh* I wasn’t sure how much I was going to like this. I swear the beginning sounded almost exactly like a book I had read before and I was thinking “oh no, did I already read this? Have I spent too much time in the romances and now it’s all formulaic and awful again?” But no. I had not. And I have not.
We meet Rheo, who is on a downward spiral in life: after a pretty big (and viral) mess up as a UN translator, she is ordered on a 6 month sabbatical. She retreats to her grandmothers home in a small town in Washington. Her peace is interrupted by Fletcher Wright, an adventurer who has been ordered by his best friend and doctor, Seb, on a three month rest before he burns his body out. He contacted Rheo’s cousin Carrie (a fellow adventurer) and ended up renting, you guessed it, the same house Rheo is staying in. But, no one knew that because Rheo is also avoiding her family. Fletch and Rheo hit it off…in a BIG way. The 🌶️ is SPICY 🥵 and the emotions are emoting! It’s just too bad they won’t work out…will they?
This was an amazing look at what NOT talking to people (family, friends and lovers) can do to your self confidence and expectations of others. Who knew talking about things would help? 🤦🏻♀️ but of course this wouldn’t be a story without the miscommunication (classic romance trope). I did appreciate the ending though, which is why it’s 4 🌟 and not 3.
We meet Rheo, who is on a downward spiral in life: after a pretty big (and viral) mess up as a UN translator, she is ordered on a 6 month sabbatical. She retreats to her grandmothers home in a small town in Washington. Her peace is interrupted by Fletcher Wright, an adventurer who has been ordered by his best friend and doctor, Seb, on a three month rest before he burns his body out. He contacted Rheo’s cousin Carrie (a fellow adventurer) and ended up renting, you guessed it, the same house Rheo is staying in. But, no one knew that because Rheo is also avoiding her family. Fletch and Rheo hit it off…in a BIG way. The 🌶️ is SPICY 🥵 and the emotions are emoting! It’s just too bad they won’t work out…will they?
This was an amazing look at what NOT talking to people (family, friends and lovers) can do to your self confidence and expectations of others. Who knew talking about things would help? 🤦🏻♀️ but of course this wouldn’t be a story without the miscommunication (classic romance trope). I did appreciate the ending though, which is why it’s 4 🌟 and not 3.
September 6, 2025
This book was disappointing overall. The trope idea was cute, if not a little cliche - adventure boy meets straight laced girl, but the execution was far from good.
Rheo (an uptight New York resident) has some trouble at work and thus flees to her grandmother’s cabin where she lives for 6 months without telling her. The whole tension/ conflict of the novel is her being worried about disappointing her grandmother who is apparently (although this is NEVER shown and only repeatedly stated by Rheo) very uptight and a hardass. The climax is a major let down - Rheo finally tells her grandmother over the PHONE and her grandmother states she already knew the whole time. They make up within the span of a few pages stating that they both made mistakes and had each “learned something.”
The writing only got worse as the book went on as the author seemingly ran out of ideas and repeatedly droned on about Rheo’s own issues which were essentially feeling like the black sheep of her family.
Both characters felt very surface level, there was no description of Rheo that stood out to me at all. She is described as “not pretty in society’s standards” yet Fletch describes her as being tanned, long legged with thick long black hair and piercing blue eyes.
I can’t recommend this book but the smut is alright.
Rheo (an uptight New York resident) has some trouble at work and thus flees to her grandmother’s cabin where she lives for 6 months without telling her. The whole tension/ conflict of the novel is her being worried about disappointing her grandmother who is apparently (although this is NEVER shown and only repeatedly stated by Rheo) very uptight and a hardass. The climax is a major let down - Rheo finally tells her grandmother over the PHONE and her grandmother states she already knew the whole time. They make up within the span of a few pages stating that they both made mistakes and had each “learned something.”
The writing only got worse as the book went on as the author seemingly ran out of ideas and repeatedly droned on about Rheo’s own issues which were essentially feeling like the black sheep of her family.
Both characters felt very surface level, there was no description of Rheo that stood out to me at all. She is described as “not pretty in society’s standards” yet Fletch describes her as being tanned, long legged with thick long black hair and piercing blue eyes.
I can’t recommend this book but the smut is alright.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2024
Rheo is a prestigious UN translator on a mental health sabbatical due to a viral mishap. Staying in her Grandmother’s house without permission Rheo gets a surprise visitor, Fletch. Fletch is everything Rheo avoids. Nomadic, spontaneous, and in her opinion irresponsible. Fletcher is in Gilmartin to have some lowkey adventures, he’s on doctor’s orders to rest. Rheo and Fletch are obviously attracted to one another, but can they make their extremely different lifestyles and worldviews work?
I keep getting bamboozled by these outdoorsy covers. You really can’t judge a book by its cover. I was hoping there would be more hiking, camping, etc but that was not the case. I blame myself. This book had a lot of emotional depth, both characters were severely traumatized and needed therapy. Fletch was a bit harsh which I didn’t like, and Rheo was judgmental. But it was an engaging read with a cute love story.
Outdoorsy man meets city girl
Forced proximity
Instant attraction
Opposites attract
If you like a good opposites attract with heavy emotional scenes and graphic spicy scenes you’ll like this book. Thanks netgalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I keep getting bamboozled by these outdoorsy covers. You really can’t judge a book by its cover. I was hoping there would be more hiking, camping, etc but that was not the case. I blame myself. This book had a lot of emotional depth, both characters were severely traumatized and needed therapy. Fletch was a bit harsh which I didn’t like, and Rheo was judgmental. But it was an engaging read with a cute love story.
Outdoorsy man meets city girl
Forced proximity
Instant attraction
Opposites attract
If you like a good opposites attract with heavy emotional scenes and graphic spicy scenes you’ll like this book. Thanks netgalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 31, 2024
Rheo is a translator with the United Nations, and Fletcher is an adventurer with a documentary series. Rheo is apparently the most boring, highly strung person ever, who only speaks languages and seems to have no other hobbies or friends. She's avoiding her family because they are bad with money and live a more adventurous life, and moves into her aunt's house when she messes up a big translation. Fletcher is entirely motivated by a bout of CFS he had as a teenager and their love story is entirely founded on lust and not having any real conversations with each other.
I feel like this book is almost all there- the storyline is good, but the characters are quite one dimensional and I feel like we end up liking the family more than we do the main two characters. I'd love to have known more about how Rheo got into languages and how she felt about more political topics with her work; Fletcher I would have like to have seen have more to his interests than wanting to do things for the level of risk. I enjoyed Rheos family and feel like we got more development of their character through her eyes than we did of her.
I feel like this book is almost all there- the storyline is good, but the characters are quite one dimensional and I feel like we end up liking the family more than we do the main two characters. I'd love to have known more about how Rheo got into languages and how she felt about more political topics with her work; Fletcher I would have like to have seen have more to his interests than wanting to do things for the level of risk. I enjoyed Rheos family and feel like we got more development of their character through her eyes than we did of her.
January 4, 2025
This was a cute forced proximity romance.
This story is about a woman named Rheo Whitlock. She is a translator for the United Nations 🇺🇳. Rheo is a general homebody. On the job she had a “hot mic” moment which threw her career into a tailspin. She was struggling with anxiety, fear and uncertainty. A calculated escape is in order. She goes to her grandmother’s secluded hideaway in the town of Gilmartin.
Except she won’t be alone. Thanks to a random twist of fate. She ends up meeting an adventurer named Fletcher Wright. He lives for adrenaline. Always chasing the next high. He learns that he will have to share his rental accommodations with Rheo a stranger basically. He decides that it will be another challenge. There is an instant attraction between the two of them. Before long they are not just sharing accommodations and new experiences they are sharing a bed. When Fletcher realizes that it will be time to move on they both have a decision to make. Are they ready to take a risk ?? This book kind of felt like a cliffhanger because it didn’t say if Rheo would go back to her job or not and if they would live together or what would happen next. I wanted more out of the ending.
This story is about a woman named Rheo Whitlock. She is a translator for the United Nations 🇺🇳. Rheo is a general homebody. On the job she had a “hot mic” moment which threw her career into a tailspin. She was struggling with anxiety, fear and uncertainty. A calculated escape is in order. She goes to her grandmother’s secluded hideaway in the town of Gilmartin.
Except she won’t be alone. Thanks to a random twist of fate. She ends up meeting an adventurer named Fletcher Wright. He lives for adrenaline. Always chasing the next high. He learns that he will have to share his rental accommodations with Rheo a stranger basically. He decides that it will be another challenge. There is an instant attraction between the two of them. Before long they are not just sharing accommodations and new experiences they are sharing a bed. When Fletcher realizes that it will be time to move on they both have a decision to make. Are they ready to take a risk ?? This book kind of felt like a cliffhanger because it didn’t say if Rheo would go back to her job or not and if they would live together or what would happen next. I wanted more out of the ending.
March 8, 2025
Rheo is a UN translator who has been forced to take a six month sabbatical after a video of her goes viral and she loses her “words.” Rheo goes to Washington and is staying in her grandmother’s “pink house” without her knowing while she feels better and goes back to work in New York.
Fletcher is a thrill seeker who goes to Washington to meet his friend Carrie (Rheo’s cousin) for all kinds of outdoor adventures. He arrives at the pink house where he discovers Rheo is staying there unbeknownst to her family. They have an instant attraction and eventually decide to sleep together with no strings attached.
Overall, this was a fast read. I only wished the author wrote an epilogue. The ending was kind of abrupt. I thought that Rheo would end up staying at the pink house and becoming a translator for Fletchers friend’s company. Instead, Fletcher goes to New York and confesses his love for Rheo and they agree to try and make it work despite their different lifestyles. If you like the opposites attract trope, check this book out.
Fletcher is a thrill seeker who goes to Washington to meet his friend Carrie (Rheo’s cousin) for all kinds of outdoor adventures. He arrives at the pink house where he discovers Rheo is staying there unbeknownst to her family. They have an instant attraction and eventually decide to sleep together with no strings attached.
Overall, this was a fast read. I only wished the author wrote an epilogue. The ending was kind of abrupt. I thought that Rheo would end up staying at the pink house and becoming a translator for Fletchers friend’s company. Instead, Fletcher goes to New York and confesses his love for Rheo and they agree to try and make it work despite their different lifestyles. If you like the opposites attract trope, check this book out.
September 11, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’ll start my review by saying I LOVE the forced proximity trope if it’s done right and this was absolutely done right. Fletch and Rheo are two very different people who are forced to spend their vacations in the same rental accommodation. In the style of early 2000s rom coms, along with having the same room, they’re also forced to share a bed together for the duration of their stay. I found that to be one of the reasons I was so interested in this book. What can I say? I like what I like.
Love In Translation was hilariously heartwarming and romantic. I loved how polar opposite the characters were to each other but also seemed to understand each other anyway. The chemistry was intense and with each interaction you could tell exactly where it was heading.
From the moment I began reading I was hooked. Definitely will be ordering this in paperback when it’s released.
On sale 12/24/2024
I’ll start my review by saying I LOVE the forced proximity trope if it’s done right and this was absolutely done right. Fletch and Rheo are two very different people who are forced to spend their vacations in the same rental accommodation. In the style of early 2000s rom coms, along with having the same room, they’re also forced to share a bed together for the duration of their stay. I found that to be one of the reasons I was so interested in this book. What can I say? I like what I like.
Love In Translation was hilariously heartwarming and romantic. I loved how polar opposite the characters were to each other but also seemed to understand each other anyway. The chemistry was intense and with each interaction you could tell exactly where it was heading.
From the moment I began reading I was hooked. Definitely will be ordering this in paperback when it’s released.
On sale 12/24/2024
November 4, 2024
What Happens when 2 stark opposites end up cohabiting the same house for a few weeks? You might already be able to guess but add in all their emotional and familial baggage and there's a proper story going on here. Not only that, but it has to be be said, there's a decent amount of spice too at times!
In a way, this book centres around overcoming your fears, making the most of your life and doing what's best for you. It also touches on the ideas of being outdoors in nature, the all consuming nature of work and the support friends and family can provide.
Generally, a really lovely book which I devoured in a day. I wanted to see the characters achieve what they wanted to achieve, and see what their decision was by the end too. Would recommend, particularly if you love the outdoors or languages!
Thank you for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
In a way, this book centres around overcoming your fears, making the most of your life and doing what's best for you. It also touches on the ideas of being outdoors in nature, the all consuming nature of work and the support friends and family can provide.
Generally, a really lovely book which I devoured in a day. I wanted to see the characters achieve what they wanted to achieve, and see what their decision was by the end too. Would recommend, particularly if you love the outdoors or languages!
Thank you for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 27, 2024
Love in Translation by Joss Wood might be one of the most opposites-attract romance that I have laid my eyeballs on in a very long time. Like…constantly wondering, “How on earth could these two have an HEA, they’re so dang opposite?” But phew, does it work. This was a quick & enjoyable romance read, featuring Rheo - a burned-out UN Translator who escapes to her grandmother’s empty cabin in the Pacific Northwest, seeking plenty of alone time to process & heal - & Fletcher - a Scot who makes a living adventuring around the world, who is renting out this cabin (unbeknownst to Rheo), while his doctor demands that he take time to let his body rest & recover before attempting anymore dangerous adventures. They’ve never met, they’re not expecting the other to also be staying in the cabin, & they couldn’t be more different.
What follows is a surprising instant-attraction for both Rheo & Fletch that leads to some quick heat & a ‘strangers to friends with benefits’ situation. For them, it’s a great distraction from all of the issues that they’re each dealing with & they become a safe place to land for each other, a safe space to just talk & figure things out. Haha uh oh, they catch feelings while they’re not looking. But seriously, how could this even work when Rheo usually lives a quiet, simple life in NYC & Fletch usually lives a life off the grid for months, in increasingly dangerous situations - & they’re both incredibly happy with their lives as-is…if not just a little lonely.
While this book is short, it has decent layers of depth through struggles with: family, careers, chronic illness, self-confidence, loneliness, feelings, & mental health. For tropes, it serves up forced proximity, opposites attract (obvi), & a happily ever after. How? You’ll just have to read to find out!
Thank you to Harlequin (Afterglow) & NetGalley for providing a digital advanced copy of this book for review. All thoughts & opinions expressed are my own.
What follows is a surprising instant-attraction for both Rheo & Fletch that leads to some quick heat & a ‘strangers to friends with benefits’ situation. For them, it’s a great distraction from all of the issues that they’re each dealing with & they become a safe place to land for each other, a safe space to just talk & figure things out. Haha uh oh, they catch feelings while they’re not looking. But seriously, how could this even work when Rheo usually lives a quiet, simple life in NYC & Fletch usually lives a life off the grid for months, in increasingly dangerous situations - & they’re both incredibly happy with their lives as-is…if not just a little lonely.
While this book is short, it has decent layers of depth through struggles with: family, careers, chronic illness, self-confidence, loneliness, feelings, & mental health. For tropes, it serves up forced proximity, opposites attract (obvi), & a happily ever after. How? You’ll just have to read to find out!
Thank you to Harlequin (Afterglow) & NetGalley for providing a digital advanced copy of this book for review. All thoughts & opinions expressed are my own.
February 18, 2025
Rheo, a talented UN translator, is struggling with anxiety after a career mishap and decides to take a much-needed break at her grandmother's secluded cabin. What she doesn’t expect is Fletch, a thrill-seeker with a love for adventure, to show up and shake things up. Their instant attraction is undeniable, but their very different lifestyles make things complicated.
What I loved most about this book was how their opposites worked so well together. The forced proximity trope was done perfectly, and their chemistry kept me hooked. The themes of acceptance really stood out too—learning to accept each other as they are, flaws and all, was such an important part of their growth.
It’s also got some pretty spicy moments that will definitely keep you turning the pages. If you like stories about self-discovery, unexpected connections, and a little bit of heat, this one’s definitely worth picking up!
I received an advance review copy from NetGalley for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What I loved most about this book was how their opposites worked so well together. The forced proximity trope was done perfectly, and their chemistry kept me hooked. The themes of acceptance really stood out too—learning to accept each other as they are, flaws and all, was such an important part of their growth.
It’s also got some pretty spicy moments that will definitely keep you turning the pages. If you like stories about self-discovery, unexpected connections, and a little bit of heat, this one’s definitely worth picking up!
I received an advance review copy from NetGalley for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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