The Romantics

by Isabel Jolie

Some things are better left in the past, but maybe not everything.

Dr. Harrison Ramsey has it all.

A flourishing plastic surgery practice, close friends, and a coveted membership to one of Houston's most elite and secretive clubs.

His life has followed the plan.

Dr. Zuri Lennox's life is a literal dumpster fire.

Thanks to a cheating ex whose Ferrari ran into her baseball bat, she's unemployed, at risk of losing her medical license, and maxed out on medical school loans and legal fees.

Nothing in her life has gone as planned.

When she left a decade ago, he had one request. A simple thing. For her to never contact him again.

He senses her before he sees her. Logic and reason flee. He wants her gone. It's a matter of self-preservation.

But she's all out of options. This temporary gig is all she's got. And she assures him it's temporary. She'll stay out of his way and be out of state as soon as possible.

They agree to leave the past in the past. But seasons change. Has time changed them too?

The Romantics is a bossy billionaire, sizzling second chance romance between two doctors who once upon a time loved each other. Some endings deserve a second chance.

Genres: Second Chance, Contemporary

250 pages, Paperback

Published December 28, 2023

About the author

Apple Books Contemporary Romance Bestselling Author of spicy thrillers where love always wins. Get free books + early access: https://isabeljoliebooks.com/#newsletter

Heart-pounding romance. Unforgettable heroes. Sizzling happily-ever-afters—with a side of suspense that'll keep you up way past bedtime.

I dreamed of being a writer as a kid but took the "safe" route: journalism degree, advertising career, MBA, corporate gigs at Chase and Universal. Then in 2020, I said screw it and published my first book. Twenty-five books later, I'm living the dream.

I'm also a mom to two teenage daughters who are perpetually mortified by my career choices. My husband's an entrepreneur whose latest product is Nampons (yes, it rhymes with tampons and yes, it's for nosebleeds). Between my spicy romance and his biz... we've cornered the market on parental embarrassment.

My books feature tough characters facing tougher choices, compelling suspense, and storylines that'll make you think. But no matter how dark things get, my people always choose love.

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Reviews

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bright heavens! Harrison and Zuri tried really hard to rip my heart out. They’ve both got some deep wounds from previous relationships and even the pain they’ve watched their parents go through. Some of the deepest wounds were caused by each other, though. Now, I’m always on board for a second chance, and the chemistry that still arced between these two so many years later tells me that they (and Fate) weren’t done with one another. Harrison’s pain was like a living breathing thing. Having the woman that broke his heart, broke him, come stumbling into the life he’d built in her absence, sent him on a trip down memory lane. Zuri didn’t want to cause him pain, then or now, but now she’s in need of the safe place to land her uncle could provide. As much as it pained me to watch them tear open those old wounds, I loved seeing this pair work through everything from their past and find a new way forward. I was particularly glad to see that way forward was together and not apart. I’m not sure where the author is going to take us next, but I’m already ready to take that trip with her.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.

[Jean]

This is a billionaire second chance romance and it is Harrison and Zuri’s story. Harrison and Zuri have history because at one time they had been so in love only for it too all fall apart. Harrison is now a successful plastic surgeon and life is good where as Zuri is unemployed, a disaster, at risk of losing her license, has big debts and doesn’t know how she is going to pay them so all in all her life is falling apart so too make ends meet she works in the most elite and secretive club to enable her to get bye. Harrison is not expecting to see Zuri working at the club and he needs to make sure that she leaves but Zuri can’t do that at the moment which makes Harrison so angry but they are both determined to keep their distance from each other until Zuri can leave the club and try and move forward with her life somewhere else but things don’t always go as planned. Harrison and Zuri have got so much baggage and gone through so much pain and you can feel it coming of the pages as if you are there going through it all with them. Will Harrison and Zuri be able to put the past behind them and get a second chance of a future together after everything that has happened or will they both walk away because of their past only time will tell what the outcome will be for them in the end. This was a really enjoyable read and had you turning the pages to see what would happen next and it kept your attention right throughout the whole book and I can’t wait to read more books by this author in the futur.

[Shelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second chance lovers and romantics at heart, this is THE book to either end 2023 reading to plan to start 2024 with! Harrison and Zuri had a deep, passionate love and full of all the goodness we all hope to find in someone else. They were each other's half - each of them bringing the best and the worst out to build a life that was better together than apart. But Zuri ripped Harrison's heart out and for years, he's been having to learn how to put one foot in front of the other without her. Then she reappears and all of the emotions he thought he'd long ago boxed away come straight to the surface.

As a romantic deep down myself, Harrison's life shift after his and Zuri's breakup is completely understandable. He was creating a life for himself in which he felt in charge and kept his heart locked tightly away to prevent another heartbreak. Reading how he handled Zuri's return and the professional tragedies is incredibly emotional and moving, but worth every second.

We get a glimpse of where Ian and Sunny are now, along with more insight into the club and how it changes the couple's perspectives on what they want/need in their own lives. Personally, the club isn't something that would be of interest to me, but it is intriguing in the ways it opens doors for better communication and physical exploration.

I love how Isabel Jolie allows her characters to keep their unique personalities at the core. Sure, they grow, change, and adjust as they delve into new parts of their lives and relationships, but it's the very things that the other person loves that she keeps whole. I adore her work for that very reason.

[Peggy Hogan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Romantics by Isabel Jolie is a billionaire, second-chance romance. I'm always in awe of this author's writing, and this one was no exception. This story was so realistic, it made it hard not to be immersed in the story from the very beginning.

I could practically feel sparks in the air any time Harrison and Zuri were near each other. Their chemistry was undeniable, even after ten years of being apart. Isabel Jolie writes in a way that makes her characters come to life, and I absolutely love that about her! This is one of my favorite second-chance romances, and five stars just aren't enough! Absolutely recommended!

[Vivien Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Zuri and Harrison. It's a second chance romance. Zuri left Harrison a decade ago and broke his heart. Now she shows up at his office needing a job. Will he ever forgive her for breaking his heart all those years ago? Has he ever really forgotten her? I really enjoyed this story and read it in a day. It's the kind of book I didn't want to put down, I had to find out what happened next. If you love angsty second chance romance you will love Harrison and Zuri's story.

[Sue Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book from the author, and I'm willingly leaving an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Harrison and Zuri's second chance at love.
Trying to do the right thing to encourage Harrison to pursue his dreams, Zuri decides to break off their relationship and go their separate ways .
Unfortunately, 10 years later, Zuri is jobless, homeless, and penniless and has no one to turn to except her uncle!
Brilliant storyline, wonderful characters, and absolutely loved the HEA.

[Joanne Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some things are better left in the past, but maybe not everything.

Dr. Harrison Ramsey has it all.

A flourishing plastic surgery practice, close friends, and a coveted membership to one of Houston's most elite and secretive clubs.

His life has followed the plan.

Dr. Zuri Lennox's life is a literal dumpster fire.
Thanks to a cheating ex whose Ferrari ran into her baseball bat, she's unemployed, at risk of losing her medical license, and maxed out on medical school loans and legal fees.
Nothing in her life has gone as planned.
When she left a decade ago, he had one request. A simple thing. For her to never contact him again.

He senses her before he sees her. Logic and reason flee. He wants her gone. It's a matter of self-preservation.

But she's all out of options. This temporary gig is all she's got. And she assures him it's temporary. She'll stay out of his way and be out of state as soon as possible.

They agree to leave the past in the past. But seasons change. Has time changed them too?

Thoroughly enjoyed Harrison’s and Zuri’s second chance to a future together. Both characters endear themselves to you, both protecting themselves from hurt - from being rejected. When they finally let their guard down, will it work out or is it too late? This is an enjoyable story from the start that will not disappoint. Highly recommended 😊😊😊

[Floraljoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good romance:
I enjoyed this second chance, enemies to lovers romance and was curious to to see how it would all play out. Both Harrison and Zuri had to overcome past hurts before they could move forward and I enjoyed seeing them come to a place of reconciliation and love. A little anticlimactic at times, it was nevertheless still an enjoyable and satisfying read. I liked that whilst there was certainly tension and drama, it never felt contrived and was still quite a light hearted story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Reader_for_LifeTLG · Rating 4 out of 5]

A rocky reunion - This is an absolutely wonderful second chance story. Zuri broke up with Harrison over ten years ago. A long-distance relationship wouldn't have worked. They were starting out on different paths, to separate hospitals for their residency stints. Now she's at his practice, the niece of the founding partner. She promised to never darken his door again and she's at his job. Every. Single. Day. And she lives in his neighborhood. She has got to go! It doesn't matter why she's there. His heart can't take being around her knowing she will never be his.

One passionate misstep has Zuri fleeing her home for neutral territory. But unfortunately, she will be on Harrison's turf. Contrite though she might be, she needs money. She'll just keep her head down and do her job. Stay out of his way. But it's so hard being near him, knowing how much he dislikes her now vice how much he loved her then. She left him and he blocked her, not even wanting to be friends.

For me, there was never any doubt that their love remained. The very fact he wanted her gone so badly made it clear. He never hated her. He just wanted to protect his heart. They each engaged in childish antics but also came through without hesitation when the other needed help. If that's not love, what is? But they've been here before and she's not planning on staying, even if he's changed his stance. How can they possibly be together?

A cast of great characters (Harrison really is a good guy; Zuri is a ray of sunshine, until you tick her off; Uncle Joel is a card), great writing and a heat level that'll fog up your glasses. The author even references to the current state of women's reproductive rights.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Maz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very nice and easy read. It was a second chance romance.
Harrison has never moved on since his love of his life broke his heart. He is now known as a player. When 10 plus years later, his business partner employs his niece, Harrison isn't happy.
His niece is Zuri, Harrison's ex, the woman that broke him.
There is a lot of struggles in this fight to keep the past in the past or trying not to let the past destroy the future. I loved Harrison, he still loved her but didn't want her here. It was too painful for him. He tries to make life a misery for her. He refuses to give in to their chemistry and accept her apologies because she will hurt him again.
Zuri's life is a mess. Her career may be over, her ex is suing and she has nothing. She does have a lot of insecurities although Harrison still loves her, she is constantly being negative. Even though she was the one that broke things off in the first place.
I did like how their relationship progressed and we got to see life of a plastic surgeon. There are lots of ups and downs.
I loved her Uncle Joey. He was a proper romantic and he always wore a smirk and I knew he was upto something.
Their chemistry and spice was hot!!
I read this in one sitting because it was pleasant read. I loved how love finds it's way of winning. The epilogue was perfect.
I love Izzy's books, they're all so different and wide variety.

[Jin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dr. Harrison Ramsey had looks, wealth and career until Zuri Lennox walked into his practice with his partner, her uncle. She broke his heart into million pieces a decade ago and she is back. He doesn't want her near him and he wants her gone ASAP.
Zuri had successful dermatology practice until she bashed her boyfriend now ex Ferrari. There were charges involved and she was suspended from her work.
Nowhere to go except to her uncle who offered her a temporary job and board. She desperately need money to pay for everything. She never thought she would face Harrison again until now. He doesn't want her and wants her gone but she really needs this job to keep her floating.
Harrison never loved anyone else other than Zuri and he never stop loving her but it's difficult to forgive what she did but he is not sure if he can let her go. Will he be able to give each other another chance.
This was different second chance story. I usually enjoy second chances but this story took me awhile to get through. I wasn't a big fan of heroine Zuri until more than half of the story. But I am glad I finished it. Story seem more realistic than other second chances and I do enjoy HEA. Solid 3 1/2 from me.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Karen Lathbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow...this one shot up to the top of one of my favorite Isabel Jolie books, she just keeps getting better. Lots of heart pulling in this one with Harrison and Zuri, once so in love but now years later he has only distain for her and wants no part of her. Zuri returns to Houston and her uncle's plastic surgery practice after devastating consequences with an associate at her former practice. Harrison has become a top surgeon in the practice and wants her gone, he is still reeling from the hurt she caused when she told him they were over years ago. Her reasoning was in they stayed together he wouldn't follow his dreams. He told her to never see or contact him again. With her at the practice they run into each other and at some point say they can be friends but neither of them believe this because the pain is too deep and both still love each other. His defenses start to crumble but she is determined to return to her old practice if charges are dropped. I really enjoyed this story from beginning to end and read it in almost one sitting. I always look forward to her books.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Harrison is a doctor who has a successful career, and has it all in life, while Zuri’s life is going in the opposite direction due to her cheating ex, she is now jobless, and at risk of losing her medical license. When Harrison’s business partner hires his niece, he is not happy as it is Zuri, whom he has a past history with.
This is a well written easy to read, emotionally charged story, with heartbreak, insecurities, undeniable chemistry, second chances, and love, which leads to an entertaining and steamy addictive page tuner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jacquelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

'The Romantics' was enjoyable. The appealing plot was filled with hilarity, a broken heart, klutzy behavior, nepotism, a second chance encounter, an assault charge, a brief long-distance romance, and love. Harrison and Zuri, the protagonists, overcame their split a decade ago and worked hard to achieve their HEA while navigating through undesirable situations. I liked the author's vivid details which created a vibrant tone. Overall, I liked the amusing narrative.
I received a copy for free and am voluntarily giving my honest review.

[Silke · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Romantics is a second chance romance with wonderful main characters. Harrison and Zuri are genuinely good people, trying to protect themselves and each other from being hurt, but drawn to each other with a force that in the end won't be denied. Full of tension, angst and a bit of steam, it's an engaging, entertaining read with a wonderful HEA.
I was fortunate to have received an advanced copy from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.

[Bookwormtvaddict · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars
book review

This was an enjoyable second-chance billionaire romance where their past was beautiful but ended tragically so when years later they reunite once again he tries to push her way to protect himself and she is stuck and hasn't had everything go her way so even though she wants to keep her distance she can't so once again they are close to each other so will this time together bring them closer or just like at the beginning not together and forever apart?

[Zelda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love second chance romances! It’s been 13 years since Zuri and Harrison have had any contact with each other. There’s this palpable awkward tension between them, mixed with love and insecurity. I had the feels throughout the whole story—it has emotional angst but not drama. I was drawn into their story and felt them grow as characters. The author did a brilliant job of immersing me in their thoughts and feelings. Loved it!

[Patti Rapozo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a second chance at love book. She broke up with him for his own good and promised never to see him again. Due to circumstances beyond her control, she ends up working in his medical practice. What will he do, continue to keep her at arms length or give in to the love he never got over. Lots of twists and turns to get to their HEA. Really liked this book!

[Gin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was eagerly awaiting this story because Isabel is one of my favourite authors. I loved the characters and the author is very good at world building. While I didn't mind Harrison constantly telling Zuri she couldn't stay (or variations of that sentiment) because I was so drawn into the story, some people might find this repetitive.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second time around might be the charm for these two past lovers. Harrison and Zuri are both likable characters, even though she broke his heart and he doesn’t exactly welcome her back to town with open arms. But finding themselves as individuals then as a possible couple was an interesting and twisty ride. I enjoyed it.

[Gloria Wenman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read

Another great read. This author is full of brilliant story lines which she is able to hold the readers attention from page one to the very end. Her books are a joy to read. We are taken on a journey along with the characters, what they feel is what we feel, whether happy , sad or damned right devastating....

Well worth reading.

[Merry Jelks-Emmanuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Harrison and Zuri have met their match in each other. Harrison never got over her breaking his heart years ago and now she is back. Zuri's life is a mess and she needs the job at hand. Will she and Harrison be able to rekindle their love and move forward to a second chance for a happily ever after.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A love so encompassing that it spans years. Empty yearning, gut-wrenching, soul sad, my heart felt the separation pangs. I loved that Harrison cautiously allowed his heart to beat again once he overcame his shock at seeing Zuri. Willing to take a chance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[KL Cassanello · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zuri broke Harrison's heart years ago. Now she shows up in his new life; she's the niece of his partner. Despite his best attempts, he's unable to push away the feelings that remain. This is the story of their second chance, and it's not to be missed. I loved everything about this book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Arabela Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read it was! Whoever doubts that a man's heart can't beat for a single woman over a decade and love her in silence, as in vain tried to suppress his feelings. Here comes the story that will change it!
I love this quick and spicy romance read, and I believe you will love it too.

[Sammye · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good second chance romance. Zuri reappears into Harrison’s life ten years after a breakup, and he’s not happy about it. It’s a sweet read with feelings! Lots of drama angst and spice. A very enjoyable read. *this was a complimentary copy and this is my honest review*

[Kostia D · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5 stars

I was given the opportunity to review the ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review:

I find the author’s writing always relatable and she’s indeed given us another beautiful story to read. Great second chance story and a nice quick read.

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars

This book had so much potential. I enjoyed the writing. I am a sucker for angsty second chances but it just seemed to be missing some chapters from the 60% mark to bring things together for the ending to work.

[Veronique · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.99 ⭐️, not 4, only because of the sex club thing... Low drama but full of love and angst. Harrison's thoughts and feelings, especially, are beautifully written. Great read. If you liked When The Stars Align, you'll enjoy The Romantics for sure.

[Vikisor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Harrison and Zuri. It is a second chance romance that will break your heart and heal it at the same time.
With her incredible talent, Isabel will keep you glued to her story and will make you feel everything!
I highly recommend this book. It has every quality to make it one of the best books of the year: amazing characters, really good storyline, brilliantly written, swoon worthy moments. It deserves more than 5 stars. A must must read!