One Night in Sedona

by Nikki Heart

It’s the perfect proposal. So why doesn't it feel like a fairy tale?

Psychologist Carmela D’Angelo always thought saying “yes” to her childhood sweetheart would feel more… magical. But according to her heart, the guy on one knee just isn’t the man she wants to marry. So, newly single and more than a little lost, she skips town to her best friend’s bachelorette — and into the arms of a charming daredevil (with exceptional man hands™️).

Professional mountain biker Parker Radcliffe has been beaten to the finish line. Again. Coming second seems to be a hard habit to shake, but a few drinks with his team softens the disappointment considerably. As does a smile from the gorgeous redhead in the corner…

While that one night promises something more, Carmela’s family ties threaten to tangle her future with the past. When an accident shines a spotlight on her priorities, Carmela knows exactly where she has to be.

But not everybody agrees with her idea of happily ever after.

Genres: Mental Health, Romance, Contemporary

Paperback

Published November 19, 2024

About the author

Under construction! You can connect with Nikki on substack at YOURFRIENDNIKKI.SUBSTACK.COM

Reviews

[Christina P · Rating 5 out of 5]

“But there’s also hope. Hope for the woman staring back at me. She is with me as I light lantern after lantern, night after night, in search of myself.”

“I love you intentionally, Carmela. I don’t believe in soul mates or twin flames. Occasionally, I don’t even believe in destiny. But I do believe in willing something to happen, grabbing the threads of fate, and weaving a new story.”

I don’t even know where to start. This book took me on such an emotional rollercoaster. I could feel the shift from ONIN and that this story just flowed out and I was hooked on every word and had to know what happened next. It was the typical “one more chapter” until 1 am when I forced myself to go to sleep before my 6 am alarm 🙈

The scene of Carmie and Parker meeting had me kicking my feet 🤭 The way I was hurting so bad for Carmie and rooting for Parker to have his breakthrough. Ugh. I cried, I ached for these characters, I was on the edge of my seat, and smiling so big 🫶🏼 this is not a rom com. This is for the girlies that feel DEEP. Please make sure to check the trigger warnings, there are heavy topics brought up.

This book cured my slump as I inhaled it. Thank you Nikki for sharing your work and trusting us with your second book baby.

This gem of a book will release on Nov 19th, so you have time to read One Night in Nashville if you feel so inclined 🤎
***tropes stole from @chaptersandroses
🤎 dual pov
🤎 movies as chapter titles
🤎 self discovery/development
🤎 second chance romance
🤎 forced proximity
🤎 found family
🤎 HANDS 🤭

Now I don’t know what to do with my hands. What do I do now!!!!

[from maggie’s pov · Rating 5 out of 5]

♾️/5 stars AGAIN!!!!

I cannot begin to tell you what this book means to me. These characters absolutely spoke to my soul, especially Carmie. It genuinely felt like her and i are one person with the way we think about everything & i just related to her so much i just felt so seen!

Her & Parker immediately just have this insane, beautiful connection and even tho Carmie & Parker have their own shit to deal with, they still have a pull together that is just SO BEAUTIFUL.

ALSO PARKER??? obsessed with him and his possessiveness!!!!!

just another amazing boom from Nikki. I genuinely am her #1 fan i absolutely love both her stories so much & highly recommend!! Thank you so much nikki for giving me an ARC & letting me read it first i will die with that close to my heart forever 🥹

[Madison (madinotmaddiereads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

she does it again 👏🏻

nikki’s writing feels like a cathartic experience. her words reach deep into your soul, command the attention of every cell and nerve and bring this sense of clarity & reflection that leaves you thoroughly changed.

carmela & parker’s story is woven with hope, loss, expectations, grief, and above all, transcendent healing. every emotion is felt so clearly through the pages and getting to watch them grow and step into renewed versions of themselves felt like the sweetest gift.

things i especially loved:
• movie title chapters doubling as the most perfect symbolism for the characters’ circumstances
• parker’s hands (tbh just parker in general 🥵)
• carmie’s determination but maintained softness (strength doesn’t always mean being the loudest in the room…girlies like me need that reminder)
• the entire month of october (as an october baby, i was livingggg)
• the pole dancing scene (i will never recover)

if you like character driven stories with an opposites attract trope but so clearly soulmates vibe, this book needs to be in your hands asap! for lovers of sports romances, parker is a professional mountain biker…and have i mentioned his hands already? 😜

thank you endlessly to Nikki for welcoming me into her arc reader fam! meeting her this year has been a gift and i will continue to shout her books from the rooftop.

one night in sedona is out 11/19!

[Linda Jansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know those books you just become obsessed with? Sometimes even for completely intangible reasons. This was one of those.

This is story about Carmie (psychologist) and Parker (Pro Athlete) who find solace in each other while simultaneously healing themselves from past trauma. This is a slow, beautiful burn that is all about divine timing.

Something about Nikki’s writing reminded me of why I fell in love with reading in the first place.

This is a story for all the hopeless romance girlies out there. The ones who grew up loving movies like The Notebook, 10 Things I Hate About You & The Princess Bride (so much 90s movie nostalgia in this book!)

There was depth. So much depth.
Intimacy > smut.
This is truly for the girlies who feel big emotions.

I loved that I could see so much of myself in Carmie’s soft nature. I’ve always felt like my heart was too soft sometimes, so her story really hit home.

“[they are] a testiment to how being gentle and moving through the world with a soft heart pays off”

Must note: Chapter 42 was called fifty shades darker — and it was indeed 😉

Thank you so much Nikki for the privilege of reading this ARC. Easiest 5 star.

Releasing November 19

[Keely · Rating 4 out of 5]

“If I could, I would place bars over the windows to my soul. Hang a “closed” sign in the window and disappear. But I don’t. I press my lips into a tighter smile and play the role.”

Nikki’s writing is breathtaking and she creates another storyline that keeps you engaged from page one. Carmie is a recovering people pleaser, controlled by her political family and their wants over hers. Parker is a pro athlete struggling with his dad’s passing and his need to find validation through winning. When these two meet - they heal together as they both discover more about themselves and each other.

“You are the instigator, agitator and manipulator of my many moods. But most of all, you are the golden promise of a sunrise. You are the first cherry I want to taste, after years of depriving myself of anything sweet”

Dual POVS
Movie titles as chapters
Open door romance
Forced proximity
Recovering people pleaser
Athletic + psychologist
Depth!!!

Heavy topics -please read Nikki’s trigger warning before jumping in ❤️

[Noelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

“It’s only after we have lost everything, that we are free to be anything.” Nikki is ALWAYS writing something inspirational.

Carmie and Parker’s chemistry was 🔥 I really loved their story. The enemies to lovers/second chance romance really brought the angst and tension that I love.

I loved that both characters had issues to work through and that they both needed to heal from their pasts. I think certain topics surrounding Carmie could’ve been touched on a bit more because they seemed like big life changing moments that didn’t get a ton of attention after the fact. That’s really just me being picky though.

Thank you Nikki for the arc!!

[Melannie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s not fair how fast I read this book

[Cat Rose (chaptersandroses) · Rating 5 out of 5]

a literal, lyrical masterpiece—again!

sure, this is a love story—a really damn beautiful one too. but it is also so much *more* than that. it’s self-love and life lessons and empowerment and resilience and a cathartic healing experience. it’s a daily reminder we all need, especially now. this book is just so aligned.

i think we’ve all had a carmie in us, at some point in our life. and maybe we still do. she is one of the most relatable characters i’ve ever read. and is the epitome of “both soft and fierce can coexist and still be powerful”. i am so so proud of her and her rebirth.

and parker, aka mr. “what about my hands?”. he is possessive and even has an unhinged moment that had me SCREAMING in nikki’s dm’s. he is carmie’s safety and i love him so much for that. his breakthrough was everything, and i am so proud of him for *finally* dealing with his internal struggles and grief.

“i want to show you that you never have to please someone else unless it pleases you to do so. i want to show you something better than the movies, carmie. i want to show you something real. i want the sunrise. with you.”

“i love you intentionally, carmela. i don’t believe in soul mates or twin flames. occasionally, i don’t even believe in destiny. but i do believe in willing something to happen, grabbing the threads of fate, and weaving a new story.”

what you’ll find:
🌄dual POV with movie titles as chapters
🏜️pro-athlete x psychologist
💋second chance, ride or die love
🍒forced proximity
🍿found family
🎞️cathartic healing + self discovery
🖐🏻MAN HANDS
🔥interconnected standalone

***available on KU
***this book deals with a couple heavy + sensitive topics, so please be sure to check your trigger warnings

nikki, your words are beautiful and poetic and healing and i will always read anything you write, in whatever form. thank you thank you thank you.

[Brittny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. That was indeed a journey.

I once again had a hard time putting this book down. Nikki writes such captivating characters and stories that you NEED to keep going. I fear (in the best way) this will be the case with every story she writes in the future.

I resonated so strongly with Carmela, it was almost too much at times. I found myself rereading passages and then comparing them to my own thoughts and life.

This is not an “easy romance”, no. This is a journey in every way, it’s not all sunshine, and it’s not all happy and loving. There is pain and loss and difficult discussions. This is life. It will take you through the full range of emotions. But like I said, it’s a journey, and getting to read about how Parker and Carmie traveled along theirs was honestly cathartic. I’m literally writing this with tears in my eyes.

I am so honored to have received an ARC from the author Nikki Lang. Thank you for sharing these characters and their stories with us readers.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nikki has outdone herself here! I am mesmerized by her ability to paint a story so poetic and so in depth. She captures emotions that we all feel, but can’t always put into words.

The book will take you on an emotional rollercoaster in a good way, and goes deep into your soul. My heart aches for these characters as you see them realistically go through the highs and lows of a relationship. I have been hanging on to every page turn and every last word! Trust me, you need to read this.

I can’t wait to see what’s next for Nikki and her writing. In the meantime I’ll be booking a flight to Sedona.

[Samara · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW. Nikki’s writing moves me to tears. It’s poetic, it’s heartbreaking, it’s real, it’s traumatic, it’s full of hope and love and even a little spice. Thank you for gifting us this masterpiece and for never pulling your punches. I’m forever in awe of her mind and ability to tell a story.

Carmie and Parker are everything I didn’t know I needed. Through grief, trauma, toxic family ties, loss of self, unending chemistry and deep, gut-wrenching love these two find each other and begin the journey of finding themselves. 5 beautiful, sparkly stars. I wouldn’t change a single word.

[Vickie Dugan · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many thoughts about this book. I will start out by saying that once you pick it up, you will do everything in your power to never put it down until it’s done.

I haven’t read a book this quickly since the notebook (!!!), if that says anything about how much I enjoyed it.

The book is for you if you enjoy romance, suspense, drama and happy endings.

The writing of this book was so powerful. Sentence after sentence was setting up such a story that ropes you in. Each chapter I found myself saying “she won’t go there” and each time she did. The authors writing style was so bold and brave and it truly created such an easy read.

I bookmarked too many pages, there was so many quotes that I never want to forget. I won’t share too much, but I will say that in the fifty shades of grey chapter…I was SWEATING.

[Annie Özdemir · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I even begin? I picked up this book and I couldn’t put it down until I was done. It was both heart wrenching and healing in the best kind of way, and I can’t wait to see what else is to come.

Nikki’s writing is next level. You feel so immersed in the story, it feels so real. I really appreciated that it wasn’t your typical sort of romance novel, and both the characters had to work (and work HARD) on themselves before they could come out the other side.

I don’t even know how else to describe it but I do know one thing. You need to read Carmie and Parker’s story.

Thank you Nikki for the advanced copy, I appreciate you.
Views are my own as always ♥️

[tegan ✩ cozywtea · Rating 5 out of 5]

∞

[Maddy | madsbookfinsta · Rating 4 out of 5]

The EMOTIONAL DEPTH in this romance miss Nikki you have WOUNDED ME!!

[dreamwithmelo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC and am leaving an honest review.

Wow! This book will take your emotions on a roller coaster ride! When I started reading it, I could not put the book down! It was so beautifully written and I definitely got emotional because I cried sometimes while reading it. Carmie and Parker met by chance and they both had burdens they carried. There was definitely character development from both Carmie and Parker as they navigated with their own issues and supported each other through it. I’m so happy they found solace in each other. I would definitely read again!

[Soul's Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

One Night in Sedona- Carmie X Parker
ARC REVIEW

Ever dived into a book without any idea what it was about and enjoyed it so much that you devour it like your favorite meal? ONIS was that book for me.

I signed up for the ARC months ago; cut to two weeks ago when it landed in my inbox with a beautiful character art and possibly the most powerful romance novel I've read this year. I remember nothing about the book or the description it came with, nor did I know what I signed up for, but I dove right in when I could and Nikki, love, you're one hell of a storyteller.

Set majorly in Sedona, ONIS is the story of Parker- a bike athlete with a pressure on his chest, the pressure of being the best and battling with the inner demons after his dad's death. And Carmie- the daughter of a senator who is forced inside a box of expectations and commands her family compelled on her, where she has been dying in suffocation. An engagement she didn't ask for sets her on a difficult path to be someone outside of the box she's been put inside all her life and one-night changes that. One Night in Sedona with Parker Radcliffe and Carmela D'Angelo.

The story was, in all fairness, unexpected for me. The strong themes, emphasis on pressing social matters and opinions that make me feel empowered simply through words- ONIS had it all. From second chance to that forced proximity, every trope was done SO WELL.

The spice was lower-which, I prefer- but the emotional connection was so much deeper than physical could be. Given the story being so good, the book doesn't require it. You'll feel enough love, sacrifice and determination regardless.

I didn't just witness Carmie and Parker falling in love, I watched them grow into the best version of themselves, for themselves, for their love and for everyone they truly love and consider family by choice.

The last 20% of the book has my heart. Not just the story, the boldness, but the climax? THE WAY MY JAW DROPPED because boy, I wasn't expecting that even in my dreams. Though fictional, the light shed upon these incidents that VERY MUCH HAPPEN in real life was a first for me.

And the book might be an experience but being a part of the journey with Nikki as she releases this book into the world is the most extra-ordinary affair. It's not just being an ARC reader but the emails I received, with a story and her words as if in a conversation, telling me things about the book, how it came to be; those little snippets would forever make this book ever more special than it already is.

Congratulations, Nikki. ONIS is out in the world for everyone to enjoy. Thank you for the ARC and thank you for letting me have this experience.

[Amber Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Much like the first in the series, One Night in Sedona has left just as much of an impression on me as the other. Nikki's writing can only be best described as cathartic. I've said it before and I will say it again, her writing isn't cookie cutter, it's not one of those you leave feeling wow, I just read a silly little romance book. It's so much more than that. It's what she describes as unconventional. I've never read books like these before, these characters are ones you as the reader grow to love and cheer for along the way, that you cry with, want to hold their hand and tell them it's all going to be okay. That you too feel a sense of peace and understanding after you've just read 30+ chapters about them and come out on the other end not only a little emotionally wounded- but put back together, but also incredibly emotionally empowered.

One Night in Sedona after I finished it, I felt like I just went through a therapy session and came out of it a better person. I felt like I had a new sense of wonder and curiosity about the world and it's made me feel more intentional in my thoughts and conversations with people. Maybe that was Nikki's intention, maybe it wasn't. But, what I loved about this book is that it felt so timely- in a climate like we have today these words are needed. They are important and I really mean that. Nikki's words are healing and I hope everyone will read them.

Carmela and Parker's story is not easy, it's going to make you feel big feelings, it is for the hopeless romantic girlies, that watch their favorite movie over and over and find themselves day dreaming and wishing they were inside that movie, but let me tell you it's one that's better than the movies. I promise. It is one for the girlies who feel deeply and have the big feelings, you as the reader will be right along side Carmie as she learns her place in the world and learns to stand on her own two feet as well as Parker as he has to relearn how to live figuratively and literally. But also along side them as they learn to fall in love with themselves both separately and fall in love together. Ugh, it's just so beautiful and poetic and... everything. Please read it!

Nikki, I cannot thank you enough for the opportunity to read this book early. I feel giddy knowing that this book is now out of the hands of your ARC readers but in the hands of the world, I am so incredibly excited for your future books and you've made a forever fan out of me and I will be the first in line for whatever is to come.

[Dandelion Lit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nikki Lang’s One Night Only series has a grip on my heart that is unlike any other romance series.

Nikki’s writing style is thoughtful, emotional, and creative.

Her characters are crafted with intention and exquisite care.

Her stories motivate self-discovery and deep thought into the reality of human experiences that are not often explored.

Her books are immersive with chapters titled after songs in One Night in Nashville, films in One Night in Sedona, and soon, classic artworks in One Night in Charleston.

One Night in Sedona is sensual, intimate, and dark. Carmie is a pathological people-pleaser in a family of politicians. Her cathartic experience during a pole-dancing class at Fallon’s bachelorette weekend in Sedona leads her to move across the country and create the life she truly desires. Parker is giving up, sabotaging his passion for professional mountain biking, and avoiding his fears in the grief of his father’s death. One night changes the fate of both Carmie and Parker as they find a sunrise in the depths of their darkness together.

“You were at rock bottom the same time I was. But instead of burying one another deeper. We stopped to lay a new foundation instead.”

My heart ached for Carmie the moment we were introduced to her in One Night in Nashville. Leading into the release of One Night in Sedona and throughout the entire story, I felt a deep protectiveness over Carmie that I imagine comes from a part of myself that relates closely to her. The portrayal of her people-pleasing tendencies was incredibly accurate.

Nikki’s character development skills shone through in Carmie and Parker’s story. I hold the depth of Carmie and Parker’s characters close to my heart. Ride or Fly. ❤️‍🔥

My favorite part of the One Night Only series is the way Nikki’s storytelling prompts me to reflect on the complexity of humanity. This story champions our individuality and creates a space for those who feel deeply.

“Over time, she was no longer fragile. She bloomed, like a cactus flower, in the middle of a desert because she took the conditions given to her and made life from them.”

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to read an ARC of One Night in Sedona. I wholeheartedly love the One Night Only characters and greatly admire Nikki Lang as an author and storyteller.

Thank you, Nikki.

[Bookonarooftop · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nikki Lang is an indie author you all should read.

I don't say this about a lot of authors, but Nikki knows how to write real stories.

To write a flawed characters, their journey and their growth and show us, how we can find pieces of ourselves within them, is a powerful thing.

Nikki managed to give us Carmie, the character that can be our neighbor, friend, sister, mother, ourselves and that's what makes this story so empowering, beautiful and heartbreaking.
You know when you hear the story of people like Carmie, you always jump into remarks: she should walk away; she should give them the middle finger and slam the door; she should grow up and choose her happiness; she is a grown-up, no one can manipulate her, she is the one at fault.

You know, how we always know better? how we always say, I would never be like this

well, you know, you might be.

you might be Carmie; you might not walk away from your family; you might not put everything behind you.

And do you know why? because you are flawed human, like Carmie.

It's always easy to say what we would do but to actually walk away from your family, from your past, from your memories, is not for anyone.

Carmie had to go on that journey. She had to grow outside her comfort zone on her terms; she had to keep herself, not lose the traits others used and manipulated, but walk away.

I love Carmie with every bit of my heart. And I adore Nikki for telling her story.

Now Parker - people don't always have the will to come out of the battlefield he was trusted into alive. Not did he only survived, he rose higher and returned stronger and I love that for him. Someone like him deserves all the happiness in life and it's unfair when people like Parker are crushed down by the world. His redemption arc was so well-structured, I couldn't stop crying for him.

I always have a sweet spot for athletes and I was rooting for him. I wanted to tell him that his anger, his depression, his frustration, everything he was feeling was valid. I wanted to tell him that he had every right to be mean and rude, because that's how he was showing himself. That was him screaming that he needed saving. And I am so glad, he realized himself that there was a way out for him; that he could be saved.

How much I loved this story? YES

Nikki's writing feels like a double-sided sword. She breaks your heart into pieces, makes you experience the most excruciating pain and then she manages to put you back into pieces; she heals you with her words. But she makes sure you remember those scars, those battle wounds. That's what makes healing even more special.

So please pick this book up and read it

[Lindsey Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Nikki has done it again! Her ability to write with so much emotion and heart, but not losing the story in said emotion is profound! Her stories pull you in, connecting you with her MCs, while allowing you to get lost in the romance and spice, but constantly reminds you that is a plus to the overall plot of the story. Her storylines are fluid, but uniformed. She doesn’t hold back when writing and it is evident in the way her stories read. Reading her stories is a whole body experience that I welcome again and again.

Carmela wants a love that is magical and feels like everything. She knows she doesn’t have that with her current relationship. It takes all her strength, but she values her happiness and knows this love exists, so she leaves. It’s time she takes the advice she so often gives her patients and puts herself first. To not be afraid of the unknown, but take a risk to find everything she is looking for.

Parker is everything in this book! I love a storyline that includes a man that has been working so hard to come first in his career, that he almost misses all the wins that really matter right in front of him. It is evident his attraction to Carmela when they meet. Seeing his development not only for himself, but for Carmela also, is heartwarming and soul stopping! The things he is willing to work on to be the best version of himself for this woman. But even beyond that! He wants to be better for himself too and that drives him just as much.

Nikki repeatedly shows what inner strength looks like, that confidence is not always loud, brokenness is not always evident, and inner battles can do a number on you while you remain composed on the outside. A story for the hopeless romantic, believing that love always wins, and that when you find it with the right person it is bigger than you could ever imagine. She drew me in, captured my heart, and left me so full at the end of this story!

As always, review any author notes before reading.

Tropes:
🚲Second Chance Romance
🥼Forced Proximity
🚲Found Family
🥼Pro Athlete MMC
🚲Psychologist FMC
🥼Emotional Love Story

[Kassi]

Hi hello I have a bajillion highlights from this book. The lessons in empowerment and self-love were STRONG and Nikki's words truly felt like therapy at times.

One Night in Sedona follows Carmie and Parker, the former being a people pleaser to her absolute core. As the book progresses, we get to see her transform into a new version of herself which was so inspiring. I loved the book's reminders that you don't have to be ashamed of your past self or forget that version of yourself completely- you can carry her with you as you step into the new you.

"Don't let your past overshadow your potential."

Meanwhile, Parker is going through his own internal battles and my heart absolutely broke for him. Despite this, he still protected Carmie, cheered for her independence, and created a safe space for her to grow into the woman she's meant to be.

"It's not too late for him, just like it's not too late for any of us, to begin again."

I love the fact that yes, there's a love story at the core of this book, but it's also a story about self-love which is a message that can resonate with everyone. Also, I'm pretty sure my IQ went up while reading this book. For example, "I let him simultaneously atone for his sins
while he walks through the temple of my body with muddy shoes." Like excuse me?!?!? I just sat there after reading that line in awe of Nikki's writing.

Her books are realistic, modern, raw, and emotional.
You can truly feel the love she pours into the pages and the care in which she writes heavy topics. It's also so evident how much she cares about her characters, their impact, and the people that find themselves reading her words. In the world we live in, her words are a gift and very much needed.

What to expect from ONIS:

🍒 dual pov
🍒 movie title chapters
🍒 second chance romance
🍒 athlete + therapist
🍒 forced proximity
🍒 interconnected standalone

***please check trigger warnings

Thank you so much to Nikki for this arc!

[Adi B · Rating 3 out of 5]

Now... I have some very complicated feelings🙊about this book. Before I say anything, Mrs.Nikki Lang is on a different plain💯! New era, as she said to all her ARC readers, this book has definitely done this for her. The book was so message oriented that it felt like a guided journal 📝at times. It was beautifully written, with so much heart and love.

Carmie and Parker were so well written👏, their voices were distinct, the tension was REAL👩‍❤️‍👨 - it made me angry😡 in some instances, BECAUSE they were so real😌.

I have debated whether or not I can consider this a romance book in the traditional sense🤔. Trust me, there is romance💞 in this book, very spicy🥵 at times (which was something I didn't understand🤷‍♀️), but onto that later.

ONIS was for me a self-love book💝 FIRST before it was a romance book which I LOVED😍 and needed. This book really met me where I'm at in life right now, and I lived Carmie's growth for my ownself vicariously through her❤️‍🩹. The way Carmie learns to forgive herself, to release her past, no matter who is attached to it, was very eye-opening and encouraging. Thank you for this 🤎

Finally, the only thing I did not love, sort of ironically, was the MMC🥸. I know. I know.🙈 This is an extremely personal part of the review, so it in no way takes away from the story, but he was always around🙄😅. I wanted her to grow without him😬, but I think there is a very real reality highlighted throughout this book that we need community🫂. So, it is definitely an understandable part of the story. I think the spice🌶 was overdone🤒, and it seemed to divert from the pacing of the story. I didn't like this because I think some audiences will miss out on this read because it can be a bit of a turn-off🫠

All in all, my rating stands at 3 burning bright 🔥 for this beautiful work, and it's incredible author!

[Shannon | icedlattesandliterature · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶

“I want to show you that you never have to please someone else unless it pleases you to do so. I want to show you something better than the movies, Carmie. I want to show you something real. I want the sunrise. With you.”

Tropes:
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Second Chance Romance
✨ Psychologist x Professional Mountain Biker
✨ Injury Healing
✨ Movie Titles as Chapters
✨ Dual POV


WOW. The character depth with both Carmie and Parker was so addictive. I usually don’t go for second chance romances but this has completely convinced me. How Parker and Carmie met was SO good, I was smiling the whole way through. In a lot of Parker’s struggles with his father, I could relate. It was so well done. And Carmie’s struggles with breaking free from her family and rediscovering herself was so intense. The romance between them didn’t go a stereotypical way at all (which was so good) but being on this journey with them and watching them heal together was so beautiful. I truly could connect with the characters and their struggles but also enjoy watching them transform. This was so beautifully written. It felt like a rom com but with such depth that really connects you with the characters.

Warning: there are some heavy topics including abusive relationships, death of a family member, suicide, and child loss. Mental health always comes first ❤️

I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a romance you can really feel and a deep connection with the characters. Nikki has become one of my favourite authors with this book alone.

* I received this book as an ARC read. This review is my opinion and my own thoughts.

[Jenise · Rating 5 out of 5]

NIKKI DOES IT AGAIN!!— One Night in Sedona was filled with so much empowerment, love, hope, second chance and heartbreak. Nikki’s writing really hits your soul, poetic and writes stories that brings you to tears: happy or sad. Always giving you all the feels!

Carmie is the girl who wants to find that “in the movies” type of love. One you feel safe in. One with someone who knows you best that words aren’t needed for your partner to understand you. Carmie’s wish is what many of us want. But along the way, she realizes the number one love we need is the one with ourselves and that to me is what this book was: empowering, self love, second chance but with yourself.

Carmie is me. I am Carmie. Carmie is all women, all women are Carmie. ♥️ Her development growth was to be one of my favorites. The way she had so much self doubt to how she was so strong to stand up for what she believed. To be strong enough to love herself fully. With all her inner battles, Carmie is still sunshine and optimistic.

Parker. This man comes off so strong and all together but is fighting a battle within himself and keeps the walls so high. Even with Carmie. But man does this man love and his love is the type to not only protect but encourage independence and for Carmie so be herself.

Carmie and Parker together were so beautiful to read and see how they grew and loved together. How they allowed one another to grow and come to terms with things at their own pace but always there for each other.

This book was perfect. Another realistic story by Nikki and I cannot wait to read more! This friend group is one with so many hidden stories, I’m excited to experience through Nikki’s writing.

[Dauntless_Bookdragon · Rating 5 out of 5]

💋ARC Review💋

This book exceeded by expectations in so many ways, and I can tell you that my review will not do this book justice. Nikki reaches her readers on such an amazing emotional level through this book and provides them such empowerment through Camilla. This book brings an amazing reminder for anyone who needs it that:
1. It’s okay not to live up to your family’s expectations
2. Life’s not meant to be lived on autopilot
3. It’s okay to change your mind in life

I walked away from this book feeling so empowered in my own life, knowing that I still have years to go and it’s okay that I don’t have everything figured out. And that the right person in your life, will do everything to make you feel seen, heard, and like you’re the most important person in the world. Life with them won’t be perfect, but together you fight for a better tomorrow, you fight for each other, and you fight to be the best you can for the other person. This love story is beautifully written and the characters bring you as the reader to such an emotionally vulnerable place. And I cannot applaud Nikki enough for this book, it is an amazing piece of art (no, I can’t say that enough) and I loved getting to read it and I am so excited for her future books!!

Tropes:
💋 forced proximity x second chance
💋 he’s a professional mountain biker she’s a psychologist (spoiler: they’re both in a bit of a career rut)
💋 open door spice x movie titles / quotes from your favorites
💋 opposites attract
💋found family

[Victoria Ramirez · Rating 5 out of 5]

𖤓 The character development between Carmie and Parker was top notch. It was powerful in a helpful way. I have so many highlights and notes from this book.

𖤓 The banter was so good. It was humorous and at times tear inducing. The chemistry between characters was so palpable and intoxicating. The examples of honest relationships through friends was healing.

𖤓 The full circle moment it comes to, with the characters and relationships is chefs kiss; especially after the emotional roller coaster that is this story.


This is a push and pull, slow burn romance. Slow burn in the sense of growth needing to be had between the two people coming together in order for them to be deep in the intimacy that is being in a relationship with such strong passion.

The delivery of the ebbs and flows of healing and choosing different was so perfect. It’s a perfect representation of how it goes, on a real level. The fear of choosing different can be crippling and it’s nice to have an idea of what it’s like through this book. It was relatable and reminds all readers, that the choice to change is the first step the next is putting the choice into action and stumbling gracefully or ungracefully along the way is apart of the process.

Because of the depth delivered in this book, it leaves an imprint on your heart. There are valuable lessons and wisdoms through out this book that are going to stick with me, for sure.

Hand’s down this is a beautiful book! I’ll forever hold it dear in my heart

[Tabitha · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a romance that hits you right in the feels, give this one a try. While this book dealt with some difficult topics (check trigger warnings!), the overall character development and romance building were beautiful. The characters in this book didn't fall into an easy love story but had to work towards something meaningful and the romance didn't fall into place until after the characters had taken the time to work on themselves first. This is a "second-chance romance", but I would argue that its more like a third-, fourth- or fifth- chance because both characters are dealing with their own trauma which constantly gets in the way of their happy ever afters. But don't worry- there is a happy ending for Parker and Carmie and a well deserved one at that.

This is book 2 in the One Night series by Nikki Lang and my favorite so far. Her storytelling made me want to book the first flight out to the desert to experience some of its magic for myself. While I don't subscribe to astrology or mystical beliefs- I did enjoy that the FMC was willing to do whatever it took to free herself from the expectations of others to become the woman she was always meant to be. If anything, the love story between Parker and Carmie came second to the love story Carmie was writing to herself and I think we could all use a little more of that.

[Lumie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Nikki Lang for the ARC.

Plot 3.5/5

Characters 4/5
Ending 3.5/5
Interest 4.25/5

Overall 3.75/5

-I can’t believe that I read three books recently where the main female characters turns up pregnant at some point. This book had a different outcome for it but it felt like a plot point just to have some more drama later down the line. Enough about that, the story itself was fun to read but I didn’t feel anything really special whilst reading it. It’s definably a good book to escape reality for a bit without having anything too complex.

-The characters were nice, some points I was screaming at them to communicate and explain away certain situations which would have saved sooo much trouble. But some points, they immediately communicated and it was like a breath of fresh air. Individually they were sweet as well. I actually really liked the side characters. The main characters actually had good friends but sometimes I felt like they just disappeared for a while, especially Fallon.

-The ending kind of felt like a typical romance book in the sense that it is quite over the top, with the main character solving all of her issues in a dramatic and powerful way. Cutting out the bad people of her life, a life threatening situation. I feel like I’ve seen it before and I don’t need that over the top ending for simple books like this one.

[Hallel (storytimewithalice) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐ 4🌶️

What an emotional rollercoaster!
I am invested in how Nikki Lang manages to show the journey of two individuals coming off their old broken selves to become better versions, and when ready, finally stepping into a real no-walls relationship.
I was engaged in how the book presented trauma and grief in a person, and the painstakingly struggle to overcome. It's not your typical light romance story, it's hinged in sensitive issues teethering over the reality of domestic abuse and women rights. So I advised you to be aware of such triggers, lest you are not into novels with such themes.
I pity the old version of Carmela and was frustrated with her situation, her people-pleasing tendencies and her insane persistence of coming back to the people who really never saw her worth as a daughter, sibling or girlfriend. And I was impressed at how the author conveyed such broken characters  and pulling the threads of their stories into being reborn, finding forgiveness and acceptance, slowly transitioning into healing and life worth living.
Also this book has so much spice but not plain spice. The author wrote such passionate scenes, showing more of the couple's vulnerability and willingness to submit in deep love for one another.
Grateful to be one of the author's ARC readers.