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Rossi Family #3
Embracing You
She offered me a deal I couldn't refuse.
A little summer fling. Casual, no expectations ... and a firm expiration date.
Samantha Sullivan and I have been best friends since childhood. Totally platonic. We had never crossed the line, not even once.
Until now.
Sam has been running away from our small town for nearly twenty years, but after receiving a life-changing diagnosis, she craves the comfort of home…and my arms.
She doesn’t want things to change, but I have loved her every single day I’ve known her, and now I’m addicted to her curves, her taste, and the feel of her skin.
She’s too used to running, and this fling may have a deadline, but we didn’t just cross the line, we smashed it to pieces.
She is my past, present, and future. And I’m not going anywhere.
Author’s Note: Embracing You is a full-length, standalone, later in life, small town contemporary romance. The heroine is dealing with a non-terminal breast cancer diagnosis and she gets a well-deserved (and steamy!) HEA. This book features a pining hero who is a gentleman in the streets and a beast in the sheets, a plucky heroine and her three-legged dog. If this is your first visit to Havenport, welcome and I hope you can stay a while...
A little summer fling. Casual, no expectations ... and a firm expiration date.
Samantha Sullivan and I have been best friends since childhood. Totally platonic. We had never crossed the line, not even once.
Until now.
Sam has been running away from our small town for nearly twenty years, but after receiving a life-changing diagnosis, she craves the comfort of home…and my arms.
She doesn’t want things to change, but I have loved her every single day I’ve known her, and now I’m addicted to her curves, her taste, and the feel of her skin.
She’s too used to running, and this fling may have a deadline, but we didn’t just cross the line, we smashed it to pieces.
She is my past, present, and future. And I’m not going anywhere.
Author’s Note: Embracing You is a full-length, standalone, later in life, small town contemporary romance. The heroine is dealing with a non-terminal breast cancer diagnosis and she gets a well-deserved (and steamy!) HEA. This book features a pining hero who is a gentleman in the streets and a beast in the sheets, a plucky heroine and her three-legged dog. If this is your first visit to Havenport, welcome and I hope you can stay a while...
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2024
126 people are currently reading
268 people want to read
About the author
Daphne Elliot
28 books1,248 followersIn High School, Daphne Elliot was voted “most likely to become a romance novelist.” After spending the last decade as a corporate lawyer, she has finally embraced her destiny. Her small town steamy novels are filled with flirty banter, sexy hijinks, and lots and lots of heart.
Daphne is a coffee-drinking, hot-sauce loving introvert who spends all her free time in her garden. She lives on a small farm in New England with her husband, two kids, two dogs, twelve backyard chickens and a hive of Italian honeybees.
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Daphne is a coffee-drinking, hot-sauce loving introvert who spends all her free time in her garden. She lives on a small farm in New England with her husband, two kids, two dogs, twelve backyard chickens and a hive of Italian honeybees.
VISIT MY AMAZON PAGE:
https://www.amazon.com/Daphne-Elliot/...
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/daphneellio...
FOLLOW ME ON FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/DaphneElliot...
SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEWSLETTER:
http://daphneelliot.com/join-newsletter/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
September 15, 2022
Wait there’s a whole series? runs to check them out
There’s something to be said for a friends-to-lovers trope amongst characters over 40. Everything feels more authentic.
I thoroughly enjoyed all the characters in this book. Val (who was 8 years old) was hilarious and not written wise-beyond-her-years like some kids I’ve read about. Sam and Gio fit together like they were made for each other. They were mature, funny, settled into their jobs and routines, but most importantly they didn’t deny their feelings for each other- they knew how important it was to tell people exactly how they felt when faced with a scary unknown.
I loved that there wasn’t any of the usual angst that comes from the friends-to-lovers books. This book really focused on Sam, her diagnosis and journey dealing with cancer, and her relationships. I think with a topic this heavy, there was no time or energy wasted on frivolous things, which was refreshing in a way, but also heartbreaking.
I didn’t really enjoy the flashbacks being interspersed throughout because I was really invested in everything happening in the present.
This is a stand-alone with a HEA that’ll make you want to grab a blanket and cuddle up to your partner and encourage you to say how you feel. So well-done, so heartfelt.
There’s something to be said for a friends-to-lovers trope amongst characters over 40. Everything feels more authentic.
I thoroughly enjoyed all the characters in this book. Val (who was 8 years old) was hilarious and not written wise-beyond-her-years like some kids I’ve read about. Sam and Gio fit together like they were made for each other. They were mature, funny, settled into their jobs and routines, but most importantly they didn’t deny their feelings for each other- they knew how important it was to tell people exactly how they felt when faced with a scary unknown.
I loved that there wasn’t any of the usual angst that comes from the friends-to-lovers books. This book really focused on Sam, her diagnosis and journey dealing with cancer, and her relationships. I think with a topic this heavy, there was no time or energy wasted on frivolous things, which was refreshing in a way, but also heartbreaking.
I didn’t really enjoy the flashbacks being interspersed throughout because I was really invested in everything happening in the present.
This is a stand-alone with a HEA that’ll make you want to grab a blanket and cuddle up to your partner and encourage you to say how you feel. So well-done, so heartfelt.
September 23, 2022
Embracing You is book 3 of the Rossi Family series by Daphne Elliot. It's a standalone contemporary romance. Dual POV with a HEA
Tropes:
✔️ small town
✔️ friends to lovers
✔️ hero falls first
✔️ later in life
Gio and Sam have been best friends since they could remember. Even though Sam left their hometown after graduation, Gio has always loved her. Now she’s back with a proposition for Gio: to have a fling before her surgery and cancer treatment. Can they go back to being friends after crossing the friendship line?
Friends to lover combined with small town charm is always delightful. I really appreciated how the entire town supported Sam and loved the fun and comfortable banter between her and Gio. Their story is touching and emotional. They fit perfectly but also had to face big obstacles.
Sam’s cancer diagnosis was developed with care and a loved how Gio treated her carefully yet knowing she’s strong. Their chemistry was spectacular and I enjoyed all the sweet and sexy moments they had together.
★ I received an ARC of this title from the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title.
★See all my book edits on Instagram
Tropes:
✔️ small town
✔️ friends to lovers
✔️ hero falls first
✔️ later in life
Gio and Sam have been best friends since they could remember. Even though Sam left their hometown after graduation, Gio has always loved her. Now she’s back with a proposition for Gio: to have a fling before her surgery and cancer treatment. Can they go back to being friends after crossing the friendship line?
Friends to lover combined with small town charm is always delightful. I really appreciated how the entire town supported Sam and loved the fun and comfortable banter between her and Gio. Their story is touching and emotional. They fit perfectly but also had to face big obstacles.
Sam’s cancer diagnosis was developed with care and a loved how Gio treated her carefully yet knowing she’s strong. Their chemistry was spectacular and I enjoyed all the sweet and sexy moments they had together.
★ I received an ARC of this title from the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title.
★See all my book edits on Instagram
September 21, 2022
Hearts are worn upon sleeves in Daphne Elliot’s latest release about intimacy, strength, and community.
Sam had a fierce stubbornness to her that I loved to hate, and the big feelings and battles she confronted were raw and heavy, my heart aching with each word. Elliot has respectfully and realistically tapped into the individuals battle with cancer, and the pain and uncertainty that flanks this. At no point did this portrayal or Sam’s journey feel overly dramatised or exploited, and Elliot is to be commended for this.
There was an outpouring of support from Gio and the community of Havenport, and my heart and my eyes were equally moved by these displays. Gio’s presence brought a genuine sweetness, and I admired his patience and understanding towards Sam, always present in whatever capacity she needed at that time. Even when it meant waiting for her heart (and her mind) to catch up to the possibility of them on the other side of her recovery.
While I wasn’t a personal fan of the few flashback chapters interspersed throughout, the depth of Sam and Gio’s friendship this helped convey further cemented my belief that these two really were meant for one another, and that is something I just love to see dominating with the always been you trope. Theirs was an all consuming chemistry, their happy ending uplifting to see, as Elliot once more hit all the right spots.
An authentic tale of best friends turned lovers and it’s always been you, the heart beating within this read is strong and emotionally resounding; the perfect follow up for the Rossi Family series!
CW: Non-terminal breast cancer.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. 4⭐️
Sam had a fierce stubbornness to her that I loved to hate, and the big feelings and battles she confronted were raw and heavy, my heart aching with each word. Elliot has respectfully and realistically tapped into the individuals battle with cancer, and the pain and uncertainty that flanks this. At no point did this portrayal or Sam’s journey feel overly dramatised or exploited, and Elliot is to be commended for this.
There was an outpouring of support from Gio and the community of Havenport, and my heart and my eyes were equally moved by these displays. Gio’s presence brought a genuine sweetness, and I admired his patience and understanding towards Sam, always present in whatever capacity she needed at that time. Even when it meant waiting for her heart (and her mind) to catch up to the possibility of them on the other side of her recovery.
While I wasn’t a personal fan of the few flashback chapters interspersed throughout, the depth of Sam and Gio’s friendship this helped convey further cemented my belief that these two really were meant for one another, and that is something I just love to see dominating with the always been you trope. Theirs was an all consuming chemistry, their happy ending uplifting to see, as Elliot once more hit all the right spots.
An authentic tale of best friends turned lovers and it’s always been you, the heart beating within this read is strong and emotionally resounding; the perfect follow up for the Rossi Family series!
CW: Non-terminal breast cancer.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. 4⭐️
September 13, 2022
3.75 stars
It took me some time to find the right words to review this book because it deals with something very personal for me as it is Breast cancer. I lost someone very close to me due that so to say this book touch many nerves it's an understatement.
In this book we meet Sam and Gio who have been best friends since they have memory. They know love and support each other through hell and earth and see how their relationship gets stronger with all the adversities they go through is amazing.
We also see how our amazing strong FMC deals with something so life changing as cancer and how it can seriously affect her not only physically but mentally.
Her journey is touching and to see everyone come out and being supportive was amazing.
I feel Daphne way of telling this story was responsible and respectful because although she didn't sugarcoat anything, she also was careful to not overly dramatized it or used it just as a plot device.
And although this was not my favorite book from the series, I still think it was beautifully written and very heartwarming.
Thank you to the author for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
It took me some time to find the right words to review this book because it deals with something very personal for me as it is Breast cancer. I lost someone very close to me due that so to say this book touch many nerves it's an understatement.
In this book we meet Sam and Gio who have been best friends since they have memory. They know love and support each other through hell and earth and see how their relationship gets stronger with all the adversities they go through is amazing.
We also see how our amazing strong FMC deals with something so life changing as cancer and how it can seriously affect her not only physically but mentally.
Her journey is touching and to see everyone come out and being supportive was amazing.
I feel Daphne way of telling this story was responsible and respectful because although she didn't sugarcoat anything, she also was careful to not overly dramatized it or used it just as a plot device.
And although this was not my favorite book from the series, I still think it was beautifully written and very heartwarming.
Thank you to the author for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Gio is the superior Rossi argue with the wall
Gio is the superior Rossi argue with the wall
September 13, 2022
5 stars
3 Chili peppers
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Small-town
Later in life
Dual POV
Going into this book I thought I knew what to expect. The classic Friends to Lovers trope. But this book was so much more than that. Gio and Sam have been friends forever. They don't see each other often because Sam left their hometown after graduation. But when she comes home for a few months, it's for a reason. The reason being, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Gio tells her he won't leave her side. After her diagnosis, she has 3 weeks before she starts treatment and surgery and she wants to have a fling with Gio. He agrees, but will this lead to more?
"And your mouth. Although it's usually busy saying something sarcastic to me, your lips are perfection."
I loved this book. The banter was amazing. It made me feel all the emotions. I laughed, I cried, I cheered, I awwed. This book was an emotional rollercoaster. Sam's journey was amazing. The growth that she had was off the charts. I was so proud of her. The friendship between Gio and Sam and all the stories they shared of the past were amazing. I am a little jealous that they got to experience that treehouse though!
Can we also take some time out to appreciate Val? She was hysterical, sassy, and the things that came out of her mouth made me laugh until I was crying. She definitely isn't the typical eight-year-old.
"How much cannoli can a person eat?" Sam asked innocently. val stopped walking and turned around so quickly I almost ran into her. She cocked her head to the side and started at sam."Is that a serious question?"
This was an amazing book and one I'll definitely recommend.
Thank you to Daphne Elliot for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
3 Chili peppers
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Small-town
Later in life
Dual POV
Going into this book I thought I knew what to expect. The classic Friends to Lovers trope. But this book was so much more than that. Gio and Sam have been friends forever. They don't see each other often because Sam left their hometown after graduation. But when she comes home for a few months, it's for a reason. The reason being, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Gio tells her he won't leave her side. After her diagnosis, she has 3 weeks before she starts treatment and surgery and she wants to have a fling with Gio. He agrees, but will this lead to more?
"And your mouth. Although it's usually busy saying something sarcastic to me, your lips are perfection."
I loved this book. The banter was amazing. It made me feel all the emotions. I laughed, I cried, I cheered, I awwed. This book was an emotional rollercoaster. Sam's journey was amazing. The growth that she had was off the charts. I was so proud of her. The friendship between Gio and Sam and all the stories they shared of the past were amazing. I am a little jealous that they got to experience that treehouse though!
Can we also take some time out to appreciate Val? She was hysterical, sassy, and the things that came out of her mouth made me laugh until I was crying. She definitely isn't the typical eight-year-old.
"How much cannoli can a person eat?" Sam asked innocently. val stopped walking and turned around so quickly I almost ran into her. She cocked her head to the side and started at sam."Is that a serious question?"
This was an amazing book and one I'll definitely recommend.
Thank you to Daphne Elliot for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 14, 2022
ARC kindly provided for the author in exchange for an honest review
Ranking: 4.5⭐
Gio & Sam have a love story that I really enjoyed, it's full of sweet, funny, complicated and moving moments. But one of my favorite things to read was the way in which Daphne Elliot developed Sam's diagnosis as sensitively and realistically as possible, and while fortunately I've never experienced nothing like it in my life, I think Daphne managed to capture Gio & Sam's journey very well, especially her fight.
Gio is officially my second favorite Rossi, after Nora of course, and so far he's the cutest, nicest, tender and understanding of the Rossi men that I have read and it's the type of characters that make me fall in love. I loved his whole story with Sam, and knowing from the beginning that he is hopelessly in love with her was something I really liked about his story, plus I really enjoyed reading him with Valentina and learning much more about the type of relationship he has with her family, especially with Matteo, but definitely the best thing about his character, and Sam's, was know the important moments in their friendship, how much they love each other, how important they have been in each other's lives, and the moments they let go for fear of destroying their unconditional friendship.
Sam is a true warrior, an independent, hard-working woman and Gio's best friend, she always wanted to run away from Havenport and was able to achieve her dreams, however, after being diagnosed with breast cancer, she finds herself having to return to her hometown to seek the support & comfort of her mother and Gio. Sam has a long way to go throughout Embracing You, as her illness makes her put many things into perspective: her job, her nomadic personality, everything she thought about the place in the one she grew up, and most importantly, her feelings for Gio and everything that could happen if he agrees to have casual sex with her.
Sam & Gio don't have it easy on their way, from Sam's diagnosis, to the fear they both have of letting themselves be carried away by their feelings for the other and ruining the friendship they have shared throughout their lifes. One of the things I liked the most about Gio was that he always tried to take care of Sam and give him what she needed from him at all times, even when that wasn't the way in which he wanted to do things, but the most beautiful of all was that Gio never stopped fighting to show Sam how much he needed her in his life, permanently. Sam's situation was heartbreaking, but I loved the way Daphne went to great lengths and research to tell her story in the best way possible, in the most respectful, real, and touching on many of the most important issues experienced by women who go through this terrible disease. Also, I loved the strength & vulnerability of her character, the way her perspective on Havenport changed, and how she decided to let go of that attraction she's always had felt for Gio.
💃🏽Gio: 5/5
💃🏽Sam: 5/5
💃🏽Plot: 4/5
💃🏽Love story: 5/5
💃🏽Secondary characters: 5/5
💃🏽Universe: 5/5
💃🏽Cover: 2.5/5
🌶️: 3/5
🇪🇸
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
Puntuación: 4.5⭐
Gio & Sam tienen una historia de amor que disfruté muchísimo, está llena de momentos dulce, divertidos, complicados y conmovedores. Pero una de las cosas que más me gustó leer fue la forma en la que Daphne Elliot desarrolló el diagnostico de Sam con la mayor sensibilidad y realidad posibles, y aunque afortunadamente nunca he experimentado nada parecido en mi vida, creo que Daphne logró capturar muy bien el viaje de Gio & Sam, especialmente la lucha de ella.
Gio es oficialmente mi segundo Rossi favorito, después de Nora por su supuesto, y es que hasta ahora es el más lindo, amable, tierno y comprensivo de los hombres Rossi que he leído y es el tipo de personajes que me enamoran. Me encantó toda su historia con Sam y saber desde el principio que él esta perdidamente enamorado de ella fue algo que me gustó muchísimo de su historia, además de que disfruté mucho leyéndolo con Valentina y conociendo mucho más del tipo de relación que tiene con su familia, especialmente con Matteo, pero definitivamente lo mejor de su personaje, y del de Sam, fue conocer los momentos importantes en su amistad, lo mucho que se aman el uno al otro, lo importantes que han sido en la vida del otro, y los momentos que dejaron pasar por temor a destruir su amistad incondicional.
Sam es una verdadera guerrera, una mujer independiente, trabajadora y la mejor amiga de Gio, ella siempre quiso huir de Havenport y fue capaz de lograr sus sueños, sin embargo, después de ser diagnosticada con cáncer de mama se ve en la necesidad de volver a su pueblo natal para buscar el apoyo & consuelo de su mamá y Gio. Sam tiene un gran camino que recorrer a lo largo de Embracing You, pues su enfermedad le hace poner en perspectiva muchas cosas en su vida: su trabajo, su personalidad nómada, todo lo que pensaba sobre el lugar en el que creció, y lo más importante, sus sentimientos por Gio y todo lo que podría pasar si él accede a tener sexo casual con ella.
Sam & Gio no la tienen nada fácil en su camino, desde el diagnostico de Sam, hasta el miedo que ambos tiene a dejarse llevar por sus sentimientos por el otro y arruinar la amistad que han compartido durante toda su vida. Una de las cosas que más me gustó de Gio fue que siempre intento cuidar de Sam y darle lo que ella necesitaba de él en todo momento, aún cuando no era la manera en la que él quería hacer las cosas, pero lo más lindo de todo fue que Gio nunca dejó de luchar por demostrarle a Sam lo mucho que la necesitaba en su vida, de manera permanente. La situación de Sam fue desgarradora, pero me encantó la forma en la que Daphne se esforzó e investigo para contar su historia de la mejor manera posible, de la más respetuosa, real y tocando muchos de los temas más importantes que viven las mujeres que pasan por esta terrible enfermedad. Además, me encantó la fortaleza & vulnerabilidad de su personaje, la manera en la que su perspectiva sobre Havenport cambió, y como decidió dejarse llevar por esa atracción que siempre ha sentido por Gio.
💃🏽Gio: 5/5
💃🏽Sam: 5/5
💃🏽Trama: 4/5
💃🏽Historia de amor: 5/5
💃🏽Personajes secundarios: 5/5
💃🏽Universo: 5/5
💃🏽Portada: 2.5/5
🌶️: 3/5
Ranking: 4.5⭐
Gio & Sam have a love story that I really enjoyed, it's full of sweet, funny, complicated and moving moments. But one of my favorite things to read was the way in which Daphne Elliot developed Sam's diagnosis as sensitively and realistically as possible, and while fortunately I've never experienced nothing like it in my life, I think Daphne managed to capture Gio & Sam's journey very well, especially her fight.
Gio is officially my second favorite Rossi, after Nora of course, and so far he's the cutest, nicest, tender and understanding of the Rossi men that I have read and it's the type of characters that make me fall in love. I loved his whole story with Sam, and knowing from the beginning that he is hopelessly in love with her was something I really liked about his story, plus I really enjoyed reading him with Valentina and learning much more about the type of relationship he has with her family, especially with Matteo, but definitely the best thing about his character, and Sam's, was know the important moments in their friendship, how much they love each other, how important they have been in each other's lives, and the moments they let go for fear of destroying their unconditional friendship.
Sam is a true warrior, an independent, hard-working woman and Gio's best friend, she always wanted to run away from Havenport and was able to achieve her dreams, however, after being diagnosed with breast cancer, she finds herself having to return to her hometown to seek the support & comfort of her mother and Gio. Sam has a long way to go throughout Embracing You, as her illness makes her put many things into perspective: her job, her nomadic personality, everything she thought about the place in the one she grew up, and most importantly, her feelings for Gio and everything that could happen if he agrees to have casual sex with her.
Sam & Gio don't have it easy on their way, from Sam's diagnosis, to the fear they both have of letting themselves be carried away by their feelings for the other and ruining the friendship they have shared throughout their lifes. One of the things I liked the most about Gio was that he always tried to take care of Sam and give him what she needed from him at all times, even when that wasn't the way in which he wanted to do things, but the most beautiful of all was that Gio never stopped fighting to show Sam how much he needed her in his life, permanently. Sam's situation was heartbreaking, but I loved the way Daphne went to great lengths and research to tell her story in the best way possible, in the most respectful, real, and touching on many of the most important issues experienced by women who go through this terrible disease. Also, I loved the strength & vulnerability of her character, the way her perspective on Havenport changed, and how she decided to let go of that attraction she's always had felt for Gio.
💃🏽Gio: 5/5
💃🏽Sam: 5/5
💃🏽Plot: 4/5
💃🏽Love story: 5/5
💃🏽Secondary characters: 5/5
💃🏽Universe: 5/5
💃🏽Cover: 2.5/5
🌶️: 3/5
🇪🇸
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
Puntuación: 4.5⭐
Gio & Sam tienen una historia de amor que disfruté muchísimo, está llena de momentos dulce, divertidos, complicados y conmovedores. Pero una de las cosas que más me gustó leer fue la forma en la que Daphne Elliot desarrolló el diagnostico de Sam con la mayor sensibilidad y realidad posibles, y aunque afortunadamente nunca he experimentado nada parecido en mi vida, creo que Daphne logró capturar muy bien el viaje de Gio & Sam, especialmente la lucha de ella.
Gio es oficialmente mi segundo Rossi favorito, después de Nora por su supuesto, y es que hasta ahora es el más lindo, amable, tierno y comprensivo de los hombres Rossi que he leído y es el tipo de personajes que me enamoran. Me encantó toda su historia con Sam y saber desde el principio que él esta perdidamente enamorado de ella fue algo que me gustó muchísimo de su historia, además de que disfruté mucho leyéndolo con Valentina y conociendo mucho más del tipo de relación que tiene con su familia, especialmente con Matteo, pero definitivamente lo mejor de su personaje, y del de Sam, fue conocer los momentos importantes en su amistad, lo mucho que se aman el uno al otro, lo importantes que han sido en la vida del otro, y los momentos que dejaron pasar por temor a destruir su amistad incondicional.
Sam es una verdadera guerrera, una mujer independiente, trabajadora y la mejor amiga de Gio, ella siempre quiso huir de Havenport y fue capaz de lograr sus sueños, sin embargo, después de ser diagnosticada con cáncer de mama se ve en la necesidad de volver a su pueblo natal para buscar el apoyo & consuelo de su mamá y Gio. Sam tiene un gran camino que recorrer a lo largo de Embracing You, pues su enfermedad le hace poner en perspectiva muchas cosas en su vida: su trabajo, su personalidad nómada, todo lo que pensaba sobre el lugar en el que creció, y lo más importante, sus sentimientos por Gio y todo lo que podría pasar si él accede a tener sexo casual con ella.
Sam & Gio no la tienen nada fácil en su camino, desde el diagnostico de Sam, hasta el miedo que ambos tiene a dejarse llevar por sus sentimientos por el otro y arruinar la amistad que han compartido durante toda su vida. Una de las cosas que más me gustó de Gio fue que siempre intento cuidar de Sam y darle lo que ella necesitaba de él en todo momento, aún cuando no era la manera en la que él quería hacer las cosas, pero lo más lindo de todo fue que Gio nunca dejó de luchar por demostrarle a Sam lo mucho que la necesitaba en su vida, de manera permanente. La situación de Sam fue desgarradora, pero me encantó la forma en la que Daphne se esforzó e investigo para contar su historia de la mejor manera posible, de la más respetuosa, real y tocando muchos de los temas más importantes que viven las mujeres que pasan por esta terrible enfermedad. Además, me encantó la fortaleza & vulnerabilidad de su personaje, la manera en la que su perspectiva sobre Havenport cambió, y como decidió dejarse llevar por esa atracción que siempre ha sentido por Gio.
💃🏽Gio: 5/5
💃🏽Sam: 5/5
💃🏽Trama: 4/5
💃🏽Historia de amor: 5/5
💃🏽Personajes secundarios: 5/5
💃🏽Universo: 5/5
💃🏽Portada: 2.5/5
🌶️: 3/5
August 23, 2025
Oh. My. Gosh. Gio and Sam’s love story was everything I didn’t know I needed. Sam hasn’t been back to Havenport for a long period of time in years, and she prefers it that way. But when she gets a diagnosis that changes everything, she runs back to Havenport - and Gio, her childhood best friend. Gio’s been in love with her for decades, and he’s done his best to be exactly what she needs. I loved this book because the relationship between Sam and Gio was extremely well developed, and you could tell there was so much love and trust there, even before anything romantic happened between them. I’ve been waiting for Gio to get his own happily ever after, and this did not disappoint!!! Also, the steamy scenes were *chef’s kiss* I completely recommend!!!
September 18, 2022
Embracing You: The Rossi Family (Book 3) by Daphne Elliot
It’s taken me a while to write a review for this book because it hits very close to home. When I first started the BETA read for “Embracing You,” I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about it. My mom had just been diagnosed with breast cancer a few months prior. I had mixed emotions. Was Daphne Elliott going to represent the patient with dignity and respect and breast cancer properly? Was she going to do this story justice? I am so happy to say, YES, she did. ❤️
Can things really remain platonic and casual between best friends of the opposite sex? Yes, but not between Gio Rossi and Samantha Sullivan. Nope … NOTHING casual here!
Gio has loved Sam for as long as he can remember. They have been best friends forever. Although they have kept in touch on a regular basis, Sam finally comes back home after two years. Only to drop “a bomb” on Gio. She has breast cancer. Gio tells her he will be by her side and support her till the end.
Sam has three weeks before she begins her treatment and wants to feel “normal.” She wants a fling, a friends with benefits hook up with Gio. “No, I don’t think you get it at all. I don’t do friends with benefits. I don’t do that shit. If you want to explore things between us by all means, let’s explore. I don’t want limits and rules and “casual.” Not with you Sam. A fling, a real fling, the ones you remember when your old and gray and looking back on the good times, is more than just sex. It’s an experience with someone else. It’s fun and romantic and wraps you up in one another so that you can’t see anything but one another for a short moment of time. It’s when attraction and experience and chemistry bent time and space to create this perfect moment of sexy fun that you will remember forever.” (I love this so much!)
One of my favourite scenes was when Gio takes Samantha salsa dancing. Yes ladies, Gio dances and I bet you, those hips don’t lie! 😉🔥 “Relax, Gio whispered into my ear. Just let your body move to the music. Submit Sam. Let me be in charge. I bit my lip and looked up at him. His gaze was intense and unrelenting. I didn’t think he was just talking about dancing.”(insert sigh)
Although there was a seriousness to this beautiful love story, there were many sweet magical moments as well. Their first kiss, tears, happiness, fear, tenderness, hope and their intimate sexy moments!! Holy Hotness! The steamy scenes were indeed steamy as heck!! 5🌟
If your looking for another great read, this book is for you! Gio and Samantha are officially my FAVOURITE Daphne Elliott couple! I know they will become yours too! ❤️
PS - You will absolutely LOVE the Epilogue! I hope you have a box of tissues with you. You’re going to need it!
I received an advance copy and am leaving an honest review
It’s taken me a while to write a review for this book because it hits very close to home. When I first started the BETA read for “Embracing You,” I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about it. My mom had just been diagnosed with breast cancer a few months prior. I had mixed emotions. Was Daphne Elliott going to represent the patient with dignity and respect and breast cancer properly? Was she going to do this story justice? I am so happy to say, YES, she did. ❤️
Can things really remain platonic and casual between best friends of the opposite sex? Yes, but not between Gio Rossi and Samantha Sullivan. Nope … NOTHING casual here!
Gio has loved Sam for as long as he can remember. They have been best friends forever. Although they have kept in touch on a regular basis, Sam finally comes back home after two years. Only to drop “a bomb” on Gio. She has breast cancer. Gio tells her he will be by her side and support her till the end.
Sam has three weeks before she begins her treatment and wants to feel “normal.” She wants a fling, a friends with benefits hook up with Gio. “No, I don’t think you get it at all. I don’t do friends with benefits. I don’t do that shit. If you want to explore things between us by all means, let’s explore. I don’t want limits and rules and “casual.” Not with you Sam. A fling, a real fling, the ones you remember when your old and gray and looking back on the good times, is more than just sex. It’s an experience with someone else. It’s fun and romantic and wraps you up in one another so that you can’t see anything but one another for a short moment of time. It’s when attraction and experience and chemistry bent time and space to create this perfect moment of sexy fun that you will remember forever.” (I love this so much!)
One of my favourite scenes was when Gio takes Samantha salsa dancing. Yes ladies, Gio dances and I bet you, those hips don’t lie! 😉🔥 “Relax, Gio whispered into my ear. Just let your body move to the music. Submit Sam. Let me be in charge. I bit my lip and looked up at him. His gaze was intense and unrelenting. I didn’t think he was just talking about dancing.”(insert sigh)
Although there was a seriousness to this beautiful love story, there were many sweet magical moments as well. Their first kiss, tears, happiness, fear, tenderness, hope and their intimate sexy moments!! Holy Hotness! The steamy scenes were indeed steamy as heck!! 5🌟
If your looking for another great read, this book is for you! Gio and Samantha are officially my FAVOURITE Daphne Elliott couple! I know they will become yours too! ❤️
PS - You will absolutely LOVE the Epilogue! I hope you have a box of tissues with you. You’re going to need it!
I received an advance copy and am leaving an honest review
September 18, 2022
Ms. Elliot delivers yet another beautiful story that will have you feeling all sorts of emotions. Embracing You is Gio Rossi and Samantha Sullivan's story and you will fall in love with both characters. Msl. Elliot writes a story that deals with breast cancer and she did it with such emotion, care and dignity. I feel that she researched this health condition as the details and care she put into the character's feelings and actions felt real.
Gio has had feelings for Sam for as long as he can remember and now she is back home. Will this be his opportunity to tell her how he feels? Their relationship had been just that friendship, nothing more however he has wanted to cross that line many times. Could this be his chance to have something with her, even though he knows there is an end date? Will this summer fling be enough for him or will he want more before she leaves? Finding out that she is dealing with a serious health condition, he is determined to make this summer the best one yet for her. He wines and dines her, treats her like a queen and falls even more for her but will the feeling be returned?
Sam has come back home for the summer as well as for treatment for her breast cancer. Before her treatment, she just wants to live a normal life and have the time of her life. Making a proposition for Gio to have a "no strings attached" relationship before her treatment was something that she thought would be safe. Was she wrong? Can she do a no strings attached relationship with the one person that has always been there for her? Will feelings get in the way? When Gio tells her that he wants a real fling, not just some passing fun fling. That she means more to him than just a few weeks of room in the hay. Can she accept his offer and see what will happen? When they do cross that friendship line and sparks turn into full-on fires that nobody can put out, boy things are not only hot but spicy.
Gio and Sam were the perfect couple. The care and tenderness that Gio showed Sam, but at the same time he treated her like she was not breakable but a strong woman that grabs life by the horns and does not let go.
Embracing you is one book that I highly suggest picking up and enjoy the ride.
Gio has had feelings for Sam for as long as he can remember and now she is back home. Will this be his opportunity to tell her how he feels? Their relationship had been just that friendship, nothing more however he has wanted to cross that line many times. Could this be his chance to have something with her, even though he knows there is an end date? Will this summer fling be enough for him or will he want more before she leaves? Finding out that she is dealing with a serious health condition, he is determined to make this summer the best one yet for her. He wines and dines her, treats her like a queen and falls even more for her but will the feeling be returned?
Sam has come back home for the summer as well as for treatment for her breast cancer. Before her treatment, she just wants to live a normal life and have the time of her life. Making a proposition for Gio to have a "no strings attached" relationship before her treatment was something that she thought would be safe. Was she wrong? Can she do a no strings attached relationship with the one person that has always been there for her? Will feelings get in the way? When Gio tells her that he wants a real fling, not just some passing fun fling. That she means more to him than just a few weeks of room in the hay. Can she accept his offer and see what will happen? When they do cross that friendship line and sparks turn into full-on fires that nobody can put out, boy things are not only hot but spicy.
Gio and Sam were the perfect couple. The care and tenderness that Gio showed Sam, but at the same time he treated her like she was not breakable but a strong woman that grabs life by the horns and does not let go.
Embracing you is one book that I highly suggest picking up and enjoy the ride.
September 10, 2022
I am not even sure how to put this review into words that will do this book justice. It was different from any other romance book I have ever read and I loved every second of it.
Sam and Geo have been best friends their entire lives. When Sam returns home to their small town and tells Geo she will be staying a while and the reasons why he steps up to be the supportive best friend he has always been. Sam offers Geo a deal involving a fling to help her let go a little before starting treatment and he is all for it. It’s obvious to Geo almost immediately that Sam is it for him and the chemistry they have is undeniable. Unfortunately, even though Sam feels the same way deep down, her fears get in the way of her being able to fully commit to a relationship with Geo.
Sam’s cancer journey was absolutely heartbreaking. She was extremely independent and had to learn that people help you because they love you not out of pity. While it had me in tears several times, her journey was also so beautiful. Navigating through her health issues while also working through their feelings for each other was a challenge. Thankfully Geo is incredible and refused to back down until Sam could work through her fears.
You would never think a book with such a sensitive topic could also be a steamy romance book but Daphne Elliot absolutely pulled it off. Trust me when I say this is a book you will want to read because a review will never do it the justice it deserves.
Author’s Note: Embracing You is a full-length, standalone, later in life, small town contemporary romance. The heroine is dealing with a non-terminal breast cancer diagnosis and she gets a well-deserved (and steamy!) HEA. This book features a pining hero who is a gentleman in the streets and a beast in the sheets, a plucky heroine and her three-legged dog. If this is your first visit to Havenport, welcome and I hope you can stay a while.
Sam and Geo have been best friends their entire lives. When Sam returns home to their small town and tells Geo she will be staying a while and the reasons why he steps up to be the supportive best friend he has always been. Sam offers Geo a deal involving a fling to help her let go a little before starting treatment and he is all for it. It’s obvious to Geo almost immediately that Sam is it for him and the chemistry they have is undeniable. Unfortunately, even though Sam feels the same way deep down, her fears get in the way of her being able to fully commit to a relationship with Geo.
Sam’s cancer journey was absolutely heartbreaking. She was extremely independent and had to learn that people help you because they love you not out of pity. While it had me in tears several times, her journey was also so beautiful. Navigating through her health issues while also working through their feelings for each other was a challenge. Thankfully Geo is incredible and refused to back down until Sam could work through her fears.
You would never think a book with such a sensitive topic could also be a steamy romance book but Daphne Elliot absolutely pulled it off. Trust me when I say this is a book you will want to read because a review will never do it the justice it deserves.
Author’s Note: Embracing You is a full-length, standalone, later in life, small town contemporary romance. The heroine is dealing with a non-terminal breast cancer diagnosis and she gets a well-deserved (and steamy!) HEA. This book features a pining hero who is a gentleman in the streets and a beast in the sheets, a plucky heroine and her three-legged dog. If this is your first visit to Havenport, welcome and I hope you can stay a while.
September 17, 2022
Title: Embracing You (The Rossi Family Book 3)
Author: Daphne Elliot
Hero/Heroine: Gio & Sam
Tropes: Friends to Lovers/Small Town
TW/CW: Detailed description of cancer and treatment, mention of parental abandonment
THE GOOD 😀
‘IT’S ALLERGIES!’ This was my response if anyone caught me with tears in my eyes and a snotty nose while reading this epically beautiful story. Gio and Sam. Sam and Gio. No matter how you put it, these two were absolutely perfect for each other, and their love story is one that needs to be read by everyone just to understand the beauty of it.
Fiercely independent with a big career in finance, our heroine Sam doesn’t let anything hold her back from achieving her dreams. However, when she gets an life changing cancer diagnosis, she goes back home to Havenport for treatment and to recuperate. With the help and support from her gorgeous best friend Gio, Sam starts her painful yet eye opening journey to recovery.
There are not enough descriptive words in the English dictionary to express how gorgeous this book was. Dealing with the toughest of subject matters, the author portrayed this in the most sensitive way. I love Daphne Elliot’s writing, however with this story it’s like she took it to the next level and showcased her amazing talent.
Gio and Sam were an incredible couple and I loved seeing them both learn new things about the other. There’s was an intimacy born not through sex, but of knowing the one person you love the most is there holding your hand every step of the way.
Embracing You was yet another impressive offering from this author. She should be ridiculously proud of what she has created, this book is powerful as well as incredible.
THE BAD ☹️
Oh let’s not even go there.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: See above gushing review for all of my feelings about this book
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Daphne Elliot
Hero/Heroine: Gio & Sam
Tropes: Friends to Lovers/Small Town
TW/CW: Detailed description of cancer and treatment, mention of parental abandonment
THE GOOD 😀
‘IT’S ALLERGIES!’ This was my response if anyone caught me with tears in my eyes and a snotty nose while reading this epically beautiful story. Gio and Sam. Sam and Gio. No matter how you put it, these two were absolutely perfect for each other, and their love story is one that needs to be read by everyone just to understand the beauty of it.
Fiercely independent with a big career in finance, our heroine Sam doesn’t let anything hold her back from achieving her dreams. However, when she gets an life changing cancer diagnosis, she goes back home to Havenport for treatment and to recuperate. With the help and support from her gorgeous best friend Gio, Sam starts her painful yet eye opening journey to recovery.
There are not enough descriptive words in the English dictionary to express how gorgeous this book was. Dealing with the toughest of subject matters, the author portrayed this in the most sensitive way. I love Daphne Elliot’s writing, however with this story it’s like she took it to the next level and showcased her amazing talent.
Gio and Sam were an incredible couple and I loved seeing them both learn new things about the other. There’s was an intimacy born not through sex, but of knowing the one person you love the most is there holding your hand every step of the way.
Embracing You was yet another impressive offering from this author. She should be ridiculously proud of what she has created, this book is powerful as well as incredible.
THE BAD ☹️
Oh let’s not even go there.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: See above gushing review for all of my feelings about this book
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 13, 2022
I was graciously give this book as an ARC
Book 3 of the Rossi Family Series, can be read as a standalone, but does have characters from the other books throughout it. So dahh go read them all!!
Gio has been in love with his best friend for as along as he can remember, but never being able to move their relationship forward. Gio life was on a different path then hers. Reunited at their high school reunion his feelings come back with a vengeance (had they ever left) With her back in his life, he has to calm his feelings for her to save their friendship. Until she makes a deal with him he would never refuse.
Sam has come back home to her hometown, with one plan in mind. Make everyday count, before starting her cancer treatment. She finds her best friend, Gio, with a plan for a fling type relationship. She's been strong and independent her whole life, but now she needs to learn to depend on her friends and family more then ever.
Its never to late to find love, or in this case, embrace it! This was such an amazing heartfelt late in life romance. Gio's love for Sam was so overwhelming. He was there for her as her friend more then anything before their love bloomed. Sam and the struggles she has been through was though to read. Her complete determination to be more then her cancer was amazingly strong! They both deserve each other and their happy ending. The topic of cancer was heart breaking to read about, but Sam's strength and Gio's willingness to be there for her every step of the way! This book was not only romantic but it pulled at every heart string.
5/5 STAR
3/5 SPICE
Book 3 of the Rossi Family Series, can be read as a standalone, but does have characters from the other books throughout it. So dahh go read them all!!
Gio has been in love with his best friend for as along as he can remember, but never being able to move their relationship forward. Gio life was on a different path then hers. Reunited at their high school reunion his feelings come back with a vengeance (had they ever left) With her back in his life, he has to calm his feelings for her to save their friendship. Until she makes a deal with him he would never refuse.
Sam has come back home to her hometown, with one plan in mind. Make everyday count, before starting her cancer treatment. She finds her best friend, Gio, with a plan for a fling type relationship. She's been strong and independent her whole life, but now she needs to learn to depend on her friends and family more then ever.
Its never to late to find love, or in this case, embrace it! This was such an amazing heartfelt late in life romance. Gio's love for Sam was so overwhelming. He was there for her as her friend more then anything before their love bloomed. Sam and the struggles she has been through was though to read. Her complete determination to be more then her cancer was amazingly strong! They both deserve each other and their happy ending. The topic of cancer was heart breaking to read about, but Sam's strength and Gio's willingness to be there for her every step of the way! This book was not only romantic but it pulled at every heart string.
5/5 STAR
3/5 SPICE
September 15, 2022
Having read Ms.Elliot's work many times before i always look so forward to picking up more of her books! I've been wanting to get back into this series! After the first two installments, i couldn't wait for more of The Rossi Family! I picked this third installment up and got right back into this world! I enjoyed this third book so much!
Sam and Gio's journey captured my attention and pulled me in quickly! These two have been best friends since they were kids. As Sam returns home to Gio with news, can they tackle things together and give into their feelings? I couldn't wait to find out!
I adored Sam and Gio's friendship! The connection these two had was so sweet and touching. There was such strength to Sam and Gio had me falling. The chemistry between these two was undeniable! I loved how both Sam and Gio had me feeling all kinds of things from start to finish! I was so glad that i got to dig deeper with these two as well!
It was awesome being back in Havenport! I so enjoyed what the other characters brought to the story as well!
With Embracing You, Ms.Elliot has created a great read with feels and realness that'll wrap around your heart! I can't wait for more from her! Definitely check out her work, if you haven't already!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
Sam and Gio's journey captured my attention and pulled me in quickly! These two have been best friends since they were kids. As Sam returns home to Gio with news, can they tackle things together and give into their feelings? I couldn't wait to find out!
I adored Sam and Gio's friendship! The connection these two had was so sweet and touching. There was such strength to Sam and Gio had me falling. The chemistry between these two was undeniable! I loved how both Sam and Gio had me feeling all kinds of things from start to finish! I was so glad that i got to dig deeper with these two as well!
It was awesome being back in Havenport! I so enjoyed what the other characters brought to the story as well!
With Embracing You, Ms.Elliot has created a great read with feels and realness that'll wrap around your heart! I can't wait for more from her! Definitely check out her work, if you haven't already!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
September 4, 2022
ARC review Embracing You by @daphneelliotauthor. I happily give my honest opinion. Gio has loved Sam most of his life, but knew that she needed more than life in Havenport had to offer, so let her go knowing she would always be his best friend not matter where she was. When Sam does come home it’s like they’ve never been apart, but this time when she comes home, she will will need everyone around her. Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis has changed her and she decides to act on her attraction for her best friend. She wants a fling to make her feel like a woman before the cancer takes so much away from her. They are both so scared that their true feelings could hurt their friendship that they don’t talk to each other, but eventually their feelings can’t be contained anymore. I loved their connection and how their families pushed them together and that the cancer story was sensitively dealt with. Gio was strong, loyal, loving and Sam was smart and beautiful inside and out. I can’t imagine what going through what Sam did would be like, but I lost my first husband to cancer at 39 so this story really tugged at my heartstrings. I so love a happy ending and was glad this book gave us one. Definitely my favourite @daphneelliotauthor book so far. I’ll just go wipe my eyes now!
September 6, 2022
**I received this as an ARC**
I am so in love with Daphne's books. Gio and Sam's story hit really close to home. Sam and Gio have been best friends their entire lives, and have always had feeling towards each other. When Sam comes home to visit, she drops the news to Gio that she has breast cancer. This story is about Sam trying to figure out who she is after her diagnosis, and Gio making sure that she knows she is still the same person that he has loved his whole life. The reason this book hits home for me is because my grandfather passed from cancer 10 years ago. My aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer a few years ago, and is currently in remission. So, this was such an emotional book for me. I have yet to read a book that Daphne has written that I have not fallen in love with. She was able to make sure that her words conveyed every single thing Sam or Gio were feeling. Whether it be Sam in regards to the way her body was going to be changing, or the way Gio reassured her that no matter what happened to her body, she would still be beautiful to him. I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars.
To Daphne, you did an incredible job writing this story, and I am so glad I was able to read it. <3
I am so in love with Daphne's books. Gio and Sam's story hit really close to home. Sam and Gio have been best friends their entire lives, and have always had feeling towards each other. When Sam comes home to visit, she drops the news to Gio that she has breast cancer. This story is about Sam trying to figure out who she is after her diagnosis, and Gio making sure that she knows she is still the same person that he has loved his whole life. The reason this book hits home for me is because my grandfather passed from cancer 10 years ago. My aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer a few years ago, and is currently in remission. So, this was such an emotional book for me. I have yet to read a book that Daphne has written that I have not fallen in love with. She was able to make sure that her words conveyed every single thing Sam or Gio were feeling. Whether it be Sam in regards to the way her body was going to be changing, or the way Gio reassured her that no matter what happened to her body, she would still be beautiful to him. I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars.
To Daphne, you did an incredible job writing this story, and I am so glad I was able to read it. <3
September 17, 2022
After reading the first book in the series, I was not surprised by liking the third book especially finally getting to read about Gio and Sam.
A friends to lovers, small-town, later in life romance that did not chill on the steam which I was not complaining about obviously. Gio and Sam’s friendship from a young age was absolutely adorable and they were really each other’s everything. Seeing them finally admit to being in love with each other was so beautiful and I was so happy for them.
However, it was not an easy journey to get there. This brings me to a topic this book covers which is breast cancer. Sam is one strong woman and it was an emotional rollercoaster to see her go through her journey and tackle on something that is incredibly hard and I could not imagine going through.
Gio, of course, was there for every step of it despite Sam trying to put space between them. Gio’s character really warmed my heart and it was emotional to see how much care and love he had for Sam. Also, side note, his relationship with Valentina is so so so adorable.
I definitely recommend reading this book if you’re looking for a heartwarming, tough at times journey.
Thank you Daphne Elliot for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
A friends to lovers, small-town, later in life romance that did not chill on the steam which I was not complaining about obviously. Gio and Sam’s friendship from a young age was absolutely adorable and they were really each other’s everything. Seeing them finally admit to being in love with each other was so beautiful and I was so happy for them.
However, it was not an easy journey to get there. This brings me to a topic this book covers which is breast cancer. Sam is one strong woman and it was an emotional rollercoaster to see her go through her journey and tackle on something that is incredibly hard and I could not imagine going through.
Gio, of course, was there for every step of it despite Sam trying to put space between them. Gio’s character really warmed my heart and it was emotional to see how much care and love he had for Sam. Also, side note, his relationship with Valentina is so so so adorable.
I definitely recommend reading this book if you’re looking for a heartwarming, tough at times journey.
Thank you Daphne Elliot for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 9, 2022
Sam and Gio’s love story is the absolute best.
Having been best friends for decades, these two never blurred the lines until now.
After pining for Sam for so long, nothing will deter Gio from being the man she needs.
So, when she reveals she has breast cancer, he becomes the shoulder she can cry on.
When she’s feeling down, he lifts her up by sending her funny videos or taking her out of town to distract her.
When she suggests their friendship come with certain benefits until her treatment begins, he doesn’t resist. Instead, he makes her fall in love with him. Although it takes a while for her to come to her senses, his feelings never waiver. Gio continues to be the best friend she needs.
Gio Rossi has made it to my book boyfriend list! How could you resist a man that won’t run for the hills when life gets tough?
The details of Sam’s breast cancer diagnoses and how she dealt with it emotionally was beautifully written. Reading it versus watching it heighted the emotions of it all.
Thanks, Daphne Elliott, for sharing such an amazing story with us. Can’t wait for the next story!
Having been best friends for decades, these two never blurred the lines until now.
After pining for Sam for so long, nothing will deter Gio from being the man she needs.
So, when she reveals she has breast cancer, he becomes the shoulder she can cry on.
When she’s feeling down, he lifts her up by sending her funny videos or taking her out of town to distract her.
When she suggests their friendship come with certain benefits until her treatment begins, he doesn’t resist. Instead, he makes her fall in love with him. Although it takes a while for her to come to her senses, his feelings never waiver. Gio continues to be the best friend she needs.
Gio Rossi has made it to my book boyfriend list! How could you resist a man that won’t run for the hills when life gets tough?
The details of Sam’s breast cancer diagnoses and how she dealt with it emotionally was beautifully written. Reading it versus watching it heighted the emotions of it all.
Thanks, Daphne Elliott, for sharing such an amazing story with us. Can’t wait for the next story!
September 13, 2022
This is a friends to lovers, later in life romance.
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
Please check TWs.
Gio and Samantha’s story had me feeling every emotion under the sun.
I cried. I laughed. I got mad. It was crazy but worth the ride!
We follow Sam on her journey of rediscovering herself after she receives a life-changing diagnosis and to say this journey was tough would be an understatement. She has to put her life on hold, but with this comes a blossoming relationship with her childhood best friend.
I was not surprised to see that Gio had been in love with Sam for as long as he could remember, but why wait to tell her 😩 always the hardest part.
What really made Gio step forward about his feelings was Sam asking for a little fling 👏🏻👏🏻 I love it when the girl takes the first step. It’s just so empowering!
I could hear him saying, “Nope, if we are doing this.. it’s all or nothing.” I don’t think he would have ever given up on her!
The spice was on point - like come on
Gio is hot and the words that came out of this man’s mouth.. 🥵
I absolutely loved their connection with one another and the way they fit so perfectly in each other’s lives. I loved the way Gio cared for Sam during her time of need.. it just really showed how big of a heart he had.
As always Daphne’s writing was superb!
Read the bonus epilogue!! 👏🏻
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
Please check TWs.
Gio and Samantha’s story had me feeling every emotion under the sun.
I cried. I laughed. I got mad. It was crazy but worth the ride!
We follow Sam on her journey of rediscovering herself after she receives a life-changing diagnosis and to say this journey was tough would be an understatement. She has to put her life on hold, but with this comes a blossoming relationship with her childhood best friend.
I was not surprised to see that Gio had been in love with Sam for as long as he could remember, but why wait to tell her 😩 always the hardest part.
What really made Gio step forward about his feelings was Sam asking for a little fling 👏🏻👏🏻 I love it when the girl takes the first step. It’s just so empowering!
I could hear him saying, “Nope, if we are doing this.. it’s all or nothing.” I don’t think he would have ever given up on her!
The spice was on point - like come on
Gio is hot and the words that came out of this man’s mouth.. 🥵
I absolutely loved their connection with one another and the way they fit so perfectly in each other’s lives. I loved the way Gio cared for Sam during her time of need.. it just really showed how big of a heart he had.
As always Daphne’s writing was superb!
Read the bonus epilogue!! 👏🏻
September 14, 2022
Emotional Whiplash... in the best way!
Sam and Gio have been the best of friends since the first time they laid eyes on each other... in grade school. They spent all their time together, did everything together, the only thing that was off limits was the physical. They'd never kissed, but the feelings that had always been there are about to explode.
When she gets the worst news a woman could receive, she decides to take a leap and ask Gio to cross that line between friends and lovers. Asking her best friend who has held her above all others in their heart could be a very big mistake, but Gio is all in. Will anything be the same?
Sam's fierce independence and stubborn streak took some time for me to get into. There are so many factors for her feelings. She broke me completely when she finally understands what really matters in life.
Gio is not a pushover. He just loves so much that he sacrifices his heart and time for the ones he cares for most. I know he's not going to leave my heart anytime soon.
10 stars!
Sam and Gio have been the best of friends since the first time they laid eyes on each other... in grade school. They spent all their time together, did everything together, the only thing that was off limits was the physical. They'd never kissed, but the feelings that had always been there are about to explode.
When she gets the worst news a woman could receive, she decides to take a leap and ask Gio to cross that line between friends and lovers. Asking her best friend who has held her above all others in their heart could be a very big mistake, but Gio is all in. Will anything be the same?
Sam's fierce independence and stubborn streak took some time for me to get into. There are so many factors for her feelings. She broke me completely when she finally understands what really matters in life.
Gio is not a pushover. He just loves so much that he sacrifices his heart and time for the ones he cares for most. I know he's not going to leave my heart anytime soon.
10 stars!
September 16, 2022
I’m not sure where to start or even how to put into words how absolutely beautiful and heartbreaking Gio and Sam’s emotional rollercoaster of a love story really is . Small town and friends to lovers - Gio and Sam have been best friends for as long as they can remember. But unbeknownst to Sam Geo has been In love with her for a very long time yet never speaking of those feelings , that is unit Sam returns home and has some life altering news and heartbreaking news . She has cancer !!! How does that change their relationship? Is there a chance for them to finally admit to the not so innocent feelings they both share . Small town , secrets, second chances, love , friendships, family, angst , heartbreak, witty banter , humor , health issues , twists and turns, drama ,hope , healing , and so much more . There really are no perfect words to express what a phenomenal Job Daphne did writing this epic love story , it’s really something you need to experience for yourself. But be prepared as you will laugh, you will cry and you will find yourself rooting so freaking hard
September 28, 2022
Embracing you by @daphneelliotauthor is out now !!! Damn it was good to get back to havenport !! We missed the Rossi fam and all our havenport favs 🖤 this is book three for the Rossi family & this time we got to dive into the life long bffs turned lovers story that is Gio & Sam 🙌🏻🙌🏻 this story hit us hard in the feels! The journey and struggles that Sam faces will just break your heart 😢 but have no fear our man Gio is right there with all his Charm, Sexy talk and big heart 🥵 ( he is definitely swoon- worthy) to show Sam that she does not have to handle this alone🖤 he lets her feel and be strong on her own( which she needs ) but he is right there to give her all the things only he can 🖤 these two were destined to be together since they were kids!! ( it just took Sam longer to see it🤣) we got so much of the havenport family feels that we love! All the girl time and bonding! The we are here for you no matter what relationships! We just can’t get enough! Thank you daphne for this wholesome, hilarious, fun, sweet, heartwarming world you have created !
December 31, 2022
This book was my last read of the year. And honestly, I wouldn't have it any other way. This was, undeniably, one of the best books I've read in my lifetime. 💗
I've been in love with Nora and Matteo's story but I wasn't sure if I was ready for Gio's. But good lord, this was perfection. From the theme to the plot to the tropes and even the characters, everything about this book exceeded my expectations. 😋
I love Gio and Sam, and if I'm being honest, their story is so genuine and realistic, I could feel them existing in real life. Their friends to lovers story is so endearing it almost made me cry 🥺
Sam is a badass, cancer or not, and she inspires me to be a better person. As someone who's desperate to leave home, I was devastated I couldn't leave the country when I turned 18, but maybe I could wait till after college, just like Sam did, and make something of myself. 🇫🇷
Sentiments apart, this book is an incredible read, and for the lovers of second chance romances, some of the elements here will turn your hurt mushy and soft. 🤓
I've been in love with Nora and Matteo's story but I wasn't sure if I was ready for Gio's. But good lord, this was perfection. From the theme to the plot to the tropes and even the characters, everything about this book exceeded my expectations. 😋
I love Gio and Sam, and if I'm being honest, their story is so genuine and realistic, I could feel them existing in real life. Their friends to lovers story is so endearing it almost made me cry 🥺
Sam is a badass, cancer or not, and she inspires me to be a better person. As someone who's desperate to leave home, I was devastated I couldn't leave the country when I turned 18, but maybe I could wait till after college, just like Sam did, and make something of myself. 🇫🇷
Sentiments apart, this book is an incredible read, and for the lovers of second chance romances, some of the elements here will turn your hurt mushy and soft. 🤓
October 10, 2024
4.5 stars
There’s something to be said for a friends-to-lovers trope amongst characters over 40. Everything feels more authentic.
I thoroughly enjoyed all the characters in this book. Val (who was 8 years old) was hilarious and not written wise-beyond-her-years like some kids I’ve read about. Sam and Gio fit together like they were made for each other. They were mature, funny, settled into their jobs and routines, but most importantly they didn’t deny their feelings for each other- they knew how important it was to tell people exactly how they felt when faced with a scary unknown.
I loved that there wasn’t any of the usual angst that comes from the friends-to-lovers books. This book really focused on Sam, her diagnosis and journey dealing with cancer, and her relationships. I think with a topic this heavy, there was no time or energy wasted on frivolous things, which was refreshing in a way, but also heartbreaking.
I didn’t really enjoy the flashbacks being interspersed throughout because I was really invested in everything happening in the present.
There’s something to be said for a friends-to-lovers trope amongst characters over 40. Everything feels more authentic.
I thoroughly enjoyed all the characters in this book. Val (who was 8 years old) was hilarious and not written wise-beyond-her-years like some kids I’ve read about. Sam and Gio fit together like they were made for each other. They were mature, funny, settled into their jobs and routines, but most importantly they didn’t deny their feelings for each other- they knew how important it was to tell people exactly how they felt when faced with a scary unknown.
I loved that there wasn’t any of the usual angst that comes from the friends-to-lovers books. This book really focused on Sam, her diagnosis and journey dealing with cancer, and her relationships. I think with a topic this heavy, there was no time or energy wasted on frivolous things, which was refreshing in a way, but also heartbreaking.
I didn’t really enjoy the flashbacks being interspersed throughout because I was really invested in everything happening in the present.
September 11, 2022
(ARC REVIEW)
Ms. Elliott this book was fantastic. You took a difficult subject, shined light on it, and then handle it with care. There is a warning at the beginning but please don't let that deter you from reading this. While there is two books before know that this can be read as a standalone. Although if you have read them then you know you get a glimpse of Gio and how he is. In the second book you are kinda introduced to Sam. Sam and Gio's friendship goes back to when they are children and honestly I fell in love with them just by reading the prologue. These two are faced with a complication in their 40s but handle like like they are in their 20s by tackling it. This book will make you feel emotions you didn't know you had I know it did with me. Grab tissues is all I can say. I truly loved how the side characters rallied around like true friends that are outside of the book world. I recommend reading this. I have yet to read a book by Ms. Elliott I didn't like.
Ms. Elliott this book was fantastic. You took a difficult subject, shined light on it, and then handle it with care. There is a warning at the beginning but please don't let that deter you from reading this. While there is two books before know that this can be read as a standalone. Although if you have read them then you know you get a glimpse of Gio and how he is. In the second book you are kinda introduced to Sam. Sam and Gio's friendship goes back to when they are children and honestly I fell in love with them just by reading the prologue. These two are faced with a complication in their 40s but handle like like they are in their 20s by tackling it. This book will make you feel emotions you didn't know you had I know it did with me. Grab tissues is all I can say. I truly loved how the side characters rallied around like true friends that are outside of the book world. I recommend reading this. I have yet to read a book by Ms. Elliott I didn't like.
September 17, 2022
3.75 ⭐️
Friends to Lovers
Later in Life
This is the third Rossi sibling book from Daphne. And while this hasn’t been my favorite story from Daphne, I’m just not sure the friends to lovers is a trope for me, the writing itself was good.
Gio is the long time best friend to Sam, and he’s never been able to fall for anyone because he’s always been in love with Sam. But Sam had never wanted to stay in Havenport, so she’s been traveling all over the world for work, but now due to stage 2 Cancer, Sam is forced to come back home to Havenport to be near her mother and have a support system. Including Gio.
Gio has spent his whole life putting everyone in front of his own needs. It’s what makes him so damn lovable. So of course when he finds out his best friend now has stage 2 breast cancer of course he is more than willing to do anything and her rock for her, even if it means having a “fling” with Sam because she is feeling insecure.
I found Sam’s character to be frustrating at times and taking advantage of Gio’s good nature at time. All in all I liked this book but found it frustrating more than once.
Friends to Lovers
Later in Life
This is the third Rossi sibling book from Daphne. And while this hasn’t been my favorite story from Daphne, I’m just not sure the friends to lovers is a trope for me, the writing itself was good.
Gio is the long time best friend to Sam, and he’s never been able to fall for anyone because he’s always been in love with Sam. But Sam had never wanted to stay in Havenport, so she’s been traveling all over the world for work, but now due to stage 2 Cancer, Sam is forced to come back home to Havenport to be near her mother and have a support system. Including Gio.
Gio has spent his whole life putting everyone in front of his own needs. It’s what makes him so damn lovable. So of course when he finds out his best friend now has stage 2 breast cancer of course he is more than willing to do anything and her rock for her, even if it means having a “fling” with Sam because she is feeling insecure.
I found Sam’s character to be frustrating at times and taking advantage of Gio’s good nature at time. All in all I liked this book but found it frustrating more than once.
September 15, 2022
I'm genuinely speechless at how amazing this book was, this is my absolute favourite of Daphne Elliot's so far.
💫 Best friends to lovers after decades of pining? Done so right, with so much love and respect, and without any miscommunication or extreme angst
💫 The cancer plotline was developed in such a beautiful and teary way, I have no words to say how well the author has written this arc
I have nothing to say except GO READ THIS BOOK. It's so beautiful and wholesome. And honestly, after reading like infinite books where a spouse leaves the other coz they have cancer, I flat out cried at the way the MMC of this book was there for her at literally. every. step. of the way.
TWs (please note the cancer triggers since it's a main thread in the book) - cancer, breast cancer leading to chemotherapy and breast removal, loss of hair due to cancer, deteriorating mental health and depression, infection after surgery, (minor) mention of parent(s) who were absent/had left
💫 Best friends to lovers after decades of pining? Done so right, with so much love and respect, and without any miscommunication or extreme angst
💫 The cancer plotline was developed in such a beautiful and teary way, I have no words to say how well the author has written this arc
I have nothing to say except GO READ THIS BOOK. It's so beautiful and wholesome. And honestly, after reading like infinite books where a spouse leaves the other coz they have cancer, I flat out cried at the way the MMC of this book was there for her at literally. every. step. of the way.
TWs (please note the cancer triggers since it's a main thread in the book) - cancer, breast cancer leading to chemotherapy and breast removal, loss of hair due to cancer, deteriorating mental health and depression, infection after surgery, (minor) mention of parent(s) who were absent/had left
September 19, 2022
Thank you so much Daphne for the chance to read Gio and Sam’s story before release date.
I know I said it before, but I’m going to say it again. I want to move to Havenport … like now !
I absolutely love small town romance, and not to mention best friends-to-lovers.
Sam (40) and Gio (41) have known each other for decades, but never crossed the “friendship” line. Even though they both fancied each other.
When Sam finds out that she has cancer, Gio is there for her in every way a friend can be. But what she wants is someone to take her mind off of it. Well, she doesn’t need to ask Gio twice.
They start their causal fling but with an expiration date. As that date is getting closer, the lines are getting blurred, feelings are getting deeper.
When Gio expresses his feelings, Sam quickly puts up a wall, but he does everything to tear them down.
Will she admit her feelings too? Will they get their happy ending?
Go and grab your copy now to find out ❣️
I know I said it before, but I’m going to say it again. I want to move to Havenport … like now !
I absolutely love small town romance, and not to mention best friends-to-lovers.
Sam (40) and Gio (41) have known each other for decades, but never crossed the “friendship” line. Even though they both fancied each other.
When Sam finds out that she has cancer, Gio is there for her in every way a friend can be. But what she wants is someone to take her mind off of it. Well, she doesn’t need to ask Gio twice.
They start their causal fling but with an expiration date. As that date is getting closer, the lines are getting blurred, feelings are getting deeper.
When Gio expresses his feelings, Sam quickly puts up a wall, but he does everything to tear them down.
Will she admit her feelings too? Will they get their happy ending?
Go and grab your copy now to find out ❣️
February 4, 2023
3.25-3.5 stars.
Things I Liked:
-friends to lovers trope
-how obvious it was to everyone in Gio’s life that he was in love with Sam
-Gio being an amazing person and being there for Sam through everything
-the emotional aspect (I definitely cried at the start of the book when finding out about Sam’s cancer and Gio’s reaction)
-seeing a few flashbacks of their past (although I wish there were more)
-the bonus epilogue. I loved how we got to see where they ended up (living together and getting engaged)
Things I Didn’t Like:
-how neither character seemed to have friends (outside of family and the “coven” since that happened during the book)
-wasn’t a huge fan of Sam. I think she definitely took advantage of Gio’s feelings for her (she kept saying they were temporary while knowing Gio was in love with her)
-the author had the tendency to tell us things instead of showing us
Things I Would’ve Liked To See:
-more of the Rossi siblings and their partners (weddings, engagements, pregnancies)
-knowing more about the characters as individuals (ex. We know what they do for work on a surface level but nothing beyond that)
-more of Sam’s cancer journey (i.e. treatments, doctor appointments)
Things I Liked:
-friends to lovers trope
-how obvious it was to everyone in Gio’s life that he was in love with Sam
-Gio being an amazing person and being there for Sam through everything
-the emotional aspect (I definitely cried at the start of the book when finding out about Sam’s cancer and Gio’s reaction)
-seeing a few flashbacks of their past (although I wish there were more)
-the bonus epilogue. I loved how we got to see where they ended up (living together and getting engaged)
Things I Didn’t Like:
-how neither character seemed to have friends (outside of family and the “coven” since that happened during the book)
-wasn’t a huge fan of Sam. I think she definitely took advantage of Gio’s feelings for her (she kept saying they were temporary while knowing Gio was in love with her)
-the author had the tendency to tell us things instead of showing us
Things I Would’ve Liked To See:
-more of the Rossi siblings and their partners (weddings, engagements, pregnancies)
-knowing more about the characters as individuals (ex. We know what they do for work on a surface level but nothing beyond that)
-more of Sam’s cancer journey (i.e. treatments, doctor appointments)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2022
𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔: Friends to Lovers, Small Town Romance
𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝑺𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒎 𝑳𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒍: 🔥🔥🔥
𝑷𝑶𝑽: Dual
𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆 𝑫𝒂𝒕𝒆: September 15th
𝑻𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒈𝒆𝒓 𝑾𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈: Character experiencing serious medical diagnosis
~~~~~~~~~~
This author has yet again created an absolutely amazing book. As with all of Daphne Elliot’s books, this is set in the small town of Havenport. And let me tell you, the characters around town are truly spectacular & bring their A game for on of the main characters in her time of need.
Gio and Sam have been beat friends for a very long time, but their timing never seemed to work, that is until Sam is home for an extended time due to a life-changing diagnosis. This leads these two to have a summer fling before Sam’s treatments start.
I loved how the relationship between Sam and Gio changes over the book as time moves on. What starts as a summer fling with strong feeling truly develops into something more, and I loved taking the ride with them.
𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝑺𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒎 𝑳𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒍: 🔥🔥🔥
𝑷𝑶𝑽: Dual
𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆 𝑫𝒂𝒕𝒆: September 15th
𝑻𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒈𝒆𝒓 𝑾𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈: Character experiencing serious medical diagnosis
~~~~~~~~~~
This author has yet again created an absolutely amazing book. As with all of Daphne Elliot’s books, this is set in the small town of Havenport. And let me tell you, the characters around town are truly spectacular & bring their A game for on of the main characters in her time of need.
Gio and Sam have been beat friends for a very long time, but their timing never seemed to work, that is until Sam is home for an extended time due to a life-changing diagnosis. This leads these two to have a summer fling before Sam’s treatments start.
I loved how the relationship between Sam and Gio changes over the book as time moves on. What starts as a summer fling with strong feeling truly develops into something more, and I loved taking the ride with them.
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