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Bound to You
sla Becket has loved to paint since she can remember. But after her family question her career choices and doubts start to settle in, she decides that an escape to Italy with her best friend is exactly what she needs.
A summer spent in paradise. No distractions, no overstepping boyfriends or parents. Three months dedicated to finding herself.
But when a handsome stranger rescues them from a break down and drives them into the picturesque coastal town of Ruby Cove, she quickly finds herself becoming attached. Not only to the place, but to the people. One handsome stranger in particular. The person who quickly becomes her anchor against the world around her.
Caio Marchetti is a self proclaimed workaholic. Owning the most popular hotel in Ruby Cove comes with a busy schedule, but he likes it that way.
When his work takes him out of town, the last thing he expected to find on his drive back was two American girls broken down on the side of the road.
Stopping to help them was a given. Giving them a ride into town was a courtesy, but giving them a room in his hotel free of charge? That was all due to the girl with the chocolate eyes that drew him in the moment they locked with his.
As the summer gets hotter so does their chemistry, and Caio quickly feels himself wanting to hold on and not let go.
When the summer comes to an end, Isla has to make the decision she’s been avoiding. Will she go home to her life in New York? Or is her connection with Caio strong enough to make her to stay?
A summer spent in paradise. No distractions, no overstepping boyfriends or parents. Three months dedicated to finding herself.
But when a handsome stranger rescues them from a break down and drives them into the picturesque coastal town of Ruby Cove, she quickly finds herself becoming attached. Not only to the place, but to the people. One handsome stranger in particular. The person who quickly becomes her anchor against the world around her.
Caio Marchetti is a self proclaimed workaholic. Owning the most popular hotel in Ruby Cove comes with a busy schedule, but he likes it that way.
When his work takes him out of town, the last thing he expected to find on his drive back was two American girls broken down on the side of the road.
Stopping to help them was a given. Giving them a ride into town was a courtesy, but giving them a room in his hotel free of charge? That was all due to the girl with the chocolate eyes that drew him in the moment they locked with his.
As the summer gets hotter so does their chemistry, and Caio quickly feels himself wanting to hold on and not let go.
When the summer comes to an end, Isla has to make the decision she’s been avoiding. Will she go home to her life in New York? Or is her connection with Caio strong enough to make her to stay?
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 24, 2024
31 people are currently reading
717 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
August 28, 2024
Oh. My. Gosh! This Italian summer romance was everything I needed and more! 🌺 Bound to You swept me off my feet with its dreamy small-town vibes and the slow-burn tension that makes you yearn for that first kiss like it’s your own! Ruby Cove is like stepping into a fairy tale with its sun-drenched beaches, cozy cafes, and that magical found family that Isla and Caio stumble upon. 🏖️
✧ Billionaire romance 💸
✧ Small town (Italian setting) 🇮🇹
✧ Summer romance 🌞
✧ Strangers to friends to lovers 💕
✧ Slow burn 🔥
✧ Found family 🫶
✧ He falls first & harder 😍
I was immediately hooked by the poetic writing. It’s hard to believe this is a debut novel because the way Bridie Charles paints scenes makes you feel like you’re right there, soaking in every sunset and sip of espresso. 🎨 The dynamic between Isla and Caio was just chef’s kiss! I adored how Caio was so smitten with Isla from the start, doing everything he could to make her feel special—total swoon material! 💖
The found family trope was executed perfectly. I loved seeing how the characters bonded and became this protective, loving unit that you can’t help but wish to be a part of. 🥹 The boys' brotherly love and the girls' friendship added so much warmth and charm to the story.
However, Isla’s family…ugh, let’s just say they tested my patience more than a few times. 🙄 But by the end, I found them tolerable, especially as Isla grew and found her own voice. The only downside was that some parts did get a little cheesy, and the pacing slowed down a bit towards the end, making me wish it had kept up the momentum. But overall, for a debut, it was super impressive! 🙌
I’m also obsessed with the side characters, and I’m dying to know more about Marina’s story and the rest of the gang in future books! Ruby Cove has definitely cast its spell on me, and I’m not ready to leave this little piece of paradise just yet. 🌸
Content Warnings (CW):
- Unsteady parental relationships
- Toxic past romantic relationship
- Few scenes including moments of sexual harassment (one flashback, one present time)
In conclusion, if you’re in the mood for a sweet, heartfelt escape to Italy with a romance that will make you believe in love at first sight all over again, Bound to You is the perfect pick! Just be prepared for some slow moments, but trust me, the dreamy vibes and adorable found family make it all worth it! 🤍
✧ Billionaire romance 💸
✧ Small town (Italian setting) 🇮🇹
✧ Summer romance 🌞
✧ Strangers to friends to lovers 💕
✧ Slow burn 🔥
✧ Found family 🫶
✧ He falls first & harder 😍
I was immediately hooked by the poetic writing. It’s hard to believe this is a debut novel because the way Bridie Charles paints scenes makes you feel like you’re right there, soaking in every sunset and sip of espresso. 🎨 The dynamic between Isla and Caio was just chef’s kiss! I adored how Caio was so smitten with Isla from the start, doing everything he could to make her feel special—total swoon material! 💖
The found family trope was executed perfectly. I loved seeing how the characters bonded and became this protective, loving unit that you can’t help but wish to be a part of. 🥹 The boys' brotherly love and the girls' friendship added so much warmth and charm to the story.
However, Isla’s family…ugh, let’s just say they tested my patience more than a few times. 🙄 But by the end, I found them tolerable, especially as Isla grew and found her own voice. The only downside was that some parts did get a little cheesy, and the pacing slowed down a bit towards the end, making me wish it had kept up the momentum. But overall, for a debut, it was super impressive! 🙌
I’m also obsessed with the side characters, and I’m dying to know more about Marina’s story and the rest of the gang in future books! Ruby Cove has definitely cast its spell on me, and I’m not ready to leave this little piece of paradise just yet. 🌸
Content Warnings (CW):
- Unsteady parental relationships
- Toxic past romantic relationship
- Few scenes including moments of sexual harassment (one flashback, one present time)
In conclusion, if you’re in the mood for a sweet, heartfelt escape to Italy with a romance that will make you believe in love at first sight all over again, Bound to You is the perfect pick! Just be prepared for some slow moments, but trust me, the dreamy vibes and adorable found family make it all worth it! 🤍
August 27, 2024
I absolutely loved this book! This is what I would consider to be a perfect romance book for me.
It was such a fun little Italian summer romance and the vibes were immaculate! Isla and Caio were so cute and I adored them so much! They both had similar family drama which I think was a big part of their connection and the way they met was so perfect. Their connection was so good and the way they lifted both each other and their friends up was so inspiring and just all around perfect. Caio is such a hopeless romantic lover boy, the way he treated isla was so cute and he was so attentive to what she needed and he made sure to treat her the way she deserved!!
Isla was also such a sweetheart oh my gosh. She’s such a gem of a person. I love her passion she has for art and how much she cared about and helped Nora with the studio. You can tell she really put her whole heart into it.
The found family in this book was sooo good! The side characters brought so much to the story and had just the right amount of support to the story! I have to say the side characters were definitely my favorite and made me laugh so much!
Ruby Cove was written so beautifully I can picture it perfectly with how well it was written. I would very much like Ruby Cove to be a real place. The writing was really immersive and explained everything perfectly.
I neeeed a story for each character!
It was such a fun little Italian summer romance and the vibes were immaculate! Isla and Caio were so cute and I adored them so much! They both had similar family drama which I think was a big part of their connection and the way they met was so perfect. Their connection was so good and the way they lifted both each other and their friends up was so inspiring and just all around perfect. Caio is such a hopeless romantic lover boy, the way he treated isla was so cute and he was so attentive to what she needed and he made sure to treat her the way she deserved!!
Isla was also such a sweetheart oh my gosh. She’s such a gem of a person. I love her passion she has for art and how much she cared about and helped Nora with the studio. You can tell she really put her whole heart into it.
The found family in this book was sooo good! The side characters brought so much to the story and had just the right amount of support to the story! I have to say the side characters were definitely my favorite and made me laugh so much!
Ruby Cove was written so beautifully I can picture it perfectly with how well it was written. I would very much like Ruby Cove to be a real place. The writing was really immersive and explained everything perfectly.
I neeeed a story for each character!
August 26, 2024
3.5 stars
this Italy induced summer romance is adorable. Also, I can’t believe it’s a debut novel, the writing is very poetic. That slow burn, trying to fight your feelings kind of love makes for the best adventures. Ruby Cove sounds like the kinda of town only dreams are made of. I am anticipating Ciao and Isla’s first kiss that I just need it now.
The boys and their bond and brotherly love is sweet, the girls and all the fun they have too. And don’t forget about all the black tie parties, this book has so many fun elements.
Wasn’t a huge fan of Isla’s family but eventually I found them tolerable. As sweet as this was, some times it was a little cheesy but overall really well done for a debut.
Im already completely invested in the other characters and all their possibilities in books to come. I need to know the Marina story so bad!!
this Italy induced summer romance is adorable. Also, I can’t believe it’s a debut novel, the writing is very poetic. That slow burn, trying to fight your feelings kind of love makes for the best adventures. Ruby Cove sounds like the kinda of town only dreams are made of. I am anticipating Ciao and Isla’s first kiss that I just need it now.
The boys and their bond and brotherly love is sweet, the girls and all the fun they have too. And don’t forget about all the black tie parties, this book has so many fun elements.
Wasn’t a huge fan of Isla’s family but eventually I found them tolerable. As sweet as this was, some times it was a little cheesy but overall really well done for a debut.
Im already completely invested in the other characters and all their possibilities in books to come. I need to know the Marina story so bad!!
October 26, 2024
i think this is the easiest 5 stars i have ever given a book. there is no way that i can express myself with words how i’m feeling about this book but i’m gonna try either way.
this story is beautiful and the characters are also so so beautiful, not just caio & island but everyone else too. i can’t believe that this is a debut novel because this is so good and i constantly forgot while reading that this was a debut omg.
this story is beautiful and is the perfect summer read as it is set in italy and i feel like everyone should at least read bound to you once.
bridie charles, your talent is amazing and i can’t wait to see what else you have in store for us 🫶🏼. thank you for writing about isla and caio, they are the best!
thank you bridie charles & truly yours pr for giving me an arc, i am so so grateful that i got to read this amazing story in advance and can’t wait till i have the paperback in my hands. 💌
this story is beautiful and the characters are also so so beautiful, not just caio & island but everyone else too. i can’t believe that this is a debut novel because this is so good and i constantly forgot while reading that this was a debut omg.
this story is beautiful and is the perfect summer read as it is set in italy and i feel like everyone should at least read bound to you once.
bridie charles, your talent is amazing and i can’t wait to see what else you have in store for us 🫶🏼. thank you for writing about isla and caio, they are the best!
thank you bridie charles & truly yours pr for giving me an arc, i am so so grateful that i got to read this amazing story in advance and can’t wait till i have the paperback in my hands. 💌
August 23, 2024
this was such the perfect italian summer romance! i love isla, caio, and their found family so much!! makes me want to drop everything, move to italy and lose myself in a small town!
the main characters were written beautifully and i feel like we got just the right amount of back story on the both of them to help us understand why they are the way they are. i love that caio was able to find people that are like family to him, and then isla comes along and just fits right in. the banter between the MC’s and their friends was perfect and they reminded me a lot of my friends and i. i could empathize a lot with isla and could see some of my self in caio.
i love this found family so much.
this didn’t feel like a debut novel to me and it was so easy to get lost in this story! i loved being with these characters and i am really excited for the next books in these series and to be back in ruby cove! i don’t wanna leave!
———————————————
thank you to Truly Yours PR and Bridie Charles for an eARC of Bound to You in exchange for my honest review. all thoughts are my own.
the main characters were written beautifully and i feel like we got just the right amount of back story on the both of them to help us understand why they are the way they are. i love that caio was able to find people that are like family to him, and then isla comes along and just fits right in. the banter between the MC’s and their friends was perfect and they reminded me a lot of my friends and i. i could empathize a lot with isla and could see some of my self in caio.
i love this found family so much.
this didn’t feel like a debut novel to me and it was so easy to get lost in this story! i loved being with these characters and i am really excited for the next books in these series and to be back in ruby cove! i don’t wanna leave!
———————————————
thank you to Truly Yours PR and Bridie Charles for an eARC of Bound to You in exchange for my honest review. all thoughts are my own.
August 23, 2024
what a fun time
August 27, 2024
A perfect summer romance, or the perfect read if it’s the middle of winter, sick, and you need a place to escape, a world to get lost in. Yeah, that’s me right now.
Firstly, I cannot believe this is a debut, the writing is beautiful and so easy to get lost in. This is one of those books that makes you forget you’re reading. It transports you to another place, another time. I couldn’t put it down and simultaneously never wanted it to end. I fell in love with Ruby Cove, with Caio and Isla, with the family that was found. I want an Italian Summer with friends and yachts and ice creams and goats and shirtless men. And the romance? Wowee. I’m not usually a fan of fast love, but this felt so authentic. I loved how the quietly opened up to one an other. And the slow burn? It was buuuurning, friends. The little touches, the quiet moments, the not-so-secret looks. It had me blushing and grinning like an idiot.
Add this one to your TBR girlies, you won’t be disappointed. It’s releasing August 24th! I was completely unaware Bridie was a fellow Kiwi girl. It was an honour to be sent an advanced copy, thank you Bridie and Truly Yours PR 🫶🏼 I cannot wait for the rest of Ruby Cove to come to life (I’m looking at you Raf & May!!).
4.5 ⭐️
Firstly, I cannot believe this is a debut, the writing is beautiful and so easy to get lost in. This is one of those books that makes you forget you’re reading. It transports you to another place, another time. I couldn’t put it down and simultaneously never wanted it to end. I fell in love with Ruby Cove, with Caio and Isla, with the family that was found. I want an Italian Summer with friends and yachts and ice creams and goats and shirtless men. And the romance? Wowee. I’m not usually a fan of fast love, but this felt so authentic. I loved how the quietly opened up to one an other. And the slow burn? It was buuuurning, friends. The little touches, the quiet moments, the not-so-secret looks. It had me blushing and grinning like an idiot.
Add this one to your TBR girlies, you won’t be disappointed. It’s releasing August 24th! I was completely unaware Bridie was a fellow Kiwi girl. It was an honour to be sent an advanced copy, thank you Bridie and Truly Yours PR 🫶🏼 I cannot wait for the rest of Ruby Cove to come to life (I’m looking at you Raf & May!!).
4.5 ⭐️
August 31, 2024
bound to you ~ an arc review 🍕
3⭐️
I was looking forward to this one but it kind of just fell flat for me.
Thank you to truly yours pr for the arc
3⭐️
I was looking forward to this one but it kind of just fell flat for me.
Thank you to truly yours pr for the arc
August 29, 2024
the most perfect small town italian summer romance!!
oh how i wish i could’ve read this on the beach with warm weather!
such a fun romance that had me smiling so big! the found family was *chefs kiss* and just made it feel like such a big warm safe hug!!
the way i’m such a sucker for he falls first & harder and this was done just perfectly! caio was the definition of isla’s personal cheerleader as she pursued her dreams (no matter what)! and don’t even get me started on the jealousy!!! that scene when her ex surprises her had me CACKLING!
the crumbs we got for the next few books had me frothing!! i was literally hanging onto every word & just know i’m going to fall more in love with these characters with each book!
so proud of bridie on her first debut novel - so well done!
tropes:
- small town, summer, billionaire romance
- found family
- strangers to friends to lovers
- slow burn
thank you to bridie & yours truly for an arc!! 🤍🤍
oh how i wish i could’ve read this on the beach with warm weather!
such a fun romance that had me smiling so big! the found family was *chefs kiss* and just made it feel like such a big warm safe hug!!
the way i’m such a sucker for he falls first & harder and this was done just perfectly! caio was the definition of isla’s personal cheerleader as she pursued her dreams (no matter what)! and don’t even get me started on the jealousy!!! that scene when her ex surprises her had me CACKLING!
the crumbs we got for the next few books had me frothing!! i was literally hanging onto every word & just know i’m going to fall more in love with these characters with each book!
so proud of bridie on her first debut novel - so well done!
tropes:
- small town, summer, billionaire romance
- found family
- strangers to friends to lovers
- slow burn
thank you to bridie & yours truly for an arc!! 🤍🤍
July 12, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Isla has loved painting, but her future she envisioned for herself crumbles away. Turns out her family and now ex-boyfriend didn’t support her choice in her true passion.
In attempt to escape she takes a last-minute trip with her bestie clear across the country to Italy! She agreed to this trip so she could reconnect with herself.
Caio is no stranger to hard work being the owner of Ruby Cave’s most famous hotel. When 2 American girls are stuck along the road, he stops to help. Not thinking any life changing experiences would happen!
The connection between Isla and Caio grow stronger and he finds himself not wanting her to go. But, with summer coming to an end, Isla must answer the questions she’s been trying to avoid.
Isla has loved painting, but her future she envisioned for herself crumbles away. Turns out her family and now ex-boyfriend didn’t support her choice in her true passion.
In attempt to escape she takes a last-minute trip with her bestie clear across the country to Italy! She agreed to this trip so she could reconnect with herself.
Caio is no stranger to hard work being the owner of Ruby Cave’s most famous hotel. When 2 American girls are stuck along the road, he stops to help. Not thinking any life changing experiences would happen!
The connection between Isla and Caio grow stronger and he finds himself not wanting her to go. But, with summer coming to an end, Isla must answer the questions she’s been trying to avoid.
September 1, 2024
I was lucky enough to get an arc of this lovely book bound to you thanks to truly yours pr!! not only is this cover insanely gorgeous (can't wait to have the physical copy of this on my shelves) but the story is so sweet, and swoon worthy! it's a romance set in Italy full of self discovery, exploring the cutest small town and a beautiful Italian man! I really enjoyed it and read it so so quick, which I've been feeling slumpy so that's how you know the book is really good. I can't wait to read the next one in this series 💗🫶🏻🌟
August 17, 2024
3.75 ⭐️
Funny, entertaining and fast paced. Loved the chemistry between the two main characters although there was some behaviours In not found of. Hate Isla family, except Miles.
Also I’m curious to know about all the other boys and their love interest as the series goes on
Funny, entertaining and fast paced. Loved the chemistry between the two main characters although there was some behaviours In not found of. Hate Isla family, except Miles.
Also I’m curious to know about all the other boys and their love interest as the series goes on
August 29, 2024
3.75 ⭐️
this book was adorable!! i enjoyed this book a lot!! i fell in love with ruby cove and the picturesque feel of it. when i saw that this was an Italian summer romance i knew i was going to really enjoy it! I liked how quick-paced the beginning was but it did feel pretty slow in the middle. but the fact that this was a debut was amazing and really hope there are more books planned.
i really enjoyed caio and isla i loved their dynamic and their chemistry was everything! i enjoyed it! but i do think my favorite part of this book was isla and may's friendship, i just loved their dynamic and i hope that may gets a book!
thank you bridie charles and truly yours pr for this earc!
this book was adorable!! i enjoyed this book a lot!! i fell in love with ruby cove and the picturesque feel of it. when i saw that this was an Italian summer romance i knew i was going to really enjoy it! I liked how quick-paced the beginning was but it did feel pretty slow in the middle. but the fact that this was a debut was amazing and really hope there are more books planned.
i really enjoyed caio and isla i loved their dynamic and their chemistry was everything! i enjoyed it! but i do think my favorite part of this book was isla and may's friendship, i just loved their dynamic and i hope that may gets a book!
thank you bridie charles and truly yours pr for this earc!
August 4, 2024
I loved!!! This book she was perfection!!! I loved the characters and I enjoyed the writing.
August 7, 2024
An Italian summer romance? Sign me in. This book is a debut novel and it doesn’t feel like it at all, Bridie did a phenomenal job!
I fell in love with Ruby Cove and I need more. The chemistry between Caio and Isla is breathtaking, he falls first and hard and she’s stubborn and want to be independent but as time goes on Caio falls in love with Isla more and more and she finally opens up to him and lets herself fall in love too. I don’t want to give away too much but this is one heartfelt, sweet summer romance that will make you smile all the way through.
The friendship in this book are so funny and the banter is top tier. I truly can’t wait to read more of this series.
4.5 ★
Thank you Bridie Charles & Yours Truly PR for an e-ARC copy.
I fell in love with Ruby Cove and I need more. The chemistry between Caio and Isla is breathtaking, he falls first and hard and she’s stubborn and want to be independent but as time goes on Caio falls in love with Isla more and more and she finally opens up to him and lets herself fall in love too. I don’t want to give away too much but this is one heartfelt, sweet summer romance that will make you smile all the way through.
The friendship in this book are so funny and the banter is top tier. I truly can’t wait to read more of this series.
4.5 ★
Thank you Bridie Charles & Yours Truly PR for an e-ARC copy.
July 17, 2025
★★★★★ - 5 star read
•
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Oh Bridie, what an incredible book you have written. To read this as my first ever arc has been an honour. I instantly fell in love with both Isla and May from the very first chapter. As the story developed the chemistry and slow burn from Isla and Caio was amazing. When this comes out on August 24th, I 100% recommend reading it. Ruby Cove you have my heart x
•
Dates Read: August 9th to August 13th 2024
•
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Oh Bridie, what an incredible book you have written. To read this as my first ever arc has been an honour. I instantly fell in love with both Isla and May from the very first chapter. As the story developed the chemistry and slow burn from Isla and Caio was amazing. When this comes out on August 24th, I 100% recommend reading it. Ruby Cove you have my heart x
•
Dates Read: August 9th to August 13th 2024
September 11, 2024
If I could describe my dream man, it would be Caio Marchetti.
He’s so caring and understanding, I was swooning the entire time 😩 He was always there for her and is the epitome of gentleman.
He’s so caring and understanding, I was swooning the entire time 😩 He was always there for her and is the epitome of gentleman.
August 26, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
I have really mixed feelings about this book! I felt really unconnected to Ciao & Isla for the first 50-60% of the book. Their overall characters felt very surface level and forgettable. It was hard for me to be invested in their story for the first half of the book.
BUT.
the second half of the book was like a completely different world imo. I felt like the plot and conflict amped up, the tension and angst between the two built extremely heavy. I was kicking my feet and giggling when they finally had their first kiss & when Isla showed up at his home after work 🤌🏼🤌🏼
my absolute favorite part of this entire book was the found family aspect. I felt like the family atmosphere between these friends and siblings was absolutely beautiful. I really connected to the side characters within the second half of the book and i’m excited to see where they go in the books to come in this series.
overall, the beginning was a bit slow for me. I just wanted more. BUT as a debut i felt it was pretty well done. I think the author hit their stride come 50% of book 1 and that makes me so excited to see where we’ll go in the books to come.
Read this book if you’re looking for..
Found Family
Italian Summer Romance
Billionaire Romance
I would definitely revisit this author and would recommend this book to my peers.
I have really mixed feelings about this book! I felt really unconnected to Ciao & Isla for the first 50-60% of the book. Their overall characters felt very surface level and forgettable. It was hard for me to be invested in their story for the first half of the book.
BUT.
the second half of the book was like a completely different world imo. I felt like the plot and conflict amped up, the tension and angst between the two built extremely heavy. I was kicking my feet and giggling when they finally had their first kiss & when Isla showed up at his home after work 🤌🏼🤌🏼
my absolute favorite part of this entire book was the found family aspect. I felt like the family atmosphere between these friends and siblings was absolutely beautiful. I really connected to the side characters within the second half of the book and i’m excited to see where they go in the books to come in this series.
overall, the beginning was a bit slow for me. I just wanted more. BUT as a debut i felt it was pretty well done. I think the author hit their stride come 50% of book 1 and that makes me so excited to see where we’ll go in the books to come.
Read this book if you’re looking for..
Found Family
Italian Summer Romance
Billionaire Romance
I would definitely revisit this author and would recommend this book to my peers.
August 20, 2024
ARC REVIEW:
I want to start off with saying that I am incredibly proud and so happy for my book girly Bridie to have been able to release this book! Can’t believe that it’s finally here ready for the world to read! This was amazing first book release and I hope everyone loves it just as much as I did 🤍 Also I am so grateful for being selected to receive this ARC, I was indeed manifesting this because after seeing little previews from Bridie I knew i would love it and couldn’t wait to get my hands on it <3
This romance is such a prefect book for the summer that transport you to lovely Italy where we get to see our girl Isla fall in love with Caio and the town! I love a good found family small town trope and let me tell you…this book DELIVERED! I adored everything about this book
i’ve always wanted to go to Italy but now I need to even more! Such a great first book to have been released and if you are a romance reader or just need a little refresher/escape from other books then this is the one for you! Thank you Bridie and Yours Truly PR for allowing me to get my hands on this and enjoy it early!
‼️ Bound to You by Bridie Charles comes out on August 24th so be ready!! ‼️
tropes:
small town/summer romance
billionaire romance
slow burn
found family
he falls first
I want to start off with saying that I am incredibly proud and so happy for my book girly Bridie to have been able to release this book! Can’t believe that it’s finally here ready for the world to read! This was amazing first book release and I hope everyone loves it just as much as I did 🤍 Also I am so grateful for being selected to receive this ARC, I was indeed manifesting this because after seeing little previews from Bridie I knew i would love it and couldn’t wait to get my hands on it <3
This romance is such a prefect book for the summer that transport you to lovely Italy where we get to see our girl Isla fall in love with Caio and the town! I love a good found family small town trope and let me tell you…this book DELIVERED! I adored everything about this book
i’ve always wanted to go to Italy but now I need to even more! Such a great first book to have been released and if you are a romance reader or just need a little refresher/escape from other books then this is the one for you! Thank you Bridie and Yours Truly PR for allowing me to get my hands on this and enjoy it early!
‼️ Bound to You by Bridie Charles comes out on August 24th so be ready!! ‼️
tropes:
small town/summer romance
billionaire romance
slow burn
found family
he falls first
August 30, 2024
Oh Ruby Cove, how I love you SO! This setting is a dream. Thinking about being in Marina’s bar on a Friday night for karaoke could heal me. Taking a stroll through Nora’s gallery could relax me after a hellacious day. This story was so sweet and heartfelt.
This story follows Isla, a young artist who has decided on a whim to pack it up and run away to Italy with her best friend May for the summer. After a car rental mishap, the girls are stranded on the side of the road when a handsome stranger comes to their rescue.
Caio, the handsome stranger in question has the perfect solution for the women and brings them to the lovely Ruby Cove.
Caio and Isla’s love story was filled with so much heart. They have so much mutual respect for each other and it’s a thing of beauty. The side characters in this were so fun and I can not where to see where the rest of the series goes.
If you love
🎨 Small Town
🎨 Art
🎨 Found Family
Then this story is for YOU!
December 11, 2024
If you’re ready to take a step into small town Italy with the most swoon worthy MMC then girl this is it 🐚 Isla as a MC is one that a lot of people can relate to. She’s tried to live her life according to others for as long as she can remember. Even when her true passions were calling her they weren’t enough to appease her family. So what does she do? Chases her rebellion and I loved every second of it. I loved her tenacity and how even though she didn’t know where things would take her, she’d try anyways. The thing I loved more than that was that Caio never once stifled her or tried to persuade her to do anything outside of living her true self.
If you’re wanting to warm up from winter time with some Italian sun (and Son 😮💨) then this is it 🏝️
If you’re wanting to warm up from winter time with some Italian sun (and Son 😮💨) then this is it 🏝️
August 31, 2024
an indie debut novel WILL fix you
this book was so darling and i loved every second of it. isla and caio had the sweetest connection and the blend of their family and friends together made for the best kind of read
this book was so darling and i loved every second of it. isla and caio had the sweetest connection and the blend of their family and friends together made for the best kind of read
February 8, 2025
3.75 rounded up.
It was going to be a 4.5 but the last 30 pages messed everything up for me even if the epilogue redeemed it slightly.
I loved almost all of this book, because an Italian hunk, with money, care, and patience falls in love. Yes ma'am. But the MMC wasn't enough to make me overlook the disappointment of the last pages. I loved the glimpses at the future couples and can't wait to read the rest of the series.
It was going to be a 4.5 but the last 30 pages messed everything up for me even if the epilogue redeemed it slightly.
I loved almost all of this book, because an Italian hunk, with money, care, and patience falls in love. Yes ma'am. But the MMC wasn't enough to make me overlook the disappointment of the last pages. I loved the glimpses at the future couples and can't wait to read the rest of the series.
August 24, 2024
4.5⭐️
I am absolutely obsessed with this book!! The mcs, the found family, the small Italian town. Every. Thing. I love the growth that Isla and Caio went through throughout the book and how they were always there for each other when they needed it the most. I also love how Isla stood up for herself but Caio stepped in to when she needed him too! I am so glad that I was able to get my hands on an arc and can’t wait to read the rest of the series!!
I am absolutely obsessed with this book!! The mcs, the found family, the small Italian town. Every. Thing. I love the growth that Isla and Caio went through throughout the book and how they were always there for each other when they needed it the most. I also love how Isla stood up for herself but Caio stepped in to when she needed him too! I am so glad that I was able to get my hands on an arc and can’t wait to read the rest of the series!!
August 26, 2024
No third act break up.
July 6, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
WHY ISNT THIS MORE POPULAR???
WHY ISNT THIS MORE POPULAR???
August 26, 2024
3.5 stars
If you're searching for a sweet summer read to lose yourself in, Bound To You is the perfect pick. This charming novel offers everything you could want in a feel-good romance: likeable characters, a delightful small town setting, and a heartwarming found family that makes the story feel like a warm hug.
The highlight of the novel is the dreamy and sweet male main character, Caio. He is everything you could hope for in a romantic lead. His quiet strength, genuine kindness, and unwavering support for Isla as she navigates her new life make him utterly swoon worthy.
The small-town charm of Ruby Cove is beautifully depicted, with its sun-drenched beaches, cozy cafes, and tight-knit community. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows everyone, and yet, new arrivals like Isla are welcomed with open arms, becoming a part of the fabric of the town almost instantly.
However, around 60-70% into the book, I felt like the story got a bit stuck and wasn't really going anywhere. The pacing slowed down considerably, and some scenes started to feel repetitive. While the characters remained as likeable as ever, the plot seemed to lose momentum, making it a bit of a struggle to push through until the end.
If you're searching for a sweet summer read to lose yourself in, Bound To You is the perfect pick. This charming novel offers everything you could want in a feel-good romance: likeable characters, a delightful small town setting, and a heartwarming found family that makes the story feel like a warm hug.
The highlight of the novel is the dreamy and sweet male main character, Caio. He is everything you could hope for in a romantic lead. His quiet strength, genuine kindness, and unwavering support for Isla as she navigates her new life make him utterly swoon worthy.
The small-town charm of Ruby Cove is beautifully depicted, with its sun-drenched beaches, cozy cafes, and tight-knit community. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows everyone, and yet, new arrivals like Isla are welcomed with open arms, becoming a part of the fabric of the town almost instantly.
However, around 60-70% into the book, I felt like the story got a bit stuck and wasn't really going anywhere. The pacing slowed down considerably, and some scenes started to feel repetitive. While the characters remained as likeable as ever, the plot seemed to lose momentum, making it a bit of a struggle to push through until the end.
August 24, 2024
Bound to You - Bridie Charles
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
♥️ small town
♥️ no third act breakup
♥️ found family
♥️ International travel
♥️ duel point of view
This book was so dreamy! I loved the small town, Italian setting and I know it would be my kind of vibe!
Ruby Cove is the perfect spot to fall in love. When Isla and her best friend meet Caio under unexpected circumstances, it leads them directly to Ruby Cove. Not only do they fall in love with the charming downtown, but also the sunsets, the people, and the beautiful hotel they are staying out.
Isla just came off of a breakup and was not looking for a relationship, rather looking more for who she is as a person. She loves to paint, but due to backlash with her family and ex, her spark is gone. As she gets to know Caio, she tries harder and harder to not fall for him, but how can you not fall for literally the perfect gentleman?
I love the found family in the book as well. Their banter and good times just make you want to be a part of their circle.
I highly recommend this adorable book!
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
♥️ small town
♥️ no third act breakup
♥️ found family
♥️ International travel
♥️ duel point of view
This book was so dreamy! I loved the small town, Italian setting and I know it would be my kind of vibe!
Ruby Cove is the perfect spot to fall in love. When Isla and her best friend meet Caio under unexpected circumstances, it leads them directly to Ruby Cove. Not only do they fall in love with the charming downtown, but also the sunsets, the people, and the beautiful hotel they are staying out.
Isla just came off of a breakup and was not looking for a relationship, rather looking more for who she is as a person. She loves to paint, but due to backlash with her family and ex, her spark is gone. As she gets to know Caio, she tries harder and harder to not fall for him, but how can you not fall for literally the perfect gentleman?
I love the found family in the book as well. Their banter and good times just make you want to be a part of their circle.
I highly recommend this adorable book!
August 31, 2024
I so enjoyed reading Bound to You! Isla and Caio are a beautiful pairing. It was lovely watching Isla come into her own as Caio supported her. It’s so clear that they are a pair that compliments one another and that they make each other better every day. Plus, he’s a hot Italian man!!! What more could you ask for?
The setting of idyllic Ruby Cove is the absolute perfect place to fall in love. It drew me in from its very first description and was the most vivid and dreamy location. Bridie Charles makes Italy pop off the pages just as it appears in real life, and that is a true testament to the beautiful and romantic nature of Italy as a setting.
This is only book one of the Ruby Cove series, and I am so invested in these characters and their stories moving forward. Bridie Charles creates compelling characters in the perfect setting and I will absolutely be tuning in for the rest of this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
The setting of idyllic Ruby Cove is the absolute perfect place to fall in love. It drew me in from its very first description and was the most vivid and dreamy location. Bridie Charles makes Italy pop off the pages just as it appears in real life, and that is a true testament to the beautiful and romantic nature of Italy as a setting.
This is only book one of the Ruby Cove series, and I am so invested in these characters and their stories moving forward. Bridie Charles creates compelling characters in the perfect setting and I will absolutely be tuning in for the rest of this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
August 11, 2024
❀ BOOK REVIEW: Bound to You by Bridie Charles
⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
❀ short synopsis:
Isla is feeling the pressure from her family and boyfriend to ditch her dreams of being a painter and settle down into corporate America and become a woman her parents are proud of. To sort out her thoughts, her and her best friend take an impromptu trip to Italy. Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately), their plans get derailed and they end up broken down in the middle of nowhere in Italy and a handsome stranger stops to help them out and brings them to the small, beautiful town of Ruby Cove.
❀ my thoughts:
One of my favorite parts about this book was the town and the found family. I felt like I was actually there in the town and honestly if I could move there right now, I would. Our MMC, Caio, was so sweet and the ways he showed Isla how much he loved her was top tier. I definitely can see why Isla wanted to be with him. I really loved reading about the side characters and actually enjoyed most of them more than our MFC and can’t wait to read their stories.
There were a few things I didn’t love about this book though. I felt like Isla was so whiny throughout the book and honestly stayed in a victim mentally. Not saying she wasn’t a victim from some things but there were a few instances that I wanted to be like “girl, be for real right now”. Like how she doesn’t want people telling her how to live her life but then holding a grudge against someone else for living theirs how they want to. Outside of thinking she was beautiful, I’m still not quite sure why Caio was in love with her. Also this book was pretty spicy but personally it felt like the book just had spice in it so it could be marked as a spicy book. And the last thing I didn’t love is I felt like the author was trying to write quotes in a way that would make people want to underline or post on Pinterest. It felt just over done and not exactly realistic. Obviously, it’s a work of fiction but sometimes my brain struggles to connect whenever it feels overly romantic and like no man except maybe Shakespeare could come up with what the MMC was saying.
Overall, I did have a fun time and I’m so excited to read the rest of the series and find out what happens with the side characters in Ruby Cove!
❀ read this book if you love:
☀️ Italian summers
💰 billionaire romance
💞 found family
❀ content ratings:
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🫢🫢🫢
Bound to You releases August 24, 2024 and will be available on KU! Thank you Bridie Charles and Truly Yours PR for this ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
❀ short synopsis:
Isla is feeling the pressure from her family and boyfriend to ditch her dreams of being a painter and settle down into corporate America and become a woman her parents are proud of. To sort out her thoughts, her and her best friend take an impromptu trip to Italy. Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately), their plans get derailed and they end up broken down in the middle of nowhere in Italy and a handsome stranger stops to help them out and brings them to the small, beautiful town of Ruby Cove.
❀ my thoughts:
One of my favorite parts about this book was the town and the found family. I felt like I was actually there in the town and honestly if I could move there right now, I would. Our MMC, Caio, was so sweet and the ways he showed Isla how much he loved her was top tier. I definitely can see why Isla wanted to be with him. I really loved reading about the side characters and actually enjoyed most of them more than our MFC and can’t wait to read their stories.
There were a few things I didn’t love about this book though. I felt like Isla was so whiny throughout the book and honestly stayed in a victim mentally. Not saying she wasn’t a victim from some things but there were a few instances that I wanted to be like “girl, be for real right now”. Like how she doesn’t want people telling her how to live her life but then holding a grudge against someone else for living theirs how they want to. Outside of thinking she was beautiful, I’m still not quite sure why Caio was in love with her. Also this book was pretty spicy but personally it felt like the book just had spice in it so it could be marked as a spicy book. And the last thing I didn’t love is I felt like the author was trying to write quotes in a way that would make people want to underline or post on Pinterest. It felt just over done and not exactly realistic. Obviously, it’s a work of fiction but sometimes my brain struggles to connect whenever it feels overly romantic and like no man except maybe Shakespeare could come up with what the MMC was saying.
Overall, I did have a fun time and I’m so excited to read the rest of the series and find out what happens with the side characters in Ruby Cove!
❀ read this book if you love:
☀️ Italian summers
💰 billionaire romance
💞 found family
❀ content ratings:
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🫢🫢🫢
Bound to You releases August 24, 2024 and will be available on KU! Thank you Bridie Charles and Truly Yours PR for this ARC!
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