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IF
In the spotlight, Chloe shines. Away from it, Dominic hides.
Two souls scarred by heartbreak and loss, Chloe and Dominic are opposites in every way.
Chloe is a rising star who finds comfort in the world’s adoration.
Dominic is a recluse who prefers silence over crowds and shadows over fame.
Yet, when their worlds collide, the attraction between them is undeniable—and dangerous. Chloe feels she’s finally found her missing piece in Dominic, but he’s haunted by his past, unwilling to risk his heart again.
As they’re drawn closer, Chloe must convince him to surrender to the fire that could heal them both… or risk losing her one chance at true love.
Two souls scarred by heartbreak and loss, Chloe and Dominic are opposites in every way.
Chloe is a rising star who finds comfort in the world’s adoration.
Dominic is a recluse who prefers silence over crowds and shadows over fame.
Yet, when their worlds collide, the attraction between them is undeniable—and dangerous. Chloe feels she’s finally found her missing piece in Dominic, but he’s haunted by his past, unwilling to risk his heart again.
As they’re drawn closer, Chloe must convince him to surrender to the fire that could heal them both… or risk losing her one chance at true love.
205 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2024
25 people are currently reading
7 people want to read
About the author
Cassie Verano
59 books131 followersCassie Verano pens romance for readers of all cultures and backgrounds. Her love of romance is borne from the beauty and joy she sees in the relationships around her. She enjoys creating works of fiction about women discovering true love, and women who aren’t afraid to explore their sexuality. Sometimes her writing gets a bit intense, but she loves cranking up the heat level.
As a professional administrator, she dreamed of the day she could toss her paperwork aside and craft stories that inspired love and romance in the hearts of women around the world. As a wife and mother, she enjoys playing quirky games and singing with her family.
This southern belle is a native Georgia peach, who enjoys reading, writing, and trying different cuisines from around the world. On rainy days she can be found cuddling under a blanket with a good mystery book in her hands or watching a romance movie on Hallmark or LMN.
Connecting with her readers is the highlight of her day. She invites you to connect with her at: cassiepensromance@gmail.com, or join her for intense conversations about her characters, love, and more at Cassie Verano's Wickedness!
As a professional administrator, she dreamed of the day she could toss her paperwork aside and craft stories that inspired love and romance in the hearts of women around the world. As a wife and mother, she enjoys playing quirky games and singing with her family.
This southern belle is a native Georgia peach, who enjoys reading, writing, and trying different cuisines from around the world. On rainy days she can be found cuddling under a blanket with a good mystery book in her hands or watching a romance movie on Hallmark or LMN.
Connecting with her readers is the highlight of her day. She invites you to connect with her at: cassiepensromance@gmail.com, or join her for intense conversations about her characters, love, and more at Cassie Verano's Wickedness!
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
November 15, 2024
I absolutely loved this story! Chloe and Dominic really went through it when it came to love Chloe was willing to keep her heart open, but Dom just wasn’t there yet. I was so proud of Chloe for standing her ground and walking away when Dom couldn’t get past his own stubbornness. But the way he called her out about running from Nate? He was spot on she shouldn’t let anyone make her feel ashamed of her family. I’m so glad Dom finally went after her, and they got their happy ending! I’d love a sneak peek into what’s next for them. And don’t even get me started on Stella… when she came back with that mess, I wanted to jump right through the pages like heffa what 🤬!
November 10, 2024
A Scorching Hot Love Story
If by Cassie Verano is a captivating love story that ignites the pages. I was hooked from the start. Chloe, a rising star, and Dominic, a brooding recluse, are drawn together by an undeniable attraction. Their connection is intense and passionate, but their pasts threaten to tear them apart.
Chloe, initially blinded by love, overlooks Nate's toxic behavior. It's refreshing to see her finally break free from his manipulative grasp and confront him with the consequences of his actions. Her strength and resilience are admirable, and her journey of self-discovery is inspiring.
Dominic, on the other hand, carries the weight of his past heartbreak. His fear of vulnerability and his desire to protect himself from further pain hinder his ability to fully embrace love. However, as he grows closer to Chloe, he begins to let go of his fears and open his heart.
The author skillfully balances intense romantic moments with heart-wrenching drama. The steamy love scenes are both passionate and sensual, while the emotional depth of the characters keeps readers engaged. The secondary characters, such as Chloe's manipulative ex-boyfriend, Nate, and Dominic's scheming ex-fiancée, Stella, add layers of intrigue and conflict to the story.
One of the most compelling aspects of If is the author's ability to explore themes of love, loss, and redemption. The characters are flawed but relatable, and their journey of self-discovery is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. I loved their chemistry. It was electric! The way they banter back and forth is pure 🔥. But let’s be real, their relationship wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. There were plenty of twists and turns, heartbreaks, and steamy encounters to keep you hooked.
Overall, If is a must-read for fans of romantic fiction. It's a captivating love story that will leave you wanting more. It’s got everything you could want in a romance novel: passion, drama, and a satisfying happily ever after. If you’re looking for a book to escape into, this is it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If by Cassie Verano is a captivating love story that ignites the pages. I was hooked from the start. Chloe, a rising star, and Dominic, a brooding recluse, are drawn together by an undeniable attraction. Their connection is intense and passionate, but their pasts threaten to tear them apart.
Chloe, initially blinded by love, overlooks Nate's toxic behavior. It's refreshing to see her finally break free from his manipulative grasp and confront him with the consequences of his actions. Her strength and resilience are admirable, and her journey of self-discovery is inspiring.
Dominic, on the other hand, carries the weight of his past heartbreak. His fear of vulnerability and his desire to protect himself from further pain hinder his ability to fully embrace love. However, as he grows closer to Chloe, he begins to let go of his fears and open his heart.
The author skillfully balances intense romantic moments with heart-wrenching drama. The steamy love scenes are both passionate and sensual, while the emotional depth of the characters keeps readers engaged. The secondary characters, such as Chloe's manipulative ex-boyfriend, Nate, and Dominic's scheming ex-fiancée, Stella, add layers of intrigue and conflict to the story.
One of the most compelling aspects of If is the author's ability to explore themes of love, loss, and redemption. The characters are flawed but relatable, and their journey of self-discovery is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. I loved their chemistry. It was electric! The way they banter back and forth is pure 🔥. But let’s be real, their relationship wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. There were plenty of twists and turns, heartbreaks, and steamy encounters to keep you hooked.
Overall, If is a must-read for fans of romantic fiction. It's a captivating love story that will leave you wanting more. It’s got everything you could want in a romance novel: passion, drama, and a satisfying happily ever after. If you’re looking for a book to escape into, this is it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2024
That's The Way Love Goes
Chloe is a 28-year-old business owner who lives her life out loud and online with a large social media presence. Dominick is a mysterious 40-year-old owner of a vineyard and a recluse who shies away from the public eye. Both are scarred from their previous relationships but despite being complete opposites, they seem perfect for each other. Their attraction to one another is strong but while Chloe seems to be more optimistic and openminded about finding love again, Dominick’s last relationship has left him insecure, distrustful, and closed off. He fights his feelings the hardest which was frustrating at times and made for a very slow burn of a romance. But when things heat up, they heat UP! Once they’re both on the same page, their chemistry is hot enough to fog up your glasses. Janet Jackson was clearly an inspiration for this story (peep the title) as her songs are referenced throughout the book and act as a sensual soundtrack, making the story that much sexier. I liked it these characters and was glad to they finally got it together enough to have a happily ever after. If you enjoy slow burn romances with suave, mysterious older men and young, fearless heroines then I recommend this read.
Chloe is a 28-year-old business owner who lives her life out loud and online with a large social media presence. Dominick is a mysterious 40-year-old owner of a vineyard and a recluse who shies away from the public eye. Both are scarred from their previous relationships but despite being complete opposites, they seem perfect for each other. Their attraction to one another is strong but while Chloe seems to be more optimistic and openminded about finding love again, Dominick’s last relationship has left him insecure, distrustful, and closed off. He fights his feelings the hardest which was frustrating at times and made for a very slow burn of a romance. But when things heat up, they heat UP! Once they’re both on the same page, their chemistry is hot enough to fog up your glasses. Janet Jackson was clearly an inspiration for this story (peep the title) as her songs are referenced throughout the book and act as a sensual soundtrack, making the story that much sexier. I liked it these characters and was glad to they finally got it together enough to have a happily ever after. If you enjoy slow burn romances with suave, mysterious older men and young, fearless heroines then I recommend this read.
November 9, 2024
Moving Past Heartbreak
This was a beautiful love story that really dove into what it looks like to heal after heartbreak. Some are still optimistic and won’t allow an ex who wronged them to also steal their joy and potential to fall in love again. Others rebuild walls around their heart and work like hell to keep people out. This was a very relatable story of what it looks like to put your fears aside and take a chance on love again. Especially when it unfolds in such an organic way that there’s no way of denying it. Healing hurts. Letting someone in after being hurt can be scary and uncertain. But you never want to think I wonder what would’ve happened if I just would’ve given it a chance.
I really enjoyed the character and plot development. Everything unfolded with perfect timing. The FMC is lovable. The MMC is lovable but frustrates the hell out of me because he continues to hide behind his pain and at time minimize the bond that was forming between his love interest.
Again, so cute and worth the read.
This was a beautiful love story that really dove into what it looks like to heal after heartbreak. Some are still optimistic and won’t allow an ex who wronged them to also steal their joy and potential to fall in love again. Others rebuild walls around their heart and work like hell to keep people out. This was a very relatable story of what it looks like to put your fears aside and take a chance on love again. Especially when it unfolds in such an organic way that there’s no way of denying it. Healing hurts. Letting someone in after being hurt can be scary and uncertain. But you never want to think I wonder what would’ve happened if I just would’ve given it a chance.
I really enjoyed the character and plot development. Everything unfolded with perfect timing. The FMC is lovable. The MMC is lovable but frustrates the hell out of me because he continues to hide behind his pain and at time minimize the bond that was forming between his love interest.
Again, so cute and worth the read.
November 9, 2024
Emotional!!
The love story between Dominic and Chloe was so emotional. They are the complete opposite of each other. Both of them are still trying to recover from broken hearts, but that didn't stop them from gravitating towards each other. Even though Dominic was resistant at first, he discovered that their chemistry couldn't be denied. I loved the connection that they formed with each other, and the connection helped them to heal one another. I also loved the sister friendship between Chloe, Soriyah and Brielle. They were there for Chloe when she was going through the turmoil in her life and when she met the person she was supposed to be with. I couldn't stand Nate, Stella and Steve. All of them showed their true colors in the end, and I wanted karma to come and see them sooo bad. This book was so emotional and it kept me interested from beginning to end.
The love story between Dominic and Chloe was so emotional. They are the complete opposite of each other. Both of them are still trying to recover from broken hearts, but that didn't stop them from gravitating towards each other. Even though Dominic was resistant at first, he discovered that their chemistry couldn't be denied. I loved the connection that they formed with each other, and the connection helped them to heal one another. I also loved the sister friendship between Chloe, Soriyah and Brielle. They were there for Chloe when she was going through the turmoil in her life and when she met the person she was supposed to be with. I couldn't stand Nate, Stella and Steve. All of them showed their true colors in the end, and I wanted karma to come and see them sooo bad. This book was so emotional and it kept me interested from beginning to end.
December 7, 2024
This was another excellent and well written book by author Cassie Verano! In “IF” you have both Chloe and Dom who have both been scarred by bad relationships and are weary about love! Chloe is a little bit more open to finding love again but Dom is standoffish and hesitant to give his heart away again! Fate and great chemistry has brought both of them together, but will it help keep them together? This story will tug at your heart but and raise your body temperature and pressure! It is a wonderfully engaging book and will keep you captivated and entertained from the first pages! Looking forward to reading more from author Cassie Verano!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2024
nice read (contains spoilers)
The book was interesting, however there were a few missing parts for me. The most important one. We know that Chloe is biracial but apart from a vague description, we don’t know what she looks like. Her heritage is not woven in the story in anyway (her speaking Spanish to Maria for instance) and it was frustrating.
The book also felt unbalanced. A lot of getting to know you but very little relationship building.
A lot was made of Chloe’s family but we barely saw any interaction and no interaction at all between Dominic and her family or Chloe with his. For instance why mention the Deluca if they are not at the wedding at least?
The book was interesting, however there were a few missing parts for me. The most important one. We know that Chloe is biracial but apart from a vague description, we don’t know what she looks like. Her heritage is not woven in the story in anyway (her speaking Spanish to Maria for instance) and it was frustrating.
The book also felt unbalanced. A lot of getting to know you but very little relationship building.
A lot was made of Chloe’s family but we barely saw any interaction and no interaction at all between Dominic and her family or Chloe with his. For instance why mention the Deluca if they are not at the wedding at least?
November 13, 2024
This beautiful book with a cover to match was a great read. It was truly a wonderful look at how others’ decisions that cause us hurt and pain can really affect the way we live life afterwards—if we allow it to. Chloe and Dominic’s story shows what happens if we choose to move past that pain and heartache, heal, and let love in again. I throughly enjoyed their journey to finding trust, peace, and love within one another. Their steamy scenes were something that should be studied. 😏😆
10/10 highly recommend. 😁
10/10 highly recommend. 😁
November 13, 2024
This poignant story follows two people who has had their hearts torn out by people they thought they were in love with inly to be betrayed by them. Chloe and Dominic are now two souls that have walls up around their hearts until they connect with each other. Chloe is ready to take the plunge, but Dominic is hesitant. Will she get Dominic to let the walls around his heart down and take a chance on their love. This story had my emotions all over the place and cheering for this couple.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 12, 2024
Dominic a reclusive soul and Chloe a social butterfly are complete opposites. However, when their paths cross, their undeniable chemistry ignites a journey with emotional hurdles. The story delves into the nuances of relationships and the bravery required to heal from past wounds. Chloe's resolve to penetrate Dominic's barriers lends depth and emotion to this story. This novel is an entertaining read for those who trust in love's transformative power and the possibility of redemption.
January 5, 2025
“God knew I needed you”
God surely did. He knew that even though Dominic thought that Chloe wasn’t who he was looking for or was not who he thought that he needed.
“He knew that it would take someone like you Chloe, to show me that I wasn’t living but merely existing. Someone who had experienced a pain like mine and yet, still knew they were worthy to be loved. Our bodies, minds, and souls connect powerfully.”
Btw, I liked the DeLuca and Savage Boss connections.
God surely did. He knew that even though Dominic thought that Chloe wasn’t who he was looking for or was not who he thought that he needed.
“He knew that it would take someone like you Chloe, to show me that I wasn’t living but merely existing. Someone who had experienced a pain like mine and yet, still knew they were worthy to be loved. Our bodies, minds, and souls connect powerfully.”
Btw, I liked the DeLuca and Savage Boss connections.
November 9, 2024
Another Hit
Chloe and Dom have both been through some of the worst a relationship can withstand and survived. Fate brought them together, but it would take determination to make it work. This story will pull your heartstrings and raise your temperature (it’s hot y’all.) Ms. V has done it again. Giving us substance and heat.
Chloe and Dom have both been through some of the worst a relationship can withstand and survived. Fate brought them together, but it would take determination to make it work. This story will pull your heartstrings and raise your temperature (it’s hot y’all.) Ms. V has done it again. Giving us substance and heat.
November 13, 2024
5 stars! I loved the book! The heroine's feistiness her determination to never count love out and how she and the hero had both been hurt by those closest to them, but they found each other unexpectedly and fought for their happy ending. Just so well done-must read if you love romance. I also loved the hero's unexpected career and how they supported each other.
November 14, 2024
The author has given us a wonderful older man/younger man story that pulls us into the lives of Chloe and Dominic. The opposites attract story keeps us turning the pages with connection, denial, fears from their pasts and steam.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2024
Finally a love found
Chloe and Dom found each other when they least expected to find every lasting. From being hurt and past relationships, they b were able to overcome and find each other. A true romance story. Love it!!
Chloe and Dom found each other when they least expected to find every lasting. From being hurt and past relationships, they b were able to overcome and find each other. A true romance story. Love it!!
November 18, 2024
Hot realities
This is fire! It's as if Ms. Verano interviewed me & took my struggles but turned them into a beautiful ending. Such a beautiful story and so meaningful for me.
This is fire! It's as if Ms. Verano interviewed me & took my struggles but turned them into a beautiful ending. Such a beautiful story and so meaningful for me.
January 22, 2025
Love their love
Sexy smart romance. Also very steam. The connections to the Deluca series was surprising. I can't wait to read more from Mrs Cassie Verano .
Sexy smart romance. Also very steam. The connections to the Deluca series was surprising. I can't wait to read more from Mrs Cassie Verano .
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews