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Love on the Vine #2
It Had to Be Him
Heartstopper meets Eat Pray Love in this swoony, spicy, second-chance romance from USA Today bestselling author Adib Khorram about two former classmates unexpectedly reuniting in Italy.
Ramin Yazdani's marriage proposal has just gone bottoms up: his ex dumped him in public for being boring. Bent on proving him wrong, Ramin books a spontaneous solo trip to Italy. When he runs into his high school crush while in a gelateria, however, his resolve to reinvent himself is put to the test.
Noah Bartlett’s in a rut. Since his divorce, he's become a bit of a homebody. So when his ex-wife insists he join her and their son on an Italian holiday, Noah reluctantly agrees. But his reticence turns to excitement when he sees his former classmate, who's aged just like a fine wine. As a teenager, Ramin fascinated him—and since Noah now knows that fascination was code for crush—all those feelings are quick to come rushing back.
Soon Ramin and Noah are tumbling headfirst into a relationship. Only Ramin fears Noah’s feelings won’t last without Ramin’s adventurous new persona—and Noah's not sure he can be the supportive partner Ramin deserves. With the days counting down to the end of their trip, can their love last without the magic of Italy?
Ramin Yazdani's marriage proposal has just gone bottoms up: his ex dumped him in public for being boring. Bent on proving him wrong, Ramin books a spontaneous solo trip to Italy. When he runs into his high school crush while in a gelateria, however, his resolve to reinvent himself is put to the test.
Noah Bartlett’s in a rut. Since his divorce, he's become a bit of a homebody. So when his ex-wife insists he join her and their son on an Italian holiday, Noah reluctantly agrees. But his reticence turns to excitement when he sees his former classmate, who's aged just like a fine wine. As a teenager, Ramin fascinated him—and since Noah now knows that fascination was code for crush—all those feelings are quick to come rushing back.
Soon Ramin and Noah are tumbling headfirst into a relationship. Only Ramin fears Noah’s feelings won’t last without Ramin’s adventurous new persona—and Noah's not sure he can be the supportive partner Ramin deserves. With the days counting down to the end of their trip, can their love last without the magic of Italy?
384 pages, Paperback
First published September 2, 2025
64 people are currently reading
8439 people want to read
About the author
Adib Khorram
12 books1,880 followersADIB KHORRAM is the author of DARIUS THE GREAT IS NOT OKAY, which earned the William C. Morris Debut Award, the Asian/Pacific American Award for Young Adult Literature, and a Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor, as well as a multitude of other honors and accolades. His followup, DARIUS THE GREAT DESERVES BETTER, received three starred reviews, was an Indie Bestseller, and received a Stonewall Honor. His debut picture book, SEVEN SPECIAL SOMETHINGS: A NOWRUZ STORY was released in 2021. When he isn’t writing, you can find him learning to do a Lutz jump, practicing his handstands, or steeping a cup of oolong. He lives in Kansas City, Missouri, where people don’t usually talk about themselves in the third person. You can find him on Twitter (@adibkhorram), Instagram (@adibkhorram), or on the web at adibkhorram.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 349 reviews
September 7, 2025
Super great! New author to me, but I liked the premise. I might have fallen in love with one of the characters. The premise isn't all that far off, tho I would be a little surprised that someone after a few years asks their boyfriend to marry them and the boyfriend says no... there must have been clues? That aside, the chemistry between the new pair is fantastic. I kept rooting for them the whole way. The physical scenes after they succumb to their attraction are intense, and it's smartly done with a focus on safety, exploration, trust, and interruptions. Can't wait to check out more from the author.
September 3, 2025
It Had to Be Him follows Ramin, who, after proposing to his boyfriend and being rejected, books a spontaneous trip to Italy. On his first day abroad, Ramin is shocked to reunite with his old high school friend and crush, Noah, a single dad on a trip with his ex-wife and son. When the two keep running into each other, Noah and Ramin decide to make the most of it and explore their newfound connection. This was such a sweet and swoony summer romance! I absolutely loved every minute of reading the emotional and steamy love between Ramin and Noah. The two were so understanding and caring towards each other, it was lovely to see their healthy communication and obvious attraction. I also fell head over heels for the Italy setting and all the food and wine pairings. The writing painted such a pretty picture of the Italian summer, and the vacation vibes delivered everything I could want and more. I cannot recommend this tender and passionate romance enough! All of the sweet moments, humor, and found family brought me so much joy.
Read if you like:
🍷Only One Bed🍷
🍷Kinky Scenes🍷
🍷Second Chance🍷
🍷MM Romance🍷
~Many thanks to Forever for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
Read if you like:
🍷Only One Bed🍷
🍷Kinky Scenes🍷
🍷Second Chance🍷
🍷MM Romance🍷
~Many thanks to Forever for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
September 25, 2025
*3.5 stars*
I'm really of two minds when it comes to It Had to Be Him by Adib Khorram. Part of me really, really enjoyed it, and I think the authors did a lot right with this sweet second chance romance, but another part of me had a hard time getting past a few issues.
The book kind of had a bit of a strike against it, for me, as I quickly realized that this is a "flashback" book, which always takes me out of the moment. I have a preference for books where the characters meet on page, and books where there is a lot of history between the two MCs usually isn't as successful for me. I found the flashback scenes to be disruptive, personally, and I don't think they added much to the story.
However, I enjoyed how deeply personal parts of the story felt. The author did a fantastic job showing Ramin's Persian heritage and how meaningful that is for him, as well as his self-image issues. I just loved how I felt like I knew Ramin, and how he felt like such a fully realized character. Noah also felt really developed, and though his relationship with his ex-wife and kid took up a lot of time in the story, I also felt like I understood Noah and his motivations.
There was also so much chemistry between Noah and Ramin. I was living for those sex scenes... like don't let the cover fool you- there is some dirty talking sexy action in this story. I could feel their connection, in and out of the bedroom.
However, I stumbled a bit with the plot. It felt a bit like we were going in circles and not much was happening. The flashbacks didn't help. Ultimately, I just kept putting the book down and wasn't entirely motivated to keep picking it back up. Maybe there were also pacing issues? The book is so cute overall, that I was disappointed in myself that it was taking me so long to read.
Overall, a nice read with a great character development. I'm so happy I tried this lovely story.
*copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram
I'm really of two minds when it comes to It Had to Be Him by Adib Khorram. Part of me really, really enjoyed it, and I think the authors did a lot right with this sweet second chance romance, but another part of me had a hard time getting past a few issues.
The book kind of had a bit of a strike against it, for me, as I quickly realized that this is a "flashback" book, which always takes me out of the moment. I have a preference for books where the characters meet on page, and books where there is a lot of history between the two MCs usually isn't as successful for me. I found the flashback scenes to be disruptive, personally, and I don't think they added much to the story.
However, I enjoyed how deeply personal parts of the story felt. The author did a fantastic job showing Ramin's Persian heritage and how meaningful that is for him, as well as his self-image issues. I just loved how I felt like I knew Ramin, and how he felt like such a fully realized character. Noah also felt really developed, and though his relationship with his ex-wife and kid took up a lot of time in the story, I also felt like I understood Noah and his motivations.
There was also so much chemistry between Noah and Ramin. I was living for those sex scenes... like don't let the cover fool you- there is some dirty talking sexy action in this story. I could feel their connection, in and out of the bedroom.
However, I stumbled a bit with the plot. It felt a bit like we were going in circles and not much was happening. The flashbacks didn't help. Ultimately, I just kept putting the book down and wasn't entirely motivated to keep picking it back up. Maybe there were also pacing issues? The book is so cute overall, that I was disappointed in myself that it was taking me so long to read.
Overall, a nice read with a great character development. I'm so happy I tried this lovely story.
*copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram
August 24, 2025
E-ARC generously provided by Forever in exchange for an honest review! Thank you so much!
5 stars. Unputdownable, heart-squeezing, and incredibly steamy, my experience of reading It Had to Be Him was like sipping on an icy limoncello on a hot Italian summer day: satisfying in the most perfect way possible.
5 stars. Unputdownable, heart-squeezing, and incredibly steamy, my experience of reading It Had to Be Him was like sipping on an icy limoncello on a hot Italian summer day: satisfying in the most perfect way possible.
June 14, 2025
What first got my attention about this book is that it seems to be in the same vein as The Pairing, and that is one of my favorite romances. Unfortunately it isn’t anywhere as good, at least for me.
We follow two men, Ramin recently broke up with his boyfriend and Noah is on a family vacation with his ex wife and kid and both go spend a little time in Italy.
I love the premise, but the execution just wasn't for me. It tries to be sex positive but does it in a really strange way, there’s an entire subplot about the size of a character’s dick and how it is a problem(?). It’s just really strange. Smut is also a big part of the book, which would be fine if I knew beforehand but since I didn’t I definitely wasn’t expecting that. It also talks about kink a lot, but that’s just okay.
The son and wife are kinda just there, I thought it would be more about their journey as a family and what the possibility of a parent being an ocean apart from their child would entail. It would be really cool given Noah’s relationship with his parents, but it was all wasted. Ramin’s friends receive an even worse treatment, if they weren't there it would make no difference.
The summary seems to be written by someone who didn’t read the book, and if they did I would like to read that version because this just wasn’t it. This whole section: [“Only Ramin fears Noah’s feelings won’t last without Ramin’s adventurous new persona—and Noah's not sure he can be the supportive partner Ramin deserves. With the days counting down to the end of their trip, can their love last without the magic of Italy?”], like where is that? I didn’t see it.
I initially gave the book 3.5 stars but writing this review I realised I have way more critics than I thought.
I have to say, the beginning was really good, so maybe it just wasn’t for me but I would definitely say go in a little skeptical if you decide to try it. (oh, and read Kiss&Tell by the same author, it is really good)
Thank you Netgalley and Forever for the ARC.
We follow two men, Ramin recently broke up with his boyfriend and Noah is on a family vacation with his ex wife and kid and both go spend a little time in Italy.
I love the premise, but the execution just wasn't for me. It tries to be sex positive but does it in a really strange way, there’s an entire subplot about the size of a character’s dick and how it is a problem(?). It’s just really strange. Smut is also a big part of the book, which would be fine if I knew beforehand but since I didn’t I definitely wasn’t expecting that. It also talks about kink a lot, but that’s just okay.
The son and wife are kinda just there, I thought it would be more about their journey as a family and what the possibility of a parent being an ocean apart from their child would entail. It would be really cool given Noah’s relationship with his parents, but it was all wasted. Ramin’s friends receive an even worse treatment, if they weren't there it would make no difference.
The summary seems to be written by someone who didn’t read the book, and if they did I would like to read that version because this just wasn’t it. This whole section: [“Only Ramin fears Noah’s feelings won’t last without Ramin’s adventurous new persona—and Noah's not sure he can be the supportive partner Ramin deserves. With the days counting down to the end of their trip, can their love last without the magic of Italy?”], like where is that? I didn’t see it.
I initially gave the book 3.5 stars but writing this review I realised I have way more critics than I thought.
I have to say, the beginning was really good, so maybe it just wasn’t for me but I would definitely say go in a little skeptical if you decide to try it. (oh, and read Kiss&Tell by the same author, it is really good)
Thank you Netgalley and Forever for the ARC.
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September 25, 2025📖 Bookish Thoughts
I was really intrigued by the premise of this story, but unfortunately it just wasn’t the right fit for me. I made it to about 40% before deciding to step away. The pacing felt very slow, and I struggled to stay engaged with the narration. While I can see how this book could work for other listeners, it ultimately didn’t hold my attention.
🎧 Audio Notes
The production quality itself was clean, but I found the narration style difficult to connect with, which contributed to my decision to DNF.
📅 Pub Date: September 2, 2025
Thank you to Hachette Audio and NetGalley for the advanced listening copy. All thoughts are my own.
I was really intrigued by the premise of this story, but unfortunately it just wasn’t the right fit for me. I made it to about 40% before deciding to step away. The pacing felt very slow, and I struggled to stay engaged with the narration. While I can see how this book could work for other listeners, it ultimately didn’t hold my attention.
🎧 Audio Notes
The production quality itself was clean, but I found the narration style difficult to connect with, which contributed to my decision to DNF.
📅 Pub Date: September 2, 2025
Thank you to Hachette Audio and NetGalley for the advanced listening copy. All thoughts are my own.
June 8, 2025
It Had to Be Him is a perfect summer read. The Italy setting was so wonderful, I loved the atmosphere of this book. It was so special to see Ramin and Noah reconnect after 20 years and immediately form such a deep connection. I absolutely loved both of them, and it was clear to see how they're both better for having the other person in their lives. I also loved how Noah's son, Jake, was not just a generic child character like in so many books, but was instead fully fleshed out and had an actual character arc. It made this story feel so real.
September 7, 2025
It Had to be Him by Adib Khorram
Contemporary M-M romance. Second chance.
After being dumped publicly, Ramin Yazdani decides to take a month long vacation in Italy. He’s not boring. Look at him being adventurous on his own in Italy! Running into an old crush from school in Italy is amazing. Bumping into Noah Bartlett a second time might be fate.
After their divorce, Noah and his ex-wife and son, are in Milan, Italy since she intends to move there. Running into Ramin is serendipitous and Noah definitely wants to renew their friendship. Maybe more if it’s possible.
🎧 I alternated between an ebook and audiobook. The narration is performed by Corvin King and Vikas Adam, both creating a wonderful representation of the men, their lives and falling in love. Emotions are vivid and sure.
As usual, I listened at 1.5 and slightly higher so that I could read along with the ebook at the same time and didn’t notice a loss in the performances.
Though Ramin and Noah have some insecurities of body and image, this book is actually low in emotional angst. Jake, Noah’s son, brings depth to the story as they worry about his health and welfare, but his immediate love of Ramin is beautiful and accepting.
The relationship between Ramin and Noah in the second half of the book is honest, open, and explicit.
The food and wine details ramped up my desire to go back to Italy and stay a little longer.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and publisher Forever and Hachette Audio
Contemporary M-M romance. Second chance.
After being dumped publicly, Ramin Yazdani decides to take a month long vacation in Italy. He’s not boring. Look at him being adventurous on his own in Italy! Running into an old crush from school in Italy is amazing. Bumping into Noah Bartlett a second time might be fate.
After their divorce, Noah and his ex-wife and son, are in Milan, Italy since she intends to move there. Running into Ramin is serendipitous and Noah definitely wants to renew their friendship. Maybe more if it’s possible.
🎧 I alternated between an ebook and audiobook. The narration is performed by Corvin King and Vikas Adam, both creating a wonderful representation of the men, their lives and falling in love. Emotions are vivid and sure.
As usual, I listened at 1.5 and slightly higher so that I could read along with the ebook at the same time and didn’t notice a loss in the performances.
Though Ramin and Noah have some insecurities of body and image, this book is actually low in emotional angst. Jake, Noah’s son, brings depth to the story as they worry about his health and welfare, but his immediate love of Ramin is beautiful and accepting.
The relationship between Ramin and Noah in the second half of the book is honest, open, and explicit.
The food and wine details ramped up my desire to go back to Italy and stay a little longer.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and publisher Forever and Hachette Audio
September 3, 2025
this book was SO cute, i am a total sucker for a second chance romance so seeing that this book was a “they never even dated but they had crushes on each other in highschool before life took them separate ways” had me SOLD and boy it did not disappoint for me.
while this book got hot and heavy at moments this book focused a lot on intimacy and vulnerability, ramin and noah very clearly don’t see themselves in the best light, both men can easily see the things that one another need reassurances on so getting to watch the two of them slowly but surely changing how they view themselves while they are falling in love with one another because of how emotionally intelligent they are and it was *chefs kiss*. the way their entire relationship unfolded was absolutely beautiful.
the vacation aspect of this book was so much fun, its a very hit and miss thing for me — some times it can really take me out of the story for a multitude of different reasons for example a lot of the time its too chaotic or there isn’t enough happening. this book did it BEAUTIFULLY, the imagery was so vivid that i felt like i could picture everywhere they were going, it didnt get too overwhelming during activities (except for when angela was on her bs lol), every moment of the vacation on both ends felt like they served a purpose.
jack was truly one of my favorite parts of this story, i love when authors arent afraid to write in children that are emotional and messy. sometimes i feel like a lot of single parent books the child is there to be seen for the trope but never heard. jack is SUCH a sweetheart and i absolutely loved getting to see noah and him work through some tough issues together. i loved getting to see jack with ramin and the way jack was smitten with him from the very start, it was a cute little child’s intuition of “yep this person belongs with us dad”!!
this was a perfect read for those who arent ready to send off summer yet and want to live in it a bit longer!
while this book got hot and heavy at moments this book focused a lot on intimacy and vulnerability, ramin and noah very clearly don’t see themselves in the best light, both men can easily see the things that one another need reassurances on so getting to watch the two of them slowly but surely changing how they view themselves while they are falling in love with one another because of how emotionally intelligent they are and it was *chefs kiss*. the way their entire relationship unfolded was absolutely beautiful.
the vacation aspect of this book was so much fun, its a very hit and miss thing for me — some times it can really take me out of the story for a multitude of different reasons for example a lot of the time its too chaotic or there isn’t enough happening. this book did it BEAUTIFULLY, the imagery was so vivid that i felt like i could picture everywhere they were going, it didnt get too overwhelming during activities (except for when angela was on her bs lol), every moment of the vacation on both ends felt like they served a purpose.
jack was truly one of my favorite parts of this story, i love when authors arent afraid to write in children that are emotional and messy. sometimes i feel like a lot of single parent books the child is there to be seen for the trope but never heard. jack is SUCH a sweetheart and i absolutely loved getting to see noah and him work through some tough issues together. i loved getting to see jack with ramin and the way jack was smitten with him from the very start, it was a cute little child’s intuition of “yep this person belongs with us dad”!!
this was a perfect read for those who arent ready to send off summer yet and want to live in it a bit longer!
August 25, 2025
It Had to Be Him was WONDERFUL, exceeded ALL of my expectations! THIS is what a travel-focused romance should be - the descriptions are vivid, the settings are like another character in the story, but the romance itself really does shine. It gave me wanderlust AND had me swooning at the same time. It's so sweet and serendipitous, with two MMCs who are incredibly thoughtful and understanding, feel so real, and who have obvious chemistry from the moment they run into each other after years apart. Everything I could have wanted and more, HIGHLY recommend this one!
I absolutely loved that Ramin and Noah had a history before they reconnect in Italy - they were unlikely friends in high school and both had unrecognized crushes on each other. It definitely makes for a much less angsty second chance-ish situation. Noah is just the best. I LOVE that he is so all-in from the moment he runs into Ramin, and how attentive and willing to do anything to spend more time with this man he has secretly always wanted. I'm a huge fan of single dad romance, and Noah is a great one, but honestly what I really loved was 1) his ex wife isn't demonized, 2) his son is described incredibly realistically and 3) his devotion to his role as a dad was portrayed as both a positive and a negative. And oh gosh, Ramin's struggles with his self worth and body image could have been really hard to read, but the way that Noah supports and validates him just made their romance all the sweeter.
Seriously, this book is so swoony (and the spice is so hot), I really had a hard time putting it down from the moment I started. And I've really got to remember that Adib Khorram's make me HUNGRY, the food and wine descriptions in this book totally gave me cravings (just like I'll Have What He's Having). Totally solidified him as a favorite author, and I won't make the mistake of putting any of his books (or reading hungry) so long again!
I absolutely loved that Ramin and Noah had a history before they reconnect in Italy - they were unlikely friends in high school and both had unrecognized crushes on each other. It definitely makes for a much less angsty second chance-ish situation. Noah is just the best. I LOVE that he is so all-in from the moment he runs into Ramin, and how attentive and willing to do anything to spend more time with this man he has secretly always wanted. I'm a huge fan of single dad romance, and Noah is a great one, but honestly what I really loved was 1) his ex wife isn't demonized, 2) his son is described incredibly realistically and 3) his devotion to his role as a dad was portrayed as both a positive and a negative. And oh gosh, Ramin's struggles with his self worth and body image could have been really hard to read, but the way that Noah supports and validates him just made their romance all the sweeter.
Seriously, this book is so swoony (and the spice is so hot), I really had a hard time putting it down from the moment I started. And I've really got to remember that Adib Khorram's make me HUNGRY, the food and wine descriptions in this book totally gave me cravings (just like I'll Have What He's Having). Totally solidified him as a favorite author, and I won't make the mistake of putting any of his books (or reading hungry) so long again!
August 17, 2025
Ramin Yazdani's marriage proposal goes horribly wrong: instead of a yes, he gets a no with a citation of being too boring. Ramin decides to prove his ex wrong by *spontaneously booking an extended trip to Italy. He pops into a gelateria one day for a sweet treat, and finds something much spicier: his high school crush Noah Bartlett. Noah is in Italy with his son and ex-wife, on a trip that may determine where his son lives (either in Italy with his mom, or back in KC with his Noah). Is this going to be a spontaneous summer fling, or can it last when they both move back to KC?
This book was SO CUTE! There was so much chemistry between Ramin and Noah, with a few flashbacks to their high school days that only added to their spark. This is a can’t-miss book for any fan of #MMRomance, #SingleDad, or #SecondChance tropes. It’s very steamy: think more Call Me By Your Name and less Heartstopper, but unputdownable nonetheless. I loved the Midwest/KC pride references sprinkled throughout the novel alongside the idyllic Italian countryside setting that drives the plot. It was the first novel I’ve read by Adib Khorram but I will absolutely be reading more!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ intense
Reviewed as part of #ARC from #NetGalley. Many thanks to Forever Pub/Hachette for the #gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Read this book if you:
🎤 can never forget the iconic line “sing to me Paolo” in The Lizzie McGuire Movie
🇮🇹 want a rom-com version of the happy parts of Call Me By Your Name
👸 identify on a spiritual level with Chappell Roan’s The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess
Follow me on Instagram for more book reviews!
This book was SO CUTE! There was so much chemistry between Ramin and Noah, with a few flashbacks to their high school days that only added to their spark. This is a can’t-miss book for any fan of #MMRomance, #SingleDad, or #SecondChance tropes. It’s very steamy: think more Call Me By Your Name and less Heartstopper, but unputdownable nonetheless. I loved the Midwest/KC pride references sprinkled throughout the novel alongside the idyllic Italian countryside setting that drives the plot. It was the first novel I’ve read by Adib Khorram but I will absolutely be reading more!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ intense
Reviewed as part of #ARC from #NetGalley. Many thanks to Forever Pub/Hachette for the #gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Read this book if you:
🎤 can never forget the iconic line “sing to me Paolo” in The Lizzie McGuire Movie
🇮🇹 want a rom-com version of the happy parts of Call Me By Your Name
👸 identify on a spiritual level with Chappell Roan’s The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess
Follow me on Instagram for more book reviews!
July 29, 2025
3.5/5
I loved Darius the Great by this author and knew I just had to pick up this too. Noah and Ramin were well written characters and I really enjoyed the romance! There was a good balance between the second-chance and friends to lovers trope. The pacing was great and the slow burn with the flashbacks added more depth to their relationship since they meet again two decades later.
The vacation setting in Italy was perfect for a summer read. I really enjoyed how immersive it was with the different cities and cuisines. I also liked Ramin’s friends because all the moments between them easily ranged from hilarious to supportive. Noah was quite relatable with his own flaws and I admired his character development throughout the story.
The only thing is that I would have liked to see more closure with Noah and Angela because the ending felt quite rushed. Jake was such a lovable kid and Noah was such a great dad to him. I also felt that the spice was a bit overdone in the last half of the book because I would have loved to see more development between Ramin and Noah after they go back home. I would want to read a book about Arya because he was so iconic!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Forever for the eARC!!
I loved Darius the Great by this author and knew I just had to pick up this too. Noah and Ramin were well written characters and I really enjoyed the romance! There was a good balance between the second-chance and friends to lovers trope. The pacing was great and the slow burn with the flashbacks added more depth to their relationship since they meet again two decades later.
The vacation setting in Italy was perfect for a summer read. I really enjoyed how immersive it was with the different cities and cuisines. I also liked Ramin’s friends because all the moments between them easily ranged from hilarious to supportive. Noah was quite relatable with his own flaws and I admired his character development throughout the story.
The only thing is that I would have liked to see more closure with Noah and Angela because the ending felt quite rushed. Jake was such a lovable kid and Noah was such a great dad to him. I also felt that the spice was a bit overdone in the last half of the book because I would have loved to see more development between Ramin and Noah after they go back home. I would want to read a book about Arya because he was so iconic!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Forever for the eARC!!
August 12, 2025
Ramin lives through the actual nightmare of proposing to his live-in boyfriend during dinner at a restaurant and being told no, complete with a champagne popping waiter as it sinks in. The horror. He decides to ripcord out of his boring life and work remotely/from his firm's Milan office for a couple months. And who does he see there but his HS friend/unrealized crush Noah, traveling with his son and ex-wife while she assesses a potential move to Italy. They reconnect, both are like YES STILL HOT about the other, and eventually fall into romance and quickly love.
Khorram writes what must be the most low-conflict books I've ever read, with the nicest, most well-intentioned and self-aware characters. I said in my review of I'll Have What He's Having that the book was full of lovely and charming people being lovely and charming to each other, and this is true here as well. One the one hand, sometimes a zero-conflict book full of descriptions of wine and food and travel is what you want. Khorram is a funny writer, and the book is full of clever turns of phrase and insightful asides about racial differences or the whole thing about Noah not getting that his flirting isn't hitting because Ramin doesn't know he's bi. Its delightful.
Oh the other hand though, these characters really don't have any arc to have. There's no conflict (there is one here so slight that everyone recognizes the other's viewpoint immediately and it doesn't have any repercussions). There are issues that make the characters insecure, but they are also each years deep into therapy and are fully actualized on their own. There's no room for improvement or growth together. Ramin says at one point "I don't know how to explain it. But it's like, it all feels too easy." I get it buddy. Noah, in fact, is TOO self-aware, and drops perfectly formed discussion points about his place of privilege, or his size (they don't call it Noah's Ark for nothing), in a way that feels like the author making a point. Side characters are perfectly supportive and unfailingly kind, even the (slight) villains of the book make fulsome apologies and acknowledge their mistakes and pledge to do better. Yawn.
There is actually a fairly large sticking point in this book that brings it down for me though. Noah is divorced from his wife Angela and they have a young child. Not only is the custody arrangement very loosey goosey. They are....letting the young kid decide if he wants to move to Italy or stay in the US? This seems like too much of a burden for a child? Not to mention the wife announces plans to leave the country and maybe take kid with them, which would be a HUGE revision of any agreement? But my main thing is that even though Noah was the stay-at-home parent during a decade of marriage while the wife was a highly paid attorney, he "wouldn't split the house...wouldn't take alimony...wouldn't take anything." Custody issues aside, Khorram does a real disservice with this highly gendered take on division of assets in divorce. Being home with their son so that Angela can optimize her career WAS his job, and happened during his peak earning years. I think if the genders were reversed Khorram wouldn't have done the same thing.
For the most part even with my issues, I really enjoyed this read, and I CERTAINLY plan on reading a book about the third friend in the trio, Arya, and whoever he ends up with.
Thank you to the author for an arc.
Khorram writes what must be the most low-conflict books I've ever read, with the nicest, most well-intentioned and self-aware characters. I said in my review of I'll Have What He's Having that the book was full of lovely and charming people being lovely and charming to each other, and this is true here as well. One the one hand, sometimes a zero-conflict book full of descriptions of wine and food and travel is what you want. Khorram is a funny writer, and the book is full of clever turns of phrase and insightful asides about racial differences or the whole thing about Noah not getting that his flirting isn't hitting because Ramin doesn't know he's bi. Its delightful.
Oh the other hand though, these characters really don't have any arc to have. There's no conflict (there is one here so slight that everyone recognizes the other's viewpoint immediately and it doesn't have any repercussions). There are issues that make the characters insecure, but they are also each years deep into therapy and are fully actualized on their own. There's no room for improvement or growth together. Ramin says at one point "I don't know how to explain it. But it's like, it all feels too easy." I get it buddy. Noah, in fact, is TOO self-aware, and drops perfectly formed discussion points about his place of privilege, or his size (they don't call it Noah's Ark for nothing), in a way that feels like the author making a point. Side characters are perfectly supportive and unfailingly kind, even the (slight) villains of the book make fulsome apologies and acknowledge their mistakes and pledge to do better. Yawn.
There is actually a fairly large sticking point in this book that brings it down for me though. Noah is divorced from his wife Angela and they have a young child. Not only is the custody arrangement very loosey goosey. They are....letting the young kid decide if he wants to move to Italy or stay in the US? This seems like too much of a burden for a child? Not to mention the wife announces plans to leave the country and maybe take kid with them, which would be a HUGE revision of any agreement? But my main thing is that even though Noah was the stay-at-home parent during a decade of marriage while the wife was a highly paid attorney, he "wouldn't split the house...wouldn't take alimony...wouldn't take anything." Custody issues aside, Khorram does a real disservice with this highly gendered take on division of assets in divorce. Being home with their son so that Angela can optimize her career WAS his job, and happened during his peak earning years. I think if the genders were reversed Khorram wouldn't have done the same thing.
For the most part even with my issues, I really enjoyed this read, and I CERTAINLY plan on reading a book about the third friend in the trio, Arya, and whoever he ends up with.
Thank you to the author for an arc.
June 30, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and author Adib Khorram for providing me with the eARC of “It Had to be Him”, in exchange for my honest review.
Publication date: September 2nd, 2025
“It had to be him” is/has:
- MM Romance
- Second chance-romance
- Friends-to-lovers
- Single dad trope
Ramin and Noah attended highschool together, but lost touch after graduation.
20 years later, they are expectedly reunited when they run into each other on their Italian vacations.
Ramin is there to heal from a recent breakup with his ex-boyfriend, and Noah is there with this ex-wife and their son on a family trip.
The two seem to keep bumping into each other, until several late night-dinners and catch-up time become something more.
This book was okay!
I liked the romance between Ramin and Noah. I think they were a good match, and I really liked the way that they were able to support each other through their own individual, very different issues.
I also liked that it discussed the topic of Ramin’s body dysmorphia, and the way it effected his self-worth and his physical relationships with others. I feel like I don’t hear a lot of conversations surrounding body image when it comes to men, so I am sure that some readers out there can appreciate this.
There was a lot of good development in the side characters as well. We see a lot of Noah’s Ex-wife and their son Jake, and I feel like it highlighted some potentially very-real struggles involved with co-parenting, and the effects of divorce (although this is something I am not super versed on, so I won’t speak much to its accuracy)
What I didn’t love about this story was the amount of steaminess. I know some people love super super steamy books- so if you do, this may be the book for you.
I really don’t mind it in a story, but I just found this to be a bit much for me personally.
Overall, it is not a bad read.
I definitely think there is an audience for it, and a lot of people could really enjoy it!
It just didn’t hit all of the bases for me.
Publication date: September 2nd, 2025
“It had to be him” is/has:
- MM Romance
- Second chance-romance
- Friends-to-lovers
- Single dad trope
Ramin and Noah attended highschool together, but lost touch after graduation.
20 years later, they are expectedly reunited when they run into each other on their Italian vacations.
Ramin is there to heal from a recent breakup with his ex-boyfriend, and Noah is there with this ex-wife and their son on a family trip.
The two seem to keep bumping into each other, until several late night-dinners and catch-up time become something more.
This book was okay!
I liked the romance between Ramin and Noah. I think they were a good match, and I really liked the way that they were able to support each other through their own individual, very different issues.
I also liked that it discussed the topic of Ramin’s body dysmorphia, and the way it effected his self-worth and his physical relationships with others. I feel like I don’t hear a lot of conversations surrounding body image when it comes to men, so I am sure that some readers out there can appreciate this.
There was a lot of good development in the side characters as well. We see a lot of Noah’s Ex-wife and their son Jake, and I feel like it highlighted some potentially very-real struggles involved with co-parenting, and the effects of divorce (although this is something I am not super versed on, so I won’t speak much to its accuracy)
What I didn’t love about this story was the amount of steaminess. I know some people love super super steamy books- so if you do, this may be the book for you.
I really don’t mind it in a story, but I just found this to be a bit much for me personally.
Overall, it is not a bad read.
I definitely think there is an audience for it, and a lot of people could really enjoy it!
It just didn’t hit all of the bases for me.
September 2, 2025
This book came out at a wonderful time of the year! The Italian backdrop made for a very swoony, fun end of summer read! I absolutely devoured it from start to finish.
Ramin and Noah run into each other in the streets of Italy for the first time in 20 years since they were in high school. Ramin is reeling from a proposal gone wrong, and Noah is navigating what it means to be a parent after a divorce with his ex-wife. Together, they begin to explore the Italian sites and explore even further what a relationship would look like with them together.
The chemistry between Ramin and Noah was undeniable from the moment they first met (again). As a sucker for second-chance romance, I think that Adib Khorram did a wonderful job of exploring this trope in a new way. I also loved how Noah's son felt like an actual child and a person with his own character arc. The author does a wonderful job of allowing the reader to feel the emotions the characters experience throughout the book. I saw a lot of myself in Noah and Ramin whilst they grappled with insecurities, biphobia, and when to set boundaries. I really enjoyed this one, and I will definitely pick up another book by this author!
Thank you Netgalley and Forever for the e-ARC!
Ramin and Noah run into each other in the streets of Italy for the first time in 20 years since they were in high school. Ramin is reeling from a proposal gone wrong, and Noah is navigating what it means to be a parent after a divorce with his ex-wife. Together, they begin to explore the Italian sites and explore even further what a relationship would look like with them together.
The chemistry between Ramin and Noah was undeniable from the moment they first met (again). As a sucker for second-chance romance, I think that Adib Khorram did a wonderful job of exploring this trope in a new way. I also loved how Noah's son felt like an actual child and a person with his own character arc. The author does a wonderful job of allowing the reader to feel the emotions the characters experience throughout the book. I saw a lot of myself in Noah and Ramin whilst they grappled with insecurities, biphobia, and when to set boundaries. I really enjoyed this one, and I will definitely pick up another book by this author!
Thank you Netgalley and Forever for the e-ARC!
dnf
August 11, 2025DNF @31%
I’ve come to the sad conclusion that this author’s adult books aren’t for me (I still have a YA by him that I want to try), and that’s okay! I like the flow of the writing and the plot was great, but the author’s overuse (in my opinion) of descriptions of bodily fluids (sweat being a big one) really icked me out. I know bodily fluids are a part of life, but I don’t enjoy reading about them. Totally a me problem.
I’ve come to the sad conclusion that this author’s adult books aren’t for me (I still have a YA by him that I want to try), and that’s okay! I like the flow of the writing and the plot was great, but the author’s overuse (in my opinion) of descriptions of bodily fluids (sweat being a big one) really icked me out. I know bodily fluids are a part of life, but I don’t enjoy reading about them. Totally a me problem.
September 12, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
November 29, 2025
Awwww, this was such an incredibly sweet and grounded romance, and the descriptions of Italy were *chef's kiss*.
June 25, 2025
I had such a blast reading this! The story of two men who used to be friends in high school randomly running into each other in Italy and starting up a whirlwind romance was a lot of fun. Ramin and Noah were both such fleshed out characters, I loved seeing their connection with one another and their own personal journeys. This book is full of beautiful descriptions of the setting and the food and wine.
It was fun getting to see the random ways they kept crossing paths in Italy and getting small glimpses into their friendship twenty years earlier. I also enjoyed seeing the ways that Ramin connected with Noah’s son and ex-wife. There are also some really interesting conversations that come up since Noah has only previously been in relationships with women, so he isn’t used to having to be aware of his surroundings and wondering if it’s safe to engage in PDA or other aspects of living a public queer life.
The chemistry between Ramin and Noah is off the charts! I loved how they were exploring aspects of kink and introducing Noah to different things that he’s never experienced before. The steamy scenes felt very real because maybe sometime something fumbly or awkward would happen, but they’d readjust and continue.
Overall this was just a complete delight! Adib Khorram’s writing really brought these characters and the setting to life. Definitely check this one out if you’re a fan of steamy queer romances that also provide a lot of character development.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
It was fun getting to see the random ways they kept crossing paths in Italy and getting small glimpses into their friendship twenty years earlier. I also enjoyed seeing the ways that Ramin connected with Noah’s son and ex-wife. There are also some really interesting conversations that come up since Noah has only previously been in relationships with women, so he isn’t used to having to be aware of his surroundings and wondering if it’s safe to engage in PDA or other aspects of living a public queer life.
The chemistry between Ramin and Noah is off the charts! I loved how they were exploring aspects of kink and introducing Noah to different things that he’s never experienced before. The steamy scenes felt very real because maybe sometime something fumbly or awkward would happen, but they’d readjust and continue.
Overall this was just a complete delight! Adib Khorram’s writing really brought these characters and the setting to life. Definitely check this one out if you’re a fan of steamy queer romances that also provide a lot of character development.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
July 26, 2025
I need to start by saying I adore Adib Khorram's writing. My deepest wish after finishing I'll Have What He's Having was for Ramin and Arya to get their own books. I was thrilled to see Ramin get his HEA. Much of this contemporary romance was a joy to read, starting with the vicarious trip to Italy and the resumption of both crush and friendship for Ramin and Noah who haven't seen each other since they graduated high school. The reasons it didn't work better for me are specific to me; I'm sure many people will find much to love.
This isn't a true second chance romance but it almost functions as one between the mutual unrequited crushes (because neither was out) and flashbacks to when they were friends in high school. I am pretty over flashbacks these days so they didn't add to the story for me at all. I would have gotten so much more out of Noah and Ramin talking about what they remember from that time, which would have showed them deepening intimacy as adults. But to each their own.
Ramin and Noah reconnect in Milan, of all places. Noah is there because his ex-wife wants to move there and they're going to let their son Jake decide whether he stays with her and with Noah in Kansas City. Meanwhile, Ramin is fresh off of a failed proposal and breakup. They both have their own insecurities; Ramin deals with body dysmorphia so bear that in mind if that's a sensitive issue. Both men are in therapy so there is a fair amount of therapy speak but they're both clearly works in progress so I didn't mind it.
What I did mind was
Also, I just have to put this here:
This isn't a short book but some of the character work I expect from Khorram was missing here. For instance, it's not clear what Ramin's job is, how he feels about his work, or what it's like to work while in Italy. It's possible I missed it but I believe from the last book that Ramin's dad died but he only ever talks about his mother's death. That felt like an odd omission. We get a little about Noah's relationship to Christianity and how he made it his own but I would have liked to hear more about that transition and what that means for the way he's raising his son.
It would have been fun to get more time with Ramin's sapphic apartment landlords Francesca and Paola. In fact, I'd take a whole book about them. They were fabulous! It was also great to see how Ramin's friendships with Farzan, David, and Arya are strong even while he's overseas. I am chomping at the bit for Arya's romance now!
All in all, a mixed bag. I did really enjoy aspects of this book—I'm always going to have a good time reading Khorram's work, even if aspects weren't as developed as I hoped.
Note: While Noah has an exchange with Jake about not saying "dumb," ableist language is still used in the book, including "crazy" three times. I appreciated the author's attempt at educating readers but he still has work to do.
Characters: Noah is a 38 year old bisexual white carpenter and artist. He has a 9 year old son named Jake. Ramin is a 38 year old gay Irani American restaurant co-owner and possibly works in marketing. This is set in Milan and other parts of Italy and Kansas City.
Content notes: emergency appendectomy (child), body dysmorphia, internalized fatphobia, past fatshaming, diet (ex-boyfriend), past weight cutting (wrestler), past racism, past biphobia, past bullying, Noah is no contact with his bigoted parents (estranged for three years), ageism (secondary character), past death of Ramin's mother (cancer), past divorce (two years ago after eight years of marriage), PrEP, safe word (respected), on page sex, D/s, role play, somnophilia, brief breeding kink, brief degradation play, deep throating, rimming, alcohol, inebriation, hangover, casual bierasure, gendered pejorative, ableist language
Disclosure: I received a free advance copy from Forever in exchange for an honest review.
This isn't a true second chance romance but it almost functions as one between the mutual unrequited crushes (because neither was out) and flashbacks to when they were friends in high school. I am pretty over flashbacks these days so they didn't add to the story for me at all. I would have gotten so much more out of Noah and Ramin talking about what they remember from that time, which would have showed them deepening intimacy as adults. But to each their own.
Ramin and Noah reconnect in Milan, of all places. Noah is there because his ex-wife wants to move there and they're going to let their son Jake decide whether he stays with her and with Noah in Kansas City. Meanwhile, Ramin is fresh off of a failed proposal and breakup. They both have their own insecurities; Ramin deals with body dysmorphia so bear that in mind if that's a sensitive issue. Both men are in therapy so there is a fair amount of therapy speak but they're both clearly works in progress so I didn't mind it.
What I did mind was
Also, I just have to put this here:
This isn't a short book but some of the character work I expect from Khorram was missing here. For instance, it's not clear what Ramin's job is, how he feels about his work, or what it's like to work while in Italy. It's possible I missed it but I believe from the last book that Ramin's dad died but he only ever talks about his mother's death. That felt like an odd omission. We get a little about Noah's relationship to Christianity and how he made it his own but I would have liked to hear more about that transition and what that means for the way he's raising his son.
It would have been fun to get more time with Ramin's sapphic apartment landlords Francesca and Paola. In fact, I'd take a whole book about them. They were fabulous! It was also great to see how Ramin's friendships with Farzan, David, and Arya are strong even while he's overseas. I am chomping at the bit for Arya's romance now!
All in all, a mixed bag. I did really enjoy aspects of this book—I'm always going to have a good time reading Khorram's work, even if aspects weren't as developed as I hoped.
Note: While Noah has an exchange with Jake about not saying "dumb," ableist language is still used in the book, including "crazy" three times. I appreciated the author's attempt at educating readers but he still has work to do.
Characters: Noah is a 38 year old bisexual white carpenter and artist. He has a 9 year old son named Jake. Ramin is a 38 year old gay Irani American restaurant co-owner and possibly works in marketing. This is set in Milan and other parts of Italy and Kansas City.
Content notes: emergency appendectomy (child), body dysmorphia, internalized fatphobia, past fatshaming, diet (ex-boyfriend), past weight cutting (wrestler), past racism, past biphobia, past bullying, Noah is no contact with his bigoted parents (estranged for three years), ageism (secondary character), past death of Ramin's mother (cancer), past divorce (two years ago after eight years of marriage), PrEP, safe word (respected), on page sex, D/s, role play, somnophilia, brief breeding kink, brief degradation play, deep throating, rimming, alcohol, inebriation, hangover, casual bierasure, gendered pejorative, ableist language
Disclosure: I received a free advance copy from Forever in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2025
Alright, I absolutely loved this. This may even be my favorite contemporary romance book of the year so far!
This is a (not quite) second chance romance that really fit my tastes to a T. Our main characters were both emotionally intelligent and mature people. They were both so incredibly earnest and had great chemistry.
This wasn't a super dramatic and messy romance - and I was grateful for that. I find myself craving these soft romances more and more - where people communicate honestly and don't play games! This was such a heartfelt read!
I'm looking forward to reading a lot more from this author in the future!
Thank you so much to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
This is a (not quite) second chance romance that really fit my tastes to a T. Our main characters were both emotionally intelligent and mature people. They were both so incredibly earnest and had great chemistry.
This wasn't a super dramatic and messy romance - and I was grateful for that. I find myself craving these soft romances more and more - where people communicate honestly and don't play games! This was such a heartfelt read!
I'm looking forward to reading a lot more from this author in the future!
Thank you so much to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
October 21, 2025
A conservative would hate to see this book coming (not that they’re reading MM romances anyway), because it’s woke AF. It was a sweet story that leaned into being realistic rather than overly romanticized. The anxious inner monologue started to wear me out by the end, though. My own brain provides that content for free.
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October 2, 2025finally found my staff pick for fave of the year >>
June 26, 2025
I didn't want this book to end - it was that good. A sweet m/m love story between two old high school friends. I love Italy so I appreciated the setting of this beautiful country. I also loved that the author didn't shy away from heavy topics such as body dysphoria and eating disorders. The story started with Ramin proposing marriage to his boyfriend and getting swiftly rejected. Embarrassed and sad he decided on a whim to travel to Italy for two months. Noah and his ex-wife were visiting Italy to help her relocate with their son. Running into each other at the local creamery was adorable. What I loved was the love story between Ramin and Noah. They were both wonderful guys who deserved a second chance at a happy and fulfilling life together. I loved that he gave Noah a chance to be together. Their love story was beautiful. I also loved their hot sex scenes. The way they took care of each other was incredible. It was more than just sex. It was truly a beautiful connection between the two of them. Additionally, I loved Ramin's friends who supported and gave him the validation he needed. I loved how they cheered for him and wanted him to be happy. Parts I didn't like were the ex-wife Angela. I didn't care for Angela because she was taking a child away from his father. I found that very upsetting. Especially taking him to another country. I don't see many parents willing to do this. And poor Jake being in the middle was a bit heartbreaking. Noah should have spoken up much earlier. Otherwise, this was a fantastic and beautiful love story. The ending was a chef's kiss perfect! I recommend it. Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my ARC.
September 26, 2025
This really is the perfect summer read, and honestly, I’m a little sad it's not being released until September! 'It Had to Be Him' is bright, fresh, and bursting with everything I love in a vacation romance.
I stumbled across this one while browsing online (something I do often), and the description immediately grabbed my attention. It’s my first time reading a novel by Adib Khorram, and I was drawn in by the fast pacing, gentle storytelling, and flashbacks that sparkle with warmth and emotion. Ramin and Noah are going to pull at your heart in the lush and scenic setting of Italy.
Yes, Italy absolutely shines in this book — I’m definitely craving gelato now — and the getaway romance is as dreamy as you'd hope. But what really kept me turning the pages was the desire to return to Kansas City and see how the characters would adjust and grow after their escape.
This was such a fun, heartfelt read. Huge thanks to Forever for the digital ARC!
I stumbled across this one while browsing online (something I do often), and the description immediately grabbed my attention. It’s my first time reading a novel by Adib Khorram, and I was drawn in by the fast pacing, gentle storytelling, and flashbacks that sparkle with warmth and emotion. Ramin and Noah are going to pull at your heart in the lush and scenic setting of Italy.
Yes, Italy absolutely shines in this book — I’m definitely craving gelato now — and the getaway romance is as dreamy as you'd hope. But what really kept me turning the pages was the desire to return to Kansas City and see how the characters would adjust and grow after their escape.
This was such a fun, heartfelt read. Huge thanks to Forever for the digital ARC!
September 3, 2025
3.25 stars. Adib Khorram's IT HAD TO BE HIM is a Netflix rom-com come to life: it's unrealistic, cheesy, horny, and filled with on the nose life lessons. But it's a quick read and I admittedly found myself emotionally and physically chubbed up. Ramin is a thirty-eight year old Iranian living in Kansas City and working in marketing. After a proposal turns into a break up with his boyfriend of two years, he books an eight week trip to Italy where he's determined to not be the boring guy his ex said that he was. Noah is also a thirty-eight year old carpenter living in Kansas City, divorced from his wife but still an adoring father of their nine year old, Jake. When his ex-wife is asked to take over the family's wine shop in Italy, she offers him a free trip to see if it's the kind of environment that would be suitable for her and their son to live in. Noah is forced to confront the reality that his life might be changing sooner than he thought and he might not be seeing his family as much if they live overseas.
Ramin and Noah's worlds collide after running into each other at a gelato shop in Italy. The two were not only former high school friends, but Ramin has had a twenty year crush on Noah. Ramin assumed he was straight, but as we soon find out, Noah is bisexual and has also secretly been swooning over his old buddy. The two continue to run into each other throughout their respected vacations and rekindle a friendship that turns into something much more horny. Ramin essentially latches onto Noah's vacation with his family and it turns into an eleven day spicy romp through Milan and various Italian locations. Okay, I'm jealous. Ramin's friends had urged him to drown in lots of foreskin, but he surprises himself with the very real and deep relationship he further develops (very quickly) with Noah. I get it because the sexiest part of Noah besides his hairy forearms, barrel chest, deep voice, amber eyes and horse cock is his kindness - oof. Show me you’re a good daddy to your kid AND to me. Know what I mean?
I appreciated that both characters were trying to find their own identity in Italy, but I feel like that was robbed of them when they spent 24/7 with each other. And I know it’s a rom-com, but the unlikelihood of them meeting three times in three separate locations is nutty. I also get that Noah is bad with social media, but like Ramin works in marketing, pretty sure he could've found a way to message him. There's A LOT of suspension of disbelief required for this insta-love, second chance, friend to lovers romance. But I could forgive a lot of that cheesiness because I was living for the Italian vibes and settings. Italy is at the top of my list of places I wanna visit so I loved taking notes down of locations I should visit when I inevitably go and have my own sexy trysts there. I'll also say that Khorram's writing is incredibly repetitive and I can't count how many times he would reiterate the same phrase - usually about Ramin reinventing himself or the fact that he should've been sleeping around but was rekindling a crush. This would be mentioned several times within the same paragraph.
Per usual, miscommunication is one of my least favorite tropes in rom-coms and there's plenty of that here. I also found Ramin to be a bit of a selfish character. If I was Noah's ex-wife I’d be a little annoyed if an old high school friend crashed my trip. I'd also be annoyed if he was constantly showing up and taking away quality family time. Noah isn't selfish for wanting to be there for his kid when things go wrong and Ramin made certain situations about himself. How dare Noah have to go back to his family instead of giving attention to Ramin in the bedroom. The spice IS undoubtedly hot though - you have public bathroom bjs, singlets, domination, ass play, praise kinks and more. But then you have speeches about PreP that feel like an after school special. I also get intimidated when a penis is described as being heavy, but I’m not so sure I can get behind “Dixth sense”, “asswrecker”, “gaped” or “phallic constellation.”
In the end, these two have a HEA that is heart-warming, unbelievable and perfect for a Netflix rom-com adaptation. You see it, right? I was just happy to see Noah make Ramin feel beautiful and anything but boring. And I was happy to see Ramin take care of Noah since he takes care of everyone else. Between all of the horniness and cheesiness there are memorable moments and it’s a fun time. I also love all of the Persian representation and diversity and conversations that are brought up around politics, religion and sexuality. I’m going to need Khorram to explain to me how a mouth tastes like the inside of an old car though. Special thanks to Forever publishing and NetGalley or the ARC in exchange for an honest review! Booking my trip to Italy immediately.
Ramin and Noah's worlds collide after running into each other at a gelato shop in Italy. The two were not only former high school friends, but Ramin has had a twenty year crush on Noah. Ramin assumed he was straight, but as we soon find out, Noah is bisexual and has also secretly been swooning over his old buddy. The two continue to run into each other throughout their respected vacations and rekindle a friendship that turns into something much more horny. Ramin essentially latches onto Noah's vacation with his family and it turns into an eleven day spicy romp through Milan and various Italian locations. Okay, I'm jealous. Ramin's friends had urged him to drown in lots of foreskin, but he surprises himself with the very real and deep relationship he further develops (very quickly) with Noah. I get it because the sexiest part of Noah besides his hairy forearms, barrel chest, deep voice, amber eyes and horse cock is his kindness - oof. Show me you’re a good daddy to your kid AND to me. Know what I mean?
I appreciated that both characters were trying to find their own identity in Italy, but I feel like that was robbed of them when they spent 24/7 with each other. And I know it’s a rom-com, but the unlikelihood of them meeting three times in three separate locations is nutty. I also get that Noah is bad with social media, but like Ramin works in marketing, pretty sure he could've found a way to message him. There's A LOT of suspension of disbelief required for this insta-love, second chance, friend to lovers romance. But I could forgive a lot of that cheesiness because I was living for the Italian vibes and settings. Italy is at the top of my list of places I wanna visit so I loved taking notes down of locations I should visit when I inevitably go and have my own sexy trysts there. I'll also say that Khorram's writing is incredibly repetitive and I can't count how many times he would reiterate the same phrase - usually about Ramin reinventing himself or the fact that he should've been sleeping around but was rekindling a crush. This would be mentioned several times within the same paragraph.
Per usual, miscommunication is one of my least favorite tropes in rom-coms and there's plenty of that here. I also found Ramin to be a bit of a selfish character. If I was Noah's ex-wife I’d be a little annoyed if an old high school friend crashed my trip. I'd also be annoyed if he was constantly showing up and taking away quality family time. Noah isn't selfish for wanting to be there for his kid when things go wrong and Ramin made certain situations about himself. How dare Noah have to go back to his family instead of giving attention to Ramin in the bedroom. The spice IS undoubtedly hot though - you have public bathroom bjs, singlets, domination, ass play, praise kinks and more. But then you have speeches about PreP that feel like an after school special. I also get intimidated when a penis is described as being heavy, but I’m not so sure I can get behind “Dixth sense”, “asswrecker”, “gaped” or “phallic constellation.”
In the end, these two have a HEA that is heart-warming, unbelievable and perfect for a Netflix rom-com adaptation. You see it, right? I was just happy to see Noah make Ramin feel beautiful and anything but boring. And I was happy to see Ramin take care of Noah since he takes care of everyone else. Between all of the horniness and cheesiness there are memorable moments and it’s a fun time. I also love all of the Persian representation and diversity and conversations that are brought up around politics, religion and sexuality. I’m going to need Khorram to explain to me how a mouth tastes like the inside of an old car though. Special thanks to Forever publishing and NetGalley or the ARC in exchange for an honest review! Booking my trip to Italy immediately.
December 12, 2025
tl;dr khorram hits every flavor note just right in It Had to Be Him, resulting in a heartwarming romance that isn't without some surprising complications
Adib Khorram’s gay romance It Had to Be Him is candid and tender, featuring men in their mid to late thirties at various crossroads in their lives. I think this novel starts out very strong: Ramin Yazdani is given a fairly standard failed-proposal/drunk-night-in with his friends, but I found myself more drawn to Noah Bartlett’s backstory, which involves his ex-wife moving to Italy, and potentially, leaving their young son Jake behind in America. In a different novel, Noah Bartlett’s saga could very much be the start of a more literary tale, but alas, this is romance, which means of course these two men will meet, and of course they’ll end up together.
I hadn’t read anything of what It Had to Be Him was about besides the unmissable and absolutely egregious marketing pitch of “Heartstopper meets Eat Pray Love” (we really are just saying shit now), so I was surprised to find out that Noah and Ramin had had some previous contact prior to their Gelateria meet-cute. The novel occasionally flashes back to those prior days, which I’m not sure was all-the-way necessary to the reading experience (we could have extrapolated their dynamic based on their current one), but I understand the motivation behind them being there (I guess that’s the Heartstopper piece?).
This novel’s depiction of sex is pretty special, and I think it toes the line of romance and realism quite well. Characters check in with each other, they communicate clearly, and there are aspects of sex between men that I think only an own-voices author would have insight into including. It feels authentic, even as the scenes begin to dip into more lascivious territory. The placement of such scenes is also notable; while not plentiful as say, a hockey romance, they are quite long, detailed, and intense: quality over quantity. Though maybe quantity still applies, as the final one, incredibly, spans two chapters – in the audiobook, over 45 minutes.
Where the book could have landed stronger for me mostly has to do with the writing. Khorram’s characterization, while well-plotted, is told with a lot less subtlety than I care to read. This mostly has to do with Ramin’s character: over and over Ramin does things to prove to himself that he “isn’t boring”, but Khorram keeps reminding us that he’s “Interesting New Ramin”, an epithet used over 20 times throughout. Khorram also uses a bit too much therapy-speak to characterize his protagonists, almost in refusal to let their actions breathe for a bit.
Also, this isn’t really in Khorram’s control, but the narrators give pretty solid performances in this audiobook, except that I don’t think they got the memo of how to perform Noah’s son Jake. One narrator sounds pretty normal, and the other sounds like he went to the Helium Store to inhale as much helium as possible.
That aside, I do want to point out that Noah Bartlett’s story, a bisexual awakening of sorts, is compellingly colored by his ex-wife + child situation. As mentioned before, I found myself drawn to these dynamics more than Ramin’s friend group. Angela, Noah’s ex-wife, is surprisingly three dimensional, and I can’t fault her for wanting to do her own thing after grinding corporate for so long. I really appreciate that Khorram didn’t write her as a villain (that role goes to Ramin’s ex), and her arguments with Noah felt, honestly, extremely valid. Props to this complicated relationship grounding the loftier, romantic one!
Khorram’s It Had to Be Him is a novel of enjoyable balance: heart and hurt, love and angst, wine and pasta. On his path to romantic ever-after, Khorram hits every flavor note he has to in order to make the conclusion as heartwarming as it ends up being.
Adib Khorram’s gay romance It Had to Be Him is candid and tender, featuring men in their mid to late thirties at various crossroads in their lives. I think this novel starts out very strong: Ramin Yazdani is given a fairly standard failed-proposal/drunk-night-in with his friends, but I found myself more drawn to Noah Bartlett’s backstory, which involves his ex-wife moving to Italy, and potentially, leaving their young son Jake behind in America. In a different novel, Noah Bartlett’s saga could very much be the start of a more literary tale, but alas, this is romance, which means of course these two men will meet, and of course they’ll end up together.
I hadn’t read anything of what It Had to Be Him was about besides the unmissable and absolutely egregious marketing pitch of “Heartstopper meets Eat Pray Love” (we really are just saying shit now), so I was surprised to find out that Noah and Ramin had had some previous contact prior to their Gelateria meet-cute. The novel occasionally flashes back to those prior days, which I’m not sure was all-the-way necessary to the reading experience (we could have extrapolated their dynamic based on their current one), but I understand the motivation behind them being there (I guess that’s the Heartstopper piece?).
This novel’s depiction of sex is pretty special, and I think it toes the line of romance and realism quite well. Characters check in with each other, they communicate clearly, and there are aspects of sex between men that I think only an own-voices author would have insight into including. It feels authentic, even as the scenes begin to dip into more lascivious territory. The placement of such scenes is also notable; while not plentiful as say, a hockey romance, they are quite long, detailed, and intense: quality over quantity. Though maybe quantity still applies, as the final one, incredibly, spans two chapters – in the audiobook, over 45 minutes.
Where the book could have landed stronger for me mostly has to do with the writing. Khorram’s characterization, while well-plotted, is told with a lot less subtlety than I care to read. This mostly has to do with Ramin’s character: over and over Ramin does things to prove to himself that he “isn’t boring”, but Khorram keeps reminding us that he’s “Interesting New Ramin”, an epithet used over 20 times throughout. Khorram also uses a bit too much therapy-speak to characterize his protagonists, almost in refusal to let their actions breathe for a bit.
Also, this isn’t really in Khorram’s control, but the narrators give pretty solid performances in this audiobook, except that I don’t think they got the memo of how to perform Noah’s son Jake. One narrator sounds pretty normal, and the other sounds like he went to the Helium Store to inhale as much helium as possible.
That aside, I do want to point out that Noah Bartlett’s story, a bisexual awakening of sorts, is compellingly colored by his ex-wife + child situation. As mentioned before, I found myself drawn to these dynamics more than Ramin’s friend group. Angela, Noah’s ex-wife, is surprisingly three dimensional, and I can’t fault her for wanting to do her own thing after grinding corporate for so long. I really appreciate that Khorram didn’t write her as a villain (that role goes to Ramin’s ex), and her arguments with Noah felt, honestly, extremely valid. Props to this complicated relationship grounding the loftier, romantic one!
Khorram’s It Had to Be Him is a novel of enjoyable balance: heart and hurt, love and angst, wine and pasta. On his path to romantic ever-after, Khorram hits every flavor note he has to in order to make the conclusion as heartwarming as it ends up being.
November 2, 2025
Adib Khorram books always hit exactly where I need them to: directly to my heart. Not only are his books so incredibly emotional with captivating characters, but in the case of his newer adult romance books, they are filled with grown-up, real-world decisions and delicious spice. The smut is so good that I have blushed more than a handful of times and clutched my pearls… which I love! I want the story to be so memorable that I can’t stop thinking about it.
It Had To Be Him… ***deep contented sigh*** What can I say about this book without gushing uncontrollably with love and affection for these characters? Not much, because they are perfect. Ramin and Noah are that couple you see in videos and think that they are the ideal, model relationship that you attain to have… and I’m married!!
Ramin has just been dumped. He thought going to the next step was in the cards and proposes to his (now) ex, only to be told that the relationship is going nowhere and he’s boring. BORING?! Let a man tell me I’m boring. Well, I actually probably am. 😂 I’m a married man who reads or plays video games in his free time, while my husband goes to sleep at 9pm like a lil old man. But this isn’t about me. Back to Ramin! He decides to take a little vacation for some alone, single-Ramin time, sleeping with different men across the Italian countryside.
Noah’s ex-wife is moving to Italy. She doesn’t ask him what he thinks about it. She just plans to move to the other side of the world (maybe) with their son and not give him a say. She wants a change in her life, but it’s really putting all of theirs into a tailspin. All 3 of them are spending the summer there so that their son can make a decision which parent he wants to stay with.
When Ramin and Noah bump into each other, it’s like their high school friendship is instantly brought back to life. What neither of them know is that they both had crushes on the other one 20 years ago. For Ramin, that came with a young gay boy’s fantasies. For Noah, who didn’t know he was bi until a few years later, it was just a minor obsession and intense affection. But the bromance immediately starts right back up.
While they may never have had a relationship before, this did have a bit of a second chance feel, because nothing came about all those years ago and now they finally can see what’s there. There’s also a moment where the attraction and sexual tension is INTENSE, but THERE’S ONLY ONE BED!!!! Which ends up leading into one of my favorite scenes in the book.
Oh!!! And characters from his last book, I’ll Have What He’s Having, make cameos in this one, which I always love. Because that means if Arya gets a book next, I’ll get to see my favorite boys in that book too! 🥳
I can’t express enough how much I love this book and these characters. Adib’s books have always had such a special place in my heart. I need everyone to read this IMMEDIATELY!!!!
It Had To Be Him… ***deep contented sigh*** What can I say about this book without gushing uncontrollably with love and affection for these characters? Not much, because they are perfect. Ramin and Noah are that couple you see in videos and think that they are the ideal, model relationship that you attain to have… and I’m married!!
Ramin has just been dumped. He thought going to the next step was in the cards and proposes to his (now) ex, only to be told that the relationship is going nowhere and he’s boring. BORING?! Let a man tell me I’m boring. Well, I actually probably am. 😂 I’m a married man who reads or plays video games in his free time, while my husband goes to sleep at 9pm like a lil old man. But this isn’t about me. Back to Ramin! He decides to take a little vacation for some alone, single-Ramin time, sleeping with different men across the Italian countryside.
Noah’s ex-wife is moving to Italy. She doesn’t ask him what he thinks about it. She just plans to move to the other side of the world (maybe) with their son and not give him a say. She wants a change in her life, but it’s really putting all of theirs into a tailspin. All 3 of them are spending the summer there so that their son can make a decision which parent he wants to stay with.
When Ramin and Noah bump into each other, it’s like their high school friendship is instantly brought back to life. What neither of them know is that they both had crushes on the other one 20 years ago. For Ramin, that came with a young gay boy’s fantasies. For Noah, who didn’t know he was bi until a few years later, it was just a minor obsession and intense affection. But the bromance immediately starts right back up.
While they may never have had a relationship before, this did have a bit of a second chance feel, because nothing came about all those years ago and now they finally can see what’s there. There’s also a moment where the attraction and sexual tension is INTENSE, but THERE’S ONLY ONE BED!!!! Which ends up leading into one of my favorite scenes in the book.
Oh!!! And characters from his last book, I’ll Have What He’s Having, make cameos in this one, which I always love. Because that means if Arya gets a book next, I’ll get to see my favorite boys in that book too! 🥳
I can’t express enough how much I love this book and these characters. Adib’s books have always had such a special place in my heart. I need everyone to read this IMMEDIATELY!!!!
September 4, 2025
Thank you Forever (Grand Central Publishing and Hachette Audio for providing me an early copy of this eARC and audiobook. All opinions are my own.
Ramin just got dumped whilst proposing to his boyfriend, so he does what anyone else would in that position, he gets wine drunk and books a vacation to Italy. 💁♂️
While in Italy he runs into his high school friend and former crush, Noah, who is in town helping his ex-wife introduce their son to where she’ll be moving, to see if their son would like to move there with his mom. (Honestly, some of these scenes, especially from Noah’s POV and inner thoughts about it all got me a little misty, because who would want their little to move to the other side of the world? But there’s complicated feelings, and experiences with his parents that you kinda get where he’s coming from… 😢)
So here we have Ramin who believes Noah is straight, and Noah who thinks all his flirting isn’t getting through because Ramin isn’t over his ex, and you get that will they/won’t situation. But once they realize what’s really going on in each other’s heads: 🔥.
I loved the Italian settings. We get to travel around a bit, and there’s much wine, delicious food, and fun sight seeing. It was *almost* as good as visiting Italy in real life. 😜
Noah son, Jake, was adorable, and I loved his immediate connection with Ramin.
And about that spice…well, it was definitely spicing. 👀
Overall, a wonderful (and spicy) travel romcom, that may just have you looking up plane tickets to Italy. 🛫
Audiobook notes: Corvin King and Vikas Adam were both amazing! The voices (both their voices for 9 year old Jake were absolutely adorable) and the emotion, and everything *else*, definitely recommend the audiobook.
What this book is giving:
✅ MM Travel Romance
✅ Dual POV
✅ Italian Vacation
✅ Second Chance
✅ Childhood Friends to Lovers
✅ Single Dad
✅ One Bed
✅ Food & Wine
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ½ / 5
🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
Ramin just got dumped whilst proposing to his boyfriend, so he does what anyone else would in that position, he gets wine drunk and books a vacation to Italy. 💁♂️
While in Italy he runs into his high school friend and former crush, Noah, who is in town helping his ex-wife introduce their son to where she’ll be moving, to see if their son would like to move there with his mom. (Honestly, some of these scenes, especially from Noah’s POV and inner thoughts about it all got me a little misty, because who would want their little to move to the other side of the world? But there’s complicated feelings, and experiences with his parents that you kinda get where he’s coming from… 😢)
So here we have Ramin who believes Noah is straight, and Noah who thinks all his flirting isn’t getting through because Ramin isn’t over his ex, and you get that will they/won’t situation. But once they realize what’s really going on in each other’s heads: 🔥.
I loved the Italian settings. We get to travel around a bit, and there’s much wine, delicious food, and fun sight seeing. It was *almost* as good as visiting Italy in real life. 😜
Noah son, Jake, was adorable, and I loved his immediate connection with Ramin.
And about that spice…well, it was definitely spicing. 👀
Overall, a wonderful (and spicy) travel romcom, that may just have you looking up plane tickets to Italy. 🛫
Audiobook notes: Corvin King and Vikas Adam were both amazing! The voices (both their voices for 9 year old Jake were absolutely adorable) and the emotion, and everything *else*, definitely recommend the audiobook.
What this book is giving:
✅ MM Travel Romance
✅ Dual POV
✅ Italian Vacation
✅ Second Chance
✅ Childhood Friends to Lovers
✅ Single Dad
✅ One Bed
✅ Food & Wine
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ½ / 5
🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
June 8, 2025
Well, well, well. Adib Khorram has done it again, folks. I read and loved I’ll Have What He’s Having last year, and I was ITCHING for Adib to give us (me, specifically) another adult romance. This book was EVERYTHING I wanted.
Noah and Ramin were *so* easy to root for and I loved the flashbacks to their young friendship. Ramon’s insecurities hit so so close to home for me that I actually highlighted so many passages I’ve said to myself. I also related to Noah always putting everyone else first. Absolutely guilty of that. And when I drank I definitely loved a good bottle of wine.
The romance was perfectly swoony and oh-so-romantic. Like that first kiss was gorgeous!! Their feelings for each other simmered over 20 years. Three words: ONLY ONE BED!!!!!!
And these two are so HOT for each other. I was literally sweating at some points like….. so so so so so hot. The train station about sent me into orbit. Poor Adib and Jenna who had to deal with my reactions live….🥵😮💨😏
Also - I loved all of the supporting characters especially seeing Farzan and David and Arya again (we’re getting an Arya book right!???)
Adib is not just one of my favorite writers. He’s one of my favorite people. He’s funny and smart and kind and generous. He also gives great hugs, I can attest! So definitely request from your library (I have already) and preorder (ope also done that already for a physical and audio copy) and you can get signed copies from Adib’s local indie @underthecoverkc.
Thank you @adibkhorram for this little bit of pure, queer magic. I loved it so much with all of my heart and I love you and I can’t wait to see you in a month!!!!
Noah and Ramin were *so* easy to root for and I loved the flashbacks to their young friendship. Ramon’s insecurities hit so so close to home for me that I actually highlighted so many passages I’ve said to myself. I also related to Noah always putting everyone else first. Absolutely guilty of that. And when I drank I definitely loved a good bottle of wine.
The romance was perfectly swoony and oh-so-romantic. Like that first kiss was gorgeous!! Their feelings for each other simmered over 20 years. Three words: ONLY ONE BED!!!!!!
And these two are so HOT for each other. I was literally sweating at some points like….. so so so so so hot. The train station about sent me into orbit. Poor Adib and Jenna who had to deal with my reactions live….🥵😮💨😏
Also - I loved all of the supporting characters especially seeing Farzan and David and Arya again (we’re getting an Arya book right!???)
Adib is not just one of my favorite writers. He’s one of my favorite people. He’s funny and smart and kind and generous. He also gives great hugs, I can attest! So definitely request from your library (I have already) and preorder (ope also done that already for a physical and audio copy) and you can get signed copies from Adib’s local indie @underthecoverkc.
Thank you @adibkhorram for this little bit of pure, queer magic. I loved it so much with all of my heart and I love you and I can’t wait to see you in a month!!!!
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