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French Kisses #2
Ice to Meet You
Esmé Laurent is about to trade control for chaos—and maybe love.
Esmé thrives on order. Her Paris art gallery is her world—carefully curated, immaculately run, and entirely hers. But her structured life takes a sharp turn when Matteo Romano arrives. Her new assistant is everything she isn’t—playful, spontaneous, a little younger, and brimming with Italian charm.
Mentoring Matteo for six months is the price of securing a game-changing investment in her gallery. She expects a challenge. What she doesn’t expect is Matteo himself—a golden-retriever sweetheart who upends her perfectly organised life and makes her wonder if a little chaos might be exactly what she needs.
From snowy escapes in the Italian Alps to art-filled days in Paris, their unlikely partnership sparks more than just professional growth. Matteo is learning the ropes, but Esmé? She’s discovering a whole new side of herself—one willing to risk her heart for an adventure she never saw coming.
With her reputation on the line, will she fight to keep her world intact, or will Matteo unravel her in the most irresistible way?
Book Two in the French Kisses trilogy, Ice to Meet You is a fun, flirty, and heartwarming opposites-attract romance filled with passion, charm, and a nice touch of spice.
Esmé thrives on order. Her Paris art gallery is her world—carefully curated, immaculately run, and entirely hers. But her structured life takes a sharp turn when Matteo Romano arrives. Her new assistant is everything she isn’t—playful, spontaneous, a little younger, and brimming with Italian charm.
Mentoring Matteo for six months is the price of securing a game-changing investment in her gallery. She expects a challenge. What she doesn’t expect is Matteo himself—a golden-retriever sweetheart who upends her perfectly organised life and makes her wonder if a little chaos might be exactly what she needs.
From snowy escapes in the Italian Alps to art-filled days in Paris, their unlikely partnership sparks more than just professional growth. Matteo is learning the ropes, but Esmé? She’s discovering a whole new side of herself—one willing to risk her heart for an adventure she never saw coming.
With her reputation on the line, will she fight to keep her world intact, or will Matteo unravel her in the most irresistible way?
Book Two in the French Kisses trilogy, Ice to Meet You is a fun, flirty, and heartwarming opposites-attract romance filled with passion, charm, and a nice touch of spice.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 24, 2025
26 people are currently reading
198 people want to read
About the author
Vicki Hilton
9 books112 followersJoin my newsletter and never miss another release! Sign up at vickihilton.com
Writing about love, passion and all things tingly has always been a dream for me.
Originally from rural England, I now live in Sydney’s glorious Northern Beaches, where I’m steadily gathering freckles and dipping my toes into the ocean for inspiration.
With a focus on smart, quirky heroines and sensitive, sexy heroes, I create steamy, slow burn, contemporary romance. Always on the funny side, with a nice touch of spice.
I’m a devoted wife, mother of one beautiful daughter, a wrangler of assorted animals, and a lover of Skittles.
It’s a mix made in heaven.
Sign up for free reads with my newsletter:
https://terrific-bread-223.myflodesk....
Follow me at:
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Or join my Facebook reader group Vicki Hilton's Swoonaholics: https://www.facebook.com/groups/14557...
Writing about love, passion and all things tingly has always been a dream for me.
Originally from rural England, I now live in Sydney’s glorious Northern Beaches, where I’m steadily gathering freckles and dipping my toes into the ocean for inspiration.
With a focus on smart, quirky heroines and sensitive, sexy heroes, I create steamy, slow burn, contemporary romance. Always on the funny side, with a nice touch of spice.
I’m a devoted wife, mother of one beautiful daughter, a wrangler of assorted animals, and a lover of Skittles.
It’s a mix made in heaven.
Sign up for free reads with my newsletter:
https://terrific-bread-223.myflodesk....
Follow me at:
https://www.instagram.com/vicki_hilto...
Or join my Facebook reader group Vicki Hilton's Swoonaholics: https://www.facebook.com/groups/14557...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
March 22, 2025
What an enjoyable story with such loveable characters! Esmé’s passion is art and her Paris art gallery and she meets Matteo on a trip to Italy, their meet cute is the best and their chemistry instant. This opposites attract work place romance had the perfect amount of tension, drama and banter. I loved the returning characters from The French Connection. This is book two in the French Kiss series and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I received a complementary copy from the author.
March 30, 2025
This was such a cute story with lovable characters. The meet cute was adorable and I loved the forced proximity, reverse age gap, and he falls first feels. If you are looking for a quick romcom read that leaves you with all the warm fuzzy feels, this one’s for you.
March 24, 2025
Thank you to author Vicki Hilton for providing this eARC! I'm leaving a review voluntarily, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
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Ice to Meet You is such a cute romance! It's got a bunch of fabulous tropes and a little spice (two open door scenes, and a few fade to black scenes). I enjoyed FMC Esme's growth over the story, how she learned to loosen up a little and face her fears but didn't overcome them entirely, she just got a little more comfortable with them. I can relate with my feelings about flying; I used to be terrified to go anywhere near any airport, but now I can get on an airplane. Like Esme, I'll never love flying just as she'll never enjoy heights, but we can both tolerate it when necessary.
I found MMC Matteo to be charming, if a little stereotypical. However, I love a MMC who is utterly smitten with his love interest, so he gets a pass. He can make pasta from scratch, make healing ointments with herbs, ski like a champion, zip line like a pro, and provide four hours worth of "gifts from God", as he calls them. IYKYK.
Although this is tagged age-gap and is marketed as age-gap, it's just a four year difference. The MMC is 27 and the FMC is 31. This, however, bothers the FMC a lot and she seems rather hung up on it, and often rounds the difference up and says it's "nearly" a five year difference (although neither character's birthday is ever disclosed). Esme is really hung up on her reputation, as the art world of Paris can be cutthroat, and she fixates on appearances a lot. What she fails to realize though is in ten years, no one will care they're 37 and 41, or in twenty, 47 and 51. I am left wondering though, how high-stakes the reputation game really is though, since she seems to continuously come out on top, despite her concerns. I could have understood this a little better if it were clarified that Esme has an anxiety disorder (like meeee) which would help explain the worries that she feels that no other characters seem to experience.
Overall, Ice to Meet You is a little spicy, a little adventury, a little rom-commy, and a whole lot of cute. If a besotted Italian MMC does anything for you at all, definitely read this one.
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Ice to Meet You is such a cute romance! It's got a bunch of fabulous tropes and a little spice (two open door scenes, and a few fade to black scenes). I enjoyed FMC Esme's growth over the story, how she learned to loosen up a little and face her fears but didn't overcome them entirely, she just got a little more comfortable with them. I can relate with my feelings about flying; I used to be terrified to go anywhere near any airport, but now I can get on an airplane. Like Esme, I'll never love flying just as she'll never enjoy heights, but we can both tolerate it when necessary.
I found MMC Matteo to be charming, if a little stereotypical. However, I love a MMC who is utterly smitten with his love interest, so he gets a pass. He can make pasta from scratch, make healing ointments with herbs, ski like a champion, zip line like a pro, and provide four hours worth of "gifts from God", as he calls them. IYKYK.
Although this is tagged age-gap and is marketed as age-gap, it's just a four year difference. The MMC is 27 and the FMC is 31. This, however, bothers the FMC a lot and she seems rather hung up on it, and often rounds the difference up and says it's "nearly" a five year difference (although neither character's birthday is ever disclosed). Esme is really hung up on her reputation, as the art world of Paris can be cutthroat, and she fixates on appearances a lot. What she fails to realize though is in ten years, no one will care they're 37 and 41, or in twenty, 47 and 51. I am left wondering though, how high-stakes the reputation game really is though, since she seems to continuously come out on top, despite her concerns. I could have understood this a little better if it were clarified that Esme has an anxiety disorder (like meeee) which would help explain the worries that she feels that no other characters seem to experience.
Overall, Ice to Meet You is a little spicy, a little adventury, a little rom-commy, and a whole lot of cute. If a besotted Italian MMC does anything for you at all, definitely read this one.
March 28, 2025
Esmé is an independent and reliable art gallery owner that is trying to expand her business to Italy. She thrives in order and is an perfectionist. She needs help from one investor to achieve her dream. So, she does what she must and goes to a sky resort to meet her investor and plead her case.
Matteo is a spontaneous, extrovert and adrenaline addict that loves extreme sports and the rush they bring. He doesn't like predictability or a steady normal and boring job. He tries to please his family by hiding his true self.
They have a funny and sweet meet cute in the slopes, but they are appart from each other fastest than they could imagine and they never got to exchance their names.
They meet again when Matteo goes to work in Esmé's art gallery. He needs to please his grandfather and she needs his grandfather's investment in her business. So what can go wrong? Their attractions is off limits, since they are coworkers and investment ones. So why can't they stop thinking about each other? And of each moment spent together?
As time goes by, and their resolve to stay appart (mainly by Matteos perseverance) we see a true bond form between them and with that a good and strong love.
But what happens when their relationship is discovered? How will she garantee her investment then? How will he explain his grandfather that this isn’t the life for him? Can opposite worlds mingle and comement each other? Heck yes! He helps her be more spontaneous, brave and outgoing. She helps him be more organized, attentive and have structure. He is her ying to her yang and the mix is perfection.
I really liked and got attached to both main characters. I related to Esmé and her personality and understood her need to make herself succeed. She was sweet, and she needed someone like Matteo to make her come out of her confort zone. He was an extrovert by gosh, oh so sweet. Since he met her he just had eyes for her and made her feel special.
And Claudette? I do love a book with a furry friend as sweet as her.
Matteo is a spontaneous, extrovert and adrenaline addict that loves extreme sports and the rush they bring. He doesn't like predictability or a steady normal and boring job. He tries to please his family by hiding his true self.
They have a funny and sweet meet cute in the slopes, but they are appart from each other fastest than they could imagine and they never got to exchance their names.
They meet again when Matteo goes to work in Esmé's art gallery. He needs to please his grandfather and she needs his grandfather's investment in her business. So what can go wrong? Their attractions is off limits, since they are coworkers and investment ones. So why can't they stop thinking about each other? And of each moment spent together?
As time goes by, and their resolve to stay appart (mainly by Matteos perseverance) we see a true bond form between them and with that a good and strong love.
But what happens when their relationship is discovered? How will she garantee her investment then? How will he explain his grandfather that this isn’t the life for him? Can opposite worlds mingle and comement each other? Heck yes! He helps her be more spontaneous, brave and outgoing. She helps him be more organized, attentive and have structure. He is her ying to her yang and the mix is perfection.
I really liked and got attached to both main characters. I related to Esmé and her personality and understood her need to make herself succeed. She was sweet, and she needed someone like Matteo to make her come out of her confort zone. He was an extrovert by gosh, oh so sweet. Since he met her he just had eyes for her and made her feel special.
And Claudette? I do love a book with a furry friend as sweet as her.
April 19, 2025
I'm super late with this ARC for the amazing @vicki_hilton_author Ihad a lot of medical and life problems pop up so I am so sorry. But I am so grateful and happy I was sent this book because it was absolutely adorable and hilarious! It is a standalone but it does connect with characters from her other book. This is a reverse age gap with so much humor and so much swooning moments 😍
ESMÉ
She is determined to open an art gallery in Italy and needs approval/investment from a well respected man who is known in the art world. She's hard working and determined but focuses too much on what she thinks other people will think. She takes the safest routes and avoids anything that could ruin her reputation. But that all goes out the window thanks to a Pikachu sticker and a malfunctioning carlift.
Matteo
So many different words could be used to describe Matteo. Charming, sexy, life of the party, charismatic, but one that stands out to me besides loving is vulnerable. He wants those he love to be proud of him, to see HIM for who he is. He never felt like he was enough. He loves doing extreme sports and decided to do something with his knowledge and fame. He's honestly hard working especially when he's passionate.
I loved this cute story so much. I giggled, swooned and smiled nonstop while reading this story. Their chemistry and interactions had me grinning so much. I couldn't put it down at all. Their meet cute was perfection.
Seriously this story helped cheer me up when I was down and it was so beyond cute and adorable. I love know I'll love anything she writes but this one is going to absolutely be my favorite of hers. Everything just fit perfectly and flowed so well.
"A tightness gripped my chest. Matteo Romano was a walking, smooth-talking red flag, only to be waved at my peril."
ESMÉ
She is determined to open an art gallery in Italy and needs approval/investment from a well respected man who is known in the art world. She's hard working and determined but focuses too much on what she thinks other people will think. She takes the safest routes and avoids anything that could ruin her reputation. But that all goes out the window thanks to a Pikachu sticker and a malfunctioning carlift.
Matteo
So many different words could be used to describe Matteo. Charming, sexy, life of the party, charismatic, but one that stands out to me besides loving is vulnerable. He wants those he love to be proud of him, to see HIM for who he is. He never felt like he was enough. He loves doing extreme sports and decided to do something with his knowledge and fame. He's honestly hard working especially when he's passionate.
I loved this cute story so much. I giggled, swooned and smiled nonstop while reading this story. Their chemistry and interactions had me grinning so much. I couldn't put it down at all. Their meet cute was perfection.
Seriously this story helped cheer me up when I was down and it was so beyond cute and adorable. I love know I'll love anything she writes but this one is going to absolutely be my favorite of hers. Everything just fit perfectly and flowed so well.
"A tightness gripped my chest. Matteo Romano was a walking, smooth-talking red flag, only to be waved at my peril."
April 3, 2025
📚🩷 ARC Thoughts and First Impressions 🩷📚
Okay, but who gave this book the right to be so freaking adorable?! I was absolutely swooning from page one! This story is the perfect mix of elegance and chaos, just like our two leads. Imagine a perfectly put-together Parisian queen who lives for structure suddenly thrown into the whirlwind that is an Italian golden retriever in human form. Yep, you know sparks are flying! ✨🔥
Tropes galore! We’ve got:
💖 Grumpy/Sunshine (but make it sophisticated Parisian and charmingly chaotic Italian)
🎨 Workplace Romance (mentorship never looked this good 👀)
🏔️ Forced Proximity (because snowy adventures in the Alps? Yes, please!)
💋 Slow Burn with a Side of Spice (the tension had me ready to combust!)
Matteo is basically a walking flirtation device, and Esmé is fighting for her life trying to resist his charm. But let’s be real—who wouldn’t crumble under all that playful teasing and heart-melting sweetness?! The banter, the stolen glances, the “oh no, there’s only one bed” moments—it’s all just so deliciously addictive! 😍
And can we talk about the VIBES?! Parisian art galleries, dreamy Italian backdrops, and a romance that feels like stepping into a rom-com movie. This book is pure sunshine and spice wrapped in the most swoony, heartwarming package. If you love your romance with charm, chaos, and a hero who is basically a human espresso shot of energy and love, this one’s for you! ☕💘
Final thoughts? Esmé may have been trying to teach Matteo the ropes, but he totally taught her how to live—and I lived for every second of it! ✨💕
Okay, but who gave this book the right to be so freaking adorable?! I was absolutely swooning from page one! This story is the perfect mix of elegance and chaos, just like our two leads. Imagine a perfectly put-together Parisian queen who lives for structure suddenly thrown into the whirlwind that is an Italian golden retriever in human form. Yep, you know sparks are flying! ✨🔥
Tropes galore! We’ve got:
💖 Grumpy/Sunshine (but make it sophisticated Parisian and charmingly chaotic Italian)
🎨 Workplace Romance (mentorship never looked this good 👀)
🏔️ Forced Proximity (because snowy adventures in the Alps? Yes, please!)
💋 Slow Burn with a Side of Spice (the tension had me ready to combust!)
Matteo is basically a walking flirtation device, and Esmé is fighting for her life trying to resist his charm. But let’s be real—who wouldn’t crumble under all that playful teasing and heart-melting sweetness?! The banter, the stolen glances, the “oh no, there’s only one bed” moments—it’s all just so deliciously addictive! 😍
And can we talk about the VIBES?! Parisian art galleries, dreamy Italian backdrops, and a romance that feels like stepping into a rom-com movie. This book is pure sunshine and spice wrapped in the most swoony, heartwarming package. If you love your romance with charm, chaos, and a hero who is basically a human espresso shot of energy and love, this one’s for you! ☕💘
Final thoughts? Esmé may have been trying to teach Matteo the ropes, but he totally taught her how to live—and I lived for every second of it! ✨💕
March 18, 2025
Esmé’s loves her life, running an Art Gallery in Paris with hopes of opening a second in Italy. A day on the ski slopes with a prospective investor takes an interesting turn when her ski fails and she gets rescued by Matteo. They end up sharing a quick kiss on a ski lift but he soon takes off and Esme is left wondering who the charming Italian was.
When Gio her investor asks for her to mentor his grandson for 6 months in exchange for his investment she reluctantly takes the offer, what she didn’t except is for it to be Matteo. He brings chaos into her life but maybe she needed it, he pushes her to take risks and she discover a whole new side to herself.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is such a fun, easy to read workplace romance. Esmé and Matteo just seemed so perfect for each other, why is it that men don’t see a 4 year age gap as anything but women really analyse it, thinking they can’t be attractive to someone younger, maybe the age gap should have been a bit bigger as their was quite a bit of emphasis put on it when 4 years seems so insignificant.
Matteo is such a sweetheart, really pushing Esme to achieve her career goals but also push her to overcome her fears. His career when it was revealed seemed an obvious fit for him but I just hadn’t twigged. It was well put together as really allowed the ending to play out perfectly.
When Gio her investor asks for her to mentor his grandson for 6 months in exchange for his investment she reluctantly takes the offer, what she didn’t except is for it to be Matteo. He brings chaos into her life but maybe she needed it, he pushes her to take risks and she discover a whole new side to herself.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is such a fun, easy to read workplace romance. Esmé and Matteo just seemed so perfect for each other, why is it that men don’t see a 4 year age gap as anything but women really analyse it, thinking they can’t be attractive to someone younger, maybe the age gap should have been a bit bigger as their was quite a bit of emphasis put on it when 4 years seems so insignificant.
Matteo is such a sweetheart, really pushing Esme to achieve her career goals but also push her to overcome her fears. His career when it was revealed seemed an obvious fit for him but I just hadn’t twigged. It was well put together as really allowed the ending to play out perfectly.
March 26, 2025
I’ve said it before but I must say it again, I absolutely love this author’s sense of humor and I can’t count the many time I have caught myself snickering or all out laughing while reading her books. This one was no exception and an absolute delight. I would describe this romcom as an insta-attraction that converts into a slow burn with a reverse age gap of just four years with a work place hitch between one person who is an extreme risk taker, Matteo Romano, and Esmé Laurent is extremely careful and horrifying afraid of heights. Their first meet up was absolutely my favorite but I have to admit I laughed the hardest over the bubble wrap/stiletto heel second meet up and the zip line experience was one of those humiliating circumstances where you just can’t help but laugh even though you feel their pain. I have to add that I loved how Matteo could definitely spin a good story rivaling Iris from book one. Just proves how great this author is. Imagination off the charts! Matteo’s connection with Claudette left me in swoon stage and of course, this author knows how to do the romance and chemistry thing too. I’m so glad I found this author. She’s my go to when life is getting too serious. Give her books a try, I do hope you will enjoy them as much as I do.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 20, 2025
Vicki Hilton’s Ice to Meet You is a delightful romance that combines warmth, humor, and a touch of tension. The novel centers around a quirky yet endearing protagonist, who finds herself navigating an unexpected love story in a chilly, wintry setting. Hilton’s writing shines with its wit and charm, drawing readers into a world where love blooms in the most unlikely places.
The chemistry between the main characters is palpable, with their interactions feeling genuine and heartfelt. Hilton does a fantastic job of balancing light-hearted moments with deeper emotional layers, making the romantic journey both entertaining and moving.
The pacing is well-managed, although some readers may find the plot a bit predictable. However, the enjoyable characters and the engaging writing style more than make up for it. Ice to Meet You also delves into themes of self-discovery and vulnerability, adding substance to the feel-good narrative.
While the book is certainly a cozy read that will appeal to fans of rom-coms, it occasionally lacks some of the complexity found in more dramatic romances. Nonetheless, Ice to Meet You is a charming, easy read that will leave readers with a smile on their faces.
March 20, 2025
ARC Review - 🌟🌟🌟.5 (3.5 stars)
Ice to Meet You is a sweet, slow-burn romance that starts with an adorable meet-cute on a ski lift. After an unexpected (and accidental!) kiss, Esme and Matteo part ways without names or contact info, both convinced they’ve missed their chance. But fate — with a little meddling from Matteo’s matchmaking grandparents — brings them back together when Matteo arrives at Esme’s art gallery, ready to be her assistant for the next six months.
From there, the tension simmers. Between Esme trying to navigate the challenges of being seen as the "older woman," the boss, and someone trying to secure an important investment, the will-they-won’t-they dynamic keeps you hooked. There are even a few villains along the way to shake things up.
I loved how Matteo helps pull Esme out of her shell, encouraging her to take risks and embrace adventure, while she grounds him and provides stability. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their growth — both individually and together — is so satisfying to watch.
If you love a charming slow burn with snow, art, extreme sports, meddling grandparents, and strong friendships, Ice to Meet You should be on your list!
Ice to Meet You is a sweet, slow-burn romance that starts with an adorable meet-cute on a ski lift. After an unexpected (and accidental!) kiss, Esme and Matteo part ways without names or contact info, both convinced they’ve missed their chance. But fate — with a little meddling from Matteo’s matchmaking grandparents — brings them back together when Matteo arrives at Esme’s art gallery, ready to be her assistant for the next six months.
From there, the tension simmers. Between Esme trying to navigate the challenges of being seen as the "older woman," the boss, and someone trying to secure an important investment, the will-they-won’t-they dynamic keeps you hooked. There are even a few villains along the way to shake things up.
I loved how Matteo helps pull Esme out of her shell, encouraging her to take risks and embrace adventure, while she grounds him and provides stability. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their growth — both individually and together — is so satisfying to watch.
If you love a charming slow burn with snow, art, extreme sports, meddling grandparents, and strong friendships, Ice to Meet You should be on your list!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2025
The two MC's Esmé and Matteo have a short meet on a skilift in Tiano Italy but they don't know eachother's name and both regret not asking.
Esmé has an art gallery in Paris and wants to open a new gallery in Rome. She asked Gio to become an investor which he agrees with one condition. She has to teach and train his grandson the tricks of the trade and get him excited about art.
Little does she know Gio's grandson Matteo is the handsome man she met during her ski-trip in Tiano.
It was a very fun, fluffy story with a few spicy scenes. I loved it that Iris and Luc made an appearance in the story and to know that they still are big time in love.
I hope the epilogue was a teaser for the next book in this series... Chloe x single dad.... *hopefull*
Here are some scenes/quotes I realy loved:
Meanwhile, I was out here butchering bongiorno like it owed me money.
"You've heard of horse whisperers? Snake charmers? Just think of me as a tabby tamer." He wiggled his dark eyebrows.
A smile spread across my face as the little gallery cat wrestled with my forearm. If only Antonio knew how far Claudette, or Esmé, had already clawed herway into my heart.
-> Matteo fell so hard for Esmé <3
"Technically, you're only eploying me for my grandfather's investment. Does that make me a gigolo?"
-> Matteo's humor is so funny
"I see him look at hyou like this and I think of his father. The way he looked at Matteo's mother. Like she was the most precious thing he'd ever seen."
-> Gio talking about Matteo
Esmé has an art gallery in Paris and wants to open a new gallery in Rome. She asked Gio to become an investor which he agrees with one condition. She has to teach and train his grandson the tricks of the trade and get him excited about art.
Little does she know Gio's grandson Matteo is the handsome man she met during her ski-trip in Tiano.
It was a very fun, fluffy story with a few spicy scenes. I loved it that Iris and Luc made an appearance in the story and to know that they still are big time in love.
I hope the epilogue was a teaser for the next book in this series... Chloe x single dad.... *hopefull*
Here are some scenes/quotes I realy loved:
Meanwhile, I was out here butchering bongiorno like it owed me money.
"You've heard of horse whisperers? Snake charmers? Just think of me as a tabby tamer." He wiggled his dark eyebrows.
A smile spread across my face as the little gallery cat wrestled with my forearm. If only Antonio knew how far Claudette, or Esmé, had already clawed herway into my heart.
-> Matteo fell so hard for Esmé <3
"Technically, you're only eploying me for my grandfather's investment. Does that make me a gigolo?"
-> Matteo's humor is so funny
"I see him look at hyou like this and I think of his father. The way he looked at Matteo's mother. Like she was the most precious thing he'd ever seen."
-> Gio talking about Matteo
March 27, 2025
Ice to Meet You by Vicki Hilton is a delightful romantic comedy that combines charm, humor, and a touch of holiday magic. Set against the backdrop of wintery landscapes, this book brings together a quirky cast of characters, an engaging storyline, and a perfect mix of sweetness and wit.
The main character,Esmé is likable and relatable, navigating the ups and downs of life, love, and personal growth. The romance develops in a heartwarming way, with great chemistry between the leads, and it’s clear that Hilton knows how to balance emotional moments with lighthearted humor.
One of the standout aspects of Ice to Meet You is Hilton’s skillful world-building. The small-town setting feels cozy and welcoming, and the author does a great job of making the reader feel like they’re right there, bundled up in the winter chill with the characters. The pacing of the story is also spot-on, making it a quick and enjoyable read without feeling overwhelmed.
Overall, Ice to Meet You is a charming and heartwarming story that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies and holiday-themed books. It’s a perfect read for when you’re in the mood for something sweet, cozy, and uplifting.
The main character,Esmé is likable and relatable, navigating the ups and downs of life, love, and personal growth. The romance develops in a heartwarming way, with great chemistry between the leads, and it’s clear that Hilton knows how to balance emotional moments with lighthearted humor.
One of the standout aspects of Ice to Meet You is Hilton’s skillful world-building. The small-town setting feels cozy and welcoming, and the author does a great job of making the reader feel like they’re right there, bundled up in the winter chill with the characters. The pacing of the story is also spot-on, making it a quick and enjoyable read without feeling overwhelmed.
Overall, Ice to Meet You is a charming and heartwarming story that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies and holiday-themed books. It’s a perfect read for when you’re in the mood for something sweet, cozy, and uplifting.
April 4, 2025
I really enjoyed the use of figurative language throughout the book, as well as the amount of detail given to setting and physical descriptions, as they provided clear images of the scenes. There were a few instances where emotional aspects of the story were told, rather than shown, however, and I found myself wanting more from the narrative in those moments.
The frequent emphasis of Esmé’s age being conflated with “old” didn’t make sense to me. She’s only 31, and Matteo is 27. As a result, all of the issues that arose from their “age gap” felt unrealistic, because they were only four years apart. The age difference between someone in their late twenties and someone beginning their thirties was treated like there were decades between them, and every time the subject came up it seemed exaggerated to me.
The third act conflict also felt out of step with the rest of the story, and I found myself wanting more description of the characters’ emotional states in the wake of what occurred.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 22, 2025
This is such a fun, easy to read romance.
💗 meet cute
💗 slight reverse age gap
💗 multi-cultural - she’s French he’s Italian
💗 forced proximity
💗 boss x employee
💗 golden retriever vibes
💗 opposites attract
💗 slow burn
Esmé and Matteo just seemed so perfect for each other, why is it that men don’t see a 4 year age gap as anything but women really analyse it, maybe if the age gap was a bit bigger but 4 years seems so insignificant. Especially since they were both over 25!
What was cute to me was how both characters were so eager to fit into each other's lives making their relationship feel even more special.
Matteo is such a sweetheart, really pushing Esme to achieve her career goals but also push her to overcome her fears. His career when it was revealed seemed an obvious fit for him but I just hadn’t twigged. It was well put together as really allowed the ending to play out perfectly.
Highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a sweet, feel-good rom-com!
Thanks to BOOKSIrens for the eARC!
March 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
❄️Slow Burn
❄️Boss x Employee
❄️Reverse Age Gap
❄️Italian MMC
❄️French FMC
❄️Opposites Attract
❄️Forced Proximity
Ice To Meet You is a super cute slow burn romance following Esmé (FMC) and Matteo (MMC) in the beautiful city of Paris. Esmé owns an art gallery and has been hoping to gain the backing of an investor to help her open a second gallery. However part of the conditions for the investment involve her taking on the investor's grandson for 6 months. Matteo on the other hand does not want to follow in his grandfather's footsteps and would rather do something he loves. The two quickly fall into a hidden relationship as to not jeopardize Esmé's reputation in the art industry and risk her investment backing.
The tension and the banter between the two is so fun, making this a super quick and great read. Thank you Vicki Hilton for allowing me to read this early as an ARC. The review contains my own thoughts and opinions.
🌶️
❄️Slow Burn
❄️Boss x Employee
❄️Reverse Age Gap
❄️Italian MMC
❄️French FMC
❄️Opposites Attract
❄️Forced Proximity
Ice To Meet You is a super cute slow burn romance following Esmé (FMC) and Matteo (MMC) in the beautiful city of Paris. Esmé owns an art gallery and has been hoping to gain the backing of an investor to help her open a second gallery. However part of the conditions for the investment involve her taking on the investor's grandson for 6 months. Matteo on the other hand does not want to follow in his grandfather's footsteps and would rather do something he loves. The two quickly fall into a hidden relationship as to not jeopardize Esmé's reputation in the art industry and risk her investment backing.
The tension and the banter between the two is so fun, making this a super quick and great read. Thank you Vicki Hilton for allowing me to read this early as an ARC. The review contains my own thoughts and opinions.
March 18, 2025
Esme and Matteo meet on a ski lift and then reunite in Paris. There’s sparks, surprise, laughter, and slow burn. Everything that Vick does best. I love the reverse age gap, they are opposites attract and complement each other nicely.
Esme is professional and does not take chances. She is all about her career and keeping up appearances. Matteo seeks adventure, lives life to the fullest, and is exactly what Esme needs. They are attracted to each other, but Esme doesn’t think it’s a good idea. After all, she owns an art gallery, and the Paris social scene is very gossipy.
What I love most about this couple is that she is open to adventure and he is there to guide her and show her how alive she can feel.
If you love a slow burn with opposites attract, with a man that can cook and that loves cats, with looks that make women melt read this you won’t regret it.
Esme is professional and does not take chances. She is all about her career and keeping up appearances. Matteo seeks adventure, lives life to the fullest, and is exactly what Esme needs. They are attracted to each other, but Esme doesn’t think it’s a good idea. After all, she owns an art gallery, and the Paris social scene is very gossipy.
What I love most about this couple is that she is open to adventure and he is there to guide her and show her how alive she can feel.
If you love a slow burn with opposites attract, with a man that can cook and that loves cats, with looks that make women melt read this you won’t regret it.
March 20, 2025
Vicki has given us another in this series. Esme and Matteo have a chance one time encounter on the ski slopes and a maybe kiss of sorts. Now back in France running her art gallery having secured her financial investment she's in her comfortable surroundings and life is normal. Well so she thinks until Matteo turns up as her new intern who will learn from her guidance. This is a slow burn, fun with just a touch of tension and underlying romance story that will just keep endearing you to the two main characters. Matteo comes across as a happy go lucky guy with no worries, but he's a lot more and even his wild stories are quite believable. Can he help show Esme how to have her career and still have a fun life. Will Matteo and his quirks just cause more tension for Esme and will her loved cat actually help to endear Matteo to her. I loved this book and couldn't put it down
March 21, 2025
This was such a delightful read!
I absolutely loved the plot and the dynamic between the characters. The opposites-attract theme was done so beautifully, with each character complementing the other in ways that felt genuine and heartfelt. The romance was sweet and full of care, with details that made their connection feel real.
As for the age gap—honestly, it was no big deal for me. With less than five years between them and both characters being over 25, it didn't really seem to matter in the grand scheme of things. What stood out most to me was how both characters were so eager to fit into each other's lives, thrully knowing one another, making their relationship feel even more special.
The romantic scenes were simply perfect, filled with tenderness and real emotion, at the same time cute and funy. Highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a sweet, feel-good romance!
I absolutely loved the plot and the dynamic between the characters. The opposites-attract theme was done so beautifully, with each character complementing the other in ways that felt genuine and heartfelt. The romance was sweet and full of care, with details that made their connection feel real.
As for the age gap—honestly, it was no big deal for me. With less than five years between them and both characters being over 25, it didn't really seem to matter in the grand scheme of things. What stood out most to me was how both characters were so eager to fit into each other's lives, thrully knowing one another, making their relationship feel even more special.
The romantic scenes were simply perfect, filled with tenderness and real emotion, at the same time cute and funy. Highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a sweet, feel-good romance!
March 26, 2025
Great fun
This had me giggling from the start and bringing bursts of laughter throughout.
Ms Hilton delivers amazing imagery alongside cute and quirky characters that instantly endear themselves to your heart.
Esme was sweet and focused and Matteo was a cute and joyful breath of fresh air.
They were instantly drawn to each other during their ski-lift meet-cute, but reality had Esme trying to deny the attraction while Matteo is all systems go, making this a flirty slow-burn.
Wonderful humour and witty banter, beautiful main and cute side characters, a sweet cat, with romance, sweetness, swoons and spice all cleverly woven together to build a charming, little, art filled “French Kiss” that is well worth reading.
I can’t wait to see what journey book three of the series will take me on.
A lighthearted and easy “Must Read”.
This had me giggling from the start and bringing bursts of laughter throughout.
Ms Hilton delivers amazing imagery alongside cute and quirky characters that instantly endear themselves to your heart.
Esme was sweet and focused and Matteo was a cute and joyful breath of fresh air.
They were instantly drawn to each other during their ski-lift meet-cute, but reality had Esme trying to deny the attraction while Matteo is all systems go, making this a flirty slow-burn.
Wonderful humour and witty banter, beautiful main and cute side characters, a sweet cat, with romance, sweetness, swoons and spice all cleverly woven together to build a charming, little, art filled “French Kiss” that is well worth reading.
I can’t wait to see what journey book three of the series will take me on.
A lighthearted and easy “Must Read”.
March 18, 2025
I have to be honest: being really into skiing, I signed up for the arc based on the cover image, thinking it would be fun to read a skiing romance. While Ice to Meet You does not revolve around skiing per se, it’s a fun and swoonworthy romance story. Esme is a serious and respectable art gallery owner, while her new intern Matteo is an Italian adrenaline junkie. There’s instant magnetism which Esme tries to ignore, as she’s struggling with her doubts and fears. This book was a quick and fun read with just the right amount of fluff and spice. Read this if you’re into
📖 forced proximity
📖 boss x employee
📖 small reverse age gap
📖 lots of swoonworthy scenes
📖 French fmc x Italian mmc
📖 a cute and independent cat
📖 funny moments
📖 a bit of spice 🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖 forced proximity
📖 boss x employee
📖 small reverse age gap
📖 lots of swoonworthy scenes
📖 French fmc x Italian mmc
📖 a cute and independent cat
📖 funny moments
📖 a bit of spice 🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 23, 2025
Esmé runs an art gallery in Paris and is in negotiations with a possible investor to open another gallery in Rome. She has an accidental encounter with Matteo on a ski chairlift that leaves a lasting impression on both of them. When she meets with the investor, he has one condition, employ his grandson as her assistant for six months. How can she refuse? However, when Matteo arrives at her gallery they are both find it hard to resist the chemistry between them. Matteo runs an extreme experience business that he knows his grandfather won't approve of but has agreed to work with Esmé despite not wanting to work in the family art business. This was a funny and steamy read with Esmé's purrfect cat companion having a starring role throughout the story.
March 25, 2025
Mateo Romano grandson of Maria and Gio Romano.
Maria and Gio Romano is Mateo’s grandson. And into the art scene in Italy.
Esmee Laurent is an art gallery dealer and owns her gallery in Paris France.
Esmee and Mateo meet at a ski resort and was in trouble with her ski did not attach to her boot and a problem to get on ski lift but Mateo was a gentleman and helped her . The attraction and chemistry is a slow burn to to explosive firecrackers.
Unbeknownst to Esmee Gio and Maria Romano are Mateo’s grandparents
who she is trying to get funding to open up a second gallery in Rome.
Can they get things straightened out with his grandparents and have a Happily Ever After?
This book has humor, warmth some tense moments , age gap
but very enjoyable
Great Job. Vicki Hilton !!!!
Maria and Gio Romano is Mateo’s grandson. And into the art scene in Italy.
Esmee Laurent is an art gallery dealer and owns her gallery in Paris France.
Esmee and Mateo meet at a ski resort and was in trouble with her ski did not attach to her boot and a problem to get on ski lift but Mateo was a gentleman and helped her . The attraction and chemistry is a slow burn to to explosive firecrackers.
Unbeknownst to Esmee Gio and Maria Romano are Mateo’s grandparents
who she is trying to get funding to open up a second gallery in Rome.
Can they get things straightened out with his grandparents and have a Happily Ever After?
This book has humor, warmth some tense moments , age gap
but very enjoyable
Great Job. Vicki Hilton !!!!
March 18, 2025
Esme and Matteo 2 strangers who meet on a ski lift. Esme who has a broken clip on her ski's wearing borrowed clothes and doesn't like heights finds herself strangely attracted to a young sexy stranger who comes to her rescue.
Matteo who stumbles across a quirky lady who is struggling with a broken ski clip and helps her on her way.
Time passes and their paths cross again. Esme who is works art gallery finds herself taking on an assistant as part of the deal to secure financial assistance never expected the Gio's grandson would be the grandson.
A lovely slow burn age gap romance story.
A slow burn
Matteo who stumbles across a quirky lady who is struggling with a broken ski clip and helps her on her way.
Time passes and their paths cross again. Esme who is works art gallery finds herself taking on an assistant as part of the deal to secure financial assistance never expected the Gio's grandson would be the grandson.
A lovely slow burn age gap romance story.
A slow burn
March 19, 2025
⛷️🎨🏂🖼🎿ᴀʀᴄ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ᴏғ ɪᴄᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴇᴇᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ʙʏ ᴠɪᴄᴋɪ ʜɪʟᴛᴏɴ🎿🖼🏂🎨⛷️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶.5/5
Esme and Matteo’s meet-cute was so much fun! This story was a lighthearted and sweet romance, with a slow burn that made the journey enjoyable. It was such a charming read, and I loved every moment of it.
I’m excited to see what’s next in Vicki’s French Kisses series!
What To Expect:
Slow Burn
Opposites Attract
Reverse Age Gap
Forced Proximity
#IceToMeetYou #VickiHilton #FrenchKissesSeries #LivingMyBestBookishLife #SlowBurnRomance #ReverseAgeGap #RomanceBooks #BookLover #Bookish #RomanceReads #Bookstagram #BookReview #ARCRead
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶.5/5
Esme and Matteo’s meet-cute was so much fun! This story was a lighthearted and sweet romance, with a slow burn that made the journey enjoyable. It was such a charming read, and I loved every moment of it.
I’m excited to see what’s next in Vicki’s French Kisses series!
What To Expect:
Slow Burn
Opposites Attract
Reverse Age Gap
Forced Proximity
#IceToMeetYou #VickiHilton #FrenchKissesSeries #LivingMyBestBookishLife #SlowBurnRomance #ReverseAgeGap #RomanceBooks #BookLover #Bookish #RomanceReads #Bookstagram #BookReview #ARCRead
March 19, 2025
❄️ Opposites Attract
🩷 Slow Burn
❄️ Mini Reverse Age Gap
🩷 Italian MMC
❄️ Boss x Employee
🩷 Forced Proximity
Esmé and Matteo meet on a chair lift, but they don‘t trade names or anything, so when he drives off without a word, she thinks she‘ll never see him again. Matteo comes to work in her gallery, as a favor for an investor for her new gallery. Then the two get to know each other more! ❄️
This was a cute rom-com! I could really see this being in a movie, and had to laugh a lot! I really liked how he encouraged her to step over her shadows, but was with her every step of the way to help her! All in all a very cute read! 🩷
I received an eARC and voluntarily left a review!
🩷 Slow Burn
❄️ Mini Reverse Age Gap
🩷 Italian MMC
❄️ Boss x Employee
🩷 Forced Proximity
Esmé and Matteo meet on a chair lift, but they don‘t trade names or anything, so when he drives off without a word, she thinks she‘ll never see him again. Matteo comes to work in her gallery, as a favor for an investor for her new gallery. Then the two get to know each other more! ❄️
This was a cute rom-com! I could really see this being in a movie, and had to laugh a lot! I really liked how he encouraged her to step over her shadows, but was with her every step of the way to help her! All in all a very cute read! 🩷
I received an eARC and voluntarily left a review!
March 24, 2025
Oof, this was exactly the escapist read i needed right now! The setting was so beautiful, wineries and art galleries and European beauty…all the sensory detail felt so real and the descriptions of Italian food made me hungry! As for the characters, I loved them. Matteo is so charming and irresistible. I love how he sees what’s beautiful in Esme and can’t keep himself away from her, even though the career stakes for both of them are high. This was a rom com in the classic sense, with beautiful prose and a pace that keeps you coming back for more. When the slow burn finally resolves it’s, mweh! Chef’s kiss. Five stars all the way. Keep the love stories coming, Vicki Hilton!
April 1, 2025
This was such a cute book! I loved Matteo and the fact that he was so energetic and adventurous makes him a wonderful book boyfriend. His devotion to Esme was so sweet and I absolutely loved the banter and the ups and downs that their relationship had throughout this book. It felt like reading a hallmark movie and I love books that are like that. I read the first book in this series and it was fun to see those characters again throughout this book (I love an interconnected story). I would highly recommend this book if you’re into hot Italian adventure seekers, cute cats, and true love. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 7, 2025
3.5 stars, rounding up because it made me smile! This was such a fun, flirty opposites-attract romance! The meet-cute was adorable, the workplace tension hit all the right notes, and Matteo was the perfect mix of cocky and charming. I especially loved the zip lining scene and their dynamic throughout—so much great chemistry. The story dragged a little in the middle, and the third-act conflict didn’t totally work for me, especially with Esmé’s repeated hang-up on their minor age gap (four years isn’t that deep!). But overall, it was a swoony, satisfying read with an ending that was chef’s kiss. Definitely a standout in the French Kisses series.
April 14, 2025
I wanted to like this book, but it was hard for me to relate to the characters. The only thing that I looked forwarded to was the parts when Claudette the cat made her appearance. Don’t get me wrong, this book was written well and had a good romance story line, it just wasn’t for me.
Esme was very dedicated to her career and a little uptight. Though Matteo also was serious about his career decisions, he was more carefree and open. Esme and her concern about age difference and her reputation on who she was dating, kind of got tiring. Understandable, just not my thing.
I received an ARC and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Esme was very dedicated to her career and a little uptight. Though Matteo also was serious about his career decisions, he was more carefree and open. Esme and her concern about age difference and her reputation on who she was dating, kind of got tiring. Understandable, just not my thing.
I received an ARC and am leaving a review voluntarily.
April 16, 2025
Esmé and Matteo have a meet cute in the Alps. They connect instantly and even kissed but never saw each other until Matteo is sent to work with Esmé in her art gallery.
This story is a romance full of ups and downs in this couple relationship. Esmé struggles internally but in the end, she fights for her love. What I liked the most about this book was the beautiful sceneries, like the Alps, Paris, or Italy and the classical vibe, like an old romantic movie featuring Andrey Hepburn. It was a fun reading and I recommended it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story is a romance full of ups and downs in this couple relationship. Esmé struggles internally but in the end, she fights for her love. What I liked the most about this book was the beautiful sceneries, like the Alps, Paris, or Italy and the classical vibe, like an old romantic movie featuring Andrey Hepburn. It was a fun reading and I recommended it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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