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Catching Feelings
A fresh start. A stalled career. Would you risk a turbulent take-off for a shot at happily ever after?
Tahlia Walters’ first day at Florida Airlines isn’t off to a great start. Between her missed alarm, the jerk as hot as her coffee—that he’s now wearing—who turns out to be her boss, and the passive-aggressive co-worker, Tahlia’s not sure if this new chapter is doomed before it’s really begun.
Single dad and workaholic executive, Orion Ariti, barely has time to see his daughter—let alone train his new, overly eager assistant. But with the airline’s insufferable CEO constantly dumping his work into Orion’s lap, trusting Tahlia becomes his only option. She proves to be a quick learner, with a smile he can’t get enough of.
When a big project lands on Orion’s desk, he agrees to let Tahlia take the lead. And she’s determined that Orion finally gets the recognition he deserves. With the event deadline looming closer, they’re both resolved to keep things professional—even as their bubbling chemistry becomes increasingly difficult to ignore.
Are Tahlia and Orion brave enough to take the leap, or will their romance end before it’s even left the ground?
Catching Feelings is the first in a new contemporary romance series from Joanne Rose.
Tahlia Walters’ first day at Florida Airlines isn’t off to a great start. Between her missed alarm, the jerk as hot as her coffee—that he’s now wearing—who turns out to be her boss, and the passive-aggressive co-worker, Tahlia’s not sure if this new chapter is doomed before it’s really begun.
Single dad and workaholic executive, Orion Ariti, barely has time to see his daughter—let alone train his new, overly eager assistant. But with the airline’s insufferable CEO constantly dumping his work into Orion’s lap, trusting Tahlia becomes his only option. She proves to be a quick learner, with a smile he can’t get enough of.
When a big project lands on Orion’s desk, he agrees to let Tahlia take the lead. And she’s determined that Orion finally gets the recognition he deserves. With the event deadline looming closer, they’re both resolved to keep things professional—even as their bubbling chemistry becomes increasingly difficult to ignore.
Are Tahlia and Orion brave enough to take the leap, or will their romance end before it’s even left the ground?
Catching Feelings is the first in a new contemporary romance series from Joanne Rose.
266 pages, Paperback
Published April 10, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
March 19, 2025
I loved Tahlia and Orion’s story 💞
If you enjoy a slow burn romance but don’t enjoy the typical ‘they finally hooked up, some damaging news breaks her trust and she pulls away, just for him to chase her and win her back’ plot, then read this book!
Joanne’s writing style is similar to that of Emily Henry where she was able to describe scenes so well, I was able to fully immerse myself into the story. The way she has written each character makes them so relatable and had me picturing people I know with similar traits in their place 🫣🤣
For a debut novel, this hit hard! While I do feel the ending was cut a little short, not giving me enough closure on a couple of storyline’s, I’d definitely recommend to anyone wanting a heartfelt read with minimal spice 🌶️
If you enjoy a slow burn romance but don’t enjoy the typical ‘they finally hooked up, some damaging news breaks her trust and she pulls away, just for him to chase her and win her back’ plot, then read this book!
Joanne’s writing style is similar to that of Emily Henry where she was able to describe scenes so well, I was able to fully immerse myself into the story. The way she has written each character makes them so relatable and had me picturing people I know with similar traits in their place 🫣🤣
For a debut novel, this hit hard! While I do feel the ending was cut a little short, not giving me enough closure on a couple of storyline’s, I’d definitely recommend to anyone wanting a heartfelt read with minimal spice 🌶️
April 5, 2025
A slow burn dual POV workplace romance set in Florida. Tahlia has just moved to be the new personal assistant at Florida Airlines. At the same time we meet Orion who as the CFO will be Tahlia’s new boss. He’s drowning in work and guilt, struggling to find time to spend with his daughter Grace, who he co-parents with his ex, Sophie. Tahlia has no friends and no real connections in Florida so she is dependant on making it work at her job. In the office though, Tahlia isn’t made welcome by anyone, especially not fellow assistant Rachel. The CEO is clearly involved in Orion being overworked, and with the overall vibe in the business. I felt sorry for Tahlia who was insecure and a bit lost so navigating a new boss, and an essentially hostile workplace was a lot for her.
After a messy start, Tahlia and Orion hit it off and begin to work together on a merger project. I enjoyed the machinations in the airline industry, how cut-throat and fast moving it is and how much work goes on behind the scenes to keep the business off the ground, so to speak. Secondary characters add momentum, Tahlia’s flatmate is fantastic and Henry is a great friend and work buddy of Orion. Workplace villain Rachel (or is she?) keeps stirring it up at the office.
I’d have liked to see more chemistry between Orion and Tahlia, they are awkward and both so committed to their jobs, but I didn’t feel their attraction until right at the end. While relationships can be taboo in a workplace, there wasn’t much really keeping them apart and more communication earlier would have helped them both.
This is a promising debut from Joanne Rose and well worth the read if you like workplace romances with likeable characters. There’s no alpha males, or billionaires and the airline setting is refreshing.
Rounded up to 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you Joanne Rose and Authors Own Publishing for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
After a messy start, Tahlia and Orion hit it off and begin to work together on a merger project. I enjoyed the machinations in the airline industry, how cut-throat and fast moving it is and how much work goes on behind the scenes to keep the business off the ground, so to speak. Secondary characters add momentum, Tahlia’s flatmate is fantastic and Henry is a great friend and work buddy of Orion. Workplace villain Rachel (or is she?) keeps stirring it up at the office.
I’d have liked to see more chemistry between Orion and Tahlia, they are awkward and both so committed to their jobs, but I didn’t feel their attraction until right at the end. While relationships can be taboo in a workplace, there wasn’t much really keeping them apart and more communication earlier would have helped them both.
This is a promising debut from Joanne Rose and well worth the read if you like workplace romances with likeable characters. There’s no alpha males, or billionaires and the airline setting is refreshing.
Rounded up to 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you Joanne Rose and Authors Own Publishing for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
April 7, 2025
This book delivers a charming and ultimately enjoyable read. The initial meeting between the protagonists felt a tad cliché, and other plot points occasionally felt so too. However, there was an undeniable fun factor bringing an addictive quality; even when I had to put the book down, the characters and their potential outcomes lingered in my thoughts. I really wish the start of this book, up to about the 40% mark, was what the rest of the book held, as it would have been an easy five stars!
The supporting cast was a definite highlight. The range of characters introduced were fascinating and added layers to the central romance. Each felt distinct and contributed to the overall narrative.
However, some things slightly out me off. Certain characters were presented with pre-conceived notions – the mean colleagues, for instance – but their actions didn't show this initially, or their motivations felt underdeveloped.
The middle section of the book proved to be a bit of a mixed bag. While still engaging enough to continue reading, I found myself wishing for more development in certain plot points. It was during this part that some awkward phrasing and editing choices became more apparent. While not a major deterrent, these did slightly disrupt the flow. I do believe, however, that with more experience, the author will hone their craft in this area.
The final quarter of the book reignited my initial enthusiasm. The plot picked up, becoming more compelling and drawing me back into the central relationship. While it didn't quite recapture the magic of those initial chapters, it left me with a positive overall impression.
Overall, the author demonstrates a clear knack for creating engaging personalities and a generally enjoyable narrative. I am genuinely looking forward to seeing their writing evolve and will pick up their future releases.
The supporting cast was a definite highlight. The range of characters introduced were fascinating and added layers to the central romance. Each felt distinct and contributed to the overall narrative.
However, some things slightly out me off. Certain characters were presented with pre-conceived notions – the mean colleagues, for instance – but their actions didn't show this initially, or their motivations felt underdeveloped.
The middle section of the book proved to be a bit of a mixed bag. While still engaging enough to continue reading, I found myself wishing for more development in certain plot points. It was during this part that some awkward phrasing and editing choices became more apparent. While not a major deterrent, these did slightly disrupt the flow. I do believe, however, that with more experience, the author will hone their craft in this area.
The final quarter of the book reignited my initial enthusiasm. The plot picked up, becoming more compelling and drawing me back into the central relationship. While it didn't quite recapture the magic of those initial chapters, it left me with a positive overall impression.
Overall, the author demonstrates a clear knack for creating engaging personalities and a generally enjoyable narrative. I am genuinely looking forward to seeing their writing evolve and will pick up their future releases.
May 3, 2025
Oh, this book cover instantly caught my attention—and then came Orion and Tahlia, and I fell head over heels! First, let’s appreciate those names—Orion and Tahlia? Absolute perfection. They sound like something out of a fantasy, and honestly, they suit the characters so well.
Orion is such a softy at heart. A single dad with a quiet intensity, he comes across as intimidating at times, but his nature is so gentle and kind. I expected him to be that typical cold boss who builds tension, but nope—he was thoughtful, respectful, and incredibly sweet to Tahalia. But wait… don’t be fooled. Some of his dialogues? Pure fire. Demanding, confident, and so unexpectedly bold that I had to double-check if it was still the same soft-hearted man. Loved that duality!
Tahlia is a complete wildcat. Fierce, intuitive, and fully dedicated to her work. She’s loyal, driven, and although she fights her feelings for Orion (with good reason), it never feels forced or dramatic—it’s real. She knows what she wants, and she’s not afraid to be bold. Her sarcasm, charm, and friendships add so much personality. She might burn someone with words but still leave a lasting, lovable impression. That fire in her personality? Chef’s kiss.
I’ve read many single dad and boss-employee romances, but this one stood out. It was calm, emotionally rich, and beautifully slow-burn. The kind of romance that lingers.
Highly recommend if you’re into slow-burn, single dad, and office romance tropes—with all the soft, spicy, and swoony moments in between.
Orion is such a softy at heart. A single dad with a quiet intensity, he comes across as intimidating at times, but his nature is so gentle and kind. I expected him to be that typical cold boss who builds tension, but nope—he was thoughtful, respectful, and incredibly sweet to Tahalia. But wait… don’t be fooled. Some of his dialogues? Pure fire. Demanding, confident, and so unexpectedly bold that I had to double-check if it was still the same soft-hearted man. Loved that duality!
Tahlia is a complete wildcat. Fierce, intuitive, and fully dedicated to her work. She’s loyal, driven, and although she fights her feelings for Orion (with good reason), it never feels forced or dramatic—it’s real. She knows what she wants, and she’s not afraid to be bold. Her sarcasm, charm, and friendships add so much personality. She might burn someone with words but still leave a lasting, lovable impression. That fire in her personality? Chef’s kiss.
I’ve read many single dad and boss-employee romances, but this one stood out. It was calm, emotionally rich, and beautifully slow-burn. The kind of romance that lingers.
Highly recommend if you’re into slow-burn, single dad, and office romance tropes—with all the soft, spicy, and swoony moments in between.
December 29, 2025
CATCHING FEELINGS by Joanne Rose
2 🌶️ | 3.75 ⭐️
TW: death of a partner
First of all - if you’re a Canberra girl or even just an Aussie romance reader, BUY THIS BOOK! Debut novel from a self published author, this book will warm your heart and kinda make you hate men.
We meet Tahlia on page one as she’s packing up to move for her new job. She’s going to be an assistant at an airline and she’s really pressing restart on her life after some hard times. On day one, running late and panicking, she’s leaving the coffee shop in her building and crashes into a real grumpy ass who ends up wearing her coffee almost as much as she does.
Lo and behold: grumpy ass is actually Orion. Chief Operating Officer of Florida Airlines. And he just met his new assistant. Orion is a workaholic single dad who desperately wants more time with his daughter. He has dedicated his life to work and is finally starting to realise it.
The way these two work together is sweet and they definitely go through some chaos. They both deal with workplace bullying and harassment in their own ways and it’s charming to see them grow together.
The way Tahlia responds to her grief around her partner’s death hit home in a way a lot of books haven’t been able to for me (IYKYK). It was a comfort to see words from my brain on a page and realise that the grief is common and people do get it. Loved this read, can’t wait for the next in this series.
2 🌶️ | 3.75 ⭐️
TW: death of a partner
First of all - if you’re a Canberra girl or even just an Aussie romance reader, BUY THIS BOOK! Debut novel from a self published author, this book will warm your heart and kinda make you hate men.
We meet Tahlia on page one as she’s packing up to move for her new job. She’s going to be an assistant at an airline and she’s really pressing restart on her life after some hard times. On day one, running late and panicking, she’s leaving the coffee shop in her building and crashes into a real grumpy ass who ends up wearing her coffee almost as much as she does.
Lo and behold: grumpy ass is actually Orion. Chief Operating Officer of Florida Airlines. And he just met his new assistant. Orion is a workaholic single dad who desperately wants more time with his daughter. He has dedicated his life to work and is finally starting to realise it.
The way these two work together is sweet and they definitely go through some chaos. They both deal with workplace bullying and harassment in their own ways and it’s charming to see them grow together.
The way Tahlia responds to her grief around her partner’s death hit home in a way a lot of books haven’t been able to for me (IYKYK). It was a comfort to see words from my brain on a page and realise that the grief is common and people do get it. Loved this read, can’t wait for the next in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2025
3.5 Stars
Thank you Authors Own Publishing for my eARC copy.
This was a cute, fluffy little romance with the tiniest amount of spice. I adored the slow burn and the work drama was so fun, and the friendship drama was interesting. I only wish we could have seen more of both Orion's and Tahlia's respective friendships, but I enjoyed them nonetheless.
I really liked Tahlia's character. I loved the way she was insecure, but smart. Her resilience and tenacity were inspiring and overall her bravery to move to Florida and start a new job and romance were admirable.
I loved Orion. He is such a sweet guy. He wants to do what's best for the people he cares about, even if it is at his own expense. I am so happy at where he ends up at the end of the book.
Tahlia and Orion's relationship was beautiful. I loved how it was slow burn, so you get to watch as their romantic relationship blossoms.
My only small complaint was the times when we repeated the same scene in both character's perspectives (only happened like two or three times). I just didn't like how nothing was added till after the repeated scene was finished, and made me feel like it could have been cut.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable romance, and I hope people give Orion and Tahlia's romance a chance.
Thank you Authors Own Publishing for my eARC copy.
This was a cute, fluffy little romance with the tiniest amount of spice. I adored the slow burn and the work drama was so fun, and the friendship drama was interesting. I only wish we could have seen more of both Orion's and Tahlia's respective friendships, but I enjoyed them nonetheless.
I really liked Tahlia's character. I loved the way she was insecure, but smart. Her resilience and tenacity were inspiring and overall her bravery to move to Florida and start a new job and romance were admirable.
I loved Orion. He is such a sweet guy. He wants to do what's best for the people he cares about, even if it is at his own expense. I am so happy at where he ends up at the end of the book.
Tahlia and Orion's relationship was beautiful. I loved how it was slow burn, so you get to watch as their romantic relationship blossoms.
My only small complaint was the times when we repeated the same scene in both character's perspectives (only happened like two or three times). I just didn't like how nothing was added till after the repeated scene was finished, and made me feel like it could have been cut.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable romance, and I hope people give Orion and Tahlia's romance a chance.
March 19, 2025
Remember the name “Joanne Rose” because I know she’s going to be coming to a bookshelf near you.
If you love a slow burn that reminds you of a long burning candle, this book is for you!
Tahlia and Orions story was not one of my usual reads. After reading ‘Catching Feelings’ I can honestly say the plot was so well done. Covering different issues/tropes beautifully.
A couple of things that I wish happened was if we could see more of their relationship flourish. The story line was very long and drawn out until the last 20% when it jumped from the first kiss to dating left me wanting to see more about Tahlia and Orion.
One thing I do admire was with most slow burns/office romances, usually there is a third act breakup/pregnancy trope but if you like me and hate these tropes, catching feelings is the right book for you
Overall, if you love a slow burn, office crush/tension, single dad romances and minimal spice, definitely recommend this book for you.
If you love a slow burn that reminds you of a long burning candle, this book is for you!
Tahlia and Orions story was not one of my usual reads. After reading ‘Catching Feelings’ I can honestly say the plot was so well done. Covering different issues/tropes beautifully.
A couple of things that I wish happened was if we could see more of their relationship flourish. The story line was very long and drawn out until the last 20% when it jumped from the first kiss to dating left me wanting to see more about Tahlia and Orion.
One thing I do admire was with most slow burns/office romances, usually there is a third act breakup/pregnancy trope but if you like me and hate these tropes, catching feelings is the right book for you
Overall, if you love a slow burn, office crush/tension, single dad romances and minimal spice, definitely recommend this book for you.
April 11, 2025
Catching Feelings is a stunning debut from local author Joanne Rose that had me hooked with its slow burn and deep emotional layers. Tahlia and Orion’s story unfolds gently, but every moment between them is filled with meaning. This isn’t just a romance—it’s a story about healing, trust, and two people learning to open up in the most vulnerable, beautiful way.
The character development is rich and satisfying. I loved watching Tahlia grow into her strength and Orion reveal his softer side. Their relationship felt real—quiet, slow, and genuine. And at under 300 pages, the pacing is just right without ever feeling rushed.
If you enjoy heartfelt, character-driven romance with emotional depth and just the right amount of slow-burn tension, I highly recommend giving this one a read!
The character development is rich and satisfying. I loved watching Tahlia grow into her strength and Orion reveal his softer side. Their relationship felt real—quiet, slow, and genuine. And at under 300 pages, the pacing is just right without ever feeling rushed.
If you enjoy heartfelt, character-driven romance with emotional depth and just the right amount of slow-burn tension, I highly recommend giving this one a read!
August 7, 2025
So many emotions in this book!
I loved how this story evolves in an airlines business. It's the first time I've read a story with a context this original.
At first, I couldn't connect with the characters. Orion confused me; Tahlia seemed immature. But the more I read... the more I fell in love with them; and all the secondary characters too. They felt like real friends to me, a group I'd want to be a part of.
I loved the open ending of the book!
You'll love this one if you like
- slow burn workplace romance
- dual POVs
- he falls first
- single dad
- not too much spice (but there is spice 😈)
Many thanks to the publisher for the advance copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I loved how this story evolves in an airlines business. It's the first time I've read a story with a context this original.
At first, I couldn't connect with the characters. Orion confused me; Tahlia seemed immature. But the more I read... the more I fell in love with them; and all the secondary characters too. They felt like real friends to me, a group I'd want to be a part of.
I loved the open ending of the book!
You'll love this one if you like
- slow burn workplace romance
- dual POVs
- he falls first
- single dad
- not too much spice (but there is spice 😈)
Many thanks to the publisher for the advance copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 27, 2025
This was such a gorgeous read! I read this in two days and loved every moment of it.
Let's just say that Tahlia's first day at Florida Airlines is definitely not ideal. The limited sleep from the night before has her running late for work and to top it all off, she ends up colliding with someone in the coffee shop spilling coffee on both herself and the... extremely hot random guy.... who later turns out to be her new boss, Orion!
This is Joanne Rose's debut contemporary romance, and I was fortunate enough to win a copy of this book! I loved the story line and loved the depth of the characters and their backstories. I also love how, even though this is a light romance, that relevant topics are tackled, but in a way that is natural and not heavy.
Fun, romantic and heartwarming, I loved reading this book and am really looking forward to reading more from Joanne Rose!
Let's just say that Tahlia's first day at Florida Airlines is definitely not ideal. The limited sleep from the night before has her running late for work and to top it all off, she ends up colliding with someone in the coffee shop spilling coffee on both herself and the... extremely hot random guy.... who later turns out to be her new boss, Orion!
This is Joanne Rose's debut contemporary romance, and I was fortunate enough to win a copy of this book! I loved the story line and loved the depth of the characters and their backstories. I also love how, even though this is a light romance, that relevant topics are tackled, but in a way that is natural and not heavy.
Fun, romantic and heartwarming, I loved reading this book and am really looking forward to reading more from Joanne Rose!
March 18, 2025
A super cute, cosy yet spicy, romance!
The slow building of tension between Tahlia and Orion is so well done. The theme of picking yourself up after a knock and starting over was really nicely and subtly executed.
Loved the Florida vibes. The book club and cruise scenes were some of my favourite.
I was so thrilled to read an ARC of Catching Feelings by Joanne Rose.
The slow building of tension between Tahlia and Orion is so well done. The theme of picking yourself up after a knock and starting over was really nicely and subtly executed.
Loved the Florida vibes. The book club and cruise scenes were some of my favourite.
I was so thrilled to read an ARC of Catching Feelings by Joanne Rose.
April 10, 2025
Catching Feelings by Joanne Rose
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It took me a little while to get into it, but this book was really good. I actually really liked seeing the relationship Ryan had with his ex wife, they were such kind and understanding co-parents. And I loved the relationship between Ryan and his best friend Henry as well. The writing felt a bit stilted and I had a tough time losing myself in the book, I felt like I just really didn’t get the backstory for why the conflict in the book was happening and I would have liked more of that/or for it to have been more clearly fleshed out. The relationships and genuine love and care between all the characters and our MCs definitely made up for it though. Note: I received a free copy of this book and am writing this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It took me a little while to get into it, but this book was really good. I actually really liked seeing the relationship Ryan had with his ex wife, they were such kind and understanding co-parents. And I loved the relationship between Ryan and his best friend Henry as well. The writing felt a bit stilted and I had a tough time losing myself in the book, I felt like I just really didn’t get the backstory for why the conflict in the book was happening and I would have liked more of that/or for it to have been more clearly fleshed out. The relationships and genuine love and care between all the characters and our MCs definitely made up for it though. Note: I received a free copy of this book and am writing this review voluntarily.
March 27, 2025
A fun and easy read, an admirable debut that has an interesting cast of characters and detailed settings. The plot is predictable, and the main characters are a bit lacking in flaws, but the overall experience is a satisfying read. Keen to see more from Joanne Rose!
June 20, 2025
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book and am providing my honest review. I absolutely adored the story of Tahlia and Orion. They were humorous and their backstories were great. I became sucked in to the story and I felt like I couldn’t put it down
August 19, 2026
Catching Feelings is like a warm hug! I was excited each night to delve back into this world and hang out with Tahlia and Orion.
If you like a strong, smart FMC who wins over a cinnamon roll MMC then this will hit the spot.
It's short, sweet and spicy. What a combo!
If you like a strong, smart FMC who wins over a cinnamon roll MMC then this will hit the spot.
It's short, sweet and spicy. What a combo!
March 23, 2025
This book is well written, I quite enjoyed the love story between the main characters.
May 13, 2026
I loved this. What a debut!
It was a perfect contemporary romance with an unproblematic slow burn. And then when the spice hits, I ate it up.
I’m so glad I picked this up 🩷
It was a perfect contemporary romance with an unproblematic slow burn. And then when the spice hits, I ate it up.
I’m so glad I picked this up 🩷
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews