Moving to Spain wasn’t part of my plan. But after heartbreak and betrayal left me reeling, I book a one-way flight straight out of England and pack my bags for a fresh start.
New job, new city, new life - men not included.
The sun-soaked beaches, bustling markets and historic streets of Spain are exactly the escape I need. Teaching English keeps me grounded (and paid), and I’m determined to focus on myself for once.
But then I meet Santi.
Gorgeous, charming, and annoyingly irresistible, he crashes into my carefully crafted plans. Our chance encounters become something I can’t ignore. But just as I start to let my guard down, I find out who he really
A professional rugby player with a life full of glamour and complications I swore I’d stay away from.
I didn’t come to Spain to fall for anyone, but no matter how hard I try and hold myself back, Santi is impossible to resist. His kindness surprises me, his touch makes me question everything, and his secrets make me wonder if I’m ready to risk my heart again.
I promised myself I’d never let another man in. But in the city of passion and possibility, can I keep that promise - or is Santi the one worth breaking it for?
Set against the stunning backdrop of Spain’s golden coastline, vibrant markets and fiery fiestas, My Spanish Love Affair is a sizzling, heartfelt romance that captures the magic of second chances and the courage it takes to embrace the unknown.
From moonlit beach dates to the chaos of Las Fallas, this story is a whirlwind journey of self-discovery, passion, and learning to love again.
Perfect for readers who dream of fresh starts, spicy romance and finding love where you least expect it, My Spanish Love Affair will leave you longing for your own escape to Spain.
I read this as my first ARC book and let me tell you- it did NOT disappoint. The story was so cute and sucked you in immediately. I love a strong FMC and Liv was every bit of it. She went through some hardships but did not let them get her down. And the MMC? Who doesn’t love a star athlete?! Ugh this book was so good! I especially loved reading it this month. Can’t wait to read more by this author!
I had the privilege of receiving an advanced copy of this captivating book, and from the very first page, I was utterly captivated by its enchanting world. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Spain, this enchanting tale weaves a beautiful tapestry of romance, healing, and self-discovery.
After a devastating heartbreak, Olivia embarks on a bold journey leaving England behind for a fresh start in the vibrant land of Spain. With a new job and a resolute commitment to self-discovery, romance is the last thing on her mind. However, fate intervenes when she encounters Santi a gorgeous, charismatic, and irresistible man who gradually breaks down the walls she has built. Their undeniable chemistry is palpable, yet when she discovers his high-profile rugby career, she questions whether she is prepared for the complexities that lie ahead.
What truly sets this book apart is its profound emotional depth. The author possesses an extraordinary talent for creating characters that feel real and relatable. Their struggles, fears, and undeniable pull toward each other create a story that is both heartwarming and bittersweet. Santi is not merely a love interest; he is a multi-dimensional character, layered with kindness and unexpected vulnerability. Moreover, Olivia’s journey of healing and self-discovery adds a layer of meaning to the romance.
I am certain that I will recommend this book to fellow romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I was so glad to be picked as an ARC reader for this book. Let me say My Spanish Love Affair is a charming romcom that blends sports, spice, and relatability, making it an absolute page-turner. Olivia's decision to move after heartbreak is a pivotal moment that readers can easily connect with. It's that moment in life when we all wonder if starting fresh might be the best way to heal. Her journey of self-discovery and new beginnings is both heartwarming and empowering. The romance adds just the right amount of spark, while the sports element keeps things exciting and fresh. This book is a feel-good escape you won't want to put down. It's one of those stories that makes you think, "Who hasn't dreamt of uprooting and leaving everything behind for a fresh start?" A perfect read for anyone craving a mix of humor, passion, and personal growth.
I received an advanced copy of My Spanish Love Affair and I am so thankful I did. From the beginning this book pulled me in.
After a terrible breakup Olivia decides to pack up her life and go spend some time in another country. She settles in Spain quickly and soon has a job to look forward to. She is with her friends at bar and she meets the mysterious Santiago “Santi”. She goes home wondering exactly who she was flirting with night. Of course he turns up again and again and eventually scores a date with Liv. Once she finds out who he is things change quickly.
Now onto the spice. The spice was sooo good. It’s not a couple little spicy paragraphs either. It’s multiple pages of spiciness and they are written so well.
Overall this book is super cute and spicy and the perfect book to live out moving to another country.
This is a super sweet contemporary/sports romance where he falls first. There aren’t any high stakes; it is simply a feel good love story. It isn’t too deep, the characters are not overly complex, it is just enjoyable.
Fast-paced, enjoyable story-line; wish there was dual POV. While I appreciated the growth of Olivia, some of the anxiety/a second guessing became redundant- it would have been nice to read Santi’s perspective; Banter between characters was well done.
Be aware: this will make you want to watch rugby and book a trip to Spain.
Our MMC, Santi, is a professional rugby player. He’s the perfect mix of sexy, sweet, and protective. I’ve never been into rugby, but this book had me thinking I should watch more. Olivia, our FMC, is practical, brave, and trying to recover her adventurous spirit after a bad breakup.
The characters are lovable, the spicy scenes are spicing, and we get a happy ending. Bonus points for no cheating, or scandals.
I received this as an ARC and it was my first introduction to this author. I was impressed with how relatable the characters felt, even with one being semi-famous. Extra Bonus Points for including multiple platonic relationships/friendships, etc. It adds depth to the characters and the story line.
My only critique is the writing felt a bit repetitive towards the end of the book. The author used similar phrasing, and repeated physical descriptors. The writing could be amped up a bit, but it’s a fun love story, that’s worth the quick read.
Melissa Jane’s My Spanish Love Affair is a captivating romance about healing, self-discovery, and the unexpected turns life can take. After heartbreak sends the protagonist fleeing England for a fresh start in Spain, she’s determined to rebuild her life without the distraction of men. But Spain has other plans in the form of Santi—a gorgeous and irresistible professional rugby player who challenges her carefully guarded heart.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Spain’s golden beaches, bustling markets, and vibrant fiestas, the story immerses readers in the romance and charm of a new beginning. Santi’s kindness and complexity make him an unforgettable hero, and the sizzling chemistry between him and the protagonist pulls you in with every interaction.
Jane masterfully balances lighthearted escapism with emotional depth, as the protagonist wrestles with her past and questions whether Santi is worth risking her heart again. Full of passion, fiery encounters, and heartwarming moments, this book is perfect for readers who dream of fresh starts, whirlwind romance, and the magic of finding love when you least expect it.
My Spanish Love Affair will leave you yearning for sunny Spanish shores and your own second chance at love. A delightful and uplifting read!
This is the first ARC I was lucky enough to receive and let me tell you it did not disappoint! If you love a spicy holiday romance with a twist, this is for you!
This is my first read from this author so I had no idea what to expect. I liked the writing style and Melissa knows how to capture you with her words. I was fully invested in Olivia’s story from the beginning. The first page captured me and left me eager to turn the pages. I liked Olivia’s character but Santi… yes please!! Melissa knows how to deliver a man that makes you want to jump into the story and have him for yourself. New book boyfriend? I think so!
The spice was spicy🌶️🌶️🌶️ not just a page or two but multiple pages. I knew when a spicy scene was coming up because the chapters were particularly longer and I loved that.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this read and would definitely recommend to all those spicy romance lovers out there.
I had the honor of being an ARC reader for this book. Olivia finds her boyfriend cheating on her - at the start of the book. From there, she goes on an adventure to find herself. She moves to Spain and finds herself swooning over Santi (a rugby player).
The spice in this book isn’t just a page but pages!
Such a cute story between the MFC & MMC. 😍 Santi is adorable and tries his best to swoon Olivia from the beginning.
Gave some “Eat, Pray, Love” vibes without the food aspect 😆. Enjoyed the read. A true romance, new life journey story that is inspiring for someone like me that’s afraid to step out of their normal routine. The characters were well written, and a good read that captivates you in some areas where you don’t want to put the book down.
4.5 ⭐️ I got the privilege to get an advanced copy of the book and from the start I was hooked. The story follows Olivia on a new start navigating a new country, finding herself, and falling in love. We meet Santi and he’s charming, sweet and patient. Their love story is natural and true and raw. This book will make you want wrap up and fall in love as easy and true and Olivia and Santi. This is a perfect easy read to relax and unwind. Great for vacations or anytime you need a book boyfriend to make you feel loved and cared for.
Got the chance to ARC read this book and I was VERY blessed to do so. This book had me hooked from the very beginning. Santi -sheesh. Golden retriever boyfriend. Olivia - your typical second guessing girl. Their love was unmatched. This was a spicy sportsy romance book. Olivia goes on a journey after a broken heart and her life forever and completely changes for the better. These characters are so relatable especially if you are going through healing and self journey. This is an amazing read and I look forward to read more from Melissa Jane. I am ready now actually!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This was an ARC and my first time reading a book by this author so I wasn't sure what to expect. This book has it all: romance, humor, excitement, and self-discovery. It's the perfect story about taking chances and finding love. Although the book seems a little slow in the beginning, it's a good introduction to the main character, Olivia, and the struggles she is facing. It quickly becomes a book that you can't put down, because you want to know what is going to happen next for Oliva and Santi. Olivia was so relatable, and I loved watching her take a chance on a new life after a bad breakup. Throughout the book, Olivia finds her strength to find who she is, takes a chance on herself and eventually love. I will be reading the 2nd book in this series by Melissa Jane for sure!
I received an ARC of this book and I really, really wanted to enjoy it. I read the summary and thought it was a cute concept. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t for me. I thought the characters were pretty flat, the major conflict of the book seemed more like the FMC was being dramatic, and certain things in the book seemed to be heavily repeated. My biggest issue was that it seemed to be so heavily based on the FMC’s inner monologue rather than anything actually happening or conversations between characters taking place. It felt more like reading her diary; which is fine, but not what I was expecting and it again, seemed pretty repetitive.
#BookLoungeReviewTeam Book: My Spanish Love Affair Author: Melissa Jane Rating: 3.5⭐️ Genre: Romance
✨️✨️✨️ BLURB: ✨️✨️✨️
Moving to Spain wasn’t part of my plan. But after heartbreak and betrayal left me reeling, I book a one-way flight straight out of England and pack my bags for a fresh start.
New job, new city, new life - men not included.
The sun-soaked beaches, bustling markets and historic streets of Spain are exactly the escape I need. Teaching English keeps me grounded (and paid), and I’m determined to focus on myself for once.
But then I meet Santi.
Gorgeous, charming, and annoyingly irresistible, he crashes into my carefully crafted plans. Our chance encounters become something I can’t ignore. But just as I start to let my guard down, I find out who he really is:
A professional rugby player with a life full of glamour and complications I swore I’d stay away from.
I didn’t come to Spain to fall for anyone, but no matter how hard I try and hold myself back, Santi is impossible to resist. His kindness surprises me, his touch makes me question everything, and his secrets make me wonder if I’m ready to risk my heart again.
I promised myself I’d never let another man in. But in the city of passion and possibility, can I keep that promise - or is Santi the one worth breaking it for?
✨️✨️✨️ REVIEW: ✨️✨️✨️
This was an incredibly sweet story. It took me a few chapters to really get in to it, but I loved Olivia. She's a strong, independent woman that gets knocked down in the beginning, but manages to roll with it and makes a decision that ultimately changes her life forever. Who doesn't dream of doing that?? Making a completely "crazy" decision that normally you'd never suggest to another human, and having it pan out... #goals lol
I liked Santi too, but, honestly, Liv carried this book. I got a little annoyed with her at times for being so anxious, like when she didn't turn the notifications off on her phone. BUT then I thought about it and I probably would have been just as bad at "not looking" as she was. I also got a little nervous thinking it was going to become an unexpected pregnancy story, but it didn't, thank goodness.
Melissa did an amazing job describing the location and the people. I often struggle with accurate visualizations, but she provided so much detail without being wordy... it all sounded wonderful and honestly kind of makes me want to run away to Spain.
Easily 3.5⭐️ and I look forward to checking out more from Melissa in the future!
✨️✨️✨️ RATING SYSTEM: ✨️✨️✨️
5⭐️ Could not put down and will think about for days or weeks to come, will definitely reread 4⭐️ Could not put down, would probably reread 3⭐️ Great story, but could set it aside and take my time with it 2⭐️ Good story, feel the need to finish and know what happens, but no rush 1⭐️ Probably should have stopped reading, but didn't for some reason and here we are (rarely used)
This is my first time reviewing an ARC, and though I’m only giving 3 stars, I did actually enjoy it and I’m grateful for the opportunity. Please do read if you enjoy light, easy summer-esque romances. As someone who actually has up and moved my life to another country to teach English, there were a lot of things I enjoyed and some that frustrated me. I loved being transported to Spain, and I definitely fell in love with Santi, because who wouldn’t? He’s literally perfect. He’s kind and supportive and gorgeous and bilingual and goes after the girl. Chefs kiss! But Olivia? She FRUSTRATED me! As much as there were MANY times I appreciated being in her head because she was so real and I could relate, there were also many times that I wanted to shake her. Luckiy Laura and Sarah did that for me. Also, running away without telling your boyfriend and turning your phone off and ignoring him because of an article? The drama. Thank god he’s patient… Once I just accepted that Olivia was going to bother me, and also to read the story like I’m reading her diary (I don’t like present tense narration, I’ve discovered) I quite liked the story. It was refreshing to read a story without any conflict or hidden agendas. I just wonder where my Santi was when I was teaching abroad… As far as working style, as I mentioned, I don’t prefer first person narration, but I did get used to it. There was also quite a lot of repetition (how many times can Santi’s sincerity surprise her?) but the spice was top notch! I fell even more in love with Santi when he first went from handsome nice guy to a bit of dirty talking in the bedroom. All in all, a fun, easy read that felt like taking a weekend trip to Spain. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the European love affairs series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
ARC REVIEW - 3.5 Stars 🌟 My Spanish Love Affair is a heartwarming and swoon-worthy romance set in the beautiful landscape of Spain. After catching her boyfriend cheating, Olivia makes the bold decision to start fresh in Valencia, embracing a new life as an English teacher. Determined to rebuild on her own terms, she’s focused on her career—until Santiago enters the picture.
Santi is everything you’d want in a summer fling—gorgeous, bilingual, patient, charming, and also happens to be Spain’s most famous rugby golden boy. But beyond his athletic fame and good looks, he’s kind, supportive, and undeniably magnetic. Their chemistry is instant, but what starts as a casual romance soon grows into something deeper.
The novel also shines in its portrayal of friendship. Olivia’s best friend, Laura, is a true rock—supportive, grounded, and always looking out for her. Sarah, another wonderful friend, adds warmth and humor, making the friendships feel just as important as the romance. However, it was a bit disappointing that Sophia, Camilla, Zoey, and Ben—friends from Olivia’s time in Madrid—weren’t brought back into the fold after her move to Valencia. Their absence felt like a missed opportunity to further enrich Olivia’s journey.
What sets this book apart is its balance between romance and personal growth. Olivia isn’t just swept away by love; she’s actively building her own life and career, which makes the love story all the more rewarding. And best of all? It all leads to a perfect happy-ever-after, making this a feel-good read that’s as empowering as it is romantic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
*Highly recommended read for all lovers of modern contemporary romance with a spicy, sporty twist!*
When I tell you I absolutely LOVED this book, I mean it - I devoured it all in one!
I have been an ARC reader for Melissa Jane before so I knew what to expect for her prose, writing style etc. I have to say this is very different from her billionaire romance but equally as good - if not actually better.
I tried to keep notes as I read but it was difficult to do as I was hooked in from the start and didn’t want to stop reading! The opening was amazing and had me hooked immediately, wanting to know more. I found myself very quickly falling in love with Olivia, but then I met Santi and knew I was done for. 🥵
Also, I ABSOLUTELY LOVED the spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ I really enjoyed the fact that there wasn’t just one or two pages per spice scene; we were FED, and I ate up every moment 🔥
I would honestly say that this is the perfect read for anyone who daydreams about upping and moving abroad and basically just dropping everything to start all over again. I especially liked that there was no break up or cheating drama - it felt very real and genuine, easy to imagine myself being in those positions and I could picture the characters, their conversations and the storyline generally happening in real life and being true rather than a story.
Another great read from Melissa Jane, please keep them coming and I can’t wait for the next in the series!
This was the sweetest romance. I could actually see this story playing out in my mind as I was reading it. It’s my first book by this author and she has a new follower! There are actually 3 stand-alones in this series so far, and I’m straight onto book 2! This book is the story of Santiago and Olivia. Olivia saw her boyfriend bumping uglies with another woman on page 1 and we go from there! Olivia, pulled up her big girl pants and rather than shrivel and cry in a corner, she left the UK to travel around Spain. She made new friends and got a new job and I love that about her. Then we meet the Spanish rugby sensation Santiago (Santi). He is perfect - like my dream man! I love how the author writes him. Olivia is unsure at first, but they keep bumping into one another and I won’t give everything away, but it’s a feel good story, like a hallmark movie almost. It’s cute, there’s spice 🌶️🌶️ and the spice is really good 😉. If you want to escape in a book that will whisk you off into the sun for romance and a HEA then this is the book for you. I thoroughly enjoyed it and Santi too 😎.
This is a Great love story!! This is the first time in a long time I have been chosen by an author to be an ARC reader and I love being one! I read a lot of romance, dark romance, romantasy and fantasy, so this is the perfect read to lighten things up when needed after some heavier reads! I love how Liv has the guts to up and move somewhere new and start over.....and well she sure did with a new job she absolutely loves and then she meets Santi ❤️ 🤌I can't get enough of that man either! Such a romantic, thoughtful and caring man he is, they are perfect together. There is some spicy in the book I give it 🌶️ of spice. When it's there it's 🥵. It's the perfect amount for this book without talking away from the actual storyline of the book. I would definitely recommend this book to other readers!
This was my first time being an ARC reader and OMG, when I tell you, this book did NOT disappoint. The romance was perfect, so much escapism and I love the idea of this series being set in different countries.
I love a good sports romance but I’ve been tired of hockey so rugby was so refreshing.
And of course the spice was perfect, I loved the detail but at the same time it wasn’t too much. I’m not a fan of dark romance or anything too extreme (not judging though!) so this was the perfect spicy read for me without crossing into a territory that I don’t like.
I loved all the descriptions, I could visualise Spain so well in my mind, and everything felt so real. Olivia is so relatable, and Santi is dreamy - the perfect book boyfriend!
5/5 for me and I can’t wait to read the next book on the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Got recommended this in a Facebook group, by the lovely author and honestly loved it!!
Olivia: I really did like her at the beginning and found myself relating to her quite a lot with the wanting a fresh start and moving abroad. I found her getting a little bit repetitive towards the end, with the same dramas coming up for her. I felt as though Santi was the one putting more effort into it than her and it kind of frustrated me after a while..
Santi: swoon! what a lovely man, he was so supportive and just generally went out his way to make things better for Olivia when she needed a little reassurance! I wish we’d got a bit more of his side of it though as he was the one I gravitated more towards!!
Overall I did really enjoy it! Such a nice read and no severe drama/toxic vibes throughout.
Ive since downloaded the other two books in the series and can’t wait to jump into these characters love stories❤️
I want my own Santi after reading this book 😍 Not only was this my first arc book, but this was my first contemporary romance read as well and it did not disappoint! The author described a lot of the places beautifully and made you feel transported there witnessing this story unfold. The banter and chemistry between Olivia and Santi made me smile read big and give me butterflies in my stomach. The beach scene was one of my favorite parts in this book iykyk. Everyone needs a Laura in their life. Would seriously recommend this to anyone looking for a relatable fmc, a dreamy mmc, the perfect amount of spice and everything in between. Can’t wait for the next book 😍
I am literally in awe of Santi. He is actually my favorite character. Olivia pissed me off a little bit, but Santi? He was worth every page. I'm actually in love with him and his persistence. The book starts out a little slow, but the second you meet Santi? You know you want to stay until the end. Definitely a 5 star from me! I was lucky enough to get to read this beauty a little early, but I'm so excited for everyone else to be able to get their hands on it!
So this book isn't my normal type of books. It was a book I signed up to get an early access read too. And honestly. At first it did take me some time to get into it. Not because it's not a good book but because it isn't my typical genre. I prefer fantasy and dark romance. However, it was actually a good read. The way things were described in the book, I could actually see it playing out like a movie. I felt like I was watching a Hallmark movie. Santi and Olivia are absolutely adorable. She started over in a whole new place looking for adventure and something new after her ex cheated and she found herself. Found something she enjoyed doing. Of course Santi came along and she found someone she truly loves and can be vulnerable with. I am glad that in the end, he did get a job offer in England so she can move back home like she wanted. I rate this a 4.5 stars. Goodreads won't let me do a .5 but still. I will definitely be recommending this book to other romance readers.💙
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I got to read this as an ARC and I have to admit, I almost DNF. The FMC didn't grab me, neither did the MMC. She wasn't likeable to me. Ignoring the things that didn't fit a Brit, I just wanted to speed through because I committed to reading this. I even reread it after my period ended to make sure it wasn't just hormones. It's a easy brainless read but other than that, no.
Good mid-winter escape when it is -20 degrees outside! As a travel enthusiast, I enjoyed the nuances of finding your way in a new country and the themes of finding yourself, finding love, and finding adventure. Good spice and banter; overall, I recommend this for an easy read and look forward to reading more by this author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.