A fake romance could catapult their careers to higher levels—or reignite heartbreak they never recover from.
Actor Ignacio Santana needs to fund his passion project, an indie film he’s poured his heart into. But the buzz he needs only arrives when a headline claims he’s back with his ex, R&B singer Delta James—the woman who shattered his heart eleven years ago.
Delta’s career is running on fumes, but the alleged reunion with Ignacio could be just what she needs to revive her career. With the support of their teams, the two devise a risky plan to ride the wave of media frenzy and reap the full rewards. But pretending proves dangerous when the kisses start to feel real, the touching ignites desire, and the walls guarding their hearts begin to crumble.
Should Ignacio and Delta give love another chance, or walk away when they accomplish their goals?
Delaney Diamond is the USA Today Bestselling Author of more than 60 contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels, and dozens of romance short stories. She reads romance novels, mysteries, thrillers, and a fair amount of nonfiction. When she’s not spinning tales of romantic fiction, she’s in the kitchen trying out new recipes, dining at one of her favorite restaurants, or traveling to an interesting locale. She enjoys learning about time management and ways to increase productivity and shares her recommendations on her For Authors page at delaneydiamond.com. She also offers self-publishing consultations, leveraging her extensive experience to guide and support authors through the publishing process.
Delaney Diamond's "Ignacio," the fifth installment in the "Family Ties" series, delivers an emotional and compelling second-chance romance that intertwines the complexities of career ambitions with the undeniable pull of a past love. This book centers on actor Ignacio Santana and R&B singer Delta James, who, after a heartbreaking eleven-year separation, find themselves forced into a fake romance for the sake of their struggling careers.
The premise sets up a high-stakes scenario: Ignacio needs buzz to fund his passion project, an indie film, and Delta's career is faltering. A headline falsely claiming their reunion provides the perfect, albeit risky, solution. What begins as a strategic agreement orchestrated by their teams quickly blurs the lines between pretense and genuine emotion. As they spend time together, "the kisses start to feel real, the touching ignites desire, and the walls guarding their hearts begin to crumble."
Diamond masterfully explores the intricate layers of Ignacio and Delta's relationship. Their history as young lovers who broke up under mysterious circumstances adds significant depth to their current interactions. Readers will be completely invested as they slowly peel back the layers of past hurt, leading to a major, heart-wrenching revelation from Delta about a trauma she endured. Ignacio's reaction to this, and his subsequent efforts to protect Delta and clean up the fallout, showcase his growth and unwavering devotion.
The novel is rich with character development, particularly for Delta, who finds the strength to break away from her controlling parents. Ignacio is portrayed as a deeply loving and protective hero, willing to go all in for the woman he truly desires. The chemistry between them is palpable, creating a "spicy, entertaining and heartwarming" reading experience.
Beyond the central romance, "Ignacio" excels in its depiction of the broader Connor-Santana family, a supportive and engaging cast of characters who add warmth and humor. The inclusion of beloved characters from the Cordoba Agency in cameo appearances is a delightful bonus, tying this story into Delaney Diamond's wider literary universe and hinting at exciting future developments within the series.
"Ignacio" is a beautifully written, page-turning read that seamlessly blends emotional depth, dramatic twists, and a satisfying journey towards a destined love. It's a testament to second chances, healing, and the enduring power of love that overcomes all obstacles. Fans of fake dating, second-chance romance, and strong family dynamics will absolutely adore this book.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
My Rating System: 1⭐️: The book didn’t hold my interest and/or had significant issues that overshadowed any redeeming qualities for me, but generally not my cup of tea. Most likely did not finish the book. 2⭐️: The book didn’t quite resonate with me, and while my experience wasn’t remarkable, I did finish it. It had some redeeming qualities and potential but fell short in execution. Recommendable, though with some reservations. 3⭐️: Good read, but didn’t quite stand out. Still worth recommending to others. 4⭐️: Really enjoyed it and stayed engaged throughout. Would read the book again. Definitely recommendable. 5⭐️: Incredible writing that made me deeply connect with the characters. I was completely absorbed in the world and didn’t want it to end. This book stayed with me even when I wasn’t reading it. I'd gladly reread it and highly recommend it to everyone!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow!!! What an emotional second chance romance. I have so many feelings… anger, disbelief, and finally happiness.
Ignacio and Delta were young lovers who broke up 11 years ago. They agree to fake date for publicity to help their careers. Their fake dating eventually turns real. They finally talk about the past and there’s a major revelation that Delta shares that just breaks your heart. Things get complicated when Ignacio reacts to this horrible information. He has to clean up the fallout to protect Delta. He does a fabulous job to handling it. Ignacio’s belief in Delta also helps her to see that she needs to break away from her parents who have too much control over her career. The reality is that her parents are straight trash and I detest them immensely.
I loved this book and in true Delaney Diamond fashion she delivered a phenomenal love story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Actor Ignacio Santana is living the wildlife when he isn’t working on his next film. He recently saw his ex, R & B singer Delta James at a party and the blogs had a field day. Ignacio and Delta’s PR teams thought they should capitalize on the publicity by acting as if they were back together. The goal is to help Ignacio get his indie film financed and to help Delta boost interest in her next album.
Delta and Ignacio met as teenagers and dated on and off for five years until things fell apart. Initially, “fake dating” seemed like a good arrangement but soon enough they fall into memories of what they once had. Ignacio still sees the fire in Delta’s eyes, and their strong attraction is still there. The passion they share is too strong to deny and the lines are blurred between real and fake.
Delta and Ignacio slowly peel back the layers of hurt from the past, including a terrible experience that Delta endured that contributed to her pulling away from the relationship. Healing was critical for them to move forward.
I enjoyed this story and catching up on the Santana and Connor families. There was a touching scene with Ignacio and his brothers and a well written Thanksgiving celebration with updates on each couple and their growing families. Ignacio has attributes of a great book with a sexy hero, second chance romance and fake dating tropes… and a series crossover! Associates from the Cordoba agency had a brief but important appearance. I enjoyed Ignacio and highly recommend it. See full review at Romanceincolor.com
When movie star, Ignacio Santana is presented with a win-win opportunity, he's not exactly thrilled at the suggestion of being reunited with his first love musical virtuoso, Delta James, the woman who broke his heart years ago.
When Ignacio publicist reaches out to him, he immediately rejects the suggestion of fake dating his ex-lover because a photo of them in the same room went viral. Ignacio is trying to secure financing for a movie he wants to direct and Delta's recent album had dismal sales.
When his publicist pleads for him to listen to Delta's father's proposal, he reluctantly acquiesces. He is slowly convinced but has conditions, Delta's not thrilled about the add-ons but reluctantly agrees.
Once they are alone, the past sneaks up on both on them and they both reminiscence about their past together. When the walls start to crumble, what emerges is clarity, passion and truth until a devastating memory threatens to destroy it all. Highly, highly Recommend: Read This Book!
Sidebar: I've been riding with Delaney Diamond for a long time; I love her books—particularly her earlier Latin Men series—read that one too, and of course, her newer books featuring a smorgasburg of luscious men.
Shoutout to DD for mentioning one of my favorite TV shows—Reacher starring Alan Ritchson, Season Three was epic, watch it!
Ignacio and Delta are once lovers teaming up again they thought to help each other out! What neither accounted for were the unresolved feelings of love between them! There were some twists, some secrets, some trauma and undying love that given the opportunity rose to the surface! I was glad that men from my favorite agency namely the Cordoba Agency showed up and did what they do very, very well. Decisions were declared by Delta that helped to heal trauma she suffered as a teen just getting her career on tract, and the love between her and Ignacio once again blossomed into a love destined to last a lifetime! I got a glimpse of what I hope is in the making for Rose and Benicio. And I wonder why his(Benicio) first ex has made contact after all these years? Delaney Diamond fans, Ignacio and Delta's story is well worth the wait. You are going to enjoy their story as much as I did. I can't wait until all of these Family Ties books are released in audiobook! Delaney, as usual excellent story, thank you!!!
I am grateful to have received an advance reader copy of this book from the author via BookSirens. This review is purely from my perspective, and all opinions are my own. I am under no obligation to review the book. A heartfelt, emotional, page-turning five-star read.
Ignacio and Delta’s story pulled me in right away. They were once child stars with an on-again, off-again romance that finally ended for good. Years later, they reunite to pose as a couple in a fake relationship. But their chemistry is still real, and the feelings they buried start to rise again.
As they navigate their new dynamic, Ignacio learns that Delta endured trauma at the hands of someone in the industry. His response is immediate. He calls in The Cordoba Agency, bringing justice and a layer of fierce protection into play. This book is about more than rekindled love. It’s about trust, truth, and emotional healing. And with a tease of Benicio’s ex-wife Valentina wanting to reconnect, I’m hoping for book six. What will that mean for his newly rekindled relationship with Rose?
Oh my gah!! Ignacio and Delta together again! Poor Ignacio didn’t understand why Delta left him eleven years ago. Her father was behind their breakup. They never stopped loving each other. Present day. Delta’s manager father needed a gimmick to get her back on top in the music industry. Delta was a singer, and Ignacio was an actor. They agreed to pretend they were reunited, to jumpstart their careers. It didn’t take long for the pretense to end and real love came into play. Poor Delta was victimized by her record producer when she was sixteen years old. She was still traumatized by it. Ignacio came to her rescue. He hired the Cardoba Agency to take care of business. Of course they came through! The Cardoba Agencies cameo was a pleasant surprise! I’m loving this Family Ties series! Each one just keeps getting better and better!! I highly recommend this book, along with the entire series!! Thank you Delaney Diamond! I can hardly wait for the next book!! ❤️🔥
Man, I love this family of men! They go all in and HARD! And since I'm such a sucker for romance tropes where the main characters have known each other since childhood, I was all in!
So went the story of Ignacio and Delta for me. I liked these two and I liked them together. Honestly, even trying to be all mean and petty with each other because they were hurting, they both still wore their hearts on their sleeves. Especially Ignacio. So much love was there.
I also must say that the family as a whole is just a great bunch. They really know and support each other.
In the end, there were secrets that needed to be revealed, misunderstandings that needed to be cleared up and some folks that needed to get gone.
Lovely story with a lovely end.
Now I'm looking at Thiago….
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ignacio and Delta have off the page chemistry. Even after an 11 year separation, they still have strong feelings for the other. I was hooked when Ignacio stole a tender kiss from Delta at their first outing together as a "fake" reunited couple. I love an mmc pov where he is honest in his feelings and yearnings for the fmc. Their attraction, respect and love was just chef's kiss.
I love Ignacio's family, his dad Benicio and stepmom Rose. The family dynamics are great and I was pleasantly surprised about the subplot that carried the same theme of reuniting. I want to read more about Rose and Benicio.
This is the first book I've read in this series, so I'll be checking out the other books and patiently waiting to see if there will be future stories for the remaining children.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed this one so much. Sexy. Realistic fake dating. A happy ending… What more could a romance lover want?
Ignacio is an actor with a personal story he wants to turn into a film. Diane is a musician whose career is faltering. They’re exes, but when a photo of them together goes viral, the public eats it up, and suddenly, their popularity soars.
They decide to lean into it: fake a relationship to revive their careers.
But this is a romance novel… so of course, the lines between fake and real start to blur.
What really stood out to me were the deeper layers. Family dynamics that felt authentic and messy, and an unflinching look at the darker side of the entertainment industry. It added richness to an already compelling story.
Ignacio was tired of all the partying he had been doing. However a surprise call from his publicist was interesting. Delta was annoyed at all the stunts her father kept trying to find to help her career now. When she found herself on Ignacio's doorstep, she was outdone. Ignacio disliked Delta's dad with a passion but he made a quick decision to change both their lives. Delta had hurt him immensely 11 yrs ago. Would the two be able to push past their hurt to benefit both their careers? Would new truths shed light on the cause of their pain. Can love find its way back to their hearts again? Great read with a few twists and turns..
I loved this book! Love how Delta and Ignacio came together. He knew what he was doing… love the link to the Cordoba Agency and totally loved how Leo got his in the end. Dirty b@$t@rd. Hate the way the world is and the people who allow this ish to happen. Karma is a b@$#%. Can’t wait for Rose And Benicio’s story. You keep teasing us. I see a Vivian story in the future also. Keep writing, I’ll keep reading🔥🔥💕💕🔥🔥
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I adore the Connor-Santana family. Like the other books in the series, Ignacio's story was an excellent read. I loved the characters and the second chance at love storyline. While Ignacio and Delta's relationship ended badly eleven years ago, they were given a second chance at love. Although they are reunited under false circumstances, their true feelings for each other won out and they found their forever love and happiness.
OMG! This book has everything you need! Family, heartache, forgiveness, angst and love! This book will not disappoint! This couple fought hard for their love & got their happiness with a bit of help! This book is one that you will not be able to put down. You did that Ms. Diamond!
Beautiful and practical couple, their story is a great example of soulmates. Love the maturity, character growth and the romantic depth. Spicy, entertaining and heartwarming. Very well written, perfect timing for their second time around. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved Ignacio by Delaney Diamond. It was well written and very entertaining. It had just the right amount of steam and drama. The romance and chemistry between the FMC and MMC was captivating. The storytelling kept my interest from the first page till the last. The characters were fully developed and very engaging. Looking forward to reading more from Delaney Diamond.
I love this author and her body of work! I know this book is part of a series. But I was able to drop right into the plot. I loved Ignacio and Delta together. I was glad she got some backbone and stood up to those sycophants who called themselves parents. Now onward to the beginning of this series. This was a great read!
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Ignacio and Delta were in a relationship that ended badly eleven years ago. Now, they are reunited under false circumstances. This is their journey to the forever love and happiness.
Reunited and it feels so good!!!! I loved Delta and Ignacio love story and how they were able to find their way back to each other. If you are a fan of second chance romances you'll love this story.
I love Delta and Ignacio!! Their love was challenged but the couple held on to what’s important in life. Ignacio’s family goes ALL IN!! They stick together and help each other through the hard times. The family as a whole is amazing. I truly enjoyed this book.
Ignacio was so worth the way! I love him and Delta’s story and how the past came to light. I also loved the family scenes, his conversation with his father was priceless! I look forward to the next story in this series!
The heat of attraction meets the heartache of romance. Ignacio is an addiction that puts emotions on full alert. From the inevitable to the unexpected, Diamond pushes the soul to it's limit with unforgettable characters and haunting romance.
Ignacio Family Ties Book 5 is Ignacio Santana and Delta James' story. Their story is totally engaging. I enjoyed it. A story of love lost, deceit, greed, and love found!! These Santana men are ride or die!! ❤️
It turned out to be better than I thought it would be. I’ve read several of Delaney Diamont books and loved each and everyone of them. This one seems to have a slow start, but once I got into it, I couldn’t put it down. Thank you again for entertaining me literally
It is amazing what people will do(even family) and want you believe its about you. Real love will give you what you need. Ignacio and Delta found that.
I wanted more! Delaney, excellent! I thought that Ignacio was going to work my nerves, I was wrong. The twist towards the end took me out. Thank you for another great story.
This book right here is everything! Ignacio and Delta were reunited & boy was it good! Love was better for them, the second time around! Delta parents are a mess but love won! A must read!