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The Road to You
She’s America’s sweetheart with a scandal to outrun. He’s Italy’s favorite soccer star with a smile that should come with a warning.
After a headline-making disaster threatens her career, Lena Sinclair does what any disgraced A-lister would do—she hops on a plane to Italy and plans to lay low, eat pasta, and avoid being recognized.
Too bad Michele Moretti, charming footballer and local heartthrob, isn’t interested in letting her hide. When he offers to play tour guide on a summer-long road trip through his country, Lena surprises herself by saying yes.
Between sun-drenched towns, stolen glances, and teasing that’s just a little too flirty, their “just friends” act starts to unravel faster than a melting gelato.
It’s only for the summer. No strings. No future.
But Italy has a way of turning detours into something unforgettable…
After a headline-making disaster threatens her career, Lena Sinclair does what any disgraced A-lister would do—she hops on a plane to Italy and plans to lay low, eat pasta, and avoid being recognized.
Too bad Michele Moretti, charming footballer and local heartthrob, isn’t interested in letting her hide. When he offers to play tour guide on a summer-long road trip through his country, Lena surprises herself by saying yes.
Between sun-drenched towns, stolen glances, and teasing that’s just a little too flirty, their “just friends” act starts to unravel faster than a melting gelato.
It’s only for the summer. No strings. No future.
But Italy has a way of turning detours into something unforgettable…
- GenresSports
ebook
Published July 29, 2025
5 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Erika Vanzin
35 books459 followersErika Vanzin is the Italian Amazon bestselling author of the rock star romance Roadies Series.
After traveling around the world with her husband, she settled down in Seattle, enjoying the marvelous Pacific Northwest. She brought from Italy a couple of suitcases, fifteen boxes full of books, and her most successful novels translated into English.
While she is not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching the Kraken hockey games, and working on DIY projects.
Be sure to follow Erika on:
BookBub: https://bit.ly/bookbub-erika-vanzin
Amazon: https://bit.ly/erika-vanzin-author
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@erikavanzin
Facebook: https://bit.ly/facebook-erika-vanzin
Instagram: https://bit.ly/instagram-erika-vanzin
After traveling around the world with her husband, she settled down in Seattle, enjoying the marvelous Pacific Northwest. She brought from Italy a couple of suitcases, fifteen boxes full of books, and her most successful novels translated into English.
While she is not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching the Kraken hockey games, and working on DIY projects.
Be sure to follow Erika on:
BookBub: https://bit.ly/bookbub-erika-vanzin
Amazon: https://bit.ly/erika-vanzin-author
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@erikavanzin
Facebook: https://bit.ly/facebook-erika-vanzin
Instagram: https://bit.ly/instagram-erika-vanzin
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
July 21, 2025
First off, thank you Netgalley and Erika Vanzin for approving my request to read this arc.
Wow! The blurb of this book had me hooked which made me immediately send in a request and this book delivered all of my expectations. (might I also add this cover is so cute?) This book had so many clichés (which I absolutely adore) such as:
The one bed trope (TWICE!?)
Use of a Double POV (necessary in all good romances)
A bit of a hidden identity (not a huge part in the story)
favourite things:
when the author said this book would contain emotionally available men, witty banter, rich character arcs, and open-door intimacy rooted in real connection. No cheating. No love triangles. Guaranteed HEA, she so meant it. I need me a hot Italian man named Michele.
The character arcs were so great to see, I loved how they both pushed each other and helped get each other back on track with careers and the MMC is qualified to be a GREAT book boyfriend. (he's nerdy with history 😩)
One of the biggest things I loved about this book was how in the end both characters got their career goals without sacrificing too much and everything the characters felt I felt. I felt their anger and happiness and heartbreak and the author had such a lovely way of writing everything as well.
BUT..
things i didn't enjoy:
First of all, in the start of the book I SWEAR every two seconds this man was winking. It definitely stopped soon after but it had me so mad.
The author also stated this book was a slow burn. I don't exactly agree with that. Sure it takes them FOREVER to finally define their relationship but that's the only thing that's slow.
minor spoiler ahead:
It was so obvious they liked each other though so it wasn't really a slowburn to me, I feel like the only books which can genuinely say are slowburns are some enemies-to-lovers.
Next, when she arrives in Italy, she meets our MMC Michele. Then she goes on to stay in a car with him and in rooms. He did say she could send a picture of his ID to her family + friends but even then you would have NOT caught me travelling with him. (ID thing helped though)
During the one bed trope (the first time) there wasn't any tension. They kind of just laid there. But the second time? niceee 🙂↕️
ANDDD finally, the last of my grievances 😔, sometimes (only sometimes) when they were talking the dialogue didn't feel like what a normal person would say and it had me pulling faces.
(also I know it seems I have a lot of complaints about this book but a lot of it were some minor things that i picked up on)
But this was such an easy read which I finished in 2 days, I would give it a 2-2.5 in 🌶️, there are 2 or 3 scenes, and only one long one. I so recommend getting this once it's published (29th of July) and I will definitely going to pick up some of her other books.
3.5 stars rounded down!
Wow! The blurb of this book had me hooked which made me immediately send in a request and this book delivered all of my expectations. (might I also add this cover is so cute?) This book had so many clichés (which I absolutely adore) such as:
The one bed trope (TWICE!?)
Use of a Double POV (necessary in all good romances)
A bit of a hidden identity (not a huge part in the story)
favourite things:
when the author said this book would contain emotionally available men, witty banter, rich character arcs, and open-door intimacy rooted in real connection. No cheating. No love triangles. Guaranteed HEA, she so meant it. I need me a hot Italian man named Michele.
The character arcs were so great to see, I loved how they both pushed each other and helped get each other back on track with careers and the MMC is qualified to be a GREAT book boyfriend. (he's nerdy with history 😩)
One of the biggest things I loved about this book was how in the end both characters got their career goals without sacrificing too much and everything the characters felt I felt. I felt their anger and happiness and heartbreak and the author had such a lovely way of writing everything as well.
BUT..
things i didn't enjoy:
First of all, in the start of the book I SWEAR every two seconds this man was winking. It definitely stopped soon after but it had me so mad.
The author also stated this book was a slow burn. I don't exactly agree with that. Sure it takes them FOREVER to finally define their relationship but that's the only thing that's slow.
minor spoiler ahead:
It was so obvious they liked each other though so it wasn't really a slowburn to me, I feel like the only books which can genuinely say are slowburns are some enemies-to-lovers.
Next, when she arrives in Italy, she meets our MMC Michele. Then she goes on to stay in a car with him and in rooms. He did say she could send a picture of his ID to her family + friends but even then you would have NOT caught me travelling with him. (ID thing helped though)
During the one bed trope (the first time) there wasn't any tension. They kind of just laid there. But the second time? niceee 🙂↕️
ANDDD finally, the last of my grievances 😔, sometimes (only sometimes) when they were talking the dialogue didn't feel like what a normal person would say and it had me pulling faces.
(also I know it seems I have a lot of complaints about this book but a lot of it were some minor things that i picked up on)
But this was such an easy read which I finished in 2 days, I would give it a 2-2.5 in 🌶️, there are 2 or 3 scenes, and only one long one. I so recommend getting this once it's published (29th of July) and I will definitely going to pick up some of her other books.
3.5 stars rounded down!
July 22, 2025
This story swept me away with its emotional depth and vibrant Italian setting. I really felt for Lena as she navigated heartbreak and rediscovered herself, and Michele was a complex, intriguing character whose presence added just the right amount of tension and warmth. Their chemistry felt natural, and I was rooting for them throughout. Some parts could’ve been explored more deeply especially their individual growth, but overall, it was a fun, romantic escape. If you love stories about fresh starts, unexpected connections, and a dash of fame, this one delivers. Thanks to BookSiren for the free copy.
July 23, 2025
Lena and Michele’s story was heartbreaking and soul fulfilling at the same time. 4/5 ⭐️
Lena is running from an LA breakup while Michele is running from an injury that derailed his soccer career. Both find some peace and comfort in Italy were they take a breathtaking roadtrip to get to know each other.
One of my favorite things about this book was them pushing each other to do what they needed and face the hard challenges, from the beginning. This will tug on your heartstrings and give you the warm and fuzzies!
Lena is running from an LA breakup while Michele is running from an injury that derailed his soccer career. Both find some peace and comfort in Italy were they take a breathtaking roadtrip to get to know each other.
One of my favorite things about this book was them pushing each other to do what they needed and face the hard challenges, from the beginning. This will tug on your heartstrings and give you the warm and fuzzies!
September 3, 2025
3.75⭐
After a humiliating, and totally public, cheating scandal, Lena heads to Italy to escape the paparazzi where she encounters a soccer star, Michele who's recuperating from a possible career ending accident. Beyond their story, this book is a love letter to Italy with mouthwatering descriptions of food to glorious scenery and locations. Above all, the themes of family and personal commitment underpin it all. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
After a humiliating, and totally public, cheating scandal, Lena heads to Italy to escape the paparazzi where she encounters a soccer star, Michele who's recuperating from a possible career ending accident. Beyond their story, this book is a love letter to Italy with mouthwatering descriptions of food to glorious scenery and locations. Above all, the themes of family and personal commitment underpin it all. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2025
I received an ARC of The Road to You from NetGalley. This was an enjoyable read. Spicy but not too spicy. It might make you want to take a roadtrip through Italy. The relationship was interesting with good character development for both of the main characters. This book was a solid 3.5-4 stars.
July 21, 2025
This is the perfect summer read while either on vacation, or wishing you were on vacation. I know when I've had my heart broken, I would have loved to escape to Italy. You can tell a lot of work went into character development and that the author is passionate about Italy. Thank you BookSirens for the advanced copy. I really felt the emotions the writer put into this book, and I look forward to more.
July 10, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC.
This was a fun summer read. Yoh get exactly what you'd expect from the description.
I liked the different POVs and the main characters were both likable.
They were also cute together and had a lot of chemistry!
This would make a great beach read on vacation.
This was a fun summer read. Yoh get exactly what you'd expect from the description.
I liked the different POVs and the main characters were both likable.
They were also cute together and had a lot of chemistry!
This would make a great beach read on vacation.
August 1, 2025
Bellissima!
OMG! Another winner from Erika Vanzin.
Actress Lena’s world is thrown off its axis when photos of her producer boyfriend and a male actor are published. All she wants to do is get away from Los Angeles. When her agent tells her about her apartment in Italy, she says yes and is on a flight there.
Michele is a top tier soccer player who suffered a horrendous motorcycle accident that nearly left him without a leg. Doctors saved his leg, but the remaining pain makes it impossible to play his life’s dream of remaining a soccer player. Uncertain of what is next (another surgery or retirement), he is contemplating things when he runs into Lena in a cafe, literally.
Lena and Michele begin an adventure through Italy. The two quickly connect.
The story is filled with images of the beautiful country and their relationship. Erik’s has woven a story so wonderful, I was unable to put it down and finished it in one sitting.
I highly recommend this book to lovers of a well written romance novel that roll leave you with feelings.
OMG! Another winner from Erika Vanzin.
Actress Lena’s world is thrown off its axis when photos of her producer boyfriend and a male actor are published. All she wants to do is get away from Los Angeles. When her agent tells her about her apartment in Italy, she says yes and is on a flight there.
Michele is a top tier soccer player who suffered a horrendous motorcycle accident that nearly left him without a leg. Doctors saved his leg, but the remaining pain makes it impossible to play his life’s dream of remaining a soccer player. Uncertain of what is next (another surgery or retirement), he is contemplating things when he runs into Lena in a cafe, literally.
Lena and Michele begin an adventure through Italy. The two quickly connect.
The story is filled with images of the beautiful country and their relationship. Erik’s has woven a story so wonderful, I was unable to put it down and finished it in one sitting.
I highly recommend this book to lovers of a well written romance novel that roll leave you with feelings.
August 19, 2025
3.75, rounded up to 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Road to You by Erika Vanzin was 'una bellissima sorpresa!'
The beginning was a little slow, and it took me a while to really get into the story. I wasn’t instantly sold on Michele, despite his good intentions, but once the road trip through Puglia kicked off, I was utterly charmed. The vivid descriptions of the towns, the food, the scents, and the playful Italian family banter brought everything to life. My own family comes from Puglia, though I’ve never been there, and this book sparked my curiosity and desire to visit my ancestral home.
It’s an easy, enjoyable read. At times, the pacing slows down, and the story goes stretches with little conflict, which made me skim a few pages, eager to get to the action. A little too slow-paced for my taste, but overall a sweet and charming story.
Thank you to Book Sirens for this ARC — all opinions are entirely my own.
The Road to You by Erika Vanzin was 'una bellissima sorpresa!'
The beginning was a little slow, and it took me a while to really get into the story. I wasn’t instantly sold on Michele, despite his good intentions, but once the road trip through Puglia kicked off, I was utterly charmed. The vivid descriptions of the towns, the food, the scents, and the playful Italian family banter brought everything to life. My own family comes from Puglia, though I’ve never been there, and this book sparked my curiosity and desire to visit my ancestral home.
It’s an easy, enjoyable read. At times, the pacing slows down, and the story goes stretches with little conflict, which made me skim a few pages, eager to get to the action. A little too slow-paced for my taste, but overall a sweet and charming story.
Thank you to Book Sirens for this ARC — all opinions are entirely my own.
July 28, 2025
The Road to You is a romance novel by Erika Vanzin. This is the love story between Lena, America’s sweetheart who’s escaped to Italy after a scandal, and Michele, an Italian soccer star who is recovering from a potential career ending injury who offers to be her tour guide during her stay. What can i say? I loved this book!! After reading this book, I wanted to dust off my passport, travel to Italy and find a soccer style to give me an Italian tour. I loved the slow development and buildup of the relationship between Lena and Michele. The chemistry between them was sweet and undeniable. I enjoyed reading each of the characters development. This is a fun summer read that kept my attention from the first page to the epilogue. I received an advance review copy for free from booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 5, 2025
‘But I have no idea what to do with my heart.’-So says Michele, the novel’s handsome soccer star with the strange femme name, who meets Lena and falls hard for her somewhere in Italy.
Their lovemaking is sweet and torrid. The chapters are titled with their names, which makes the story easy to follow, though I don’t feel this was needed. But I’m guessing the author had her reasons.
The characters are likeable. The atmosphere is gorgeous. This is a good summer read that didn’t need so many sex scenes.
Lena reminded me of Sydney Sweeney, the blue jeans girl. ‘Michele’ brought to mind David Beckham.
Their lovemaking is sweet and torrid. The chapters are titled with their names, which makes the story easy to follow, though I don’t feel this was needed. But I’m guessing the author had her reasons.
The characters are likeable. The atmosphere is gorgeous. This is a good summer read that didn’t need so many sex scenes.
Lena reminded me of Sydney Sweeney, the blue jeans girl. ‘Michele’ brought to mind David Beckham.
July 28, 2025
The Road To You
I want to visit Italy after reading this story.
A new author to me and she had me captivated right from the start. I was totally engrossed and turning the pages. I loved the banter between Lena and Michele, it was very amusing and very clever.
All the way through I was wondering how long it was going to take these two to work out they were head over heals. I loved Michele's family, they were a treat.
I was left wondering at the end, was the movie everything Lena thought it would be?
I received a free advance review copy and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I want to visit Italy after reading this story.
A new author to me and she had me captivated right from the start. I was totally engrossed and turning the pages. I loved the banter between Lena and Michele, it was very amusing and very clever.
All the way through I was wondering how long it was going to take these two to work out they were head over heals. I loved Michele's family, they were a treat.
I was left wondering at the end, was the movie everything Lena thought it would be?
I received a free advance review copy and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
July 31, 2025
Lena running away from L.A to Italy to hide from paparazzi.Michele is a footballer and a star in Italy,but bad accident left him injured and with only small hope that he can play again.After spilled cappucino,they talk and Michele offer to be her guide,so she can really experience Italy instead of hiding.Road trip it is.
I like Lena and Michele together,they really have time to become first friends.Romance was not rushed,there was enough sweet and swoony moments between them before progress to something more.
Very enjoyable and fun summer romance.
Thank you Booksirens for free copy.
I like Lena and Michele together,they really have time to become first friends.Romance was not rushed,there was enough sweet and swoony moments between them before progress to something more.
Very enjoyable and fun summer romance.
Thank you Booksirens for free copy.
August 21, 2025
For the first time in quite a while, this was a book I absolutely did not want to put down! I actually read it in one day while traveling from Italy back home to the US. It was such a fun, lighthearted, and charming read with characters that you couldn't help I to love and set in so many beautiful regions of Italy. The perfect love affair in so many ways. The author did an absolutely stellar job and I can't wait to read more of what she has written!
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.
October 14, 2025
4.5 stars
I really really enjoyed this book.
After a rough breakup that caused a scandal, Lena flees to Italy where she meets Italian soccer star, Michele. Michele is on a recovery journey of his own after a terrible accident that caused him to put his soccer career on hold. These two go on a fun adventure throughout Italy in this vacation romance.
I really enjoyed the author's writing style. The book was a quick but thoroughly enjoyable read and I will definitely recommend this to anybody looking for the perfect summer vacation romance.
I really really enjoyed this book.
After a rough breakup that caused a scandal, Lena flees to Italy where she meets Italian soccer star, Michele. Michele is on a recovery journey of his own after a terrible accident that caused him to put his soccer career on hold. These two go on a fun adventure throughout Italy in this vacation romance.
I really enjoyed the author's writing style. The book was a quick but thoroughly enjoyable read and I will definitely recommend this to anybody looking for the perfect summer vacation romance.
July 29, 2025
3.75 - 4 stars.
This story take you on a journey, through Italy, through emotions and through life. It is told from both points of view and moves along at it's own speed, both characters grow individually and become more because the other is in their life. This story makes you feel their ups and downs and want them to be able to get everything. I am voluntarily leaving this review after receiving an ARC from Hidden Gems.
This story take you on a journey, through Italy, through emotions and through life. It is told from both points of view and moves along at it's own speed, both characters grow individually and become more because the other is in their life. This story makes you feel their ups and downs and want them to be able to get everything. I am voluntarily leaving this review after receiving an ARC from Hidden Gems.
September 6, 2025
A wonderfully well written romance that's both emotional and beautiful. Our main characters are Lena and Michele. Vanzin delivers a beautiful, descriptive setting in Italy and the storyline is heartbreaking and yet renewing too. Good character development and well-balanced steam and story. A very good romance read!
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.
September 15, 2025
New-to-me author with a fun-to-read fresh and flirty blend of romance, travel and family fun!
Love is in the air between an American actress and an Italian athlete. Two characters who are such fun to meet and join in their adventures. And, of course, their journey to a happily-ever-after is absolutely unforgettable.
All around great writing and storyline filled with lovable characters that make this book one you don't want to miss!
August 6, 2025
Loved this book so much ! I selected it as an arc reader and am so happy with my choice! Michele and Lena are two famous individuals who allow themselves to just be their own person in one another's presence. Regardless who they were to the public eye, they became best friends and fell in love. Their story is so sweet and made me cry at the end for their happy ending! Loooove this book.
July 25, 2025
The Road to You by Erika Vanzin takes you on a lovely road trip through Italy. From strangers to falling in love, told in a dual POV, and the perfect amount of spice. Loved.
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.
July 29, 2025
She has been involved with a scandal so she decides to go to Italy to lie low. He is a football star and offers to show her around. Things will get better and choices will be made. A great tale
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a wonderful read
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a wonderful read
September 1, 2025
I enjoyed this one a lot. The characters were likeable. I like that they didn't just jump right into bed. It was all about the feels. The spicy parts were good, and they weren't so naughty they felt different from the rest of the vibe.
August 3, 2025
This was a fun summer time book. I was so drained into the story from the start. I was given an arc and i choose to give a honest review.
July 6, 2025
Have you ever read a book you didn't want to put down because you just had to find out if there is a HEA, but had to keep putting it down because you don't want it to end. This is that book for me.
A beautifully written story of two souls, broken and lost, who through one summer find each other and themselves again.
Lena runs from everything she has worked for, to escape the press who love to see a celebrity fall. She literally bumps into Michele in a coffee shop, he is running from the tattered remains of a career, stolen from him by an accident. The two are drawn to each other and see the pain each is hiding. Through one glorious summer they run from their pain and slowly, carefully rebuild themselves and each other, finding a love neither thought could exist outside of a fairytale.
But life in the real world comes knocking and along with it heartbreak, as decisions whether to stay or go home and face life have to be made. Can love survive the miles and busy careers, can love actually conquer all.
Erika has given us a wonderful story of love born of tragedy and betrayal. You will laugh and cry as Lena and Michele take you on a journey through Italy, described to us by an author who clearly loves the country and the people. We meet family and strangers alike, who embrace our lovers and help them "mend". If you don't read anything else this year, read this, it is the most amazing tale that will break your your heart, but warm it at the same time and probably steal your soul, but you will be happy to let it happen. I wish I could find better words to tell you how beautiful this book is, but I can tell you without a shadow of a doubt it has stolen my heart.
A beautifully written story of two souls, broken and lost, who through one summer find each other and themselves again.
Lena runs from everything she has worked for, to escape the press who love to see a celebrity fall. She literally bumps into Michele in a coffee shop, he is running from the tattered remains of a career, stolen from him by an accident. The two are drawn to each other and see the pain each is hiding. Through one glorious summer they run from their pain and slowly, carefully rebuild themselves and each other, finding a love neither thought could exist outside of a fairytale.
But life in the real world comes knocking and along with it heartbreak, as decisions whether to stay or go home and face life have to be made. Can love survive the miles and busy careers, can love actually conquer all.
Erika has given us a wonderful story of love born of tragedy and betrayal. You will laugh and cry as Lena and Michele take you on a journey through Italy, described to us by an author who clearly loves the country and the people. We meet family and strangers alike, who embrace our lovers and help them "mend". If you don't read anything else this year, read this, it is the most amazing tale that will break your your heart, but warm it at the same time and probably steal your soul, but you will be happy to let it happen. I wish I could find better words to tell you how beautiful this book is, but I can tell you without a shadow of a doubt it has stolen my heart.
September 5, 2025
First off, thank you Netgalley and Erika Vanzin for approving my request to read this arc.
Wow! The blurb of this book had me hooked which made me immediately send in a request and this book delivered all of my expectations. (might I also add this cover is so cute?) This book had so many clichés (which I absolutely adore) such as:
The one bed trope (TWICE!?)
Use of a Double POV (necessary in all good romances)
A bit of a hidden identity (not a huge part in the story)
favourite things:
when the author said this book would contain emotionally available men, witty banter, rich character arcs, and open-door intimacy rooted in real connection. No cheating. No love triangles. Guaranteed HEA, she so meant it. I need me a hot Italian man named Michele.
The character arcs were so great to see, I loved how they both pushed each other and helped get each other back on track with careers and the MMC is qualified to be a GREAT book boyfriend. (he's nerdy with history 😩)
One of the biggest things I loved about this book was how in the end both characters got their career goals without sacrificing too much and everything the characters felt I felt. I felt their anger and happiness and heartbreak and the author had such a lovely way of writing everything as well.
BUT..
things i didn't enjoy:
First of all, in the start of the book I SWEAR every two seconds this man was winking. It definitely stopped soon after but it had me so mad.
The author also stated this book was a slow burn. I don't exactly agree with that. Sure it takes them FOREVER to finally define their relationship but that's the only thing that's slow.
minor spoiler ahead:
It was so obvious they liked each other though so it wasn't really a slowburn to me, I feel like the only books which can genuinely say are slowburns are some enemies-to-lovers.
Next, when she arrives in Italy, she meets our MMC Michele. Then she goes on to stay in a car with him and in rooms. He did say she could send a picture of his ID to her family + friends but even then you would have NOT caught me travelling with him. (ID thing helped though)
During the one bed trope (the first time) there wasn't any tension. They kind of just laid there. But the second time? niceee 🙂↕️
ANDDD finally, the last of my grievances 😔, sometimes (only sometimes) when they were talking the dialogue didn't feel like what a normal person would say and it had me pulling faces.
(also I know it seems I have a lot of complaints about this book but a lot of it were some minor things that i picked up on)
But this was such an easy read which I finished in 2 days, I would give it a 2-2.5 in 🌶️, there are 2 or 3 scenes, and only one long one. I so recommend getting this once it's published (29th of July) and I will definitely going to pick up some of her other books.
3.5 stars rounded up!
Wow! The blurb of this book had me hooked which made me immediately send in a request and this book delivered all of my expectations. (might I also add this cover is so cute?) This book had so many clichés (which I absolutely adore) such as:
The one bed trope (TWICE!?)
Use of a Double POV (necessary in all good romances)
A bit of a hidden identity (not a huge part in the story)
favourite things:
when the author said this book would contain emotionally available men, witty banter, rich character arcs, and open-door intimacy rooted in real connection. No cheating. No love triangles. Guaranteed HEA, she so meant it. I need me a hot Italian man named Michele.
The character arcs were so great to see, I loved how they both pushed each other and helped get each other back on track with careers and the MMC is qualified to be a GREAT book boyfriend. (he's nerdy with history 😩)
One of the biggest things I loved about this book was how in the end both characters got their career goals without sacrificing too much and everything the characters felt I felt. I felt their anger and happiness and heartbreak and the author had such a lovely way of writing everything as well.
BUT..
things i didn't enjoy:
First of all, in the start of the book I SWEAR every two seconds this man was winking. It definitely stopped soon after but it had me so mad.
The author also stated this book was a slow burn. I don't exactly agree with that. Sure it takes them FOREVER to finally define their relationship but that's the only thing that's slow.
minor spoiler ahead:
It was so obvious they liked each other though so it wasn't really a slowburn to me, I feel like the only books which can genuinely say are slowburns are some enemies-to-lovers.
Next, when she arrives in Italy, she meets our MMC Michele. Then she goes on to stay in a car with him and in rooms. He did say she could send a picture of his ID to her family + friends but even then you would have NOT caught me travelling with him. (ID thing helped though)
During the one bed trope (the first time) there wasn't any tension. They kind of just laid there. But the second time? niceee 🙂↕️
ANDDD finally, the last of my grievances 😔, sometimes (only sometimes) when they were talking the dialogue didn't feel like what a normal person would say and it had me pulling faces.
(also I know it seems I have a lot of complaints about this book but a lot of it were some minor things that i picked up on)
But this was such an easy read which I finished in 2 days, I would give it a 2-2.5 in 🌶️, there are 2 or 3 scenes, and only one long one. I so recommend getting this once it's published (29th of July) and I will definitely going to pick up some of her other books.
3.5 stars rounded up!
November 12, 2025
The Road to You is a beautifully woven contemporary romance that takes readers on a heartfelt journey through Italy, blending the allure of stunning settings with the emotional complexities of two very different lives coming together.
The story follows Lena, a Hollywood actress escaping the pressures of fame and a complicated relationship with her boyfriend Preston, and Michele, a top football player grappling with a serious injury that threatens his career. Their worlds collide unexpectedly in Milan when Lena accidentally ruins Michele’s shirt at a coffee shop, sparking a connection that unfolds amid the breathtaking backdrop of Italy’s most romantic locations — from the charming streets of Varenna and Bellagio to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the historic gardens of Florence.
I would definitely read another one of Erika’s books
The story follows Lena, a Hollywood actress escaping the pressures of fame and a complicated relationship with her boyfriend Preston, and Michele, a top football player grappling with a serious injury that threatens his career. Their worlds collide unexpectedly in Milan when Lena accidentally ruins Michele’s shirt at a coffee shop, sparking a connection that unfolds amid the breathtaking backdrop of Italy’s most romantic locations — from the charming streets of Varenna and Bellagio to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the historic gardens of Florence.
I would definitely read another one of Erika’s books
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