What do you think?
Rate this book
Beyond the Starlight
He’s running from the past. She’s trapped by her future.
Neither of them is looking for love—but fate doesn’t care.
After a devastating betrayal, Gabriele escapes to the hills of Tuscany, hoping distance will quiet the noise inside his head. What he doesn't expect is Piper—stunning, stubborn, and completely off-limits. She’s everything he shouldn’t want and the only thing that makes him feel alive again.
Piper’s life has never been her own. With an engagement she didn’t choose and a legacy she’s expected to uphold, falling for the charming man with haunted eyes was never part of the plan.
But under the Tuscan sun, secrets unravel, sparks ignite, and one unforgettable summer might just change everything.
A slow-burn, emotional, and swoony romance about second chances, forbidden desire, and the kind of love that leaves a mark.
Neither of them is looking for love—but fate doesn’t care.
After a devastating betrayal, Gabriele escapes to the hills of Tuscany, hoping distance will quiet the noise inside his head. What he doesn't expect is Piper—stunning, stubborn, and completely off-limits. She’s everything he shouldn’t want and the only thing that makes him feel alive again.
Piper’s life has never been her own. With an engagement she didn’t choose and a legacy she’s expected to uphold, falling for the charming man with haunted eyes was never part of the plan.
But under the Tuscan sun, secrets unravel, sparks ignite, and one unforgettable summer might just change everything.
A slow-burn, emotional, and swoony romance about second chances, forbidden desire, and the kind of love that leaves a mark.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 22, 2025
1 person is currently reading
5 people want to read
About the author
D.G. Keene
10 books18 followersBorn and raised in Italy, D.G. Keene developed an early passion for storytelling and the written word. She holds a degree in Sociology with an emphasis on Communication and Mass Media, as well as a degree in Italian Language and Literature. Ten years ago, she moved to the United States, where she continued to cultivate her love for reading and writing. Drawing inspiration from her travels and the rich landscapes of both Italy and Hawaii, where she lives, D.G. Keene writes emotionally charged and spicy contemporary romance novels that explore the complexities of love, passion, and personal transformation.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
August 15, 2025
3.75 🌟
"She turns, and our eyes meet. And there’s this moment, this tiny, weightless second, where it feels like the whole damn universe holds its breath." (Ch 16)
Enraged by a breakup and emotional tidalwave that leaves him shattered, Gabriele flees to Italy.
Piper has dreams, but she's stuck in the current of her family's forced intentions and feels like she’s barely keeping her head above water. She's trapped and obligated to go along with their plans for her future.
A chance meeting in the sand brings them together. At odds, at first, then the waves and tides crash them together.
Tear-jerker alert from the prologue into chapter 1, wrecking me already!
This is a story about letting go of hurts and overcoming them. About being brave enough to set and create one's own path while letting go of the shackles and opening the cage door. Because our lives are made up of choices and our path is determined by them. Sure, outside influences can try to put obstacles in our way and even try to steer us or deter us, but in the end, the choice of acceptance, the choice of direction is ours. Piper and Gabriele had to learn this. They both, equally, choose hard and rough and raw ways. They needed to figure out what they really wanted out of life in order to find the paths that lead them to their happiness... and to each other. And oh yeah, of course, they do it with a heady dose of splash and steam. 😏
"We both laugh, and in that moment, it feels like we’ve found each other again. Like, just for a second, with the wine, the fire, and a sky full of stars.... Like maybe, for once, it could just be us." (Ch 10)
Voluntary review of courtesy copy of the eARC.
"She turns, and our eyes meet. And there’s this moment, this tiny, weightless second, where it feels like the whole damn universe holds its breath." (Ch 16)
Enraged by a breakup and emotional tidalwave that leaves him shattered, Gabriele flees to Italy.
Piper has dreams, but she's stuck in the current of her family's forced intentions and feels like she’s barely keeping her head above water. She's trapped and obligated to go along with their plans for her future.
A chance meeting in the sand brings them together. At odds, at first, then the waves and tides crash them together.
Tear-jerker alert from the prologue into chapter 1, wrecking me already!
This is a story about letting go of hurts and overcoming them. About being brave enough to set and create one's own path while letting go of the shackles and opening the cage door. Because our lives are made up of choices and our path is determined by them. Sure, outside influences can try to put obstacles in our way and even try to steer us or deter us, but in the end, the choice of acceptance, the choice of direction is ours. Piper and Gabriele had to learn this. They both, equally, choose hard and rough and raw ways. They needed to figure out what they really wanted out of life in order to find the paths that lead them to their happiness... and to each other. And oh yeah, of course, they do it with a heady dose of splash and steam. 😏
"We both laugh, and in that moment, it feels like we’ve found each other again. Like, just for a second, with the wine, the fire, and a sky full of stars.... Like maybe, for once, it could just be us." (Ch 10)
Voluntary review of courtesy copy of the eARC.
July 20, 2025
I just love this series and Gabriele and Piper's story. Their chemistry and banter was so good. The emotions that they put us through. Gabriele had so many things happening to deal with, especially his fight with his mom and Nick. He needed the space to grow and understand everything. Piper's life has been planned out for her by her family. What she'd study in school to whom she was to marry. She had no choice in anything. Together they learned to heal themselves and found the love and support they needed.
July 22, 2025
"Because love doesn't just heal the past. It dares us to look forward, to hope again, to believe again, to follow the light, even when we don't know exactly where it'll lead."
As soon as I knew Book 3 in the Beyond series was set in Italy, I already knew I would love it.
Italy is one of my favourite places, so reading the book brought back some amazing memories and made me want to book another trip.
The book was a great story of how two people were lost in their own ways but found themselves and love along the way. It was emotional at times.
I wasn't sure what I was going to think of Gabriele at first after the last encounter with his family. However, it was clear to see how deeply hurt and lost he was. His love for his family was always there. He just needed his space to find himself and grow.
I felt for Piper, as she felt trapped through family obligations and a legacy to live up to. Although I wanted her to stand up to her family and boyfriend earlier, I could understand her fears for not doing.
I loved Gabriele and Piper together. Their time in Rome was so romantic and lovely. You could tell they were they happiest versions of themselves there together. Gabriele saw the true Piper, her passions and got her to see how strong she could be.
The only thing I would have liked to have seen would have been to see Gabriele, and maybe even with Pipers help, bring down Sebastian. That would have been some great justice for him.
The book took me on an emotional rollercoaster, where I became deeply invested in the characters' relationships, experiencing their joys, heartbreaks, and triumphs alongside them.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who loves a slow burn, second chance romance were the characters heal and find themselves along the way. Also, there is some spice added in 🔥
✨️ Releases 22 July 2025 ✨️
Thank you to Daniela G Keene for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As soon as I knew Book 3 in the Beyond series was set in Italy, I already knew I would love it.
Italy is one of my favourite places, so reading the book brought back some amazing memories and made me want to book another trip.
The book was a great story of how two people were lost in their own ways but found themselves and love along the way. It was emotional at times.
I wasn't sure what I was going to think of Gabriele at first after the last encounter with his family. However, it was clear to see how deeply hurt and lost he was. His love for his family was always there. He just needed his space to find himself and grow.
I felt for Piper, as she felt trapped through family obligations and a legacy to live up to. Although I wanted her to stand up to her family and boyfriend earlier, I could understand her fears for not doing.
I loved Gabriele and Piper together. Their time in Rome was so romantic and lovely. You could tell they were they happiest versions of themselves there together. Gabriele saw the true Piper, her passions and got her to see how strong she could be.
The only thing I would have liked to have seen would have been to see Gabriele, and maybe even with Pipers help, bring down Sebastian. That would have been some great justice for him.
The book took me on an emotional rollercoaster, where I became deeply invested in the characters' relationships, experiencing their joys, heartbreaks, and triumphs alongside them.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who loves a slow burn, second chance romance were the characters heal and find themselves along the way. Also, there is some spice added in 🔥
✨️ Releases 22 July 2025 ✨️
Thank you to Daniela G Keene for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2025
If you’ve ever loved someone who you thought wasn’t ready to love you back — this will wreck you. Set against a dreamy Italian backdrop, this tender love story unfolds between Piper, trapped in a life she’s convinced herself she wants, and Gabriele, nursing the wounds of a broken 8-year relationship. As Piper faces the reality of her older fiancé’s hidden cruelty, Gabriele becomes a quiet anchor. The author beautifully narrates their "firsts" with warmth, patience, and deep emotional honesty. A slow-burn romance full of healing, hope, and the courage to choose love. 💔✨🇮🇹
July 21, 2025
Piper and Gabriel’s story makes me so happy!
I will say I was about to fall apart until I didn’t have to 🤣. Phew I was so nervous as to how this was going to play out!
Loved this love story and the storyline! The setting makes me want to get on a plane and fly to Rome asap!🤣
Thank you so much for giving me the privilege to read an ARC copy!!
I will say I was about to fall apart until I didn’t have to 🤣. Phew I was so nervous as to how this was going to play out!
Loved this love story and the storyline! The setting makes me want to get on a plane and fly to Rome asap!🤣
Thank you so much for giving me the privilege to read an ARC copy!!
July 12, 2025
Love love love!!! This has been my favorite book in the series. The way she describes every place in Italy is so beautiful. Love the chemistry between Main characters. Felt so connected to the main characters. I cannot wait to see what happens to Sebastian. Cannot wait to see him go down. The ending had me crying happy tears. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
July 6, 2025
This is a really cute ,fun story I loved it! I felt connected to the main characters , and even though I got frustrated with how things where going it ment that’s just how much more I was connecting ! The ending even brought me to tears ! The only thing is I want more on Sebastian he needs to get caught !
July 15, 2025
Beyond the Starlight by DG Keene
When in Italy... Fall Recklessly in Love 🇮🇹✨ Thank you to the author for the ARC!
Tropes you’ll love:
💔 Second chances
🇮🇹 Vacation/escape romance (hello, dreamy Tuscany!)
🚫 Forbidden love
🌅 Forced proximity
🔥 Slow burn with SPICE
💍 Arranged/expected engagement
🛠️ Emotional healing
DG Keene, how dare you make me cry in the middle of the Tuscan countryside (okay, my living room, but let’s not ruin the fantasy)? Beyond the Starlight is the kind of slow-burn, soul-healing romance that wraps itself around you like the Italian sun. Warm, bright, and impossible to forget.
Let’s start with Gabriele, our brooding, battered hero who’s running from heartbreak and guilt like it’s chasing him on a Vespa. After the fallout in Book 2, I wasn’t sure I could root for him, but wow did he surprise me. He’s quietly intense, emotionally layered, and fiercely loyal underneath all that protective grump. Bonus points for calling Tuscany home? Swoon.
Enter Piper, who’s basically living in a real-life cage made of family duty, a stifling legacy, and an ugh-worthy fiancé named Sebastian. Piper’s journey is just as compelling as the romance. Watching her rediscover her strength, passion, and voice was deeply satisfying. I was practically fist-pumping as she peeled back the layers of who she really is.
Together? Gabriele and Piper are fire. Their chemistry crackles from the start, and when the slow burn finally ignites? Let’s just say... The Tuscan sun wasn’t the only thing sizzling. 🔥
What I adored most was how intentional the romance felt. Nothing was rushed. They unraveled each other’s pain slowly, delicately, until hope slipped in where heartbreak used to live. The emotional beats were beautifully done: raw, tender, and real.
Also, can we talk about the Italian setting? Keene paints every piazza, vineyard, and sunset in such vivid detail, I swear I could taste the Chianti and feel the cobblestones under my feet. If you’re not googling “flights to Florence” after reading this, you’re stronger than me.
I desperately wanted more justice for Sebastian. He’s the kind of villain that deserves to go down hard, preferably while watching Piper and Gabriele thrive. Give us a redemption and revenge arc next book... please!
Beyond the Starlight is a poignant, poetic love story about two people finding home in each other after being lost for far too long. It's passionate, heartfelt, and utterly immersive. This one’s for the dreamers, the healers, and anyone who’s ever needed a second chance... and maybe a Tuscan getaway. ✨🍷💕
DG Keene, grazie mille. I’m still thinking about those final chapters, I cried happy tears.
When in Italy... Fall Recklessly in Love 🇮🇹✨ Thank you to the author for the ARC!
Tropes you’ll love:
💔 Second chances
🇮🇹 Vacation/escape romance (hello, dreamy Tuscany!)
🚫 Forbidden love
🌅 Forced proximity
🔥 Slow burn with SPICE
💍 Arranged/expected engagement
🛠️ Emotional healing
DG Keene, how dare you make me cry in the middle of the Tuscan countryside (okay, my living room, but let’s not ruin the fantasy)? Beyond the Starlight is the kind of slow-burn, soul-healing romance that wraps itself around you like the Italian sun. Warm, bright, and impossible to forget.
Let’s start with Gabriele, our brooding, battered hero who’s running from heartbreak and guilt like it’s chasing him on a Vespa. After the fallout in Book 2, I wasn’t sure I could root for him, but wow did he surprise me. He’s quietly intense, emotionally layered, and fiercely loyal underneath all that protective grump. Bonus points for calling Tuscany home? Swoon.
Enter Piper, who’s basically living in a real-life cage made of family duty, a stifling legacy, and an ugh-worthy fiancé named Sebastian. Piper’s journey is just as compelling as the romance. Watching her rediscover her strength, passion, and voice was deeply satisfying. I was practically fist-pumping as she peeled back the layers of who she really is.
Together? Gabriele and Piper are fire. Their chemistry crackles from the start, and when the slow burn finally ignites? Let’s just say... The Tuscan sun wasn’t the only thing sizzling. 🔥
What I adored most was how intentional the romance felt. Nothing was rushed. They unraveled each other’s pain slowly, delicately, until hope slipped in where heartbreak used to live. The emotional beats were beautifully done: raw, tender, and real.
Also, can we talk about the Italian setting? Keene paints every piazza, vineyard, and sunset in such vivid detail, I swear I could taste the Chianti and feel the cobblestones under my feet. If you’re not googling “flights to Florence” after reading this, you’re stronger than me.
I desperately wanted more justice for Sebastian. He’s the kind of villain that deserves to go down hard, preferably while watching Piper and Gabriele thrive. Give us a redemption and revenge arc next book... please!
Beyond the Starlight is a poignant, poetic love story about two people finding home in each other after being lost for far too long. It's passionate, heartfelt, and utterly immersive. This one’s for the dreamers, the healers, and anyone who’s ever needed a second chance... and maybe a Tuscan getaway. ✨🍷💕
DG Keene, grazie mille. I’m still thinking about those final chapters, I cried happy tears.
July 23, 2025
This book took some unexpected turns. Gabriele Grant is having serious relationship problems. He blew up his whole life after finding out his long-term girlfriend was cheating on him. He quit his job and moved to Italy. Not to find his mom's estranged family, nope. Gabriele needed some time away to process. He and his group of friends were footloose and free all over Italy. He was working as a waiter until he met the Kingsburys. Josh Kingsbury offered Gabry and place to stay and a job on their estate while they were vacationing there. Gabry had already met his daughter, Piper, and her boyfriend, Sebastian. Piper and Gabriele got along well. A little too well for someone that is supposed to be in a relationship.
Piper was trying to be the good daughter. Her father wanted her to create a union with Sebastian. Sebastian already worked closely with him and they would make a good team. Piper just wanted to make her father happy. Gabriele gave Piper something to think about. He made Piper realize that she might be able to have the life she wanted instead of the life she was born to have.
This book did not just focus on Gabriele. Piper was a main focus as well. Though Piper was an adult, she had not had to make any real adult decisions. Her maturity wasn't really where you would think it would be. She did not get to experience everything most people have experienced at her age. There were a few situations that I wanted her to be an adult and I had to realize she just didn't have the life skills to handle things the way most adults did. Both Piper and Gabriele had some growing up to do with some serious obstacles. Will these two get it together? I loved the depth of this book. Readers get to see characters we already know and love. I hope Ms. Keene is not trying to end this series any time soon. I need more. I really enjoy Ms. Keene's writing. I feel like she gives readers a full story to enjoy.
Piper was trying to be the good daughter. Her father wanted her to create a union with Sebastian. Sebastian already worked closely with him and they would make a good team. Piper just wanted to make her father happy. Gabriele gave Piper something to think about. He made Piper realize that she might be able to have the life she wanted instead of the life she was born to have.
This book did not just focus on Gabriele. Piper was a main focus as well. Though Piper was an adult, she had not had to make any real adult decisions. Her maturity wasn't really where you would think it would be. She did not get to experience everything most people have experienced at her age. There were a few situations that I wanted her to be an adult and I had to realize she just didn't have the life skills to handle things the way most adults did. Both Piper and Gabriele had some growing up to do with some serious obstacles. Will these two get it together? I loved the depth of this book. Readers get to see characters we already know and love. I hope Ms. Keene is not trying to end this series any time soon. I need more. I really enjoy Ms. Keene's writing. I feel like she gives readers a full story to enjoy.
July 16, 2025
There isn’t a single thing about this spicy contemporary romance I would change. It was flawless. The imagery the author describes throughout Italy, I felt like I was literally there. I loved the attraction and angst and tension and love shared between Gabry and Piper. While it is a standalone, I would definitely encourage readers to have read the first book in this series because the main characters in that book are supporting characters in this one and man the whole story comes full circle. This series will forever be my contemporary romance holy grail. The writing style is so perfect. The plot pacing and twists and surprises are executed so well. And the spice will have you kicking your feet and looking over your shoulder to make sure no one else is peeping at what you’re reading. This book made me giggle, it made my heart race, it made me cryyyyy. It was so sweet, so beautiful, so real. I’m completely obsessed. I’m not sure how the author continues to level up as each book in this series is released, but this one is hands down my favorite. It’s a perfect summer read. A perfect beach read. A perfect anytime read. I highly recommend downloading the book and letting it transport you to Italy for a deep dive into Gabry and Piper’s love story.
July 19, 2025
Beyond the Starlight is a slow-burn romance that will capture your heart. Let's start with Gabriele, our hero who's been through a tough time and is now running from heartbreak. I'll admit, I had my doubts about him after Book 2, but wow, did he prove me wrong! He's got this amazing balance of quiet intensity, emotional depth, and fierce loyalty that's really compelling.
Piper is trapped in a life that isn't hers, suffocated by family expectations, a burdensome legacy, and a fiancé, Sebastian, who's all wrong for her. But as she begins to peel back the layers, she rediscovers her own strength, passion, and voice, and it's a journey that's just as compelling as the romance that blossoms. Gabriele and Piper have an undeniable connection. The slow-burning tension between them is palpable from the beginning, and when it finally reaches its peak, it's incredibly satisfying.
I'm rooting for Sebastian to get what's coming to him! He's the type of villain who deserves to go down in flames, and I'd love to see Piper and Gabriele living their best lives while he's facing justice.
Piper is trapped in a life that isn't hers, suffocated by family expectations, a burdensome legacy, and a fiancé, Sebastian, who's all wrong for her. But as she begins to peel back the layers, she rediscovers her own strength, passion, and voice, and it's a journey that's just as compelling as the romance that blossoms. Gabriele and Piper have an undeniable connection. The slow-burning tension between them is palpable from the beginning, and when it finally reaches its peak, it's incredibly satisfying.
I'm rooting for Sebastian to get what's coming to him! He's the type of villain who deserves to go down in flames, and I'd love to see Piper and Gabriele living their best lives while he's facing justice.
July 22, 2025
Beyond The Starlight the third book in the Beyond series follows Nicholas and Carolina’s eldest son Gabriele finding himself after a heartbreak with his ex. It is when he crosses paths with Ms. Piper Kingsbury. Just like the 1st and 2nd book I am obsessed and in love with the 3rd book. I love the storyline beginning to the end of the book. Yes, I was screaming, giggling and had all the butterflies reading Beyond The Starlight. The way D.G Keene describes Italy, the characters story and background is just amazing. I’m such a fan of her work and can’t recommend her books. I have no idea how she does it, but every single time I shed tears of joy for each book. The way she writes the emotion between the Gabriele and Piper is so real and beautiful. I just can’t get enough. So eager for book 4, 5 & 6 already. 💗!
July 19, 2025
Beyond the Starlight is the third book in D.G. Keene’s incredible series, and it absolutely did not disappoint. From the very first page, I was completely hooked and couldn’t put it down. The story picks up beautifully from the previous books and continues to build on the emotional depth, action, and character development that I’ve come to love from this series.
D.G. Keene has a real talent for drawing you into the world and making you feel every twist, turn, and triumph. I loved every minute of reading this and honestly didn’t want it to end. If you’ve read the first two, this is a must, and if you haven’t started the series yet, you’re in for a treat. A truly fantastic read!
D.G. Keene has a real talent for drawing you into the world and making you feel every twist, turn, and triumph. I loved every minute of reading this and honestly didn’t want it to end. If you’ve read the first two, this is a must, and if you haven’t started the series yet, you’re in for a treat. A truly fantastic read!
August 2, 2025
I think when you text the author that you’re crying at 11:30pm you’ve hit a new level of enjoyment.
Thank you to Daniela for the pleasure of ARC reading these last two books. I am so in love with this family, found family, and the dynamics between all the characters. They are flawed but they love fiercely. There is unresolved trauma but it’s delicately woven. The attraction and relationship between Gabriele and Piper is built up and even when you think the storyline is wrapped up we get thrown a twist. And then another. I loved It all. Healing through love. Family first.
This is book three in an interconnected standalone.
Thank you to Daniela for the pleasure of ARC reading these last two books. I am so in love with this family, found family, and the dynamics between all the characters. They are flawed but they love fiercely. There is unresolved trauma but it’s delicately woven. The attraction and relationship between Gabriele and Piper is built up and even when you think the storyline is wrapped up we get thrown a twist. And then another. I loved It all. Healing through love. Family first.
This is book three in an interconnected standalone.
July 16, 2025
It was so good to return to the world of Nick Grant and his family. It was great to finally read Gabrielle’s story. He and Piper were a perfect match. This book set place in Italy and after reading this I really wanted to go there. I really loved this series and I think this was the best book so far! The chemistry between Gabrielle and Piper was so good, I hated Sebastian, I would have loved to read how he was brought down. Can’t wait for the next book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/5
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/5
July 24, 2025
Outstanding. Gabriele and Piper's story is heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. An emotional ride. Both have their demons that they are hiding from. Both wanting to move past them. Both not knowing how to. Until they spend a holiday together in Rome. There, they can no longer ignore the pull they have towards each other. A great read. It was so hard to put down. I would definitely recommend this one.
July 21, 2025
Oh. My. Gosh. I adored this book! In my opinion, this is DG’s best work yet, I devoured it in a single day. The plot, the spice, the Italian backdrop… it was all done so well, I genuinely felt like I was there.
Our MMC, Gabriele, is what I’d call a cinnamon roll with a tortured soul. He’s literally trying to escape his life after a wild breakout and figure out who he is again, and let me tell you, my guy is mad at the world. Then enters Piper, who is quite literally a breath of fresh air with some serious ✨baggage✨ of her own.
The way these two pined for each other? Insane. And in true DG fashion, when the spice hits….it’s off the charts!
This is a standalone, but I highly recommend reading Book 1, Beyond the Spotlight, first to really get the full picture of this world and its characters.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Loved it!
Our MMC, Gabriele, is what I’d call a cinnamon roll with a tortured soul. He’s literally trying to escape his life after a wild breakout and figure out who he is again, and let me tell you, my guy is mad at the world. Then enters Piper, who is quite literally a breath of fresh air with some serious ✨baggage✨ of her own.
The way these two pined for each other? Insane. And in true DG fashion, when the spice hits….it’s off the charts!
This is a standalone, but I highly recommend reading Book 1, Beyond the Spotlight, first to really get the full picture of this world and its characters.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Loved it!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews