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The Bridge Back to You
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Expected 31 Mar 26Win a free print copy of this book!
6 days and 11:09:48
10 copies available
U.S. only
Exes discover they’ve both inherited the restaurant they love in this sparkling, emotional new novel from the
USA Today
bestselling author of
A Love like the Sun.
Olivia owes everything to Celia's Place. It’s where she learned how to be a great chef. It’s also where she first fell in love. But at nineteen, Olivia had a wanderlust she couldn’t deny. And Carmello, whose mother owned the restaurant, couldn’t leave Celia's Place behind any more than he could force Olivia to stay.
Now, ten years later, Olivia is a successful personal chef. Her job allows her to travel the world, and she has never stayed in the same place for too long. When Carmello learns that his mother left shares of her beloved restaurant to both him and Olivia, he plans to buy her portion of the shares back quickly and painlessly.
That is until Olivia shows up at the restaurant, ready to help run it. Carmello sees an drive Olivia away from his restaurant so that she will want to sign over her shares. But Olivia sees things a bit differently. She finally has the chance to stay in one place and build a home after years on the move, and perhaps now is the right time to explore whether that home can be with the one who got away.
Soon enough, sparks begin to fly, but can Olivia and Carmello avoid the mistakes of the past?
Olivia owes everything to Celia's Place. It’s where she learned how to be a great chef. It’s also where she first fell in love. But at nineteen, Olivia had a wanderlust she couldn’t deny. And Carmello, whose mother owned the restaurant, couldn’t leave Celia's Place behind any more than he could force Olivia to stay.
Now, ten years later, Olivia is a successful personal chef. Her job allows her to travel the world, and she has never stayed in the same place for too long. When Carmello learns that his mother left shares of her beloved restaurant to both him and Olivia, he plans to buy her portion of the shares back quickly and painlessly.
That is until Olivia shows up at the restaurant, ready to help run it. Carmello sees an drive Olivia away from his restaurant so that she will want to sign over her shares. But Olivia sees things a bit differently. She finally has the chance to stay in one place and build a home after years on the move, and perhaps now is the right time to explore whether that home can be with the one who got away.
Soon enough, sparks begin to fly, but can Olivia and Carmello avoid the mistakes of the past?
368 pages, Paperback
Expected publication March 31, 2026
12 people are currently reading
8128 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The book has such an interesting premise! After his mother’s death, the MMC learns that she left part of her shares in their joint restaurant to his ex-girlfriend—the woman he hasn’t seen in ten years. Carmello wants to buy out that share, but Olivia isn’t in a hurry to agree.
I really appreciated how the author addressed topics like mental and chronic health—for example, the FMC has ADHD and endometriosis. The cultural aspect was also beautifully explored: both main characters are chefs, and we get to learn about elements of Dominican and Filipino cuisine. The food descriptions were so vivid that they genuinely made me want to taste everything!
The beginning of the story was strong, impressive, and emotional, but later on it started to feel a bit slow for me. Olivia agreed to almost everything, there weren’t any major conflicts, and the characters quickly realized that they had never truly forgotten each other. I was especially interested in the storyline involving Carmello’s son—he’s such a sweet boy—but I would have loved to see more interaction between him and Olivia. I’ll also add that I didn’t like the mother’s actions, even though the second time she acted with good intentions.
Overall, I’d describe this book as a cozy, calm romance without excessive drama—perfect for a relaxing evening read.
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
✓second chance
✓forced proximity
✓they’re both chefs
✓ mental and chronic health rep
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group (Berkley) for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I really appreciated how the author addressed topics like mental and chronic health—for example, the FMC has ADHD and endometriosis. The cultural aspect was also beautifully explored: both main characters are chefs, and we get to learn about elements of Dominican and Filipino cuisine. The food descriptions were so vivid that they genuinely made me want to taste everything!
The beginning of the story was strong, impressive, and emotional, but later on it started to feel a bit slow for me. Olivia agreed to almost everything, there weren’t any major conflicts, and the characters quickly realized that they had never truly forgotten each other. I was especially interested in the storyline involving Carmello’s son—he’s such a sweet boy—but I would have loved to see more interaction between him and Olivia. I’ll also add that I didn’t like the mother’s actions, even though the second time she acted with good intentions.
Overall, I’d describe this book as a cozy, calm romance without excessive drama—perfect for a relaxing evening read.
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
✓second chance
✓forced proximity
✓they’re both chefs
✓ mental and chronic health rep
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group (Berkley) for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 21, 2025
This was too sweet!!!! I loved all the second chance vibes, small town setting, forced proximity, low stakes romance, and no 3rd act break up 🤭💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
Watching Olivia and Carmello find their way back to each other while working at his late mother’s restaurant had me in my feels 🥲🫶🏽 it was def a slow burn but you could just feel all the angst and tension building as chapter went on. What really got me though was how emotional and tender the buildup was. Olivia and Carmello both had their own issues that stemmed from their childhoods and ended up playing a bigger role in the downfall of their first relationship. But I’m so glad Riss let them identify those feelings, work through them, and grow together. It made their reunion feel so earned 🥰
The Bridge Back to You was beautifully written, emotionally layered, and just really heartwarming to read tbh 🙂↕️💕🥲
Watching Olivia and Carmello find their way back to each other while working at his late mother’s restaurant had me in my feels 🥲🫶🏽 it was def a slow burn but you could just feel all the angst and tension building as chapter went on. What really got me though was how emotional and tender the buildup was. Olivia and Carmello both had their own issues that stemmed from their childhoods and ended up playing a bigger role in the downfall of their first relationship. But I’m so glad Riss let them identify those feelings, work through them, and grow together. It made their reunion feel so earned 🥰
The Bridge Back to You was beautifully written, emotionally layered, and just really heartwarming to read tbh 🙂↕️💕🥲
December 9, 2025
I have mixed feelings about this one.
To my core, I am a lover of forced proximity second-chance romances (one of my favourite niches!). So imagine my delight when I happened upon The Bridge Back to You, in which Olivia and Carmello, previous first loves, are forced together a decade after their break-up, when she is named a partial owner of Carmello's mother's restaurant in her will. The restaurant that belongs to Carmello, or... 75% of it does.
I adored Olivia and Carmello. They are mature, intentional, and emotionally intelligent, which feeds into the development of their relationship. Olivia and Carmello's communication, affection, and individuality were well-defined. As was Olivia's wanderlust, in contrast to Carmello's hearthbound nature, and how these intrinsic traits divided their paths from one another. The mental health representation was thoughtful and considerate. I adored the cultural components that were core to these characters and central to the story. It made this novel feel like an ode to Filipino and Dominican ancestry in such a beautiful way.
Sadly, I struggled to feel the connection between the main characters. The progression of their relationship and feelings felt offhand. I also struggled with the amount of contextualizing. There was a lot of background information packed into this one, in both the past and present timelines. I enjoyed the dual timelines, but when the present is still overloaded with resurging memories, side character backstories, and oddly placed flashbacks, it throws off the progression. I prefer when the past timeline is used for this purpose, to help contextualize and illuminate the status of the current relationship for the reader, but that's a subjective take. This is my first read by this author, so I may not be used to this writing style, but it unfortunately did not work for me.
There is a beautiful, touching story here. I'm disappointed I couldn't connect to it, but suspect I'll be the odd one out here.
To my core, I am a lover of forced proximity second-chance romances (one of my favourite niches!). So imagine my delight when I happened upon The Bridge Back to You, in which Olivia and Carmello, previous first loves, are forced together a decade after their break-up, when she is named a partial owner of Carmello's mother's restaurant in her will. The restaurant that belongs to Carmello, or... 75% of it does.
I adored Olivia and Carmello. They are mature, intentional, and emotionally intelligent, which feeds into the development of their relationship. Olivia and Carmello's communication, affection, and individuality were well-defined. As was Olivia's wanderlust, in contrast to Carmello's hearthbound nature, and how these intrinsic traits divided their paths from one another. The mental health representation was thoughtful and considerate. I adored the cultural components that were core to these characters and central to the story. It made this novel feel like an ode to Filipino and Dominican ancestry in such a beautiful way.
Sadly, I struggled to feel the connection between the main characters. The progression of their relationship and feelings felt offhand. I also struggled with the amount of contextualizing. There was a lot of background information packed into this one, in both the past and present timelines. I enjoyed the dual timelines, but when the present is still overloaded with resurging memories, side character backstories, and oddly placed flashbacks, it throws off the progression. I prefer when the past timeline is used for this purpose, to help contextualize and illuminate the status of the current relationship for the reader, but that's a subjective take. This is my first read by this author, so I may not be used to this writing style, but it unfortunately did not work for me.
There is a beautiful, touching story here. I'm disappointed I couldn't connect to it, but suspect I'll be the odd one out here.
December 8, 2025
Full of heart, honesty, and that kind of emotional pull that sneaks up on you, this story blends tenderness with just enough tension to make every chapter feel meaningful. It moves with a warm, steady rhythm that keeps you rooting for the characters while soaking in all the little moments that make the journey worth it.
October 20, 2025
Loved it! 🥹
Review to come!!
Review to come!!
December 7, 2025
4.5/5
I really enjoyed this book! I went in expecting a light-hearted, second-chance, rivals-to-lovers romance, but Olivia and Carmello’s relationship runs much deeper than that. When they met as teenagers, they shared a once-in-a-lifetime kind of love, and when things ended badly, they each became the other’s “one that got away.” Even a decade later, their feelings are far from resolved. When Carmello’s mom’s will forces them to work together, it’s all too easy to slip back into old patterns.
While it’s primarily a romance, the story offers so much more. We watch them navigate their grief after Carmello’s mom’s death, confront mental health and chronic health challenges (including endometriosis), and slowly relearn how to open up and trust each other after heartbreak. The book alternates between the past and the present. Their feelings are raw and honest, and seeing how their maturity and growth are reflected in their second relationship was beautiful. I loved how life and wanderlust sent them down different paths, only for those paths to lead them back to each other. There's a lot of mutual yearning and the romance is spicy and tender at the same time.
Also prepare to be hungry as you live vicariously through the characters' cultural foods.
Thank you to Berkley and Netgalley for the ARC!
I really enjoyed this book! I went in expecting a light-hearted, second-chance, rivals-to-lovers romance, but Olivia and Carmello’s relationship runs much deeper than that. When they met as teenagers, they shared a once-in-a-lifetime kind of love, and when things ended badly, they each became the other’s “one that got away.” Even a decade later, their feelings are far from resolved. When Carmello’s mom’s will forces them to work together, it’s all too easy to slip back into old patterns.
While it’s primarily a romance, the story offers so much more. We watch them navigate their grief after Carmello’s mom’s death, confront mental health and chronic health challenges (including endometriosis), and slowly relearn how to open up and trust each other after heartbreak. The book alternates between the past and the present. Their feelings are raw and honest, and seeing how their maturity and growth are reflected in their second relationship was beautiful. I loved how life and wanderlust sent them down different paths, only for those paths to lead them back to each other. There's a lot of mutual yearning and the romance is spicy and tender at the same time.
Also prepare to be hungry as you live vicariously through the characters' cultural foods.
Thank you to Berkley and Netgalley for the ARC!
December 22, 2025
I really enjoyed this author’s last work (A Love Like the Sun) so I was excited to snag this ARC! I love second-chance romances and appreciate the breadth and depth of the additional topics covered: mental health rep (ADHD, OCD/anxiety), grief/healing, and endometriosis. I liked how these themes were woven into the story in a way that was a part of the characters’ natural day-to-day lives, without any one theme feeling heavy-handed. The characters were easy to root for and I appreciated their maturity. I loved that dual timeline/POVs were included, though I found that the present-day chapters relied heavily on flashbacks that should’ve been in the "past" chapters. I feel like that impacted my ability to feel the depth of the romantic connection in the present-timeline. That said, if you enjoy tender, yearning-filled, slow-burn stories, check this one out!
Thanks to Berkley Pub Group & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy! All opinions are my own.
Pub date: 3/31/26
Thanks to Berkley Pub Group & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy! All opinions are my own.
Pub date: 3/31/26
December 11, 2025
3.75
This was a fun take on a second chance romance.
He had a kid. She got a divorce. Carmello and Olivia haven't spoken in years.
Now suddenly they're co-owners of a restaurant all thanks to a request in his mom's will.
Carmello plans to buy out Olivia's share, but Olivia isn't so easily swayed...
I mostly enjoyed this book, but I had two little hiccups:
1. The past/present narratives - I don't care for them in ANY book, not just this one.
2.The nicknames they had for one another :'D PETTY I KNOW. They weren't even bad or super cheesy, I just didn't like them.
Some things I did enjoy were the realistic day to day vibes that the author incorporated into the story. The FMC struggles with endo and the stressors that could trigger it, and it gave glimpses into the ups and downs of coparenting with Carmello. Most romances skim the nitty gritty "boring" stuff that happens in everyday life, but the fact that it was discussed in this book made it relatable.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and to NetGalley for the opportunity to read the advanced digital copy.
This was a fun take on a second chance romance.
He had a kid. She got a divorce. Carmello and Olivia haven't spoken in years.
Now suddenly they're co-owners of a restaurant all thanks to a request in his mom's will.
Carmello plans to buy out Olivia's share, but Olivia isn't so easily swayed...
I mostly enjoyed this book, but I had two little hiccups:
1. The past/present narratives - I don't care for them in ANY book, not just this one.
2.The nicknames they had for one another :'D PETTY I KNOW. They weren't even bad or super cheesy, I just didn't like them.
Some things I did enjoy were the realistic day to day vibes that the author incorporated into the story. The FMC struggles with endo and the stressors that could trigger it, and it gave glimpses into the ups and downs of coparenting with Carmello. Most romances skim the nitty gritty "boring" stuff that happens in everyday life, but the fact that it was discussed in this book made it relatable.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and to NetGalley for the opportunity to read the advanced digital copy.
December 5, 2025
Thank you so much for this ARC!
I absolutely loved everything about this story and found myself torn between wanting to read it all at once and wanting to savor every last bit of it. When I read the summary I knew to expect two chefs “trapped” in a restaurant together and I instantly knew it was something I wanted to read but this, THIS, was so much more in the best ways possible! Two for Tuesdays is the best idea ever and now I’m wondering if that is actually offered anywhere because I desperately want to be a part of enjoying it. I’m trying so hard not to spoil anything in this review so I’ll say this: this book is going to be hard to top and I’ll be recommending it everywhere as long as I live!
I absolutely loved everything about this story and found myself torn between wanting to read it all at once and wanting to savor every last bit of it. When I read the summary I knew to expect two chefs “trapped” in a restaurant together and I instantly knew it was something I wanted to read but this, THIS, was so much more in the best ways possible! Two for Tuesdays is the best idea ever and now I’m wondering if that is actually offered anywhere because I desperately want to be a part of enjoying it. I’m trying so hard not to spoil anything in this review so I’ll say this: this book is going to be hard to top and I’ll be recommending it everywhere as long as I live!
December 12, 2025
Thank you to netgalley & the publisher for the arc ◡̈
The Bridge Back To You is a second chance romance with Carmello and Olivia. They met in high school and she just up and left. Now 10 years later Mello has a kid and his mom just passed away. Butttt she left her restaurant to Mello and Olivia so she’s back in town. I really liked this one until the very end. Chronic illness rep, mental health rep, women’s health chronic illness rep, this had so much potential. Between Carmello’s meddling annoying father and the extreme distrust still from their youth I just don’t think the ending accurately reflects their relationship. Overall this was a cute story though! 3.5/5⭐️
“For the lover girls who know exactly what they want and never settle for less.”
The Bridge Back To You is a second chance romance with Carmello and Olivia. They met in high school and she just up and left. Now 10 years later Mello has a kid and his mom just passed away. Butttt she left her restaurant to Mello and Olivia so she’s back in town. I really liked this one until the very end. Chronic illness rep, mental health rep, women’s health chronic illness rep, this had so much potential. Between Carmello’s meddling annoying father and the extreme distrust still from their youth I just don’t think the ending accurately reflects their relationship. Overall this was a cute story though! 3.5/5⭐️
“For the lover girls who know exactly what they want and never settle for less.”
December 9, 2025
4.5⭐️worth rounding up! Thank you to net galley + berkeley publishing for this ARC! Second chance romance is my favorite trope & this didn’t let me down. I also truly appreciate the realistic mental health and multi-cultural representation. This was my first introduction to Riss M. Neilson & I deff want to read her other works! Look out for this release March 31st!
September 16, 2025
This was so raw and wonderful!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Forget everything you think you know about a simple 'second-chance' romance. This book is a raw, soul-deep journey that completely shattered my expectations and pieced them back together with a beautiful, intricate tapestry of love and life. 💔➡️❤️
Olivia and Carmello aren't just rivals-to-lovers; they are two halves of an epic, once-in-a-lifetime kind of love—the kind that leaves an indelible mark. When their teenage fairytale ended in a devastating crash, they became each other's forever haunting "one that got away." 🕊️
Ten years couldn't silence the electric current between them, and when a very interesting stipulation in Carmello's mother's will forces them to collaborate, the old sparks don't just fly—they ignite a wildfire! 🔥
But this story is so much more than sizzling romance.
It's a testament to the messy, beautiful reality of life:
* Grief and Healing: We witness their intensely honest navigation through the immediate aftermath of a profound loss.
* Vulnerability Unveiled: The book bravely tackles mental health struggles and the complex reality of chronic health challenges, including a sensitive and necessary look at endometriosis. 🎗️
* The Power of Growth: Flipping between the intoxicating past and the complicated present, we see how heartbreak molded them. Watching them slowly and painfully relearn to trust and open up to each other as their mature selves was absolutely stunning. Their separate paths—driven by wanderlust and life's demands—were merely setting the stage for their fated reunion. 🗺️
The mutual yearning is palpable, thick, and utterly consuming. The romance itself? It’s a masterful blend of spicy tension and tender, heartfelt connection. Get ready to swoon! 🥵
⚠️ Fair Warning: prepare your taste buds! As this surrounds an inherited restaurant, you will get to read about all of the cultural food experiences. I was ravenous from start to finish! 🤤
Bottom Line: This isn't just a book; it's an experience. A must-read that proves sometimes, the bridge back to your past is the only way to build a future.
Huge thanks to Berkley and Netgalley for the advance copy!
Olivia and Carmello aren't just rivals-to-lovers; they are two halves of an epic, once-in-a-lifetime kind of love—the kind that leaves an indelible mark. When their teenage fairytale ended in a devastating crash, they became each other's forever haunting "one that got away." 🕊️
Ten years couldn't silence the electric current between them, and when a very interesting stipulation in Carmello's mother's will forces them to collaborate, the old sparks don't just fly—they ignite a wildfire! 🔥
But this story is so much more than sizzling romance.
It's a testament to the messy, beautiful reality of life:
* Grief and Healing: We witness their intensely honest navigation through the immediate aftermath of a profound loss.
* Vulnerability Unveiled: The book bravely tackles mental health struggles and the complex reality of chronic health challenges, including a sensitive and necessary look at endometriosis. 🎗️
* The Power of Growth: Flipping between the intoxicating past and the complicated present, we see how heartbreak molded them. Watching them slowly and painfully relearn to trust and open up to each other as their mature selves was absolutely stunning. Their separate paths—driven by wanderlust and life's demands—were merely setting the stage for their fated reunion. 🗺️
The mutual yearning is palpable, thick, and utterly consuming. The romance itself? It’s a masterful blend of spicy tension and tender, heartfelt connection. Get ready to swoon! 🥵
⚠️ Fair Warning: prepare your taste buds! As this surrounds an inherited restaurant, you will get to read about all of the cultural food experiences. I was ravenous from start to finish! 🤤
Bottom Line: This isn't just a book; it's an experience. A must-read that proves sometimes, the bridge back to your past is the only way to build a future.
Huge thanks to Berkley and Netgalley for the advance copy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I want to state at the outset that I am generally not a fan of the romance genre, but there is something about a Riss Neilson novel that transcends the genre and wraps me up in her story lines. That something is her characters. In The Bridge Back to You we meet Olivia and Carmello, a former couple who have to get past the residual misunderstandings and hurt in order to work as co-owners of the restaurant left to them both by his mother. Olivia's quirky impulsiveness sits in contrast to Carmello's serious, cautious nature. As in life, when opposites attract it can be a beautiful thing...but it can also be a catalyst for conflict. Neilson handles this conflict with skill as she delves into the dynamics that led them to part in the first place, while also showing how these dynamics interact to bring them back together. There were so many moments in the book, that were so relatable to me personally, they I would often have to stop reading just to reflect on my own actions. At the end of the day, the ability to resonate and strike a chord with a reader is one of the ultimate indicators of a great book for me.
In addition, to her beautifully drawn characters, Neilson also skillfully wove in characters from her prior book, A Love Like the Sun. It was done so seamlessly that those who haven't read that particular book do not need to have read it in order to get a glimpse into who Laniah and Issac are. And in so doing, it leads those very same readers to want to explore their origin story further.
Neilson also continues to expand the notion of love in her books by exploring how physical and mental health issues can impact the day-to-day experiences of parents, children, and lovers. Her characters often deal with challenges many people in society face, and Neilson handles these aspects with grace and authenticity, When you pick up a Riss Neilson novel, you walk away with more than a love story--you walk away with a life story. I can't wait to meet her next set of characters.
In addition, to her beautifully drawn characters, Neilson also skillfully wove in characters from her prior book, A Love Like the Sun. It was done so seamlessly that those who haven't read that particular book do not need to have read it in order to get a glimpse into who Laniah and Issac are. And in so doing, it leads those very same readers to want to explore their origin story further.
Neilson also continues to expand the notion of love in her books by exploring how physical and mental health issues can impact the day-to-day experiences of parents, children, and lovers. Her characters often deal with challenges many people in society face, and Neilson handles these aspects with grace and authenticity, When you pick up a Riss Neilson novel, you walk away with more than a love story--you walk away with a life story. I can't wait to meet her next set of characters.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Second-chance romances can be very hit or miss for me, but The Bridge Back to You was definitely a hit. The reason Olivia and Carmello broke up when they were younger felt believable and grounded in who they were at the time, and more importantly, it felt like they both did the work to grow as individuals before finding their way back to each other.
I truly adored Olivia and Carmello together. Their conversations stood out to me the most; they were thoughtful, honest, and refreshingly mature. I also really appreciated how the story handled heavier themes like grief, mental health, and chronic illness with care and compassion. Watching them navigate these challenges added a lot of emotional depth to their relationship.
The small-town setting paired with the restaurant backdrop was such a cozy touch and added to the charm of the story. It felt like a place I could easily picture myself visiting. And Carmello’s son wss so cute, I honestly wished we had even more of him, especially scenes where he could bond with Olivia.
That said, I’m generally not a big fan of stories that jump back and forth between past and present. While I understood the purpose here, I did feel like the strength of Olivia and Carmello’s present-day connection relied heavily on their past relationship. We got some flashbacks, but I personally would have loved to see more of their earlier relationship to fully feel the weight of their history.
Overall, The Bridge Back to You is a heartfelt, emotionally rich second-chance romance with meaningful conversations, and a warm small-town feel. A really lovely read, especially if you enjoy mature romances with depth.
Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley for the eARC copy of this book!
I truly adored Olivia and Carmello together. Their conversations stood out to me the most; they were thoughtful, honest, and refreshingly mature. I also really appreciated how the story handled heavier themes like grief, mental health, and chronic illness with care and compassion. Watching them navigate these challenges added a lot of emotional depth to their relationship.
The small-town setting paired with the restaurant backdrop was such a cozy touch and added to the charm of the story. It felt like a place I could easily picture myself visiting. And Carmello’s son wss so cute, I honestly wished we had even more of him, especially scenes where he could bond with Olivia.
That said, I’m generally not a big fan of stories that jump back and forth between past and present. While I understood the purpose here, I did feel like the strength of Olivia and Carmello’s present-day connection relied heavily on their past relationship. We got some flashbacks, but I personally would have loved to see more of their earlier relationship to fully feel the weight of their history.
Overall, The Bridge Back to You is a heartfelt, emotionally rich second-chance romance with meaningful conversations, and a warm small-town feel. A really lovely read, especially if you enjoy mature romances with depth.
Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley for the eARC copy of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Synopsis: Exes discover they’ve both inherited the restaurant they love. We follow Olivia Jones and Carmello Rodriguez two first loves coming face to face for the first time after 10 years.
I first want thank Berkley, Riss M. Neilson and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
This romance is a nice wonderful sway. We see two people who read each other so skillfully even after so long. This is slow to get to the romance as well as tension. I both love and struggle with how it occurs. On one hand, I think it’s almost just added slyly. I don’t like that it’s sudden and bit of rush from then on. But it’s a real fight. I like accusation in the moment. Even when it’s against my fave it’s astute.
Why would people like this:
- second chance ( really bonded to each other x Celia’s Place and Celia herself)
- endometriosis x OCD x ADHD rep
- 2 chefs in the kitchen
- freedom vs sense of home
- friendship x extended family x family is not rigid structure
- grown love story
- flirting was top tier
- this person knew you to your core and loved the person you loved most with you
- single dad good with kid hotness ( very protective and very sweet)
- Olivia meeting Teddy is my favorite scenes
- Soft coded Mufasa all the way
- big fight : relatively mature. I really do like what is said.
- what if them not combatting their fears will show up in your relationship
- I love how the kids treat Carmello’s dad: It’s not super judgey. It’s. understanding. I don’t want to blame immigrant parens for harshness. I sometimes feel the language that I hear around this is performative and transfers blame.
-I love everyone deserves a big all consuming just extraordinary not simply settling love moment. I love a person who won’t take whats offered and wants more for themselves and for others.
I first want thank Berkley, Riss M. Neilson and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
This romance is a nice wonderful sway. We see two people who read each other so skillfully even after so long. This is slow to get to the romance as well as tension. I both love and struggle with how it occurs. On one hand, I think it’s almost just added slyly. I don’t like that it’s sudden and bit of rush from then on. But it’s a real fight. I like accusation in the moment. Even when it’s against my fave it’s astute.
Why would people like this:
- second chance ( really bonded to each other x Celia’s Place and Celia herself)
- endometriosis x OCD x ADHD rep
- 2 chefs in the kitchen
- freedom vs sense of home
- friendship x extended family x family is not rigid structure
- grown love story
- flirting was top tier
- this person knew you to your core and loved the person you loved most with you
- single dad good with kid hotness ( very protective and very sweet)
- Olivia meeting Teddy is my favorite scenes
- Soft coded Mufasa all the way
- big fight : relatively mature. I really do like what is said.
- what if them not combatting their fears will show up in your relationship
- I love how the kids treat Carmello’s dad: It’s not super judgey. It’s. understanding. I don’t want to blame immigrant parens for harshness. I sometimes feel the language that I hear around this is performative and transfers blame.
-I love everyone deserves a big all consuming just extraordinary not simply settling love moment. I love a person who won’t take whats offered and wants more for themselves and for others.
December 7, 2025
After A Love Like The Sun this instantly was one of my most anticipated reads for 2026, so thank you @berkleypub @berkleyromance @rissmneilson for the opportunity to read an early copy.
Ten years after leaving Providence and her first love, Carmelo, Olivia returns after learning that Carmelo’s mother left her shares in the restaurant that helped shaped her. Owning a restaurant with your ex?! You already know tensions are high with lots of witty banter and unresolved feelings.
Second chance romance is my absolute favorite trope, especially when it leans into past vs. present timelines. It gave so much depth to Olivia and Carmelo’s history, their heartbreak, and why this reunion matters. Their journey back to each other was a very slow, but believable burn. There were moments that dragged a bit, but once the yearning and rekindling took center stage, I was completely invested.
The dating questionnaires, the amazing food, and the restaurant crew were honestly low-key amazing scenes. Riss did an amazing job with the mental aspects of OCD & ADHD, you may even learn some things(I did!!) Riss also slipped in some gems you’re going to love.
Expect self-reflection, forgiveness, lots of yearning, and passion!!! I can’t wait until March 31st to have this physical beauty in hand.
Preorder/Add to your TBR if you love:
💕 Second Chances
🔐 Forced Proximity
🇩🇴/🇵🇭 Multicultural leads
👩🏾🍳 Yummy food
🧠 OCD + ADHD rep
👫🏽Dual POVs
Ten years after leaving Providence and her first love, Carmelo, Olivia returns after learning that Carmelo’s mother left her shares in the restaurant that helped shaped her. Owning a restaurant with your ex?! You already know tensions are high with lots of witty banter and unresolved feelings.
Second chance romance is my absolute favorite trope, especially when it leans into past vs. present timelines. It gave so much depth to Olivia and Carmelo’s history, their heartbreak, and why this reunion matters. Their journey back to each other was a very slow, but believable burn. There were moments that dragged a bit, but once the yearning and rekindling took center stage, I was completely invested.
The dating questionnaires, the amazing food, and the restaurant crew were honestly low-key amazing scenes. Riss did an amazing job with the mental aspects of OCD & ADHD, you may even learn some things(I did!!) Riss also slipped in some gems you’re going to love.
Expect self-reflection, forgiveness, lots of yearning, and passion!!! I can’t wait until March 31st to have this physical beauty in hand.
Preorder/Add to your TBR if you love:
💕 Second Chances
🔐 Forced Proximity
🇩🇴/🇵🇭 Multicultural leads
👩🏾🍳 Yummy food
🧠 OCD + ADHD rep
👫🏽Dual POVs
December 22, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for granting my request to read this e-ARC and provide my honest opinion. When I started reading _The Bridge Back to You,_ I was amazed how I could fall in love with a book so quickly. From the first chapter, I was a goner for this book. The love was calm, it was soft, and it was giving in a way that made me just want to continue reading because it was so good!
The health rep, the mental health rep... because the book shined a light on endometriosis, OCD, ADHD, and bringing all these into a second-chance love story is just beautiful. I kept screaming, “I do not want a third-act breakup, I don’t want a third-act breakup!” And I’m glad the author did not use that to bring more tension between Carmello and Olivia. They brought the heat... you could see that they genuinely loved themselves!!! The love was everywhere, and if you’ve seen me reading, I was just grinning from ear to ear!
And, Celia playing matchmaker from the dead is crazy, but what will be, will be... and the fact that Carmello has a child, is a single dad... in a healthy co-parenting situation, their love was beautiful to see. The way Olivia and Carmello brought out each other’s best traits... it was so beautiful. I enjoyed every single thing. I wanted to keep reading; I didn’t want the story to end because it was so soft, it was so calm.
And this is the representation of love that we need to see!! the representation of mental health that we need to see!! the representation of health rep that we need to see!! This book is beautiful. Thank you to NetGalley for the e-ARC!
The health rep, the mental health rep... because the book shined a light on endometriosis, OCD, ADHD, and bringing all these into a second-chance love story is just beautiful. I kept screaming, “I do not want a third-act breakup, I don’t want a third-act breakup!” And I’m glad the author did not use that to bring more tension between Carmello and Olivia. They brought the heat... you could see that they genuinely loved themselves!!! The love was everywhere, and if you’ve seen me reading, I was just grinning from ear to ear!
And, Celia playing matchmaker from the dead is crazy, but what will be, will be... and the fact that Carmello has a child, is a single dad... in a healthy co-parenting situation, their love was beautiful to see. The way Olivia and Carmello brought out each other’s best traits... it was so beautiful. I enjoyed every single thing. I wanted to keep reading; I didn’t want the story to end because it was so soft, it was so calm.
And this is the representation of love that we need to see!! the representation of mental health that we need to see!! the representation of health rep that we need to see!! This book is beautiful. Thank you to NetGalley for the e-ARC!
November 21, 2025
I looooove a second-chance romance (especially when their original romance was when they were young and naive) and this was no exception.
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨
Olivia and Carmello both had so much they had to discover on their own before they could be truly happy together. Carmello’s comfort stemming from stability and routine at first doesn’t seem compatible with Olivia’s insatiable wanderlust - and wasn’t, when they were young - but part of that urge to run comes from missing exactly what Carmello can provide for her: a safe place to land no matter where she goes.
And if Carmello had gone with her all those years ago, he wouldn’t have had the extra time he did with his mom, or have his son. The twists and turns life handed them (or that they followed voluntarily) took them exactly where they needed to go, and then lead them back to Celia’s when they were grown enough to face each other fully.
You never truly know where life will lead you, but in the end all of their ups and downs and balance and adventure brought them back to the place where the magic was very much still alive and waiting.
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨
Olivia and Carmello both had so much they had to discover on their own before they could be truly happy together. Carmello’s comfort stemming from stability and routine at first doesn’t seem compatible with Olivia’s insatiable wanderlust - and wasn’t, when they were young - but part of that urge to run comes from missing exactly what Carmello can provide for her: a safe place to land no matter where she goes.
And if Carmello had gone with her all those years ago, he wouldn’t have had the extra time he did with his mom, or have his son. The twists and turns life handed them (or that they followed voluntarily) took them exactly where they needed to go, and then lead them back to Celia’s when they were grown enough to face each other fully.
You never truly know where life will lead you, but in the end all of their ups and downs and balance and adventure brought them back to the place where the magic was very much still alive and waiting.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book will make you hungry.
Overall I had a good time with this one. It’s a sweet romance with pretty low conflict and exactly the type of wild forced-proximity (his mom leaves her part of her restaurant in the will) that I enjoy!
Whats to love…
- second chance romance
- chef FMC & MMC
- meddling family = forced proximity
- ADHD/neurodivergent & endometriosis rep
- slow burn and lots of pining
- dual timeline + flashbacks
- healthy communication
- well developed MC and side characters
What didn’t really work for me…
- She’s really into him and he’s still being grumpy about her for a little too long for my personal preference. I like a pathetic, obsessed, whimpering man right away and it took a bit before we got any of that from this MMC.
- second chance romances are always hit or miss for me. I don’t particularly enjoy dual timeline (adhd doesn’t like switching up too often) and the dips back to the past in this one didn’t really keep me interested. I think this is maybe a little more of a me thing, than a book thing.
| IG | TikTok |
Thank you to Berkley for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
Overall I had a good time with this one. It’s a sweet romance with pretty low conflict and exactly the type of wild forced-proximity (his mom leaves her part of her restaurant in the will) that I enjoy!
Whats to love…
- second chance romance
- chef FMC & MMC
- meddling family = forced proximity
- ADHD/neurodivergent & endometriosis rep
- slow burn and lots of pining
- dual timeline + flashbacks
- healthy communication
- well developed MC and side characters
What didn’t really work for me…
- She’s really into him and he’s still being grumpy about her for a little too long for my personal preference. I like a pathetic, obsessed, whimpering man right away and it took a bit before we got any of that from this MMC.
- second chance romances are always hit or miss for me. I don’t particularly enjoy dual timeline (adhd doesn’t like switching up too often) and the dips back to the past in this one didn’t really keep me interested. I think this is maybe a little more of a me thing, than a book thing.
| IG | TikTok |
Thank you to Berkley for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have mixed feelings about this one. I love the premise and it has a lot of potential. However, I didn’t feel a solid connection to either character. I didn’t feel a strong connection between them either. They’ve been apart for 10 years and are forced back into each other’s lives, but their conflict is resolved so quickly and without much effort.
This book also has dual timelines. This style of writing can be tricky to pull off, and I think it missed the mark in this book. I want the past timeline to add context to the present. In this book, however, we get a ton of context from their past in the present chapters which makes me question why the chapters from the past are included at all.
Overall, this isn’t a bad book, but it’s one I just did not enjoy.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy.
This book also has dual timelines. This style of writing can be tricky to pull off, and I think it missed the mark in this book. I want the past timeline to add context to the present. In this book, however, we get a ton of context from their past in the present chapters which makes me question why the chapters from the past are included at all.
Overall, this isn’t a bad book, but it’s one I just did not enjoy.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I saw a review that said something to the effect of the issue being resolved too easily for what it was built up to be. That may have been the case for that reader, but I say it was resolved beautifully and represented how love can cover a multitude of sins. I wouldn’t call Carmello and Olivia’s love or any of their actions a sin by a long shot though.
This story explores grief, love, growth, and even mental health in such a profound way. It touched me on a different level because I’ve experienced the loss of a parent to sickness. I loved how she takes the reader into the culture, even if it’s a peek through the dishes made in the restaurant. I spent time researching a few because they sounded so good!
I genuinely enjoyed this story and I was so sad for it to be over because it was such a comfort for me. I’m looking forward to more stories from Riss.
This story explores grief, love, growth, and even mental health in such a profound way. It touched me on a different level because I’ve experienced the loss of a parent to sickness. I loved how she takes the reader into the culture, even if it’s a peek through the dishes made in the restaurant. I spent time researching a few because they sounded so good!
I genuinely enjoyed this story and I was so sad for it to be over because it was such a comfort for me. I’m looking forward to more stories from Riss.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
**Thank you Berkley Romance, Berkley Pub and NetGalley for the free eARC** I have definitely become a lover of second chance romances and I really liked this one. Olivia and Carmello are two relatable MCs. Olivia and Carmello are neurodivergent and I absolutely loved the representation. Carmello also has a son who is neurodivergent and because I have a cousin with the same diagnosis as his son, I can say that the representation is very accurate. Olivia is a fun and fun-loving FMC to Carmello’s grump and I enjoy the grumpy/sunshine dynamic. I especially found Carmello’s role as a single dad refreshing. He is so caring and very conscientious of his son and his needs. The side characters are also so funny and I am really hoping we will see more of them in the future.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*ARC Reader*
Had the chance to read an advanced copy of The Bridge Back To You and it was a good second chance romance. Olivia and Carmello's story was a touching one. Very slow burn due to the characters going through all of the emotions (anger, resentment, love, lust, & acceptance).
There were some slow moments due to the flashbacks but overall, it was a good story. First time reading a book from her and I will definitely read her other books.
Had the chance to read an advanced copy of The Bridge Back To You and it was a good second chance romance. Olivia and Carmello's story was a touching one. Very slow burn due to the characters going through all of the emotions (anger, resentment, love, lust, & acceptance).
There were some slow moments due to the flashbacks but overall, it was a good story. First time reading a book from her and I will definitely read her other books.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was such a heartwarming & emotional read. Second chance at love intertwined with life’s everyday struggles and growth. This is a slow burn where you get a chance to really connect with the characters. So much representation to physical illness and mental health, it becomes very relatable. Beautifully written.
Thank you Netgalley and Berkley publishing group for this advance readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you Netgalley and Berkley publishing group for this advance readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
such a cute plot but the real stars and draw are the characters!! i love carmello and olivia and they both felt so real to me and i connected with each of them for different reasons. really enjoyed it and can’t wait to add it to my list of re reads!!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a beautifully written second chance romance which I love. Olivia and Carmelo were such great characters who really meshed well together. Riss M. Nielson knows how to rip your heart out just using words.
I was provided an advanced copy of this book which has not affected my review.
I was provided an advanced copy of this book which has not affected my review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks Netgalley, such a fun gritty book 💕
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Berkley and Netgalley for the ARC! 4.5 stars. Throughly enjoyed this second chance romance. Full review to come!
December 22, 2025
Very cozy and low stakes. It felt like a real relationship with characters, that for the most part, were really good at communicating 👏🏻 Loved the meddling and the setting! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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