First Class Fling: Santiago & Rosa

Hearts Without Borders

by Kaylene Winter

Love wasn’t on the menu…He served it anyway.

My family staged an intervention and called it a vacation.
Barcelona was supposed to fix me.
No work. No noise. No more sixteen-hour days ending with me in an empty bed, alone.
I agreed because fighting back took more energy than I had.

Then he sat beside me in first class.
A voice like Rioja, dark, smooth, slow to finish.
Eyes focused on mine when I should have looked away.
A stranger who felt like the beginning of something I forgot I wanted.
By the time the sun came up, I wanted more.

The moment I sat down, I knew exactly who she was.
Rosa Delgado. The chef. The legend. The woman behind the meals I still dream about.
She’s everything I imagined.
Worn out. Walled in. Still somehow shining.
I thought love was over for me.
Now I’m wondering if this flight is the beginning of a whole new chapter.

First Class Fling is a quick, addictive escape filled with heat, heart, and a connection too strong to leave behind at baggage claim.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance

199 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 5, 2025

About the author

Kaylene Winter is an Amazon best-selling author of steamy, contemporary romance.

Each character-driven novel is filled with snappy dialogue, pop-culture references and enough steam to make you fan yourself. Kaylene weaves authenticity, emotion and angst into a turbulent rollercoaster ride of love, passion and soul-searing romance always ending with a delicious HEA.

Kaylene lives in Seattle with her amazing Irish husband and Pomsky, Phalen. She loves creating art of all kinds.

Reviews

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

After Boarding Pass took us on a romantic journey to the City of Love for Miles and Sophie's story, it's time to shout Ole for a culinary adventure in Barcelona as chef Rosa Delgado is about to spice up her life, falling head over heels for sommelier Santiago in First Class Fling. Their semi meet-cute on a plane (no mile-high club, sorry but Santiago is a gentleman!) sets the stage for a delicious romance. Santiago, looking to slow down his fast-paced life, was going home to finalise the sale of his business, while Rosa had been sent on vacation by her worried family hoping to reignite her passion not only for for food but life itself. It’s true what they say about the way to a man’s heart being through his stomach as Santiago instantly recognised Rosa having dined at her restaurant every time he was in town and by the end of the flight was already halfway in love with the woman behind the chef’s whites. Together they explored the flavours of Barcelona wandering through the city and surrounding villages on a culinary tour, showing each other their favourite places, and discovering new delights falling deeper in love as they went. But what happens when Rosa's time is up, and she must return to Seattle?

I'm absolutely loving this whirlwind tour of Europe and can't wait to see where Ms. Winters takes us next! These novellas are like a travelogue, making me want to follow in the characters' footsteps - but only if I can have my own Santiago or Miles as a dashing escort, of course! The characters are likeable and well-rounded, and if Rosa seems familiar its because she first appeared in Wistful Whispers as the heroine's sister. What I loved most was how their relationship developed naturally, without feeling rushed, making this a beautiful romance with a well-written and engaging storyline, with minimal angst, and zero unnecessary drama. When Santiago sensed something was worrying Rosa, he didn't let it simmer - he handled it with ease, proving their connection and that what they had was more than just a First Class Fling, but a First Class Forever.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fast-paced, quick read.

Rosa and Santiago meet in first class on a flight to Barcelona Spain. Rosa’s family intervened and have forced her to take a month long vacation to recharge and find joy in life after working non-stop as a renowned chef in their family-owned restaurant. In the kitchen she’s in control and fearless, but as she heads on vacation she feels uncertain and unsure.

Santiago recognizes Rosa immediately when he sees her sitting next to him, and he silently fan-boys over getting to interact with her in the flight. These two have an intense connection and when they land in Barcelona he invites her to meet him for dinner in two days.

They have a passionate and romantic month together, falling deeply in love. The story was actually steamier than I expected, not complaining, but ‘fans self’ Wow!

The story gives the reader a strong feel for Barcelona, the cuisine, wine and culture. Extra exciting for me since I’m headed to Barcelona next summer this added to my enjoyment of this book.

While most of the story is passionate and swoony, they do have a couple moderately angsty obstacles to work through. These two characters communicate and truly focus on being in the moment together, even though Rosa has some doubts and moments where she doubts what’s possible.

I received a free ARC from the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.

[Laura G]

What a great quick read that I got sucked into from the first word. We first meet Rosa, dedicated chef, sister to Marcella Delgado briefly in Wistful Whispers. Forced to take a break & step away from the kitchen & her hectic life, she takes a long needed vacation to Barcelona. Fate steps in and she unexpectedly meets what may be her soulmate Santiago she didn't know she needed in her life. Santiago fly's home to sell his business and slow down his hectic life and by chance his seat is next to Rosa who he knew of her talent in the kitchen. After having great conversation on their flight, Santiago convinces Rosa to meet him one night where their unexpected romance begins. This story shows Rosa what she didn't think she needed or deserved. Loved getting to see a bit of Barcelona through this story. Couldn't help but fall in love with Rosa & Santiago.

[Teresa Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Class Fling: Santiago & Rosa (Hearts Without Borders) by Kaylene Winter is a novella about a talented chef, Rosa Delgado, and divorced Spanish sommelier Santiago Rivas, who is returning home to sell his wine academy. Santiago invites Rosa to dinner at a small, cozy spot in Barcelona. He starts taking Rosa on a tasting tour around Barcelona while romantically courting her. He falls quickly and intensely, but Rosa’s insecurities and lack of trust hold her back. Kaylene Winter perfectly balances the love story, showing how falling in love can be mixed with fears and emotional wounds that may interfere. First Class Fling: Santiago & Rosa (Hearts Without Borders) is another wonderful love story from Kaylene Winter

[MrsL · Rating 4 out of 5]

Santiago and Rosa are seated next to each other on the same flight to Barcelona, for different reasons - his to conclude business and hers to take a break from business. He has the advantage, he already knows who she is.
An instant attraction forms between these two and he is determined to make her his - when you know, you know.

Another easy read from one of my favourite authors with the added bonuses of catching up with characters from earlier books as Rosa's sister, Marcella, is married to Seamus McGloughlin.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a perfect little package this novella was. A whirlwind month in Spain with two people who were destined to be together. Rosa is the head chef of her families restaurant that is in dire need of a break after flipping the family business into a legacy spot. Santiago is at the top of his game and ready to turn it over and experience life again. What happens when they are seated next to each other on an international flight? Sparks and what will be the best month roaming the country, seeing the sights and eating their way through the local cuisine. I loved feeling like I was walking the streets with them and I could see myself in their shoes. This was such a fun and quick read and a wonderful little romance that kept me smiling the whole time. Be sure to pick this one up when you need a little joy and a vacation.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

We first met Rosa in a previous book, and I’m so happy she got her own book. She meets Santiago in first class on the way to Barcelona. What follows is everything she didn’t know that she needed. This was such a great quick read!!!

[Lou Li Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 from the Hearts without Borders series, this is the story of burnt out award winning chef Rosa and Santiago, a highly successful sommelier. They meet while travelling first class to Barcelona and it's an instant connection of lust and something more. These two were so addicting, it was never a fling from the get go, but a beautiful love story. Boy this was as good one from Kaylene, heartfelt, full of love, support and so much spice, all fabulous in equal measures, almost wished it wasn't just a little quick read novella, I could read on and on about these two and their story.

I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own

[Jessica Hanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fated flight brings Rosa and Santiago together. This book is full of whirlwind romance, conversations and spice, oh the spice!! After Rosa is basically forced to take time for herself, she met her one true love, Santiago. They spend a month in Barcelona and the sparks fly! Such great read!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rosa and Santiago are both successful professionals. A meet cute for the ages on a long flight. an opportunity to find the footing to reach a beautiful HEA we all dream of.

[Lisa Spofford · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am voluntarily writing this honest review after reading a #gifted ARC of this novel via the Author’s ARC Team. All opinions expressed are my own. FIRST CLASS FLING is a connected standalone novella in the HEARTS WITHOUT BORDERS series by Kaylene Winter. A chance encounter in first class led to an unexpected connection between Rosa Delgado, a burned out chef, and a mysterious passenger, Santiago, on a flight to Barcelona. Rosa’s family had sent her on a forced vacation to Barcelona, which she spent with Santiago, Rosa is the sister of Marcela Delgado, the FMC of WISTFUL WHISPERS for those familiar with the author’s work. This was a quick and easy read that remained well paced, a challenge with a shorter romance. While it was brief, the author did touch on the characters’ insecurities, making the novella more than just a sexy fling which ended with a HEA. This was a spicy, open door, first person, dual POV contemporary romance novella with tropes including strangers to lovers, luxury/jet setting romance, travel/vacation romance, instant attraction, emotional intimacy before heat, food and wine romance, and healing through connection. I really enjoyed reading this couple’s love story and how Rosa found balance in her life. I recommend this novella to readers who enjoy K Bromberg, JS Cooper, Chelle Bliss, and Kat Mizera and enjoy vacation romances.

[Laura Caswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Santiago and Rosa in First Class Fling are literally Chef's Kiss!!! They officially meet on a plane from Seattle to Barcelona, but Santiago has seen Rosa in her element before. He was always attracted to her and is so excited to sit next to her. They talk for hours, and they plan to meet in Barcelona once Santiago has concluded his business.

Since Rosa is on strict orders to relax, she is game for whatever. It's clear that there is chemistry between them, and they give in to the inevitable. Surely, they can't make a one month whirlwind romance work long term, right??

Well, when you know, you know! I loved this short read from Kaylene Winter!! I loved seeing a teeny tiny glimpse of Marcella and Seamus again and getting to read Rosa's path to love.

[Holly Rife · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rosa is an excellent chef, but she has been missing out on life because she has put everything into her family restaurant. So her family forces her to take a trip to Barcelona for a month. On the plane, she meets Santiago, an expert on wine and Barcelona. They instantly feel a connection and that builds into more than just a one time thing. They spend time going from place to place enjoying each other and food and friends along the way.

There is enough steam to fog up the windows of a 737 as Santiago shows her his Barcelona.

Oh my dog, do I love this book. She is a lovely strong woman who has a chance to be vulnerable with a handsome gorgeous man. Rosa and Santiago are able to be themselves and companionship while learning to trust and open up while in an environment they truly enjoy.

‘First Class Fling’ is a hot, sexy short romance that is just lovely. I had a fun time as I traveled with them.

I'm so excited to travel on the next trip with Ms. Winter in her ‘Hearts Without Borders ‘ series.

[Sunny Shelly Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

First Class Fling took me just over an hour to read. It was a perfect feel-good, no drama, bingeable story.

Rosa is Marcella's sister from Wistful Whispers, who runs the family restaurant. She's a workaholic who never makes time for herself, so her family forces her to take a month-long vacation to Barcelona, a city she loved while she was training to be a chef. She meets sommelier Santiago (who knew who she was, having been at her restaurant before) on the plane, and ends up having a whirlwind romance during her four weeks in Spain.

Having spent years building his business, Santiago is looking to settle down a bit more in his life and not live out of a suitcase. So he jumps at the opportunity to show Rosa the Barcelona he was raised in, and they spend four weeks eating and drinking their way through the region. And falling madly in love after just a few days.

Even though this book is a novella, I didn't feel like the story was rushed. Much like Boarding Pass, the relationship developed naturally between these characters and I very much enjoyed seeing where they went after their meet-cute on the plane.

I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.

[Carmela Dimattia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving these books. Each one is a lovely and romantic read and there is no heartbreak or drama just a pleasant read to make you smile and swoon. This is Rosa and Santiago’s story who meet on a first class flight to Barcelona and their connection and attraction is real and they both know that there is something to them meeting as they did. It was a quick read but it had lots of heart and soul.

[Julie Booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Boarding Pass and when this book hit my Kindle I dove in. I was instantly hooked; I love Rosa and Santiago’s story.

The setting in Barcelona, Spain where Rosa has been sent on a voluntold vacation from her family. A month long holiday to recharge, she works too much! Santiago is headed there to tie up some business. They meet in first class. Santiago knows of Rose from eating at her restaurant.

As the story unfolds with a spectacular travel log of Spain, culinary stops in Barcelona and neighboring towns. Their friendship grows into more, but their time together has an expiration date; she will need to return to Seattle.

I am looking forward to our next adventure.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Class Fling by Kaylene Winter is the story of Santiago and Rosa. Ohhhhhh this is the most ROMANTIC story I’ve read in ages!!! Her family has basically demanded that she take some time off. Enroute to Barcelona for said getaway, she is seated next to Santiago…who knows exactly who she is…but, keeps that information to himself. What transpires next is a hopelessly romantic story….I was breathless and wanted more of these two…who completely captured my heart!!! What an incredible story!!!

[Nicole Scarborough · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Santiago and Rosa. Their story shows what can happen if we let it. It shows that unexpected good things happen. The chemistry was good and it was well written.

[Sandi]

4.75 stars! I absolutely loved this spicy novella that gives us a Spanish whirlwind romance that starts in first class and ends in a happily ever after. Between workaholic chef Rosa and workaholic master sommelier Santiago, both with their own interesting stories, we get an unexpected but beautiful story of letting go and giving yourself a chance to love and be loved, even when it’s scary. He falls first, and boy does he fall hard, but she’s not far behind, and the spice ——— let me tell you, Kaylene Winter KNOWS how to write good spice. Even with a novella, she packs in the steam in the best ways and makes it such an integral part of their journey that it’s just perfect. And if you’re familiar with Kaylene’s most recent series, The Charming Irish series, you’ll recognize Rosa as a secondary character from Marcella and Seamus’ story. I always love how all of her stories intertwine so beautifully, and it’s always so fun to see characters that I loved pop back up for another visit. Absolutely loved it, and definitely recommend!

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kaylene Winter is an excellent author. She writes with passion and it pours from the pages. Short romances often fall short in making me feel for the characters, but she succeeded. I'd recommend this series if your short on time and want a full read.

[Sarah Slusarczyk · Rating 4 out of 5]

The next installment in the Hearts Without Borders series has arrived. Each of the books in this series can be read as complete standalones, they do not interconnect, they merely share a theme. In First Class Fling we meet Santiago and Rosa, they have an insta-love connection and embark on a journey that feeds their souls and their bellies.

Rosa is a chef, renowned for her recipes and attention to details, when her family stages a much needed vacation for her in the form of an intervention, Rosa goes along with it, no fight left in her to give. The city of Barcelona, good food, good rest, nothing but rest and relaxation, until she meets a certain dark eyed sommelier who sets her life and heart ablaze.

Santiago is looking for a slower pace of life, with the way he has been living, his fast pace life is becoming more and more exhausting, he is enjoying things less and less. When he meets Rosa on the plane to Barcelona, their meet-cute sparks something in him that he has never felt. Not to mention, he knows who she is and what she does for a living. He has dined at her restaurant many times, and is blown away each time. Together they explore Barcelona, the flavors of the city and the slow burn pursuit of each other as well. Nothing truer has ever been said than the way to a man's heart is through his stomach.

For a short, fast paced, insta-love romance, First Class Fling has such good substance. Rosa and Santiago are both workaholics who have lost their passion for things that they love, and needed a reminder of a slower way of life. He saw that in her, just like she saw that in him, they each needed reminding of why they love good food and good people. Burn out is so real in this day and age, no matter the life you lead, we all need a reminder to slow down and enjoy the chaos of life once in a while. Kaylene gave her readers a lovely reminder to take a breath and drink the wine now again.

3.8 ⭐️
2 🌶️

✈️ Strangers to Lovers
❤️‍🩹 Healing Romance
🍛 Foodies
💕 Insta-Love Connection

[Angels · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rosa, a renowned chef, is pressured by her family to take a vacation and rediscover joy in life. Santiago meets her on a flight to Barcelona, and they embark on a passionate and romantic month exploring the city's cuisine, wine, and culture. Despite facing obstacles, they confront their fears and work through them to stay together.

This book is a delightful, fast-paced read with charming and lovable characters. Santiago is a swoon-worthy character, and their story kept us smiling throughout. Seeing Rosa's relaxed side and her passion beyond work was heartwarming.

Witnessing her vulnerability as she navigates a new life while balancing the old one was touching. The love story beautifully intertwines with descriptions of food and scenic locations, reigniting a passion for the things that matter most. It serves as a reminder to slow down and appreciate life's simple joys.

The ending was perfect for this couple, as Santiago's knowledge of food and wine promises to keep their relationship exciting. Their shared passion makes them a perfect match, and we look forward to seeing how their story unfolds.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

“She and I are more than instinct and discovery. We’re something elemental.”

First Class Fling is the second novella in the Hearts Without Borders series, and this time we follow Rosa and Santiago on a trip to Barcelona. From the moment they’re seated side by side on the plane, sparks fly and an instant connection takes root. Both have poured themselves into their careers—Rosa as a chef, Santiago as a sommelier—sacrificing personal lives along the way. Yet in each other, they discover a kindred spirit.

Their romance is a gorgeous blend of charm and chemistry. Rosa’s hesitation to trust in something lasting makes their journey all the more poignant, while Santiago’s certainty that he’s found “the one” adds a steady, swoon-worthy counterbalance. Together, they create a love story that feels effortless, emotional, and undeniably spicy.

This novella is a captivating mix of heart and heat—one that will sweep you up, make you believe in forever, and linger long after the last page.

[Charlene Truxler · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Class Fling by Kaylene Winter
Some may complain about the cold during winter, but there is nothing cold about this Winter's writing. First Class Fling by author Kaylene Winter is a fast-paced Romance novel written with obvious care. The MCs are Rosa Delgado and Santiago Rivas. On the surface one might see them as striving towards completely different ends of life, but as any student of human nature can tell you, the clear view and understanding comes from delving below the surface to see the real person, or in this case people.
The story is well written, the pace is quick but not rushed, and the chemistry between the main is palatable. This couple, like most, carry their own personal baggage, but manage to maneuver around the pitfalls that such scars could create given a change. In the end, when a five-star chef and an oenophile sommelier come together the results are an explosion of tastes, heat, and one might dare say fate.
This book wets the whistle for more, satisfies the hunger for Romance magic, and leaves readers feeling full of the good feels.

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

First Class Fling by Kaylene Winter is a sizzling and entertaining rockstar romance that captures the glitz and chaos of life on tour. The story follows a passionate fling between a rockstar and a savvy professional whose worlds collide in unexpected ways, leading to steamy encounters and emotional complications. Winter’s writing is vivid and engaging, blending the high-energy world of music with heartfelt romance.

I loved the glamorous backdrop of private jets, sold-out arenas, and backstage drama, which made the story feel immersive and exciting. The chemistry between the leads is electric, with plenty of witty banter and intense passion that kept me hooked. The characters are well-developed, with relatable struggles that add depth beyond the surface glamour.

While rockstar romance tropes are familiar, Winter’s fresh take and strong emotional connection make First Class Fling stand out. The pacing matches the fast-paced tour life perfectly. Overall, I’m giving it four stars. It’s a fun, sexy escape perfect for fans of rockstar romances and whirlwind flings.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

At the urging of her family Rosa finds herself on extended leave from the family restaurant where she is a chef. A trip to Spain will give her the rest and relaxation she needs especially when she meets her seatmate on the plane. They are immediately drawn to each other, and the plane ride is just the beginning as the feelings between them intensify but she has a life and a career to return to.

Santiago recognizes the beautiful woman beside him, and he appreciates her skills as a chef but appreciates her as a woman more. He isn’t about to just let her walk out of his life when the plane lands as the location and the feelings between them develop into an alluring romance.

A beautiful romance, a little angst and two intriguing characters who draw you in and have you invested not only in the present but the future they could have together as well.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.8 stars

This is the second book in the Hearts Without Borders series and it holds a special place as I remember my trip to Barcelona. Rosa is a chef who has not learned about work/life balance as she toils away at her family’s restaurant forcing her family to intervene and push her to take a month-long trip to visit Barcelona. On the plane, Rosa meets Santiago and the attraction is instantaneous, prompting them to see where their connection leads. Ms. Winter has given readers a steamy, quick read set against a beautiful country with amiable characters that feel like extended family. It may just have you planning your own escape…

[Nicki - The Overflowing Bookcase · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love will find you when you least expect it and for Rosa & Santiago it happens thousands of miles in the sky. Rosa was supposed to get away from her exhausting life in charge of her family's restaurant and the last thing she ever saw coming was to fall in love with the man sitting next to her on the plane. While Santiago had known her through the restaurant, it is the time they spend together that locks them in to a HEA filled with love.

[Merrit Townsend (always1morebook) · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Class Fling by Kaylene Winter
Hearts Without Borders, Novella #2
Santiago and Rosa's story
Standalone

Kaylene has given us a set of stories following different couples who meet while traveling. They are novellas but are packed with so much fun romance and spice. Rosa is a master Chef getting away on a well deserved Vacation and she meets Santiago in First Class. Their romance is a whirlwind and so full of beauty. I really enjoy how Kaylene gives us complicated characters that find their way to each other and Santiago and Rosa was a journey that I absolutely fell in love with. As I said earlier, these are novellas but so worth the read. I hope you give them a try. Each one I read, I want to travel there and in this case it's Spain....Onto the bucket list Spain goes!

[Ann L · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fast, spicy read with instant chemistry and just the right touch of sweetness. Rosa’s worn-down heart and Santiago's quiet charm make their bond feel effortless and addictive.

This is perfect if you want a quick, satisfying getaway story