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The Fall of Rome
Losing control was Rebecca "Bec" Bly’s worst nightmare.
As the acting CEO of her family’s powerful corporation, she thrives in the boardroom—sharp, composed, and always in command.
Enter Rome Cipriani… her new bodyguard and biggest headache. Assigned at her brother’s insistence, Rome is everything Bec can’t talkative, obnoxious, and annoyingly charming. He flirts with anything that breathes, refuses to take anything seriously... and yet, he’s the only one who can make her laugh when everything feels like it’s falling apart.
When Bec learns the board sees her as too cold, too calculating, and unfit to lead, she’s given six months to prove she’s more than just a hard-nosed executive. And the one person who might help her soften her image? The infuriatingly magnetic Rome.
As they fake a relationship for the cameras to reshape her public persona, real sparks begin to fly. But when threats against her start to escalate, Rome has more to worry about than pretending to be her boyfriend…like keeping her safe.
Can Bec hold on to her career, her safety, and maybe… something she never expected to want?
As the acting CEO of her family’s powerful corporation, she thrives in the boardroom—sharp, composed, and always in command.
Enter Rome Cipriani… her new bodyguard and biggest headache. Assigned at her brother’s insistence, Rome is everything Bec can’t talkative, obnoxious, and annoyingly charming. He flirts with anything that breathes, refuses to take anything seriously... and yet, he’s the only one who can make her laugh when everything feels like it’s falling apart.
When Bec learns the board sees her as too cold, too calculating, and unfit to lead, she’s given six months to prove she’s more than just a hard-nosed executive. And the one person who might help her soften her image? The infuriatingly magnetic Rome.
As they fake a relationship for the cameras to reshape her public persona, real sparks begin to fly. But when threats against her start to escalate, Rome has more to worry about than pretending to be her boyfriend…like keeping her safe.
Can Bec hold on to her career, her safety, and maybe… something she never expected to want?
341 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 20, 2025
11 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
H.J. Cartwright
5 books46 followersDid you know anyone can write a book? Well, they can because H.J. Cartwright did. Born and raised in small town Utah, H.J. Cartwright has been a reader her entire life and fell in love with the world of writing. She loves all things romance, 80's themed, music, and suspense. Writing a book was never something she imagined, but something she had always dreamt of.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
November 15, 2025
The Fall of Rome… more like “You Will Fall for Rome,” because spoiler alert: two chapters in and you’re absolutely, violently, irreversibly down bad for this man.
This book is a full-on journey of found family, survival, and healing from the kind of trauma that doesn’t just leave scars - it rearranges your entire personality.
We meet Rebecca (or Bec, if she lets you live). At first glance? Ice cold. Hence the nickname Ice Queen. A bratty rich girl with daddy issues in the most literal sense. She’s trying to prove to a table full of crusty old board members that she deserves to be the CEO of her family empire. She doesn’t understand family, she doesn’t do warmth, and she definitely doesn’t do “imperfection.” Picture: designer everything, neutrals only, apartment so sterile it could be a crime scene.
And then...enter Rome. A veteran life dragged through hell and back, dipped in chaos, rolled in trauma, and sprinkled with just enough charm to make you forgive every bad decision he’s ever made (and he makes many). He flirts like it’s oxygen. He’s got more sisters than you can count, a loving Italian mom, and the world’s greatest stepdad. He’s haunted by the failures he thinks he has and couldn’t care less about wealth or the glittery circus of Bec’s world.
So how do these two opposites collide? Will.
Bec’s brother, Rome’s kinda-friend, and the chaos gremlin responsible for hiring Rome as Bec’s bodyguard. And Rome, being the very obedient, very strong-bodied man he is… protects the girl. And does other things. The kind of things I’m not spoiling, but you absolutely want to read.
This book has EVERYTHING:
- Drama
- Chaos
- Enemies to lovers
- Found family
- The right amount of spice™
- And enough chemistry to make your Kindle combust
Warning: Do not start this before bed. You will not sleep. You will devour the whole thing in one sitting and then stare at the ceiling, asking why there aren’t 500 more pages.
I want to thank H.J. Cartwright for the opportunity to read this book in advance!
This book is a full-on journey of found family, survival, and healing from the kind of trauma that doesn’t just leave scars - it rearranges your entire personality.
We meet Rebecca (or Bec, if she lets you live). At first glance? Ice cold. Hence the nickname Ice Queen. A bratty rich girl with daddy issues in the most literal sense. She’s trying to prove to a table full of crusty old board members that she deserves to be the CEO of her family empire. She doesn’t understand family, she doesn’t do warmth, and she definitely doesn’t do “imperfection.” Picture: designer everything, neutrals only, apartment so sterile it could be a crime scene.
And then...enter Rome. A veteran life dragged through hell and back, dipped in chaos, rolled in trauma, and sprinkled with just enough charm to make you forgive every bad decision he’s ever made (and he makes many). He flirts like it’s oxygen. He’s got more sisters than you can count, a loving Italian mom, and the world’s greatest stepdad. He’s haunted by the failures he thinks he has and couldn’t care less about wealth or the glittery circus of Bec’s world.
So how do these two opposites collide? Will.
Bec’s brother, Rome’s kinda-friend, and the chaos gremlin responsible for hiring Rome as Bec’s bodyguard. And Rome, being the very obedient, very strong-bodied man he is… protects the girl. And does other things. The kind of things I’m not spoiling, but you absolutely want to read.
This book has EVERYTHING:
- Drama
- Chaos
- Enemies to lovers
- Found family
- The right amount of spice™
- And enough chemistry to make your Kindle combust
Warning: Do not start this before bed. You will not sleep. You will devour the whole thing in one sitting and then stare at the ceiling, asking why there aren’t 500 more pages.
I want to thank H.J. Cartwright for the opportunity to read this book in advance!
November 14, 2025
This novel follows the life of Nepo-Baby Bec as she navigates taking over as CEO of her fathers billion dollar company in NYC.
Much to her dismay, her brother William, hires a bodyguard to look after her and keep her safe.
Enter Rome Cipriani; a tall, dark, and handsome ex-military vet with a beautiful smile and great sense of humor.
Rome and Bec experience sexual tension almost immediately, and unfortunately for her, she must fake date him in order to improve her image as the “ice queen” in the media.
The fake dating quickly leads to real feelings, Bec meets his beautiful family and falls in love with them right along side Rome.
After two kidnapping attempts by Bec’s employees at Bly enterprises, one on Bec and one on Rome. The two find their way back to each other more than once with a big happy family HEA!
This novel is a bodyguard romance, with fake dating, romantic suspense, reformed playboy, and a female billionaire FMC.
I must read!
Much to her dismay, her brother William, hires a bodyguard to look after her and keep her safe.
Enter Rome Cipriani; a tall, dark, and handsome ex-military vet with a beautiful smile and great sense of humor.
Rome and Bec experience sexual tension almost immediately, and unfortunately for her, she must fake date him in order to improve her image as the “ice queen” in the media.
The fake dating quickly leads to real feelings, Bec meets his beautiful family and falls in love with them right along side Rome.
After two kidnapping attempts by Bec’s employees at Bly enterprises, one on Bec and one on Rome. The two find their way back to each other more than once with a big happy family HEA!
This novel is a bodyguard romance, with fake dating, romantic suspense, reformed playboy, and a female billionaire FMC.
I must read!
November 20, 2025
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ arc review ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
Ok I wanna write this review while it’s still fresh in my mind since I finished it last night (finished on 11/12 but posting review on release day). I could not put it down! I’ve been in the worst reading slump of my life but despite all that, this book brought me back from literary depression. The pacing was a bit slow but I think that was by design as to make the reader analyze the text and focus on the characters and the “thriller” aspect of the book. It kept me engaged and entertained, the characters were all unique and I really enjoyed the relationships characters had with each other. I LOVE ROME’S SISTERS. And I loved how they contributed to the plot by helping Bec. I think there’s just something about a man who was raised with sisters. Rome was so funny and sassy in the best possible way. And the filthy mouth on him, jfc. He reminds me of a less grumpy Rhys Larsen from Twisted Games by Ana Huang. Okay but back to the plot, the chase scene was amazing! I loved that my hunches were right and put the pieces to the puzzle early on! Everything unfolded quickly into place the last couple of chapters. I even liked the antagonist’s background and how they masterminded everything.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to H. J. Cartwright.
Ok I wanna write this review while it’s still fresh in my mind since I finished it last night (finished on 11/12 but posting review on release day). I could not put it down! I’ve been in the worst reading slump of my life but despite all that, this book brought me back from literary depression. The pacing was a bit slow but I think that was by design as to make the reader analyze the text and focus on the characters and the “thriller” aspect of the book. It kept me engaged and entertained, the characters were all unique and I really enjoyed the relationships characters had with each other. I LOVE ROME’S SISTERS. And I loved how they contributed to the plot by helping Bec. I think there’s just something about a man who was raised with sisters. Rome was so funny and sassy in the best possible way. And the filthy mouth on him, jfc. He reminds me of a less grumpy Rhys Larsen from Twisted Games by Ana Huang. Okay but back to the plot, the chase scene was amazing! I loved that my hunches were right and put the pieces to the puzzle early on! Everything unfolded quickly into place the last couple of chapters. I even liked the antagonist’s background and how they masterminded everything.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to H. J. Cartwright.
November 11, 2025
That ending was a ROLLERCOASTER!
I came for the CEO/bodyguard/fake dating romance, but stayed for the chaos and drama!
I loved the dynamic between Bec and Rome. She fought his charm so hard and he wanted to prove he was good enough for her. The smirks and the eye rolls?! Give me more! 👏👏
What I didn't realize was this is a spin-off from HJ Cartwright's The Advocates series. While it wasn't necessary to have read those, I will definitely be reading those now!
I came for the CEO/bodyguard/fake dating romance, but stayed for the chaos and drama!
I loved the dynamic between Bec and Rome. She fought his charm so hard and he wanted to prove he was good enough for her. The smirks and the eye rolls?! Give me more! 👏👏
What I didn't realize was this is a spin-off from HJ Cartwright's The Advocates series. While it wasn't necessary to have read those, I will definitely be reading those now!
November 29, 2025
I just finished this arc last night and let me tell you the plot twist was amazing H.J. Cartwright did such an amazing job with this book and if I could give it 10 stars I would ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
November 5, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
The Fall of Rome by HJ Cartwright
Quick Look-
Format: eARC
Genre: romance
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (2 scenes)
Recommend: yes!!
Full review-
Ughhhhhh. Rome-handsome, flirty and hilarious bodyguard. Bec-guarded, powerful and brilliant CEO. They are absolutely a match made in heaven. HJ kept me on the edge of my seat the whole book with every emotion under the sun. Their story was so beautifully written. This story was somehow perfectly standalone and an amazing spinoff of the advocates series all at once.
The Fall of Rome by HJ Cartwright
Quick Look-
Format: eARC
Genre: romance
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (2 scenes)
Recommend: yes!!
Full review-
Ughhhhhh. Rome-handsome, flirty and hilarious bodyguard. Bec-guarded, powerful and brilliant CEO. They are absolutely a match made in heaven. HJ kept me on the edge of my seat the whole book with every emotion under the sun. Their story was so beautifully written. This story was somehow perfectly standalone and an amazing spinoff of the advocates series all at once.
November 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️|🌶️🌶️🌶️
I am honestly stunned by how much I loved this book. The Fall of Rome wasn’t just a cute romance — it was emotional, gripping, tender, exciting, and so full of heart that I’m still thinking about it hours later.
Rome and Bec are complete opposites on paper, but their dynamic feels so natural and grounding. Bec, the so-called “Ice Queen,” is trying to hold her entire world together while dealing with threats, family pressure, and the crushing weight of perfection. Rome, a veteran with trauma, humor, and warmth, breaks into her world like sunlight through a locked window.
And watching them slowly thaw into each other? Perfection.
What really makes this a 5-star read for me is the balance between romance and emotional storytelling.
Rome’s PTSD is portrayed in a realistic, respectful way. Bec’s emotional isolation is palpable. Their relationship isn’t just romantic — it’s healing. They grow because of each other, and with each other, in a way that feels deeply earned.
And the suspense plot?? Absolutely hooked me. I had theories, but the twists still surprised me. The last quarter of the book had me clutching my chest — the tension, the emotion, the reveals… it all hits hard without ever feeling over-the-top.
The found family elements were another highlight. Rome’s sisters, his mom, his stepdad, the supporting cast — every one of them brings life and warmth without overshadowing the main story.
Tropes Included:
🔥Fake Dating
🔥Bodyguard x CEO
🔥Billionaire Romance
🔥Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
🔥Reformed Playboy MMC
🔥Black Cat Energy FMC
🔥PTSD & Veteran Rep
🔥Romantic Suspense
🔥Found Family
🔥Dual POV
STANDALONE (but beautifully connected to her other books)
This book is tender, funny, thrilling, emotional, and genuinely romantic. It balances humor with heartbreak, banter with vulnerability, tension with tenderness — and the result is unforgettable.
Rome Cipriani has entered my permanent list of all-time favorite book boyfriends.
And Bec is an FMC I’ll be rooting for forever.
Thank you so much to H.J. Cartwright for this ARC — you have absolutely gained a new die-hard reader.
I am honestly stunned by how much I loved this book. The Fall of Rome wasn’t just a cute romance — it was emotional, gripping, tender, exciting, and so full of heart that I’m still thinking about it hours later.
Rome and Bec are complete opposites on paper, but their dynamic feels so natural and grounding. Bec, the so-called “Ice Queen,” is trying to hold her entire world together while dealing with threats, family pressure, and the crushing weight of perfection. Rome, a veteran with trauma, humor, and warmth, breaks into her world like sunlight through a locked window.
And watching them slowly thaw into each other? Perfection.
What really makes this a 5-star read for me is the balance between romance and emotional storytelling.
Rome’s PTSD is portrayed in a realistic, respectful way. Bec’s emotional isolation is palpable. Their relationship isn’t just romantic — it’s healing. They grow because of each other, and with each other, in a way that feels deeply earned.
And the suspense plot?? Absolutely hooked me. I had theories, but the twists still surprised me. The last quarter of the book had me clutching my chest — the tension, the emotion, the reveals… it all hits hard without ever feeling over-the-top.
The found family elements were another highlight. Rome’s sisters, his mom, his stepdad, the supporting cast — every one of them brings life and warmth without overshadowing the main story.
Tropes Included:
🔥Fake Dating
🔥Bodyguard x CEO
🔥Billionaire Romance
🔥Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
🔥Reformed Playboy MMC
🔥Black Cat Energy FMC
🔥PTSD & Veteran Rep
🔥Romantic Suspense
🔥Found Family
🔥Dual POV
STANDALONE (but beautifully connected to her other books)
This book is tender, funny, thrilling, emotional, and genuinely romantic. It balances humor with heartbreak, banter with vulnerability, tension with tenderness — and the result is unforgettable.
Rome Cipriani has entered my permanent list of all-time favorite book boyfriends.
And Bec is an FMC I’ll be rooting for forever.
Thank you so much to H.J. Cartwright for this ARC — you have absolutely gained a new die-hard reader.
November 7, 2025
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙙𝙪𝙩𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙡𝙪𝙧𝙨? 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙧𝙮 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮𝙜𝙪𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙠𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙩𝙝 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩-𝙥𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙢𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙗𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙩𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙛 𝙜𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙨.
⭐️ 4.5/5
🌶️ 3/5
🥀Fake Dating
🖤Billionaire Romance
🥀Bodyguard Romance
🖤Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
🥀Black Cat FMC
🖤Reformed Playboy
🥀Romantic Suspense
🖤Dual POV
🥀Standalone
🖤No Third Act Breakup
🥀 Mental Health Rep
🖤 Veteran Rep
🥀 Found Family
This book had me wanting to read more! I devoured this! The twists and turns in this story had me throwing my kindle at one point. We follow Bec, the CEO of a large company, and Rome, an army veteran turned body guard. Their story is full of humour, passion and adoration.
“ᗷᖇOᗪY, TᕼIᔕ Iᔕ ᖇOᗰE, ᗰY…” ᔕᕼE GᑌᒪᑭEᗪ, ᑌᑎᔕᑌᖇE Oᖴ ᗯᕼᗩT TO ᑕᗩᒪᒪ ᗰE.
“ᗷOYᖴᖇIEᑎᗪ, ᔕᑌGᗩᖇ ᗷᗩᗷY, ᗷOᗪYGᑌᗩᖇᗪ, ᗩᖇᗰ ᑕᗩᑎᗪY,” I E᙭TEᑎᗪEᗪ ᗰY ᕼᗩᑎᗪ TO ᕼIᗰ Iᑎ GᖇEETIᑎG, “ᗯᕼᗩTEᐯEᖇ YOᑌ ᑭᖇEᖴEᖇ.”
This book not only has a fantastic story line, but also represents mental heath and veterans in such a brilliant way. Rome has struggled with some incidents’ from the army and has PTSD. This is portrayed in such a sensitive yet thought-provoking way. It shows how raw, painful and draining dealing with PTSD is, but also shows how getting the right support can make it feel easier.
“I ᗪOᑎ’T TᕼIᑎK ᗷᖇOKEᑎ Gᒪᗩᔕᔕ ᗯᗩᔕ IᑎᑕᒪᑌᗪEᗪ Iᑎ YOᑌᖇ ᑕOᑎTᖇᗩᑕT.” ᕼE ᔕᕼᖇᑌGGEᗪ, “ᑎEITᕼEᖇ ᗯEᖇE ᗪOᑌᑕᕼEᗷᗩG ᗪᗩᗪᔕ, ᖴᗩKE ᗪᗩTIᑎG, Oᖇ ᔕᗩᐯIᑎG YOᑌ ᖴᖇOᗰ YOᑌᖇ ᒪᗩTE-ᑎIGᕼT EᔕᑕᗩᑭᗩᗪEᔕ. ᗯE’ᖇE ᗩᗪᗩᑭTIᑎG.”
I absolutely loved watching these two, their sarcasm, humour, their tiffs and how their desires grow throughout the book. Just when you think you have figured out what happens next, the story twists and blindsides you with something you don’t see coming. Absolutely brilliant!
“I ᗯOᑌᒪᗪ ᗪIE ᗷY ᗩ TᕼOᑌᔕᗩᑎᗪ ᑕᑌTᔕ Iᖴ IT ᗰEᗩᑎT I GOT ᗩ ᗰIᑎᑌTE ᗰOᖇE ᗯITᕼ YOᑌ. I ᗯOᑌᒪᗪ GIᐯE ᑌᑭ EᐯEᖇYTᕼIᑎG, ᗩᑎYOᑎE ᖴOᖇ YOᑌ.”
⭐️ 4.5/5
🌶️ 3/5
🥀Fake Dating
🖤Billionaire Romance
🥀Bodyguard Romance
🖤Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
🥀Black Cat FMC
🖤Reformed Playboy
🥀Romantic Suspense
🖤Dual POV
🥀Standalone
🖤No Third Act Breakup
🥀 Mental Health Rep
🖤 Veteran Rep
🥀 Found Family
This book had me wanting to read more! I devoured this! The twists and turns in this story had me throwing my kindle at one point. We follow Bec, the CEO of a large company, and Rome, an army veteran turned body guard. Their story is full of humour, passion and adoration.
“ᗷᖇOᗪY, TᕼIᔕ Iᔕ ᖇOᗰE, ᗰY…” ᔕᕼE GᑌᒪᑭEᗪ, ᑌᑎᔕᑌᖇE Oᖴ ᗯᕼᗩT TO ᑕᗩᒪᒪ ᗰE.
“ᗷOYᖴᖇIEᑎᗪ, ᔕᑌGᗩᖇ ᗷᗩᗷY, ᗷOᗪYGᑌᗩᖇᗪ, ᗩᖇᗰ ᑕᗩᑎᗪY,” I E᙭TEᑎᗪEᗪ ᗰY ᕼᗩᑎᗪ TO ᕼIᗰ Iᑎ GᖇEETIᑎG, “ᗯᕼᗩTEᐯEᖇ YOᑌ ᑭᖇEᖴEᖇ.”
This book not only has a fantastic story line, but also represents mental heath and veterans in such a brilliant way. Rome has struggled with some incidents’ from the army and has PTSD. This is portrayed in such a sensitive yet thought-provoking way. It shows how raw, painful and draining dealing with PTSD is, but also shows how getting the right support can make it feel easier.
“I ᗪOᑎ’T TᕼIᑎK ᗷᖇOKEᑎ Gᒪᗩᔕᔕ ᗯᗩᔕ IᑎᑕᒪᑌᗪEᗪ Iᑎ YOᑌᖇ ᑕOᑎTᖇᗩᑕT.” ᕼE ᔕᕼᖇᑌGGEᗪ, “ᑎEITᕼEᖇ ᗯEᖇE ᗪOᑌᑕᕼEᗷᗩG ᗪᗩᗪᔕ, ᖴᗩKE ᗪᗩTIᑎG, Oᖇ ᔕᗩᐯIᑎG YOᑌ ᖴᖇOᗰ YOᑌᖇ ᒪᗩTE-ᑎIGᕼT EᔕᑕᗩᑭᗩᗪEᔕ. ᗯE’ᖇE ᗩᗪᗩᑭTIᑎG.”
I absolutely loved watching these two, their sarcasm, humour, their tiffs and how their desires grow throughout the book. Just when you think you have figured out what happens next, the story twists and blindsides you with something you don’t see coming. Absolutely brilliant!
“I ᗯOᑌᒪᗪ ᗪIE ᗷY ᗩ TᕼOᑌᔕᗩᑎᗪ ᑕᑌTᔕ Iᖴ IT ᗰEᗩᑎT I GOT ᗩ ᗰIᑎᑌTE ᗰOᖇE ᗯITᕼ YOᑌ. I ᗯOᑌᒪᗪ GIᐯE ᑌᑭ EᐯEᖇYTᕼIᑎG, ᗩᑎYOᑎE ᖴOᖇ YOᑌ.”
November 17, 2025
This was my first book by HJ Cartwright, and I want to preface this by saying that this was not a bad book by any means. It was well-written and the tropes were handled well, however, there were just a few things that I didn’t quite vibe with during the story. I found a few scenes and scenarios to be a little
too
unbelievable for a contemporary romance, even if it was meant to be romantic suspense. I understand that Rome had been in the Army, but I had a very difficult time believing that he would If this were a Jason Bourne story, I would absolutely understand and accept that, but contemporary romance, to me, means that the story could
reasonably
happen in real life, and I just couldn’t believe that would all happen in a real life situation. The entire plot at the end (I won’t spoil that one, but it’s the biggest plot point at the end of the book) was also too unbelievable for a contemporary romance for me. Those things really took me out of the story because of how unrealistic they were, unfortunately, because it seemed like it was trying
too hard
to be suspenseful and, in turn, just became fantastical. I just couldn’t connect to the story very well after the first unrealistic circumstance, and then the end happened and I was taken out of the story even more. However, if you like the Jason Bourne vibe with some romance and fake dating thrown in, you’ll definitely enjoy this book.
Thank you, HJ Cartwright, for providing me with an ARC
Thank you, HJ Cartwright, for providing me with an ARC
November 20, 2025
♥️🖤
The Fall of Rome
By HJ Cartwright
4.5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
Man I could not put down this book. Whenever I did, I honestly thought about it constantly until I had the chance to read it again. I stayed up late, one eye closed trying to read just one more chapter! H.J. Cartwright is a new author to me and I feel honoured to have been an ARC reader of The Fall of Rome. I will very soon be working my way through the Advocates series. (I need more Will Bly and Malachi James in my life.)
This book reminded me that I absolutely do not read enough Romantic Suspence. This book took us on a journey. It started off so great... immediately felt connected to each of the characters. I was so much into Rome and his cocky, abnoxious personality. I love all the poking and teasing... I constantly wanted more interactions between the two of them.
Our FMC Rebecca (Bec) was such a bad ass woman in business that I just dont think we see a lot of. We typically have high powered men running the show when we thing of a Billionaire Romance. I loved all of this dynamic. Rome wasn't intimidated by her, he wanted nothing but her success and her affluence wasn't something he ever cared for.
I loved the internal struggles of each of these two during their fake dating spell. The mini blowups because they were both clearly falling for each other felt genuine and added to that tension. This book wasn't overly spicy, but when it was, phew.... I love a man with a dirty mouth.
I was also obsessed with the meddling sisters. How fun are they? I really really hope that this is book one of the Romano gang... I'd love nothing more that to spend several more evenings in my assigned seat around their dinner table while each sister gets her turn to feel the meddling sibling trope in real time.
♥️ Billionaire
🖤 Romantic Suspense
🤍 Reverse Grumpy Sunshine
🖤 Fake Dating
♥️ Touch her and 💀
📖 ARC Reader
The Fall of Rome
By HJ Cartwright
4.5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
Man I could not put down this book. Whenever I did, I honestly thought about it constantly until I had the chance to read it again. I stayed up late, one eye closed trying to read just one more chapter! H.J. Cartwright is a new author to me and I feel honoured to have been an ARC reader of The Fall of Rome. I will very soon be working my way through the Advocates series. (I need more Will Bly and Malachi James in my life.)
This book reminded me that I absolutely do not read enough Romantic Suspence. This book took us on a journey. It started off so great... immediately felt connected to each of the characters. I was so much into Rome and his cocky, abnoxious personality. I love all the poking and teasing... I constantly wanted more interactions between the two of them.
Our FMC Rebecca (Bec) was such a bad ass woman in business that I just dont think we see a lot of. We typically have high powered men running the show when we thing of a Billionaire Romance. I loved all of this dynamic. Rome wasn't intimidated by her, he wanted nothing but her success and her affluence wasn't something he ever cared for.
I loved the internal struggles of each of these two during their fake dating spell. The mini blowups because they were both clearly falling for each other felt genuine and added to that tension. This book wasn't overly spicy, but when it was, phew.... I love a man with a dirty mouth.
I was also obsessed with the meddling sisters. How fun are they? I really really hope that this is book one of the Romano gang... I'd love nothing more that to spend several more evenings in my assigned seat around their dinner table while each sister gets her turn to feel the meddling sibling trope in real time.
♥️ Billionaire
🖤 Romantic Suspense
🤍 Reverse Grumpy Sunshine
🖤 Fake Dating
♥️ Touch her and 💀
📖 ARC Reader
December 30, 2025
This book is layered in the way the best romances are — glamorous on the surface, emotionally grounded underneath, and quietly intense the deeper you go. The Fall of Rome blends billionaire luxury and romantic suspense with a love story that unfolds through trust, vulnerability, and choice rather than spectacle.
The fake dating setup is smart and purposeful, pulling two very different people into close orbit and forcing them to actually see each other. The reverse grumpy x sunshine dynamic works beautifully here — she’s steady, warm, and perceptive in ways that matter, while he’s guarded, sharp-edged, and carrying the weight of who he used to be. Watching a reformed playboy reckon with real feelings — not just attraction, but responsibility and care — is deeply satisfying.
The bodyguard element adds tension without overpowering the romance. Danger exists, but it never feels like noise; it sharpens every moment instead. The suspense raises the stakes while the emotional intimacy keeps the story grounded. This isn’t just about protection in the physical sense — it’s about learning how to let someone in when control has always felt safer.
What really makes this book stand out is its balance. The pacing is confident, the emotions are earned, and the dual POV gives you a full understanding of how deeply both characters are affected by what’s happening between them. By the end, the “fall” isn’t about loss — it’s about shedding armor and choosing something real.
The Fall of Rome feels polished, intentional, and quietly powerful — the kind of romance that lingers because it trusts its characters and its readers.
Tropes:
fake dating
billionaire romance
romantic suspense
reverse grumpy x sunshine
bodyguard romance
reformed playboy
dual POV
The fake dating setup is smart and purposeful, pulling two very different people into close orbit and forcing them to actually see each other. The reverse grumpy x sunshine dynamic works beautifully here — she’s steady, warm, and perceptive in ways that matter, while he’s guarded, sharp-edged, and carrying the weight of who he used to be. Watching a reformed playboy reckon with real feelings — not just attraction, but responsibility and care — is deeply satisfying.
The bodyguard element adds tension without overpowering the romance. Danger exists, but it never feels like noise; it sharpens every moment instead. The suspense raises the stakes while the emotional intimacy keeps the story grounded. This isn’t just about protection in the physical sense — it’s about learning how to let someone in when control has always felt safer.
What really makes this book stand out is its balance. The pacing is confident, the emotions are earned, and the dual POV gives you a full understanding of how deeply both characters are affected by what’s happening between them. By the end, the “fall” isn’t about loss — it’s about shedding armor and choosing something real.
The Fall of Rome feels polished, intentional, and quietly powerful — the kind of romance that lingers because it trusts its characters and its readers.
Tropes:
fake dating
billionaire romance
romantic suspense
reverse grumpy x sunshine
bodyguard romance
reformed playboy
dual POV
November 20, 2025
💥 Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
👫🏻 Fake Dating
👨🦱 Flirty Bodyguard MMC
❄️ Ice Queen Boss FMC
⚡️ Tension for DAYS
🛡️ Danger / Compromised Safety
❤️🔥 He Falls First (and HARD)
🏡 Found Family Vibes
🔁 Opposites Attract
🔥 Slow Burn That Pays Off⠀
🌶️🌶️🌶️
HJ Cartwright delivers an absolute knockout with 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐞. From the very first chapter, I was completely absorbed. The plot is compelling, and the chemistry between Bec and Rome? Off. The. Charts. Their reverse grumpy/sunshine energy is perfection. Rome flirts with anyone who so much as glances his way, but the second it comes to Bec, everything shifts. He falls headfirst without even noticing he’s tipping over the edge, and watching him unravel around her is addictive.
Bec, our icy, fierce, beautifully complicated “ice queen,” is equally magnetic. She’s driven, ambitious, and determined to prove herself. But for all the ways Rome frustrates her, she’s drawn to him just as intensely. She fights it, resents it, and wants him anyway. Their dynamic is messy, sharp, emotional, and completely captivating.
When danger edges too close and Bec’s safety is threatened, everything they thought they had under control boils over. The emotional beats land, the intensity ramps up, and their bond deepens in a way that feels earned and powerful.
Rome’s family 𝗮𝗯𝘀𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗲𝗹𝘆 stole my heart, and seeing Jackie and Malachi again felt like getting a bonus treat wrapped into an already stellar story.
HJ Cartwright crafted a standout romance here-fiery, heartfelt, tense, and so satisfying. This book is a must-read. Don’t sleep on it!
Special thanks to the author for the gifted copy 🫶🏼
👫🏻 Fake Dating
👨🦱 Flirty Bodyguard MMC
❄️ Ice Queen Boss FMC
⚡️ Tension for DAYS
🛡️ Danger / Compromised Safety
❤️🔥 He Falls First (and HARD)
🏡 Found Family Vibes
🔁 Opposites Attract
🔥 Slow Burn That Pays Off⠀
🌶️🌶️🌶️
HJ Cartwright delivers an absolute knockout with 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐞. From the very first chapter, I was completely absorbed. The plot is compelling, and the chemistry between Bec and Rome? Off. The. Charts. Their reverse grumpy/sunshine energy is perfection. Rome flirts with anyone who so much as glances his way, but the second it comes to Bec, everything shifts. He falls headfirst without even noticing he’s tipping over the edge, and watching him unravel around her is addictive.
Bec, our icy, fierce, beautifully complicated “ice queen,” is equally magnetic. She’s driven, ambitious, and determined to prove herself. But for all the ways Rome frustrates her, she’s drawn to him just as intensely. She fights it, resents it, and wants him anyway. Their dynamic is messy, sharp, emotional, and completely captivating.
When danger edges too close and Bec’s safety is threatened, everything they thought they had under control boils over. The emotional beats land, the intensity ramps up, and their bond deepens in a way that feels earned and powerful.
Rome’s family 𝗮𝗯𝘀𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗲𝗹𝘆 stole my heart, and seeing Jackie and Malachi again felt like getting a bonus treat wrapped into an already stellar story.
HJ Cartwright crafted a standout romance here-fiery, heartfelt, tense, and so satisfying. This book is a must-read. Don’t sleep on it!
Special thanks to the author for the gifted copy 🫶🏼
November 2, 2025
Bec has something to prove despite being the perfect CEO for her father’s company, She has months to show the board that she deserves that seat permanently. Her whole life has been preparing herself for this but she wasn’t prepared to be besides an annoying flirtatious Body guard that her brothers seems to think she needs.
Bec is the polar opposite from Rome, and months working together has shown them sides of each other that they didn’t even know existed. When an unexpected event occurs they are then made to fake date to help Bec with her job. What started as fake quickly turns real. They see each other demons. With many downs they start to work for what they want and the pull that just can’t be ignored. They learn that people who they have trust in might be the ones that can hurt them in the worst way possible.
This is my first read by H.J Cartwright and it won’t be my last! The found family elements with the Romano’s was perfection. And the many window scenes I read with family members was hilarious it added more spark to the story. From the start I loved Bec I could totally tell that she was not what the world painted her as, she just had an armour around herself due to her upbringing, despite that she is the sweetest. While Rome is the total opposite they both seem to have some similarities and they work and balance each other out so well. Now let me tell you the twist in the end there, I didn’t not see coming. I saw something coming but not THAT. This is a trophy read and one that I will for sure go back and re- read again and again.
Bec is the polar opposite from Rome, and months working together has shown them sides of each other that they didn’t even know existed. When an unexpected event occurs they are then made to fake date to help Bec with her job. What started as fake quickly turns real. They see each other demons. With many downs they start to work for what they want and the pull that just can’t be ignored. They learn that people who they have trust in might be the ones that can hurt them in the worst way possible.
This is my first read by H.J Cartwright and it won’t be my last! The found family elements with the Romano’s was perfection. And the many window scenes I read with family members was hilarious it added more spark to the story. From the start I loved Bec I could totally tell that she was not what the world painted her as, she just had an armour around herself due to her upbringing, despite that she is the sweetest. While Rome is the total opposite they both seem to have some similarities and they work and balance each other out so well. Now let me tell you the twist in the end there, I didn’t not see coming. I saw something coming but not THAT. This is a trophy read and one that I will for sure go back and re- read again and again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2025
📖ARC REVIEW📖
First off thank you again for the second chance to read the arc written by yourself H.J. Cartwright, it truly was a pleasure!!
The Fall of Rome
Tropes for this book :
💫Fake Dating
💫Billionaire Romance
💫Romantic Suspense
💫Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
💫Bodyguard Romance
💫Reformed Playboy
💫Dual POV
I was so curious how this spin-off from H.J.’s main series — especially one centered on Rome, Malachi’s best friend — could possibly top the original. But wow, this book was just as good!
I’m so glad Rome finally got his own story with Bec. The setup hooked me right away: he becomes her bodyguard for protection, and somehow ends up as her pretend boyfriend too. The chaos (and chemistry!) that follows is both hilarious and heart-melting.
Bec, the grumpy, work-obsessed CEO nicknamed the “Ice Queen,” reminded me so much of her brother Will. Watching Rome — the cheerful, outgoing, sunshine type — slowly melt her walls and help her rediscover her softer side was so satisfying. Their banter and emotional growth made their romance feel real and earned.
The story also dives deep into PTSD, showing how someone can appear happy and confident on the outside while fighting private battles inside. Rome’s journey was handled with such care and honesty, and it added so much depth to the story.
And that ending? Full of twists I definitely didn’t see coming! It wrapped up perfectly but still left me wanting more from this world.
If you love emotional, character-driven romances with fake dating, humor, and healing, this spin-off is a must-read.
First off thank you again for the second chance to read the arc written by yourself H.J. Cartwright, it truly was a pleasure!!
The Fall of Rome
Tropes for this book :
💫Fake Dating
💫Billionaire Romance
💫Romantic Suspense
💫Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
💫Bodyguard Romance
💫Reformed Playboy
💫Dual POV
I was so curious how this spin-off from H.J.’s main series — especially one centered on Rome, Malachi’s best friend — could possibly top the original. But wow, this book was just as good!
I’m so glad Rome finally got his own story with Bec. The setup hooked me right away: he becomes her bodyguard for protection, and somehow ends up as her pretend boyfriend too. The chaos (and chemistry!) that follows is both hilarious and heart-melting.
Bec, the grumpy, work-obsessed CEO nicknamed the “Ice Queen,” reminded me so much of her brother Will. Watching Rome — the cheerful, outgoing, sunshine type — slowly melt her walls and help her rediscover her softer side was so satisfying. Their banter and emotional growth made their romance feel real and earned.
The story also dives deep into PTSD, showing how someone can appear happy and confident on the outside while fighting private battles inside. Rome’s journey was handled with such care and honesty, and it added so much depth to the story.
And that ending? Full of twists I definitely didn’t see coming! It wrapped up perfectly but still left me wanting more from this world.
If you love emotional, character-driven romances with fake dating, humor, and healing, this spin-off is a must-read.
November 11, 2025
A solid 5⭐️!! I’ve been following HJ since her very first book, and it has to be said… her writing is aging like fine wine. Each release shows even more growth, and this one might just be her best yet.
Rome absolutely stole the show for me. His personality was perfection—unfiltered, hilarious, and confidently himself in the most endearing way. I lost track of how many times I laughed out loud. Bec’s line about never knowing what would come out of his mouth? 1000% accurate.
But what surprised me most were two deeper layers to him. First, the fact that he genuinely didn’t realize how attractive he was—not the obvious physical kind (he definitely knew that), but the kind that comes from his loyalty, softness, and quiet heart. His devotion to his family was beautiful. Wanting to move back home, wanting to be close to them—some might call it immature, but I found it incredibly grounding and real. It made me love him even more.
Second, the way he understood what he needed toward the end—and how he also considered Bec’s emotional wellbeing—was so unexpectedly tender. The maturity, the vulnerability, the honesty… it brought actual tears to my eyes.
As for Beck and Rome together? Electric. Their chemistry was undeniable from page one. The combination of smirks, eye rolls, playful push-pull, and laugh-out-loud moments made their dynamic feel so genuine and effortless. Their banter had me grinning constantly.
Heart, humor, growth, and two characters who fit together like puzzle pieces—this book delivered it all. HJ truly outdid herself.
Rome absolutely stole the show for me. His personality was perfection—unfiltered, hilarious, and confidently himself in the most endearing way. I lost track of how many times I laughed out loud. Bec’s line about never knowing what would come out of his mouth? 1000% accurate.
But what surprised me most were two deeper layers to him. First, the fact that he genuinely didn’t realize how attractive he was—not the obvious physical kind (he definitely knew that), but the kind that comes from his loyalty, softness, and quiet heart. His devotion to his family was beautiful. Wanting to move back home, wanting to be close to them—some might call it immature, but I found it incredibly grounding and real. It made me love him even more.
Second, the way he understood what he needed toward the end—and how he also considered Bec’s emotional wellbeing—was so unexpectedly tender. The maturity, the vulnerability, the honesty… it brought actual tears to my eyes.
As for Beck and Rome together? Electric. Their chemistry was undeniable from page one. The combination of smirks, eye rolls, playful push-pull, and laugh-out-loud moments made their dynamic feel so genuine and effortless. Their banter had me grinning constantly.
Heart, humor, growth, and two characters who fit together like puzzle pieces—this book delivered it all. HJ truly outdid herself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2025
Bec Bly is three months into her probationary year as CEO of Bly Enterprises, and the pressure is intense. Her brother insists she needs a personal bodyguard and brings in someone he trusts. Rome Cipriani, an Army veteran with charm for days and a talent for getting under Bec’s skin from day one.
Their dynamic starts rocky (Bec’s eye rolls deserve their own page count), but everything shifts when they’re photographed together and the company’s PR team jumps at the opportunity. Suddenly, these two opposites are fake-dating to makeover Bec’s “Ice Queen” reputation and boost her standing with the Board.
What follows is a blend of corporate tension, mystery, and betrayal… with a slow-burn romance threaded through it that is so, so satisfying. Bec is a woman who clings tightly to control, and watching her soften for Rome felt incredibly sweet. And Rome? He’s fighting his own demons and desperate to prove to himself he’s more than his past failures. The way they help each other with her pulling him out of his head, and him coaxing her out of her shell, made their emotional arc feel real and earned.
Their shift from begrudging coworkers to something genuine was paced beautifully. The thawing, the teasing, the tension… literal chef’s kiss.
And Rome’s family?? I am begging for spin-offs. His sisters need their own books immediately.
A slow-burn fake dating romance with grit, heart, and two characters who bring out the best in each other. Loved this.
Their dynamic starts rocky (Bec’s eye rolls deserve their own page count), but everything shifts when they’re photographed together and the company’s PR team jumps at the opportunity. Suddenly, these two opposites are fake-dating to makeover Bec’s “Ice Queen” reputation and boost her standing with the Board.
What follows is a blend of corporate tension, mystery, and betrayal… with a slow-burn romance threaded through it that is so, so satisfying. Bec is a woman who clings tightly to control, and watching her soften for Rome felt incredibly sweet. And Rome? He’s fighting his own demons and desperate to prove to himself he’s more than his past failures. The way they help each other with her pulling him out of his head, and him coaxing her out of her shell, made their emotional arc feel real and earned.
Their shift from begrudging coworkers to something genuine was paced beautifully. The thawing, the teasing, the tension… literal chef’s kiss.
And Rome’s family?? I am begging for spin-offs. His sisters need their own books immediately.
A slow-burn fake dating romance with grit, heart, and two characters who bring out the best in each other. Loved this.
December 30, 2025
Wow! This book was incredibly moving, and I really loved the character development for each of the characters, especially Bec. The side characters really stood out and the side plot about Rome's PTSD and his relationship with Malachi genuinely brought tears to my eyes in the best way possible. Bec's badassness was so amazing to read about, and having a confident and successful businesswoman as the FMC while the MMC (no disrespect to Rome, I love him with all my heart) only has a high school diploma and is happy to take the backseat and not be a breadwinner is so important to me. I was obsessed with the storyline from start to finish, especially the relationships between all the characters. The difference in writing between the two POVs were excellent and Rome's witty one-liners never failed to make me laugh. Without giving too much away, the crazy part near the end had my jaw on the floor and my eyes glued to my kindle. I devoured the end of the book because I had to know what happened next, and tears gathered in my eyes on multiple occasions. I predicted the end, but the plot was still really well written, perhaps just a little bit obvious to me. There were a couple moments that felt a little unrealistic like Rome using his sisters as his team instead of hiring people trained for the tasks, but the book as a whole was well written in general. Overall, this was a great read and I tore through it, especially the last 70ish pages. Definitely recommend!!
October 20, 2025
This book had me in a chokehold. I did not think this “spinoff” standalone book could top my feelings for her books from The Advocates series. But wow. I was wrong. Because, Rome?!? What a man! I fell in love with him hard and fast! And boy are he and Bec perfect together! He smooths out her rough edges and she sees him for who he is underneath the sarcasm and playboy flirtations. They bring out the best in one another and they love hard.
The traumas that they’ve each been through in their lives, but especially Rome, are just unimaginable. And even still, he is sunshine in a bottle for those around him. He holds everyone up. But I love how Bec is strong enough to be there to help hold him up for once. He deserves someone like her in his corner and gah….i just don’t have enough good words to say.
This book had spice, it had tension & chemistry & pining, it has romance and sweetness, it has hilarious banter and sarcasm, mystery & suspense, and plot twists you won’t want to believe….it has a tribe of sisters with big bold personalities, trauma that will make you cry, and a swoony HEA that you’re dying for. You have a Billionaire boss-bitch FMC, & Army Ranger veteran & bodyguard MMC who can’t stand each other at first, but go into a fake relationship to save her career. What could go wrong?
The traumas that they’ve each been through in their lives, but especially Rome, are just unimaginable. And even still, he is sunshine in a bottle for those around him. He holds everyone up. But I love how Bec is strong enough to be there to help hold him up for once. He deserves someone like her in his corner and gah….i just don’t have enough good words to say.
This book had spice, it had tension & chemistry & pining, it has romance and sweetness, it has hilarious banter and sarcasm, mystery & suspense, and plot twists you won’t want to believe….it has a tribe of sisters with big bold personalities, trauma that will make you cry, and a swoony HEA that you’re dying for. You have a Billionaire boss-bitch FMC, & Army Ranger veteran & bodyguard MMC who can’t stand each other at first, but go into a fake relationship to save her career. What could go wrong?
November 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you to author H.J. Cartwright for allowing me the opportunity to read and review an ARC copy of The Fall of Rome. Available November 20th.
We follow Bec, a high stakes CEO and Rome her bodyguard as their fake relationship used to sway the board turns into something more!
This was a very fast paced read! It’s Dual POV which helps keep the story moving as you get to see both characters and their views as the relationship blooms. The relationship is a little tense to start as Bec is hard to impress, it didn’t feel like “enemies to lovers” because Rome never had any ill feeling toward Bec. It’s more “reluctant lovers”.
The characters are so easy to love! Rome is such a fun, lighthearted but devoted character. And the banter between him and Bec is so relatable and fun. It makes the relationship feel real and attainable.
Both characters share dealing with some sort of mental battle, Rome has PTSD and Bec is working through childhood trauma. I would have loved to see more independent character growth from each when it comes to these topics. These seem to be pressing factors when it comes to the character drive throughout the story, but there was more emphasis on relationship development rather than individual characters.
The seem to playlist in the personality
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with lovable characters and fast pacing!
Thank you to author H.J. Cartwright for allowing me the opportunity to read and review an ARC copy of The Fall of Rome. Available November 20th.
We follow Bec, a high stakes CEO and Rome her bodyguard as their fake relationship used to sway the board turns into something more!
This was a very fast paced read! It’s Dual POV which helps keep the story moving as you get to see both characters and their views as the relationship blooms. The relationship is a little tense to start as Bec is hard to impress, it didn’t feel like “enemies to lovers” because Rome never had any ill feeling toward Bec. It’s more “reluctant lovers”.
The characters are so easy to love! Rome is such a fun, lighthearted but devoted character. And the banter between him and Bec is so relatable and fun. It makes the relationship feel real and attainable.
Both characters share dealing with some sort of mental battle, Rome has PTSD and Bec is working through childhood trauma. I would have loved to see more independent character growth from each when it comes to these topics. These seem to be pressing factors when it comes to the character drive throughout the story, but there was more emphasis on relationship development rather than individual characters.
The seem to playlist in the personality
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with lovable characters and fast pacing!
November 21, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
This is my first H.J. Cartwright book and safe to say that I enjoyed reading this! it is always nice to get a reverse grumpy x sunshine and these two characters dynamic is so good. Bec the FMC is an icy, fierce billionaire who is trying to earn her spot in her family company as CEO. We also have Rome our golden retriever MMC who is hired as Bec’s bodyguard and quickly becomes a pain her ass. When a photograph of Bec and Rome comes out to the public, the company’s PR takes this as an opportunity to boost Bec’s image by having them be a couple 🤭
I would consider this book a fast paced read so buckle up! I love both of the main characters dynamic! There’s tension and bickering, and the spice is so good! I love how Rome see’s Bec as a strong and independent woman while everyone else sees her as this “Ice Queen”, such a misunderstood queen. He so protective and caring for her even though he is struggling with her own trauma. The plot twist at the end had me shook! Did not see that one coming.
I felt like the story was quick but easy to understand. While the ending was super fast paced and I felt like a lot was going on, it wasn’t anything that made me want to put the book down. I do wish that we dived in more on Romes past and his journey dealing with PTSD as some things did not seem realistic.
Overall, I enjoyed reading the book! Thank you H.J. Cartwright for this ARC!❤️❤️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
This is my first H.J. Cartwright book and safe to say that I enjoyed reading this! it is always nice to get a reverse grumpy x sunshine and these two characters dynamic is so good. Bec the FMC is an icy, fierce billionaire who is trying to earn her spot in her family company as CEO. We also have Rome our golden retriever MMC who is hired as Bec’s bodyguard and quickly becomes a pain her ass. When a photograph of Bec and Rome comes out to the public, the company’s PR takes this as an opportunity to boost Bec’s image by having them be a couple 🤭
I would consider this book a fast paced read so buckle up! I love both of the main characters dynamic! There’s tension and bickering, and the spice is so good! I love how Rome see’s Bec as a strong and independent woman while everyone else sees her as this “Ice Queen”, such a misunderstood queen. He so protective and caring for her even though he is struggling with her own trauma. The plot twist at the end had me shook! Did not see that one coming.
I felt like the story was quick but easy to understand. While the ending was super fast paced and I felt like a lot was going on, it wasn’t anything that made me want to put the book down. I do wish that we dived in more on Romes past and his journey dealing with PTSD as some things did not seem realistic.
Overall, I enjoyed reading the book! Thank you H.J. Cartwright for this ARC!❤️❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2025
This is the first book I have read from this author, I wasn’t sure what to expect but the amount of twists, turns and emotions put into this book was not what I was expecting at all. Bec and Rome are complete opposites and I loved the dynamic of her being the billionaire CEO and Rome being her bodyguard.
The storyline of Bec’s tormentor kept me guessing for so much of the book and the constant whiplash of something else happening kept me enthralled the whole way through. I struggled to put this book down as I needed to know what happened next.
I really liked the side characters and how they were intertwined into the story but never took away from the main story of Bec and Rome’s relationship and I really hope we see some of them get a book in the future.
The Fall of Rome is a standalone and you can absolutely read it as that but looking at the authors backlist, I can see some of her previous series features some side characters in this book so it would be interesting to read their stories too.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a romance with a hint of thrill, mystery and suspense.
Thank you to the author for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The storyline of Bec’s tormentor kept me guessing for so much of the book and the constant whiplash of something else happening kept me enthralled the whole way through. I struggled to put this book down as I needed to know what happened next.
I really liked the side characters and how they were intertwined into the story but never took away from the main story of Bec and Rome’s relationship and I really hope we see some of them get a book in the future.
The Fall of Rome is a standalone and you can absolutely read it as that but looking at the authors backlist, I can see some of her previous series features some side characters in this book so it would be interesting to read their stories too.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a romance with a hint of thrill, mystery and suspense.
Thank you to the author for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 30, 2025
ARC Review-
The Fall of Rome follows probationary CEO and head of Bly Enterprises Rebecca “Bec” Bly who is always sharp, composed, and in command while trying to prove her worth to the company and her father. At her brother’s insistence, she brings on a newly hired bodyguard, Rome Cirpriani, who becomes her biggest headache. He’s everything that forces her crazy, he’s obnoxious, flirty, and worst of all annoyingly charming. When they decide to enter into a fake relationship per the advice of her PR Advisor, she is anything but thrilled. She agrees to the relationship thinking that it might help thaw her title of “Ice Queen”, and show that she’s not so cold, calculated, or as broody as everyone thinks. Soon after, bizarre coded threats start showing up in letter form directed at Bec, and it changes the course of everything. Will Bec be able to keep it all together and prove herself to the world will things end disastrously? This was not at all what I was expecting but in a good way! While the characters were a bit on the stereotypical side of opposites attract they were still likable and I did find myself hoping that they would have their HEA ending. The beginning starts off on the slower side but then BAM, the story takes off like a rocket. The part the surprised me was the suspense of it all. I thought author, H.J. Cartwright did a fantastic job keeping the characters, as well as myself on their guard and their toes. The was a fun amount of action and mystery shrouding the story as a whole and it came to what I think was a very satisfying conclusion. I did not expect it to end the way it did but I loved every part of the finale. I would read another book by this author, and would recommend this book to anyone who likes their romance with a good dose suspense. 4.5 stars.
The Fall of Rome follows probationary CEO and head of Bly Enterprises Rebecca “Bec” Bly who is always sharp, composed, and in command while trying to prove her worth to the company and her father. At her brother’s insistence, she brings on a newly hired bodyguard, Rome Cirpriani, who becomes her biggest headache. He’s everything that forces her crazy, he’s obnoxious, flirty, and worst of all annoyingly charming. When they decide to enter into a fake relationship per the advice of her PR Advisor, she is anything but thrilled. She agrees to the relationship thinking that it might help thaw her title of “Ice Queen”, and show that she’s not so cold, calculated, or as broody as everyone thinks. Soon after, bizarre coded threats start showing up in letter form directed at Bec, and it changes the course of everything. Will Bec be able to keep it all together and prove herself to the world will things end disastrously? This was not at all what I was expecting but in a good way! While the characters were a bit on the stereotypical side of opposites attract they were still likable and I did find myself hoping that they would have their HEA ending. The beginning starts off on the slower side but then BAM, the story takes off like a rocket. The part the surprised me was the suspense of it all. I thought author, H.J. Cartwright did a fantastic job keeping the characters, as well as myself on their guard and their toes. The was a fun amount of action and mystery shrouding the story as a whole and it came to what I think was a very satisfying conclusion. I did not expect it to end the way it did but I loved every part of the finale. I would read another book by this author, and would recommend this book to anyone who likes their romance with a good dose suspense. 4.5 stars.
November 5, 2025
"How do we survive now... without him?" "We survive for him, piccina. We wake up each day and spread the light he would have, for him."
Don't let the title fool you, this book isn't about the actual fall of Rome. It's an amazing stand alone spin off of the Advocate series and I'm here for it!
I went in expecting boardrooms and drama... I stayed for the fake dating, the slow burn, and the CEO with feelings she did NOT sign up for.
Rebecca “Bec” Bly is that girl; confident, intimidating, and absolutely running the show. But underneath all that steel? She’s figuring out who she is when no one’s watching. And then he shows up. Bec's bodyguard Rome is clever, infuriating, low-key soft in all the best ways… and pretending to date him? Yeah, that doesn’t stay “pretend” for long.
This book had me kicking my feet, gasping at the tension, and actually cheering for this power couple. It’s sharp, funny, and just the right amount of messy. Like all the best love stories are.
Cartwright really said: “Let’s mix ambition, chaos, and heartache... And make it hot.”
Mission accomplished.
Thanks to H.J. Cartwright for providing me this e-Arc and trusting me to give my honest opinion.
Don't let the title fool you, this book isn't about the actual fall of Rome. It's an amazing stand alone spin off of the Advocate series and I'm here for it!
I went in expecting boardrooms and drama... I stayed for the fake dating, the slow burn, and the CEO with feelings she did NOT sign up for.
Rebecca “Bec” Bly is that girl; confident, intimidating, and absolutely running the show. But underneath all that steel? She’s figuring out who she is when no one’s watching. And then he shows up. Bec's bodyguard Rome is clever, infuriating, low-key soft in all the best ways… and pretending to date him? Yeah, that doesn’t stay “pretend” for long.
This book had me kicking my feet, gasping at the tension, and actually cheering for this power couple. It’s sharp, funny, and just the right amount of messy. Like all the best love stories are.
Cartwright really said: “Let’s mix ambition, chaos, and heartache... And make it hot.”
Mission accomplished.
Thanks to H.J. Cartwright for providing me this e-Arc and trusting me to give my honest opinion.
November 21, 2025
ome and Bec are perfect together. From the very first page, I was so invested in this story that I couldn’t put it down. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but this book keeps you engaged with every character from the beginning.
Bec is a businesswoman, raised in that world. Life has hardened her, especially after the abuse she suffered from her father when she was younger. Her only goal is to become a successful CEO, and nothing else matters. For her, life is black and white, and she lives strictly by the rules. Then enters Rome, her bodyguard. He is ex-military, struggling with PTSD, and has sworn to protect Bec no matter what.
The best part of this book, in my eyes, is how Rome teaches Bec the meaning of having a true, loving family and shows her that life can have colors. The fact that his family embraced her without hesitation is beautiful. I also loved the suspense and the mystery of figuring out who was behind all the bad things happening to Bec. I had my suspicions, but the way it was written keeps you hooked until the very end. I don’t want to give anything away—trust me, read the book!
I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read this story.
Bec is a businesswoman, raised in that world. Life has hardened her, especially after the abuse she suffered from her father when she was younger. Her only goal is to become a successful CEO, and nothing else matters. For her, life is black and white, and she lives strictly by the rules. Then enters Rome, her bodyguard. He is ex-military, struggling with PTSD, and has sworn to protect Bec no matter what.
The best part of this book, in my eyes, is how Rome teaches Bec the meaning of having a true, loving family and shows her that life can have colors. The fact that his family embraced her without hesitation is beautiful. I also loved the suspense and the mystery of figuring out who was behind all the bad things happening to Bec. I had my suspicions, but the way it was written keeps you hooked until the very end. I don’t want to give anything away—trust me, read the book!
I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read this story.
December 16, 2025
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book!
We loved the dynamic between the two main characters. The banter between these two was so good! Rome was the perfect golden retriever MMC but was also so protective of those he cared about! We loved getting to see his relationship with his parents and all of his sisters. Bec was the perfect black cat opposite of Rome. They complimented each other so well! We loved getting to see Bec open up her heart to Rome and get the love she deserved not only romantically but in the found family aspect.
We really appreciated how real Bec’s story felt. The portrayal of women in the workplace was so well written. The authors did such a good job showing the struggles Bec had in her position as CEO. It was nice to read about such a strong female lead.
The ending of this book was SO good! It had us on the edge of our seats. We couldn’t put the book down for the last 20%. It was a roller coaster of emotions (in the best way)!!
If you’re looking for a book with suspense elements and twists and turns this is perfect for you!!
We can’t wait to read more from this author!!
We loved the dynamic between the two main characters. The banter between these two was so good! Rome was the perfect golden retriever MMC but was also so protective of those he cared about! We loved getting to see his relationship with his parents and all of his sisters. Bec was the perfect black cat opposite of Rome. They complimented each other so well! We loved getting to see Bec open up her heart to Rome and get the love she deserved not only romantically but in the found family aspect.
We really appreciated how real Bec’s story felt. The portrayal of women in the workplace was so well written. The authors did such a good job showing the struggles Bec had in her position as CEO. It was nice to read about such a strong female lead.
The ending of this book was SO good! It had us on the edge of our seats. We couldn’t put the book down for the last 20%. It was a roller coaster of emotions (in the best way)!!
If you’re looking for a book with suspense elements and twists and turns this is perfect for you!!
We can’t wait to read more from this author!!
December 27, 2025
This was my first time reading H.J Cartwright. I am now a forever fan. The way she writes, captures the audience right from the very beginning. I felt every emotion the characters felt, as if I was actually going through what they were. I can’t wait to read more by her! This book had all of my favorite tropes’ enemies to lovers, bodyguard, unsuspecting love, and a bad ass FMC.
This story follows Rebecca “Bec” Bly, the acting CEO of Bly enterprises. Being a woman in a man’s world is tough; so, it’s no wonder they’ve nicknamed her the “Ice Queen.” Making sure NO ONE sees any fault of hers is her specialty. That is until Rome Cipriani gets thrown into her life. Giving the cold shoulder to Rome, doesn’t seem to have any effect on him. He just continues on with his joking yet inappropriate personality annoying Bec everyday all day! When Bec has to prove she’s not all business and ice, her and Rome get thrown together in the last way she would ever want. Is Rome going to be her saving grace? Will Bec be just the thing that helps Rome find the happiness he deserves? Read the Fall of Rome to find out! Out Now!
This story follows Rebecca “Bec” Bly, the acting CEO of Bly enterprises. Being a woman in a man’s world is tough; so, it’s no wonder they’ve nicknamed her the “Ice Queen.” Making sure NO ONE sees any fault of hers is her specialty. That is until Rome Cipriani gets thrown into her life. Giving the cold shoulder to Rome, doesn’t seem to have any effect on him. He just continues on with his joking yet inappropriate personality annoying Bec everyday all day! When Bec has to prove she’s not all business and ice, her and Rome get thrown together in the last way she would ever want. Is Rome going to be her saving grace? Will Bec be just the thing that helps Rome find the happiness he deserves? Read the Fall of Rome to find out! Out Now!
November 1, 2025
I received this book as an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
While the story was occasionally captivating, it lacked substance and relied heavily on repetitive phrasing. We follow Bec, a self-proclaimed “ice princess” and girl-boss and Rome, an ex-army sergeant who hides behind constant cheerfulness while refusing to face his past. His trauma is referenced repeatedly, as is his habit of flirting with “anything with legs.” The repetition quickly became tiresome and made the characters feel flat.
It leans into cliché territory: I’m broken, I’m cold, no one knows the real me, etc. The writing felt amateur and unrealistic at times, with emotional beats that didn’t land. I also guessed the plot twist fairly early on, which took away some of the tension.
That said, if you’re looking for a quick, easy read that doesn’t require much thought, this might be your kind of story. But for readers who crave depth, strong character development, or more refined writing, this one might fall short.
While the story was occasionally captivating, it lacked substance and relied heavily on repetitive phrasing. We follow Bec, a self-proclaimed “ice princess” and girl-boss and Rome, an ex-army sergeant who hides behind constant cheerfulness while refusing to face his past. His trauma is referenced repeatedly, as is his habit of flirting with “anything with legs.” The repetition quickly became tiresome and made the characters feel flat.
It leans into cliché territory: I’m broken, I’m cold, no one knows the real me, etc. The writing felt amateur and unrealistic at times, with emotional beats that didn’t land. I also guessed the plot twist fairly early on, which took away some of the tension.
That said, if you’re looking for a quick, easy read that doesn’t require much thought, this might be your kind of story. But for readers who crave depth, strong character development, or more refined writing, this one might fall short.
November 10, 2025
Before reading this Nate was always my favorite out of all of H.J.'s characters. Now he has some competition with Rome.
H.J. is such a phenomenal writer. She has such a way with her words that you can vividly picture everything going on. And not only picture it, but you are able to feel the emotions of the characters as well. As long as she keeps writing, I will keep reading her books!
Ughh, I cannot recommend this book enough! Rome's personality is hilarious and we really get to see a side of him that we didn't get to in The Advocates Series. The banter between him and Bec was amazing. I love the character development for both of them.
The second half of the book will make your emotions go all over. You will definitely want to make sure you have the time to sit down and finish it then because you will NOT want to put it down. I cried my eyes out like a baby. Thank you H.J. for eliciting such strong emotions.
I don't want to say to much to spoil anything but if you're thinking about picking this up, just do it. You won't regret it.
H.J. is such a phenomenal writer. She has such a way with her words that you can vividly picture everything going on. And not only picture it, but you are able to feel the emotions of the characters as well. As long as she keeps writing, I will keep reading her books!
Ughh, I cannot recommend this book enough! Rome's personality is hilarious and we really get to see a side of him that we didn't get to in The Advocates Series. The banter between him and Bec was amazing. I love the character development for both of them.
The second half of the book will make your emotions go all over. You will definitely want to make sure you have the time to sit down and finish it then because you will NOT want to put it down. I cried my eyes out like a baby. Thank you H.J. for eliciting such strong emotions.
I don't want to say to much to spoil anything but if you're thinking about picking this up, just do it. You won't regret it.
November 16, 2025
**ARC REVIEW**
The Fall of Rome by H.J. Cartwright
I tore through this book in one sitting. The twists, betrayals, and constant suspense kept me fully invested from the very first chapter. Both the plot and characters are well developed, and the portrayal of mental health—especially PTSD—is handled with real care and honesty.
Bec is a fierce badass CEO, and Rome is the deeply protective bodyguard still carrying the wounds of his time in service. Their grumpy/sunshine dynamic comes through immediately. The fake-dating angle adds plenty of humor, the banter is sharp and fun, and the spice absolutely delivers.
Watching Rome slowly break down Bec’s walls was so satisfying, and I loved how they helped each other heal from their trauma. Their emotional growth makes the romance feel real, earned, and incredibly rewarding to read.
If you enjoy fake dating, bodyguard/CEO tension, emotional depth, and characters who work hard for their happily-ever-after, this is one worth picking up.
Thank you to H.J. Cartwright for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The Fall of Rome by H.J. Cartwright
I tore through this book in one sitting. The twists, betrayals, and constant suspense kept me fully invested from the very first chapter. Both the plot and characters are well developed, and the portrayal of mental health—especially PTSD—is handled with real care and honesty.
Bec is a fierce badass CEO, and Rome is the deeply protective bodyguard still carrying the wounds of his time in service. Their grumpy/sunshine dynamic comes through immediately. The fake-dating angle adds plenty of humor, the banter is sharp and fun, and the spice absolutely delivers.
Watching Rome slowly break down Bec’s walls was so satisfying, and I loved how they helped each other heal from their trauma. Their emotional growth makes the romance feel real, earned, and incredibly rewarding to read.
If you enjoy fake dating, bodyguard/CEO tension, emotional depth, and characters who work hard for their happily-ever-after, this is one worth picking up.
Thank you to H.J. Cartwright for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 19, 2025
This was such a good story! I rarely want to go back and read the first in a series if I don’t think I’ll read the next ones, but I will with this one!
Very well written and paced, this fake romance turns real very quickly, and chaos ensues! I wasn’t expecting such drama to unfold in the second half, but was immediately gripped by the story!
Also, she’s the billionaire in this one, it’s a nice change from the usual rich male character.
I really loved how Bec’s Ice Queen vs Rome’s sunshine persona were described in the beginning, and how their real « demons » were progressively revealed to depict how they could balance each other out. And Rome might just be your next favourite book boyfriend!
The memories of what I assume happened in the first book of this series are what made me want to read that one, it seems like a fascinating story!
I applied to ARC read this book after seeing a post by this author on Threads, and these are my honest feelings and opinions after reading The Fall of Roma. Thank you for choosing me, I really enjoyed this read!
Very well written and paced, this fake romance turns real very quickly, and chaos ensues! I wasn’t expecting such drama to unfold in the second half, but was immediately gripped by the story!
Also, she’s the billionaire in this one, it’s a nice change from the usual rich male character.
I really loved how Bec’s Ice Queen vs Rome’s sunshine persona were described in the beginning, and how their real « demons » were progressively revealed to depict how they could balance each other out. And Rome might just be your next favourite book boyfriend!
The memories of what I assume happened in the first book of this series are what made me want to read that one, it seems like a fascinating story!
I applied to ARC read this book after seeing a post by this author on Threads, and these are my honest feelings and opinions after reading The Fall of Roma. Thank you for choosing me, I really enjoyed this read!
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