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Secret Trials #2
Selfless Love
Adhira Shah wants a soft place to land after graduation—a place untouched by truths of a diagnosis she isn’t ready to face.
More than anything, she needs a roommate who won't ask questions.
Elijah Elliott is supposed to be exactly that.
*Until he starts to notice everything.*
When Adhira’s body begins betraying her in ways she can no longer hide, Elijah sees the truth she’s been carrying alone. And for the first time, she realizes that with him, she doesn’t have to pretend she’s okay.
What grows between them is tender and unspoken—built in late nights, careful touches, and a closeness neither of them knows how to name.
Because falling in love when your future feels fragile is terrifying.
And sometimes, the gentlest love is the most devastating of all.
A Roommates to Lovers, Grumpy x Sunshine, Blushing Golden Retriever MMC x Black Cat FMC Rugby Romance with Hurt/Comfort.
More than anything, she needs a roommate who won't ask questions.
Elijah Elliott is supposed to be exactly that.
*Until he starts to notice everything.*
When Adhira’s body begins betraying her in ways she can no longer hide, Elijah sees the truth she’s been carrying alone. And for the first time, she realizes that with him, she doesn’t have to pretend she’s okay.
What grows between them is tender and unspoken—built in late nights, careful touches, and a closeness neither of them knows how to name.
Because falling in love when your future feels fragile is terrifying.
And sometimes, the gentlest love is the most devastating of all.
A Roommates to Lovers, Grumpy x Sunshine, Blushing Golden Retriever MMC x Black Cat FMC Rugby Romance with Hurt/Comfort.
434 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 26, 2026
14 people are currently reading
264 people want to read
About the author
Giuliana Victoria
9 books226 followersGiuliana Victoria is an author based in Pennsylvania who shares her readers’ deep love of all things romance. She’s a full-time physician assistant, whose passion lies in being there for her patients during their most vulnerable moments.
When Giuliana isn’t writing swoon-worthy book boyfriends, she can be found yelling about human rights on Threads, hiking with her three large breed rescue dogs, and, of course, curled up with a good book beside her husband, the best “book boyfriend” there is.
When Giuliana isn’t writing swoon-worthy book boyfriends, she can be found yelling about human rights on Threads, hiking with her three large breed rescue dogs, and, of course, curled up with a good book beside her husband, the best “book boyfriend” there is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
March 31, 2026
elijah and adhira were actually so beautifu!!!!!
if you want slow burn and I mean SLOWWWWW BURNNNNN, with delicious tension, and a lot of emotional depth? pick up this book ASAP.
adhira is grieving what she thought her future would look like, not wanting to burden her friends and family with her cancer diagnosis, and elijah is an older brother to two much younger sisters and had to step into a more fatherly role when his mother was diagnosed with cancer. elijah is trying to figure out how to take care of himself now that his mom is in remission but also can’t help to push everything aside for adhira. adhira just wants to look out for elijah, thinks he’s the sweetest soul and is so scared of taking advantage of him.
i’m begging you to read their story (and fall in love with a 70 year old scottish man too!!!)
if you want slow burn and I mean SLOWWWWW BURNNNNN, with delicious tension, and a lot of emotional depth? pick up this book ASAP.
adhira is grieving what she thought her future would look like, not wanting to burden her friends and family with her cancer diagnosis, and elijah is an older brother to two much younger sisters and had to step into a more fatherly role when his mother was diagnosed with cancer. elijah is trying to figure out how to take care of himself now that his mom is in remission but also can’t help to push everything aside for adhira. adhira just wants to look out for elijah, thinks he’s the sweetest soul and is so scared of taking advantage of him.
i’m begging you to read their story (and fall in love with a 70 year old scottish man too!!!)
March 22, 2026
Oh my heart! This book had me in all the feels. I love Adhira and Elijah both. Our neurodivergent and fiercely independent FMC has just been diagnosed with cancer and is determined to make it through treatment without involving friends or family. In comes our walking green flag, golden retriever MMC to be her new roommate. Elijah has ruined men for me, no one else will compare. I loved their relationship and the journey to Adhira opening up to all her friends and family so they could all care for her.
This is an emotional story with a sprinkle of sports romance thrown in. There are very heavy topics covered and you see Adhira’s treatment and symptoms in detail. I highly recommend checking triggers and being in the right headspace before starting this book. Also grab all the tissues
This is not the first book in the series, but it is the first I’ve read - so I was originally a bit overwhelmed trying to keep up with all the friends and teammates that were mentioned, but once I had down I really enjoyed the whole cast of characters. I definitely want to read book one!
If you’re looking for a rugby romance with an emotional punch, love a neurodivergent FMC, and the biggest cinnamon roll MMC to bless the page - you should check this one out!
A huge thank you to the author for the gifted eARC!
This is an emotional story with a sprinkle of sports romance thrown in. There are very heavy topics covered and you see Adhira’s treatment and symptoms in detail. I highly recommend checking triggers and being in the right headspace before starting this book. Also grab all the tissues
This is not the first book in the series, but it is the first I’ve read - so I was originally a bit overwhelmed trying to keep up with all the friends and teammates that were mentioned, but once I had down I really enjoyed the whole cast of characters. I definitely want to read book one!
If you’re looking for a rugby romance with an emotional punch, love a neurodivergent FMC, and the biggest cinnamon roll MMC to bless the page - you should check this one out!
A huge thank you to the author for the gifted eARC!
March 26, 2026
This was such a tender, touching story about two individuals faced with different battles. (I will not spoil!)
Their gradual friendship and losing of hearts to one another flowed at an excruciating but soothing pace I couldn't stop reading.
I believe this was greatly because of Elijah's relentless caretaking nature. He's one of those MMC's you just want to hug really tight.
The lovely and fun side characters balanced this out so well too.
The cover art is soo pretty I seriously can't stop looking at it🤩
Many thanks to Author Giuliana Victoria for the opportunity to read in advance and share my thoughts💜
Their gradual friendship and losing of hearts to one another flowed at an excruciating but soothing pace I couldn't stop reading.
I believe this was greatly because of Elijah's relentless caretaking nature. He's one of those MMC's you just want to hug really tight.
The lovely and fun side characters balanced this out so well too.
The cover art is soo pretty I seriously can't stop looking at it🤩
Many thanks to Author Giuliana Victoria for the opportunity to read in advance and share my thoughts💜
March 26, 2026
“You may put all these walls for everyone else because you think you’re protecting them, but you don’t have to do that with me. You, Adhira Shah, are selfless. You’re compassionate, and you care so much more deeply than you want to admit, but I see you.”
Let’s be real: Selfless Love will hold a part of my heart forever. I very rarely fall in love for a MMC but I did with Elijah —as much as I did for Adhira. He’s such a green flag that it threatens his own well being. But even when Life gets complicated, he remains a ray of sunshine for the people he cares about. And what a carer he is! G.V. did an incredible job picturing him and his whole background as he raised his little sister —and still does in a way. He’s so different from what you’d expect from a MC in a sports romance, and that’s refreshing.
But Adhira is just as interesting. She’s ill but has her own traumas making it difficult for her to share her difficulties, masking them under a stoic mask, because of her past, but also because she’s autistic (it’s not mentioned directly —and I kinda loved that— but she very much is). As usual, the author did a great job picturing her character’s cultural background.
And, of course, the romance. It starts with intimacy, the real one. It’s the mother of slow burns, but Elijah and Adhira share a lot about themselves, take care of each other in a way I need to read more in romance. Their way to do things together but also separately changes a bit from what we’re used to, and that’s for the better.
Just once thing, make sure to have tissues with you when you read. No matter if it was the first or second time I’ve read this book, I cried, a lot —it’s probably the contemporary romance that made me cry the most to this day. It broke me, made me whole again (the image in the epilogue is 100% perfect about that). This book is like a gentle kiss on the forehead during the worst day, and it’s precious. At least to me.
Let’s be real: Selfless Love will hold a part of my heart forever. I very rarely fall in love for a MMC but I did with Elijah —as much as I did for Adhira. He’s such a green flag that it threatens his own well being. But even when Life gets complicated, he remains a ray of sunshine for the people he cares about. And what a carer he is! G.V. did an incredible job picturing him and his whole background as he raised his little sister —and still does in a way. He’s so different from what you’d expect from a MC in a sports romance, and that’s refreshing.
But Adhira is just as interesting. She’s ill but has her own traumas making it difficult for her to share her difficulties, masking them under a stoic mask, because of her past, but also because she’s autistic (it’s not mentioned directly —and I kinda loved that— but she very much is). As usual, the author did a great job picturing her character’s cultural background.
And, of course, the romance. It starts with intimacy, the real one. It’s the mother of slow burns, but Elijah and Adhira share a lot about themselves, take care of each other in a way I need to read more in romance. Their way to do things together but also separately changes a bit from what we’re used to, and that’s for the better.
Just once thing, make sure to have tissues with you when you read. No matter if it was the first or second time I’ve read this book, I cried, a lot —it’s probably the contemporary romance that made me cry the most to this day. It broke me, made me whole again (the image in the epilogue is 100% perfect about that). This book is like a gentle kiss on the forehead during the worst day, and it’s precious. At least to me.
March 30, 2026
I love yearning men, and oh my gosh, did this book deliver! 😍 Elijah was literally everything. The way he noticed all the little things about Adhira and did everything he could for her because he just loved her that much. He had such a way with words that literally had my chest fluttering. What an emotional story that was both devastating and heartwarming. Watching the love blossom between these two characters was beautiful 🥹💜
Thank you to Giuliana Victoria and Happy Booked PR for the e-ARC! All opinions are my own.
Tropes:
✨ Grumpy x Sunshine
✨ Roommates to Lovers
✨ Slow Burn
✨ He Falls First
Thank you to Giuliana Victoria and Happy Booked PR for the e-ARC! All opinions are my own.
Tropes:
✨ Grumpy x Sunshine
✨ Roommates to Lovers
✨ Slow Burn
✨ He Falls First
March 22, 2026
If you’re looking for a book that will make you feel everything, this one is absolutely unmissable.
From the very first page, I was completely pulled into the story and couldn’t put it down. It does centrally revolve around cancer, so proceed with caution, but the love, swoon and spice are perfect as the characters discover each other. Elijah is definitely my newest favorite book boyfriend <3
From the very first page, I was completely pulled into the story and couldn’t put it down. It does centrally revolve around cancer, so proceed with caution, but the love, swoon and spice are perfect as the characters discover each other. Elijah is definitely my newest favorite book boyfriend <3
Read
April 1, 2026DNF @ 33%
I really think it's my current mood that is making me need to pause on this book. I guess I was not in the right head space for this emotional journey. But I plan to pick this back up eventually because I need to continue to see how down bad Elijah becomes 👀🫶🏻
HUGE thank you to Happily Booked PR for the early review copy in exchange for my honest review.
I really think it's my current mood that is making me need to pause on this book. I guess I was not in the right head space for this emotional journey. But I plan to pick this back up eventually because I need to continue to see how down bad Elijah becomes 👀🫶🏻
HUGE thank you to Happily Booked PR for the early review copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 26, 2026
Good book its second in the series called secret trials
Adhira Shah wants a soft place to land after graduation—a place untouched by truths of a diagnosis she isn’t ready to face. More than anything, she needs a roommate who won't ask questions.
Elijah Elliott is supposed to be exactly that.
Until he starts to notice everything.
Adhira Shah wants a soft place to land after graduation—a place untouched by truths of a diagnosis she isn’t ready to face. More than anything, she needs a roommate who won't ask questions.
Elijah Elliott is supposed to be exactly that.
Until he starts to notice everything.
April 14, 2026
4.5 Stars for this amazing, all the feels, butterflies and slow burn story.
This story involves Adhira and Elijah. They couldn't be more opposite, Adhira is smart, introverted and keeps her sickness a secret. While Elijah is a rugby player he is passionate and dedicated to his sisters and friends. He needs a place to live Adhira considers him to live with her. They start to get along until he discovers her sickness is more serious than she is letting on.
He wants to know how he can help, but she does not want to be burden. He is ready for anything that comes with her sickness.
Tropes:
> Strangers-to-lovers
>Cinnamon roll MMC
> Spicy 2.5
>Forced Proximity
>Grief and Loss
This story involves Adhira and Elijah. They couldn't be more opposite, Adhira is smart, introverted and keeps her sickness a secret. While Elijah is a rugby player he is passionate and dedicated to his sisters and friends. He needs a place to live Adhira considers him to live with her. They start to get along until he discovers her sickness is more serious than she is letting on.
He wants to know how he can help, but she does not want to be burden. He is ready for anything that comes with her sickness.
Tropes:
> Strangers-to-lovers
>Cinnamon roll MMC
> Spicy 2.5
>Forced Proximity
>Grief and Loss
March 11, 2026
ARC Review
This book was well written and put me through all the feels on an emotional rollercoaster. Although it can be a gut wrenching story, there were some comedic moments. Adhira was on a tough journey she tried to do alone, but she realizes she’d be better off letting Elijah in and I’m so glad she did. They both helped each other through hard times. I loved getting to know them both and their different backgrounds as well as their unconditional love for their families.
This book was well written and put me through all the feels on an emotional rollercoaster. Although it can be a gut wrenching story, there were some comedic moments. Adhira was on a tough journey she tried to do alone, but she realizes she’d be better off letting Elijah in and I’m so glad she did. They both helped each other through hard times. I loved getting to know them both and their different backgrounds as well as their unconditional love for their families.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
ARC kindly provided for the author in exchange for an honest review
Giuliana Victoria gave me EVERYTHING I expected from this book and so much more! I loved how Adhira & Elijah broke my heart, how well they fit together despite being so different, and how beautiful they are in their own way, I really enjoyed reading about them falling in love, crying together, and finding their safe haven in each other. I also loved reading about both groups of friends, the new characters the author included in this story, and how they also broke my heart. I think it's safe to say this will be my favorite book of March unless something truly extraordinary happens.
Adhira is my favorite of this group of friends!! Her past and present are sad and tragic, and although it broke my heart to read about her facing her illness alone, I can also completely understand the reasons behind her decisions, and I loved the direction her journey took, the beautiful and sincere friendship Adhira found in Archie, and how important this character was to her and Elijah. I also have to say that I absolutely LOVED this woman's personality, I really liked that her neurodivergence is seen as normal and appreciated by the people who love Adhira, but that it also shows us her struggles to fit into this world that doesn't always understand her, I loved her sincere side, the way she uses her humor to get through difficult times, and even the way she tries with all her might not to let more people into her life and to protect those she loves from everything she's going through. Another thing I thoroughly enjoyed was reading about the girls through Adhira's eyes: I loved seeing Elise, Chelsea, and Letty, how she goes to extraordinary lengths to protect them, and how all these girls love each other so much.
Elijah is one of the best male characters I've ever read. His backstory is absolutely heartbreaking: it was so sad to read about how he's always felt alone, how he feels he constantly has to prove his worth, and how he never stops worrying about his mom and sisters' well-being. I enjoyed learning how important his coach is to him too and the twist the author gave to this part of his story. I loved reading about his adorable personality, how he blushes constantly, and how he always tries to be there for his sisters, even though he has complex feelings about all the responsibilities he had to take on at such a young age. Another thing I loved about this book was reading about Elijah finding support and love in Jay, Rafael & Nakoa, and the funniest moments in their group chat.
Elijah & Adhira have an incredible journey in this book. There are painful moments, of course, BUT I want to focus on the beauty of this couple: I loved how they went from roommates trying to avoid each other, to being the most loyal friends to one of the most beautiful couples I've ever read about. I LOVED the way Elijah picks up on the signs of what Adhira is going through, how he goes to great lengths to support her, noticing every detail about her, her personality, and how he does the sweetest things for her. I also loved reading about Elijah becoming Adhira's safe place, the way she grows throughout the story thanks to his unconditional support and the sweet way he always understands her.
❤️🩹Adhira: 5/5
🦋Elijah: 5/5
❤️🩹Plot: 5/5
🦋Love story: 5/5
❤️🩹Secondary characters: 5/5
🦋Universe: 5/5
❤️🩹Cover: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
Giuliana Victoria me dio TODO lo que esperaba de este libro y mucho más! Me encantó la manera en la que Adhira & Elijah rompieron mi corazón, como encajan tan bien a pesar de ser tan diferentes y lo hermosos que son a su manera, disfruté mucho leerlos enamorarse, llorar juntos y encontrar su lugar seguro en el otro. Además, me encantó leer a ambos grupos de amigos, a los personajes nuevos que la autora incluyo en esta historia, y con los que también me rompió el corazón, y creo que es seguro decir que éste será mi libro favorito de Marzo a menos que algo realmente extraordinario pase.
Adhira es mi favorita de este grupo de amigas!! su pasado y su presente son tristes y trágicos, y aunque me rompió el corazón leerla afrontando su enfermedad sola también puedo entender por completo el porque de sus decisiones y me encantó la dirección que tomó su viaje, la amistad tan hermosa y sincera que Adhira encontró en Archie y lo importante que fue este personaje para ella y Elijah. También tengo que decir que AMÉ con locura la personalidad de esta mujer, me gustó mucho que su neurodivergecia sea vista con normalidad y apreciada por las personas que aman a Adhira, pero que también nos muestre sus luchas para encajar en este mundo que no siempre la entiende, amé su lado sincero, la manera en la que usa su humor para atravesar por momentos difíciles e incluso la manera en la que intentan con todas sus fuerzas no dejar entrar a más personas en su vida y proteger a los que ama de todo lo que ella está pasando. Otra cosa que disfruté enormemente fue leer a las chicas a través de los ojos de Ashira: me gustó mucho saber cómo ve a Elise, Chelsea & Letty, como hace hasta lo imposible para protegerlas y la manera en la que todas estas chicas se aman la una a la otra.
Elijah es uno de los mejores personajes masculinos que he leído. Su historia personal es absolutamente desgarradora: fue muy triste leer como siempre se ha sentido solo, como cree que tiene que probar su valor constantemente y como nunca deja de preocuparse por el bienestar de su mamá y hermanas, también me gustó mucho saber lo importante que su entrenador es para él y el giro que la autora le dio a esta parte de su historia. También disfruté mucho leyendo su personalidad tierna, la manera en la que se sonroja constantemente y como busca siempre estar ahí para sus hermanas, aún cuando tiene sentimientos complejos por todas las responsabilidades que tuvo que asumir siendo tan joven. Otra cosa que me encantó de este libro fue leer a Elijah encontrando apoyo y amor en Jay, Rafael & Nakoa y dándome los momentos más divertidos en su chat grupal.
Elijah & Adhira tienen un viaje increíble en este libro, hay momentos dolorosos, por supuesto, PERO quiero concentrarme en lo hermoso de esta pareja: me encantó que fueran de compañeros de casa que trataban de evitarse, a ser los amigos más incondicionales a ser una de las parejas más hermosas que he leído jamás. AMÉ la manera en la que Elijah identifica las señales de lo que Adhira está viviendo, como hace hasta lo imposible para apoyarla, nota cada uno de los detalles sobre ella, su personalidad y como tiene los detalles más lindos hacia ella. También me encantó leer a Elijah convirtiéndose en el lugar seguro de Adhira, la manera en la que ella crece a lo largo de la historia gracias al apoyo incondicional que él le da y la manera tan dulce en la que siempre la entiende.
❤️🩹Adhira: 5/5
🦋Elijah: 5/5
❤️🩹Trama: 5/5
🦋Historia de amor: 5/5
❤️🩹Personajes secundarios: 5/5
🦋Universo: 5/5
❤️🩹Portada: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5
Giuliana Victoria gave me EVERYTHING I expected from this book and so much more! I loved how Adhira & Elijah broke my heart, how well they fit together despite being so different, and how beautiful they are in their own way, I really enjoyed reading about them falling in love, crying together, and finding their safe haven in each other. I also loved reading about both groups of friends, the new characters the author included in this story, and how they also broke my heart. I think it's safe to say this will be my favorite book of March unless something truly extraordinary happens.
Adhira is my favorite of this group of friends!! Her past and present are sad and tragic, and although it broke my heart to read about her facing her illness alone, I can also completely understand the reasons behind her decisions, and I loved the direction her journey took, the beautiful and sincere friendship Adhira found in Archie, and how important this character was to her and Elijah. I also have to say that I absolutely LOVED this woman's personality, I really liked that her neurodivergence is seen as normal and appreciated by the people who love Adhira, but that it also shows us her struggles to fit into this world that doesn't always understand her, I loved her sincere side, the way she uses her humor to get through difficult times, and even the way she tries with all her might not to let more people into her life and to protect those she loves from everything she's going through. Another thing I thoroughly enjoyed was reading about the girls through Adhira's eyes: I loved seeing Elise, Chelsea, and Letty, how she goes to extraordinary lengths to protect them, and how all these girls love each other so much.
Elijah is one of the best male characters I've ever read. His backstory is absolutely heartbreaking: it was so sad to read about how he's always felt alone, how he feels he constantly has to prove his worth, and how he never stops worrying about his mom and sisters' well-being. I enjoyed learning how important his coach is to him too and the twist the author gave to this part of his story. I loved reading about his adorable personality, how he blushes constantly, and how he always tries to be there for his sisters, even though he has complex feelings about all the responsibilities he had to take on at such a young age. Another thing I loved about this book was reading about Elijah finding support and love in Jay, Rafael & Nakoa, and the funniest moments in their group chat.
Elijah & Adhira have an incredible journey in this book. There are painful moments, of course, BUT I want to focus on the beauty of this couple: I loved how they went from roommates trying to avoid each other, to being the most loyal friends to one of the most beautiful couples I've ever read about. I LOVED the way Elijah picks up on the signs of what Adhira is going through, how he goes to great lengths to support her, noticing every detail about her, her personality, and how he does the sweetest things for her. I also loved reading about Elijah becoming Adhira's safe place, the way she grows throughout the story thanks to his unconditional support and the sweet way he always understands her.
❤️🩹Adhira: 5/5
🦋Elijah: 5/5
❤️🩹Plot: 5/5
🦋Love story: 5/5
❤️🩹Secondary characters: 5/5
🦋Universe: 5/5
❤️🩹Cover: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
Giuliana Victoria me dio TODO lo que esperaba de este libro y mucho más! Me encantó la manera en la que Adhira & Elijah rompieron mi corazón, como encajan tan bien a pesar de ser tan diferentes y lo hermosos que son a su manera, disfruté mucho leerlos enamorarse, llorar juntos y encontrar su lugar seguro en el otro. Además, me encantó leer a ambos grupos de amigos, a los personajes nuevos que la autora incluyo en esta historia, y con los que también me rompió el corazón, y creo que es seguro decir que éste será mi libro favorito de Marzo a menos que algo realmente extraordinario pase.
Adhira es mi favorita de este grupo de amigas!! su pasado y su presente son tristes y trágicos, y aunque me rompió el corazón leerla afrontando su enfermedad sola también puedo entender por completo el porque de sus decisiones y me encantó la dirección que tomó su viaje, la amistad tan hermosa y sincera que Adhira encontró en Archie y lo importante que fue este personaje para ella y Elijah. También tengo que decir que AMÉ con locura la personalidad de esta mujer, me gustó mucho que su neurodivergecia sea vista con normalidad y apreciada por las personas que aman a Adhira, pero que también nos muestre sus luchas para encajar en este mundo que no siempre la entiende, amé su lado sincero, la manera en la que usa su humor para atravesar por momentos difíciles e incluso la manera en la que intentan con todas sus fuerzas no dejar entrar a más personas en su vida y proteger a los que ama de todo lo que ella está pasando. Otra cosa que disfruté enormemente fue leer a las chicas a través de los ojos de Ashira: me gustó mucho saber cómo ve a Elise, Chelsea & Letty, como hace hasta lo imposible para protegerlas y la manera en la que todas estas chicas se aman la una a la otra.
Elijah es uno de los mejores personajes masculinos que he leído. Su historia personal es absolutamente desgarradora: fue muy triste leer como siempre se ha sentido solo, como cree que tiene que probar su valor constantemente y como nunca deja de preocuparse por el bienestar de su mamá y hermanas, también me gustó mucho saber lo importante que su entrenador es para él y el giro que la autora le dio a esta parte de su historia. También disfruté mucho leyendo su personalidad tierna, la manera en la que se sonroja constantemente y como busca siempre estar ahí para sus hermanas, aún cuando tiene sentimientos complejos por todas las responsabilidades que tuvo que asumir siendo tan joven. Otra cosa que me encantó de este libro fue leer a Elijah encontrando apoyo y amor en Jay, Rafael & Nakoa y dándome los momentos más divertidos en su chat grupal.
Elijah & Adhira tienen un viaje increíble en este libro, hay momentos dolorosos, por supuesto, PERO quiero concentrarme en lo hermoso de esta pareja: me encantó que fueran de compañeros de casa que trataban de evitarse, a ser los amigos más incondicionales a ser una de las parejas más hermosas que he leído jamás. AMÉ la manera en la que Elijah identifica las señales de lo que Adhira está viviendo, como hace hasta lo imposible para apoyarla, nota cada uno de los detalles sobre ella, su personalidad y como tiene los detalles más lindos hacia ella. También me encantó leer a Elijah convirtiéndose en el lugar seguro de Adhira, la manera en la que ella crece a lo largo de la historia gracias al apoyo incondicional que él le da y la manera tan dulce en la que siempre la entiende.
❤️🩹Adhira: 5/5
🦋Elijah: 5/5
❤️🩹Trama: 5/5
🦋Historia de amor: 5/5
❤️🩹Personajes secundarios: 5/5
🦋Universo: 5/5
❤️🩹Portada: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as a free eARC from the author. All reviews and opinions are my own. Thank you for allowing me to read this book early!
Selfless Love by Giuliana Victoria
Release date: 03/26/2026
Rating: 2.5/5 stars
Spice: 2/5 chili peppers
Review (spoiler warning!):
I really wanted to like this book, but it was really “just okay” for me. It was described as a slow burn and complicated romance book but it didn’t really fulfill that listing for me. The complications are there: Adhira has cancer and has anxiety and trust issues due to the early death of her brother, while Elijah has anxiety and was severely parentified due to his mother’s own cancer and his father’s absence. So in short, the characters are very complicated and layered characters.
I appreciated this detail and nuance because they were very realistic! They are layered and complex with their own rich lives outside of their romance. That being said, I found both of them slightly annoying. Adhira refuses to tell her friends and family about her diagnosis due to her fear and her past trauma, so she lies to them constantly. But, she also makes a point to frequently mention how much she hates lying in general. This dual nature gets very annoying very quickly and makes it hard to like Adhira as a reader. This is not helped by her standoffish/naturally awkward personality, which often led to me being very irritated with her whilst reading. Elijah is equally confusing. He is very anxious and worries a lot about the people around him. This would be charming and considerate, if it weren’t for the fact that he refuses to confide about his fears to anyone. He talks around his issues but never directly addresses them with friends or family. To me, made his chapters incredibly frustrating to read, and he was very unlikable at points. Overall, a rough start for me.
Next, I thought this would be a slow burn romance. I LOVE slow burn and I was looking forward to seeing these two tease out their best parts and confront their fears together before really jumping into the traditional romance plotlines. Unfortunately, that is not what happened. The first third of the book, Adhira is borderline hostile to Elijah and he cowers in fear whenever in her proximity. It is only after he confronts her and pesters her about her obvious illness that she stops being openly rude to him. Note: she doesn’t become very friendly or sweet after this point. She just treats him like the friend of a friend. Once Adhira begins to be cordial with him, Elijah falls in insta-love and cannot help but sing her praises. This immediately gave me the ick. Elijah is a very anxious person with generally low-self esteem, so the abrupt transition from fear and avoidance of Adhira to insta-love after she is polite to him feels very problematic. It was a really weird dynamic and made their budding romance hard to support as the book progressed.
This feeling only intensified as I continued to read the book. Their romance felt more like a begrudging domestic partnership. They both have so much going on in their lives that they cling to each other for any sense of control and normalcy. Elijah’s mother relies on him for everything, so when he is completely burnt out after parenting for her, Adhira sweeps in and makes him feel “normal”. Adhira refuses to tell literally anyone about her diagnosis, so when treatment gets tough and she’s barely surviving, Elijah sweeps in and takes care of her completely (cooking, cleaning, emotional labor, etc.) I’m sure someone would find this romantic, but to me, it felt like two castaways trapped on a deserted island struggling to survive. Their individual lives are so chaotic that they date to have any sense of normalcy and control.
In short, this book feels more like a drama rather than a romance. Everything is always going wrong with the two main characters, so they cling to each other to create a sense of “normal”. It is very rich in drama, but it didn’t feel romantic. I wish the book had less personal drama (maybe Adhira didn’t have a dead brother, just normal over-worried parents, maybe Elijah’s mom didn’t have cancer and was just a harried single mother instead, etc.) so it had no room to develop the romance. By the time I parsed through all of the personal drama, I was so burnt out and exhausted emotionally that I couldn’t care about their romance at all. They have way too much on their respective plates for a new romance to be feasible or advisable. I really wanted to like this book, but unfortunately it is not for me.
Selfless Love by Giuliana Victoria
Release date: 03/26/2026
Rating: 2.5/5 stars
Spice: 2/5 chili peppers
Review (spoiler warning!):
I really wanted to like this book, but it was really “just okay” for me. It was described as a slow burn and complicated romance book but it didn’t really fulfill that listing for me. The complications are there: Adhira has cancer and has anxiety and trust issues due to the early death of her brother, while Elijah has anxiety and was severely parentified due to his mother’s own cancer and his father’s absence. So in short, the characters are very complicated and layered characters.
I appreciated this detail and nuance because they were very realistic! They are layered and complex with their own rich lives outside of their romance. That being said, I found both of them slightly annoying. Adhira refuses to tell her friends and family about her diagnosis due to her fear and her past trauma, so she lies to them constantly. But, she also makes a point to frequently mention how much she hates lying in general. This dual nature gets very annoying very quickly and makes it hard to like Adhira as a reader. This is not helped by her standoffish/naturally awkward personality, which often led to me being very irritated with her whilst reading. Elijah is equally confusing. He is very anxious and worries a lot about the people around him. This would be charming and considerate, if it weren’t for the fact that he refuses to confide about his fears to anyone. He talks around his issues but never directly addresses them with friends or family. To me, made his chapters incredibly frustrating to read, and he was very unlikable at points. Overall, a rough start for me.
Next, I thought this would be a slow burn romance. I LOVE slow burn and I was looking forward to seeing these two tease out their best parts and confront their fears together before really jumping into the traditional romance plotlines. Unfortunately, that is not what happened. The first third of the book, Adhira is borderline hostile to Elijah and he cowers in fear whenever in her proximity. It is only after he confronts her and pesters her about her obvious illness that she stops being openly rude to him. Note: she doesn’t become very friendly or sweet after this point. She just treats him like the friend of a friend. Once Adhira begins to be cordial with him, Elijah falls in insta-love and cannot help but sing her praises. This immediately gave me the ick. Elijah is a very anxious person with generally low-self esteem, so the abrupt transition from fear and avoidance of Adhira to insta-love after she is polite to him feels very problematic. It was a really weird dynamic and made their budding romance hard to support as the book progressed.
This feeling only intensified as I continued to read the book. Their romance felt more like a begrudging domestic partnership. They both have so much going on in their lives that they cling to each other for any sense of control and normalcy. Elijah’s mother relies on him for everything, so when he is completely burnt out after parenting for her, Adhira sweeps in and makes him feel “normal”. Adhira refuses to tell literally anyone about her diagnosis, so when treatment gets tough and she’s barely surviving, Elijah sweeps in and takes care of her completely (cooking, cleaning, emotional labor, etc.) I’m sure someone would find this romantic, but to me, it felt like two castaways trapped on a deserted island struggling to survive. Their individual lives are so chaotic that they date to have any sense of normalcy and control.
In short, this book feels more like a drama rather than a romance. Everything is always going wrong with the two main characters, so they cling to each other to create a sense of “normal”. It is very rich in drama, but it didn’t feel romantic. I wish the book had less personal drama (maybe Adhira didn’t have a dead brother, just normal over-worried parents, maybe Elijah’s mom didn’t have cancer and was just a harried single mother instead, etc.) so it had no room to develop the romance. By the time I parsed through all of the personal drama, I was so burnt out and exhausted emotionally that I couldn’t care about their romance at all. They have way too much on their respective plates for a new romance to be feasible or advisable. I really wanted to like this book, but unfortunately it is not for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
This book is the physical embodiment of "to be loved is to be known" and was one of the most precious romances I have read this year. It was heavy and emotional, but also incredibly touching and heartfelt. I never wanted it to end.
This is only the second book I've read by this author, but it's become clear to me that she is so thoughtful with the work she puts into writing her characters and making sure they are being accurately represented. The attention to detail she put into writing Adhira, not only as a woman of color but also as someone dealing with cancer, was beautifully written. Her books are a masterclass in writing outside of your own lived experience with the respect and care it deserves.
Until I read the author's note, I didn't really know what I was getting into. Adhira gets diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma at the start of the story and a large part of this is her journey through treatments and how she, initially, tries to do it all on her own. It's raw, scary, and gut wrenching, but the light through it all is our mmc, Elijah. One of the most earnest, generous, compassionate men I have ever read. The way he cared for Adhira and slowly moved his way into her heart was everything.
Elijah was such a multi faceted mmc. On the outside, he's this giant rugby player with thick thighs and slutty little glasses but on the inside, he's incredibly bashful, a lover of romance novels, and the best big brother to two little girls who absolutely adore him. He had such a pure heart and it killed me knowing how much of himself he sacrificed to take care of others around him above his own self. I'm glad he eventually prioritized his own needs and found someone like Adhira to make sure he made that a priority. He was such a good man who was so observant. He knew Adhira inside and out and was constantly making the world around her a little easier to muster. We all could only dream of being loved that way.
Adhira also had a lot of layers to her. Her snark and deadpan (often times dark) humor instantly endeared me to her. I love that she never minced her words and was always so direct. She could come off as cold, but I think the more we learned about her, the easier it is to see that there's nothing cold about her. Her warmth is saved for the people she loves and she just shows it in a different way. Watching her go through her cancer treatments and the way the fear of the unknown consumed her was a punch to the gut. I'm so happy she eventually let Elijah in because she deserved all of the love that he was more than willing to give her.
Their romance was a slowww burn that was truly built on such a strong foundation of friendship that consisted of them truly knowing each other. I loved the conversations in this when it came to sexuality and mental health, specifically just how candidly both Elijah and Adhira communicated to each other about all of it. They were so open and vulnerable and it allowed their friendship to blossom into the most beautiful romance.
As I mentioned, this was an emotionally heavy, gut wrenching read. There's a lot of moments that were hard to read about and other moments that had me sobbing in the middle of the day. There was also happy tears, too though! It's a book that'll definitely put your emotions through the wringer, but it is worth it for such a hard-earned, beautiful happy ever after.
I loved this so much. Highly, highly recommend, but please check the trigger warnings and take the time to read the author's note that was crafted with such thoughtfulness.
This book is the physical embodiment of "to be loved is to be known" and was one of the most precious romances I have read this year. It was heavy and emotional, but also incredibly touching and heartfelt. I never wanted it to end.
This is only the second book I've read by this author, but it's become clear to me that she is so thoughtful with the work she puts into writing her characters and making sure they are being accurately represented. The attention to detail she put into writing Adhira, not only as a woman of color but also as someone dealing with cancer, was beautifully written. Her books are a masterclass in writing outside of your own lived experience with the respect and care it deserves.
Until I read the author's note, I didn't really know what I was getting into. Adhira gets diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma at the start of the story and a large part of this is her journey through treatments and how she, initially, tries to do it all on her own. It's raw, scary, and gut wrenching, but the light through it all is our mmc, Elijah. One of the most earnest, generous, compassionate men I have ever read. The way he cared for Adhira and slowly moved his way into her heart was everything.
Elijah was such a multi faceted mmc. On the outside, he's this giant rugby player with thick thighs and slutty little glasses but on the inside, he's incredibly bashful, a lover of romance novels, and the best big brother to two little girls who absolutely adore him. He had such a pure heart and it killed me knowing how much of himself he sacrificed to take care of others around him above his own self. I'm glad he eventually prioritized his own needs and found someone like Adhira to make sure he made that a priority. He was such a good man who was so observant. He knew Adhira inside and out and was constantly making the world around her a little easier to muster. We all could only dream of being loved that way.
Adhira also had a lot of layers to her. Her snark and deadpan (often times dark) humor instantly endeared me to her. I love that she never minced her words and was always so direct. She could come off as cold, but I think the more we learned about her, the easier it is to see that there's nothing cold about her. Her warmth is saved for the people she loves and she just shows it in a different way. Watching her go through her cancer treatments and the way the fear of the unknown consumed her was a punch to the gut. I'm so happy she eventually let Elijah in because she deserved all of the love that he was more than willing to give her.
Their romance was a slowww burn that was truly built on such a strong foundation of friendship that consisted of them truly knowing each other. I loved the conversations in this when it came to sexuality and mental health, specifically just how candidly both Elijah and Adhira communicated to each other about all of it. They were so open and vulnerable and it allowed their friendship to blossom into the most beautiful romance.
As I mentioned, this was an emotionally heavy, gut wrenching read. There's a lot of moments that were hard to read about and other moments that had me sobbing in the middle of the day. There was also happy tears, too though! It's a book that'll definitely put your emotions through the wringer, but it is worth it for such a hard-earned, beautiful happy ever after.
I loved this so much. Highly, highly recommend, but please check the trigger warnings and take the time to read the author's note that was crafted with such thoughtfulness.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Adhira has just been diagnosed with cancer and the last thing she wants is to become a burden to the people she loves. Determined to handle it on her own terms, she keeps her emotional distance even while living with her new roommate, Elijah. But living together has a way of breaking down walls and as Elijah slowly becomes her safe place, Adhira struggles with what she feels she’s able to give in return and whether love is something she can allow herself while facing everything ahead.
“Adhira Shah has become my whole damn centre of gravity.”
Can I just start off by saying that this book truly lived up to its title because this really was the epitome selfless love. The romance wasn’t the sole focus to me, it was about building the kind of relationship that feels supportive, genuine, and deeply real. The romance felt like the cherry on top of something already so so so beautiful. It is a slow burn, so fair warning, but speaking as someone who usually struggles with slow burns…THIS is exactly how it should be done. I was genuinely enamoured while reading this cause the way their relationship developed felt natural and earned, and Giuliana deserves MAJOR credit for creating something so thoughtful!
I’m saying it now, Elijah is THAT MAN. Kind, respectful, emotionally intelligent…just a genuinely good human being and exactly what Adhira needed. Add on that to the fact that he reads romance books like Kath Richards? Sold, take my heart Elijah, it’s yours to keep! He had such strong gentle giant energy, mixed with cinnamon roll and a little cuteness aggression that made him impossible not to love. But he also balanced that softness with extreme sexiness that left me panting.
“I just want to be here for you, however you need me.”
And Adhira…WOW WOW WOW. This girl was everything! What I loved the most about her was that even while facing so much pain and uncertainty, she never lost her personality. Her humor, her quirks, her strength were still so present and it made her feel so real and dynamic. I especially appreciated that she also became a support for Elijah, this wasn’t a onesided dynamic or some kind of trauma bond or caretaker story. It was two people showing up for each other and I was an absolute stan for it.
There were so many soft moments that just melted my heart, if I had to list them we’d be here all day. But the orca facts, the quiet scenes of just nesting on the couch between them, and the way the touch aversion storyline was handled with so much care were all done beautifully. Their friend group was also incredible, I loved them in the first book and I loved them even more here because the love and support between them through hard times made the whole story feel even more special.
“You are all the good parts of every day and every situation.”
You can really tell this book was written with care. Giuliana clearly put so much thought and research into every detail and I really appreciated that cause it showed. As a person of colour, I always find that representation is usually done in a weird, disbalanced, sometimes even stereotypical way that it turns me off. Not here though, the multicultural elements were included so naturally that they never felt forced or performative or like they were checking boxes. Everything flowed organically, which made the story feel even more authentic. Huge shoutout Giuliana for putting this wonderful book out there, it was a true masterpiece that made me laugh, cry (ugly cry), and love alongside Adhira and Elijah.
“Adhira Shah has become my whole damn centre of gravity.”
Can I just start off by saying that this book truly lived up to its title because this really was the epitome selfless love. The romance wasn’t the sole focus to me, it was about building the kind of relationship that feels supportive, genuine, and deeply real. The romance felt like the cherry on top of something already so so so beautiful. It is a slow burn, so fair warning, but speaking as someone who usually struggles with slow burns…THIS is exactly how it should be done. I was genuinely enamoured while reading this cause the way their relationship developed felt natural and earned, and Giuliana deserves MAJOR credit for creating something so thoughtful!
I’m saying it now, Elijah is THAT MAN. Kind, respectful, emotionally intelligent…just a genuinely good human being and exactly what Adhira needed. Add on that to the fact that he reads romance books like Kath Richards? Sold, take my heart Elijah, it’s yours to keep! He had such strong gentle giant energy, mixed with cinnamon roll and a little cuteness aggression that made him impossible not to love. But he also balanced that softness with extreme sexiness that left me panting.
“I just want to be here for you, however you need me.”
And Adhira…WOW WOW WOW. This girl was everything! What I loved the most about her was that even while facing so much pain and uncertainty, she never lost her personality. Her humor, her quirks, her strength were still so present and it made her feel so real and dynamic. I especially appreciated that she also became a support for Elijah, this wasn’t a onesided dynamic or some kind of trauma bond or caretaker story. It was two people showing up for each other and I was an absolute stan for it.
There were so many soft moments that just melted my heart, if I had to list them we’d be here all day. But the orca facts, the quiet scenes of just nesting on the couch between them, and the way the touch aversion storyline was handled with so much care were all done beautifully. Their friend group was also incredible, I loved them in the first book and I loved them even more here because the love and support between them through hard times made the whole story feel even more special.
“You are all the good parts of every day and every situation.”
You can really tell this book was written with care. Giuliana clearly put so much thought and research into every detail and I really appreciated that cause it showed. As a person of colour, I always find that representation is usually done in a weird, disbalanced, sometimes even stereotypical way that it turns me off. Not here though, the multicultural elements were included so naturally that they never felt forced or performative or like they were checking boxes. Everything flowed organically, which made the story feel even more authentic. Huge shoutout Giuliana for putting this wonderful book out there, it was a true masterpiece that made me laugh, cry (ugly cry), and love alongside Adhira and Elijah.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t think I’ve ever come across a romance quite like this one. From the very first pages, Adhira’s world shifts when she learns she has cancer, and instead of leaning on others, her instinct is to shoulder it alone. Watching her try to navigate that diagnosis while insisting on her independence was both painful and powerful.
Circumstances lead her to needing a roommate, and through mutual friends Elijah ends up moving in. What starts as a strictly practical arrangement slowly transforms into something deeply meaningful. Adhira keeps her distance at first, guarding herself in every possible way, but Elijah meets her exactly where she is. Their friendship unfolds gradually, built on quiet understanding and small, intentional moments that feel incredibly real.
Adhira is a standout heroine. She’s neurodivergent, sensitive to certain sounds, uncomfortable with physical contact, and unapologetically direct. The way she processes the world is beautifully portrayed—honest, sometimes blunt, but deeply authentic. I loved that she’s demisexual as well; it added another thoughtful layer to her character and to the way their romance develops. Her journey through treatment is heartbreaking at times, yet there’s so much resilience in her growth.
Elijah is equally refreshing. He’s not your typical larger-than-life romance hero. He struggles with anxiety, blushes easily, and has little experience with intimacy before Adhira. A rugby player who also enjoys pottery? That contrast alone made him memorable. What truly sets him apart, though, is how attentive he is. He notices Adhira’s discomforts without needing explanations and adapts himself in subtle ways to make her feel safe. There’s a tenderness to him that never feels performative—just steady and genuine.
Their relationship is the definition of slow burn—painfully slow in the best possible way. Normally, that pacing isn’t my favorite, but here it worked. The buildup felt organic, with plenty of charged moments and simmering tension long before anything official happened between them. When the romance finally deepens, it feels earned. The chemistry is rooted in friendship, trust, and those tiny gestures that end up meaning everything.
Giuliana has a remarkable ability to write about illness and disability with care. The story doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of cancer, yet it also highlights community, strength, and the support systems that carry people through the worst days. That balance makes the narrative feel authentic rather than purely tragic.
If I had to nitpick, I would have loved to witness more direct conversations—especially when Adhira tells Elijah and her parents about her diagnosis. Those moments are referenced more than shown, and seeing the dialogue play out could have added even more emotional weight. There’s also a scene where Elijah leaves a match to find her that stretched believability a bit for me, even if his concern was undeniably swoon-worthy.
The side characters deserve their flowers too—Archie absolutely steals scenes and brings warmth and humor when it’s needed most.
This book carries emotional heaviness, but it’s wrapped in hope, devotion, and beautifully layered character work. Adhira and Elijah’s journey from roommates to each other’s safe place is tender, intense, and unforgettable. It’s the kind of love story that lingers long after you close the final page.
Circumstances lead her to needing a roommate, and through mutual friends Elijah ends up moving in. What starts as a strictly practical arrangement slowly transforms into something deeply meaningful. Adhira keeps her distance at first, guarding herself in every possible way, but Elijah meets her exactly where she is. Their friendship unfolds gradually, built on quiet understanding and small, intentional moments that feel incredibly real.
Adhira is a standout heroine. She’s neurodivergent, sensitive to certain sounds, uncomfortable with physical contact, and unapologetically direct. The way she processes the world is beautifully portrayed—honest, sometimes blunt, but deeply authentic. I loved that she’s demisexual as well; it added another thoughtful layer to her character and to the way their romance develops. Her journey through treatment is heartbreaking at times, yet there’s so much resilience in her growth.
Elijah is equally refreshing. He’s not your typical larger-than-life romance hero. He struggles with anxiety, blushes easily, and has little experience with intimacy before Adhira. A rugby player who also enjoys pottery? That contrast alone made him memorable. What truly sets him apart, though, is how attentive he is. He notices Adhira’s discomforts without needing explanations and adapts himself in subtle ways to make her feel safe. There’s a tenderness to him that never feels performative—just steady and genuine.
Their relationship is the definition of slow burn—painfully slow in the best possible way. Normally, that pacing isn’t my favorite, but here it worked. The buildup felt organic, with plenty of charged moments and simmering tension long before anything official happened between them. When the romance finally deepens, it feels earned. The chemistry is rooted in friendship, trust, and those tiny gestures that end up meaning everything.
Giuliana has a remarkable ability to write about illness and disability with care. The story doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of cancer, yet it also highlights community, strength, and the support systems that carry people through the worst days. That balance makes the narrative feel authentic rather than purely tragic.
If I had to nitpick, I would have loved to witness more direct conversations—especially when Adhira tells Elijah and her parents about her diagnosis. Those moments are referenced more than shown, and seeing the dialogue play out could have added even more emotional weight. There’s also a scene where Elijah leaves a match to find her that stretched believability a bit for me, even if his concern was undeniably swoon-worthy.
The side characters deserve their flowers too—Archie absolutely steals scenes and brings warmth and humor when it’s needed most.
This book carries emotional heaviness, but it’s wrapped in hope, devotion, and beautifully layered character work. Adhira and Elijah’s journey from roommates to each other’s safe place is tender, intense, and unforgettable. It’s the kind of love story that lingers long after you close the final page.
Review of advance copy
"I'm not sure I have the right words to describe it yet because "love" doesn't feel strong enough to describe what's grown between us."
GENRE: Romance
RATING: 4.25/5
FORMAT: eBook Arc
Overall Impression: A Love Story that brings two people who don't believe they deserve more and has the dynamic of a Grumpy x Sunshine? I'm always in for this, especially with a soft hearted MMC that breaks through the walls of our strong willed FMC.
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Review:
Selfless Love is a story about two people who find each other, bring the best out of each other and show one another that there is hope in the world for them.
You have Adhira, who is going through cancer and grieving for multiple reason. Because of a lot of different factors, she decides to tackle her treatment and struggles alone. In many ways throughout the story, we see why Adhira makes this choice and how it impacts her. A lot of it ties to the fact that she feels she is too much for everyone else and that she isn't worth being a burden to her family and friends.
Enter Elijah, who is her new flatmate and instantly recognises a lot of the signs that Adhira tries to hide and he shows up for her in ways she didnt expect or want to accept. As we slowly starts to get to know him, we see Elijah for the Golden Retriever MMC he is, how he gives and has constantly done so without receiving a lot back.
I think one of my favourite part about Selfless Love is that you get to see how both MCs help each other. Adhira is able to see that she deserves help and is not a burden. She is shown throughout the story by multiple people that just because she is different whether it is due to her neurodivergent, her newly discovered sickness and treatment or other things that have hunted her throughout life. Elijah gets to see that he can't be there for everyone without receiving anything back. You can only give so much before there is nothing left to give if you don't take care of yourself.
We also get to meet their friend group. This is book 2 in an inter-connected series but as I havent read book one, it was lovely to get to know all the side characters and made me excited to read book 1 and continue the series.
We also meet Archie and both the MCs families. Meeting Elijah's sisters was so wholesome and you see Adhira build her relationship with them throughout the story too.
And as always, I am always here for a Grumpy x Sunshine dynamic and I think this was done in a lovely way with so much pain, emotions and love. I can't wait to read more by the author and the first book in the series.
Thank you to the author and Happily Booked Arc for the Arc copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐️
This book was so unique and beautiful. I truly haven’t read another book like this. It follows Adhira, who right off the bat finds out she has cancer and is struggling with that new reality and wanting to fight it all on her own. She ends up needing a roommate and through friends Elijah ends up being a good fit and moves in. She keeps him at arms length at first but they slowly become friends, and eventually so much more.
I thought that both of their characters were unique and different from what you see in most romance books. Adhira is neurodivergent and processes things different than other people. She also doesn’t like touch and certain noises. Elijah picks up on so many of these things without her even telling him and adjusts how he is around her to make her more comfortable. This quote from the book perfectly sums up how he was with her and I just loved it.
“There’s nothing about you that needs to be changed to better suit the world around you,” he continues. “One day, you’ll see that you’re not a template. You’re the finished product.”
He was just perfect. He himself isn’t what you would normally see as an MMC in a romance. He has anxiety, and never really had the desire for intimacy, until he met Adhira. I just loved watching them grow as friends and then blossom into being each others everything and being so comfortable with each other. This was a very slow burn- which I typically am not a huge fan of. But it was done in a way that made sense and there was several moments where you felt the tension and had a little spice before they even got together. So it definitely didn’t feel like it was dragging out.
There was only a few minor things I wished had been different. I would have liked to see more actual dialogue when she finally told Elijah and her parents about her diagnosis. But in both instances it was kind of just brushed over and we just see her inner dialogue as she said something about telling them everything and how they reacted. I also thought that a scene where left a match to go find her was a bit far fetched. While I loved that he was concerned about her, I can’t imagine a coach being ok with just letting a player leave like that.
I was given an arc copy to review this book but this is my honest opinion. I’ve never read a book by this author before but I am definitely going to look for others!
Also on that note- this is the second in the series but I have not read the first book. But it was a great standalone and I never felt lost or like I was missing something.
This book was so unique and beautiful. I truly haven’t read another book like this. It follows Adhira, who right off the bat finds out she has cancer and is struggling with that new reality and wanting to fight it all on her own. She ends up needing a roommate and through friends Elijah ends up being a good fit and moves in. She keeps him at arms length at first but they slowly become friends, and eventually so much more.
I thought that both of their characters were unique and different from what you see in most romance books. Adhira is neurodivergent and processes things different than other people. She also doesn’t like touch and certain noises. Elijah picks up on so many of these things without her even telling him and adjusts how he is around her to make her more comfortable. This quote from the book perfectly sums up how he was with her and I just loved it.
“There’s nothing about you that needs to be changed to better suit the world around you,” he continues. “One day, you’ll see that you’re not a template. You’re the finished product.”
He was just perfect. He himself isn’t what you would normally see as an MMC in a romance. He has anxiety, and never really had the desire for intimacy, until he met Adhira. I just loved watching them grow as friends and then blossom into being each others everything and being so comfortable with each other. This was a very slow burn- which I typically am not a huge fan of. But it was done in a way that made sense and there was several moments where you felt the tension and had a little spice before they even got together. So it definitely didn’t feel like it was dragging out.
There was only a few minor things I wished had been different. I would have liked to see more actual dialogue when she finally told Elijah and her parents about her diagnosis. But in both instances it was kind of just brushed over and we just see her inner dialogue as she said something about telling them everything and how they reacted. I also thought that a scene where left a match to go find her was a bit far fetched. While I loved that he was concerned about her, I can’t imagine a coach being ok with just letting a player leave like that.
I was given an arc copy to review this book but this is my honest opinion. I’ve never read a book by this author before but I am definitely going to look for others!
Also on that note- this is the second in the series but I have not read the first book. But it was a great standalone and I never felt lost or like I was missing something.
April 2, 2026
Beautiful Slow Burn
Adhira Shah was diagnosed with cancer, and decided to tell no one. In order to protect her family and friends from wanting to care for her, she moves into a new apartment with a man she's never met and hopes will let her suffer her illness in peace. Elijah Elliot is a friend of a friend who is just looking for an apartment where he won't be robbed anytime he leaves his flat. The first time he meets his new flatmate face to face he is struck dumb by his attraction to her. Over time he is more and more suspicious about this woman who is avoiding her friends, and constantly looking more and more ill.
Through a little light stalking he finds out what she is going through and convinces her to let him take care of her at least a little. Most of the book is devoted to the budding relationship between Adhira and Elijah, from strangers to two people who care for each other and are kind of friends, kind of fake dating.
My favorite part of this book is how Elijah is portrayed as a caregiver. I have experience as a caregiver for a chronically ill partner, and I can say with confidence Elijah's struggles are spot on. There are so many quotes that sum up the feelings of loving someone while they break down and their body is something to fight against. When you love someone who is going through an illness, you just want to be what they need and you don't think about it being something that is out of the norm to help them bathe, to help them dress. It's just how you love. And then in turn, when your anxiety gets to be too much, they take care of you how you need it as well. From the outside this may seem lopsided, or uneven. When you are in it, it's just the only choice you can make.
As far as the love story goes, it seems like the slowest of slow burns. And it is. But when you look at Adhira's personality, it fits. Add in that she is going through the fight of her life and it makes sense that it takes her longer to get to where Elijah is. She does a very good job of giving affection how she can at the time and honoring Elijah's obvious feelings until she has the spoons to reciprocate more fully.
This was not a typical romance novel, but it was real and raw and honest and absolutely beautiful. It will make you think about what you will do for the ones you love, and maybe appreciate the ways your loved ones show up for you in unconventional ways.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Adhira Shah was diagnosed with cancer, and decided to tell no one. In order to protect her family and friends from wanting to care for her, she moves into a new apartment with a man she's never met and hopes will let her suffer her illness in peace. Elijah Elliot is a friend of a friend who is just looking for an apartment where he won't be robbed anytime he leaves his flat. The first time he meets his new flatmate face to face he is struck dumb by his attraction to her. Over time he is more and more suspicious about this woman who is avoiding her friends, and constantly looking more and more ill.
Through a little light stalking he finds out what she is going through and convinces her to let him take care of her at least a little. Most of the book is devoted to the budding relationship between Adhira and Elijah, from strangers to two people who care for each other and are kind of friends, kind of fake dating.
My favorite part of this book is how Elijah is portrayed as a caregiver. I have experience as a caregiver for a chronically ill partner, and I can say with confidence Elijah's struggles are spot on. There are so many quotes that sum up the feelings of loving someone while they break down and their body is something to fight against. When you love someone who is going through an illness, you just want to be what they need and you don't think about it being something that is out of the norm to help them bathe, to help them dress. It's just how you love. And then in turn, when your anxiety gets to be too much, they take care of you how you need it as well. From the outside this may seem lopsided, or uneven. When you are in it, it's just the only choice you can make.
As far as the love story goes, it seems like the slowest of slow burns. And it is. But when you look at Adhira's personality, it fits. Add in that she is going through the fight of her life and it makes sense that it takes her longer to get to where Elijah is. She does a very good job of giving affection how she can at the time and honoring Elijah's obvious feelings until she has the spoons to reciprocate more fully.
This was not a typical romance novel, but it was real and raw and honest and absolutely beautiful. It will make you think about what you will do for the ones you love, and maybe appreciate the ways your loved ones show up for you in unconventional ways.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
4.25 stars.
Wow, what an emotional journey Giuliana Victoria's "Selfless Love" was. Please check the TWs before reading as this book heavily involves cancer/cancer treatment, loss/d3ath, grief, etc. This book is a slow-burning grumpy sunshine romance between two roommates, Adhira and Elijah. Adhira has just graduated from college and has just found out she has cancer. She is a strong, independent woman and refuses to tell anyone about her illness, including her parents. She doesn't want to be a burden to her friends and family. Instead, she shoulders this burden alone, which still takes a toll on her fragile health. Some may call her off-putting, brash, or even rude, but I didn't read her that way. Elijah is a rugby player. He is used to taking on a caretaker role he never signed up for. He was basically a father figure to his sisters after their dad left them. Elijah's mother went through her own cancer diagnosis years ago and was unable to care for his sisters, so he stepped up and filled that role. Now, by process of elimination and a little stalking, he finds out his brand new roommate, Adhira, is also sick and in chemotherapy. He has always centered everyone else over himself, feeling alone and isolated in the process. Slowly over time, they begin spending time with one another, becoming more than roommates into friends, and eventually more. I can't say I *enjoyed* reading this book because it is really sad and triggering as someone who has lost several family members to cancer, but I really wanted to read it for the representation, emotionality, and the growth of its characters. I found all of that here. It is well-written, believable, and compelling. i liked the interactions between Adhira and Elijah the longer the story went on. I also loved the respective friend groups and how easy it was for both of our main characters to ask for things and get them from their pals. This is more than just a romance. It also has an excellent commentary on neurodivergence and mental health. It's also about learning when to ask for help and learning when to put yourself first, even when everything in your body and mind and soul screams, "be a people pleaser." I will say this book did feel a little bit too long to me. Still, this is a solid book if you're looking for something that might make you cry!
Thank you to Giuliana Victoria and Happily Booked PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Wow, what an emotional journey Giuliana Victoria's "Selfless Love" was. Please check the TWs before reading as this book heavily involves cancer/cancer treatment, loss/d3ath, grief, etc. This book is a slow-burning grumpy sunshine romance between two roommates, Adhira and Elijah. Adhira has just graduated from college and has just found out she has cancer. She is a strong, independent woman and refuses to tell anyone about her illness, including her parents. She doesn't want to be a burden to her friends and family. Instead, she shoulders this burden alone, which still takes a toll on her fragile health. Some may call her off-putting, brash, or even rude, but I didn't read her that way. Elijah is a rugby player. He is used to taking on a caretaker role he never signed up for. He was basically a father figure to his sisters after their dad left them. Elijah's mother went through her own cancer diagnosis years ago and was unable to care for his sisters, so he stepped up and filled that role. Now, by process of elimination and a little stalking, he finds out his brand new roommate, Adhira, is also sick and in chemotherapy. He has always centered everyone else over himself, feeling alone and isolated in the process. Slowly over time, they begin spending time with one another, becoming more than roommates into friends, and eventually more. I can't say I *enjoyed* reading this book because it is really sad and triggering as someone who has lost several family members to cancer, but I really wanted to read it for the representation, emotionality, and the growth of its characters. I found all of that here. It is well-written, believable, and compelling. i liked the interactions between Adhira and Elijah the longer the story went on. I also loved the respective friend groups and how easy it was for both of our main characters to ask for things and get them from their pals. This is more than just a romance. It also has an excellent commentary on neurodivergence and mental health. It's also about learning when to ask for help and learning when to put yourself first, even when everything in your body and mind and soul screams, "be a people pleaser." I will say this book did feel a little bit too long to me. Still, this is a solid book if you're looking for something that might make you cry!
Thank you to Giuliana Victoria and Happily Booked PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
March 28, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This story takes readers on a heartfelt, emotional journey as two broken people find a romance that begins to heal them. Giuliana Victoria brings a tenderness to Selfless Love that pulled on my heartstrings. The Secret Trials series now has 2 books, with each story pulling readers in with captivating characters and storylines that just keep better and better. Giuliana’s writing combines elements that are complex, layered, and deep to create stories you can’t put down.
Adhira is as strong as they come. Not wanting to be a burden to her family, she decides to deal with her newly diagnosed cancer. I was constantly amazed at her strength, even though my heart broke for her. Her neurodivergence is written with passion and care and I loved how well Giuliana makes readers feel both her acceptance by friends while she still struggles to fit in. She has a love for her friends and builds them up constantly. Seeing her letting Elijah into her world and heart brought so many smiles to my face.
Elijah was someone that Adhira was not expecting to find. The way he sees her like no one ever has was beautiful. His life hasn’t been easy either. Reading about him not feeling like he is ever enough, always having to prove his worth hit closer to home than I care to admit. He doesn’t let people in easily and for him to find a family that loved him for him and unconditionally healed a small part of me. As he cares for Adhira, he becomes a safe place for her to land and she becomes a pillar of strength for him.
Giuliana, you have written an amazing story with these two! Your talent for making the raw emotion in every one of your stories felt is outstanding. There is a realness in every story that makes them easy to relate to and resonate with readers. It is evident you took your time and care in writing about the topics in this book and that you take great pride in representation being grounded in facts. This story will wreck you and break your heart, while at the same time bring you comfort and healing.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🏉Rugby Romance
🩷Roommates to Lovers
🏉Found Family
🩷Parentified MMC
🏉Demisexual FMC
🩷Grumpy x Sunshine
🏉Lots of Representation
This story takes readers on a heartfelt, emotional journey as two broken people find a romance that begins to heal them. Giuliana Victoria brings a tenderness to Selfless Love that pulled on my heartstrings. The Secret Trials series now has 2 books, with each story pulling readers in with captivating characters and storylines that just keep better and better. Giuliana’s writing combines elements that are complex, layered, and deep to create stories you can’t put down.
Adhira is as strong as they come. Not wanting to be a burden to her family, she decides to deal with her newly diagnosed cancer. I was constantly amazed at her strength, even though my heart broke for her. Her neurodivergence is written with passion and care and I loved how well Giuliana makes readers feel both her acceptance by friends while she still struggles to fit in. She has a love for her friends and builds them up constantly. Seeing her letting Elijah into her world and heart brought so many smiles to my face.
Elijah was someone that Adhira was not expecting to find. The way he sees her like no one ever has was beautiful. His life hasn’t been easy either. Reading about him not feeling like he is ever enough, always having to prove his worth hit closer to home than I care to admit. He doesn’t let people in easily and for him to find a family that loved him for him and unconditionally healed a small part of me. As he cares for Adhira, he becomes a safe place for her to land and she becomes a pillar of strength for him.
Giuliana, you have written an amazing story with these two! Your talent for making the raw emotion in every one of your stories felt is outstanding. There is a realness in every story that makes them easy to relate to and resonate with readers. It is evident you took your time and care in writing about the topics in this book and that you take great pride in representation being grounded in facts. This story will wreck you and break your heart, while at the same time bring you comfort and healing.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🏉Rugby Romance
🩷Roommates to Lovers
🏉Found Family
🩷Parentified MMC
🏉Demisexual FMC
🩷Grumpy x Sunshine
🏉Lots of Representation
March 26, 2026
So I do want to let you know, I got this as an ARC and I didn't understand when to submit this review, but it's release day so I guess I'm good. Lol. But seriously thank you to the author for 1) creating a great book 2) letting me read it first. Lol. No without any further delay the review no spoilers... I think.
“I’ll get back to you with my notes at a later time. Preliminary scoring is a nine-point-eight out of ten.”
This is a quote from the book and yes it fits perfectly for my review. Something y'all should know about me is that if I 9/10 times put down a book I never finish it. Due to me not understanding the timeline for reviewing I paused my read as to not finish it to soon and forget everything. So with that information he's somethings you should know...
1) Because I forgot the first half this review is on what I remember and the rest of the book.
2) I finished the book (yes that's a good thing and yes it is an accomplishment for me)
3) I had a hard time stopping myself from finishing this book like over a month ago it's that a good thing because I didn't want to stop it is/was so good.
4) I'm glad I stopped read for a while because it made me fall in love with this book and it's characters a second time. (Hard not to fall in love with the characters at all they're some of the best)
Some things you should know about this book:
The trigger warnings were not that bad for me as I originally feared but please take that with a grain of salt and do what's good for your mental health.
Next are...
Highlights / fav parts of the book (not in any order)
-the sisters
-banter (always a plus/the best)
-archie = the biggest green flag to ever green flag
-Elijah = green flag and born that way
And finally (yes a short and sweet book review) a note to the author... And yes I'm using their own words lol.
Although not in the same context as the book but it's still a good quote so I'm using it to reference the author.
"She has no idea what her words do to me. Scratch that. She does know and doesn't care, always choosing to drive me out of my bloody mind."
Thank you again. And definitely a book to remember / recommend.
“I’ll get back to you with my notes at a later time. Preliminary scoring is a nine-point-eight out of ten.”
This is a quote from the book and yes it fits perfectly for my review. Something y'all should know about me is that if I 9/10 times put down a book I never finish it. Due to me not understanding the timeline for reviewing I paused my read as to not finish it to soon and forget everything. So with that information he's somethings you should know...
1) Because I forgot the first half this review is on what I remember and the rest of the book.
2) I finished the book (yes that's a good thing and yes it is an accomplishment for me)
3) I had a hard time stopping myself from finishing this book like over a month ago it's that a good thing because I didn't want to stop it is/was so good.
4) I'm glad I stopped read for a while because it made me fall in love with this book and it's characters a second time. (Hard not to fall in love with the characters at all they're some of the best)
Some things you should know about this book:
The trigger warnings were not that bad for me as I originally feared but please take that with a grain of salt and do what's good for your mental health.
Next are...
Highlights / fav parts of the book (not in any order)
-the sisters
-banter (always a plus/the best)
-archie = the biggest green flag to ever green flag
-Elijah = green flag and born that way
And finally (yes a short and sweet book review) a note to the author... And yes I'm using their own words lol.
Although not in the same context as the book but it's still a good quote so I'm using it to reference the author.
"She has no idea what her words do to me. Scratch that. She does know and doesn't care, always choosing to drive me out of my bloody mind."
Thank you again. And definitely a book to remember / recommend.
March 30, 2026
And we're back with the next installment of Secret Trials filled with rugby, soccer (or football), and heartwrenching realism that might knock you on your ass...it did for me, but it is so worth it, I promise. TLDR: 4.5 stars, 2 peppers, infinte need to cry.
In the first book, Adhira comes off as a person who always has her head on her shoulders and can fix any problem that comes her way. She's so grounded and steadfast in her committment to her family and friends, and that drives her throughout her story. When this book opens, Adhira gets the worst news possible that she has cancer, and to keep the peace she decides not to tell anyone. As someone who is chronically ill, I deeply understand her decision to keep her medical issues to herself. Her insecurities are my insecurities which made her story so deeply real and tanagible. She tried to make herself small, but Elijah wouldn't let her.
Elijah is one of the newest guys on the rugby team, and winds up moving into Adhira's new apartment. He is a ball of sunshine and anxiety, having taken care of his mom during her cancer battle and raised his sisters. He desperatley wants to find where he fits and ensure that he's valuable to his friends, team, and Adhira. Elijah clocks Adhira's health problems right away, and becomes her support system while she struggles with her family and friends. Their friendship is beautiful, frustrating, and soft. It's filled with leftover food, whale facts, sticky notes, and cozy blankets. And that's how they fall in love. Slowly, carefully, and then all at once--it is so rewarding to experience it with them. Elijah takes so much care with Adhira's asexuality, and Adhira rocks Elijah's world once they become intamate. It's stunning, and so them.
I'm still thinking about this book with every heartbreaking moment, moment of lightness, and deep sorrow made this book worth it. I will forever be cheering on Adhira and Elijah, and I can't wait to see what comes next. ALSO, I called that pairing at the end...even the parents deserve happy endings 😉
In the first book, Adhira comes off as a person who always has her head on her shoulders and can fix any problem that comes her way. She's so grounded and steadfast in her committment to her family and friends, and that drives her throughout her story. When this book opens, Adhira gets the worst news possible that she has cancer, and to keep the peace she decides not to tell anyone. As someone who is chronically ill, I deeply understand her decision to keep her medical issues to herself. Her insecurities are my insecurities which made her story so deeply real and tanagible. She tried to make herself small, but Elijah wouldn't let her.
Elijah is one of the newest guys on the rugby team, and winds up moving into Adhira's new apartment. He is a ball of sunshine and anxiety, having taken care of his mom during her cancer battle and raised his sisters. He desperatley wants to find where he fits and ensure that he's valuable to his friends, team, and Adhira. Elijah clocks Adhira's health problems right away, and becomes her support system while she struggles with her family and friends. Their friendship is beautiful, frustrating, and soft. It's filled with leftover food, whale facts, sticky notes, and cozy blankets. And that's how they fall in love. Slowly, carefully, and then all at once--it is so rewarding to experience it with them. Elijah takes so much care with Adhira's asexuality, and Adhira rocks Elijah's world once they become intamate. It's stunning, and so them.
I'm still thinking about this book with every heartbreaking moment, moment of lightness, and deep sorrow made this book worth it. I will forever be cheering on Adhira and Elijah, and I can't wait to see what comes next. ALSO, I called that pairing at the end...even the parents deserve happy endings 😉
Review of advance copy
This book didn’t just pull at my heartstrings… it quietly sat beside me, held my hand, and then absolutely shattered me in the softest way.
Adhira??? I wanted to wrap her in a blanket and protect her from literally everything. The way she’s carrying this diagnosis like a secret storm inside her, trying so hard to just be normal for a little while longer… it hurt. It felt real. That quiet kind of fear that sits in your chest and refuses to leave. No dramatics, just this aching, fragile hope that maybe if she ignores it long enough, life will stay gentle.
And then there’s Elijah. ELIIJJAAAH 😭😭 the blueprint for “if he wanted to, he would.” He doesn’t barge in or demand answers, he just notices. The small things. The changes. The cracks she tries so hard to hide. He’s not loud about his care, it’s in the way he exists around her, steady and warm and patient like sunlight creeping through curtains.
Their relationship??? It’s not rushed, it’s not loud, it’s built in these tiny, intimate moments that feel almost sacred. Late nights. Soft conversations. That tension where everything is felt but not said. I was literally holding my breath through half of their scenes because it felt so delicate, like if I blinked too hard I’d break it.
And when the truth comes out… I was GONE. Absolutely gone. The hurt/comfort in this book is next level. The vulnerability?? The tenderness?? I had tears just sitting on my face like they paid rent there.
Also the grumpy x sunshine dynamic?? Except it’s more like wounded storm cloud x golden retriever who refuses to leave her side. Elijah doesn’t try to fix her, he just stays. And somehow that’s more powerful than anything.
This story is about love, but not the loud, sweeping kind. It’s the quiet, devastating kind. The kind that grows in the spaces between words. The kind that says “you don’t have to be okay with me.”
And that ending… yeah. I’m not recovering anytime soon.
Adhira??? I wanted to wrap her in a blanket and protect her from literally everything. The way she’s carrying this diagnosis like a secret storm inside her, trying so hard to just be normal for a little while longer… it hurt. It felt real. That quiet kind of fear that sits in your chest and refuses to leave. No dramatics, just this aching, fragile hope that maybe if she ignores it long enough, life will stay gentle.
And then there’s Elijah. ELIIJJAAAH 😭😭 the blueprint for “if he wanted to, he would.” He doesn’t barge in or demand answers, he just notices. The small things. The changes. The cracks she tries so hard to hide. He’s not loud about his care, it’s in the way he exists around her, steady and warm and patient like sunlight creeping through curtains.
Their relationship??? It’s not rushed, it’s not loud, it’s built in these tiny, intimate moments that feel almost sacred. Late nights. Soft conversations. That tension where everything is felt but not said. I was literally holding my breath through half of their scenes because it felt so delicate, like if I blinked too hard I’d break it.
And when the truth comes out… I was GONE. Absolutely gone. The hurt/comfort in this book is next level. The vulnerability?? The tenderness?? I had tears just sitting on my face like they paid rent there.
Also the grumpy x sunshine dynamic?? Except it’s more like wounded storm cloud x golden retriever who refuses to leave her side. Elijah doesn’t try to fix her, he just stays. And somehow that’s more powerful than anything.
This story is about love, but not the loud, sweeping kind. It’s the quiet, devastating kind. The kind that grows in the spaces between words. The kind that says “you don’t have to be okay with me.”
And that ending… yeah. I’m not recovering anytime soon.
March 29, 2026
A beautiful and incredible read that tips your heart right on its side, floods you with all the warm fuzzies, has you shedding tears repeatedly, and slays you in every way! Elijah and Adhira are phenomenal characters in this roommates to lovers read that tackles cancer head on, deep dives into caretaker mode, lives through grief and loss, doesn’t shy away from the how treatment and remission can impact lives, and makes falling in love feel like the best, most devastating, and absolutely terrifying thing ever. It’s being there so solidly for someone that there’s never room for any doubt they’re right where they want to be, small moments that feel monumental, the wear and tear on emotions from every angle, and the simple day to day that make each and every one feel special, all while staring mortality in the face, and with writing that is honest and eloquent and makes you feel every word, it’s an outstanding read that shines because it’s so very real, so very touching, and so very selfless.
Cannot praise Giuliana Victoria enough for the way she’s written this book. It’s not always pretty, it’s not always fun, but it is filled with warmth even when it’s ripping you apart. The depth Elijah and Adhira have is just amazing and while cancer is definitely the main topic, the way it’s littered with normal – tea parties, rugby, nights with friends, and bed time stories – is perfect and launches this read from a simple story about battling a voracious disease into a complex, multi-faceted, love story about finding your person when it’s not convenient, holding onto it even if it means forever is far shorter than you’d like, discovering the importance of support, and understanding that love is staying but it’s also that deep desire to shield someone from hurt even if it means not always being fully honest. It’s gorgeous, I’d recommend it again and again, and I just absolutely loved every messy emotional piece of it.
Cannot praise Giuliana Victoria enough for the way she’s written this book. It’s not always pretty, it’s not always fun, but it is filled with warmth even when it’s ripping you apart. The depth Elijah and Adhira have is just amazing and while cancer is definitely the main topic, the way it’s littered with normal – tea parties, rugby, nights with friends, and bed time stories – is perfect and launches this read from a simple story about battling a voracious disease into a complex, multi-faceted, love story about finding your person when it’s not convenient, holding onto it even if it means forever is far shorter than you’d like, discovering the importance of support, and understanding that love is staying but it’s also that deep desire to shield someone from hurt even if it means not always being fully honest. It’s gorgeous, I’d recommend it again and again, and I just absolutely loved every messy emotional piece of it.
Review of advance copy
Some books don't just tell you a love story; they show you what love actually looks like when it's tested. Selfless Love does exactly that, and it does it beautifully.
At its heart, this is a sunshine-meets-grumpy romance done right. Elijah radiates the kind of warmth that makes you wonder how anyone could keep him at arm's length, and yet Adhira manages it, right up until she can't anymore. Their slow burn is built on something deeper than stolen glances and witty banter; it's built on genuine friendship first, which makes every step forward feel completely earned. You're not just rooting for them to fall in love. You're rooting for them to choose each other.
When Adhira's cancer can no longer stay hidden, the story shifts into something extraordinary. Her instinct to go through treatment alone — to disappear into her struggle rather than let her crew carry any part of it — is quietly devastating. It's frustrating and completely human all at once. Anyone who has ever felt like a burden to the people they love will recognize that impulse instantly.
What Elijah does next is what sets this book apart. He doesn't wrap Adhira in cotton wool or reduce her to her diagnosis. He shows up fully, treating her like the whole, capable person she is and not a patient, not a tragedy, just Adhira. It's a subtle distinction, but the author handles it with such care that it hits harder than any grand gesture could.
There's also a quietly powerful undercurrent running through Elijah's arc: this time, while caring for someone else, he's finally learning to care for himself too. It gives the story unexpected depth and keeps it from ever feeling one-sided in its emotional weight.
And the HEA? Completely, absolutely worth every slow, aching page it took to get there.
A love story that's pure, patient, and profoundly human.
At its heart, this is a sunshine-meets-grumpy romance done right. Elijah radiates the kind of warmth that makes you wonder how anyone could keep him at arm's length, and yet Adhira manages it, right up until she can't anymore. Their slow burn is built on something deeper than stolen glances and witty banter; it's built on genuine friendship first, which makes every step forward feel completely earned. You're not just rooting for them to fall in love. You're rooting for them to choose each other.
When Adhira's cancer can no longer stay hidden, the story shifts into something extraordinary. Her instinct to go through treatment alone — to disappear into her struggle rather than let her crew carry any part of it — is quietly devastating. It's frustrating and completely human all at once. Anyone who has ever felt like a burden to the people they love will recognize that impulse instantly.
What Elijah does next is what sets this book apart. He doesn't wrap Adhira in cotton wool or reduce her to her diagnosis. He shows up fully, treating her like the whole, capable person she is and not a patient, not a tragedy, just Adhira. It's a subtle distinction, but the author handles it with such care that it hits harder than any grand gesture could.
There's also a quietly powerful undercurrent running through Elijah's arc: this time, while caring for someone else, he's finally learning to care for himself too. It gives the story unexpected depth and keeps it from ever feeling one-sided in its emotional weight.
And the HEA? Completely, absolutely worth every slow, aching page it took to get there.
A love story that's pure, patient, and profoundly human.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
• 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4✨
• 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - March 26, 2026
• 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
- roommates to lovers
- chronic illness rep
- he falls first
- caretaking hero
- slow burn romance
- emotional healing
- found family vibes
• 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
This story follows Adhira, a strong but emotionally guarded girl fighting Hodgkin’s lymphoma in secret. She hides her illness from almost everyone because she believes love only makes loss more painful. Then Elijah, her quiet, protective rugby-playing roommate, slowly becomes the one person who refuses to leave. What starts as shared space turns into shared strength. Through chemo sessions, hospital scares, career pressure, and emotional breakdowns, they learn that love is not about saving someone. It is about staying.
This book broke me in the softest way.
Adhira felt so real. Her fear of depending on someone, her need to protect everyone by pushing them away, her quiet strength. I saw so much vulnerability in her and it hurt beautifully.
And Elijah is steady. Calm. Protective without being controlling. The way he stayed during the ugliest moments, hospital nights, chemo sickness, emotional shutdowns. That kind of love feels rare.
The slow burn was perfect. Nothing rushed. Every touch meant something. Every small moment felt earned. Their intimacy was emotional first and that made it even more powerful.
I loved the chronic illness representation. It was not romanticized. It showed fear, weakness, anger, exhaustion. But it also showed hope and resilience.
The writing felt tender and mature. It focused on healing instead of drama. The love story was not about grand gestures. It was about choosing each other daily.
This is not just a romance. It is about allowing yourself to be loved even when you are scared of losing everything.
This book will stay with me for a long time.
Thank you so much happily booked pr for the free ARC!!
• 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - March 26, 2026
• 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
- roommates to lovers
- chronic illness rep
- he falls first
- caretaking hero
- slow burn romance
- emotional healing
- found family vibes
• 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
This story follows Adhira, a strong but emotionally guarded girl fighting Hodgkin’s lymphoma in secret. She hides her illness from almost everyone because she believes love only makes loss more painful. Then Elijah, her quiet, protective rugby-playing roommate, slowly becomes the one person who refuses to leave. What starts as shared space turns into shared strength. Through chemo sessions, hospital scares, career pressure, and emotional breakdowns, they learn that love is not about saving someone. It is about staying.
This book broke me in the softest way.
Adhira felt so real. Her fear of depending on someone, her need to protect everyone by pushing them away, her quiet strength. I saw so much vulnerability in her and it hurt beautifully.
And Elijah is steady. Calm. Protective without being controlling. The way he stayed during the ugliest moments, hospital nights, chemo sickness, emotional shutdowns. That kind of love feels rare.
The slow burn was perfect. Nothing rushed. Every touch meant something. Every small moment felt earned. Their intimacy was emotional first and that made it even more powerful.
I loved the chronic illness representation. It was not romanticized. It showed fear, weakness, anger, exhaustion. But it also showed hope and resilience.
The writing felt tender and mature. It focused on healing instead of drama. The love story was not about grand gestures. It was about choosing each other daily.
This is not just a romance. It is about allowing yourself to be loved even when you are scared of losing everything.
This book will stay with me for a long time.
Thank you so much happily booked pr for the free ARC!!
April 2, 2026
Adhira and Elijah's story is something that will stay with me for a long time. This story was powerful and full of emotions that will break you in the best way possible. Please read triggers as these book discusses some heavy topics on page that may be hard for some to read.
Our heroine, Adhira's story begins with a scary cancer diagnosis that leaves her reeling and stubbornly determined to handle it all on her own. She's hoping that distancing herself from her family and friends will keep her from becoming a burden but she didn't count on our Hero, Elijah.
I loved this man so much! Elijah is a gentle giant that is always taking care of everyone around him but forgets to give that same care and attention to himself. Although Adhira tries so hard to keep to herself and fade into the background, Elijah sees all the signs and it's literally impossible for him to look the other way.
These two were the best kind of slow burn - the gradual pacing of their friendship was the foundation to their one of a kind romance and I loved that we get front row seats to every emotional and sometimes blunt conversation between these two ranging from snarky, dark humor (from our black cat FMC) to mental and physical health discussed with raw honesty and truth. There were so many moments that had me laughing, crying and anxious, right alongside the MCs.
This tore me up at times and my emotions were definitely taken for a chaotic ride but their HEA so worth it! Definitely recommend this read. These characters will be living rent fee in my head for a long time. Author did an amazing job of brings these characters to life and their struggles and triumphs will have you rooting for these two every step of the way!
This is can be read as a standalone but is book 2 of an interconnected series about an amazing friend group!
Our heroine, Adhira's story begins with a scary cancer diagnosis that leaves her reeling and stubbornly determined to handle it all on her own. She's hoping that distancing herself from her family and friends will keep her from becoming a burden but she didn't count on our Hero, Elijah.
I loved this man so much! Elijah is a gentle giant that is always taking care of everyone around him but forgets to give that same care and attention to himself. Although Adhira tries so hard to keep to herself and fade into the background, Elijah sees all the signs and it's literally impossible for him to look the other way.
These two were the best kind of slow burn - the gradual pacing of their friendship was the foundation to their one of a kind romance and I loved that we get front row seats to every emotional and sometimes blunt conversation between these two ranging from snarky, dark humor (from our black cat FMC) to mental and physical health discussed with raw honesty and truth. There were so many moments that had me laughing, crying and anxious, right alongside the MCs.
This tore me up at times and my emotions were definitely taken for a chaotic ride but their HEA so worth it! Definitely recommend this read. These characters will be living rent fee in my head for a long time. Author did an amazing job of brings these characters to life and their struggles and triumphs will have you rooting for these two every step of the way!
This is can be read as a standalone but is book 2 of an interconnected series about an amazing friend group!
Review of advance copy received from Author
📚ARC Review📚
📖Selfless Love- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💜 “There’s nothing about you that needs to be changed to better suit the world around you,” he continues. “One day, you’ll see that you’re not a template. You’re the finished product.”💜
Y’all this freaking book 🥹
Cancer is a word I learned very early in life and unfortunately have heard it what feels like everyday since. My grandmother and mother were both diagnosed prior to their 32nd birthdays, I myself have a BRCA 1 mutation, like I said so familiar it’s literally a part of who I am. The care and time Giuliana very obviously put into this book and its characters blew me away. I feel like I related to feelings had by almost every character in this book at one point or another and it just made me feel so seen and understood.
Elijah is now my absolute favorite MMC Giuliana has written to date! The way this man pays attention and not just to the obvious but the little things 🥹 The eldest child caretaker in me saw so much of myself in Elijah. I loved how Adhira, let him care for her but was also conscious of making sure he knew she wanted him but didn’t need him, sometimes it’s just nice to be wanted not needed and that was beautiful to me. Elijah embracing all the things that made Adhira who she was, even when it went against his natural instincts just showed how perfect he is and I will accept no criticism of him!
I had all the feels with this one, I laughed out loud, read parts to my husband, and sobbed a little bit so it obviously could get nothing other than a 5 star rating. Giuliana I adore you and am so freaking proud of you and this book 💜
💜Pro-Rugby Player X Future PA
🐳Found Family
💜Grumpy (Her) X Sunshine (Him)
🐳Roommates to Lovers
💜Hurt/Comfort
🐳Slow Burn
📖Selfless Love- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💜 “There’s nothing about you that needs to be changed to better suit the world around you,” he continues. “One day, you’ll see that you’re not a template. You’re the finished product.”💜
Y’all this freaking book 🥹
Cancer is a word I learned very early in life and unfortunately have heard it what feels like everyday since. My grandmother and mother were both diagnosed prior to their 32nd birthdays, I myself have a BRCA 1 mutation, like I said so familiar it’s literally a part of who I am. The care and time Giuliana very obviously put into this book and its characters blew me away. I feel like I related to feelings had by almost every character in this book at one point or another and it just made me feel so seen and understood.
Elijah is now my absolute favorite MMC Giuliana has written to date! The way this man pays attention and not just to the obvious but the little things 🥹 The eldest child caretaker in me saw so much of myself in Elijah. I loved how Adhira, let him care for her but was also conscious of making sure he knew she wanted him but didn’t need him, sometimes it’s just nice to be wanted not needed and that was beautiful to me. Elijah embracing all the things that made Adhira who she was, even when it went against his natural instincts just showed how perfect he is and I will accept no criticism of him!
I had all the feels with this one, I laughed out loud, read parts to my husband, and sobbed a little bit so it obviously could get nothing other than a 5 star rating. Giuliana I adore you and am so freaking proud of you and this book 💜
💜Pro-Rugby Player X Future PA
🐳Found Family
💜Grumpy (Her) X Sunshine (Him)
🐳Roommates to Lovers
💜Hurt/Comfort
🐳Slow Burn
April 7, 2026
Selfless Love was a hard book for me — but not in the way one would think.
I loved this story, and I ay be in the minority, but I loved the slow burn between Adhira and Elijah. The story hit a nerve for me. As someone who had family with cancers, I could connect with Adhira.
I understood the fear she had sharing her diagnosis with family and her friends. She didn’t want to put that on their shoulders. She didn’t want to be a burden or take away their own lives. I think Elijah moving in was a godsend for her, whether she wanted his presence there or not.
Elijah is so sweet. A little uncertain but a tender soul. I found his own personal trauma shaped him into someone who thought others expected more of him-creating a sense of not wanting to let anyone down. He was always there for everyone else, neglecting his own wants and needs.
I didn’t mind the slow development of Adhira and Elijah’s relationship. I didn’t want to read a insta-relationship between these two, especially with Adhira’s cancer. I enjoyed that Giuliana showcased the apprehension Adhira had toward getting to know her new flatmate. I loved how Elijah was willing to share his testimony; to gradually offer himself as someone she could trust.
There were so any tender moments — my favorite is when Elijah took Adhira to do pottery… there were so many moments that made me cry. I loved this story. I truly loved this story.
Giuliana did a fantastic job is switching things up with this second book. Normally her romances have high spice, but this one held more of a slower pace, which I wasn’t disappointed in. Some may disagree, but it was just right.
Thank you Giuliana for the advanced copy to read.
RATING
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE LEVEL
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved this story, and I ay be in the minority, but I loved the slow burn between Adhira and Elijah. The story hit a nerve for me. As someone who had family with cancers, I could connect with Adhira.
I understood the fear she had sharing her diagnosis with family and her friends. She didn’t want to put that on their shoulders. She didn’t want to be a burden or take away their own lives. I think Elijah moving in was a godsend for her, whether she wanted his presence there or not.
Elijah is so sweet. A little uncertain but a tender soul. I found his own personal trauma shaped him into someone who thought others expected more of him-creating a sense of not wanting to let anyone down. He was always there for everyone else, neglecting his own wants and needs.
I didn’t mind the slow development of Adhira and Elijah’s relationship. I didn’t want to read a insta-relationship between these two, especially with Adhira’s cancer. I enjoyed that Giuliana showcased the apprehension Adhira had toward getting to know her new flatmate. I loved how Elijah was willing to share his testimony; to gradually offer himself as someone she could trust.
There were so any tender moments — my favorite is when Elijah took Adhira to do pottery… there were so many moments that made me cry. I loved this story. I truly loved this story.
Giuliana did a fantastic job is switching things up with this second book. Normally her romances have high spice, but this one held more of a slower pace, which I wasn’t disappointed in. Some may disagree, but it was just right.
Thank you Giuliana for the advanced copy to read.
RATING
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE LEVEL
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Adhira siempre ha tenido claro el rumbo de su vida hasta que un diagnóstico inesperado cambia cada uno de sus planes. Decidida a proteger a quienes ama, elige enfrentar la enfermedad en silencio mientras intenta conservar una apariencia de normalidad durante sus últimos meses de estabilidad. Rodeada de sus amigas y de un futuro profesional ahora incierto, aprende a convivir con el miedo, la pérdida de control y la necesidad de aceptar ayuda aunque le resulte casi imposible.
Elijah vive bajo una presión distinta. Como jugador de rugby, carga con responsabilidades económicas y emocionales que no le permiten fallar. Su vida gira alrededor del esfuerzo constante y la exigencia personal, hasta que su camino se cruza con el de Adhira. Lo que comienza como una conexión inesperada evoluciona lentamente hacia algo profundo, construido con paciencia, vulnerabilidad y confianza. Mientras ambos enfrentan batallas personales, descubren que amar también implica quedarse cuando todo duele y aprender a sostener al otro sin perderse a sí mismos.
__
Lo amé. Amé la historia, los personajes, la amistad, el romance, todo fue glorioso. Fue doloroso, muy doloroso por lo que recomiendo poner atención a las advertencias de contenido por los temas que se manejan.
Me encantaron los 3 epílogos, pero mi favorito fue el último porque después de todo lo que pasaron se necesitaba saber que fue de ellos 40 años después. Es todo lo que diré porque no quiero dar mas spoilers.
Gracias Giuliana por el ARC.
Una recomendación: tengan a la mano pañuelos porque lloraran de tristeza y de felicidad.
Elijah vive bajo una presión distinta. Como jugador de rugby, carga con responsabilidades económicas y emocionales que no le permiten fallar. Su vida gira alrededor del esfuerzo constante y la exigencia personal, hasta que su camino se cruza con el de Adhira. Lo que comienza como una conexión inesperada evoluciona lentamente hacia algo profundo, construido con paciencia, vulnerabilidad y confianza. Mientras ambos enfrentan batallas personales, descubren que amar también implica quedarse cuando todo duele y aprender a sostener al otro sin perderse a sí mismos.
__
Lo amé. Amé la historia, los personajes, la amistad, el romance, todo fue glorioso. Fue doloroso, muy doloroso por lo que recomiendo poner atención a las advertencias de contenido por los temas que se manejan.
Me encantaron los 3 epílogos, pero mi favorito fue el último porque después de todo lo que pasaron se necesitaba saber que fue de ellos 40 años después. Es todo lo que diré porque no quiero dar mas spoilers.
Gracias Giuliana por el ARC.
Una recomendación: tengan a la mano pañuelos porque lloraran de tristeza y de felicidad.
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