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When Time Stood Still
When Hazel’s mother is admitted to the hospital for an experimental cancer treatment, all Hazel wants is more time with the person she loves most. She doesn’t expect to have to share it with an infuriatingly attractive surgical resident who pushes all her buttons.
Every time they lock eyes, the world freezes. Monitors fall silent. Hallways still. Only the two of them remain, suspended outside of time.
He thinks they’re fated to be together. She’s not so sure.
Grieving and afraid of what she might lose next, Hazel clings to control and hides in her writing. Can she let someone love her, or will the lies she tells herself ruin their relationship before it’s begun?
When Time Stood Still is a magical realism romance intended for an 18+ audience.
Every time they lock eyes, the world freezes. Monitors fall silent. Hallways still. Only the two of them remain, suspended outside of time.
He thinks they’re fated to be together. She’s not so sure.
Grieving and afraid of what she might lose next, Hazel clings to control and hides in her writing. Can she let someone love her, or will the lies she tells herself ruin their relationship before it’s begun?
When Time Stood Still is a magical realism romance intended for an 18+ audience.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 26, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
March 18, 2026
ARC review
* magical realism
* grief
* writer X doctor
* forbidden romance
* neurodivergent rep
Our FMC Hazel is living in her critically ill mother’s hospital room as she undergoes cancer treatment and is entered into a trial treatment study. Her world is a series of nurse visits, fluorescent lights, uncomfortable chair naps and spiraling anxiety when she meets Cosmos Romero, a resident in her mother’s medical team. Their connection is instant and undeniable. When their eyes meet, they literally stop time. But will he still be there when he sees who she really is? When the bottom falls out of her world, will he decide she’s too much and realize she was never worth it?
Never, in my many years as a reader, have I witnessed such a beautiful depiction of anticipatory grief and the liminal space that surrounds it. Time literally stands still for Hazel and Cosmos when their eyes meet, but it also stands still proverbially in Hazel’s world when she’s trapped in the whirlpool of her fears and emotions. She struggles to write her master’s thesis/novel precisely because she cannot see outside the narrow space that she’s in. She finds solace in the escapism of romance novels while feeling shame for her enjoyment.
Did I cry? Absolutely. Seeing Hazel struggle to accept herself exactly as she is - to accept that she is enough and deserves love from Cosmos, to allow herself to form connections with other people in her world as she owns her grief and anxiety - this hit me in the guts.
Thanks so much to Thea for the ARC copy. It was my absolutely honor to read and review this one.
* magical realism
* grief
* writer X doctor
* forbidden romance
* neurodivergent rep
Our FMC Hazel is living in her critically ill mother’s hospital room as she undergoes cancer treatment and is entered into a trial treatment study. Her world is a series of nurse visits, fluorescent lights, uncomfortable chair naps and spiraling anxiety when she meets Cosmos Romero, a resident in her mother’s medical team. Their connection is instant and undeniable. When their eyes meet, they literally stop time. But will he still be there when he sees who she really is? When the bottom falls out of her world, will he decide she’s too much and realize she was never worth it?
Never, in my many years as a reader, have I witnessed such a beautiful depiction of anticipatory grief and the liminal space that surrounds it. Time literally stands still for Hazel and Cosmos when their eyes meet, but it also stands still proverbially in Hazel’s world when she’s trapped in the whirlpool of her fears and emotions. She struggles to write her master’s thesis/novel precisely because she cannot see outside the narrow space that she’s in. She finds solace in the escapism of romance novels while feeling shame for her enjoyment.
Did I cry? Absolutely. Seeing Hazel struggle to accept herself exactly as she is - to accept that she is enough and deserves love from Cosmos, to allow herself to form connections with other people in her world as she owns her grief and anxiety - this hit me in the guts.
Thanks so much to Thea for the ARC copy. It was my absolutely honor to read and review this one.
April 2, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
This is ultimately a romance book but was so much more than that. A beautiful story about grief, acceptance and hope.
The main character Hazel was vivid and I loved the neurodivergence rep (undiagnosed but still a great portrayal of what it can be like). I loved the character arc of her feeling she is too much and worrying that people will leave because of it and then growing to accept that not everyone will and to trust in people who love her; to have hope. It was very emotional, especially woven in with the setting of hospitals and cancer trials and losing her mother. I loved how Hazel also started to stand up for herself and discovered more of her self-worth.
Cosmos's character was great too. I loved his humour and heart. In some ways, I actually thought he was too good to be true which is perhaps the point since Hazel almost feels that way. I would have loved some chapters in his perspective to really get inside his mind, but I completely understand why it is single POV from Hazel because I think it is more about her story which makes it special in its own way.
I loved the magical element with the time stopping between the two main characters and felt it added more intrigue to the story. I kind of liked that it was never exactly explained why this magic happened or how. Although for me personally it did make it come off more as instalove which is not exactly a favourite trope of mine, and in some ways the relationship felt a little quick. I wished there was a little more development of their relationship but I can see how it kind of fit the story that way for it to be quite fast like that. And it wasn't without it's conflict of course!
I like that it was ultimately a HEA but still with the shadow of grief that Hazel feels so it wasn't completely sunshine and rainbows; made it feel more realistic.
All in all, a great read and I really enjoyed it. I guess just a few less stars for personal preference reasons, but it was in no way a bad book. I'm sure it would be the perfect book for others!
This is ultimately a romance book but was so much more than that. A beautiful story about grief, acceptance and hope.
The main character Hazel was vivid and I loved the neurodivergence rep (undiagnosed but still a great portrayal of what it can be like). I loved the character arc of her feeling she is too much and worrying that people will leave because of it and then growing to accept that not everyone will and to trust in people who love her; to have hope. It was very emotional, especially woven in with the setting of hospitals and cancer trials and losing her mother. I loved how Hazel also started to stand up for herself and discovered more of her self-worth.
Cosmos's character was great too. I loved his humour and heart. In some ways, I actually thought he was too good to be true which is perhaps the point since Hazel almost feels that way. I would have loved some chapters in his perspective to really get inside his mind, but I completely understand why it is single POV from Hazel because I think it is more about her story which makes it special in its own way.
I loved the magical element with the time stopping between the two main characters and felt it added more intrigue to the story. I kind of liked that it was never exactly explained why this magic happened or how. Although for me personally it did make it come off more as instalove which is not exactly a favourite trope of mine, and in some ways the relationship felt a little quick. I wished there was a little more development of their relationship but I can see how it kind of fit the story that way for it to be quite fast like that. And it wasn't without it's conflict of course!
I like that it was ultimately a HEA but still with the shadow of grief that Hazel feels so it wasn't completely sunshine and rainbows; made it feel more realistic.
All in all, a great read and I really enjoyed it. I guess just a few less stars for personal preference reasons, but it was in no way a bad book. I'm sure it would be the perfect book for others!
March 28, 2026
This was an ARC read from the author
Please make sure to check the TW before reading as the grief is really in this story. Like, you will cry and feel things.
This is a beautiful story focused on grief and living your life through all of it and finding love. It’s truly a romantic story and I kind of want it to be a movie already
Hazel is the FMC and she’s in her late 20’s doing an MFA. Her mother is also battling cancer, which means Hazel is in an out of the hospital and also dealing with anticipatory grief.
Hazel is one of the best FMC’s written and what I mean is she feels human. She feels real. She feels like you the reader. She’s going through a real life thing and responding ins ways that feel so real.
Like that anticipatory grief I’ve seen first hand in my loved ones. Being in denial that something can’t be happening or is going to happen I’ve experienced. It’s such a big part of the human experience.
Cosmos is the MMC and I love that man. He was truly written by a woman. He is so empathetic and totally raised by women. He is protective, but not in a brutish way. He is very much the caregiver his professional has trained him to be and I have such a soft spot for caretakers.
There is a fantastical element to this story and it is just so perfect. It is exactly the super power Hazel needs though it doesn’t work in the way she maybe wants it too. It serves her well in the greater scope of her life.
Hazel and Cosmos freeze time, but the catch is they have to stare at each other for it to work. Yikes! Like make eye contact without blinking?! Yes, it’s true they have magic eyes.
I love that they get little moments during chaos to just exist with each other. How damn romantic is that. It gets even better when they take off their clothes 😏Oh yeah, did I mention it’s spicy. It’s only spicy a few times like maybe twice, but so worth the wait.
One thing I loved about this story is meeting Cosmos family. I love them yes, but the way Hazel is accepted and seems to fit makes my heart so happy for her and her journey.
There is a shit father in this story and it’s really refreshing to see him try to make things better. How very progressive of this father, but I still think he sucks.
You will cry like a million times and you will be left thinking about this book and the characters. Oh there are two female side characters that are such a delight.
Go read this story and break open your heart
Please make sure to check the TW before reading as the grief is really in this story. Like, you will cry and feel things.
This is a beautiful story focused on grief and living your life through all of it and finding love. It’s truly a romantic story and I kind of want it to be a movie already
Hazel is the FMC and she’s in her late 20’s doing an MFA. Her mother is also battling cancer, which means Hazel is in an out of the hospital and also dealing with anticipatory grief.
Hazel is one of the best FMC’s written and what I mean is she feels human. She feels real. She feels like you the reader. She’s going through a real life thing and responding ins ways that feel so real.
Like that anticipatory grief I’ve seen first hand in my loved ones. Being in denial that something can’t be happening or is going to happen I’ve experienced. It’s such a big part of the human experience.
Cosmos is the MMC and I love that man. He was truly written by a woman. He is so empathetic and totally raised by women. He is protective, but not in a brutish way. He is very much the caregiver his professional has trained him to be and I have such a soft spot for caretakers.
There is a fantastical element to this story and it is just so perfect. It is exactly the super power Hazel needs though it doesn’t work in the way she maybe wants it too. It serves her well in the greater scope of her life.
Hazel and Cosmos freeze time, but the catch is they have to stare at each other for it to work. Yikes! Like make eye contact without blinking?! Yes, it’s true they have magic eyes.
I love that they get little moments during chaos to just exist with each other. How damn romantic is that. It gets even better when they take off their clothes 😏Oh yeah, did I mention it’s spicy. It’s only spicy a few times like maybe twice, but so worth the wait.
One thing I loved about this story is meeting Cosmos family. I love them yes, but the way Hazel is accepted and seems to fit makes my heart so happy for her and her journey.
There is a shit father in this story and it’s really refreshing to see him try to make things better. How very progressive of this father, but I still think he sucks.
You will cry like a million times and you will be left thinking about this book and the characters. Oh there are two female side characters that are such a delight.
Go read this story and break open your heart
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2026
This book was everything and so much more. It was filled with emotion, humor, love, breaking and healing, romance, friendship…I could keep going but it packs a punch. I could tell how much care and love that Thea put into this book, it truly came off the page. As someone who has healed from a parental cancer scare, this book felt extra special because it felt so real and relatable. Hazel is an FMC I just wanted to reach through and hug but luckily Cosmos came in and hugged her (and more, hehe). Their relationship was so beautiful and defied time, literally. I loved the aspect of the time stopping between the two and how much of a lover boy Cosmos was. He was so patient and kind with Hazel while also breathing life back into her when she needed it.
Highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a sweet and spicy romance that packs an emotional punch 🫂
Thank you, Thea for the ARC!
Highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a sweet and spicy romance that packs an emotional punch 🫂
Thank you, Thea for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"He’s my safe place, and I never want to look away.”
✔️magical realism
✔️writer FMC x doctor MMC
✔️forbidden (he’s her mom’s doctor)
✔️emotional tear jerker (but there is a HEA!)
✔️neurodivergent rep
✔️first person, single POV
This book impacted me in a major way emotionally and I will be thinking about it for a long time. Please read the author’s note before you start the story, it provides a bit of context behind why the author wrote this book. You can feel the emotion and vulnerability on every page, and I could tell as a reader how deeply personal this book is to the author. This is the love story between Hazel (FMC) and Cosmos (MMC), and while there is a HEA it isn’t an easy road to get there between the forbidden nature of their relationship and Hazel’s grief journey. Though this is a heavy story, there is a bit of magic (that is never explained but doesn’t need to be) and though everything isn’t “okay” in Hazel’s world in the end, she does get the happily ever after she never thought she would.
Since this book is single POV, we only get Hazel’s perspective. She is dealing with a lot, and is trying to finish up her master’s degree while her mom is in the hospital for cancer treatments. Hazel is on the spectrum (undiagnosed), she has so many big emotions but no healthy outlet for them and she is losing (who she believes to be) the only person in her life who actually loves and cares about her for who she is. I have ADHD and can completely relate to her feelings of being to much (but at the same time not enough), bottling up emotions until they explode, and rejection sensitivity. She wants to let Cosmos in, but doesn’t feel like she knows how or is good enough for him, and while he tries to show her how he feels, she isn’t able to accept it. The growth and gentle love throughout this story is wonderful to see. He is always there for her, even when she doesn’t realize that is what he is doing, and when she realizes he is her safe place it’s so special.
Get your tissues ready, you’ll likely need them. This book is completely different from all of this author’s other books but please give it a chance. While there is a couple of open door spicy scenes, they are tame (compared to this author’s OV works especially) and not the focus, though the scenes are perfectly placed for the relationship development.
*Thank you so much to the author (Thea Masen) for the opportunity to ARC read this book! All opinions are my own*
✔️magical realism
✔️writer FMC x doctor MMC
✔️forbidden (he’s her mom’s doctor)
✔️emotional tear jerker (but there is a HEA!)
✔️neurodivergent rep
✔️first person, single POV
This book impacted me in a major way emotionally and I will be thinking about it for a long time. Please read the author’s note before you start the story, it provides a bit of context behind why the author wrote this book. You can feel the emotion and vulnerability on every page, and I could tell as a reader how deeply personal this book is to the author. This is the love story between Hazel (FMC) and Cosmos (MMC), and while there is a HEA it isn’t an easy road to get there between the forbidden nature of their relationship and Hazel’s grief journey. Though this is a heavy story, there is a bit of magic (that is never explained but doesn’t need to be) and though everything isn’t “okay” in Hazel’s world in the end, she does get the happily ever after she never thought she would.
Since this book is single POV, we only get Hazel’s perspective. She is dealing with a lot, and is trying to finish up her master’s degree while her mom is in the hospital for cancer treatments. Hazel is on the spectrum (undiagnosed), she has so many big emotions but no healthy outlet for them and she is losing (who she believes to be) the only person in her life who actually loves and cares about her for who she is. I have ADHD and can completely relate to her feelings of being to much (but at the same time not enough), bottling up emotions until they explode, and rejection sensitivity. She wants to let Cosmos in, but doesn’t feel like she knows how or is good enough for him, and while he tries to show her how he feels, she isn’t able to accept it. The growth and gentle love throughout this story is wonderful to see. He is always there for her, even when she doesn’t realize that is what he is doing, and when she realizes he is her safe place it’s so special.
Get your tissues ready, you’ll likely need them. This book is completely different from all of this author’s other books but please give it a chance. While there is a couple of open door spicy scenes, they are tame (compared to this author’s OV works especially) and not the focus, though the scenes are perfectly placed for the relationship development.
*Thank you so much to the author (Thea Masen) for the opportunity to ARC read this book! All opinions are my own*
April 3, 2026
Hazel Berton and the Obnoxiously Hot Doctor Cosmos Romero
Beautiful, messy, funny, sentimental, heartbreaking, and touching.
What if the phrase "time stands still when I'm with you" was a reality, not just words?
For Hazel and Cosmos, that is the truth of their connection, when they are together, the world stops. But will these feelings exist outside the safety of this time-looped bubble?
“You’re worth turning our lives upside down for, Hazel. I want to be here.”
This book was stunning with compelling and engaging prose that captivated my attention from the first page. I have an incredibly hard time with fantasy and magic, and I can't get lost in worlds the way that some folks do. But this book had a nostalgic feel and an engaging premise that gently pushes the reader into this magical world where you have your fingers crossed that the main characters really can solve world problems, and this magical thing they have between them will change their fate. The dreaming and the hope propelled me all the way to the end, even though the author clearly states the intent of the book right in the Note From The Author.
“That’s what life is—a shitshow with sprinkles.”
Two things I loved about this book: I loved the parts where Hazel and Cosmos were *together* and experimenting with time. And I loved when Cosmos told Hazel about the butterflies!
One thing I disliked: Hazel had an intense dislike for her Aunt, and while I can see that it may be a clash of personalities, her Aunt is her mom's safe space, the one that makes her mom laugh and smile. It was hard to see the judgement and mean spirited attitude that came about when her Aunt was around. Her Aunt relieved her from full time mom-care. Her Aunt brought food, and stuff for the freezer for later. She brought books. She brought high spirits and hope. She ultimately inspired Hazel's writing direction. She loved Hazel's mom fiercely.
Tropes and content
Beautiful, messy, funny, sentimental, heartbreaking, and touching.
What if the phrase "time stands still when I'm with you" was a reality, not just words?
For Hazel and Cosmos, that is the truth of their connection, when they are together, the world stops. But will these feelings exist outside the safety of this time-looped bubble?
“You’re worth turning our lives upside down for, Hazel. I want to be here.”
This book was stunning with compelling and engaging prose that captivated my attention from the first page. I have an incredibly hard time with fantasy and magic, and I can't get lost in worlds the way that some folks do. But this book had a nostalgic feel and an engaging premise that gently pushes the reader into this magical world where you have your fingers crossed that the main characters really can solve world problems, and this magical thing they have between them will change their fate. The dreaming and the hope propelled me all the way to the end, even though the author clearly states the intent of the book right in the Note From The Author.
“That’s what life is—a shitshow with sprinkles.”
Two things I loved about this book: I loved the parts where Hazel and Cosmos were *together* and experimenting with time. And I loved when Cosmos told Hazel about the butterflies!
One thing I disliked: Hazel had an intense dislike for her Aunt, and while I can see that it may be a clash of personalities, her Aunt is her mom's safe space, the one that makes her mom laugh and smile. It was hard to see the judgement and mean spirited attitude that came about when her Aunt was around. Her Aunt relieved her from full time mom-care. Her Aunt brought food, and stuff for the freezer for later. She brought books. She brought high spirits and hope. She ultimately inspired Hazel's writing direction. She loved Hazel's mom fiercely.
Tropes and content
March 25, 2026
March 2026 Small Business BookTok ARC Reviews #153 (BookTome Edition): “As Time Stood Still” by Thea Masen
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
“Every time they lock eyes, the world freezes. Monitors fall silent Hallways still. Only the two of them remain, suspended outside of time. He thinks they're fated to be together. She's not so sure.” - Thea Masen
From the author of “Paper and Passion”, “Dragon Rivals of New York”, and co-author of “Welcome to Bone Town” and “The Secrets of Roan Island” comes the first installment in the “Romero Family” series by Thea Masen. This Contemporary Romance debut is both beautifully heart-warming and heart-wrenching as the narrative does a phenomenal job of telling a story of finding love and strength in times of grief, loss and uncertainty. Not only does this book have impeccable chemistry between our two leads, Hazel and Cosmos, and effectively balances magical realism symbolism with serious commentary and discussions on Cancer and Loss of Time, but the author puts heart and soul into Hazel’s character and how she navigates her undiagnosed Neurodiversity and embraces self love in a powerful, respectful way. Curious to freeze time and turn the page? Don't miss out on this soul-igniting read when it hits online shelves on March 26, 2026!
Rating: 5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Meter: 4/5🌶🌶🌶🌶
- Tropes: Contemporary Romance, Hospital Backdrop, Forbidden Romance, Magical Realism, Aspiring Author/Patient’s Daughter FMC x Doctor/Poetry Lover MMC, Slow Burn Romance, Neurodivergent & Terminal Illness Representation, Academia Subplot, Self-Discovery, and Hurt/Comfort..
- Trigger Warnings: Discussions of Cancer, Discussions of Abandonment and Emotional Abuse by a Parent, Family Conflict (Father/Daughter), Death of a Family Member, Discussions/Depictions of Loss & Grief, Relationship Anxiety, Depictions of Emotional Breakdowns, Discussions of Self-Doubt, and Existentialism.
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
“Every time they lock eyes, the world freezes. Monitors fall silent Hallways still. Only the two of them remain, suspended outside of time. He thinks they're fated to be together. She's not so sure.” - Thea Masen
From the author of “Paper and Passion”, “Dragon Rivals of New York”, and co-author of “Welcome to Bone Town” and “The Secrets of Roan Island” comes the first installment in the “Romero Family” series by Thea Masen. This Contemporary Romance debut is both beautifully heart-warming and heart-wrenching as the narrative does a phenomenal job of telling a story of finding love and strength in times of grief, loss and uncertainty. Not only does this book have impeccable chemistry between our two leads, Hazel and Cosmos, and effectively balances magical realism symbolism with serious commentary and discussions on Cancer and Loss of Time, but the author puts heart and soul into Hazel’s character and how she navigates her undiagnosed Neurodiversity and embraces self love in a powerful, respectful way. Curious to freeze time and turn the page? Don't miss out on this soul-igniting read when it hits online shelves on March 26, 2026!
Rating: 5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Meter: 4/5🌶🌶🌶🌶
- Tropes: Contemporary Romance, Hospital Backdrop, Forbidden Romance, Magical Realism, Aspiring Author/Patient’s Daughter FMC x Doctor/Poetry Lover MMC, Slow Burn Romance, Neurodivergent & Terminal Illness Representation, Academia Subplot, Self-Discovery, and Hurt/Comfort..
- Trigger Warnings: Discussions of Cancer, Discussions of Abandonment and Emotional Abuse by a Parent, Family Conflict (Father/Daughter), Death of a Family Member, Discussions/Depictions of Loss & Grief, Relationship Anxiety, Depictions of Emotional Breakdowns, Discussions of Self-Doubt, and Existentialism.
January 31, 2026
What a special book. A poignant and true portrayal of grief, woven together perfectly with a beautiful romance. The main character’s journey is one that I think many women can relate to: that deep insecurity that we are too much, too explosive, too angry and anxious to be loved and accepted exactly as we are.
The main character, Hazel, is also grappling with her attitude toward romance novels. She starts off with the holier-than-thou attitude that I think a lot of people deal with—I know I certainly did. This idea that romance novels are pure trash with no “real” literary value, and therefore we can’t be seen enjoying them. Or if we do like them, then it has to be cloaked in layers of irony and self-awareness. “I know it’s terrible but I love it anyway, it’s my guilty pleasure.”
This book confronts those thoughts and feelings head-on. In one of my favorite lines, she notices that her romance-loving Aunt just so happens to be reading Anna Karenina. When Hazel expresses her disbelief, her unbothered Aunt, chomping on potato chips, declares, “I contain multitudes.”
That’s another thing I loved about this book is the way it explores all the other relationships in the MCs life other than the romantic one. Her mom, aunt, school friends, and her estranged father all play a role in the story arc, woven together in a beautiful tableau.
This is a romance novel and it’s also so much more. Highly recommend for fans of Emily Henry—I think this will give you a similar lit fic feel.
Disclaimer: I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced copy from the author. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The main character, Hazel, is also grappling with her attitude toward romance novels. She starts off with the holier-than-thou attitude that I think a lot of people deal with—I know I certainly did. This idea that romance novels are pure trash with no “real” literary value, and therefore we can’t be seen enjoying them. Or if we do like them, then it has to be cloaked in layers of irony and self-awareness. “I know it’s terrible but I love it anyway, it’s my guilty pleasure.”
This book confronts those thoughts and feelings head-on. In one of my favorite lines, she notices that her romance-loving Aunt just so happens to be reading Anna Karenina. When Hazel expresses her disbelief, her unbothered Aunt, chomping on potato chips, declares, “I contain multitudes.”
That’s another thing I loved about this book is the way it explores all the other relationships in the MCs life other than the romantic one. Her mom, aunt, school friends, and her estranged father all play a role in the story arc, woven together in a beautiful tableau.
This is a romance novel and it’s also so much more. Highly recommend for fans of Emily Henry—I think this will give you a similar lit fic feel.
Disclaimer: I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced copy from the author. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
This is an ARC review but all opinions are my own.
This is a quick read romance book that has a some fantastical magic and a lot of grief and emotion. This book had me giggling, crying, and at times thinking the romance was just too dang sweet to be real and waiting for the other shoe to drop.
I had no idea I could relate so much to a FMC in a book. The issues with her dad, the message she believed about herself because of those issues and the shame she carries just for being who she is all hit so close to home.
Hazel has this emotionally toxic relationship with her dad, this need to always be “perfect” but an awareness that she’s far from it, and this ability to keep everyone at arms length and never really letting them in. She hides from love because of fear that nobody could really know her AND love her except her mom. This is all while dealing with her mom’s cancer and finishing grad school. Cosmos is this insane romantic who sees the magic everywhere and dives head first into love any chance he gets. It’s a romance that makes sense because they’re so different in how they approach each other but neither of them can ignore that they just fit.
I really enjoyed this one and look forward to reading more from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2026
This was such a heart warming, yet heart wrenching, read that takes a gal on a journey of grief and uncertainty and gives her a fab HEA, in the end. Cosmos and Hazel have great chemistry but their romance is swirling around cancer and loss, along with learning to embrace differences and finding yourself to be ok, despite those differences. I love this! Hazel has spent a lifetime hiding from love because she figures no one who really knew her, besides her mother, would ever love her. That fear was palpable and it was augmented by her neurodivergent mind. Following Hazel on her journey really hit the feels hard with her grief and anxiety leaping off the page. To be completely different, though, Cosmos loves to love and he dives in, any chance he gets ;P These two really were a perfect match, even though they were vastly different, and I loved the way the time was at a standstill when they locked eyes. Like they defied time... Expect to feel the connection, emotions, drama, family and heat as they journeyed to their happy ever after. I definitely recommend diving into this one, just have your tissues handy ;D
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to Author Thea Masen for gifting me this incredible book!
ALL OF THE STARS!!!
When I say that I stayed up past midnight to finish this book.
The way it had my soul held hostage … I couldn’t put it down.
I had to know the ending. There was no going back to it later.
This FMC, from her mother’s illness, to her struggling to love herself, to her trying to finish her degree… to her finding happiness… my heart shattered for her.
I mean full on ugly crying.
Then the MMC, the mysterious connection. The magic. The way this man could read the sweetest poetry one minute, and then use that mouth to say the filthiest and hottest things in the next…. LAWD HAVE MERCY. I literally melted.
Their undeniable connection… their smoking hot chemistry. It literally makes time stand still.(you see what I did there?!)
The happiness. The hope. The grief. The healing. The love.
It shattered my heart into a million pieces and then glued me back together.
This book will permanently live in my brain.
ALL OF THE STARS!!!
When I say that I stayed up past midnight to finish this book.
The way it had my soul held hostage … I couldn’t put it down.
I had to know the ending. There was no going back to it later.
This FMC, from her mother’s illness, to her struggling to love herself, to her trying to finish her degree… to her finding happiness… my heart shattered for her.
I mean full on ugly crying.
Then the MMC, the mysterious connection. The magic. The way this man could read the sweetest poetry one minute, and then use that mouth to say the filthiest and hottest things in the next…. LAWD HAVE MERCY. I literally melted.
Their undeniable connection… their smoking hot chemistry. It literally makes time stand still.(you see what I did there?!)
The happiness. The hope. The grief. The healing. The love.
It shattered my heart into a million pieces and then glued me back together.
This book will permanently live in my brain.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.7/5🌟
1.5🌶️
Pub date: March 26🎊
I'm always excited to read anything Thea Masen writes and now she's branching into magical realism. I love the history behind how this project came to be, so make sure to check it out on her page.
➕
- A moving story about a neurodivergent writer as she deals with vulnerability, grief and love.
- I appreciated the glimpse inside Hazel's head with her quirks, anxieties and insecurities. I found the mental health portrayal authentic. Above all, I just wanted to give Hazel a big hug.
- I adore the magical aspect: when the main characters look at each other, time stops.
- I felt seen as a romance reader.
- I was moved to highlight quite a few passages, which does not happen to me often!
- 💛 all of the Easter eggs of Thea's other novels I've read!
- Bonus points for the punny anesthesia joke 🤣.
➖
- I know I'm the worst mood reader, so it's my fault for picking this up when I wasn't quite in the right head space. (Thea gave all the warnings in the beginning too, but I was just too excited to check out her new book.) I felt a bit removed from it all, though I did tear up at the end!
- This felt more character centered than romance centered. Which I enjoyed but if you go in expecting the latter, you may not be satisfied.
1.5🌶️
Pub date: March 26🎊
I'm always excited to read anything Thea Masen writes and now she's branching into magical realism. I love the history behind how this project came to be, so make sure to check it out on her page.
➕
- A moving story about a neurodivergent writer as she deals with vulnerability, grief and love.
- I appreciated the glimpse inside Hazel's head with her quirks, anxieties and insecurities. I found the mental health portrayal authentic. Above all, I just wanted to give Hazel a big hug.
- I adore the magical aspect: when the main characters look at each other, time stops.
- I felt seen as a romance reader.
- I was moved to highlight quite a few passages, which does not happen to me often!
- 💛 all of the Easter eggs of Thea's other novels I've read!
- Bonus points for the punny anesthesia joke 🤣.
➖
- I know I'm the worst mood reader, so it's my fault for picking this up when I wasn't quite in the right head space. (Thea gave all the warnings in the beginning too, but I was just too excited to check out her new book.) I felt a bit removed from it all, though I did tear up at the end!
- This felt more character centered than romance centered. Which I enjoyed but if you go in expecting the latter, you may not be satisfied.
March 20, 2026
“You’re worth turning our lives upside down for, Hazel. I want to be here.”
A wonderful novel about a masters student who finds love in the midst of tragedy. There is poetry and love and time literally stands still when they look into each others eyes. You will cry.
“I’m going to make love to you, Hazel Berton. I’m going to ruin you for all other men. I’m going to make you mine.”
These special moments that the MFC and MMC share remind me of a Sandra Bullock / Keanu Reeves movie. They are tender. 1 smeggsy scene. The spice is not the main attraction, but the personal journey of the MFC is. She is undiagnosed on the spectrum; struggles with self-regulation, has difficulty with social cues, and withdraws from people.
“That’s what life is—a shitshow with sprinkles.”
There is a 3rd act break up. She is also the caregiver for her mother who is struggling with cancer treatments. You will cry.
A wonderful novel about a masters student who finds love in the midst of tragedy. There is poetry and love and time literally stands still when they look into each others eyes. You will cry.
“I’m going to make love to you, Hazel Berton. I’m going to ruin you for all other men. I’m going to make you mine.”
These special moments that the MFC and MMC share remind me of a Sandra Bullock / Keanu Reeves movie. They are tender. 1 smeggsy scene. The spice is not the main attraction, but the personal journey of the MFC is. She is undiagnosed on the spectrum; struggles with self-regulation, has difficulty with social cues, and withdraws from people.
“That’s what life is—a shitshow with sprinkles.”
There is a 3rd act break up. She is also the caregiver for her mother who is struggling with cancer treatments. You will cry.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨️ ARC Review ✨️
4/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶
When Time Stood Still is such an emotional journey. Hazel is struggling as her mother is receiving experimental cancer treatment and it's taking a toll on her and her mother both physically and mentally.
Everything seems to get a little brighter when her and Dr. Cosmos Romero lock eyes and time stands still... literally. They experiment a few times with what their capabilities are when they look at one another and it's quite an interesting concept. I did think that this was going to play a larger role in the overall story.
I enjoyed how patient Cosmos is as Hazel is navigating her feelings and grieving. Both Cosmos and Hazel have a love for writing and reading and that allows them to form a deeper connection.
This is very different from the kind of books this author usually writes, but nonetheless still an amazing read 💖
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book! I enjoyed this emotional rollercoaster so much 🩷
4/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶
When Time Stood Still is such an emotional journey. Hazel is struggling as her mother is receiving experimental cancer treatment and it's taking a toll on her and her mother both physically and mentally.
Everything seems to get a little brighter when her and Dr. Cosmos Romero lock eyes and time stands still... literally. They experiment a few times with what their capabilities are when they look at one another and it's quite an interesting concept. I did think that this was going to play a larger role in the overall story.
I enjoyed how patient Cosmos is as Hazel is navigating her feelings and grieving. Both Cosmos and Hazel have a love for writing and reading and that allows them to form a deeper connection.
This is very different from the kind of books this author usually writes, but nonetheless still an amazing read 💖
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book! I enjoyed this emotional rollercoaster so much 🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a sweet slightly magical love story with deep roots into grief.
Hazel has always been too much. So when her mom got sick, she didn't want to burden anyone else with it. Her walls are sky high. So imagine her surprise when a handsome doctor on her mom's treatment team catches her eye. Literally making the world stop....
I went into this knowing I was gonna cry and boy did I cry. Hazel's story isn't actually too far from my own. I met my own Cosmo at a bar a month before my mom passed. Cosmo is amazing even with his fascination for storage closets 😏. His obsession is adorable and just what Hazel needed. His knowledge of romance novels is also very useful.
There were so many easter eggs mentioned. Loved seeing Thea's books thrown in here. I know this is the first of many for the Romero family. Looking forward to how the magic will manifest for the rest.
Hazel has always been too much. So when her mom got sick, she didn't want to burden anyone else with it. Her walls are sky high. So imagine her surprise when a handsome doctor on her mom's treatment team catches her eye. Literally making the world stop....
I went into this knowing I was gonna cry and boy did I cry. Hazel's story isn't actually too far from my own. I met my own Cosmo at a bar a month before my mom passed. Cosmo is amazing even with his fascination for storage closets 😏. His obsession is adorable and just what Hazel needed. His knowledge of romance novels is also very useful.
There were so many easter eggs mentioned. Loved seeing Thea's books thrown in here. I know this is the first of many for the Romero family. Looking forward to how the magic will manifest for the rest.
March 27, 2026
What if the only time you felt safe was when the rest of the world stopped?
This was a deeply emotional journey through the heavy reality of terminal illness and caregiver burnout. Hazel is an aspiring writer who masks her own mental health struggles as "quirks" to stay strong for her mother, because she has no time to fall apart, that is until she meets Cosmos.
With a touch of magic, time literally stops when they are together, turning fleeting seconds into precious lifetimes. As Hazel struggles under the crushing weight of her circumstances, Cosmos must navigate the delicate balance of offering support without overstepping. The author handles trauma with such sympathy it moved me to tears, and the self-insert of her previous books were a clever, lighthearted touch. A poignant reminder that hope often hides in the places we least expect.
This was a deeply emotional journey through the heavy reality of terminal illness and caregiver burnout. Hazel is an aspiring writer who masks her own mental health struggles as "quirks" to stay strong for her mother, because she has no time to fall apart, that is until she meets Cosmos.
With a touch of magic, time literally stops when they are together, turning fleeting seconds into precious lifetimes. As Hazel struggles under the crushing weight of her circumstances, Cosmos must navigate the delicate balance of offering support without overstepping. The author handles trauma with such sympathy it moved me to tears, and the self-insert of her previous books were a clever, lighthearted touch. A poignant reminder that hope often hides in the places we least expect.
Review of advance copy
This was an interesting magical realism story of two people who can stop time with a look. It follows the story of a woman whose mother is receiving cancer treatment, and one of the doctors on her care team. The story navigates baggage, grief, and some major trust issues on the part of our heroine that extend to...well, basically everyone except her mother. The story was beautifully told and unapologetic in its messiness, which it should be; grief is messy. Not as steamy as some of Masen's other works, but the restraint suited the story on this one.
I also appreciated the cheek of having so many Easter Eggs that reference other of the author's works. Well done!
Many thanks to BookSirens for an ARC in exchange for my honest assessment of this work.
I also appreciated the cheek of having so many Easter Eggs that reference other of the author's works. Well done!
Many thanks to BookSirens for an ARC in exchange for my honest assessment of this work.
Review of advance copy
This is quite a tough read emotionally and to be honest I prefer something a bit more lighthearted with just a side of tension. The first half of the book is firmly set in a hospital where the MFC, Hazel, is supporting her mother as she goes through treatment for cancer.
Hazel is a complex character who is also struggling with other, both long and short term, problems. She discovers an affinity with a young doctor, but they have to face ethical issues along with everything else.
To add to this mix is a bizarre bit of magic that seems quite out of place but still works in an odd way.
There is tension, trauma, raw emotion and a bit of sex.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Hazel is a complex character who is also struggling with other, both long and short term, problems. She discovers an affinity with a young doctor, but they have to face ethical issues along with everything else.
To add to this mix is a bizarre bit of magic that seems quite out of place but still works in an odd way.
There is tension, trauma, raw emotion and a bit of sex.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow!!! This made me cry. I’ve never really read much magical realism—on the few occasions I have, I found it quite hard to get into. But here, it works. It’s such a unique premise and idea.
There are a lot of sad and heavy moments, balanced well with flirty banter and tender scenes. I loved the male main character. He’s a hero in scrubs—not a hero in the traditional sense—but he’s so well written and fights for the FMC in a way that still lets her win through her own strength.
The FMC’s character was complex and yet simple at the same time. I understood her so well and felt deeply for her.
Overall, a heartstring-tugging read.
There are a lot of sad and heavy moments, balanced well with flirty banter and tender scenes. I loved the male main character. He’s a hero in scrubs—not a hero in the traditional sense—but he’s so well written and fights for the FMC in a way that still lets her win through her own strength.
The FMC’s character was complex and yet simple at the same time. I understood her so well and felt deeply for her.
Overall, a heartstring-tugging read.
March 23, 2026
Loved this book, so very different to anything I’ve read before. It’s a beautiful exploration of heart, life, love, grief and healing. That moment when your eyes meet with someone across a room and time seems to stand still. Except with Hazel and Cosmos time actually stops and allows them interactions without the world intruding. These characters really resonated with me and they and the book had me experiencing all the emotions. I was literally sobbing at one part and laughing at another. Highly recommend to anyone looking for something out of the ordinary that will take you on an emotional journey.
April 9, 2026
This is book 1 in Masen's Romero Family Romance series. A great start to a new series with our main characters being Hazel and Cosmos. This book captivated me from the very beginning. A heartwarming and yet gut-wrenching journey. This book will give you all the feels and Hazel's anxiety and grief leapt from the pages while Cosmos loves to love and leaps in with Hazel. This book is so much and yet so perfectly balanced. A wonderful read, I highly recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
This was such a devastatingly beautiful book. I was hooked from the second it started and I could not put it down. I feel so strongly connected to the FMC. It made me laugh, it made me cry (a lot).
I appreciated that the book explores not only the relationship with the FMC and MMC, but also with family and friends, society, and loss.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I appreciated that the book explores not only the relationship with the FMC and MMC, but also with family and friends, society, and loss.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thea said this wasn't like any of her other books and she was right but Hazel's story still deserved to be told.
My heart was in my mouth throughout most of the book and I pulled at my heartstrings so many times.
I didn't cry but the feelings I felt for this book was off the charts.
Tbh I didn't know I was going to be able to read this due to current situations in my real life but I knew I had to experience this and how Hazel handles it.
Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions!
My heart was in my mouth throughout most of the book and I pulled at my heartstrings so many times.
I didn't cry but the feelings I felt for this book was off the charts.
Tbh I didn't know I was going to be able to read this due to current situations in my real life but I knew I had to experience this and how Hazel handles it.
Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions!
Review of advance copy
Hazel is an anxiety ridden mess who had a dry sense of humor and struggling through life with the loss of her mother's life In the forseable future. Though trying to keep herself together by masking her emotions through self isolation she meets Cosmos and the world literally stops around them. This was a fun yet heart wrenching story of love and loss that pulled at my need for a happily ever after. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Magical in every sense of the word!
I loved this story! It's nothing like any of Thea's other writing, aside from the wonderfully developed characters and solid plot. This story had me all kinds of emotional 😭Grief is such a complex and messy process and it is so well portrayed in this story. I enjoyed the *time-stopping* romance between Hazel and Cosmos; I couldn't help but smile when they were together. This story was truly magical from start to finish!
I loved this story! It's nothing like any of Thea's other writing, aside from the wonderfully developed characters and solid plot. This story had me all kinds of emotional 😭Grief is such a complex and messy process and it is so well portrayed in this story. I enjoyed the *time-stopping* romance between Hazel and Cosmos; I couldn't help but smile when they were together. This story was truly magical from start to finish!
March 20, 2026
Such a lovely magical story dealing with illness, grief and the chaos of everyday life. Coping any way you can and if thats reading romance novels who are we to argue. The main characters are adorable and with a little spice along the way but their special gift of stopping time is fate telling them to be together 💖
An emotional read that has you hanging in wishing for a happy ending.
I received an ARC and leave this review voluntarily.
An emotional read that has you hanging in wishing for a happy ending.
I received an ARC and leave this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a beautiful story !
I knew going into this I might get myself bawling real fast because Hazel situation was so close to my own that it might cut back some old scars, and it was; yet I have NO REGRETS diving into .
Sickness and grief are such weird emotional processes. I'm more than a decade down the road and this book and Hazel story felt like I was seen , truly, and being told that it was fine being a mess and feeling deeply about everything. I found myself so much in Hazel , in her overwhelming constant twirl of emotions and fears. The next instant I became irritated by some of her words and actions yet, I realized I was feeling like so because I was there before , I did that before. It resonated because it felt true.
This was raw , beautiful , painful yet so liberating to read. The romance was heartfelt and such a beautiful warm hug and felt like the kiss of butterflies' wings 🦋
Thank you to Thea , her team and BookSirens team for the ARC I am so glad I got to read Hazel and Cosmos' story ♡
I knew going into this I might get myself bawling real fast because Hazel situation was so close to my own that it might cut back some old scars, and it was; yet I have NO REGRETS diving into .
Sickness and grief are such weird emotional processes. I'm more than a decade down the road and this book and Hazel story felt like I was seen , truly, and being told that it was fine being a mess and feeling deeply about everything. I found myself so much in Hazel , in her overwhelming constant twirl of emotions and fears. The next instant I became irritated by some of her words and actions yet, I realized I was feeling like so because I was there before , I did that before. It resonated because it felt true.
This was raw , beautiful , painful yet so liberating to read. The romance was heartfelt and such a beautiful warm hug and felt like the kiss of butterflies' wings 🦋
Thank you to Thea , her team and BookSirens team for the ARC I am so glad I got to read Hazel and Cosmos' story ♡
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read it in one sitting as couldn't put it down. It's a beautiful story about love, loss and hope with a sprinkle of spice and magic. The characters are so well written that it makes you want to know more and like your part of the story. Cried so hard my glasses filled up. Its also about finding your voice and was well worth the heartache.
April 5, 2026
I both loved this book and struggled with this book. The romance was sweet. The FMC Hazel was very relatable. And I think that’s why I struggled… because she was similar to me and her grief was too much for me at this time. I think if it was so close to the anniversary of my own grief I would loved this story more. Beautifully written, just to close to home.
March 17, 2026
It’s nit often that I think a book would be a good movie. When Time Stood Still would be a terrific movie. The ups and downs of story line blend well with the magic and romace. Such a beautifully sad book about finding oneself and letting other in amongst tradgity.
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