Salacia Project

by Elena Locatelli

A fake relationship. A sun-soaked world tour. And a love that refuses to rush her healing.

Sofia Moretti Gómez has rebuilt her life piece by piece after an academic betrayal nearly destroyed her career. Now she’s focused on ocean conservation, her independence, and never trusting too easily again.

Ilias Ríos El Idrissi is a golden-retriever Olympic surfer with a PR problem, and a smile the public can’t get enough of. When a fake relationship offers them both exactly what they need, it should be simple.

It isn’t.

Traveling together through Portugal, Morocco, France, Australia, and Italy blurs the line between what’s real and what’s for show, especially when Ilias falls first, falls harder, and refuses to rush Sofia’s healing.

Perfect for readers who love Emily Henry, Ali Hazelwood, and Elena Armas, Salacia Project is a sun-drenched love story about trust, patience, and choosing love.

Genres: Romance

376 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication April 14, 2026

About the author

I’m Elena, a blend of Cancer sensitivity, Virgo precision, and Aries fire.

My stories, infused with my love for the ocean, travel adventures, and anime, target readers craving excitement and intrigue.

My mission is to write adult fantasy romance with strong women and healthy relationships in vibrant, diverse worlds, making every reader feel seen and valued.

Books have always been my sanctuary, with Sarah J. Maas's "A Court of Thorns and Roses" reigniting my passion for reading and inspiring me to create my magical worlds.

Now based in Seville, Spain, I share my space with my two dogs, Eva and Nimbus, as I dive into self-publishing.

With a degree in Foreign Languages and five years as a yoga teacher, I've also launched The Bookish Studio, a creative agency for indie authors.

Reviews

[har]

┆ ⤿ 🐢 ⌗ started: march 20

pre-read 𓂃˖ ࣪⊹

this is genuinely the most gorgeous cover i have seen!! if you like golden retriever MMC, marine biologist fmc and travel romance, this is def for you.

reading this with my best friends mads & yoanna! 🍀 i'm so excited to read this with both you and yap about it as well!! love you both so so much 🤭💚

thank you lovenotes pr, victory editing netgalley co-op, netgalley and elena locatelli for the e-arc in exchange for a honest review

[madi]

— ⋆˙⟡ pre-read 𓂃˖ ࣪⊹
⤷⊹ started: march 21st

i am in love with this cover omg 😩 the tropes for this book are literally everything, so i’m really hoping this book delivers 🤭 and i get to read this with two of my fav girls har and yoanna!! i can’t wait to read and yap about this book with you both. i love you guys sooo much 🫂💗

thank you sm lovenotes and elena locatelli for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review!!

[anzhelika ୨ৎ]

pre-read:
the cover is stunning and i'm so here for the ocean vibes! 🐚🌊
and the tropes look great so hoping this delivers!

˗ˋˏ ୨୧ thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op, and Elena Locatelli for the digital arc in exchange for an honest review! ୨୧ ˎˊ˗

[direadsomebooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sofia, a marine biologist, starts the Salacia Project to promote ocean conservation. She strikes a deal with Ilias, a famous surfer, to promote her business while helping clean his public image. As they grow closer, she must confront her past and decide if their relationship is real and worth the shot.

He Falls 1st & Harder
One Bed
Fake Dating
Slow Burn
Grumpish x Sunshine
Woman in STEM x Pro Surfer

Spice | 2.5🌶️

Rating | 4.5⭐️

If I had to describe this book with emojis | 🏄‍♂️🌊🔬✈️🏖️💖

Me while reading | ☺️😏😭🥹🥰

Opinion | It’s no secret that I’m a sucker for a pretty cover. That’s why I ended up requesting this ARC on Love Notes PR. Just look at it! And yeah, this book is really the perfect summer read, both light but with a nice touch of heaviness that adds that the complexity of the human kind, makes it feel more real. The descriptions are beyond extraordinary, to the point the reader can feel part of the story and travel as much as the characters. I adored all the Portuguese related stuff, I always feel so proud when I see my small country being represented, and rightly might I add! Now about the story… I really enjoyed Sofia and Ilias love story, a healthy slow burn marked by respect and paciente, a kind love but also full of chemistry and that good kind of tension and banter every romance reader loves. The characters are nicely developed and they grow immensely, they’re the start point of grow for each other to be the persons they really wish to be. Elena’s fluid writing and the small chapters make this an even more enjoyable read, the time just flash by! There’s only one small thing I need to point out, some thoughts are a bit repetitive and this can be a big no for some readers. For me it was totally okay making this a big surprise, a read that matches the outstanding exterior perfectly! The perfect vibes and found-family that I can’t wait to return too!

Do I recommend this book? YAS!

[Emmy P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beta read of this thoughtful rom was one of my favorite times this year so far.

Surfs up darlings. If you like fake relationship turned passionate and loyal lovers this is the summer read to have on your shelf. Elena hurt my feelings in all the right ways and for that, we deeply appreciate.

[Lydia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sofia is a marine biologist and content creator who's launching a new business and *totally* done with men. Ilias is an Olympic surfer (and flirter) getting back into the waves after a two-year professional break. A sponsorship they both desperately offers to come through... if they're willing to fake a relationship.

This book is warm, it's sexy, it's fun — and it'll surprise you with the emotional punches it pulls. From the beginning, you're in Sofia's corner, angry with her about the massive personal AND professional betrayal that has torn down her self confidence (even without knowing all the details yet) and rooting for her success. You're also rooting for Ilias's cocky, charming, Golden Retriever vibes to let her give love a second chance. As they start their PR romance, their relationship (and the novel) deepens: they talk about the feeling and fear of losing loved ones, mental health, public pressure, and even the double-standard they've found themselves in.

The PR relationship is a definitive boost to Ilias's image. As a man and an athlete (and known "womanizer"), the appearance of a stable relationship brings warmer gossip articles and social media comments than ever. Meanwhile, Sofia faces immediate backlash and skepticism, with some even saying that her splashy new relationship discredits her as a trustworthy scientist and adding to ongoing scrutiny of her education-focused content creation (science is meant to be "serious," after all). I appreciated the honesty of this portrayal, as well as the way Ilias is in Sofia's corner from the moment they meet. It's clear that he respects and admires her as a person, a researcher, and business-owner, and he's ready to have a word with anyone who doesn't.

This book is filled with intriguing plot lines, rich social commentary, lovable side characters, and of course, the romance itself. It's an ambitious novel to say the least. But of course, there's only so much time, which meant some elements felt rushed to me. I loved each of their individual personal and professional journeys, their family histories and ongoing drama, and the satisfaction of seeing Sofia stand up to her awful ex, but including each of those in depth may have come at the sacrifice of really seeing (and feeling!) Ilias falling for Sofia and vice versa. In my opinion, what suffered the most in this ambition was the dialogue. I felt like plot points were pigeonholed into unnatural dialogue to get through it, or banter or flirtation was made brief (just a line or two) to check that box before moving on.

One thing the dialogue did exceptionally well, however, was weaving in the many languages the characters speak. It's an incredibly challenging task, and one that often falls short for me. But Salacia Project incorporates languages fluidly, trusting readers to understand the meaning (or at least the gist) through context. Being multilingual plays a clear part in the characters' lives, and we really get to see that as the reader, with the author noting use of different languages in different contexts. Likewise, it's an incredibly place-based novel, which I absolutely loved. The characters' love for their homes is embedded in their personalities and the novel, and the author seems to capture the spirit of each place they go. For anyone who loves to really feel the setting of a book or learn about new places, Salacia Project won't disappoint.

For fans of fun and deep romances, fake dating, the ocean, badass women of science, and travel; for anyone in a colder climate who needs to feel some heat (in more ways than one); and for anyone who's counting down to the Summer Olympics: do yourself a favor and add Salacia Project to your TBR now.

Thanks to the Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op for an advanced copy!

[reii · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

This was a cute and fun read. Though it did get really raw when grief was discussed. The fake dating started really early on and it was definitely a he-fell-first kind of story.

Ilias was already incredibly attracted to Sofia right from the start so it honestly felt very insta-love. Meanwhile, Sofia was still in her man-hating era which didn’t last long considering how much her body was betraying her from the moment she met Ilias so the attraction was very reciprocated right from the start.

I really loved that what they had in common was their love for the sea. A marine biologist and a surfer was a pair I didn’t think of until this book. I loved how Ilias and Sofia talked about the sea. For ocean lovers like our main characters, I feel like this could be a cute little read.

I honestly appreciated the mix of languages that showed up in this book. It felt like such a personal touch from the author. Besides writing a story, I felt like the author wrote parts of herself into it and it made for the experience. I could almost feel what Elena tried to convey from the many languages, to being away from home and learning to face and cope with grief. The grief was so real, and raw, I cried reading it. It reminded me of my own grief, but also how valuable it is to have loved someone so strongly, even after they’ve left, you continue to carry them in your heart.

The way Elena wrote gave me quite a strong sense of security when thinking about Ilias and Sofia. There are some reads that takes you on an emotional rollercoaster but Elena wrote with such care and attention, my experience felt very bolstered throughout the whole book. Even when grief came through, there were scenes that made things a little lighter and lifted the mood with ease.

If you just want to take it easy when it comes to the progress of the MCs journey of getting together, you love the ocean, and/or you totally dig a surfer and marine biologist pair— Salacia Project may just fulfil what you are looking for.

Personal thoughts
I was surprised by how insta-love the story was. I thought there’d be a little more build up before the fake dating starts, and before they openly admit how much they want each other. They didn’t get together right away, that’s for sure but it felt pretty fast paced with how their attraction bloomed and it wasn’t very slow burn to me.

There were some bits I wanted to see more of, instead of letting things resolve or flow through so quickly.

Nonetheless, eek the short chapters got me FLYING through the book. And I honestly really enjoyed meeting Sofia and Ilias. AND Alejandro!

There were also some parts of Sofia I heavily related to which made it so fun to get to know her.

💌 Thank you Love Notes PR, and Elena for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!!

[Dimitra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Salacia Project 🏄🏽‍♂️
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & Elena Locatelli for trusting me with this ARC!💚
When Sofia signed up for love she did not know that she also did for her papers to become his too.And after this betrayal,her life won't look the same.So,she turned to the one thing that had never betrayed her.
The sea & the man that is taming it.

This is THE PERFECT BOOK to read by the sea.THE PERFECT.Meaning that if you are one of the lucky ones that live close by or in a tropical paradise,do yourself a favor and PLEASE READ IT by the ocean.🌊
Now,getting into the story itself,I can say I absolutely fell in love,not only with plot but with the landscapes,with the multiple cultures and of course our amazing characters.
Her way of writing,was literally magnificent,and accompanied with the sea,the loves and the wonderful cultures,made me not being able to stop reading.Plus,I liked a lot that we saw surfing as a sport!(do not tell me that you see it often because we both know that you are lying😝)
Getting into the characters,I absolutely adored Sofia.We see a woman,that realistically lost EVERYTHING to love and had to start from 0,both in her career and her romantic life.Somewhere between this uncertain future,our golden surfing boy Ilia comes into the picture,and not only will he change S's life to the better,but herself will turn his world upside down(SPOILER:HE WILL LOVE IT😙).
As you understood these two will get tangled up,in an honest,raw and really heartwarming romance,that it will remind them that maybe mankind is not as nasty as they have thought it to be & that their forever may be under the waves of that blue ocean that they both love.-okay now I am crying.🥹
Above,I mentioned cultures,and when I say that this book is multicultural and every single one of them got appropriate page time & we cherished them all I mean it!However,someone will have to pay for my Morocco trip because OH,BOY I AM IN LOVE with that place!🫶🏻
The last detail,that got me so well,was the little images and iphone notes that we had in between chapters.It was one of the details,that you see in a book and be like the writer LOVES THEIR JOB & their book!
Out On April,14th🏝️
4⭐

[Haley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tropes:
🐋PR relationship/Fake Dating
🌊Surger x Marine Biologist (love our STEM girls)
🐋Golden Retriever MMC x Black Cat FMC
🌊he falls first
🐋travel romance
🌊Dual POV
🐋Multiple Cultural main characters
🌊Multiple Languages spoken
🐋Slow Burn tension




Words fail to fully reflect how I felt reading Salacia Project. This heartfelt story follows Marine Biologist Dr.Sofia Moretti Gómez and Olympic surfer Ilias Ríos El Idrissi as they navigate a fake proposal relationship with real feelings bubbling just beneath the surface. Each chapter is highlighted with a song, and while some media soundtracks feel forced, like they are spoonfeeding an audience on what emotions to feel, each song highlighted a key theme about the chapter while feeling authentic to the expression of human emotions. Side characters that could have felt flat, instead added both charm and realism to our main couple, giving them dimensions outside of just each other. This story navigates love after heartbreak, grief during happiness and finding our inner strength in the times where we need it most. From chapter one, i was hooked by Ilias, a golden retriever archetype who has so much more beneath his charming exterior and swoonworthy lines. Sofia felt like a friend to me, someone I had to watch experience heartbreak and hope that she would find love again. Their chemistry wasn't surface level, their love wasn't instant. Sure, the attraction was there, but throughout the story, we got to read their love story progress and feel the satisfaction when they finally confessed their feelings. This story, this beautiful immersion of language, culture and love, made me feel things beyond butterflies in the stomach. It was crashing waves of emotion, sweeping you in one right after the other. This is not simply a beach read or a story that you read in a boring afternoon, this is an all consuming romance that hooks you in and doesn't let you go until “The End”. I want to thank Elena for allowing me to read this story ahead of time, it was an honor being an ARC Reader. I look forward to the release and to see whats next for our characters.

[Brittany Steminist Booknerd · Rating 4 out of 5]

STEM FMC: PhD marine biologist
This book is dripping with culture. Both MCs are multicultural, and each culture represented is folded into the characters, the language, and the various settings really beautifully. The multilingual characters shift in and out of languages, and not everything is translated in the text. The author notes doing this on purpose and suggests trying to just get a feel for the sentiment in context with what's happening... sometimes that works out well, but other times I really felt like I wanted a clear translation and needed to look it up. The author is also multilingual, and I feel like that shows in her characters and in her writing (read: imperfect grammar and occasional awkward sentences). You'll have to give her a bit of grace with that throughout the book. It isn't terrible, but it is noticeable periodically. It made me laugh sometimes, but you'll always know what she is saying.
This book is marketed as a slow burn, but I feel like it was almost the complete opposite. He falls first and hard (love at first sight basically), and it doesn't take too much more time for her either. That made me feel like the pacing was off, but when you read the entire book through, you'll understand why the romance part needed to be rushed up front. A personal issue of mine is that they never once had a discussion about protection or prevention before getting into the spice.
Make sure you read the content warnings before starting this book. Grief is a heavy topic throughout, so if you are already tender on that topic, maybe skip this book for now and come back to it when you've done some healing. Because of what the MCs go through, I am eternally grateful there was no third act breakup!
Overall, I enjoyed the book (or at least the parts that didn't have me balling like a baby), and the spice was good. I plan to read Ale's book when it comes out this summer! Excited to see which of the legal nerds she ends up with! I'm hoping we get a little more closure with Sofi and Ilias in book 2 as well... I really want to know how things end with her IP.
3.5 stars!

[Vanessa F. Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elena has written a story with so much heart and love that I couldn't stop gushing about the characters, want to support them through their struggles, and cry alongside them (both in the good and bad moments). I've cried a bit, and I'm not even the type of person who cries, so kudos, Elena hahaha

Salacia Project is more than just a summer-driven read. While I want everyone to come to this novel expecting a lot of travel to exotic places, some focus on surf (first time I read a novel in which one of the MCs surfed, in this case both do and they're awesome!), beautiful found family moments - that make you wish this was also your group of friends -, and plenty of unique steamy moments, I want you to know that this is a very human and beautiful story about roots, belonging, family, love and loss. And you'll go through a rollercoaster of emotions as you read it, falling in love with this story.

It has an independent FMC working in STEM in Sofia, whom I admire a ton and saw myself in her more than a couple of times (she's over 30 years old), and a golden retriever Olympic pro surfer MMC in Ilias, honestly, one of the sweetest MMCs I've read in contemporary romance in years. They may not start on the right foot, but the chemistry is there from the start, and Ilias does everything to be respectful of the time and space that Sofia needs, although he's head over heels for her. She is surely dealing with a lot in the background, and she tackles all those challenges maturely. Ilias also has some unresolved issues that, through Sofia's experiences, he ends up solving and growing from.

This is a beautiful read - you'll notice how fast you'll go through the story as it flows so well - that made me wish I could travel to some of those places and meet some of those characters and just... exist in there.

Elena, you've got a winner here. This is one of my favorite contemporary romance reads of the year (I got to beta read this in late 2025). Thank you so much for letting me beta read this gem of a novel!

[Zara Astrid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC!

I absolutely adored Salacia Project by Elena Locatelli. There are so many things this book does incredibly well that it’s hard to know where to start.

First, the atmosphere is perfect. Set during a European summer and centered around surfing, it feels like the ultimate beach read for 2026. I’ve been reading a lot of sports romance lately, but surfing was such a refreshing change from the usual sports we see in the genre.

The romance tropes in this story are some of my favorites: fake dating, black cat x golden retriever energy, and the always unbeatable he falls first dynamic. The chemistry between the characters made their relationship so fun to follow.

I also loved the diversity throughout the book. Each chapter comes with its own song, which adds such a unique vibe to the reading experience. The story includes multiple languages in the dialogue and a wonderfully diverse cast of characters that makes the world feel vibrant and real.

Sofia is an amazing female lead. She’s strong, intelligent, and works in STEM, which I always love seeing represented in romance. On top of that, the friendships between the women in this story are fantastic - supportive, genuine, and just as compelling as the romance.

Another thing I really appreciated is that the characters are in their 30s. It’s refreshing to read a romance where the characters feel a little more established in their lives and careers.

And of course, I’m always a sucker for the found family trope, which this book delivers beautifully.

Overall, Salacia Project is the perfect mix of romance, friendship, summer vibes, and emotional depth. It’s the kind of story that makes you want to grab the paperback and read it on the beach with the sun on your face and the ocean nearby.

I will absolutely be picking up a physical copy for my beach bag!

[Lauren Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

​If you’re looking for a story that feels like a warm ocean breeze mixed with the raw emotional depth of a rising tide, the Salacia Project is a must-read. This isn't just a romance; it’s a beautiful exploration of regrowth and the power of choosing who you become after life—and people—have tried to break you.
​
​The story follows Isiah, a professional surfer who carries the "golden retriever" energy we all crave, and Sophia, a brilliant marine biologist who is as sharp as she is resilient Together, they navigate the complexities of a fake-to-real relationship that quickly evolves into something much deeper.
​As they manage the pressures of high-stakes careers and the logistics of their own businesses, they are forced to confront the "highs and lows of love and loss." The book handles the theme of healing with incredible grace, proving that while others may hurt us, those scars don't have to define our future.
​Why I Fell in Love
​The Dynamic Duo: Sophia is a powerhouse—a strong, smart FMC who leads with her brain and her heart. Paired with Isiah’s supportive, upbeat nature, their chemistry is grounded and deeply infectious.
​Found Family & Roots: The secondary cast of supportive friends and family adds a layer of warmth that makes the world feel lived-in and real.
​Authentic Healing: The "regrowth" theme is handled beautifully, offering a hopeful message for anyone who has ever had to rebuild themselves from scratch.
​"A poignant reminder that our past heartbreaks are just chapters, not the whole story."
​
​Having had the honour of beta-reading this gem, I can confidently say it’s a 5-star standout. Whether you’re here for the marine biology aesthetics, the professional surfing world, or just a top-tier romance, The Salacia Project delivers on every front.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been anxiously awaiting this book, and I was beyond excited to receive an ARC copy. The cover is absolutely beautiful and instantly drew me into the story of Sofia and Ilias. This book is going to be a perfect summer read!

I’m not familiar with many of the locations mentioned, so I found myself writing down several of the cities to research later. Man, oh man—these places are gorgeous! They made me want to renew my passport and take beginner surfing lessons. If you’re unfamiliar with some of these locations, take the time to look them up. Seeing real-life visuals truly helped bring the story to life, and I’m eager to learn even more about them. I also loved the use of multiple languages throughout the book, which added a rich cultural layer to the countries, cities, and characters.

I really appreciated the personal growth and grief recovery that both Sofia and Ilias experience, ultimately coming out stronger. Ilias is incredibly emotionally supportive, even as he works through his own grief. Sofia is a strong female character who stands by her decisions and never wavers as she picks up the pieces and rebuilds her life and career.

Ilias is the ultimate golden retriever MMC—he falls fast and hard, yet remains deeply supportive of Sofia as she continues to heal from her past. Everyone is going to want to add Ilias to their list of book boyfriends!
I am eagerly awaiting Alejandra’s story and was so excited to see that it’s coming soon! I absolutely loved her as a character and the important role she plays between the two main characters in The Salacia Project.

Thank you, NetGalley, Love Notes PR, Elena Locatelli, and Victory Editing Neutrally Co-Op for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[_newromantics_reborn_ · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you like meet-cutes, fake relationships turned real love stories, this is the summer read to add to your TBR list!

It was a really cute, enjoyable read, a deeply emotional story filled with important themes and relatable characters. I have to admit, I was more interested in the topics that were being discussed (languages, culture, family, grief, environmental awareness) than the romance. I couldn’t really see the connection between them at first, but it was still an enjoyable and easy read.

Because I speak a lot of languages too, I really liked this aspect of the characters, and how different cultures and languages were represented.
This story also talks about grief. And though I haven’t experienced it myself, I still cried a lot during that part. Just imagining going through what Sofia did made me realize how important it is to cherish your family. It was beautifully written.

The atmosphere was just perfect! I could practically feel the sunshine on my skin, hear the seagulls, the waves clashing and the cheers from the people watching the surfers do their tricks. It was really well written in this aspect.

What, I think, made me disconnect a little was that I didn’t feel like the characters (all of them) really were acting their age. It felt a bit too childish in some parts, so maybe it made the plot unbelievable to me.
Though Sofia is an amazing female lead. She’s strong, smart, supportive, genuine and kind. And of course, I always will love the found family trope!

All in all, it was a really easy read and I would recommend it for your summer TBR! It was exactly what I needed right now as a winter hater.

[Sandrine · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know that feeling when you find a book that just feels like it was written for you ? This is the book for me.
I loved Sofia’s and Ilias’ relationship. From the beginning, they have a lot of tension. Then they have to fake date to help with their PR. As they are navigating their growing affection, they are also learning to trust each other. I loved the character’s growth that both Sofia and Ilias went through. Being together made them better. I loved the progression of their relationship and it made me root for them so much !
I also loved the exploration of dual identities/cultures. Sofia is Italian and Spanish while Ilias is Moroccan and Spanish. The story depicted very well this important aspect of the characters.
I also got emotional at how grief was depicted. I liked how this book didn’t shy away from tougher subjects.

I usually don’t listening to the songs recommended while reading, but this time, I did and it was such a good decision. I really loved the variety of songs in different languages and genres. Also, they represented so well what was is happening in that particular chapter. The author definitely took a lot of time in selecting the songs and it really elevated the reading experience! I even added a few to my personal playlist.

This is one of my top reads of the year, I loved everything about it, it touched me deeply. I can’t wait to read Alejandra’s story this summer !

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an arc of this book, opinions are my own.

[Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took me awhile to get into this book. Entering a new world with new characters, I always move slow, and so did the start of Salacia Project. Which I didn’t mind. I’m all for finding the little things that the characters will come to love, but also knowing who these two are apart from each other. Salacia Project is steady and everything a romance book should be, in my opinion. There was enough yearning, pining, and excitement to keep me flipping to the next page.

Meeting Sofia and Ilias felt like a soft, fun dream, mixed with witty banter and healing moments. Their love was patient, an overall green flag of a relationship that left me with a lot of comfort. The writing is phenomenal, too. Very descriptive and filled with so much culture, it’s nice to read something so different from what the market has to offer!

The story focuses on found family, grief, the sweet smell of summer, the smooth feeling of the waves on your skin, and love. There were highs and lows, some moments that made me sit and reflect on the grief I experienced along with Sofia. What she experienced in her family, I also have recently too… so that hit me right in the gut. And seeing just how attentive Ilias is to her, made me respect him.

What they have done for each other, showed up for one another in ways I can’t even imagine. This was probably the healthiest relationship I’ve read in a long time. There was no unnecessary drama, no petty fights, just real and raw love for one another and I can’t recommend this book enough!

[Ana Margarida · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Love Notes PR and Elena Locatelli for an ARC of this book, in exchange for an honest review!

I LOVED IT!! Time just flew by whilst I was reading this book!

It’s the perfect summer read – light-hearted yet with a certain depth that makes the story feel all the more real. It’s a story that takes place across several countries, including PORTUGAL, and the descriptions are fantastic.

I really liked Sofia and Ilias, and their story together. A romance that grew in a healthy way, with plenty of respect and patience, without lacking in chemistry or humour.

And I want Alejandra’s story!!! Will it be with one of the investigative trio???


“The woman who turned around looked up at him with unimpressed brown eyes, even though she was anything but unimpressive. Maybe he should’ve researched who Sofia was, because this girl looked like she could eat him alive and he’d gladly let her.”

“If there was one person who truly understood what healing meant, it was Ilias. So he would let Sofia heal too—though not without teasing her a little. She seemed like she needed to loosen up a bit.”

“-Aren’t you going to compliment me, habiba? - She’d looked the word up. Arabic for sweetheart, darling, beloved.”

“-Who knew Ilias Ríos El Idrissi, Olympic gold medalist and two-time USL champ, was actually a teddy bear? - she teased, laughing softly.
-It’s your fault. - He brushed his lips against her neck again. -You make me a teddy bear.”

“-Ilias…
-Yes, habiba.
-I think I love you. His smirk was soft, full of warmth.
-I think I love you too, Sofia.”

“He had won her heart. And that had been all he wanted from the start. To stand beside her, not just in paradise, but in life. Forever.”

[Letizia Firmani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I still can’t believe I was lucky enough to read Salacia Project before everyone else. Elena Locatelli has that rare, dangerous talent. She lures you in with what looks like a breezy rom-com and then politely but firmly wrecks your emotional stability (in the best way possible). What could easily be dismissed as a “light read” is actually layered, thoughtful, and deeply moving, with a tender, honest exploration of grief and the many shapes acceptance can take.

This book is feminine rage. It’s an unapologetic f*ck you to men who try to silence intelligent women. And at its core, it’s a true love story, not just romantic, but human. Two fully realized individuals who are better together because they are allowed to be entirely themselves.

What makes Salacia Project truly unforgettable is the way it moves through places, cultures, emotions. We don’t just read about the journey, we travel with Sofia and Ilias, laugh with them, ache with them, and inevitably fall in love right alongside them. By the end, they feel less like protagonists and more like people you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to.

If you’re looking for your next obsession, this is it. Pick up this book, brace your heart, and sing Crêuza de Mä with me as you turn the final page.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Elena Locatelli and Love Notes PR for the ARC.

What to expect:
🥰 Fake Dating
🐈‍⬛ Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🏅 Pro-Athlete
🧪 Woman in STEM
✈️ Armchair Travel Romance
🧡 Strong Female Friendship
🤭 He Falls First and Harder
🏖️ European Summer Vibes

First and foremost, I absolutely love reading books that involve surfing because it is such a unique sport to see portrayed in a romance. I adored Ilias, and Sofia being a woman in STEM felt like a huge win for representation.

You get a lot of insight into their backstories and the reasons why fake dating ends up benefiting both of them before feelings start to grow into something real. The story also shows how Sofia’s ex tries to interfere in their lives, though not very successfully.

While I found their relationship really sweet, especially the way Ilias supported Sofia through her grief, the book did feel slightly longer than it needed to be in some areas.

I also really appreciated that the characters are in their 30s, which is something I wish we saw more often in romance. If you are looking for a romance that is not overly slow but also does not feel rushed, this might be a great fit. There are some really meaningful lessons woven throughout the story.

[Anaïs ~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC here! (thank you for letting me read this book early, it was a pleasure 💖✨)

I don't know where to start with this book because it's truly good and I don't want to forget anything.

First the main characters.
We have Ilias who is a happy, handsome easy going athlete and we have Sofia who is a black cat science woman.

But they are a lot more. Both are complicated characters with a very good dynamic and a heavy backstory that brings them together. And their relationship and the way one approaches each other is perfect, well writing with a good pace. it's not slow but it's not rushed and it's super natural. you only want to scream at them "KISS ALREADY".

The romance is romancing a lot with this book with a very yearning man (and who doesn't love a yearning man?)

Also the other stories are equally good, the romance it's not the only part of this book that made me cry and giggle. The relationship with family, friends, acceptance... perfect. Elena wrote the book with all her heart and you can see it in the book.


you would not be disappointed If you like fake dating, golden MMC and strong women. You would love them since page one

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am very appreciative of Elena Locatelli and Love Notes PR for the opportunity to read an e-ARC of Salacia Project!

Oh my gosh, I don’t even know where to begin with this book! The representation and life experiences that Sofia and Ilias went through were truly so so powerful. I absolutely loved how Elena integrated so much culture and language into this story!! The deeper messages of love from afar and grief throughout this book were so profound and touching.

I loved learning about Sofia’s research and work as a marine biologist! Sofia and Ilias’s relationship was so pure and wholesome. Their banter, care, and love for each other was so sweet and was prevalent in everything they did for each other. The way that they trusted and showed up for each other—ugh I had to cry! The family that Sofia and Ilias surrounded themselves with was so heartwarming as they learned to grieve and grow with each other.

Salacia Project was such a beautiful, emotional journey on self empowerment, trust, grief, and love. I will be thinking about this book for a long time. AndI cannot wait to read Alejandra’s story!!

[steph pacifico · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Opportunity from Love Notes PR 💌💕

I loved this book! Extremely well-written, I was pulled in from the first chapter and felt connected to the characters almost instantly; I wasn’t bored for a second, even though it was definitely a little slower-paced than I’m used to! The banter between Sofia and Illias… You could cut the tension with a knife! 🤩 Obsessed. Their growth and story development was everything!

As a Brazilian girly, the mentions of Brazil and phrases in Portuguese reminded me of home— I felt represented and seen, making everything feel that much more realistic, personable, and relatable! Speaking of feelings… I felt it all for the characters, main and minor. I cried, I laughed, I kicked my feet. This has been the best discovery of 2026 so far; I couldn’t recomend it more! I can’t wait for Ale’s story!!! 💗

Fake Dating 🥰
Black Cat x Golden Retriever 🐈‍⬛
Pro-Athlete 🏅
Woman in STEM 🧪
Armchair Travel Romance ✈️
Strong Female Friendship 🧡
He Falls First and Harder 🤭
Surfer x Marine Biologist 🏄‍♂️
European Summer Vibes 🏖️
Multi-Lingual Rep 🎗️
Slow Burn ❤️‍🔥
“Good Girl” 🤤
Protective MMC 🫂
Innovative Spicy Scenes (IYKYK) 🚿❤️‍🔥🏄‍♀️

[Thari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fair warning: This book might make you want to leave your life behind to go traveling and take up surfing!

I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC for Salacia Project, and I'm so grateful I did!

I absolutely loved it! Salacia Project is the perfect summer romance with loads of sun, sea, and surfing. Elena created absolutely wonderful characters and the entire time I was reading this book I felt like I was right there on the beach with them. The mix of different languages and cultures gave the book depth, and the banter and chemistry between Ilias and Sofia was spot on and had me giggling and kicking my feet.

If you enjoy being transported to wonderful new places, lovely characters that feel like your friends, laugh-out-loud funny moments mixed with some truly heartbreaking ones that made me cry in the best possible way, then you have to read Salacia Project! You won't be disappointed!

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book felt like a vacation. From Portugal to Australia to Italy to Morocco I was fully consumed with that universal feeling you get when you’re at the ocean with salt in the air and sand between your toes. While this story is not all sunshine and pretty beaches, Elena seamlessly intwines a fake dating romance as well as acts of betrayal and even painful family grief / trauma.
🇵🇹 🇦🇺 🇮🇹 🇫🇷 🇲🇦 🇧🇷 🇺🇸

I loved reading the Salacia Project and recommend to any and all romance, beach and travel lovers. I think this would make the perfect beach read this summer or whenever you feel like you might need an escape to the water. 🌊🐚

A very special thank you to Elena Locatelli and LoveNotes PR for allowing me the opportunity to read this beautiful story as an ARC. I can’t wait to read Alejandra’s story next 🏄🏽‍♀️

What to expect:
🥰 Fake Dating
🐈‍⬛ Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🏅 Pro-athlete
🧪 Woman in STEM
✈️ Armchair Travel Romance
🧡 Strong Female Friendship
🤭 He Falls First and Harder
🏖️ European Summer Vibes

[Danielle McGrath · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to LoveNotes PR for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

I had such a good time reading Salacia Project. The chemistry between the main characters is SO good and the spice definitely delivered 👀🔥

What I wasn’t expecting was how emotional this would feel. The themes around parental loss were really difficult for me to read at times, as it’s something I’ve recently experienced myself. There were moments I had to pause, just to sit with it.

It’s not a perfect read; there are a lot of characters, and I did find myself getting a bit lost occasionally but, the heart of the story, and especially the relationship at its centre, kept pulling me back in.

Overall, such a fun, steamy, and emotional fake dating romance—I’d definitely recommend if that’s your vibe.

Publication date: 14th April 2026

[Allie🪴 · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars* I absolutely LOVED this book. It was such a sweet story and I’m so sad that it’s over. As someone who has Sicilian roots and that grew up at the beach, this was such a perfect atmospheric read for me. I loved the writing style, the songs attached to every chapter (trust, I did listen to the playlist along with the reading) and how the romance didn’t outshine the actual plot. Two reasons why I didn’t give this 5 stars— 1. The jump from faking dating to real dating felt a little rushed 2. I wanted to see more of Joao and his cat lol. Other than that, this is such a perfect read for the summer and I can’t wait to get my hands on a physical copy April 14th!! I will be posting a video review on my TikTok within the next few days :)

[Lainie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved the Salacia Project.
It had was really sweet and captivating, it touched on real life situations and issues (good and bad) while keeping hold of my attention the whole time. The two main characters Sofia the black cat marine biologist (big yay for ladies in STEM!! ❤️) and Ilias the golden retriever pro surfer, both in their 30’s, work their way through lives ups and downs while fake dating for a pr stunt. This book had me not only giggling and kicking my legs, it also had me in tears, like actually crying sobbing.. It was a beautiful read and I definitely recommend it!

[Bridget Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author for this eARC!

This book was SO good, y’all! I didn’t know I could be SO nostalgic for places I’ve never been and a found family I’ve never met, but this book was so funny and sweet and sexy and I loved it so much (and I can’t wait for the next)!

[Felipe Calderón · Rating 5 out of 5]

You can almost smell the summer and the salt on your skin while reading this book. I love it 🩵