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Capicú Summer: A Summer Barrio Second Chance Romance
Not yet published
Expected 8 Aug 26“And just like that… the first domino falls.”
At Altura, summer brings the heat... and the past you thought you left behind.
At Altura, summer brings the heat... and the past you thought you left behind.
196 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication August 8, 2026
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July 15, 2026ARC by BookSirens
What stood out to me the most about Capicú Summer was the Puerto Rican and Dominican representation. The Spanish felt natural, the cultural references made me smile, and little moments like the Amor Prohibido mention made the characters feel authentic instead of the culture just being mentioned in passing.
The romance itself was sweet and easy to get through, and I enjoyed spending time with the characters. While the relationship was cute, it was the cultural aspect that kept me the most invested and made this one memorable for me.
I’d recommend it to readers looking for a light contemporary romance with Latino representation, plenty of Spanish woven into the dialogue, and a couple that felt rooted in their culture.
What stood out to me the most about Capicú Summer was the Puerto Rican and Dominican representation. The Spanish felt natural, the cultural references made me smile, and little moments like the Amor Prohibido mention made the characters feel authentic instead of the culture just being mentioned in passing.
The romance itself was sweet and easy to get through, and I enjoyed spending time with the characters. While the relationship was cute, it was the cultural aspect that kept me the most invested and made this one memorable for me.
I’d recommend it to readers looking for a light contemporary romance with Latino representation, plenty of Spanish woven into the dialogue, and a couple that felt rooted in their culture.
July 30, 2026
Thank you Luna for this ARC!
I absolutely loved this novella! For one, I love love love Luna’s dark side, but it is so refreshing when an author can be versatile with their writing. I loved seeing the sweet and side of her writing.
I may not be Puerto Rican or Dominican, but I am half Colombian and this was all still nostalgic to me. I used to be married to a Dominican and now I am married to a Puerto Rican 😂 so I died laughing when they talked about the arguments between Pegao and con con and pastelios and empanadas, because my family says empanadas. The rivalry between Puerto Ricans and Dominicans not liking eachother was so spot on. The streets and the bodegas, just brings back so many memories! PLUS, I am a badass when it comes to playing dominos 😌
This was was wholesome and sweet and even a little emotional as well. I loved both Yael and Adri. The yearning that Yael had for her 😍 and Adri was sweet and a very relatable FMC. This whole book just made me smile and laugh and just had good vibes 🤩
Everything that I have read by Luna has been amazing and had me in my feels in some way, and this book was no different! ❤️
I absolutely loved this novella! For one, I love love love Luna’s dark side, but it is so refreshing when an author can be versatile with their writing. I loved seeing the sweet and side of her writing.
I may not be Puerto Rican or Dominican, but I am half Colombian and this was all still nostalgic to me. I used to be married to a Dominican and now I am married to a Puerto Rican 😂 so I died laughing when they talked about the arguments between Pegao and con con and pastelios and empanadas, because my family says empanadas. The rivalry between Puerto Ricans and Dominicans not liking eachother was so spot on. The streets and the bodegas, just brings back so many memories! PLUS, I am a badass when it comes to playing dominos 😌
This was was wholesome and sweet and even a little emotional as well. I loved both Yael and Adri. The yearning that Yael had for her 😍 and Adri was sweet and a very relatable FMC. This whole book just made me smile and laugh and just had good vibes 🤩
Everything that I have read by Luna has been amazing and had me in my feels in some way, and this book was no different! ❤️
July 19, 2026
Being dominican and having a puerto rican husband this one felt so refreshing!! All the mentions of my culture felt close to home and this cute little story was fun! If you wanna learn a little bit about dominican culture this is great! Gives you a little bit about a community that is a family.
August 1, 2026
I received an ARC from Bookfunnel and I’m so happy! I absolutely loved the vibes of this book. I loved seeing my people and culture come alive and I love a good second chance romance! Adri and Yael were so passionate about each other and I loved every second of their story.
Review of advance copy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 ( NO Spoilers. I promise ) :)
i finished this in ONE SITTING and i am not the same person i was before i opened it. no notes. only worship.
capicú summer is a love letter to the barrio, to dominoes slammed down on summer tables, and to the kind of love that just… stays. even after years. even after everything. luna didn't just write a romance — she built an entire WORLD that smells like sazon, sounds like salsa at 2am, and feels like coming home to a place you've never been.
and okay — here's the part that got me. i don't actually KNOW what sazon smells like. i've never had it. but luna wrote her home so vividly, so full of love, that it made ME homesick — for south africa. because that's the thing about being an immigrant: we all carry a version of this. the specific foods, the smell of a certain street, the way people talk, the one little corner shop that feels like home (ours is a spaza shop, or a tuck shop — luna's is a bodega, and reading hers i felt mine). she wrote her hometown so tenderly that it transported me to HER block AND straight back to mine, all at once. i actually got teary. that is not a small thing. that is an incredible, rare talent — to make a reader feel their OWN home in the space you made for yours. that is a WRITER doing WRITER things.
now. let's talk about the man. i can't tell you much (spoiler-free girlies we protect the plot) but know this: he waited. he LONGED. this is a man who mastered the art of pining from across a literal street. the yearning in this book is a felony. i have never wanted two people to just TALK to each other so badly in my LIFE and also i never wanted them to stop fighting because the tension was feeding me.
and then there's… THE MOUTH ON THAT MAN. and i mean that in every single way it can be meant. because first of all he says things — filthy, unhinged, toe-curling things — that made me set my kindle face-down and reevaluate my entire life. at one point he growls "you come when i say you come" and SIR?? i have reactive hypoglycemia and i was about to go into a full body shutdown. nips went BOOOING. i had to eat a snack and recover. (and that's just the ENGLISH lines — when he switches to spanish it's a whole other medical event, more on that later.)
and SECOND of all — separate from the talking — this man treats a certain… activity… like it's his god-given calling. like a vocation. like a sacred duty he was put on this earth to perform. he has a LINE about THAT too that i had to stare at my wall over for a full minute. so to summarize: the mouth is a menace on every possible front. luna understood the assignment and then did extra credit.
the spice? creative. unhinged. emotionally devastating in the best way. she does a thing with a certain… household object… that i genuinely have never read before and may never recover from. i gasped. out loud. alone. in my room.
the FMC deserves her own paragraph because she does NOT sit around waiting to be saved. she reclaims her voice, her home, and her man entirely on her own terms. a queen who was always a queen — she just forgot for a minute, and watching her remember? chef's kiss.
can we talk CRAFT for one sec because i'm a writer and i was taking actual notes — the domino metaphor is not decoration, it's the entire architecture of the book. "capicú" is the perfect winning move in dominoes where both ends match, and luna threaded that through every single layer of this love story. that's not luck. that's a writer in complete control of her tools. the dual POV is balanced, the grief is handled with real nuance (it doesn't get fixed, it gets carried differently), and the community itself feels like a living breathing character. the bodega banter made me cackle.
okay so REMEMBER when i said his spanish is a whole other medical event? here's the follow-up: i'm bilingual — english and afrikaans — and spanish is NOT one of my languages. so me and my iphone translator got INTIMATE real quick. like, uncomfortably fast. we're basically dating now. she knows things about me. i was screenshot-translating at 1am going "oh. OH. that's what he just said to her IN SPANISH??" and combusting all over again, because the spiciest lines hit even HARDER once you decode them. so shoutout to luna for personally giving me a third language — i only know the filthy parts, i cannot order food or ask for directions, but i can absolutely understand a man growling something devastating in bed, and honestly? i am NOT complaining. bilingual dirty talk is an art form and luna is the whole entire museum.
luna k. wicked — you are one of my favorite authors AND favorite writers (yes those are two different things and you're both). you write like you love your characters and your people and your culture, and it POURS off every page. thank you for this world. thank you for this man. thank you for making me feel like i belonged somewhere for 160 pages. if this is your "tame" book, i will not survive the rest of your catalogue and i cannot WAIT.
one last thing, and this one's from the heart: this was my very FIRST arc. ever. and the fact that it was a luna k. wicked book made me want to do it justice so badly — i read it slow, i took notes, i translated every single line, i treated it like it mattered, because it DID. thank you for trusting me with it. thank you for the opportunity. i cannot WAIT to do more. 🖤
read it. translate the spicy parts. thank me later.
content warnings: death of a sibling (referenced), grief, parental addiction, brief violence, emotional manipulation, explicit sexual content, loss of a loved one.
🎲 donde hubo fuego, las cenizas siempre quedan. 🖤
i finished this in ONE SITTING and i am not the same person i was before i opened it. no notes. only worship.
capicú summer is a love letter to the barrio, to dominoes slammed down on summer tables, and to the kind of love that just… stays. even after years. even after everything. luna didn't just write a romance — she built an entire WORLD that smells like sazon, sounds like salsa at 2am, and feels like coming home to a place you've never been.
and okay — here's the part that got me. i don't actually KNOW what sazon smells like. i've never had it. but luna wrote her home so vividly, so full of love, that it made ME homesick — for south africa. because that's the thing about being an immigrant: we all carry a version of this. the specific foods, the smell of a certain street, the way people talk, the one little corner shop that feels like home (ours is a spaza shop, or a tuck shop — luna's is a bodega, and reading hers i felt mine). she wrote her hometown so tenderly that it transported me to HER block AND straight back to mine, all at once. i actually got teary. that is not a small thing. that is an incredible, rare talent — to make a reader feel their OWN home in the space you made for yours. that is a WRITER doing WRITER things.
now. let's talk about the man. i can't tell you much (spoiler-free girlies we protect the plot) but know this: he waited. he LONGED. this is a man who mastered the art of pining from across a literal street. the yearning in this book is a felony. i have never wanted two people to just TALK to each other so badly in my LIFE and also i never wanted them to stop fighting because the tension was feeding me.
and then there's… THE MOUTH ON THAT MAN. and i mean that in every single way it can be meant. because first of all he says things — filthy, unhinged, toe-curling things — that made me set my kindle face-down and reevaluate my entire life. at one point he growls "you come when i say you come" and SIR?? i have reactive hypoglycemia and i was about to go into a full body shutdown. nips went BOOOING. i had to eat a snack and recover. (and that's just the ENGLISH lines — when he switches to spanish it's a whole other medical event, more on that later.)
and SECOND of all — separate from the talking — this man treats a certain… activity… like it's his god-given calling. like a vocation. like a sacred duty he was put on this earth to perform. he has a LINE about THAT too that i had to stare at my wall over for a full minute. so to summarize: the mouth is a menace on every possible front. luna understood the assignment and then did extra credit.
the spice? creative. unhinged. emotionally devastating in the best way. she does a thing with a certain… household object… that i genuinely have never read before and may never recover from. i gasped. out loud. alone. in my room.
the FMC deserves her own paragraph because she does NOT sit around waiting to be saved. she reclaims her voice, her home, and her man entirely on her own terms. a queen who was always a queen — she just forgot for a minute, and watching her remember? chef's kiss.
can we talk CRAFT for one sec because i'm a writer and i was taking actual notes — the domino metaphor is not decoration, it's the entire architecture of the book. "capicú" is the perfect winning move in dominoes where both ends match, and luna threaded that through every single layer of this love story. that's not luck. that's a writer in complete control of her tools. the dual POV is balanced, the grief is handled with real nuance (it doesn't get fixed, it gets carried differently), and the community itself feels like a living breathing character. the bodega banter made me cackle.
okay so REMEMBER when i said his spanish is a whole other medical event? here's the follow-up: i'm bilingual — english and afrikaans — and spanish is NOT one of my languages. so me and my iphone translator got INTIMATE real quick. like, uncomfortably fast. we're basically dating now. she knows things about me. i was screenshot-translating at 1am going "oh. OH. that's what he just said to her IN SPANISH??" and combusting all over again, because the spiciest lines hit even HARDER once you decode them. so shoutout to luna for personally giving me a third language — i only know the filthy parts, i cannot order food or ask for directions, but i can absolutely understand a man growling something devastating in bed, and honestly? i am NOT complaining. bilingual dirty talk is an art form and luna is the whole entire museum.
luna k. wicked — you are one of my favorite authors AND favorite writers (yes those are two different things and you're both). you write like you love your characters and your people and your culture, and it POURS off every page. thank you for this world. thank you for this man. thank you for making me feel like i belonged somewhere for 160 pages. if this is your "tame" book, i will not survive the rest of your catalogue and i cannot WAIT.
one last thing, and this one's from the heart: this was my very FIRST arc. ever. and the fact that it was a luna k. wicked book made me want to do it justice so badly — i read it slow, i took notes, i translated every single line, i treated it like it mattered, because it DID. thank you for trusting me with it. thank you for the opportunity. i cannot WAIT to do more. 🖤
read it. translate the spicy parts. thank me later.
content warnings: death of a sibling (referenced), grief, parental addiction, brief violence, emotional manipulation, explicit sexual content, loss of a loved one.
🎲 donde hubo fuego, las cenizas siempre quedan. 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
Before I even start… can we all take a moment to appreciate the fact that Luna K. Wicked can emotionally devastate me with one book and then completely change lanes and make me fall in love with something entirely different? If you’ve seen my reviews before, you’ll know this woman refuses to stay in one lane… and somehow she nails it every single time.
So when this ARC landed in my inbox… you already know I was smashing that download button. 📥
And then Luna did what Luna always does… she transported me. I wasn’t just reading Capicú Summer… I was in Altura.
For less than 200 pages, this novella has absolutely no business packing this much into one story. Seriously, Luna… are you hiding extra pages somewhere? Because the emotional maths isn’t mathing!
This is so much more than a second-chance romance.
It’s about home. Family. Community. The people and places that shape who we become—and what happens when you realise some things are worth fighting to get back.
Adriana returning to Altura after five years immediately brings all those unresolved feelings bubbling back to the surface. Then there’s Yael… and honestly, these two had me smiling from the very first interaction. The chemistry never disappeared; it had simply been waiting. Their teasing, their bickering, the lingering tension… every conversation carried years of history between them, making their journey back to one another feel completely earned.
But what completely stole my heart was Altura itself.
The neighbourhood isn’t just the backdrop—it’s a character. The families, the domino games, the music drifting through the streets, the food, the traditions, the sense that everyone belongs to everyone… Luna captured it so vividly that I felt like I’d been welcomed into the community myself.
The Puerto Rican and Dominican representation was absolutely beautiful. The culture wasn’t simply included—it was woven into every page. The Spanish dialogue, the traditions, the family dynamics, the playful rivalry, the pride… everything felt authentic and full of heart. It made the story richer, more immersive, and impossible not to connect with.
I also loved that the romance wasn’t the only thing at stake. Adriana and Yael aren’t just rebuilding their relationship—they’re fighting for their families, their neighbourhood, and the place that has always been home. That gave this story so much depth and made every victory feel personal.
Somehow, in under 200 pages, Luna made me laugh, ache, hope, smile and quietly sit with my feelings when I reached the final page.
Honestly… Luna K. Wicked has this annoying habit of making me forget how few pages I’m reading because every single one works overtime.
If you’re looking for a heartfelt second-chance romance wrapped in culture, community, family, and hope, Capicú Summer absolutely deserves a place on your TBR.
“Porque donde hubo fuego, las cenizas siempre quedan.” And this story leaves behind the very best kind of embers.
So when this ARC landed in my inbox… you already know I was smashing that download button. 📥
And then Luna did what Luna always does… she transported me. I wasn’t just reading Capicú Summer… I was in Altura.
For less than 200 pages, this novella has absolutely no business packing this much into one story. Seriously, Luna… are you hiding extra pages somewhere? Because the emotional maths isn’t mathing!
This is so much more than a second-chance romance.
It’s about home. Family. Community. The people and places that shape who we become—and what happens when you realise some things are worth fighting to get back.
Adriana returning to Altura after five years immediately brings all those unresolved feelings bubbling back to the surface. Then there’s Yael… and honestly, these two had me smiling from the very first interaction. The chemistry never disappeared; it had simply been waiting. Their teasing, their bickering, the lingering tension… every conversation carried years of history between them, making their journey back to one another feel completely earned.
But what completely stole my heart was Altura itself.
The neighbourhood isn’t just the backdrop—it’s a character. The families, the domino games, the music drifting through the streets, the food, the traditions, the sense that everyone belongs to everyone… Luna captured it so vividly that I felt like I’d been welcomed into the community myself.
The Puerto Rican and Dominican representation was absolutely beautiful. The culture wasn’t simply included—it was woven into every page. The Spanish dialogue, the traditions, the family dynamics, the playful rivalry, the pride… everything felt authentic and full of heart. It made the story richer, more immersive, and impossible not to connect with.
I also loved that the romance wasn’t the only thing at stake. Adriana and Yael aren’t just rebuilding their relationship—they’re fighting for their families, their neighbourhood, and the place that has always been home. That gave this story so much depth and made every victory feel personal.
Somehow, in under 200 pages, Luna made me laugh, ache, hope, smile and quietly sit with my feelings when I reached the final page.
Honestly… Luna K. Wicked has this annoying habit of making me forget how few pages I’m reading because every single one works overtime.
If you’re looking for a heartfelt second-chance romance wrapped in culture, community, family, and hope, Capicú Summer absolutely deserves a place on your TBR.
“Porque donde hubo fuego, las cenizas siempre quedan.” And this story leaves behind the very best kind of embers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Trigger warnings
Grief and loss
Addict mother
Emotional abandonment
Family conflict
Death of family member(s)
Gang violence
Murder
Armed robbery
Toxic relationship
Violence
Inappropriate use of dominoes tiles
Inappropriate use of Hennessy
-----------------------
The prologue had me giggling when she met yael the banter and conversation, that day changed her world. 5 years later , lenny felt like a safe choice she assumed but I dont think he was ever meant for her he just seems different now, or maybe she just never saw the signs she deserves better. All he cares about his having money and not about making the barrio a better place or even helping the community. If you aren't for the community the same one you grew up in, then what kind of person are you and Adriana wanted better for Barrio & more. Lenny knew exactly that he was never the one she truly wanted after everything happened to her family, and he chose to throw it in her face .
I was so proud of her when she left him and back where home will always be, and meant to be, it was beautiful to see her welcomed by rosita and missed . My heart fucking broke thinking neno and her mother the grief they all felt but more so with her mother that was her son i cant imagine the pain and just not wanting accept his death.
I honestly dont blame yael for how he feels lenny never deserved her and she was blinded by grief thinking he was safe choice ,yael would never do her dirty and he would never try ruin the Barrio never. Manny and Alex crack me up [ There’s no Yael without his Ciela.] That line had me already in love with him.
I am not a fan of Blanca she always talking badly about Adriana. Lmao Ruben and yael are so funny. I love that Ruben seems like just a dope ass man. Don Santos has the essence that makes you think of your own abuelo. The familiarity of him definitely will make you think of all the memories.
The flashbacks of neno through adriana and yael eyes you can feel the love they had for each other, especially when they called each other brother .
[ “Nadie te va hacer sentir como yo. Tu eres mia, Adri.” ]
Luna K.Wicked never fails no matter what she writes, and man, im down bad for yael and adriana. I absolutely love them. And whenever Selena Quintanilla songs were played, i got so damn excited . The end of chapter 14 🥵🔥.
My emotions were a bit a mess in chapter 17 with adriana abuelo, then the conversation she had with yael. I was little iffy with Estrella but that was a whole complicated stuff between her . She knew yael and adriana were meant for each other. i know it was complicated af but I am glad Estrella realized that Im sure everyone knew.
Chapter 19 was so good 🥵🔥 adriana yes!!!
Chapter 21: Yes, I was crying adriana and her mom. Oh, my heart.
I loved the ending, which made my heart so damn happy
Grief and loss
Addict mother
Emotional abandonment
Family conflict
Death of family member(s)
Gang violence
Murder
Armed robbery
Toxic relationship
Violence
Inappropriate use of dominoes tiles
Inappropriate use of Hennessy
-----------------------
The prologue had me giggling when she met yael the banter and conversation, that day changed her world. 5 years later , lenny felt like a safe choice she assumed but I dont think he was ever meant for her he just seems different now, or maybe she just never saw the signs she deserves better. All he cares about his having money and not about making the barrio a better place or even helping the community. If you aren't for the community the same one you grew up in, then what kind of person are you and Adriana wanted better for Barrio & more. Lenny knew exactly that he was never the one she truly wanted after everything happened to her family, and he chose to throw it in her face .
I was so proud of her when she left him and back where home will always be, and meant to be, it was beautiful to see her welcomed by rosita and missed . My heart fucking broke thinking neno and her mother the grief they all felt but more so with her mother that was her son i cant imagine the pain and just not wanting accept his death.
I honestly dont blame yael for how he feels lenny never deserved her and she was blinded by grief thinking he was safe choice ,yael would never do her dirty and he would never try ruin the Barrio never. Manny and Alex crack me up [ There’s no Yael without his Ciela.] That line had me already in love with him.
I am not a fan of Blanca she always talking badly about Adriana. Lmao Ruben and yael are so funny. I love that Ruben seems like just a dope ass man. Don Santos has the essence that makes you think of your own abuelo. The familiarity of him definitely will make you think of all the memories.
The flashbacks of neno through adriana and yael eyes you can feel the love they had for each other, especially when they called each other brother .
[ “Nadie te va hacer sentir como yo. Tu eres mia, Adri.” ]
Luna K.Wicked never fails no matter what she writes, and man, im down bad for yael and adriana. I absolutely love them. And whenever Selena Quintanilla songs were played, i got so damn excited . The end of chapter 14 🥵🔥.
My emotions were a bit a mess in chapter 17 with adriana abuelo, then the conversation she had with yael. I was little iffy with Estrella but that was a whole complicated stuff between her . She knew yael and adriana were meant for each other. i know it was complicated af but I am glad Estrella realized that Im sure everyone knew.
Chapter 19 was so good 🥵🔥 adriana yes!!!
Chapter 21: Yes, I was crying adriana and her mom. Oh, my heart.
I loved the ending, which made my heart so damn happy
Review of advance copy received from Author
🌴✨ Capicú Summer was such a beautiful, heartfelt novella that completely surprised me with how much it stayed with me. I expected a quick read, but what I got was a story full of warmth, culture, memories, and emotions that felt so much bigger than its length. I flew through this book, but the impact it left behind was unforgettable. 💛
Adriana and Yael’s story felt like opening the door to a place you’ve missed for years. Their journey is filled with second chances, old feelings, complicated history, and the kind of connection that proves time doesn’t always erase what matters. I loved the way their relationship slowly found its way back through playful arguments, teasing, and the undeniable chemistry between them. Their banter was one of my favorite parts because you could feel the history they shared in every interaction. 🥹💕
What made this novella truly special was the incredible sense of community. Altura felt alive—the neighborhood, the families, the music, the food, the domino games, and the everyday moments that make a place feel like home. Luna K. Wicked did an amazing job capturing the heart of the Barrio and the importance of protecting the places and people that shape us. 🌺🏡
The Puerto Rican and Dominican representation was beautifully done. The friendly rivalry, the shared traditions, the family bonds, and the pride in culture all felt so authentic. The Spanish throughout the story added another layer of connection and made the entire experience feel even more personal. As someone who appreciates stories that celebrate culture, this one truly delivered. 🇵🇷🇩🇴✨
I loved that the romance wasn’t the only thing driving the story. Adriana and Yael aren’t just fighting for their relationship—they’re fighting for Altura, their families, and the community that means everything to them. Watching them come together to protect their home while rebuilding what they lost was such a rewarding part of the story.
Adriana’s return to Altura after leaving years before brought so many emotions. After discovering the truth about Lenny and walking away from that chapter of her life, she has to face the past she left behind, including Yael. Meanwhile, Yael has never truly stopped caring about her, and seeing them navigate old wounds while rediscovering each other was incredibly sweet. 💕
At just under 200 pages, Capicú Summer proves that a short story can still carry so much emotion. It’s a beautiful second-chance romance filled with culture, community, laughter, and love.
If you’re looking for a romance that feels like a warm summer evening surrounded by family, music, and memories, Capicú Summer is absolutely worth picking up. 🌴❤️
Adriana and Yael’s story felt like opening the door to a place you’ve missed for years. Their journey is filled with second chances, old feelings, complicated history, and the kind of connection that proves time doesn’t always erase what matters. I loved the way their relationship slowly found its way back through playful arguments, teasing, and the undeniable chemistry between them. Their banter was one of my favorite parts because you could feel the history they shared in every interaction. 🥹💕
What made this novella truly special was the incredible sense of community. Altura felt alive—the neighborhood, the families, the music, the food, the domino games, and the everyday moments that make a place feel like home. Luna K. Wicked did an amazing job capturing the heart of the Barrio and the importance of protecting the places and people that shape us. 🌺🏡
The Puerto Rican and Dominican representation was beautifully done. The friendly rivalry, the shared traditions, the family bonds, and the pride in culture all felt so authentic. The Spanish throughout the story added another layer of connection and made the entire experience feel even more personal. As someone who appreciates stories that celebrate culture, this one truly delivered. 🇵🇷🇩🇴✨
I loved that the romance wasn’t the only thing driving the story. Adriana and Yael aren’t just fighting for their relationship—they’re fighting for Altura, their families, and the community that means everything to them. Watching them come together to protect their home while rebuilding what they lost was such a rewarding part of the story.
Adriana’s return to Altura after leaving years before brought so many emotions. After discovering the truth about Lenny and walking away from that chapter of her life, she has to face the past she left behind, including Yael. Meanwhile, Yael has never truly stopped caring about her, and seeing them navigate old wounds while rediscovering each other was incredibly sweet. 💕
At just under 200 pages, Capicú Summer proves that a short story can still carry so much emotion. It’s a beautiful second-chance romance filled with culture, community, laughter, and love.
If you’re looking for a romance that feels like a warm summer evening surrounded by family, music, and memories, Capicú Summer is absolutely worth picking up. 🌴❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book felt like home.
Some books entertain you. Some books break your heart. And then... There are books that feel like coming home. Even when you've never been there.
This story completely swept me away. Not just because of the romance... But because every page felt alive. The neighborhood. The music. The food. The families. The banter. The love woven into every conversation. It wasn't just a setting...
It felt like another character. And somehow, while reading about their home... I started thinking about my own. The places that shaped me. The people who made me feel like I belonged. That's the kind of storytelling that stays with you.
Now let's talk about the romance... Because WOW. This isn't instant love. It's the kind of love that's been quietly waiting. The kind built on history, longing, missed chances, and everything left unsaid.
The chemistry? Absolutely undeniable. Every interaction had me kicking my feet one minute... And yelling, "JUST TELL EACH OTHER HOW YOU FEEL!" the next.
But what I loved most was our FMC. She doesn't lose herself for love. She finds herself again. Watching her reclaim her confidence, her voice, and her future made this story feel just as empowering as it was romantic.
And the grief... It wasn't there simply to make you cry. It was handled with so much care and honesty, reminding us that healing doesn't mean forgetting..... it means learning how to carry the people we love differently.
This book didn't just give me butterflies. It gave me belonging. It reminded me that home isn't always a place. Sometimes it's a person. Sometimes it's a community. And sometimes... It's a story that makes you feel seen.
If you're looking for a romance filled with longing, heart, unforgettable community, and characters you'll miss long after the last page... Please put this one on your TBR.
Trust me. Your heart will thank you.
Read this when you're craving summer nostalgia, second-chance soulmates, rich cultural representation, vibrant community, neighborhood charm, heartfelt grief and healing, slow-burning yearning, and a romance that feels like finding your way home.
This wasn't just a romance—it was a reminder that love, culture, and community are the places we return to when we need them most.
Thanks to the author, Luna K. Wicked for the gifted book. All thoughts are my own.
Confession: This book made me nostalgic for memories that aren't even mine.
Some books entertain you. Some books break your heart. And then... There are books that feel like coming home. Even when you've never been there.
This story completely swept me away. Not just because of the romance... But because every page felt alive. The neighborhood. The music. The food. The families. The banter. The love woven into every conversation. It wasn't just a setting...
It felt like another character. And somehow, while reading about their home... I started thinking about my own. The places that shaped me. The people who made me feel like I belonged. That's the kind of storytelling that stays with you.
Now let's talk about the romance... Because WOW. This isn't instant love. It's the kind of love that's been quietly waiting. The kind built on history, longing, missed chances, and everything left unsaid.
The chemistry? Absolutely undeniable. Every interaction had me kicking my feet one minute... And yelling, "JUST TELL EACH OTHER HOW YOU FEEL!" the next.
But what I loved most was our FMC. She doesn't lose herself for love. She finds herself again. Watching her reclaim her confidence, her voice, and her future made this story feel just as empowering as it was romantic.
And the grief... It wasn't there simply to make you cry. It was handled with so much care and honesty, reminding us that healing doesn't mean forgetting..... it means learning how to carry the people we love differently.
This book didn't just give me butterflies. It gave me belonging. It reminded me that home isn't always a place. Sometimes it's a person. Sometimes it's a community. And sometimes... It's a story that makes you feel seen.
If you're looking for a romance filled with longing, heart, unforgettable community, and characters you'll miss long after the last page... Please put this one on your TBR.
Trust me. Your heart will thank you.
Read this when you're craving summer nostalgia, second-chance soulmates, rich cultural representation, vibrant community, neighborhood charm, heartfelt grief and healing, slow-burning yearning, and a romance that feels like finding your way home.
This wasn't just a romance—it was a reminder that love, culture, and community are the places we return to when we need them most.
Thanks to the author, Luna K. Wicked for the gifted book. All thoughts are my own.
Confession: This book made me nostalgic for memories that aren't even mine.
August 2, 2026
☀️ ℂ𝕒𝕡𝕚𝕔ú 𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕖𝕣 ☀️
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙪𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙧, 𝙄 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙜𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧… 𝙀𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙮𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙘𝙧𝙤𝙨𝙨 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙮𝙤𝙪.
📖 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗶𝗰ú 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿
✍🏼 𝗟𝘂𝗻𝗮 𝗞. 𝗪𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗱
𝙊𝙪𝙧 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡, 𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙬𝙞𝙥𝙚 𝙤𝙛𝙛. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚’𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙔𝙖𝙚𝙡 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝘾𝙞𝙚𝙡𝙖. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩'𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙂𝙤𝙙'𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙩𝙝.
𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝙳𝙴𝚃𝙰𝙸𝙻𝚂
📃 𝟭𝟵𝟵 𝗣𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀
🔎 𝗣𝗢𝗩: 𝘔𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘪𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘗𝘖𝘝’𝘴
🗓️ 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝟴, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲
𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝 𝙞𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙙, 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩—𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙧𝙚𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙩. 𝙉𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙞𝙩 𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙩𝙨, 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙄 𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙮… 𝙈𝙮 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠. 𝙈𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧. 𝙏𝙤 𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙖 𝙛𝙪𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙥𝙪𝙩 𝙢𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙗𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙣.
𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦
🇵🇷ʀɪᴠᴀʟꜱ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀꜱ
🇩🇴ᴅᴏᴍɪɴɪᴄᴀɴ ʀᴇᴘ
🇵🇷ᴘᴜᴇʀᴛᴏ ʀɪᴄᴀɴ ʀᴇᴘ
🇩🇴ꜱᴇᴄᴏɴᴅ ᴄʜᴀɴᴄᴇ
🇵🇷ꜰᴍᴄ ʀᴇᴛᴜʀɴꜱ ʜᴏᴍᴇ
🇩🇴ꜰᴀᴍɪʟʏ ꜰᴇᴜᴅ
🇵🇷ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴀᴛ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ꜱɪɢʜᴛ…ᴀɢᴀɪɴ
🇩🇴ꜰᴏᴜɴᴅ ꜰᴀᴍɪʟʏ
🇵🇷ꜰᴏʀᴄᴇᴅ ᴘʀᴏxɪᴍɪᴛʏ
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙, 𝘾𝙞𝙚𝙡𝙖, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙄 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩, 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙙𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚.”
📖 𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪 📖
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗙𝗠𝗖: Adrianna
𝗠𝗠𝗖: Yael
You know what I don’t like about Luna’s writing? The fact that they’re men that I’ll never have. That’s what. She sets me up with these false expectations, I fall in love with these fictional men and THEN at the end of it all I am forced to go about my days like normal??
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗔𝗖𝗜𝗧𝗬.
I love Yael with my whole heart. THE WAY THIS MAN YEARNS. He is so gone for Adri. Ugh. I’m in love.
And Adri is such an amazing FMC. She’s strong, she does anything for her family and community. Much like Yael. They are the perfect match.
This was a short read, coming in at just under 200 pages, and this my friends, is how a novella is done. The story didn’t feel rushed. I felt immersed into the streets of Altura and its people.
It was such a great second chance romance with a little Romeo & Juliet feels but with an HEA 🤣 (rival families/forbidden romance). This story packed such a punch to be a novella.
P.S. Did I mention how much I love Yael??
𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘
📖 ᴘʜʏꜱɪᴄᴀʟ
🎧 ᴀᴜᴅɪᴏ
📱 ᴇʀᴇᴀᴅ ✔️
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙪𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙧, 𝙄 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙜𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧… 𝙀𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙮𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙘𝙧𝙤𝙨𝙨 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙮𝙤𝙪.
📖 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗶𝗰ú 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿
✍🏼 𝗟𝘂𝗻𝗮 𝗞. 𝗪𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗱
𝙊𝙪𝙧 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡, 𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙬𝙞𝙥𝙚 𝙤𝙛𝙛. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚’𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙔𝙖𝙚𝙡 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝘾𝙞𝙚𝙡𝙖. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩'𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙂𝙤𝙙'𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙩𝙝.
𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝙳𝙴𝚃𝙰𝙸𝙻𝚂
📃 𝟭𝟵𝟵 𝗣𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀
🔎 𝗣𝗢𝗩: 𝘔𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘪𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘗𝘖𝘝’𝘴
🗓️ 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝟴, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲
𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝 𝙞𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙙, 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩—𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙧𝙚𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙩. 𝙉𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙞𝙩 𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙩𝙨, 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙄 𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙮… 𝙈𝙮 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠. 𝙈𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧. 𝙏𝙤 𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙖 𝙛𝙪𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙥𝙪𝙩 𝙢𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙗𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙣.
𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦
🇵🇷ʀɪᴠᴀʟꜱ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀꜱ
🇩🇴ᴅᴏᴍɪɴɪᴄᴀɴ ʀᴇᴘ
🇵🇷ᴘᴜᴇʀᴛᴏ ʀɪᴄᴀɴ ʀᴇᴘ
🇩🇴ꜱᴇᴄᴏɴᴅ ᴄʜᴀɴᴄᴇ
🇵🇷ꜰᴍᴄ ʀᴇᴛᴜʀɴꜱ ʜᴏᴍᴇ
🇩🇴ꜰᴀᴍɪʟʏ ꜰᴇᴜᴅ
🇵🇷ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴀᴛ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ꜱɪɢʜᴛ…ᴀɢᴀɪɴ
🇩🇴ꜰᴏᴜɴᴅ ꜰᴀᴍɪʟʏ
🇵🇷ꜰᴏʀᴄᴇᴅ ᴘʀᴏxɪᴍɪᴛʏ
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙, 𝘾𝙞𝙚𝙡𝙖, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙄 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩, 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙙𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚.”
📖 𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪 📖
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗙𝗠𝗖: Adrianna
𝗠𝗠𝗖: Yael
You know what I don’t like about Luna’s writing? The fact that they’re men that I’ll never have. That’s what. She sets me up with these false expectations, I fall in love with these fictional men and THEN at the end of it all I am forced to go about my days like normal??
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗔𝗖𝗜𝗧𝗬.
I love Yael with my whole heart. THE WAY THIS MAN YEARNS. He is so gone for Adri. Ugh. I’m in love.
And Adri is such an amazing FMC. She’s strong, she does anything for her family and community. Much like Yael. They are the perfect match.
This was a short read, coming in at just under 200 pages, and this my friends, is how a novella is done. The story didn’t feel rushed. I felt immersed into the streets of Altura and its people.
It was such a great second chance romance with a little Romeo & Juliet feels but with an HEA 🤣 (rival families/forbidden romance). This story packed such a punch to be a novella.
P.S. Did I mention how much I love Yael??
𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘
📖 ᴘʜʏꜱɪᴄᴀʟ
🎧 ᴀᴜᴅɪᴏ
📱 ᴇʀᴇᴀᴅ ✔️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just finished Capicú Summer, and I could not put this novella down. I finished it in two days, and even though it’s a quick read, it left such a lasting impression.
As someone who is half Dominican, half Puerto Rican and grew up in New York City, this story felt like coming home. The representation was everything. From the neighborhood bodega to the older generation playing dominoes, the music filling the streets, and the sense of community that comes alive during the summer—it all brought back so many memories. I could picture every scene so vividly because it felt so familiar.
Adriana and Yael’s story was filled with nostalgia, first love, and all the emotions that come with reconnecting after time apart. I loved the push and pull between them and how time never erased what they meant to each other. Their chemistry felt effortless, and I found myself rooting for them from beginning to end.
I also loved the playful rivalry between Puerto Ricans and Dominicans. It’s that friendly competition so many of us know, but underneath it all is so much love and shared culture. The food, the family, the traditions—it all made this story feel authentic and heartfelt.
This was my first time reading Luna K. Wicked, and it definitely won’t be my last. She captured the warmth, humor, and heart of our communities so beautifully.
Reading this novella honestly reminded me of the movie I Like It Like That, and that’s one of my all-time favorites. That same feeling of culture, family, community, and summer nostalgia made this book even more special to me.
If you’re looking for a romance that feels like home, Capicú Summer is one you won’t want to miss.
As someone who is half Dominican, half Puerto Rican and grew up in New York City, this story felt like coming home. The representation was everything. From the neighborhood bodega to the older generation playing dominoes, the music filling the streets, and the sense of community that comes alive during the summer—it all brought back so many memories. I could picture every scene so vividly because it felt so familiar.
Adriana and Yael’s story was filled with nostalgia, first love, and all the emotions that come with reconnecting after time apart. I loved the push and pull between them and how time never erased what they meant to each other. Their chemistry felt effortless, and I found myself rooting for them from beginning to end.
I also loved the playful rivalry between Puerto Ricans and Dominicans. It’s that friendly competition so many of us know, but underneath it all is so much love and shared culture. The food, the family, the traditions—it all made this story feel authentic and heartfelt.
This was my first time reading Luna K. Wicked, and it definitely won’t be my last. She captured the warmth, humor, and heart of our communities so beautifully.
Reading this novella honestly reminded me of the movie I Like It Like That, and that’s one of my all-time favorites. That same feeling of culture, family, community, and summer nostalgia made this book even more special to me.
If you’re looking for a romance that feels like home, Capicú Summer is one you won’t want to miss.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved everything about this novella. This is not as dark as some of Luna's work but it's just as captivating. A wonderful little story celebrating the Barrio and home.
Adriana and Yael got together when they were just teenages in Altura while she was trying to get with his cousin Lenny. Circumstance pulled them apart and Adri left Altura with Lenny, only to return 5 years later after discovering what Lenny was up to and kicking him to the curb (so to speak).
Yael is still carrying a torch for her and her family envelopes her back in like she never left but things have changed. Developers put together by Lenny are trying to bulldoze the citizens of Altura to sell out and leave so they can build modern new condos.
Adri and Yael mend their relationship through semi friendly rivalry and trying to save Altura from the developers and their relationship is so rich and well done. I adored they way they sniped at each other and came back together to not only give themselves a second chance but take care of the Barrio and their families.
I also greatly enjoyed the interspersing of spanish throughout as well as the respesentation of Puerto Rican and Dominican cultures. It made the story feel personal and raised the stakes in a great way. A really nice short read at 199 pages I think lovers of small town/second chance romance and Luna K Wicked will enjoy this.
Thank you for selecting me for this ARC!
Adriana and Yael got together when they were just teenages in Altura while she was trying to get with his cousin Lenny. Circumstance pulled them apart and Adri left Altura with Lenny, only to return 5 years later after discovering what Lenny was up to and kicking him to the curb (so to speak).
Yael is still carrying a torch for her and her family envelopes her back in like she never left but things have changed. Developers put together by Lenny are trying to bulldoze the citizens of Altura to sell out and leave so they can build modern new condos.
Adri and Yael mend their relationship through semi friendly rivalry and trying to save Altura from the developers and their relationship is so rich and well done. I adored they way they sniped at each other and came back together to not only give themselves a second chance but take care of the Barrio and their families.
I also greatly enjoyed the interspersing of spanish throughout as well as the respesentation of Puerto Rican and Dominican cultures. It made the story feel personal and raised the stakes in a great way. A really nice short read at 199 pages I think lovers of small town/second chance romance and Luna K Wicked will enjoy this.
Thank you for selecting me for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
♡~"The sight brings me back to the day we met. The day I learned what it felt to feel the warmth of the sun. Not the kind that hits your skin, but the kind that burns through the dark cloud that follows you… the kind that burns your soul. Which is why I nicknamed her mi Ciela, because she’s my sky and I’m the clouds that dust it."~♡
Reading Capicú Summer feels like a warm summer evening, where the sun is just about to set and the last golden rays warm your skin, the condensation from the cold drink in your hand dripping down onto the skin of your thighs giving you goosebumps. In the background Latin music is softly playing while the love of your life wraps you in a warm hug telling you you're the only one for them.
“Porque te amo. Porque tu eres la unica mujer que deseo y que adoro.”
I loved the vibes this novella was giving, the element of competition but yet making the barrio feel like one big family, its definitely a feel-good story.
And Yael.....Dios mio.....that man had it bad for Adri and the mouth on him 😏
“You’re so fcking wet,” he growls. “Y yo si tengo sed.”
I ate this novella up!
Reading Capicú Summer feels like a warm summer evening, where the sun is just about to set and the last golden rays warm your skin, the condensation from the cold drink in your hand dripping down onto the skin of your thighs giving you goosebumps. In the background Latin music is softly playing while the love of your life wraps you in a warm hug telling you you're the only one for them.
“Porque te amo. Porque tu eres la unica mujer que deseo y que adoro.”
I loved the vibes this novella was giving, the element of competition but yet making the barrio feel like one big family, its definitely a feel-good story.
And Yael.....Dios mio.....that man had it bad for Adri and the mouth on him 😏
“You’re so fcking wet,” he growls. “Y yo si tengo sed.”
I ate this novella up!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Capicu summer is like a breath of fresh air. Different from Luna’s usual dark and depraved works but still the same beautiful, poetic words creating another amazing story. I fell in love with this novella and the entire vibe of Capicu Summer.
𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰’𝒎 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈. 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒅𝒆𝒗𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒆𝒓. 𝑴𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒖𝒑 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒆 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕.
Reading Capicu Summer feels like falling in love for the first time. I loved how much culture and pride was in this story. It’s infectious and inviting. The banter between Yael & Adri is everything and had me cheesing like a fool while reading. And the mouth on Yael 🥵 Yael is so fucking swoon worthy. Luna knows how to write a MMC that you’ll fall head over heels for and a FMC who’s a bad ass bitch.
Capicu Summer is the PERFECT summer love story to get you in all the feels while reading & will have you wanting to blast old school reggaeton. It’s a story you’ll want to come back and revisit, over and over again. 💕
“ᴅɪᴍᴇ ᴍᴀᴍɪ*, ᴄᴏᴜʟᴅ ʜᴇ ᴍᴀᴋᴇ ʏᴏᴜ ғᴇᴇʟ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪ ᴅɪᴅ? ᴅɪᴅ ʏᴏᴜ ᴇᴠᴇʀ sᴄʀᴇᴀᴍ ʜɪs ɴᴀᴍᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀʏ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅ ᴍɪɴᴇ?”
𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰’𝒎 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈. 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒅𝒆𝒗𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒆𝒓. 𝑴𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒖𝒑 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒆 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕.
Reading Capicu Summer feels like falling in love for the first time. I loved how much culture and pride was in this story. It’s infectious and inviting. The banter between Yael & Adri is everything and had me cheesing like a fool while reading. And the mouth on Yael 🥵 Yael is so fucking swoon worthy. Luna knows how to write a MMC that you’ll fall head over heels for and a FMC who’s a bad ass bitch.
Capicu Summer is the PERFECT summer love story to get you in all the feels while reading & will have you wanting to blast old school reggaeton. It’s a story you’ll want to come back and revisit, over and over again. 💕
“ᴅɪᴍᴇ ᴍᴀᴍɪ*, ᴄᴏᴜʟᴅ ʜᴇ ᴍᴀᴋᴇ ʏᴏᴜ ғᴇᴇʟ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪ ᴅɪᴅ? ᴅɪᴅ ʏᴏᴜ ᴇᴠᴇʀ sᴄʀᴇᴀᴍ ʜɪs ɴᴀᴍᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀʏ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅ ᴍɪɴᴇ?”
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all, thank you to Luna K. Wicked and her team for this ARC! She has quickly become one of my favorite authors, and I was so excited to get the chance to read this.
Now to the good stuff, which I don't want to spoil because this is a novella, and it's one you absolutely need to read before the summer is over!
This was different from all of her other books, but it was still amazing. It honestly felt like a love letter to where she grew up and to her culture.
The setting was described so well that I could picture myself right there with the characters. The story was great from start to finish, and I even felt like there was a little twist in there that I wasn't expecting.
Adriana and Yael's relationship developed so naturally that it felt real. Nothing about it felt forced or rushed, and I loved watching them fall for each other. And the spice... girl. 🌶️🤭
I also loved all the Spanish throughout the book! Girl, I can only imagine how good the audiobook would be!🥵🤭
Overall, this was such a great read, and even though it was different from Luna's other books, she absolutely delivered.
Now to the good stuff, which I don't want to spoil because this is a novella, and it's one you absolutely need to read before the summer is over!
This was different from all of her other books, but it was still amazing. It honestly felt like a love letter to where she grew up and to her culture.
The setting was described so well that I could picture myself right there with the characters. The story was great from start to finish, and I even felt like there was a little twist in there that I wasn't expecting.
Adriana and Yael's relationship developed so naturally that it felt real. Nothing about it felt forced or rushed, and I loved watching them fall for each other. And the spice... girl. 🌶️🤭
I also loved all the Spanish throughout the book! Girl, I can only imagine how good the audiobook would be!🥵🤭
Overall, this was such a great read, and even though it was different from Luna's other books, she absolutely delivered.
Review of advance copy received from Author
For a novella this was jam packed! I shouldn't be surprised though when its from Luna.
This is the perfect summer read as it sizzles with heat, fire and spice. On the streets and in the bedroom. Plus the most unexpectedly exciting and sexy game of dominoes you will probably ever read.
Welcome to Altura Heights where the women are feisty, the men are passionate and the drama happens in the neighbourhood with the whole community. You will literally feel the culture and atmosphere as you read.
Luna hits the mark again with another couple who just pull to one another like magnets. Even in a novella she kills the love lost and second chance trope by giving the perfect volume of back story to feel the pining.
Both MCs are so loveable. Their loyalty to those they love is so endearing
If that doesnt sell this sizzling one sit read then the microtropes sure will.
Think:
She films his thirst traps
Domino 'play'
He likes to 'eat'
He tattooed her on his body
He pays off elders debt
Cat and Mouse Chase
Body shots
This is the perfect summer read as it sizzles with heat, fire and spice. On the streets and in the bedroom. Plus the most unexpectedly exciting and sexy game of dominoes you will probably ever read.
Welcome to Altura Heights where the women are feisty, the men are passionate and the drama happens in the neighbourhood with the whole community. You will literally feel the culture and atmosphere as you read.
Luna hits the mark again with another couple who just pull to one another like magnets. Even in a novella she kills the love lost and second chance trope by giving the perfect volume of back story to feel the pining.
Both MCs are so loveable. Their loyalty to those they love is so endearing
If that doesnt sell this sizzling one sit read then the microtropes sure will.
Think:
She films his thirst traps
Domino 'play'
He likes to 'eat'
He tattooed her on his body
He pays off elders debt
Cat and Mouse Chase
Body shots
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Capicú Summer was such a refreshing read. While it’s different from Luna K. Wicked’s darker books, it still had the emotional depth, chemistry, and spice I’ve come to expect from her writing.
What really made this story stand out was the Puerto Rican and Dominican representation. The Spanish woven throughout the dialogue, the family dynamics, the food, the music, and the sense of community made the setting feel incredibly authentic. It wasn’t just a backdrop—it was part of the story’s heart.
The second-chance romance between Adriana and Yael was sweet, emotional, and full of undeniable chemistry. Watching them reconnect while navigating old hurts and family expectations made it easy to root for them.
If you’re looking for a romance that blends culture, nostalgia, family, and a little spice into a heartfelt second-chance love story, I’d definitely recommend giving Capicú Summer a read. It may be a quick novella, but it leaves a lasting impression. 💛
Capicú Summer was such a refreshing read. While it’s different from Luna K. Wicked’s darker books, it still had the emotional depth, chemistry, and spice I’ve come to expect from her writing.
What really made this story stand out was the Puerto Rican and Dominican representation. The Spanish woven throughout the dialogue, the family dynamics, the food, the music, and the sense of community made the setting feel incredibly authentic. It wasn’t just a backdrop—it was part of the story’s heart.
The second-chance romance between Adriana and Yael was sweet, emotional, and full of undeniable chemistry. Watching them reconnect while navigating old hurts and family expectations made it easy to root for them.
If you’re looking for a romance that blends culture, nostalgia, family, and a little spice into a heartfelt second-chance love story, I’d definitely recommend giving Capicú Summer a read. It may be a quick novella, but it leaves a lasting impression. 💛
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a beautiful novella that was a homage to first love, culture, home, community, and second chances. I loved the rich back story and feeling the chemistry between Adriana and Yael that still remained. Seeing them rekindle their relationship was an emotional ride. I loved seeing how Adriana reconnected with her community after being away for so long.
The main thing I took away from this book was the sense of community. It made me think about how I don’t even know most of my neighbors’ names and made me feel some longing for a family feel in my own community. But then I remember that I’m introverted and don’t like talking to other people. 😁
I appreciated that there were translations for Spanish. I don’t know how that part would work if this was made into an audiobook, but I think it would be SO good to listen to. I would love to hear Yael talking dirty to Adriana. 🥵
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It’s the perfect quick summer read, but still full of emotion.
The main thing I took away from this book was the sense of community. It made me think about how I don’t even know most of my neighbors’ names and made me feel some longing for a family feel in my own community. But then I remember that I’m introverted and don’t like talking to other people. 😁
I appreciated that there were translations for Spanish. I don’t know how that part would work if this was made into an audiobook, but I think it would be SO good to listen to. I would love to hear Yael talking dirty to Adriana. 🥵
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It’s the perfect quick summer read, but still full of emotion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Capicù Summer 📕
Written by: Luna K Wicked
✨ARC REVIEW ✨
I received an advance reader copy for free from the author. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Real recognizes real. When you grow up in a barrio you understand the barrio.
This read took me way back to when I grew up. It was such a delight to read in the “Lunatic” way. I really enjoy this.
The love between Yeal and Adri was palpable. The connections between the people is timeless, easy to relate to. It’s not just a neighborhood; it’s practically family. But there’s always that one that thinks the traditions, the food the togetherness is played out. Not worth the effort.
Barrios like Altura are around the world with different names. But they are not to be forgotten. They will always remain the foundation we walk on even to this day. I’m proud to be from one, I still have some of the sane friends now. Since I was 5 and I’m now in my 60’s. I may not have spoken their native tongue back then, however everyone understands family and love. And Luna write that perfect. I loved it!
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Written by: Luna K Wicked
✨ARC REVIEW ✨
I received an advance reader copy for free from the author. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Real recognizes real. When you grow up in a barrio you understand the barrio.
This read took me way back to when I grew up. It was such a delight to read in the “Lunatic” way. I really enjoy this.
The love between Yeal and Adri was palpable. The connections between the people is timeless, easy to relate to. It’s not just a neighborhood; it’s practically family. But there’s always that one that thinks the traditions, the food the togetherness is played out. Not worth the effort.
Barrios like Altura are around the world with different names. But they are not to be forgotten. They will always remain the foundation we walk on even to this day. I’m proud to be from one, I still have some of the sane friends now. Since I was 5 and I’m now in my 60’s. I may not have spoken their native tongue back then, however everyone understands family and love. And Luna write that perfect. I loved it!
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
“You remember how to play? Or do you need me to teach you again?” “I remember teaching you. Pretty sure that’s the part you must have forgotten.”
This novella follows Adriana, a young woman that is returning to her childhood neighborhood. When she does she finds herself reconnecting with the community, her roots and the two men who once meant everything to her: Yael and Lenny.
The center of the story is Adriana rediscovering herself. The way she is portrayed is as a strong resilient woman. She does that in the setting of Altura Heights. The way this is described is with vibrant culture, music and tradition. It adds authenticity to the story.
The tone of the story is filled with plenty of humor, banter and cultural references. The dialogue between our main characters is sharp and often funny.
The addition of the Spannish? lines in the book did pull me out of the flow, I also couldn't quite connect with our main characters.
“You remember how to play? Or do you need me to teach you again?” “I remember teaching you. Pretty sure that’s the part you must have forgotten.”
This novella follows Adriana, a young woman that is returning to her childhood neighborhood. When she does she finds herself reconnecting with the community, her roots and the two men who once meant everything to her: Yael and Lenny.
The center of the story is Adriana rediscovering herself. The way she is portrayed is as a strong resilient woman. She does that in the setting of Altura Heights. The way this is described is with vibrant culture, music and tradition. It adds authenticity to the story.
The tone of the story is filled with plenty of humor, banter and cultural references. The dialogue between our main characters is sharp and often funny.
The addition of the Spannish? lines in the book did pull me out of the flow, I also couldn't quite connect with our main characters.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once again, Luna has delivered an amazing summer read! Capicu Summer is a novella you won't want to miss.
Returning to the barrio where Adriana grew up gave the story such a warm, nostalgic feel. Watching her come back home and reconnect with her roots made the story even more meaningful.
And then there's Yael—my beautiful MMC! This man can dance, move those hips, and completely steal your heart. He's the kind of man who will wait for you until the very end, and I absolutely adored him.
What I loved most about this book is that it's about so much more than romance. It highlights the importance of family, community, and finding your way back home while still delivering a heartfelt love story.
Luna's writing never disappoints. Her characters are easy to fall in love with, the chemistry is incredible, and the tropes are always executed so well. If you're looking for a heartfelt, and vibrant summer romance, I highly recommend Capicu Summer!
Returning to the barrio where Adriana grew up gave the story such a warm, nostalgic feel. Watching her come back home and reconnect with her roots made the story even more meaningful.
And then there's Yael—my beautiful MMC! This man can dance, move those hips, and completely steal your heart. He's the kind of man who will wait for you until the very end, and I absolutely adored him.
What I loved most about this book is that it's about so much more than romance. It highlights the importance of family, community, and finding your way back home while still delivering a heartfelt love story.
Luna's writing never disappoints. Her characters are easy to fall in love with, the chemistry is incredible, and the tropes are always executed so well. If you're looking for a heartfelt, and vibrant summer romance, I highly recommend Capicu Summer!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The perfect summer read and I ate this upppp!
I had a feeling this was going to be a banger the moment I saw the playlist which was absolutely top tier.
I grew up in a barrio that felt exactly like the one described in this story. The sense of community, the importance of family, and even the chismosa tías made it feel like home. As someone who's Puerto Rican and Dominican, I appreciated how true to our culture it was. From the food and the banter to Altura Heights itself, every detail felt authentic and full of heart.
For such a quick read, it really left me wanting more.
Also, this book may have unlocked a new kink for me. Hearing a man speak Spanish during playtime might just be my downfall. 😂 I'll never look at dominoes or Hennessy the same way again!
Thank you so much Luna K. Wicked for the E-Arc!
I had a feeling this was going to be a banger the moment I saw the playlist which was absolutely top tier.
I grew up in a barrio that felt exactly like the one described in this story. The sense of community, the importance of family, and even the chismosa tías made it feel like home. As someone who's Puerto Rican and Dominican, I appreciated how true to our culture it was. From the food and the banter to Altura Heights itself, every detail felt authentic and full of heart.
For such a quick read, it really left me wanting more.
Also, this book may have unlocked a new kink for me. Hearing a man speak Spanish during playtime might just be my downfall. 😂 I'll never look at dominoes or Hennessy the same way again!
Thank you so much Luna K. Wicked for the E-Arc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you know me, you already know I don't chase second chance romances. They're usually not my thing. But Luna K. Wicked has yet to let me down, and she sure wasn't about to start with this one.
Here is the thing: I grew up in Philly and spent my summers in the South Bronx at my grandmas building. So when this book hit me with that tight knit community feel, the block parties, the porch debates, the aunties (non related) business before you do, it hit different. Not in a cheesy way. In a "I smell my grandmothers cooking and hear the yelling from the spades games" kind of way. The nostalgia was real, and I was not expecting it.
196 pages. That is it. And somehow, Wicked packed in a romance and spice that did not feel rushed or forced.
Absolute banger. If you grew up in a loud, loving, slightly chaotic neighborhood, you will feel this one.
Here is the thing: I grew up in Philly and spent my summers in the South Bronx at my grandmas building. So when this book hit me with that tight knit community feel, the block parties, the porch debates, the aunties (non related) business before you do, it hit different. Not in a cheesy way. In a "I smell my grandmothers cooking and hear the yelling from the spades games" kind of way. The nostalgia was real, and I was not expecting it.
196 pages. That is it. And somehow, Wicked packed in a romance and spice that did not feel rushed or forced.
Absolute banger. If you grew up in a loud, loving, slightly chaotic neighborhood, you will feel this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had so much fun reading this. I loved every second.
I was really young when I started reading. Most of the books I was exposed to or encountered never featured characters like me, with a background like mine. If they did, it was always, always stereotypes and assumptions, written by people who are outside of the lived experience. So this story was a breath of fresh air. Short as it was, I felt myself consumed by it.
I swear I could smell the buttered rolls, El café. The cigars and beer. I could hear the clacking of dominoes. This book felt authentic.and I loved it.
The characters. The tension. The language. The vibes. Me lo viví. AND I want more. It was everything I wanted when I heard the promise of reggaeton Boricua and Dominican rep. And it was everything the author promised it would be.
I was really young when I started reading. Most of the books I was exposed to or encountered never featured characters like me, with a background like mine. If they did, it was always, always stereotypes and assumptions, written by people who are outside of the lived experience. So this story was a breath of fresh air. Short as it was, I felt myself consumed by it.
I swear I could smell the buttered rolls, El café. The cigars and beer. I could hear the clacking of dominoes. This book felt authentic.and I loved it.
The characters. The tension. The language. The vibes. Me lo viví. AND I want more. It was everything I wanted when I heard the promise of reggaeton Boricua and Dominican rep. And it was everything the author promised it would be.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
This is the perfect summertime read!
The whole time I was reading this, I couldn't help reminiscing about the summers I spent in Brooklyn with my cousins. Without fail, there was always a group of older men outside the bodega playing dominoes, lol.
I loved Adriana and Yael's story, along with the Puerto Rican and Dominican representation. I also appreciated that the book acknowledged the playful rivalry between Puerto Ricans and Dominicans while reminding us that, at the end of the day, we're family.
My only complaint is that I wish this story had been longer. I felt like certain things were either never fully explained or were brushed over, and I just wanted more time with Adriana and Yael.
I will say, after reading this book, I now have the overwhelming urge to learn how to play dominoes, lmao.
This is the perfect summertime read!
The whole time I was reading this, I couldn't help reminiscing about the summers I spent in Brooklyn with my cousins. Without fail, there was always a group of older men outside the bodega playing dominoes, lol.
I loved Adriana and Yael's story, along with the Puerto Rican and Dominican representation. I also appreciated that the book acknowledged the playful rivalry between Puerto Ricans and Dominicans while reminding us that, at the end of the day, we're family.
My only complaint is that I wish this story had been longer. I felt like certain things were either never fully explained or were brushed over, and I just wanted more time with Adriana and Yael.
I will say, after reading this book, I now have the overwhelming urge to learn how to play dominoes, lmao.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A little something different from Luna and I wasn't disappointed. The first page had me drawn in to Altura, the vibe was palpable - thick with heat and attitude. Luna immersed us in her world and it felt so genuine - raw and real- you could practically feel the summer heat and smell the salami and taste the henny on your tongue. The dialogue is snappy and sharp and the pacing had me turning from the first to the last page in one sitting. This was a project of passion and I felt connected to this community and to these characters and the message is so poignant in the world we live in today. Yael and his Ciela were magnetic and their chemistry was fire!!
Thank you for allowing me to read and advanced review copy of Capicu Summer. This review was left honestly and voluntarily.
Thank you for allowing me to read and advanced review copy of Capicu Summer. This review was left honestly and voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Capicù Summer by Luna K Wicked is a second chance novella, a summer barrio romance. I had no idea going into this read what to expect, but I was completely blown out of the water. I love love love this! Yael & Adri definitely have a permanent place in my heart. So much grief,love and deep rooted family tradition & heritage. These two get their very much deserved happy ending. Just enough spice to make you sweat & want more. Also this novella has me longing to learn so much more about a culture I knew nothing about. Luna did a beautiful job with this read, captured the emotions and atmosphere so much that you can feel it while you read. Capicù Summer has easily become one of my favorite novellas, one I will read many times.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ ARC Book Review ✨
“Every love story starts with a single move…and one domino always falls first.”
This book made me feel like I’m part of the barrio too. 🥹
I also learned about the Dominican culture.
It’s a second chance romance but it also deals with grief/loss, emotional abandonment, gang violence and addiction. However, it’s still a cute & wholesome story with both MCs, family and the bodegas.
I loved the banter between both MCs, the push & pull and tension. I really need that MMC in real life and iykyk 👀😅. I will never forget how creative he was with dominoes & Hennessy!😍😂
I definitely recommend you to read it. You will enjoy it!
“The barrio is full of history. Who we are. You know what they say you can take the girl out of the hood but never the hood out of her.”
“Every love story starts with a single move…and one domino always falls first.”
This book made me feel like I’m part of the barrio too. 🥹
I also learned about the Dominican culture.
It’s a second chance romance but it also deals with grief/loss, emotional abandonment, gang violence and addiction. However, it’s still a cute & wholesome story with both MCs, family and the bodegas.
I loved the banter between both MCs, the push & pull and tension. I really need that MMC in real life and iykyk 👀😅. I will never forget how creative he was with dominoes & Hennessy!😍😂
I definitely recommend you to read it. You will enjoy it!
“The barrio is full of history. Who we are. You know what they say you can take the girl out of the hood but never the hood out of her.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
When I tell you I was so excited for this book. I was hoping and praying for the chance to arc this one. This book is a breath of fresh air. It brought a funny twist to the Puerto Rican X Dominican feud that has been around for ages. Very Telenovela y me lo comí todo. As someone who’s born and raised in Neuva York this book hits all the right marks. From the chismosa abuelitas in the salons to the late nights playing dominoes with Salsa playing in the background. I very much devoured this book and I hope you do too! This is a story about fighting for those you love and the cultura around you. Beautifully written and enchanting!
July 19, 2026
Thank you first to Luna for letting me read an ARC copy of this great story. This was a different change of pace for me with Lunas books and I was here for it. Loved the whole vibe of this story. The way she brought the culture to life was just chefs kiss. Altura drew me into its atmosphere page one and has me wanting to be hanging out in the neighborhood. Yael and Adri story flowed well I really enjoyed their little second chance journey. The unexpected twist I did not see coming for sure. All and all this was a very good read and I need someone to speak those sweet words to me in another language please lol.
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