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Love isn’t always picture perfect . . .

Atlanta-based photographer Kate Miller doesn’t believe in fairytale romance or relationships of the forever kind. She’s determined to build her own happiness through hard work and professional success. So, when the opportunity arises to join an exclusive fashion photo shoot in Rome, she jumps on the chance to gain international recognition. But she’s not counting on an instant attraction to the charismatic, sexy, and irritatingly arrogant director of the shoot.

World famous, Domenic Varezzi is used to calling the shots. His clients trust his instincts and they’re willing to pay for the best. But while his career is thriving, his personal life has been lackluster at best. Hoping Kate could be the answer he’s been looking for, he’s determined to win her over. Every challenge she sends his way drives him to break through her tough-as-nails exterior to reach the vulnerable heart that matches his own.

Surrounded by the beauty and magic of Italy’s “Eternal City,” a foundation begins to form that could lead to a lifetime partnership, both in business and in love. Until Domenic’s past comes back to haunt the present and threatens to destroy everything.

164 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 6, 2016

17 people are currently reading
175 people want to read

About the author

J. Lynn Rowan

8 books570 followers
J. Lynn Rowan started writing stories as a small child, usually starring her favorite cartoon characters. Most of her work through middle and high school was filled with typical teenage angst and melodrama, and usually mirrored the books she loved to read. But eventually she found her own author’s voice and decided to seriously pursue a writing career.

Historical fiction remains J. Lynn’s “first love”, but she has enjoyed the journey to becoming an author of romance and chick lit. She is a member of Romance Writers of America, the Central New York Romance Writers, and the Historical Novel Society. She is also a teacher who tries to instill a love of learning, reading, and writing in her students.

When she’s not writing, J. Lynn enjoys travelling, gardening poorly but enthusiastically, studying various topics in American history for her own expertise, and channeling Julia Child every time she steps into the kitchen.

A native of Oswego, NY, she now lives in Charlotte, NC, with her own Romantic Hero of a husband and their children.

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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
Profile Image for Mandys_Book_Nook3 .
258 reviews24 followers
March 11, 2026
Kate is an artist who knows what she wants and specifically what she doesn't want. She is focused on her work, which is the love of photography. She's detailed, meticulous, determined and focused. The final product is what stands out most to her.

When Beth, an old college friend reaches out about a once in a lifetime opportunity to work in Rome, after a quick thought, she said, this could be my big break. She flew to NYC to meet the team and prestigious Dominic, the famous and well-known director. Pleasing him was what she needed as she was thrown into this team last minute.

Kate was known for her sparky attitude and brutal truths, but if she wanted to be approved for her talent, she'd have to bite her tongue on this one.

After a few days in Rome, Kate was in her element. She knew all the right takes, getting the natural light and making the most of each photo so limited editing was needed. Needless to say, her spot was earned, and not only was she turning heads on the team, there was a certain director by the name of Dominic who was intrigued as well.

The complexity of these two started off awkward, but after spending time together, it felt like a perfect fit.

When In Rome was gifted to me by J Lynn Rowan, and I have to say, this writing was absolutely exceptional. I love the character development, insight to where the story takes place and the feelings that capture you and steal your heart. This writer is one to read and endure all the feelings of this romance novel.
Profile Image for Christy.
127 reviews
April 26, 2016
Kate Miller is a self-sufficient, successful photographer based in Atlanta. She doesn't believe in love everlasting, happy endings or fairytale romances. But when a friend from Manhattan asks her to assist renowned fashion photographer Domenic Varezzi on a photo shoot in Rome, she takes a chance on leaving her successful photography studio in the hands of her assistants and heads to Italy with Domenic and his tight knit team.

Domenic hasn't faired well in the relationship department as of late, either. While he's trying to focus on a high profile fashion shoot that lasts two months in Italy, he's also trying to get used to Kate, the newest member of his entourage. While others in his group aren't quite sure of Kate's ability still unsure if they should trust her, Domenic is attracted to her spunk and is challenged by her lackluster interest in him. Strong willed and standoffish Kate is a hard person to get to know.

While Kate is trying hard to not be affected by his subtleness, she realizes it's getting harder and harder to not look at him "that" way.
Domenic is used to being in charge and commands that he calls the shots. When Kate doesn't fall fast for him, he knows he has a challenge on his hands - and he's up for it.
Walls are broken down, slowly, and they come to the agreement to take things slow. But when they return back to the States, things go downhill. Fast. Can Kate let walls down that she's built up since her childhood, and can Domenic convince her that he is in this for happily ever after - something she doesn't believe in?

The beautiful landscape of Italy and the ruins of Rome serve as the main backdrop for this romance. The author writes very well, and this is the second book I have read and really enjoyed by J. Lynn Rowan. I loved the characters, the story, and WHEN IN ROME was one of those books that I wish had lasted longer. I didn't want it to end.

A quick read, wonderful story, and outstanding writing makes WHEN IN ROME one of my favorite books of the year!

5 Stars
Profile Image for Kathleen.
1,455 reviews35 followers
April 13, 2016
If you are looking for a delightful romantic story set in the "Eternal City" of Rome, Italy, then look no further, When in Rome is the book for you!

When in Rome is a thoroughly entertaining romantic tale that will easily keep the reader turning the pages. The story is told in the first person narrative by sassy Kate Miller, an Atlanta based photographer, who joins an exclusive fashion photo shoot in Rome, Italy with the world famous director, Domenic Varezzi. The reader is taken along for the ride as Kate embarks on a journey of personal discovery, and gets an unexpected chance at true love!

I really enjoyed following Kate and Domenic's story. I couldn't help but enjoy watching the chemistry that developed between them, especially when Domenic accepts Kate's intriguing cat and mouse challenges, because he is determined to win Kate's love. And even when Domenic's past comes back to haunt him, I couldn't help but cheer them on as they fought to overcome the obstacles that stood in their way to getting a lifetime partnership in business and love.

When in Rome is a fast paced and fun novella that has engaging characters, humorous interactions and witty dialogue, flashbacks to the past and secrets that come to the surface, drama, suspense, and a sweet romance. The author provides the reader with a rich description of the beautiful setting of the "Eternal City" of Rome, Italy, that will make them long to visit the sights and sounds of this historic city for themselves.

When in Rome is an enjoyable and lighthearted romance story that will leave a smile on your face.

When in Rome is the second book in the Sweet Somethings series, and can be a stand alone read.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book blast event hosted by Goddess Fish Promotions.

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824 reviews9 followers
April 13, 2016
How can you go wrong with a romance set in beautifully romantic Rome, Italy? The story is so well written you will feel like you are standing in the streets watching the story play out. The characters are believable and will make you fall for them. Kate is such a great character and she is someone I would love to meet and hang out with. In Rome for nothing more than to build her career, the last thing she thought about was a romance like you read about but that was before she met Domenic. What follows is funny at times and romantic throughout. Definitely enjoyed this one and you will too!
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews