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Kiss and Ride
What happens when you meet the right guy at the wrong time?
When Vincent Alesi’s estranged father dies, he gets on the first plane from New York city to Rome to be at the memorial service. Even if he has to max out his credit card. Even if he hates the man for leaving him. Even if it’s a day before Christmas.
Everything that can go wrong does go wrong, and Vin ends up trusting a complete stranger with all his secrets, even the ones he didn't know he had.
Luca Romano’s job as a flight attendant takes him all over the world. But a jet-setting lifestyle is not what he wants. His dream of opening his own restaurant is being placed on hold over circumstances beyond his control.
Timing is everything...
When Vin bursts into Luca’s life, both men fall fast and hard. But their lives, their dreams, even the cities they live in couldn’t be more different.
Their few days together in Rome are romantic, emotionally intense, and leave them both wanting more.
Can a fleeting love affair change their lives forever?
When Vincent Alesi’s estranged father dies, he gets on the first plane from New York city to Rome to be at the memorial service. Even if he has to max out his credit card. Even if he hates the man for leaving him. Even if it’s a day before Christmas.
Everything that can go wrong does go wrong, and Vin ends up trusting a complete stranger with all his secrets, even the ones he didn't know he had.
Luca Romano’s job as a flight attendant takes him all over the world. But a jet-setting lifestyle is not what he wants. His dream of opening his own restaurant is being placed on hold over circumstances beyond his control.
Timing is everything...
When Vin bursts into Luca’s life, both men fall fast and hard. But their lives, their dreams, even the cities they live in couldn’t be more different.
Their few days together in Rome are romantic, emotionally intense, and leave them both wanting more.
Can a fleeting love affair change their lives forever?
133 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2016
19 people are currently reading
263 people want to read
About the author
Teodora Kostova
27 books453 followersTeodora Kostova writes romance where every heartbeat matters. She’s an award-winning, bestselling author, a linguist fluent in four languages, and a Creative Writing graduate with a weakness for broken characters who kiss slow and love loudly. When she’s not writing, she’s probably watching anime, trying to score tickets for a musical, or analysing a friend’s natal chart over strong coffee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
December 8, 2016
4 Stars.
Adorable
There could be some serious eye rolling going on here about how fast these two men get it on.But just take it for what it is.....a lovely,sexy Christmas story.I'm ok with insta lust but not so much with insta love but this was so damn cute that it worked for me.
Vin has come to Rome for his father's funeral.A father who left him when he was young and has never been there for him.He meets Luca on the day of the funeral and they connect straight away....so much so that Luca goes to the funeral with him and invites Vin to stay with him over Christmas.
If you want a romantic setting,this is definitely it.Rome......one of my favourite places to visit.The Author perfectly described it.
Vin and Luca were just so cute together.I loved them cooking/having meals together in Luca's apartment with the Christmas lights in the background.I loved them exploring the city and sight seeing together.
Just enough sexy times and not too long and drawn out,a bit of angst involving their families and the ending was just perfect.
Recommended for a quick,heart warming,sexy Christmas read.
"I wished for someone to spend Christmas with.....I wished for you"
Adorable
There could be some serious eye rolling going on here about how fast these two men get it on.But just take it for what it is.....a lovely,sexy Christmas story.I'm ok with insta lust but not so much with insta love but this was so damn cute that it worked for me.
Vin has come to Rome for his father's funeral.A father who left him when he was young and has never been there for him.He meets Luca on the day of the funeral and they connect straight away....so much so that Luca goes to the funeral with him and invites Vin to stay with him over Christmas.
If you want a romantic setting,this is definitely it.Rome......one of my favourite places to visit.The Author perfectly described it.
Vin and Luca were just so cute together.I loved them cooking/having meals together in Luca's apartment with the Christmas lights in the background.I loved them exploring the city and sight seeing together.
Just enough sexy times and not too long and drawn out,a bit of angst involving their families and the ending was just perfect.
Recommended for a quick,heart warming,sexy Christmas read.
December 5, 2016
~4.5~
This is a Romance with a capital R: love at first sight, a magical Christmas in Rome, and coins in a fountain.
Luca and Vin click immediately. Luca accompanies Vin to his estranged father's funeral an hour after they meet. And Vin wants him to come. Vin wants everything to do with Luca.
But Vin lives in New York and is halfway through his master's, while Luca lives in Rome and is fighting a legal battle with his cruel, nasty parents who are contesting his grandma's will. (There's a special place in the very centre of Hell reserved for Luca's parents.)
I loved both MCs and thought the plot regarding Vin's dad, as well as Vin's slow acceptance of his father's limitations, was really well done.
Kiss and Ride is a heartwarming and sexy story with the best epilogue!
This is a Romance with a capital R: love at first sight, a magical Christmas in Rome, and coins in a fountain.
Luca and Vin click immediately. Luca accompanies Vin to his estranged father's funeral an hour after they meet. And Vin wants him to come. Vin wants everything to do with Luca.
But Vin lives in New York and is halfway through his master's, while Luca lives in Rome and is fighting a legal battle with his cruel, nasty parents who are contesting his grandma's will. (There's a special place in the very centre of Hell reserved for Luca's parents.)
I loved both MCs and thought the plot regarding Vin's dad, as well as Vin's slow acceptance of his father's limitations, was really well done.
Kiss and Ride is a heartwarming and sexy story with the best epilogue!
December 17, 2016
This was a great book. A lot emotional and a lot cheeky. I constantly smiled and cried. Both Luca's and Vin's characters were well developed. I loved their personalities and how strong they were in their own rights to bear with the cards they'd been dealt with in their lives.
But there were a lot of typos. And they ruined the fun a little bit.
But there were a lot of typos. And they ruined the fun a little bit.
December 20, 2016
Ahhh, " Wuv. Twue Wuv... "
For me, this book was all about the romance and immediate, strong connection between art-student Vin and would-be chef Luca.
The early drama in the story surrounded Vin coming to terms with the fact that his estranged artist father had deserted him as a child, which ultimately resulted in Vin spending several years in foster care.
In the latter part of the book, most of the angst came from the New York to Rome long distance separation and how the guys dealt with it, until the time was right for their dream of being together, permanently, could be realized.
Yes, these were heavy topics, but when Vin and Luca were together, God, you just felt the magic between them, even from the very start.
Was this insta-love? Oh, fuck, yes! Zero doubt.
But did it 'feel' like insta-love? Nope, not one bit.
Vin and Luca also set the sheets on fire in this short 133 page read, so if you're looking for chemistry to go with an emotional attachment, it's here in spades.
This one worked really well for me and I'd suggest it for any time of year, not just for the holidays, as they seemed to fade into the background while watching these two work on and achieve their very satisfying, 4-star HEA.
Also, the epilogue was one of the most fulfilling that I've read recently. There is no doubt left as to Vin and Luca's desire to be together and succeed, no matter what may come their way. These two are here to stay.
*FREE* on Kindle Unlimited .
December 5, 2016
This was very insta-lovely, but it didn't seem to bother me the way most insta-love stories do. This was pretty angst-free, other than a small storyline about Vin being estranged from his father.
There are a lot of cliche plot points. Being stuck in an elevator together, bonding over touring the city, both men being friend and family less on Christmas Day, etc. I knocked a star off for that.
All in all, Christmas fluff with hot sex.
There are a lot of cliche plot points. Being stuck in an elevator together, bonding over touring the city, both men being friend and family less on Christmas Day, etc. I knocked a star off for that.
All in all, Christmas fluff with hot sex.
November 21, 2016
~4.5 stars~
This is my favorite Christmas story so far this year. I really loved the characters, the plot, the little bit of angst, and the setting. Oh God, that setting! I highly recommend that you add this book to your holiday reading list, but make sure you have your heart-shaped glasses on, because:
A) This is insta-love special. I 've said it before, Teodora Kostova really nails insta-love. This was done exceptionally well.
B) Some parts felt unrealistic, like .
But listen, you need to roll with it! Because it's Christmas in ROME! Believe me, this city does things to you. It's one of the most romantic destinations ever! So, put on your glasses, and roll with it.
Vin is an American student who came to Rome to attend his father's funeral. A father he never met. Luca is a steward who lives in Rome. The stars align, and these two happen to be in the right place at the right time. Vin and Luca won't be alone anymore. Not this Christmas.
I loved the days Vin and Luca spent together. There was slow burn, there was steam (so much steam), but there's was also sweetness and romance. Despite the short period, I felt the connection between the MCs, because they really shared experiences and feelings.
But Vin can't stay in Rome forever. I loved how this part played out, and that the characters decided to take their time apart without rushing things.
There are pink jock straps, penis shaped pasta, and hot as hell phone sex sessions.
But there are also late night walks all around Rome, promises made in front of Fontana di Trevi, and an amazing epilogue four years down the road.
I read this whole story melted into a puddle. Recommended!
“I took out a coin from my pocket, made a wish, and threw it in.”
“What did you wish for?”
“I wished for someone to spend Christmas with.” Luca’s voice was soft, gentle, like a caress given to a lover. “I wished for you.”
This is my favorite Christmas story so far this year. I really loved the characters, the plot, the little bit of angst, and the setting. Oh God, that setting! I highly recommend that you add this book to your holiday reading list, but make sure you have your heart-shaped glasses on, because:
A) This is insta-love special. I 've said it before, Teodora Kostova really nails insta-love. This was done exceptionally well.
B) Some parts felt unrealistic, like .
But listen, you need to roll with it! Because it's Christmas in ROME! Believe me, this city does things to you. It's one of the most romantic destinations ever! So, put on your glasses, and roll with it.
"God, he wanted this man! This beautiful, sensual, charismatic man he’d met the day before but felt like he’d known forever. This sexy, gorgeous man with the soulful dark eyes that made his heart beat faster with a single glance."
Vin is an American student who came to Rome to attend his father's funeral. A father he never met. Luca is a steward who lives in Rome. The stars align, and these two happen to be in the right place at the right time. Vin and Luca won't be alone anymore. Not this Christmas.
I loved the days Vin and Luca spent together. There was slow burn, there was steam (so much steam), but there's was also sweetness and romance. Despite the short period, I felt the connection between the MCs, because they really shared experiences and feelings.
But Vin can't stay in Rome forever. I loved how this part played out, and that the characters decided to take their time apart without rushing things.
There are pink jock straps, penis shaped pasta, and hot as hell phone sex sessions.
But there are also late night walks all around Rome, promises made in front of Fontana di Trevi, and an amazing epilogue four years down the road.
I read this whole story melted into a puddle. Recommended!
December 3, 2016
We have a winner!!!!
Kiss and Ride by Teodora Kostova was exactly what I was looking for in my holiday reads:
Romance + Heartbreak + Feel good = Hurt/Comfort/Healing Gold
It hooked me from the get-go.
My highlights:
-The plot. As the plot lets us know, they meet under unusual and sad circumstances. Luca takes Vin in and becomes his rock during this difficult time. Feelings grow quickly, but I bought it. I. Ate. It. All. Up.
-Luca and Vin. They were wonderful. Sweet, level-headed, and loyal.
-Chemistry. They had it in and out of the bedroom.
-Relationship development. She did a great job here. Insta-love doesn't often work for me, but because Teodora Kostova gave us glimpses of them beyond the bedroom- how compatible they were mentally- it clicked.
-Dual POV narration!
-Pace. It was easy and moved quick.
-I appreciated that there wasn't any stupid drama, which could've easily been used as a stupid plot point to build angst but the author didn't. Thank you! Instead, we got two men who communicated- they respected each other.
-Angst. It was there, and it made me cry.
-Feel good. Although there were heartbreak and tears, there was also plenty of feel good vibes as well.
-The end. I love epilogues that show us glimpses into characters' futures without dragging on.
I have to recommend this one, guys. It gave me so many feels; I loved everything about it. If you’re looking for a holiday read- look no further. 5 Stars!
December 5, 2016
So far, this is my second favorite Christmas read.
Yeah it was totally insta-love/lust/connection...whatever you want to call it. But I didn't mind. I really liked them together.
The side plots involving both MCs parents played out well. They didn't over-power the story.
Overall, a nice feel-good, sexy holiday read!
Yeah it was totally insta-love/lust/connection...whatever you want to call it. But I didn't mind. I really liked them together.
The side plots involving both MCs parents played out well. They didn't over-power the story.
Overall, a nice feel-good, sexy holiday read!
December 14, 2016
Some lovely and unnamed Elf gifted me this book. Thank you, whoever you are!!
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4.5 Stars
This book is just what I needed today. Yeah, it was a bit insta-lovey, but that didn't actually bother me. I was imagining myself at that age and, well, passions can run pretty high. I knew I wanted to spend my life with the man that became my husband within the first couple weeks we were together. And 23 years later we're still pretty damn happy. So I get young love. It doesn't always work out, but sometimes it really does. And it's beautiful.
Vin is a young New York Italian. He's an art major and he's gone to Rome for his father's funeral. His father, who was a famous artist. His father that left him and his mother when Vin was just 5 years old. His father that refused to take him in when he was 14 after his mother died. Vin was angry and justifiably so. He had not seen his father since he was a young child, but his father's lawyer insists he needs to go to Rome for the funeral. When he gets to Rome, he meets Luca, when they both get stuck in an elevator.
Luca is a flight attendant. He's estranged from his parents because they couldn't handle the gay. He has dreams of owning his own restaurant and furthering his grandparents legacy. And when he and Vin get stuck in an elevator, Luca can't help but want to help. Luca ends up taking Vin to the church where the funeral is being held, and then offers him a place to stay while he is in Rome. It is Christmas, after all, and Luca welcomes the company.
Vin and Luca spend the holidays getting to know each other, and cooking, and one thing leads to another and they can't keep their hands off each other. Luca shows Vin the best of Rome and they fit together like they were meant to be. I loved it and I loved their story. They bond over family issues and Italian food and each other's bodies. So beautiful! This might just be my favorite Christmas story of this year!
And the part of the book where they are apart, I found very refreshing. There was no angsty breakup. But neither were in a position to take things further at that time, so life must go on. But even though they were apart in body, they sure weren't in spirit and I still loved them.
Kiss and Ride was my first story by this author, but it won't be the last and I definitely recommend this one.
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4.5 Stars
This book is just what I needed today. Yeah, it was a bit insta-lovey, but that didn't actually bother me. I was imagining myself at that age and, well, passions can run pretty high. I knew I wanted to spend my life with the man that became my husband within the first couple weeks we were together. And 23 years later we're still pretty damn happy. So I get young love. It doesn't always work out, but sometimes it really does. And it's beautiful.
Vin is a young New York Italian. He's an art major and he's gone to Rome for his father's funeral. His father, who was a famous artist. His father that left him and his mother when Vin was just 5 years old. His father that refused to take him in when he was 14 after his mother died. Vin was angry and justifiably so. He had not seen his father since he was a young child, but his father's lawyer insists he needs to go to Rome for the funeral. When he gets to Rome, he meets Luca, when they both get stuck in an elevator.
Luca is a flight attendant. He's estranged from his parents because they couldn't handle the gay. He has dreams of owning his own restaurant and furthering his grandparents legacy. And when he and Vin get stuck in an elevator, Luca can't help but want to help. Luca ends up taking Vin to the church where the funeral is being held, and then offers him a place to stay while he is in Rome. It is Christmas, after all, and Luca welcomes the company.
Vin and Luca spend the holidays getting to know each other, and cooking, and one thing leads to another and they can't keep their hands off each other. Luca shows Vin the best of Rome and they fit together like they were meant to be. I loved it and I loved their story. They bond over family issues and Italian food and each other's bodies. So beautiful! This might just be my favorite Christmas story of this year!
And the part of the book where they are apart, I found very refreshing. There was no angsty breakup. But neither were in a position to take things further at that time, so life must go on. But even though they were apart in body, they sure weren't in spirit and I still loved them.
Kiss and Ride was my first story by this author, but it won't be the last and I definitely recommend this one.
December 12, 2016
4.5 tesoro stars!
Love this one, so sweet and passionate I'm kinda surprised how much I enjoyed it.
Vin and Lucas were so sweet and sexy together and yea yea they had an insta love but considering under the circumstances they met I felt their connection. After their first encounter they end up spending Christmas together which, I thought it was so sweet and romantic.
Both Vin/Luca were going through their own family drama and having to make difficult decisions but always having the best interest for each other. Even when in doubt and distance they kept going and held on to their love. I loved how each fought their own battle but gave each other strength, It made their love go stronger.
This was a heart warming, romantic and sexy read perfect for this holiday season that just leaves you with a smile on your face. <3
Love this one, so sweet and passionate I'm kinda surprised how much I enjoyed it.
Vin and Lucas were so sweet and sexy together and yea yea they had an insta love but considering under the circumstances they met I felt their connection. After their first encounter they end up spending Christmas together which, I thought it was so sweet and romantic.
Both Vin/Luca were going through their own family drama and having to make difficult decisions but always having the best interest for each other. Even when in doubt and distance they kept going and held on to their love. I loved how each fought their own battle but gave each other strength, It made their love go stronger.
This was a heart warming, romantic and sexy read perfect for this holiday season that just leaves you with a smile on your face. <3
April 17, 2018
I really liked this romance, I loved the setting in Rome for a large part of it. It was loosely divided into 3 parts; First meeting, Separation and then Reunion. I thought the two MCs were very well-developed and quickly felt very real and people I cared about. The story itself was well paced and the settings felt like the author knew them well. Lastly I liked the inclusion and explanation of Vin's father's mental illness and thought it was very well done. Overall this was a very enjoyable and heartfelt read.
December 11, 2019
***** Magnificent, sexy, and memorable tale of M/M romance and love !
This is a lovely Italian setting for the story of strangers to lovers. From being stuck in an elevator, to a funeral, then a magical space of time spent together, we see these wonderful men form a life long, forever bond.
* Luca, a local with a big heart,
a flight attendant who speaks 4 languages, helps a stranger in need. He's drawn to the man who is hurting.
* Vincent/Vin, is a slender, rugged man with thick long hair,
piercings and tattoos, an artist getting his Masters degree in NY, has no luck when traveling. He's come for his estranged father's funeral, who was a famous artist.
Having Luca at his side gave Vin a silent strength. How could he have gotten through all of this without Luca ? Plus, it is Christmas !
They take time to sightsee and fall into bed together. Their sex is on another level than either man has ever experienced. Sizzling ! From cooking together, long talks and walks, we see these two are made for one another.
Beautifully written by Teodora Kostova, who gives us a magical story of a deeply passionate love; a journey of mid 20s men finding their place in the world, and maybe fulfill their dreams, even if they change.
Magnificent ! Super sexy ! It's riveting and amazing from beginning to end. I loved It !
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
========================
Thanks dear Kathy for the rec !!
=======================
This is a lovely Italian setting for the story of strangers to lovers. From being stuck in an elevator, to a funeral, then a magical space of time spent together, we see these wonderful men form a life long, forever bond.
* Luca, a local with a big heart,
a flight attendant who speaks 4 languages, helps a stranger in need. He's drawn to the man who is hurting.
* Vincent/Vin, is a slender, rugged man with thick long hair,
piercings and tattoos, an artist getting his Masters degree in NY, has no luck when traveling. He's come for his estranged father's funeral, who was a famous artist.
Having Luca at his side gave Vin a silent strength. How could he have gotten through all of this without Luca ? Plus, it is Christmas !
They take time to sightsee and fall into bed together. Their sex is on another level than either man has ever experienced. Sizzling ! From cooking together, long talks and walks, we see these two are made for one another.
Beautifully written by Teodora Kostova, who gives us a magical story of a deeply passionate love; a journey of mid 20s men finding their place in the world, and maybe fulfill their dreams, even if they change.
Magnificent ! Super sexy ! It's riveting and amazing from beginning to end. I loved It !
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
========================
Thanks dear Kathy for the rec !!
=======================
December 7, 2016
4.5 Stars
Oh my goodness, how I loved this story!! I think this may have taken over as my favorite holiday story of the year.
For such a short story, this one packed in a lot of emotion. I may be in the minority, but having a lot of difficult family issues of my own, this pulled at my heart.
I absolutely adored Luca, I want him to move in with to be my emotional support, but mostly, I'd like for him to cook for me!!
If you are looking for a wonderful holiday story, this one is a sure choice.
Oh my goodness, how I loved this story!! I think this may have taken over as my favorite holiday story of the year.
For such a short story, this one packed in a lot of emotion. I may be in the minority, but having a lot of difficult family issues of my own, this pulled at my heart.
I absolutely adored Luca, I want him to move in with to be my emotional support, but mostly, I'd like for him to cook for me!!
If you are looking for a wonderful holiday story, this one is a sure choice.
November 18, 2016
Kiss and Ride is a sweet romance that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy from just how perfect of a romance it is .. but never fear author Teodora Kostova knows how to turn up the heat when the characters need it!
Teodora Kostova is a new to me author and now that I have experienced her stories I will definately be back for more. When I saw this book called Kiss and Ride I admit my mind went straight to the gutter, being from America - I am unaware of any such usage of the phrase...outside of in the naughty use. So, I was pleasantly surprised that not only did Ms. Kostova take the reader on a detailed tour of Rome, but she expanded my understanding of the usage of the phrase. For these MC, I still think my initial thoughts apply because these two know how to tear up the sheets!
So, this is the story of Vin and Luca - they meet by chance (or do they, maybe fate?) And they just click. You know the feeling, you meet someone and it feels like you have known them forever? Well thats the case in this story - and then some. The author weaves quite the romantic tale for these two - my only wish is that it was just a little more drawn out and of course up the angst and slow burn a notch or two. Other than that (yes I love to be strung along) it was a great love story.
During the time of the story where the two characters have to get back to their real lives, it felt sorta rushed. I was okay with that while reading because I wanted to get to the HEA - but, I think some more character building could have definitely been inserted in that time frame.
In addition to the romance the author weaved in some family drama and upset, I wish there had been a little more exploration about Vin's Dad and I am not sure that Luca's parents (jerks) deserved a spot in the book. However, thats just my thoughts and either way the story flowed and worked.
Overall, this was a fun read, a light romance, little angst or conflict and as my introductory book to this author I can say I will be looking for more books in the future!
3.5 Stars
Review Copy of Kiss and Ride provided by Teodora Kostova for an honest Review.
Teodora Kostova is a new to me author and now that I have experienced her stories I will definately be back for more. When I saw this book called Kiss and Ride I admit my mind went straight to the gutter, being from America - I am unaware of any such usage of the phrase...outside of in the naughty use. So, I was pleasantly surprised that not only did Ms. Kostova take the reader on a detailed tour of Rome, but she expanded my understanding of the usage of the phrase. For these MC, I still think my initial thoughts apply because these two know how to tear up the sheets!
So, this is the story of Vin and Luca - they meet by chance (or do they, maybe fate?) And they just click. You know the feeling, you meet someone and it feels like you have known them forever? Well thats the case in this story - and then some. The author weaves quite the romantic tale for these two - my only wish is that it was just a little more drawn out and of course up the angst and slow burn a notch or two. Other than that (yes I love to be strung along) it was a great love story.
During the time of the story where the two characters have to get back to their real lives, it felt sorta rushed. I was okay with that while reading because I wanted to get to the HEA - but, I think some more character building could have definitely been inserted in that time frame.
In addition to the romance the author weaved in some family drama and upset, I wish there had been a little more exploration about Vin's Dad and I am not sure that Luca's parents (jerks) deserved a spot in the book. However, thats just my thoughts and either way the story flowed and worked.
Overall, this was a fun read, a light romance, little angst or conflict and as my introductory book to this author I can say I will be looking for more books in the future!
3.5 Stars
Review Copy of Kiss and Ride provided by Teodora Kostova for an honest Review.
December 12, 2016
A nice, short Christmas story!
December 7, 2016
L-O-V-E-D!
Every single thing about it.
I know this is a Christmasy story but really it read as so much more.
I seriously loved it.
Every single thing about it.
I know this is a Christmasy story but really it read as so much more.
I seriously loved it.
December 4, 2016
*** 4.5 Stars ***
December 7, 2016
*3.5 stars*
Fontana di trevi
Colosseum
Roman Forum
Castel Sant’Angelo
Cefalù
Luuuuved the Italian visuals and it was fun looking them up!!
December 6, 2016
This book can be summed up with one word ROMANCE. It will make you believe in wishes whispered over tossed coins and all the magic Christmas can bring.
Luca and Vin are truly made for each other. Luca meets Vin at an airport. Vin is sad and a little broken. Before either fully understands how or why, Luca is driving him to his father's funeral and offers him shelter in his apartment.
Over the course of Christmas and New Year's, the two get to know each through conversations, shared meals and some hot times in the bedroom. Something else unexpected happens. They fill all those lonely spaces inside of each other and fall in love.
Luca believes in making wishes on coins tossed in fountains, and Vin rediscovers that childlike faith once again. Vin for his part encourages Luca when he is at his lowest reminding him not to give up hope on his dreams and to fight with his parents over a family inheritance.
The later part of the book doesn't cut corners. They fell in love quickly but with encouragement from each other solve their own problems. Vin has to forgive his father and find a way to use his artistic talents. Instead asking for money to pay off his parents in court, Luca faces off with them and fights for what is rightful his. I love the fact that each man got moral support from the other but still had the strength to find solutions to their problems and work toward building a future.
I truly loved romantic feel of this one.
Luca and Vin are truly made for each other. Luca meets Vin at an airport. Vin is sad and a little broken. Before either fully understands how or why, Luca is driving him to his father's funeral and offers him shelter in his apartment.
Over the course of Christmas and New Year's, the two get to know each through conversations, shared meals and some hot times in the bedroom. Something else unexpected happens. They fill all those lonely spaces inside of each other and fall in love.
Luca believes in making wishes on coins tossed in fountains, and Vin rediscovers that childlike faith once again. Vin for his part encourages Luca when he is at his lowest reminding him not to give up hope on his dreams and to fight with his parents over a family inheritance.
The later part of the book doesn't cut corners. They fell in love quickly but with encouragement from each other solve their own problems. Vin has to forgive his father and find a way to use his artistic talents. Instead asking for money to pay off his parents in court, Luca faces off with them and fights for what is rightful his. I love the fact that each man got moral support from the other but still had the strength to find solutions to their problems and work toward building a future.
I truly loved romantic feel of this one.
July 21, 2020
What an incredibly sweet story! From the moment these two meet in the elevator they have great chemistry, and watching their relationship evolve is a real treat.
Audio narrated by Dan Rider who has an absolutely adorable voice. He imparts just the right level of emotion and adds a layer to these characters that I don't think I'd have gotten from just reading alone.
an audiobook copy of Kiss and Ride was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
Audio narrated by Dan Rider who has an absolutely adorable voice. He imparts just the right level of emotion and adds a layer to these characters that I don't think I'd have gotten from just reading alone.
an audiobook copy of Kiss and Ride was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
May 8, 2017
4.5 Stars
I loved this. I loved the characters, the dual POV, the sweetness, the pace, but most of all I loved Dan Rider's narration.
Even though he was a bit nasally in a couple of areas, overall his narration fit this story like a glove. I loved his character voices, and the way he handled the emotional bits of the story. I just loved it!
This was a total surprise for me, as Dan is a new narrator to me and the book I just happened to pick up on a whim because of the whispersync deal...but it all worked for me.
Thoroughly enjoyed every minute. I can absolutely see this getting rotation at Christmas each year. <3
December 7, 2016
I really enjoyed this one. This is my first book by this author. Surprised it took me so long.I loved Vin and Luca , how they met and how they fell in love. This was a love story with some sad parts but still a beautiful love story.
December 24, 2022
4+
Zaskakująco dobra, urocza, świąteczna insta-love, którą można bez wahania nazwać Prawdziwym Romansem.
Co mi się podobało? Szczerze - to chyba nie przyczepiłabym się właściwie do niczego 😁 Może to ten konkretny czas w roku, może kwestia tego, że w końcu mogłam na spokojnie przeczytać książkę - bez rozpraszania się na sto tysięcy innych rzeczy, a może to po prostu najzwyczajniej w świecie ta konkretna historia.
Zarówno Vin, jak i Luca to kochane chłopaki. Dobrzy ludzie. Ich wzajemna fascynacja jest niezaprzeczalna i wręcz namacalna, ale jest w tym dużo więcej. To raczej spotkanie bratnich dusz, swojej drugiej połowy, tego jedynego. A że czas ku temu jest nieodpowiedni? Bo jest, bez dwóch zdań - zwłaszcza dla Vina. To oznacza, że trzeba będzie włożyć dużo więcej wysiłku, poświęceń i mieć dużo więcej wiary w to, że można być razem. Ale to, co można uzyskać, jest tego warte.
Podobało mi się to, że chłopaki - oprócz oczywistej chemii między nimi - autentycznie się o siebie troszczą, pokazana jest czułość, wzajemne wsparcie, zrozumienie, a nie tylko seks. Podobało mi się to, że autorka pokazała, że można być razem nie rezygnując z tego, co się miało w planach i co było dla kogoś ważne - a nie, skacząc na główkę, porzuca się wszystkie swoje marzenia i cele, aby tylko być z drugą osobą. Podobał mi się sposób, w jaki Vin przeszedł od czucia nieustannego gniewu na swojego ojca, który go opuścił niemalże 20 lat wcześniej, do powolnego zrozumienia i poznawania go, do pewnego rodzaju akceptacji, że było to nieuniknione i w sumie dobre dla niego. Podobał mi się sposób, w jaki autorka uwiarygodniła i umocniła tę insta-love. Podobał mi się epilog cztery lata później. Podobało mi się to, że w tej raczej krótkiej książce nie miałam wrażenia niedosytu, tego, że pędzimy nie pokazując ważnych dla bohaterów rzeczy i ważnych rzeczy o bohaterach. Za ta baaaardzo nie podobali mi się rodzice Luki - zadusiłabym ich gołymi rękami 👿
Generalnie wychodzi na to, że podobało mi się 😁
Zaskakująco dobra, urocza, świąteczna insta-love, którą można bez wahania nazwać Prawdziwym Romansem.
Co mi się podobało? Szczerze - to chyba nie przyczepiłabym się właściwie do niczego 😁 Może to ten konkretny czas w roku, może kwestia tego, że w końcu mogłam na spokojnie przeczytać książkę - bez rozpraszania się na sto tysięcy innych rzeczy, a może to po prostu najzwyczajniej w świecie ta konkretna historia.
Zarówno Vin, jak i Luca to kochane chłopaki. Dobrzy ludzie. Ich wzajemna fascynacja jest niezaprzeczalna i wręcz namacalna, ale jest w tym dużo więcej. To raczej spotkanie bratnich dusz, swojej drugiej połowy, tego jedynego. A że czas ku temu jest nieodpowiedni? Bo jest, bez dwóch zdań - zwłaszcza dla Vina. To oznacza, że trzeba będzie włożyć dużo więcej wysiłku, poświęceń i mieć dużo więcej wiary w to, że można być razem. Ale to, co można uzyskać, jest tego warte.
Podobało mi się to, że chłopaki - oprócz oczywistej chemii między nimi - autentycznie się o siebie troszczą, pokazana jest czułość, wzajemne wsparcie, zrozumienie, a nie tylko seks. Podobało mi się to, że autorka pokazała, że można być razem nie rezygnując z tego, co się miało w planach i co było dla kogoś ważne - a nie, skacząc na główkę, porzuca się wszystkie swoje marzenia i cele, aby tylko być z drugą osobą. Podobał mi się sposób, w jaki Vin przeszedł od czucia nieustannego gniewu na swojego ojca, który go opuścił niemalże 20 lat wcześniej, do powolnego zrozumienia i poznawania go, do pewnego rodzaju akceptacji, że było to nieuniknione i w sumie dobre dla niego. Podobał mi się sposób, w jaki autorka uwiarygodniła i umocniła tę insta-love. Podobał mi się epilog cztery lata później. Podobało mi się to, że w tej raczej krótkiej książce nie miałam wrażenia niedosytu, tego, że pędzimy nie pokazując ważnych dla bohaterów rzeczy i ważnych rzeczy o bohaterach. Za ta baaaardzo nie podobali mi się rodzice Luki - zadusiłabym ich gołymi rękami 👿
Generalnie wychodzi na to, że podobało mi się 😁
December 20, 2016
This was a nice and funny story, spanning over 2 Christmas eves.
Luca is a flight attendant and Vin an artist, who came to Rome for his estranged fathers funeral.
They spend a few days together, Luca offering comfort and both enjoy spending time together. But timing is really bad and Vin is supposed to go back home to New York.
However throwing a coin in the Trevi fountain he makes a promise to be back for next years Christmas eve. But can a relationship develop when they are apart for such a long time and was it really more than a few days of hot sex and giving each other comfort, they spent?
I liked the writing and I also enjoyed the setting in Rome and the special circumstances of the 2 main characters. However, it also lacked some depths and did not really get me very hooked.
So I would say it`s your typical holiday story, nice while it lasts but nothing you would think about afterwards.
3.5 holiday stars from me.
Luca is a flight attendant and Vin an artist, who came to Rome for his estranged fathers funeral.
They spend a few days together, Luca offering comfort and both enjoy spending time together. But timing is really bad and Vin is supposed to go back home to New York.
However throwing a coin in the Trevi fountain he makes a promise to be back for next years Christmas eve. But can a relationship develop when they are apart for such a long time and was it really more than a few days of hot sex and giving each other comfort, they spent?
I liked the writing and I also enjoyed the setting in Rome and the special circumstances of the 2 main characters. However, it also lacked some depths and did not really get me very hooked.
So I would say it`s your typical holiday story, nice while it lasts but nothing you would think about afterwards.
3.5 holiday stars from me.
January 14, 2023
The young American art student Vin flies in a rush to Rome to attend his estranged father's memorial. Just landed he gets stuck in an elevator with flight attendant Luca, who lives in Rome.
While Luca helps Vin to stay calm during their involuntary time in the elevator, he learns about Vin's difficult situation and decides to drive the stranger to the church. Luca even accompanies Vin during the memorial and offers him a place to sleep in his apartment.
The setting in Rome is definitely great and the story has some really sweet and romantic moments but I had some problems with Luca's decision to accompany a total stranger to a funeral, when he just returned from a ten hour flight himself, as well as the family issues both MCs have.
3,5 stars
While Luca helps Vin to stay calm during their involuntary time in the elevator, he learns about Vin's difficult situation and decides to drive the stranger to the church. Luca even accompanies Vin during the memorial and offers him a place to sleep in his apartment.
The setting in Rome is definitely great and the story has some really sweet and romantic moments but I had some problems with Luca's decision to accompany a total stranger to a funeral, when he just returned from a ten hour flight himself, as well as the family issues both MCs have.
3,5 stars
Read
January 21, 2021DNF. Time of death 22%.
Too much telling, not enough showing. Almost a quarter of the way through the book and the two MCs have barely had a conversation on the page. There is very little dialogue and everything they’ve said and done reads like a summary.
Too much telling, not enough showing. Almost a quarter of the way through the book and the two MCs have barely had a conversation on the page. There is very little dialogue and everything they’ve said and done reads like a summary.
January 17, 2021
This was an awesome novella. It gave me all the feels. Review in full to come when I have gathered my thoughts.
December 14, 2016
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
I love Ms Kostova's writing, so was really happy to get to read and review this book. Her writing is so smooth and enticing, that I knew I would do nothing else but read it straight through! I find her lead characters are always people I would want to be friends with; who are creative, yet enjoy the simple pleasures in life, such as a good meal, relaxing on a sofa and admiring a view. And I think the reveal on the title (if you don't know already) is beautifully done.
Vin is not quite the man we think he is when we first meet him, it takes time for his full story to be uncovered, and we grew to understand him better as he learns more about his past. The support he gets from Luca is what gives him a chance to discover himself. That we get to experience these two falling for each other is a real treat. They absolutely deserve each other, and And the ending is perfect - for any true romantic!
If you want a really lovely Christmas read, then I would highly recommend this to you. It has gone on my to be reread pile, for when I need to put a smile on my face.
I love Ms Kostova's writing, so was really happy to get to read and review this book. Her writing is so smooth and enticing, that I knew I would do nothing else but read it straight through! I find her lead characters are always people I would want to be friends with; who are creative, yet enjoy the simple pleasures in life, such as a good meal, relaxing on a sofa and admiring a view. And I think the reveal on the title (if you don't know already) is beautifully done.
Vin is not quite the man we think he is when we first meet him, it takes time for his full story to be uncovered, and we grew to understand him better as he learns more about his past. The support he gets from Luca is what gives him a chance to discover himself. That we get to experience these two falling for each other is a real treat. They absolutely deserve each other, and And the ending is perfect - for any true romantic!
If you want a really lovely Christmas read, then I would highly recommend this to you. It has gone on my to be reread pile, for when I need to put a smile on my face.
November 25, 2016
I absolutely adored the story of Luca and Vin!! This book is absolutely amazing and the characters are amazing. This book will make you smile laugh and cry while it takes you through their amazing story. They first meet when they are stuck in the elevator and Luca makers Vin feel calmer and that its what he needs in the situation he is in. Once out of the elevator Vin is not sure where he will stay while he is in Rome and Luca feeling dune sort of connection to Vin offers Rio let him stay with him until he figures out where to stay. Once he's there these two form a instant friendship and connection and Vin ends up staying with him the whole three weeks he is there. While in Rome Vin has to deal with a family issue and Luca it's there the whole time helping him through. During that time these two connect on a deeper level than ever before. Soon the time comes for Vin to go home to N.Y. and they are both devastated but realize now is not their time. They agree to meet a year later but make a promise not to pass up the chance to be happy in the mean time. I loved this story and all the descriptions of the place the author brings you there and makes you feel it. I loved the Christmas scenes so much I think it was one of my favorite parts!! This book is full of warm and fuzziness, smiles and laughs, and hot and sexies!!
December 9, 2016
This was a very sweet love story. Vin meets Luca in Rome when they get stuck in an elevator at the airport. Luca is a flight attendant returning home and Vin is there to attend his father's memorial service. This is the start of their romance and I thoroughly enjoyed watching it evolve.
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