Roxanne Mabini, a twenty-five-year-old single mother of twins, joined a speed-dating event just for fun and to get "speed-dating" checked off her bucket list. She wasn't looking for anything.
...Until the devastatingly handsome bartender, Aloysius "Wish" Gregorio, stepped up to fill in for the lack of male participants, mesmerizing Roxanne. Literally, he was every girl's wish.
Finally, she's met a man who shares her interests. But will a girl whose heart has been shred to pieces learn to trust and love again?
When Roxanne's first love and the father of her children, Chris, drops back into her life, old flames reignite. Chris has been waiting for the right time ever since he was forced to leave her, and now he aims to win her back.
Will the chemistry and powerful connection between Roxanne and Wish be strong enough to fight the old flame that is once again burning bright?
Roxanne must make a big decision: provide a complete family to her children, or share her life with her heart's desire. Will she find love, lose it, or know when to walk away?
Ysa Arcangel is the author of the Moments to Remember Series, Underneath It All and Love at First Sit. She has also written an urban fantasy novella, “Nexus Series Book 1: Anathema”. She is based in Manila and is a loving partner to a very talented chef. She is also a fan of tattoos, a lover of giant dogs, and an enthusiast of extreme sports.
In real life, she is a Spanish speaking GDS Consultant and mother to three amazing kids. Her alter ego is an attention seeking and a hopeless romantic author who melts over a tattooed hero with 6-pack abs. Her alter ego is extrovert and a social media junkie. And just like in real life a coffee addict.
What this book is all about, just pulled me in. what a fun quick read for me. Ysa is new to me ... Love Ysa's style of writing. Love this cover. so vibrant and fun! I found it on Kindle Unlimited, you might wanna bring a few tissues, i sure did. it is an emotional sweet romance. I have seen movies, read books, and even seen a few tv shows about "speed dating" but never know any one personally who has done that? I met my hubby online ... I guess that is similar ... i am guessing though. such a great read. Check it out! ( :
This is a great romance with a lot of heart. I really enjoyed the story. It is a more realistic storyline that should resonate with many.
Roxanne is a single mom without love in her life after she was abandoned while pregnant with twins. She suddenly has too many options and has to make a choice when she finds herself with two prospects after speed dating and meeting a new guy and then her ex comes back to the scene. Does she give her ex another chance or take a chance on a new love? It is a story that really moves you.
I absolutely loved this story! This was my first book read by Ysa Arcangel and I can't wait to read more. Who would have thought that speed dating would lead to the love of your life? Roxanne certainly didn't. Who would want to date a single mom of two? That was until she met Wish, the bartender at the bar. Roxanne and Wish were two people meant to be together. Even when her ex came back into the picture, she knew the right thing to do was to "Move On". Beautiful story. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone
This is the first story I've read by Ysa. It was a harder story for me to get into with the setting being in the Philippines which I know little about or the culture. Over all the premise of the story was awesome. It just took me some to get around the other barriers.
Wish and Roxy had some hurdles to get around but in the end they made them past them and learned what true love really is.
I liked the way the author gives us a flavor of the culture, language, and food as she sets the stage for this sweet romance. I liked Roxanne and her strong fighting spirit. Heartbroken but moving on from the love of her life abandoning her, she steadfastly raises her twins as a single mother. Coerced into a speed dating event by her friend, she meets Wish. This sweet friend’s to life partner romance hits on a lot of topics that are heartbreakingly real. A true love that gets derailed due to jealousy from a family member. The dream of your lost Love returning and wanting you back, only to find that he has involved another woman into what should have been yours. The realization that the person you loved is just a memory and no longer exists. The hard choices to move from the past and look into the future. Roxanne goes through all of this while gently falling in love with Wish. We also see the consequences of blended families and how the love and acceptance of a parent can help their children have a healthy sense of self, like Wish did. All in all a very satisfying read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was such a sweet story about finding love when you least expect it and trying to figure out what the right thing to do is.
Roxanne is a single mom of adorable twins who reluctantly goes to a speed dating event with her best friend where she meets Aloysius a/k/a Wish. There is attraction from the beginning but she’s not expecting anything to come of it considering she has “baggage”.
Wish is a hot bartender who wants to get to know this beautiful woman. They strike up a friendship and become closer and just when he is ready to make his move, Roxanne’s old flame comes back. The struggle to reunite her family or to follow her heart leads Roxanne to make some hasty, and bad decisions. Wish is left wondering where he stands. Can he come between a father and his children?
I thought it was an interesting story. The struggle Roxanne was going through was so real. The unresolved feelings over her ex and the new love interest that was making her feel things she hadn’t felt in years. And there was also her children to consider. It’s not an easy situation to be in. Wish was such a good character. His understanding and patience with Roxanne was so endearing. I loved that he was so considerate of her children, like a true father.
It was also interesting learning some things about a different culture. I love the gesture of taking the hand and putting it to your forehead as a sign of respect to an elder.
This story has a lot of twist and turns of relationship. You get to see the good and bad of having a relationship with a single mother. Wish is a guy that is falling for Roxanne until things start to get to hot and runs. Roxanne is a single mother and starts to fall fast for Wish and then all stop. You can feel the steamy chemistry between these two and what will make them fall apart quickly. You will go through some many emotions in this story with Roxanne and Wish. I highly recommend this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Roxanne did speed dating for a friend. Wish got the spark when he met her. Past tends to catch up with one after awhile. The HEA will always get you in the end. Love comes out on top! Which one will it be the Ex or the New Guy?
You gotta love a patient guy who knows what he wants but willing to sacrifice for the girl he loves, and Aloysius "Wish" Gregorio is that guy. He's half Filipino half American, works as a bartender and a part time tattoo artist. Roxanne Mabini, a 25-year-old single mother of twins who was burnt from a past relationship that didn't work out. She's level headed, strong, she smokes and she has a tattoo. They are a blend of a perfectly flawed characters.
I loved this story, because you have that undeniable chemistry between the main characters. Roxanne is trying to control her feelings, while Wish pursues her. Then she ends up getting heartbroken because he leaves, and she's thinking it's because she chooses her old flame for the sake of giving her kids a complete family. Of course, there is more to the situation.
I was waiting for the shoe to drop when Roxanne's ex returned and I was like her bestfriend Mina, "Your ex just kissed you and you forgot about Wish?!" Then, I realized what she did was possibly what every girl/mother would do. You'll give up your own happiness for the sake of the ones you love.
By the end of the story, Wish had me in a puddle of mud because what he did was just so amazing. Yes, he knows how to do things right.
You know its a great book when it makes you teary-eyed but you are smiling at the same time. It's realistic, straight-forward, matured and full of heart.
I highly recommend this book. Set in the beautiful country Philippines. Written by a Filipino author in a way a foreign reader will enjoy and surprisingly able to relate with. This is going to be a sure hit!
My only complain is no smut. This is the third book I've read from this author and knowing her writing style, she writes good smut that can blow off your sheets! Now I'm waiting for book 2!
This is the first book I have had the pleasure of reading by this author, and I seriously hope it's not the last. A beautiful story of childhood sweethearts, misguided love, family interference, single moms and their struggles, and of course, love at first sight, or sit in this case, as well as the all too common, mixed families of today's times. Roxanne has struggled for the past five years, trying to cope when her childhood sweetheart left her pregnant and alone with no explanation whatsoever. She has put her life on hold to raise her twins to the best of her ability, with no support from her family. Her best friend and direct supervisor at work, has managed to coax her to take one thing off of her bucket list, the only question is who's bucket list this item was actually on, speed dating. It is here that she meets the most interesting man she has ever seen, captivated by his beautiful eyes and witty comebacks...Wish. But she's not ready for a relationship. After having been burnt to a crisp by her ex, she's not sure she will ever love again, or that she's even worthy of having someone love her. Wish has his own set of insecurities. He's more the "love them and leave them" kind of guy, but as soon as he sets eyes on Foxy Roxy, he's a goner. But she's pushing him back, so he decides the only way to get to know her is to go nice and slow, be her buddy, not her boyfriend. But will he have lost his chance once her ex shows up back in town and wanting his family back? A wonderful tear-jerker that you may want to have the tissues handy for. Well written and a story line that is very easy to follow, this book will have your emotions all over the charts. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review*
It’s not easy being a single mom of twins, but Roxanne didn’t have a choice when her childhood sweetheart left without an explanation. Can a closed-off heart learn to take a chance and love again? That was the last thing that Roxanne expected to happen when she agreed to take part in a Speed Date evening with her friend (and manager). But then fate stepped in when drop dead gorgeous and tattooed Aloysius "Wish" Gregorio sat down as one of her speed dates…and she didn’t want him to leave.
Their love was not always on the same page – even though he was head over heels about her, he decided to take it slow…but then her sweetheart comes back…who will she end up with? You’ll have to read the book and find out for yourself.
Ysa Arcangel is an amazing author and this is the third book of hers that I thoroughly enjoyed. Thank you for the awesome journey Ysa. Your two main characters were so relatable and real, like all of your writing.
This was the first book I've read by this author, and I found whilst the story was good, I could not for the life of me connect with the characters.
Set in Makati in the Philippines, it tells the story of Roxanne and Aloysius aka Wish. Roxanne is a single mother of twins. They meet at a speed dating event that Roxanne friend pushed her into going to. Wish is the bartender who got pulled into the event due to circumstances.
They connected and they form a bond of sorts, but Roxanne is still unsure about going further as her last relationship did not end well. Her ex Chris leaving her with the children.
When Chris does come back, it throws the blooming relationship between Roxanne and Wish into turmoil, as it becomes a question of love verses family.
The writing for me seemed a bit stilted, and I couldn't get my attention to stay with the story throughout. There were a few foreign phrases but the author was attentive in having links that led to the meanings.
I'll give this a 3.5 star read. An ARC copy received from author was used to review this book.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review
It is a catchy title… in this world of too much information and that was what attracted me to the book in the first place (2nd was coz I did enjoy Ysa’s other book and was looking for another book to read).
I was expecting a bit more fluffy-ness as it was a romance novel but I did very much appreciate the take and focus on blended families – especially in this day and age. I’m a strong believer that the adage “blood is thicker than water” should not be used so freely seeing my own personal situation of family/friends. The latter is more family than the former for me in most instances.
But being a romance novel, it is a good and easy read for a weekend or some down time at the beach and it was a good story. Well-paced with the two leads that has great conversations together and it is funny to hear them call each other by that very interesting pet name… suddenly I don’t feel so odd with my pet name.
OW Ysa, your tuggin on my heart strings. I didn't know kleenex would be needed for this emotionally sweet romance! Now I can warn all of you to bring them along.
This is my first time reading a book by Author Ysa Arcangel, but it won't be my last. Not even if kleenex will be involved again. That just means she wrote another sweet and emotionally charged story for me to devour. And devour, I did!
Some of her phrasings were a little different than I am use to, due to the cultural differences and language barrier here and there. The story takes place in the Philippines, but ultimately, I found myself surprised to have gotten used to her style of writing an had no issues enjoying it. Before long I didn't notice it anymore.
I definitely recommend you give this beautifully written romance a try and I guarantee you won't regret it. Just don't forget the kleenex!
****I voluntarily reviewed this advanced reader copy.****
It was a wonderful story of a young mom putting herself out there again and to find love. He is from a broken home and do is she. She is gun shy and worried about her children, and he understands. They meet at a speed dating nighyt.
Love at First Sit by Ysa Arcangel is a sweet story about a single mother of twins whose friends convince her to go to a speed dating event at a local bar. Roxanne meets Aloysius (Wish) and finally Roxy feels happy and, well, maybe there is a possibility of falling in love. Then, out of the blue, the father of her twins shows up! What to do? How does she feel?
This is a story that will keep you wondering as you read well into the night. I found this book compelling and I did learn about the Philippine culture and some of the Filipino expressions. The plot and characters are well developed. The only thing I did not like was some of the rough language that appeared occasionally in the book. This is a clean story that will keep you turning pages as you find out about the different characters. I recommend this book.
I do enjoy reading romance when authors add children to their stories, but it has to be done well as the children can often take over the story leaving the romance part falling short. Ysa Arcangel did an amazing job. How I wish there were more moments between Aloysius and the twins. That would be heartwarming. The road to love was not an easy one for Wish and Roxy but just like what Wish said he'd make it a memorable trip and he did. It was a book that touched my heart and had me sighing happily while almost in tears.
This review is from: Love at First Sit (Kindle Edition) This is a really cute romantic story of a single mom of twins who is convinced by her girlfriend to go to a speed dating event. While drinking some liquid courage at the bar she flirts with Wish, the handsome bartender. Because someone doesn't show up and they are short some men, the event organizer has her friend Wish full in. He is the best book boyfriend. I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving an advanced reading copy.
Roxanne is a single mother of twins who is afraid to get close to a man again. Wish is a bartender at the bar where the speed dating event was held. They fell for each other at first sit but didn't let the other know. Just when Roxanne is ready to move on, the twins father returns. Things aren't always as they seem. The truth all Ways comes out in the end. I voluntarily received a copy of this book for an honest review
This delightful tale of relationships gone wrong and right focuses on what it really means to be a father (versus sperm donor). Set in the Philippines with some marvelous travelogue scene stealing, you are introduced to local manners, customs, nicknames and lingo adding an international flavor to the love story.
I liked the idea, but the way the story unfolded, the writing, the characters... It all felt weak to me. And it's sad because I really like the premise of the story. Oh, well.
Another amazing romance story by Ysa Arcangel!!! Wish is one of the best guys you will meet, Roxanne's independence and strength is inspiring. Humorous, romantic, heartbreaking, plot twisting, closure! Need I say more because it's a must read!!
This was a fun read but there were parts of it when Roxanne was so confused that I just wanted to say, what the heck?? It's a good book! Everyone needs a Wish in their life!
Roxanne is a single mother to an amazing set of twins. She was left by her childhood sweetheart when she was pregnant with them, and she tries to be the best single mom there is. She put all her focus on her children, and closed off her heart to take a chance on love.
Love finds you when you least expect it, most especially in Speed Dating, an event she was forced to attend by her friend. There she met Aloysius “Wish” Gregorio who sat as one of her speed dates. And despite the attraction, she was still wary of him. After all, she has some responsibilities some hot, young men don’t want.
But Wish proved to be different as he starts to break the walls that she built around him. He was very determined and persuasive, but didn’t push. He was really patient, and he was the kind of man you would bring home to your mother. The kind who isn’t scared of responsibilities and would take on any challenges just to have you.
Then, the old flame who left her when she was pregnant came back – and everything Wish built was about to crumble in front of him. Who will Roxanne pick? Exciting, frustrating, but definitely worth the read!
This is my third Ysa Arcangel book, and every book she wrote (that I read) is incredible. This one is no different. Love at First Sit is filled with emotions, and she proudly shows off Filipino customs and values. You can easily put yourself in the shoes of the characters, and fall in love with them despite of their imperfections.
If you are an adult of a certain age, and have turned down the match making efforts of friends and family in all their nightmarish technicolor wounding of their feelings, you too have probably suffered through a round or two of speed dating.
The biggest advantage I saw was discounted drinks and noshies - but as one gal pal advised, if you must indulge, go for the noshies, not the drinkies or you might wake up with worse than a hangover.
Speed dating events are all the horrors of adult dating compressed into brief bites of time.
As our featured single mom Roxanne points out, you often get geeks or freaks. The socially awkward, or the type who live in mommies basement and collect possibly illegal stuffed things.
3 to five minutes of hell, you are in a group, so no solo dangers immediately, and nearly sufficient quantities of alcohol to survive the event.
Roxanne meets bartender Wish, who steps in to fill a shortfall of men at the event she attends with another single mom and bestie.
Roxanne is the single mom who wears her motherhood like a lioness and proudly. Friend Mona is the meet guy now and let him know about kid later variety.
Since Roxanne was deserted by the father of her twins five years ago, her confidence took quite a beating.
Wish grew up in a blended family and fully accepts Roxanne, kids and her mom.
He is funny, good with the kids, sweet, and does not push too much.
Will she be foolish enough to try to reconcile with her baby daddy when he reappears, or can she finally move on with the one she loves- Wish?
The story is loads of fun, as it makes you laugh and think about family and relationships.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I thought this book looked interesting since it took place in the Phillipines and the heroine was raising twins by herself while getting a second chance at love. However, from the beginning there was something off about the writing for me…awkward, stilted. Then I hit a pet peeve. The male protagonist had broken up with his girlfriend because she had an abortion and didn’t tell him about it beforehand. I have no problem with Wish being upset over the way it happened or breaking up with her because he didn’t like her not consulting him, BUT I did have a problem with him criticizing her reasons (she was still a student) and then the main character joined in and questioned the mental state of a woman choosing abortion, and I’m OUT. DNF at 25%
“I get the whole ‘it’s my body’ argument, but not ‘because it’s not a good time to have a child’…” Wish “Why would anyone in her right mind want to abort her child? How could she ever have thought of abortion at all?” Roxanne
Nice love story. About single mums, absent fathers, returning exes and second chances. Some parts made me feel I should have had some previous knowledge about the characters, which I didn't have. Like when Roxanne all of a sudden starts singing and playing guitar in her mother's restaurant. I, as reader, had no idea she could sing, had no idea she played guitar. And there are more things like that (which I won't tell, because I don't want to spoil it). But I loved the overall story and characters enough to give it 4 stars. I received a copy through Booksprout and chose to review it.
Wish and Roxanne are absolutely perfect together. I love how patient Wish is with her and being friends with her instead of pushing a romantic relationship with her. The way her kids took right up with him was amazing and you can tell he fell in love with them immediately as well. This was a great read!
She is a mother of twins trying speed dating just to cross it off her bucket list. He steps in when there are too few men. She finds she likes him but can she trust it. Especially when the father of her twins reappears into her life. Now she has two men after her? What is she going to do? Follow her and see
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.