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Heart Resort #2
Know You by Heart
From the USA Today bestselling author of In a Book Club Far Away comes a delightful installment in the Heart Resort series about finding love that’s been right in front of you all along.
As the oldest child in his family, Chris Puso has always taken his responsibilities seriously. He’ll do whatever it takes to ensure Heart Resort’s success. Four and a half years ago, that meant marrying Eden, a woman he admired but didn’t love, to access a family trust that benefited them both.
Eden Puso, a.k.a. romance author Everly Heart, believes in true love—in her novels, at least. But her marriage to Chris was more about funding her writing career and supporting her family than finding her happily ever after. And despite their mutual attraction toward one another, they stayed loyal to the contract…for the most part.
With six months until the end of their contract and with their careers taking off, their marriage of convenience has become, well, a little inconvenient. A competing resort threatens to usurp Heart Resort, and Chris and Eden band together to preserve its reputation, including doing a retreat themselves. But as the retreat uncovers their history and their hidden love for one another, can their relationship survive so their partnership reaches its natural conclusion?
As the oldest child in his family, Chris Puso has always taken his responsibilities seriously. He’ll do whatever it takes to ensure Heart Resort’s success. Four and a half years ago, that meant marrying Eden, a woman he admired but didn’t love, to access a family trust that benefited them both.
Eden Puso, a.k.a. romance author Everly Heart, believes in true love—in her novels, at least. But her marriage to Chris was more about funding her writing career and supporting her family than finding her happily ever after. And despite their mutual attraction toward one another, they stayed loyal to the contract…for the most part.
With six months until the end of their contract and with their careers taking off, their marriage of convenience has become, well, a little inconvenient. A competing resort threatens to usurp Heart Resort, and Chris and Eden band together to preserve its reputation, including doing a retreat themselves. But as the retreat uncovers their history and their hidden love for one another, can their relationship survive so their partnership reaches its natural conclusion?
319 pages, Paperback
First published April 5, 2022
150 people are currently reading
3830 people want to read
About the author
Tif Marcelo
32 books759 followersTif Marcelo is a veteran US Army nurse and holds a BS in Nursing and a Master’s in public administration. She believes and writes about the strength of families, the endurance of friendship, heartfelt romances, and is inspired daily by her own military hero husband and four children. She hosts The Stories to Love Podcast, and is the USA Today bestselling author of In a Book Club Far Away, Once Upon a Sunset, The Key to Happily Ever After, which was a Target Diverse Book Club pick, The Holiday Switch, and the Heart Resort and Journey to the Heart series. She and her books have been featured in The Today Show, Shondaland, Real Simple Magazine, The Asian Journal and more! Her website, which includes a link to her newsletter, is www.TifMarcelo.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
September 30, 2023
Know You by Heart by Tif Marcelo
Heart Resort series #2. Contemporary romance. Multiple times lines for the same couple as background. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Chris Puso is acting head of the family and is in charge of running Heart Resort. He married Eden to gain access to a trust fund to help run the resort. It was a business arrangement that suited them both at the time. But rumors and competition is putting the couple in the spotlight. Social media wants to know they are a happy couple and not just a front for the couples resort.
Eden married Chris so she could concentrate on her writing career and help support her own family. Now that’s she a successful romance writer, if the truth of their marriage comes out, she’s concerned it will hurt her career as well as her family.
Together Chris and Eden either need to put on a good show or decide what they are really getting out of their marriage.
It’s a bit heartbreaking as the two circle around each other and focus on career over heart. Switching time lines can be a bit confusing if you don’t pay attention. I loved that Chris read all her books and while focused on the resort, actually paid attention and supported Eden. She sees only the phone calls that interrupt.
They pull it together in the end for a happy ending.
3.5
Heart Resort series #2. Contemporary romance. Multiple times lines for the same couple as background. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Chris Puso is acting head of the family and is in charge of running Heart Resort. He married Eden to gain access to a trust fund to help run the resort. It was a business arrangement that suited them both at the time. But rumors and competition is putting the couple in the spotlight. Social media wants to know they are a happy couple and not just a front for the couples resort.
Eden married Chris so she could concentrate on her writing career and help support her own family. Now that’s she a successful romance writer, if the truth of their marriage comes out, she’s concerned it will hurt her career as well as her family.
Together Chris and Eden either need to put on a good show or decide what they are really getting out of their marriage.
It’s a bit heartbreaking as the two circle around each other and focus on career over heart. Switching time lines can be a bit confusing if you don’t pay attention. I loved that Chris read all her books and while focused on the resort, actually paid attention and supported Eden. She sees only the phone calls that interrupt.
They pull it together in the end for a happy ending.
3.5
May 16, 2022
I received a copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I read the first book in the series last year and liked it, but didn’t love it. This book was definitely a step up from the last one.
The premise is the classic romance trope, marriage of convenience. However, it takes places when the marriage of convenience is nearing its end, which is a cool twist to the trope. I found that twist very refreshing and it offered a unique perspective to the trope. I enjoyed seeing the main characters, Chris and Eden, discover their true feelings for each other.
I also liked that Eden and Chris went on a couple’s retreat at the resort. The couples resort was talked about in the first book, but this book really delved into how it operated and what the program was like. The couple’s retreat was fun to read about and also aided in Chris and Eden’s character development.
I just have to point out that I love that this series has so much Filipino representation. As a Filipino American, I love seeing Filipino culture highlighted.
Lastly, like the first book, I do feel like there were some pacing issues with this one. Some parts seemed to move slower than others.
Overall, this was a great installment to the series and I am looking forward to the next one!
I read the first book in the series last year and liked it, but didn’t love it. This book was definitely a step up from the last one.
The premise is the classic romance trope, marriage of convenience. However, it takes places when the marriage of convenience is nearing its end, which is a cool twist to the trope. I found that twist very refreshing and it offered a unique perspective to the trope. I enjoyed seeing the main characters, Chris and Eden, discover their true feelings for each other.
I also liked that Eden and Chris went on a couple’s retreat at the resort. The couples resort was talked about in the first book, but this book really delved into how it operated and what the program was like. The couple’s retreat was fun to read about and also aided in Chris and Eden’s character development.
I just have to point out that I love that this series has so much Filipino representation. As a Filipino American, I love seeing Filipino culture highlighted.
Lastly, like the first book, I do feel like there were some pacing issues with this one. Some parts seemed to move slower than others.
Overall, this was a great installment to the series and I am looking forward to the next one!
April 5, 2022
Know you by heart
Eden and Chris are just meant to be together. While their start is quite rocky, they really make it work.
For Chris, family and inheritance is everything and at the beginning, he is described as greedy and not carrying for anyone but himself. Throughout the book, he shows his true face, and I loved those parts.
There are different timelines in between the chapters. From the first moments they met to the nowadays married life when they both realise that this fake marriage has nothing to do with fake but real feelings.
Eden is a romance author and I love how she stands up for her time to write and single moments outside their relationship.
The family is very meddling, in both parts, but they are all in a good way and I loved to read about mixed cultures and interactions.
I’m looking forward to read the next books in the series because this is the second book that I’ve read and enjoyed by the author.
Very grateful to the publisher for my review copy through NetGalley
Eden and Chris are just meant to be together. While their start is quite rocky, they really make it work.
For Chris, family and inheritance is everything and at the beginning, he is described as greedy and not carrying for anyone but himself. Throughout the book, he shows his true face, and I loved those parts.
There are different timelines in between the chapters. From the first moments they met to the nowadays married life when they both realise that this fake marriage has nothing to do with fake but real feelings.
Eden is a romance author and I love how she stands up for her time to write and single moments outside their relationship.
The family is very meddling, in both parts, but they are all in a good way and I loved to read about mixed cultures and interactions.
I’m looking forward to read the next books in the series because this is the second book that I’ve read and enjoyed by the author.
Very grateful to the publisher for my review copy through NetGalley
September 14, 2022
Chris and Eden story is a marriage of convenience story this has two timelines back then and now and like snapping fingers we are accelerated abruptly and here reality crashes the fake marriage
The building of their love is slow and difficult and steady
Not my favorite writing style and pace burnt read books that should bow to this
Well done
3stars
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC
The building of their love is slow and difficult and steady
Not my favorite writing style and pace burnt read books that should bow to this
Well done
3stars
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC
November 5, 2021
Thanks Netgalley for a arc copy of this book for a honest review..
By not knowing Know You By Heart was the second book from the Heart Resort I still enjoyed the characters Chris and Eden had me feel like I was going along with there journey. 5 star read 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Looking forward to reading the first book It Takes Heart ❤
Happy Reading Lisa 📚
By not knowing Know You By Heart was the second book from the Heart Resort I still enjoyed the characters Chris and Eden had me feel like I was going along with there journey. 5 star read 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Looking forward to reading the first book It Takes Heart ❤
Happy Reading Lisa 📚
April 8, 2022
OMGGGGG!!!!!
I was waiting sooo much for this because I really loved the first one. And I can’t say enough how much I loved it!! Because it was so well written and different. They’re feelings felt real and relatable. Throughout the book there are different timelines! They kept me on my toes wanting to know what actually happened.
Sometimes I jump into books without reading the blurb just to be surprised and I was surprised all right. This is what I look for in books that they were unpredictable but satisfying. Loooooooooveeeed it so much!!!
I was waiting sooo much for this because I really loved the first one. And I can’t say enough how much I loved it!! Because it was so well written and different. They’re feelings felt real and relatable. Throughout the book there are different timelines! They kept me on my toes wanting to know what actually happened.
Sometimes I jump into books without reading the blurb just to be surprised and I was surprised all right. This is what I look for in books that they were unpredictable but satisfying. Loooooooooveeeed it so much!!!
August 3, 2022
I actually like this second installment in the series better than the first, which is such a treat ~ can’t wait for the next! I adore a good married romance and loved the very meta inclusion of the inside of a romance author’s brain with the main character. So happy this audio was available via Kindle Unlimited! The narration was decent.
June 28, 2022
"Marriage of convenience" is one of my favorite tropes! You don't see this plotline too often in contemporary stories, and Tif Marcelo absolutely nailed it. You find yourself rooting for Chris and Eden with every conflict they face. Their families and friends make up an endearing cast of characters, and I can't wait to read their stories too!
December 20, 2021
Roller Costar Ride of Marriage
I am a sucker for this trope, and when I received this book, I couldn't resist reading it. I can easily keep up with the story without reading the first book in the series.
Chris and Eden agreed to five-year contract marriage to pursue their dreams. They always stick to the rules, respect each other but love, they believe, has no space in their lives. One threat to Heart Resort's reputation led Chris and Eden to the retreat to protect it, a retreat that promises Happily Ever After when this retreat begins to reveal their suppressed feelings not only to them but to the entire world. The secret of their conventional marriage, relationship, and emotions are too near to being revealed, or maybe it is the end of their marriage.
This novel wowed me by portraying the final days of a contract marriage rather than the beginning. The swing between the past and present in the book provides additional facts, secrets, and realities about their bond while never leaving you puzzled. Every aspect of the narrative moves at leisurely speed to allow the characters to grow. Eden and Chris are both affected by the ending of the marriage. I felt every ounce of frustration, ambiguity, temptation, annoyance, and irritation while reading the novel.
Eden is a romance novelist, and I applaud Tif Marcelo for portraying the authors' battle with deadlines and how difficult it is to juggle their personal and professional lives. Christopher charms me with his passion for his family and career, and I empathize with his struggle to express his thoughts. It's tough to overlook their chemistry and tension.
I'm completely smitten with the book's last section, which offers me a full exploration of reality experience for returning to reality after the high of the some day's lots of adventures, as well as for Chirs and Eden returning to regular life after their retreat. If I said tears never welled up in my eyes after reading its raw and heavy emotion, I'd be lying.
It falls short of portraying the bond between the siblings and best friends. There are a few moments, but I need more details to feel their connection.
There is no way I can tell you not to read this funny, mature, heavy, and emotion-filled romance book. This book comes in a must-read.
Full Review - https://ojreads18.blogspot.com/2021/1...
I am a sucker for this trope, and when I received this book, I couldn't resist reading it. I can easily keep up with the story without reading the first book in the series.
Chris and Eden agreed to five-year contract marriage to pursue their dreams. They always stick to the rules, respect each other but love, they believe, has no space in their lives. One threat to Heart Resort's reputation led Chris and Eden to the retreat to protect it, a retreat that promises Happily Ever After when this retreat begins to reveal their suppressed feelings not only to them but to the entire world. The secret of their conventional marriage, relationship, and emotions are too near to being revealed, or maybe it is the end of their marriage.
This novel wowed me by portraying the final days of a contract marriage rather than the beginning. The swing between the past and present in the book provides additional facts, secrets, and realities about their bond while never leaving you puzzled. Every aspect of the narrative moves at leisurely speed to allow the characters to grow. Eden and Chris are both affected by the ending of the marriage. I felt every ounce of frustration, ambiguity, temptation, annoyance, and irritation while reading the novel.
Eden is a romance novelist, and I applaud Tif Marcelo for portraying the authors' battle with deadlines and how difficult it is to juggle their personal and professional lives. Christopher charms me with his passion for his family and career, and I empathize with his struggle to express his thoughts. It's tough to overlook their chemistry and tension.
I'm completely smitten with the book's last section, which offers me a full exploration of reality experience for returning to reality after the high of the some day's lots of adventures, as well as for Chirs and Eden returning to regular life after their retreat. If I said tears never welled up in my eyes after reading its raw and heavy emotion, I'd be lying.
It falls short of portraying the bond between the siblings and best friends. There are a few moments, but I need more details to feel their connection.
There is no way I can tell you not to read this funny, mature, heavy, and emotion-filled romance book. This book comes in a must-read.
Full Review - https://ojreads18.blogspot.com/2021/1...
March 22, 2022
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
Know You by Heart is the second in Tif Marcelo’s Heart Resort series. It can be read as a stand-alone, and I had no issues starting with this one, having not read the previous book.
I really liked this spin on marriage of convenience, both set in modern day and involving a cast of Filipino-American characters. Given some of the structural choices, throwing you into it right away on page one and then fast forwarding to near the end of their contract, with some flashbacks to moments earlier o in the marriage, it could have easily fallen flat, but Tif Marcelo makes it work, delivering the emotional intimacy in those little moments, coloring their interactions in the present as the date when their arrangement is meant to expire looms nearer. Add to that the media exposure the resort is getting and the way their image factors into that…there’s some fascinating stakes at play.
I really liked that Eden is a successful romance novelist, and the arrangement has allowed her to launch her onetime fledgling career into a success.
Chris was a bit of a question mark for me at first, but I really liked his devotion to his family’s legacy throughout, and him really taking on the responsibilities as the eldest sibling. And ultimately, I also loved his little gestures as the story went on in acknowledging Eden’s author persona, including one public gesture toward the end that really made me smile.
This is a wonderfully sweet romance with a fresh take on a familiar and well-loved trope. If you like multicultural, family-centric contemporary romance, you will likely enjoy this one.
Know You by Heart is the second in Tif Marcelo’s Heart Resort series. It can be read as a stand-alone, and I had no issues starting with this one, having not read the previous book.
I really liked this spin on marriage of convenience, both set in modern day and involving a cast of Filipino-American characters. Given some of the structural choices, throwing you into it right away on page one and then fast forwarding to near the end of their contract, with some flashbacks to moments earlier o in the marriage, it could have easily fallen flat, but Tif Marcelo makes it work, delivering the emotional intimacy in those little moments, coloring their interactions in the present as the date when their arrangement is meant to expire looms nearer. Add to that the media exposure the resort is getting and the way their image factors into that…there’s some fascinating stakes at play.
I really liked that Eden is a successful romance novelist, and the arrangement has allowed her to launch her onetime fledgling career into a success.
Chris was a bit of a question mark for me at first, but I really liked his devotion to his family’s legacy throughout, and him really taking on the responsibilities as the eldest sibling. And ultimately, I also loved his little gestures as the story went on in acknowledging Eden’s author persona, including one public gesture toward the end that really made me smile.
This is a wonderfully sweet romance with a fresh take on a familiar and well-loved trope. If you like multicultural, family-centric contemporary romance, you will likely enjoy this one.
April 3, 2022
Know You by Heart by Tif Marcelo is the second book in the Heart Resort series.
I ABSOLUTELY loved the first book It Takes Heart and while this book is part of a series, it can definitely be read as a standalone novel.
This is Chris and Eden's story, and we are back in the Outer Banks and the Heart Resort.
I do love the arranged marriage trope, but Chris and Eden's 5 years long arranged marriage is so much more than that, complete with a prenup.
Chris and Eden couldn't be any opposite with Chris being a CEO and Eden being a romance novelist.
I really love the details about Eden's profession.
When Chris and Eden have to attend a retreat at the Heart Resort , will their true feelings come out? Will the close proximity (another trope I LOVE) force them to confront each other and drop the facade?
I absolutely loved the fact that the book starts with the END of the contract marriage rather than the beginning, this was such clever story telling. I also really enjoyed the multiple timelines between the past and the present.
This is such a well written romance novel. The characters are well fleshed out, flawed and filled with chemistry whether they like it or not!
I loved every minute of this book!
I ABSOLUTELY loved the first book It Takes Heart and while this book is part of a series, it can definitely be read as a standalone novel.
This is Chris and Eden's story, and we are back in the Outer Banks and the Heart Resort.
I do love the arranged marriage trope, but Chris and Eden's 5 years long arranged marriage is so much more than that, complete with a prenup.
Chris and Eden couldn't be any opposite with Chris being a CEO and Eden being a romance novelist.
I really love the details about Eden's profession.
When Chris and Eden have to attend a retreat at the Heart Resort , will their true feelings come out? Will the close proximity (another trope I LOVE) force them to confront each other and drop the facade?
I absolutely loved the fact that the book starts with the END of the contract marriage rather than the beginning, this was such clever story telling. I also really enjoyed the multiple timelines between the past and the present.
This is such a well written romance novel. The characters are well fleshed out, flawed and filled with chemistry whether they like it or not!
I loved every minute of this book!
April 5, 2022
Know You By Heart by Tif Marcelo is the second book in her Heart Resort Series. I was excited when I was asked to read this one because I so loved the Puso Family in the first book It Takes A Heart! This is a well written fast paced story about a marriage of convenience with a modern day flip on it! Marcelo continues with the Filipino characters that are so fun to read. The characters are realistic with special attention to details! This story is flirty, sexy and fun. It has highly emotional parts and light and funny ones that make this a must read book!!! I enjoy Marcelo’s writing style and look forward to the next book in this series!
Thank you NetGalley, Tif Marcelo and Montlake Publishing for an advanced copy of this truly entertaining story in exchange for my honest review.
#knowyoubyheart. #tifmarcelo #netgalley #montlakepublishing #arc
Thank you NetGalley, Tif Marcelo and Montlake Publishing for an advanced copy of this truly entertaining story in exchange for my honest review.
#knowyoubyheart. #tifmarcelo #netgalley #montlakepublishing #arc
May 24, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. This is book two in the series, Heart Resort. It's not totally necessary to read book one before this one, but I highly recommend it so you get the full impact of the characters and their relationships and the resort itself. I absolutely loved book 1! It was one of my favorite reads of the year, and reading that book while in the Outer Banks was super fun too! I liked this story, but I felt it was lacking compared to the first. I definitely recommend this story, nonetheless. In Know You by Heart, Chris and Eden Puso are married, even if only as a marriage of convenience. There's money on the line. Marriage of convenience is not always my favorite trope, but this book had an interesting take on the commonly written trope. We see Chris and Eden towards the predetermined end of their marriage. But I did love being able to see Brandon and Geneva again! They are my favorite! I look forward to future books set in the Heart Resort world!
May 13, 2022
I love a good marriage of convenience turned marriage of love. Chris and Eden show that if you work hard at it (even if it was fake) it can become real especially over time! I loved going to back to Outer Banks, North Carolina and revisiting the heart resort and experiencing an actual stay within the resort as a couple. Definitely a cool concept that I really enjoyed! All around a great read.
October 25, 2023
Trope-y and meta
I like this book. It’s super meta, letting readers in on some of the process of romance writing and publishing. I am sensing a wink from the author every time there’s a passage that referenced topics about the craft or the struggles (writer’s block, imposter syndrome, etc). I can totally relate.
I also like the story, can relate to the main characters being Filipino and the eldest children. I appreciate the flaws in both Chris and Eden although I’d like to shake them sometimes.
I read this mostly in audiobook and found the narrators lovely.
I like this book. It’s super meta, letting readers in on some of the process of romance writing and publishing. I am sensing a wink from the author every time there’s a passage that referenced topics about the craft or the struggles (writer’s block, imposter syndrome, etc). I can totally relate.
I also like the story, can relate to the main characters being Filipino and the eldest children. I appreciate the flaws in both Chris and Eden although I’d like to shake them sometimes.
I read this mostly in audiobook and found the narrators lovely.
Read
September 23, 2023This book is such a treasure! A marriage of convenience plot where we come in at the supposed end of the arrangement. This book had so much nuance and depth to the relationship. I can honestly say I've not read a romance like this one. Incredibly thoughtful and well written.
April 17, 2022
Honest review
Sometimes getting out of your own way and deciding what you truly want and not what is expected of you is the hardest journey of all. Can they find their way?
Sometimes getting out of your own way and deciding what you truly want and not what is expected of you is the hardest journey of all. Can they find their way?
May 4, 2023
50% do livro passei amando
50% do livro tava passando raiva com esses personagens extremamente frustrantes
50% do livro tava passando raiva com esses personagens extremamente frustrantes
March 22, 2022
Flirty, sexy, fun, and engaging. Second book in a series. Good characters that are realistic and believable. An overall good book, just not my typical genre. Well written with good attention to detail. This is my first book by this author and I find her writing style to be entertaining.
November 7, 2022
Know You by Heart is a great continuation to the Heart Resort series. Like with the first book, we get a heavy dose of Filipino culture, a great cast of characters (I love the siblings and a lot of the staff seems like family too), and a second chance love story. Chris and Eden were a fun couple to follow mainly due to their lack of communication (so much heartache could have been solved if they just spoke their truth sooner) and the marriage of convenience (which was a nice twist in that they were already in the marriage and their contact was about to expire…)
I loved the fact that they were put through the marriage program that their resort is known for. It was fun to see their feelings surface, resolutions to their issues, and compromise to move forward. Chris’ layers are peeled back and revealed isn’t such a cold monster, but someone who cares and protects and to see Eden stand up for herself and her career was everything (but also to see how much Chris supports and encourages her dream was the best too.) This couple really was meant to be.
The pacing ebbed and flowed like the water they are situated on and I found myself falling even more in love with the Puso family. I cannot wait to continue on with the next book. Thank you @tif for the gifted copies and for the constant warmth and love the Puso family provides on and off the pages!
I loved the fact that they were put through the marriage program that their resort is known for. It was fun to see their feelings surface, resolutions to their issues, and compromise to move forward. Chris’ layers are peeled back and revealed isn’t such a cold monster, but someone who cares and protects and to see Eden stand up for herself and her career was everything (but also to see how much Chris supports and encourages her dream was the best too.) This couple really was meant to be.
The pacing ebbed and flowed like the water they are situated on and I found myself falling even more in love with the Puso family. I cannot wait to continue on with the next book. Thank you @tif for the gifted copies and for the constant warmth and love the Puso family provides on and off the pages!
January 13, 2022
The marriage of convenience is one of my favorite tropes. However, I found the beginning of this story a little difficult to get into. I was aware that the five year marriage contract was soon expiring but even though the MCs, Chris and Eden, expressed some unease with the end of this contract, it didn’t feel that there was any emotional connection between them. It was only when they went on the relationship counseling that I got a more revealing look at the emotional state of the MCs (told in dual POV) in their intimate relationship with each other and within their individual families. I felt it dragged in the middle as there were a lot of repetitive thoughts and dialogs. I liked that even though there was a low steam physical attraction between the MCs, it was more the opening up and emotional growth of the characters that culminated in the HFN.
I received a free copy from Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.
I received a free copy from Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.
November 14, 2021
Know You by Heart a five-star read that would warm even the coldest of hearts. This is number two in the Heart Resort series, but they could each be read as stand-alone as they focus on a different couple, they do have some cross over, but not so much that it’s the only thing you focus on, they complement each other, so if you enjoy a good series do pick it up. Chris Puso, is the big brother, he has the world on his shoulders he is trying to support everyone, but that doesn’t always make him happy. Eden is the same, she is supporting everyone and not feeling the support she needs, if only they would allow the other to support them. The resort needs the help and so does their marriage. The story will show you how hard it can be to accept that help, will you do it for the sake of your life? Get this great story to find out.
February 19, 2023
Thanks to the author for this book.
I will start out by quoting the song "Oops!...I Did It Again" by Britney Spears.
Is this love or just a marriage of convenience for $$?
This is the second of the series. I read the first one last year and didn't finish it because it was too romcom and predictable. I guess I don't enjoy tropes sometimes either. I'm not sure if I will be reading anymore in this series since I know there will probably be one.
The words that were used for relatives like "Ate" and "Kuya" were driving me a little crazy. FYI, in case anyone is interested since I sure was, "Ate" is Tagalog for female relative of your older sister and "Kuya" is the same but for a male.
I will start out by quoting the song "Oops!...I Did It Again" by Britney Spears.
Is this love or just a marriage of convenience for $$?
This is the second of the series. I read the first one last year and didn't finish it because it was too romcom and predictable. I guess I don't enjoy tropes sometimes either. I'm not sure if I will be reading anymore in this series since I know there will probably be one.
The words that were used for relatives like "Ate" and "Kuya" were driving me a little crazy. FYI, in case anyone is interested since I sure was, "Ate" is Tagalog for female relative of your older sister and "Kuya" is the same but for a male.
February 6, 2022
This is the second book in the Heart Resort series and I loved it. We are introduced to Chris and Eden Puso in book one and this is their story.
Marriage of convenience. Marriage in trouble. Secret identity. Only one bed. Family. Friends to lovers. I love the tropes!
While this is an unusual set up for a contemporary romance, it worked for me. Chris and Eden both grow throughout this story. At the same time, Marcelo shows us how they grew over the course of their marriage, with flashback scenes to different moments in their shared past. I like that window into the past, into their relationship, knowing what baggage they've brought to this point. Can they save their marraige? Do they want to? It's a question each character has to ask themselves and each other. Using the resort's couples retreat as a way to put them in different situations, helps keep the setting alive, as well as different avenues to explore where they are and what they want from their marriage.
Pacing is excellent, with chapter breaks at just the right moments. I liked being in both POVs and found both characters very sympathetic. That's no small feat, as I found Chris to be insufferable in book 1. He was overbearing and cold and the apparent problems between he and Eden seemed obvious with his obnoxious behavior. Now, Chris gets to be human. Even when they were bickering, I got it. It felt real. Each character had moments when they needed to be hit over the head, as it were, and that all worked. There is less family involvement than in the first book, when a lot of character motivation was about family. Nevertheless, family is still important. Eden is often torn at the impact their relationship will or could have on the family. Chris and Eden are both directed by their roles as the oldest in the family, the caretakers. But who is taking care of them? And are they taking care of each other?
The little side issue of the neighboring resort causing problems, had just the right amount of involvement. I don't know if it will pop up again, it does seem to be set up. And we have more family members who need their own HEAs, so anything is possible. I did like seeing the Puso family again, and I enjoy the cultural elements that Marcelo includes. Adding Eden's family to the mix was a good choice and helped show how many choices and people were pulling on Eden and impacting her decisions. Chris always thought he was doing "the best for the family" but has to learn that just because he thinks so, doesn't mean it is so.
Sexy times are on the page but this is a book about emotions and angst, more than heat. The chemistry is real between these two, because of course a marriage of convenience has heat between the two main characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one and can't wait for the next in the series. Highly recommend
Marriage of convenience. Marriage in trouble. Secret identity. Only one bed. Family. Friends to lovers. I love the tropes!
While this is an unusual set up for a contemporary romance, it worked for me. Chris and Eden both grow throughout this story. At the same time, Marcelo shows us how they grew over the course of their marriage, with flashback scenes to different moments in their shared past. I like that window into the past, into their relationship, knowing what baggage they've brought to this point. Can they save their marraige? Do they want to? It's a question each character has to ask themselves and each other. Using the resort's couples retreat as a way to put them in different situations, helps keep the setting alive, as well as different avenues to explore where they are and what they want from their marriage.
Pacing is excellent, with chapter breaks at just the right moments. I liked being in both POVs and found both characters very sympathetic. That's no small feat, as I found Chris to be insufferable in book 1. He was overbearing and cold and the apparent problems between he and Eden seemed obvious with his obnoxious behavior. Now, Chris gets to be human. Even when they were bickering, I got it. It felt real. Each character had moments when they needed to be hit over the head, as it were, and that all worked. There is less family involvement than in the first book, when a lot of character motivation was about family. Nevertheless, family is still important. Eden is often torn at the impact their relationship will or could have on the family. Chris and Eden are both directed by their roles as the oldest in the family, the caretakers. But who is taking care of them? And are they taking care of each other?
The little side issue of the neighboring resort causing problems, had just the right amount of involvement. I don't know if it will pop up again, it does seem to be set up. And we have more family members who need their own HEAs, so anything is possible. I did like seeing the Puso family again, and I enjoy the cultural elements that Marcelo includes. Adding Eden's family to the mix was a good choice and helped show how many choices and people were pulling on Eden and impacting her decisions. Chris always thought he was doing "the best for the family" but has to learn that just because he thinks so, doesn't mean it is so.
Sexy times are on the page but this is a book about emotions and angst, more than heat. The chemistry is real between these two, because of course a marriage of convenience has heat between the two main characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one and can't wait for the next in the series. Highly recommend
April 6, 2022
What started out as a marriage of convince is now starting to prove more inconvenient for both parties involved. With only six months remaining on their five year contact both Chris and Eden are well on their way to success in both their respective fields but with the Heart Resort booming and Evelyn Heart books killing it both of these two can’t help but feel that they are only holding each other back. But when a rival resort threatens Heart Resorts top spot it is up to Chris and Eden to band together try and save the Puso legacy but when their own trip to a couples retreat beings to unearth their own feelings will they be able to save not only the resort but their marriage?
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I absolutely love the marriage of convince trope and Know You By Heart was a nice spin on this trope, I loved that we got started in their story towards the end of their agreement instead of the start, this way their feelings were already largely developed.
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This was definitely a slow burn romance, the more the story unfolded the more we got to see how these two felt and watch their relationship develop. I really liked the back and forth pull that both faced in should they stay together or part ways. I loved that both main characters were so real and relatable. Eden was great I loved that we got to see the real struggles that authors face and how she found her groove again. As for our boy Chris I really loved his dedication to his family and that he really wanted to create this legacy and resort. The Puso family was amazing, I loved getting to explore their culture and traditions.
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Know You By Heart was such an amazing slow burn, fake turned real romance that will steal your heart.
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I absolutely love the marriage of convince trope and Know You By Heart was a nice spin on this trope, I loved that we got started in their story towards the end of their agreement instead of the start, this way their feelings were already largely developed.
..
This was definitely a slow burn romance, the more the story unfolded the more we got to see how these two felt and watch their relationship develop. I really liked the back and forth pull that both faced in should they stay together or part ways. I loved that both main characters were so real and relatable. Eden was great I loved that we got to see the real struggles that authors face and how she found her groove again. As for our boy Chris I really loved his dedication to his family and that he really wanted to create this legacy and resort. The Puso family was amazing, I loved getting to explore their culture and traditions.
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Know You By Heart was such an amazing slow burn, fake turned real romance that will steal your heart.
September 2, 2022
After reading the first book, I would not have guessed that this was where Eden & Chris's story was going to end up. I've not read much marriage of convenience in contemporary romance, and this one entering the story already through the marriage was a nice change.
I actually ended up liking this book more than the first. The base trope of marriage of convenience and the self-aware way it pointed out several of its other tropes felt fresh to me. Both books have shared this push and pull of having core family split geographically as a main issue, which was an interesting repeat (though I kind of hope the next book doesn't).
The main characters were likable, and I appreciate that while communication is one of their main issues there were still attempts at it. Nothing is more frustrating than a book where everything could be solved with one conversation, as Eden pointed out. It was interesting to see them reflect their behavior back at one another. It was obvious but still effective growth tool.
I enjoy all the side characters as well. I wish we had seen more of Bea (maybe next time?). Gil and Jessie were great characters, that's the story I really want next. I loved the curveball of Kit being their therapist. I wish they had gotten just a little more time with her. There were several other resort employees that it would have been great to see or spend more time with, but the main characters spending most the book sequestered, it makes sense. Definitely need more of the nieces (fingers crossed for Gil & Jessie!)
Overall, highly recommend this book. Though I may have had to do some googling on Tagalog, translation & pronunciation. Even if its only in my head I want to pronounce them right.
I received this book as part of a Giveaway on GoodReads.
I actually ended up liking this book more than the first. The base trope of marriage of convenience and the self-aware way it pointed out several of its other tropes felt fresh to me. Both books have shared this push and pull of having core family split geographically as a main issue, which was an interesting repeat (though I kind of hope the next book doesn't).
The main characters were likable, and I appreciate that while communication is one of their main issues there were still attempts at it. Nothing is more frustrating than a book where everything could be solved with one conversation, as Eden pointed out. It was interesting to see them reflect their behavior back at one another. It was obvious but still effective growth tool.
I enjoy all the side characters as well. I wish we had seen more of Bea (maybe next time?). Gil and Jessie were great characters, that's the story I really want next. I loved the curveball of Kit being their therapist. I wish they had gotten just a little more time with her. There were several other resort employees that it would have been great to see or spend more time with, but the main characters spending most the book sequestered, it makes sense. Definitely need more of the nieces (fingers crossed for Gil & Jessie!)
Overall, highly recommend this book. Though I may have had to do some googling on Tagalog, translation & pronunciation. Even if its only in my head I want to pronounce them right.
I received this book as part of a Giveaway on GoodReads.
April 22, 2022
Chris Puzo and his wife Eden have been married for almost five years. No, they don’t cheat on each other simply because neither of the them has the time for cheating or even for each other. That’s the problem when two people are so alike and yet just don’t see it. Both are career driven, Eden writing romance novels and Chris keeping the family resort on track.
Eden has stepped up as matriarch of her family in Texas since her Mother returned to The Philippines to take care of her ailing Mother and Chris has been patriarch of his family in North Carolina since the death of his parents. Oh, and there’s a little matter of a delayed inheritance until Chris has been married five years. An inheritance which is needed to sustain the family’s romantic resort. An inheritance that prompted family friend, Eden, to offer herself as a solution. A marriage by contract except can two driven, career oriented, family oriented people find their way to putting each other first before the contract and possibly their marriage is over? Well, it doesn’t seems likely.
I loved this story and I was definitely pulling for these two to finally wake up and realize just how in love they are. The characters were clearly defined and at times likeable and at other times, well, let’s say I muttered the word ‘stupid’ a few times and it wasn’t aimed at the storyline but the characters.
There are time shifts and different POVs but none of it was hard to follow. All in all this was an enjoyable read.
I won this book in a First Reads giveaway. Thank you to the author, Tif Marcelo.
Eden has stepped up as matriarch of her family in Texas since her Mother returned to The Philippines to take care of her ailing Mother and Chris has been patriarch of his family in North Carolina since the death of his parents. Oh, and there’s a little matter of a delayed inheritance until Chris has been married five years. An inheritance which is needed to sustain the family’s romantic resort. An inheritance that prompted family friend, Eden, to offer herself as a solution. A marriage by contract except can two driven, career oriented, family oriented people find their way to putting each other first before the contract and possibly their marriage is over? Well, it doesn’t seems likely.
I loved this story and I was definitely pulling for these two to finally wake up and realize just how in love they are. The characters were clearly defined and at times likeable and at other times, well, let’s say I muttered the word ‘stupid’ a few times and it wasn’t aimed at the storyline but the characters.
There are time shifts and different POVs but none of it was hard to follow. All in all this was an enjoyable read.
I won this book in a First Reads giveaway. Thank you to the author, Tif Marcelo.
February 21, 2023
Book 2 in the Heart Resort series. I really enjoyed returning to this setting and catching up with these characters again.
The story takes place in Outer Banks, NC where a group of siblings own and operate a private resort that offers romantic getaways. In the first book, It Take Heart, we got to see more of them creating the atmosphere. This book focuses on what types of activities the resort offered to it's guests.
I enjoyed this romance because the main couple, Eden and Chris, are already married. They are in a marriage of convenience with the agreement that they would only be together for five years. The story follows them as their arrangement it coming to an end and they soon realize that their love isn't so fake. The perspective flips back and forth between the couple and even flashes back to the start of their romance to help explain their complicated relationship together.
After receiving some backlash from a fellow resort, Eden and Chris decide to attend one of the couple's retreats they offer themselves and have their experience broadcast. I liked this section of the storyline best. It was interesting watching them do activities that pushed each outside of their comfort zones and ultimately helped them realize areas they needed to work if they wanted to actually make their marriage succeed.
I love that the characters are Filipino American. The Puso siblings are incredibly real. They are loud, they each have their own drama, but above all they are a family. They have each other's back and are invested in making this family business a success. I really liked Eden. She is a romance writer so it was interesting watching her go through the highs and lows of the writing process. I look forward to reading book three and seeing Bea get her own story - especially after the mystery that was hinted at throughout this book.
I received an ARC from @netgalley. All opinions are my own.
The story takes place in Outer Banks, NC where a group of siblings own and operate a private resort that offers romantic getaways. In the first book, It Take Heart, we got to see more of them creating the atmosphere. This book focuses on what types of activities the resort offered to it's guests.
I enjoyed this romance because the main couple, Eden and Chris, are already married. They are in a marriage of convenience with the agreement that they would only be together for five years. The story follows them as their arrangement it coming to an end and they soon realize that their love isn't so fake. The perspective flips back and forth between the couple and even flashes back to the start of their romance to help explain their complicated relationship together.
After receiving some backlash from a fellow resort, Eden and Chris decide to attend one of the couple's retreats they offer themselves and have their experience broadcast. I liked this section of the storyline best. It was interesting watching them do activities that pushed each outside of their comfort zones and ultimately helped them realize areas they needed to work if they wanted to actually make their marriage succeed.
I love that the characters are Filipino American. The Puso siblings are incredibly real. They are loud, they each have their own drama, but above all they are a family. They have each other's back and are invested in making this family business a success. I really liked Eden. She is a romance writer so it was interesting watching her go through the highs and lows of the writing process. I look forward to reading book three and seeing Bea get her own story - especially after the mystery that was hinted at throughout this book.
I received an ARC from @netgalley. All opinions are my own.
March 12, 2022
Oh wow! I needed this book. I was in a small funk and this fun, flirty, sexy story pulled me right out of that funk. Chris and Eden were both successful people and that was in part due to a contract they signed almost 5 years ago. With the contract set to expire, they can go their own ways. The problem? They do not want to go their own ways but are not quite ready to admit that to each other yet.
I love the Heart Resort and the Puso family. They fight, the love, and they work together to make the resort a dream come true. Eden married into the family and her dream was to be an author. I enjoyed that her dream also came true with the support of her family and the Puso family. The family dynamics of both Chris and Eden’s family play such a huge part in their story.
There were sometimes that I did not like Chris. He put his needs before Eden’s. He asked her to attend events, entertain his friends, or not visit her family to help him in his resort instead of pushing her to follow her dream of writing. I loved that Eden did not always give into him and she put her writing and family first in her life.
Know You by Heart is part of a series but you do not have to read the first book to enjoy the second book. The setting of the resort is a common thread along with the Puso family but each book is its own story with a HEA.
I love the Heart Resort and the Puso family. They fight, the love, and they work together to make the resort a dream come true. Eden married into the family and her dream was to be an author. I enjoyed that her dream also came true with the support of her family and the Puso family. The family dynamics of both Chris and Eden’s family play such a huge part in their story.
There were sometimes that I did not like Chris. He put his needs before Eden’s. He asked her to attend events, entertain his friends, or not visit her family to help him in his resort instead of pushing her to follow her dream of writing. I loved that Eden did not always give into him and she put her writing and family first in her life.
Know You by Heart is part of a series but you do not have to read the first book to enjoy the second book. The setting of the resort is a common thread along with the Puso family but each book is its own story with a HEA.
April 3, 2022
Know You by Heart takes us back to the Outer Banks and to The Heart Resort. While this is part of a series, this book can be read as a standalone.
Chris and Eden agreed to a five-year arranged marriage complete with a prenuptial agreement. Their marriage was one of convenience to help both of them achieve their dreams with their respective careers, his at The Heart Resort and hers as a romance novelist. We are given glimpses of their life both in the present, but also the past so we understand what has been going on in both of their minds, their feelings, frustrations and also their thoughts on the end of their contract and where it will leave them.
When circumstances force Chris and Eden to attend a retreat at The Heart Resort, they are forced to face feelings and truths that they had kept repressed throughout their union. The reality of their marriage comes close to being revealed and you can also see how much work it is for them to keep up the facade. Will they leave the retreat closer to a "real" marriage? Or will it end their union for good?
This book had all the feels and while there were times it was very heavy and emotional, there were also light and funny moments. It's definitely one that is worth the read.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Chris and Eden agreed to a five-year arranged marriage complete with a prenuptial agreement. Their marriage was one of convenience to help both of them achieve their dreams with their respective careers, his at The Heart Resort and hers as a romance novelist. We are given glimpses of their life both in the present, but also the past so we understand what has been going on in both of their minds, their feelings, frustrations and also their thoughts on the end of their contract and where it will leave them.
When circumstances force Chris and Eden to attend a retreat at The Heart Resort, they are forced to face feelings and truths that they had kept repressed throughout their union. The reality of their marriage comes close to being revealed and you can also see how much work it is for them to keep up the facade. Will they leave the retreat closer to a "real" marriage? Or will it end their union for good?
This book had all the feels and while there were times it was very heavy and emotional, there were also light and funny moments. It's definitely one that is worth the read.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
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