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No Reservations
"I may have left, but I never let you go."
Is it too late to correct the biggest mistake of my life?
I never thought I'd be stupid enough to lose the best thing that ever happened to me.
But I was. And I did.
Thea still owned my thoughts, my dreams, and my heart. I never expected to see her again, much less have to work with her for almost the entire summer.
Every minute we're together, the air crackles between us. Everything I still feel for her, that I'll always feel for her, reflects back at me in her gorgeous golden eyes.
I should've fought for her years ago, and after how much I hurt her, I probably don't have the right to now.
But I can't stop until she's mine again.
Author’s No Reservations is an interconnected STANDALONE with characters from No Vacancy. It has a broken but lovable swoon-worthy hero, a sizzling slow burn, and ALL you’d ever want in a second chance summer romance.
Is it too late to correct the biggest mistake of my life?
I never thought I'd be stupid enough to lose the best thing that ever happened to me.
But I was. And I did.
Thea still owned my thoughts, my dreams, and my heart. I never expected to see her again, much less have to work with her for almost the entire summer.
Every minute we're together, the air crackles between us. Everything I still feel for her, that I'll always feel for her, reflects back at me in her gorgeous golden eyes.
I should've fought for her years ago, and after how much I hurt her, I probably don't have the right to now.
But I can't stop until she's mine again.
Author’s No Reservations is an interconnected STANDALONE with characters from No Vacancy. It has a broken but lovable swoon-worthy hero, a sizzling slow burn, and ALL you’d ever want in a second chance summer romance.
296 pages, Paperback
Published July 3, 2020
326 people are currently reading
1116 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Rose
30 books2,945 followersStephanie Rose is a badass New Yorker, a wife, a mother, and lover of all things chocolate. Most days you'll find her trying to avoid standing on discarded LEGO or deciding which book to read next. Her debut novel, Always You, released in 2015 and since then she's written several more—some of which will never see completion—and has ideas for hundreds to come.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
June 30, 2020
"He'd always be my other half, but maybe some people aren't meant to be whole."
Stephanie Rose is an extraordinary author, but she really outdid herself with this book. Second chance romances are always filled with incredible heartbreak and joyous loves, but Dominic and Thea have a love that rivals all others, and and their journey back to each other is absolutely everything.
Dom and Thea were the couple to be five years ago: so in love, so ready to take the plunge and be head over heels in love with each other forever, until Dominic was blindsided by his mother's diagnosis. With that, his once stable relationship with Thea crumbles. He begins to push her away, resent that he spent all his time with his lover and that he didn't catch his mother's illness sooner, and feels utterly alone. So he pushed the only light he had left in his life and has been living in darkness ever since.
In the present day, Thea is still working to put the pieces of her heart back together that Dom broke. She has endured so much pain, but she's trying to put on a brave face to the world. When a job opportunity falls in her lap that leads her face to face with the love of her life, all those emotions that she thought she had burried comes rushing back. Will she be able to resist the allure that Dominic has always had over her? Or will she end up even more broken than before?
These two took my breath away. They have such an intense, once in a lifetime kind of love, and should have overcome all odds and obstacles.. only to be fractured almost irreparably. I loved how Dom continued to fight for Thea, how he proved how much he loved her then and now, and would never ever stop. He realised how rare this second chance was, and held onto it with both hands. He's easily one of my favorite heroes ever.
Just when you think everything is coming together as it should, more secrets and heartbreak come to light, and I couldn't stop crying until the very end. This is such an emotional book, but it's so, so special. I really loved the way our author authentically cultivated the beauty of a son and mother relationship, and how devastating it is when a beloved parent passes away. This is all so incredible and easily one of my favorite reads of the year. I can't wait for you all to read this book!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
Stephanie Rose is an extraordinary author, but she really outdid herself with this book. Second chance romances are always filled with incredible heartbreak and joyous loves, but Dominic and Thea have a love that rivals all others, and and their journey back to each other is absolutely everything.
Dom and Thea were the couple to be five years ago: so in love, so ready to take the plunge and be head over heels in love with each other forever, until Dominic was blindsided by his mother's diagnosis. With that, his once stable relationship with Thea crumbles. He begins to push her away, resent that he spent all his time with his lover and that he didn't catch his mother's illness sooner, and feels utterly alone. So he pushed the only light he had left in his life and has been living in darkness ever since.
In the present day, Thea is still working to put the pieces of her heart back together that Dom broke. She has endured so much pain, but she's trying to put on a brave face to the world. When a job opportunity falls in her lap that leads her face to face with the love of her life, all those emotions that she thought she had burried comes rushing back. Will she be able to resist the allure that Dominic has always had over her? Or will she end up even more broken than before?
These two took my breath away. They have such an intense, once in a lifetime kind of love, and should have overcome all odds and obstacles.. only to be fractured almost irreparably. I loved how Dom continued to fight for Thea, how he proved how much he loved her then and now, and would never ever stop. He realised how rare this second chance was, and held onto it with both hands. He's easily one of my favorite heroes ever.
Just when you think everything is coming together as it should, more secrets and heartbreak come to light, and I couldn't stop crying until the very end. This is such an emotional book, but it's so, so special. I really loved the way our author authentically cultivated the beauty of a son and mother relationship, and how devastating it is when a beloved parent passes away. This is all so incredible and easily one of my favorite reads of the year. I can't wait for you all to read this book!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
April 10, 2021
The audiobook for No Reservations is LIVE!
Narrated by Zachary Webber and Lessa Lamb! No one else could have made a better Dominic and Thea! The angst, the longing, the love they lost but was always right there, they nailed it all. Second chance romance comes to life in this audio.
Buy on audible: https://geni.us/NR_Audio
Listen to the bonus audio epilogue: https://bit.ly/NR_bonusaudio
hell-fucking-no
July 11, 2020Absolutely fucking not: 🤮🤮
July 10, 2020
No Reservations is a sigh-worthy lovefest. Stephanie Rose delivers the perfect amount of feels in this wonderfully-written second chance romance. I admit I was very curious about the oft-times surly, yet very caring Dominic Gallo after reading No Vacancy. He for sure had a past he couldn't shake and I was most curious about who held his heart, since no interest was ever shown from him for anyone of the fairer sex.
And then there was Thea. I liked her right from the start and her fated new assignment as a relationship manager for an investment group funding a hotel in Pentier Beach brought her right back in front of Dom's eyes. And wow, that scene alone where they see each other again after 4 long years of loneliness and hurt, had me emotional right along with them. Rose wrote that beautifully and I just knew both Thea and Dom would be enduring a summer filled with sweet memories, ghosts of a better time and the sad thoughts of their demise all those years ago.
What I love best is that Rose gives us real characters. Ones who aren't perfect and therefore, are incredibly relatable. Everything that has plagued Thea all of these years apart from Dom is laid out on the table early in the book but yet that didn't mean all was forgiven nor easy to forget. In fact, the angst only builds from there and I can't tell you how much I appreciate an author who doesn't make me wait for the inevitable 'showdown' so to speak, but instead uses that as a springboard for later heartfelt discussions and revelations. And there are plenty to discover!!
The love story that is Dominic and Thea is the exact kind of romance I can't get enough of. It is tender and beautiful and sensual and most of all it is touching. The chemistry leaps off of the pages and they are a couple who are simply unforgettable.
Of course, Joe and Caterina and the scene-stealing Ava are the best kind of support for our two former lovers and their friendship is really lovely. Combined with all the sweet affection between them all, there is plenty of humor and much-needed doses of reality when all seems lost. They have great camaraderie and I could read about all of them forever.
No Reservations is truly the perfect summer read and you will fall hard for Dom and his Thea and their at times hard journey back to each other. Worth all the stops and starts, their love was simply meant to be and I treasured every minute.
5 huge stars!
And then there was Thea. I liked her right from the start and her fated new assignment as a relationship manager for an investment group funding a hotel in Pentier Beach brought her right back in front of Dom's eyes. And wow, that scene alone where they see each other again after 4 long years of loneliness and hurt, had me emotional right along with them. Rose wrote that beautifully and I just knew both Thea and Dom would be enduring a summer filled with sweet memories, ghosts of a better time and the sad thoughts of their demise all those years ago.
What I love best is that Rose gives us real characters. Ones who aren't perfect and therefore, are incredibly relatable. Everything that has plagued Thea all of these years apart from Dom is laid out on the table early in the book but yet that didn't mean all was forgiven nor easy to forget. In fact, the angst only builds from there and I can't tell you how much I appreciate an author who doesn't make me wait for the inevitable 'showdown' so to speak, but instead uses that as a springboard for later heartfelt discussions and revelations. And there are plenty to discover!!
The love story that is Dominic and Thea is the exact kind of romance I can't get enough of. It is tender and beautiful and sensual and most of all it is touching. The chemistry leaps off of the pages and they are a couple who are simply unforgettable.
Of course, Joe and Caterina and the scene-stealing Ava are the best kind of support for our two former lovers and their friendship is really lovely. Combined with all the sweet affection between them all, there is plenty of humor and much-needed doses of reality when all seems lost. They have great camaraderie and I could read about all of them forever.
No Reservations is truly the perfect summer read and you will fall hard for Dom and his Thea and their at times hard journey back to each other. Worth all the stops and starts, their love was simply meant to be and I treasured every minute.
5 huge stars!
Read
July 11, 2020*Enough said!*
July 7, 2020
I almost think there's some kind of witch craft going on because how else is Stephanie making me fall so hard for these heroes she creates! Each one more irresistible then the next. How does she DO it!?
From the start I felt connected to Dominic, unfortunately I can personally understand the pain he went through and it's such a heartbreaking moment in anyone's life. I understand why he shutdown and became numb. The more Thea pulled him in the harder he pushed her away and she sadly became a casualty of his pain. This not only broke both of their hearts but it broke them.
Years later fate brings them back together in Ocean Cove. I was so excited to be back in Ocean Cove and at the Beach Pub! Stephanie writes characters that make you think about them long after you've turned the last page so it was so great to see what Joe and Caterina from No Vacancy were up to!
When Thea and Dom are back in each others lives (even if very tentatively at first) it's as if no time has passed when it comes to the chemistry between them, those once in a lifetime sparks are still there and you feel such an overwhelming attachment towards these two but now there's regret, uncertainty and and even a secret between them.
No Reservations is "second chance" GOLD! Stephanie Rose completely stepped up her already impressive game! Tragic, heartfelt, sensous, touching and romantic......This is your next 5 star summer read!
From the start I felt connected to Dominic, unfortunately I can personally understand the pain he went through and it's such a heartbreaking moment in anyone's life. I understand why he shutdown and became numb. The more Thea pulled him in the harder he pushed her away and she sadly became a casualty of his pain. This not only broke both of their hearts but it broke them.
Years later fate brings them back together in Ocean Cove. I was so excited to be back in Ocean Cove and at the Beach Pub! Stephanie writes characters that make you think about them long after you've turned the last page so it was so great to see what Joe and Caterina from No Vacancy were up to!
When Thea and Dom are back in each others lives (even if very tentatively at first) it's as if no time has passed when it comes to the chemistry between them, those once in a lifetime sparks are still there and you feel such an overwhelming attachment towards these two but now there's regret, uncertainty and and even a secret between them.
No Reservations is "second chance" GOLD! Stephanie Rose completely stepped up her already impressive game! Tragic, heartfelt, sensous, touching and romantic......This is your next 5 star summer read!
June 28, 2020
Ahhh. It was so good to be back in Ocean Cove and with these amazing characters. Dominic was introduced in No Vacancy. He’s Joe’s best friend and coworker at their restaurant and bar The Beach Pub. It can easily be read as a stand-alone but just read it for the characters. I absolutely adore them all. First Joe and Caterina and now Dominic and Thea.
It’s no secret that I love second chance romances and all the emotions that comes along with it. No Reservations has got it all. Heartbreak, romance, humor and a wonderful HEA.
Dominic and Thea has been broken up for four years and went their separate ways with a lot of pain and two broken hearts. Their way back to one another was an emotional journey filled with a lot of history between the two of them. The memories of them before and after it went bad added so much emotion to the story and to Dominic and Thea. It was impossible not to be moved by what they went through. They’re an amazing couple with intense chemistry. It was obvious that they were far from over. Getting back together would take some time and it was so worth it.
Joe and Caterina are fantastic and awesome friends to Dominic and Thea. It was not only full on swoon with these two couples but they’re so much fun together.
The epilogue put a huge grin on my face and gave me exactly what an epilogue should. Satisfied and left me wanting more.
No Reservations is a second chance romance with the characters I’ve come to care so much about. What can I say. Stephanie Rose always delivers the good stuff.
4 Then, Now and Always Stars
*I received an arc *
It’s no secret that I love second chance romances and all the emotions that comes along with it. No Reservations has got it all. Heartbreak, romance, humor and a wonderful HEA.
Dominic and Thea has been broken up for four years and went their separate ways with a lot of pain and two broken hearts. Their way back to one another was an emotional journey filled with a lot of history between the two of them. The memories of them before and after it went bad added so much emotion to the story and to Dominic and Thea. It was impossible not to be moved by what they went through. They’re an amazing couple with intense chemistry. It was obvious that they were far from over. Getting back together would take some time and it was so worth it.
Joe and Caterina are fantastic and awesome friends to Dominic and Thea. It was not only full on swoon with these two couples but they’re so much fun together.
The epilogue put a huge grin on my face and gave me exactly what an epilogue should. Satisfied and left me wanting more.
No Reservations is a second chance romance with the characters I’ve come to care so much about. What can I say. Stephanie Rose always delivers the good stuff.
4 Then, Now and Always Stars
*I received an arc *
July 10, 2020
Break Your Heart Romance
This story is rip your heart out and stick it back together with superglue, angsty beauty.
This is only the second Stephanie Rose book I have read, and she has already become one of my one-click authors.
The raw emotional rollercoaster of Dom and Thea’s story is absolutely stunning. I laughed, I swooned and I cried, boy did I cry! I love stories that make your heart stutter, that make you feel every damn thing the main characters are going through, and leave you feeling exhausted at the very end from the sheer depth of feelings coursing through your system, and this story had it in bucketloads.
Dom and Thea were together 4 years ago, until something happened in Dom’s life that had him pushing Thea away, until finally he told her not to come back. Dom regretted his actions soon after, but it was too late, the damage had been done and he saw no way back. When Thea reappears in his life through work, Dom believes they have a second chance. Thea though, is having none of it. Dom broke Thea 4 years ago, and she can’t even be mad at him for it. She understood his actions and reasoning, but that didn’t make any of it easier. Thea had some demons of her own she had to battle with after Dom left, and she did it all alone, when she needed him most. Thea starts to forgive Dom for the past, but when all of their secrets are laid bare, resurfacing after the avalanche of pain, proves to be a struggle.
I loved both Thea and Dom (except for when his secret was revealed near the end) they were each fully justified in their actions and pain. It’s hard to know what to feel when neither is at fault, but I felt nothing but sorrow for both of them, for the time they were apart, for the half lives each were living, the resentment Thea felt at being pushed away, and the sadness at the hurt Dom caused whilst he had no control over his emotions. It was agonising to experience, but the ends justified the means in every way, and the happily ever after these two have been given, is sweet perfection.
5 amazing read, stars.
This story is rip your heart out and stick it back together with superglue, angsty beauty.
This is only the second Stephanie Rose book I have read, and she has already become one of my one-click authors.
The raw emotional rollercoaster of Dom and Thea’s story is absolutely stunning. I laughed, I swooned and I cried, boy did I cry! I love stories that make your heart stutter, that make you feel every damn thing the main characters are going through, and leave you feeling exhausted at the very end from the sheer depth of feelings coursing through your system, and this story had it in bucketloads.
Dom and Thea were together 4 years ago, until something happened in Dom’s life that had him pushing Thea away, until finally he told her not to come back. Dom regretted his actions soon after, but it was too late, the damage had been done and he saw no way back. When Thea reappears in his life through work, Dom believes they have a second chance. Thea though, is having none of it. Dom broke Thea 4 years ago, and she can’t even be mad at him for it. She understood his actions and reasoning, but that didn’t make any of it easier. Thea had some demons of her own she had to battle with after Dom left, and she did it all alone, when she needed him most. Thea starts to forgive Dom for the past, but when all of their secrets are laid bare, resurfacing after the avalanche of pain, proves to be a struggle.
I loved both Thea and Dom (except for when his secret was revealed near the end) they were each fully justified in their actions and pain. It’s hard to know what to feel when neither is at fault, but I felt nothing but sorrow for both of them, for the time they were apart, for the half lives each were living, the resentment Thea felt at being pushed away, and the sadness at the hurt Dom caused whilst he had no control over his emotions. It was agonising to experience, but the ends justified the means in every way, and the happily ever after these two have been given, is sweet perfection.
5 amazing read, stars.
July 9, 2020
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
No reservations is a standalone romance by Stephanie Rose. The characters were previously introduced in another book of hers , i.e. No Vacancy. Told in dual perspectives , this book was amazing on all second chance Romance levels and it was impossible to not be moved by the amount of emotions in this book!!
This was the second book that I have read by this author after No Vacancy. I have been looking forward to the story of these characters from the moment I finished No Vacancy. And this book was everything I hoped and more!!!
Dominic was previously introduced in Joe's story . He works with Joe and is also his best friend. The pain and angst that a second chance Romance delivers is my addiction. And this author seemed to deliver that emotion perfectly throughout this whole book!!
Thea is the female protagonist of this book. Her and Joe's breakup happened about 4 years ago and they both departed with broken hearts and hollow futures. The moment they reconnected , it was obvious to everyone that they were far from over. I loved the journey they both had together. I was so moved by the amount of emotion this book forced me to feel!! Their journey towards redemption was a bit tough because they had a lot of bad memories to get over , but every moment seemed to be worth it.
Both the couples in the story, i.e. Joe and Caterina and Thea and Dominic were absolutely perfect. The epilogue was amazing for me and left me feeling absolutely satisfied and sated!! This book is recommended to all the second chance Romance lovers , specifically the ones who are addicted to the emotional angst these books provide!! Believe me , Stephanie Rose has done an amazing job of delivering that!!
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April 4, 2021
*Audiobook Review*
No Reservations by Stephanie Rose
Narrated by: Lessa Lamb and Zachary Webber
Overall: 5 stars
Narration: 5 stars
Story: 5 stars
After meeting Dominic in No Vacancy I couldn’t wait for his story BUT nothing could have prepared me for impact of his story. He and Thea share an EPIC love. One for the ages. It is raw, emotional and beautiful. Second chance romance is one of my top favourite tropes and this is one of my most favourites! Stephanie Rose’s writing is flawless and past and present scenes transitioned smoothly and with every chapter I needed more.
Dominic and Thea were in love as teenagers until Dom’s tragically looses his mom to cancer and instead of turning to her in support he pushes her away and flees their hometown to heal and deal with his grief.
Years later Dom and Thea end back in each other’s world to work on the opening of a new hotel and they are forced to deal with their past and the love between is evident and infectious.
What I loved so much about this story, is even after several years of separation, both Dom and Thea love each other as much as they did as teenagers. Thea was incredibly understanding of what Dom went through but she was also cautious about reconnecting with him as she knows her heart wouldn’t survive if she was to loose him again. Thea’s vulnerabilities made her a very real and relatable character.
Lessa Lamb and Zachary Webber deliver an incredible performance in their narration. Performed in dual POV, their story telling is emotional and heartfelt. I adore everything Zachary Webber narrates. His voice is the perfect mixture of sexy and sultry and paired with Lessa Lamb’s sweet tones made them perfect together.
Note: Advanced listener copy received in exchange of an honest review.
No Reservations by Stephanie Rose
Narrated by: Lessa Lamb and Zachary Webber
Overall: 5 stars
Narration: 5 stars
Story: 5 stars
After meeting Dominic in No Vacancy I couldn’t wait for his story BUT nothing could have prepared me for impact of his story. He and Thea share an EPIC love. One for the ages. It is raw, emotional and beautiful. Second chance romance is one of my top favourite tropes and this is one of my most favourites! Stephanie Rose’s writing is flawless and past and present scenes transitioned smoothly and with every chapter I needed more.
Dominic and Thea were in love as teenagers until Dom’s tragically looses his mom to cancer and instead of turning to her in support he pushes her away and flees their hometown to heal and deal with his grief.
Years later Dom and Thea end back in each other’s world to work on the opening of a new hotel and they are forced to deal with their past and the love between is evident and infectious.
What I loved so much about this story, is even after several years of separation, both Dom and Thea love each other as much as they did as teenagers. Thea was incredibly understanding of what Dom went through but she was also cautious about reconnecting with him as she knows her heart wouldn’t survive if she was to loose him again. Thea’s vulnerabilities made her a very real and relatable character.
Lessa Lamb and Zachary Webber deliver an incredible performance in their narration. Performed in dual POV, their story telling is emotional and heartfelt. I adore everything Zachary Webber narrates. His voice is the perfect mixture of sexy and sultry and paired with Lessa Lamb’s sweet tones made them perfect together.
Note: Advanced listener copy received in exchange of an honest review.
June 29, 2020
Have you ever heard the phrases, “Life can change on a dime” or “Life is what’s happening while you’re busy making other plans”? Well if you have, this book is a fine example of these phrases from the opening pages. If you haven’t, you’re about to find out what they mean in the opening pages.
The thing about it is this book could be true. I mean it is fiction but I wouldn’t be surprised if the premise actually happened.
Stephanie’s work has such a realism to it. Her books aren’t over the top, or about bombastic billionaires. Her stories are normal every day people who she writes in such a way that they are so interesting and layered. You know why? Because real people are interesting and layered. Everyone has a story. Stephanie knows how to write these stories.
Dom is someone you gravitate to in the very beginning. I can imagine people being frustrated with him after the beginning. I wasn’t. I actually got him. When life throws you curveballs there’s not a formula you have to follow. Unfortunately, sometimes other people play mind readers and formulate their own playbook and follow their rules. Sometimes we rush to judgment. Many times we make false assumptions.
Thea is so caring and giving. She has her own secrets to carry. She’s been through a lot.
There’s so much to digest in this book. So much we can learn from. I really don’t want to give anything away.
What I will say is you will smile, tear up, laugh, swoon, and get the heat. What I love is it’s not gratuitous. It adds to the story. It builds. Don’t worry it’s hot!
We also get to see some of our favorite characters again. If you read No Vacancy you’ll be happy to meet up with Joe and Caterina again. If not, don’t worry, this book totally stands on it’s own. The other characters were just as real.
I devoured this book in one sitting because it was delicious. I’ll just end by saying you should have No Reservations about reading this beautiful book. It left me fully satisfied and craving more.
The thing about it is this book could be true. I mean it is fiction but I wouldn’t be surprised if the premise actually happened.
Stephanie’s work has such a realism to it. Her books aren’t over the top, or about bombastic billionaires. Her stories are normal every day people who she writes in such a way that they are so interesting and layered. You know why? Because real people are interesting and layered. Everyone has a story. Stephanie knows how to write these stories.
Dom is someone you gravitate to in the very beginning. I can imagine people being frustrated with him after the beginning. I wasn’t. I actually got him. When life throws you curveballs there’s not a formula you have to follow. Unfortunately, sometimes other people play mind readers and formulate their own playbook and follow their rules. Sometimes we rush to judgment. Many times we make false assumptions.
Thea is so caring and giving. She has her own secrets to carry. She’s been through a lot.
There’s so much to digest in this book. So much we can learn from. I really don’t want to give anything away.
What I will say is you will smile, tear up, laugh, swoon, and get the heat. What I love is it’s not gratuitous. It adds to the story. It builds. Don’t worry it’s hot!
We also get to see some of our favorite characters again. If you read No Vacancy you’ll be happy to meet up with Joe and Caterina again. If not, don’t worry, this book totally stands on it’s own. The other characters were just as real.
I devoured this book in one sitting because it was delicious. I’ll just end by saying you should have No Reservations about reading this beautiful book. It left me fully satisfied and craving more.
June 7, 2021
(audiobook) A couple of things made me cringe–mostly some decisions made by the main characters, or some less than honorable actions–but I had a good time nonetheless.
It’s a second chance romance, to you can expect some angst–people don’t usually break up because they’re perfectly happy. Here, both characters experience a terrible loss. One is the reason they aren’t together anymore, the other may damage their budding relationship. Neither is glossed over, and we see the impact they have with subtle touches.
I wasn’t sure if I should like Thea and Dom. Though Dom’s first reaction to his mother’s death is understandable, the way he treats Thea is awful–almost unforgivable, in my opinion. As for Thea, she also makes a couple of mistakes, and is way too eager to get back in Dominic’s arms. But they have cute scenes and sexy scenes together–both in the flashbacks and in present time.
The interactions with the secondary characters bring some levity, or are almost game changing–when they dispense sound advices. They are tools for the author to move the story forward, but they’re also compelling.
The narration was perfect. The female narrator was new to me, but I really enjoyed her energy. Both narrators bring life to the characters. And they almost made me really like them and forget their flaws! Definitely a book to listen to.
Quickie
- Series: Ocean Cove #2 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #small town romance #second chance romance #slow burn #angst
- Triggers: sickness and death, grief, ectopic pregnancy
- Main couple: Thea Kelly & Dominic Gallo
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 3/5
- + narration was top notch
- – some elements are quite problematic
It’s a second chance romance, to you can expect some angst–people don’t usually break up because they’re perfectly happy. Here, both characters experience a terrible loss. One is the reason they aren’t together anymore, the other may damage their budding relationship. Neither is glossed over, and we see the impact they have with subtle touches.
I wasn’t sure if I should like Thea and Dom. Though Dom’s first reaction to his mother’s death is understandable, the way he treats Thea is awful–almost unforgivable, in my opinion. As for Thea, she also makes a couple of mistakes, and is way too eager to get back in Dominic’s arms. But they have cute scenes and sexy scenes together–both in the flashbacks and in present time.
The interactions with the secondary characters bring some levity, or are almost game changing–when they dispense sound advices. They are tools for the author to move the story forward, but they’re also compelling.
The narration was perfect. The female narrator was new to me, but I really enjoyed her energy. Both narrators bring life to the characters. And they almost made me really like them and forget their flaws! Definitely a book to listen to.
Quickie
- Series: Ocean Cove #2 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #small town romance #second chance romance #slow burn #angst
- Triggers: sickness and death, grief, ectopic pregnancy
- Main couple: Thea Kelly & Dominic Gallo
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 3/5
- + narration was top notch
- – some elements are quite problematic
July 1, 2020
I was so looking forward to No Reservations and devoured every page in one night! Although a standalone, I loved book one in this series, No Vacancy, set at the Jersey Shore in the fictitous beach town of Ocean Cove, where Joe, a chef and restaurant owner, and his now wife, Caterina, continue as supporting characters in this follow-up book.
We first met Domenic in No Vacancy as he and Joe are friends. Domenic escapes to Ocean Cove after his mother passed away and he was going through a really bad time. He left the love of his life Thea, behind, and four years later, they reunite by chance as they are working together on a project. Joe and Domenic are expanding and opening a second location and Thea was hired as the project manager from the parent company of the hotel they are leasing space in. Friends to lovers is one of my favorite troupes, and the author did a beautiful job laying the groundwork of their past relationship, his ordeal with his mother’s illness, and so many little details that all come full circle by the end of the book.
Of course hearts are more cautious when they have been shattered, and Thea holds her head high and acts professional even though she is still hurting over their breakup and never had the closure needed. What I loved most about Domenic was how upfront and honest he was, and how he had no qualms saying that leaving her was his greatest regret.
They are both in their 30s now, and this book is about their discovering who they are now vs. who they were back then. Can they forgive each other, can they be open and honest about what happened and what they expect now? There is no casual with these two, it’s all or nothing, and because they are in love, their sexual chemistry is explosive.
Stephanie writes as if you are right there with them and there are so many funny moments, tender moments, and of course plenty of tears. They are both very upfront about how their feelings have not changed, and it is really beautiful to read how they navigate their relationship, working together, their friendship with Caterina and Joe, her family, dealing with their past and committing to their future.
Dom was so broken when he pushed her away, and she was too, for more reasons than just their breakup. There is so much character growth for both of them, and I basically cheered at the ending. Of course it has a happy ending because that’s why we read romance, and Thea and Dominic couldn’t deserve it more. Highly recommend!
We first met Domenic in No Vacancy as he and Joe are friends. Domenic escapes to Ocean Cove after his mother passed away and he was going through a really bad time. He left the love of his life Thea, behind, and four years later, they reunite by chance as they are working together on a project. Joe and Domenic are expanding and opening a second location and Thea was hired as the project manager from the parent company of the hotel they are leasing space in. Friends to lovers is one of my favorite troupes, and the author did a beautiful job laying the groundwork of their past relationship, his ordeal with his mother’s illness, and so many little details that all come full circle by the end of the book.
Of course hearts are more cautious when they have been shattered, and Thea holds her head high and acts professional even though she is still hurting over their breakup and never had the closure needed. What I loved most about Domenic was how upfront and honest he was, and how he had no qualms saying that leaving her was his greatest regret.
They are both in their 30s now, and this book is about their discovering who they are now vs. who they were back then. Can they forgive each other, can they be open and honest about what happened and what they expect now? There is no casual with these two, it’s all or nothing, and because they are in love, their sexual chemistry is explosive.
Stephanie writes as if you are right there with them and there are so many funny moments, tender moments, and of course plenty of tears. They are both very upfront about how their feelings have not changed, and it is really beautiful to read how they navigate their relationship, working together, their friendship with Caterina and Joe, her family, dealing with their past and committing to their future.
Dom was so broken when he pushed her away, and she was too, for more reasons than just their breakup. There is so much character growth for both of them, and I basically cheered at the ending. Of course it has a happy ending because that’s why we read romance, and Thea and Dominic couldn’t deserve it more. Highly recommend!
June 30, 2020
* A review copy was provided by the author *
~ 5 Then, Now and Always Stars ~
What an emotionally charged romance about healing, forgiveness and second chances!!
If you are a fan of a second chance romance then I would highly recommend No Reservations by Stephanie Rose. She gives us a relatable storyline and characters you can’t help but fall in love with and root that they get their HEA!!
This story was filled with angst but very little outside drama. Just two characters that have some trust issues and need to work their way back to each other. But Stephanie also gives us some laughs to make this book not so heavy.
I loved seeing Joe and Caterina throughout this book. The four of these characters were so intertwined that their stories couldn’t be told without each other. Now even with me saying that this book is a complete stand-alone novel. You don’t have to read Joe and Caterina’s book first but I would definitely recommend reading it at some time.
No Reservations is a companion novel to No Vacancy. It is a complete standalone novel, but we do see overlapping characters. There are NO spoilers in this book if you choose to read them out of order. This story is told in Dual POV and I thought the flow and pace of the story was great. As with any Stephanie Rose book, she truly brings out the emotions in this story. There were laughs, tears, some yelling but overall I felt an immense amount of love.
As I have said before, I have loved every book Stephanie Rose has released and No Reservations is no different. Each book I read from her just reaffirms why she is an auto-read for me.
I would recommend every one of her books to all romance readers. She gives us wonderful characters and storylines, that suck her readers in every single time. Don’t miss out on this author’s work. Her books need to be on the top of your TBR list.
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~ 5 Then, Now and Always Stars ~
What an emotionally charged romance about healing, forgiveness and second chances!!
If you are a fan of a second chance romance then I would highly recommend No Reservations by Stephanie Rose. She gives us a relatable storyline and characters you can’t help but fall in love with and root that they get their HEA!!
This story was filled with angst but very little outside drama. Just two characters that have some trust issues and need to work their way back to each other. But Stephanie also gives us some laughs to make this book not so heavy.
I loved seeing Joe and Caterina throughout this book. The four of these characters were so intertwined that their stories couldn’t be told without each other. Now even with me saying that this book is a complete stand-alone novel. You don’t have to read Joe and Caterina’s book first but I would definitely recommend reading it at some time.
No Reservations is a companion novel to No Vacancy. It is a complete standalone novel, but we do see overlapping characters. There are NO spoilers in this book if you choose to read them out of order. This story is told in Dual POV and I thought the flow and pace of the story was great. As with any Stephanie Rose book, she truly brings out the emotions in this story. There were laughs, tears, some yelling but overall I felt an immense amount of love.
As I have said before, I have loved every book Stephanie Rose has released and No Reservations is no different. Each book I read from her just reaffirms why she is an auto-read for me.
I would recommend every one of her books to all romance readers. She gives us wonderful characters and storylines, that suck her readers in every single time. Don’t miss out on this author’s work. Her books need to be on the top of your TBR list.
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July 6, 2024
Do you remember your first all consuming love? This book may help you to remember it. I’m not one for second chances, I always feel there is a reason a couple is not together. Whether it be a mutual choice, or something out of their control. Having said that, I also believe in fate and soulmate love. The kind of love that gives you butterflies and leaves you tongue tied. That will literally overcome anything, because the idea of being apart no matter the reason is all consuming and soul shattering. That’s the kind of love these two have. My heart ached for them, I cried for them, I loved, lost and loved again for them. All consuming love is not for the faint of hearts, and always comes with the ups and downs, but weathering the storm will bring the greatest reward. I think we all know that when tragedy strikes, it can go either way, meaning you can embrace your loved ones, or you push them away. *Sigh*, I guess without the latter, there wouldn’t be love stories like this.
Heartfelt storyline, that will take a little piece of your heart too. This book will have you staying up late and losing sleep to read it. Every single emotion you can feel, you will. The heartbreak, the pain and loss, the all consuming love. You can feel the heat and chemistry coming off these two in waves. I loved that she altered between the past and present, so that we got to feel all the emotions from their past. We get to see the characters from book 1, my Joe and Caterina. A needed epilogue and an hea. Stephanie Rose is one of my favorite authors, not normally one for second chance books, but when her name is attached...I know I have to read it. And she did not disappoint, it was amazingly written, proving what I already know, that she is a fantastic writer.
Heartfelt storyline, that will take a little piece of your heart too. This book will have you staying up late and losing sleep to read it. Every single emotion you can feel, you will. The heartbreak, the pain and loss, the all consuming love. You can feel the heat and chemistry coming off these two in waves. I loved that she altered between the past and present, so that we got to feel all the emotions from their past. We get to see the characters from book 1, my Joe and Caterina. A needed epilogue and an hea. Stephanie Rose is one of my favorite authors, not normally one for second chance books, but when her name is attached...I know I have to read it. And she did not disappoint, it was amazingly written, proving what I already know, that she is a fantastic writer.
July 10, 2020
I am a sucker for second chances and Stephanie Rose's writing.
First - the elephant. Yes, some are calling it book 2 but it's a book in a world that's not dependent on book 1. So you can dive in here first, then go to book 1 or the other way. EITHER way, you are going to love the hell out of this story.
Now, this is not my typical second chance. Oh, there is angst here that keeps them apart. But rather than it being a misunderstanding or some other pull apart, the Hero, Dominic, is the one to break them. (chill pill, not a cheating book) Dominic loves his family deeply and yet when he suffers a loss, he has no idea how to cope. He does what most do - he turns onto himself and doesn't reach out to the one who could lift him. It was truly heartbreaking to watch this man suffer.
Thea also suffers the loss. Not only does she lose Dominic, but she also loses his family. So there is heartbreak abounds.
Now, close your mouth. You are thinking, "Karen this sounds super angsty and something you run from." And you would be normally correct. However, I trust this author not to dump out the drama like a 20 oz bag of Skittles for no reason either. The heartbreak is necessary. Like the blood in their hearts. To suffer a loss and then deal with grief, everyone has a journey and this is theirs.
So this book is how do they come back from this? You know its solely HEA happy town for me so they do. But seeing them come together like adults, healing and understanding were beautiful, breathtaking in the heartache and romance of their second chance.
I loved this story and if you are a fan of second chance trope, this novel is not to be missed as a beautiful story told.
Recommendation: Buy It
First - the elephant. Yes, some are calling it book 2 but it's a book in a world that's not dependent on book 1. So you can dive in here first, then go to book 1 or the other way. EITHER way, you are going to love the hell out of this story.
Now, this is not my typical second chance. Oh, there is angst here that keeps them apart. But rather than it being a misunderstanding or some other pull apart, the Hero, Dominic, is the one to break them. (chill pill, not a cheating book) Dominic loves his family deeply and yet when he suffers a loss, he has no idea how to cope. He does what most do - he turns onto himself and doesn't reach out to the one who could lift him. It was truly heartbreaking to watch this man suffer.
Thea also suffers the loss. Not only does she lose Dominic, but she also loses his family. So there is heartbreak abounds.
Now, close your mouth. You are thinking, "Karen this sounds super angsty and something you run from." And you would be normally correct. However, I trust this author not to dump out the drama like a 20 oz bag of Skittles for no reason either. The heartbreak is necessary. Like the blood in their hearts. To suffer a loss and then deal with grief, everyone has a journey and this is theirs.
So this book is how do they come back from this? You know its solely HEA happy town for me so they do. But seeing them come together like adults, healing and understanding were beautiful, breathtaking in the heartache and romance of their second chance.
I loved this story and if you are a fan of second chance trope, this novel is not to be missed as a beautiful story told.
Recommendation: Buy It
April 16, 2021
I think that No Reservations is Stephanie Rose's best book yet!! And that is a lot coming from me, who absolutely loved her previous books!
Dominic and Thea dated for a long while about 4 year before. Befor Dominic's mother got sick and passed away, and Dominic's guilt caused him to move to Ocean Cove, NJ to help his childhood best friend open his restaurant. Four years later, Thea ends up not far from Ocean Cove to help open up a hotel for the company she works for, where Joe's restaurant is going to open up inside the hotel. This means that Dominic and Thea will have to interact with each other in order to get things up as fast possible. Dominic has regret for the way things ended with Thea. Thea, while understanding, was left with a lot of hurt. And they both need to get to a place where they have no reservations in order to move on.
I absolutely loved this story! I felt connected to Dominic right from the prologue; there were many similarities with experiences in my life that had me crying. And I could identify well with Thea's feelings of hurt, the love that she felt and how she wanted to help Dominic. These two were so well matched that I needed them to find their happily ever after!
As typical, Stephanie Rose has developed a wonderful plot with characters that are easy to connect with. The writing is superb, and flows well. I truly believe that this is her best book yet~ and it doesn't hurt that Thea's best friend is named Sue!
Dominic and Thea dated for a long while about 4 year before. Befor Dominic's mother got sick and passed away, and Dominic's guilt caused him to move to Ocean Cove, NJ to help his childhood best friend open his restaurant. Four years later, Thea ends up not far from Ocean Cove to help open up a hotel for the company she works for, where Joe's restaurant is going to open up inside the hotel. This means that Dominic and Thea will have to interact with each other in order to get things up as fast possible. Dominic has regret for the way things ended with Thea. Thea, while understanding, was left with a lot of hurt. And they both need to get to a place where they have no reservations in order to move on.
I absolutely loved this story! I felt connected to Dominic right from the prologue; there were many similarities with experiences in my life that had me crying. And I could identify well with Thea's feelings of hurt, the love that she felt and how she wanted to help Dominic. These two were so well matched that I needed them to find their happily ever after!
As typical, Stephanie Rose has developed a wonderful plot with characters that are easy to connect with. The writing is superb, and flows well. I truly believe that this is her best book yet~ and it doesn't hurt that Thea's best friend is named Sue!
August 8, 2020
The author sent me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book is like a tall glass of Long Island Iced Tea on a front porch on a summer night. It was hot and sweet and packed a punch. No spoilers but this second chance romance has the perfect amount of angst and the best HEA. Five stars!
This book is like a tall glass of Long Island Iced Tea on a front porch on a summer night. It was hot and sweet and packed a punch. No spoilers but this second chance romance has the perfect amount of angst and the best HEA. Five stars!
July 1, 2020
Do you like second chance romance with the opportunity to rediscover the relationship and make a second go of it?! Then you have a new book on your tbr list.
Perfectly swoony and sexy with a dose of heartbreak and hurt - Dom & Thea will capture your heart.
September 4, 2021
*4,5 stars*
A story that will pull on all your heartstrings and emotions! I really enjoyed this story and had tears in my eyes at some scenes; you just couldn't help but feel what both characters were going through. Another great read by this author!
After losing his mom, Dominic left everything and everyone behind to try and build a new life in Ocean Cove but he never stopped thinking about the only woman he's loved and lost along the way. Regret seeps in every single day and when Thea comes back into his life through a work project, he believes that fate stepped in and gave him another chance to make it right. But Thea has never really gotten over her broken heart and tries to keep her distance from him at every turn. But every day they work together, they grow closer again and it seems her heart is slowly on the mend. Will they find their way back to each other or will secrets that are slowly being revealed tear them apart again?...
A story that will pull on all your heartstrings and emotions! I really enjoyed this story and had tears in my eyes at some scenes; you just couldn't help but feel what both characters were going through. Another great read by this author!
After losing his mom, Dominic left everything and everyone behind to try and build a new life in Ocean Cove but he never stopped thinking about the only woman he's loved and lost along the way. Regret seeps in every single day and when Thea comes back into his life through a work project, he believes that fate stepped in and gave him another chance to make it right. But Thea has never really gotten over her broken heart and tries to keep her distance from him at every turn. But every day they work together, they grow closer again and it seems her heart is slowly on the mend. Will they find their way back to each other or will secrets that are slowly being revealed tear them apart again?...
February 25, 2022
.
+ 1 star from my epi-ho self. 😌
I've just noticed that there's a separate, and longer bonus epilogue. And it's soo cute! 😍
〰️
Lighter read than what I expected from the blurb.
So, H had a drunken ONS a month after he broke up with h. Technically not cheating but for me, to love truly is to have deep commitment and connection to someone no matter the label or status of relationship.
MCs' almost 2 yr of happy relationship ended when H struggled with grief after losing his mom to cancer.
For H to diminish and throw away his and h's 2 yr monogamous relationship in just ONE month, when there's still a chance of possible reconciliation with h? 🤬‼️
Grieving or not, he's old enough to be that stup!d!
Drunken sex with a virtual stranger + alcohol induced blackout and amnesia puts someone at risk of stds, unintended pregnancy, sexual assault.
Nothing of the "risks" here tho, at least.
Because of that, I want H to GROVEL HARD! The pour blood, sweat and tears level of grovel like the Hs of this, this and this books.
I mean, this is fiction, right?
So they might as well go OTT grovel.
Lol, that sounds like a fantasy cuz tbh I haven't witnessed that yet irl and it's rare even on fiction where sky is the limit!
Sadly, some are just juicy drama but with unsatisfactory resolution. H is actually a good lover and his love for h is evident. h is independent but too kind. No wonder the H did not bother to put on much effort. 🤷🏻♀️
The journal was a quick, shortcut reconciliation device. An overused plot device. Seriously, I've lost count the number of romance books where journals, letters, diaries, stuffs like that, are used to settle conflicts. 🙄 I want an actual grovel. 😐
〰️
Safety triggers⚠️
▪️ Death, on page past scene.
H's mom, lung cancer.
▪️ Some OW/OM drama.
▪️ Both not celibate during separation.
▪️ Explicit scenes H/h only.
▪️ Miscarriage, on page past scene. h.
〰️
+ 1 star from my epi-ho self. 😌
I've just noticed that there's a separate, and longer bonus epilogue. And it's soo cute! 😍
〰️
Lighter read than what I expected from the blurb.
So, H had a drunken ONS a month after he broke up with h. Technically not cheating but for me, to love truly is to have deep commitment and connection to someone no matter the label or status of relationship.
MCs' almost 2 yr of happy relationship ended when H struggled with grief after losing his mom to cancer.
For H to diminish and throw away his and h's 2 yr monogamous relationship in just ONE month, when there's still a chance of possible reconciliation with h? 🤬‼️
Grieving or not, he's old enough to be that stup!d!
Drunken sex with a virtual stranger + alcohol induced blackout and amnesia puts someone at risk of stds, unintended pregnancy, sexual assault.
Nothing of the "risks" here tho, at least.
Because of that, I want H to GROVEL HARD! The pour blood, sweat and tears level of grovel like the Hs of this, this and this books.
I mean, this is fiction, right?
So they might as well go OTT grovel.
Lol, that sounds like a fantasy cuz tbh I haven't witnessed that yet irl and it's rare even on fiction where sky is the limit!
Sadly, some are just juicy drama but with unsatisfactory resolution. H is actually a good lover and his love for h is evident. h is independent but too kind. No wonder the H did not bother to put on much effort. 🤷🏻♀️
The journal was a quick, shortcut reconciliation device. An overused plot device. Seriously, I've lost count the number of romance books where journals, letters, diaries, stuffs like that, are used to settle conflicts. 🙄 I want an actual grovel. 😐
〰️
Safety triggers⚠️
▪️ Death, on page past scene.
H's mom, lung cancer.
▪️ Some OW/OM drama.
▪️ Both not celibate during separation.
▪️ Explicit scenes H/h only.
▪️ Miscarriage, on page past scene. h.
〰️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2020
No Reservations by Stephanie Rose is a contemporary, second chance, workplace romance told in first person, dual POV. It's a standalone featuring characters that first appeared in
No Vacancy.
Although it's unnecessary to read that first, you may want to go back and read it anyway because both books are great.
Everyone grieves differently. Four years ago, lost and drowning in grief, Dominic broke up with Thea and left town, breaking her heart and his own in the process. He wasn't around when Thea experienced a tragedy of her own a few months later. They haven't spoken in years, but they have to work together on a business project, and Dominic wants her back.
Can things between them ever go back to they way they were before grief tore them apart? Can Thea let go of the past and start over? Or is Dominic four years too late? Read the book to find out.
I loved Thea and Dominic's story. As characters, they were both realistic, relatable, and loveably flawed. My heart broke for them as they each experienced loss and grief, and I found it easy to root for them as a couple. If you love slow burn, second chance romances, then you'll love No Reservations. I read it in one sitting. A sweet and angsty read full of heart. Highly recommended!
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***
Everyone grieves differently. Four years ago, lost and drowning in grief, Dominic broke up with Thea and left town, breaking her heart and his own in the process. He wasn't around when Thea experienced a tragedy of her own a few months later. They haven't spoken in years, but they have to work together on a business project, and Dominic wants her back.
Can things between them ever go back to they way they were before grief tore them apart? Can Thea let go of the past and start over? Or is Dominic four years too late? Read the book to find out.
I loved Thea and Dominic's story. As characters, they were both realistic, relatable, and loveably flawed. My heart broke for them as they each experienced loss and grief, and I found it easy to root for them as a couple. If you love slow burn, second chance romances, then you'll love No Reservations. I read it in one sitting. A sweet and angsty read full of heart. Highly recommended!
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***
June 30, 2020
After reading No Vacancy and being introduced to Dominic, Joe’s best friend, I wanted more of him. I knew he had a story to tell and I needed it.
Tragedy has struck Dom’s life. He’s lost and doesn’t know how to cope. Instead of finding solace in Thea, his girlfriend, he leaves town and hopes to find the peace he desperately seeks and needs.
Thea is heartbroken that Dom left her and saddened by the fact that he didn’t turn to her in his time of grief. She’s tried her hardest to move on and live her life without Dom by her side. But after four years and to her surprise Dom will once again make an appearance in her life.
Thea and Dom have history. They once shared an unbreakable bond, but it was shattered when Dom left. Dom knows he made a mistake and will stop at nothing to earn Thea’s forgiveness. These two have had their share of heartbreak, but once they’re back in each other’s lives there’s no mistaking the chemistry and the connection that’s still between them.
No Reservations brought the emotions. A second chance romance about two characters fighting for their HEA. I enjoyed Thea and Dom’s story and I loved getting more of Joe and Caterina, I just love those two so much. A delightful, pleasant and feel good read that left me wanting more.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book*
Tragedy has struck Dom’s life. He’s lost and doesn’t know how to cope. Instead of finding solace in Thea, his girlfriend, he leaves town and hopes to find the peace he desperately seeks and needs.
Thea is heartbroken that Dom left her and saddened by the fact that he didn’t turn to her in his time of grief. She’s tried her hardest to move on and live her life without Dom by her side. But after four years and to her surprise Dom will once again make an appearance in her life.
Thea and Dom have history. They once shared an unbreakable bond, but it was shattered when Dom left. Dom knows he made a mistake and will stop at nothing to earn Thea’s forgiveness. These two have had their share of heartbreak, but once they’re back in each other’s lives there’s no mistaking the chemistry and the connection that’s still between them.
No Reservations brought the emotions. A second chance romance about two characters fighting for their HEA. I enjoyed Thea and Dom’s story and I loved getting more of Joe and Caterina, I just love those two so much. A delightful, pleasant and feel good read that left me wanting more.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book*
June 28, 2020
4.5 🌟
We met Dominic in No Vacancy and now we get to know his and Thea's story.
Their story is a little heartbreaking because Dominic had to break his and Thea's heart when he felt lost. That is something he always regretted but never had the change to make it right.
Thea suffered for not being who/what Dominic needed when he was going through grief. Dominic pushed her away and he started a new life without her.
Years later they have another chance to make it right, to share secrets and grief, and get past all that could threat their future.
"I would love nothing more than to have another chance with you. A real chance. Be with me, Thea. [...] You belong with me, and I belong with you. It's how it always should have been, and we finally can make it right".
Seconds chances are hard if past ghost are over you. And this is case the with Thea and Dominic. I wanted to punch Dominic some times, but just like Thea, I understood a little his situation but even with that he was a little of a j*erk.
It was great to know about Joe and Caterina. And I fell in love with Dominic and Thea and I want more.
We met Dominic in No Vacancy and now we get to know his and Thea's story.
Their story is a little heartbreaking because Dominic had to break his and Thea's heart when he felt lost. That is something he always regretted but never had the change to make it right.
Thea suffered for not being who/what Dominic needed when he was going through grief. Dominic pushed her away and he started a new life without her.
Years later they have another chance to make it right, to share secrets and grief, and get past all that could threat their future.
"I would love nothing more than to have another chance with you. A real chance. Be with me, Thea. [...] You belong with me, and I belong with you. It's how it always should have been, and we finally can make it right".
Seconds chances are hard if past ghost are over you. And this is case the with Thea and Dominic. I wanted to punch Dominic some times, but just like Thea, I understood a little his situation but even with that he was a little of a j*erk.
It was great to know about Joe and Caterina. And I fell in love with Dominic and Thea and I want more.
July 7, 2020
No Reservations is a book I’ve been looking forward to for a while (especially after meeting Dom in No Vacancy) and Ms Rose did not disappoint!
This is a second chance story as Dom reconnects with his true love/ex girlfriend 4 years after their breakup. Dom and Thea didn’t have a typical breakup, but there were still a lot of painful emotions on both sides. Ms Rose did an excellent job of using flashbacks so that we could see the couple happy and get an idea of what drove them apart while seeing them begin to get reacquainted with each other.
I genuinely liked both Dom and Thea (as well as the small secondary cast) and rooted for them to figure out what happily ever after looked like. I appreciated the fact that the issues and feelings from the past were not brushed under the rug, but were dealt with - even if some of that was delayed.
If you have read No Vacancy, you will be glad to see Joe, Catarina, and where they are now. If you are starting with No Reservations, don’t worry, Dom and Thea’s story is a stand alone. This is the perfect summer read, especially right now, as the idea of second chances and healing is very timely.
This is a second chance story as Dom reconnects with his true love/ex girlfriend 4 years after their breakup. Dom and Thea didn’t have a typical breakup, but there were still a lot of painful emotions on both sides. Ms Rose did an excellent job of using flashbacks so that we could see the couple happy and get an idea of what drove them apart while seeing them begin to get reacquainted with each other.
I genuinely liked both Dom and Thea (as well as the small secondary cast) and rooted for them to figure out what happily ever after looked like. I appreciated the fact that the issues and feelings from the past were not brushed under the rug, but were dealt with - even if some of that was delayed.
If you have read No Vacancy, you will be glad to see Joe, Catarina, and where they are now. If you are starting with No Reservations, don’t worry, Dom and Thea’s story is a stand alone. This is the perfect summer read, especially right now, as the idea of second chances and healing is very timely.
June 27, 2020
I smiled throughout the majority of this book. It was chalked full of sweet moments, and filled to the brim with angst. Stephanie Rose did a beautiful job going back to the past and to the present to help develop the relationship between Dom and Thea. Heck, Dom broke my heart too. No Reservations can be read as a complete standalone, however, you get to see Joe and Catarina in this book. So, if you have read No Vacancy by Stephanie, you'll appreciate their involvement in the story line that much more. However, if you don't, it will not detract from Dom and Thea's storyline.
No Reservations is a second chance love story with some great life lessons woven into the fabric of the story. I found that I liked both characters and was completely rooting for them. Their pain ended up being my pain and their laughter brought a smile to my face. Stephanie did a wonderful job with this story :) No Reservations is out on July 10th!
#avidreaderbookblog #readingislife #bookblogger #bookaddict #booklover #newrelease #comingsoon #bookreview #stephanierose #books
No Reservations is a second chance love story with some great life lessons woven into the fabric of the story. I found that I liked both characters and was completely rooting for them. Their pain ended up being my pain and their laughter brought a smile to my face. Stephanie did a wonderful job with this story :) No Reservations is out on July 10th!
#avidreaderbookblog #readingislife #bookblogger #bookaddict #booklover #newrelease #comingsoon #bookreview #stephanierose #books
July 2, 2020
No Reservations by Stephanie Rose.
Oh my, this was certainly worth waiting for, as Stephanie continues to write extremely sensational stories that bring them to life. We met Dominic in No Vacancy and loved him there and now he has his own story.
This is a second chance romance, full of emotion, broken hearts from four years earlier, you'll have no issue falling in love with these sweet characters Dom and Thea.
A charming feel-good romance, heartwarming, going back to Ocean Cove, is like going home for the reader. Stephanie has created a community that will make you yearn to head on over to Ocean Cove. No Reservations is delightful, simply delightful, this book is a story that should be cherished close to the heart. There's a kind of brilliance and beautiful insight in the way the Stephanie weaves this tale, and she definitely gets into the characters and creates a detailed, believable world. Her use of descriptive language is delightful, overall. An enjoyable read!"
I definitely recommend this.
Oh my, this was certainly worth waiting for, as Stephanie continues to write extremely sensational stories that bring them to life. We met Dominic in No Vacancy and loved him there and now he has his own story.
This is a second chance romance, full of emotion, broken hearts from four years earlier, you'll have no issue falling in love with these sweet characters Dom and Thea.
A charming feel-good romance, heartwarming, going back to Ocean Cove, is like going home for the reader. Stephanie has created a community that will make you yearn to head on over to Ocean Cove. No Reservations is delightful, simply delightful, this book is a story that should be cherished close to the heart. There's a kind of brilliance and beautiful insight in the way the Stephanie weaves this tale, and she definitely gets into the characters and creates a detailed, believable world. Her use of descriptive language is delightful, overall. An enjoyable read!"
I definitely recommend this.
July 13, 2020
We met Dominic in No Vacancy and I was hoping we would get his story. Dominic and Thea were so in love, until it all fell apart. Everyone deals with grief in their own way, and Dom's way, he pushed Thea away and lost the love of his life. Getting his life together but never forgetting Thea, he moves on as best as he can. Fast forward, Thea's job has them in the same vicinity for the next project.
I really loved reading Dominic's POV. He knows he lost the love of his life, all his doing and he would give anything to have that second chance with Thea. These two, are so meant to be together. They love love love each other with everything they have and more. But, can Thea trust him 110% again? I loved seeing Caterina and Joe in this story. Such a sweet, sexy, emotional second chance romance. It can definitely be read as a standalone, but I think its definitely more special if 'No Vacancy' is read first. Love Joe and Dominic!
I really loved reading Dominic's POV. He knows he lost the love of his life, all his doing and he would give anything to have that second chance with Thea. These two, are so meant to be together. They love love love each other with everything they have and more. But, can Thea trust him 110% again? I loved seeing Caterina and Joe in this story. Such a sweet, sexy, emotional second chance romance. It can definitely be read as a standalone, but I think its definitely more special if 'No Vacancy' is read first. Love Joe and Dominic!
June 28, 2020
So let’s be honest.... when you start this one, you will hate Dom and feel for Thea. These two were in love... so in love and then life tore them apart. Or more precisely, Dom tore them apart. You’ll learn why. You’ll learn he could have reached out sooner. And then you will learn Thea’s side of the story and read about how heartbroken she was over him leaving her.
Four years later they meet again.
Is this there second chance?
Is Dom going to redeem himself?
Does he even deserve her forgiveness?
This one does have a HEA, but how do we get to that point???
I highly recommend you read this one.
It is technically book 2 in the series, but you can read it as a stand-alone with no issues.
Four years later they meet again.
Is this there second chance?
Is Dom going to redeem himself?
Does he even deserve her forgiveness?
This one does have a HEA, but how do we get to that point???
I highly recommend you read this one.
It is technically book 2 in the series, but you can read it as a stand-alone with no issues.
July 20, 2020
Swoony...romantical and sextastic!!!
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