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Buena Hills #2
Chasing Her Heart
A free-spirited artist. A guarded musician. One semester abroad that changes everything.
Art major Elise Abernathy didn't come to Ireland to fall in love. Her study abroad is only the first stop to a life of adventure. She'll let nothing stand in her way of getting her PhD and then traveling to far-off places to study the world's art—not even her growing attraction to the aspiring film composer who keeps invading her thoughts.
To Rory O'Clery, women are nothing but trouble. Still wounded from his ex's infidelity, he's vowed no woman will ever break his heart again. Under no circumstances will he give in to the immediate pull he feels toward the American who moves into his sister's flat.
As resisting a budding romance proves futile, the end of Elise's time in Ireland looms over them, making any chance of a long-term relationship impossible. But neither are looking for a serious commitment, anyway. What could possibly go wrong with having a little fun?
Apparently, everything.
When real feelings start to develop, will Elise realize that what she seeks is already standing in front of her, or will the shiny allure of her dreams pull them apart forever?
Art major Elise Abernathy didn't come to Ireland to fall in love. Her study abroad is only the first stop to a life of adventure. She'll let nothing stand in her way of getting her PhD and then traveling to far-off places to study the world's art—not even her growing attraction to the aspiring film composer who keeps invading her thoughts.
To Rory O'Clery, women are nothing but trouble. Still wounded from his ex's infidelity, he's vowed no woman will ever break his heart again. Under no circumstances will he give in to the immediate pull he feels toward the American who moves into his sister's flat.
As resisting a budding romance proves futile, the end of Elise's time in Ireland looms over them, making any chance of a long-term relationship impossible. But neither are looking for a serious commitment, anyway. What could possibly go wrong with having a little fun?
Apparently, everything.
When real feelings start to develop, will Elise realize that what she seeks is already standing in front of her, or will the shiny allure of her dreams pull them apart forever?
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 14, 2022
24 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Allison Gygi
6 books28 followersAllison Gygi wrote her first official story in third grade from an old word processor in the computer lab of her elementary school. Since then, she has crafted countless tales both on paper and in her head. As a mom, her days are spent trying to find a few minutes to write between the constant diaper changes, never-ending dishes, and helping kids with homework. She loves fairy tales and gravitates towards books with happy endings and swoony kisses. Allison enjoys reading, hiking, and traveling the world. She lives with her husband and three children in a cute suburb north of Chicago.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 14, 2022
Are you looking for a story that will make you want to purchase a plane ticket and head out on an adventure to Ireland? If so, look no further than Chasing Her Heart! Adventurous Elise wants to travel the world and she is starting with a semester studying abroad in Ireland. Unfortunately, plans go awry pretty quickly when she arrives to check in. Thankfully her ex-world traveler of a mom has connections and in swoops Rory to come to her rescue. Sparks seem to fly right away, but there’s a hitch. Elise isn’t looking for love. She is too young to settle down and she has grand plans for travel and graduate school. Rory isn’t looking for love either. After his last relationship tore his heart and his ability to trust, he isn’t keen to jump back into the dating world. So they’re both safe for catching true feelings, right?
I personally have wanted to visit Ireland for a very long time so I was instantly drawn to a book where a large part (though not the whole thing) takes place in Ireland. I loved reading about the adventures Elise and Rory go on touring some of the major sites around the country. I did find myself internally screaming at Elise at certain parts of the book. Just listen to the man talk! But nope. Classic romance novel (and I don't mean that in a bad way. There are reasons I stick to this genre). I do appreciate how the author specifically includes notes about the passage of time otherwise the overall premise of this book would have felt really rushed. Lots of great growth on the parts of both Rory and Elise. There is so much more I want to say but I’m afraid to say too much and spoil the plot!
Overall, I would certainly recommend this book. I am very interested to see what other books Allison Gygi may have in the works as Elise did have many single roommates/family members that I could see getting their own stories.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am leaving an honest and voluntary review.
I personally have wanted to visit Ireland for a very long time so I was instantly drawn to a book where a large part (though not the whole thing) takes place in Ireland. I loved reading about the adventures Elise and Rory go on touring some of the major sites around the country. I did find myself internally screaming at Elise at certain parts of the book. Just listen to the man talk! But nope. Classic romance novel (and I don't mean that in a bad way. There are reasons I stick to this genre). I do appreciate how the author specifically includes notes about the passage of time otherwise the overall premise of this book would have felt really rushed. Lots of great growth on the parts of both Rory and Elise. There is so much more I want to say but I’m afraid to say too much and spoil the plot!
Overall, I would certainly recommend this book. I am very interested to see what other books Allison Gygi may have in the works as Elise did have many single roommates/family members that I could see getting their own stories.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am leaving an honest and voluntary review.
June 16, 2022
A sweet romance novel that I would categorize as New Adult (NA) but could hold appeal for ages 16 and up I think. The hero of this book is a charming, sensitive, gentleman, and I think teenage me would have been obsessed with him. I wish I had found more romance books like this when I was in college. If this were to get a movie rating it would be “G” for me as nothing ever goes beyond kissing. A sweet story of first love, and navigating the bridge from student to adult. I can’t believe this is a debut novel Allison Gygi did such a great job. I was grateful for an opportunity to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 7, 2022
Dublin, Ireland meets Southern California in this sweet romance. I’m always a sucker for a good “oh, we’ll just have a meaningless fling to get over our ex” story and this was no exception. I really enjoyed the sweet moments and loved the friends and family they surrounded themselves with.
I thought Elise wanting to follow in her mother’s footsteps (especially when it came to finding a husband) was really sweet and a nice touch for her character.
I also loved how Rory and Elise's insecurities and desires kept them apart and the realities of trying to maintain a relationship far away weren’t glossed over. I felt the middle dragged a little for my personal tastes, but there were a lot of fun moments that definitely kept me reading. And I loved how they came back together in the end.
Overall, I think this is a cute, sweet romance with two people struggling to figure out how to be a couple without losing their individuality and I loved that about it. If you like sweet romance with low drama, this one might be for you.
I was given an advance copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
I thought Elise wanting to follow in her mother’s footsteps (especially when it came to finding a husband) was really sweet and a nice touch for her character.
I also loved how Rory and Elise's insecurities and desires kept them apart and the realities of trying to maintain a relationship far away weren’t glossed over. I felt the middle dragged a little for my personal tastes, but there were a lot of fun moments that definitely kept me reading. And I loved how they came back together in the end.
Overall, I think this is a cute, sweet romance with two people struggling to figure out how to be a couple without losing their individuality and I loved that about it. If you like sweet romance with low drama, this one might be for you.
I was given an advance copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
June 7, 2022
Chasing Her Heart is the book you pick up when you need a little bit of adventure, love, growth and family. Elise is an art student studying abroad in Dublin with her heart set on traveling the world and she thought nothing could stand in her way, expect when she met Rory. Rory was an unexpected and all consuming surprise and made her time in Dublin even more magical. But was it enough to give up her plans or did she (and Rory) both have some growing still left to do?
Rory is a sweetheart of all sweethearts and his growth was perfect for him in every way. I can identify with Elise and her goals and plans for her life and the struggle she went through. Sometimes it takes losing (or almost losing) what you have for you to realize just how important and life changing it can be if you give it a chance. I loved the setting of Ireland and the undeniable connection Rory and Elise have with each other.
Thank you @authorallisongygi for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback!
Rory is a sweetheart of all sweethearts and his growth was perfect for him in every way. I can identify with Elise and her goals and plans for her life and the struggle she went through. Sometimes it takes losing (or almost losing) what you have for you to realize just how important and life changing it can be if you give it a chance. I loved the setting of Ireland and the undeniable connection Rory and Elise have with each other.
Thank you @authorallisongygi for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback!
August 16, 2022
Elise is a student at a college in California who wants to follow in her mom's footsteps and travel the world. She is accepted into a program that will allow her to attend Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland for a semester and jumps at the chance. She makes all the arrangements but upon arrival she finds that her deposit did not go through and she has no place to stay. Luckily because her mom spent time here she has a friends whom she calls.
As luck would have it the friends daughter and roommates are looking for a replacement of a girl that has just left and so a wonderful friendship begins.
One of the roommates has a brother Rory who is sent to the hotel to pick her up. He walks in the door and instantly falls for Elise but has not dated for two years since his heart was broken by his childhood love. Elise is drawn to him too but she doesn't want anything to do with a relationship because it doesn't fit within her plans for her future.
BUT, the heart wants what the heart wants and we spend the next bit of the book going with them on wonderful adventures, places that I know I would love to see in Ireland and activities that sound wonderful to do. Then we also experience them working on their college degrees and on the music and artwork that they both are into.
As the story goes on and the time that Elise will be in Ireland runs down Rory admits his feelings for Elise and asks her to stay. In return Elise runs home with a broken heart leaving Rory to try and mend his.
What happens next is where fate and karma come in and we end up hoping for a wonderful, blessed happy ending. Will we get it.
Loved the story, book is long but well worth the read. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As luck would have it the friends daughter and roommates are looking for a replacement of a girl that has just left and so a wonderful friendship begins.
One of the roommates has a brother Rory who is sent to the hotel to pick her up. He walks in the door and instantly falls for Elise but has not dated for two years since his heart was broken by his childhood love. Elise is drawn to him too but she doesn't want anything to do with a relationship because it doesn't fit within her plans for her future.
BUT, the heart wants what the heart wants and we spend the next bit of the book going with them on wonderful adventures, places that I know I would love to see in Ireland and activities that sound wonderful to do. Then we also experience them working on their college degrees and on the music and artwork that they both are into.
As the story goes on and the time that Elise will be in Ireland runs down Rory admits his feelings for Elise and asks her to stay. In return Elise runs home with a broken heart leaving Rory to try and mend his.
What happens next is where fate and karma come in and we end up hoping for a wonderful, blessed happy ending. Will we get it.
Loved the story, book is long but well worth the read. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2022
I loved the dichotomy of this book; it really felt like reading two books in one.
The first half of the book is set in Ireland and follows the idealistic friendship and budding romance of Rory and Elise, two likable characters who aren’t interested in a serious long-term relationship but who care for and enjoy being around each other. As we are treated to a tour of interesting places Ireland with Rory as the guide, we see their relationship strengthen, but not deepen. They become more and more attached, but avoid any true commitments or discussions…a childlike, mountaintop experience.
The second half of this book is set in Southern California and centers around the true growth of their relationship. Things are no longer just fun and lighthearted. Here Rory and Elise need to make decisions, have responsible conversations, and address hard issues. These pages weren’t as fun to read, but I appreciated them more because they revealed more of what is lacking in many romance books: the development of healthy relationship patterns.
There are several interesting side characters who would make great main characters in future books, so I hope this debut novel is the first of many for this author.
The first half of the book is set in Ireland and follows the idealistic friendship and budding romance of Rory and Elise, two likable characters who aren’t interested in a serious long-term relationship but who care for and enjoy being around each other. As we are treated to a tour of interesting places Ireland with Rory as the guide, we see their relationship strengthen, but not deepen. They become more and more attached, but avoid any true commitments or discussions…a childlike, mountaintop experience.
The second half of this book is set in Southern California and centers around the true growth of their relationship. Things are no longer just fun and lighthearted. Here Rory and Elise need to make decisions, have responsible conversations, and address hard issues. These pages weren’t as fun to read, but I appreciated them more because they revealed more of what is lacking in many romance books: the development of healthy relationship patterns.
There are several interesting side characters who would make great main characters in future books, so I hope this debut novel is the first of many for this author.
June 15, 2022
I loved Elise and Rory’s story. Their relationship and dialogue are really fun and entertaining. Allison does a great job of developing the characters and their relationship. I enjoyed their swoony and flirty instant connection followed by the awkwardness and mixed emotions after their relationship changed. The timeline felt believable and Elise’s struggle is one many will relate to (or know someone who does). The Irish setting also had me checking flight prices. :)
This clean romance is a really fun read.
I also really enjoyed the supporting characters and am already excited to read more about them in the next Buena Hills book!
I received an ARC copy of Chasing Her Heart and this is my honest review.
This clean romance is a really fun read.
I also really enjoyed the supporting characters and am already excited to read more about them in the next Buena Hills book!
I received an ARC copy of Chasing Her Heart and this is my honest review.
July 3, 2023
Buena Park Book 1
This book missed the mark for me. I liked this characters but Elise was really wishywashy with her feelings and really took up a lot of the book going back and forth. Rory was right when he told her that she was selfish only considering her plans and not his. One of the things that didn’t make sense to me was that Elise went to A major college(I thought it was USC) and then wanted to go to Yale and travel all around the world after that? What was the point of going to Yale when it didn’t seem that she would even use her degree? None of that made sense to me How would you even pay for that?
This book missed the mark for me. I liked this characters but Elise was really wishywashy with her feelings and really took up a lot of the book going back and forth. Rory was right when he told her that she was selfish only considering her plans and not his. One of the things that didn’t make sense to me was that Elise went to A major college(I thought it was USC) and then wanted to go to Yale and travel all around the world after that? What was the point of going to Yale when it didn’t seem that she would even use her degree? None of that made sense to me How would you even pay for that?
November 22, 2023
I actually got this book from an online giveaway, and I was super excited because I really wanted to read it! I used to work with the author's husband in college. 😁
I read a lot of newbie authors' books and the story is fine and there are lots of cheesy, rushed parts. But this story was not like that at all! I felt the writing was very thought out, and the story was well-written. It was hard to believe this was her first novel!
I also liked that it wasn't predictable. Lots of unease and doubt in the relationship which made the ending all the better.
I'm excited to read the rest of what Allison publishes!
I read a lot of newbie authors' books and the story is fine and there are lots of cheesy, rushed parts. But this story was not like that at all! I felt the writing was very thought out, and the story was well-written. It was hard to believe this was her first novel!
I also liked that it wasn't predictable. Lots of unease and doubt in the relationship which made the ending all the better.
I'm excited to read the rest of what Allison publishes!
May 26, 2022
This book was exactly the lighthearted read I needed this week. Because sometimes you just need a little bit of a love story.
Elise has her life planned out. Rory has his life planned out too. But when sparks start to fly between them, will they find a way to make a new plan together?
I loved the setting (Ireland!) and the characters of this story! Rory was my absolute favorite character and I loved his growth and story arc.
* I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Elise has her life planned out. Rory has his life planned out too. But when sparks start to fly between them, will they find a way to make a new plan together?
I loved the setting (Ireland!) and the characters of this story! Rory was my absolute favorite character and I loved his growth and story arc.
* I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
August 22, 2022
Allison Gygi is a new-to-me author and this is her debut novel. Chasing Her Heart is a well-written story with lots of descriptions and visuals. It was easy to read and the characters were fleshed out and real. Rory was the absolute sweetest, had the kindest heart, and he had the patience of a saint with Elise. These two decide to have a clean sort of fling while she’s in Ireland for a short time. Little did they know, their feelings wouldn’t be able to remain contained in those few months. Hop on a plane and fly to Ireland with Rory and Elise!
March 16, 2023
*LOVE THIS BOOK!*
“Chasing Her Heart” is my new favorite book so far this year!!
Such a beautiful, sweet story that draws you in and truly touches your heart!! I cried and cheered, rooting for Elise and Rory’s happily ever. I loved the concept that sometimes we have to take a few detours before we “realize that what we seek is standing right in front of us.”
Be sure and check out the bonus epilogue. You’ll be glad you did.
I received this book to give my honest review. I would highly recommend it! Can’t wait for more by this talented author.
“Chasing Her Heart” is my new favorite book so far this year!!
Such a beautiful, sweet story that draws you in and truly touches your heart!! I cried and cheered, rooting for Elise and Rory’s happily ever. I loved the concept that sometimes we have to take a few detours before we “realize that what we seek is standing right in front of us.”
Be sure and check out the bonus epilogue. You’ll be glad you did.
I received this book to give my honest review. I would highly recommend it! Can’t wait for more by this talented author.
June 15, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! I cried, swooned and yelled at times when characters were being frustrating. But I can't say enough good about it! This is definitely one of my new favorites, the development for both Elise and Rory was relatable but not overly in your face. I loved the time in Ireland and all the descriptions and verbiage used, I've always wanted to go and this has increased that desire ten fold. I am glad to have read it, and can't wait to get my physical copy in the mail!
June 15, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this romance novel. Loved that it was clean and I could enjoy it with my teenage daughter! The author is so detailed and descriptive it made me feel like I was actually friends with Rory and Elise. Loved all the details describing the beauty and charm of Ireland--now I need to go visit for myself. Also loved the little Irish phrases and dialogue. Absolutely delightful for a first novel, can't wait to read whatever Allison comes up with next!
June 18, 2022
I just finished reading “Chasing Her Heart” by Allison Gygi, and I loved it!
If you wanna armchair travel to Ireland and fall in love with a handsome, tender hearted, Irish musician while you’re there, then this is the contemporary romance book for you!
Well written with good flow, believable, relatable characters and storyline, and all the heart skipping moments you’re looking for.
🥹I choked up at the end! I know you’ll be cheering for Rory & Elise as much as I did. ❤️
If you wanna armchair travel to Ireland and fall in love with a handsome, tender hearted, Irish musician while you’re there, then this is the contemporary romance book for you!
Well written with good flow, believable, relatable characters and storyline, and all the heart skipping moments you’re looking for.
🥹I choked up at the end! I know you’ll be cheering for Rory & Elise as much as I did. ❤️
June 16, 2022
A wonderfully written debut novel! Vivid imagery of Ireland and its beautiful sites intertwine with a story of a budding romance with obstacles as big as an ocean between the main characters. You will be intrigued from the beginning and hopeful for a grand reunion as both characters follow their dreams.
June 29, 2022
This story drew me in with a setting that is descriptive along with the crafty plots and dialogue that brings this story to life. I loved Rory and Elise and how their relationship blossomed. Will they make it to a happily ever after?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 3, 2022
This was my first read from this author. I really enjoyed this story. I felt bad for Elise and what had happened to her, therefore I would have preferred to read her thoughts in the first person point of view.
This will not be the last story I read from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This will not be the last story I read from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 11, 2022
swooning danger
Beautifully written romance novel it kept redirects g nonstop until I had to go to bed because my husband kept. On asking me to go to bed at early hours of the morning.
A must read. I would definitely read more books written by Allison Gygi. Keep ‘‘em coming woman!
Beautifully written romance novel it kept redirects g nonstop until I had to go to bed because my husband kept. On asking me to go to bed at early hours of the morning.
A must read. I would definitely read more books written by Allison Gygi. Keep ‘‘em coming woman!
October 6, 2022
“Chasing Her Heart” is a beautifully written, sweet romance. The setting makes the reader long for a trip to the Emerald Isle.
Read full review in the 2022 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2022 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 19, 2023
✨REVIEW✨
This was a sweet and fun read. @authorallisongygi hoped I would fall in love with Rory and Elise like she has.... I did! I enjoyed the journey of Rory and Elise as they find what really matters most, while being true to themselves. I was rooting for them both. I don’t want to give much away, but I highly recommend this book. 📖
Guess who is looking at plane tickets to Ireland. ✈️
This was a sweet and fun read. @authorallisongygi hoped I would fall in love with Rory and Elise like she has.... I did! I enjoyed the journey of Rory and Elise as they find what really matters most, while being true to themselves. I was rooting for them both. I don’t want to give much away, but I highly recommend this book. 📖
Guess who is looking at plane tickets to Ireland. ✈️
June 15, 2022
What a great book! Had me engrossed right awsy! I love the plot. I love how they met and how the relationship develops. I love how they keep going hanging in there despite their struggles! Really great read! I received an ARC copy and chose to leave a review.
June 20, 2022
I couldn't put this book down. And NEVER in my whole life have I wanted to visit Ireland so bad. This book flows beautifully. Sometimes when books jump ahead, I'm not a huge fan. But the author did this flawlessly and made it connect. This book is dreamy. I loved every aspect of it!
October 26, 2023
This was an okay read. I truly liked the characters especially the free-spirited Elise. The storyline was okay. I’m not sure why but I wasn’t pulled into the story like I usually am. Although this author did great creating a likable story, so I plan on reading more in the future.
November 27, 2023
If you want a fun clean romantic book to read, this is a good one! I liked that the chapters alternated between the perspective of both Rory and Elise. This book reminded me of all the emotions and excitement of falling in love.
July 1, 2022
This was my first book by Allison Gygi and I really enjoyed it!!! Do you follow your dreams or take a chance on love? Read the story of Elise and Rory to see what happens!!! Enjoy!!!
September 3, 2022
Very well written.
May 29, 2024
DNF. I just couldn’t get into this. I to 53% and just couldn’t buy myself through it any longer. Although I did love the first bit of the book. Reminded me on my time in Ireland and took me back
November 12, 2022
I really enjoyed reading this book! It was sweet and unique, with good character development, and a fun setting!
I loved that both Rory and Elise are college students in the beginning of this book. I haven’t read many books with characters at that age, so they stand out to me when I read them. They meet because Elise is enjoying a semester abroad in Ireland, which was so fun for me because I spent a semester in Rome while I was in college. And I visited Ireland at the end of my semester and saw some of the things that Elise did in the book, including Blarney Castle! Reading this book felt so nostalgic for me in certain aspects because I met my husband in college and traveled in college.
The romantic tension is well written in this book as Rory isn’t ready for a permanent relationship, and Elise has certain plans for once she graduates and romance isn’t a part of that plan for awhile. I didn’t always agree with Elise’s choices, but they were realistic for her character and made sense. I thought both Rory and Elise had great character development, and I enjoyed seeing them grow!
I’m looking forward to more books by Allison Gygi!
4.5/5 stars!
I loved that both Rory and Elise are college students in the beginning of this book. I haven’t read many books with characters at that age, so they stand out to me when I read them. They meet because Elise is enjoying a semester abroad in Ireland, which was so fun for me because I spent a semester in Rome while I was in college. And I visited Ireland at the end of my semester and saw some of the things that Elise did in the book, including Blarney Castle! Reading this book felt so nostalgic for me in certain aspects because I met my husband in college and traveled in college.
The romantic tension is well written in this book as Rory isn’t ready for a permanent relationship, and Elise has certain plans for once she graduates and romance isn’t a part of that plan for awhile. I didn’t always agree with Elise’s choices, but they were realistic for her character and made sense. I thought both Rory and Elise had great character development, and I enjoyed seeing them grow!
I’m looking forward to more books by Allison Gygi!
4.5/5 stars!
May 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews