This was such a beautiful tale that really resonated with me after the loss of my own father. I loved that this was not a cookie cutter romance. Both characters had baggage and it was really about loving someone after all is said and done. It was beautiful story.

I loved everything about this story. I connected so much with some of the issues that Brooke was facing. It was real life and the real choices many of us have to have to face as our parents age.

“My whole world had to fall apart in order for us to meet and land here.”

Luca and his family are a complete joy! And they arrive in Brooke’s life exactly when she needs that reminder that “family” can be more than just who you were born to and it can keep growing and evolving as you do.

“We are in the same place, Brooke.”
She wanted to believe that so much.
And when he leaned down and kissed her . . . the fear that sat at the surface of all her thoughts drifted away, and hope took its place.”

When It Falls Apart is so emotional, but the author tempers that with some lightness and humor and plenty of Oh So Swoony romance!!
I really look forward to more D’ Angelos stories!!
-5 Stars!-

When I think of romance, I think of books just like this one, that gives all the feels and satisfies every romance junkies' heart. This is a perfect book to snuggle up with on any day.

Brooke found herself back to take care of her father once again. And this time, she leave her boyfriend for good afterall, he is not as good to her as she might have wish for. Her dad is in bad shape and she need to get him into assisted living , and arranging all his things away. Luca is a single father to Frankie and eldest son who running the family restaurant with the help from his mum and sibling. While talking to his mum, Brooke found out that his mum is looking for tenant for apartment above the restaurant. Luca is not happy that his Mum renting the place to Brooke but soon, he learn about Brooke’s life and obligation. Things started to change then.

Didn’t really expect much when I start reading this book but this is a story that can pull your interest and you end up being sad at the ending because you don’t want it to end. Love both the characters very much, Luca being a family man, protective of his loved ones and caring while Brooke dealing with her father issues with sincerity despite the back story of what happened between them before. Overall it is a sweet and emotional read for me .

*review post scheduled to be published on 8/8/22 on my blog*

I’ve been a fan of Catherine Bybee since the Weekday series and have read most of her books. When it Falls Apart is a great start to the new D’Angelos series and I can’t wait to read about the rest of the family. This book focuses on Brooke and Luca. I have a soft spot for a single dad romance and the chemistry between Brooke and Luca is amazing (and hilarious). This is a really heart felt romance that tackles some serious issues but still leaves you feeling good. A great beach read.

Thank you to Netgalley and to Montlake for giving me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Brooke’s life is a mess, and I found it easy to sympathize with her. Perhaps that’s because Brooke’s tumultuous relationship with her father, as well as her being solely responsible for the care of an elderly relative, hit close to home for me. I couldn’t stop my heart from aching as she struggles to balance the needs of her ailing father with a desire to have a fulfilling life of her own—all the while fighting rightful resentment. Brooke’s strength, devotion, and ability to set boundaries are admirable.


The mood lightens considerably when Brooke stumbles into Luca’s world. Brooke wasn't looking for love when she first laid eyes on Luca, but she sure found it in a big, hot Italian way. Luca was lost in his own world of juggling duty, responsibility, and family when Brooke completely swept him off his feet, as well.

Despite both of their past and present trying life circumstances, fate seems to now be on their side as these two perfect for each other love birds' pair off and get their HEA. A great cast of supportive family members and friends certainly helped them along, too.


Catherine Bybee's new book has everything that will make a book epically fantastic 🧡🧡 Heartbreak, emotions, charming Italian hero, cute adorable kid, heartwarming love story, drama, and one big Italian family that thinks food cures everything. I loved Brooke and Lucas love story to bits. This book is not just romance, it is a journey about trust, patience, and being strong.

I am thankful to netgalley and the publisher for providing me this book in return of an honest review.
A definitely must read !!

When It Falls Apart is a touching romance about forgiveness, perseverance, and family bonds.


Brooke’s life is a mess, and I found it easy to sympathize with her. Perhaps that’s because Brooke’s tumultuous relationship with her father, as well as her being solely responsible for the care of an elderly relative, hit close to home for me. I couldn’t stop my heart from aching as she struggles to balance the needs of her ailing father with a desire to have a fulfilling life of her own—all the while fighting rightful resentment. Brooke’s strength, devotion, and ability to set boundaries are admirable.

The mood lightens considerably when Brooke stumbles into Luca’s world. I adored Luca and the entire tight knit D’Angelo family. The way they support each other unconditionally warmed my heart. The story explores how valuable the family you choose can be—sometimes even more than the family you are given. It’s a joy to see how easily Brooke becomes attached to the D’Angelos and they to her.

Luca is such a good father, and his attentiveness to his young daughter made me melt. Luca and Brooke are extremely compatible, and not just romantically. They are confidantes who share mutual respect and carry each other’s burdens. The story blessedly avoids miscommunication, secrets, and petty jealousy that can be the downfall of some romances.

Some key events are glossed over, particularly towards the end of the book. I would have appreciated more showing and less telling. However, the book does a fantastic job of immersing the reader in San Diego’s Little Italy. I could almost feel the breeze from the bay on my skin, hear the rapid Italian being spoken, and I practically drooled over all the wonderful dishes Brooke eats.

When It Falls Apart is the first book I’ve read by Catherine Bybee, but it won’t be the last. I’m looking forward to Luca’s ambitious brother, Gio, and vibrant sister, Chloe, getting their own stories.

Catherine Bybee's new book has everything that will make a book epically fantastic 🧡🧡 Heartbreak, emotions, charming Italian hero, cute adorable kid, heartwarming love story, drama, and one big Italian family that thinks food cures everything. I loved Brooke and Lucas love story to bits. This book is not just romance, it is a journey about trust, patience, and being strong.
A definitely must read !!
And now I can't wait for Chloe and Dante's book !!

P.S: This book will make you crave pasta and bread crazily so don't read this book empty stomach.

Easy read that kept me interested. Main characters are likeable and heartwarming. Good easy loveable book

An emotional book about broken homes, family ties and finding true love

Sometimes family isn't by blood, but by choice; they are the ones that show up for you time and time again, no questions asked. When Brooke is called to California to help her ailing father again, her unsupportive boyfriend doesn't come with her not does bother to ask how he's doing. Brooke is quick to realize he isn't going to be her life partner. When she decides to make a move, she meets the large Italian family at her favorite new restaurant and they quickly become friends. Amongst the family, is Luca and his daughter, which Brooke is enamored almost immediately; as is Luca. Luca and Brooke begin a beautiful relationship, until Luca's ex-wife comes out of nowhere trying to regain her status as mother to her and Luca's daughter. Brooke is supportive as she's had her own issues, very similar issues with her own father. Together they move beyond the drama, they support each other in ways neither have ever known and Brooke has the family she never thought she'd have.
This was a beautiful tale, very well written and full of emotion!

When It Falls Apart is a contemporary romance novel about the power of love and family and healing from past trauma. After a break-up and moving her sick father to a new facility, Brooke moves to San Diego's Little Italy and ends up finding her way into the home and hearts of Luca and his family who owns a popular restaurant in town. The novel was quick light read with minimal angst but definitely had some fearful moments mostly due to Brooke's father's illness and Luca's manipulative ex-wife coming back to town with ulterior motives. Definitely felt neatly wrapped up at the end, even if it might have felt a little fast. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this novel.

Brooke Turner moves to San Diego to care for her ailing father. While there, she meets Luca D'Angelo, a single father, and the two develop feelings for each other. However, when their relationship unravels, they must decide if love is enough to heal their broken hearts.

Catherine Bybee's novel When It Falls Apart is a touching story about love, family, and second chances. Brooke Turner is a relatable heroine who is forced to confront her complicated relationship with her father when he becomes ill. Luca D'Angelo is a sweet and protective single father, and their romance is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. I enjoyed watching Brooke and Luca's relationship grow and change throughout the novel, and I was rooting for them every step of the way. This is definitely a book I would recommend.

Sometimes things have a way of coming together perfectly even when it seems they are falling apart, folks. That's how I would describe this swoon worthy, sweet, yet very steamy romantic tale between Brooke and Luca, the main couple.

Brooke wasn't looking for love when she first laid eyes on Luca, but she sure found it in a big, hot Italian way. Luca was lost in his own world of juggling duty, responsibility, and family when Brooke completely swept him off his feet, as well.

Despite both of their past and present trying life circumstances, fate seems to now be on their side as these two perfect for each other love birds' pair off and get their HEA. A great cast of supportive family members and friends certainly helped them along, too.

Though leisurely paced, I still stayed completely tuned in and am already looking forward to the next love match in this series. I'm thinking it will be Chloe and Dante, an only referenced character so far yet to make an actual appearance.

Just know I felt the banter, comradery, and chemistry between this couple natural and compelling. There was only a touch here and there of relationship angst, all of which were easily mastered and overcome by these two logical, same heart minded soul mates.

Title: When It Falls Apart, Series: the D'Angelos (Book 1), Author: Catherine Bybee, Pages: 360, pub date: 6/21/22, stand-alone but part of a series, good guy divorced single dad, compassionate heroine, get to know each other first, some very steamy scenes, romance safe,

(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not rewarded or compensated for this review.)

Catherine Bybee is one of my favorite authors and again she doesn’t disappoint. Brooke realizes she doesn’t love the man that she is with and needs more. She has an estranged relationship with her father but he is all she has and feels responsible for him. A trip to California to take care of her sick father turns into a life altering decision. She rents a room over Luca’s restaurant; thanks to his mother. Brooke learns to put her guard down and finds a true gentleman and love with Luca. Even though along the way there are some road bumps to get over.

Wow, all I can say is, this story blew me away! Keep the tissues close by as you are reading WHEN IT FALLS APART by Catherine Bybee. She will have your emotions all over the place. Once I started reading, it was very hard to stop! I have never read a book by Catherine Bybee before but I know WHEN IT FALLS APART won’t be the last! I’m so excited to read more by this author that as soon as I was finished, I placed all of her other books on hold at my library! The twists and turns made it impossible to put down, as I had to know what was going to happen to Brooke after so much heartache! Wow! What an awesome story.

WHEN IT FALLS APART has Brooke running away from her old life. She flies to California from Seattle to take care of her father once again. She leaves her useless boyfriend at home since he can’t be bothered to join her on the trip and be there for her. Anyway, her dad’s health has deteriorated and he can no longer live alone. She has to get her dad into assisted living, sell his stupid car and then unload the condo he is living in that she pays for. She can’t live with her dad because, in her words, she can’t wipe his butt and her dad agrees. She also has to find somewhere to live herself because going back to Seattle is not an option. There is nothing there for her anymore. Enter the D’Angelos! Brooke’s life will never be the same!

I don’t want to say too much for fear of giving away all of WHEN IT FALLS APART but once I started reading this beautiful and heart breaking story, I could not stop! Everyone should have this unforgettable book on their summer reading list. The dialogue between Brooke and Luca, is just hysterical. When Brooke meets Luca, her new land lady’s son, we’ll let me just say, I prayed he would be able to help her. There is so much pain in this story and in Brooke’s family that I was crying like a baby while reading but mostly when I was finished! I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters from page one and I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart tugging author.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

When it Falls Apart is book 1 in the D’Angelos series.

Ahhhh, what a breath of fresh air this was to read. Heart, family, and love with a cast of incredible characters building the story up, up, and up. Filled with a full range of emotions Bybee takes the reader on a beautiful journey not soon to be forgotten.

Luca and Brooke make me wonder how you say swoon in Italian. I can’t wait for what the rest of the series will bring for the family.

This was my first Catherine Bybee read, but certainly not my last!!!

I fell in love with the characters and the story and I'm so excited that we'll be seeing more from this incredibel family in future novels. It made me want to book a trip to San Diego and bask in sun and great food ASAP.

Brooke Turner has broken up with her boyfriend because she chose to go to California to be with her father who was rushed to the hospital after having a stroke. Her boyfriend is upset because she will not be going to Florida and acts like her father planned to have a stroke on that day. Going through everything, she then needs to find a place where her father can be placed for recovery. Meanwhile, she must still deal with his condo, bills, and other items. Her best friend comes in from Washington and helps a little. They take a day going to San Diego and end up in little Italy. Her friend gets her to see the advantage of at least moving to San Diego.
She is back a few days later in the same restaurant and the grandmother she met has now offered her a room to rent. The son who is also the cook is not happy but his daughter is. Also, she is not back for a few days having to get her father settled in. That is when Luca and she begin to spend more time together and he even helps her fix up her father’s condo to sell. As always, the twist comes in the form of his ex and the mother of Frankie. There are so many good parts to this book and each character has a reason to be part of the story. It helps that I know the places and have gone through what the character is going through with older parents so the story maybe touches a little more. A very good book.

I haven’t read a Catherine Bybee book for many months, and now remember how much I love her books. This author’s writing is brilliant, the pace magnificent and her characters perfect! I love how the story flows and keeps you enthralled as you live within the magic world she invented. In this book I followed Brooke’s breakup, a change of location, and finding a new love. And within this plot, we also have Brooke dealing competently with an aging father who has health issues, an Italian mama who plots with her best friend to help their children find love, and a man who has to raise his daughter alone, after her mother abandoned them years ago.

Brooke’s father had disappeared from her life during her childhood and now, she’s in charge of him. She’s strong and decided, but at the same time, exhausted with the weight of her responsibilities. She lands in San Diego’s Little Italy and it’s like she went into a magical small town with a wonderful family that gives her all that she had been missing. Here she finds Mari D’Angelo, owner of the restaurant and a true Italian mama. The cook, Luca D’Angelo, an Italian dreamboat, single father with a precious little girl. And his siblings Chloe and Gio are the sister and brother she never had before.

I loved how the attraction develops, surely and strongly, between Luca and Brooke, how she’s brought into the arms of this family, who also embrace her father, cantankerous as he is.

It’s a romance but it’s also a story about family love, about support and acceptance, and finding home. When someone from their past suddenly appears, it seems as if their plans will go awry, but you have to believe in love and trust the process.

I love this author’s female characters, women of intelligence and assurance, who face trials with grace and grit. Brooke goes through problems, she’s exhausted, sometimes discouraged, and she sometimes cries. But then she straightens, pushes her shoulder back, and gets going. I loved how she dealt with everything in this book. Super empowering! I loved everything about this book!

Brooke Turner's life is falling apart. She has received a call that her father is having emergency surgery in Upland, California. She is living in Seattle with her significant other, but he doesn't want her to go to her father. They do not have much of a relationship, and he doesn't want to go with her. She heads to Upland and is shocked at what she is up against. First her father has complications and can no longer live alone. He has basically trashed the condo she bought for him to live in, and she realizes that she doesn't want to continue her relationship. She needs to stay in the same city as her father, so ends up moving him into a assisted living home in San Diego. She rents a one room apartment above an Italian restaurant, and tries to begin a new life. Luca, is the chef at the restaurant and they are attracted to one another, but Luca D'Angelo is a single dad who was badly hurt by his ex-wife and is not sure if he wants to bring someone into his and Franny's lives. Romance, family and job all continue to cause issues with her life. Will she ever feel confident enough to find another love interest? Will her father continue to consume her life? A story many people will be able to identify with in some area.

When It Falls is my first book by Catherine Bybee, but it won't be my last. I really enjoyed this story about a woman whose life had to fall apart before she could rebuild it. Brooke is one strong lady. She and her father have had a very rocky relationship, he was married four times, and only recently became a "family" when she became an adult. She loves her dad and puts up with a lot of stuff he dishes out. I give her a lot of credit. Luckily she works remotely, so can work wherever she is, so living and working above the family apartments at the restaurant in San Diego is possible. Luca is a wonderful male lead. He is a fantastic father, great family man, a chef, a caring person and handsome. He falls quickly for Brooke, seeing her vulnerability hidden by her sass, strength and humour, but moves slowly so as not to scare her. Franny, aka Francesca, is a delight. She is only eight years old, but going on thirteen. She has no filter and is not afraid to ask questions of other. She made me laugh more than once. The other family members and characters in the story all add something to the plot and this is where much of the humour comes in. This is a great story. One that has a lot more than a romance. There is a huge loving family, abandonment, neglect, family responsibilities, issues that come with aging, community, lots of food, secrets, lies and of course romance. The story is realistic, and well written and one I read through quickly, only stopping when necessary. I recommend this story and am already looking forward to seeing what is next for the D'Angelo family.