Member Reviews
Sarah Adams does it again!! I loved this book. I love how down your earth Amelia was. I loved how sweet and respectful Noah was. They were so cute together.
Sarah Adams is so good about tension while also keeping it closed door!
I devoured this book and wanted to read it in one sitting. Couldn’t cause I have kids but I would have if I didn’t!!
Only one thing didn’t make sense with the phone cord and the door in the beginning but other than that LOVED it!!
4.5 ⭐️
As always Sarah Adams writes another winner! I adore her books and they never disappoint!
Amelia Rae Rose is a pop singer who is burned out and decides to get away from her life. Since she cant go to Rome Italy, she decides to go to Rome KY to hide out awhile. Her car breaks down in front of Noah's house. Noah is a grumpy guy - he's been burned before and pretty much keeps to himself. Amelia ends up staying in Noah's guest room for what she thought would be the night but ends up being several weeks. These two have great chemistry but try to deny their feelings for each other as they get to know one another. These two have great banter and it is fun to watch them discover their true selves. Lots of fun side characters in Rome too.
I adore this book 🥺🧡 Here we got a burned-out pop star Amelia Rose, aka Rae Rose on stage, who decides to channel her inner Audrey Hepburn and run off to Rome. She takes off in the middle of the night and finds herself in Rome...Kentucky, where her car breaks down in local pie shop owner Noah Walker's front yard. Noah decides to let her stay in his spare bedroom while her car is getting fixed, and there begins this sweet, swoony, and adorably hilarious romcom! One minute my cheeks are starting hurt from smiling so big, and the next I have tears threatening to fall from my eyes.
🥧 dual POV
🥧 grumpy/sunshine
🥧 forced proximity
🥧 charming (and meddling) small town
🥧 sisters
🥧 pa-ja-mas
🥧 pancakes
🥧 banter
🥧 found family
🥧 "I'm trying so hard not to like you"
This is my new @authorsarahadams favorite 🥰
Thank you @NetGalley and @randomhouse for this ARC!
I sped through this latest Sarah Adams book so fast!!! She is an auto-buy author for me and her books never disappoint, When in Rome was no exception. This was a funny, heartwarming, small town man meets celebrity singer on the lam romance full of so much heart.
Lonely and tired of her exhausting schedule as superstar "Rae Rose," Amelia decides to take a cue from her idol Audrey Hepburn and go on a Roman Holiday. The closest "Rome" she can find is in Kentucky so she gets in her car and sets off. Fast forward to her car breaking down outside the house of a hot small town pie shop owner, Noah, who reluctantly gives Amelia a place to stay while she waits for her car to get fixed.
You'll want to read this if you enjoy:
- grumpy/sunshine pairings
- quirky, small town charm
- meddling sisters
- a scrabble-loving, baking, book lover lead
- pancakes
- Audrey Hepburn
- great mental health rep
- closed door romance
Perfect for fans of Donut fall in love by Jackie Lau or In the weeds by B.K. Borison. This book is sure to put a smile on your face and have you craving pie and pancakes!! So grateful to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read an early copy in exchange for my honest review.
I think "When in Rome" is my favorite Sarah Adams book so far!
This is a super sweet opposites attract, fade to black small town romance. You could really feel the chemistry between the characters - and there was the perfect amount of tension and banter mixed in.
I loved the Audrey Hepburn inspiration as well, and thought the Roman Holiday references were such a fun twist! Overall this is the quintessential rom com that is as sweet as one of Noah's pies!
ARC kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
I love everything by Sarah Adams, so loving this wasn’t a surprise.
Amelia is a quirky pop star who needs and break. She decides to visit a small town nearby and her car breaks down in Noah’s yard. Noah is a grumpy, surly, pie shop owner who is devoted to his sisters and his town, and doesn’t want to fall for the pop star who travels the world. They become frenemies as he introduces her to the town while she takes her break from the spotlight, but their relationship quickly develops in to something more.
This one had a little more steam than the authors previous books but it’s still “closed door”. I liked the development of the characters, but the ending moved a little quickly for my taste. Despite that, I loved the resolution itself and how both main characters stayed true to themselves. I wish we had seen/heard more from Claire, and gotten more backstory or bts there. Otherwise would definitely recommend this, along with any other Sarah Adams book. Such cute, happy reads.
When Amelia Rae Rose needs a break from her pop star lifestyle, she heads to Rome. It might be Rome, Kentucky, but it'll have to do. When her car breaks down in the yard of Noah Walker, she has no idea how her life is about to change, and luckily not because he's a serial killer. What happens when a celebrity falls in love with someone from a small town?
I'm at the point where I will read every book Sarah Adams writes. She writes the perfect feel-good love story and When in Rome is no exception. When in Rome also has two of my favorites tropes as a romance reader: forced proximity and grumpy/sunshine. This book is full of heartwarming moments, likable and charismatic characters, and will have you laughing throughout.
When I got the email today that my request for this book was approved, I literally stopped what I was doing and immediately sat down and read the entire thing. Sarah Adams has quickly become one of my favorite romantic comedy writers. She has an effortless way of blending real life issues into her stories without it seeming disingenuous. When in Rome is no different. Amelia and Noah are flirty, sassy, and so sweet. Sprinkled throughout the novel are wonderful snippets of small town life and the big personalities that inhabit these towns. Mabel is 100% a perfect blend of Babette and Miss Patty for any Gilmore Girls fans.
When in Rome releases on September 20, 2022 and I highly recommend pre-ordering this today!
feels (ironically) more realistic than the cheat sheet. has what i think to be the perfect amount of pining. i wanted amelia and noah to fight their feelings less, though! i loved noah’s sisters, and the overall sense of community in rome, kentucky.
#netgalley
"To me, you're Amelia. Maker of shitty pancakes and a smile that rivals the sun. All I want is you."
SWEET BREAD AND BUTTER ON CHRISTMAS MORNING! I JUST LOVE SARAH ADAMS. I love reading her books with my best Dolly Parton or Reese Witherspoon accent. I love all the tension and pining and flirting and banter. GOOD GOUDA, THE CHEMISTRY!!!
Sarah Adams writes tender and soft so well and I. am. puddin'. When in Rome is powdered sugar, sweet as maple syrup, chef's kiss, magic! Reading this book feels like a hug. Bless its, child! GET IT!
THINGS AND STUFF
-dual POV
-pop star & pie shop owner
-grumpy x sunshine
-forced proximity
-opposites attract
-quaint, small town w/ meddling neighbors
-kindhearted, quirky sisters
-James & Noah= Bromance
-oh no, you're wounded! Hurt/comfort
-Noah's pancakes
-comfy in cotton. Grandpa jams a la Gregory Peck
-pies, flowers, and books
-Audrey Hepburn introductory movie night
-#IsThisAKissingBook: closed door with a crack. Nuzzling, snuggling, A HUG ™, forehead kisses, eyes dropping to lips. "I'm trying so hard to stay away." Then don't. Do it. Kiss her!
Thank you Dell/Random House for an advanced copy!
Song: Love me Tender by Frank Sinatra
I love a good romcom, and this is a good romcom. Amelia is a popstar needs a break and escape to Rome, Kentucky to follow her Roman Holiday/ Audrey Hepburn dreams. When I tell you I cackled at her choosing this small town for this reason, I mean it. As a Georgia girl, I do wish she’d chosen Rome, Georgia. ;)
Noah is a grumpy baked who rescues her from the her broken down car in front of his house, he offers her a room until she can get back on the road. But, we all know roommates learn a lot about each other through close proximity. Reading their chemistry grow was great and their banter was perfect. The small town aspect is really what sells this though. The side characters and the chaos is exactly what you look for in a wholesome, sweet romcom.
Fair warning for my spicy readers, this is fade to black. It’s important to know going in so you aren’t waiting.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
“I’m trying so hard to stay away,” he says in a low rasp. His eyes track over my face and now the pull between us feels crushing. Unbearable. “And I’m failing.”
Sarah YOU are powered sugar. You are Bliss. Wonder. Magic ✨
When in Rome is a story about love and friendship, about trusting your feelings and taking risks. About living your life how YOU want to live it and finding happiness. Filled with meddling and lovable townspeople, scrabble, flowers and baking, sizzling chemistry, tension for days and the most- kiss on the forehead & intertwined pinkies- swoonworthy moments.
The characters were real and relatable. Grumpy, fun and protective. Amelia’s character development was terrific, it was inspiring to watch her grow. The nicknames, The pajama sets, The vulnerable moments. I smiled, laughed and cried.
I’m cashing all my chips now saying that this book will be another Sarah Adams hit. It was just that good.
Read if you like 💫
•Dual POV
•Audrey Hepburn
•Grammy winner singer meets small town baker
•Grumpy / Sunshine
•Meddling small towns
•Pancakes, flowers and pie
•Hallmarky meet cutes
•Forced proximity
•Human burritos and Pajama sets
•Found family
•Absurd and hilarious nicknames
“To me, you’re Amelia. Maker of shitty pancakes and a smile that rivals the sun. All I want is you.” And just like that, I feel safe.”
This was a cute grumpy/sunshine, small-town romance! When Rae Rose, the "princess of pop" finds herself stranded in Rome, Kentucky she meets grumpy pie shop owner, Noah Walker. The two couldn't' be more different and they both have every reason to guard their hearts. Unfortunately (fortunately?) the residents of this small town have different ideas!
I liked this story but I usually prefer my romance novels served up with a bit more steam. The dual POV was great for this plot and the supporting characters were highly entertaining. This was my first book by Sarah Adams, but it definitely won't be my last!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book; all opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for allowing me to be an early reader.
Sarah’s books always feel like a warm hug, and this was no exception!
Pop star Amelia Rose (Rae Rose to her fans) is burnt out after a decade in the music industry. A fan of Audrey Hepburn, Amelia turns to her movies for comfort and finds herself recreating her own version of Roman Holiday…escaping to Rome, Kentucky on a whim.
Noah Walker finds a strange woman in a broken down car on his front lawn in the middle of the night. When he finally convinces her that he’s not going to murder her he realizes just who this woman is - Rae Rose. Noah, the ever helpful gentleman, invites her to stay in his guest room until her car can be towed, but he makes it clear that he has no interest in her sticking around.
As the two navigate being temporary roomies (iykyk) Noah learns that there’s more to Rae than what meets the eye and her name is Amelia. Try as he might, Noah can’t seem to keep his mind off of Amelia and she can’t help but fall for her grumpy host.
Amelia and Noah were absolutely adorable together and their banter was perfect! The love Noah has for his sisters and his town gave me so much joy and makes me wish I lived in such a small town where everyone feels like family.
Sarah Adams is on author you can rely on to deliver an amazing romantic comedy every time!
This book has:
Grumpy-sunshine trope (done SO well!) - Our hero Noah may appear gruff on the outside, but inside he has a heart of GOLD!
Amelia is a breath of fresh air and is the kind of gal I would want to be friends with! She is so fun and relatable!
Noah and Amelia have an awesome, hilarious meet-cute, grrrreat chemistry, and laugh-out-loud banter! They are SO cute together and you're rooting for them the whole way! They tension Sarah writes is perrrrrrfection! And their kisses are FIRE!
I loved ALL the characters and really hope 🤞 that we get Noah's sister's stories!! 🤞
The plot was soo adorable - I absolutely loved the Pop Star meeting the small-town baker and the shenanigans that ensued! Sarah Adams knows how to deliver ALL the feels!
This is definitely a must-read if you love love and smiling and swooning and laughing and happily-ever-afters!!
All the hearts and stars for this one!! 👏
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CW: moderate language, innuendos, romance is closed-door fade-to-black
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Thank you Netgalley and Random House Publishing for an early arc copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
My review has already been posted on Goodreads and Bookbub! As it gets closer to the actual release date I will post another review on my personal Bookstagram account on Instagram, Chelseas.book.channel, and on Amazon!
Sarah Adams, you’ve done it again!
Amelia, currently known as Rae Rose, is burnt out on life in the spotlight. Before she heads out on a 9-month tour, she decides to take a few weeks to get away from it all. Enter: Noah, a grumpy, small-town pie shop owner who was burned (not literally) in his last relationship. When Amelia’s car dies in front of his house, the last thing he’s looking for is a relationship. While Amelia waits for her car to be repaired, she’s stuck with Noah. They feel an unexplainable connection, but they both know the timing and practicality of a relationship isn’t possible. How will they handle their growing feelings?
What can you expect from this one?
🥞 Characters with depth and a desire to grow, but afraid to take risks; characters who truly balance each other out
🥞 Banter and snark between Amelia & Noah
🥞 Grumpy & sunshine
🥞 Burnt pancakes…but all of the pancake scenes were my favorite
🥞 Funny & endearing small-town supporting characters reminiscent of Stars Hollow
🥞 Chemistry between characters, but it’s clean! 🙌🏻
🥞 A story line that will suck you in from the start and won’t let go…even after you’ve read the last page.
My only complaint about this one is that it’s over! Sarah Adams, I’ll follow you anywhere! Your writing is well-researched & I felt like I was sitting with you on a back porch somewhere while you shared this story. You transported me off the page and into the beautiful world of Rome, Kentucky. I felt your heart on the page, and I couldn’t have loved it more. Your voice is clear as an author, yet you listen to the characters and let them write the story. In your “About the Author” page, you say you hope to leave your readers happier than when they started reading. Mission accomplished. Well done.
Amelia “Rae” Rose is a pop star who is trying to escape the grips of fame when she breaks down on Noah Walker’s lawn. Noah is a tall, grumpy, pie-shop owner with lots of mystery and secrets about him. As they get to know each other better and his past is unraveling, these two cuties just can’t keep hiding their feelings for one another.
I loved this book! I read it pretty quickly. It was so sweet, funny, romantic, and emotional. I connected a lot with some of the themes such as dementia (I work in long term care) and long distance relationships (going on 4 years long distance…), so I found myself getting attached to Amelia and Noah’s relationship. It was nice to see them finally become friends and watch that blossom. The small town vibes were SO accurate. I live on the same street as many family members and I can confirm they are ALWAYS up in your grill. But mostly cause they love you. Highly recommend, and thank you so much to NetGalley and Sarah Adams for letting me read and review this ARC!
Amelia Rose, AKA Rae Rose pop princess, tries to make an escape to the location of one of her favorite movies. Since she can’t drive all the way to Rome, Italy, she heads for Rome, Kentucky. One broken down car and one grumpy pie maker later, she doesn’t ever want to leave.
This is a sweet romance with a hunky, tender hero, and a delightful small town to back him up. The spunky heroine can’t help falling for him and neither could I. Hoping we’ll see more from Sarah Adams, Noah’s sisters could all use some romance!
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing for this charming ARC.
This was Roman Holiday meets Gilmore Girls with all of the usual, adorable Sarah Adams charm. I have a soft spot for a grumpy hero with a heart of gold for his people so I really loved Noah. The cast of side characters was hilarious and had me wishing I could go visit this town in real life.
I truly cannot get enough of Sarah Adams! I (like many others) got roped in through The Cheat Sheet's popularity on Tik Tok, and have since read all of her backlog- and LOVED it. When in Rome is no exception. AND this was my first ever ARC!
OH how I adore Noah and his sunburnt Silverado. Amelia was everything he needed to soften his rough edges. And Noah was everything she needed to give her the strength to stand up to the people around her. They brought the best out of each other.
I'm really REALLY hoping this becomes a series and we will get to see Noah's sisters find love themselves (and maaaaybe even James? Lord knows I'm always in for a good brothers best friend romance). I'll be keeping my eyes peeled for any inclination of that!
Can't wait for September 20th to read the final product:)