"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:)

Sarah Adams is my favorite author! I love everything she writes--Noah and Amelia are no exception! They have such great chemistry and the slow burn romance is captivating. I read When In Rome in less than 24 hours, which is how I am with all of Sarah's books. I loved all the side characters and hope to hear more of their stories! The small town of Rome was so charming and made me want to live there.

There was a lot more swearing and more spice🔥 than I'm used to with Sarah's books but overall it was a fun read!

From the very beginning of this book, I knew I was going to be hooked. The writing style, along with the characters were so easy to fall in love with.

It’s a very slow burn, small town romance, with a grumpy pie shop owner and pop star that will be tugging at your heart strings (and hair, with how stubborn both of them are!) and begging for more before it’s even over with.

Amelia was so easy to relate to with her inner battles, and falling in love with Noah was impossible. The chemistry of the two will have you reading the entirety of the book before you even realize you’ve reached the last page.

Thank you so much to Netgalley and Random House Publishing for sending me an ARC!

4.5 Roman Holiday stars! ⭐️

Sarah Adams has done it again! I loved The Off Limits Rule, The Temporary Roomie and The Cheat Sheet, and When In Rome did not disappoint!! This book is very easy to get into and I did not want to stop reading.

When I tell you I stayed up until 4:30am reading this book, I mean it. The characters were so funny, Amelia is an absolute sweetheart and Noah is the definition of grump with a soft side😫

Tropes - grumpy x sunshine, celebrity romance, small town romance, MUTUAL PINING!

Content warning - mild language, mentions of death of parents, sick loved ones, heavy kissing/make out, some scenes I did skip because of hinted s*x

What age do I recommend this book for? I would say 17/18+

I loved this book so much! Take me to Rome, Kentucky so I can find me a Noah!😭

This book releases September 20, 2022! Thank you again so much Netgalley and Random House Publishing for my first ever ARC!

I’ve read a lot of Sarah Adams’ books, and they’re all so cute and cozy! I liked the slow burn romance and grumpy/sunshine dynamic a lot. I wasn’t a big fan of Amelia’s word vomit because it made me outwardly cringe a lot, and I kept wondering what the odds are that someone who works in the public eye is truly so awful at speaking to others. I really enjoy classic romance movies and loved the nod to Roman Holiday. I’m going to continue looking out for more from Sarah Adams!

**Review will be published Sep. 15th on Blog/Insta, etc!**

SARAH ADAMS DOES IT AGAIN.

I will never get tired of reading Sarah Adams’ books. They are EVERYTHING I love about contemporary romances and her unique and joyful spins on each story make me love every written word. I once again devoured another of her stories in a day and can easily add this to the list of romances I’d recommend you must read.

This story took some deep turns between Amelia and Noah. There was a lot of exploration of self and finding stable ground to move forward. Their meet-cute had me chuckling and all of the antics put a smile on my face. From learning to make pancakes, wearing matching pajamas, and meeting friends turned family, there’s much goodness to be had here.

The plot is a mix of fast and slow and I am so happy that all necessary resolutions were solved by the end. I love a happy ending that’s filled with everything needed to truly be HAPPY. This smile inducing story will just make you feel good.

I really loved the way Amelia and Noah found ways to love each other. The longing looks and subtle touches. And oh my goodness, the endlessly swoony and passionate kisses. Melt my heart perfection. I fell in love with this tiny town myself and all of the characters that I ran across. I BEG of someone to please provide stories for the other siblings (MUST HAVE) because Rome, Kentucky has plenty more to give.

Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: a little
- Romance: closed door
- Trigger/Content Warnings: loss of parents (off page but discussed), a grandparent with Alzheimer’s, mental health discussions, past cheating

Ahhh! My heart is all warm and cozy from this adorably sweet book. I caught myself smiling so much.

Incredible pacing, characters, and plot that kept me hooked. I absolutely fell in love with both Amelia and Noah. This book had all of my favorite things…grumpy sunshine, slow burn, and small town romance. Not spicy but there is definitely tension. If you were a fan of It Happened One Summer, I would recommend this for sure.

I am dying for Noah’s sisters or James to get their own stories!

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for this ARC!

i absolutely loved this book, it was so cute and sweet i think i'm going to have to pay a visit to the dentist soon. i don't really like to describe books by tropes but this one was grumpy/sunshine excellence, amelia and noah were the cutest! other than the romance, i enjoyed reading all the scenes with emily, madison, and annie (noah's sister), and how the author was able to create the perfect small town atmosphere. this book was just pure delight and cuteness and i just couldn't put it down!

arc provided by random house publishing group - ballantine in exchange for an honest review.

i posted my review on goodreads on 30th april.

Lovely, entertaining romance including stuck with you and sunshine meets the grump, famous girl meets the ordinary boy tropes with lots of “Roman Holiday” and one and the only Hepburn references!

Amelie a.k.a. Rae Rose, Princess of soulful pop, in her mid twenties, needs a break before her upcoming concert tour after millions of rehearsals, costume fitting seances, public appearances later!

She misses her estranged mom who tried to take advantage from her stardom status. Her demanding agent can be intimidating by intervene everything in her life. She is turned into a fake girl who is always polite, always smiling.

One night she’s inspired by Audrey Hepburn, watching Roman Holiday. Just like the movie, she feels like a princess who needs to take a break from her extra stressful life. She cannot fly to Rome as the princess did at the movie but she can drive through Rome, Kentucky, staying in a B&B, laying low, thinking about what she did wrong in her life.

But she finds herself stuck in her smoking broken car, at the front lawn of a very charming, intimidating, grumpy man: ladies and gentlemen, let’s get introduced to our brooding, kind hearted, isolated, pie-maker hero Noah Walker.

Noah reluctantly lets her stay at his guest room. He knows he is in real trouble as soon as the woman in distress walks in her house. Because she’s famous, she’s beautiful and she’s gold hearted, lovely woman! His heart has already been broken by another city girl a few years ago. He cannot let that happen again.

But it seems like her car’s repairing will take at least two weeks. Mabel, town’s bed& breakfast owner insists there’s no vacancy at her place. So they stuck together.

Noah who doesn’t use cellphone and also doesn’t have Wi-fi in his house, likes his own privacy but all the townies start prying his love life and excited to have a pop star visiting their place. How will he resist the charm of that adorable woman?

And Amelia, who already becomes friend with Noah’s lovely sisters, already adapted in her life in Rome. How could she go back to her old life when nothing has happened! How will she resist the charm of brooding pie-maker?

Overall: it’s sweet, heartwarming, entertaining romcom I highly recommended to the genre fans.

Special thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.

When is Rome is Sarah Adams at her best. The vibes and the feels this book could elicit are everything.

The Characters are lovable from page one and my love for them only grew as i discovered more of them and fell in love all over again when i saw their journey as individuals and as a couple.

When in Rome is a story of discovering yourself as much as growing as a person. Both the Main Characters are so amazing i can't even pick a favourite. Commoner and Celebrity isn't a trope i am normally fond of but i can gladly make this an exception.