I love Denise Williams, and this slow burn (slowwwwww) is a great entry in her loosely connected series. Watching the love story unfold was deeply satisfying, and it had just the right level of spice.

As someone who loves second chance romance, I was really excited for this one. That being said, I don’t think the dual timeline worked as well for me, as I was continuously confused about why they broke off their relationship at the first place, and even more so, why they were still hung up on each other so many years later. I think this one lacked the emotional payoff and depth that I usually enjoy from Denise Williams books, and I was just a little bit bummed.

I always enjoy books with perspectives from multiple characters, which made this one about Pearl and Cord so fun! It's also interesting how the author jumps back and forth between present day and many years earlier. Through it all, it's clear that Cord and Pearl are destined to be together, even if they're the only ones who don't realize it. Another fabulous read by Denise Williams!

While I did enjoy this book, I found that the characters were a bit unrealistic. Or at least the reasoning why they couldn't "be together" initially kinda dumb. I did like how the story has characters of various races, orientations, pronouns, etc. It's not one of my favorite books, but I did enjoy it.

I cannot stress enough how grateful I am to have delved into yet another inspiring and heartfelt novel by the talented Denise Williams. As one of my cherished auto-approved romance authors, she consistently delivers stories that never fail to bring me immense joy, happiness, and a warm feeling in my heart.

From the moment I started reading this book, its promising premise of second chance romance and forbidden love in the workplace had me utterly captivated. Williams's masterful execution brought these themes to life in a way that resonated deeply with me.

The characters of Pearl and Cord quickly won my heart. They were both remarkably relatable and engaging, allowing me to effortlessly empathize with their experiences and emotions. Their love story began seven years ago, an enchanting tale that began with a chance encounter in an elevator. However, as life's challenges and work-related complications piled up, they found themselves drifting apart, with Cord nursing a broken heart. Their paths diverged for five long years until fate intervened, pushing them back together to work on a special project. Although determined to maintain a strictly professional demeanor and keep their personal struggles at bay, the magnetic chemistry between them proved impossible to ignore. When the heart yearns for what it wants, there is no denying the powerful pull of mutual attraction.

Pearl, cognizant of the risks involved, treads cautiously, choosing to keep their rekindled relationship hidden behind closed doors. She fears the potential fallout and the potential loss of everything she has worked so tirelessly to achieve. However, as their connection deepens and their feelings intensify, they begin to question if it's worth it to hide their love. Can they find the strength to confront the challenges that lie ahead, and can love triumph over the obstacles that stand in their way? Together, will they finally find a way to ride off into the sunset?

This book is an emotional rollercoaster, tugging at the heartstrings and provoking thoughtful introspection. Williams expertly weaves together moments of tenderness, heartache, and longing, crafting a story that will stay with readers long after they've turned the final page.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend this emotionally-charged, heartfelt, and beautifully angsty romance to all avid readers. It is a true gem that deserves a special place on your bookshelf.

I extend my sincerest thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for granting me the opportunity to read and review this remarkable novel. Their generosity in providing me with a digital reviewer copy in exchange for my honest thoughts is deeply appreciated.

Denise Williams back at it again with the hear soaring romance! This book was funny, cute, romantic and spicy! All the things I want and need in a book! I enjoyed it a lot!

Parts are nice, but I had a hard time getting over the characters' near-constant self-sabotage. You don't want anyone to know you're seeing your coworker? You don't smash in a tent at a company retreat! I shouldn't have to explain this to you!

I wanted to love this based on the premise. I found myself skim reading by chapter 4. :-(

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC.