This was definitely a great read to start the week off with! The story had be smiling from ear to ear for at least 90% of it.

Salena was a relatable FMC. Independent to a fault, you could never really refer to her as a damsel in distress. She is the hero of her own story, unafraid to go after what she wants.

Ryan is the proverbial curveball of the Rutledge family, and quite a lovable MMC. He is the complete opposite of what you'd expect from a tattooed biker.

From their first encounter, their chemistry is off the charts. I loved how open and honest they were about the attraction that they felt for each other. They didn't beat around the bush or play games. Their relationship followed a realistic and relatable progression, from instant physical attraction to emotional attachment to finally admitting their feelings for the other.

However, there were a few things that warranted my rating:
- Salena's secret: she kept it from Ryan for waaaay too long. What he kept from her was something painful, but what she kept from him was downright unfair to him.
- Ryan was a little too quick to forgive Salena. Granted, she was in a pitiful state when they had the conversation, but this was huge and potentially detrimental to their relationship, but it seemed out of character for him to be so calm about it.
- The cover - I think I've been spoiled with the cute covers I've been seeing recently, so I think that something different with art of the actual characters could've made it more appealing.

Overall, this was an enjoyable read that I read as a standalone, but it's definitely made me want to read the rest of the series!
4.3 ⭐️

NOTE: ARC received in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

The Whole Time, book 4 in Catherine Bybee’s wonderful D’Angelo series, focuses on the restaurant’s general manager, Salena Barone and her relationship with Ryan Rutledge. Series fans met the Rutledge family in book 3, Beginning of Forever. Ryan has forsaken the wine business and earns his money through commercial real estate investments. When Salena finds herself needing money to purchase a new car she finds an unconventional way of earning it. Ms. Bybee has created a very interesting character in Salena; a strong woman who wants to make her own way in life…not be dependent on some man to support her, as her Italian family wants. Ryan is relentless in his pursuit, but she is equally relentless in living her own life on her own terms. Series fans will love the updates on previously showcased characters, especially Fanny, but this book certainly can be read as a standalone. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. Most highly recommend this installment and the entire series.

I have loved the previous books that I have read in the D'Angelos series by Catherine Bybee and this definitely lived up to expectations!

Salena is strong-willed and fiercely independent, and has caused quite a stir with her Catholic parents by moving away from home before she's married. She now lives in one of the apartments above the D’Angelos' restaurant where she works as a manager. Despite not paying much in rent, she is struggling to make ends meet and she's looking for alternative income streams.

Attending the wedding of her friend Emma and Gio D'Angelo (who were the main characters in the third book, Beginning of Forever) sparks fly between her and Emma's younger brother Ryan. Ryan has no interest in taking over the family vineyard business, neither is he keen on marriage.

Salena and Ryan agree to a friendship with benefits, but it soon evolves into something much more.

Feel-good, heartwarming and cosy read, with just a little bit of suspense. Hopefully it was also a permanent bye bye to Brynn!

Selena wants to support herself. She wants to live on her own. Some of her choices might not please others. She is determined to remain independent. Enter Ryan. Will romance begin? The realistic characters kept me intrigued. Guessing the ending added to the fun. This is a page turner written by a talented author. Thank you Netgalley.

Loved this book, very easy read, loved all the characters. Unfortunately this must be the last book in this series, but I am sure the next one will be just as good

This book was amazing! It gave me all the feels from butterflies, to shedding a few tears! I felt this book showcased a powerful, independent, hardworking woman that was quite literally swept off her feet when she was least expecting. The similarities of the families of Ryan and Salena were evident even though their families backgrounds and upbringing were different. There were so many great life lessons touched on in this book.

I loved this book and i highly recommend it. It’a. Wonderful book and I loved The depth of The characters.