Two elementary school teachers/all around rivals set in the most quaint small town. I thoroughly enjoyed both Emily and Jack's POV. Emily was your typical eldest daughter (overachiever, people pleaser, anxious mess) and Jack was a surprisingly tender male lead with so much capacity for Emily's shortcomings. I think their communication about each others needs was well done and they both met each other where they were when the other was in need. I really enjoyed this one!

-The best thing to hold onto in life is each other~Audrey Hepburn

Content warning: excellent up front description of possible triggering topics and the ability to skip 2 chapters if the reader would like to avoid open door bedroom scenes. I like!

Sarah Adams has such done such a fantastic job of making us feel so deeply for these Rome, Kentucky residents. Especially the Walker family. Jackson Bennett is book hero-worthy swoon. Not too much sappy or sweet. Just the perfect salty and sassy. Loved this story and highly recommend it. One more Walker sibling to find her HEA. Can’t wait!

Jack and Emily have been rivals ever since first meeting in college. Now, they are both second grade teachers at the same school. Once Jack moves away with his fiancé, the last thing Emily expects is his return to town after the wedding is called off. Jack moves in next door and when Emily accidentally sends an e-mail to their school principal, Jack is the only one who can help get it back.

This was a cute romance. The characters are very well developed and lovable. I love how they are able to communicate their needs to each other and meet each other where the other is at. I absolutely adored them acting out an intimate scene from Emily’s book and when Jack comes to help her at the bar. I also loved how the third act break up was more of a third act argument, and it was not what I was expecting it to be about. I was defiantly rooting for these two to be together. I do think them being rivals could have been more developed. They seemed more attracted to each other the entire time rather than rivals. Overall, I enjoyed my time reading this book and would recommend this book to romance readers!

This book was so cute!! It felt like a warm hug and I personally think it's the perfect book for summer. The little email/message exchanges between Emily and Jack made me smile like a stupid person everytime. The flirty banter between them always made me giggle my feet and the rivalry was just so well done. I was NOT expecting this book to hit so close to home.

Thank you to Dell and NetGalley for this arc in exchange for my honest review!
IM LITERALLY SCREAMING THIS WAS SO GOOD. Spent approximately 99.9999% kicking my feet and giggling the entire book. I love the world that Sarah has built in Rome, KY and can’t wait to see what she does next. Have been itching to get my hands on this book from the second it was announced and now all I want to do is talk about how good it was!
All I’m gonna say is : truck bed🤭 could really see myself in Emily and could relate so much to her, loved seeing how the other characters from previous books have grown and love seeing them beyond their own stories!
Actually so sad I have to wait until January to get my physical copy, but am about to be the biggest hype woman for this book!!

I gotta hand it to Sarah. I didn’t think she could top her last book. But she definitely outdid herself. “Beg, Borrow or Steal” is definitely my favorite in the When in Rome series. I had a blast going back to Rome, KY and seeing the Walker siblings.

When I learned that the MFC of this book was going to be Emily I was ecstatic. Out of all the siblings she’s definitely the one I related to the most. She has sharp edges and always helps others before she helps herself. Watching her come out of her shell and start to love again was so genuine and emotional.

I also love our MMC Jack! That man has been through the wringer and he deserves any and everything. I love that he was such a patience, kind and loving partner with Emily. He didn’t keep secrets and actively communicate his thoughts and fears. (PS why can’t all men be like this)

If you can’t already tell I throughly loved this book. It has enemies to lovers, rivals to lovers, found family, and slow burn. Literally all my favorite tropes wrapped up in amazing romcom. Now I will say if you are looking for something super spicy this is not it. This is a slow burn that in my opinion is 100% worth the wait.


Of course overall I highly recommend this book and the entire series. Plus on a personal note I can’t wait to meet Sarah on this book release tour in January! Lastly big thanks to NetGalley & Random House Publishing for providing me with an arc.

What can I say about this book except the perfection that it is. Sarah takes us back to Rome Kentucky and we are well past where we left off in Practice Makes Perfect. Emily, as a part of her growth, has tried to stop managing her siblings as a part of her trauma with losing her parents. So they don't really need her anymore. Which she works through on her own. The loneliness is evident on page. Her work nemesis, Jack, has been her long time nemesis since college. They compete and one up each other, but Emily is still jaded that he said goodbye to everyone except her when he left to live with his fiancé. Now he's back, no fiancé in tow, and her neighbor. Can this get any worse?

I loved it so much. Emily is a self proclaimed jagged edged girlie. She's unsure of her lovability and is only really felt like she's loved if she's needed. Jack pushes her. They don't care about each other accolades or what have you. The town loves Jack but they love Emily more. And it's so evident.

This is Sarah's deepest book. We go through some pretty emotional stuff. So much so I messaged her while I was crying because jagged edged ladies are hard to be leads. People who think we are prickly women, strong headed, bulldoze you women with extra guarded hearts, they are hard to love. Because they take effort. But once you get to the core of who these women are, we are soft, and fierce, and protective, and empathetic. But we take time and desire, and determination for someone to get there. She wrote it so well. So well I cried. So well I saw myself on her pages. Previously I loved reading her stories because she's a great story teller. It wasn't until Emily's story that I actually saw myself in a Sarah Adams book. So kudos.


Sarah, with the rule book, has expanded her writing into open door scenes and while she hasn't lost the intense burning without any on page sex, there also happens to be on page sex. It's tasteful and not at all raunchy. This book was HOT. And it has more to do with how Sarah builds sexual tension between characters than the act itself.

I so wish I was Sarah's friend in real life so I could hug her. But Instagram messages where she gracefully replies will have to suffice for me :). Thank you Sarah and Dell Romance for allowing me to read this early. It's truly an honor.

Incredibly delightful! Set against the small-town backdrop of Rome, Kentucky, the story follows Emily Walker, a romance writer with a penchant for control, as she faces her biggest nemesis, Jack Bennett, upon his unexpected return after calling off his wedding.
From the very first pages, Adams expertly crafts a tension-filled dynamic between Emily and Jack. Their animosity is palpable, steeped in years of rivalry and misunderstandings that make every interaction charged with chemistry. Emily, with her obsession for maintaining her meticulously organized life, finds herself hilariously unwound by Jack's mere presence. Conversely, Jack, who has spent his time penning bestselling mysteries, brings a refreshing disarray and mischievous charm to their push-and-pull relationship. Their banter is sharp and witty, grounded in a layered history that adds depth to their enmity.
The inciting incident—a mishap that results in Emily accidentally emailing their principal about her secret life as a romance novelist—propels the narrative into new territory. It's a clever plot device that not only heightens the stakes but also forces Emily and Jack to collaborate, providing fertile ground for both conflict and connection. As they work together, the story delves into themes of vulnerability and the unexpected ways in which people can evolve. Their journey from rivals to reluctant allies is sprinkled with moments of self-reflection and mutual discovery, making their romantic tension feel organic and earned.
Adams's writing is imbued with humor and heart, effortlessly blending witty dialogue and situational comedy. The pacing is well-balanced; readers are given time to savor the tension while still being propelled forward by the plot's momentum. The supporting characters, from quirky townfolk to Emily’s close friends, add vibrancy to the narrative, enhancing the small-town charm that envelops the story.
Overall, if you're searching for a light-hearted escape filled with playful rivalry, steamy moments, and well-crafted characters, I highly recommend this book!

This was hands down my favorite Sarah Adams book. The dynamic between Emily and Jack was so steamy so fun and just so damn GOOD. The spice was spicing. THE MOTORCYCLE???? THE “SCENE BLOCKING”???? MKAY.
I loved seeing Emily be so confident and yet learn to be vulnerable. And Jack getting to feel the unconditional acceptance?? UGH. Thank you Sarah. I hope your pillow is always cool, you get all your favorite Starbursts, and your gel manicures never chip!!!!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for the ARC🫶🏻🩷

I loved this book through and through, this is truly a book to those who have suffered trauma or emotional abuse. i felt so seen through emily's character. even though there were heavier elements, I still was delighted by this book. i loved it. it's going into my tops of the year and it's my favorite sarah adams book by far.

I loved this book through and through, this is truly a book to those who have suffered trauma or emotional abuse. i felt so seen through emily's character. even though there were heavier elements, I still was delighted by this book. i loved it. it's going into my tops of the year and it's my favorite sarah adams book by far.

Ayyy yi yii. I wanted to love this one so soo hard! But I just couldn’t..🥴

Beg Borrow or Steal is your typical enemies to lovers trope, told from alternating perspectives with an invisible string in there too... It’s also the 3rd book in the When in Rome series. Books 1 & 2 being reads I genuinely enjoyed. So it was really nice to “see” Amelia, Noah, Annie and Will, well the whole crew again. And while reading this one, I felt like we were well set up for a book #4. At least it seemed that way. I certainly hope so, because Maddie and James need their HEA too🙌🏼

Ughhhh…now the hard part🥴

Unfortunately, I had a handful of issues.
Firstly, I was missing that character bond big time, like it was a limb. I found our MMC and FMC, Jack and Emily, soft, sappy and silly. Not necessarily a bad thing if that’s your cuppa, but I kept searching for that connection and I just never found it.

Emily is such a woe is me kinda gal. It truly takes a village to get her out of her unending self-pitying state. Which included countless pep talks from her siblings, trying to get her out of her head and attempting to bring down her walls of steel. They were relentless with their reassurances about how wonderful and strong and smart she was. All of which becomes apparent at some point as an absolute requirement. Otherwise, she would have never quit banging on her “I am so unlovable” drum, which by this point had already gone on much longer than any ballad should. And while the poor-me character is not a new one by any means and can be done well occasionally, I suppose, this simply was not the case here. Smaller doses would have been highly advantageous because really, all of the attention she necessitated ended up making her look callow, cumbersome, petty and dramatic. Bordering unlikable.

Once she finally let’s her guard down & for the 7th time, well that’s when the real cheddar begins to make its presence known. Starting with Emily’s dialogue. Here’s a few shreds:

“Um, there’s just been this . . . This sadness and loneliness that I have struggled to climb out of. And I don’t like for people to see me in those places, because I’m afraid if I do, I’ll be even harder to love.”

“….And to be honest, your friendship lately”—tears race down her cheeks—“has been one of the best things to ever happen to me. And I was scared that you’d think you wanted me, and then you would get close to me and realize that I’m too tough to love.”

& Some of Jack’s Mozzarella to Emily’s cheddar:

“And if you need to fight, you can fight with me. And if you want to make love, make it with me.”

“You think you’re unlovable, but I think I’ve never known how to love until knowing you.”

But alas, they eventually pull themselves out of the big cheese vat and have the HEA they’re both so worthy of!

I really am sorry. BBoS just didn’t work for me.
Again, I have read Adams in the past and thoroughly enjoyed her stories and characters. So while I didn’t have the best experience here, it will not deter me from seeking out her work going forward.

As always, I am super grateful for the opportunity. So HUGE thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine | Dell for this arc in exchange for review.

Pub date: 1.7.2025.

Loved this book. This is Emily and Jackson’s story in our favorite town of Rome, Kentucky. I enjoyed the enemies storyline and the banter. Such a slow burn. “So far, this is the best sex I’ve ever had, and we haven’t even really touched.” I had to fan my face like a lady throughout this whole section.

And where can I find me a Jackson - “He saw what needed to be done and did it.” He was perfect for Emily in every way. He was her safe and calm.

You can read it without reading the others in the series first but you miss out on some things you learn in the other books. I love all of Sarah’s books and the way she captivates my attention. Can’t wait for the next one.

Thank you NetGalley for the ability to read an ARC of this wonderful story!

Beg, Borrow, or Steal takes us back to Rome, Kentucky and our favorite family, the Walkers. The Walkers have recently lost their grandmother who was their caretaker after their parents died when they were young. Emily, the oldest sister has always been the token overprotective sister. Emily is having trouble finding purpose now that her siblings are getting married and chasing their dreams.

Jack is a former colleague/nemesis of Emily's who moved away to Nebraska to get married. However, he returns to Rome after calling off the wedding and unknowingly buys the house next to Emily's. They have been feuding since college and it doesn't stop once he moves next door.

The plot, afflictions of the oldest sister and as Sarah has put it, the most competent man she has ever written make this my favorite in the Rome series yet! I could not put this book down. Emily and Jack's banter is so engaging. Once they start to acknowledge the comfort they bring to one another their emotional and physical chemistry are on fire! I also enjoyed the Easter eggs given to us about Maddie's book!

4.5 ⭐️ and highly recommend! It is always a joy to return to Rome! If you live small town romance or enemies to lovers this book is for you!

Sarah Adams’s *Beg, Borrow or Steal* is a delightful rom-com that balances humor, heart, and an irresistibly charming romance. Known for her lovable characters and witty dialogue, Adams delivers a lighthearted yet satisfying story that’s as entertaining as it is heartfelt. The novel follows a pair of unlikely allies who find themselves entangled in a series of mishaps, misunderstandings, and, of course, undeniable chemistry.

Our protagonist, witty and headstrong, is forced to team up with her equally determined counterpart in a plot that takes them from reluctant acquaintances to something more. Adams’s characters are endearing and relatable, with each bringing their own quirks and vulnerabilities to the table. Their interactions are filled with clever banter, playful teasing, and tension that builds beautifully, making every twist and turn in their relationship feel genuine.

Adams’s writing style is light and engaging, with a perfect balance of humor and warmth. Her comedic timing is spot-on, and readers will find themselves smiling (or even laughing out loud) at the well-placed jokes and charmingly awkward situations that arise. But beneath the humor lies an undercurrent of personal growth and self-discovery, as the characters come to terms with their insecurities and learn to trust each other.

At its heart, *Beg, Borrow or Steal* is more than just a romantic comedy – it’s a story about overcoming obstacles, letting go of the past, and opening up to new possibilities. The supporting cast adds depth to the story, with friends and family members who provide both support and comic relief. The setting is vibrant and well-described, giving readers a cozy world to escape into.

For fans of sweet, slow-burn romance with lots of laughs and plenty of heart, *Beg, Borrow or Steal* is a thoroughly enjoyable read that won’t disappoint. Sarah Adams has crafted a feel-good romance that’s perfect for curling up with, offering all the elements of a feel-good rom-com wrapped in a story that is fresh, funny, and wonderfully uplifting.

Thanks to Dell Romance for the copy of this book!

The little town of Rome, Kentucky has me by the heart. I was so excited to return for the story of oldest sister Emily Walker (yep her name is reaaaal close to mine) and her enemies-to-lovers storyline with Jackson Bennett.

I've always admired Sarah's writing, but I think it's so evident that she's really perfecting her craft here. Emily and Jack have so much depth and emotional background, and I LOVED this. The people-pleasing oldest child mental health side of the story was to relatable for me and incredibly well done. Then Jack just fits in like a perfect puzzle piece exactly where Emily needs him, and their tension was through the roof. The story blocking scene!? Wheeeew. I did have a tough time connecting to Jack on one level: his style with beaded necklaces, cutesy tattoos, and knit polos & chinos. It's just a personal thing for me. I loved having Emily's siblings and our besties from Rome in the story and can't wait for more in this town! Looking at you, Madison.

This book started out super slow for me but then luckily really picked up! I felt like there was a lot more depth in the character’s back stories than in previous Sarah Adam’s books. You can definitely see the characters grow over the course of the book- overcoming past trauma and insecurities. I definitely related a lot to the two main characters and loved seeing them conquer their fears together and make each other better. So sweet!

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC :)

I'm not usually an enemies to lovers girl, but this book was fun. I can confidently say that I'm invested in Walker girl stories. I'm looking forward to Madison's which I'm sure will come next. Emily and Jack had plenty of swoon worthy moments.

This is officially my favorite Sarah Adams book and i really enjoyed it. The characters in this ugh i love them so so much. The fmc Emily was the most interesting and great character who basically had to raise her siblings after their parents passed. She’s always felt like she’s too much especially when it comes to being loved. I really enjoyed how passionate she was and how much she cared about teaching and her siblings. The mmc Jack is also a teacher and in the beginning of the book he and his fiancé break up. He is a mystery writer under a pen name because of his narcissistic parent who has never loved him.

I loved the rivalry between them so much, it was fun and i could tell there was alot of tension and them. I liked when they started hanging out together and the fact that they still bicker. The romance was so sweet and tender and the way Jack gave her time, space and would do anything for her. This book is a little steamy, it’s open door but not really descriptive. I truly enjoyed the author/writer plot and it and how it affected their relationship. Overall this is the Sarah Adams book for me and i loved how sweet the romance was. Thank you Dell for the arc!!

Read for:
- Rivals to lovers
- Small town romance
- Caretaker sibling
- Second grade teachers mc’s
- Sweet romance
- Team up

The return to Rome, KY was a wonderful one and I think each book in this series is better than the last. I am beyond ready for James + Madison omg!!!

But first, Jack + Emily. These two gave me actual butterflies and I absolutely loved their dynamic from start to finish. The banter, the hidden softness, the communication!!! I saw a lot of myself in Emily (aside from sharing a name!) and I loved how Sarah wrote about a prickly, perfectionist, fiercely independent woman and the man who loves every single piece of her. It was an absolute delight.