This just may have been my most anticipated book of 2023. I have read all of Kristi Ann Hunter's historical romances. When I heard she was writing a contemporary rom-com, I think I literally squealed!

I was able to receive an advanced copy from the author through Netgalley and read it in one day! That is a big deal for this mostly audiobook consumer! I even stopped reading/listening to 2 other books I had begun and stayed up way past my bedtime to finish!

The world Ms. Hunter paints in this book is full of her signature humor and heart. I had certain expectations of what the story would be. But I was wrong. And I am so glad I was. I hate any type of spoiler before reading a book, so I won't elaborate beyond that.

I am personally not an artistic type of person and related to Emma very easily. I also appreciated the pop cultural references throughout the story. I laughed out loud several times. I also felt the feelings of frustration and sadness and hope and despair.

While I loved what I got from the book, I would not have been upset with a little more. Seeing Carter interact with Emma's family or more wouldn't have been unwelcome. Perhaps we will get to see some of that in the next book in the series. I definitely need more Emma and Carter in that one!

Thank you to Kristi Ann Hunter and Netgalley for the complimentary copy. I'm happy to leave my honest review and will be purchasing my own copy once publication day arrives!

I had a giant grin on my face 90% of this book…the other 10% was all the feels ever!
It’s so good!
As an artist, I can see how much research went into it and really appreciate that aspect!
Emma ugh I just love her! It’s so hard when you can’t be your true self in front of family and have to compartmentalize everything! Her journey was beautifully done.
Carter is fantastic! I adore him and how he isn’t perfect but has realistic blind spots and wanted to fix them.
The art aspect was a joy and actually had my fingers itching for my pencils.
The side characters were so well done I can’t wait for Amy’s story!
My only qualm was I wish it was longer, I would have loved to see Carter and Emma interact with her mother and honestly I kinda wanted Jason to meet Amy 🙈.
I definitely think this is a must read if you’re in the mood for a feel good sweet romance.

I acquired a copy of this book via net-galley, all thoughts and opinions are my own.