he was sunshine, I was midnight rain ~

When in Rome by Sarah Adams

📖Plot Summary:

This book follows Rae Rose, a famous pop star who’s feeling suffocated; burnt out, controlled by her manager, and craving a break from the chaos of her life.

So she spontaneously drives away for some fresh air… only for her car to break down on the front porch of Noah, a grumpy, private, pie-shop owner who wants nothing to do with fame.

What starts as an inconvenience turns into a heartwarming, slow-building connection neither of them expects.

✨My Thoughts:

I kept seeing Sarah Adams’ books at Kinokuniya, and I finally decided to pick this one up and zero regrets.

In fact, now I’m sad that I have to wait for ages to get the sequel from the library 😭 Libbyyyyyy pls be faster and don’t fail me 🙏🏻

Even though the story is kind of predictable (in a comforting rom-com way), it’s the vibe that makes it so good.

The contrast between their lives; the chaotic glitz of Rae’s world and the quiet simplicity of Noah’s made their chemistry feel so natural. They try to stay away from each other… but obviously they just can’t.

It’s warm, sweet, easy to read, and gives that “I want to be in love” feeling. Honestly…

I don’t even have a lot to say because it just made me feel happy. 🧡

Anyways, happy holidays, can’t believe we’re already approaching the mid of December! If you’re still trying to hit your reading goals, keep pushing!! Happy reading everyone 📚🤓☺️

#MyFreeTime #mindfulchapters #BookReview #romancebookrecommendations

2025/12/12 Edited to

... Read moreSarah Adams’ "When in Rome" offers a delightful twist on classic romantic tropes, blending a slow-burn romance with a heartfelt exploration of contrasting lifestyles. Rae Rose’s character embodies the pressures and exhaustion of fame, which many readers will find relatable in today’s fast-paced society. Her spontaneous road trip and the serendipitous encounter with Noah, a man intentionally removed from the spotlight, sets the stage for a compelling dynamic that balances chaos with calm. The story’s strength lies in the authentic chemistry that develops between the two protagonists, a theme made more vivid by their opposing worlds. Rae’s glittering pop star life represents the modern celebrity culture, often overwhelming and isolating, while Noah’s quiet, pie-shop ownership reflects a yearning for simplicity and genuine connection. This juxtaposition not only drives their interactions but also deepens the emotional resonance of their relationship. Adding to the book’s appeal is its nod to classic romance, notably the modern take on the Hepburn classic "Roman Holiday," as noted by the reference from Abby Jimenez, which underscores the narrative’s inspiration and tone. The slow-building connection and the warm, sweet atmosphere invoke the comforting feeling often sought in rom-coms. The narrative invites readers to indulge in the fantasy of love mixing different worlds, offering an "I want to be in love" sentiment that resonates broadly. For readers who appreciate romance with both heart and humor, this title is a perfect holiday read, promising a comforting escape with relatable characters and a satisfying storyline. The anticipation for the sequel speaks to the story’s effectiveness in engaging readers and leaving them eager for more. Overall, "When in Rome" by Sarah Adams is recommended for anyone looking to enjoy a feel-good romance filled with genuine moments, a touch of quirkiness, and the timeless charm of two contrasting souls finding common ground.