This book was a breath of fresh air. It felt familiar in its use of romance genre, yet so wholly imaginative and innovative.

I was struck by how well balanced the historical and contemporary came to be— it was woven together seamlessly. Lizzie read very much like a protagonist of a historical romance and Tuck read very much like a protagonist of contemporary romance. You’d think they would clash in staying firmly in their ‘category,’ but to all utter delight they complement one another so brilliantly. It was beautiful to see their interactions and development across the narrative.

At first glance you might expect total silliness, but this romance is full of heart and depth. One led by two very remarkable leads.
Tucker was my favorite of the two leads, he’s a survivor in many ways, and he’s so loyal and kind-hearted. He was good natured about his situation and always open hearted in how he felt every step of the way. I appreciated how he wore his heart on his sleeve.
Lizzie, on the other hand, is a very pragmatic and initially closed off lead whose feathers don’t get too ruffled by a man falling out of time in front of her. Instead she picks up her skirts up and marches on with an ever unfolding plan. It admittedly took me a bit to warm up to her, but once I did, I was all in for Miss Lizzie Wooddash. She is a realist but also a dreamer. She has big dreams she feels are insignificant and unreachable, but Tuck helps to validate and encourage her to explore those dreams, to make her goals reality. I so adored the friendship that quickly formed between our leads and smile at how trust and love soon followed.

As much as I connected with Tuck and Lizzie as individual characters, and as much as I thoroughly enjoyed watching their conversation and proximity, I did find I did not as easily connect to their romance. The spice is delicious! Their bond so undeniable! But I would have loved a bit more emotionally intimate romancing. Nevertheless, I came to care deeply for both characters and held my breath, crossing fingers and toes that they’d receive a much deserved happily ever after. Because they more than earned it.

The ending surprised me— it’s a rather pragmatic ending. Truthfully, I would have preferred one with more swoons and sacrifice, but I commend the author for writing an ending incredibly befitting of both characters, especially for Lizzie. I find it brave to step out of expectations and to stay true the character arcs’ developed. I genuinely applaud it and the more I think of the ending, the more satisfy I become.

This book was a good time, has delicious spice, fun banter, but also a heart with true depth. I’m so glad to have read it.

Thank you NetGalley and Avon for this complimentary arc, I leave this honest review voluntarily.