A Cute Contemporary Romance Perfect for Spring Break

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This fun contemporary romance is set in Key West and has a classic rom-com plot: girl plans to introduce her boyfriend to her family, but gets stood up. Enter the hot and kind male protagonist who offers to pretend to be her boyfriend. Then hi-jinks, fun, and love ensue. While this plot has been played out multiple times in movies and books, I really enjoyed that Oliveras gave her plot and characters more depth. While this is a romance and has those fun rom-com elements, there are deeper conflicts at play that make the characters and plot more realistic. The fact that both Luis and Sara struggled with internal conflicts that impacted both their family and romantic relationships is what, I think, sets this novel apart from your typical romance novel. It was an added layer that reminds the reader that relationships, whether familial or romantic, require trust, truth, and communication.

Throughout the novel, you get glimpses into Latinx culture. I loved learning about island life and the tight knit structure of Luis's family. Many characters often use Spanish words and phrases, but Oliveras expertly weaves in the definitions of each, so non-Spanish speaking readers aren't at a loss. The description of the setting and the fun romance between Sara and Luis makes this book perfect or a spring break pool side read. Oliveras has the power, through her rich description and vivid dialogue, to transport you to the Keys and into Sara and Luis's story making this the perfect novel for those who may be staycationing.