Author: Sarah Adams
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Small-Town Fiction
Published: 2022
Rating: 4/5
“Sometimes the heart takes a detour before it finds its way home.”
– When in Rome by Sarah Adams
When in Rome is a sweet, slow-burn romance that swaps big-city glam for small-town charm—and it works beautifully. Sarah Adams delivers a cozy, chemistry-filled story with bold characters. It’s clean, clever, and full of heart.
The story follows Amelia Rose, a pop star in desperate need of a break, who finds herself stranded in the quiet town of Rome, Kentucky. Enter Noah Walker—grumpy, grounded, and fiercely private—who reluctantly offers her a place to stay. What follows is a heartfelt, banter-filled journey of unexpected connection, personal growth, and learning to let love in.
I’ll be honest: I don’t usually gravitate toward romance, especially ones that lean too cheesy or predictable. But When in Rome surprised me in the best way. The writing is light without being shallow, the characters feel grounded and real, and the emotional arcs are incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of book that makes you smile without trying too hard.
– Amelia Rose –
Known to the world as Rae Rose, Amelia is a pop star who’s more burnt out than she lets on. Her decision to escape to Rome is impulsive, but it sets her on a path of genuine self-discovery. What makes her so likable is how down-to-earth she is despite her fame. She’s not just looking for romance—she’s searching for herself, and her vulnerability makes her all the more lovable.
– Noah Walker –
Noah is the epitome of the grumpy-but-good trope, and Adams nails it. A baker with a soft heart buried beneath his quiet exterior, he’s wary of getting close after past heartbreaks. His dynamic with Amelia is slow to build but incredibly rewarding. He’s the kind of guy who shows love in actions, not words, and it makes every gesture feel meaningful.
– Supporting Cast –
The town of Rome itself feels like a character—filled with quirky locals, warm hospitality, and that signature small-town magic. Noah’s sisters add humor and heart, and every side character contributes to the coziness of the setting. You’ll want to visit just for the people.
– My Honest Review –
I didn’t expect to love this as much as I did. When in Rome is feel-good fiction at its finest—a clean, heartfelt romance that trades steamy tension for emotional connection and absolutely delivers. It’s the kind of book you breeze through with a goofy smile on your face, and honestly, I’m not mad about it.
Even if romance isn’t usually your go-to genre (same here), this one is worth a try. The writing is sharp, the characters are strong, and the story has just enough emotional depth to balance the fluff. It’s perfect for a vacation read or to get you out of a tough book slump. I’m already excited to dive into the next two installments!
Happy reading!
