⭐ 3.75/5
🌶 4/5 spice 

This is definitely the strongest book in the series! While the romance leans into the insta-love trope, it feels more believable here. Both characters, Lorenzo and Mia, seem to be using physical intimacy as a way to escape the emotional pain they're each grappling with from their last relationships. 

I found the BDSM elements to be a great spicy addition to the story. The conversation between Lorenzo and Mia about what that lifestyle means to them was a refreshing change, with meaningful communication between the characters. 

The grumpy-sunshine dynamic is also well-executed. Lorenzo's nickname for Mia, “sunshine,” is the perfect cute touch to their relationship. Although I’m not a huge fan of the miscommunication trope, it wasn’t enough to detract from my overall enjoyment of the book and comes with the territory of these types of books. 

This was the first book in the series to really evoke emotions from me while reading. My heart went out to Lorenzo—I can’t imagine how difficult it must have been for him to find love again after losing his wife.