Kayla Grosse, the queen you are. What kind of magic do you put in these books? Because Change of Pace was everything I didn’t know I needed and then some. From the first page, I was completely floored by the storytelling. It felt less like reading a book and more like sitting down with my best friend as she told me how she fell in love with the most unexpected person in the most beautiful way.

I don’t think I’ve ever connected with a character the way I did with Jesse. A plus size FMC with a heart condition and a bucket list? That’s me, and I truly love feeling THIS seen when it comes to the books I read. Her vulnerability, her growth, the way she starts off unsure but slowly blossoms into someone who believes she’s worthy of love, hit me right in the chest. And Asher? OH MY GOD, ASHER. Loving out loud, devoted, golden retriever energy Asher. He falls first, he falls hard, and he never looks back. I’ll never be over him. Never. He is top tier book boyfriend and I stand by this. Also my favorite Kayla Grosse MMC by far to date (and there have been some great ones). 

The representation in this book is everything. Jesse has Kawasaki Disease and an ICD implant, something I had never seen written about before, and Asher has ADHD, which is portrayed so authentically. Hyperfixation? Hyperfocus? Yup, I again felt so seen. Kayla is so intentional with her characters, and it shows. She gives space for people who don’t fit the societal mold and tells readers that you belong here too.

The road trip vibes? The forced proximity? The “let’s keep it platonic” lie they both tell themselves while sharing a tiny RV and exploring bucket list items like quirky roadside attractions? So perfect. I was giggling like a schoolgirl at their banter, fanning myself from the tension, and full on crying during the soft, emotional beats. This book had everything I love: representation, spice, heart, healing, and humor.

And can we talk about the epilogue? Absolute perfection. Watching Jesse grow, love herself more deeply, and embrace the life she fought so hard to live was so empowering. Her journey was healing for me, and I’m so grateful for that.

If you’re into sweet, soft hearted MMCs (Asher is the literal definition of a cinnamon roll or a golden retriever), incredible representation, emotional depth, and an FMC you’ll root for from the very start, then Change of Pace is for you.

Kayla did it again! I’m in love with Jesse and Asher. This is more than just a romance; it’s a love letter to life, second chances, and the beauty of slow burning self-worth.

💛 HIGHLY recommend. 1000000/10.

Thank you to Kayla Grosse for the eARC of this book!