From Away by Cristina Santos is the kind of romance that wraps around you like your favorite cozy sweater. It feels warm, comforting, and had just the right amount of emotional moments. Set against the breezy backdrop of Balsam Bay, this story gave me all the small town, east coast feels I didn’t know I was craving. I could practically smell the salty sea air and hear the creak of floorboards in those charming coastal homes.

Leo Chapman is easily one of the most unique and relatable MMCs I’ve read in a long time. His social anxiety wasn’t just a quirk; it was layered, real, and deeply human. Cristina Santos did such a thoughtful job portraying what anxiety can feel like: the silence that comes from overthinking, the self-doubt that lingers long after a conversation ends. Being inside Leo’s head made me feel seen in a way few books ever have.

And then there’s Neve. She is fierce, funny, and emotionally guarded. Watching her slowly soften as she gets to know Leo, while still standing firm in who she is, was such a rewarding experience. Their chemistry was palpable and although it was a slow burn, I felt so connected to them. From forced proximity to stolen glances and quiet conversations, you could feel the tension simmering under every interaction. And when that tension finally breaks? Perfection. 

I adored the "just sex" arrangement that spiraled into something so much more meaningful. These two get each other in a way no one else has, and their journey felt earned. The found family vibes, the nosy neighbors, and the community of Balsam Bay made it all the more endearing. Side characters like Matt, Billie, and Pete added charm and depth and I’m already desperate for their stories next!

If I had any tiny critique, it’s that I wish we had a little more backstory, particularly about Leo’s relationship with Helen and his father, and Neve’s history with her ex-husband. Also, some resolution with Neve’s mother would’ve added an extra layer of closure. But maybe Cristina Santos is saving that for another book in the series.

This is more than just a romance. It’s about starting over, healing old wounds, and allowing yourself to be truly known. As someone in her mid-thirties who has walked through mental health challenges and complex family dynamics, this story hit home. From Away is now etched into my heart, the kind of book I’ll think about every time I hear a seagull or smell fresh paint.

Tropes & Vibes
🪻Small Town
🛠️ Interior Designer x Cabinet Maker (Workplace Romance)
🌊 East Coast Canada (Nova Scotia!)
🌀 Social Anxiety Rep
🧁 Found Family
🔥 Forced Proximity
🩹 Divorced FMC with Endometriosis Rep
🎶 Swiftie Easter Eggs
✍️ Cozy but emotional storytelling

If you’re looking for a heartfelt, spicy, and emotionally satisfying romance that balances humor, depth, and healing with the charm of a coastal town, From Away is the book for you. Cristina Santos has started something special here and I can’t wait to see what’s next in Balsam Bay.

Thank you to Cristina Santos and Luna Literary for the eARC of this book.