“…𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 - 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙜𝙞𝙛𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣 𝙞𝙩. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙜𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠.”

If I was to be super specific, I’d probably give this book a 3.25 stars. I wanted to love it SO BADLY because I was taking it with me as my read on my trip to Italy, but ultimately, the amount of things I liked and disliked were about the same.

What I liked:

✨Violet’s journey to find herself.
✨The supporting characters - ALL OF THEM. This is one of the best supporting casts of characters I’ve read in a while. They’re all SO FUN.
✨The setting - both in Rome and the fashion world. The descriptions were detailed and oh so dreamy.
✨The laughs - I found myself giggling on multiple occasions.
✨The banter - when Matt gave it to us, it was TOP NOTCH.

What I disliked:

✨Violet’s immature nature for someone her age - I know she’s in a growth period in her life, but she (and sometimes Matt) read as early twenties to me instead of late twenties/early thirties. In my opinion, the author was trying a bit too hard to make her *~quirky~*.
✨The quickness of the switch from “enemies” to lovers - there was a lovely moment of protective TENSION at the first party but I would’ve loved a little more lead in to them becoming friendly/interested romantically. It felt a bit like a switch flipped, which isn’t my cup of tea.
✨Repetitive phrasing - If she said that she “chooses not to mention it” ONE MORE TIME in reference to him holding something back from her, I was going to 🤬. I get that she doesn’t want to push as he’s opening up to her. I GET IT. But eventually that has to serve some purpose where they address it if she continues to comment on it, and it never really turns into anything.

Overall, Ciao for Now was a cute and lighthearted read, but I would’ve loved to see it given a bit more emotional depth with the incredible backstories and journeys of both main characters. If you’re looking for a fairly fluffy romance where The Devil Wears Prada meets Emily in Paris but in Rome, don’t hesitate to give this one a try! I tried extremely hard to take my editing hat off while reading this and while I did enjoy it, I think it could’ve benefitted from more development.

𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘏𝘛𝘗, 𝘎𝘳𝘢𝘺𝘥𝘰𝘯 𝘏𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘒𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘉𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺. 𝘈𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴, 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

𝗖𝗶𝗮𝗼 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗯𝘆 𝗞𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗹𝗲𝘆⁣
⁣
This book was the perfect escape for me. I’ve always dreamed about traveling to Italy and this book makes me want to make that dream a reality. ⁣
⁣
This book follows the journey of fashion student Violet as she embarks on a trip to Italy and an internship at a fashion house there. ⁣
⁣
She has beautiful relationships with those around her. Both old and new. These friendships make her realized she needed to start living for herself first. ⁣
⁣
There’s different kinds of love. And Violet not only fell in love romantically, but she fell in love with her friends, with Italy, and finally with herself. ⁣
⁣
Overall I really enjoyed this story of adventure, love, friendship, and finding your joy. ⁣
⁣
𝗣𝘂𝗯 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟲, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯⁣
🌟🌟🌟🌟

This was my first Kate Bromley book and I loved it! Ciao for Now is a cute contemporary romance with fairly low angst but is funny and believable.

Violet lands a competitive fashion internship in Italy and along the way, ends up connecting with the instructor’s American son, Matt, who happens to be visiting.

There were so many laugh out loud moments - the mention of childhood friend Angela Murkowski, or the scene when Violet totally dresses down Matt at dinner. And speaking of that scene- it was hilarious and smart and I loved that the author didn’t drag it on for chapters or turn it into a main trope. The dialogue in this book is clever but without being over the top. It feels real and honest. We have all read books where the characters seem like they are trying too hard and this wasn’t it. Bromley strikes that perfect balance of making it look easy. This book is also touching - there is personal growth for both MCs! They are on separate journeys and must answer some hard questions about themselves and each other.

I loved the best friend Marco and the sister Daniella. They are witty (again without trying too hard) and supportive. I LOVED that Violet developed some strong friendships while in Italy. That felt so important to me. I was so glad the author didn’t go down the path of any coworkers or friends sabotaging Violet.

A few quibbles here and there but I would rec this book to anyone. It had some sexy times but nothing overly steamy. It felt like a book that could become a go-to comfort read for me. (I haven’t felt like that about a contemp romance since The Hating Game!)
I was a little thrown by a literary device used in the last 5 percent but I get why the author did it.
Overall 5 stars! (It’s been awhile since I gave a contemporary romance 5 stars!) This was a treat! I am so looking forward to more by this author!

My sincere thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing, Graydon House for the advanced digital copy.

I think I went into this thinking I was getting Rom-Com White Lotus. This absolutely wasn't that, but was still a really fun read!

Such a wholesome rom com set in Italy. The characters were funny, real and kept me engaged throughout the whole thing. The chemistry between Matt and Violet is undeniable. Their banter is everything. I also loved the side characters in this book as well.

Kate Bromley's previous novels were huge hits for me, and so I was instantly intrigued by Ciao for Now -- especially after just returning from my own trip to Rome. This romance has it all from self-growth, enemies to lovers, grumpy-sunshine and forced proximity.

However, I did find the action a bit slow to start and really find its groove, like some of the backstory took awhile to finally be revealed. Other than that, the writing is (of course) very compelling and fun. It's definitely a saccharine, almost-wholesome destination romance.

I have enjoyed Kate Bromley's other two books, but this one was an absolute delight! I smiled most of the way through the book and stayed up late finishing it! The book follows Violet, an "older" fashion student, competing to win a fashion competition in order to get a coveted job in the fashion world. Things get thrown off when Violet meets Matt on her first day in Italy, the setting of the first part of the competition.

Violet was a fantastic character, and Matt was an absolute swoon-worthy love interest. The supporting characters all contributed to Violet's growth, and they made me smile with their care and kindness toward Violet.

I would rate this one five stars because of how enjoyable it was to me. I know that this book won't be for everyone, but I highly recommend it if you are looking for a light, fun romance set in Italy!

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the ARC!

I absolutely adored this book. From the wonderful characters, their development and ambition, detail, and incredible scenery I could not put it down!

*immediately books trip to Italy*

Review in progress and to come.

I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review

Violet has always dreamed of being a fashion designer, so when she is selected to compete for a fashion label, she is ecstatic. This trip sends her to Italy to gain knowledge and immerse herself in the fashion world. So on her first day there, she accidentally spills coffee on a strangers laptop, she thinks she'll never have to see him again. But her luck fails when he happens to not only be the Professor's son but one of her roommates for the next month.
I extremely enjoyed the chemistry between Violet and Matt. I felt that it was believable. I also enjoyed the dynamics between characters, especially any with Marco.
Thank you #Netgalley for the ARC. All of the above opinions are my own.

This started great! very funny. I liked how the story evolved. The chemistry between Violet and Matteo is amazing.

If you like enemies to lovers and forced proximity tropes this is it, I don't want to spoil it so I'll just add the the way they finally come together is very well thought.

One of my favorite parts is the location they go in the book. It really feels like being there. Excellent book!

This is my first Kate Bromley book and I loved it! There was some awkward dialogue and parts where I wasn't sure that it completely fit, but the MC, Violet, was so endearing. I felt like she was a real person and I was rooting for her the whole way. Not that this has to do with the plot, BUT the descriptions of Matt's beard had me swooning--I loved this addition to the story! Also, I really enjoyed the descriptions of Italy, especially the trip to Capri. It made me want to be there (and also stay in a lavish hotel with glass Coke bottles).

This was a very cute, quick read for me and I would definitely recommend to a friend!

Immediately booking my trip to Rome now! Prosecco, that balcony view, the fabric store, and the explosive romance? Count me all the way in.

I actually really enjoyed this read, there was so much detail that I honestly felt like I was in Rome right along side Violet while trying to make her dreams come true and her meet cute with Matt? I mean I died of second hand embarrassment for her. I loved these two characters. It was definitely a grumpy sunshine, enemies to lovers (all though id hate someone if they destroyed my computer too), he falls first, forced proximity that felt right and well done. Even though the story focused heavily on the romance, I actually also really enjoyed the other aspects as well. Seeing her day to day life just made me feel closer to Violet, and I really felt for her after her initial collection showing. As someone who is now 29 going back to school and feeling a bit behind, it was a nice to see chasing your dreams at any point in life being portrayed in a read.

This would make for an excellent vacay read, I can't wait for my physical copy on release day.

This book was cute! The story is light hearted and charming. A summer internship that leads to time with a handsome Italian man sounds like a good time! I liked the fashion and design references, as well as all of the geographical references during their time in Italy. I feel like I need to add Capri to my list of future vacations!
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher!

Ciao for Now 💙💛
Kate Bromley
Pub Date: June 6, 2023 🗓️

If you love reading books that leave you with a smile on your face when you finish, then Ciao for Now is the PERFECT book for you! Bromley’s most recent book was so breezy, fun, and heartwarming! I’ve definitely added Rome to my short list of places I want to visit thanks to this book! 🇮🇹

When Violet lands a fashion internship in Rome, she must step up to complete against her two (younger) classmates to win the ultimate prize of a job at a New York label. There’s only one problem: her professor’s son, Matt, is her ultimate enemy from the start! Can Violet push forward towards her fashion goals, or will she remain distracted by Matt? Ciao for Now is the perfect enemies to lovers romance book!

I found myself rooting for Violet throughout the entire book! I felt such a strong connection to her and I absolutely loved her character. Bromley did such a great job painting such a vivid picture of Violet and her life in Rome and beyond.

I cannot recommend Ciao for Now enough, especially if you love a great enemies to lovers romance!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Favorite quotes:
“Love is something you gift yourself. You design it. You decide who you are going to love and who will have the privilege of loving you back.” -Page 187

“Scary moments can be beautiful, too,” -Page 211

Thank you to Kate Bromley, Graydon House, and NetGalley for providing me with a gifted copy of Ciao for Now.


Posted on Instagram on April 3, 2023 (Currently Reading): http://www.instagram.com/nobookmark_noproblem
Posted on Goodreads on April 5, 2023: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/144922955?ref=nav_profile_l
**Posted on Instagram (full review) on June 6, 2023: http://www.instagram.com/nobookmark_noproblem
**Posted on Instagram (mini review) in May 2023: http://www.instagram.com/nobookmark_noproblem
**Posted on Amazon on June 6, 2023
**-will post on designated date

A absolute wonderful feel good romantic comedy that anyone who is a fan of the genre will fall in love with

Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing, Graydon House, and NetGalley for this ARC.

Favorite Quote: “You decide who you are going to love and who will have the privilege of loving you back.”

I. Loved. This. Book. Ciao For Now by Kate Bromley made me feel so good while reading. It brought back memories of my first visit to Rome. It made me long to return as a fashion student vying to win a fashion competition while getting to know myself, Rome, and a brooding screenwriter who I crash land into.

In Ciao For Now we meet Violet who is a 29 year old fashion student. She is competing in a fashion competition against her best friend and fellow classmate, Marco, and another classmate, Holly. Violet is very aware that she’s older than her classmates. She has an internal ticking time bomb waiting to explode if she doesn’t win this competition. She feels like this is her last chance to make something of herself in the industry. It’s win big or go home and lay her dreams to rest. On her first day in Rome she literally crash lands her way into our hero Matt’s life. Is this what you’d call a meet embarrassment? Although it’s embarrassing and Matt is highly annoyed with her, their banter is amazing. Matt quickly gets under Violet’s skin but lucky for us she gives as good as she gets from him. I really loved Violet. She was so relatable and had a heart of gold.

I also loved our prickly hero Matt. He’s like a beautiful oasis surrounded by tall and thick thorn covered vines. Matt puts up a front to keep people at arm's length but Violet has an effect on him. It was a great to see a different side of him come to life around Violet. He is very self-assured, while Violet is kind of unsure of herself and a people pleaser.

This is a slow burn romance, and sometimes that can be a drag, but that was not the case for me. The whole story is entertaining not only because we get to see how Violet and Matt’s relationship evolves from their meet embarrassment, but we see how Violet grows into herself and meets some amazing ladies in Rome who help in that process. These ladies and other side characters really rounded out the story. I thoroughly enjoyed all the characters we got to meet in Ciao for Now. Marco, Mira, Professor Leoni, Louisa Tessuti, Marie…all great additional characters. All around entertaining and the ending was wonderful.

I would highly recommend Ciao for Now to those looking for a romance story that’s witty, engaging, and an uplifting escape from everyday life. The wanderlust after reading this is real.

A charming, atmospheric book by a romcom fave. At first, you wonder if Violet and Matt will get over their immature hatred of each other. She did spill coffee on him when she first met him, but they snipe at each other for quite a bit until they both get over it. Pretty soon the hijinks ensue, and when Kate gets back at Matt for calling her an older student (which she is), I laughed out loud. Matt proves himself to be calm and kind. Sure, he's socially awkward, but he's good with Violet who has a lot of work to do believing in herself. They both have to forgive themselves for their past mistakes. All of this is set in the beautiful backdrop of Rome and Capri, and with the beauty of fashion design as well. Kate Bromley is great at making worlds come alive. You will be impressed with how much the characters have grown on you by the end, and how proud you are of the way they have matured. By the time you finish this book, you'll feel like you have vacationed in Italy, and isn't that just the best?

Thank you NetGalley for the digital ARC of this book.

I want to thank Netgalley, Grayson House and Kate Bromley for providing me with ARC in exchange for an honest review of the book. I have loved Kate's other two books (Talk Bookish to Me and Here for the Drama) but this light hearted romance just fell a little flat for me. As I reflect on why, I guess it was that the secondary characters just were not fully developed at all. My favorite scene was when Violent was gaslighting Matteo at dinner after talking smack her on a phone call with a friend. Nor as I started Ciao for Now, would I think there would be a scene set in Comic Con but yet there it was at the end of the novel. Even though the book fell a little flat for me, I will still be next in line for Kate's 2024 book.

Thank you Netgallery for this ARC!

I loved this book and the story !! The characters were amazing! The character development was really great. It’s was a lighthearted book!
Overall, slow burn romance with a I recommend this to others. We love a romcom. 🥺

Thank you again!