thank you so much for the early opportunity to read this one. the hero is the best male character that has ever been written. he's all the positive things. new category: competence romance. a lovely wrap up to the trio.

A wonderful ending to The Primas of Power series. Ava has always been the perfect one. Perfect daughter, perfect granddaughter, perfect wife, perfect sister. Ask anyone in her family. They all depend on her. And she takes care of everyone. But no one takes care of her. And when her husband walks out, her family blames her.

While away at a teacher conference, she meets millionaire Román and decides to have a no strings fling. He’s always available when she needs a break from her family or job. And she has no intention of ever letting him meet her meddling family. But when they both end up in her cousin’s wedding party it becomes harder to keep their relationship a secret.

I adored this book. Watching Ava and Román truly see each other and give each other space was beautiful. The spicy scenes are hot! But the mutual respect of each other’s boundaries is hot too. There was a great illustration of Puerto Rican culture with food, traditions, and lots of Spanish words and phrases thrown in. It was great seeing the characters from the first two books get their happily ever afters.

If you’re looking for a spicy romance with heart and depth you need to pick up this one!

Thank you to @Netgalley @avonbooks and @harpervoyagerus for the chance to review this ARC.

love this author and this series and all the characters, happy to see them come back and meet new people.

<b>4.5 stars</b>

Thank you to Netgalley and Avon for this ARC. My opinions are my own.

Ava is nursing her hurt feelings over the dissolution of her marriage in a hotel bar, when a handsome man approaches and offers to make her a better drink than the one she currently has (she made a face when sipping it). The man clearly has bartending experience, and after a brief conversation, Ava discovers that the charming man in fact owns the hotel she's currently in (not to mention a whole chain of them). Ava decides to do something entirely out of character for her, and agrees to a one night stand with Roman, which turns out to be a lot more memorable than either of them expected.

Roman Vasquez barely ever takes time off; he lives and breathes for his business empire, always striving for more and better. Yet the chance meeting with the downcast, but lovely Ava at the bar makes him uncharacteristically order his assistant to clear his entire schedule, and while they agreed it was to be a one-time thing, the two continue to meet up every few months or so, when Ava is feeling especially upset and dejected. At first, Roman doesn't mind being this beautiful woman's comfort hookup, but with every new meeting, he begins to fall more and more, and wants to pursue a proper relationship with Ava. He's always been hard-working and goal-oriented, and now his goal is to win Ava.

Ava has a very meddling family with a lot of strong opinions, and was basically made to feel like it was her fault that her husband cheated and that their marriage dissolved. She therefore wants none of her friends and family to find out about Roman, to avoid endless speculation and mean-spirited gossip about a relationship she doesn't see leading to a long-term future anyway. So it complicates matters rather a lot when she discovers that Roman is the best man at her cousin Jasmine's upcoming wedding (where Ava is the Maid of Honour). How is she going to keep their hook-ups secret when she can barely keep her eyes and hands off him every time he is near, and now they have to spend a lot of time together wedding planning?

This is only the second Alexis Daria novel that I've read, the first one being <i>Take the Lead<i>, a reworking of her debut novel. That was a perfectly good read (although I remember very little about the plot a year later), but it took me much longer to get through than many romances, since the plot and characterisation weren't really grabbing me. That is certainly not the case in this book. Eva is a really interesting protagonist, Roman is an excellent foil for her, and from their first meeting, I just wanted to keep reading to see what would happen next.

Some of the supporting characters in this story are the couples from the previous two books in the <i>Primas of Power</i> trilogy (both of which I own, but haven't gotten round to reading yet). While Ava's cousins Jasmine and Michelle are ride or die for her and would support her through anything, it's quite obvious that most of Ava's family are really toxic and constantly make her feel like a failure. In contrast, Roman's mother and sister (who both live with him in his swanky apartment, at his insistence) are extremely supportive of him - they just want him to find a better work-life balance (in fact, get any sort of life outside of work) and do so much for them.

I read this book after having finished some books that were either frustrating and rather boring or merely fine. So it's possible that my very high rating of this is because it was just so delightful to find an entertaining and well-written book as a palate cleanser to those other ones. I'm pretty sure that if I re-read it, I'll stand by my rating, though. It's not a full five stars (Ava takes a bit too long to wake up and realise that Roman is perfect for her), but this book balances some heavy themes and a lot of emotional topics in a good way. It's rare to find an author who can skillfully balance genuine emotion and romance, with cringeworthy embarrassment, cathartic long-overdue emotional confrontations with overbearing family, and still manage to include more than one laugh-out-loud moment. Yet in the final chapters of this book, Daria manages to do just that.

That excellent balance also makes it possible for me to ignore the "baby in the epilogue" of it all (much easier to do now that I'm no longer involuntarily childless). This book seems to have more endings than the movie version of <i>Return of the King</i>, but I guess that might be natural, since this book finishes up Daria's entire <i>Primas of Power</i> trilogy, and it doesn't just show us Ava and Roman's continued happiness, but what happens to the other two couples, as well. Now that I've read and thoroughly enjoyed this, I'm absolutely going to add the previous two books in the series to my reading list over the summer.

<b>Judging a book by its cover: </b>I really like the style of the covers for this trilogy, making the covers look like old-time movie posters. They're all distinct and suitable for the book in question, but eye-catching with bold colours, and the couple front and centre in a passionate embrace. I'm so very ready for the drawn covers to move on to something else, but these are better than a lot of other romances out there right now.

5 Stars – A Joyful, Heartfelt Rom-Com That Hits All the Right Notes!

Along Came Amor by Alexis Daria is everything I want in a romance novel—charming, swoon-worthy, full of heart, and bursting with Latinx culture and family love. Daria continues to shine with her vibrant storytelling and complex, lovable characters that feel instantly real and relatable.

The chemistry between the leads is electric from the start. Their banter is witty, their tension palpable, and their emotional growth deeply satisfying. It’s not just about falling in love—it’s about healing, embracing who you are, and finding joy in unexpected places. Daria also masterfully weaves in themes of cultural identity, family expectations, and personal empowerment, adding depth without ever losing the fun.

This book made me laugh, blush, and even tear up. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Alexis Daria or new to her work, Along Came Amor is a must-read that will leave you with a full heart and a big smile.

The absolute perfect end to The Primas of Power — Ava’s struggle with being enough for everyone in her life was so heartbreakingly relatable while Roman’s commitment to showing she’s more than enough by just being was magical .

This book was everything I wanted The end of this series to be and more. I miss them already! Alexis Daria has an amazing ability to make you feel so deeply connected to characters and build community in her pages. I loved getting to relive some favorite moments from past books through this one and see all the primas in the future.

Along Came Amor is an EPIC conclusion to the Primas of Power series. It's got so much heart that it will heal a little part of you.

First, I'd like to say THIS WAS A CHUNK OF A BOOK. When I received my physical copy, imagine me gasping at its size and KNOWING that I was going to love Ava's story just as much as I've loved Jasmine's and Michelle's. And reader's it didn't disappoint one bit.

Along Came Amor is a slow burn, even with the no strings attached set up between Ava x Roman. But this is more than just a romance story, it's a story about healing one's self, accepting yourself for who you are, and standing up to the years of generational trauma that has debilitated growth. It's so empowering to see Ava find strength in her self especially when your partner is supportive and in your corner. I mean, shoot Roman was about to fight some grannies for his girl.

I also loved seeing glimpses of Jasmine x Ashton and Michelle x Gabe. They are the icing on the cake - to see how they are and to see how they react to our fmc. Plus, the seamless way that the boys adopt Roman into their circle is so sweet!

The ending is PERFECTION. Daria came up with the best way to end this series, bringing happy tears to my eyes. I will miss these characters as if they were my friends. But I know I will come back to this world over and over again.

*review cross-posted for audiobook format*

Reading this book knowing I had to finish it eventually was incredibly bittersweet, I remember when back in 2020 I picked up You Had Me at Hola and fell in love with the characters and then after that came A Lot Like Adios and then… nothing, soooo you know I was waiting a long while for this book to be out in the world so I can devour it.

Anyway, I loved it. Ava reminded me a lot of myself, with the trying so hard to please everyone so that they may love you that you stretch yourself thin, not knowing that they do indeed love you, in their own ways. Happens a lot in Hispanic/Latinx families, they can be so overwhelmingly overbearing that you feel like you’re not loved enough, and Alexis Daria really showed that. I shed a few tears throughout this book because it really hit me.

Last thing I will say is I loveeeeeee Roman, his character was so resilient and loving, not only towards Ava but his family and friends and it was just so amazing to read!

Thank you so so much Avon for this arc!

I had the amazing opportunity to read the ARC for Along Came Amor by Alexis Daria, and Oh. My. Goodness!!!! This was such an incredible book 🥹

Ava and Roman made my heart so happy. While Ava and Roman’s story begins early in the book, it felt like a slow burn to me because of how much their connection grows throughout the book. ❤️

I’m such a fan of Alexis Daria, and I’m so excited to purchase this book so I can have all 3 books from the Primas of Power series apart of my library at home. 💖

I highly recommend reading Along Came Amor by Alexis Daria (and the other two books apart of the Primas of Power series as well)!

Thank you so much Alexis Daria for writing such incredible books! Thank you to Avon, Harper Voyager, and NetGalley for the chance to read this spectacular ARC.

Ava is a consummate pleaser, allowing her family to make demands and treat her like Cinderella because she’s worried she’ll offend them if she speaks up. And it’s only gotten worse in the past year and a half since her husband left her. Trying to make changes in her life, Ava takes a chance on a one night stand while out of town.

Roman has worked tirelessly from a young age to bring himself and family out of poverty. Now he’s the CEO and owner of a multimillion dollar hotel chain. He’s gotten to where he is by fixing problems and making quick decisions. Meeting Ava changes Roman, and he starts to realize that maybe it’s time to slow down a bit.

Along Came Amor is the third and final book in the Primas of Power series centered on three Latine cousins with a huge, interfering family. Daria puts heart and soul into her characters, allowing me to understand Ava and Roman, and able to empathize with their big emotions. It was difficult at times, watching Ava’s self-deprecating behavior, especially as witness by Roman, who wants to fix Ava’s problems.

Roman and Ava work because he sees her true self and is willing to go at her pace. He knows when to put a little pressure and when to give her time. He has friends and family giving him sound advice and he’s able to adapt as he learns and grows. It takes a lot more for Ava to finally allow herself to love Roman, especially since she won’t tell her family about him or seek professional help for the years of baggage she is carrying.

Along Came Amor is a delightful story and satisfying end for the series. Daria is a wonderful storyteller, weaving together family, culture, and romance into an entertaining and emotional tale.

My Rating: B

Ava is divorced, and Roman is focused on building his hotel chain. When they meet, they decide their relationship will have no strings attached, and no deep feelings.
Of course, this is easier said than done.
As they spend time together, and get to know one another more intimately, their relationship naturally grows to another level. Roman is tired of being Ava’s dirty little secret, and he wants much more from their relationship. Ava doesn’t want to get burned again, but she’s falling for Roman. Can these two individualists change and form a lasting partnership?
This is entertaining and spicy, 4 stars.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley, I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I really enjoyed this whole "Primas of Power" series. This book follows the third prima, Ava, and her journey from "perfect" oldest daughter/cousin to divorced and fallen from grace to finally finding who she really is despite her family's criticism. Her family was so frustrating and over bearing throughout the whole book, which I found really showcased how some family dynamics can be.
The pacing of it was a little slow for me, it probably could have been easily 100 pages shorter, but it was nice seeing Ava grow as a person and finally stand up to her families pressures and judgement

Thank you NetGalley and Avon/Harper Voyager for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.

I fell in love with this series from the get go and this was a great ending to the Primas of Power. Ava has always done what others what of her, she tries to be the good girl and doesn't put her feelings above others, ever. After her divorce is finalized, she decides it is time for a change. While at a conference, she goes out to the bar and New Ava comes out. She meets a stranger and thinks this one night is all she needs to take back her power.
Roman is all work and no play, but the minute he sees Ava, something tells him that he needs to know her. After one explosive night, he thinks he will never hear from her again, but can't forget her. Fate has other plans for them both.
I thought Roman was just.. the best. I liked that he was older and that he was wiser but still had things to work on. Roman was a great communicator, just what Ava needed. I was hoping to relate more to Ava, but I found at times I just wanted to shake her. I guess I just don't understand her family dynamic and how she would think she would have to hide things that made her happy for so long. Roman was a saint, patient with her every step of the way. We did get to see a lot of the other Primas and I really enjoyed learning how life is after their books too. This was a great series.
Thanks to Avon, Netgalley and Alexis Daria for an early copy.

I loved this series and will miss it very much! Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.

This is the third and final book in a series of standalone. I’ve read the first and reading this one made me want to go back and catch the second.

This books starts off pretty spicy with the main characters hooking up randomly after one finalized her divorce. They later discover they are both in the same wedding party, and have to coordinate to plan events and details. I was glad I’d read the first book because this one centered on characters preparing for that couple’s wedding, and it helped to know the backstory.

There are a lot of family members and I started getting confused about who everyone was. The cast of characters is quite large, which is tricky.

Overall though—this was a fun read. I’d recommend it.

Thank you Avon for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.

I don’t know if it is the fact I had my hopes up too high for Ava’’s story but it definitely had fallen flat to me. Her push over tendencies and the constant push and pull / using of Roman overwhelmed the story.

Along Came Amor is Alexis Daria’s EXTRAORDINARY final installment of the Primas of Power series. This book had me sitting with my deep feelings DAYS after completing. The romance was definitely in the room with us!

I must admit that I am reviewing this book with bittersweet sentiment. Book 1, You Had Me at Hola was my gateway into Latinx Romance, this series holds a special place in my whole identity online, please excuse my sappy review.

The plot

Whether you read Book 1 or Book 2, A lot Like Adios, you are very aware of Ava. The eldest prima, the confidant, the one everyone relies on. We counted on her advice for over two novels so readers are more than ready to invest in her HEA.

We are all aware that Ava is recently divorced and as we get exposed to her internal workings, we get an inside scoop of how deeply hurt she is. As Ava tunes in to her maid of honor duties she must balance toxic family scrutiny and not falling for the PAPI CHULO Roman. Roman is the best man, best friend to Ashton, successful hotelier businessman, last guy Ava slept with just a little bit ago.

Say WHAT?

Yes, Ava decides she needs a hot one night stand. Let her lose inhibitions for this one night knowing she would never see this sexy stranger ever again. WRONG! Now they must works side by side and not catch feelings all through wedding shenanigans.

My thoughts

I had no idea that Alexis Daria could out-do herself in this manner. We get such emotional depth in Ava’s development throughout the story. So many Latina readers will see themselves in Ava, the eldest sister, prima, granddaughter. So many READERS can find themselves in her finding her voice and showing up as her most authentic self to every situation. There is something very deep, very powerful about someone that is so heavily counted on, being listened to, aided to in an emotional sense, and be provided a safe space to be themselves.

Roman in Along Came Amor is the ultimate book boyfriend. He is a reprieve to the harshness Ava faces constantly. Alexis Daria composed the most perfect pairing with them. The culture in Along Came Amor is delightful, rich, complex, and real.

Along Came Amor by Alexis Daria is the romance read that will make you swoon and make you feel seen. The best combo in romance books if you ask me.

I’ve loved everything Alexis Daria has written and this is no exception! I’m a huge fan of the MMC, Roman. My only criticism is that the book was too long because there was too much of the FMC being in conflict with her family. But overall I really enjoyed it!

This was such a cute novel from Alexis Daria! The Primas of Power series was one of the first romcom series I read when I first joined BookTok & Bookstagram. It felt so nice to come back to this world and these characters four years after the release of A Lot Like Adios. After having read Ava and Roman's story, Along Came Amor is definitely my favorite of the series. I related so much to Ava and her need to be a people pleaser, especially when it came to her family. I also adored the way that Roman took care of and supported Ava. He was so obsessed with her from the moment they met, which was very fun to read about. I highly recommend this book for readers looking for Latinx romcoms, and romcoms that give off vibes like Jane and Rafael's relationship in Jane the Virgin! I'd rate this book 4.5 stars.