Full Description

Romeo, Romeo

"A sparkling new voice! If you love witty dialogue, great characters and a lot of fun in your books, this is the writer for you!"
- Maureen Child, USA Today bestselling author

Rosalie Ronaldi doesn't have a domestic bone in her body ...

All she cares about is her career, so she survives on take-out and dirty martinis, keeps her shoes under the dining room table, her bras on the shower curtain rod, and her clothes on the couch ...

Nick Romeo is every woman's fantasy - tall, dark, handsome, rich, really good in bed, AND he loves to cook and clean ...

He says he wants an independent woman, but when he meets Rosalie, all he wants to do is take care of her. Before too long, he's cleaned up her apartment, stocked her refrigerator, and adopted her dog ...

So what's the problem? Just a little matter of mistaken identity, corporate theft, a hidden past in juvenile detention and one big nosy Italian family too close for comfort ...

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Excerpt

Excerpt

ROSALIE RONALDI MADE A SUCCESSFUL ESCAPE FROM THE insane asylum. Okay, so it wasn’t a real insane asylum; it was her parents’s Bay Ridge home. But most days, it could pass for the Sicilian version of Bellevue. She pulled on her coat as the storm door snicked closed behind her, took a deep breath of cold early January air, and ran for the solace of her car.

Sitting through a typical Italian Sunday dinner at Chez, Ronaldi was always a lesson in self-control. Today it had become a lesson in avoidance—marriage avoidance. For the life of her, Rosalie couldn’t figure out why her mother would push a daughter she supposedly loved down the aisle. It wasn’t as if the institution had brought Maria Ronaldi any happiness. Just the opposite.

Whenever Rosalie made decisions, she measured the odds and studied the statistical evidence—something at which she’d always excelled. With the divorce rate at 53 percent, if you added the number of unhappy marriages that wouldn’t end in divorce because of religious beliefs or sheer stubbornness, which she estimated was running at about 46 percent, only 1 percent of all marriages could be considered happy. A person would have to be crazy to take a calculated risk with a 99 percent failure rate.

Rosalie was many things, but crazy wasn’t one of them. As a child, she’d made the decision never to marry, and nothing in her experience since had done anything but cement her resolve. Of course, if she said that, she’d be breaking the eleventh commandment: thou shalt marry a nice Catholic boy (preferably Italian) and have babies—or go straight to hell.

Rosalie climbed into her VW Beetle and headed toward her Park Slope apartment. Turning onto the Prospect Expressway, she heard a funny thumping noise. Never a good sign. She pulled over to find her tire was as flat as matzo, and after a marathon Italian dinner, the waistband of her pants was so tight that if she took a deep breath, she’d pop a button. God only knew what would happen when she bent down to change the tire.

Rosalie opened the trunk, expecting to see her spare tire. It was supposed to be right there, but all she saw was a big hole.

Great! Just what she needed. She stared into the trunk, turned to kick the flat tire, and called her brother the nicest name she could think of that fit him. Asshole.

“Stronzo!” She should have known better than to give him a hundred and sixty bucks to replace her spare tire. She’d told him to buy a full-sized spare, and he hadn’t even gotten her one of those donuts. “He’s proprio un stronzo della prima categoria.”

She had no problem calling Rich the world’s biggest asshole in Italian. After all, God excused cursing if done in a second language. He gave bonus points for cursing in a third. Rosalie had a feeling she’d be brushing up on her Spanish.

Reviews

Reviews

Romance Reader at Heart Kay James
Romance Reader at Heart, Kay James
ROMEO ROMEO is a rollicking romance that’s sure to please even the most discerning reader. Robin Kaye’s flair for giving the mundane a dramatic twist brings every character—even the dog!—off the pages.

This is one of those books where I felt like I knew the characters personally. Really, they’re that well written. Also, any kind of family most likely has a man who’s a whiz in the kitchen (as well as the bedroom!), a caring sibling and a woman who is more concerned with her job than her marital status. There’s almost always a bent-on-marriage parental figure lurking near the career woman, so all the players in this are of a type found around almost any family dinner table. That makes this story even more realistic and comfortable than it already is. The reader feels in the moment—and at the table—with this zany cast of characters.

I especially loved the way "Nurse Nick" dispensed advice freely, giving Rosalie directions on taking her medicine, drinking plenty of fluids and an assortment of other concerns. It showed he cared, not only about her as a bedroom companion, but as a whole person. He showed his love in so many small ways that long before the book was over I was smitten for the guy.
Rosalie is a little less easy to love, mainly because there are a few moments where I felt she was somewhat calculating. But then, with her "insane asylum" parental home it may have been the only method of survival open to her. After all, anyone’s sanity would be challenged by Rosalie’s parents!

If you’re looking for a smartly written, engaging and over-the-top amusing tale about life, love and living the Brooklyn American dream, ROMEO ROMEO is the story for you! It reads like a dream.

The Book Binge Holly Mercer
A self-made millionaire, gorgeous and sexy, who also loves to cook and clean? Is this every woman’s fantasy or what?

Rosalie Ronaldi, high-powered corporate turnaround expert, doesn’t have a domestic bone in her body. Surviving on take-out and dirty martinis, she keeps her shoes under the dining room table, her bras on the towel rack in the bathroom, and her clothes on the couch.

Macho Nick Romeo loves an independent woman because it means no commitment. Until he meets Rosalie and discovers that all he wants to do is take care of her... Before too long, he’s moved in, cleaned up her apartment, stocked her refrigerator, and adopted her dog.

But things turn complicated when her job puts her in charge of a dealership Nick has been secretly trying to take over for years, and telling him the truth would blow her whole career, and blow up their relationship too ...
Occasionally we receive books from publishers for review. When I get a new package in the mail, I usually read a page or two of each novel before deciding if I want to keep it or pass it on to one of the other girls. When I got Romeo, Romeo, I cracked it open to read the first page and didn’t put it down until I reached the last page.

Nick isn’t looking for a relationship when he sees Rosalie stranded on the side of the road and stops to help her. As a matter of fact, he just broke it off with a girl because she wanted more than he was willing to give. But he wouldn’t a roll in the hay, and Rosalie is attractive. So he asks her on a date..only he doesn’t exactly tell her he’s Nick Romeo, self-made millionaire and childhood friend - and troublemaker - to her brother.

Rosalie isn’t interested in a relationship at all. She swore of men and love a long time ago, and is perfectly content with her life as is. She’s definitely attracted to Nick, and they do have some great chemistry, but she doesn’t want him thinking she’s looking for more than a one-night-stand. Each is pretty much overjoyed when they learn the other is looking for exactly what they want. But things get complicated pretty fast.

Rosalie gets sick a few days after they meet and Nick moves in with her so he can take care of her. Then he realizes she’s been brought in to fix a dealership he’s been secretly trying to purchase (and sabotage) for years. But even worse, he finds he’s really starting to care for her - which is definitely against the rules they set up in the beginning.

I think the thing I loved best about this novel is that the characters were totally real. Rosalie is a strong, independent woman who isn’t secretly pining for a man. She’s really content to live her life alone. Sure, she misses the sex sometimes, but when she says she never wants to get married and become a baby factory (which is what her big Italian family is really pushing her towards) she means it. When she and Nick start seeing each other, she isn’t secretly hoping it’ll turn into more. She’s also independent without being obnixous about it. She realizes her limitations and accepts them, but also knows her own strengths and refuses to be pushed around.

Nick grew up dirt poor, and though he’s now a self-made millionaire, he’s still just the same as he was before - only richer. He likes getting dirty in the garage and cooking. And he cleans when he’s stressed or upset. No joke, he actually uses vacuuming a stress reliever. He’s just a real, down-to-Earth guy. He doesn’t flaunt his wealth or have major hang-ups because of some incident in his past. He likes sports and breasts and Rosalie’s dog. He was just a regular guy. Well, ok, a regular guy who also happened to be rich and gorgeous, but still.

The secondary characters really enhanced the story, too. Rosalie’s assistant and best friend, her sister, her mother and aunt. Nick’s cousins and mom and employees. They all added just the right touch of humor, emotion and depth.

I did become frustrated by a couple "big misunderstandings". I really felt one of them was drug out way too long, and another seems somewhat contrived. Things really could have been easily cleared up, but in the end I was able to overlook them.

If you’re looking for a sweet, light, straight-up contemporary romance, I’d highly recommend this one. This is one novel I’ll re-read again and again. Even though I had a couple issues with it, they didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment, so I have to give it a:
4.75 out of 5

I also heard that Robin Kaye has at least two more novels in store in her "domestic god" and I can’t wait to get them.

I Just Finished Reviews Renee Genoux
I Just Finished Reviews
Romeo, Romeo
by: Robin Kaye
9781402213397
Stars (5)
Dominick Romeo is Brooklyn’s version of Donald Trump without the comb over and oh yeah... he’s hot and rich! Nick owns numerous car dealerships throughout Brooklyn which is how he came to be driving a wrecker home, in coveralls over his business suit, when he came upon Rosalie Ronaldi on the side of the road with a flat tire and no spare. Being the nice guy that he is, Nick offers Rosalie a ride home promising to have her car fixed by the next day. Nick doesn’t exactly lie to Rosalie about his identity but she has no idea that she’s riding with a self-made millionaire and agrees to a dinner date the next night. Nick’s relieved that Rosalie has no idea who he is because now he knows that Rosalie won’t be after him for his money like so many of the revolving girlfriends he’s had in the past.

Rosalie is a turnaround expert who temporarily takes over as the CFO of failing businesses to bring them back to life. Rosalie’s new project is the one dealership that Nick has always coveted but could never buy out. Now Nick knows that he has to come clean about who he really is before Rosalie finds out the truth. Somehow he just can’t bring himself to do it because he knows it’ll bring an end to their relationship and somehow Rosalie has made it past his "tough guy with who runs from marriage" exterior and into his heart.

The resulting story is a heart-warming tale told with a lot of hot sex and sarcastic humor. I laughed at the tables being turned on Nick when Rosalie kicks him out of her bed and sends him packing because one of her rules is to never let a guy spend the night. Kaye’s writing is a refreshing change from the typical contemporary romance. I could see all the characters as real people showing real feelings with an ending that is truly believable unlike many stories where the characters don’t fit the happily ever after ending that’s par for the course in contemporary writing. I highly recommend this read to all romance lovers.

Booklist
Rosalie Ronaldi is never getting married, no way, no how! But convincing her Italian mother and family is
easier said than done for this financial executive. After leaving another hectic Sunday dinner at her
parents’ in Brooklyn, Rosalie gets a flat tire and curses her brother, who borrowed the car, in three
different languages, impressing Good Samaritan Nick Romeo. Nick is considered Brooklyns equivalent of
Donald Trump: he owns several car dealerships and dates beautiful gold diggers. Driving a tow truck and
wearing overalls, he decides to help Rosalie, who he thinks is crazy and very attractive in a Sophia Loren
style. As they start a relationship Rosalie has no idea that this Nick is the Nick Romeo. She lays down her
ground rules, including nothing serious and no marriage talk, and Nick agrees until their relationship heats
up. Now he must work up the nerve to tell Rosalie who he really is. Kaye’s debut a delightfully fun, witty
romance, making her a writer to watch.
— Patty Engelmann

Single Titles SusiQ2
Wonderful Laugh Out Loud Humor, a sexy and precious love story with twists and turns until the very end. Do Not Miss This Treasure!!

Rosalie Ronaldi is having A Very Bad Day. She had successfully escaped “the insane asylum” that was her parents Sunday Home Brunch, but found herself stranded on the expressway in heavy late afternoon traffic with a flat tire, and no spare. What is a good Catholic girl to do besides curse, and kick the offending tire?

Dominick (Nick) Romeo is also having a Bad Day. How can a man who owns the largest car dealerships in New York, has the best “state-of-the-art”garage, in fact, owns most of the cars on the entire East coast, but who cannot figure out what is wrong with his Viper? Ultimately forced to drive his dealership’s wrecker to his Park Slope home still dressed in the coveralls he had worn while trying to fix his car Nick wonders if his day can get any worse?

On Nick’s way home he sees a lunatic female kicking a flat tire on the side of the road while cars careened by her at high speeds. Fearful for her safety Nick turns on the truck’s emergency lights, and pulls over to try to help what he perceives to be a deranged woman. After listening to her curse in several different languages, then hearing all about her no good brother who spent the money for her new tire elsewhere since there was No Spare Tire To Change On Her Car, Nick finally manages to pull her car up on the truck’s flatbed, and talk Rosalie into getting into the truck with him, a total grease covered stranger. Nick is strongly drawn to the crazed woman even though he cannot figure out why except that she is as cute as can be with a figure that has definitely caught his eye. After taking her home, Nick arranges to have her car returned to her, and manages to get her phone number.

Nick has finally met a woman who strongly attracts him, a woman who is not looking for a husband, and does not know that he is rich! What more could a guy ask for? He even likes her dog named Dave! Soon Nick is spending a lot of time with Rosalie, soon essentially living with her while trying to keep her from finding out who he really is. Meanwhile Rosalie found out who Nick is, but is still not ready to make any commitments with anyone, rich or poor.

One of the many great joys in this story is watching Nick becoming the caretaker for the dog, and Rosalie, who fights against anyone “taking care of her” as they both fall not so gently in love. This is one fabulous story. There are certain books that “call” to me after I have read them. The story will come up in my heart, and it will not matter what I am doing, I will have to stop and re-read that book. Romeo Romeo is one of those few books that will call to me because of the fabulous humor, the hot sex, the great love story, and the fabulous ending as both discover who they really are, and what they mean to each other.

Please find and read this book. Beg, Borrow, or Steal this book from a buddy, just Do Not Miss It! You will be So happy that you read this book, and it will be a Keeper for you also. Just hide it from your friends who read this review, or hear about this story so that they do not “steal” it from you, or back from you as the case may be! Happy Reading! Thank you, Ms. Kaye, for writing such a unique, and fabulous story..I am in awe of your talent..

All About Romance Jane Granville
Grade: B+
Sensuality: Hot

It feels like it’s been a while since I reviewed a solid contemporary romance. So many of those I’ve read lately felt lacking in some way, even if I enjoyed them. However, Romeo Romeo filled that void, reminding me of all the best things about the genre.

Rosalie Ronaldi is a woman focused on her career. She has no intention of ever getting married nor is she a domestic goddess—both major points of contention with her traditional Italian Catholic family. However, when she gets a flat tire and is stranded on the side of the road, a mechanic with a tow truck pulls over, and gives her a hand.

Turns out that “mechanic” is actually Nick Romeo, “Brooklyn’s Donald Trump,” a self-made millionaire and serial dater. He’s instantly attracted to Rosalie, even though she’s far from his usual type of girlfriends who are fortune-hunting sticks with breasts. He quickly realizes, though, that he would have no chance with her if she knew who he was—the multi-millionaire playboy who, back in his misspent youth, got her older brother arrested. So he neglects to mention that detail. Somewhat inexplicably to both of them, they click instantly (helped along by Nick’s protective instincts when Rosalie gets pneumonia), and Nick suddenly becomes her live-in caretaker, cook, housekeeper, and lover, all rolled into one. Looming over his head, though, is his hidden identity and the fact that his company is at odds with Rosalie’s.

As my roommate succinctly said when I lent her the book, “You can hear the New York accents through the page.” The dialogue is funny, smart, and yet still natural. Ms. Kaye is adept in giving characters distinctive, real voices, both in the dialogue and also the narration.

Nick and Rosalie are both strong, vivid characters. They complimented each other very well and had great chemistry together. At the end, Nick began to frustrate me, though; their fall-out was so imminent, so avoidable, I sometimes wanted to throw the book across the room, though that says as much about how involved with the story I was, as it does about Nick’s idiocy. However, their HEA was very believable and their mutual and inevitable heartbreak before they got to that point definitely tugged on the heartstrings.

There’s also a host of larger-than-life side characters that fleshed out the story. I loved all of them, although sometimes they were a bit too stereotypical to be believable. They certainly added color, though.

Overall this was a snappy, funny, vivid, and romantic story. I had a wonderful time reading it, and can’t wait for Robin Kaye’s next release.

• Jane Granville

Love Romance Passion Keira Gillet
I picked up Romeo, Romeo by Robin Kaye on Monday. This was a mistake because as soon as I started reading I couldn’t put the book down. I didn’t want to and I literally tried to multitask while reading and that didn’t work out so well so I just went back to reading. I took breaks for food, sleep, and unavoidable errands. Reading Romeo, Romeo was like finding a new best friend.

Kaye’s writing style is so engaging you are hooked before you finish the first page. I guarantee you will be as engrossed as I was. Kaye writes romance like Janet Evanovich writes serial mystery comedies. I haven’t been so pleased with a contemporary romance as I was with Romeo, Romeo in a good long while. I can see why this book won the Golden Heart Award for Best Contemporary Single Title Romance Manuscript in 2007 at RWA. A Golden Heart Award as you know is given out to unpublished authors and manuscripts.

The cast of characters Kaye created are as fabulous and as endearing as any of the Stephanie Plum characters. Rosalie, the heroine can cuss in four languages, but three don’t count in her mind and will give her bonus points with God. Rosalie’s a turn around CFO with a tough as nails assistant named Gina who can also add loyal and kindhearted to her resume. Rosalie is as Italian in her looks as Gina is Latino. The two women are best friends.

Dominick Romeo is the owner of a string of car dealerships. He was a bad boy Morelli type of character in his youth and got into a spot of trouble that turned his life around. He’s now the Italian version of Donald Trump in New York and has surrounded himself with shallow Barbie doll type girls until he got tired of them and of the game.

The meet cute: Dominick has had a terrible weekend. Everything that could go bad in his opinion has. He thinks he’s gotten a double dose of the saying ‘trouble always comes in threes.’ Throwing the towel in on figuring out the mess that was his Viper, Nick grabs the keys to the wrecker and hauls himself home. On the way home he spots number six by the road kicking and cussing at her car.

Rosalie is livid. Her stupid brother took her money and her car and never once put the money to good use. Now she’s stranded without a donut-sized spare let alone the full one she paid her brother to get. Seeing Nick pull over to help, she wonders if the bonus points she’d been earning over the last little while were about to be cashed in for the help she needed. Of course something is weird about Nick. Since when has a wrecker just happened by and pull over– especially after she’s called around and nobody was open or available? And since when has a lowly mechanic had an expensive haircut and dress shoes?

Dominick convinces her to get in the wrecker after proving he’s not some whacked-out psychopath and drives her home. He finds himself incredibly attracted to her and wonders how to get a date. There are only two things wrong with the situation in his mind. One she’s got a boyfriend and he doesn’t poach, even though he thinks the guy is an idiot. Two, Rosalie turned out to be the younger sister of the boy he got in trouble with in his youth which was sure to cause bad blood. What’s a guy to do? Wait for her to dump the first boyfriend that’s what, and to speed her along to that end he tantalizes her with almost kisses.

Rating: 5 Stars for Hot, Steamy, and Hilarious!

I am definitely keeping an eye out for Kaye’s next novel!

Queue My Review Quentin Marshall
Listen up ladies! This is a book out of every woman’s fantasies. A man who cooks, cleans, takes care of you (and your dog), AND has lots of money! I know what your saying “Its too good to be true” right? Nope. It’s “Romeo, Romeo” by Robin Kaye. This is a little escape into just about every woman’s dream.

Rosalie Ronaldi is a high-powered career woman. She earns good money, is independent, and thinks she’s pretty decent looking, even if her behind is just a little big. On her way home from work one evening, she gets a flat tire. When she’s done cursing in Italian and Spanish (she thought she should be thorough) she notices a really hot man in a tow truck has pulled up to rescue her. Little does she know, he might just rescue her from her life too!

Nick Romeo is a self made millionaire who also happens to be Brooklyn’s most sought after bachelor. When he leaves the car dealership he owns in the tow truck so he doesn’t get his Viper dirty, he sees a gorgeous woman on the side of the road kicking a flat tire! He offers to help, and manages to coax a date from Rosalie without her ever realizing who he is.

When Nick and Rosalie begin dating, it all starts very casually, no strings attached. But when Rosalie gets pneumonia and Nick rushes her to the hospital, he realizes how much he actually cares for her. He takes care of everything for her including cooking, cleaning, organizing, and walking her dog. Now, Nick is in over his head. He is getting serious with her and she still doesn’t know who he is. Oh, and he forgot to tell her about his history with her younger brother… Will they ever be honest with each other so they can be together, or will their stubbornness keep them apart?

When I starting reading this book, I had no idea how much I would enjoy it! Robin Kaye is a wonderful author who has a fabulous writing style that sucks you in right from the beginning. “Romeo, Romeo” is a delightfully fun and romantic read that would have you wishing for a little Romeo in your life.

Romance Junkies Chrissy Dionne
Nick Romeo has gone from juvenile delinquent to self made millionaire and Brooklyn’s most eligible bachelor. There are a number of women ready, willing and eager to share his bed with their heart’s set on a wedding ring. Nick isn’t interested in marriage and breaks it off with any woman who even hints at matrimony.



Nick and Rosalie’s first meeting isn’t exactly the ideal way to meet someone. He’s stuck driving a tow-truck due to a problem with his Viper and Rosalie is stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire and no spare. The simple fact that she’s missing a spare has her in a fit of rage and cussing his brother in two languages because she gave him the funds to pick up a spare. Nick pulls a good Samaritan act and stops to help her and then can’t help but find himself attracted to this ‘crazy’ woman.



Nick and Rosalie seem to have the same policy regarding relationships. Marriage isn’t on either of their agendas but there’s nothing wrong with a little commitment free sex. Of course any hope they have of keeping things strictly on a sexual level become history once Rosalie becomes seriously ill and Nick steps in to take care of her. All of a sudden he’s moved in, taking care of the dog, cooking and cleaning. He’s perfect for a woman looking for a forever love which Rosalie isn’t so why can’t she stop thinking about him? One of their big problems is the simple fact that he hasn’t been truthful with her regarding who he really is or how he knows her older brother. Rosalie’s not a woman who will take deception lightly and she definitely has no qualms about expressing her anger – in several languages. Will Nick and Rosalie be able to overcome the problems facing them especially when they have to contend with her overwhelmingly nosey family?



This story had me laughing within moments of opening the cover. ROMEO, ROMEO is a witty charming story full of scenes that will ‘speak’ to readers. From Rosalie’s spunky stubborn attitude to Nick’s caring domestic god persona I just couldn’t read about this couple fast enough. Robin Kaye blends the dynamics of a large Italian family into this storyline with delicious results that I found particularly delightful. Rosalie and Nick share so much in common that there’s no doubt that they’re perfect for each other but there are some major problems and long standing ‘rules’ that they have to overcome.



ROMEO, ROMEO is not only Robin Kaye’s first published book but it’s also the first book in her DOMESTIC GODS series. If you enjoy fun lighthearted stories that incorporate a lot of humor with some more serious situations then be sure to pick up a copy of ROMEO, ROMEO – you won’t be disappointed.

The Book Binge Holly Mercer
Usually when I receive new books in the mail I crack them open and read the first page or two just to get a basic feel for the book. When I got Romeo, Romeo by Robin Kaye, I cracked it open to read the first page and didn’t set it down again until I’d read the entire thing.

Nick isn’t looking for a relationship when he sees Rosalie stranded on the side of the road and stops to help her. As a matter of fact, he just broke it off with a girl because she wanted more than he was willing to give. But he wouldn’t mind a roll in the hay, and Rosalie is attractive. So he asks her on a date..only he doesn’t exactly tell her he’s Nick Romeo, self-made millionaire and childhood friend - and troublemaker - to her brother.

Rosalie isn’t interested in a relationship at all. She swore off men and love a long time ago, and is perfectly content with her life as is. She’s definitely attracted to Nick, and they do have some great chemistry, but she doesn’t want him thinking she’s looking for more than a one-night-stand. Each is pretty much overjoyed when they learn the other is looking for exactly what they want. But things get complicated pretty fast.

Rosalie gets sick a few days after they meet and Nick moves in with her so he can take care of her. Then he realizes she’s been brought in to fix a dealership he’s been secretly trying to purchase - and sabotage - for years. But even worse, he finds he’s really starting to care for her - which is definitely against the rules they set up in the beginning.

I think the thing I loved best about this novel is that the characters were totally real. Rosalie is a strong, independent woman who isn’t secretly pining for a man. She’s really content to live her life alone. Sure, she misses the sex sometimes, but when she says she never wants to get married and become a baby factory (which is what her big Italian family is really pushing her towards) she means it. When she and Nick start seeing each other, she isn’t secretly hoping it’ll turn into more. She’s also independent without being obnixous about it. She realizes her limitations and accepts them, but also knows her own strengths and refuses to be pushed around.

Nick grew up dirt poor, and though he’s now a self-made millionaire, he’s still the same neighborhood boy he was before - only richer. He likes getting dirty in the garage and cooking. And he cleans when he’s stressed or upset. No joke, he actually uses vacuuming as a stress reliever. He’s just a real, down-to-earth guy. He doesn’t flaunt his wealth or have major hang-ups because of some incident in his past. He likes sports and breasts and Rosalie’s dog. He was just a regular guy. Well, ok, a regular guy who also happened to be rich and gorgeous, but still.

The secondary characters really enhanced the story, too. Rosalie’s assistant and best friend, sister, mother and aunt. Nick’s cousins, mom and employees. They all added just the right touch of humor, emotion and depth.

I did become frustrated by a couple "big misunderstandings". I really felt one of them was drug out way too long, and another seemed somewhat contrived. Things really could have been easily cleared up if only they’d talked to each other. But in the end I was able to overlook them and enjoy the story.

If you’re looking for a sweet, light, straight-up contemporary romance, I’d highly recommend this one. This is one novel I’ll re-read again and again. Even though I had a couple issues with it, they didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment, so I have to give it a:

4.5 out of 5

I also heard that Robin Kaye has at least two more novels planned for this series and I can’t wait to get them.

The Ginger Kid’s Den of Iniquity Jennifer Barker
I’ve talked about this book already on my blog and on Twitter, so this review is going to be a little bit different from my usual rambling. Instead of writing a lengthy and detailed review, I’m going to list my positive and negative thoughts on this book (I’m sure it’ll still end up lengthy...just not quite so detailed).

Positives:

* Nick. Nick is pretty much everything a woman could want. He’s gorgeous, he’s a domestic god, and he’s a successful business owner. He’s wealthy, but he wasn’t born into it. He’s not a "poor little rich boy". He came from humble beginnings and worked his way up. Also cool is the fact that he’s a car dealer, not a stockbroker or something equally as boring. His time with Rosalie is spent spoiling her and caring for her, not showing off his money. Nick clearly loves Rosalie, and the way he takes care of her is devastatingly sweet. Nick kept me reading this story even when it wasn’t going the way I wanted.

* Rosalie. She’s tough, she’s smart, she’s confident, and she’s independent. And she’s not obnoxious about it! I’m really tough on heroines and I find it hard to relate to most of them, but I really connected with Rosalie. She’s independent, but not to the point that she refuses to let Nick care for her when she really needs it.

* Nick’s family and friends. Nick’s family isn’t in the book very much, but I get the feeling they’re pretty cool. At the very least, they’re not irritating like Rosalie’s family. Nick also has great friends. His doctor friend is great and his secretary is a wonderful character that adds a nice personal touch to the story.

* Dave the dog. I love dogs in romance novels. I know it’s cliched and cheesy, but I can’t help it. Throw in a dog as an important supporting character and my rating goes up at least half a point, even if the rest of the book is crap. I love the way Nick takes care of Dave and realizes how important Dave is to Rosalie. You really can tell a lot about a man from the way he treats his pets. It’s true.

* The setting. Most New York books take place in Manhattan proper and don’t feature the other boroughs. Lots of books feature friends that come from Brooklyn (you know, the obnoxious stereotypical buddy from Brooklyn), but few books actually take place there. This book has a nice community feel despite the fact that it takes place in New York City.

* The romance. It’s great to find a book in which the characters get together saying they’re not looking for marriage or a family and actually mean it. The relationship is cute and casual and actually reminds me a lot of how my husband and I started out.


Negatives:

* The Big Misunderstandings. Ugh. What a way to screw up a book. The Big Misunderstanding is one of my biggest pet peeves in reading, but I can handle it if it’s resolved quickly and soundly. That’s not the case in Romeo, Romeo. This book actually revolves around a couple of Big Misunderstandings, and they’re drawn out for waaaaaaay longer than is necessary. One of them (Nick’s identity and something to do with a business deal) is a pretty major point of conflict and makes sense in the context of the story, even though it takes too long to be resolved. The smaller issue, however, shouldn’t even be an issue at all IMO, and made Nick look a little bit silly.

* Rosalie’s friends and family. They’re AWFUL. I know big Italian families aren’t as gooey and gushy as us good ol’ Southerners, but I also know they’re not hateful and selfish. Rosalie’s mom is obnoxious and acts like she couldn’t care less about her daughter. Her sister is abrasive, her aunt means well but is still kind of scary, and her dad’s not so great either. I cannot stand Rosalie’s best friend Gina. She’s such a stereotypical New York Latina that I couldn’t picture her as anyone other than Rosie Perez. She’s rude and obnoxious and completely unsupportive of Rosalie. She even inspired a WTF Wednesday post on girlfriends.

As you can see, there are a lot more positives than negatives. Unfortunately, the negatives here are really big ones for me and they did take away from my ability to connect with this book. If the Big Misunderstanding plot had been shortened by about 50 pages and some of the moping and self-pity had been replaced with relationship building, this would’ve been an A for me. If Rosalie had been given a better supporting cast and some positive female relationships on top of that, it’d have been an A+ Keeper.

All in all, this is a fantastic book with some very refreshing elements. The first 2/3 of the book kept me thoroughly entertained and engaged, and I had a hard time putting it down up ’til the point that the Big Misunderstanding went a little too far for me. Romeo, Romeo was a nice solid B+ read for me and a fabulous debut, and I look forward to reading Ms. Kaye’s later releases. If you’re fed up with the recent flood of recycled old romances and don’t go insane at the thought of the Big Misunderstanding, you really need to read this book. I’m a picky reader and I hate the Big Misunderstanding, and even I gave this a B+. That’s really saying something.

What I am Reading Rachael Diamond
Dominick ‘’Nick’’ Romeo is a successful man who has everything to offer a woman. He owns several car dealerships and knows how to make a woman scream his name in bed. But Nick isn’t looking for a wife. He typically dates women for about a month and then moves on to the next girl. Almost every one of his past girlfriends just wants to be wined and dined and spends all of his money. None of them love him for him; they just love the idea of being with The Dominick Romeo.

Rosalie Ronaldi is a corporate turnaround expert, Italian, and is constantly hassled by her mother to settle down and make some babies. Rosalie has been dating a guy named Joey for about two years and their relationship is going nowhere fast. The only reason she is even with him is so her mother would leave her alone about finding a husband. Rosalie isn’t interested in getting married anytime soon and likes her life just fine how it is. Sure her house is a mess, she doesn’t cook, and her best friend is her dog named Dave, but that’s ok! Everything in Rosalie’s life is neutral, not that exciting, not that thrilling, that is until she meets Nick Romeo.

After Rosalie becomes stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire and no spare, Nick pulls over to help her. He is immediately attracted to this feisty woman who is cursing in multiple languages and kicking her car. When Rosalie assumes he is a mechanic, Nick decides not to correct her and attempts to ask her out on a date. Maybe if Rosalie thinks he’s just a regular Joe she will like him for him and not for what he has in the bank…

Nick and Rosalie form a pseudo relationship. They make a deal that there will be no strings attached and nothing serious will come of this, but quickly their own rules fly out the window when they start to fall in love. The only problem is Nick still hasn’t told Rosalie who he really is and as time progresses he becomes more afraid of revealing the truth.

When Rosalie’s new corporate turnaround turns out to be a job that Nick always coveted, things get a little bit dirty. How will Rosalie react when she finds out the truth about Nick? Will she still want to be with him after knowing he isn’t Nick the mechanic but rather the rich and famous Dominick Romeo? Will their relationship end with heart ache or will Rosalie finally get her happily ever after?

Romeo Romeo is author Robin Kaye’s FABULOUS debut into the romance genre. I haven’t read a straight romance (without vampires and fangs) in SO long and it was such a delight to read. There’s plenty of humor, witty dialogue, sexy chemistry, and a very compelling storyline that readers will adore.

After opening Romeo Romeo and reading the opening sentences, you will immediately be hooked. ‘’Rosalie Ronaldi made a successful escape from the insane asylum. Okay, so it wasn’t a real insane asylum; it was her parent’s Bay Ridge home. But most days, it could pass for the Sicilian version of Bellevue. ‘’

Romeo Romeo is a fun book in the same vein as Stephanie Plum with a dash of My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Overall, I immensely enjoyed reading Romeo Romeo. I would heartily recommend it to contemporary romance readers who are yearning for a touch of something sweet and romantic that will leave them with a smile on their face.

The Bookworm Naida Milenkovic

Revisiting the Moon’s Library Dora Mak
Author: Robin Kaye
Published: November 2008 (Sourcebooks)
Category: Romance
Rating: 8/10

Do you like that commercial with the hot shirtless guy ironing a dress for his toddler and making dinner reservations for his six-month anniversary, and then cleans the toilet? If so, Romeo, Romeo is the book for you!

Our heroine, Rosalie, is a successful Brooklyn businesswoman, too occupied with her career to find true love. Unfortunately, she’s got a long-term boyfriend who wants to marry her so she can help him run a deli and have babies, and a mother who thinks getting married is the true goal of a woman. Nick Romeo is a hugely successful car dealership owner, with locations all over the east coast. He has gorgeous cars and a gorgeous Park Slope brownstone. Oh, and he’s gorgeous as well. Aside from the money and good looks, Nick is a really great cook and he vacuums when something’s bothering him. Rosalie meets Nick on the side of the Prospect Expressway when she’s trying to change her tire, only to find that her idiot brother took her money for a spare tire without actually purchasing one. She assumes Nick, wearing coveralls from the shop at his dealership, is a mechanic, and he doesn’t correct her assumption. In fact, he’s pretty comfortable with the idea of seeing a woman who doesn’t see him as a prime catch for a husband.
I normally have problems with stories where a hero or heroine keeps their identity secret and pretty much lies to the other the whole time, and you know it’s going to end badly, but Romeo, Romeo was different, because Rosalie learned Nick’s true identity soon after she meets him and understands why he’d keep it from her (too many golddiggers). And maybe my opinion of Nick is painted by his caring for Rosalie when she comes down with pneumonia very soon after they start seeing each other.

The romance is very sweet and very different from most romances I read. While Nick is an alpha male, he’s a milder version than those found in the usual alpha male romance; I don’t think this book would offend readers who think alpha males are too bossy and arrogant. He also gets along with Rosalie’s huge dog, funnily named Dave, which is new to her because Dave hated her ex-boyfriend. I’m a sucker for big, goofy dogs with humorous names, especially when I was considering naming my cat Dave. It was all for the possibility of yelling, "Dave, stop licking your butt," when our (human) friend Dave was over. Sorry, I digress.

As a Brooklyn resident, I was amused by mentions of the Prospect Expressway, where Rosalie’s tire blew out (I lived above it!) and the Park Slope neighborhood. The one inaccuracy that bugged me? When Rosalie and Nick were on the subway, Nick holds on to the strap, when there aren’t any straps to hang upon anymore.

The suspense/action part of the book seemed a little unnecessary and outlandish, when it would’ve made more sense to humiliate the white collar thief in a board room. Otherwise, the book moves along smoothly for an excellent weekend read, the kind where you curl up under a big blanket with a purring cat (possibly named Dave) warming your feet.

I’m adding Robin Kaye to my "must read" list!

Armchair Interviews Heather Durow

Night Owl Romance
Night Owl Romance: Reviewer Top Pick

Here at Night Owl Romance we have a review scale of 1-5, but this book deserves a 10.
Rosalie Ronalidi’s life has taken a decided turn for the worse. It doesn’t matter how many times she’s tried to convince her family, but at the ripe old age of 27, her mom is literally trying to force her down the aisle. Determined to get away from the constant nagging, she leaves her mom’s house to get back to her place only to be plagued with a flat tire. Cold and irritated, she looks in the trunk and there’s no spare! She’s going to kill her brother as she wonders how in the world she’s going to change her flat and get home.

When a wrecker comes by with the most gorgeous hunk driving, she can’t believe her “sort of good fortune” as he offers to put her car on the flatbed and deliver Rosalie to her home. Having no luck reaching either her boyfriend or family members, she reluctantly agrees to the help from Nick – no last name. While first believing Rosalie is another gold-digger, Nick is pleasantly surprised and to hear that Rosalie is determined to never get married, and sees no reason to tell her he’s gloriously wealthy and not a mechanic. He also believes her boyfriend must be on the way “out” since they don’t keep tabs on each other. Thrilled to hear that good news, he focuses on this lush and long-legged dark-haired beauty hoping for a fling. Confident in his looks he asks her out, and while it takes a little persistence on his part, she finally agrees, but they can’t ride together. Her rule is to always drive her own car so she’s never stuck in a restaurant with a deadbeat. She’s committed to her career and Dave, her loyal dog – in that order.

Delightfully funny and wonderfully romantic, I stayed up all night to read this book! The wickedly witty dialogue between not only Nick and Rosalie, but all of the secondary characters was absolutely adorable and believable. Rosalie fully admits to not being domestic, but Nick, yummy, rich and very sexy, rises to the occasion to show the reader and Rosalie his softer and sensitive side by cleaning up her apartment and trying to take care of her regularly. I giggled with glee at the look on Nick’s face every time Rosalie turned the tables on him. He said he wanted an independent woman, but now Nick doesn’t know what in the world to do with her! And he definitely doesn’t know how to handle his feelings about their “non-relationship”. This is a couple destined to be together, but each of them has a devil of a time realizing it. I’ve read literally thousands of romance novels, but this is one that will stand out in mind for quite some time. Robin Kaye is quite gifted and clearly has flair and finesse when it comes to writing a contemporary love story.

Already, my friends want to borrow this novel because I can’t stop talking about it. But I keep saying the same thing – run to the bookstore quickly and get your own because this one’s a keeper!

Street Date: November 2008

RomanceNovel.tv Kati Dancy
There are few things I love more than romances that feature large Italian or Irish families. I’m not sure why, but I’m never so happy as when I’m reading about a big family gathering featuring lots of delicious food and noisy and nosy family members. Lucky for me, Romeo Romeo by Robin Kaye features just such a family.

Rosalie Renaldi comes from a big Italian family. She’s got the overbearing, hypercritical mother who is just positive that Rosalie’s life would be SO much better if she’d just marry her boring boyfriend, the sister with competition issues, and a slacker brother. Rosalie, who professionally specializes in financial recovery for companies, and is a total barracuda in the boardroom, is generally something “less” outside of work. Dominick Romeo is the toast of Manhattan. He owns multiple car dealerships, is generally considered to be one of the most handsome and eligible bachelors in New York.

One evening Nick is just leaving one of his dealerships after doing some mechanic work on his car. He’s dressed in coveralls, and decides to just take the dealership’s wrecker home, rather than dealing with moving one of the new cars out of the dealership to drive. On his way home, he passes a lovely woman who is pulled over on the side of a very busy road kicking the crap out of a flat tire. He’s instantly amused and knows he can help. He stops, and offers to assist the lovely, if clearly insane, woman. Rosalie is grateful, but suspicious. Nick, for his part is instantly intrigued by the gorgeous and “real sized” woman. As he loads up Rosalie’s car and takes it and her to the dealership, they talk. She assumes he is a mechanic, and he does nothing to disabuse of her the idea. For his part, Nick is intrigued and attracted to “Lee,” as he calls her. Rosalie is also attracted, but she has this dead weight boyfriend, Joey, who is fine, but really doing nothing for her. She’s kept him around because it keeps her mother from nagging. She decides after meeting Nick to end things with Joey. When she and Nick finally do go out the sparks fly immediately. Rosalie is not interested in a serious relationship with Nick, her career is her priority. This suits Nick just fine, as he’s tired of dating women who immediately want to marry him in order to have access to his money. Nick decides to not come clean with Lee about his real name. She figures it out very early on, but determines that it’s not a problem for her. If he doesn’t want to tell her, that’s fine as they’re not having a serious relationship anyway.

I have to admit that this was a problem for me. She’s having sex with him, but allegedly doesn’t know his name. The book is a contemporary, and maybe I’m deluding myself, but it seems like a woman in this day and age would want to at least know the last name of the man she’s sleeping with. On top of that, he’s LYING to her. It made it hard for me to give credence to their romance, as the entire time she knew he was lying to her. All that being said, Nick grew on me. He’s very sweet, and takes wonderful care of the career-minded and ambitious Rosalie. Rosalie is also quite likeable. She’s a kind person and while absorbed in her job, she does fall for Nick. Their romance develops quickly but the author does a credible job of making it believable.

I guess my end reaction to Romeo Romeo is that it’s a well written romance that is based on a romance convention that generally doesn’t work for me. But the author does a wonderful job of drawing large Italian families and two passionate people who fall in love. While I couldn’t completely get past the lying thing, I found Romeo Romeo to be a quick, entertaining and easy read.

Crave More Romance Kerensa Wilson
It must be her lucky day. After finding herself stranded without a spare tire, thanks to her no good brother, Rosalie winds up face to face with the best looking mechanic she’s ever seen. One look at this italian version of Jude Law, otherwise known as Nick, and she’s practically melting. Before she knows it Rosalie finds herself on the best date she has ever had. When one date becomes two and the chemistry between them is undeniable Rosalie knows she should be thrilled. Except, Rosalie has always put her career first and she has no desire to be married. So why has she suddenly started thinking she might what Nick around permanently?



Nick Romeo wasn’t planning to find his future date stranded on the side of the road, but with one look at her luscious figure he can’t imagine doing anything but taking Rosalie Ronaldi out on a date. The only trouble is that once women learn about how much money is in his bank account they start bringing up the marriage card. Thankfully he’s managed to side step that problem and since Rosalie thinks he’s just a mechanic he’s in no mood to correct her. Still after just a few dates with her he’s found himself wanting to take care of her, spend more time with her, and treat her right. There’s just one problem, she thinks he’s someone else.



Robin Kaye’s Romeo Romeo is sensational! I loved everything about this novel. The story, characters and writing are all five star material. Ms. Kaye knows how to do romance right, she not only manages to create a novel where readers will laugh page after page; she’s also written the best kisses I’ve ever read! The relationship she’s written is a fresh and much needed spin on boy meets girl. If any author has earned her right to be at the top of every reader’s auto buy list its Robin Kay.

BookLoons Martina Bexte
Rosalie Ronaldi’s old country Italian mother might have high hopes that her daughter will one day do her duty, marry, and present her with many grandchildren to dandle on her doting knee, but for Rosalie that happy scenario is horror inducing. She’s doing just fine without a husband underfoot and Dave (a huge mutt of indeterminate origins) never complains about her terrible housekeeping habits. Rosalie has always prided herself on guarding her independence with a fierce resolve. Rescuing companies about to go bankrupt is far more challenging than playing happy homemaker.

Nick Romeo is a self-made millionaire and touted as one of Brooklyn’s most eligible bachelors. He’s quite happy sampling the many eager fish swimming around in the huge dating pool, but quick to cast aside any starry-eyed beauty with her sights set on an expensive engagement ring and a fast walk down the aisle. The word commitment just isn’t part of Nick’s vocabulary. The day he meets Rosalie Ronaldi, however, he finds himself re-evaluating his dating doctrine, wanting nothing more than to take care of her every whim and desire. Rosalie is a tough not to crack, though. Nick is gorgeous, attentive, great in bed and best of all, loves to cook and clean. But that doesn’t mean she wants to spend the rest of her life with the modern day domestic god. Especially once she discovers that Dominick Romeo isn’t so perfect after all - he’s been hiding a part of himself that could destroy any chance of a possible future together.

Readers who love fiery heroines, delicious heroes, hot romance and a big dash of comedy rejoice: Romeo Romeo is the perfect story for you. From the moment Rosalie and Nick meet on a rainy freeway and their stubborn personalities clash, the story absolutely sparkles with snappy dialogue and witty situations. Commitment shy Nick is quick to fall for Rosalie’s charms. The fun really begins though, when he must go all out to convince her that he’s the only man who can supply her with a lifetime of love and chocolate.

Kaye also does a nice turn with Rosalie’s loud, opinionated, interfering (though sometimes overly-clichéd) family members. They include an obsessive, marriage-minded mother, a philandering father, a prima donna sister and a testosterone-laden brother. Add a little corporate espionage (complete with bumbling thugs) and the result is smart, funny, well-written and thoroughly engaging contemporary romance. Debut author Robin Kaye strikes gold in Romeo Romeo - and deserves to have her name added to your favourite new author list.

Romantic Times Cindy Himmler
The main characters in this all-around feel-good read have so much personality they almost jump off the page. And if the heroine’s dysfunctional family reminds you of a slightly edgier form of Stephanie Plum’s family, so much the better for readers. Yes, the plotline in which characters hide their true identity from each other has been used many times, but Kaye makes it new again.

A Book Blogger’s Diary Rashmi Sirnavas
If you’re in the market for a light-hearted romantic romp, then Romeo, Romeo is the book for you. I enjoyed reading this debut novel by Robin Kaye. The author writes in a warm, friendly and realistic way that’s akin to speaking with your best friend.

The dynamics of growing up in an Italian-American household in Brooklyn are brought sharply to life in this story where the protagonists play a cat-and-mouse game of hidden identity, hidden agendas and lots of relationship rules.

Both Multi-millionaire Nick Romeo and corporate-turnaround expert Rosalie Ronaldi are commitment-phobics. While Nick is that way because women hound him for his wealth and status, Rosalie has some serious personal issues about marriage that have made her relationship-shy. Nick and Lee are typical of modern couples as in they like to indulge in casual sex with no strings attached. Or so they both like to think! It’s hilarious to watch as tables are soon turned and die-hard bachelor Nick comes to realize independent Lee is the love of his life, even as she’s determined to keep him at a safe distance.

He’s is just about the perfect hero if only for his ability to cook, tidy up and stress-vacuum. Rosalie, on the other hand, is as real as can be and I loved her for her messiness, her ability to stand up for herself and for her, frankly, ability to eat and enjoy her food. It’s so refreshing to see that this is one duo who bonds over food!

With interfering and gossipy relatives and friends alternately aiding and hindering their budding romance, Nick and Lee try to find out what is more important in life, love or other things.

In Short

Kaye’s writing is just about perfect for this kind of story as she balances a fine line between romance, sex and family, all of which come together with ease. The result is the totally irresistible Romeo, Romeo.

The Romance Studio Dee Dailey
Thanks to her brother Rich, Rosalie Ronaldi is stranded with a flat tire. The wealthy owner of several car dealerships, Nick Romeo drives the wrecker home when his Viper is out of commission. What are the odds that he’d come across a stranded motorist swearing in three languages at the side of the road and be attracted to her? Before they know it he’s moved in, is cooking, cleaning and taking care of her when she’s sick. They’re having so much fun Nick almost forgets he has a nasty secret that might tear them apart.

Robin Kaye has written a witty tale of two executives so busy telling themselves they don’t want a commitment or a relationship that they fall into one without even realizing it. Even on their first date Rosalie gives in and breaks two of her three rules for dating. Nick’s surprised to find a woman who’s as against marriage as he is and doesn’t seem to want more from him than he’s willing to give.

This story is full of great characters and dialogue. Ms. Kaye has a way of describing each player that’s priceless. Gina, Rosalie’s assistant and Lois, Nick’s secretary, both steal the scenes whenever they can. Vinny, Nick’s restaurateur buddy, is a hoot as he tries to give advice on how to patch up a relationship after a fight. Parents, grandparents, old lovers, wanna be lovers and siblings complicate their lives but make the story even better. Sunday dinners at the parental Ronaldi home are reminiscent of those family times many of us have probably had in our lives if we couldn’t find an excuse not to go!

The author has crafted this storyline so well it’s easy to relate to the players and fun to read. I adore her writing style and found this a great book from first page to last.

Coffee Time Romance Cherokee
Rosalie Ronaldi wishes her mother would stop pushing the marriage envelope. She is a woman of many things, but being all out crazy is not in her vocabulary, especially when it comes to getting married. She is all career woman, no strings attached.

Dominick Romeo is a millionaire bachelor with a good head for business. He comes to Rosalie’s rescue when she needs a spare. Always the one to fight women off with a stick, this is one dynamite looker he would like to get to know better.

Rosalie sees Joey on a couple dates, maybe a few tumbles in the bed, but only to keep her mother off her back about marriage. As for Joey he decides to give Rosalie a small ring but she declines any marriage proposal. Joey quickly adds that it will be the best offer she will ever get. Goodbye Joey, hello Nick. One brief encounter with handsome, delicious Nick, who has built a chain of dealerships in New York, and heat ignites. Nick knows about hard work. Rosalie takes care of failing businesses, and when her job lands her at Premier Motorcars, she learns it just happens to be where Nick works. After Rosalie becomes sick, and Nick rushes in as her nurse, she is surprised to see how he cares for her. Has she finally found a man to live with forever? Or is there something about Nick that is just too clean?

Get ready for some hot chemistry, romance, and heated passion, with solid dialogue that does not lose the reader in Romeo, Romeo. Nick’s stroke is so hot, that when he and Rosalie’s fingers touch, one wonders will the heat ever be quenched? There are some great perks along the way, making the story even better. The mother is basically like any meddling mother who is eager to find the right man for her daughter. Robin Kaye creates a delightful read that sticks to the reader far past the last page. Completely satisfying, this terrific rolling romp, with vivacious characters and a storyline that leaves the reader clapping for joy, is excellent. Refreshing penmanship makes this an uplifting romance not to be missed.

Everybody Needs a Little Romance Keri Ford
Nick is indeed every woman’s fantasy in that he likes things clean and loves to cook. Not only loves to cook, but is good at it too! When I first heard that Nick was a cleaner, I got a little worried he’d be pictured as too unbelievable. But he wasn’t.

Ms. Kaye really handled Nick’s personality perfectly. When he vacuumed, it fit him. Little things like him picking up the heroine’s apartment didn’t seem forced or unrealistic. Maybe because my husband is a tidier sort of person who will come behind me and straighten my shoes. I don’t know.

But because of the kind of man my hubby is, I could relate to Rosalie trying to find her things! My computer room often gets tossed crazy in a matter of days, but I still know where everything is and can find a sheet of paper buried under a stack of stuff in seconds. I’m completely lost and unable to function if somebody else comes in a picks up behind me. I can’t find anything! And that’s when I really bonded with Rosalie. She’s late for work and looking for her shoes in the usual spots–under the table, by the couch. It doesn’t dawn on her to look in the closet until Nick pulls them out.

These two match each other well. Nick has always been the playboy. The man always in charge of the relationship. Rosalie knocks him on his rear-end when she refuses to let him have his way (such as picking her up for a date). She doesn’t let him drive her to the resturant to try to be a pain, she does it because, hello! She just met the man. Nick becomes completely lost when Rosalie nonchalantly tosses out the, “I’ll call you.” line. His physical state worsens when days go by and she doesn’t call!

Again, it’s not that Rosalie is playing games with him. That’s just her personality. She’s very on the go and has a lot on her plate.

One of my favorite scenes is when Nick’s sitting by the phone waiting on her to call. You can just feel his frustration because we’ve all delt with those moments of wondering, but at the toohotsame time, you just have to laugh because he’s getting his desserts for all those other women he’s left sitting by the phone.

One of my first thoughts while reading Romeo Romeo was, huh, this book must be set in the Brooklyn/Jersey/New York area. I knew it was somewhere up there in that northern part. And I was right. It’s in Brooklyn! This thought of mine completely shocked me because I don’t normally read and guess where my characters are. I can get a great feel of a place, but this is the first book I read that I felt like I was really living in that area. You can just hear the Brooklyn accent and feel the culture within the first few pages.

The best part about this story is the writing. Props to you, Robin. The book is filled with lines like,

Her heart raced as if she’d run five miles. Not that she ever had, but if she did, she assumed her heart would race like that.

How fun is that? I’m telling you, those catchy lines appear throughout the whole book and kept me chuckling. Between those lines and the great characters, that’s what made Robin Kaye’s Romeo Romeo my 2009 January Must Have Book.

Peeking Between the Pages Darlene Smoliak
Romeo Romeo by Robin Kaye was such an entertaining read for me. I really enjoyed it. I’m not much of a romance reader but when it’s mixed with a funny story like this one, I do love it.

Rosalie Ronaldi is a career driven lady who doesn’t want the bother of a committment. She is in no way domesticated and likes it that way. She enjoys leaving her clothes and shoes laying all over, her bras hanging on the shower curtain and if she eats at home, it’s over the sink so she doesn’t dirty any dishes. In short, her place is a disaster. Nick Romeo is a hugely successful car dealership owner who is also tall, dark and handsome. What could be better-right? Well, he’s talented at many other things that range from in the bedroom and out as he can cook and clean too and gets Rosalie’s place in tip top shape in no time except that now she can’t find anything.

So, the story begins one night with a chance encounter when Rosalie has a flat tire, and the two meet. Rosalie, being herself, impresses Nick in a way most women don’t and he’s intrigued. Rosalie, while finding him gorgeous, isn’t all that interested-at first. They go on a few dates but things really don’t start changing until Rosalie gets really ill and Nick takes it upon himself to take care of her. Up until this point the two had an agreement of no strings attached to their relationship and that nothing serious could ever come of it. Even while telling themselves that they weren’t falling love, they were. There is a bit of a twist in the story though with Nick hiding who he really is from Rosalie and Rosalie pretending not to know.

Rosalie is such a great character. She’s funny and outspoken and is a woman who stands up for herself and what she believes in; she’s a strong female character and I liked that. Even though in her Italian family the thing to do is get married and have babies, she wasn’t about to cave in to that no matter how often her mother harrassed her. This book had me laughing out loud in so many places. It’s full of great people and funny dialogue and was such a good escape from some of the heavier stuff I have on my plate to read.

If you’re looking for a light and really entertaining read, this one is for you. Those readers who aren’t fond of some *sex scenes and a bit of bad language may want to shy away from this read but I didn’t find either overwhelming.

You can visit the author’s website here and many thanks to Danielle at Sourcebooks for this great read.

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Trade Paper Specfications

• Length: 6.88 in
• Width: 4.19 in
• Height: 0.00 in
• Weight: 7.00 oz
• Page Count: 400 pages