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samanthabooks19's review
3.0
3.5 Stars*
Thank you to Bookish-First and the Publisher for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I enjoyed this one slightly more than the last, but they both hold the same positive aspects. I loved the family and cultural involvement. It was really nice to delve back into the community of people presented in this series. The continued development from the last book put even more character to the people in this book. The Latinx culture was presented in an excellent way in both books. Having Spanish sprinkled throughout made the atmosphere very immersive. The author did a phenomenal job at explaining what the Spanish sentences meant, but in a very natural way. We always knew what had been said, even if it was in Spanish.
For this book specifically, and not the series as a whole, I enjoyed the way the second chance trope was done. It wasn’t like the two main characters had once had a heated brake up or something. They just drifted when they went their separate ways as they got older. This made it a lot more realistic when they still have feelings for each other. There is also the aspect of them having been very close friends since they were young.
Moving back to the aspect of family involvement in this book, it was fun to see the interaction of all the members of both families. The aspect of the families being close made the story just a little bit more appealing. Both families wanted what was best for both members involved in the relationship that is developed in this book. However, the aspect of family shown in this book isn’t always the supportive kind. There are people in this book that have their issues. This side plot gave a dynamic and realistic feel.
The romance was sweet and fun to read about. Although, I did not feel much stake or risk in it. Nothing really happened that had me at the edge of my seat. However, it is a perfect fast, summer read that envelopes you in the vibrant setting of Key West.
Thank you to Bookish-First and the Publisher for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I enjoyed this one slightly more than the last, but they both hold the same positive aspects. I loved the family and cultural involvement. It was really nice to delve back into the community of people presented in this series. The continued development from the last book put even more character to the people in this book. The Latinx culture was presented in an excellent way in both books. Having Spanish sprinkled throughout made the atmosphere very immersive. The author did a phenomenal job at explaining what the Spanish sentences meant, but in a very natural way. We always knew what had been said, even if it was in Spanish.
For this book specifically, and not the series as a whole, I enjoyed the way the second chance trope was done. It wasn’t like the two main characters had once had a heated brake up or something. They just drifted when they went their separate ways as they got older. This made it a lot more realistic when they still have feelings for each other. There is also the aspect of them having been very close friends since they were young.
Moving back to the aspect of family involvement in this book, it was fun to see the interaction of all the members of both families. The aspect of the families being close made the story just a little bit more appealing. Both families wanted what was best for both members involved in the relationship that is developed in this book. However, the aspect of family shown in this book isn’t always the supportive kind. There are people in this book that have their issues. This side plot gave a dynamic and realistic feel.
The romance was sweet and fun to read about. Although, I did not feel much stake or risk in it. Nothing really happened that had me at the edge of my seat. However, it is a perfect fast, summer read that envelopes you in the vibrant setting of Key West.
cahogan's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
thatski's review against another edition
3.5
The author’s voice was a bit repetitive and redundant, which took away from the story. Overall, I enjoyed the love story and appreciate that their home lives were so fleshed out.
ashcash04's review
4.0
Cute series and I really love the Spanish/Cuban influence! I was desperately hoping for an epilogue, but no such luck. I really hope there's another companion book coming and that it's for Enrique and Natalia!
One thing that does drive me crazy is how meddling the Mami's are. I know it's for the plot and story and it seems like it's a cultural thing which is why I don't get it. It would drive me absolutely nuts though. I hate when people push and don't respect my personal boundaries and their mom's definitely push too much.
One thing that does drive me crazy is how meddling the Mami's are. I know it's for the plot and story and it seems like it's a cultural thing which is why I don't get it. It would drive me absolutely nuts though. I hate when people push and don't respect my personal boundaries and their mom's definitely push too much.
meaganmart's review
3.0
"Anchored Hearts" is a sweet (and spicy) second chance romance that will leave readers clutching their books and desperate for more. Priscilla Oliveras does an amazing job with her Own Voices Latinx romance bringing together two former high school sweethearts who were a classic case of "right person wrong time." What I loved most about this novel is that Oliveras does an incredible job of having the characters do the emotional labor of sorting through their past hurts and their past faults within their relationship and in their wider lives, before having them come back together as a couple. There is no "instalove" here.
When Alejandro Miranda left Key West to pursue a career as a professional photographer he left a gaping hole in his family, and in his heart. Now a decade later he is forced to return home after an accident while shooting on location. His relationship with his father is just as fraught as the day he left, and when his mother calls over his ex-girlfriend, Anamaria, to check on his injury he discovers his feelings for her are equally unresolved. Will Alejandro be able to carve a space back out for himself in both their lives? Or will Anamaria always be "the one who got away?"
Fans of Jen DeLuca, Tessa Bailey, and Talia Hibbert will devour "Anchored Hearts" and will be quick to check out the remainder of Oliveras catalog as well. She creates unforgettable characters, memorable moments, and heartwarming endings that any fan of the romance genre will be sure to treasure.
When Alejandro Miranda left Key West to pursue a career as a professional photographer he left a gaping hole in his family, and in his heart. Now a decade later he is forced to return home after an accident while shooting on location. His relationship with his father is just as fraught as the day he left, and when his mother calls over his ex-girlfriend, Anamaria, to check on his injury he discovers his feelings for her are equally unresolved. Will Alejandro be able to carve a space back out for himself in both their lives? Or will Anamaria always be "the one who got away?"
Fans of Jen DeLuca, Tessa Bailey, and Talia Hibbert will devour "Anchored Hearts" and will be quick to check out the remainder of Oliveras catalog as well. She creates unforgettable characters, memorable moments, and heartwarming endings that any fan of the romance genre will be sure to treasure.
petitetami's review
5.0
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a review copy. I adored this book. Shout it from the rooftops love over here. Anamaría and Alejandro’s love story is tense, electric and oh so steamy, and you need this second chance romance in your life. Also, it was emotional! The family drama tearing everyone apart had me in tears… twice! Can’t wait to read the authors next books!
smalltownbookmom's review
4.0
A heartfelt second chance at love story between two high school sweethearts who are reunited when photographer Alejandro gets injured and has to return home to recuperate. Thanks to the machinations of their Cuban American mothers, firefighter and paramedic Anamaria gets sent to make sure Alejandro is healing okay and of course they continue to get thrown together while he's home. But does their love have a chance if Alejandro can't stay and Anamaria can't leave? Lots of chemistry and banter, I loved the Florida Keys setting. A fun, armchair travel romance that's easy to listen to on audio. Definitely recommended.
booklover1974's review
4.0
Thank you for the opportunity to review this novel!
I read the first book and was so happy when I got this ARC. There's something very alluring with the setting being in Key West :)
It's a great romance even if Alejandro has his head up his ass most of the time...
I hope the third in the series are being written? I guess it's about Ernesto and a certain art consultant?
I read the first book and was so happy when I got this ARC. There's something very alluring with the setting being in Key West :)
It's a great romance even if Alejandro has his head up his ass most of the time...
I hope the third in the series are being written? I guess it's about Ernesto and a certain art consultant?
jessicam89's review
5.0
My first novel by Priscilla Oliveras and I’m in love! This book had me hooked from the beginning.
Anamaría and Alejandro were a happy couple throughout high school, until Alejandro decided to leave The Keys, his girlfriend, and his family to pursue his budding career. His leaving left Anamaría devastated.
Years later, Alejandro returns due to an accident and has to face his disappointed father and broken hearted ex girlfriend.
This second chance romance story has me cheering for these two from the beginning. I also loved that this story took place in The Keys, which is one of my favorite places in Florida.
Anamaría and Alejandro were a happy couple throughout high school, until Alejandro decided to leave The Keys, his girlfriend, and his family to pursue his budding career. His leaving left Anamaría devastated.
Years later, Alejandro returns due to an accident and has to face his disappointed father and broken hearted ex girlfriend.
This second chance romance story has me cheering for these two from the beginning. I also loved that this story took place in The Keys, which is one of my favorite places in Florida.
lightqueer's review
4.0
i loved this story! the cuban culture, the family ties, and the character development were all so lovely to see being followed through. this was a wonderful, happy, and de-stressing read for me. very much enjoyed it.