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natcrx 's review for:
Be With Me
by Gabrielle Sands
dark
emotional
tense
fast-paced
Be With Me is a fast-paced, easy-to-devour romance that’s perfect for when you want to switch off your brain and indulge in something lighter after an intense read. It doesn’t demand too much from you—and sometimes, that’s exactly what you need. While I went in expecting a darker, mafia-centered story, the mafia elements felt more like set dressing than a driving force, and the forbidden romance trope—which could have added a lot of weight—felt more like an afterthought than a central theme.
Rom, despite being the son of a powerful capo, didn’t quite give off the intensity or danger I was hoping for. His character was well-written but lacked the kind of mystery or edge I usually look for in this genre. Mia, on the other hand, felt pretty typical with her “good girl” persona, and though she did gain more agency by the end, both she and Rom lacked the kind of complex development that makes a character arc stick with you.
That said, the conflict section was easily the highlight for me—it’s when I finally felt some of the angst and tension between them. It hinted at a stronger connection, but there just wasn’t quite enough buildup or emotional layering for me to feel the supposed spark that kept pulling them together. The romance felt rushed, especially given that their relationship developed over only two months, and their dynamic could’ve used more depth and quiet, domestic moments.
Still, despite some underdeveloped elements, Be With Me was genuinely enjoyable. The pacing, escapism, and easy writing style made it a solid, entertaining read. Four stars.
Rom, despite being the son of a powerful capo, didn’t quite give off the intensity or danger I was hoping for. His character was well-written but lacked the kind of mystery or edge I usually look for in this genre. Mia, on the other hand, felt pretty typical with her “good girl” persona, and though she did gain more agency by the end, both she and Rom lacked the kind of complex development that makes a character arc stick with you.
That said, the conflict section was easily the highlight for me—it’s when I finally felt some of the angst and tension between them. It hinted at a stronger connection, but there just wasn’t quite enough buildup or emotional layering for me to feel the supposed spark that kept pulling them together. The romance felt rushed, especially given that their relationship developed over only two months, and their dynamic could’ve used more depth and quiet, domestic moments.
Still, despite some underdeveloped elements, Be With Me was genuinely enjoyable. The pacing, escapism, and easy writing style made it a solid, entertaining read. Four stars.