Okay, Cara Bastone is a word wizard, nay, a romance writing genius. How this story had me in it's grip with the banter, the tension, and then there wasn't even any

Spoiler

KISSING

?! Who am I even?

Well, absolutely a Cara Bastone fan, that is for sure!

Gwen and Sam meet in the absolute worst bus seats on a Mega Bus ride from Boston to NYC. The bathroom aisle seats. But, despite their 'shitty' seats, their seat choices turn into an epically lucky and happily-ever-after fairy tale ride.

I don't want to spend much more time on the plot, because this is a story meant to be listened. The author wrote specifically for the audiobook format, and utilized it to charming perfection. Gwen and Sam felt like they were actually sitting in those seats talking to each other, and I hope the narrators were able to narrate together, and if they didn't heck I don't know how they pulled this off.

This is a full-cast and full production, so do know there are sound effects and additional voices from some of the other characters Gwen and Sam interact with. That said for a fairly short (just over five hours) experience, Bastone knows that we want to spend the majority of our time with these two as they fall for each other.

This is the type of romance I'm here for. Tightly focused on the love interests. Everything else supports and brings meaning to their romance arc. Secondary characters are there, are fully formed, but are not distracting from the romance. Perfect.

My one slight recommendation/quibble is that the sound effects of traffic noises and startling traffic dangers might not make the best experience if you usually listen while you drive (like me). I chose to continue listening to this one at home.

Thank you to Audible for the early listening copy!