If you’re nostalgic for Harlequin romances but want something with a modern twist, this book is a treat. The 80s Monaco setting oozes cinematic glamour and atmosphere, the emotional angst is delicious, and Diane and Marco’s chemistry sizzles. Expect a rollercoaster of feelings as they navigate marriage turmoil, a surprise pregnancy, and family drama - all with smart writing and layered, flawed characters. Those who love tropey, angsty second-chance romances and aren’t shy about some spicy, boundary-pushing scenes will be hooked.

Who May Not Like This Book:

If you’re not a fan of retro settings, heavy angst, or the more taboo elements of erotic romance (like CNC, bondage, pain play, etc.), this might not be your vibe. Some found the pacing rushed, the tropes overdone, or had trouble connecting with the main characters. It’s also on the short side - more novella than novel - so if you crave a long, meandering story, you might feel this one wraps up too fast.

A bold, steamy, 80s-set marriage-in-crisis romance that’s equal parts drama, nostalgia, and heat. Great for fans of intense, emotionally messy love stories and not for the faint of heart.

About:

Return to Monte Carlo by Cate C. Wells is a captivating romance novel set in the '80s Monaco, following the emotional journey of Diane and Marco. The story is filled with drama, passion, and complex human emotions, as the characters navigate through misunderstandings, miscommunications, and societal gaps. The writing style is described as well-developed, realistic, and emotionally charged, drawing readers in with its raw portrayal of love, resilience, and personal growth.

Characters:

The characters, Diane and Marco, are relatable and flawed, undergoing complex emotional journeys that highlight their growth.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is emotionally charged, combining humor with serious themes, and uses accessible modern language in intimate scenes.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features flawed characters navigating estrangement and reconciliation, emphasizing themes of surprise pregnancy and relationship troubles, all set against an 80s nostalgic backdrop.

Setting:

The setting is in 80s Monaco, rich in nostalgic detail that enhances the story.

Pacing:

The pacing is fast, with a quick resolution that may not satisfy all readers due to its episodic structure.

So instead, I examine a vase, an Etruscan reproduction from the seventeenth century. It’s beautiful, and an heirloom, but I don’t know which branch of my husband’s venerable family bought it off the b...

Notes:

The story is set in the 1980s and features a nostalgic feel with retro references.

Main characters Diane and Marco face relationship challenges, including a surprise pregnancy and estrangement.

Cate C. Wells explores themes of conflict, healing, and redemption in the narrative.

The book includes elements of consensual non-consent (CNC) and body betrayal syndrome.

It is written in a Harlequin romance style but addresses more modern themes and tropes.

Diane leaves Marco at the beginning due to his family's treatment of her, prompting a journey of reconciliation.

The pacing of the story leads to events unfolding rapidly over two weeks.

The author implements dual perspectives, adding depth to the character’s experiences.

Readers find the characters relatable, despite their flaws and complexities.

The emotional rollercoaster includes elements of drama, betrayal, and ultimately, love.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Readers should be aware of high content warnings including themes of emotional manipulation, physical authority, body betrayal syndrome, and instances of BDSM elements.

Has Romance?

The romance in Return to Monte Carlo is prominent, characterized by deep emotional connections and complicated interactions between the main characters.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

A runaway wife, a surprise baby, and a dark secret.

MONTE CARLO, 1982

The odds of a man like Marco de Noli falling for a girl like me were a million to one.

He's old money, classic European jet set, a master of the universe.

When we met, I was a shy girl from Oklahoma, pretty enough, but nowhere near his league.

One year later, after he stands me up on our first anniversary, I have to face facts. Our marriage was a mistake. My in-laws think I'm a gold digger, Marco lives at the office, and nights of passion aren't enough. There's nothing keeping me in Monte Carlo.

But when I run, I don't realize that I'm taking the de Noli heir with me -

Or that our love wasn't what I thought it was at all.

Return to Monte Carlo is a retro romance with a spicy, modern twist. No cheating. HEA guaranteed. Intended for adult readers only.

September 2023

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207 pages

Ratings (21)

Loved It (4)
Liked It (7)
It Was OK (8)
Did Not Like (1)
Hated It (1)

Reader Stats (44):

Read It (22)
Want To Read (9)
Not Interested (13)

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Return to Monte Carlo

Cate C. Wells

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