Blog Tour Book Review: Field Rules by Carla Luna

~ One Book More

About the Book:

Title: Field Rules

Author: Carla Luna

Series: Romancing the Ruins #`1

Page Length: 308

Publication Date: Aug. 9, 2022

Publisher: Moon Manor Press

Synopsis: What happens in the field, stays in the field. Or does it?

After the disastrous way her first archaeological dig ended, graduate student Olivia Sanchez abandoned her dreams of working in the field. Now, thanks to a last-minute teaching opportunity in Cyprus, she’ll get another chance to explore ancient history firsthand. This time, failure isn’t an option.

But digging up the past takes on a whole new meaning when she’s forced to team up with her ex, shovel bum Rick Langston.

For years, Rick has proven his archaeological skills all over the Mediterranean. But with no graduate degree—and a habit of attracting trouble—his reputation could use a little rehab. All he has to do is play by the rules while he’s in Cyprus and he’ll secure a coveted recommendation for his next job. Until Olivia resurfaces like a cursed relic from the past.

Given that their last fling nearly caused them both academic ruin, Olivia and Rick can’t afford to repeat their past mistakes. But as they work together under the scorching Mediterranean sun, the heat between them proves impossible to ignore.

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My Review:

The first book in the Romancing the Ruins series, Field Rules follows exes Olivia and Rick, who unexpectedly reconnect at an archeological field school in Cyprus. Olivia needs to make a success of her teaching position on the site if she ever wants to finish her degree, and Rick needs a recommendation from their leader to further his career since trouble seems to follow him.

Rick and Olivia haven’t seen each other in years, not since their breakup. However, the old feelings are still there for both characters. Their chemistry is fantastic, and I enjoyed learning more about what happened between them when they first met. Both struggle with feelings of inadequacy, Rick because of his lack of a degree, and Olivia because of family scrutiny and her own insecurities, but as they work together and reconnect, they both seem to change. However, they must decide if they are willing to take a second chance on their relationship. There are some great messages about taking risks and forging your own path in life that Olivia and Rick exemplify. They have a great romance with tons of chemistry, and I so wanted them to give each other another chance despite their reservations. And their first kiss!! Swoon!!!

Olivia and Rick share a passion for archeology, and the story includes many interesting elements of an archeological dig. I like that it is detailed and offers explanations of different processes and procedures without overwhelming the story. It, as well as the lush and romantic island of Cyprus, make for a unique and beautiful backdrop to the story. The author’s writing immerses you into the world of a dig site with vivid descriptions of the island, the ancient sites, the attractions, the food, and more.

The secondary characters are also dynamic and interesting, especially Rick’s friends and Olivia’s sister. I’m excited to continue the series, as I think some of these characters will be the focus of future books, and I’m eager to learn more about them. They form this little family on the site, which isn’t surprising considering they live and work in close quarters, and their joking banter and fun antics are entertaining and show how close they are.

Field Rules is a great read for people who enjoy contemporary, second-chance, or academic romance, and it’s a great start to Carla Luna’s new series! Thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.

Rating:

5_Star_Rating_System_4_stars

Author Bio:

Carla Luna writes contemporary romance with a dollop of humor and a pinch of spice.A former archaeologist, she still dreams of traveling to far-off places and channels that wanderlustinto the settings of her stories.When she’s not writing, she works in a spice emporium where shegets paid to discuss food and share her favorite recipes. Her passions include Broadway musicals,baking, whimsical office supplies, and pop culture podcasts. Though she has roots in Los Angeles andVancouver Island, she currently resides in Wisconsin with her family and her feisty Siberian cat.

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