“Tour Wars” by Carla Luna
A Delightful Romp Through Italy: “Tour Wars” by Carla Luna
“Tour Wars” by Carla Luna is a fast-paced, fun, and flirty romp through Italy that will leave you longing for more. The premise of academic rivals-turned-tour guides, Emilia and TJ, forced to work together sets the stage for a refreshing and engaging read.
One of the highlights of this book is its ability to seamlessly blend historical facts with a captivating storyline. Luna’s skillful writing brings the history of Vestal Virgins to life, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative. Additionally, the inclusion of memorable side characters, particularly the golden girl gang, adds charm and warmth to the story.
Luna doesn’t shy away from addressing real-life issues, such as workplace mistreatment and sexism, adding a layer of authenticity to the plot. The infuriating scenes serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by women, especially those in male-dominated fields.
The relationship between Emilia and TJ is the heart of the story, filled with bickering, sexual tension, and moments of genuine connection. TJ’s portrayal as a squishy undercooked cinnamon roll hero adds a delightful twist to the romance, while Emilia’s character development is both believable and endearing.
While the middle portion of the book may feel slightly drawn out, and the conflict predictable, these minor flaws do not detract from the overall enjoyment of the story. A longer ending and more effort from TJ to win back Emilia’s favor could have enhanced the resolution, but the satisfying conclusion leaves readers with a smile on their faces.
“Tour Wars” is a delightful read that combines humor, romance, and a dash of history to create an irresistible literary escape. Luna’s witty prose and engaging characters make this a must-read for fans of romantic comedy.
Book Stats:
Rating: 4/5
Tropes: close-proximity, co-workers, vacation-romance, slow-burn
Series: Romancing the Ruins
Pop: 68%