eARC Review: It's Different This Time by Joss Richard
Romance
It’s Different This Time
Book Info
Released Date: September 30th
Publication: Dell
Pages: 432
Format: eBook
When it comes to second chance romance, I’m all in. It’s one of my absolute favorite tropes, and I will always pick up a book that promises two people finding their way back to each other — as long as it’s done well. No cheating, no over-the-top drama, and definitely no flimsy excuses.
At first, this book had me hooked. The setup was strong, the chemistry was believable, and I was ready for an emotional, satisfying reunion. But as I got closer to the end… I started to feel bamboozled. That’s the only word for it.
Why?
Why did the author do this?
When the reason behind their five-year silence was finally revealed, my jaw dropped — and not in a good way. I just couldn’t wrap my head around it. Their lack of communication wasn’t heartbreaking; it was infuriating. These two adults literally wasted five years of their lives because they couldn't be honest with each other? They tiptoed around their feelings, avoided hard conversations, and then disappeared from each other’s lives altogether. That’s not romantic; that’s crazy.
I kept asking myself: Why couldn't they just talk? There was no solid reason for the avoidance, no major conflict that justified the radio silence. And that left me feeling unsatisfied. I don’t need everything tied up in a perfect bow, but I do need to believe in the story — and this ending didn’t quite deliver that.
So, while the beginning had me swooning and hopeful, the conclusion left me frustrated and confused. I love second chances — but I also love accountability, growth, and a believable path to happily ever after. Unfortunately, this one missed the mark for me.
