By The Time You Leave (Broken Hearts Book 3) by Dianna Roman

Such a lovely and beautiful story that is well worth reading!


From the blurb:

Martin Malone is dying and he has one last wish: to find the perfect man for his son.

Rob is certain Martin chose him for the “job” by mistake. He’s never been with a man let alone understood the world of intimacy the way that others do. The more he gets to know Dylan Malone, however, the more he understands the request he couldn’t find words to decline. Dylan deserves all the love that his father wishes for him.

When time starts running out, Rob finds himself in danger of breaking both men’s hearts and his own. Because even when the heart is willing, the lack of resume speaks for itself.

A wholesome slow burn M/M romance about self-acceptance and embracing your spectrum of sexuality


Katriana Prey's review:

I have absolutely loved the other books that are a part of this series, so when I saw this one I got so excited. I absolutely adore Dianna's books, (and Dianna herself), so I was really looking forward to reading this book, especially because of the Gray/Ace rep that was discussed and explored in this book. I find that sexuality doesn't get discussed or featured enough in romance novels, and I love that it was talked about in this story in such a beautiful and respectful way. We got to see how it COULD tear a part a relationship, but also how if you prioritize communication and work on compromises that your relationship could be better off for it, which I loved.

I always yearn to read a romance book where the steamy scenes aren't the main component of a relationship, and unfortunately, that isn't often the case. But! I am happy to say that was exactly what Dylan and Rob's story was about! It's about self discovery, growth, and learning how to love someone and have intimacy without it needing to be spicy, and for someone who is Ace.. that was really beautiful and monumental to read about that kind of relationship. I know this is a work of fiction, I know the real world is much different, but it was really nice to read about a character and a future that I hope can happen for those who want it to. And for those that can relate to certain aspects of Rob's character.

The slow burn between these two men was perfect! It gave the story so much tension while also deepening their emotional relationship and their bond. It lent itself to their relationship growing outside of romantic feelings at first, and then once they admitted their feelings for one another, it just added yet another level to their relationship. I really enjoyed reading about these two and I LOVED the cameos from the other characters from the previous books, it's always so much fun to see other characters pop back up.

I do want to say this is NOT a light and fluffy read, sure the romance is light in a way but the story itself is quite heavy due to Dylan's father and the things that come with that. I personally liked that this story was heavier and more realistic cause that's something I enjoy in my books. However, if grief can be triggering for you, or if discussions of cancer might be triggering, please proceed reading this with caution.

If you don't have those triggers though, I strongly recommend reading this book as it is absolutely fantastic!! I love that both of these men are gamers, and that Dylan wears such eclectic clothes, that was so much fun to read about. I just loved this!


By The Time You Leave is currently available as an e-book, hardcover and paperback and can be read as part of your Kindle+ Subscription