I finished this book in two days. This was a book that I was enjoying so much I never wanted it to end. You will fall in love with the entire D’Angelos family, Joe, Brooke and Frankie. I can’t wait for the next book to come out.

I found this book to be quite charming. I loved the relationship between Brooke and Luca and thought it was developed at just the right pace. I also enjoyed the D'Angelo family's interactions with one another and thought Franny was absolutely adorable. I can see a lot of readers with sick or aging parents being able to relate to Brooke and the storyline with her dad, too.

I definitely recommend this book if you like close family relationships, sexy Italian men, and lots of references to yummy Italian food. This is also the first in a series, so I look forward to reading more with the D'Angelo siblings.

I love Catherine Bybee and everything she writes. When It Falls Apart was not the exception to this rule. A story about family and second chances at love, Bybee's latest work is meant for the romantics at heart.
As always, taking the opportunity to incorporate different plots into her love stories, Bybee's work proves to be once again filled with strong emotions but also great character.

When it Falls Apart is the type of romance where the angst is rooted in true to life struggles. The characters choices were relatable, and although at first it didn't feel like the escapism I needed at the moment, enter a meddling Italian mamma wanting to make a romance happen and I was hooked. It's well written and the characters are well developed, so I recommend it for anyone in the mood for a down to earth romance with real life issues, but a good balance of light moments and great supporting characters.

When Brooke receives the devastating call that her father needs her she doesn’t hesitate to upend her life and relationship to be there for him. She has some difficult choices to make including finding a place that can fulfill his needs but she never expected help to come from people she didn’t know.

Luca is a single father to his daughter Francie and is very close to his family. They all work together in the family restaurant, and he is uncertain when his mother offers Brooke a place to stay above the restaurant. They are like two halves of a whole and she fits into his family like she has always been there and now he just needs to find a way to keep her.

This is an emotionally heartwarming story about love and family. Not only is the romance and the characters of Brooke and Luca captivating but there is a great group of secondary characters who enhance the story.

Another fantastic book by this author. This a great romance between Luca and Brooke. But what I think made this a great story is the focus on the different types of families. We got such different perspectives on what it means to be a family. The secondary characters were great. Since this is the first in a series I can't wait to see what happens next in the series.

This was a great book. Brooke finds herself having to take of her father who did not have anything to do with her as a child. She leaves her boyfriend and moves to a new city to start over with her father. She meets Luca in a restaurant where she ends up renting a apartment. They work through several things but in the end get their HEA

Solid Bybee Romance. Bybee is a fairly prolific romance author and IIRC a former President (or whatever the top title was) of the Romance Writers of America (RWA) - or maybe just on their board? High ranking in the "official" gatekeeper of "romance" books, regardless. Point being, she knows her genre well, and she is a solid storyteller. Thus, for romance fans... you get a solid romance book. For the clean/ sweet crowd... eh, there is no "fade to black" here, but it also isn't erotica either. Solid, middle of the road romance that doesn't really offer anything new to anyone who may be averse to the genre but willing to try it if there is some extra hook, but also works quite well for those who already enjoy the genre and are looking for a new book to read. Not *quite* Hallmarkie level, but if you generally enjoy that style of romance, you'll likely enjoy this one as well. And as a series starter, it works well in introducing the whole family and offering a few hints as to where the next book/ series will go in subsequent books. Very much recommended.

Sandy M’s review of When It Falls Apart (D’Angelos, Book 1) by Catherine Bybee
Contemporary Romance published by Montake 21 Jun 22

I’ve wanted to read Catherine Bybee for quite a while now. So when I discovered this is the first book in a new series, I figured now is the time to finally jump in. I’m very glad I did. Aside from the main romance in this story, it’s family that is front and center, especially when the family experience is so very different for the hero and heroine.


Brooke’s relationship with her father has always been difficult, made even more so by the fact she lives across the country from him. When he ends up in the hospital and needs her help on a daily basis, she packs herself up and heads to California – without her long-time boyfriend, who can’t seem to be bothered with family, especially Brooke’s. We learn that guy has always been a jackass, so it’s time Brooke finally reads the writing on the wall.

Luca is part of a boisterous Italian family, who owns a restaurant in San Diego’s Little Italy. When he discovers his mother has rented the upstairs apartment to Brooke, he’s not happy at all. He has a daughter to look out for, as well as the rest of his family. But when he meets Brooke – formally at last – there’s definitely something about her that calls to him. Which will make the reader very glad, especially when it comes to Luca’s former wife – a jackass of the female persuasion.

Their family dynamics couldn’t be more different. Brooke’s father is losing his independence little by little and he lets everyone he comes into contact with know it. He is a difficult character, but Brooke does put her foot down when necessary. Luca’s family circles the wagons to keep their small unit safe, all the while living their lives their own way. His mother is another force to be reckoned with, but you love her to death just as her family does.

I enjoyed every aspect of this story – well, except for the jackasses, and one in particular. While I admire Brooke and her tenaciousness when it comes to her dad, it’s Luca who makes the whole thing work for me. Of course, it’s the fact he was raised with love and family that gives him what he needs to be a terrific father and a man who knows how to go after what he wants. Both of these damaged hearts come out healed just where they need to be to live that happily ever after.

Grade: B+

Another wonderful read by author Catherine Bybee. When It Falls Apart is the 1st book in the "D'Angelos" series and I can hardly wait to read how she continues with the rest of the D'Angelo family.
This is the story of Luca and Brooke. Luca, hot and romantic single father to adorable Francie and Brooke single and alone in a new city to help her ailing father in his new assisted living facility. She rents the vacant apartment above Luca's family's restaurant and the sparks begin to fly.
A feel good contemporary romance featuring a close-knit Italian family, aging parents, single-parenting and finding true love.

Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

I have read a few of Catherine Bybee books now, but this one may be my favorite so far.
This did start off a little slow moving for me, but it really picked up steam once you get past the set up of the story. I really liked the characters as well which also kept me reading.
This reads much more as womens fiction than romance. I was expecting a little more romance so it is important to know this going in as I think you will enjoy it more knowing what to expect.
I still really did enjoy this one and think it was a great start to a new series. I cannot wait to see where this goes in the next books.

ARC for honest review with no compensation Received from NetGalley

When It Falls Apart is book 1 in the D’Angelos series by Catherine Bybee and what an emotional, well written book.

So much is happening in Brooke’s life…father’s health, leaving a relationship, moving across country, finding a place to live and meeting Luca and his daughter, Fanny. The question is…will Brooke and Luca discover that maybe they were meant to find love again…read on to find the answer.

I was first introduced to Catherine Bybee with her Richter series. Romantic suspense is my top favorite genre, but I enjoyed her writing so much that I decided to give this new release a try. And what an emotional journey it was. It was raw, real, heartwrenching, and heartwarming all rolled into one excellent romance story. If emotional reads are what you enjoy reading, this book will not disappoint. As usual, her writing and storytelling ability kept me fully engaged and not wanting to put the book down. I highly recommend it and look forward to the next book in the series.

Brook has never had a traditional relationship with her father, but that doesn't stop her from stepping up when his health takes a turn for the worse. And after a breakup with her long time boyfriend, she makes the decision to pack up and move to California to be close to her dad.

When Luca's mom rents the top floor of their home to Brook, he is worried to have a stranger living in such close quarters to his young daughter, and angry that his mother made the decision without consulting him or either of his siblings. But he can't seem to help himself when it comes to Brook, and he finds himself making sure that she eats, helping her clean out her dad's condo. He is undeniably drawn to her.

After the end of a long term relationship, and moving herself to be close to her dad, Brook is hesitant to jump into something new, despite the sparks she feels whenever Luca is nearby. But she is completely captivated by the man, and his precocious daughter.

When It Falls Apart was a beautify story from beginning to end. The struggles that Brook has with her father, who has to learn to depend of others for many of his basic needs, and the development of their relationship is absolutely heart breaking, yet profoundly touching. And the relationship between Luca, the way he opens up when he finds a woman who cares for both him and his daughter is absolutely beautiful.

When If Falls Apart by Catherine Bybee is book one of a new series titled The D'Angelos. Another great story from an amazing author! The D'Angelo's Series is a contemporary romance featuring a close-knit Italian family living above their restaurant in San Diego. This is Brooke and Luca's story. I love this new series and can't wait for the next one to be published.

4.5 Stars

Brooke’s life comes apart when her dad is admitted into the hospital close to death. Living in Seattle doesn’t work out when his care requires her to live close-by, and unfortunately her long-term boyfriend isn’t supportive. So, Brooke packs up her life and heads to Southern California. Brooke was instantly likable, and I was hoping she’d get a break and a chance at happiness!

Settling in her father’s town isn’t going to work for Brooke, the city is desert-y, dry and depressing. On a little getaway to gain some peace she visits the seaside town of San Diego and falls in love. I’ve been to both areas, and I had to totally agree with Brooke’s choice! There’s something about living in a place that’s ugly to you that sucks the soul right out of you so I was thrilled Brooke put her foot down about moving out of her father’s city. I loved the sound of Little Italy with its family-oriented community and delicious Italian food! Renting a little apartment above an authentic Italian restaurant, D’Angelo’s, was the perfect situation for Brooke. Even better, it had Luca D’Angelo, a handsome single dad cooking for and managing his family’s restaurant. Luca is all about family so when he hears how Brooke uprooted her life to take care of her father his heart softens towards her. Their attraction is immediate, and he inserts himself into Brooke’s life, offering help and support when Brooke needs it most.

Loved the romance with Luca! He was so sweet and attentive, but also passionate! So wonderful with his young daughter! I love that he just was there to help without Brooke having to ask. And that’s how it is if a man really cares for you. A clear contrast to her ex.

The issues Brooke faced taking care of her aging father felt true-to-life and I really had to take off my hat to her being there for him when he wasn’t there for her growing up. I was really happy she set boundaries and didn’t let his dramas take over her life.

I’ve been a fan of Catherine Bybee’s romances and romantic suspense novels, so I’m not surprised that I loved When It Falls Apart. Her writing is so effortlessly readable, I flew through the pages quickly enjoying every minute! I was happy the romantic drama was low, not saying there wasn’t bumps, but they felt like problems you’d face in a real-life relationship instead of manufactured drama. Nothing insurmountable. Their united front when it came to Luca’s ex warmed my heart. That lady was a piece of work!

I look forward to spending more time with the D’Angelos, they’re a tight knit, loving Italian family, and since this is the first in the series my wish will be granted. I look forward to Giovanni and Chloe’s romances to come!

I’ve read some good books lately, but none have made my heart feel so full and happy as When It Falls Apart. There’s nothing better than a book where two people fall in love in an organic, wholesome way while dealing with real life.

When Brooke’s father has a second major health crisis, she leaves her life and unsupportive boyfriend behind in Seattle to oversee his care and transition to an assisted living facility in San Diego. Once there, she’s offered an apartment above the D'Angelo family’s restaurant and is quickly welcomed as an honorary member of the family. As Brooke adjusts to her new home and ties up the loose ends of her father’s old life, she also finds herself with the surprising support of the oldest D’Angelo son, Luca.

This story was romance perfection. I love characters who start out prickly, but don’t have an impossibly hard shell to crack. I love characters who own their feelings of hurt and jealousy, but still behave like the mature adults they are and don’t let those feelings drive their actions. I love characters who are capable of having open, honest conversations.

And most of all, I love how Catherine Bybee is so willing to be vulnerable by putting her own life experiences into her stories. She did it in My Way to You (which was loosely based on her home surviving a fire in the Malibu hills) and she did it again here with a heroine dealing navigating the care of an ailing father who she was mostly estranged with during childhood. I believe it’s why these books - and these characters - seem so real and touch readers so deeply. These stories feel deeply personal…because they are. And that’s why they are so moving and powerful.

Catherine Bybee is easily on my top five favorite authors list and When It Falls Apart is just one more reason why I love her stories so much. I can hardly wait for the rest of the books in this series!

* thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review

BOOK REVIEW: When it Falls Apart by @catherinebybee

4 Stars

I was really looking forward to reading this book as I have loved other books by Catherine Bybee and it was definitely a fun and romantic read!

When It Falls Apart is about Brooke, a mid thirties woman in a failing relationship and with a sick Father. Her life has not been easy and is all of a sudden turned upside down when she finds herself living in a new city amongst a wonderful Italian family and community. It is a close proximity, single father romance that also deals with some harder themes such as parental abandonment and illness. I really loved how romantic this book was and the Italian's were just a joy to read about. I loved the family values. I found the romance to be a little too "insta-love" and cheesy for me but I still enjoyed reading it a lot.
Brooke is fantastic lead female. I loved her strength and caring nature and how she tackled each problem with poise and grace despite so many issues being thrown at her. The lead male Luca is an Italian dreamboat and I adored how open and loving he was especially in regards to his daughter and family as well as Brooke.
The writing was fantastic and I couldn't put it down. Overall, a fun, romantic read and I hope this series is continued on with this crazy Italian family!

Please note that I was #gifted this ebook in exchange for an honest review.

I quite enjoyed my first read from Catherine Bybee. <b><i>When it Falls Apart</b></i> deals with real life complications like aging parents and single-parenting as well as finding <i>real</i> love after only having had a pale imitation. I loved the multi-generational family element AND the romance. I'm looking forward to the other members of the D'Angelo family meeting their matches.

I just started reading and I couldn’t stop. Literally I devoured this book.

Catherine Bybee wrote such a magnificent journey about families, strong heroines with big hearts and relatable; heroes that would steal your hearts, a story that remains nuanced and subtle. Some parts that would resonate with readers. Moments of emotions that go right in the feels.

Brooke is a strong heroine portrayed with fragility, brave, sincere and caring. A woman who wasn’t afraid to speak her mind and not willing to waste time after everything she went through. I’ve been moved by her history and how she became the woman she is now.

Luca and his daughter…All the swoons and love for them. He was just one of a kind. Damn my heart. Being the best father he can be for her daughter, always here when needed and protective as hell for the women he cares and loves.

Both were struggling with her own issues but managed to find their way when it fell apart. Acting like partners and communicating, supportive of the other, being each other’s rock in rough times. I was so in love with Brooke, Luca and his daughter Francesca.

I adored this first installment, a touching story full of unexpected turns for the main characters with so many wonderful people each of whom have for sure interesting stories to tell (I was thinking about Luca’s brother and sister).

Can’t wait to read more!