A second-chance-at-life romance for readers craving witty banter, slow-burn chemistry between grown-ups, and love stories where the obstacles are real—not manufactured. Hallie Bancroft is 42, freshly unemployed, newly single, and about to lose her apartment. When the early days of the pandemic upend normal life, her best friend intervenes with an unusual solution—a month in a sprawling Cape Cod mansion with five strangers. Hallie figures she has nothing left to lose. Then she meets Quinn O'Neill. He's a widowed literature professor in his early fifties with a sharp wit, a love of wordplay, and an unexpected ability to make her laugh through the wreckage of her life. What starts as verbal sparring over breakfast turns into late-night conversations—then into something neither of them planned: a surprising, swoony romance that feels like coming home. But real life doesn't pause for love. Hallie's dream job opportunity surfaces—3,000 miles away. Her ex reappears with apologies and promises. Quinn's grief and responsibilities anchor him in place. Suddenly, the future that seemed so clear becomes impossible to map. Can two people who are brilliant with words find the right ones to build a life together? Or will timing, geography, and fear win? Perfect for readers who love: Second-act romance with emotional depth - Older protagonists navigating real-world complications - Slow-burn chemistry built on conversation and connection - Found family in an unconventional living situation - Closed-door romance with playful innuendo and milx sexual content - A guaranteed HEA A feel-good escape with sharp humor, literary references you'll want to screenshot, and a love story that proves it's never too late to rewrite your ending. "A wonderful read with many layers, it is one of those books that stays with you." — Kat Kennedy for The U.S. Review of Books The smart, humorous dialogue is the book's shining highlight. Hallie and Quinn trade puns with their quick wit ("I'm surprised you're not having Cream of Wit for breakfast"), and their conversations are sprinkled with delightful literary references. ... Love, Literally is an endearing romance novel with levelheaded, likable protagonists. — Aimee Jodoin for IndieReader One of the most engaging and delightful aspects of the narrative is the wordplay between Quinn and Hallie. ... In fact, it is what sets this book above others and makes the love story angle interesting. This is certainly a wonderful read with many layers. It is one of those books that stays with you. — A "Recommended" Review by Kat Kennedy for The U.S. Review of Books J. T. Tierney has a real knack for character development and emotion that has resulted in an enchanting novel immersed in the complexities of love and self-discovery. ... Love, Literally is a poignant exploration of the human heart that I would highly recommend for fans of vivid, realistic contemporary romance everywhere. — Five-star review by K.C. Finn for Reader's Favorite Love, Literally is a well-written, emotionally satisfying, and thought-provoking book. It's a must-read for anyone looking for a meaningful and engaging story. — Review by Richard Simone for Hollywood Book Reviews A riveting character-driven tale laced with romance and drama, Love, Literally is a heartwarming novel about friendship, love, and second chances. ... Contemporary romance readers shouldn't miss this one. This book is tailor-made for you! — Five-star review by Pikasho Deka for Reader's Favorite While the love story takes center stage, my favorite relationships in the book are among the women. Hallie and her best friend Maria are written perfectly as two great friends who have been through a lot together in their twenty-year relationship. — Review by Jaylynn Korell for Independent Book Review The language and banter between Hallie and Quinn entertained me, as it was a different kind of foreplay. — Five-star Review by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite