Amy Daws’ WAIT WITH ME is a contemporary romance built around an amusing premise and a memorable setting. When romance author Kate Smith finds herself suddenly able to write after having writer’s block while waiting for a tire change, she keeps sneaking into the Tire Depot waiting room, gaining the attention of Miles Hudson, a charming mechanic.

The premise of this story is what drew me in, and it remains one of the book’s greatest strengths. I absolutely loved the location. It is not often that a tire shop becomes one of the most memorable parts of a romance novel, but Daws manages to make it work. The setting gives the book a unique charm and helps it stand out from the countless contemporary romances that take place in coffee shops, offices, or small towns.

Of the two main characters, Miles was easily my favorite. He is patient, kind, and genuinely likable. It is easy to understand why Kate falls for him, and he often carries the story during moments when my interest starts to waver. Kate, on the other hand, was more difficult for me to connect with. Her decision to hide her real identity for so long became frustrating after a while, especially because so much of the conflict stems from a problem that could have been avoided with a little honesty. While I understood why she was hesitant, I never fully bought into the deception lasting as long as it did.

That said, I was amused for most of the book. The texting scenes are entertaining, the banter is strong, and Daws does a good job keeping the pages turning. Even when I found myself annoyed with Kate’s choices, I still wanted to see how everything would play out. The romance itself is sweet, and Miles is more than capable of making readers root for the relationship.

Ultimately, WAIT WITH ME is one of those books that succeeds at being a pleasant way to spend a few hours. It is funny, light, and built around a creative premise, but it never quite became a standout read for me. While I enjoyed my time with Miles and appreciated the unique setting, this is not a book I expect to revisit. Still, readers looking for a charming contemporary romance with plenty of texting, humor, and a memorable meet-cute will likely find a lot to enjoy.