Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez

You know those books that just grab you from the first page and don’t let go? The ones that make you laugh out loud one minute and get all choked up the next? Well, folks, Abby Jimenez has done it again with her latest rom-com, Part of Your World. This delightful story about an unlikely romance between a high-society ER doctor and a small-town carpenter had me completely hooked from start to finish.

A Tale of Two Worlds Colliding

Alexis Montgomery seems to have it all—she’s a successful ER doctor from a wealthy, prestigious family of surgeons. But underneath her polished exterior, she’s struggling to live up to impossible expectations and recover from an emotionally abusive relationship. Enter Daniel Grant, the ridiculously hot, easygoing carpenter and mayor of tiny Wakan, Minnesota. When Alexis’s car breaks down in his town, Daniel comes to her rescue…and sparks instantly fly.

Their attraction is undeniable, but Alexis and Daniel come from completely different worlds. She’s used to fancy galas and $4,000 dresses, while he’s more comfortable at the local dive bar. As they start to fall for each other, they have to figure out if love really can conquer all – including meddling parents, small-town gossip, and some seriously deep-rooted insecurities.

What I Loved About This Book

The Chemistry is Off the Charts

Holy smokes, the sparks between Alexis and Daniel are electric! Their banter is witty and flirtatious, and the sexual tension sizzles from their very first meeting. Jimenez has a real talent for writing steamy scenes that are sensual without being overly graphic. The way Daniel and Alexis connect on both a physical and emotional level feels so authentic and swoony.

It’s Laugh-Out-Loud Funny

I lost count of how many times this book had me giggling uncontrollably. From Alexis’s city-girl fish-out-of-water moments to the antics of Wakan’s quirky residents, the humor is spot-on. I especially loved Kevin Bacon the escape artist pig and Doug’s terrible guitar serenades. Jimenez’s comedic timing is impeccable.

It Tackles Tough Issues with Care

While the overall tone is light and fun, Part of Your World doesn’t shy away from heavier topics like emotional abuse, classism, and toxic family dynamics. Jimenez handles these issues thoughtfully and realistically. I especially appreciated how she portrayed Alexis’s journey to recognizing her own worth and breaking free from her father’s emotional manipulation.

The Small Town Setting is Adorable

Wakan, Minnesota feels like a character in its own right. The close-knit community, charming traditions, and hint of magic in the air made me want to pack my bags and move there myself. I loved how the townsfolk rallied around each other and welcomed Alexis with open arms (well, most of them anyway).

It’s a Modern Fairy Tale with Heart

At its core, this is a story about two people from different worlds falling in love against the odds. Sound familiar? Jimenez cleverly weaves in fairy tale elements and Disney references throughout, from Alexis losing her designer shoe Cinderella-style to the mermaid-esque theme of giving up her voice (career) for love. It adds an extra layer of charm to an already enchanting story.

A Few Minor Quibbles

While I adored this book overall, there were a couple of small things that niggled at me:

The Age Gap Felt a Bit Overemphasized

Look, I get it—the whole May-December romance thing can be a touchy subject. But Alexis’s constant fretting about being 9 years older than Daniel got a little repetitive. He’s 28, not 18! I wished she’d been able to move past that hangup a bit quicker.

Some Secondary Characters Felt Underdeveloped

I loved the colorful cast of Wakan residents, but a few of them (like Brian and Liz) felt a bit two-dimensional. I would have enjoyed seeing their storylines fleshed out a bit more. That said, I have a feeling we might see more of them in future books set in this world (please, Abby Jimenez, make this happen!).

Who Should Read This Book?

If you’re a fan of:

• Opposites-attract romances
• Small town settings
• Steamy scenes balanced with emotional depth
• Characters overcoming their insecurities
• Laugh-out-loud humor

…then Part of Your World is absolutely for you! It’s perfect for readers who enjoy authors like Emily Henry, Casey McQuiston, or Tessa Bailey.

How it Compares to Jimenez’s Other Work

I’ve read and loved all of Abby Jimenez’s previous books (The Friend Zone, The Happy Ever After Playlist, and Life’s Too Short), and Part of Your World might just be my new favorite. It has all the hallmarks of her writing that I’ve come to adore – the perfect balance of humor and heart, complex characters dealing with real-world issues, and swoon-worthy romance.

While each of her books stands alone, there are some fun Easter eggs and character cameos for longtime fans. I especially enjoyed the brief appearance of Sloan from The Friend Zone!

Final Thoughts

Part of Your World is the kind of book that leaves you with a big goofy grin on your face and a warm fuzzy feeling in your heart. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best things in life come when we least expect them, and that true love is worth fighting for – even when it means stepping out of our comfort zones.

Abby Jimenez has crafted a story that’s equal parts hilarious, heartwarming, and thought-provoking. It’s the perfect escape read for when you need a pick-me-up, but it also tackles some meaty topics that’ll stick with you long after you turn the last page.

So grab a cozy blanket, maybe whip up one of Daniel’s famous grilled cheese sandwiches, and settle in for a thoroughly delightful reading experience. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to book a trip to Minnesota by the time you’re done!

Part of Your World is a near-perfect rom-com that hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of book you’ll want to read again and again, and share with all your friends. Abby Jimenez has solidified her place as one of the queens of contemporary romance, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next.

Similar Books You Might Enjoy

If you loved Part of Your World, here are a few other titles to add to your TBR pile:

• Beach Read by Emily Henry
• The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren
• It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey
• The Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon
• Well Met by Jen DeLuca

About the Author

Abby Jimenez is a Food Network champion, motivational speaker, and New York Times best-selling author of The Friend Zone, The Happy Ever After Playlist, and Life’s Too Short. Abby founded Nadia Cakes out of her home kitchen in 2007. The bakery has since gone on to win numerous Food Network competitions and has amassed an international cult following. Abby’s wry literary wit was spotlighted as the “15th Funniest Person on Twitter” by Paste Magazine.

Abby lives in Minnesota with her husband and three children. When she’s not writing or spending time with her family, she loves reading, baking, and hanging out with her rescue dogs.

In Conclusion

Part of Your World is a delightful, heartwarming romance that proves sometimes the best things in life happen when we least expect them. With its perfect blend of humor, heat, and heart, it’s sure to become a new favorite for rom-com fans. So what are you waiting for? Go grab a copy and prepare to fall in love with Alexis, Daniel, and the charming town of Wakan!