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Private #2
Private Paradise
After years of catering to the whims of the rich and famous at one of the Caribbean's most luxurious resorts, there isn't much that can rattle Carla DeLuca.
Until Sam O'Connell shows up.
Tall, dark, and sexy, Holley Cay's new security chief is no stranger. He's the irresistible bad boy who seduced her over a long, hot summer only to leave her heartbroken, humiliated, and determined to never again fall for a player like him. But though her heart still stings with the memory of his rejection, her body can't forget the all-consuming pleasure of his touch.
Sam never forgave himself for his too cruel rejection of Carla over a decade before. Young, reckless, and convinced it was only a matter of time before Carla regretted hooking up with a trouble maker like him, Sam pushed Carla away before she could realize her mistake. But when Sam lands a job working for Carla in paradise, he seizes the chance to finally make things right.
When a hurricane strands them alone on the island, Carla is unable to resist the passion simmering between them. She doesn't fool herself that what they have will last past the storm. But little does she know, Sam will do whatever it takes to make her his - forever this time.
Until Sam O'Connell shows up.
Tall, dark, and sexy, Holley Cay's new security chief is no stranger. He's the irresistible bad boy who seduced her over a long, hot summer only to leave her heartbroken, humiliated, and determined to never again fall for a player like him. But though her heart still stings with the memory of his rejection, her body can't forget the all-consuming pleasure of his touch.
Sam never forgave himself for his too cruel rejection of Carla over a decade before. Young, reckless, and convinced it was only a matter of time before Carla regretted hooking up with a trouble maker like him, Sam pushed Carla away before she could realize her mistake. But when Sam lands a job working for Carla in paradise, he seizes the chance to finally make things right.
When a hurricane strands them alone on the island, Carla is unable to resist the passion simmering between them. She doesn't fool herself that what they have will last past the storm. But little does she know, Sam will do whatever it takes to make her his - forever this time.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 4, 2011
239 people are currently reading
1290 people want to read
About the author
Jami Alden
42 books797 followersLike so many romance readers, my first romance novel was by Kathleen Woodiwiss - The Flame and the Flower, to be exact. I was thirteen. I spent the next month working my way through her entire back list. Shortly thereafter I discovered Judith McNaught, Johanna Lindsey, Karen Robards, Catherine Coulter, Shirlee Busbee among others, and devoured their lavish historical epics full of overbearing alpha males and the women who brought them to their knees. I was hooked. My high school teachers marveled at my ability to read romance novels under the desk and still score straight A's. I started to imagine myself, living in a cabin in the mountains somewhere, writing romance novels.
It took me quite awhile to pursue my dream. After graduating from Stanford with a degree in English Literature, I worked in a variety of soul sucking admin jobs before I began my career in marketing. It wasn't exactly my dream job, but at least my writing appeared on several web sites and in many software marketing brochures. Unfortunately I wasn't able to fit the phrase "and her loins melted like hot wax" into any of them.
During my stint as the world's surliest receptionist, I took my first stab at writing. The result was a very melodramatic western historical which reads like a bad Elizabeth Lowell rip off. Its currently languishing on my hard drive, forever stuck on page 330.
Then in fall 2001 I had an incredible stroke of luck and got laid off from my marketing job. I decided it was time to stop saying I wanted to be a writer and to actually give it a serious go. Fortunately my husband, a socially well adjusted alpha male, is a very generous patron of the arts.
Four years later, I sold my first book and I'm pretty much living the dream of getting paid to write romance. I don't live in a cabin in the mountains, but I do live in a rural-ish town near San Francisco (hey, we have deer and bunnies in our yard, along with the occasional coyote) with my husband, sons, and two dogs who patiently listen to my dialogue and help me work out plot points. When I'm not writing sexy romance, I enjoy running, reading, yoga and watching Food Network and bad reality TV.
It took me quite awhile to pursue my dream. After graduating from Stanford with a degree in English Literature, I worked in a variety of soul sucking admin jobs before I began my career in marketing. It wasn't exactly my dream job, but at least my writing appeared on several web sites and in many software marketing brochures. Unfortunately I wasn't able to fit the phrase "and her loins melted like hot wax" into any of them.
During my stint as the world's surliest receptionist, I took my first stab at writing. The result was a very melodramatic western historical which reads like a bad Elizabeth Lowell rip off. Its currently languishing on my hard drive, forever stuck on page 330.
Then in fall 2001 I had an incredible stroke of luck and got laid off from my marketing job. I decided it was time to stop saying I wanted to be a writer and to actually give it a serious go. Fortunately my husband, a socially well adjusted alpha male, is a very generous patron of the arts.
Four years later, I sold my first book and I'm pretty much living the dream of getting paid to write romance. I don't live in a cabin in the mountains, but I do live in a rural-ish town near San Francisco (hey, we have deer and bunnies in our yard, along with the occasional coyote) with my husband, sons, and two dogs who patiently listen to my dialogue and help me work out plot points. When I'm not writing sexy romance, I enjoy running, reading, yoga and watching Food Network and bad reality TV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
August 25, 2022
Finished Reading September 22, 2013
1.75 Stars
Book Rejected
Prch Amz September 25, 2013
1.75 Stars
Book Rejected
Prch Amz September 25, 2013
February 23, 2012
Story Rating 4 stars
Character Rating 4 stars
Romance Rating 4.5 stars
Heat Level 4 stars
Overall Rating 4 stars
I have to say that I really enjoyed this book too, LOL. I can't believe it was only cost .99. I feel it was worth more. The story started when the H&h were younger and he dumped her and hurt her badly. Years later they see each other again, him being hired as her head security man at a very exclusive Island paradise for the rich and famous. Of course she wants nothing to do with him after the hurt he puts her through but once he see's her again, he is all so ready to start where they left off. I'm not going to give any more of the story away so if this sounds good, why not buy it? I must also add that this was an EROTIC romance and had plenty of heat including ice cream covered sex and hand cuff's, HOT!
Off to read the next book Private Pleasures, it sounds like another winner :)
Character Rating 4 stars
Romance Rating 4.5 stars
Heat Level 4 stars
Overall Rating 4 stars
I have to say that I really enjoyed this book too, LOL. I can't believe it was only cost .99. I feel it was worth more. The story started when the H&h were younger and he dumped her and hurt her badly. Years later they see each other again, him being hired as her head security man at a very exclusive Island paradise for the rich and famous. Of course she wants nothing to do with him after the hurt he puts her through but once he see's her again, he is all so ready to start where they left off. I'm not going to give any more of the story away so if this sounds good, why not buy it? I must also add that this was an EROTIC romance and had plenty of heat including ice cream covered sex and hand cuff's, HOT!
Off to read the next book Private Pleasures, it sounds like another winner :)
June 6, 2013
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this steamy story taking place during a hurricane..
Sam had had a summer fling with Carla 10 years ago and then left without explanation, leaving Carla wondering what she had done wrong.
In the present day, she is dumbfounded when Sam turns up as the new head of security at the exclusive Caribbean resort that she manages. She swore she wouldn't be fooled again, but when a hurricane strikes, and extreme measures are required to lock down the resort, they find themselves alone and in a position to talk..and Carla discovers she is not over Sam as much as she thought.
This is a satisfyingly, steamy romance, and I enjoyed watching Sam & Carla reunite. An easy read...
I enjoyed this steamy story taking place during a hurricane..
Sam had had a summer fling with Carla 10 years ago and then left without explanation, leaving Carla wondering what she had done wrong.
In the present day, she is dumbfounded when Sam turns up as the new head of security at the exclusive Caribbean resort that she manages. She swore she wouldn't be fooled again, but when a hurricane strikes, and extreme measures are required to lock down the resort, they find themselves alone and in a position to talk..and Carla discovers she is not over Sam as much as she thought.
This is a satisfyingly, steamy romance, and I enjoyed watching Sam & Carla reunite. An easy read...
January 14, 2013
3.5 stars
Sam was Carla’s first love, they had a sweet summer fling but before Sam leaves for the Army, he ends things with Carla by being a complete ASSHOLE.
Eleven years later, he comes back as her employee and she’s pissed …
Sam knows he royally fucked up and knows he has to try and do right by her … I was totally looked forward to see what he would do. A hurricane is coming and the resort is forced to evacuate but Sam and Carla get left behind …
and Sam totally didn’t disappoint …
Carla kept on telling herself that she is just scratching an itch and that once the hurricane leaves their fun is all over … but Sam has other plans.
It was a quick fun read, It took me a while to get into it, reliving flashbacks and hashing out their past. The sex was HOT… For a short read, I was surprised to be able to connect with the characters and feel something for them. Only complaint, it just ends, there are more to the Paradise series but it moves on to other characters… maybe we get snippets of what Sam and Carla’s future looks like :)
Sam was Carla’s first love, they had a sweet summer fling but before Sam leaves for the Army, he ends things with Carla by being a complete ASSHOLE.
”Don’t get me wrong it’s been fun. You’re hot, and you have a killer rack, but I’m only twenty-one. No way am I going to tie myself down to one girl now… Especially not an uptight virgin who gives a lousy blowjob.”
Eleven years later, he comes back as her employee and she’s pissed …
Sam knows he royally fucked up and knows he has to try and do right by her … I was totally looked forward to see what he would do. A hurricane is coming and the resort is forced to evacuate but Sam and Carla get left behind …
and Sam totally didn’t disappoint …
"You’re not used to having someone fuck you all day and all night?”
"Not exactly."
“Then I’ll have to make it my goal.”
Carla kept on telling herself that she is just scratching an itch and that once the hurricane leaves their fun is all over … but Sam has other plans.
”I’ve just grown up enough to man up and take responsibility for my life and my mistakes, and not to be afraid to go after what I want.”
It was a quick fun read, It took me a while to get into it, reliving flashbacks and hashing out their past. The sex was HOT… For a short read, I was surprised to be able to connect with the characters and feel something for them. Only complaint, it just ends, there are more to the Paradise series but it moves on to other characters… maybe we get snippets of what Sam and Carla’s future looks like :)
January 23, 2014
This was a quick read which took just a couple of hours. I like second-chance romance stories. I wonder if there are any books in this genre where the woman comes back to town and regrets how she left her boy/friend in the dust? Hmm...anyway this was a fun enjoyable read. I liked both the Hero and the heroine both at a romantic standstill in their lives because of a huge mistake made.
3.75 stars
Heat: Tropical with a chance of storms
Hero: Sam, I liked him immediately. Strong and not afraid to go after who/what he wants, but still vulnerable.
heroine: Carla (not a fan of that name for some reason) She was strong but hurt and extremely vulnerable.
Genre: Second-chance love, trapped in storm/snow
Twists: no, an easy peasy read
Reread: no
Recommend: for a quick, light, bit of heat read
Standalone: YES
3.75 stars
Heat: Tropical with a chance of storms
Hero: Sam, I liked him immediately. Strong and not afraid to go after who/what he wants, but still vulnerable.
heroine: Carla (not a fan of that name for some reason) She was strong but hurt and extremely vulnerable.
Genre: Second-chance love, trapped in storm/snow
Twists: no, an easy peasy read
Reread: no
Recommend: for a quick, light, bit of heat read
Standalone: YES
August 5, 2013
Jami Alden is one of my go to authors. I have loved or really enjoyed each book I have read of hers.
I am such a sucker for books that are about first loves, broken promises, lies, misunderstanding and so much hurt. Of course this book has most of that so it was a perfect fit for me. This wasn't action packed like some of her books but it was full of reuniting a first love and earning the trust back that was broken. I really wish there was an epilog but maybe there will be more of this couple in the next book.
I am such a sucker for books that are about first loves, broken promises, lies, misunderstanding and so much hurt. Of course this book has most of that so it was a perfect fit for me. This wasn't action packed like some of her books but it was full of reuniting a first love and earning the trust back that was broken. I really wish there was an epilog but maybe there will be more of this couple in the next book.
kindle-i-own-to-read
December 26, 2012Amazon Freebie 12/25/2012
March 12, 2012
Jami's book are always so good and such a treat. When I am indecisive about what to read next she is always my go to author because I know she will have a story I will love.
Private Paradise is the companion novel to Private Party and just a passionate. This time around we get to see Carla DeLuca through a very emotional reunion with the man she thought never loved her. Not knowing the history between the two Carla's cousin Chris hires Sam O'Connell, one of his oldest friends, as head of security for Holley Cay. Chis has no idea that he has presented Carla with the biggest challenge of her life. As the acting general manager of Holley Cay there are many things she can handle without a hitch but this situation is more than she can bare. As good and bad memories assault her she gathers her strength to hold herself together and forget the past but it is not easy.
Sam is not the same person he was eleven years ago and he feels bad about how he ended things with the only girl he has ever loved. Pushing her away at that time seemed like the best thing to do when he had no bright future for her if they stayed together. Feeling like he owed Carla some kind of apology he decided to help her out when she needs help at the exclusive resort she runs. What he didn't plan on was the overwhelming feeling he always had when around her. And what he wasn't prepared for was how hard it would be to convince Carla that he has changed.
It was great to get Carla's story and see some old faces from the previous book. Jami does such a good job in driving her characters insane with insecurity and doubt which we all do in real life. Her stories always keep me at the edge of me seat hoping for a happy ending. She never disappoints and I can't wait to read the next book but this passionate love story is definitely one to dream about.
Private Paradise is the companion novel to Private Party and just a passionate. This time around we get to see Carla DeLuca through a very emotional reunion with the man she thought never loved her. Not knowing the history between the two Carla's cousin Chris hires Sam O'Connell, one of his oldest friends, as head of security for Holley Cay. Chis has no idea that he has presented Carla with the biggest challenge of her life. As the acting general manager of Holley Cay there are many things she can handle without a hitch but this situation is more than she can bare. As good and bad memories assault her she gathers her strength to hold herself together and forget the past but it is not easy.
Sam is not the same person he was eleven years ago and he feels bad about how he ended things with the only girl he has ever loved. Pushing her away at that time seemed like the best thing to do when he had no bright future for her if they stayed together. Feeling like he owed Carla some kind of apology he decided to help her out when she needs help at the exclusive resort she runs. What he didn't plan on was the overwhelming feeling he always had when around her. And what he wasn't prepared for was how hard it would be to convince Carla that he has changed.
It was great to get Carla's story and see some old faces from the previous book. Jami does such a good job in driving her characters insane with insecurity and doubt which we all do in real life. Her stories always keep me at the edge of me seat hoping for a happy ending. She never disappoints and I can't wait to read the next book but this passionate love story is definitely one to dream about.
April 11, 2014
“Don't get me wrong, it's been fun. You're hot, and you have a killer rack, but I'm only twenty-one. No way am I going to tie myself down to one girl now.” He made a scoffing sound that made her stomach clench so hard she thought she was going to throw up. “Especially not an uptight virgin who gives a lousy blowjob.”
That is probably one of the most painful, aggravating dump-you statement i have ever heard in my entire life...Well, im still young so yeah, to me: that hurts! Giving you everything to someone and being taken like that!?
Whatever reasons he could think of, the hero is a jack-ass not to mention a complete coward. He thinks he can just make a girl forget that easily!
So you can probably imagine why i want the hero to get really really hurt. I want him to grovel in the ground, i want him to SUFFER like he hurt our heroin.
I want he's freaking heart bleeding and cut freshed!!!!!
What is it with me? Dont get me wrong, I dont hate guys. I have nver dated or anything but this sort of situation gets to me!
Maybe it's the books. Females forgives too damn easily no matter how hurt and undeserving our heroes our. I HATE THAT!
But then, our hero got hurt in the end which pretty much satisfied everything out, but still not enough. The rest of the book, i was infuriated on how easy our heroine's 'Hard' is.
June 6, 2013
Woah! Talk about sizzling hot love scenes! Wowza!
This book is about Carla who is now acting manager for her cousins hotel chain and that she is surprised to find the person whom she loved at 18 appear out of thin air right in front of her... and her cousin decided not to tell her that he hired none other than Sam, then one who broke her heart .. all those years ago!
This story takes you to places where you need to remember than when we are kids we are stupid and say things we don't really mean, but feel insecure due to parental influences and kick the one person you love to the curb thinking you will never be good enough.
That being said, Sam tried repeatedly to prove and show Carla how sorry he is for the last 11 years and for the pain he caused her... and tries (really tries) desperately to prove it over and over again.. the problem is .. Carla doesn't trust him and the words that come out of his mouth! Who could.. after saying hateful, hurtful, humiliating things in the woman's face at the age of 18?
Anyways, this is a cute story of redemption, love and courage to let go of the past.... I mean can Carla come to the conclusion that Sam is a different man ready to love her and mean the words??
What a great book! I enjoyed reading and would definitely read more from you in the future! :)
This book is about Carla who is now acting manager for her cousins hotel chain and that she is surprised to find the person whom she loved at 18 appear out of thin air right in front of her... and her cousin decided not to tell her that he hired none other than Sam, then one who broke her heart .. all those years ago!
This story takes you to places where you need to remember than when we are kids we are stupid and say things we don't really mean, but feel insecure due to parental influences and kick the one person you love to the curb thinking you will never be good enough.
That being said, Sam tried repeatedly to prove and show Carla how sorry he is for the last 11 years and for the pain he caused her... and tries (really tries) desperately to prove it over and over again.. the problem is .. Carla doesn't trust him and the words that come out of his mouth! Who could.. after saying hateful, hurtful, humiliating things in the woman's face at the age of 18?
Anyways, this is a cute story of redemption, love and courage to let go of the past.... I mean can Carla come to the conclusion that Sam is a different man ready to love her and mean the words??
What a great book! I enjoyed reading and would definitely read more from you in the future! :)
July 22, 2014
Wow. Holy crap. Wow... This is book two?? Where the hell have I been?? (Oh yeah, muddling thru other drivel.)
This one I found rated at Amazon as 4.1 STARS, the lowest rating of the 3 book series-I might add. The first book, Private Passions (4.4 STARS) & the 3rd in the series, Private Pleasures (4.3 STARS) will surely be joining this one on my Favorites shelf.
On a side note, I almost went with 4 STARS myself, (which in my mind would've been 4.5) for two reasons:
#1. (This is purely a personal preference) I could have gone without the use of the word t*ts, at least 8 less times. (Again, that's just me.)
#2: I feel the heroine (Carla) could've let up a little on Sam (the Hero) in regards to his past transgressions. He was clearly trying his damnedest to make it up to her. However, in the same token, I can understand wanting to have a 'wall up' to protect yourself from emotional damage. But geez, at least throw the man a rope, you can always strangle him with it later. ;)
(And the part when they used the hot shower during a power outage I'm chalking up as a freebie because some of those sexcapades, well, he gave it his all...)
This one I found rated at Amazon as 4.1 STARS, the lowest rating of the 3 book series-I might add. The first book, Private Passions (4.4 STARS) & the 3rd in the series, Private Pleasures (4.3 STARS) will surely be joining this one on my Favorites shelf.
On a side note, I almost went with 4 STARS myself, (which in my mind would've been 4.5) for two reasons:
#1. (This is purely a personal preference) I could have gone without the use of the word t*ts, at least 8 less times. (Again, that's just me.)
#2: I feel the heroine (Carla) could've let up a little on Sam (the Hero) in regards to his past transgressions. He was clearly trying his damnedest to make it up to her. However, in the same token, I can understand wanting to have a 'wall up' to protect yourself from emotional damage. But geez, at least throw the man a rope, you can always strangle him with it later. ;)
(And the part when they used the hot shower during a power outage I'm chalking up as a freebie because some of those sexcapades, well, he gave it his all...)
November 22, 2013
I think this book was moderately good. Well written sex scenes...BUT, I did think that the sex happened way too early in the story...I think a little build up and anticipation once the 2 main characters were stranded...Especially since Carla was still too angry with Sam - and justifiably so...However, I really enjoyed reading their back story...I think the 2 main characters were more interesting and likeable in those chapters. any way...a decent read all around.
March 14, 2012
Private Paradise by Jami Alden
This was a nice quick read 139 e-pages. Ms. Alden as always writes an interesting story. I'm glad she finally told Carla's story and that it ended Happily Ever After. My only quirk in this story is the punctuation. There was ? marks all over my copy of it????
This was a nice quick read 139 e-pages. Ms. Alden as always writes an interesting story. I'm glad she finally told Carla's story and that it ended Happily Ever After. My only quirk in this story is the punctuation. There was ? marks all over my copy of it????
December 27, 2012
2.5 stars. Not bad; just liked Private Pleasures a little more. There wasn't much of a story here (very short feeling).
February 3, 2013
This started out promising but by the last few chapters, I was heavily skimming. Bickering and unrealistic emotions turned me off. 1.5 stars
May 23, 2020
:( welll, I give it a tried... but not work for me!
October 12, 2025
I grabbed Private Paradise as an ebook, looking for a quick, breezy romance to fill an afternoon, and that’s exactly what Jami Alden delivered—a cute, fluffy read that’s light on depth but heavy on vanilla spice. This short novel doesn’t waste time diving into the romance, and while it’s not the worst contemporary romance I’ve read, it’s far from the best.
The story follows a classic setup: the female main character (FMC), who’s kind of a cold-hearted ice queen after a teenage breakup, and the male main character (MMC), a lovesick guy determined to win her back. The FMC’s frosty attitude—bordering on harsh at times—made it hard to warm up to her, and the MMC, while sweet, felt like a walking cliché of a man pining for his lost love. Neither character is particularly memorable, and their lack of depth kept me from getting fully invested.
The spice is plentiful, which is great if you’re in the mood for some steamy scenes, but it’s pretty vanilla, so don’t expect anything wild or creative. The short length means conflicts are resolved quickly without much detail, which works for a fast read but leaves you wanting more substance. It’s all surface-level fluff—no gritty emotional depth or surprising twists to sink your teeth into. The pacing is snappy, though, making it an easy book to breeze through in a sitting.
Aimed at adults, Private Paradise is perfect for readers who want a frilly, low-commitment romance to pass the time. If you’re after something quick and cute with a side of predictable spice, it fits the bill. But if you’re looking for complex characters or a story with real emotional weight, you’ll want to skip this one.
Final Thoughts: Private Paradise is a fast, fluffy romance with lots of vanilla spice but forgettable characters and no depth. Fine for a quick escape, but don’t expect much more. 3/5 stars for hitting the light-and-easy mark.
The story follows a classic setup: the female main character (FMC), who’s kind of a cold-hearted ice queen after a teenage breakup, and the male main character (MMC), a lovesick guy determined to win her back. The FMC’s frosty attitude—bordering on harsh at times—made it hard to warm up to her, and the MMC, while sweet, felt like a walking cliché of a man pining for his lost love. Neither character is particularly memorable, and their lack of depth kept me from getting fully invested.
The spice is plentiful, which is great if you’re in the mood for some steamy scenes, but it’s pretty vanilla, so don’t expect anything wild or creative. The short length means conflicts are resolved quickly without much detail, which works for a fast read but leaves you wanting more substance. It’s all surface-level fluff—no gritty emotional depth or surprising twists to sink your teeth into. The pacing is snappy, though, making it an easy book to breeze through in a sitting.
Aimed at adults, Private Paradise is perfect for readers who want a frilly, low-commitment romance to pass the time. If you’re after something quick and cute with a side of predictable spice, it fits the bill. But if you’re looking for complex characters or a story with real emotional weight, you’ll want to skip this one.
Final Thoughts: Private Paradise is a fast, fluffy romance with lots of vanilla spice but forgettable characters and no depth. Fine for a quick escape, but don’t expect much more. 3/5 stars for hitting the light-and-easy mark.
August 11, 2017
This was my first novel into erotic fiction. A tantalizing story of two characters who had a spark but due to economical reasons and life changes drift away only to find themselves on a secluded adults only resort. The beach, the heat, the nightlife - ingredients for the perfect erotic adventure. Graphic.
September 27, 2020
The last two changes hers ruined it
The majority of the book was good. Sam did some asshole things but that was just part of him. Than when Carla tells him its over he breaks into her house and blackmail her into having sex with him. I stopped reading at that point.
The majority of the book was good. Sam did some asshole things but that was just part of him. Than when Carla tells him its over he breaks into her house and blackmail her into having sex with him. I stopped reading at that point.
October 12, 2018
Reread.
June 30, 2019
Easy summer read for round the pool or beach
September 1, 2021
Great characters and storyline meant a great read
April 5, 2014
3.5-4 stars
This was a pretty good story. I liked both Carla and Sam and liked their story. This is the first story I've read by this author and based off this I'd be willing to try more of her work in the future. Obviously, I haven't read book #1 in the series but enough was explained or didn't need explained that I'd say this book works as a stand-alone.
Carla is the manager for one of the Caribbean's most luxurious resorts, Holley Cay. She worked as the assistant manager for years under her cousin, Chris (also the owner) before he opened a new resort on another island and she took over this resort. She doesn't make the time for or have an interest in relationships as her past experience hasn't been the best.
Sam grew up the son of a drunk that made him feel inadequate all his life. Sam was a ladies man after high school but was drifting until he joined the Army and found his maturity. He's since learned that sex isn't worth as much without caring to go with it. He finds out that Chris (a friend since they were kids) needs a head of security for Holley Cay and agrees to take the job mostly because Carla is there.
Sam always avoided Carla when she was in high school because she was Chris' younger cousin but once she graduated, they both ended up in jobs at a resort outside of Vegas. Sam was all about being with Carla but Carla knew his rep and wouldn't have sex with him. They spent the whole summer together and had much physical pleasure together but they never had actual intercourse. As the summer ends Carla has hope that they can be together afterwards but Sam is sure she'll come to regret shifting her life around to be with a looser like him so he harshly tells her lies about how he doesn't care about her and she was just a bit of fun. She's heartbroken and they both move on with their lives. Chris is never let in on the summer romance though and when Holley Cay needs a security chief desperately, Chris asks Sam about it, not realizing what problems it would cause. Carla is very unhappy about the Sam being hired but there's not much she can do about it so she just tries to avoid him. Carla does relatively well at this for a bit but Sam does manage to get a bit of face time with her. When a hurricane heads to the island, everyone has to be evacuated but a last minute accident leaves Carla behind and Sam goes back (jumping from the ferry to swim back to the dock to do so) to help her stay safe from the storm. They find a cottage on the side of the island away from the storm and get set up to wait it out.
As we might expect, being stuck in a tiny cottage together during a storm with no electricity soon generates some heat between them and they do end up in bed together. Carla decides that she'll just indulge in Sam during the storm. That the storm gave them a little pocket of now-where that once they come out it's like it never existed. Of course she's fooling herself and Sam isn't willing to let things go like that but this is what she tells herself. Sam soon realizes that he never stopped caring about Carla and he was a fool to leave her behind when he was young. He tries to get Carla to realize he's changed and she does to an extent but she still wont believe him emotionally. When the storm ends Carla shuts Sam out completely and Sam is left trying to figure out how to win her trust when he trampled it so thoroughly when he was younger that she refuses to let him in again. Things don't go smoothly for Sam and both he and Carla are hurt as they almost ruin a possible good thing. Thankfully, just before things go completely to hell they manage to come to an understanding and trust what the other says. With a little bit of talking and a quick bout of make-up sex, Carla and Sam are good and heading towards their HEA together.
This was a very enjoyable story. I liked the characters and the story was well done and kept me entertained and interested all the way through. Now I'm kind of curious about Chris' story in book #1 though so I may go back to try that one next. I'd recommend this book. :)
This was a pretty good story. I liked both Carla and Sam and liked their story. This is the first story I've read by this author and based off this I'd be willing to try more of her work in the future. Obviously, I haven't read book #1 in the series but enough was explained or didn't need explained that I'd say this book works as a stand-alone.
Carla is the manager for one of the Caribbean's most luxurious resorts, Holley Cay. She worked as the assistant manager for years under her cousin, Chris (also the owner) before he opened a new resort on another island and she took over this resort. She doesn't make the time for or have an interest in relationships as her past experience hasn't been the best.
Sam grew up the son of a drunk that made him feel inadequate all his life. Sam was a ladies man after high school but was drifting until he joined the Army and found his maturity. He's since learned that sex isn't worth as much without caring to go with it. He finds out that Chris (a friend since they were kids) needs a head of security for Holley Cay and agrees to take the job mostly because Carla is there.
Sam always avoided Carla when she was in high school because she was Chris' younger cousin but once she graduated, they both ended up in jobs at a resort outside of Vegas. Sam was all about being with Carla but Carla knew his rep and wouldn't have sex with him. They spent the whole summer together and had much physical pleasure together but they never had actual intercourse. As the summer ends Carla has hope that they can be together afterwards but Sam is sure she'll come to regret shifting her life around to be with a looser like him so he harshly tells her lies about how he doesn't care about her and she was just a bit of fun. She's heartbroken and they both move on with their lives. Chris is never let in on the summer romance though and when Holley Cay needs a security chief desperately, Chris asks Sam about it, not realizing what problems it would cause. Carla is very unhappy about the Sam being hired but there's not much she can do about it so she just tries to avoid him. Carla does relatively well at this for a bit but Sam does manage to get a bit of face time with her. When a hurricane heads to the island, everyone has to be evacuated but a last minute accident leaves Carla behind and Sam goes back (jumping from the ferry to swim back to the dock to do so) to help her stay safe from the storm. They find a cottage on the side of the island away from the storm and get set up to wait it out.
As we might expect, being stuck in a tiny cottage together during a storm with no electricity soon generates some heat between them and they do end up in bed together. Carla decides that she'll just indulge in Sam during the storm. That the storm gave them a little pocket of now-where that once they come out it's like it never existed. Of course she's fooling herself and Sam isn't willing to let things go like that but this is what she tells herself. Sam soon realizes that he never stopped caring about Carla and he was a fool to leave her behind when he was young. He tries to get Carla to realize he's changed and she does to an extent but she still wont believe him emotionally. When the storm ends Carla shuts Sam out completely and Sam is left trying to figure out how to win her trust when he trampled it so thoroughly when he was younger that she refuses to let him in again. Things don't go smoothly for Sam and both he and Carla are hurt as they almost ruin a possible good thing. Thankfully, just before things go completely to hell they manage to come to an understanding and trust what the other says. With a little bit of talking and a quick bout of make-up sex, Carla and Sam are good and heading towards their HEA together.
This was a very enjoyable story. I liked the characters and the story was well done and kept me entertained and interested all the way through. Now I'm kind of curious about Chris' story in book #1 though so I may go back to try that one next. I'd recommend this book. :)
July 20, 2013
“Don't get me wrong, it's been fun. You're hot, and you have a killer rack, but I'm only twenty-one. No way am I going to tie myself down to one girl now.” He made a scoffing sound that made her stomach clench so hard she thought she was going to throw up. “Especially not an uptight virgin who gives a lousy blowjob.”
Now fast forward 11 years and imagine how Carla fells thousands miles away from home working at her cousins resort hotel, when Sam (the man who said the above quote) to her when she was 18yo. Carla who is happy to push those nasty words in the past is now flooded with memories of when she and Same were "dating" i say this cause when he broke her heart he proclaimed they were NOT dating, making Carla feel very used and hurt.
Now Carla feels the urge to strangle her cousin who hired Sam while in Vegas, having NO idea what went on between the two. Sam has been threw 6 years in the Army and done a lot of growing up. Thing is Carla doesn't believe him. She thinks its more a finely tuned act to get back into her pants while they are stranded on the island resort as hurricane barrels thew.
Things get VERY VERY HOT between the two as everything outside is consumed by the storm.
While Sam tries to prove he has changed will Carla be able to see he's not bs-ing her or will he loose the love of his life he had and hurt so badly 11 years ago?!
Now fast forward 11 years and imagine how Carla fells thousands miles away from home working at her cousins resort hotel, when Sam (the man who said the above quote) to her when she was 18yo. Carla who is happy to push those nasty words in the past is now flooded with memories of when she and Same were "dating" i say this cause when he broke her heart he proclaimed they were NOT dating, making Carla feel very used and hurt.
Now Carla feels the urge to strangle her cousin who hired Sam while in Vegas, having NO idea what went on between the two. Sam has been threw 6 years in the Army and done a lot of growing up. Thing is Carla doesn't believe him. She thinks its more a finely tuned act to get back into her pants while they are stranded on the island resort as hurricane barrels thew.
Things get VERY VERY HOT between the two as everything outside is consumed by the storm.
While Sam tries to prove he has changed will Carla be able to see he's not bs-ing her or will he loose the love of his life he had and hurt so badly 11 years ago?!
August 25, 2013
This book was okay and I'm glad I got it for free. It begins with Carla, a manager at an upscale beach resort having to take on Sam as her director of security. 11 years before the beginning of the story Carla and Sam had a fling and apparently both never got over it. The fling ended badly with Sam telling Carla that he wasn't interested in her for more than a hook up, leading Carla to have bitter heartbroken feelings for all those years. A hurricane hits the beach resort which leaves Carla and Sam stranded on the island alone for a day and they rekindle their romance. The conflict in the story is Carla finds it hard to believe Sam has any feelings for her and will end up breaking her heart again because of how he treated her last time. Predictably, he has to convince her to take another chance on him.
Overall the plot wasn't original and it was obvious what the ending would look like. Sam and Carla's relationship seemed to be only centered around sex and the sheer number of times they had sex made me want to roll my eyes. Her big epiphany at the end when she realizes Sam loves her is unrealistic, she has just spent the entire book thinking he was a liar without a conscience and now she suddenly believes him. It was a light easy book and entertaining but just not one of the best novels.
Overall the plot wasn't original and it was obvious what the ending would look like. Sam and Carla's relationship seemed to be only centered around sex and the sheer number of times they had sex made me want to roll my eyes. Her big epiphany at the end when she realizes Sam loves her is unrealistic, she has just spent the entire book thinking he was a liar without a conscience and now she suddenly believes him. It was a light easy book and entertaining but just not one of the best novels.
July 17, 2014
Synopsis:
After years of catering to the whims of the rich and famous at one of the Caribbean's most luxurious resorts, there isn't much that can rattle Carla DeLuca.
Until Sam O’Connell shows up.
Tall, dark, and sexy, Holley Cay's new security chief is no stranger. He's the irresistible bad boy who seduced her over a long, hot summer only to leave her heartbroken, humiliated, and determined to never again fall for a player like him. But though her heart still stings with the memory of his rejection, her body can't forget the all-consuming pleasure of his touch.
Sam never forgave himself for his too cruel rejection of Carla over a decade before. Young, reckless, and convinced it was only a matter of time Carla regretted hooking up with a trouble maker like him, Sam pushed Carla away before she could realize her mistake. But when Sam lands a job working for Carla in paradise, he seizes the chance to finally make things right.
When a hurricane strands them alone on the island, Carla is unable to resist the passion simmering between them. She doesn't fool herself that what they have will last past the storm. But little does she know, Sam will do whatever it takes to make her his – forever this time
My review:
It is a nice light story. Good if you want to relax and enjoy.
After years of catering to the whims of the rich and famous at one of the Caribbean's most luxurious resorts, there isn't much that can rattle Carla DeLuca.
Until Sam O’Connell shows up.
Tall, dark, and sexy, Holley Cay's new security chief is no stranger. He's the irresistible bad boy who seduced her over a long, hot summer only to leave her heartbroken, humiliated, and determined to never again fall for a player like him. But though her heart still stings with the memory of his rejection, her body can't forget the all-consuming pleasure of his touch.
Sam never forgave himself for his too cruel rejection of Carla over a decade before. Young, reckless, and convinced it was only a matter of time Carla regretted hooking up with a trouble maker like him, Sam pushed Carla away before she could realize her mistake. But when Sam lands a job working for Carla in paradise, he seizes the chance to finally make things right.
When a hurricane strands them alone on the island, Carla is unable to resist the passion simmering between them. She doesn't fool herself that what they have will last past the storm. But little does she know, Sam will do whatever it takes to make her his – forever this time
My review:
It is a nice light story. Good if you want to relax and enjoy.
February 12, 2013
Review posted on Amazon.
Hot, Hot, Hot.
Jami Alden tells the story of two people with a history filled with intense pleasure and heart-shattering pain. Carla gave her heart to Sam ten years ago. When he cruelly dumped her at the end of their summer together, she was devastated. So when Sam walks through the door as the head of security at the exclusive island resort she manages, they are both dealing with a myriad of emotions.
Carla doesn't have a choice. After some trouble at the resort, Carla needs Sam's expertise and the security he gives to the board of directors who aren't quite sold on her ability to run the resort. Seeing each other daily is torturous for both Sam and Carla. But when a huge storm bears down on the private island, Sam and Carla find themselves stranded together in a villa where they'll get reacquainted again in every way possible.
I have a soft spot for damaged characters who make the journey to find themselves and love. We see that in both Carla and Sam, yet Jami still manages to bring the heat, and lots of it.
Hot, Hot, Hot.
Jami Alden tells the story of two people with a history filled with intense pleasure and heart-shattering pain. Carla gave her heart to Sam ten years ago. When he cruelly dumped her at the end of their summer together, she was devastated. So when Sam walks through the door as the head of security at the exclusive island resort she manages, they are both dealing with a myriad of emotions.
Carla doesn't have a choice. After some trouble at the resort, Carla needs Sam's expertise and the security he gives to the board of directors who aren't quite sold on her ability to run the resort. Seeing each other daily is torturous for both Sam and Carla. But when a huge storm bears down on the private island, Sam and Carla find themselves stranded together in a villa where they'll get reacquainted again in every way possible.
I have a soft spot for damaged characters who make the journey to find themselves and love. We see that in both Carla and Sam, yet Jami still manages to bring the heat, and lots of it.
February 24, 2014
Carla is the cousin of Chris who if you read the first book would know all about his love affair with Julie. Carla has moved from second in command to running the lush, exclusive resort and Chris has moved to another island running a family friend resort with Julie and their daughter Matilda. So surprising to Carla, Chris shows up with a new hire. He found a new director of security. The problem is, Sam is also Carla's first love - of course Chris does not know about their prior relationship. But because Carla's job is on the line she accepts Sam and tries to work with him and be professional. But all that is blown out of the water when a hurricane arrives and Carla and Sam get stuck on the island to wait it out. Let's just say the sea was not the only think that was stormy. There are some twists and turns after the first sexual encounter but in the end Carla and Sam get their HEA.
I purchased this book on Amazon.ca for less than $1.
I purchased this book on Amazon.ca for less than $1.
November 18, 2013
This e-book novella was free on Amazon, so although I thought it was just a run-of-the-mill romance with fairly boring characters, it was worth reading. The main characters Carla and Sam don't have a lot of depth, but the writing gives them sexual chemistry. I think I just don't much care for novellas. The closeness between Carl and Sam relies on flashbacks to their love scenes when they were young and working together at a resort, and it feels like a shortcut so that their relationship in the present doesn't feel too sudden or shallow, but it still felt too sudden and shallow to me. I just can't get on board with a heroine in a contemporary who has never gotten over a guy from when she was 18. There was a mix of contemporary sexuality with an old-fashioned sense of that heading pretty immediately to settling down to marriage that seemed a bit discordant.
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