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What Happens In Paradise
A steamy enemies-to-lovers second-chance fake-relationship romance about a billionaire badboy with no desire to settle down and the girl whose heart he crushed in high school.
Mia
I once thought Dominic Ashford was my prince charming. But years ago we shared an illicit kiss on an ill-fated night, and the news ricochoted around my hometown, ruining my life. The hated teenage dropout, daughter of a theif, was not supposed to kiss the town's golden boy. And oh how they loved it when he publicly rejected me.
Ten years later, he's the adored tech billionaire and I'm the hapless model desperately trying to make things right. When I accidentally get us in big trouble, a ruthless enemy offers us one way out - we must pretend to be a fake couple on his hot Paradise Island reality TV show. With the world watching!
Dominic agrees to play ball only to protect his family. But he makes it clear he loathes me. Which hurts because my feelings for him return stronger than ever. Then we get to paradise... and our chemistry is sizzling hot. He insists it's only for the cameras, right up until sharing one small bed becomes too much to handle. The last thing I expect is for him to whisper one night, “What happens in paradise can stay in paradise..?”
And I know my heart is about to break all over again. Because I never could resist him, and this time rejection will be on the global stage...
Read it today and get washed away in the sizzling romantic adventure of a lifetime.
★★★★★ "Oh my! The secrets, the hidden attraction, the pain of rejection... I ended up not sleeping a wink until I finished reading this s*xy romance." — Amazon Reviewer
★★★★★ "Wow, what can I say?! It was AMAZING! I was blown away by the story, the depth of her characters and the emotion it brought out in me. I couldn’t put it down! You’ll laugh, cringe and hold your breath, hoping for the best through this captivating story. Buy this book and spread the word. This author is so great." — Amazon Reviewer
Mia
I once thought Dominic Ashford was my prince charming. But years ago we shared an illicit kiss on an ill-fated night, and the news ricochoted around my hometown, ruining my life. The hated teenage dropout, daughter of a theif, was not supposed to kiss the town's golden boy. And oh how they loved it when he publicly rejected me.
Ten years later, he's the adored tech billionaire and I'm the hapless model desperately trying to make things right. When I accidentally get us in big trouble, a ruthless enemy offers us one way out - we must pretend to be a fake couple on his hot Paradise Island reality TV show. With the world watching!
Dominic agrees to play ball only to protect his family. But he makes it clear he loathes me. Which hurts because my feelings for him return stronger than ever. Then we get to paradise... and our chemistry is sizzling hot. He insists it's only for the cameras, right up until sharing one small bed becomes too much to handle. The last thing I expect is for him to whisper one night, “What happens in paradise can stay in paradise..?”
And I know my heart is about to break all over again. Because I never could resist him, and this time rejection will be on the global stage...
Read it today and get washed away in the sizzling romantic adventure of a lifetime.
★★★★★ "Oh my! The secrets, the hidden attraction, the pain of rejection... I ended up not sleeping a wink until I finished reading this s*xy romance." — Amazon Reviewer
★★★★★ "Wow, what can I say?! It was AMAZING! I was blown away by the story, the depth of her characters and the emotion it brought out in me. I couldn’t put it down! You’ll laugh, cringe and hold your breath, hoping for the best through this captivating story. Buy this book and spread the word. This author is so great." — Amazon Reviewer
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2023
99 people are currently reading
406 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
August 15, 2023
I've never been so disappointed with a book. 🙄 I loved the plot, storyline, everything. But there was no grovelling, Mia (h) was treated like crap throughout, Dominic (H) wasn't redeemable and she forgave him way too quickly. She definitely deserved better. This was so unsatisfying, I lost sleep over the fact that I was waiting for him to beg on his damn knees for her. But none of that happened, everyone got away with their actions and he was just terrible. 🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️ I'm just shocked at all the positive reviews. I mean i guess the plot was enjoyable but the romance lacked big time. ✋️😭
August 25, 2022
A Refreshing RomCom!
From debut author Didi Sand comes a storyline that is “steamy, laugh-out-loud enemies to lovers romance about a hapless model and the annoyingly handsome billionaire who refuses to be charmed by her.” These main characters, Mia and Dominic are so great at being at odds with each other while at the same time can’t help being attracted to each other especially when the reader is given the whole backstory.
I love that this story takes place in the UK where there are some differences to lifestyles of the rich and not so rich and strong female roles. The author does not get the story bogged down about the past but uses it to push the story forward which I liked. Plus it’s not an automatic done deal at the end without real conversation taking place.
I’m definitely recommending this book for your reading enjoyment and pleasure. PEACE.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
From debut author Didi Sand comes a storyline that is “steamy, laugh-out-loud enemies to lovers romance about a hapless model and the annoyingly handsome billionaire who refuses to be charmed by her.” These main characters, Mia and Dominic are so great at being at odds with each other while at the same time can’t help being attracted to each other especially when the reader is given the whole backstory.
I love that this story takes place in the UK where there are some differences to lifestyles of the rich and not so rich and strong female roles. The author does not get the story bogged down about the past but uses it to push the story forward which I liked. Plus it’s not an automatic done deal at the end without real conversation taking place.
I’m definitely recommending this book for your reading enjoyment and pleasure. PEACE.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2022
Mia and Dominic will definitely get your emotions stirring. A second chance romance that will have your head spinning. Secrets, sabotage and plenty of drama. The characters were well developed with layers that we had to peel back. Dominic was definitely a moody characters. For a debut novel the author did an amazing job. This was a delight to read with an engaging story line and interesting characters. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2024
Listennnnn I need an Evan and Penny sequel, please and thank you!
Also, I need a resolution to the murder mystery???
Also, I need a resolution to the murder mystery???
August 26, 2022
Mia and Dominic don’t like each other but to save Evans, Mia’s best friend and Dominic’s brother, career they pretend to be in love. Mia, Dominic, Evans, and Penny go on the tv show Lover’s Paradise. Mia and Dominic may not like each other but the attraction is intense. They both decide what happens here stays here. Can Mia and Dominic keep their hearts out of it or will the past keep them apart? Great characters and storyline Highly recommended Amazing Book. I love the characters in this book and I can’t wait for more. This is my first book by this author definitely not my last
September 15, 2024
(Disclaimer: I downloaded this book for free as part of “Stuff Your Kindle Day”.)
The idea for this book was perfect for me. A cross between Love Island and I’m a Celeb. I was sold! Mia Fleet gorgeous supermodel, Dominic Ashford brooding billionaire, forced proximity and fake relationship? Yes please!
However, the actual writing of the story let it down. Parts of the plot are just erratic, unnecessary and down right random. (Her friend’s pet chicken makes her late and is then never mentioned again?!) There are lots of typos and repetition along the way and instances of the author just telling us information rather than showing it us. Not to mention the spice that came a little too soon (pardon the pun) and definitely felt like an addition made after the initial draft. At times all of this made the story hard to follow and I felt like a good editor could definitely have helped Sand fine tune this book. It’s a shame, because I really do think it has good potential.
I was disappointed we never got the full resolution for all of the many plot points. The characters and the plot were what was driving me to carry on reading. I even went as far as to download the bonus epilogue by following the link at the end of the ebook. But I’ll be honest, I think that was actually worse. Explaining away major plot points with a single sentence that left me with so many more questions. I probably would have been better off not reading it.
This book was my summer holiday read. I read it all while I was away, so it did keep my interest. I just wish Sand had been given more help and advice along the way.
The idea for this book was perfect for me. A cross between Love Island and I’m a Celeb. I was sold! Mia Fleet gorgeous supermodel, Dominic Ashford brooding billionaire, forced proximity and fake relationship? Yes please!
However, the actual writing of the story let it down. Parts of the plot are just erratic, unnecessary and down right random. (Her friend’s pet chicken makes her late and is then never mentioned again?!) There are lots of typos and repetition along the way and instances of the author just telling us information rather than showing it us. Not to mention the spice that came a little too soon (pardon the pun) and definitely felt like an addition made after the initial draft. At times all of this made the story hard to follow and I felt like a good editor could definitely have helped Sand fine tune this book. It’s a shame, because I really do think it has good potential.
I was disappointed we never got the full resolution for all of the many plot points. The characters and the plot were what was driving me to carry on reading. I even went as far as to download the bonus epilogue by following the link at the end of the ebook. But I’ll be honest, I think that was actually worse. Explaining away major plot points with a single sentence that left me with so many more questions. I probably would have been better off not reading it.
This book was my summer holiday read. I read it all while I was away, so it did keep my interest. I just wish Sand had been given more help and advice along the way.
August 25, 2022
This is the 1st story by Didi and it’s a must read! What a wonderful job with this story full of heartbreak, fun, betrayal, bullying and a journey to finding happiness and love. Both Dominic, a tech billionaire and Mia, a successful model have grown up in Thirteen Elms a wealthy town. Dominic has a younger brother Evan who Mia has been best friends with since childhood against his mothers wishes as Mia does not come from the same circle as them and had a horrible home life. Growing up Mia had a crush on Dominic so when she gets a chance to kiss him she takes it but an unforeseen event occurs and turns the entire town upside down causing Mia to run off for a modeling job. Years later both Mia and Evan are trying to get casted in a movie that will take them both to a new level professionally. There is a twist that they have to pretend to be in relationships and compete on a reality show, Mia with Dominic and Evan and Penny. The chemistry between them is undeniable but neither know what to do and once they give in it’s something beautiful to see how they truly get to know one another. They become the it couple on the show and others are out to steal Dominic from Mia by playing dirty. When the ends comes Mia holds her head high and moves on with her life. Dominic can not believe what he’s feeling and finally moves on finding what’s been missing from his life all these years - a woman who holds his heart! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2022
I voluntarily read an arc of this book and am leaving an honest review. Wow, what can I say?! This was this authors FIRST book?1?! It was AMAZING! I was blown away by the story, the depth of her characters and the emotion it brought out in me. I was so invested in these characters I couldn’t put it down! Mia is such a perfect character, she was kind, humble, loving…everything you’d wish everyone in this world was. Dominick was sexy, mysterious and brooding. Also everything I love seeing in a male lead. But there’s more life to these two and you will enjoy getting to know them. You’ll find love, murder and a softly blooming romance and what can I say I love a good grovel at then end of a story. You’ll laugh, cringe and hold your breath, hoping for the best through this captivating story. I really hope there’s a book for Evan and Penny in the works. Buy this book and spread the word. This author is so great!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 28, 2022
Dominic and Mia share a past, including a friend's murder ten years earlier that Dominic thinks Mia was somehow involved with...because she was distracting (kissing) him at the time. No contact in ten years. To get her good friend Evan out of a jam, she agrees to pretend to be dating Dominic, Evan's brother. And then all four of them (Evan and Penny and Dominic and Mia) end up on a reality tv show. Story kept me interested, enjoyed relationships unfolding; vulnerability of deep conversations, solid friendships, humor mixed in, and of course, a pot-stirrer character or two, and choices, and consequences. Came out feeling good. Reality show did cross a safety line, bringing in an ex; loved friends having each other's back and how Dominic read Mia's body language enough to protect her. Stayed up longer reading a few nights also. Kudos to the author on an well-done debut novel. Looking forward to Evan and Penny's story, and wondering if there's one for Gabe and Harper coming. There's still that unsolved death.
August 26, 2022
Excellent Story - First Time Author!!
I rate stories on how they made me feel, how engaged I am throughout and how anxious I am to read more from the author based on the current book. I started at a 4, because it was interesting, but a character, I felt was unnecessary to the story and a bit “over the top”, was keeping me from the meat of the story….
By the time I was on the island, I was “on the island”. Not an onlooker, but part of the action. I received this 2 days prior to release day, it is 400+ pages, but I know you get a few days grace period. Nope, I inhaled it - and am ready to give you my thoughts. Do it. Read it. A five-star read.
The characters come to life. Their backstory is complex and well delivered. Their chemistry is off the charts, and treats the reader from hilarity to tragedy to delight.
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
I rate stories on how they made me feel, how engaged I am throughout and how anxious I am to read more from the author based on the current book. I started at a 4, because it was interesting, but a character, I felt was unnecessary to the story and a bit “over the top”, was keeping me from the meat of the story….
By the time I was on the island, I was “on the island”. Not an onlooker, but part of the action. I received this 2 days prior to release day, it is 400+ pages, but I know you get a few days grace period. Nope, I inhaled it - and am ready to give you my thoughts. Do it. Read it. A five-star read.
The characters come to life. Their backstory is complex and well delivered. Their chemistry is off the charts, and treats the reader from hilarity to tragedy to delight.
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
August 27, 2022
I still think mean people s*ck
This is my honest, voluntary ARC review, and honestly, I hated this book for the first 6 chapters or so. All about the so-called beautiful people: movie moguls, reality tv producers, movie stars, millionaires, models, influencers, professional gossips and amateur backstabbers - nobody with a conscience. Nobody with a heart for anyone but themselves. Fake folks who won't tell the truth until it bites them in the butt - or the wallet. I made myself keep reading, and eventually the hero and heroine managed to get real enough to be OK people who turned fake romance into real love. The author writes well enough - I just didn't like her world or her characters. Others may disagree, and that's fine. Different stokes, ya'll...
This is my honest, voluntary ARC review, and honestly, I hated this book for the first 6 chapters or so. All about the so-called beautiful people: movie moguls, reality tv producers, movie stars, millionaires, models, influencers, professional gossips and amateur backstabbers - nobody with a conscience. Nobody with a heart for anyone but themselves. Fake folks who won't tell the truth until it bites them in the butt - or the wallet. I made myself keep reading, and eventually the hero and heroine managed to get real enough to be OK people who turned fake romance into real love. The author writes well enough - I just didn't like her world or her characters. Others may disagree, and that's fine. Different stokes, ya'll...
August 25, 2022
Mia and Dominic's Story . . .
I was delightfully surprised with this story. The characters were presented well with descriptions, behavior, and emotions that made them very realistic. Mia Fleet was a very likable person actually. Dominic Ashford, tech billionaire, was sexy and desirable. But there is more to both of them, and the reader is treated to an intriguing story as we wonder what direction the author is taking us next. Needing to pretend to be his girlfriend on a Paradise Island reality TV show will keep things jumping, especially when a jealous enemy wants Dominic for herself. Grab your copy and see how their story resolves.
I was delightfully surprised with this story. The characters were presented well with descriptions, behavior, and emotions that made them very realistic. Mia Fleet was a very likable person actually. Dominic Ashford, tech billionaire, was sexy and desirable. But there is more to both of them, and the reader is treated to an intriguing story as we wonder what direction the author is taking us next. Needing to pretend to be his girlfriend on a Paradise Island reality TV show will keep things jumping, especially when a jealous enemy wants Dominic for herself. Grab your copy and see how their story resolves.
September 12, 2022
Oh wow, this is such a steamy book. It will not let you stop turning those pages with all the intrigue, suspense, surprises, twists, and so much more. I love how Mia is so caring and wants to help those in need. Dominic seems so hard and unbending, but that’s only the surface. I loved the descriptions of where the show took place, it made me want to be there enjoying the area. I loved how close Mia is with her family, and when all the secrets come to light. Such an awesome book, I couldn’t get enough of it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 26, 2022
Brilliant debut novel.
I loved this debut romance so much I have literally just read the entire book in one sitting. It was brilliant! Humorous and heartbreaking, sexy and sweet, frustrating and flirty. Filled with so many wonderful characters, including Mia and Dominic, whose winding journey to a happily ever after was an absolute joy to follow. I am very excited to have been introduced to this new author and can't wait to read more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this debut romance so much I have literally just read the entire book in one sitting. It was brilliant! Humorous and heartbreaking, sexy and sweet, frustrating and flirty. Filled with so many wonderful characters, including Mia and Dominic, whose winding journey to a happily ever after was an absolute joy to follow. I am very excited to have been introduced to this new author and can't wait to read more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2022
For her debut book, Didi Sands did a great job of pulling you into her story and making you want to find out what happens next. Mia got the short stick growing up in Thirteen Elms, full of snobby rich, entitled people. Envy, anger, betrayal. Love, acceptance, loss. This story encompasses all the feelings while still making it fun, and a little heartbreaking.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 27, 2022
The debut story from Didi Sand is a refreshing enemies-to-lovers romance that will delight readers. The characters are funny and fresh and their interactions make for a compelling journey that will have you fully engaged in their journey.
The chemistry between Mia and Dominic will make you believe their connection is what makes paradise.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The chemistry between Mia and Dominic will make you believe their connection is what makes paradise.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2022
A MUST read!! I thoroughly enjoyed the debut book by DiDi Sand! The depth of the characters she created is astounding! I can't wait to read about the other characters in this story. It's a romance not to be missed! I truly looking forward to reading more from this author!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2022
When you feel that they would never be together because of all those little things that had nothing to do with either Mia or Dominic.
I felt like I was there experiencing their story first hand.
If you like a good romantic book then you will love this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I felt like I was there experiencing their story first hand.
If you like a good romantic book then you will love this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 27, 2022
I can't believe this is the author's first book. It started off a little slower than I usually like, but the character's overall development added to the storyline and plot. And it was a cute story, with great chemistry and a perfect amount of spice.
Can't wait to see what this author does next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Can't wait to see what this author does next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2022
I loved this book! For a debut novel it was really well written. I really enjoyed reading Mia and Dominic's story. They both have sad pasts that intertwine that makes their lives in current time tumultuous. I loved the whole story and the plot was great! The characters were well rounded and have a complete story arc that has a beginning, middle and end. Both main characters evolve throughout the novel. This was just all around a wonderful story!
August 23, 2022
The author has given us a wonderful story that pulls us into the lives of Mia and Dominic and does not let go. The story keeps us turning the pages with humor, misconceptions, betrayal and love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2022
This book is an enemies to lovers romantic comedy with laughter and love. Dominic and Mia chemistry is steamy and hot .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 27, 2022
Helping your best friend and your career while pretending to date your childhood crush on a reality show. Lots of drama, twists and turns and a happy ending!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 11, 2023
This is an easy read but its also repetitive to the point of annoyance at some points. The only reason i didnt DNF this book was because i was waiting to find out who the freaking killer was and we never get the answer so what a waste of time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2023
this was a great vacation book, as someone who enjoys romance novels for long trips. would’ve enjoyed more steamy scenes and finding out what happens with sophia’s killer ???? epilogue/ending felt really rushed but i wasn’t expecting much to begin with anyway. enjoyed it overall.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2023
Slow burn second chance romance. It was cute and a breath of fresh air.
October 10, 2023
One thing that drove me a bit mental was that it was first person view for Mia but third person for Dominic.
Also... do we ever get to find out who was the killer?
Also... do we ever get to find out who was the killer?
August 29, 2023
This was… not the best. It was fluff. It was mindless. It was predictable. That’s fine I guess but it wasn’t what I was hoping for. 2/5 stars
December 15, 2023
Despite the rating, this was still a book I couldn't put down and I finished within a day.
Enemies to lovers is always fun and the setting was relatable purely for the fact that reality TV has consumed most at one time or another over the years so to enjoy the 'other side' is a rare treat.
So why only 3 stars? Although a bit of fun, I wasn't pulled in by the writing - I continued purely for the indulgent storyline. I couldn't relate to or feel pulled in by any of the characters and so wasn't able to really invest myself, however if you want a short and light hearted piece to break up some other drama then this is a book for you.
Enemies to lovers is always fun and the setting was relatable purely for the fact that reality TV has consumed most at one time or another over the years so to enjoy the 'other side' is a rare treat.
So why only 3 stars? Although a bit of fun, I wasn't pulled in by the writing - I continued purely for the indulgent storyline. I couldn't relate to or feel pulled in by any of the characters and so wasn't able to really invest myself, however if you want a short and light hearted piece to break up some other drama then this is a book for you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews