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The Kincaids #1
Welcome to Paradise
By the bestselling author of the "Escape to New Zealand" series--
They're going to party like it's 1885.
Mira Walker is hoping that competing on a "living history" reality show will give her what's missing from her real life. Maybe she'll get closer to her boyfriend, who hasn't been all that nice to her lately. Get fired up about her job again. Who knows, she might even win a million dollars.
Gabe Kincaid and his brother Alec are after that million too, though. Mira and Scott are no threat at all, not when everybody involved is going to want to kill Scott after the first day. And there's no bond stronger than a twin's. What could possibly go wrong?
Note: Despite the TV cameras, things do heat up a bit in the Idaho summer. If you prefer your romance unheated, this may not be the book for you.
They're going to party like it's 1885.
Mira Walker is hoping that competing on a "living history" reality show will give her what's missing from her real life. Maybe she'll get closer to her boyfriend, who hasn't been all that nice to her lately. Get fired up about her job again. Who knows, she might even win a million dollars.
Gabe Kincaid and his brother Alec are after that million too, though. Mira and Scott are no threat at all, not when everybody involved is going to want to kill Scott after the first day. And there's no bond stronger than a twin's. What could possibly go wrong?
Note: Despite the TV cameras, things do heat up a bit in the Idaho summer. If you prefer your romance unheated, this may not be the book for you.
340 pages, Paperback
First published April 12, 2013
1664 people are currently reading
2395 people want to read
About the author
Rosalind James
55 books1,217 followersRosalind James writes contemporary romance and romantic suspense published both by Montlake Romance and independently. Her stories are set in New Zealand, Idaho, California, New York . . . really, anyplace that seems cool. (Research trips, especially those involving lots of rugby, are a bonus.) Her books are available in ebook, paperback, and audio formats. Rosalind is a former marketing executive who spent several years in Australia and New Zealand, where she fell in love with the people, the landscape, and the culture of both countries. She attributes her rapid success to the fact that "Lots of people would like to escape to New Zealand! I know I did!"
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November 25, 2013
Little House on the Prairie for Grown-Ups?
Well, not quite. However, if you ever wondered how Ma and Pa got it on in that one-room cabin with other kids/people around, maybe this book will shed some light on that matter. Hint : find other places outside of the cabin.
The concept : Modern-day people are taken out of their element to compete on a reality show by heading out to the middle of nowhere to live like they're stuck in the year 1885.
Was it unique? Sure. I've actually seen a PBS show where the participants did the same thing, but I can honestly say that this is the first book I've read with this theme.
Did it work? Yes...and no. One of my favorite things about Little House on the Prairie is that you get to observe the day-to-day details of how tough it was to keep a household running back then. I would have liked more of these details in the book, although the author did do a great job of presenting what she did.
In all honesty... The story floundered in too many parts for my liking. There were at least a couple of chapters which could have been cut out.
I didn't ever warm up to the female lead (just my own personal annoyance with women who can't see obvious abuse, especially when the book isn't meant to be specifically about about abuse), even though I loved the way the male lead wanted her. He was so genuine and earnest, and it was more fun to watch his reactions than to be in the female's head.
The romance was cute, although a bit tamer than I'd expected. It was sort of surprising that the hero even mentioned wanting to have rough sex, when the sex scene itself kind of just came (hah) and went.
The pseudo-suspense turn at the end was... Weird? I don't think the story needed to take that turn, but it didn't bother me either.
The harping on reality-show stereotypes was... Possibly realistic, but presented awkwardly. I wasn't a fan of how the mention of this kept coming back.
Even so... I'd recommend Welcome to Paradise for contemporary romance fans who are looking for something completely different from their normal fare. There was enough here for me to want to read something else from the author, even with a few small complaints.
This book was borrowed as a freebie through Amazon Prime.
You can also find my review on Booklikes
July 14, 2015
You know what? Sometimes you just need a bit of levity in life. You need to watch cartoons that you watched as a kid (some with far too many inappropriate jokes) and read silly books that have cute plot lines and an obvious ending.
And that's what I did with this book. Welcome to Paradise is probably one of the silliest book I've read this year and I'm completely okay with that. Hell, I read it pretty much in one sitting. It was quick, fun, easy , and maybe it will help get me out of this reading slump I seem to be in.
This book is about a reality show where the contestants are sent "back" to the 1880s in the Old West where they are expected to live in a homestead environment and work hard every day. That's before the contests that are all Old West themed like sawing logs or baking pies. Scott and Mira came to the competition as a couple, with Mira hoping that it would reignite the fire in her life and their relationship but it's hard to compete with someone that everybody loathes right away (with good reason). Then there are the twins. Hot. Rugged. Manly twin brothers who seem to have their eye on the prize as well. As Mira comes to the realization that Scott is the world's longest jackass parade, Gabe Kincaid wedges himself in her life. Despite having cameras around constantly, they manage to find a connection and things quickly heat up.
You know exactly what is going to happen from the very beginning. It's no secret. There's nothing really surprising throughout the book, at least until the end. Scott was one of the worst human beings ever and the author wrote him well. He's patronizing, has a superiority complex, thinks he is the most attractive human being, is verbally abusive, and thinks that everything he does is right. You know those people that are toxic in all relationships that they are in, be it with their family, friends, or partners? That's this guy.
And Gabe steps in at just the right moment.
He's definitely too perfect of a character. His flaws aren't really obvious and he's good at everything. He's strong, incredibly sexy, and is calm and understanding of all of the issues that Mira is going through. Gabe plays the shoulder to cry on sometimes and the pin you against the wall because your knees can't hold you at other times.
Mira is appropriately cute and helpful. She learns to stand up for herself and proves that she is a major contributor to the efficacy of the homestead as opposed to Scott. She's spunky and likable and a little bit one dimensional. But it's cute!
So yeah, this book was extremely predictable but it was a cute read. I'm not sure if I'll ever reach for it again but it kept me entertained for an afternoon.
And that's what I did with this book. Welcome to Paradise is probably one of the silliest book I've read this year and I'm completely okay with that. Hell, I read it pretty much in one sitting. It was quick, fun, easy , and maybe it will help get me out of this reading slump I seem to be in.
This book is about a reality show where the contestants are sent "back" to the 1880s in the Old West where they are expected to live in a homestead environment and work hard every day. That's before the contests that are all Old West themed like sawing logs or baking pies. Scott and Mira came to the competition as a couple, with Mira hoping that it would reignite the fire in her life and their relationship but it's hard to compete with someone that everybody loathes right away (with good reason). Then there are the twins. Hot. Rugged. Manly twin brothers who seem to have their eye on the prize as well. As Mira comes to the realization that Scott is the world's longest jackass parade, Gabe Kincaid wedges himself in her life. Despite having cameras around constantly, they manage to find a connection and things quickly heat up.
You know exactly what is going to happen from the very beginning. It's no secret. There's nothing really surprising throughout the book, at least until the end. Scott was one of the worst human beings ever and the author wrote him well. He's patronizing, has a superiority complex, thinks he is the most attractive human being, is verbally abusive, and thinks that everything he does is right. You know those people that are toxic in all relationships that they are in, be it with their family, friends, or partners? That's this guy.
And Gabe steps in at just the right moment.
He's definitely too perfect of a character. His flaws aren't really obvious and he's good at everything. He's strong, incredibly sexy, and is calm and understanding of all of the issues that Mira is going through. Gabe plays the shoulder to cry on sometimes and the pin you against the wall because your knees can't hold you at other times.
Mira is appropriately cute and helpful. She learns to stand up for herself and proves that she is a major contributor to the efficacy of the homestead as opposed to Scott. She's spunky and likable and a little bit one dimensional. But it's cute!
So yeah, this book was extremely predictable but it was a cute read. I'm not sure if I'll ever reach for it again but it kept me entertained for an afternoon.
November 10, 2013
I wasn't sure what to expect when I purchased this: I'd read (and really liked) the author's other books (the Escape to New Zealand series) so figured "why not?"
I am SO GLAD I made that decision. This is a romance for readers who appreciate an interesting, informative, intricate story written by a clearly erudite writer.
After the success of British tv's "Victorian House," "Manor House," etc., PBS did a few of its own plopping-modern-families-in-historical-settings series, starting with "Frontier House." In it, three new millennium families lived as 1883 homesteaders in Montana. I LOVED that series and reading Rosalind James' "Welcome to Paradise" so happily brought that series to mind. Admittedly, I am not knowledgeable about that era, but what she wrote really jibed with what I remembered from the tv show. Her descriptions and settings, let alone the characters (to follow), were all so interesting that I truly forgot I had purchased a book classified as a romance: instead I was simply reading a well-written, well-paced, interesting book with characters I liked doing things which intrigued me, and I wanted to know MORE.
Even though the story is a romance between Mira and Gabe, it never felt to the exclusion of other character developments.
As you can already tell from reading the description and other reviews which are summaries, the plot is that eight pairs of adults are competing on a reality tv show where they are living the authentic homesteader life. Gabe and his twin brother, Alec, Mira and her okay-for-now boyfriend, Scott, are our main characters. Scott has an ugly competitive streak and an equally ugly disposition; Mira has some self-esteem and backbone issues (which Scott takes advantage of and makes us root against him); Alec is a bit of a player but has a positive, strong relationship with his brother -- we don't get to know Alec well in this book, but his relationship with Gabe is enough to mark him as a Good Guy, and Gabe is a hardworking, fair and generous man who also happens to be a physician.
Of the other contestants, two and a half others are really fleshed out which was nice -- they added to the fullness of the story and to our attachment(s) to all the characters. Stanley (his adult son joins him in the competition) is an older widower who has a heart of gold and is highly ethical, a real straight-shooter and an all-around kind human. Zara is an older woman (her husband is also in the competition), a semi-famous folk singer (or maybe more famous than semi-) who is also a hard worker and incredibly industrious. She is no-nonsense but without being a nag -- she is kind and knows how much work there is to do so she is going to get to it and expects her fellow housemates to do their share as well. The "half" is Kevin, whose sister is competing with him. Kevin is very strategic but he is aboveboard about it: he never comes across as shifty. He works hard, isn't as naturally gifted at being a homesteader as some of the other contestants, but again, his transparency enables us (reader) to like him.
They are all first trained in the homesteader life before being sent out to live it, followed by cameras.
And the fun begins! Mira had already been having niggling doubts about Scott and participating in the show only highlights them, makes her realize he doesn't really care about her, doesn't want to please her. It's all about him and how Mira (whom he calls Grace, her middle name, as he doesn't like the name Mira) can support him, undergird his goals. Mira's realization feels organic, proceeds at a pace which feels natural, and you root for her. Along the way, she and Gabe figure out their mutual attraction, and it was lovely. It was a romance in the truest sense of the word, making me now smile and think "ahhh" about their kind acts toward one another and gentle, innocent flirting. There are some fun and descriptive intimate acts, and I liked them -- they didn't feel gratuitous. One in particular (Mira's gift for her birthday) was heartstoppingly dear.
The story takes place over a few months, and we really spend that time with them, learning details about their chores on the homestead. The author has such a gift with description because not once did I get bored or lose interest -- I was fascinated with learning about their lives, their period dress, the food, the tasks, the interactions.
There was just one "what?!?" for me in the book, toward the end, but given how much I liked all aspects of the story (historical references, descriptions, characters, writing) I'm happy to give it a pass.
Definitely pleased I purchased and read this book -- a treat.
I am SO GLAD I made that decision. This is a romance for readers who appreciate an interesting, informative, intricate story written by a clearly erudite writer.
After the success of British tv's "Victorian House," "Manor House," etc., PBS did a few of its own plopping-modern-families-in-historical-settings series, starting with "Frontier House." In it, three new millennium families lived as 1883 homesteaders in Montana. I LOVED that series and reading Rosalind James' "Welcome to Paradise" so happily brought that series to mind. Admittedly, I am not knowledgeable about that era, but what she wrote really jibed with what I remembered from the tv show. Her descriptions and settings, let alone the characters (to follow), were all so interesting that I truly forgot I had purchased a book classified as a romance: instead I was simply reading a well-written, well-paced, interesting book with characters I liked doing things which intrigued me, and I wanted to know MORE.
Even though the story is a romance between Mira and Gabe, it never felt to the exclusion of other character developments.
As you can already tell from reading the description and other reviews which are summaries, the plot is that eight pairs of adults are competing on a reality tv show where they are living the authentic homesteader life. Gabe and his twin brother, Alec, Mira and her okay-for-now boyfriend, Scott, are our main characters. Scott has an ugly competitive streak and an equally ugly disposition; Mira has some self-esteem and backbone issues (which Scott takes advantage of and makes us root against him); Alec is a bit of a player but has a positive, strong relationship with his brother -- we don't get to know Alec well in this book, but his relationship with Gabe is enough to mark him as a Good Guy, and Gabe is a hardworking, fair and generous man who also happens to be a physician.
Of the other contestants, two and a half others are really fleshed out which was nice -- they added to the fullness of the story and to our attachment(s) to all the characters. Stanley (his adult son joins him in the competition) is an older widower who has a heart of gold and is highly ethical, a real straight-shooter and an all-around kind human. Zara is an older woman (her husband is also in the competition), a semi-famous folk singer (or maybe more famous than semi-) who is also a hard worker and incredibly industrious. She is no-nonsense but without being a nag -- she is kind and knows how much work there is to do so she is going to get to it and expects her fellow housemates to do their share as well. The "half" is Kevin, whose sister is competing with him. Kevin is very strategic but he is aboveboard about it: he never comes across as shifty. He works hard, isn't as naturally gifted at being a homesteader as some of the other contestants, but again, his transparency enables us (reader) to like him.
They are all first trained in the homesteader life before being sent out to live it, followed by cameras.
And the fun begins! Mira had already been having niggling doubts about Scott and participating in the show only highlights them, makes her realize he doesn't really care about her, doesn't want to please her. It's all about him and how Mira (whom he calls Grace, her middle name, as he doesn't like the name Mira) can support him, undergird his goals. Mira's realization feels organic, proceeds at a pace which feels natural, and you root for her. Along the way, she and Gabe figure out their mutual attraction, and it was lovely. It was a romance in the truest sense of the word, making me now smile and think "ahhh" about their kind acts toward one another and gentle, innocent flirting. There are some fun and descriptive intimate acts, and I liked them -- they didn't feel gratuitous. One in particular (Mira's gift for her birthday) was heartstoppingly dear.
The story takes place over a few months, and we really spend that time with them, learning details about their chores on the homestead. The author has such a gift with description because not once did I get bored or lose interest -- I was fascinated with learning about their lives, their period dress, the food, the tasks, the interactions.
There was just one "what?!?" for me in the book, toward the end, but given how much I liked all aspects of the story (historical references, descriptions, characters, writing) I'm happy to give it a pass.
Definitely pleased I purchased and read this book -- a treat.
September 8, 2014
I really liked the idea of this book, but thought the characters weren't very believable and were pretty one-dimensional. Mira, the main character, is a doormat and in the beginning of the book seems to continually make excuses for her boyfriend Scott's behavior. Scott has absolutely no redeeming qualities, while it is apparent that Mira is supposed to be practically perfect, if a little on the plump side, as if that's supposed to be a character flaw. The fact that she supposedly has no other drawbacks is just ridiculous, and it doesn't explain why she's with a guy like Scott, who is condescending and rude and not even remotely nice to her at all. Their backstory isn't developed enough to let you understand why she is even with him in the first place.
Overall, I liked the reality show premise and enjoyed the thought of the pioneer-like reality show, but didn't think the main character was very likable or believable, and didn't think any of the relationships were too well-developed, so it was hard for me to get invested and interested.
Overall, I liked the reality show premise and enjoyed the thought of the pioneer-like reality show, but didn't think the main character was very likable or believable, and didn't think any of the relationships were too well-developed, so it was hard for me to get invested and interested.
March 11, 2017
I saw this on Dee's list for the SRC challenge, and I was intrigued by the storyline:) I'm glad I went ahead and bought it, because I loved it:) The whole "living in the past" was awesome, and Gabe was to die for. I can't wait for Alec's book to come out! 4 solid stars!
April 17, 2013
Five stars: FIVE AMAZING STARS... and that was before the shaving scene.
You heard me.... shaving scene... still reading my review? Didn't buy the book yet? Keep reading...
If you take a ton of people who don't know each other and throw them into living together under harsh circumstances- you've got the real world.
If you add in the personal stories, body transformations, and the interesting mix of people- you've got the Biggest Loser.
If you add in survival challenges, immunity challenges, and alliances- you've got Survivor.
But if you take the subtle but completely heart grabbing love story playing out perfectly before your eyes- you've got a love like the Notebook.
Ya. I said it.
Long story long... Mira goes on a game show set in the 1880s with her overbearing boyfriend. (Seriously wait til you read this guy. I want to run him down with my car. Ugh. He's awful.) Mira doesn't really get that she deserves better. When she meets the other participants from the show, she meets Gabe.
(Siiiiiiiiiiiigh, Gabe.)
He's pretty much the perfect guy.
He's your quintessential alpha, but with a big sweet heart that just makes you melt.
The best thing about reading a book by Rosalind James is that you are immediately sucked into the story.
No waiting to care about the characters.
No trying to understand their motivation.
You get them and the story all at once and you feel invested before you reach chapter two.
I call dibbs on Gabe... just sayin'.
You heard me.... shaving scene... still reading my review? Didn't buy the book yet? Keep reading...
If you take a ton of people who don't know each other and throw them into living together under harsh circumstances- you've got the real world.
If you add in the personal stories, body transformations, and the interesting mix of people- you've got the Biggest Loser.
If you add in survival challenges, immunity challenges, and alliances- you've got Survivor.
But if you take the subtle but completely heart grabbing love story playing out perfectly before your eyes- you've got a love like the Notebook.
Ya. I said it.
Long story long... Mira goes on a game show set in the 1880s with her overbearing boyfriend. (Seriously wait til you read this guy. I want to run him down with my car. Ugh. He's awful.) Mira doesn't really get that she deserves better. When she meets the other participants from the show, she meets Gabe.
(Siiiiiiiiiiiigh, Gabe.)
He's pretty much the perfect guy.
He's your quintessential alpha, but with a big sweet heart that just makes you melt.
The best thing about reading a book by Rosalind James is that you are immediately sucked into the story.
No waiting to care about the characters.
No trying to understand their motivation.
You get them and the story all at once and you feel invested before you reach chapter two.
I call dibbs on Gabe... just sayin'.
April 13, 2013
I am a big fan of the Escape to New Zealand series (and really hope there are more books coming soon) and I was really looking forward to reading this new book, though I wasn’t sure if I would like it as much. I didn’t like this book, I LOVED it. It’s a great story about personal growth, standing up for yourself and new love, all in the background of who are you deep down when all the “stuff” is stripped away. I loved the interaction between the teammates at the Paradise Homestead was wonderful and I loved them all. Kevin and his snarky teasing, Zara and her take charge attitude, Stanley and his fatherly presence. The romance between Mira and Gabe was natural and lovely to watch. It starts with attraction and grows slowly from there, but once they acknowledge their feelings it really takes off for there. The love scenes are well written (just as I have come to expect from Ms. James) with just the right amount of heat (for me at least) and the scene by the creek….oh my. As much as I loved Gabe and Mira I have to say I think my favorite character was Stanley, he’s awesome. Like I said I LOVED this book and I’m eagerly awaiting the next installment.
May 19, 2013
Just when her readers have become used to author Rosalind James taking them on a fun adventure in her Escape To New Zealand series where they have gotten to know and love all the yummy rugby players, she switches gears and introduces her readers to a new series called The Kincaids set in the United States!
In Welcome to Paradise, the first book in The Kincaids series, the author transports the reader to the state of Idaho where they follow a dozen or so contestants compete in a "living history" reality show as homesteaders set in the 1880s for a one million dollar grand prize. In this "survivor" type game show, the story revolves around the main teams of Mira and boyfriend Scott (ugh...), twin brothers Gabe (sigh...) and Alec, along with a great secondary cast of teammates as they tough it out and work together at the Paradise Homestead as homesteaders living under harsh environments and overcoming challenging hardships like the original settlers did in the 1880s. And if that isn't enough to peak your interest, there is the wonderful "showmance" that slowly develops between Mira and Gabe ... staying true to her creative style, the author provides another steamy romance to get your heart racing!
You can't help but become captivated by the storyline, the intriguing reality show plus the budding relationship between Mira and Gabe will keep you engaged and eagerly turning the pages. This story has a little bit of everything: a challenging reality game show, a beautiful heroine, a sigh worthy doctor hero, a bad guy that everyone loves to hate, a fun group of secondary characters who will make you laugh, and a slow building steamy romance that develops into a truly feel good love story ... what more could a reader ask for?!
With a quirky cast of characters who are realistic and have unique personalities, issues and personal baggage, and their own motivations to win the grand prize; witty dialogue and dramatic interactions; and a sigh worthy steamy romance that only author Rosalind James can weave, this story will simply make you smile and yearn for more!
Welcome to Paradise is a thoroughly entertaining romance story that will leave the readers eagerly waiting to read the next installment in The Kindcaids series!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Reading Addiction Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
In Welcome to Paradise, the first book in The Kincaids series, the author transports the reader to the state of Idaho where they follow a dozen or so contestants compete in a "living history" reality show as homesteaders set in the 1880s for a one million dollar grand prize. In this "survivor" type game show, the story revolves around the main teams of Mira and boyfriend Scott (ugh...), twin brothers Gabe (sigh...) and Alec, along with a great secondary cast of teammates as they tough it out and work together at the Paradise Homestead as homesteaders living under harsh environments and overcoming challenging hardships like the original settlers did in the 1880s. And if that isn't enough to peak your interest, there is the wonderful "showmance" that slowly develops between Mira and Gabe ... staying true to her creative style, the author provides another steamy romance to get your heart racing!
You can't help but become captivated by the storyline, the intriguing reality show plus the budding relationship between Mira and Gabe will keep you engaged and eagerly turning the pages. This story has a little bit of everything: a challenging reality game show, a beautiful heroine, a sigh worthy doctor hero, a bad guy that everyone loves to hate, a fun group of secondary characters who will make you laugh, and a slow building steamy romance that develops into a truly feel good love story ... what more could a reader ask for?!
With a quirky cast of characters who are realistic and have unique personalities, issues and personal baggage, and their own motivations to win the grand prize; witty dialogue and dramatic interactions; and a sigh worthy steamy romance that only author Rosalind James can weave, this story will simply make you smile and yearn for more!
Welcome to Paradise is a thoroughly entertaining romance story that will leave the readers eagerly waiting to read the next installment in The Kindcaids series!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Reading Addiction Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
May 9, 2023
synopsis:
mira and her boyfriend scott are competing in a reality show that puts people back in the days of the settlers. they have to do without all modern conveniences and put in their gardens, build corrals, etc. gabe and his twin brother are also competing. mira is hoping that she can get enthused about her job and her relationship with scott, who is very overbearing and obnoxious. scott sets out to make aliances and doesn't listen to what mira thinks about anybody in the competition. when the teams are split up and go to opposite camps, scott tells mira that she still has to work on the alliances that he wants, rather than listening to what mira thinks. as mira and gabe work side by side with the rest of their house, they get to know one another better. at the competitions, scott is revealed as an incompetent boor, and mira realizes that she is definitely better off away from him.
what i liked: i liked the descriptions of the settler's ways of life. they seemed to be very true to form. i also liked that, with the exception of the cameras, and one cell phone that was snuck in, there were no modern conveniences. i liked the build in relationship with not just between gabe and mira, but with all the members of the house. i liked how, once mira dumped scott, she and gabe managed some alone sexytimes. i also liked the competitions.
what i didn't like: that scott turned out to be such a psychopath. wasn't it enough just to have him be an ingnorant jerk?
mira and her boyfriend scott are competing in a reality show that puts people back in the days of the settlers. they have to do without all modern conveniences and put in their gardens, build corrals, etc. gabe and his twin brother are also competing. mira is hoping that she can get enthused about her job and her relationship with scott, who is very overbearing and obnoxious. scott sets out to make aliances and doesn't listen to what mira thinks about anybody in the competition. when the teams are split up and go to opposite camps, scott tells mira that she still has to work on the alliances that he wants, rather than listening to what mira thinks. as mira and gabe work side by side with the rest of their house, they get to know one another better. at the competitions, scott is revealed as an incompetent boor, and mira realizes that she is definitely better off away from him.
what i liked: i liked the descriptions of the settler's ways of life. they seemed to be very true to form. i also liked that, with the exception of the cameras, and one cell phone that was snuck in, there were no modern conveniences. i liked the build in relationship with not just between gabe and mira, but with all the members of the house. i liked how, once mira dumped scott, she and gabe managed some alone sexytimes. i also liked the competitions.
what i didn't like: that scott turned out to be such a psychopath. wasn't it enough just to have him be an ingnorant jerk?
June 12, 2013
I truly thought it was illegal to have a romantic hero be this gorgeous. Once Scott takes to mockingly call Gabe "Dr. McDreamy," I was sold (the image of Derek Shepard in my mind was too good to resist). I fell in love with James's novel because her characters are so extraordinarily deep. I cared about each and every one of those people, except the ones we are supposed to hate (and boy, do you hate them).
I loved the chemistry between Mira and Gabe...read the rest of my review at The Canon!
I loved the chemistry between Mira and Gabe...read the rest of my review at The Canon!
June 30, 2013
AMAZING!!!!! All I can say is "ah". This book is like a breath of fresh air. The sexual tension is fierce but totally worth it.
May 27, 2019
Imagine a reality TV show where contestants live like settlers in 1885.
Mira Walker is a management consultant with a distant and judgemental father, she and her boyfriend Scott enter a reality TV show where the winning couple can win $1 million. Scott is a lawyer and convinced that he has a winning strategy, highly competitive he wants to win at any cost.
Gabe and Alec Kincaid are brothers who have entered the competition for different reasons. Good looking and charming, the brothers have obviously been selected for their visual appeal.
From the moment Gabe first lays eyes on Mira as she stands watching a sunset outside their hotel on the eve of the competition he is struck by her smile and her capacity for joy.
When I got an email alert from eReaderIQ that this book was free (BTW check this site out - alerts when books by your favourite authors go down in price, or specific books, as well as general alerts when books drop significantly in price) I was intrigued because I had never seen/heard of this book from one of my favourite authors. This actually 'felt' more like a book by Susan Elizabeth Phillips than Rosalind James and I got the feeling that this might have been an old book from her back catalogue, although Goodreads informs me that this was first published in 2013, which is not that long ago.
Nevertheless, my feelings about the style and age of the novel aside, this was a fun read as the typical mixed bag of stereotypical contestants (token black couple, token hispanic couple, glamorous young women, intellectual couple, gay brother and sister, famous couple etc) learn to live like settlers, building fences, milking cows, living off the land and entering weekly competitions to survive being voted off the competition by their teammates. As always the competition has a few twists for the contestants, friendships are forged, alliances are formed and people reveal their true selves under pressure.
I read somewhere that everyone wants a Gabe and I couldn't agree more, a handsome charming Doctor with a heart of gold, he and Mira are destined for each other - although they aren't alone in showing well in adversity. Intrigued I have been drawn into buying the second book in the series, which I assume will feature Alec.
Mira Walker is a management consultant with a distant and judgemental father, she and her boyfriend Scott enter a reality TV show where the winning couple can win $1 million. Scott is a lawyer and convinced that he has a winning strategy, highly competitive he wants to win at any cost.
Gabe and Alec Kincaid are brothers who have entered the competition for different reasons. Good looking and charming, the brothers have obviously been selected for their visual appeal.
From the moment Gabe first lays eyes on Mira as she stands watching a sunset outside their hotel on the eve of the competition he is struck by her smile and her capacity for joy.
When I got an email alert from eReaderIQ that this book was free (BTW check this site out - alerts when books by your favourite authors go down in price, or specific books, as well as general alerts when books drop significantly in price) I was intrigued because I had never seen/heard of this book from one of my favourite authors. This actually 'felt' more like a book by Susan Elizabeth Phillips than Rosalind James and I got the feeling that this might have been an old book from her back catalogue, although Goodreads informs me that this was first published in 2013, which is not that long ago.
Nevertheless, my feelings about the style and age of the novel aside, this was a fun read as the typical mixed bag of stereotypical contestants (token black couple, token hispanic couple, glamorous young women, intellectual couple, gay brother and sister, famous couple etc) learn to live like settlers, building fences, milking cows, living off the land and entering weekly competitions to survive being voted off the competition by their teammates. As always the competition has a few twists for the contestants, friendships are forged, alliances are formed and people reveal their true selves under pressure.
I read somewhere that everyone wants a Gabe and I couldn't agree more, a handsome charming Doctor with a heart of gold, he and Mira are destined for each other - although they aren't alone in showing well in adversity. Intrigued I have been drawn into buying the second book in the series, which I assume will feature Alec.
March 14, 2022
ebook, KU - 3.75/5.
July 26, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. The premise is fun -- a romance set among the competitors on a reality show which is basically Survivor crossed with Frontier House. Gabe, the hero, is genuinely likeable and believably good-hearted, meaning that we're happily rooting for him from the beginning. Mira, the heroine, is entangled in a relationship with an obviously no-good sort of fellow, which creates complications throughout the length of the book. It also means that it's quite satisfying when he receives his come-uppance (which you know will be coming eventually).
I absolutely loved all the detail about the show itself and the ideas about how people from the here and now would adjust to living in such a different world. I liked having Kevin, one of the competitors, act as narrator and commentator, pointing out to us (and the other characters) how the game really worked and the motivations behind the producers' casting choices, etc. The romance itself bloomed believably, and felt natural, in a way that you don't always find in fiction. I enjoyed watching the characters learn about each other. Really, the only thing I would have been happy to do without (or maybe move offstage) were the "intimate moments", but I know that those are considered payoff in this genre.
There was a section at the end that felt a little over-the-top (maybe out of the blue?) to me, but it didn't really impact the overall enjoyability of the book as a whole. Good stuff!
I absolutely loved all the detail about the show itself and the ideas about how people from the here and now would adjust to living in such a different world. I liked having Kevin, one of the competitors, act as narrator and commentator, pointing out to us (and the other characters) how the game really worked and the motivations behind the producers' casting choices, etc. The romance itself bloomed believably, and felt natural, in a way that you don't always find in fiction. I enjoyed watching the characters learn about each other. Really, the only thing I would have been happy to do without (or maybe move offstage) were the "intimate moments", but I know that those are considered payoff in this genre.
There was a section at the end that felt a little over-the-top (maybe out of the blue?) to me, but it didn't really impact the overall enjoyability of the book as a whole. Good stuff!
January 3, 2014
Paradise you say...
I've actually read this book twice now. I really enjoyed it! I was glad I did re-read it and then read the second book in the series again after. Some of the things I had forgotten about from the first book showed up in book two. :-)
Anyways, about this one. It's Survival set in 1885. The whole set up is on a game show that sends teams out into the Idaho backwoods to live like they would have in 1885 while trying to settle the land. There is a twist right off the bat when the teams of two arrive and find out they will not be working with their partner but against them in different homesteads. (Great twist!)
We are introduced to Gabe and Alec Kincaid. Twins. Alec being older by twenty minutes and the more vocal of the two. However, this is Gabe's story. We are also introduced to Mira and her boyfriend Scott. What a peach he is! There is tons of hard work, emotional encounters, and talk about foreplay in this one! We are not disappointed when the steamy scenes begin, but dang...this one took a bit to get to it. Fair warning. Let me follow that up with stating how much I enjoyed the story though! I loved the whole twin vibe too.
This story read just like you could picture it playing out on a reality TV show. Great story idea and well written!
I've actually read this book twice now. I really enjoyed it! I was glad I did re-read it and then read the second book in the series again after. Some of the things I had forgotten about from the first book showed up in book two. :-)
Anyways, about this one. It's Survival set in 1885. The whole set up is on a game show that sends teams out into the Idaho backwoods to live like they would have in 1885 while trying to settle the land. There is a twist right off the bat when the teams of two arrive and find out they will not be working with their partner but against them in different homesteads. (Great twist!)
We are introduced to Gabe and Alec Kincaid. Twins. Alec being older by twenty minutes and the more vocal of the two. However, this is Gabe's story. We are also introduced to Mira and her boyfriend Scott. What a peach he is! There is tons of hard work, emotional encounters, and talk about foreplay in this one! We are not disappointed when the steamy scenes begin, but dang...this one took a bit to get to it. Fair warning. Let me follow that up with stating how much I enjoyed the story though! I loved the whole twin vibe too.
This story read just like you could picture it playing out on a reality TV show. Great story idea and well written!
November 4, 2013
This looks to be another great series by Rosalind James. I liked the premise of the story, a reality show where contestants have to live like it's 1885. The characters were good, though as game contestant Kevin pointed out, a little stereotypical of the standard reality show contestants... the bad couple, the useless beauty queens, the hot guys, the father/son, mother/daughter duos, and the flamboyant gay male. The main story was the romance between Gabe and Mira. I liked how their relationship built rather than total insta-love. Though some parts got a bit over the top, it was very much like a reality show in book form with all the romance and drama. I'm looking forward to reading more about the Kincaids.
November 6, 2013
I really, really enjoyed this book! Full of interesting characters who grow and change over time, plenty of passionate tension (which builds for a loooong time), and an antagonist you love to hate. Very realistic, charming, and full of win. Loved it!
Scott, at the very end, strained my ability to suspend my disbelief a bit, but that only happened in the last chapter or two and wasn't enough to detract from the five star rating. I LOVED Gabe, especially when he and his brother were contemplating the conquering of Scott by taking Mira away from him.
I strongly recommend this book!
Scott, at the very end, strained my ability to suspend my disbelief a bit, but that only happened in the last chapter or two and wasn't enough to detract from the five star rating. I LOVED Gabe, especially when he and his brother were contemplating the conquering of Scott by taking Mira away from him.
I strongly recommend this book!
June 5, 2013
Rosalind pens "Welcome to Paradise" in a plot that is filled with adventure and love. Rosalind's characters are well developed, believable and she brings them to life. I wasn't so sure she could top her 'Escape to New Zealand' series which I totally loved, but she did and I actually think I love this new series a bit more. Now I can't wait for the next installment to come out and see what happens next. Highly recommended to all adventure-romance fans.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
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February 11, 2014Love anything Rosalind James writes
Went I read the description of this book it didn't sound all that interesting. What prompted me to buy it is the author. I have never read a book by Rosalind James I didn't like. I was not disappointed. She is the most amazing story teller. Her story lines are always interesting, the sex hot & the characters lovable. Looking forward to the next book.
Went I read the description of this book it didn't sound all that interesting. What prompted me to buy it is the author. I have never read a book by Rosalind James I didn't like. I was not disappointed. She is the most amazing story teller. Her story lines are always interesting, the sex hot & the characters lovable. Looking forward to the next book.
February 2, 2017
Good idea for a story
I always enjoy something new. Setting the story on a reality TV show about 1885 was a cool idea. Just when you feel like the story is getting too predictable there's another new surprise. I have never laughed so hard just thinking about an axe. To understand that comment you're going to have to read the book!!!
I always enjoy something new. Setting the story on a reality TV show about 1885 was a cool idea. Just when you feel like the story is getting too predictable there's another new surprise. I have never laughed so hard just thinking about an axe. To understand that comment you're going to have to read the book!!!
September 4, 2014
Really good book
Totally enjoyed reading this. The story was a new and fresh way of looking at reality shows as to how you get to know the other contestants. Will be looking for more from this author.
Totally enjoyed reading this. The story was a new and fresh way of looking at reality shows as to how you get to know the other contestants. Will be looking for more from this author.
September 23, 2014
loved this story! Scott was crazy, Gabe n team Paradise made the,story great. With all of the reality tv now days, this story really unbelievable. couldn't await to pick up this book each night.
September 24, 2014
Awesome
I couldn't put the book down once I started to read it. can't wait tho read next in series from the Kincaids
I couldn't put the book down once I started to read it. can't wait tho read next in series from the Kincaids
October 2, 2014
Great story
The kind of story you want to keep reading. kept my interest from the first to last page. looking forward to the rest of the series
The kind of story you want to keep reading. kept my interest from the first to last page. looking forward to the rest of the series
November 1, 2017
Picked this book for a challenge and let me say I really liked it a lot. This is a game for reality show junkies of which I am one. A couple of years ago there was a reality show like this where people went back to the old times (can't remember the name, but it was a good show). In this one, twins Alec and Gabe sign up to win a million dollars to pay off student loans, etc. Mira signs up with her boyfriend Scott to experience something new. The couples are split into two groups and forced to compete against each other. Gabe and Mira end up on same team and begin to fall in love. Meanwhile she starts to see that Scott is not the man for her and breaks it off in the midst of the show. Once voted off the game, Scott and Mira are recluse together where things start to spiral down causing Gabe to abandon the show with his twin in tow. Once back together Mira and Gabe are able to consummate their love for one another and begin their HEA. Really great premise and spacing of the book and story. Would highly recommend to romance lovers anywhere.
November 8, 2017
I enjoyed quite a few things about this book. The historical reality show plot was interesting. I've read variations on that plot before, and found this one seemed pretty well researched (a plus). I also enjoyed the older contestants and their wisdom and life lessons. I thought the inclusion of Native American history was well done as well. I'm glad she didn't stay a doormat and stuck up for herself. He was a nice guy. That's kind of rare too. That added to the enjoyability quotient of this. Altogether, much enjoyed.
June 18, 2017
*book currently FREE on amazon*
Very solid book. Great world building, great character development, and very lovable characters. I thoroughly enjoyed this and enjoyed the ride. As if I don't get enough reality tv in my tv shows I have found them in my books now and I couldn't be happier.
One star off for a bit of too cheesy for me moments but most moments were sweet :).
Also--I understand that the series is about he brothers but like can Kevin get his own book because he was AWESOME.
Very solid book. Great world building, great character development, and very lovable characters. I thoroughly enjoyed this and enjoyed the ride. As if I don't get enough reality tv in my tv shows I have found them in my books now and I couldn't be happier.
One star off for a bit of too cheesy for me moments but most moments were sweet :).
Also--I understand that the series is about he brothers but like can Kevin get his own book because he was AWESOME.
October 15, 2022
Mira Walker's boyfriend, Scott, has talked her into competing on a "living history" reality show. She hopes it will bring them closer (it doesn't). During the filming of the show, she becomes close with teammate/competitor Gabe Kincaid.
September 6, 2022
3.5
i didn't feel particularly connected to any of the characters but the setting is so fun! a reality show where the contestants have to live like it's 1885. i found this when looking for cozy, cottage-y, stardew valley-esque reads, and this met the mark!
i didn't feel particularly connected to any of the characters but the setting is so fun! a reality show where the contestants have to live like it's 1885. i found this when looking for cozy, cottage-y, stardew valley-esque reads, and this met the mark!
September 25, 2017
A book about a Reality show what will they come up with next. This one is called living history, where the contestants have to live like they would in 1885. To say the show is sexist is downplaying it but thats what it was probably like in 1885. You have the abused female teaming up with her partner as one of the main characters. Then you have the hunky good guy who falls in love with her.
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