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Love in Paradise Valley #3
Christmas in Paradise
Could an innocent fling turn into the real thing?
I only want two things out of life: a career as a wedding planner extraordinaire and for Mom to stop treating me like a kid. Is that too much to ask? Probably.
That is, until I get the chance to plan a televised, Christmas-themed wedding a thousand miles away from Mom in Paradise, Idaho. It seems like all my dreams might be coming true.
Until I encounter the one thing that threatens to sidetrack me: a smoking, hot smolder.
Sebastian Sparks has all the swagger and smirk to back up his smolder, and I know I’m in trouble the minute he saunters up to me. But underneath his bad boy image is a surprising vulnerability that’s evident the minute I climb onto the back of his bike.
His e-bike.
He’s supposed to be a fling. Now he wants more.
But he has no idea what he’s getting into with me, and the whole town seems to be conspiring against my efforts to keep a safe distance from him.
When we have to work together to plan Paradise's first Julefest, Sebastian is determined to prove he’s more than fling-worthy. He’s a man ready to give up everything, including the thing he’s most afraid of. I want to believe him, but I’ve got more than my own heart to protect.
Despite the missing elves, Danish pancake disasters, and gingerbread house fires that threaten to make the first Julesfest, the last, the electricity between us is enough to power every twinkling Christmas light in Paradise.
Then there’s the mistletoe mishap. The invasive weed is all over the place, including every doorway of the cabin where we get stranded.
But it will take more than attraction and close proximity to keep us together. There’s another heart Sebastian has to win if we’re going to find our own slice of paradise this Christmas. Is it too much to hope our love story might be the most memorable one this holiday season?
Dive into Christmas In Paradise, a closed-door, he-falls-first, sweet romantic comedy where love, laughter, meddling townspeople, and a little bit of holiday magic might just be the recipe for a happily ever after.
I only want two things out of life: a career as a wedding planner extraordinaire and for Mom to stop treating me like a kid. Is that too much to ask? Probably.
That is, until I get the chance to plan a televised, Christmas-themed wedding a thousand miles away from Mom in Paradise, Idaho. It seems like all my dreams might be coming true.
Until I encounter the one thing that threatens to sidetrack me: a smoking, hot smolder.
Sebastian Sparks has all the swagger and smirk to back up his smolder, and I know I’m in trouble the minute he saunters up to me. But underneath his bad boy image is a surprising vulnerability that’s evident the minute I climb onto the back of his bike.
His e-bike.
He’s supposed to be a fling. Now he wants more.
But he has no idea what he’s getting into with me, and the whole town seems to be conspiring against my efforts to keep a safe distance from him.
When we have to work together to plan Paradise's first Julefest, Sebastian is determined to prove he’s more than fling-worthy. He’s a man ready to give up everything, including the thing he’s most afraid of. I want to believe him, but I’ve got more than my own heart to protect.
Despite the missing elves, Danish pancake disasters, and gingerbread house fires that threaten to make the first Julesfest, the last, the electricity between us is enough to power every twinkling Christmas light in Paradise.
Then there’s the mistletoe mishap. The invasive weed is all over the place, including every doorway of the cabin where we get stranded.
But it will take more than attraction and close proximity to keep us together. There’s another heart Sebastian has to win if we’re going to find our own slice of paradise this Christmas. Is it too much to hope our love story might be the most memorable one this holiday season?
Dive into Christmas In Paradise, a closed-door, he-falls-first, sweet romantic comedy where love, laughter, meddling townspeople, and a little bit of holiday magic might just be the recipe for a happily ever after.
ebook
Published November 19, 2023
199 people are currently reading
586 people want to read
About the author
Brittany Larsen
31 books257 followersBrittany Larsen is the author of fourteen full-length and three novella-length sweet romantic comedies, plus a couple more historical romance novellas set in the Old West. Brittany’s stories range across time and place, but they’re always about one thing: connection. They’re guaranteed to make you laugh and maybe even tear up a little.
Born and raised in Idaho, Brittany has spent the past twenty years (maybe more) living the California dream… If that dream includes wearing sweatpants all day and gorging herself on red Australian licorice–Australia’s second-best export (Chris Hemsworth being the obvious first). When not writing, she teaches hot yoga, walks her dog, and takes naps. Her sweater-sporting, mini Aussi-doodle, Bo, is her favorite writing companion. But her favorite people are her husband and three daughters.
Born and raised in Idaho, Brittany has spent the past twenty years (maybe more) living the California dream… If that dream includes wearing sweatpants all day and gorging herself on red Australian licorice–Australia’s second-best export (Chris Hemsworth being the obvious first). When not writing, she teaches hot yoga, walks her dog, and takes naps. Her sweater-sporting, mini Aussi-doodle, Bo, is her favorite writing companion. But her favorite people are her husband and three daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
November 28, 2023
What a heartwarming and charming story! I loved the sweet romance, the small town community, and all the wonderful Christmas spirit. I adored the family support and the sweet role that the grandparents played.
Hope has a summer fling with Seb, the local flirt and bad boy of Paradise. Realizing they’re incompatible for a specific reason, she leaves without saying goodbye. Months later, she returns to Paradise for work and finds her attraction to Seb hasn’t changed, but as a single mother, Hope has to think of what’s best for her 3 year old special needs daughter.
Seb’s attraction to Hope hasn’t changed either and he’d love another chance with her, but Hope has made it clear that she and Charly are a package deal, and Seb doesn't know if he is ready for that kind of relationship yet.
What I loved:
Second chance romance
Single parent
Special needs child rep
Adorable Charly
One bed trope
Danish vibes
The Yulefest
The squirrel gang
Uncle Rad
Dual POV
Seb’s tattoo
Moose hats
Chemistry between MCs
Christmas traditions
Smoldering looks & kisses
Sebby and Charly
The epilogue
The scenes between Seb and Charly were the sweetest, especially as she seemed to melt his heart, and he went from feeling awkward around her to loving and caring for her so deeply. I thought Brittany did a wonderful job showing the difficulties Hope faced as a single parent of a child with special needs.
This is the third book in the series but can be read as a standalone. I’ve loved them all but I think this might be my new favorite.
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Hope has a summer fling with Seb, the local flirt and bad boy of Paradise. Realizing they’re incompatible for a specific reason, she leaves without saying goodbye. Months later, she returns to Paradise for work and finds her attraction to Seb hasn’t changed, but as a single mother, Hope has to think of what’s best for her 3 year old special needs daughter.
Seb’s attraction to Hope hasn’t changed either and he’d love another chance with her, but Hope has made it clear that she and Charly are a package deal, and Seb doesn't know if he is ready for that kind of relationship yet.
What I loved:
Second chance romance
Single parent
Special needs child rep
Adorable Charly
One bed trope
Danish vibes
The Yulefest
The squirrel gang
Uncle Rad
Dual POV
Seb’s tattoo
Moose hats
Chemistry between MCs
Christmas traditions
Smoldering looks & kisses
Sebby and Charly
The epilogue
The scenes between Seb and Charly were the sweetest, especially as she seemed to melt his heart, and he went from feeling awkward around her to loving and caring for her so deeply. I thought Brittany did a wonderful job showing the difficulties Hope faced as a single parent of a child with special needs.
This is the third book in the series but can be read as a standalone. I’ve loved them all but I think this might be my new favorite.
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
November 26, 2023
Christmas In Paradise is sweet clean romance. The MCs, Hope and Sebastian, are such great characters.
Hope is a young single mother and Sebastian is a carefree guy who still lives with his mom who dotes on him all day. He's definitely not ready for real responsibilities, at least he wasn't until he met Hope.
The book is full of Christmas festivities, and great supporting characters including some fun mischievous squirrels.
I loved watching Seb open his heart to Hope's daughter, it was so sweet and completely melted my heart.
Hope is a young single mother and Sebastian is a carefree guy who still lives with his mom who dotes on him all day. He's definitely not ready for real responsibilities, at least he wasn't until he met Hope.
The book is full of Christmas festivities, and great supporting characters including some fun mischievous squirrels.
I loved watching Seb open his heart to Hope's daughter, it was so sweet and completely melted my heart.
November 26, 2023
Oh my Christmas stars–I think this is my favorite book of the series!
Sebastian and Hope have a very flammable relationship for a few weeks, all sparks and chemistry and fireworks. Right from the start, I was laughing, as she’s attracted to bad boys and this one sweeps her off on his bike–ebike, that is. But Hope has a little secret waiting for her back home, a special needs preschooler, Charly, who quickly steals everyone’s hearts.
🎄Brittany Larsen incorporates so much heart into this sweet and charming story, as well as so much laughter and fun. While there are laughs galore, there are some very tender moments, especially as Seb grows from a man-child to a full-grown man.
🐿️ The squirrel scenes had me rolling on the floor, particularly with the mistletoe.
🎄Speaking of mistletoe, the Mistletoe Inn in the snowstorm with one bed and the plethora of the parasitic plant had me both swooning and laughing so hard.
🐿️ The feeling of community, through the festive traditions and events in this small town, left me feeling content and cozy.
🎄Lighted moose rack hats, double weddings, slow dancing, secret baking, snow angels, Italian food, Uncle Rad the puppy, and more fill in the pieces of this delightfully endearing and magical holiday romcom.
This is the perfect read to snuggle up with this Christmas season.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Sebastian and Hope have a very flammable relationship for a few weeks, all sparks and chemistry and fireworks. Right from the start, I was laughing, as she’s attracted to bad boys and this one sweeps her off on his bike–ebike, that is. But Hope has a little secret waiting for her back home, a special needs preschooler, Charly, who quickly steals everyone’s hearts.
🎄Brittany Larsen incorporates so much heart into this sweet and charming story, as well as so much laughter and fun. While there are laughs galore, there are some very tender moments, especially as Seb grows from a man-child to a full-grown man.
🐿️ The squirrel scenes had me rolling on the floor, particularly with the mistletoe.
🎄Speaking of mistletoe, the Mistletoe Inn in the snowstorm with one bed and the plethora of the parasitic plant had me both swooning and laughing so hard.
🐿️ The feeling of community, through the festive traditions and events in this small town, left me feeling content and cozy.
🎄Lighted moose rack hats, double weddings, slow dancing, secret baking, snow angels, Italian food, Uncle Rad the puppy, and more fill in the pieces of this delightfully endearing and magical holiday romcom.
This is the perfect read to snuggle up with this Christmas season.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
December 9, 2025
This book hooked me from the very beginning and I stayed up late to finish.
January 7, 2024
it is an instruction that shows which men to avoid
two ★ for cute charlie
two ★ for cute charlie
December 7, 2024
Hope is an aspiring event planner and single mom of a young child with special needs who gets a chance to organize her stepsister's televised wedding and the Yulefest in this sweet holiday romance set in the town of Paradise, Idaho.
Lots of returning characters in this book and I liked that playboy Seb had to prove that he was mature enough and willing to take on a single mother. He falls for Hope hard and can't stop thinking about her when she ghosts him but when he learns she has a daughter he has to decide if he can be the man she needs.
The challenges of parenting a young child with asthma and various other medical needs was well done and overall this was a feel-good, Hallmark Holiday movie style dual POV story that was good on audio and is sure to delight fans of authors like Jennifer Peel or Jenny Proctor.
Lots of returning characters in this book and I liked that playboy Seb had to prove that he was mature enough and willing to take on a single mother. He falls for Hope hard and can't stop thinking about her when she ghosts him but when he learns she has a daughter he has to decide if he can be the man she needs.
The challenges of parenting a young child with asthma and various other medical needs was well done and overall this was a feel-good, Hallmark Holiday movie style dual POV story that was good on audio and is sure to delight fans of authors like Jennifer Peel or Jenny Proctor.
February 29, 2024
This next book in the Love in Paradise Valley series is so good! I loved Seb and Hope! I wondered if the bad boy would be able to have a real relationship. From laugh out loud moments to sweet and tender scenes, Christmas in Paradise has it all. I loved Uncle Rad and her many adventures, her antics kept me laughing and page turning. Charly was the sweetest and had my heart from the start. Watching Hope and Seb grow as people was a beautiful part of the story. I loved how this book had it all! Laughter, romance, and family. I absolutely loved the emphasis of family and how that can be blood related or friend/community related. A feel good clean RomCom, Christmas in Paradise made me long for snow, family, and fun!
I received a complimentary copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 25, 2023
This was a Christmas story about real-people problems and imperfections. It's not a very light read, being a story about a single mom of a special needs kid, and the MMC who is learning what it means to be a father and partner. It's good and well written, but if you're looking for a short, light, romcom Christmas story, save this for another day!
January 4, 2024
Flirtatious!
It’s a beautiful day in Paradise, Idaho when Hope and Sebastian meet at Smuk Lake while Hope is visiting from Kansas. Sebastian was warned to stay away from Hope by Hope’s step sister, Evie.
Evie wants only the best for her sister and is afraid Sebastian, the hunk of all hunks will crush Hope’s heart at the end of a flirtatious summer.
Fate!
As fate has it, Hope and Sebastian fall for one another. Hope is planning to be back in Paradise in December as her event planning job has her organizing a double family wedding and the Danish “Julefest”, which are both so important to her career and future.
Family!
Everyone in the small town of Paradise is rooting for Hope and Sebastian. Bombarded by mistletoe and the family and friends who know before they do that they belong together, they are challenged to overcome a secret, unknown territory and the risk of putting it all on the table.
Memories!
Throughout the month of December Hope and Sebastian create memories with “moose antlers”, “ebelskiver (chocolate filled pancakes), lots of snow and mistletoe. This Holiday Rom-Com is all you need to cuddle up with a cup of Britta’s coffee and a warm fire!
Tradition!
This book reminded me of traditions I had as a child and have instilled in my family since. As you read, I think you’ll be cheering them along just like I was…wanting that happily ever after!
Brittany Larsen
A new “Indie” author for me , and it certainly won’t be my last book I read of hers. She spent time on details and building the family dynamic and character development, no doubt I could picture this family and everything they brought to this novel.
Read it!
It was everything I hoped it would be, filled with Holiday festivities, decorations, family and love! Thank you Brittany for the kindle e-book, I can’t wait to read “ (Not So) Famous in Paradise”.
It’s a beautiful day in Paradise, Idaho when Hope and Sebastian meet at Smuk Lake while Hope is visiting from Kansas. Sebastian was warned to stay away from Hope by Hope’s step sister, Evie.
Evie wants only the best for her sister and is afraid Sebastian, the hunk of all hunks will crush Hope’s heart at the end of a flirtatious summer.
Fate!
As fate has it, Hope and Sebastian fall for one another. Hope is planning to be back in Paradise in December as her event planning job has her organizing a double family wedding and the Danish “Julefest”, which are both so important to her career and future.
Family!
Everyone in the small town of Paradise is rooting for Hope and Sebastian. Bombarded by mistletoe and the family and friends who know before they do that they belong together, they are challenged to overcome a secret, unknown territory and the risk of putting it all on the table.
Memories!
Throughout the month of December Hope and Sebastian create memories with “moose antlers”, “ebelskiver (chocolate filled pancakes), lots of snow and mistletoe. This Holiday Rom-Com is all you need to cuddle up with a cup of Britta’s coffee and a warm fire!
Tradition!
This book reminded me of traditions I had as a child and have instilled in my family since. As you read, I think you’ll be cheering them along just like I was…wanting that happily ever after!
Brittany Larsen
A new “Indie” author for me , and it certainly won’t be my last book I read of hers. She spent time on details and building the family dynamic and character development, no doubt I could picture this family and everything they brought to this novel.
Read it!
It was everything I hoped it would be, filled with Holiday festivities, decorations, family and love! Thank you Brittany for the kindle e-book, I can’t wait to read “ (Not So) Famous in Paradise”.
November 22, 2023
4.5 stars!!!
I loved this book so much!! The relationship between Hope & Seb was the cutest thing ever & even the relationship Seb made with Charly was so fricken cute 🥹 Seb was just one of my fav book bfs bc he really tried so hard and o show Hope he was in it for the long haul despite the little history they previously had.
It was such a perfect read for this time of year! Thank you so much for letting me be an ARC reader! Just such a feel good romcom to warm you up during the holidays 🥰
I loved this book so much!! The relationship between Hope & Seb was the cutest thing ever & even the relationship Seb made with Charly was so fricken cute 🥹 Seb was just one of my fav book bfs bc he really tried so hard and o show Hope he was in it for the long haul despite the little history they previously had.
It was such a perfect read for this time of year! Thank you so much for letting me be an ARC reader! Just such a feel good romcom to warm you up during the holidays 🥰
January 5, 2024
I loved being back in Paradise, Idaho during the holiday season in this single mom, age gap romance. Hope is raising a child with special needs and I thought this representation was done so well. She's vocal about her boundaries and needs when it comes to Seb and doesn't fall for his usual charms. This is not just a love story - it’s about Hope finding her independence and inner strength.
So many times you see a single parent trope and the hero or heroine takes all that encompasses joining a family in stride. It was refreshing how Seb is unsure, yet he tries to learn and finds his way into loving both Hope and Charly. He's misunderstood and his vulnerability breaks my heart. But seeing him fall just as hard for Charly as he does for Hope made the book for me.
This one is the third book in a series, but you can read it as a standalone. It gives you...
🏔️ Age gap
🏔️ Single mom
🏔️ Just a summer fling
🏔️ Only one bed
🏔️ He falls first
🏔️ Forced proximity
🏔️ Small town Idaho
🏔️ No third act breakup
So many times you see a single parent trope and the hero or heroine takes all that encompasses joining a family in stride. It was refreshing how Seb is unsure, yet he tries to learn and finds his way into loving both Hope and Charly. He's misunderstood and his vulnerability breaks my heart. But seeing him fall just as hard for Charly as he does for Hope made the book for me.
This one is the third book in a series, but you can read it as a standalone. It gives you...
🏔️ Age gap
🏔️ Single mom
🏔️ Just a summer fling
🏔️ Only one bed
🏔️ He falls first
🏔️ Forced proximity
🏔️ Small town Idaho
🏔️ No third act breakup
December 30, 2023
I really appreciated the representation of a hard-working single mom doing what's best for her child. I also loved that this book has a child with special needs. It was a beautiful picture of the truth that it takes so many people to love and raise a child well, special needs or not.
November 26, 2023
I call dibs on the next Paradise Lake House Remodel!
This is the fourth book I have read in the Love in Paradise Valley Series and I know I say this in every review, but I think this is my favorite! I don’t know how the author keeps creating characters that have me giggling, laughing, happy crying, and swooning every time I open a book! If you have never read this author before, what are you waiting for?! You will not have the pauses between books I did and can just flow from book to book, because trust me this is a binge worthy series. If you are new to Paradise Valley : Velkommen til Paradise Valley! You can easily begin your stay with this book because it stands alone and every dynamic you need to understand Hope, Seb, and Charlie’s story is provided for you, although like all good interconnected books you’ll know the characters better if you read them in order. It was so much fun to visit back with old friends. Just note that Bear will steal every scene he is in and he does give Charlie and Uncle Rad a good run for their money in that department.
I loved watching Seb go from being the classic Momma’s Boy who could do so much but didn’t, to become the man that he wanted to be once he had a reason. I enjoyed hearing him talk to himself, his humor and honesty were so refreshing and seeing the events through his eyes showcased a powerful story in and of itself. I read excerpts to My Guy and he was laughing at how true they were to what he thought about while begins a “Real Grown Up Boy” as he calls himself. Hope was equally well written and for the same reasons, as a young single mom she showcased so much of the push and pull that defined her life, and willingness and love for Charlie always shined through from page one till the end. And her focus that she is always one of a duo was so beautifully written that it pulled my heart in the best Christmas Story way! And there’s sweet Charlie who, even at such a young age, is finding her way. I found that the representation of being a Special Needs Child and Parent was beautifully written. The care and knowledge shown in the book about the different types of therapies and even the philosophies of the caregivers were wonderfully nuanced and beautifully integrated into the story.
If you are looking for a story that will leave you looking at Santa and puppies and children with an extra twinkle in your eye, or if you look at a guy and think “When he meets just the right one….”, or if you want to be part - even for a moment - of a family and town that you will want to move across the country, then this is the book for you. You will fall in love with Seb’s Mama Gia, Grandpa Sparks, hungry squirrels and big bold families all wrapped up in a big hug once you open this book’s cover. And as this a sweet closed door romance anyone at any age can fall into this book and you will still find the simmering passion and joy of a great romance and all the emotions and feels that go with it.
This is the fourth book I have read in the Love in Paradise Valley Series and I know I say this in every review, but I think this is my favorite! I don’t know how the author keeps creating characters that have me giggling, laughing, happy crying, and swooning every time I open a book! If you have never read this author before, what are you waiting for?! You will not have the pauses between books I did and can just flow from book to book, because trust me this is a binge worthy series. If you are new to Paradise Valley : Velkommen til Paradise Valley! You can easily begin your stay with this book because it stands alone and every dynamic you need to understand Hope, Seb, and Charlie’s story is provided for you, although like all good interconnected books you’ll know the characters better if you read them in order. It was so much fun to visit back with old friends. Just note that Bear will steal every scene he is in and he does give Charlie and Uncle Rad a good run for their money in that department.
I loved watching Seb go from being the classic Momma’s Boy who could do so much but didn’t, to become the man that he wanted to be once he had a reason. I enjoyed hearing him talk to himself, his humor and honesty were so refreshing and seeing the events through his eyes showcased a powerful story in and of itself. I read excerpts to My Guy and he was laughing at how true they were to what he thought about while begins a “Real Grown Up Boy” as he calls himself. Hope was equally well written and for the same reasons, as a young single mom she showcased so much of the push and pull that defined her life, and willingness and love for Charlie always shined through from page one till the end. And her focus that she is always one of a duo was so beautifully written that it pulled my heart in the best Christmas Story way! And there’s sweet Charlie who, even at such a young age, is finding her way. I found that the representation of being a Special Needs Child and Parent was beautifully written. The care and knowledge shown in the book about the different types of therapies and even the philosophies of the caregivers were wonderfully nuanced and beautifully integrated into the story.
If you are looking for a story that will leave you looking at Santa and puppies and children with an extra twinkle in your eye, or if you look at a guy and think “When he meets just the right one….”, or if you want to be part - even for a moment - of a family and town that you will want to move across the country, then this is the book for you. You will fall in love with Seb’s Mama Gia, Grandpa Sparks, hungry squirrels and big bold families all wrapped up in a big hug once you open this book’s cover. And as this a sweet closed door romance anyone at any age can fall into this book and you will still find the simmering passion and joy of a great romance and all the emotions and feels that go with it.
July 5, 2024
OVERALL STAR RATING: 5/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
‘Tis the season for Christmas in July! Am I the only one who starts craving Christmas books in the Summer months? It felt like the perfect time to pick up book three in the Love in Paradise Valley series and simply stated – it was amazing! Brittany takes on very realistic life events in her stories and puts so much feeling between the pages.
Hope is a single mom who found herself pregnant when she was a teenager. Her daughter, Charly, has developmental delays and Hope wants nothing more than to see her thrive. Hope knows that in any future romantic relationship, the guy needs to understand the concept of “family” and that Charly is her world. Cue the complications when Hope meets and starts falling for Sebastian (Seb) while she’s visiting Paradise for a work project as an event planner.
Most single mom/dad books that I read involve a romance that involve a man or woman who come along and quickly fit like a missing puzzle piece. That wasn’t the case with this story and that’s what I just loved so much about it. Sebastian never EVER pictured himself having children. When he finds out that Hope is a mom, he’s nervous…he’s unsure of himself…he struggles severely with a lack of confidence at the idea of being looked at as a father figure.
This story brings so many life lessons and moments of growth. There are plenty of very deep questions to be answered and situations to be resolved – all while being played out in the beautiful Scandinavian inspired town of Paradise during the Christmas season. And of course, it wouldn’t be classified as a RomCom without a fair dose of laugh out loud moments. You’ll never look at a squirrel the same way again. LOL
Really looking forward to reading book four, Enemies in Paradise, very soon!
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
‘Tis the season for Christmas in July! Am I the only one who starts craving Christmas books in the Summer months? It felt like the perfect time to pick up book three in the Love in Paradise Valley series and simply stated – it was amazing! Brittany takes on very realistic life events in her stories and puts so much feeling between the pages.
Hope is a single mom who found herself pregnant when she was a teenager. Her daughter, Charly, has developmental delays and Hope wants nothing more than to see her thrive. Hope knows that in any future romantic relationship, the guy needs to understand the concept of “family” and that Charly is her world. Cue the complications when Hope meets and starts falling for Sebastian (Seb) while she’s visiting Paradise for a work project as an event planner.
Most single mom/dad books that I read involve a romance that involve a man or woman who come along and quickly fit like a missing puzzle piece. That wasn’t the case with this story and that’s what I just loved so much about it. Sebastian never EVER pictured himself having children. When he finds out that Hope is a mom, he’s nervous…he’s unsure of himself…he struggles severely with a lack of confidence at the idea of being looked at as a father figure.
This story brings so many life lessons and moments of growth. There are plenty of very deep questions to be answered and situations to be resolved – all while being played out in the beautiful Scandinavian inspired town of Paradise during the Christmas season. And of course, it wouldn’t be classified as a RomCom without a fair dose of laugh out loud moments. You’ll never look at a squirrel the same way again. LOL
Really looking forward to reading book four, Enemies in Paradise, very soon!
November 20, 2023
ARC - review ✨🎄🎁❄️
It was such a sweet and cute book!!! I've been craving a sweet Christmas rom-com since it's ALMOST Christmas 😂🫶🏻 and when I got this arc I knew this was it!!
🎄❄️✨🎁
Charly is the cutest and sweetest little girl, although she is struggling at a young age but she's got an amazing mother like Hope.
🎄❄️✨🎁
I absolutely loved hope's character, she's so kind, loving, caring, patient, courageous and strong. Having a baby at a young age and that too a premature one, isn't easy. And the way she handled Charly by herself and worked 2 jobs is applaudable. Hope deserves every ounce of love that seb can give her.
🎄❄️✨🎁
And our lovely Sebastian Sparks, he's more than just a pretty face, y'all. He can bake!!! I really loved the way his character kept on improving throughout the book. The way he was ready to become a better man for hope and even though it wasn't easy for him and neither did he ever think in his wildest dreams that he'd become a father to a child with special needs, I am VERY impressed by his progress.
🎄❄️✨🎁
Oh, how can I forget Uncle Rad. She has a special place in my heart.
It was such a sweet and cute book!!! I've been craving a sweet Christmas rom-com since it's ALMOST Christmas 😂🫶🏻 and when I got this arc I knew this was it!!
🎄❄️✨🎁
Charly is the cutest and sweetest little girl, although she is struggling at a young age but she's got an amazing mother like Hope.
🎄❄️✨🎁
I absolutely loved hope's character, she's so kind, loving, caring, patient, courageous and strong. Having a baby at a young age and that too a premature one, isn't easy. And the way she handled Charly by herself and worked 2 jobs is applaudable. Hope deserves every ounce of love that seb can give her.
🎄❄️✨🎁
And our lovely Sebastian Sparks, he's more than just a pretty face, y'all. He can bake!!! I really loved the way his character kept on improving throughout the book. The way he was ready to become a better man for hope and even though it wasn't easy for him and neither did he ever think in his wildest dreams that he'd become a father to a child with special needs, I am VERY impressed by his progress.
🎄❄️✨🎁
Oh, how can I forget Uncle Rad. She has a special place in my heart.
November 21, 2023
Aww! Another trip to Paradise and this time at Christmas!!
This was such a cute story about Hope, her darling little Charly, and Sebastian aka Seb/Sebby!
Hope and Seb had an amazing summer together and then suddenly Hope disappeared without a word! Seb is heartbroken! So, when he finds out Hope is coming back for his cousins’ double wedding and to help with Christmas he’s not sure how to feel!
A darling Christmas story with Seb learning to be a male/father figure to Charly, Hope learning to stand on her own two feet, and the SWEETEST second chance at love!!
This was such a cute story about Hope, her darling little Charly, and Sebastian aka Seb/Sebby!
Hope and Seb had an amazing summer together and then suddenly Hope disappeared without a word! Seb is heartbroken! So, when he finds out Hope is coming back for his cousins’ double wedding and to help with Christmas he’s not sure how to feel!
A darling Christmas story with Seb learning to be a male/father figure to Charly, Hope learning to stand on her own two feet, and the SWEETEST second chance at love!!
November 27, 2024
I made ebleskiver!
I liked this a lot. Charlie was great, and I'm usually a big fan of kids. I was really there for this story. The excessive chemistry between Hope and Sebastian wasn't my favorite, but I enjoyed the rest of the plot very much.
I listened to the audiobook and thought both narrators did a nice job, including the children's voices.
I liked this a lot. Charlie was great, and I'm usually a big fan of kids. I was really there for this story. The excessive chemistry between Hope and Sebastian wasn't my favorite, but I enjoyed the rest of the plot very much.
I listened to the audiobook and thought both narrators did a nice job, including the children's voices.
Read
July 26, 2025The hero of this story is Stella, you heard it here first.
January 2, 2025
Christmas in Paradise by: Brittany Larsen ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
From the prologue, I was invested.
This story has everything you want in a RomCom
-lovable heroine
-stranded together
-tattooed MMC
-Italian mother
-small town
-drug dealing squirrels
-tons of Christmas activities with a Danish flair
Women supporting women 🙌🙌🙌
I loved how Evie & Georgia rallied to support Hope ⏩ swipe for a quote
Fans of Leah Brunner, Sara Adams and Katie Bailey will enjoy Brittany Larsen.
The chemistry is undeniable.
This was my favorite of the Paradise series so far. I'm looking forward to more from Larsen.
From the prologue, I was invested.
This story has everything you want in a RomCom
-lovable heroine
-stranded together
-tattooed MMC
-Italian mother
-small town
-drug dealing squirrels
-tons of Christmas activities with a Danish flair
Women supporting women 🙌🙌🙌
I loved how Evie & Georgia rallied to support Hope ⏩ swipe for a quote
Fans of Leah Brunner, Sara Adams and Katie Bailey will enjoy Brittany Larsen.
The chemistry is undeniable.
This was my favorite of the Paradise series so far. I'm looking forward to more from Larsen.
January 14, 2024
Christmas in Paradise
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Author: Brittany Larsen
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from Brittany Larsen and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Could an innocent fling turn into the real thing? I only want two things out of a career as a wedding planner extraordinaire and for Mom to stop treating me like a kid. Is that too much to ask? Probably. That is, until I get the chance to plan a televised, Christmas-themed wedding a thousand miles away from Mom in Paradise, Idaho. It seems like all my dreams might be coming true. Until I encounter the one thing that threatens to sidetrack a smoking, hot smolder. Sebastian Sparks has all the swagger and smirk to back up his smolder, and I know I’m in trouble the minute he saunters up to me. But underneath his bad boy image is a surprising vulnerability that’s evident the minute I climb onto the back of his bike. His e-bike. He’s supposed to be a fling. Now he wants more. But he has no idea what he’s getting into with me, and the whole town seems to be conspiring against my efforts to keep a safe distance from him. When we have to work together to plan Paradise's first Julefest, Sebastian is determined to prove he’s more than fling-worthy. He’s a man ready to give up everything, including the thing he’s most afraid of. I want to believe him, but I’ve got more than my own heart to protect. It will take more than attraction and close proximity to keep us together. There’s another heart Sebastian has to win if we’re going to find our own slice of paradise this Christmas. Is it too much to hope our love story might be the most memorable one this holiday season?
My Thoughts: This is the third book in the Love in Paradise Valley series. We meet Hope in the last book. While this is a series and there is character carryover, it can be read as a standalone. However, for a true character experience, I would recommend reading the series in order. Hope gets an opportunity to enter the event planning world by juggling the Christmas wedding that will be televised and Julefest. Hope knows a romance is a distraction that she cannot afford to make steps in establishing her career. Sebastian (Seb) is related to our brothers Adam and Zack from the first two books. Seb has a typical bad boy image and has shied away from commitment. Will things explode as fast as they imploded? Or will Seb win over both hearts? This follows the tropes of friends to lovers, small town, holiday romance, and single parent.
The story is narrated in a dual narration by Hope and Sebastian, in their respective perspectives. Hope is a young adult trying to make her mark on the world and finding who she is separate from her mother. Hope loves event planning but it very hard to get started on your own and when this opportunity presents itself, she has to put everything she can in it. Seb is charming, kind, vulnerable, and is loyal to his friends/family. Seb is an electrician by day, but has a secret passion, and has to grow up, be independent of his mother. The characters were well developed, with depth, witty banter, chemistry, and our MCs have tremendous character growth throughout the novel. I really loved seeing Seb be extremely vulnerable with Hope’s daughter, Charlie, it was really touching. The supporting characters really elevated the story, Charlie and Uncle Rad were my favorites. The author’s writing style is closed door, complex, funny, heartwarming, and kept me engaged from the first word to the last word. Larsen really does a brilliant job of developing the characters, setting the scene with amazing details, and pours her heart into every word.
This was a sweet, heartwarming, holiday romcom. Some of my favorite moments are Uncle Rad, ebelskiver, and moose antlers. I stumbled upon Larsen’s books when she did an author takeover in a Facebook reader group and fell in love, now I am a dedicated fan. She is a master storyteller in her ability to captivate readers and pull them into the story. I highly recommend reading this book and the entire series, each as heartwarming as the next.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Author: Brittany Larsen
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from Brittany Larsen and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Could an innocent fling turn into the real thing? I only want two things out of a career as a wedding planner extraordinaire and for Mom to stop treating me like a kid. Is that too much to ask? Probably. That is, until I get the chance to plan a televised, Christmas-themed wedding a thousand miles away from Mom in Paradise, Idaho. It seems like all my dreams might be coming true. Until I encounter the one thing that threatens to sidetrack a smoking, hot smolder. Sebastian Sparks has all the swagger and smirk to back up his smolder, and I know I’m in trouble the minute he saunters up to me. But underneath his bad boy image is a surprising vulnerability that’s evident the minute I climb onto the back of his bike. His e-bike. He’s supposed to be a fling. Now he wants more. But he has no idea what he’s getting into with me, and the whole town seems to be conspiring against my efforts to keep a safe distance from him. When we have to work together to plan Paradise's first Julefest, Sebastian is determined to prove he’s more than fling-worthy. He’s a man ready to give up everything, including the thing he’s most afraid of. I want to believe him, but I’ve got more than my own heart to protect. It will take more than attraction and close proximity to keep us together. There’s another heart Sebastian has to win if we’re going to find our own slice of paradise this Christmas. Is it too much to hope our love story might be the most memorable one this holiday season?
My Thoughts: This is the third book in the Love in Paradise Valley series. We meet Hope in the last book. While this is a series and there is character carryover, it can be read as a standalone. However, for a true character experience, I would recommend reading the series in order. Hope gets an opportunity to enter the event planning world by juggling the Christmas wedding that will be televised and Julefest. Hope knows a romance is a distraction that she cannot afford to make steps in establishing her career. Sebastian (Seb) is related to our brothers Adam and Zack from the first two books. Seb has a typical bad boy image and has shied away from commitment. Will things explode as fast as they imploded? Or will Seb win over both hearts? This follows the tropes of friends to lovers, small town, holiday romance, and single parent.
The story is narrated in a dual narration by Hope and Sebastian, in their respective perspectives. Hope is a young adult trying to make her mark on the world and finding who she is separate from her mother. Hope loves event planning but it very hard to get started on your own and when this opportunity presents itself, she has to put everything she can in it. Seb is charming, kind, vulnerable, and is loyal to his friends/family. Seb is an electrician by day, but has a secret passion, and has to grow up, be independent of his mother. The characters were well developed, with depth, witty banter, chemistry, and our MCs have tremendous character growth throughout the novel. I really loved seeing Seb be extremely vulnerable with Hope’s daughter, Charlie, it was really touching. The supporting characters really elevated the story, Charlie and Uncle Rad were my favorites. The author’s writing style is closed door, complex, funny, heartwarming, and kept me engaged from the first word to the last word. Larsen really does a brilliant job of developing the characters, setting the scene with amazing details, and pours her heart into every word.
This was a sweet, heartwarming, holiday romcom. Some of my favorite moments are Uncle Rad, ebelskiver, and moose antlers. I stumbled upon Larsen’s books when she did an author takeover in a Facebook reader group and fell in love, now I am a dedicated fan. She is a master storyteller in her ability to captivate readers and pull them into the story. I highly recommend reading this book and the entire series, each as heartwarming as the next.
February 26, 2024
"I think I'm falling for Charly as hard and as fast as I'm falling for Hope, and that scares the salt right out of me."
Read if you like:
* Dual POV
* Friends to Lovers
* Forced Proximity
* Single Parent
* One Bed
* Small Town Holiday Romance
* Witty Banter
* Closed Door Romance
* Part of a series (can absolutely be read as a stand alone, but it's better in order)
First Line:
"My Bible-training should have warned me that a trip to Paradise would involve forbidden fruit. But I'm still taken by surprise when, at the wrap party for At Home with Georgia Rose, I'm tempted by the tasty bite at the dessert table. He has dark hair, a slightly crooked nose that makes his face interesting, and a gaze that doesn't shy away when I catch him looking at me. Worst of all, he's got a don't-care attitude radiating from every pore."
I love a good first line and a book that grabs you right from the start!
I adore Sebastian and Hope. Hope is a single mom trying her best to take care of a daughter with special needs while also trying to start her career and gain some independence from her well-meaning but overstepping mother. Sebastian (at the beginning of the story) is a momma's boy through and through who is afraid to go after what he really wants, both with his career and his personal life. There is so much depth and character growth in this book. Larsen doesn't make it easy for them, but she has written beautiful character arcs for both MCs.
Christmas in Paradise has deep topics and growth arcs woven in seamlessly, while still maintaining the uplifting charm as well as the chemistry, banter, and humor you would expect from a holiday romcom.
Favorites:
* Advent Calendar website
* Naming the dog
* Synonyms for friend
* Squirrel
* Merry Moosemas beanies
* "Goodnight bestie."
* Mistletoe Inn
* Squirrel gangs
* Butter Bean
* Teaching Charley syvspring
* "Where my buns?"
* Seb the flower girl
* Dukes of Hazzard slide
* The 3 Mooseketeers
* Unkuhrad (Uncle Rad)
* Ambush by Bear, Carson, and Mrs. C
* Miss Gia
* Epilogue
This series talks a lot about Hygge, which is defined as a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture). Brittany Larsen has absolutely captured the feeling of Hygge with this series!
Read if you like:
* Dual POV
* Friends to Lovers
* Forced Proximity
* Single Parent
* One Bed
* Small Town Holiday Romance
* Witty Banter
* Closed Door Romance
* Part of a series (can absolutely be read as a stand alone, but it's better in order)
First Line:
"My Bible-training should have warned me that a trip to Paradise would involve forbidden fruit. But I'm still taken by surprise when, at the wrap party for At Home with Georgia Rose, I'm tempted by the tasty bite at the dessert table. He has dark hair, a slightly crooked nose that makes his face interesting, and a gaze that doesn't shy away when I catch him looking at me. Worst of all, he's got a don't-care attitude radiating from every pore."
I love a good first line and a book that grabs you right from the start!
I adore Sebastian and Hope. Hope is a single mom trying her best to take care of a daughter with special needs while also trying to start her career and gain some independence from her well-meaning but overstepping mother. Sebastian (at the beginning of the story) is a momma's boy through and through who is afraid to go after what he really wants, both with his career and his personal life. There is so much depth and character growth in this book. Larsen doesn't make it easy for them, but she has written beautiful character arcs for both MCs.
Christmas in Paradise has deep topics and growth arcs woven in seamlessly, while still maintaining the uplifting charm as well as the chemistry, banter, and humor you would expect from a holiday romcom.
Favorites:
* Advent Calendar website
* Naming the dog
* Synonyms for friend
* Squirrel
* Merry Moosemas beanies
* "Goodnight bestie."
* Mistletoe Inn
* Squirrel gangs
* Butter Bean
* Teaching Charley syvspring
* "Where my buns?"
* Seb the flower girl
* Dukes of Hazzard slide
* The 3 Mooseketeers
* Unkuhrad (Uncle Rad)
* Ambush by Bear, Carson, and Mrs. C
* Miss Gia
* Epilogue
This series talks a lot about Hygge, which is defined as a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture). Brittany Larsen has absolutely captured the feeling of Hygge with this series!
November 16, 2023
📖 ARC REVIEW 📖
Thank you @brittanylarsen.books for an early copy of Christmas in Paradise. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Release date: November 19th, 2023
Blurb: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
🛑Read on with caution; review may contain spoilers🛑
Christmas in Paradise, the third book in the Love in Paradise Valley series, is a heartwarming, Christmas romance that you’ll surely enjoy! I definitely did! It’s better to read the books in order since there are lots of characters in the series, and this third installment begins with Hope in Paradise. She’s Evie’s stepsister who’s hired by Carson part-time in planning for the double wedding between Zach and Georgia and Adam and Evie. Hope is drawn to Sebastian, who is very charming and has the bad boy vibes that Hope is drawn to. They had a fling for a few weeks but Hope leaves Paradise so suddenly when Sebastian reveals he’s doesn’t see kids in his future, because Hope has a kid named Charly, who is a child with special needs.
Seb couldn’t take his mind off of Hope, and when she shows up again in Paradise and learns of her daughter, he works to better himself and be a responsible adult to gain Hope’s and Charly’s trust, since they are a package deal. He had doubts about himself along the way, but when he warms up to Charly and keeps trying to win her was just too damn charming and adorable! I loved his character the most in this series as he has shown so much growth from being a ladies’ man to Hope and Charly’s Sebastian. He showed all throughout the book that he was willing to go all in with them, to even adopting a dog to practice is no small feat!; not only did he fall for Hope, but Charly has captured his heart as well.
I also appreciate how Larsen demonstrates the struggles of being a single mother to a child with developmental problems, and how one could use all the patience and help they could get to ensure the child’s well-being.
Christmas in Paradise is a Christmas romance novel that you need to pick up when it releases on November 19th! It’s the perfect warm hug and an enjoyable read!
Thank you @brittanylarsen.books for an early copy of Christmas in Paradise. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Release date: November 19th, 2023
Blurb: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
🛑Read on with caution; review may contain spoilers🛑
Christmas in Paradise, the third book in the Love in Paradise Valley series, is a heartwarming, Christmas romance that you’ll surely enjoy! I definitely did! It’s better to read the books in order since there are lots of characters in the series, and this third installment begins with Hope in Paradise. She’s Evie’s stepsister who’s hired by Carson part-time in planning for the double wedding between Zach and Georgia and Adam and Evie. Hope is drawn to Sebastian, who is very charming and has the bad boy vibes that Hope is drawn to. They had a fling for a few weeks but Hope leaves Paradise so suddenly when Sebastian reveals he’s doesn’t see kids in his future, because Hope has a kid named Charly, who is a child with special needs.
Seb couldn’t take his mind off of Hope, and when she shows up again in Paradise and learns of her daughter, he works to better himself and be a responsible adult to gain Hope’s and Charly’s trust, since they are a package deal. He had doubts about himself along the way, but when he warms up to Charly and keeps trying to win her was just too damn charming and adorable! I loved his character the most in this series as he has shown so much growth from being a ladies’ man to Hope and Charly’s Sebastian. He showed all throughout the book that he was willing to go all in with them, to even adopting a dog to practice is no small feat!; not only did he fall for Hope, but Charly has captured his heart as well.
I also appreciate how Larsen demonstrates the struggles of being a single mother to a child with developmental problems, and how one could use all the patience and help they could get to ensure the child’s well-being.
Christmas in Paradise is a Christmas romance novel that you need to pick up when it releases on November 19th! It’s the perfect warm hug and an enjoyable read!
November 17, 2023
Someone in my family asked for Christmas book recommendations today; when I responded with a bunch of kindle titles she said that she only reads hard copy books. That is entirely too bad, because if you're looking for a Christmas romance, then I can't recommend "Christmas in Paradise" highly enough. "Christmas in Paradise" is Brittany Larsen's 3rd book set in fictional Paradise Idaho, so it was fun to have people and situations already be familiar to me, but it's definitely also a standalone book.
Christmas in Paradise is the story of Hope, who comes to Paradise to do some work for a couple of weeks for a local event planner. While she's in town she hits it off immediately with good looking Sebastian and they spend her free time during her weeks there hanging out and making out. But then one night Sebastian makes a comment about never wanting a family, and the next day Hope goes back to her home in Kansas without saying goodbye. Sebastian can't figure out what has happened and also can't forget Hope.
What Sebastian doesn't know it's that Hope has a 3 year old daughter with some developmental challenges. So anyone who gets into a real relationship with Hope not only has an immediate family, but a complicated one.
In every romance novel there has to be something to keep the couple apart. I found this plot so entirely believable and it felt very real. Sebastian's mom has babied him his whole life to make up for his dad dying when he was young. Could Sebastian decide that he wanted to try for a relationship with Hope AND make enough changes in his life that she felt like he could actually handle it? Larsen does such a good job of gradually changing Sebastian, having him see his own behavior with different eyes and figure out things he needs to do to prove that he's up for the task of having a family.
All of this is set against the backdrop of the Christmas celebrations in Paradise, which, except for the snow, sounded like nostalgic perfection. Who doesn't want to be a part of a community that's so charming and become a part of that community family? All that plus a relationship that genuinely sizzles and makes you want them to find happiness together--Christmas perfection!
Christmas in Paradise is the story of Hope, who comes to Paradise to do some work for a couple of weeks for a local event planner. While she's in town she hits it off immediately with good looking Sebastian and they spend her free time during her weeks there hanging out and making out. But then one night Sebastian makes a comment about never wanting a family, and the next day Hope goes back to her home in Kansas without saying goodbye. Sebastian can't figure out what has happened and also can't forget Hope.
What Sebastian doesn't know it's that Hope has a 3 year old daughter with some developmental challenges. So anyone who gets into a real relationship with Hope not only has an immediate family, but a complicated one.
In every romance novel there has to be something to keep the couple apart. I found this plot so entirely believable and it felt very real. Sebastian's mom has babied him his whole life to make up for his dad dying when he was young. Could Sebastian decide that he wanted to try for a relationship with Hope AND make enough changes in his life that she felt like he could actually handle it? Larsen does such a good job of gradually changing Sebastian, having him see his own behavior with different eyes and figure out things he needs to do to prove that he's up for the task of having a family.
All of this is set against the backdrop of the Christmas celebrations in Paradise, which, except for the snow, sounded like nostalgic perfection. Who doesn't want to be a part of a community that's so charming and become a part of that community family? All that plus a relationship that genuinely sizzles and makes you want them to find happiness together--Christmas perfection!
November 22, 2023
Cute, clean, heartwarming seasonal romance.
First, if you hadn't read any of the other books of the serie, you can safetely read this story as a stand alone. I jumped in without knowing this was a part of a series, and while I had the feeling that there was backstory I already should know, it doesn't affect the main story at all (you would just know more about the habitants of Paradise and the full love story of the wedding participants here).
Hope wants to be an event planner and is remotely training under her step sister's wedding planner (and friend) Carl. Both of them are working on her sister wedding.
She goes to Paradise for a bit to intership personally and there she met Sebastian, the heartbreaker of town who has all the bad boy vibes that pull her in. Sparks fly (😉) And because is just for a bit, she decides to embrace this tiny taste of freedom and have fun, totally knowing this was all fun and nothing more for both of them (yeah right).
But bad boy is just a softie teddy bear and both of them are falling fast, so hope keep trying to push him to say something that will make her see the reality again and run. And finally he says something that shouldn't be a deal breaker in that stage of a relationship in normal circumstances. But Hope isn't in a normal situation. So she kiss him goodbye (without him knowing it) and fly back to reality, leaving a heartbroken "bad boy" behind.
What happened? Seb básically tell her he would not date someone who wanted kids. And? Hope was keeping a bit of information, as in she have a kid, a very cute little girl with special needs. And if she ever decides to date someone, that person must want the whole package.
So she runs back to her normal life... but the wedding still needs to be planned (also another huge event that Carl gave her the opportunity to plan too) and not everything can be done remotely. Meaning, she came back (months later) to Paradise, baby girl included (Seb helped to make that happened, even though he was hurt when he learned the truth she keep from him).
And that's when the full cute story begins.
I totally loved this story, all the characters and their development. It's inspiring and wholesome.
First, if you hadn't read any of the other books of the serie, you can safetely read this story as a stand alone. I jumped in without knowing this was a part of a series, and while I had the feeling that there was backstory I already should know, it doesn't affect the main story at all (you would just know more about the habitants of Paradise and the full love story of the wedding participants here).
Hope wants to be an event planner and is remotely training under her step sister's wedding planner (and friend) Carl. Both of them are working on her sister wedding.
She goes to Paradise for a bit to intership personally and there she met Sebastian, the heartbreaker of town who has all the bad boy vibes that pull her in. Sparks fly (😉) And because is just for a bit, she decides to embrace this tiny taste of freedom and have fun, totally knowing this was all fun and nothing more for both of them (yeah right).
But bad boy is just a softie teddy bear and both of them are falling fast, so hope keep trying to push him to say something that will make her see the reality again and run. And finally he says something that shouldn't be a deal breaker in that stage of a relationship in normal circumstances. But Hope isn't in a normal situation. So she kiss him goodbye (without him knowing it) and fly back to reality, leaving a heartbroken "bad boy" behind.
What happened? Seb básically tell her he would not date someone who wanted kids. And? Hope was keeping a bit of information, as in she have a kid, a very cute little girl with special needs. And if she ever decides to date someone, that person must want the whole package.
So she runs back to her normal life... but the wedding still needs to be planned (also another huge event that Carl gave her the opportunity to plan too) and not everything can be done remotely. Meaning, she came back (months later) to Paradise, baby girl included (Seb helped to make that happened, even though he was hurt when he learned the truth she keep from him).
And that's when the full cute story begins.
I totally loved this story, all the characters and their development. It's inspiring and wholesome.
November 16, 2023
4.5 stars
This was my favorite installment in the Love in Paradise series so far because I found myself being able to relate to Hope's life as a mother to a child with special needs. Hope is Evie's stepsister from Kansas, a 22 year old single mother to 3 year old Charly, who was born premature and as a result has several developmental delays. She's given the opportunity to come work as an assistant party planner in Paradise for a chance to take a break from her life for a bit and work on the televised dual weddings of Evie and Georgia for the At Home with Georgia Rose show. While in town, she meets Sebastian, Adam and Zach's half Italian bad-boy cousin, who sweeps her off her feet. After their casual Summer fling starts getting serious and he mentions that deal breakers in relationships are when the woman starts to talk about children, she panics and flees back to Kansas, knowing that they never would have a real future. Sebastian finds out months later just before she returns for the weddings that Hope has a child, and realizes what he had done. After years of being babied by his well meaning but very stereotypical Italian mother, Sebastian realizes that he doesn't know how to be a responsible adult, and takes steps to learn how to be the kind of man and father figure Hope and Charly need.
I loved the sweet interactions between Sebastian and Charly, which started off painfully awkward, and the comic relief provided by puppy Uncle Rad. The simmering below the surface attraction between Hope and Sebastian kept things fun without being overly spicy. I definitely could relate to Hope's life, revolving decisions around access to therapy and doctor appointments and school quality, though the cynic in me sometimes struggles with the believability of the single parent trope because I don't think anyone would want to take on me and my brood if I were in the same position 😅 The cozy Paradise setting is made even more magical with the addition of the Danish inspired Yuletide festival. I can't wait to go back (hopefully) for Bear's story!
❤️ Thank you so much to Brittany Larsen for a copy of Christmas in Paradise to review!
This was my favorite installment in the Love in Paradise series so far because I found myself being able to relate to Hope's life as a mother to a child with special needs. Hope is Evie's stepsister from Kansas, a 22 year old single mother to 3 year old Charly, who was born premature and as a result has several developmental delays. She's given the opportunity to come work as an assistant party planner in Paradise for a chance to take a break from her life for a bit and work on the televised dual weddings of Evie and Georgia for the At Home with Georgia Rose show. While in town, she meets Sebastian, Adam and Zach's half Italian bad-boy cousin, who sweeps her off her feet. After their casual Summer fling starts getting serious and he mentions that deal breakers in relationships are when the woman starts to talk about children, she panics and flees back to Kansas, knowing that they never would have a real future. Sebastian finds out months later just before she returns for the weddings that Hope has a child, and realizes what he had done. After years of being babied by his well meaning but very stereotypical Italian mother, Sebastian realizes that he doesn't know how to be a responsible adult, and takes steps to learn how to be the kind of man and father figure Hope and Charly need.
I loved the sweet interactions between Sebastian and Charly, which started off painfully awkward, and the comic relief provided by puppy Uncle Rad. The simmering below the surface attraction between Hope and Sebastian kept things fun without being overly spicy. I definitely could relate to Hope's life, revolving decisions around access to therapy and doctor appointments and school quality, though the cynic in me sometimes struggles with the believability of the single parent trope because I don't think anyone would want to take on me and my brood if I were in the same position 😅 The cozy Paradise setting is made even more magical with the addition of the Danish inspired Yuletide festival. I can't wait to go back (hopefully) for Bear's story!
❤️ Thank you so much to Brittany Larsen for a copy of Christmas in Paradise to review!
November 23, 2023
I loved this Christmas addition to a wonderful series. You need to read it! The cuteness, the funny, the sweet, the touching. The bulk of the story is about how the characters, mainly Sebastian, could grow, adapt, and work to make a relationship with added responsibilities realistically work. Hope and Sebastian had a summer fling when she was in Paradise temporarily, but both developed stronger feelings. When Hope (possibly just temporarily) returned to work in Paradise with her special needs toddler in tow, one she failed to mention to Seb, they both had a lot to figure out. Their attraction and feelings were undeniable, but whether or not their lives could mesh was a big question mark. “‘Because I’m as mixed up as the signals I’m sending you. Because it means I like you, but I don’t have time to like you right now.’”
I really enjoyed watching Sebastian have to take stock of his life and make changes. “‘You don’t even know how to take care of yourself. Let alone a kid.’” It was beautiful watching the sweet relationship between Seb and Charly grow. I just loved it. From lost and inept to him being completely in love with her too. “Is this what it feels like to be a dad? To feel overwhelmed by a kid’s vulnerability and their trust when you know your own limitations?” And “Sebby” was so incredibly adorable. I love a sweet nickname from a little child. Uncle Rad, the puppy, really upped the cute-factor too. And the responsibility learning curve for Seb. Hope was a fantastic, layered character. Seeing her as a mom and how she cared for her daughter was wonderful and so endearing. She was young but taking on so much to provide for her child.
The secondary characters were also wonderful. We know many of them from previous books, and it was great to catch-up with them and see a special wedding and family holiday events. The book had many sweet moments, and plenty of funny ones too. And the attraction between Seb and Hope was swoony. It’s just a really great romance read. Definitely recommend this book and the whole series. This is a closed door romance with some mild innuendo and one very mild harsh word.😉
I really enjoyed watching Sebastian have to take stock of his life and make changes. “‘You don’t even know how to take care of yourself. Let alone a kid.’” It was beautiful watching the sweet relationship between Seb and Charly grow. I just loved it. From lost and inept to him being completely in love with her too. “Is this what it feels like to be a dad? To feel overwhelmed by a kid’s vulnerability and their trust when you know your own limitations?” And “Sebby” was so incredibly adorable. I love a sweet nickname from a little child. Uncle Rad, the puppy, really upped the cute-factor too. And the responsibility learning curve for Seb. Hope was a fantastic, layered character. Seeing her as a mom and how she cared for her daughter was wonderful and so endearing. She was young but taking on so much to provide for her child.
The secondary characters were also wonderful. We know many of them from previous books, and it was great to catch-up with them and see a special wedding and family holiday events. The book had many sweet moments, and plenty of funny ones too. And the attraction between Seb and Hope was swoony. It’s just a really great romance read. Definitely recommend this book and the whole series. This is a closed door romance with some mild innuendo and one very mild harsh word.😉
November 28, 2023
Christmas in Paradise by Brittany Larsen is not only a perfect Christmas read but a perfect continuation of her Love in Paradise Valley series. I loved everything about this book, which is the story of Seb and Hope. Hope moves to Paradise for an eight-week internship with her sister’s wedding planner. Hope quickly begins a casual but intense summer fling with Seb. When Hope realizes that her feelings for Seb are not as casual as they should be and that Seb has no desire for children, she quickly returns home to her daughter Charly. Several months later, Hope returns to Paradise to put the finishing touches on the wedding and Yulefest. Hope has no plans to rekindle her relationship while Seb has other ideas. The story that follows is so good.
Both Seb and Hope have to learn and grow a bit before they are ready for a serious relationship. I loved how Brittany wove these lessons in the story while keeping the chemistry and humor of a romcom. It was beautifully done.
Seb is just as dreamy as his cousins Adam and Zach. I loved his character arc. He gets better and better as the story progresses. His relationship with Charly was so sweet.
Hope was such a wonderful character. I really felt for Hope as she balances her wishes and hopes for Charly with her attraction and desire for Seb. I loved watching her grow and come into her own as both a mother and a woman.
You will love this book if you love:
-the single mom trope
-small town romance
-She falls quickly but refuses to admit it for as long as possible
-He falls for both mom and child
-crazy animals
-Christmas festivities
-one bed
-hot chemistry and banter
-loveable side characters (I loved getting to know Uncle Pete and Grandpa Sparks. They were both so great)
This book was such a joy to read. Christmas in Paradise is a swoony read with so much chemistry and banter. It is also a beautiful story of love and how it can make you change and sacrifice for those you love. Love this book and this whole series.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions expressed in my review are my own.
Both Seb and Hope have to learn and grow a bit before they are ready for a serious relationship. I loved how Brittany wove these lessons in the story while keeping the chemistry and humor of a romcom. It was beautifully done.
Seb is just as dreamy as his cousins Adam and Zach. I loved his character arc. He gets better and better as the story progresses. His relationship with Charly was so sweet.
Hope was such a wonderful character. I really felt for Hope as she balances her wishes and hopes for Charly with her attraction and desire for Seb. I loved watching her grow and come into her own as both a mother and a woman.
You will love this book if you love:
-the single mom trope
-small town romance
-She falls quickly but refuses to admit it for as long as possible
-He falls for both mom and child
-crazy animals
-Christmas festivities
-one bed
-hot chemistry and banter
-loveable side characters (I loved getting to know Uncle Pete and Grandpa Sparks. They were both so great)
This book was such a joy to read. Christmas in Paradise is a swoony read with so much chemistry and banter. It is also a beautiful story of love and how it can make you change and sacrifice for those you love. Love this book and this whole series.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions expressed in my review are my own.
November 19, 2023
OMG I fell in love with Charly what an adorable little girl with lots of love surrounding her. Her mummy went to see Auntie Evie in the summer, to do some event work with a man called Carson leaving Charly at home with her grandparents who dote on her a little too much perhaps especially her ‘Gigi ‘ . Hope , Charley’s mom had a lovely time in Paradise , it’s very different from Kansas . She met what her sister would say was bad for her Sebastian as he introduced himself as she was outside taking a breath of air. Evie spots them and before she could catch them they rode off ….on a pedal bikes?… is he even a bad boy? They spend quite a few days doing mostly kissing , then one day he dropped a bombshell that had her hightailing it back home and working remotely. Seb is yearning for Hope , he wants to know why she’s ghosted him , begging Evie to tell him why she left so abruptly. He overhears a man’s name in connection to Hope and thinks she has a man back in Kansas so he will have to forget her. Ha who’s he trying to kid!? It’s six months later when Evie rings her sister, Carson could do with her physical presence back in Paradise as there’s to be a televised double wedding of which Hope and Carson are expected not only to be at , but on video in the planning stages as well, and a month long event up to Christmas that is intended to put Paradise on the winter tourists map as well as the summer. This means seeing Seb again and him finding out about Charly and that she lied to him as she must take Charly along with her .Well there’s lots of festivity planning and Seb and Hope mushy stuff and quite a bit of avoiding the kissy thing and oh it’s adorable . It’s full of that much feel-good, goodness knows how I’m not a blubbering Christmassy mess!!! This has got to top even a wonderful life , I don’t say that lightly , it’s a triumph, it’s not even Hallmark calibre as that’s too meh for this awesome story.
I read an advance copy of this book and my review is voluntary and my own words
I read an advance copy of this book and my review is voluntary and my own words
November 18, 2023
I am not even sure where to start with this review. This might be one of the most charming and adorable Christmas stories that I have ever read. I fell in love with the characters and this wonderful town known as Paradise.
Hope wants to fulfill her dream of being an event planner. She has come to Paradise for a short period of time to work with Carson in planning a dream wedding which will be televised. During her short stay she meets Sebastian Sparks. Sebastian has the bad boy vibe that Hope seems to be drawn to. Little does she know that underneath that bad boy look is a teddy bear. They enjoy a few weeks together, and then she disappears.
When she returns to town, she has brought her little secret with her that has thrown him completely off balance. Although he has deep feelings for Hope, he is not sure he can do this. As they bungle along trying to remain friends, the chemistry between these two is at the boiling point. There were so many funny scenes. There is a hilarious scene with some overly friendly squirrels who are so tame that they are not afraid of humans, but they still have that squirrel brain. Let's just say butter and unattended children do not mix. Sebastian may be one of my favorite male romantic characters ever. He stole my heart fully. He is a man after a lady's heart. His mother, Gia, was quite the character as well. When she got upset, she would start fussing at him in Italian, but she also had a heart of gold. Hope was fully embraced by this village of people/friends that welcomed her as if she had lived there all her life. There were so many emotional moments and so much laughter that I could not stop reading. Brittany Larsen knows how to write a romantic comedy that will tickle your funny bone and warm your heart. You do not want to miss this one.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Hope wants to fulfill her dream of being an event planner. She has come to Paradise for a short period of time to work with Carson in planning a dream wedding which will be televised. During her short stay she meets Sebastian Sparks. Sebastian has the bad boy vibe that Hope seems to be drawn to. Little does she know that underneath that bad boy look is a teddy bear. They enjoy a few weeks together, and then she disappears.
When she returns to town, she has brought her little secret with her that has thrown him completely off balance. Although he has deep feelings for Hope, he is not sure he can do this. As they bungle along trying to remain friends, the chemistry between these two is at the boiling point. There were so many funny scenes. There is a hilarious scene with some overly friendly squirrels who are so tame that they are not afraid of humans, but they still have that squirrel brain. Let's just say butter and unattended children do not mix. Sebastian may be one of my favorite male romantic characters ever. He stole my heart fully. He is a man after a lady's heart. His mother, Gia, was quite the character as well. When she got upset, she would start fussing at him in Italian, but she also had a heart of gold. Hope was fully embraced by this village of people/friends that welcomed her as if she had lived there all her life. There were so many emotional moments and so much laughter that I could not stop reading. Brittany Larsen knows how to write a romantic comedy that will tickle your funny bone and warm your heart. You do not want to miss this one.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 23, 2023
Holiday Romance
This book was just the thing to get me into the holiday spirit this year! It also makes me a little sad that I can’t actually attend the Yulefest described in its pages because it sounds absolutely picturesque and perfect. The love story is also heartwarming and wonderful. The two main characters try so hard to avoid actually falling for each other, but they’re so perfect together that they simply can’t help it. This story has both heat and humor while also capturing the joys and fears that go hand in hand with parenting, including the many hours spent watching Bluey and Daniel Tiger. The mishaps with puppies, squirrels, toddlers, and butter kept me laughing in between the romantic moments and sizzling chemistry between two people who are determined to stay out of a relationship. Once you start reading Christmas in Paradise you won’t want to stop and you’ll definitely want to look up recipes for ebelskiver too. Find a cozy blanket and enjoy getting into the Christmas spirit with the town of Paradise and you may even pick up a subtle reference to a great Taylor Swift song while you’re reading.
Brittany Larsen is so wonderful at weaving real life situations that families and individuals face into her stories. It gives me comfort through the ones that I’ve experienced personally and much more insight and understanding for those who are struggling through the ones I haven’t lived. Her characters have realistic problems in their lives that often create complications for them as they learn and grow through their journey. I always feel like I have someone to legitimately cheer for when I’m reading her books. The Paradise series has characters that are continually working to overcome their own personal demons and the curveballs that life has thrown at them and reading about their perseverance even when they feel like it’s all too much is a joy.
This book was just the thing to get me into the holiday spirit this year! It also makes me a little sad that I can’t actually attend the Yulefest described in its pages because it sounds absolutely picturesque and perfect. The love story is also heartwarming and wonderful. The two main characters try so hard to avoid actually falling for each other, but they’re so perfect together that they simply can’t help it. This story has both heat and humor while also capturing the joys and fears that go hand in hand with parenting, including the many hours spent watching Bluey and Daniel Tiger. The mishaps with puppies, squirrels, toddlers, and butter kept me laughing in between the romantic moments and sizzling chemistry between two people who are determined to stay out of a relationship. Once you start reading Christmas in Paradise you won’t want to stop and you’ll definitely want to look up recipes for ebelskiver too. Find a cozy blanket and enjoy getting into the Christmas spirit with the town of Paradise and you may even pick up a subtle reference to a great Taylor Swift song while you’re reading.
Brittany Larsen is so wonderful at weaving real life situations that families and individuals face into her stories. It gives me comfort through the ones that I’ve experienced personally and much more insight and understanding for those who are struggling through the ones I haven’t lived. Her characters have realistic problems in their lives that often create complications for them as they learn and grow through their journey. I always feel like I have someone to legitimately cheer for when I’m reading her books. The Paradise series has characters that are continually working to overcome their own personal demons and the curveballs that life has thrown at them and reading about their perseverance even when they feel like it’s all too much is a joy.
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