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Love in Paradise Valley #2
(Not So) Famous in Paradise
Which is easier, pretending to date my best friend, or pretending not to be in love with him? When the biggest career opportunity of my life–my own home reno TV show–sends me back to my hometown, I’m less than excited. Paradise, Idaho might be paradise for everyone else, but it never was for me. Except for my best friend, Zach. When he signs on to be a contractor on my show, things start to look up. And heat up . If only Zach wasn’t about to propose to someone else. Even my rocking curves and great hair can’t compete with that. Problem is, my fans think we’re a thing and want to see us together. And my show’s producers want what the fans want. My TV show is about to become my fantasy–a love story about Zach and me. But TV is the only place where the story can be true. Telling Zach how I feel means risking my business, and even worse, our friendship. I could lose everything. Including the one person I want more than anything . The second book in the Love in Paradise Valley series, ( Not So) Famous in Paradise is a laugh-out-loud, friends to more, romantic comedy that can be read as a stand-alone.
1 pages, Audio CD
Published July 9, 2024
94 people are currently reading
431 people want to read
About the author
Brittany Larsen
31 books255 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 116 reviews
did-not-finish
October 18, 2023DNF at 12%.
I just don't have the patience for this. He's dating someone else. They've known each other forever and he's always dating someone. It's clear she has liked him but she doesn't let herself see it since he's always dating someone.
I can't figure out how it's going to work and I don't have the patience to wait it out.
I just don't have the patience for this. He's dating someone else. They've known each other forever and he's always dating someone. It's clear she has liked him but she doesn't let herself see it since he's always dating someone.
I can't figure out how it's going to work and I don't have the patience to wait it out.
September 11, 2023
✧:･𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐬･:✧
•little copenhagen
•childhood friends to idiots to lovers
•home renovations
•dyslexia rep
•ever-changing coffee orders
•hygge feels
•fake dating
•hgtv gives
•small town romance
•cinnamon roll hero
•girl boss heroine
“𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙖 𝙬𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚, 𝙞𝙛 𝙖 𝙨𝙪𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙝𝙤𝙩, 𝙢𝙪𝙨𝙘𝙪𝙡𝙖𝙧 𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙨𝙠𝙨 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙙? 𝙔𝙤𝙪. 𝙉𝙚𝙚𝙙. 𝙏𝙤 𝙗𝙚. 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙙.”
it was so much fun being back in the town of paradise for georgia and zach’s story! i really enjoyed the slow burn of their relationship. these two had to get out of their own ways and see the writing on the wall before they could truly be together. everyone saw it before them and i love how zach’s family helped to move things along. it was also nice to see zach and adam repair their relationship. this book was angsty but also sweet and funny with all the things i love in a small town romance.
“𝙄’𝙫𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚, 𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄’𝙫𝙚 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨. 𝙁𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙤𝙣, 𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙂𝙚𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙞𝙖. 𝘽𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙣𝙤 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙚 𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙙𝙞𝙙.”
romance: kisses
thank you to the author for an arc. my thoughts are my own.
•little copenhagen
•childhood friends to idiots to lovers
•home renovations
•dyslexia rep
•ever-changing coffee orders
•hygge feels
•fake dating
•hgtv gives
•small town romance
•cinnamon roll hero
•girl boss heroine
“𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙖 𝙬𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚, 𝙞𝙛 𝙖 𝙨𝙪𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙝𝙤𝙩, 𝙢𝙪𝙨𝙘𝙪𝙡𝙖𝙧 𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙨𝙠𝙨 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙙? 𝙔𝙤𝙪. 𝙉𝙚𝙚𝙙. 𝙏𝙤 𝙗𝙚. 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙙.”
it was so much fun being back in the town of paradise for georgia and zach’s story! i really enjoyed the slow burn of their relationship. these two had to get out of their own ways and see the writing on the wall before they could truly be together. everyone saw it before them and i love how zach’s family helped to move things along. it was also nice to see zach and adam repair their relationship. this book was angsty but also sweet and funny with all the things i love in a small town romance.
“𝙄’𝙫𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚, 𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄’𝙫𝙚 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨. 𝙁𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙤𝙣, 𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙂𝙚𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙞𝙖. 𝘽𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙣𝙤 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙚 𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙙𝙞𝙙.”
romance: kisses
thank you to the author for an arc. my thoughts are my own.
September 13, 2023
(Not So) Famous in Paradise by Brittany Larsen has recently been released and is a must read for fans of sweet romances. Honestly, I adored this book so much. Not only does it incorporate two of my favorite tropes; friends to lovers AND fake dating, but we have a curvy heroine, a dyslexia rep, AND all the HGTV/house flipping vibes! The story though is much more than a few tropes thrown together. This book hits the emotions in many different ways which makes it a very satisfying read. The friends-to-lovers trope between Zach and Georgia felt to honest and real- it wasn’t an “oh I love you” out of nowhere, it took its time to feel authentic. All in all, I loved this book! Both the books in the series are amazing so if you’re looking for a series to binge then I recommend both. You can even read them for free with kindle unlimited!
September 19, 2023
(Not So) Famous in Paradise is the perfect romcom. I laughed, I smiled, I really enjoyed this book. And the great kisses also helped. Zach and Georgia are perfect for each other, they just don’t know it. Although everyone around them does. And when they do realize it, they doubt. I love the fake dating/best friends to lovers trope and this had a fun reality TV fake relationship spin. I appreciated Zach and Georgia’s friendship went back to their youth and their comfort and fondness for each other is enduring. I also enjoyed the quirky small town feel. The scene with the cop and the clerk was so funny.
I received an ebook copy from the author. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
I received an ebook copy from the author. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
August 29, 2023
This story is full of favorite tropes, laughs, and swoon with high heels and lipstick.
My own personal love story is a small town, friends-to-love and that right there hooked me, but when a fake dating relationship is thrown into the mix, along with a reality tv type of plot? Yes, please! Brittany Larsen sets up such a sweet story, packed with chemistry--the perfect combo. I mean, "Romance and home reno combined? Who wouldn't want to watch that? It's like the first time someone thought to dip strawberries into chocolate to create the perfect dessert combination." From start to finish, this one is delicious.
I loved Zach and Georgia. Their friendship is such a strong core thread to this book and the way they have such a history, connection, and loyalty to help and lift one another is so heartening. They're solid and likable, as are their whole friend group/family.
Content: mild+ romance (kissing, light innuendo, one mild brush with a body part); mild language
*I received a complimentary copy and also borrowed on KU. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
My own personal love story is a small town, friends-to-love and that right there hooked me, but when a fake dating relationship is thrown into the mix, along with a reality tv type of plot? Yes, please! Brittany Larsen sets up such a sweet story, packed with chemistry--the perfect combo. I mean, "Romance and home reno combined? Who wouldn't want to watch that? It's like the first time someone thought to dip strawberries into chocolate to create the perfect dessert combination." From start to finish, this one is delicious.
I loved Zach and Georgia. Their friendship is such a strong core thread to this book and the way they have such a history, connection, and loyalty to help and lift one another is so heartening. They're solid and likable, as are their whole friend group/family.
Content: mild+ romance (kissing, light innuendo, one mild brush with a body part); mild language
*I received a complimentary copy and also borrowed on KU. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
September 20, 2023
My friends, this book is so much fun! I was invested in the characters and wondered how on earth they could make things work. And I loved how everything turned out.
To me, the celebrity-falls-for-the-regular-person trope is like a modern-day Cinderella theme, and the celebrity is usually someone disgustingly wealthy or a movie star. I really loved that the “famous” character was an Instagram influencer. For some reason (though I’m the furthest thing from an influencer imaginable), it made the characters more relatable.
I really loved these characters, both who they are alone, and who they are together. I love how they each bring out the best in one another. They were so cute, how they knew what the other person needed and were so in tune with each other. They already had chemistry, and that made for some delicious, tension-filled moments.
I loved Georgia’s tenacity and independence, and her work ethic. (And also, I think Georgia is an adorable name!)The curated image she made for herself was so fun and she made me smile all the time.
This is the first book I’ve read in this series, but I fell in love with Paradise, Idaho, and Zach’s entire family from the very beginning. (Also, bonus points to Brittany for using Idaho as a setting. I looooved it!) Back to Zach’s family—they are the coolest, and now I really want to read the rest of the series. Zach is a really good guy. I liked him anyway, but seeing his interactions with his mom clinched his place in ultra-good-guy-you-have-to-swoon-for status.
This book was a lot of fun! I don’t want to give anything away, but there were so many things that made this book a fun one. All of the little elements and settings, Zach’s thoughtfulness, Georgia’s ability to speak her mind and stand her ground, some learning disability rep, family connections, childhood friendship and memories, and the old cottage renos were all so good. I’m in love with Paradise, Idaho, and the people there (except maybe Darlene), and look forward to reading other books in the series.
CW: some swearing; parent illness; mention of female body part; dreamy kisses
**Thanks to the author for the copy. It was such a fun read!
To me, the celebrity-falls-for-the-regular-person trope is like a modern-day Cinderella theme, and the celebrity is usually someone disgustingly wealthy or a movie star. I really loved that the “famous” character was an Instagram influencer. For some reason (though I’m the furthest thing from an influencer imaginable), it made the characters more relatable.
I really loved these characters, both who they are alone, and who they are together. I love how they each bring out the best in one another. They were so cute, how they knew what the other person needed and were so in tune with each other. They already had chemistry, and that made for some delicious, tension-filled moments.
I loved Georgia’s tenacity and independence, and her work ethic. (And also, I think Georgia is an adorable name!)The curated image she made for herself was so fun and she made me smile all the time.
This is the first book I’ve read in this series, but I fell in love with Paradise, Idaho, and Zach’s entire family from the very beginning. (Also, bonus points to Brittany for using Idaho as a setting. I looooved it!) Back to Zach’s family—they are the coolest, and now I really want to read the rest of the series. Zach is a really good guy. I liked him anyway, but seeing his interactions with his mom clinched his place in ultra-good-guy-you-have-to-swoon-for status.
This book was a lot of fun! I don’t want to give anything away, but there were so many things that made this book a fun one. All of the little elements and settings, Zach’s thoughtfulness, Georgia’s ability to speak her mind and stand her ground, some learning disability rep, family connections, childhood friendship and memories, and the old cottage renos were all so good. I’m in love with Paradise, Idaho, and the people there (except maybe Darlene), and look forward to reading other books in the series.
CW: some swearing; parent illness; mention of female body part; dreamy kisses
**Thanks to the author for the copy. It was such a fun read!
September 30, 2023
Reader’s Notes:
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Georgia & Zach’s points of view
– Zach’s mom has early onset Alzheimer’s
– there is one curse/not nice word
– at one point Zach accidentally touches Georgia’s bare chest (shirt rode up) with his forearm
Review:
I really enjoyed Georgia & Zach’s story! (And I’m excited to see what happens with the two couples that are hinted at stating to form in this book!) I loved that Georgia & Zach have been best friends since they were kids so they had a ton of backlog memories to pull up that they shared as the story went on. I loved that we got an explanation for both of their nicknames as part of it! I really enjoyed seeing more of Zach’s family and their inside banter/working together at the various businesses they own. I also really loved that we got time where Zach & Georgia were just there for each other (both taking care of one another & just being there when they needed to vent). Zach’s concern for Georgia’s injury and her need to strain it in the name of branding was an interesting & yet perfect dynamic for the two of them!
Summary:
Georgia has returned to her hometown and worries about how her TV show fame might give her unwanted attention. When she used to live in Paradise, Idaho, Georgia didn’t have such a great time. People either mocked her and called her by her hated nickname or just outright disliked her because of her mother. The only bright spots are her best friend Zach and his family. They are excited that she’s back and they don’t have any ulterior motives to approach her unlike some townspeople. But Georgia is coming to realize that her feelings of friendship for Zach have morphed into something deeper since the last time they were together. With his currently being in a relationship & Georgia not wanting to lose her best friend, she doesn’t want to show her feelings. But when the script changes to have them do just that, Georgia lets her real feelings take over as ‘acting’. With Zach bringing the same momentum to their videos, could he possibly like her back the same way?
Zach thinks he’s found the one for him in Carly, but the more time he spends on set with Georgia the less time he’s making for his girlfriend. And he doesn’t completely notice or regret the choice. With his feelings changing around his best friend and Zach not being willing to find out if more is possible with Georgia for risk of losing her friendship, he feels the need to double down on his relationship with Carly. But everything falls apart as Georgia’s fans delight in Zach & Georgia’s on screen banter that they believe is something more. The producers want more content like that while Carly wants Zach to back off of it. Zach wants to give Georgia the best shot at making her show a success, but he also wants to hold onto his relationship with Carly. Which is the best choice for him though?
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Georgia & Zach’s points of view
– Zach’s mom has early onset Alzheimer’s
– there is one curse/not nice word
– at one point Zach accidentally touches Georgia’s bare chest (shirt rode up) with his forearm
Review:
I really enjoyed Georgia & Zach’s story! (And I’m excited to see what happens with the two couples that are hinted at stating to form in this book!) I loved that Georgia & Zach have been best friends since they were kids so they had a ton of backlog memories to pull up that they shared as the story went on. I loved that we got an explanation for both of their nicknames as part of it! I really enjoyed seeing more of Zach’s family and their inside banter/working together at the various businesses they own. I also really loved that we got time where Zach & Georgia were just there for each other (both taking care of one another & just being there when they needed to vent). Zach’s concern for Georgia’s injury and her need to strain it in the name of branding was an interesting & yet perfect dynamic for the two of them!
Summary:
Georgia has returned to her hometown and worries about how her TV show fame might give her unwanted attention. When she used to live in Paradise, Idaho, Georgia didn’t have such a great time. People either mocked her and called her by her hated nickname or just outright disliked her because of her mother. The only bright spots are her best friend Zach and his family. They are excited that she’s back and they don’t have any ulterior motives to approach her unlike some townspeople. But Georgia is coming to realize that her feelings of friendship for Zach have morphed into something deeper since the last time they were together. With his currently being in a relationship & Georgia not wanting to lose her best friend, she doesn’t want to show her feelings. But when the script changes to have them do just that, Georgia lets her real feelings take over as ‘acting’. With Zach bringing the same momentum to their videos, could he possibly like her back the same way?
Zach thinks he’s found the one for him in Carly, but the more time he spends on set with Georgia the less time he’s making for his girlfriend. And he doesn’t completely notice or regret the choice. With his feelings changing around his best friend and Zach not being willing to find out if more is possible with Georgia for risk of losing her friendship, he feels the need to double down on his relationship with Carly. But everything falls apart as Georgia’s fans delight in Zach & Georgia’s on screen banter that they believe is something more. The producers want more content like that while Carly wants Zach to back off of it. Zach wants to give Georgia the best shot at making her show a success, but he also wants to hold onto his relationship with Carly. Which is the best choice for him though?
November 4, 2023
(Not So) Famous in Paradise
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Brittany Larsen
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from Brittany Larsen and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Which is easier, pretending to date my best friend, or pretending not to be in love with him?
When the biggest career opportunity of my life–my own home reno TV show–sends me back to my hometown, I’m less than excited. Paradise, Idaho might be paradise for everyone else, but it never was for me. Except for my best friend, Zach. When he signs on to be a contractor on my show, things start to look up. And heat up. If only Zach wasn’t about to propose to someone else. Even my rocking curves and great hair can’t compete with that. Problem is, my fans think we’re a thing and want to see us together. And my show’s producers want what the fans want. My TV show is about to become my fantasy–a love story about Zach and me. But TV is the only place where the story can be true. Telling Zach how I feel means risking my business, and even worse, our friendship. I could lose everything. Including the one person I want more than anything.
My Thoughts: This is the second book in the Love in Paradise Valley series. While you will get a better character understanding by reading the first book, this can be read as a standalone. Georgia gets to return home to star in her dream, her own reality renovation show. She gets to reconnect with her best friend, and when he signs to be part of the show, chemistry flies. But he is about to propose to his girlfriend. Their chemistry is solid on screen, can it survive off screen? This follows the tropes of fake dating, reality TV romance, friends to lovers, and small town romance.
This is a closed door, slow burn romance novel. This is a dual narration with Zach and Georgia, in their respective perspectives. Our heroine is a curvy red head and our hero has a reading disability, I love how the author incorporated this into the storyline. Georgia is fiercely independent, never asks or wants help, even at her detriment. Georgia has created her brand from nothing to a reality TV show. Zach is funny, charming, and has had a lot of girlfriends, never finding the one that completes him. Together, they are best friends and have known each other most of their lives, there is angst tension and amazing chemistry between them. Their love grew organically throughout the story, which is probably my favorite part. The characters were well developed with depth, witty banter, chemistry, and perfectly creative. I love the update we get on Evie and Adam and that they appear throughout the novel. I loved Britta and Cassie as the supporting characters for this story. The authors writing style was complex, swoony, romantic, sweet, and endearing. The author does an amazing job at continuing to detail Paradise and builds such a beautiful picture that I really want to visit our fictional town of Paradise!
This as a sweet fake dating romantic read that I devoured in a few days. While this is a slow burn to build up the characters and only has kissing involved, it still warms my heart. This story has the effect of a Hallmark Christmas Movie, it warms your heart and you’re rooting for the characters to have their own HEA! I highly recommend picking up this book. It is available on KU.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Brittany Larsen
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from Brittany Larsen and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Which is easier, pretending to date my best friend, or pretending not to be in love with him?
When the biggest career opportunity of my life–my own home reno TV show–sends me back to my hometown, I’m less than excited. Paradise, Idaho might be paradise for everyone else, but it never was for me. Except for my best friend, Zach. When he signs on to be a contractor on my show, things start to look up. And heat up. If only Zach wasn’t about to propose to someone else. Even my rocking curves and great hair can’t compete with that. Problem is, my fans think we’re a thing and want to see us together. And my show’s producers want what the fans want. My TV show is about to become my fantasy–a love story about Zach and me. But TV is the only place where the story can be true. Telling Zach how I feel means risking my business, and even worse, our friendship. I could lose everything. Including the one person I want more than anything.
My Thoughts: This is the second book in the Love in Paradise Valley series. While you will get a better character understanding by reading the first book, this can be read as a standalone. Georgia gets to return home to star in her dream, her own reality renovation show. She gets to reconnect with her best friend, and when he signs to be part of the show, chemistry flies. But he is about to propose to his girlfriend. Their chemistry is solid on screen, can it survive off screen? This follows the tropes of fake dating, reality TV romance, friends to lovers, and small town romance.
This is a closed door, slow burn romance novel. This is a dual narration with Zach and Georgia, in their respective perspectives. Our heroine is a curvy red head and our hero has a reading disability, I love how the author incorporated this into the storyline. Georgia is fiercely independent, never asks or wants help, even at her detriment. Georgia has created her brand from nothing to a reality TV show. Zach is funny, charming, and has had a lot of girlfriends, never finding the one that completes him. Together, they are best friends and have known each other most of their lives, there is angst tension and amazing chemistry between them. Their love grew organically throughout the story, which is probably my favorite part. The characters were well developed with depth, witty banter, chemistry, and perfectly creative. I love the update we get on Evie and Adam and that they appear throughout the novel. I loved Britta and Cassie as the supporting characters for this story. The authors writing style was complex, swoony, romantic, sweet, and endearing. The author does an amazing job at continuing to detail Paradise and builds such a beautiful picture that I really want to visit our fictional town of Paradise!
This as a sweet fake dating romantic read that I devoured in a few days. While this is a slow burn to build up the characters and only has kissing involved, it still warms my heart. This story has the effect of a Hallmark Christmas Movie, it warms your heart and you’re rooting for the characters to have their own HEA! I highly recommend picking up this book. It is available on KU.
March 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Zach Thomsen & Georgia Beck
- Dual POV
- childhood best friends to more
- Small town
- Fake dating
- Forced proximity
- Working together on renovations
- Nosey/supportive family & friends
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Book 2 of Love in Paradise Valley - I could tell from book 1 that Zach & Georgia were meant for each other. But the process of them realizing they have more than friend feelings for one another is long and rough 🫠 you’re going to need to summon all the patience you have in your body for this friends to become more, because both MCs are so stubborn. It takes them awhile.
Both MCs are fun and very loveable, despite some strong insecurities that they both have which often make them misread situations. Overall I liked their characters and the story was cute. I enjoyed it, but struggled with some of the MCs responses to situations or their interactions with each other. I really love the town and all the characters and family members. Can’t wait to read more of the Thomsen/Sparks family
This is a clean, closed door romcom with tame innuendo and nondescript kissing.
Zach Thomsen & Georgia Beck
- Dual POV
- childhood best friends to more
- Small town
- Fake dating
- Forced proximity
- Working together on renovations
- Nosey/supportive family & friends
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Book 2 of Love in Paradise Valley - I could tell from book 1 that Zach & Georgia were meant for each other. But the process of them realizing they have more than friend feelings for one another is long and rough 🫠 you’re going to need to summon all the patience you have in your body for this friends to become more, because both MCs are so stubborn. It takes them awhile.
Both MCs are fun and very loveable, despite some strong insecurities that they both have which often make them misread situations. Overall I liked their characters and the story was cute. I enjoyed it, but struggled with some of the MCs responses to situations or their interactions with each other. I really love the town and all the characters and family members. Can’t wait to read more of the Thomsen/Sparks family
This is a clean, closed door romcom with tame innuendo and nondescript kissing.
September 6, 2023
So good! I could barely put it down! This book is so funny and sweet! I love all the characters and couldn’t wait to see what happened next!
September 9, 2023
I loved my latest visit to Paradise with Zach, Georgia, Evie and the rest of the Thomsen clan!
This was such a cute book with a friends to more trope. It was definitely a slow-burn romance, but it was so worth the wait! I loved Zach and Georgia’s from their history together to their current friendship. They were the cutest friends and even cuter couple by the end of the story!!
This was such a cute book with a friends to more trope. It was definitely a slow-burn romance, but it was so worth the wait! I loved Zach and Georgia’s from their history together to their current friendship. They were the cutest friends and even cuter couple by the end of the story!!
September 7, 2023
This book was so so cute!!! I adore the easy banter between Jack and Georgia it was so natural and genuinely funny and entertaining to read. I love how strong their bond and friendship is. One of my favorite tropes is childhood friends to lovers and this book definitely delivered in that part!!
Plus the small town feeling was on point!!
September 1, 2023
I love a good fake dating trope, throw in best friends and you are going to be going on quite the adventure! A fun small town romcom!
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
October 14, 2023
Going back to Paradise for Georgia and Zach’s love story was just delightful. I love this town and it’s rich cultural history. And they embrace it while still looking for ways to bring in folks looking for a quiet getaway. Georgia is doing her part to restore the town and she’s recruited Zach to help her so his real estate business can grow too. These two best friends had no idea of the other’s feelings and seeing them try to keep theirs secret was hilarious. But love doesn’t do well in hiding and, with the help of their matchmaking friends, Georgia and Zach are learning how to love with their whole hearts. Though they hit roadblocks along the way, when they finally admit their feelings, it’s Swoon City for sure. If you’re a fan of best-friends-to-lovers and a wicked slow burn romance, this book needs to be on your TBR. I’m positive you’ll love it too.
I received a complimentary ARC of this story from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary ARC of this story from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
September 11, 2023
“I don’t care how strong and independent a woman you are, if a supremely got, muscular man asks if you need to be carried? You. Need. To be. Carried.”
This was a fun visit back to Paradise! Georgia is all set to star in her own home renovation show, but she isn’t too excited that it has to be in her hometown. But at least she’ll get to spend time with her best friend again. Soon fans notice the chemistry between her and Zach, and they want more. And Georgia might, too. Too bad he’s about to propose to someone else.
I really liked this book! It’s full of the “will they, won’t they” tension that I love! I wish At Home with Georgia Rose was a real show, so I could watch it! 😂 It was fun to see the quirky and not-so-quirky characters in this small town again. And I really hope we get a story about Bear and Cassie next.
This was a fun visit back to Paradise! Georgia is all set to star in her own home renovation show, but she isn’t too excited that it has to be in her hometown. But at least she’ll get to spend time with her best friend again. Soon fans notice the chemistry between her and Zach, and they want more. And Georgia might, too. Too bad he’s about to propose to someone else.
I really liked this book! It’s full of the “will they, won’t they” tension that I love! I wish At Home with Georgia Rose was a real show, so I could watch it! 😂 It was fun to see the quirky and not-so-quirky characters in this small town again. And I really hope we get a story about Bear and Cassie next.
August 30, 2023
4.5 out of 5 stars
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. This is book 2 in the Love in Paradise Valley Series and can be read as a standalone. While you won't be lost if you haven't read The Grumpy Side of Paradise, there are references made to things that occurred in that book in this one that you may appreciate more if you've read it. The book's blurb let's you know what to expect. It's a good friends to loversfirst person dual pov fake dating romance.
While Georgia is a rising figure in the home renovation world and does have a certain persona for social media, she hasn't let her success go to her head and being home in Paradise brings up old insecurities she had. She remembers the feelings of being overlooked and now a part of her feels like an outsider, especially because of the project she's working on. Spending time with Zach is a bright side of being back home until she realizes that her feelings for Zach may be more than friendly. Georgia had a thoughtful side but that didn't mean she was a pushover. She had a strong mind and wasn't afraid to take charge, except when it came to her feeling for Zach but that was understandable. She was independent too so it was nice to see her begin to rely on Zach, and others, more as the story progressed.
When Georgia asks Zach to appear on her renovation show as a real estate contractor, he wonders if he will actually be useful or if she's doing him a favor as a friend. Because of his dyslexia, he's had to work hard and have some struggles that leave room for him to doubt himself. Seeing Georgia's success and Adam, his twin brother, moving on and being in a committed relationship makes him want that for himself to. He thinks he may have found the one in his current girlfriend but his friendship is a sore subject between them that makes Zach question if he can have room for both in his life. Zach is the type of who shows his affection and love for those who mean something to him by protecting them and wanting to solve their problems for them. As he spent more time with Georgia, it became easier for him to accept himself and what he truly wanted.
Because of their friendship and Zach having a girlfriend, the romance is a slow burn. Even though they didn't admit it to themselves, the romantic feelings always existed between them but it made sense why it took them a good while to voice their feelings to themselves and out loud. And, although Georgia is the first to realize and accept her feelings, there isn't emotional cheating involved as she actually tries to help Zach make it clear to his girlfriend that there is only friendship between them. When the fake dating begins, the tension between them is even stronger and it does pay off once they get together. The romance is a closed door one that includes only steamy kisses and suggestive thoughts and actions. Aside from the romance, I did like the home renovation aspect of it and Zach's conversation with Adam. I would've liked some of the conflict at the end be introduced a bit earlier so it didn't feel thrown in there but it was fine. Overall, this was a good follow-up to the first book that I'm sure readers will enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. This is book 2 in the Love in Paradise Valley Series and can be read as a standalone. While you won't be lost if you haven't read The Grumpy Side of Paradise, there are references made to things that occurred in that book in this one that you may appreciate more if you've read it. The book's blurb let's you know what to expect. It's a good friends to lovers
While Georgia is a rising figure in the home renovation world and does have a certain persona for social media, she hasn't let her success go to her head and being home in Paradise brings up old insecurities she had. She remembers the feelings of being overlooked and now a part of her feels like an outsider, especially because of the project she's working on. Spending time with Zach is a bright side of being back home until she realizes that her feelings for Zach may be more than friendly. Georgia had a thoughtful side but that didn't mean she was a pushover. She had a strong mind and wasn't afraid to take charge, except when it came to her feeling for Zach but that was understandable. She was independent too so it was nice to see her begin to rely on Zach, and others, more as the story progressed.
When Georgia asks Zach to appear on her renovation show as a real estate contractor, he wonders if he will actually be useful or if she's doing him a favor as a friend. Because of his dyslexia, he's had to work hard and have some struggles that leave room for him to doubt himself. Seeing Georgia's success and Adam, his twin brother, moving on and being in a committed relationship makes him want that for himself to. He thinks he may have found the one in his current girlfriend but his friendship is a sore subject between them that makes Zach question if he can have room for both in his life. Zach is the type of who shows his affection and love for those who mean something to him by protecting them and wanting to solve their problems for them. As he spent more time with Georgia, it became easier for him to accept himself and what he truly wanted.
Because of their friendship and Zach having a girlfriend, the romance is a slow burn. Even though they didn't admit it to themselves, the romantic feelings always existed between them but it made sense why it took them a good while to voice their feelings to themselves and out loud. And, although Georgia is the first to realize and accept her feelings, there isn't emotional cheating involved as she actually tries to help Zach make it clear to his girlfriend that there is only friendship between them. When the fake dating begins, the tension between them is even stronger and it does pay off once they get together. The romance is a closed door one that includes only steamy kisses and suggestive thoughts and actions. Aside from the romance, I did like the home renovation aspect of it and Zach's conversation with Adam. I would've liked some of the conflict at the end be introduced a bit earlier so it didn't feel thrown in there but it was fine. Overall, this was a good follow-up to the first book that I'm sure readers will enjoy.
September 6, 2023
I knew when I first met Zach in The Grumpy Side of Paradise - Book 1 in the Love in Paradise Valley Series that his story would be good, but I never thought he would change my mind about the whole best friends to lovers trope! Zach is such a natural protector and supporter of everyone and he has such a big heart that leads him to be so involved in all his family’s many businesses, which means that this Real Estate agent is everywhere. When he is not selling homes in the Valley, he can be found being busboy, dishwasher, sous chef, hardware store customer service manager, barista, and, if you can name a job you’ll find he has already done it today. Now, with Georgia’s return to Paradise Valley to begin filming her reality TV home renovation show, he is going to be on camera talent and her fake on screen love interest -- two jobs I don’t think even he thought he would be doing. But this change is really a great move for him, because for the first time he’s not just thinking about how to help others -- he’s thinking about himself and wondering where things might go with Georgia now that he can see her as more than his best buddy.
For Georgia this return home is her chance to finally climb out from under the little girl image that she had when in town staying with her Granny and Best Friend. She is no longer the pudgy little freckled faced redhead, but a powerhouse social media influencer with a TV Contract that will take her brand national. With her giant designer purse, aka her toolbag, and her killer high heels and body of pin up girl curves, she is destined to take the world of Renovation TV by storm, but what happens when one day she realizes that she wants more than just her show and her Granny’s Redesigned home? What if she really wants her best friend to see her as more than his confident and agony aunt?
I am not usually a fan of best friend to lovers romances because they feel so formulaic and high school, but this one really spoke to me and in a wonderful use of interior monologue that presents some of the best Dual Person POV I have read of two adults who need to wake up. Georgia and Zach share not just their desire to be with each other but the angst and confusion that must certainly be a part of this change in relationship as friends more and worry about losing each other even as they, and a whole town know they are meant to be together. And that combination makes this a great read for me.
For Georgia this return home is her chance to finally climb out from under the little girl image that she had when in town staying with her Granny and Best Friend. She is no longer the pudgy little freckled faced redhead, but a powerhouse social media influencer with a TV Contract that will take her brand national. With her giant designer purse, aka her toolbag, and her killer high heels and body of pin up girl curves, she is destined to take the world of Renovation TV by storm, but what happens when one day she realizes that she wants more than just her show and her Granny’s Redesigned home? What if she really wants her best friend to see her as more than his confident and agony aunt?
I am not usually a fan of best friend to lovers romances because they feel so formulaic and high school, but this one really spoke to me and in a wonderful use of interior monologue that presents some of the best Dual Person POV I have read of two adults who need to wake up. Georgia and Zach share not just their desire to be with each other but the angst and confusion that must certainly be a part of this change in relationship as friends more and worry about losing each other even as they, and a whole town know they are meant to be together. And that combination makes this a great read for me.
August 28, 2023
Loved this story sooo much! Everyone but the cat have always known they love each other. Paradise, Idaho is where Georgia Rose grew up , she has strong connections with everyone there, mostly the Thomsens who’s grandparents and subsequently parents were close friends so inevitable that Georgia was good friends with the twins Zach and Adam, then there’s younger siblings Britta and Bear Zach is the one she kept in contact with though throughout her college years and then when she moved to LA. Georgia is in the renovation business and Zach real estate , they’ve spoken about a project close to their hearts , ever since she inherited Little Copenhagen a set of cottages in a small district overlooking Lake Smuk where her granny Rose and Zach’s Granny Neilsen had once lived and where Zach and Georgia had spent their summers . When she pitched the renovation idea to a design channel and when a major cable network showed interest they’d need to see what she can do before committing to a deal. So she put up her own money to do the renovations on her Grandma Rose’s house first , having her friend Evie manage the renovations for her as Georgia was busy on a project aside that one , and the social media interest generated by her too proving that people wanted to see more. The producer and film crew are all set to filming the Georgia Rose renovates reality tv show a house per season over five years starting with Granny Neilsen’s . Georgia is the star of the show , her trademark heels and a hammer in her purse . When Zach is coerced into filming a scene the socials go viral and the followers want more of the Georgia/ Zach chemistry. So they agree to fake fall in love on the show for ratings . Just one problem one of them isn’t faking and isn’t sure how to not blur the lines between acting and reality and the other is about to propose …. it takes a merry time for both to realise neither of them are, …. A brilliant slow burn romance that has you shouting at them to commit to each other already! Great writing , sublime execution and perfect descriptions an immersive compelling masterpiece
I read a free copy of the book and my review is voluntary
I read a free copy of the book and my review is voluntary
September 20, 2023
"The only way to find out if she thinks of me as more than a friend is to put that friendship on the line. There's no way I'm doing that without a sign from her. A big sign. Like Las Vegas hotel neon sign. She's too important to me to risk losing everything we have."
"Zach and I have to be more than just attracted to each other. We have to want a relationship that's potentially forever. Friendship is priceless. Especially mine and Zach's. We can't stoke whatever this is between us into something that burns fast and hot then leaves behind a pile of ashes and nothing else."
Read if you like:
* Dual POV
* Part of a series/can be read as a stand alone (but better together)
* Childhood friends to lovers
* Fake Dating
* Small town romance
* Home Renovation Show
* Dyslexia Representation
* Slow burn romance
* Witty/flirty banter
There is so much angst, banter, tension, confusion, and chemistry between Zach and Georgia. This is friends to lovers at it's best! I absolutely loved the friendship between the two MCs. They were both so selfless when it came to how they treated each other and protected their friendship. The slow burn and constant struggle to act on their feelings felt so natural because you could feel the fear of losing such a friendship.
I'm so glad that this is a series because I can not get enough of Paradise. Zach's family is amazing and I want to see each of them get their own HEA. Brittany really captures the sense of Hygge, "a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment and well-being", in this small town and in this family and the way they always show up for each other.
Favorites:
* Zach faking it for the camera
* Family loyalty
* Georgia helping Zach memorize lines
* Zach taking care of Georgia when she hurt her ankle
* Lucid moment with Zach's mom
* Hygge
* Zach using his embarrassing nickname story instead of Georgia's
* Ham Zandwich (Not that's not a typo, IYKYK)
* Designer "tool bag"
* The first kiss!
I can't wait to see which character's story we get next. Regardless of who it is, I am here for it!
"Zach and I have to be more than just attracted to each other. We have to want a relationship that's potentially forever. Friendship is priceless. Especially mine and Zach's. We can't stoke whatever this is between us into something that burns fast and hot then leaves behind a pile of ashes and nothing else."
Read if you like:
* Dual POV
* Part of a series/can be read as a stand alone (but better together)
* Childhood friends to lovers
* Fake Dating
* Small town romance
* Home Renovation Show
* Dyslexia Representation
* Slow burn romance
* Witty/flirty banter
There is so much angst, banter, tension, confusion, and chemistry between Zach and Georgia. This is friends to lovers at it's best! I absolutely loved the friendship between the two MCs. They were both so selfless when it came to how they treated each other and protected their friendship. The slow burn and constant struggle to act on their feelings felt so natural because you could feel the fear of losing such a friendship.
I'm so glad that this is a series because I can not get enough of Paradise. Zach's family is amazing and I want to see each of them get their own HEA. Brittany really captures the sense of Hygge, "a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment and well-being", in this small town and in this family and the way they always show up for each other.
Favorites:
* Zach faking it for the camera
* Family loyalty
* Georgia helping Zach memorize lines
* Zach taking care of Georgia when she hurt her ankle
* Lucid moment with Zach's mom
* Hygge
* Zach using his embarrassing nickname story instead of Georgia's
* Ham Zandwich (Not that's not a typo, IYKYK)
* Designer "tool bag"
* The first kiss!
I can't wait to see which character's story we get next. Regardless of who it is, I am here for it!
February 15, 2024
OVERALL STAR RATING: 5/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
I was so excited to return to Paradise! This story and its characters have quickly stolen my heart. I know the next book is a Christmas read, but that’s not going to stop me from picking it up soon.
Georgia is a successful influencer who recently landed a big break as host of her own home renovation show – “At Home with Georgia Rose”. The project will involve renovating all the little cottages in the Little Copenhagen area of her hometown. Her childhood best friend, Zach, will be starring on the show as a contractor. Zach is at a stage in life where he’s very seriously focused on settling down and starting a family. He’s currently dating Carly and things get awkward when the TV producers realize that the public is responding to the idea of Georgia and Zach becoming a hot item.
A fake dating situation ensues for publicity purposes, but the sincere feelings between Georgia and Zach go much deeper than words on a script. Although Zach had proposal plans in the works for Carly, he soon realizes that Carly wasn’t exactly invested in their relationship.
All the best aspects of fake dating and friends to lovers tropes, but I have to tell you that Brittany is INCREDIBLE at writing characters that feel sincere and authentic on so many levels. From the character’s personal insecurities to their real-life challenges, I’m certain you’re going find someone in this book that you can relate to. My heart ached for Zach whose mom is currently battling Dimentia. His vulnerability and heart were so refreshing to read.
I’m always up for a small town setting, and I’m realizing that a cast full of characters that involves siblings is one of my favorite things to read as well. I only have one sister, so reading larger family dynamics is a lot of fun for me. I can’t wait to pick up book three and book four is releasing SOON!
For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram at: aliciasbooksanctuary
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
I was so excited to return to Paradise! This story and its characters have quickly stolen my heart. I know the next book is a Christmas read, but that’s not going to stop me from picking it up soon.
Georgia is a successful influencer who recently landed a big break as host of her own home renovation show – “At Home with Georgia Rose”. The project will involve renovating all the little cottages in the Little Copenhagen area of her hometown. Her childhood best friend, Zach, will be starring on the show as a contractor. Zach is at a stage in life where he’s very seriously focused on settling down and starting a family. He’s currently dating Carly and things get awkward when the TV producers realize that the public is responding to the idea of Georgia and Zach becoming a hot item.
A fake dating situation ensues for publicity purposes, but the sincere feelings between Georgia and Zach go much deeper than words on a script. Although Zach had proposal plans in the works for Carly, he soon realizes that Carly wasn’t exactly invested in their relationship.
All the best aspects of fake dating and friends to lovers tropes, but I have to tell you that Brittany is INCREDIBLE at writing characters that feel sincere and authentic on so many levels. From the character’s personal insecurities to their real-life challenges, I’m certain you’re going find someone in this book that you can relate to. My heart ached for Zach whose mom is currently battling Dimentia. His vulnerability and heart were so refreshing to read.
I’m always up for a small town setting, and I’m realizing that a cast full of characters that involves siblings is one of my favorite things to read as well. I only have one sister, so reading larger family dynamics is a lot of fun for me. I can’t wait to pick up book three and book four is releasing SOON!
For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram at: aliciasbooksanctuary
October 18, 2023
Design expert Georgia Beck is back in her hometown of Paradise, Idaho to chronicle the renovation of the lake resort she inherited from her late grandmother for a new reality show. Unfortunately, not everyone is happy about her plans to reopen the Little Copenhagen Resort, concerned about the impact of increased tourism on their small town. Fortunately, she has the support of her lifelong best friend, real estate agent Zach Thomsen, who's agreed to partner with Georgia to sell the updated cottages and develop the condos she plans to add to the resort. Zach and Georgia have never been more than friends, but the playful, flirty energy between them soon has her social media followers believing that they're an item. The network wants them to lean into the buzz and pretend that they're dating to boost the show's ratings. The only problem is that Zach thinks he's already found "The One" - and it's not Georgia, who's suddenly realized that her feelings for Zach are more than just pretend. Can she find a way out of this situation without risking her business or her heart?
Georgia and Zach were incredibly likeable, three-dimensional protagonists, and their story gave me all the feels. They were both hiding so many insecurities beneath the surface, and I couldn't help but sympathize with many of their fears. Zach, for example, worried that Georgia had chosen to partner with him only because they were friends, not because he brought much value to the table. He also had a tough time believing that she would ever see him as a potential romantic partner because he had chosen to stay behind in their small town, while she went away to college and built a successful career in Los Angeles. That couldn't have been further from the truth, though she did share some of his concerns about risking their friendship if they gave into their romantic feelings. Once they worked through their respective baggage, they finally realized that they were perfect for each other, and I loved cheering them on to their HEA.
Overall, I adored this funny, sweet, and heartwarming story and highly recommend it for all sweet/closed-door contemporary romance and romantic comedy fans. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Georgia and Zach were incredibly likeable, three-dimensional protagonists, and their story gave me all the feels. They were both hiding so many insecurities beneath the surface, and I couldn't help but sympathize with many of their fears. Zach, for example, worried that Georgia had chosen to partner with him only because they were friends, not because he brought much value to the table. He also had a tough time believing that she would ever see him as a potential romantic partner because he had chosen to stay behind in their small town, while she went away to college and built a successful career in Los Angeles. That couldn't have been further from the truth, though she did share some of his concerns about risking their friendship if they gave into their romantic feelings. Once they worked through their respective baggage, they finally realized that they were perfect for each other, and I loved cheering them on to their HEA.
Overall, I adored this funny, sweet, and heartwarming story and highly recommend it for all sweet/closed-door contemporary romance and romantic comedy fans. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 21, 2023
This was the second installment in the Paradise series, which follows the renovation of an old cottage resort on an HGTV reality TV show. This one focuses on Georgia, the star of the show, the home town girl who went away and made it big. Trying to escape her childhood nickname of "Ham", she transformed herself into a glamour girlie-girl, with her trademark of high heels and red lipstick being almost as recognizable as her lively red curls. She leans on childhood best friend Zach, the local real estate agent, to be her on screen partner on the show, with promises that the exposure will help his and his family's local businesses as well. When the show's social media coordinator posts a video of the two looking particularly cozy with each other, Zach's young and immature girlfriend gives him an ultimatum. Wanting to capitalize on this social media "love story", the show's director decides to have Georgia and Zach fall in love on the show for ratings. Lines are blurred, and the two are unable to realize the true feelings the other has always had for them, thinking it's just all part of the act. This friends to lovers, fake dating story was a slow burn for sure, and at times frustrating to read when each character was in such denial that the other could possibly have feelings for them when it was so obvious. But the payoff was worth it in the end, and I was glad to see their happy ending and all the teasers for future possible pairings in this extremely cozy series. The small town, Scandinavian background setting of Paradise made me want to roll up to Britta's for a strong cup of coffee and plate of ebelskiver pancakes (can she get a story next??)
September 16, 2023
“Everything goes still as the words sink in. Heat surges through my entire body, burning me with a sudden realization. I’m in love with Zach.”
A sweet romance with friends to lovers AND fake dating? Yes please! Add to that home renovation and design aspects and I am sold!
There are so many different things to love about this book. Paradise being one of them. And of course the friends and family. Loved seeing characters from the first book, loved meeting a few new ones, and and so excited for the teasers we got throughout for what could come in the series. You can read this as a stand-alone if you so choose, you can piece things together, but I also think you’ll find yourself wondering about the first romance in Paradise.
I really enjoyed the first book, this second one with Zach and Georgia? I loved it even more! The messages that you get between these two characters with body positivity, dyslexic representation, dreams of the future and helping each other achieve those, loyalty in friendship (and family)…I could go on because there are so many aspects to these two characters that make for great reading. And then of course the chemistry. Getting to the swoony moments is a bit of a slow burn with the will they won’t they finally talk to each other, but it is worth it because Zach is just the sweetest and together they are the best.
Such an enjoyable read. Loved every minute of it and can’t wait to see who else falls in love in Paradise.
*I received an advanced copy from the publisher/author and all opinions are my own.
A sweet romance with friends to lovers AND fake dating? Yes please! Add to that home renovation and design aspects and I am sold!
There are so many different things to love about this book. Paradise being one of them. And of course the friends and family. Loved seeing characters from the first book, loved meeting a few new ones, and and so excited for the teasers we got throughout for what could come in the series. You can read this as a stand-alone if you so choose, you can piece things together, but I also think you’ll find yourself wondering about the first romance in Paradise.
I really enjoyed the first book, this second one with Zach and Georgia? I loved it even more! The messages that you get between these two characters with body positivity, dyslexic representation, dreams of the future and helping each other achieve those, loyalty in friendship (and family)…I could go on because there are so many aspects to these two characters that make for great reading. And then of course the chemistry. Getting to the swoony moments is a bit of a slow burn with the will they won’t they finally talk to each other, but it is worth it because Zach is just the sweetest and together they are the best.
Such an enjoyable read. Loved every minute of it and can’t wait to see who else falls in love in Paradise.
*I received an advanced copy from the publisher/author and all opinions are my own.
September 19, 2023
I was so excited to read the second book in Brittany Larsen’s Love in Paradise Valley series, and I was not disappointed. It was so good. This book has humor, family, friends, banter, chemistry, and love.
I love a good best friends to more romance, so I was already prepared to adore this book. But oh, my goodness, I have to admit how frustrated I was with both Georgia and Zach. Through the first half of the book, I just wanted to take both of them aside and knock some sense into them. I’m sure Adam and Evie felt the same way. Brittany’s writing just sucked me into this story—it was so well-written. You know a story is good when you are frustrated by a character’s decisions, but you understand why they make those decisions. Brittany creates this magic in her other books too.
I adored both Georgia and Zach. Their friendship was so selfless and true. I loved watching them fake falling in love with each other while actually admitting their love for the other. Their banter and chemistry were so good, and the kisses were swoony perfection.
You will love this book if you love:
-best friends to more
-home renovation shows
-real family and found family
-small town drama
-fake dating
-swoony kisses
I loved every minute of reading this book. Georgia and Zach were a dream couple. I highlighted so many sections of this book. So many funny scenes. So much banter. And so much chemistry.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I love a good best friends to more romance, so I was already prepared to adore this book. But oh, my goodness, I have to admit how frustrated I was with both Georgia and Zach. Through the first half of the book, I just wanted to take both of them aside and knock some sense into them. I’m sure Adam and Evie felt the same way. Brittany’s writing just sucked me into this story—it was so well-written. You know a story is good when you are frustrated by a character’s decisions, but you understand why they make those decisions. Brittany creates this magic in her other books too.
I adored both Georgia and Zach. Their friendship was so selfless and true. I loved watching them fake falling in love with each other while actually admitting their love for the other. Their banter and chemistry were so good, and the kisses were swoony perfection.
You will love this book if you love:
-best friends to more
-home renovation shows
-real family and found family
-small town drama
-fake dating
-swoony kisses
I loved every minute of reading this book. Georgia and Zach were a dream couple. I highlighted so many sections of this book. So many funny scenes. So much banter. And so much chemistry.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
September 1, 2023
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️-kissing
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Plot: 5/5
Series: Paradise Valley
Place: Paradise, Idaho
Tropes: Rom Com, Fake Relationship, Hygge, Home Renovations
TW: Early Onset Alzheimer's, Grief
Main Characters: Georgia & Zack
I loved getting to know the passionate, red headed, freckled plus size renovation star, Georgia. She was such a. Strong woman who made her way in life and was unapologetic about being herself. She made herself into who she always wanted to be in her eyes. But what she didn't see was how amazing she was before she changed how she looked.
Zack is the hometown boy who has worked so hard to be apart of his family and keep their businessss running smoothly, especially since his mom hod started losing her memory.
I saw how much these two as best friends loved each other and were so in sync with each other. But I think there was always more to their story than they even realized. I enjoyed seeing how much they were willing to do for each other even when it mattered the most.
Feelings always have a way of making it through when you least expect it. Finding their love languages and what worked best for them was the exception for their relationship.
I wanted to see more of what happened with the mayor towards the end of the book. It kind of just glossed over that whole situation.
I loved getting to know these two and cannot wait to read more in Paradise!
I received a complimentary copy via the author. All opinions are my own, honest and voluntary.
Spice: 🌶️-kissing
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Plot: 5/5
Series: Paradise Valley
Place: Paradise, Idaho
Tropes: Rom Com, Fake Relationship, Hygge, Home Renovations
TW: Early Onset Alzheimer's, Grief
Main Characters: Georgia & Zack
I loved getting to know the passionate, red headed, freckled plus size renovation star, Georgia. She was such a. Strong woman who made her way in life and was unapologetic about being herself. She made herself into who she always wanted to be in her eyes. But what she didn't see was how amazing she was before she changed how she looked.
Zack is the hometown boy who has worked so hard to be apart of his family and keep their businessss running smoothly, especially since his mom hod started losing her memory.
I saw how much these two as best friends loved each other and were so in sync with each other. But I think there was always more to their story than they even realized. I enjoyed seeing how much they were willing to do for each other even when it mattered the most.
Feelings always have a way of making it through when you least expect it. Finding their love languages and what worked best for them was the exception for their relationship.
I wanted to see more of what happened with the mayor towards the end of the book. It kind of just glossed over that whole situation.
I loved getting to know these two and cannot wait to read more in Paradise!
I received a complimentary copy via the author. All opinions are my own, honest and voluntary.
September 3, 2023
The first time I read a Brittany Larsen book (The Grumpy Side of Paradise), I recognized the location she has fictionalized for her stories is a place that I knew well as a child growing up in Northern Utah. And yes, the lake is possibly the most beautiful lake in the world. I am not exaggerating. So, Paradise, Idaho her fictional town really is bit of paradise, and her swoony love story in Not So Famous in Paradise is all about the simmering love story between TV reality star Georgia and her best friend since childhood, Zach.
Georgia is redheaded, freckled, and curvy and called Ham as a child. Zach is blonde and gorgeous and small-town hunkiness. Georgia is now famous with an HGTV renovation show and Zach is a realtor who is helping her. Soon they are seen by Instagrammers as a hot combination. Much to the dismay of Zach’s creepy and too-young girlfriend Carly. Can their friendship survive the show and their growing feelings? Can Zach figure out his true feelings for Georgia? And can Georgia actually depend on someone other than herself for a change? Lots of emotional stuff to navigate along with fun banter and swoony almosts. Brittany delivers a delightful story that will keep you turning the pages into the evening. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and my opinion is my own.
Georgia is redheaded, freckled, and curvy and called Ham as a child. Zach is blonde and gorgeous and small-town hunkiness. Georgia is now famous with an HGTV renovation show and Zach is a realtor who is helping her. Soon they are seen by Instagrammers as a hot combination. Much to the dismay of Zach’s creepy and too-young girlfriend Carly. Can their friendship survive the show and their growing feelings? Can Zach figure out his true feelings for Georgia? And can Georgia actually depend on someone other than herself for a change? Lots of emotional stuff to navigate along with fun banter and swoony almosts. Brittany delivers a delightful story that will keep you turning the pages into the evening. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and my opinion is my own.
August 29, 2023
📖 ARC REVIEW 📖
Thank you @brittaylarsen.books for an early copy of (Not So) Famous in Paradise. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍
Check out the blurb here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
🛑Read on with caution; review may contain spoilers🛑
(Not So) Famous in Paradise is a sweet friends-to-lovers/fake-dating romance between Zach and Georgia, who are just the cutest ever! Their chemistry is very evident from the very first chapter, and I can’t believe it took them a while (at around 80% of the book) to get together. Both Georgia and Zach were each other’s support system and they would do anything for the happiness of the other. However, the pacing of the story was quite too slow for my liking, and their pining for each other felt quite repetitive that required several rounds of persuading from other supporting characters for both Georgia and Zach just to admit to the other person that they’re in love with them – so much tension tbh, but I love their sweet ending nonetheless. With all their longing and pining, I was overjoyed when they finally got together.
Rating (Not So) Famous in Paradise ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5. Now available to read for free with your Kindle Unlimited subscription
Thank you @brittaylarsen.books for an early copy of (Not So) Famous in Paradise. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍
Check out the blurb here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
🛑Read on with caution; review may contain spoilers🛑
(Not So) Famous in Paradise is a sweet friends-to-lovers/fake-dating romance between Zach and Georgia, who are just the cutest ever! Their chemistry is very evident from the very first chapter, and I can’t believe it took them a while (at around 80% of the book) to get together. Both Georgia and Zach were each other’s support system and they would do anything for the happiness of the other. However, the pacing of the story was quite too slow for my liking, and their pining for each other felt quite repetitive that required several rounds of persuading from other supporting characters for both Georgia and Zach just to admit to the other person that they’re in love with them – so much tension tbh, but I love their sweet ending nonetheless. With all their longing and pining, I was overjoyed when they finally got together.
Rating (Not So) Famous in Paradise ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5. Now available to read for free with your Kindle Unlimited subscription
September 19, 2023
“I don’t care how strong and independent a woman you are, if a supremely hot, muscular man asks if you need to be carried? You. Need. To be. Carried.”
I recently finished this cute new contemporary romance. (Not So) Famous in Paradise is the story of Georgia and Zach, best friends who are working together to renovate cottages at their home town’s lake and resort filming it all for Georgia’s home renovation show.
Georgia is back from LA to film and not sure about how the town is going to receive her, but Zach and his family all love her and support what she’s doing. They also all recognize the romantic tension between Georgia and Zach and encourage them to share their feelings with each other, especially when the camera captures their clear connection that is a lot more than just friends and the success of the show may depend on it.
Read this book for:
*Female home renovator
*Best friends to lovers
*Celebrity romance
*Small town vibes
*Fun side characters
*Fake dating
*Good build up to the kiss
I felt like this was an easy read and I was really enjoying it the whole time, however; the ending felt suddenly rushed and the storyline with the mayor was very anticlimactic leaving me feeling like the story was undone.
I purchased a paperback copy of this novel.
I recently finished this cute new contemporary romance. (Not So) Famous in Paradise is the story of Georgia and Zach, best friends who are working together to renovate cottages at their home town’s lake and resort filming it all for Georgia’s home renovation show.
Georgia is back from LA to film and not sure about how the town is going to receive her, but Zach and his family all love her and support what she’s doing. They also all recognize the romantic tension between Georgia and Zach and encourage them to share their feelings with each other, especially when the camera captures their clear connection that is a lot more than just friends and the success of the show may depend on it.
Read this book for:
*Female home renovator
*Best friends to lovers
*Celebrity romance
*Small town vibes
*Fun side characters
*Fake dating
*Good build up to the kiss
I felt like this was an easy read and I was really enjoying it the whole time, however; the ending felt suddenly rushed and the storyline with the mayor was very anticlimactic leaving me feeling like the story was undone.
I purchased a paperback copy of this novel.
October 29, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5 stars, rounded up!)
Genre: romcom
Content: mild language, makeouts, parent with dementia
Georgia and Zach have been friends for...well, ever, pretty much. Frequently, friends to lovers is not my favorite trope. I really enjoyed this one though! I liked that at the beginning of the story, neither Zach nor Georgia realized that they had romantic feelings for the other. It made it so things didn't feel drawn out which is part of what I dislike about friends to lovers stories.
Zach and Georgia are working together on Georgia's show. The viewers LOVE the Zach and Georgia social media content and want more. Because of that, we get some delicious fake dating! I liked how there was a set up for both Bear & Cassie's story and Sebastian and Hope's story.
Favorite Quotes:
😂 In fact, I feel amazing. I've been on my feet all day but so much energy still courses through my body, I could run a marathon. Not literally because I hate running. And definitely not in these shoes. But in theory, I'm revved up enough to do it.
😏 "Who says I want to be more than friends?"
"Your face every time you look at her."
🔥I don't care how strong and independent a woman you are. If a supremely hot, muscular man asks if you need to be carried, you NEED to be carried.
Genre: romcom
Content: mild language, makeouts, parent with dementia
Georgia and Zach have been friends for...well, ever, pretty much. Frequently, friends to lovers is not my favorite trope. I really enjoyed this one though! I liked that at the beginning of the story, neither Zach nor Georgia realized that they had romantic feelings for the other. It made it so things didn't feel drawn out which is part of what I dislike about friends to lovers stories.
Zach and Georgia are working together on Georgia's show. The viewers LOVE the Zach and Georgia social media content and want more. Because of that, we get some delicious fake dating! I liked how there was a set up for both Bear & Cassie's story and Sebastian and Hope's story.
Favorite Quotes:
😂 In fact, I feel amazing. I've been on my feet all day but so much energy still courses through my body, I could run a marathon. Not literally because I hate running. And definitely not in these shoes. But in theory, I'm revved up enough to do it.
😏 "Who says I want to be more than friends?"
"Your face every time you look at her."
🔥I don't care how strong and independent a woman you are. If a supremely hot, muscular man asks if you need to be carried, you NEED to be carried.
September 6, 2023
Go back to Paradise for another story about this quirky town. This time we get to know Zach and Georgia. Georgia is renovating an adorable spot and puts the spotlight on her BFF. Things don’t go quite as either of them think and they fake an onscreen relationship. Which gets out of hand.
You can guess where this is going to go and it’s such a fun rom com journey to remodeling not just the lakeside, but two hearts. We get to see past characters and thank goodness because there are so many people that need a story. I have opinions! 😂
Georgia is as fiery as her hair and cracked me up while Zach was the solid dependable guy who should be the mayor. He has my vote. 💯 I liked the way the author handled the trope without driving me completely crazy. It felt natural.
Even not so famous people don’t entirely have their life together. Will friendship survive all of the onscreen sparks or will one of them surrender?
I received a complimentary copy, but a positive review was not required. I don’t think you need to read the first one to fully enjoy this story. But you def want to meet Adam. 🔥
You can guess where this is going to go and it’s such a fun rom com journey to remodeling not just the lakeside, but two hearts. We get to see past characters and thank goodness because there are so many people that need a story. I have opinions! 😂
Georgia is as fiery as her hair and cracked me up while Zach was the solid dependable guy who should be the mayor. He has my vote. 💯 I liked the way the author handled the trope without driving me completely crazy. It felt natural.
Even not so famous people don’t entirely have their life together. Will friendship survive all of the onscreen sparks or will one of them surrender?
I received a complimentary copy, but a positive review was not required. I don’t think you need to read the first one to fully enjoy this story. But you def want to meet Adam. 🔥
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