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Paradise in Progress

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When Kennedy’s architectural firm gets scooped up by a flashy development company, she’s ready to tackle grand projects. Once her design gets picked for a high-profile resort remodel, she's forced to work with her former nemesis and college rival Tristian Nelson.

Naturally, chaos ensues. Thanks to construction delays, they’re forced to share the resort’s only available living space: a luxurious penthouse. Now it’s not just the tropical heat that’s getting under Kennedy’s skin—it’s Tristan, too.

Although their constant bickering and never-ending stream of passive-aggressive remarks is tiresome, Kennedy finds herself craving every interaction. There’s something about Tristan’s carefree demeanor that’s throwing her off, making her question everything she thought she knew about him—and maybe about herself, too.

Tristan is everything Kennedy can’t stand, but as they battle through renovation hiccups and long nights of planning, lines start to blur and chemistry sparks.

Will their fiery rivalry turn into something more, or will they tear apart each other’s blueprints before they can build something new?


A new romantic comedy standalone releasing February 6, 2025

343 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 6, 2025

12 people are currently reading
201 people want to read

About the author

Alexis Buxton

6 books117 followers
Alexis Buxton is an avid reader turned author. A lover of all things love, Alexis enjoys reading all varieties of romance novels – the steamier, the better. Writing has always been a passion of hers and with the encouragement of friends and family, Alexis decided it was time to follow a childhood dream. She enjoys writing romance novels with damaged characters who need a little extra love and leave you feeling all the feels.

Alexis currently resides in a small-town in Ohio with her husband and two small kiddos.

As an avid sports fan, when she doesn’t have a book in her hand, you can find Alexis watching sports. She prides herself on being a Cleveland Browns fan, even on the hardest days (or years). She also enjoys going on camping adventures with her family, visiting breweries to try new craft beers, attending races at her local dirt track, and supporting local businesses and restaurants.

Alexis runs on coffee, craft beers, and chaos, but she wouldn’t have it any other way.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
Profile Image for Fairuz ᥫ᭡..
507 reviews1,136 followers
January 31, 2025
4 stars! 🌟 A huge thank you to Alexis Buxton and Love Notes PR for the e-ARC!

💙 Tropes Galore:
🏝️ Rivals to Lovers
💓 Workplace Romance
💰 Billionaire MMC
📏 Boss x Employee
🔥 Forced Proximity
💘 He Falls First (HARD)

Kennedy + Tristan = chaos, banter, and so much tension I needed a fan 🥵. Their rivalry? Top-tier. The architect queen vs. the golden boy with hidden depths—yes, please! Kennedy’s all sharp edges, put-together and competitive, while Tristan is all smooth charm, secretly pining and pushing her buttons because he just wants her attention (screaming!).

The tropical resort setting? GORGEOUS. I felt like I was sipping a fruity drink on the beach, watching these two bicker their way into love. Their banter was A+, with Tristan’s playful flirting vs. Kennedy’s sharp witchef’s kiss! I especially loved that he fell first and harder—Tristan was down BAD for Kennedy, and it showed. 🫠

BUT. The one thing I didn’t love? Tristan not standing up for Kennedy in front of his father. He did it later (thankfully!), but that moment had me side-eyeing him for a second. 😤

The spice? Perfectly balanced. 🌶️🌶️ Flirty tension, slow burn, and when it finally hits—WHEW. And yes, he crawls. (If you know, you know. 😉)

The epilogue was a four-year jump, and I need the missing moments! Alexis, bonus scenes, please and thank you! 💕

Overall, a fun, flirty, slow-burn romance with stunning island vibes and swoon-worthy moments. If you love banter, tension, and a hero who worships the ground the heroine walks on, this one’s for you! 💖
Profile Image for Chiara^•^.
426 reviews104 followers
February 6, 2025
Paradise in Progress by Alexis Buxton
4/5⭐
2/5🌶️

"You helped show me that it was okay to be myself, to let go of the desire to please and to find what I'm passionate about again. You peeled back my layers and showed me it's okay to fight for what I want."

I've always liked rivals-to-lovers stories, especially when there's great banter and tension, and this book nails it! Kennedy and Tristan have been rivals since college. Tristan, coming from a wealthy family, seems to get whatever he wants with barely any effort, while Kennedy who comes from a small town, has to work hard to chase her dreams. Fast forward a few years, when Kennedy is making strides in her career, guess who shows up as her new boss? That’s right—Tristan! Now they have to collaborate on a resort renovation together. Things get interesting when they need to share a luxurious suite while tackling various challenges at the resort. As they spend more time together, their dynamic changes, and they just can’t ignore the sparks flying between them!

Even though Tristan has a privileged lifestyle, deep down, he doesn’t want to follow in his family's footsteps. He has dreams of traveling the world and experiencing new adventures, but things haven’t gone as planned. He feels the weight of his father's expectations on his shoulders and is constantly trying to prove himself. I loved how thoughtful he was towards Kennedy—planning dates and giving her sweet gifts. It was a bit frustrating when he didn’t stand up for her in front of his dad, but thankfully, he made it right later on.

Kennedy, on the other hand, has always known she wanted to break free from her small-town life. She’s not one for parties and prefers to hit the books to achieve her goals. I admired her determination, drive, and strong work ethic. Through Tristan, she learns to open up and trust him, which is sweet to see.

Overall, I genuinely enjoyed this book! The setting was stunning, the chemistry between the main characters was electric, the spice was hot, and the tension and banter kept me hooked. Lastly, I loved the epilogue. It was perfection!

"This island, our oasis, has been a place of new beginnings, but its also become a constant reminder of everything we've built together, everything we've overcome, and the love that has only deepened over time."
Profile Image for The Bashful Bookworm by Andrea.
517 reviews
February 25, 2025
4.25⭐️

🏝️Rivals to Lovers
👙Billionaire
🏝️Workplace
👙Boss x Employee
🏝️Forced Proximity
👙He Falls First

This book was so good! It was more romcom and lighthearted than the CTU books but I flew through it. The tropical setting was so vivid and had me longing for a beach vacation!

I loved the rivalry to lovers and all the banter between Kennedy and Tristian! To her, they are long time enemies/nemeses but to him they are bantering and playing. He wants a deep and true reaction instead of the calm and put together Kennedy everyone else gets. I loved the “he falls first” and “is always provoking her banter because he just wants her attention” combo, Alexis wrote Tristan perfectly this way. He is a wealthy man with lots of privilege, but he has a deeper side no one gets to see and after he and Kennedy open up to each other, he sees the privilege he’s had his whole life in a new light and it makes him self-reflect and change. This is ultimately a romcom, light hearted read but it was nice to see Tristian check his privilege for Kennedy. I also loved his few moments of jealousy and possessiveness. Kennedy was badass, driven with a can go toe-to-toe with anyone attitude, and she knows how to make Tristan work!!!!

I was giggling at the little Easter eggs that called back to previous books. These Easter eggs were done in a way that if you’ve read Alexis’s previous books you smile and if you haven’t read them it doesn’t take anything away from the reading experience.

________________________________________________

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for ✧˚ Chanelle ˚✧.
55 reviews6 followers
February 3, 2025
4 ⭐️ 1.5 🌶️

Thankyou Love notes PR and Alexis Buxton for the ARC!

Had a wonderful time reading about Kennedy and Tristan.

💰Billionaire MMC
✈️ Holiday Vibes
🔥Forced Proximity
💗 Enemies to lovers
😍 Slow Burn

This book has such a slow burn! Kennedy is an architect who attended college with Tristan. She eventually gets a job where Tristan is her boss and is ultimately put on a project with him. These two are in constant competition. Kennedy is a small town girl who dreams of life in whilst Kennedy has the notion that Tristan has been spoon fed his whole life.

The island vibe provided an extra element which ultimately made the novel more fun.

Only let down for me was Tristan’s Dad couldn’t stand him.

Definitely worth the read!
Profile Image for ~Shawna the crazy coffee reader~.
502 reviews43 followers
February 14, 2025
This book was even better than my expectations. The character and relationship development was perfect. I loved the MMC and he is definitely a perfect golden boy book boyfriend. It was adorable how much he went out of his way for her. I also enjoyed how sassy Kennedy was, making this the perfect balance.

The setting was amazing and gave all the tropical vibes. I love when could are thrown into forced proximity, especially if the setting is perfect for falling in love.

This was the perfect romcom to give you all the feels, some laughs, and some spice 😏
Profile Image for Mandy’s Spicy Book Reads.
667 reviews62 followers
February 6, 2025
4/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
eARC

Such a great workplace romance read. Loved Tristan and Kennedy’s story from frustration to can’t get enough of each other. He falls so hard for Kennedy it’s so good. Definitely a must read!

Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Workplace Romance
Forced Proximity
He Falls First
Billionaire MMC
Boss x Employee
Profile Image for Anais Rosa.
360 reviews13 followers
January 24, 2025
Paradise in Progress by Alexis Buxton is her new romantic comedy release, and I had a great time reading it.

What can you expect?
❤️Rivals to lovers
💼Workplace romance
💰Billionaire hero
🚪Forced proximity
💑Boss x Employee
🏝️Island trip
🔥He crawls to her

4.5⭐ | 2🌶️

“We no longer stand on opposite sides of a blueprint, sketching rough straps from varying ideas as we try to outdo the other. Our paradise in progress is now complete.”

Synopsis:
Kennedy’s dream project forces her to work with her college rival, Tristan, and share a penthouse due to delays. Their fiery banter sparks unexpected chemistry, challenging her perceptions. Can they build something lasting, or will their rivalry destroy it all?

“She wasn’t just a part of my life; she was the design I’d been looking for all along.”

My Thoughts:
This was my first book by Alexis Buxton, and when she approached me with this ARC, I couldn’t say no after seeing the tropes—it had everything I love, and it didn’t disappoint!

Kennedy and Tristan were college rivals at NYU, but Kennedy resents him because his last name always seemed to get him what she wanted. Now, she’s working for his father’s firm, and he’s overseeing the project she won. The banter between them was perfection, loaded with tension and sparks.

When they travel to Santa Lucia to address hotel renovation issues, they’re forced to share the resort’s only completed room—a luxurious penthouse. Tristan thrives on their bickering but doesn’t understand why Kennedy despises him. Determined to prove he’s more than the “Golden Boy” she assumes he is, he starts to show her his true self. Meanwhile, he secretly admires her fiery determination, calling her "firecracker" for the passion she exudes when she’s chasing what she loves.

As they spend more time together, their dynamic shifts. Their truce leads to heartfelt conversations and moments where their walls come down. The romance between them felt so genuine, especially with the thoughtful dates Tristan planned. His sweet and patient nature made me fall in love with his character. And when Kennedy finally let her guard down, the chemistry between them exploded.
The spice? 🔥 Incredible. That crawling scene? Unforgettable! Add in Tristan’s filthy mouth, and it was next-level good.

Tristan struggles with living in his father’s shadow, constantly trying to prove himself. But with Kennedy, he finds someone who truly sees him. Their relationship brings out a side of him he’s never shown anyone else—a happier, freer version of himself.

Kennedy, a small-town girl raised to be strong and capable, is determined to excel in her field. Her drive and work ethic make her admirable, but she also learns to embrace vulnerability with Tristan. Together, they form an amazing team, both personally and professionally.

I was so frustrated with Tristan’s father for dismissing Kennedy’s efforts, and even more so with Tristan for not standing up for her sooner. But the epilogue? Absolute perfection. Their happily-ever-after was everything I hoped for, and happiness suits them so well.

If you’re a fan of rivals-to-lovers, this book is a must-read. This is my first Alexis Buxton book, but it definitely won’t be my last. Thank you so much, Alexis, for the ARC! This review reflects my honest thoughts.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
286 reviews26 followers
January 24, 2025
Thigh Tattoos, Red Bikinis, & Paradise 🏝️☀️😎

Dedication: To the girlies looking for someone who crawls to you and worships at your feet. May you find your own Tristan Nelson.

Kennedy aka Firecracker (FMC): 25 • Architect • Small Town Girl with Big City Dreams • Organized • Extremely Competitive •
Tristan aka Golden Boy (MMC): Design Manager • Big Money Energy • Secretly Pining for His Rival • Thigh Tattoo Rebellion

Tropes:
☀️ Boss x Employee
🏝️ Rivals to Lovers
☀️ Forced Proximity
🏝️ Billionaire MMC
☀️ Small Town FMC
🏝️ Banter as Flirting
☀️ Slooooow Burn Angst
🏝️ Nicknames
☀️ International Travel - Private Jet Island Getaway
🏝️ Only One Bed
☀️ Hidden Tattoos
🏝️ Workplace Romance
☀️ Secret Pining
🏝️ Girl Gang

Rating: 🧨🧨🧨.🎇 (3.5 ⭐️)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ (dirty talk, praise, crawling to her, 👅, public play, impact play)
T/W: toxic family relationship (on page), casual drinking (on page)

This is an extremely slow burn with tons of banter that moved on island time. While Tristan’s sweetness was swoon-worthy, I had mixed feelings about Kennedy. They had gone to college together, but they were always in a one-sided competition. Kennedy had preconceived notions about Tristan and once her mind was made up, she was determined to keep him at a distance. However, I appreciated that Kennedy eventually let her guard down, giving Tristan a chance at knocking down her walls. While there was a third-act break-up, I did enjoy Tristan & Kennedy’s HEA.

I do hope that Alexis decides to write more in this series as I can’t wait to see Tristan’s siblings find their paradise.

I received an ARC copy and wanted to leave an honest review.
Profile Image for Brooke.
923 reviews47 followers
February 8, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
2.5 🌶

🏖 Rivals To Lovers
🏤 Workplace Romance
🏖 Forced Proximity
🏤 He Falls First

There is nothing like going to a 🏖 tropical setting like 🌊 St. Lucia to put you in the right mood for this book.

I was LIVING for the rivals to lover's in this book 😍. The banter between Kennedy and Tristan was like no other. It was truly some of the best banter! This slow burn romance will give you all the romantic gestures you need along the way to keep you swooning. This book gave us so much passion between these two. Tension was tensioning and that heartfelt emotion that I needed.

I truly loved that Tristan fell first! He felt as if there was no competition because she had so much talent. He didn't need to compete he just wanted to add to what she had already masterminded. Tristan knew just how to get Kennedy to not only trust him but also love him in the only way that she can.

Kennedy had such a spark and spunk about her that I loved seeing her exercise throughout the book! I loved that she wasn't afraid to show that her work was amazing. She knew her worth and wasn't willing to back down from showing her amazing work. I loved Kennedy 😍. She was so sassy and I loved how she was always keeping Golden Boy on his toes.

🔥 Let's Talk About Sex Baby 🥵: 🌶️🌶️.5 /5

Golden Boy truly knew his way around Firecrackers hot body that is for sure!! He knew just what she wanted along with the perfect words to say to her. These two had some of the best sexual chemistry and it truly showed!

I received a complimentary copy via Alexis Buxton. All opinions are my own, honest and voluntary.
Profile Image for Daejah Janee.
34 reviews
February 8, 2025
3.5/ 5 Stars

Thank you so much for the ARC Love Notes PR and for allowing me to read this book early.

Tropes: Rivals to lovers, Workplace romance, Billionaire MMC, Forced proximity, Tropical Paradise, Open Door spice

Spice: 2/5
HE CRAWLS TO HER

This book follows Kennedy and Tristan, a couple whose architectural firm was bought out by Tristan’s family. Kennedy has been her rival since college, but Tristan has now become her boss on a big work project, and they now have to spend time together on a tropical island.

I enjoyed reading this book and had a fun time. It was a light, entertaining romance with some spice. I would recommend this read. I enjoyed the spice, the dual POV, the tropical romance, and the banter in the beginning.

I loved the banter between Kennedy and Tristan, but the rivalry was one-sided. Kennedy held a grudge against Tristan for consistently winning, but Tristan never felt the same way about the rivalry. This made the storyline of the rivals to lovers feel unfair and immature on Kennedy’s behalf. I also HATE a third-act breakup that could have been quickly resolved. It did not make sense for this to occur and did not add to the story. She forgave him quickly, and I did not like him not standing up for her.

Final thoughts: This book was a good read, and I would love to read more of Alexis’s work.
Profile Image for Katie Thayer.
252 reviews32 followers
July 11, 2025
⚔️🏝️💼❤️

Paradise in Progress
By: Alexis Buxton

“One of these days, I’m going to break down the d*mn wall she’s so desperate to keep impenetrable. And when I do, she’s going to see the real me.”

“How can I fix this? Tell me how I fix this, Kennedy.”
“Crawl to me.”

“You and me, we’re a paradise in progress. I’ll fight like h*ll until our foundation is strong and stable.”

This was a nice, easy read that really puts you in the mood for sunshine and drinks! Tristan and Kennedy are rivals in the work atmosphere. Little to Kennedy’s knowledge the rivalry is one sided because she has had Tristan’s attention for years. When they are both sent to work on a new hotel project together and forced to share a suite, the icy exterior begins to thaw and their feelings for each other get a chance to grow and develop.

Tropes:
Billionaire Romance
Boss/Employee
Rivals to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Workplace Romance


Spice starts at: 56%🔥

Spice: 2/4🌶️
Stars: 4/5⭐️

Available on Kindle Unlimited
Profile Image for SwoonAndScroll.
133 reviews2 followers
February 11, 2025
"When I thought I was building walls around my heart, he was busy taking them apart, brick by brick."

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌟

I am absolutely ruined by this book in all the good ways.
Kennedy lives up to her Firecracker nickname and is fierce AF and knows her worth and how to fight for what she deserves.
Tristan, on the other hand, takes what she deserves right from under her; but makes up for it in all the right ways.

This rivals to lovers workplace romance has me in a complete and utter chokehold.
I kicked my feet, I giggled, I wanted to throw my kindle across the room, I swooned; this book had me feeling all the emotions and I already know this is going to live rent free in my head.

This was my first Alexis Buxton book, but I'm certain it won't be my last; can't wait to dive into everything else she's blessed us with!

"She wasn't just a part of my life; she was the design I'd been looking for all along."

Thank you Alexis and Love Notes PR for the opportunity to read this eARC!
Profile Image for Londyn Strandquist.
258 reviews8 followers
February 1, 2025
Set against a dreamy resort backdrop, this slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers workplace romance had everything I love—banter, tension, and a swoon-worthy hero. Tristan’s playful, teasing nature made him impossible not to adore, and I’m always a sucker for a hero who falls first and harder. While Kennedy’s confidence and ambition were admirable, her preconceived notions about Tristan kept him at a frustrating distance. However, I appreciated seeing her slowly let her guard down, making their eventual HEA all the more satisfying.

The chemistry between them was electric, and their constant push-and-pull made for an engaging read. Though the pacing moved on “island time” lol the vibrant resort setting added extra charm, making me REALLY wish I was reading this on the beaches of St. Lucia. Light, fun, and addictive—I couldn’t put it down!ol
Profile Image for Shannons.minilibrary.
116 reviews
February 3, 2025
I’m so grateful for the opportunity to read this ARC, and I can’t lie, I really enjoyed it!

In this book you’ll find:
• Rivals to lovers
• Workplace romance
• So much banter between our FMC and MMC
• Forced proximity

And finally
• HE CRAWLS TO HER

and let me tell you, the scream I scrumpt on that page was real. Such a power move.

I love love loved this, no spoilers but if you want a little island spice and workplace romance then I recommend.

Kennedy has so much confidence and I loved the friendship between her and Lana, their phone call after everything went down felt like real girl bestfriend energy 🥹

Her relationship with Tristan was red flag rivals to green flag goals (even though he didn’t stand up for her at first 😡) but when he took her on their date, crawled to her, and gave the real reason for her nickname firecracker? 10/10 I love him
Profile Image for Megan Snyder.
93 reviews
February 13, 2025
4⭐️

Kennedy finds herself working for her rival when her architect firm is bought out. Trystan Nelson has been a thorn in Kennedy's side since college and his antics haven't stopped. When her design has been chosen for a high-end resort remodel, both she and Trystan must oversee the work as delays threaten to postpone the opening. They set their rivalry aside as they prepare for the opening, but as the truce continues, Kennedy tries to resist the feelings that grow for Trystan, while he refuses to let Kennedy slip through his fingers.

I was obsessed with this book from the first page. I love how passionate and strong Kennedy is throughout this book, even in difficult situations. Trystan is protective of Kennedy without crossing boundaries, and pushes her in positive, healthy ways. And who doesn't love a good forced proximity, single room, witty banter rom-com🥵😍
Profile Image for Ella • _elliereads.
143 reviews11 followers
January 13, 2025
Thank you to the author for this ARC copy!
You guessed right, because this funny, cute romance story was right up my alley!

This story had everything a good enemies to lovers/workplace romance needed and I just couldn’t put it down!

This story was well written and the resort location gave it a little extra, I loved the whole setting. I’m a sucker for he falls first and harder and I think it’s safe to say that Tristan is a swoonworthy main character.

I don’t think I have anything bad to say about this book 🤣 It gave me Christina Lauren vibes 😎 and she’s one of my original romance authors 🥰

Oh and the spice? It’s at a good level, not too much but just right ;) and *spoiler alert* he crawls 🙃

For all y’all third act breakup haters: beware, there is one 🥲

To all y’all happily ever after epilogue haters: beware, there is also one 🤣
Profile Image for Dawn Griffith.
248 reviews185 followers
January 26, 2025
This book is everything you want in a workplace romance: sharp banter, sizzling chemistry, and just the right amount of chaos! Kennedy and Tristan’s fiery rivalry had me hooked from page one, with their witty back-and-forth keeping me laughing and swooning in equal measure.

Set against the dreamy backdrop of a tropical resort remodel—and with only one luxurious penthouse for them to share—things heat up quickly, and not just because of the location. Kennedy’s perfectionism and Tristan’s carefree charm collide in the best way, and their slow-burn transformation from rivals to something more was pure magic.

If you’re a fan of enemies-to-lovers, clever dialogue, and a bit of tropical escapism, this one is a must-read. Sweet, funny, and oh-so-satisfying! 🌴✨
Profile Image for My Reading Era.
486 reviews28 followers
February 4, 2025
This book delivers a sizzling rivals to lovers romance that’s equal parts tension, passion, and heartfelt emotion. Kennedy and Tristan’s fiery banter is pure perfection, crackling with chemistry as they navigate their complicated history and undeniable attraction. When a work trip forces them to share a luxurious penthouse, their professional rivalry takes a turn, revealing layers they never expected. Tristan is determined to prove he’s more than just a privileged rich boy, and Kennedy, with her fierce ambition, challenges him in ways no one else ever has. Their slow burn romance is filled with genuine moments, thoughtful gestures, and incredible chemistry. While Tristan’s hesitation to stand up to his father was frustrating, his growth made their story all the more satisfying. If you love sharp banter, forced proximity, and vacation vibes this book is a must read.
Profile Image for Madison.
411 reviews13 followers
January 26, 2025
This is how you write workplace enemies to lovers 👏🏼👏🏼 the tension, the banter, the spice it was perfection 😘

I loved the characters so much, the connection I felt to Kennedy and Tristan was instant and watching them fall in love was magical.

Tristan was super cute because he couldn’t understand why Kennedy hated him and flirting with her always meant more to him 🥹

He called her Firecracker and when you find out the reason for this *ahhhhh* it was such a moment.

The only thing I didn’t like was the epilogue was 4 years later and we missed out on some really cute moments, so I’m requesting bonus scenes of what we missed thank you ☺️

I can’t wait to read more books in this series.
Profile Image for Kiara Saravia.
14 reviews
February 7, 2025
I got the privilege of receiving an ARC copy of Paradise in Progress.
4.5 stars without a doubt!

What to expect:
💌 Office Romance
💌 Rivals-to-Lovers
💌 Romantic Comedy
💌 Forced Proximity
💌 Boss/Employee
💌 He Falls First
💌 Billionaire/From Money

This book made me laugh, kept me reading non-stop, a quick, spicy romance that is a must read.
Kennedy is such a confident and driven FMC, she pursued her dreams and also learned that Tristan (her rival) was not everything that she originally thought. Tristan might seem like he had it all but it turns out not everything is always what it seem from the outside.

I cannot wait to see what book comes next.
Profile Image for Riya Shah.
28 reviews
February 17, 2025
I had the absolute honor to read Paradise in Progress this past week. 🏝️☀️👙🩳

It was such a cute romantic read for this snowy and cold weather we’ve had. This unique story about a resort renovation gone awry will have you not only swooning over the characters chemistry but also the scenes. Both spicy and scenic moments were *chefs kiss* 😘.

@author_alexisbuxton gets a 4/5 ⭐️. The ending especially was SO ADORABLE! The whole story gave me warm fuzzies. (Even the parts where I wanted to punch Trist for Kennedy). While this is separate from the CTU Eagles, I did see a little guest appearance of one Quinton Boyd ;)
Profile Image for Abby Haney.
127 reviews1 follower
February 14, 2025
The banter and tension between Kennedy and Tristan makes this academic/professional rivals-to-lovers extra satisfying! Such a fun story with a fresh plot, steady character growth, jaw-dropping “crawl to me” moment and 90s romcom moment that I didn’t know I needed!

Typically, I feel like epilogues are rushed fluff at the end to give the reader resolve, which I enjoy every time…. but something about this one hit different. It felt slower, more natural, full-circle and like it was being savored in a way that deserves a special shout out!

May every woman find their Tristan Nelson and get their own “Paradise in Progress”

Thank you to LoveNotes PR and Alexis Buxton for the opportunity to ARC read and review!
Profile Image for Loyda Peroza.
98 reviews2 followers
February 2, 2025
4 STARS

Kennedy and Tristan

I enjoyed the book and the plot, but I couldn't stand Tristan's father. I liked their banter, and I loved that Kennedy was a force. My jaw dropped when sha said "crawl to me". AAAAAHHHHH!!!!!! If you enjoy workplace romance and forced proximity, you're going to like this book.

Thanks Love Notes PR and Alexis Buxton for the ARC.
Profile Image for Madison Drake.
63 reviews11 followers
February 6, 2025
this was a cute and easy read! I enjoyed the characters & the banter between them was great. I also loved the island setting.

🐚 Billionaire
☀️ Rivals To Lovers
🐚 Boss X Employee
☀️ Forced Proximity
🐚 He Crawls To Her
☀️ One Room


I enjoyed this one & it would be a great read to get you in the summer vibes!

Profile Image for Amber Grube.
297 reviews4 followers
February 7, 2025
This story was so fun! I loved how enemies to lovers was portrayed through Kennedy and Tristan. But also that everyone around then was rooting for them to get together. Kennedy is so incredibly strong it was incredible. Also a story taking place on a beautiful beach resort is impeccable.

Thank you Alexis for an ARC copy!
Profile Image for Amirah.
70 reviews
February 14, 2025
This book had one of my favourite tropes: rivals/enemies-to-lovers. Maybe there’s just smth about the trope but the banters between Kennedy and Tristan?? You guys gotta read it to understand why I enjoyed reading this book. Definitely something different from the CTU series. But it was refreshing, just like the setting itself. Loved it!
36 reviews
January 28, 2025
Thank you Love Notes PR and the author for the ARC

this was a light read. however it wasn't for me. i love a good workplace romance but somehow the fact that he is her boss doesn't even phase anyone is a little weird and the rivalry felt too one sided.
Profile Image for Anyssa.
49 reviews4 followers
February 6, 2025
I absolutely LOVE anything Alexis Buxton writes, and Paradise in Progress is no different. The banter, tension, spice, and small moments all add up to make this book so easy to read, so fun, so swoon-worthy, and I couldn’t put it down.

When a book starts off with lines like ‘Tristan Nelson is the bane of my existence…’, ya know it’s going to be good. The banter between Kennedy and Tristan is just so good, and the tension between the two of them is top notch. I absolutely loved Tristan’s relentless approach to breaking down Kennedys walls, and seeing her slowly start to see Tristan as more than the Golden Boy with a silver spoon was amazing. And let’s not forget… she made HIM crawl 😮‍💨😮‍💨

If you love …
🌺 enemies to lovers
🗒️ forced proximity
🌺 banter
🗒️ boss x emoloyee
🌺 spice!
… you’ll love this!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️
Profile Image for Hayley Gallant .
785 reviews79 followers
March 25, 2025
4.5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5(rounded up)

Omgosh! Such an amazing book! My first by Alex and definitely won't be my last.


I loved the main characters so much. The tension between them was off the charts and you get both POVs (which is one of my favs) - this one needs it though because the FMC has a whole different perspective and opinion of the MMC at the beginning. That means .. he falls first! 😏

I was actually in the Dominican Republic while reading this one, so I loved that it took place in St. Lucia (an island I have to visit).

My only gripe was, I wasn't a fan about how all of the characters described the FMC, from the "small town".

The spice was phenomenal and the side characters really brought it all together.

You get:
• Contemporary Romance
• Enemies To Lovers
• Workplace Rivals
• Forced Proximity
• He Falls First
• Crawl To Me
• Small Town To Big City


I can't wait to read more of this author! Available on KU, ebook, and paperback.
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