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Kona Breezeway #1
Love Those Hula Hips
With the imminent threat of foreclosure of their beloved Kona Breezeway Inn, the Kawelu family is forced to take on an investor. In exchange, mainlander James Westerman siezes control of the daily operations.
James craves one thing—a lucrative investment property that affords him the opportunity to earn his father’s respect. When he invests in the Kona Breezeway Inn, he is confident that as the general manager he will turn a profit within three years. His plans quickly start to unravel when he falls for Hokulani Kawelu, the hula-dancing owner.
Hokulani is committed to her family’s legacy to preserve and share the Hawaiian culture. She is determined to maintain the spirit of aloha at the Breezeway, despite James’s mainland business approach and his emphasis on the bottom-line.
James is certain that his fascination with Hokulani will not distract him from his business goals. He soon discovers that the bottom-line is a choice between business, as he knows it, and love.
James craves one thing—a lucrative investment property that affords him the opportunity to earn his father’s respect. When he invests in the Kona Breezeway Inn, he is confident that as the general manager he will turn a profit within three years. His plans quickly start to unravel when he falls for Hokulani Kawelu, the hula-dancing owner.
Hokulani is committed to her family’s legacy to preserve and share the Hawaiian culture. She is determined to maintain the spirit of aloha at the Breezeway, despite James’s mainland business approach and his emphasis on the bottom-line.
James is certain that his fascination with Hokulani will not distract him from his business goals. He soon discovers that the bottom-line is a choice between business, as he knows it, and love.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
132 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2014
1 person is currently reading
559 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Marilla
16 books36 followersJackie Marilla writes contemporary romance from the Hawaiian Islands and beyond. She and her husband live on a macadamia nut farm on the island of Hawai'i where they feed a clowder of cats and a flock of hodgepodge chickens. In a past life, she was an elementary school teacher.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 7, 2014
Aloha!
Looking for a quick beach read…look no further. Ms. Marilla delivers a true gem with Love Those Hula Hips. I truly enjoyed this wonderful escape to Hawaii. This author’s descriptive writing swept me away to the scenic views of Hawaii and enlightened me with traditional Hawaiian cultures. Not only was I whisked away to a place I learned about but I fell in love with well-developed characters. Definitely look forward to reading more about the characters of this series.
Love Those Hula Hips tells a lovely tale about Hokulani Kawelu. A hula-dancing owner of her family’s Inn. When the run-down Inn is feared with foreclosure, an investor is brought in. James Westerman takes over control of operation. To him, it’s business; to her, it’s saving the family cultures. A relationship with ups and downs…and then that dark-haired woman… I will say no more but to grab this tale and head to the beach!
Looking for a quick beach read…look no further. Ms. Marilla delivers a true gem with Love Those Hula Hips. I truly enjoyed this wonderful escape to Hawaii. This author’s descriptive writing swept me away to the scenic views of Hawaii and enlightened me with traditional Hawaiian cultures. Not only was I whisked away to a place I learned about but I fell in love with well-developed characters. Definitely look forward to reading more about the characters of this series.
Love Those Hula Hips tells a lovely tale about Hokulani Kawelu. A hula-dancing owner of her family’s Inn. When the run-down Inn is feared with foreclosure, an investor is brought in. James Westerman takes over control of operation. To him, it’s business; to her, it’s saving the family cultures. A relationship with ups and downs…and then that dark-haired woman… I will say no more but to grab this tale and head to the beach!
June 12, 2014
No matter where you are this summer, pick up Love Those Hula Hips and quickly be immersed in a love story that pits traditional Hawaiian values and love of the islands against brash business interests. Jackie paints a vivid and realistic picture of a quaint hotel on the Kona Coast so well we can smell the plumeria blossoms and the coffee as well as hear the rolling surf. The characters are well drawn and motivations completely believable. If you live in Hawaii or want to whisk yourself away on an imaginary trip, I highly recommend Marilla's latest romance!
October 7, 2014
Absolutely loved Love Those Hula Hips. I started reading it on the plane ride from SFO to NY and couldn't put it down till I finished the last page. The storyline is fresh and the characters are very likeable. I found myself entranced in the Hawaiian setting and culture, fascinated by Hawaiian tradition as much as I was intrigued by the characters. I commend Jackie Marilla for capturing the essence of Hawaii while weaving through complicated relationships and every day obstacles. I highly recommend Love Those Hula Hips.
You wouldn't be disappointed!
You wouldn't be disappointed!
October 10, 2014
This review was written for LibraryThing Early Reviewers.
Sweet story even though I felt it was a little hurried, the transition from point to point in the plot was jumpy, like a low budget film. Seems like the author was trying to stay within a word limit. There is potential for a substantial romance novel if the storyline was a little smoother
Sweet story even though I felt it was a little hurried, the transition from point to point in the plot was jumpy, like a low budget film. Seems like the author was trying to stay within a word limit. There is potential for a substantial romance novel if the storyline was a little smoother
August 22, 2014
A nice little love story set in Hawaii. No love story is complete with a few misunderstandings and there were just enough of them to keep me wondering ... will she? will he? I enjoyed the sprinkling of Hawaiian culture. We could learn a lot from some of the traditions explained here.
October 29, 2014
Right from the beginning of “Love Those Hula Hips”, the author, Jackie Marilla, makes you feel as if you’re right next to James Westerman, as you both experience the sights and smells of Hawaii for the first time.
But James is not there to take in the sun and relax; he’s there on a mission, a mission which could finally earn the respect from his father he desperately desires. He’s there to oversee the day to day operation of the Kona Breezeway Inn, the inn his father has invested a great deal of money in.
The moment James Westerman arrives at the inn with his lawyer, Sam Sagal, he feels as if he’s a time warp, where everything at the check-in desk is still becoming handle using pens and paper, and not a computer in sight. He realizes he has a monumental task in front of him to bring the inn and its employees into the 21st Century, so it can finally turn a profit. The only thing James hadn’t expect is the owner, Hokulani Kawela’s [Hoku], resistance to make any of the much needed changes; nor did he expect the changes the island’s lifestyle would have on him.
Then there’s Hoku herself, from the moment she positioned herself six feet from James at the hula show, he got “mesmerized by Hokulani’s onyx hair and matching dark eyes, he tracked her flowing mane to her undulating hips and gaped when she stood in front of him. Her smile was magnetic and her hands delicate, but the way she moved her hips captivated him the most. He needed to know more about her.” James couldn’t anticipate the huge changes she’ll have on him as well.”
Jackie Marilla used just the right blend of business, the Hawaiian culture and romance to make her novel an extremely enjoyable read. Once I got hooked into the events in the storyline, I didn’t want to put the book down, and was able to complete a slow read so as not miss anything, in a single afternoon reading.
This book is a must read for anyone who wants to enjoy an afternoon in an island paradise that most of us can only dream about going to. “Love Those Hula Hips” is an entertaining novella suit for adults who’re interested in a sweet romance without an abundance of sex or sex references; it is also quite suitable for NA [new adult] readers as well. Which is why I love giving this novella 5 STARS.
Robin Leigh Morgan is the author of “I Kissed a Ghost,” a MG/YA Paranormal romance novel.
August 8, 2014
Hawaii, an island paradise and lovely to visit BUT what if you were in a competition with your brother to win $250,000 and the hotel you put money into will either produce that quarter of a million dollars for you or see you going without? Probably not a big deal if you are independently wealthy and a playboy and that seems to be exactly what James Westerman is when he arrives at the Kona Breezeway Inn with his company lawyer.
Hoku and her family have built, owned and run the inn for years and are in need of an influx of cash to keep it going and meet their need to hold onto and care for the land for future generations of their family and other Hawaiians. BUT from the first meeting of James and Hokulani (Hoku) sparks flare…sparks of attraction...and how will that impact business and romance? A “mainlander” and an “islander” meeting and falling for one another can have its pitfalls but overcoming them might lead to happiness.
This is not a long book but within its pages much happens. I think the main theme throughout is culture and family and the idea that family is more than genetic ties.
This book felt, in some ways, like romances I read 20 years ago and since I loved the genre then I enjoyed reading this romance now. Perhaps it could have been developed further and turned into a longer book but as a short story-novella it provided everything it should.
Hoku and her family have built, owned and run the inn for years and are in need of an influx of cash to keep it going and meet their need to hold onto and care for the land for future generations of their family and other Hawaiians. BUT from the first meeting of James and Hokulani (Hoku) sparks flare…sparks of attraction...and how will that impact business and romance? A “mainlander” and an “islander” meeting and falling for one another can have its pitfalls but overcoming them might lead to happiness.
This is not a long book but within its pages much happens. I think the main theme throughout is culture and family and the idea that family is more than genetic ties.
This book felt, in some ways, like romances I read 20 years ago and since I loved the genre then I enjoyed reading this romance now. Perhaps it could have been developed further and turned into a longer book but as a short story-novella it provided everything it should.
June 8, 2014
Hokulani Kawelu’s family has received a foreclosure notice for the Breezeway. If they don’t find an investor soon, they would lose their inn and the sacred Hawaiian land it sits on. When the possible investor her brother finds comes to see the inn, he wants to make all kinds of changes. What will Hoku have to sacrifice to keep the inn in the family?
James flies to Hawaii to check out the Kona Breezeway Inn, in hopes it’s the property he can use to win a fierce competition with his brother. He’s determined to prove to his father he is as good a businessman as his older brother, David.
But when he visits the family-owned inn, he finds it run-down and out-of-date—they don’t even use computers for check-ins! He has all kinds of ideas for modernizing the place, but will this property be the one to win the competition? And there there’s the alluring, dark-haired woman with the flower in her hair, who checks him in and dances the hula at the luau…and owns the inn along with her brother and mother!
I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written story. The author’s descriptions of Hawaii made me feel as though I was there again. I wanted to keep reading to find out what happened to the characters and the inn. I hope to read more by Ms. Marilla!
James flies to Hawaii to check out the Kona Breezeway Inn, in hopes it’s the property he can use to win a fierce competition with his brother. He’s determined to prove to his father he is as good a businessman as his older brother, David.
But when he visits the family-owned inn, he finds it run-down and out-of-date—they don’t even use computers for check-ins! He has all kinds of ideas for modernizing the place, but will this property be the one to win the competition? And there there’s the alluring, dark-haired woman with the flower in her hair, who checks him in and dances the hula at the luau…and owns the inn along with her brother and mother!
I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written story. The author’s descriptions of Hawaii made me feel as though I was there again. I wanted to keep reading to find out what happened to the characters and the inn. I hope to read more by Ms. Marilla!
November 26, 2014
Hokulani Kawelu is a beautiful and very busy girl who co-owns a family owned and operated hotel in Hawai’i. They’ve resisted modernization in favor of an authentic and historical experience, but now they are forced to either seek a financial backer or close their doors. To add insult to injury, their potential backer, James Westerman, insists on a managing piece of the hotel, rather than being a silent partner.
As Hokulani struggles against the unwelcome changes brought by James, she must also fight against the unwelcome physical attraction she feels toward him. Even though he seems to share the feelings, she suspects he’s attempting to use her to manipulate his influence over the way the hotel is run.
Caught between family issues, management issues and an uncertain romance, Hokulani must learn to assert herself in the new business setting while protecting those she loves from the insecurity of the future. Will the romance affect her ability to adjust?
This story was like a vacation in itself, the way it took me right into the scenery and atmosphere of Hawai’i. I couldn’t put it down, and if you enjoy romantic tension and stories that are directly influenced by a beautiful and exotic setting, you’ll love it as much as I did.
As Hokulani struggles against the unwelcome changes brought by James, she must also fight against the unwelcome physical attraction she feels toward him. Even though he seems to share the feelings, she suspects he’s attempting to use her to manipulate his influence over the way the hotel is run.
Caught between family issues, management issues and an uncertain romance, Hokulani must learn to assert herself in the new business setting while protecting those she loves from the insecurity of the future. Will the romance affect her ability to adjust?
This story was like a vacation in itself, the way it took me right into the scenery and atmosphere of Hawai’i. I couldn’t put it down, and if you enjoy romantic tension and stories that are directly influenced by a beautiful and exotic setting, you’ll love it as much as I did.
August 9, 2014
Hoku wants love and a family of her own. After her last relationship ends in betrayal, she doesn't know if she can ever trust another man again. Until James comes to her native island of Kona and the chemistry between them heats up. She begins to think he's Mr. Right until she overhears a conversation that leads her to believe she's just a pawn in a game to win over a power struggle between him and his brother David.
James has been sent there to invest in her family's hotel to keep them afloat and co-manage the property to reap in a profit. He develops a love for the culture and for her. Now, he must prove himself worthy to win her over.
This story will keep you turning the pages. If you love romantic tales in beautiful places, you're sure to love this one.
James has been sent there to invest in her family's hotel to keep them afloat and co-manage the property to reap in a profit. He develops a love for the culture and for her. Now, he must prove himself worthy to win her over.
This story will keep you turning the pages. If you love romantic tales in beautiful places, you're sure to love this one.
September 15, 2015
When James arrives at the Breezeway Inn he finds more than the business investment he was looking for. Huka and her family have owned and run the Breezeway and intend to keep it that way, but when James arrives Huka can't deny the attraction she has for him. That is until she finds out that he's the investor that her brother was expecting, then she tries hard to avoid him at all cost. Through the co- management of the Breezeway everyone learns something about family and culture of Hawaii.
This is a sweet trip to the Hawaiian Islands with romance, insight in the family dynamics of the Hawaiians, and just an overall good story.
This is a sweet trip to the Hawaiian Islands with romance, insight in the family dynamics of the Hawaiians, and just an overall good story.
October 9, 2014
Wow! What an enjoyable contemporary romantic read! ... I have always wanted to go to Hawaii, and now even more so after reading such wonderful details with rich descriptions! ... I read this page turning novella in just 2 sittings today, coz I didn't want to put it down :) ... The characters are engaging and you can even relate to them! ... I was lucky enough to win this ebook and now I can't wait to read more from Ms. Marilla :) ... So if you love fiction and want a feel good story with a HEA, then add this must read to your TBR list or grab it right away and get reading!
October 13, 2014
Aloha Hawaii!
I have never been to Hawaii, however after reading this book I almost feel as though I have! The descriptions are truly amazing...you can almost imagine being in the Breezeway lobby, taste the Mai Tais and see Hoku perform as the author depicts all of these. I enjoyed the inclusion of the local culture and history. The story itself is a charming romance which keeps you entertained throughout. Ms. Marilla has a wonderful writing style and I look forward to reading the next book in this series. I can honestly recommend this book...you will not be disappointed.
I have never been to Hawaii, however after reading this book I almost feel as though I have! The descriptions are truly amazing...you can almost imagine being in the Breezeway lobby, taste the Mai Tais and see Hoku perform as the author depicts all of these. I enjoyed the inclusion of the local culture and history. The story itself is a charming romance which keeps you entertained throughout. Ms. Marilla has a wonderful writing style and I look forward to reading the next book in this series. I can honestly recommend this book...you will not be disappointed.
October 31, 2014
A little Hawaiian escape!
Cool breezes, beautiful scenery and tropical fragrances, Hawaiian music and dance, everything from flower leis to sailing along the coast… if you have ever visited the Big Island of Hawaii, or if you just dream of going to Hawaii some day, this book is for you. A love story set in Kona and around the island, a strong beautiful woman, her large close-knit family, and a handsome stranger...
I am happy I discovered this little slice of romantic Hawaii. It says on the cover it is a series. If so, I hope the next book comes out soon.
Cool breezes, beautiful scenery and tropical fragrances, Hawaiian music and dance, everything from flower leis to sailing along the coast… if you have ever visited the Big Island of Hawaii, or if you just dream of going to Hawaii some day, this book is for you. A love story set in Kona and around the island, a strong beautiful woman, her large close-knit family, and a handsome stranger...
I am happy I discovered this little slice of romantic Hawaii. It says on the cover it is a series. If so, I hope the next book comes out soon.
June 3, 2014
I could almost taste the pineapple and coconut as I became immersed in this tender love story between Hoku and James. I’m certain the story of corporate takeovers of small island hotels is nothing new, but the great respect Ms. Marilla shows to the local culture was a delightful addition to a tried and true story line. Only a person who lives and breathes the Hawaiian lifestyle could write such a tender story. Well done.
October 6, 2014
The book was fast paced with traditional characters and an exotic theme. There is something charming, but also not so charming about the main male character. Simultaneously, the female character is loving and all about self sacrifice. Definitely, a case of opposites attract. Honestly, reading it made me want to go to Hawaii. This work is a perfect combination of the author's love for Hawaii and romance. If you want a quick read to entertain you for a weekend look no further.
October 6, 2014
Love those hula hips
Hoku family is having financial problems at the hotel they ran. James family is going to invest in it. The have disagreements about changes. I really loved this book, enjoyable characters. Also with being set in HI, I really enjoyed learning about the cultural there and the language. Made me want it visit HI.
Hoku family is having financial problems at the hotel they ran. James family is going to invest in it. The have disagreements about changes. I really loved this book, enjoyable characters. Also with being set in HI, I really enjoyed learning about the cultural there and the language. Made me want it visit HI.
October 20, 2014
VERY quick read, the story moved far too fast for me, but it wasn't terrible. Just a lot of hot and cold in rapid fire.
September 10, 2014
Great story. I thought I actually visited Hawaii.
November 24, 2014
This is a sweet, clean love story. Great vacation read or a short escape from the cold reality of winter.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews