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An Unexpected Paradise
Josephine Bowen has the opportunity to travel to Key West for a work trip with Jack Lancaster, her grumpy and hard to figure out colleague. He frowns a lot, but he's also kind. Thoughtful. Considerate and an all-around good guy.
When her toxic ex-boyfriend arrives at the same conference, Jack doesn't hesitate to jump in as her current love interest. Maybe it's the island air, or maybe it's the time they spend together preparing for the presentation they're delivering, but their fake feelings start to feel real.
The more Josephine learns about Jack, the more she starts to fall for him. How can she not, when he makes her smile and treats her right?
It's easy to be a happy couple in front of strangers. With the real world looming ahead, Jack and Josephine must confront their new feelings and new opportunities. Can paradise follow them home?
An Unexpected Paradise is a steamy romantic comedy featuring coworkers-to-lovers, forced proximity, and fake dating. You can expect laugh-out-loud banter, open-door spice, and a new swoon-worthy book boyfriend. It is a standalone novel.
When her toxic ex-boyfriend arrives at the same conference, Jack doesn't hesitate to jump in as her current love interest. Maybe it's the island air, or maybe it's the time they spend together preparing for the presentation they're delivering, but their fake feelings start to feel real.
The more Josephine learns about Jack, the more she starts to fall for him. How can she not, when he makes her smile and treats her right?
It's easy to be a happy couple in front of strangers. With the real world looming ahead, Jack and Josephine must confront their new feelings and new opportunities. Can paradise follow them home?
An Unexpected Paradise is a steamy romantic comedy featuring coworkers-to-lovers, forced proximity, and fake dating. You can expect laugh-out-loud banter, open-door spice, and a new swoon-worthy book boyfriend. It is a standalone novel.
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First published August 9, 2022
312 people are currently reading
6203 people want to read
About the author
Chelsea Curto
19 books5,000 followersChelsea is a flight attendant and romance author who writes fun, fresh and flirty love stories with plenty of spice. When she's not making fictional characters banter for twenty chapters before they finally kiss or serving chicken or pasta on an airplane, you can find her trying to pet as many dogs as she can.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 398 reviews
August 9, 2022
So, I wrote this book. And I’m torn on whether to give it one star for the hell it dragged me through (switch from single POV to dual POV after I already wrote the entire thing, anyone?), or five stars because I’m so dang proud of myself.
Is it the next great American novel? Absolutely not. I mean, there’s a whole conversation about Tinder profiles and men holding fish. Certainly not the most poetic literature.
It’s my first attempt at writing a novel and my debut book. Writing is HARD, y’all. It’s a lot harder than I thought it was when I opened my laptop three years ago and said “psh I can write a novel.” I know my prose and writing style isn’t perfect. In the process of writing book two (releasing in October!) I’ve already noticed my writing getting stronger. I’d spend another four months editing AUP if I could. It’s a little cheesy, silly and predictable. But you know what? I did the damn thing and I’m proud as hell for it.
This won’t be for everyone. There’s LOL moments. LOTS of spice. Good banter. But there’s also discussion about mental health. Therapy. Being broken and healing. Good friend groups and lots of mistakes / messing up. A non traditional happily ever after I don’t see as often in romance novels. It’s a story that’s personal to me, and I wanted to share it with the world.
While I wish everyone could love Jack and Jo, books are subjective. What I like you might not enjoy, and Vice versa. If you read AUP, thank you for taking a chance on me. Thank you for investing your time and money on me and my baby. Thank you for your constructive feedback and letting me learn how I can get better in the future…because I have a crap ton of stories I want to tell. Your opinions and reviews are valid, no matter what you rating you give it.
Screw it. 5 stars. ❤️
Is it the next great American novel? Absolutely not. I mean, there’s a whole conversation about Tinder profiles and men holding fish. Certainly not the most poetic literature.
It’s my first attempt at writing a novel and my debut book. Writing is HARD, y’all. It’s a lot harder than I thought it was when I opened my laptop three years ago and said “psh I can write a novel.” I know my prose and writing style isn’t perfect. In the process of writing book two (releasing in October!) I’ve already noticed my writing getting stronger. I’d spend another four months editing AUP if I could. It’s a little cheesy, silly and predictable. But you know what? I did the damn thing and I’m proud as hell for it.
This won’t be for everyone. There’s LOL moments. LOTS of spice. Good banter. But there’s also discussion about mental health. Therapy. Being broken and healing. Good friend groups and lots of mistakes / messing up. A non traditional happily ever after I don’t see as often in romance novels. It’s a story that’s personal to me, and I wanted to share it with the world.
While I wish everyone could love Jack and Jo, books are subjective. What I like you might not enjoy, and Vice versa. If you read AUP, thank you for taking a chance on me. Thank you for investing your time and money on me and my baby. Thank you for your constructive feedback and letting me learn how I can get better in the future…because I have a crap ton of stories I want to tell. Your opinions and reviews are valid, no matter what you rating you give it.
Screw it. 5 stars. ❤️
August 17, 2022
DNF at 56%
What did I just read?
There were so many wrong things in the half that I've managed to read:
- Everything is so so so so forced.
- The only reason why they're enemies is because it's a popular trope. The animosity lasts like 10 minutes, the reason is dull and then when they decide to have a truce, they become besties out of nowhere... it doesn't work like that.
- I felt like I was reading The Spanish Love Deception, The Unhoneymooners and The Hating Game together... and not in a good way.
- Who thought it's a good idea to make some jerk drug the heroine at a bar to make the MCs connect and justify the beginning of their attraction?????
- Why would you bash the romance genre saying it's full of clichés and judge closed door romance... in a romance novel? I'm so tired of people who shame romance readers because of their preferences. There are closed door books better than open door books, and vice versa. And it's okay to prefer closed door romances. If you don't like them, just don't read them. Believe me, there are ways to know if a book is open or closed door before you start it.
- Talking about clichés... I never complain because YES, the romance genre is full of them, and that's why we love it. But they were so badly done in this book. I cringed hard.
- Her ex was an asshole, yes, but it was SO FORCED AGAIN. Also, here's a quote the hero says OUT LOUD at a moment where the MCs are faking a relationship in front of her ex: She is the most beautiful, hottest woman I've ever laid my eyes on. It's a hard task, to be both beautiful and hot, yet somehow, she achieves it with ease. I lost my damn mind at the sight of her. No further comments needed.
I can't... I can't. I'm out.
What did I just read?
There were so many wrong things in the half that I've managed to read:
- Everything is so so so so forced.
- The only reason why they're enemies is because it's a popular trope. The animosity lasts like 10 minutes, the reason is dull and then when they decide to have a truce, they become besties out of nowhere... it doesn't work like that.
- I felt like I was reading The Spanish Love Deception, The Unhoneymooners and The Hating Game together... and not in a good way.
- Who thought it's a good idea to make some jerk drug the heroine at a bar to make the MCs connect and justify the beginning of their attraction?????
- Why would you bash the romance genre saying it's full of clichés and judge closed door romance... in a romance novel? I'm so tired of people who shame romance readers because of their preferences. There are closed door books better than open door books, and vice versa. And it's okay to prefer closed door romances. If you don't like them, just don't read them. Believe me, there are ways to know if a book is open or closed door before you start it.
- Talking about clichés... I never complain because YES, the romance genre is full of them, and that's why we love it. But they were so badly done in this book. I cringed hard.
- Her ex was an asshole, yes, but it was SO FORCED AGAIN. Also, here's a quote the hero says OUT LOUD at a moment where the MCs are faking a relationship in front of her ex: She is the most beautiful, hottest woman I've ever laid my eyes on. It's a hard task, to be both beautiful and hot, yet somehow, she achieves it with ease. I lost my damn mind at the sight of her. No further comments needed.
I can't... I can't. I'm out.
December 22, 2022
This book had so much potential but omg I could not finish it. I stopped around 50% in. It's so long, and I kept wanting to take a red pen to it for a solid edit. Takes all the joy out of reading for me when that happens.
Edit: I've been in a reading slump for a week and I 100% blame this bad book for it.
Edit: I've been in a reading slump for a week and I 100% blame this bad book for it.
February 22, 2023
One of my bookstagram friends wrote a book & my heart is soaring as I just finished reading 🥲 I’ve been excited to buy this book for MONTHS!!!
This book is what all the romance booktokkers /bookstagrammers dream of! Swoon worthy moments, character development, witty banter, spicy scenes & side character stories you want to read immediately!
I loved everything about this book & am thrilled I finally got to hold it in my hands!
This book is what all the romance booktokkers /bookstagrammers dream of! Swoon worthy moments, character development, witty banter, spicy scenes & side character stories you want to read immediately!
I loved everything about this book & am thrilled I finally got to hold it in my hands!
September 10, 2022
This book. 🥹 I loved it so much.
An Unexpected Paradise is full of everything I love most about romance novels:
• a heroine who’s been told she’s too much, but is existing and owning her space anyway
• a love interest that is quiet and stoic, but has a filthy mouth and worships the ground the FMC walks on
• good girl 🥵🥵
• grey sweatpants
• a slooooow burn with tension for days (seriously, I was messaging the author begging for the characters to get together on PAGE TEN!!!) and a major payoff
• grown up discussions about important topics (thank you to the author for including trigger warnings at the beginning of the book)
• ONLY. ONE. BED.
• also fake dating + workplace romance + enemies to lovers
Beyond that laundry list of things to love, I was so impressed by the character development and growth both characters went through from beginning to end. I really appreciated the dual POV for this story - it really helps the reader get to the heart of why both Jo and Jack are hesitant to jump into something head first. Chemistry is one thing, but building trust and a space for open communication is something else entirely - it was a joy to witness these characters get to that place with one another.
Also - the last 30%? 🥵🥵🥵 Definitely makes up for the slow burn.
An Unexpected Paradise is full of everything I love most about romance novels:
• a heroine who’s been told she’s too much, but is existing and owning her space anyway
• a love interest that is quiet and stoic, but has a filthy mouth and worships the ground the FMC walks on
• good girl 🥵🥵
• grey sweatpants
• a slooooow burn with tension for days (seriously, I was messaging the author begging for the characters to get together on PAGE TEN!!!) and a major payoff
• grown up discussions about important topics (thank you to the author for including trigger warnings at the beginning of the book)
• ONLY. ONE. BED.
• also fake dating + workplace romance + enemies to lovers
Beyond that laundry list of things to love, I was so impressed by the character development and growth both characters went through from beginning to end. I really appreciated the dual POV for this story - it really helps the reader get to the heart of why both Jo and Jack are hesitant to jump into something head first. Chemistry is one thing, but building trust and a space for open communication is something else entirely - it was a joy to witness these characters get to that place with one another.
Also - the last 30%? 🥵🥵🥵 Definitely makes up for the slow burn.
January 3, 2024
3.5 ⭐
This was a freaking cheesefest—too sweet, too perfect—and I feel like I cannot find any fault with their relationship and as individuals.
Jack (32) and Josephine (31) have been colleagues for the last two years. She's head of the marketing department, and he's head of IT. They've been somewhat friendly with each other, but still polite and professional as well. Then they were chosen to attend a conference, and unfortunately, Jo's ex will be attending too.
When they eventually got to the venue, Jo's ex kept pestering her. Jack came to her rescue and told him he's her boyfriend. This has a fake-dating trope, but it only lasted a day. 🤷 They've been secretly crushing on each other, and this event became the catalyst for them to finally admit their attraction. So, they spent the rest of the event trying to get to know one another, and this was extended when a storm came and all flights were cancelled. The four-day company event became one week in that paradise.
Anyway, this is slow-burn, and I almost got frustrated with the way Jack wanted to take things so slow when Jo was already giving in all the green light. Or maybe I'm just not in the mood for something slow and dragged on sexual tension; the deed happened around 78%, btw.
I like the lines of the characters, and some of them were really swoony and heartwarming. But at times too, it felt forced and way toooo long, be it the inner monologue or their lines over someone. The length was so long sometimes that I'm cringing either with its sweetness or ridiculousness. It was just unbelievable and unnatural on a few occasions.
As for the MCs, I did like Jack; sure, he's grumpy and quiet, but he's a simp for Jo. This guy is way too perfect and a unicorn; it sure seems like winning the lottery if a girl could find someone like Jack in real life. The love, patience, and care this man exhibited all throughout the story was just so swoony. I also liked the fact that he's not tall; he's the same height as Jo at 5'10". I think it's refreshing to read about an MMC who isn't 6 feet in height. 🤭
As for Jo, her ex did a number on her, but I'm proud of her for trying to get better and not letting her POS ex dictate her life. She was all sunshine and rainbows in this story, and she really matched Jack in all the right ways. She's loving, supportive, and caring as well. They both think highly of one another and always do what's best for each other.
Anyway, this was actually surprisingly good for a debut novel. Sure, there were things the author could improve, but I honestly think the story was written well. I can't help but admire the courage and patience it takes to finish a book, and to put it out there for the world to be read. I'm really glad to have read this, and I truly enjoyed the story. I'm also interested in the other books by this author. I liked her writing style and the way her story flowed. Definitely worth the time.
PS: I'm still not sure what to feel about their decision not to get married. I know they didn't believe in it before they became an official couple, but for some reason I want them to change their minds and decide to get married eventually. But that's never going to happen anymore. I guess I'll just have to be fine with it. But I'm onboard with them not wanting to have kids either. I think it's a common recipe for a HEA to get married and have kids. Yet, these two were nothing like that; all they ever wanted was to be together forever
Book info:
- Forced proximity
- Workplace romance
- No cheating, opd, breakup
- Cheesefest
- Non-virgin MCs (both were celibate for at least 2 years)
- HFN
This was a freaking cheesefest—too sweet, too perfect—and I feel like I cannot find any fault with their relationship and as individuals.
Jack (32) and Josephine (31) have been colleagues for the last two years. She's head of the marketing department, and he's head of IT. They've been somewhat friendly with each other, but still polite and professional as well. Then they were chosen to attend a conference, and unfortunately, Jo's ex will be attending too.
When they eventually got to the venue, Jo's ex kept pestering her. Jack came to her rescue and told him he's her boyfriend. This has a fake-dating trope, but it only lasted a day. 🤷 They've been secretly crushing on each other, and this event became the catalyst for them to finally admit their attraction. So, they spent the rest of the event trying to get to know one another, and this was extended when a storm came and all flights were cancelled. The four-day company event became one week in that paradise.
Anyway, this is slow-burn, and I almost got frustrated with the way Jack wanted to take things so slow when Jo was already giving in all the green light. Or maybe I'm just not in the mood for something slow and dragged on sexual tension; the deed happened around 78%, btw.
I like the lines of the characters, and some of them were really swoony and heartwarming. But at times too, it felt forced and way toooo long, be it the inner monologue or their lines over someone. The length was so long sometimes that I'm cringing either with its sweetness or ridiculousness. It was just unbelievable and unnatural on a few occasions.
As for the MCs, I did like Jack; sure, he's grumpy and quiet, but he's a simp for Jo. This guy is way too perfect and a unicorn; it sure seems like winning the lottery if a girl could find someone like Jack in real life. The love, patience, and care this man exhibited all throughout the story was just so swoony. I also liked the fact that he's not tall; he's the same height as Jo at 5'10". I think it's refreshing to read about an MMC who isn't 6 feet in height. 🤭
As for Jo, her ex did a number on her, but I'm proud of her for trying to get better and not letting her POS ex dictate her life. She was all sunshine and rainbows in this story, and she really matched Jack in all the right ways. She's loving, supportive, and caring as well. They both think highly of one another and always do what's best for each other.
Anyway, this was actually surprisingly good for a debut novel. Sure, there were things the author could improve, but I honestly think the story was written well. I can't help but admire the courage and patience it takes to finish a book, and to put it out there for the world to be read. I'm really glad to have read this, and I truly enjoyed the story. I'm also interested in the other books by this author. I liked her writing style and the way her story flowed. Definitely worth the time.
PS: I'm still not sure what to feel about their decision not to get married. I know they didn't believe in it before they became an official couple, but for some reason I want them to change their minds and decide to get married eventually. But that's never going to happen anymore. I guess I'll just have to be fine with it. But I'm onboard with them not wanting to have kids either. I think it's a common recipe for a HEA to get married and have kids. Yet, these two were nothing like that; all they ever wanted was to be together forever
Book info:
- Forced proximity
- Workplace romance
- No cheating, opd, breakup
- Cheesefest
- Non-virgin MCs (both were celibate for at least 2 years)
- HFN
August 11, 2022
DNF @ 20%. I wanted to give this a solid go, but I have a real issue with romance novels that are so heavily laden with political views and ideals. I’m all for respecting a woman when she says no, but I don’t like when there’s chemistry between characters (or even when a man is just being helpful to a woman) and he asks if it’s ok to touch her platonically. And there’s no need to have pronouns be a part of this book. It just tarnishes the escapism of fiction books for me and is something I can’t enjoy reading.
August 20, 2022
This book was written for a certain kind of person, and that person isn’t me.
September 1, 2022
i'll start this one off with the sentiment I always share when reading a self-published book—I really respect the effort this takes, and there were some glimmers of some good writing within this. this author has already announced a couple more books, and I'm interested to see how her writing grows as she publishes more. however, while I was really excited about the premise of this book, this did *not* work for me on a number of levels.
For the first 10 percent of the book, I was honestly confused about why this book had so many negative reviews. The writing wasn't too bad, and the plot, while very similar to many other self-published romances, was shaping up to be a fun, flirty summer read.
then, we find out that this book is not an enemies-to-lovers romance. it starts out that way, of course.....but lasts for a grand total of 15 percent of the book, after which we find out our hero has loved the heroine THE ENTIRE TIME. which is....not enemies-to-lovers. they also pretty quickly put aside their differences with a really quick conversation, and then it's just...never referenced again. Enemies to lovers is a trope that's often not done well, but it's so frustrating to see this trope, which I love, a lot get watered down to "we had one misunderstanding and decided to be children about it for 2 years."
and then, around 20 percent, a very random event happens that is in no way connected to the advertised plot, and the book never really recovers from that. at this point, I began to realize that this book wasn't one story – it was 4-5 vignettes, each with their own little featured trope (caretaking! fake dating! forced proximity!) without anything to connect it together. we don't even get to the work trip until 40 percent of the way through! each one of these sections could have been fine as their own book, but altogether, it's just way too much trope and not enough unique story and no overarching thread. and it didn't help that ALL the "enemies" tension at this point was completely gone, and it just devolved into Jack and Jo talking, being VERY spicy, and just kinda...existing.
When it comes to characters, Jo is fine. She's sweet, has a tragic past, but overall is a pretty typical female love interest. Jack, on the other hand, is kinda...strange. He constantly apologizes to Jo for every small touch, every vaguely flirtatious comment, e v e r y t h i n g. I'm a big fan of consent in romance novels and love seeing that depicted well. but this just felt so forced and over the top, and could’ve probably been covered in a single conversation rather than EVERY time he wants to touch her shoulder. He's also very self-loathing, to the point that I thought he'd done something truly awful and we were going to get a great redemption arc. (spoiler alert: he did not do anything remotely bad, and I was very disappointed.)
by the time I got to the very forced third-act breakup, I realized that this just wasn't the book for me and skimmed to the finish. in the end, I think this book relied way too much on popular tropes (something that's happening a LOT with romance these days) and not enough on being its own unique story, which is ultimately what let me down.
For the first 10 percent of the book, I was honestly confused about why this book had so many negative reviews. The writing wasn't too bad, and the plot, while very similar to many other self-published romances, was shaping up to be a fun, flirty summer read.
then, we find out that this book is not an enemies-to-lovers romance. it starts out that way, of course.....but lasts for a grand total of 15 percent of the book, after which we find out our hero has loved the heroine THE ENTIRE TIME. which is....not enemies-to-lovers. they also pretty quickly put aside their differences with a really quick conversation, and then it's just...never referenced again. Enemies to lovers is a trope that's often not done well, but it's so frustrating to see this trope, which I love, a lot get watered down to "we had one misunderstanding and decided to be children about it for 2 years."
and then, around 20 percent, a very random event happens that is in no way connected to the advertised plot, and the book never really recovers from that. at this point, I began to realize that this book wasn't one story – it was 4-5 vignettes, each with their own little featured trope (caretaking! fake dating! forced proximity!) without anything to connect it together. we don't even get to the work trip until 40 percent of the way through! each one of these sections could have been fine as their own book, but altogether, it's just way too much trope and not enough unique story and no overarching thread. and it didn't help that ALL the "enemies" tension at this point was completely gone, and it just devolved into Jack and Jo talking, being VERY spicy, and just kinda...existing.
When it comes to characters, Jo is fine. She's sweet, has a tragic past, but overall is a pretty typical female love interest. Jack, on the other hand, is kinda...strange. He constantly apologizes to Jo for every small touch, every vaguely flirtatious comment, e v e r y t h i n g. I'm a big fan of consent in romance novels and love seeing that depicted well. but this just felt so forced and over the top, and could’ve probably been covered in a single conversation rather than EVERY time he wants to touch her shoulder. He's also very self-loathing, to the point that I thought he'd done something truly awful and we were going to get a great redemption arc. (spoiler alert: he did not do anything remotely bad, and I was very disappointed.)
by the time I got to the very forced third-act breakup, I realized that this just wasn't the book for me and skimmed to the finish. in the end, I think this book relied way too much on popular tropes (something that's happening a LOT with romance these days) and not enough on being its own unique story, which is ultimately what let me down.
August 18, 2022
This is the 2nd book I have DNFd! I just couldn’t subject myself to it anymore. I didn’t even know where it could go anymore. The enemies to lovers turned to friends to lovers way too quickly. The constant asking for permission, (which I have no problem with asking for consent) but it was too much! The conversations seemed too unreal, I don’t know anyone who talks like that. I just didn’t like it at all!
June 28, 2024
Chelsea Curto writes the best book boyfriends. This was such a good summery read and I wish I read this before I read Emma and Henry but it’s okay. You guys need to read her books asap!
August 25, 2022
I adored this book. The writing is phenomenal and the characters are so well developed. Consent is sexy and this book reminded me of that so many times till I was swooning! Jack and Jo are FIERCE in the bedroom but considerate and I appreciate that so much. It ends with a refreshing happily ever after and I loved it.
I can't wait for whats next from Chelsea!
I can't wait for whats next from Chelsea!
August 31, 2022
Where to even start with this beautiful, big-hearted indie romance debut?? I absolutely LOVED Jo and Jack and their slow-burn, STEAMY, grumpy/sunshine, enemies to lovers to fake dating vacation romance (with only one bed). ALL the best tropes were (somewhat) crammed into this book but I didn't mind one bit!
The best part for me was just how REAL, RAW and VULNERABLE both these messy, flawed characters were - the mental health focus in this book is EXCELLENT! Both Jo and Jack have past relationship trauma they're working through in therapy (and it was beautiful to see therapy so normalized in a romance book!). I also really enjoyed Jack's friend gang and how supportive they were whenever he needed emotional guidance/help.
Also great were the deliciously steamy open door scenes! This was a slow burn but once things got heated up phew!! It got HOT friends! Both characters were child-free by choice too and I so loved seeing more love stories that don't just end with marriage and a baby!! Big applause for that!
Jo, oh dear Jo - she may be one of my favorite female romance characters to date (and not only because we're both red-heads!). Used to be told she's too much or too crazy, Jo is very self-conscious about sharing her OCD tendencies or embracing her sexual desires/fantasies. It was lovely to see Jack help her understand she was perfect just as she is!
If you haven't read this wonderful debut yet you are missing out and I HIGHLY recommend it for fans of authors like BK Borison or Emma Grace. I'm excited for Henry's story coming later this fall!!
⚠️CW: intimate partner physical/emotional abuse, depression, suicidal ideation/attempt
The best part for me was just how REAL, RAW and VULNERABLE both these messy, flawed characters were - the mental health focus in this book is EXCELLENT! Both Jo and Jack have past relationship trauma they're working through in therapy (and it was beautiful to see therapy so normalized in a romance book!). I also really enjoyed Jack's friend gang and how supportive they were whenever he needed emotional guidance/help.
Also great were the deliciously steamy open door scenes! This was a slow burn but once things got heated up phew!! It got HOT friends! Both characters were child-free by choice too and I so loved seeing more love stories that don't just end with marriage and a baby!! Big applause for that!
Jo, oh dear Jo - she may be one of my favorite female romance characters to date (and not only because we're both red-heads!). Used to be told she's too much or too crazy, Jo is very self-conscious about sharing her OCD tendencies or embracing her sexual desires/fantasies. It was lovely to see Jack help her understand she was perfect just as she is!
If you haven't read this wonderful debut yet you are missing out and I HIGHLY recommend it for fans of authors like BK Borison or Emma Grace. I'm excited for Henry's story coming later this fall!!
⚠️CW: intimate partner physical/emotional abuse, depression, suicidal ideation/attempt
August 22, 2022
I’m so sad and disappointed :(
There was so much I was looking forward to in this book and I ended up skimming through the 2nd half.
This is NOT really an “enemies-to-lovers” trope. They seriously only “hate” each other for 10 minutes before they agree to a fake dating pact to make her ex jealous. It is very clear that Jack NEVER hated Jo, and has been obsessed with her for some time.
I want to say that I absolutely love Jo! She has had a traumatic love life and has been through a hell of a time. Getting drugged at the bar? That’s shitty. And her ex, Greg? Almost seems like it’s impossible that he’s such a dickhead. I wanted Jo to get her happily ever after and was really rooting for her.
However, Jack is extremely annoying and way too politically correct.
Can I touch your arm? Can I kiss you? Can I hold your hand? Can I breathe on you? Can I sit next to you?
Jesus, we get it, he wants to be respectful and get consent but my God it’s a bit overkill.
I mean she literally confesses to being in love with him and he still asks if he can hug her and kiss her. She LOVES YOU, yes you can hug her and kiss her. 🙄
Also, the FaceTime and texting sessions he has with his guy friends? Men do not communicate this way. It was super obvious this was a story written by a woman who maybe has never seen a men’s group chat thread before?
All in all, it’s a little too “woke” for me.
There was so much I was looking forward to in this book and I ended up skimming through the 2nd half.
This is NOT really an “enemies-to-lovers” trope. They seriously only “hate” each other for 10 minutes before they agree to a fake dating pact to make her ex jealous. It is very clear that Jack NEVER hated Jo, and has been obsessed with her for some time.
I want to say that I absolutely love Jo! She has had a traumatic love life and has been through a hell of a time. Getting drugged at the bar? That’s shitty. And her ex, Greg? Almost seems like it’s impossible that he’s such a dickhead. I wanted Jo to get her happily ever after and was really rooting for her.
However, Jack is extremely annoying and way too politically correct.
Can I touch your arm? Can I kiss you? Can I hold your hand? Can I breathe on you? Can I sit next to you?
Jesus, we get it, he wants to be respectful and get consent but my God it’s a bit overkill.
I mean she literally confesses to being in love with him and he still asks if he can hug her and kiss her. She LOVES YOU, yes you can hug her and kiss her. 🙄
Also, the FaceTime and texting sessions he has with his guy friends? Men do not communicate this way. It was super obvious this was a story written by a woman who maybe has never seen a men’s group chat thread before?
All in all, it’s a little too “woke” for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2022
When Chelsea reached out about beta reading The Unexpected Paradise, I was so excited! I expected it to be good but it was even better than I could have imagined! How in the world is this a debut? It’s seriously that good. The chemistry and banter of Jo and Jack was unmatched! The way her sunshine matches his grumpy and you watch their opposite personality traits mold each other into other people truly make you believe in soul mates!
"I do not deserve you. Not your friendship. Not your kindness and joy. Not your fake feelings as a fake partner. I ruin things, Josephine, and you're too good. Don't let me taint you or dull your shine."
"That's where you're wrong, Lancaster. I'm not positive yet, but I think... I think you might help me shine brighter. And I do the
same for you."
They slid their way into my heart as one of my bookstacouple faves! They had so many hilarious and tender moments that made me absolutely swoon but let’s talk about the way Chelsea writes steam. Holy friggen moly, I’m still sweating just thinking about it.
"I want to learn every moan, every breath, every little gasp."
And let me tell you what, Jack does and in all the best ways. 🤤 If you love a good steamy, work place enemies-turned fake lovers-turned lovers romance that will make you laugh, cry, and swoon pick this one up IMMEDIATELY!
"I do not deserve you. Not your friendship. Not your kindness and joy. Not your fake feelings as a fake partner. I ruin things, Josephine, and you're too good. Don't let me taint you or dull your shine."
"That's where you're wrong, Lancaster. I'm not positive yet, but I think... I think you might help me shine brighter. And I do the
same for you."
They slid their way into my heart as one of my bookstacouple faves! They had so many hilarious and tender moments that made me absolutely swoon but let’s talk about the way Chelsea writes steam. Holy friggen moly, I’m still sweating just thinking about it.
"I want to learn every moan, every breath, every little gasp."
And let me tell you what, Jack does and in all the best ways. 🤤 If you love a good steamy, work place enemies-turned fake lovers-turned lovers romance that will make you laugh, cry, and swoon pick this one up IMMEDIATELY!
September 1, 2022
DNF @ 11%
Has this author ever talked to men? Has she ever seen men interacting? Cause it certainly doesn't feel like it.
Has this author ever talked to men? Has she ever seen men interacting? Cause it certainly doesn't feel like it.
Read
October 18, 2023Removing review due to book having been updated and I haven’t read the newest version.
August 23, 2022
This was such a cute, fun read! I especially liked that the author included so much mental health rep! A great read for all romance lovers!
June 27, 2024
Nothing quite like your 5’10 office coworker aka supposed enemy but you fall in love with him within 3 days of your work conference saying “who did this to you?” And acting like a mafia boss
September 22, 2022
This book is annoying. In the beginning jack and jo are downright mean to each other. I’m not talking like witty banter and sarcastic remarks. I’m talking mean. Where I’m not sure how anyone could have feelings with those kind of statements flying around.
So for them to just all of a sudden just be like “oh okay let’s be friends now” just didn’t make sense to me.
The whole drugging in the bar thing was also stupid. I know it happens so I’m not saying it’s not possible it’s just the way she had the “bad guy” do it. Was so obvious it bordered on ridiculous. So of course jack saves the day and takes her home Where he takes care of her.
I also am not really into jacks whole “let me take care of absolutely everything you’ll ever need” it’s overkill. “Im always here for you” you’ve hated each other for years been friends for two weeks? it’s unrealistic.
And he is constantly asking her if she’s comfortable with every little thing he does. Are you comfortable drinking? (So he can order wine) why not just ask her if she wants some fucking wine? Are you comfortable with doing this? Doing that? Can’t you just ask like a normal person? I mean trust me I understand consent but damn overkill much? It’s almost like jack ceases to be who he actually is in order to make jo happy.
And their conversations are boring. I know they are trying to get to know each other. That’s great, but I’m bored. I usually love little rom coms like this especially the grumpy/happy tropes but I just feel like this one fell short. Definitely not my cup of tea. Their romance didn’t seem to flow naturally and the whole story just didn’t work for me.
I skimmed through most of this book. And then finally decided to DNF 80%
So for them to just all of a sudden just be like “oh okay let’s be friends now” just didn’t make sense to me.
The whole drugging in the bar thing was also stupid. I know it happens so I’m not saying it’s not possible it’s just the way she had the “bad guy” do it. Was so obvious it bordered on ridiculous. So of course jack saves the day and takes her home Where he takes care of her.
I also am not really into jacks whole “let me take care of absolutely everything you’ll ever need” it’s overkill. “Im always here for you” you’ve hated each other for years been friends for two weeks? it’s unrealistic.
And he is constantly asking her if she’s comfortable with every little thing he does. Are you comfortable drinking? (So he can order wine) why not just ask her if she wants some fucking wine? Are you comfortable with doing this? Doing that? Can’t you just ask like a normal person? I mean trust me I understand consent but damn overkill much? It’s almost like jack ceases to be who he actually is in order to make jo happy.
And their conversations are boring. I know they are trying to get to know each other. That’s great, but I’m bored. I usually love little rom coms like this especially the grumpy/happy tropes but I just feel like this one fell short. Definitely not my cup of tea. Their romance didn’t seem to flow naturally and the whole story just didn’t work for me.
I skimmed through most of this book. And then finally decided to DNF 80%
July 31, 2022
How in the heck is this a debut novel.
I stayed up wayyyy too late reading An Unexpected Paradise by Chelsea Curto. I was hooked from the opening line, which definitely had me laughing out loud!
I loved Jo and Jack apart, but I loved them even more together!
Jo is fierce, and independent while Jack is brooding and a little closed off. They are mortal enemies.
When the Jack steps in as Jo’s take boyfriend, when her asshole ex-boyfriend has her covered, it’s just *chefs kiss*
Also, I knew there would be some steam going into this but OH.MY.GOD, and the dirty talk 🥵🥵🥵
Jo is a great protagonist, she’s smart and funny, and her experiences in the past are heavy, but I love how she’s come out stronger on the other side. Her best friend, Abby is a gem, and she’s got Jo’s best interests at heart!
Jack had me swooning early, and kept me swooning until the very last page. My heart broke for him, and his past experiences, but it was incredible to see how far he’s come, and how Jo has slowly been bringing him out of his shell. His friend group is an absolute riot, and their group chat had me laughing out loud every time.
An Unexpected Paradise is an absolute incredible debut, and releases on August 9th! You should all preorder it immediately! I absolutely cannot wait to read more from Chelsea in the future!
I stayed up wayyyy too late reading An Unexpected Paradise by Chelsea Curto. I was hooked from the opening line, which definitely had me laughing out loud!
I loved Jo and Jack apart, but I loved them even more together!
Jo is fierce, and independent while Jack is brooding and a little closed off. They are mortal enemies.
When the Jack steps in as Jo’s take boyfriend, when her asshole ex-boyfriend has her covered, it’s just *chefs kiss*
Also, I knew there would be some steam going into this but OH.MY.GOD, and the dirty talk 🥵🥵🥵
Jo is a great protagonist, she’s smart and funny, and her experiences in the past are heavy, but I love how she’s come out stronger on the other side. Her best friend, Abby is a gem, and she’s got Jo’s best interests at heart!
Jack had me swooning early, and kept me swooning until the very last page. My heart broke for him, and his past experiences, but it was incredible to see how far he’s come, and how Jo has slowly been bringing him out of his shell. His friend group is an absolute riot, and their group chat had me laughing out loud every time.
An Unexpected Paradise is an absolute incredible debut, and releases on August 9th! You should all preorder it immediately! I absolutely cannot wait to read more from Chelsea in the future!
August 13, 2022
AN UNEXPECTED PARADISE is an enemies to lovers, fake dating romance that is funny, emotional, and of course, STEAMY 🔥
I was so curious how the relationship between these two was going to work out but I loved the build up as we got to know them as individuals. And the SPICE?!? 🤌🏾💋
I love a steamy romance as much as the next gworlie, but what I loved about AUP was the mental health rep. I loved that Jack did everything he could to make Jo feel safe and heard. Jo is such a relatable character that will resonate with a lot of readers!
AUP is funny and steamy but it’s also raw, honest and emotional. @chelseareadsandwrites put so much love into this and you can TELL! I cannot wait to see what is next from you!
I was so curious how the relationship between these two was going to work out but I loved the build up as we got to know them as individuals. And the SPICE?!? 🤌🏾💋
I love a steamy romance as much as the next gworlie, but what I loved about AUP was the mental health rep. I loved that Jack did everything he could to make Jo feel safe and heard. Jo is such a relatable character that will resonate with a lot of readers!
AUP is funny and steamy but it’s also raw, honest and emotional. @chelseareadsandwrites put so much love into this and you can TELL! I cannot wait to see what is next from you!
December 30, 2024
This book is not good. I don't have time to write a full explanation why because I have to dedicate every waking hour to reading another book because I refuse to let this be the last book I read in 2024. I will not go into 2025 with this bad taste in my mouth.
July 25, 2025
It was good. I just didn’t like the narrators
November 2, 2023
A quick and enjoyable read! Sometimes felt like the pacing was off and things were “revealed” after they already happened, but a nice light read to start the month.
July 17, 2022
When I first started my Bookstagram last summer, Chelsea was one of the first connections I made there. I was intimidated by her status at first but she is seriously one of the kindest, nicest people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of her debut novel, An Unexpected Paradise, and WOW! When she hits the big time, and she will, I’m so grateful to be able to say that I knew her when.
Jo and Jack are coworkers who seriously don’t like each other. It all started two years ago when Jo refused to hold the elevator for Jack and let’s just say…these two know how to hold a grudge. They’re both chosen to represent their company at a conference in Florida, and when they arrive Jo realizes that her toxic ex is also there. Jack jumps in and agrees to be her fake boyfriend and when they start to hit it off they realize that maybe they never hated each other after all.
It was a long road for these two to go from workplace enemies to lovers and I was HERE. FOR. IT. Chelsea nailed this trope along with the fake dating, grumpy/sunshine, close proximity, only one bed, and touch-her-and-you-die tropes. The chemistry! The banter! The tension and longing! The spice! And of course, my favorite, the consent. Both characters were well developed and the mental health struggles they each went through were handled with the utmost care.
We love an emotionally available, dirty talking hero, and Jack is just the man for the job. His attention to detail and thoughtfulness will endear him to you immediately and you'll be adding him to your list of book boyfriends before you’re even halfway through. Jo is so relatable. Her insecurities and past trauma have a grip on her but she’s open about how she deals with her issues in therapy and I love her emotional growth throughout the story.
I loved the gorgeous setting and the supporting characters that gave me all the Bromance Book Club vibes. I laughed, I swooned and I cried! Make sure you pick this one up on 8/9 and keep an eye out for more from this up and coming author!
Jo and Jack are coworkers who seriously don’t like each other. It all started two years ago when Jo refused to hold the elevator for Jack and let’s just say…these two know how to hold a grudge. They’re both chosen to represent their company at a conference in Florida, and when they arrive Jo realizes that her toxic ex is also there. Jack jumps in and agrees to be her fake boyfriend and when they start to hit it off they realize that maybe they never hated each other after all.
It was a long road for these two to go from workplace enemies to lovers and I was HERE. FOR. IT. Chelsea nailed this trope along with the fake dating, grumpy/sunshine, close proximity, only one bed, and touch-her-and-you-die tropes. The chemistry! The banter! The tension and longing! The spice! And of course, my favorite, the consent. Both characters were well developed and the mental health struggles they each went through were handled with the utmost care.
We love an emotionally available, dirty talking hero, and Jack is just the man for the job. His attention to detail and thoughtfulness will endear him to you immediately and you'll be adding him to your list of book boyfriends before you’re even halfway through. Jo is so relatable. Her insecurities and past trauma have a grip on her but she’s open about how she deals with her issues in therapy and I love her emotional growth throughout the story.
I loved the gorgeous setting and the supporting characters that gave me all the Bromance Book Club vibes. I laughed, I swooned and I cried! Make sure you pick this one up on 8/9 and keep an eye out for more from this up and coming author!
October 4, 2022
Bingeable
This will be a weird review, because I enjoyed it so much that a 5-star rating was the obvious choice, but I can also identify several things that bugged me - and I understand why it's been such a polarizing read. The important thing: this was an EXCELLENT debut, and I'm excited to read more from the author. It's not so much an enemies to lovers/office rivals romance as it is a story of what happens once two co-workers put aside their differences and finally get to know each other outside of work. It's a slow burn to SIZZLE, with some very spicy moments along the way. And the hero is an interesting mix of modern gentleman and alpha grump, knowing the right moments to bring the heat. I loved that it surprised me several times, and the story is both familiar yet deeper and more complex (and potentially triggering) than anticipated. So this was a compelling read for me, and it easily held my interest.
Minor spoilers follow, which give context to why some readers haven't enjoyed this. The story follows Jo, a woman who has been feuding with her co-worker for the last two years. Jo and Jack's relationship started off on the wrong foot, and they've both leaned into the friction ever since. So when Jo is drugged at a local bar and Jack comes to her aid, it completely changes the way they see each other. Gone is the animosity and irritation, replaced by feelings that have gotten stirred up by Jack's caretaking... which complicates the work trip they'll be taking together. Away from the office and essentially on vacation, Jo and Jack see new sides to each other as they set aside their differences. And they like what they see. But both still bear the scars of past relationships, and that might get in the way of any future they could have together.
Many readers have gone into this expecting an office rivals romance, only to be disappointed by the fact that Jo and Jack spend VERY little of the book feuding. The roofie situation kinda came out of nowhere, and that sets off the heavier, more emotional undertones of this otherwise light and sexy romance. It's rom com-adjacent for the most part (never really overtly funny), but there is also discussion of sexual assault, suicide, and other things that may be triggering to some. The spice pushes a few boundaries. You don't really expect that from the cute cover or the blurb. There's also a LOT of consent and modern vibes. Don't get me wrong, that's a good thing, but it happened so frequently that it took me out of the moment several times, and sort of extinguished the heat in a few scenes. But you know what? I loved the unique aspects of the story, and how their feuding slowly healed their broken pieces. Both Jo and Jack were reeling from the end of relationships when they met, so their bickering started from a place of hurt. Over time, that's changed for them both, and I loved the idea that those interactions brightened Jack's days, brought him back into the light, and shifted his thoughts. That was a definite win for me, and one of the reasons this was so easy to rate as 5 stars. It's got "he falls first" vibes and some swoony breadcrumbs, which I love. Plus, it's just very entertaining. I enjoyed the vibe and the plot so much that the little issues didn't weigh me down, and I think Curto has a ton of potential. I'm excited to read more. This looks to be the start of a new series, and we got enough teases about the other characters that I'm ready to dig in. So I can't call this anything other than a win.
This will be a weird review, because I enjoyed it so much that a 5-star rating was the obvious choice, but I can also identify several things that bugged me - and I understand why it's been such a polarizing read. The important thing: this was an EXCELLENT debut, and I'm excited to read more from the author. It's not so much an enemies to lovers/office rivals romance as it is a story of what happens once two co-workers put aside their differences and finally get to know each other outside of work. It's a slow burn to SIZZLE, with some very spicy moments along the way. And the hero is an interesting mix of modern gentleman and alpha grump, knowing the right moments to bring the heat. I loved that it surprised me several times, and the story is both familiar yet deeper and more complex (and potentially triggering) than anticipated. So this was a compelling read for me, and it easily held my interest.
Minor spoilers follow, which give context to why some readers haven't enjoyed this. The story follows Jo, a woman who has been feuding with her co-worker for the last two years. Jo and Jack's relationship started off on the wrong foot, and they've both leaned into the friction ever since. So when Jo is drugged at a local bar and Jack comes to her aid, it completely changes the way they see each other. Gone is the animosity and irritation, replaced by feelings that have gotten stirred up by Jack's caretaking... which complicates the work trip they'll be taking together. Away from the office and essentially on vacation, Jo and Jack see new sides to each other as they set aside their differences. And they like what they see. But both still bear the scars of past relationships, and that might get in the way of any future they could have together.
Many readers have gone into this expecting an office rivals romance, only to be disappointed by the fact that Jo and Jack spend VERY little of the book feuding. The roofie situation kinda came out of nowhere, and that sets off the heavier, more emotional undertones of this otherwise light and sexy romance. It's rom com-adjacent for the most part (never really overtly funny), but there is also discussion of sexual assault, suicide, and other things that may be triggering to some. The spice pushes a few boundaries. You don't really expect that from the cute cover or the blurb. There's also a LOT of consent and modern vibes. Don't get me wrong, that's a good thing, but it happened so frequently that it took me out of the moment several times, and sort of extinguished the heat in a few scenes. But you know what? I loved the unique aspects of the story, and how their feuding slowly healed their broken pieces. Both Jo and Jack were reeling from the end of relationships when they met, so their bickering started from a place of hurt. Over time, that's changed for them both, and I loved the idea that those interactions brightened Jack's days, brought him back into the light, and shifted his thoughts. That was a definite win for me, and one of the reasons this was so easy to rate as 5 stars. It's got "he falls first" vibes and some swoony breadcrumbs, which I love. Plus, it's just very entertaining. I enjoyed the vibe and the plot so much that the little issues didn't weigh me down, and I think Curto has a ton of potential. I'm excited to read more. This looks to be the start of a new series, and we got enough teases about the other characters that I'm ready to dig in. So I can't call this anything other than a win.
March 17, 2024
3.5⭐️ rounded up, 5🌶️
I read the version of this book that was re-released with some plot updates and dual POV. I’m a huge Chelsea Curto fan after reading her recent Best Seller Caught on Camera. I went and bought all her older books and am making my way through the catalog. This was her debut novel and I’m glad I went in without having read any of the older reviews. Because wow, they were pretty bad 😬
That being said, even with some of the updates this definitely wasn’t her best, and her writing has really leveled up. Have I read worse books, absolutely! Have I read better books, of course. But overall for a debut novel it was pretty damn good. Chelsea even admitted in her own review she didn’t realize just how hard writing a book can be. So major props to Chelsea for doing the damn thing 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
I read the version of this book that was re-released with some plot updates and dual POV. I’m a huge Chelsea Curto fan after reading her recent Best Seller Caught on Camera. I went and bought all her older books and am making my way through the catalog. This was her debut novel and I’m glad I went in without having read any of the older reviews. Because wow, they were pretty bad 😬
That being said, even with some of the updates this definitely wasn’t her best, and her writing has really leveled up. Have I read worse books, absolutely! Have I read better books, of course. But overall for a debut novel it was pretty damn good. Chelsea even admitted in her own review she didn’t realize just how hard writing a book can be. So major props to Chelsea for doing the damn thing 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
July 24, 2025
Es: El libro más cursi de Chels (me encanta)
Jack es un cinamon roll de manual 🛐✨
La historia en si no tiene mucha acción, pero los personajes son tan lindos 🥹✨
Lo recomiendo si quieres un romance ligero con spice de Fake Dating entre compañeros de oficina
En: Chels's cheesiest book (I love it)
Jack is a textbook cinnamon roll 🛐✨
The story itself doesn't have much action, but the characters are so cute 🥹✨
I recommend it if you want a light romance with Fake Dating spice between office colleagues
Jack es un cinamon roll de manual 🛐✨
La historia en si no tiene mucha acción, pero los personajes son tan lindos 🥹✨
Lo recomiendo si quieres un romance ligero con spice de Fake Dating entre compañeros de oficina
En: Chels's cheesiest book (I love it)
Jack is a textbook cinnamon roll 🛐✨
The story itself doesn't have much action, but the characters are so cute 🥹✨
I recommend it if you want a light romance with Fake Dating spice between office colleagues
August 14, 2022
I binged AN UNEXPECTED PARADISE in less than a day. It’s THAT good. Jo Bowen is forced to attend a work trip with Jack Lancaster, her annoyingly attractive work enemy. Jo’s toxic ex-boyfriend is also in attendance. In the spur of the moment, she tells him that she has a boyfriend, and Jack quickly jumps in to play the part.
Read if you like
🏝 enemies to lovers
🏝 grumpy & sunshine
🏝 dual POVs
🏝 fake dating
🏝 witty banter
🌶 steam!!
I know Chelsea went back and re-wrote the book to make it dual POV, and it really paid off. I loved getting to hear from Jack’s perspective 🥹 The mental health rep was everything. Jack is my new fav book boyfriend. The way he made Jo feel seen and safe… and that there is nothing wrong with her ❤️ The buildup was so well-done. And the steam was off the charts!!
The side characters were all amazing (except for Greg). One of the best parts?! Henry gets his own book, THE COMPANION PROJECT, coming out 10/11/22!
Read if you like
🏝 enemies to lovers
🏝 grumpy & sunshine
🏝 dual POVs
🏝 fake dating
🏝 witty banter
🌶 steam!!
I know Chelsea went back and re-wrote the book to make it dual POV, and it really paid off. I loved getting to hear from Jack’s perspective 🥹 The mental health rep was everything. Jack is my new fav book boyfriend. The way he made Jo feel seen and safe… and that there is nothing wrong with her ❤️ The buildup was so well-done. And the steam was off the charts!!
The side characters were all amazing (except for Greg). One of the best parts?! Henry gets his own book, THE COMPANION PROJECT, coming out 10/11/22!
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