What do you think?
Rate this book
A Quick Stop in Paradise
Her boyfriend tried to cheat with the bartender. Now she wants her too.
Ryan Bell is already anxious about her family vacation. Between family drama and arguments over her career change, the last thing she needs is her boyfriend trying to cheat on her with the resort bartender.
Brooklyn Sterling is perfectly content with her life in paradise, working the bar at a high-end resort and drifting from one no-strings fling to another. Attachments aren’t her thing. But an attempted fling goes bad when it turns out he has a girlfriend—and when that girlfriend dumps him, her family takes his side.
Brooklyn’s just trying to do the right thing by stepping up for Ryan and giving her a place to stay. Under no circumstances is she going to take advantage of the beautiful woman sleeping under her roof.
And certainly, certainly under no circumstances will Brooklyn fall for her.
A Quick Stop in Paradise is a vacation romance with class-difference, coming-out, and kissing-the-girl-your-boyfriend-tried-to-cheat-with dynamics, starring a messy family, a useless lesbian best friend, and too much pizza, if that were a thing. Content warnings for emotionally manipulative family and ex-boyfriend, oblique references to intimate partner violence, open-door sex scenes, and characters who enjoy pineapple on their pizza.
Ryan Bell is already anxious about her family vacation. Between family drama and arguments over her career change, the last thing she needs is her boyfriend trying to cheat on her with the resort bartender.
Brooklyn Sterling is perfectly content with her life in paradise, working the bar at a high-end resort and drifting from one no-strings fling to another. Attachments aren’t her thing. But an attempted fling goes bad when it turns out he has a girlfriend—and when that girlfriend dumps him, her family takes his side.
Brooklyn’s just trying to do the right thing by stepping up for Ryan and giving her a place to stay. Under no circumstances is she going to take advantage of the beautiful woman sleeping under her roof.
And certainly, certainly under no circumstances will Brooklyn fall for her.
A Quick Stop in Paradise is a vacation romance with class-difference, coming-out, and kissing-the-girl-your-boyfriend-tried-to-cheat-with dynamics, starring a messy family, a useless lesbian best friend, and too much pizza, if that were a thing. Content warnings for emotionally manipulative family and ex-boyfriend, oblique references to intimate partner violence, open-door sex scenes, and characters who enjoy pineapple on their pizza.
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2025
56 people are currently reading
198 people want to read
About the author
Lily Seabrooke
37 books337 followersLily Seabrooke is a lesbian, trans woman, and author of sapphic romance that stars food, because odds are, at any given time, she's hungry.
Her interests include eating food, thinking about food, writing novels about food, and drinking coffee.
Her interests include eating food, thinking about food, writing novels about food, and drinking coffee.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
April 21, 2025
Poor Ryan. Her family was really awful about the whole cheating situation, and it left me frustrated. I wanted to scream, and I wasn’t even a member of this fictional family. Ryan and Brooklyn were cute, and the spice was very hot. I also loved the surprise side character couple. If you enjoy sapphic vacation romances with enough drama to challenge a Jerry Springer episode, I recommend this read. All in all, it was a good read and I finished it in a day.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 24, 2025
Many thanks to the author for the digital review copy!
What intrigued me about this was the setting, because I love a vacation setting, but what makes Lily Seabrooke's books so good are the characters. This book has maybe the most infuriating family on planet earth, but it also has some amazing fast friends. I read this book within a day because it was just so much fun to read. This would make for a perfect summer read!
What intrigued me about this was the setting, because I love a vacation setting, but what makes Lily Seabrooke's books so good are the characters. This book has maybe the most infuriating family on planet earth, but it also has some amazing fast friends. I read this book within a day because it was just so much fun to read. This would make for a perfect summer read!
Read
May 6, 2025DNF
April 25, 2025
If you’re looking for a page turning sweet and spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️ sapphic story this book is for you. The characters were charming and well developed. I really like that this book was different than the usual sapphic tropes that get played out over and over again. This is a unique story about finding love when you least expect to. It was very sweet but still had depth and dealt with issues surrounding family dynamics and coming out…. But don’t let that fool you because the chemistry between the characters is hot hot hot!!!! The spice was perfect.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 9, 2025
Love in Paradise
Lily Seabrooke writes the most endearing love stories. Each one has its own charm. I'm convinced that she is in league with Cupid.
A Quick Stop in Paradise has several strong themes supporting the already excellent story. Through the relationship developing between Brooklyn and Ryan, the disintegrating relationship between Ryan and Shane and the ongoing embattled relationship Ryan has with her family, one Value becomes paramount. "To thine own self be true."
It is a growth exercise to watch so many people come to the point in their lives where they will no longer sacrifice the part of themselves that makes them real. Some get there quickly, some kicking and screaming, and some with great dignity.
Perhaps the most important theme of the book is Trust. Many readers will understand the hesitation to open oneself to being vulnerable enough to begin to let someone love you and to love them back. The pain of rejection is not pretty.
Lily's characters deal with it in a wide variety of ways. Ryan's mother initially ignores the breach of trust and tries to bully her way through. Thank goodness she finally owns her own responsibility and apologizes to Ryan. Other characters are not so forthcoming but it is hilarious to watch.
The final theme I'll talk about, I'll call "Girls just wanna have fun." In a wonderfully lighthearted way, Lily Seabrooke writes in such a way as to encourage each of us not to work so hard, or wait so long for the opportunity to be here now. To grab the moment, seize the day, and enjoy our lives more.
I know I'm taking all of this under advisement, as well as some other tips and tricks she writes about, and I'm going out to have a better life, with more integrity and fun, and, well, you'll just have to read the book to understand.
Lily Seabrooke writes the most endearing love stories. Each one has its own charm. I'm convinced that she is in league with Cupid.
A Quick Stop in Paradise has several strong themes supporting the already excellent story. Through the relationship developing between Brooklyn and Ryan, the disintegrating relationship between Ryan and Shane and the ongoing embattled relationship Ryan has with her family, one Value becomes paramount. "To thine own self be true."
It is a growth exercise to watch so many people come to the point in their lives where they will no longer sacrifice the part of themselves that makes them real. Some get there quickly, some kicking and screaming, and some with great dignity.
Perhaps the most important theme of the book is Trust. Many readers will understand the hesitation to open oneself to being vulnerable enough to begin to let someone love you and to love them back. The pain of rejection is not pretty.
Lily's characters deal with it in a wide variety of ways. Ryan's mother initially ignores the breach of trust and tries to bully her way through. Thank goodness she finally owns her own responsibility and apologizes to Ryan. Other characters are not so forthcoming but it is hilarious to watch.
The final theme I'll talk about, I'll call "Girls just wanna have fun." In a wonderfully lighthearted way, Lily Seabrooke writes in such a way as to encourage each of us not to work so hard, or wait so long for the opportunity to be here now. To grab the moment, seize the day, and enjoy our lives more.
I know I'm taking all of this under advisement, as well as some other tips and tricks she writes about, and I'm going out to have a better life, with more integrity and fun, and, well, you'll just have to read the book to understand.
May 5, 2025
Ok, first, this is an amazing read. I was engaged from the beginning. I loved the tone, the pace, the setting and (most) of the characters. Second, Brooklyn was perfect. She had her flaws of course, but she was such a supportive, well rounded character! The way she stepped up. Her commentary to various characters. Her openness and authenticity. I loved her banter.
Stella was a hoot. Allison made me want to hug her and cheer for her all the while. I loved them and their supporting roles.
Ryan learned and applied so much about herself in such a short time, it was glorious. Again the banter was on point. Her chemistry with Brooklyn was off the charts. I loved her strength and bravery.
Another wonderful read by this author! Highly recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Stella was a hoot. Allison made me want to hug her and cheer for her all the while. I loved them and their supporting roles.
Ryan learned and applied so much about herself in such a short time, it was glorious. Again the banter was on point. Her chemistry with Brooklyn was off the charts. I loved her strength and bravery.
Another wonderful read by this author! Highly recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 3, 2025
Loved it! It's sweet, heartwarming, adorable, with characters that you can't help but grow fond of, and some really good spice too! Ryan and Brooklyn are a cute couple, there for each other, especially when Ryan's family make some really stupid decisions, and Allison and Stella's romance on the side is a nice bonus (and even better now that they've got their own book too). It's well written and paced and a really fun read.
May 5, 2025
Let me say, I've been a fan of Lily Seabrooke since "A Break in Communications." I loved that book. And I want to love all her books.
However, this one (and the previous one) had some issues that prevent me from giving it a higher star rating. (And, if I could, I'd give Lily a 3.75 on this one.)
NOTE: This review will have spoilers.
So, first, the premise of Ryan's family having such a big issue with her job - I couldn't relate. And I really couldn't relate to the piece where her family preferred Shane over her. But, maybe I live in a bubble. ;0
And, frankly, I think that this book could have used some more editing. For example, the word "cute" was used way too many times.
Also, adult women were describes as "girls." Maybe this is a generational thing - I'm in my 60s - but, that was jarring every time I read it.
There was often description of clothing that seemed unnatural...who, when looking at a woman they like, thinks "she'd gotten it cut just above her shoulders, a perky look that gave it more volume, and between that and the cute [ugh, already mentioned] top tucked into loose pastel chino shorts, a playful bracelet and a baseball cap [which, if she's wearing it, how can you tell her haircut has more volume?]...?"
I think there are ways to incorporate someone's clothing -- IF it's necessary -- into the exposition which doesn't sound like an ad or something. For example, "Ryan's baseball cap was fun -- the local fishing supply store -- but it hid her perky new haircut." Or, something.
Also, everyone flushed or blushed -- frequently -- and everyone smiled "dryly." "Prickly" was also overused.
Okay, this sounds nitpicky.
I would definitely read another book by Lily Seabrooke because she does have the humor down. She is awesome at the flirty dialogue and humor in general.
And, there was some great parts between Brooklyn and Stella talking about sexuality and sex, as well as the conversation between Brooklyn and Ryan's mother talking about being a mother and how to make things right. (Okay, now I can't remember who was talking about sex with Stella -- it was probably Ryan. Still, it was very well done ;0.)
I don't want to dissuade anyone from picking up a copy of this book, because a) I want to support authors and b) the humor is worthwhile and c) Reader, it's only my opinion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
However, this one (and the previous one) had some issues that prevent me from giving it a higher star rating. (And, if I could, I'd give Lily a 3.75 on this one.)
NOTE: This review will have spoilers.
So, first, the premise of Ryan's family having such a big issue with her job - I couldn't relate. And I really couldn't relate to the piece where her family preferred Shane over her. But, maybe I live in a bubble. ;0
And, frankly, I think that this book could have used some more editing. For example, the word "cute" was used way too many times.
Also, adult women were describes as "girls." Maybe this is a generational thing - I'm in my 60s - but, that was jarring every time I read it.
There was often description of clothing that seemed unnatural...who, when looking at a woman they like, thinks "she'd gotten it cut just above her shoulders, a perky look that gave it more volume, and between that and the cute [ugh, already mentioned] top tucked into loose pastel chino shorts, a playful bracelet and a baseball cap [which, if she's wearing it, how can you tell her haircut has more volume?]...?"
I think there are ways to incorporate someone's clothing -- IF it's necessary -- into the exposition which doesn't sound like an ad or something. For example, "Ryan's baseball cap was fun -- the local fishing supply store -- but it hid her perky new haircut." Or, something.
Also, everyone flushed or blushed -- frequently -- and everyone smiled "dryly." "Prickly" was also overused.
Okay, this sounds nitpicky.
I would definitely read another book by Lily Seabrooke because she does have the humor down. She is awesome at the flirty dialogue and humor in general.
And, there was some great parts between Brooklyn and Stella talking about sexuality and sex, as well as the conversation between Brooklyn and Ryan's mother talking about being a mother and how to make things right. (Okay, now I can't remember who was talking about sex with Stella -- it was probably Ryan. Still, it was very well done ;0.)
I don't want to dissuade anyone from picking up a copy of this book, because a) I want to support authors and b) the humor is worthwhile and c) Reader, it's only my opinion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 1, 2025
I received a digital review copy of this book and I’m glad I did because this was the perfect book to read during my holidays.
Lily Seabrooke has the gift of writing well-rounded, emotionally mature characters who know exactly what they want and who they are… except for a tiny blind spot that makes them so human and relatable. In this case it’s charming bartender Brooklyn, who might be the perfect woman: she’s assertive, funny, a great cook and mixologist, and tiled her own bathroom; yet she doesn’t believe that she is worth of being something more than a summer fling.
And then there’s Ryan, a capable independent woman who unfortunately is surrounded by a mess of a family who drag her self-worth down. This is why it’s believable she’d keep herself caged in an unfulfilling relationship that explodes spectacularly during a family holiday when her boyfriend tries to cheat on her… with Brooklyn.
The romance is heartwarming and believable, with the obstacles being a natural consequence of the character’s baggage and Ryan’s family drama. It also features great (and in one case, unexpected) sidekicks to the protagonist and an amazing secondary romance going in the background. People communicate, the pace is great, the situations believable, the chemistry swooning, and just the right amount of idiocy to want to slap the protagonists in the back on their heads but not enough to throw the book away.
I did find some flaws, though, Some of the supporting cast were left too much in the background (I had to re-read to make sure Ryan’s father was in the picture, for example – you’d think he’d have an opinion about everything going on). As charming as the secondary romance was, maybe it was too good – is it weird I wanted the book to cut to them more? And some of the most interesting confrontations are kept out of the page and we only find out the summary, which was disappointing.
It’s not perfect, but it’s still really good. If you’re in for a charming and cozy sapphic romance and you are OK with the drama that comes from an imperfect family and your lack of self-worth (and accept the blasphemy that at one points it implies it’s OK to not like pineapple in pizza) you’ll have a really great time in this summer holiday.
Lily Seabrooke has the gift of writing well-rounded, emotionally mature characters who know exactly what they want and who they are… except for a tiny blind spot that makes them so human and relatable. In this case it’s charming bartender Brooklyn, who might be the perfect woman: she’s assertive, funny, a great cook and mixologist, and tiled her own bathroom; yet she doesn’t believe that she is worth of being something more than a summer fling.
And then there’s Ryan, a capable independent woman who unfortunately is surrounded by a mess of a family who drag her self-worth down. This is why it’s believable she’d keep herself caged in an unfulfilling relationship that explodes spectacularly during a family holiday when her boyfriend tries to cheat on her… with Brooklyn.
The romance is heartwarming and believable, with the obstacles being a natural consequence of the character’s baggage and Ryan’s family drama. It also features great (and in one case, unexpected) sidekicks to the protagonist and an amazing secondary romance going in the background. People communicate, the pace is great, the situations believable, the chemistry swooning, and just the right amount of idiocy to want to slap the protagonists in the back on their heads but not enough to throw the book away.
I did find some flaws, though, Some of the supporting cast were left too much in the background (I had to re-read to make sure Ryan’s father was in the picture, for example – you’d think he’d have an opinion about everything going on). As charming as the secondary romance was, maybe it was too good – is it weird I wanted the book to cut to them more? And some of the most interesting confrontations are kept out of the page and we only find out the summary, which was disappointing.
It’s not perfect, but it’s still really good. If you’re in for a charming and cozy sapphic romance and you are OK with the drama that comes from an imperfect family and your lack of self-worth (and accept the blasphemy that at one points it implies it’s OK to not like pineapple in pizza) you’ll have a really great time in this summer holiday.
May 8, 2025
Lily Seabrooke takes readers on an entertaining and engaging vacation with her latest release, A Quick Stop in Paradise. Ryan Bell and her boyfriend Shane accompany her family on a bonding group stay in paradise that soon devolves into anything but.
It only takes a few hours for Ryan’s fun and relaxing getaway to blow up. A row with Shane results in their breakup, and Ryan’s family’s reaction compels her to refuse to participate in the family’s itinerary.
Key to the disastrous start to Ryan’s weeklong stay is gorgeous, enticing, and affable Brooklyn Sterling, the resort’s best bartender. Soon after arrival, Shane, without Ryan, meets Brooklyn when he stops by the bar during her shift.
Shane turns on the charm to impress Brooklyn, and they spend the afternoon together.
But when Shane takes Brooklyn back to “his” suite, she spies women’s clothing and, honorably, makes a quick exit.
Again exhibiting her principles, Brooklyn seeks out Ryan, although they haven’t yet met. Their conversation sets Ryan on a path well away from Shane and her family and toward Brooklyn and Allison, another resort employee, whose attention Ryan captured when she checked in to the hotel.
Seabrooke has populated the story with a cast of dynamic characters who are apt to greatly anger, humor, entice, or entertain you.
Ryan’s supporters include Brooklyn, of course; shy, ditsy, pizza-poaching, Allison, a fledgling lesbian; Ryan’s indifferent twin brother Oscar; and her outspoken, funny, wired, younger sister Stella.
Despite her efforts to flee from her ex and her family, Seabrooke sets her up to be ambushed a few times — by Shane, who badgers her while simultaneously expecting to be forgiven; her disapproving, and disloyal mother; her bitter Aunt Helena; and her demanding, grumpy grandmother.
Seabrooke offsets the chaos swarming around Ryan by encapsulating her and her new, amazingly pleasant protector Brooklyn in a safe, sensual bubble where they can lavish each other in affection and intimacy.
This may be Seabrooke’s best book yet.
I received an ARC edition of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It only takes a few hours for Ryan’s fun and relaxing getaway to blow up. A row with Shane results in their breakup, and Ryan’s family’s reaction compels her to refuse to participate in the family’s itinerary.
Key to the disastrous start to Ryan’s weeklong stay is gorgeous, enticing, and affable Brooklyn Sterling, the resort’s best bartender. Soon after arrival, Shane, without Ryan, meets Brooklyn when he stops by the bar during her shift.
Shane turns on the charm to impress Brooklyn, and they spend the afternoon together.
But when Shane takes Brooklyn back to “his” suite, she spies women’s clothing and, honorably, makes a quick exit.
Again exhibiting her principles, Brooklyn seeks out Ryan, although they haven’t yet met. Their conversation sets Ryan on a path well away from Shane and her family and toward Brooklyn and Allison, another resort employee, whose attention Ryan captured when she checked in to the hotel.
Seabrooke has populated the story with a cast of dynamic characters who are apt to greatly anger, humor, entice, or entertain you.
Ryan’s supporters include Brooklyn, of course; shy, ditsy, pizza-poaching, Allison, a fledgling lesbian; Ryan’s indifferent twin brother Oscar; and her outspoken, funny, wired, younger sister Stella.
Despite her efforts to flee from her ex and her family, Seabrooke sets her up to be ambushed a few times — by Shane, who badgers her while simultaneously expecting to be forgiven; her disapproving, and disloyal mother; her bitter Aunt Helena; and her demanding, grumpy grandmother.
Seabrooke offsets the chaos swarming around Ryan by encapsulating her and her new, amazingly pleasant protector Brooklyn in a safe, sensual bubble where they can lavish each other in affection and intimacy.
This may be Seabrooke’s best book yet.
I received an ARC edition of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2025
This latest offering from Lily Seabrooke is one of my favorites I've read, not just of Lily's books, but of all books, regardless of genre. Ryan, the rich presumed-straight MC is in a lackluster relationship with her boyfriend and they arrive at the resort setting of this story, along with most of Ryan's wealthy family members. A series of events occur and thus enters Brooklyn, a bartender at the resort, who very nearly winds up sleeping with said boyfriend of Ryan, until she realizes he is already in a relationship and he's trying to cheat on his girlfriend. Brooklyn is the sort of person we should all strive to be, as she is not content to just ditch the cheating boyfriend, but she makes contact with Ryan to tell her about the attempted infidelity. Ryan believes her because she listens to what her instincts have been trying to warn her of with him. The unexpected part of this whole scenario is that Ryan and Brooklyn find themselves attracted to one another. Ryan is terrified of acting on her attraction as she can barely say the word "bisexual" since she stuffed her attraction to women way down deep inside many years prior. Primarily, she worries about what her family will think/do because "good girls don't do that sort of thing." When Ryan allows herself to indulge in fun for the remainder of her trip, shenanigans ensue, and the journey of her self-discovery is one you should definitely join.
Both Ryan and Brooklyn are great characters, along with Ryan's sister and a friend of Brooklyn's who both add quite a bit of levity to the situation. There are some tense and frustrating moments with members of Ryan's family, but they ring true to what many queer people encounter when coming out to their families.
If you love the tropes of toaster oven, rich girl/poor girl, and coming out, be sure to check out this book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Both Ryan and Brooklyn are great characters, along with Ryan's sister and a friend of Brooklyn's who both add quite a bit of levity to the situation. There are some tense and frustrating moments with members of Ryan's family, but they ring true to what many queer people encounter when coming out to their families.
If you love the tropes of toaster oven, rich girl/poor girl, and coming out, be sure to check out this book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2025
Who would have thought that one’s boyfriend would cheat on them with a bartender during family vacation? Well, sadly, that happens to be Ryan Bell’s story. And the one who told her that her boyfriend was a cheater? The bartender that her boyfriend tried to cheat with, who realized the boyfriend had a girlfriend, who happens to be a very hot woman named Brooklyn. Ryan is trying to explore her bisexuality more, and Brooklyn does not have serious relationships, just flings and fun. Perfect for a fun friendship, right? While enjoying each other’s company, attraction blooms. Will this be something tangible, or just a quick fling in paradise?
I was recommended this book by @2nonsapphics and I really enjoyed it. The plot was not heavy, yet it held all the important issues like exploring oneself, family matters, and of course, telling the cheating boyfriend to f*ck off. Really enjoyed that part. Also, I was glad that Ryan finally established her boundaries with her family and that her parents came to their senses at the end. Brooklyn was a wonderful friend and future girlfriend) throughout the book. She was always on Ryan’s side and defended her when Ryan’s family kept trying to put the blame on Ryan rather than the cheating boyfriend(except the siblings) and guilting her that she was ruining the family vacation.
One of the most memorable things about this book was the side characters. They were not simply a third wheel for the main characters or a flat supporter. While they were the support group of Ryan, each had their own story, motives, and ideals that were integrated into the main story seamlessly. It really added to the charm of the story.
This is my first Lily Seabrooke book, and I will definitely be looking forward to reading more of her books in the future.
I was recommended this book by @2nonsapphics and I really enjoyed it. The plot was not heavy, yet it held all the important issues like exploring oneself, family matters, and of course, telling the cheating boyfriend to f*ck off. Really enjoyed that part. Also, I was glad that Ryan finally established her boundaries with her family and that her parents came to their senses at the end. Brooklyn was a wonderful friend and future girlfriend) throughout the book. She was always on Ryan’s side and defended her when Ryan’s family kept trying to put the blame on Ryan rather than the cheating boyfriend(except the siblings) and guilting her that she was ruining the family vacation.
One of the most memorable things about this book was the side characters. They were not simply a third wheel for the main characters or a flat supporter. While they were the support group of Ryan, each had their own story, motives, and ideals that were integrated into the main story seamlessly. It really added to the charm of the story.
This is my first Lily Seabrooke book, and I will definitely be looking forward to reading more of her books in the future.
May 1, 2025
A great vacation romance with lots of good drinks, hot pizza, sunshine, hot bodies and even hotter scenes!
I love the extremely hot scenes Lily Seabrooke is always creating and she has also perfectly written the tension and flirting between the two MCs into this romance again.
Even if Brooklyn and Ryan meet the first time for a different, rather incredibly frustrating reason.
Brooklyn is hot and, as a bartender, is in huge demand among both sexes.
She is a free spirit and doesn't get involved in serious relationships. A bit of a burnt child and all.
When Ryan's boyfriend tries to cheat on her with Brooklyn and Brooklyn finds out, she does the right thing and tells his girlfriend about what nearly happens.
Then she sees and understands even less how someone like Shane could cheat on someone like Ryan?
Ryan is a beautiful woman and seemingly so sweet and funny, but also so composed and strong.
Brooklyn can't help but develop a little crush on her, or is it something more?
The flirting from Ryan is definitely unexpected for her but not unwelcome!
Add to that the extremely annoying, completely untolerant, and rather impossible family, and we have a vacation rom-com. Although I have to say, I have to exclude her siblings from this.
The little romance of Allison, Brooklyn's much younger best friend, warmed my little heart even more!
All in all, a great book, and not just for a beach vacation.
Thanks so much for this ARC!
I love the extremely hot scenes Lily Seabrooke is always creating and she has also perfectly written the tension and flirting between the two MCs into this romance again.
Even if Brooklyn and Ryan meet the first time for a different, rather incredibly frustrating reason.
Brooklyn is hot and, as a bartender, is in huge demand among both sexes.
She is a free spirit and doesn't get involved in serious relationships. A bit of a burnt child and all.
When Ryan's boyfriend tries to cheat on her with Brooklyn and Brooklyn finds out, she does the right thing and tells his girlfriend about what nearly happens.
Then she sees and understands even less how someone like Shane could cheat on someone like Ryan?
Ryan is a beautiful woman and seemingly so sweet and funny, but also so composed and strong.
Brooklyn can't help but develop a little crush on her, or is it something more?
The flirting from Ryan is definitely unexpected for her but not unwelcome!
Add to that the extremely annoying, completely untolerant, and rather impossible family, and we have a vacation rom-com. Although I have to say, I have to exclude her siblings from this.
The little romance of Allison, Brooklyn's much younger best friend, warmed my little heart even more!
All in all, a great book, and not just for a beach vacation.
Thanks so much for this ARC!
December 3, 2025
it's just very fun
the banter is the star of the piece, especially the flirty banter. whenever any of the core four are together - main couple Ryan and Brooklyn, and beta couple Stella and Allison - characters start bouncing off each other and being all snarky but in a fun way and it's fun did I say it's fun? whether it's Ryan and Brooklyn being obnoxiously into each other, Stella being a lot, Allison being a useless lesbian, and even late in the book when the vacation is over and everyone's just moping around and complaining about love. it really keeps the tone from getting dragged down by Ryan's manipulative, cheating ex-boyfriend and her and Stella's terrible family. the beginning of the book really seemed like the setup for a much more depressing novel
aside from the delightful patter, we also have frank and open discussions about sexuality as Ryan and Stella re-evaluate their places on the Kinsey scale, and straightforward romance largely free of miscommunication and conflict. at one point Ryan goes to try and hit on someone else because neither see nor Brooklyn are making the first move for noble and stupid reasons, and the nice lady immediately identifies she'd rather be hitting on Brooklyn, and then Ryan does that. nice and easy
also it's quite spicy. it's a holiday romance, once Ryan figures out what she wants she's up it like a rat up a drainpipe
don't worry the book uses much more appealing language to describe it
the banter is the star of the piece, especially the flirty banter. whenever any of the core four are together - main couple Ryan and Brooklyn, and beta couple Stella and Allison - characters start bouncing off each other and being all snarky but in a fun way and it's fun did I say it's fun? whether it's Ryan and Brooklyn being obnoxiously into each other, Stella being a lot, Allison being a useless lesbian, and even late in the book when the vacation is over and everyone's just moping around and complaining about love. it really keeps the tone from getting dragged down by Ryan's manipulative, cheating ex-boyfriend and her and Stella's terrible family. the beginning of the book really seemed like the setup for a much more depressing novel
aside from the delightful patter, we also have frank and open discussions about sexuality as Ryan and Stella re-evaluate their places on the Kinsey scale, and straightforward romance largely free of miscommunication and conflict. at one point Ryan goes to try and hit on someone else because neither see nor Brooklyn are making the first move for noble and stupid reasons, and the nice lady immediately identifies she'd rather be hitting on Brooklyn, and then Ryan does that. nice and easy
also it's quite spicy. it's a holiday romance, once Ryan figures out what she wants she's up it like a rat up a drainpipe
don't worry the book uses much more appealing language to describe it
April 26, 2025
Ryan is bisexual. She just hasn’t gotten around to telling anyone that. She is on an island getaway with her wealthy family and her nice, if not very interesting, boyfriend, who her family likes much more than they like her. When she is contacted by two resort employees who say he tried to sleep with one of them, and her family sides with him, she finds herself alone on the island with only the two resort employees for company.
Brooklyn loves bartending at an island resort. In particular she likes having short-term flings with guests. There definitely isn’t a hollow feeling inside her knowing she will never have a long-term relationship since no-one close to her age actually lives on the island. She also is not going to have a fling with the woman whose boyfriend tried to cheat with her, who she is now comforting and looking after for the remainder of her trip. Unless Ryan makes the first move, that is.
I loved this book. Such interesting family dynamics. Such great exploration of the realities of discovering your sexual identity and of coming out. And I found the relationship between Ryan and Brooklyn so interesting and unique.
Also, I feel that Ryan’s sister Stella should be friends with Anna’s sister Veronica from A Break in Communications. They would have a lot in common and a lot to talk about.
Brooklyn loves bartending at an island resort. In particular she likes having short-term flings with guests. There definitely isn’t a hollow feeling inside her knowing she will never have a long-term relationship since no-one close to her age actually lives on the island. She also is not going to have a fling with the woman whose boyfriend tried to cheat with her, who she is now comforting and looking after for the remainder of her trip. Unless Ryan makes the first move, that is.
I loved this book. Such interesting family dynamics. Such great exploration of the realities of discovering your sexual identity and of coming out. And I found the relationship between Ryan and Brooklyn so interesting and unique.
Also, I feel that Ryan’s sister Stella should be friends with Anna’s sister Veronica from A Break in Communications. They would have a lot in common and a lot to talk about.
May 3, 2025
A Quick Stop in Paradise, Lily Seabrooke’s latest novel, is the tale of Ryan and Brooklyn. In some ways, they are the typical Seabrooke character, which isn’t a bad thing. Both the main characters are charming in their own ways, and they definitely have chemistry. What really struck me in this book, is something that often becomes an issue, not only in Lily’s books, but in a lot of romance books: friends and family. This is something that really threw me off in A Break in Communications (among other things). But in both this book and New Beginnings, the friends are really friends and don’t take over or push their friends too much in moving the relationship along. The family (specifically Ryan’s) is at times annoying and pushy, but it’s integral to the plot (rather than just to annoy me) and doesn’t take too much away from the focus of the main romance.
This book is almost everything I want from a Lily Seabrooke book–it’s fun and funny, sexy, and comforting. While it might not have the emotional impact of her best book (Every Little Thing), it’s exactly what it needs to be. I rate this a 4.5 stars, bumping up to 5.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is almost everything I want from a Lily Seabrooke book–it’s fun and funny, sexy, and comforting. While it might not have the emotional impact of her best book (Every Little Thing), it’s exactly what it needs to be. I rate this a 4.5 stars, bumping up to 5.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 7, 2025
I have to hand it to Lily Seabrooke, no two of her books are alike. Which is a good thing. This one takes place in a tropical paradise that’s never named. Ryan is on vacation with her family (mom, dad, twin brother, sister, grandparents, aunt and uncle, and her boyfriend). We quickly find out that this family is dysfunctional with a capital D!
All hell breaks loose quickly when Grandma tries to use her hotel points which can’t be used at this hotel. Grandma unnerves Allison at the front desk with Ryan having to smooth things over. In the meantime, boyfriend, Shane, is trying to pick up the bartender, Brooklyn, who finds out from Allison that he has a girlfriend. Brooklyn tells Ryan about Shane trying to pick her up and wonders who else he’s cheated with. Ryan confronts Shane, who denies everything of course, and Ryan leaves. She winds up going to Brooklyn’s, who’s offered her a place to stay.
This is where the sex and more sex comes in to play! The attraction between Ryan and Brooklyn is undeniable, and they don’t waste time succumbing to it. On the family front, they take Shane’s side, and the fun begins.
This book is about family dynamics, grappling with sexuality, and confronting those who refuse to see who you are and what you want to do with your life. The setting of the book is beautiful, the characters are delightful in their own way, and the ending is satisfying.
Way to go Lily Seabrooke!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
All hell breaks loose quickly when Grandma tries to use her hotel points which can’t be used at this hotel. Grandma unnerves Allison at the front desk with Ryan having to smooth things over. In the meantime, boyfriend, Shane, is trying to pick up the bartender, Brooklyn, who finds out from Allison that he has a girlfriend. Brooklyn tells Ryan about Shane trying to pick her up and wonders who else he’s cheated with. Ryan confronts Shane, who denies everything of course, and Ryan leaves. She winds up going to Brooklyn’s, who’s offered her a place to stay.
This is where the sex and more sex comes in to play! The attraction between Ryan and Brooklyn is undeniable, and they don’t waste time succumbing to it. On the family front, they take Shane’s side, and the fun begins.
This book is about family dynamics, grappling with sexuality, and confronting those who refuse to see who you are and what you want to do with your life. The setting of the book is beautiful, the characters are delightful in their own way, and the ending is satisfying.
Way to go Lily Seabrooke!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 27, 2025
When Ryan’s long-term boyfriend attempts to cheat on her while they’re vacationing with her family, and said family takes his side instead of hers, she never expects to find comfort and support from Brooklyn, the woman he tried to sleep with. And she definitely doesn’t expect that support to turn into a steamy sapphic vacation fling. But it’s only a fling, right?
A Quick Stop in Paradise is instantly inviting thanks to believable characters, especially the smart and sensitive Ryan and the sexy and soft-hearted Brooklyn. The series of events from the near-affair that leads to Ryan and Brooklyn’s first meeting to the development of their friendship and other surprising friendships to the off-the-charts hot vacation interlude that follows guides the reader on an exceptional journey. Clever banter, tense family drama, and a stirring and revelatory budding romance set against world class tropical scenery all contribute to making this a truly memorable story.
In brief, A Quick Stop in Paradise is the five-star destination resort of sapphic vacation romances!
A Quick Stop in Paradise is instantly inviting thanks to believable characters, especially the smart and sensitive Ryan and the sexy and soft-hearted Brooklyn. The series of events from the near-affair that leads to Ryan and Brooklyn’s first meeting to the development of their friendship and other surprising friendships to the off-the-charts hot vacation interlude that follows guides the reader on an exceptional journey. Clever banter, tense family drama, and a stirring and revelatory budding romance set against world class tropical scenery all contribute to making this a truly memorable story.
In brief, A Quick Stop in Paradise is the five-star destination resort of sapphic vacation romances!
May 14, 2025
I loved this book! A Quick Stop in Paradise delivers exactly what I’ve come to expect (and adore) from a Lily Seabrooke novel—humor, snark, and coffee, all wrapped up in a sweet and satisfying romance. Ryan and Brooklyn (Brooke) are absolutely amazing together. Their chemistry is instant but never rushed, and watching their connection deepen despite the chaos around them was such a joy.
Given the setup—a cheating ex, a manipulative family, and a vacation gone sideways—I expected more angst, but the story strikes a perfect balance. It handles the heavier themes with care while still feeling light, warm, and hopeful. Brooke’s journey from commitment-phobe to someone willing to take a chance on love was so rewarding, and Ryan’s quiet strength made her a character I instantly rooted for.
The banter is top-notch, the emotional moments land beautifully, and yes, there is a possibly illegal amount of pizza involved (no complaints here). If you love vacation settings, pineapple on your pizza, and stories where women help each other heal and grow, this one’s a must-read.
Given the setup—a cheating ex, a manipulative family, and a vacation gone sideways—I expected more angst, but the story strikes a perfect balance. It handles the heavier themes with care while still feeling light, warm, and hopeful. Brooke’s journey from commitment-phobe to someone willing to take a chance on love was so rewarding, and Ryan’s quiet strength made her a character I instantly rooted for.
The banter is top-notch, the emotional moments land beautifully, and yes, there is a possibly illegal amount of pizza involved (no complaints here). If you love vacation settings, pineapple on your pizza, and stories where women help each other heal and grow, this one’s a must-read.
June 13, 2025
infuriating cheating bastard meets his match in a woman who makes him wish he hadn’t tried to score with her, and then she steals his girlfriend!
Lily Seabrooke is really quite a story teller. I had a bit of a hard time reading this only as I was unsure (I can be a bit thick at times) whose point of view I was reading. The story is well thought out, the characters beautifully drawn, and who can argue with a tropical island setting? Brooklyn falls in love with Ryan, yep perfect, but then Ryan’s sister falls for Allison a co-worker of Brooklyn. Both sisters come out to the family who has not believed Ryan saying the asshat tried and failed to score with Brooklyn and has done it before with other women. So the girls announce to the family with the lying Shane still being supported by the elders in the family. Shane ignores the writing on the wall, family drama ensues. Ryan and Brooklyn get their HEA as do Stella and Allison. Lots of fun heat to read and plenty of giggles. Happy reading!
Lily Seabrooke is really quite a story teller. I had a bit of a hard time reading this only as I was unsure (I can be a bit thick at times) whose point of view I was reading. The story is well thought out, the characters beautifully drawn, and who can argue with a tropical island setting? Brooklyn falls in love with Ryan, yep perfect, but then Ryan’s sister falls for Allison a co-worker of Brooklyn. Both sisters come out to the family who has not believed Ryan saying the asshat tried and failed to score with Brooklyn and has done it before with other women. So the girls announce to the family with the lying Shane still being supported by the elders in the family. Shane ignores the writing on the wall, family drama ensues. Ryan and Brooklyn get their HEA as do Stella and Allison. Lots of fun heat to read and plenty of giggles. Happy reading!
April 21, 2025
Loved this book. Lily Seabrooke has this way of creating characters whose romance feels inevitable, like they'd find a way to be together even if Lily hadn't written them.
I love these two dumbasses. They've both made peace with being kind of vaguely unhappy. Ryan has just sort of accepted that her family will always make her feel lesser and like her boyfriend better. Brooklyn has accepted that she is always gonna be left behind. Until they meet eachother and they suddenly can't help but want for more.
The spice, as always, is excellent. The sexual tension gets so high that when it finally breaks, it breeeaaaaks. So good.
The side characters are great. Don't wanna spoil anything but I love a character insisting their straight even after doing objectively very not straight things.
In summary, loved this book, read it in a day, please never stop writing ❤️.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love these two dumbasses. They've both made peace with being kind of vaguely unhappy. Ryan has just sort of accepted that her family will always make her feel lesser and like her boyfriend better. Brooklyn has accepted that she is always gonna be left behind. Until they meet eachother and they suddenly can't help but want for more.
The spice, as always, is excellent. The sexual tension gets so high that when it finally breaks, it breeeaaaaks. So good.
The side characters are great. Don't wanna spoil anything but I love a character insisting their straight even after doing objectively very not straight things.
In summary, loved this book, read it in a day, please never stop writing ❤️.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 3, 2025
I received an ARC from the author through BookSprout and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
Lily Seabrooke delivers a fun, cozy read with A Quick Stop in Paradise. The tropical island setting is incredibly well-drawn and immersive, and perfectly anticipates summer and the possible tropical vacations many might be taking.
The characters are both well-drawn and compelling. I felt for Ryan and how most of her family were unsupportive when her now-ex-boyfriend tried to cheat on her, as well as just being generally pretty toxic. Brooklyn is also a delight, craving connection with people her age due to lacking friends on the island.
And the romance delivered. I love any book where, instead of fighting over a scummy guy, the girls turn the tables and go off together, whether it be as friends or (in this case) lovers. Brooklyn is also super-sweet and supportive in the wake of all of Ryan’s issues with her family. The romance between the two is super-sweet and sexy, and I rooted for them throughout, even if they were a little stubborn at times in refusing to admit that it was more than just a summer fling. I also loved the bi rep on both their parts, and the journey of self-discovery and coming out in that context.
This is a fun read, and I’d recommend it to readers in search of a sweet summer-themed sapphic romance.
Lily Seabrooke delivers a fun, cozy read with A Quick Stop in Paradise. The tropical island setting is incredibly well-drawn and immersive, and perfectly anticipates summer and the possible tropical vacations many might be taking.
The characters are both well-drawn and compelling. I felt for Ryan and how most of her family were unsupportive when her now-ex-boyfriend tried to cheat on her, as well as just being generally pretty toxic. Brooklyn is also a delight, craving connection with people her age due to lacking friends on the island.
And the romance delivered. I love any book where, instead of fighting over a scummy guy, the girls turn the tables and go off together, whether it be as friends or (in this case) lovers. Brooklyn is also super-sweet and supportive in the wake of all of Ryan’s issues with her family. The romance between the two is super-sweet and sexy, and I rooted for them throughout, even if they were a little stubborn at times in refusing to admit that it was more than just a summer fling. I also loved the bi rep on both their parts, and the journey of self-discovery and coming out in that context.
This is a fun read, and I’d recommend it to readers in search of a sweet summer-themed sapphic romance.
June 22, 2025
3/5
Decent book, enjoyable. It actually got better (more sweet) as it went on, which was a pleasant surprise. I feel like Ryan's family was pretty irredeemable throughout, like.. honestly she's got more patience than me cause I'd have ditched all those losers immediately.
I enjoyed Ryan and Brooklyn's characters and their banter with Allison was pretty cute.
The things that held this book back were mostly the writing style and the repetitiveness. I feel like most of Seabrooke's books have kind of a weak start and this is no exception. The dialog is clunky in parts, especially early on in the book and there was a heavy overuse of speech tags that made it all feel very stilted. People will be doing a lot of things "thinly" in this book. "Smiled thinly" "Frowned thinly" etc etc.
Decent book, enjoyable. It actually got better (more sweet) as it went on, which was a pleasant surprise. I feel like Ryan's family was pretty irredeemable throughout, like.. honestly she's got more patience than me cause I'd have ditched all those losers immediately.
I enjoyed Ryan and Brooklyn's characters and their banter with Allison was pretty cute.
The things that held this book back were mostly the writing style and the repetitiveness. I feel like most of Seabrooke's books have kind of a weak start and this is no exception. The dialog is clunky in parts, especially early on in the book and there was a heavy overuse of speech tags that made it all feel very stilted. People will be doing a lot of things "thinly" in this book. "Smiled thinly" "Frowned thinly" etc etc.
April 23, 2025
It’s the perfect novel for anyone looking for a sweet story filled with witty humor and sweet characters! Lily Seabrooke makes you feel all of the emotions that any great novel entices- anger, betrayal, giddiness, heartbreak, and so much more! The main plot and subplots balance each other perfectly (Ryan’s relationship with Brooklyn, the tension with her family, Shane’s abysmal presence, and my favorite: Allison and Stella’s stories) so there’s never a shortage for entertainment throughout the story. I love the layers throughout this novel ranging from each characters evolving within themselves and also their relationships. It’s truly a wonderful story of family, friends, love, and most importantly: finding yourself. Don’t skip this novel if you love spice, humor, and romance.
April 25, 2025
A Quick Stop in Paradise had a way of burrowing itself into my heart, even if I was also going through a rollercoaster of emotions. I found myself laughing (a lot!), shedding a few tears, and even growling at a few points (okay, at more than a few points). Lily always brings her characters to life in ways that make them so human, you can see yourself hanging out with them or standing by their side in not-so-good times. Ryan and Brooklyn are very relatable and lovable. Not to mention Allison and Stella. Though there are days I relate to Oscar too well. Overall, loved this book and would love to see what the future holds for them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 3, 2025
Ryan goes on a family holiday with her awful family and slimy boyfriend Shane.
Brooklyn is the unfortunate person dragged into their dynamics when slimy Shane tries to cheat with her.
But she realises he’s attached before the dirty deed and makes amends by telling Ryan who luckily believes her.
The family from hell are a different matter who value appearances over family loyalty.
This is a great book with two sisters finding more than they ever dreamed of. I loved Stella who said everything that needed saying and Allison who needed to say more but luckily muddied through regardless. They were adorable which counteracted the awfulness of the grandma and auntie especially.
Perfect summer read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Brooklyn is the unfortunate person dragged into their dynamics when slimy Shane tries to cheat with her.
But she realises he’s attached before the dirty deed and makes amends by telling Ryan who luckily believes her.
The family from hell are a different matter who value appearances over family loyalty.
This is a great book with two sisters finding more than they ever dreamed of. I loved Stella who said everything that needed saying and Allison who needed to say more but luckily muddied through regardless. They were adorable which counteracted the awfulness of the grandma and auntie especially.
Perfect summer read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2025
This just became my favorite Lilly Seabrooke book! Brooklyn and Ryan were so sweet. I really enjoyed their meet cute. Brooklyn was just trying to follow girl code and offering to have Ryan’s back when things blew up with her boyfriend. Stella and Allison were great side characters. Allison was hilarious and made you laugh. Stella was loud outspoken, but was always on Ryan‘s side. The dynamic between Ryan and Stella’s whole family was sad. I was really glad Ryan has such a strong sister who was ready to go all the time when Ryan was getting disrespected. Sweet, swoon style story that will leave you feeling good.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 22, 2025
LS just keeps writing enjoyable books. This one is a standalone. It’s typical LS though with a fairly large cast of characters who are all clearly defined and rounded. There is lots of dialogue and banter between friends and family and it all feels real. I was very quickly invested in their stories and rooting for them to get a HEA. Fortunately they sort things out with a bit of pushing / help. I would have liked the epilogue to feature some “comeuppance” for Shane but we can’t have everything.
It was a quick fun read that I enjoyed and recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It was a quick fun read that I enjoyed and recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 23, 2025
In my mind, the best part of this book is hands down the characters. Ryan and Brooklyn are a delight to watch as they begin to fall for each other. Their chemistry is super dynamic, and it feels genuinely emotional in ways that I often feel are lacking in contemporary romance.
While, in my opinion, there were a few rough patches in the prose, I loved a vacation as the set piece for a romance novel. Conflict and stakes feel naturally baked into the time bound reality of a trip, and it creates a lot of space for good tension and drama. I loved watching this book take full advantage of that story device; it made for a really satisfying emotional arc.
While, in my opinion, there were a few rough patches in the prose, I loved a vacation as the set piece for a romance novel. Conflict and stakes feel naturally baked into the time bound reality of a trip, and it creates a lot of space for good tension and drama. I loved watching this book take full advantage of that story device; it made for a really satisfying emotional arc.
May 3, 2025
This book was such a fun read!! It was a return to the quirky characters and storylines that I enjoyed from Lily Seabrooke's previous works like The Bayview Romances series. My favorite side character is a toss up between Ryan's sister Stella and Brooklyn's friend Allison. Overall, I think this might actually be my favorite of Lily's books (though I'll have to re-read The Bayview Romances to determine that for sure)!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews