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Mai Tais and Maybes
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
July 20, 2026
Ooooo.
Oh I need an update on Sunny and RoRo. I need a backstory too because he was wild in the streets huh?!!
Oh I need an update on Sunny and RoRo. I need a backstory too because he was wild in the streets huh?!!
July 10, 2026
ARC Review
This was a slow burn but an instant connection with Roderic and Syndey. They both were away on an unforgettable vacation in Port Isle thanks to some pushing from their loved ones because they needed time away. Sydney was so focused on taking care of those around her that she didn’t make time to do something for herself. Roc threw himself into working so he didn’t have to deal with the grief of losing his fiancé. When Roc first saw Sydney he was drawn to her but he gave her space until he couldn’t anymore. After their first meet, when they saw each other again by coincidence, they decided to spend the rest of the week together and the story goes on from there.
I liked the way in which J. Woods captured the island vibes with how descriptive everything was from the ambiance to the food. I also liked how she showed the battle that Roc was facing as he dealt with his grief and whether he was truly ready to move on. It was interesting seeing Roc navigate that situation while still being attentive to Sydney and when he told her what happened to his fiancé, it was nice seeing her be there for him. The more time they spent together, the more Roc really saw her and let her know she could be herself around him. Sydney was heaven sent for Roc and he made sure that she knew how he felt. This wasn’t a book heavy on the spice but when they did take it there, they took it there and had Sydney coming out of character.
They both came on vacation to get back to themselves in a way and neither expected to fall in love but when you know you know and they came to learn there is no timeframe on love which their loved ones helped them to see. Overall I thought this as a well rounded storyline and a good debut from J. Woods. I would love to see a follow-up with these two to see what life after vacation looks like for them in their day to day lives.
This was a slow burn but an instant connection with Roderic and Syndey. They both were away on an unforgettable vacation in Port Isle thanks to some pushing from their loved ones because they needed time away. Sydney was so focused on taking care of those around her that she didn’t make time to do something for herself. Roc threw himself into working so he didn’t have to deal with the grief of losing his fiancé. When Roc first saw Sydney he was drawn to her but he gave her space until he couldn’t anymore. After their first meet, when they saw each other again by coincidence, they decided to spend the rest of the week together and the story goes on from there.
I liked the way in which J. Woods captured the island vibes with how descriptive everything was from the ambiance to the food. I also liked how she showed the battle that Roc was facing as he dealt with his grief and whether he was truly ready to move on. It was interesting seeing Roc navigate that situation while still being attentive to Sydney and when he told her what happened to his fiancé, it was nice seeing her be there for him. The more time they spent together, the more Roc really saw her and let her know she could be herself around him. Sydney was heaven sent for Roc and he made sure that she knew how he felt. This wasn’t a book heavy on the spice but when they did take it there, they took it there and had Sydney coming out of character.
They both came on vacation to get back to themselves in a way and neither expected to fall in love but when you know you know and they came to learn there is no timeframe on love which their loved ones helped them to see. Overall I thought this as a well rounded storyline and a good debut from J. Woods. I would love to see a follow-up with these two to see what life after vacation looks like for them in their day to day lives.
July 26, 2026
Love After Lost
This story is a reminder how grieving engulfs those to a point where they move on autopilot and stop living life fully. Sydney and Roderic both arrived on the island clueless on how to enjoy themselves outside their responsibilities. A mai tai drink order changed the trajectory of the trip for the both of them. Neither thought finding love after loss was possible but it was an experience that changed them for ever.
Tropes:
Slow Burn
Love after loss
Spice level: 🌶️
This story is a reminder how grieving engulfs those to a point where they move on autopilot and stop living life fully. Sydney and Roderic both arrived on the island clueless on how to enjoy themselves outside their responsibilities. A mai tai drink order changed the trajectory of the trip for the both of them. Neither thought finding love after loss was possible but it was an experience that changed them for ever.
Tropes:
Slow Burn
Love after loss
Spice level: 🌶️
July 22, 2026
3.5⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️ This story really touch my heart. Sydney and Roderic “Roc” both had a lot of healing to do. Both suffered huge loss and were working themselves to death. It was fate that their past crossed in the first place. I liked how they were both on their own journeys of healing and still found time to develop a bond with each other. This was a slow burn but their connection seems so pure and outside of their control. This was a great summer read. I would definitely recommend this.
July 11, 2026
Roderic and Sydney 🥰
J.Woods did her big one with this debut novel. I loved Roderic and Sydney story. It was so beautiful. This book gave me all the feels and the spice chef’s kiss. 10 out of 10 highly recommend.
J.Woods did her big one with this debut novel. I loved Roderic and Sydney story. It was so beautiful. This book gave me all the feels and the spice chef’s kiss. 10 out of 10 highly recommend.
July 16, 2026
I love me a good Slow burn! I read this with a book club! And this love story just makes you want to just live life and follow your heart and your instincts! Just go with the flow!
Sydney a woman who lost her mother to addiction and then had to raise her two brothers. Not only did she have to raise them but she was the primary caregiver of her two Aunts and Uncle! Her two Aunts and Uncle got some money together and sent her off to an Island called Port Isle where she meets Roderic! A widow for four years and a single father to his twins Sarai and Savant. A trip that was pushed on him by his own mom and his deceased wife mom. He has been unable to move on. Work as a tattoo artist and taking care of his kids was his only priority and his way of moving through life.
Roc sees Syd for the first time and falls for her! Syd unaware of Roc noticing her finally sees him! And the rest is history! Roc see that Syd takes care of everyone and nobody is there to take care of her so he wants to be that person for her. Syd sees that Roc carries the weight of his wife death and she wants to be the one to help him relieve that weight off of him!
I just need Ms. Author J. Woods to give me some more on their lives back at home!! I enjoyed reading their connection.
Sydney a woman who lost her mother to addiction and then had to raise her two brothers. Not only did she have to raise them but she was the primary caregiver of her two Aunts and Uncle! Her two Aunts and Uncle got some money together and sent her off to an Island called Port Isle where she meets Roderic! A widow for four years and a single father to his twins Sarai and Savant. A trip that was pushed on him by his own mom and his deceased wife mom. He has been unable to move on. Work as a tattoo artist and taking care of his kids was his only priority and his way of moving through life.
Roc sees Syd for the first time and falls for her! Syd unaware of Roc noticing her finally sees him! And the rest is history! Roc see that Syd takes care of everyone and nobody is there to take care of her so he wants to be that person for her. Syd sees that Roc carries the weight of his wife death and she wants to be the one to help him relieve that weight off of him!
I just need Ms. Author J. Woods to give me some more on their lives back at home!! I enjoyed reading their connection.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2026
Mai Tais & Maybes is a beautiful, emotionally resonant romance that serves as a reminder that no matter your circumstances, love and time are for everyone.
Sunny is the backbone of her family, constantly putting herself last to care for her grandmother, uncle, and two younger brothers. Roc is a tattoo artist and a single father of twins, still frozen in grief four years after losing his first love. Both are trapped in a cycle of working and caring for others until life stops for them personally.
When their unrelated families simultaneously force them to take a vacation to the magical shores of Port Isle, their worlds collide. Author J. Woods takes her time building their connection. It starts with a glance, grows into daily conversations, and deepens into a permanent, life-changing love.
What makes this book so special is how realistic the stakes feel. Roc doesn't just fall for Sunny; he claims her entire life, including her heavy family responsibilities. Plus, they live in neighboring cities, making their island romance the perfect foundation for a real-world forever.
If you want a romance that handles grief, responsibility, and unexpected healing with absolute grace, pack this one in your beach bag immediately.
Sunny is the backbone of her family, constantly putting herself last to care for her grandmother, uncle, and two younger brothers. Roc is a tattoo artist and a single father of twins, still frozen in grief four years after losing his first love. Both are trapped in a cycle of working and caring for others until life stops for them personally.
When their unrelated families simultaneously force them to take a vacation to the magical shores of Port Isle, their worlds collide. Author J. Woods takes her time building their connection. It starts with a glance, grows into daily conversations, and deepens into a permanent, life-changing love.
What makes this book so special is how realistic the stakes feel. Roc doesn't just fall for Sunny; he claims her entire life, including her heavy family responsibilities. Plus, they live in neighboring cities, making their island romance the perfect foundation for a real-world forever.
If you want a romance that handles grief, responsibility, and unexpected healing with absolute grace, pack this one in your beach bag immediately.
July 9, 2026
Maybe… Just Maybe We Need Part Two! 🍹🌴
It took Sydney and Roderick one week to fall in love… and it took me about the same amount of time to become completely invested in them.
Mai Tais & Maybes was such a breath of fresh air. Two people carrying the weight of grief, family responsibilities, and years of putting everyone else first unexpectedly find healing, peace, and a love they never saw coming on the beautiful shores of Port Isle.
I absolutely loved Roc. He wasn’t loud or over-the-top. He simply noticed Syd, protected her, truly saw her, and loved her with the kind of old-school yearning that had me smiling from beginning to end. Their chemistry was effortless, the island setting was beautifully written, and J. Woods made Port Isle feel like a destination I wanted to visit myself.
The romance wasn’t rushed, the emotional connection carried the story, and when the spice finally arrived… it was worth the wait.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be over here pretending Port Isle is a real place and hoping that maybe… just MAYBE… Syd and Roc will have another vacation escapade.. and I need to be their plus one🤣🍹✨
It took Sydney and Roderick one week to fall in love… and it took me about the same amount of time to become completely invested in them.
Mai Tais & Maybes was such a breath of fresh air. Two people carrying the weight of grief, family responsibilities, and years of putting everyone else first unexpectedly find healing, peace, and a love they never saw coming on the beautiful shores of Port Isle.
I absolutely loved Roc. He wasn’t loud or over-the-top. He simply noticed Syd, protected her, truly saw her, and loved her with the kind of old-school yearning that had me smiling from beginning to end. Their chemistry was effortless, the island setting was beautifully written, and J. Woods made Port Isle feel like a destination I wanted to visit myself.
The romance wasn’t rushed, the emotional connection carried the story, and when the spice finally arrived… it was worth the wait.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be over here pretending Port Isle is a real place and hoping that maybe… just MAYBE… Syd and Roc will have another vacation escapade.. and I need to be their plus one🤣🍹✨
July 17, 2026
Roc, a tattoo artist and single father raising twins after the loss of his fiancée, desperately needs a break. Syd has spent her life caring for everyone but herself after losing her mother. When these two overworked, grieving souls meet in beautiful Port Isle, what starts as a vacation becomes something so much deeper.
This is the sweetest strangers-on-vacation, slow-burn romance. I loved how the story kept me wondering whether this was just a vacation fling or if two people carrying so much baggage could really make it work. Every chapter pulled me in even more.
The descriptions of Port Isle were so vivid I wanted to pack my bags and visit. I laughed (the facial scene had me in tears), smiled through Sunny and Ro’s adorable moments, and absolutely sobbed during Roc’s conversation with his parents about loving India while allowing himself to move forward with Syd. It was such a beautiful, honest portrayal of grief, healing, and choosing love again.
This story reminded me that even the strongest people deserve a soft place to land.
I laughed, I cried, and I loved every single page.
My only complaint? WHERE’S BOOK TWO?! Because I already need it.
This is the sweetest strangers-on-vacation, slow-burn romance. I loved how the story kept me wondering whether this was just a vacation fling or if two people carrying so much baggage could really make it work. Every chapter pulled me in even more.
The descriptions of Port Isle were so vivid I wanted to pack my bags and visit. I laughed (the facial scene had me in tears), smiled through Sunny and Ro’s adorable moments, and absolutely sobbed during Roc’s conversation with his parents about loving India while allowing himself to move forward with Syd. It was such a beautiful, honest portrayal of grief, healing, and choosing love again.
This story reminded me that even the strongest people deserve a soft place to land.
I laughed, I cried, and I loved every single page.
My only complaint? WHERE’S BOOK TWO?! Because I already need it.
July 21, 2026
Port Isle is Hott
Port Isle has some kind of magic with it. Another couple, both having to be convinced to take a trip they would not do for themselves. Sydney, the main caretaker for her family to include her grandmother and uncle and two younger brothers. One on the spectrum. She runs herself to make sure they have everything they need. So you know, Sydney goes last. Her family put the money together and forced her to go. Roderick aka Roc, father of two, also has been forced to getaway. Roc is mourning India still after four years so the twins are his excuse to just "not" when it comes to anything. Thus we have two people who work and care for others and life stops there. Two totally unrelated families, sending their loved ones to the same island at the very same time.
Roc notices Sydney first and he's a bit uncomfortable because where did this feeling come from, just from a glance. After seeing her on the island over and over, he decides to have a conversation with her. This turns into them spending every day together. It was to the point where deep and real feelings develop to Roc is claiming Sydney and all that comes with her. They live in cities next to one another. Port Isle is the start of something needed and permanent in an ever after for the perfect one for each.
Port Isle has some kind of magic with it. Another couple, both having to be convinced to take a trip they would not do for themselves. Sydney, the main caretaker for her family to include her grandmother and uncle and two younger brothers. One on the spectrum. She runs herself to make sure they have everything they need. So you know, Sydney goes last. Her family put the money together and forced her to go. Roderick aka Roc, father of two, also has been forced to getaway. Roc is mourning India still after four years so the twins are his excuse to just "not" when it comes to anything. Thus we have two people who work and care for others and life stops there. Two totally unrelated families, sending their loved ones to the same island at the very same time.
Roc notices Sydney first and he's a bit uncomfortable because where did this feeling come from, just from a glance. After seeing her on the island over and over, he decides to have a conversation with her. This turns into them spending every day together. It was to the point where deep and real feelings develop to Roc is claiming Sydney and all that comes with her. They live in cities next to one another. Port Isle is the start of something needed and permanent in an ever after for the perfect one for each.
July 13, 2026
This was book #2 in the Drunken Summer Nights series, and I really enjoyed Sydney and Roc as characters. The two separately take a destination vacation to Port Isle, where they meet, and their story from there was really cute and sweet.
I would definitely consider this more of a slow-burn romance. There wasn’t a lot of spice, and when I think of the Drunken Summer Nights theme, this one didn’t quite give me the same vibe I was expecting. However, I also understand that this series features different authors with their own writing styles, and this was still a good story on its own.
I do wish we would’ve gotten more of Sydney and Roc after their one-week vacation. Once they returned home and decided they wanted to be together, the story seemed to end pretty quickly. I would’ve loved to see how their relationship developed in the real world and what they could’ve become as a couple.
Overall, I really enjoyed both of their personalities and thought their love story was sweet. I just wanted a little more time with them and their relationship. 💕
I would definitely consider this more of a slow-burn romance. There wasn’t a lot of spice, and when I think of the Drunken Summer Nights theme, this one didn’t quite give me the same vibe I was expecting. However, I also understand that this series features different authors with their own writing styles, and this was still a good story on its own.
I do wish we would’ve gotten more of Sydney and Roc after their one-week vacation. Once they returned home and decided they wanted to be together, the story seemed to end pretty quickly. I would’ve loved to see how their relationship developed in the real world and what they could’ve become as a couple.
Overall, I really enjoyed both of their personalities and thought their love story was sweet. I just wanted a little more time with them and their relationship. 💕
Read
July 12, 2026Mai Tais and Maybes completely swept me away! This was such a beautiful, emotional slow burn romance that had me invested from beginning to end.
Roc and Sydney both arrive in Port Isle searching for something they desperately need. Sydney is worn out from always being the caretaker, and Roc is carrying the heavy weight of grief. Their connection is instant, but what I loved most was watching their relationship unfold naturally.
I absolutely loved this book and wasn't ready for it to end! The characters, the romance, and the emotional depth will stay with me for a long time. I'm crossing my fingers that this is the start of a series because I would love to see their love story progress back at home.
Roc and Sydney both arrive in Port Isle searching for something they desperately need. Sydney is worn out from always being the caretaker, and Roc is carrying the heavy weight of grief. Their connection is instant, but what I loved most was watching their relationship unfold naturally.
I absolutely loved this book and wasn't ready for it to end! The characters, the romance, and the emotional depth will stay with me for a long time. I'm crossing my fingers that this is the start of a series because I would love to see their love story progress back at home.
July 25, 2026
Want a Mai Tai? 🍹
Babyyy… one drink at the Noir Bar changed everything.
Sydney Blanks finally took her first vacation, ready to leave the stress of taking care of everybody else at home. Roderic pulled up to Port Isle carrying a different kind of baggage which was grief that refused to let him breathe.
Now tell me why one Mai Tai, one conversation, and one undeniable connection had me kicking my feet! 👀
This wasn’t just a vacation romance. It was about healing, taking a chance on love again, and realizing the right person can find you when you least expect it.
If you’re looking for a romance that’s equal parts heart, chemistry, and island vibes, add this one to your TBR. Trust me… that Mai Tai was doing more than quenching their thirst. 🤭🍹
Babyyy… one drink at the Noir Bar changed everything.
Sydney Blanks finally took her first vacation, ready to leave the stress of taking care of everybody else at home. Roderic pulled up to Port Isle carrying a different kind of baggage which was grief that refused to let him breathe.
Now tell me why one Mai Tai, one conversation, and one undeniable connection had me kicking my feet! 👀
This wasn’t just a vacation romance. It was about healing, taking a chance on love again, and realizing the right person can find you when you least expect it.
If you’re looking for a romance that’s equal parts heart, chemistry, and island vibes, add this one to your TBR. Trust me… that Mai Tai was doing more than quenching their thirst. 🤭🍹
July 8, 2026
For the lover girls and yearners.
This book is for the lover girlllsssss!!! It’s like I was falling in love with Roderick because I was a fly on the wall in the both of their minds. Roderick was just too fine and in tune with himself. Then Sydney was a breath of fresh air and sunshine. I loved how this story was paced and do I believe that, that could happen in seven days, yes I do. This was just a light hearted and feel good book. I would love to have more about them. This was special and poetic. The fact that J. Woods really played on the senses to help the reader feel had me floating too. Ughh I love it.
This book is for the lover girlllsssss!!! It’s like I was falling in love with Roderick because I was a fly on the wall in the both of their minds. Roderick was just too fine and in tune with himself. Then Sydney was a breath of fresh air and sunshine. I loved how this story was paced and do I believe that, that could happen in seven days, yes I do. This was just a light hearted and feel good book. I would love to have more about them. This was special and poetic. The fact that J. Woods really played on the senses to help the reader feel had me floating too. Ughh I love it.
July 11, 2026
Another stop in Port Isle
Mai Tais and Maybes was a slow burn but fulfilling love story. Roc and Sydney enter Port Isle separately for a much needed getaway. Sydney needed a break from always being the caretaker and Roc needed time to grieve. The two meet, have an instant connection, and we watch their relationship develop throughout the book.
It’s not all roses as grief and guilt from reality creep in on their island romance. J. Woods does a great job taking the reader through those emotions with the characters.
I wasn’t ready for the story to end and I hope that there is a second book.
Mai Tais and Maybes was a slow burn but fulfilling love story. Roc and Sydney enter Port Isle separately for a much needed getaway. Sydney needed a break from always being the caretaker and Roc needed time to grieve. The two meet, have an instant connection, and we watch their relationship develop throughout the book.
It’s not all roses as grief and guilt from reality creep in on their island romance. J. Woods does a great job taking the reader through those emotions with the characters.
I wasn’t ready for the story to end and I hope that there is a second book.
July 23, 2026
I loved this book down. Some books make you want to book a vacation and that’s exactly what I wanted to do! This book made me want to pack a few flowy dresses, swimsuits, my journals and become one with a private island and a wealthy tattoo artist lol. I loved Ro and Syd aka SunShine chemistry. Mai Tais & Maybes is a beautiful story. This book touched on grief, caregiving, being the back bone for the family but also finding love. Ro and Syd saw one another and poured into each other. This was a gentle reminder that love and joy is meant for all of us, no matter what. I’m invested and I need a part II like ASAP.
July 20, 2026
Cute
Def a slow burn read. Their adventure together was too cute. I loved them for each other. Roc dealing with grief and Syd with all the responsibility that fell on her. They needed to find themselves and each other again.
Def a slow burn read. Their adventure together was too cute. I loved them for each other. Roc dealing with grief and Syd with all the responsibility that fell on her. They needed to find themselves and each other again.
July 20, 2026
Good!!!
I was not expecting a slow burn for a summer romance but I really enjoyed Sydney and Roc’s journey to romance… I really wanted to be engulfed into their lives after vacation so hopefully we get an update
I was not expecting a slow burn for a summer romance but I really enjoyed Sydney and Roc’s journey to romance… I really wanted to be engulfed into their lives after vacation so hopefully we get an update
July 15, 2026
Glad a love connection was made. It's hard to move pass grief. Definitely need a part 2 !SCW
July 25, 2026
Sweet and cute
This story was sweet and cute. Easy reading. Chemistry was not denied, but slowly unfolded into the story of Sunny and RoRo. I would love to read more about them.
This story was sweet and cute. Easy reading. Chemistry was not denied, but slowly unfolded into the story of Sunny and RoRo. I would love to read more about them.
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