Stunning, sensual Puerto Rico is the perfect place to combine business with pleasure. Yet Chloe Chandler can't indulge her attraction to Donovan Rivers when they cross paths at a convention. Heir to an exclusive Long Island venue, Donovan is vying to host the same A-list gala that her parents' restaurant hopes to gain. And as events director for her family's empire, Chloe and her loyalty are being tested by an intense longing for a man who's determined to win both her...and the client.
An in-demand bachelor who plays by his own rules, Donovan never stops until he gets what he wants. Falling for his beautiful competitor will anger their families, but Chloe has already sacrificed too much to please others. Now Donovan intends to show her everything she's been missing--including the heat of his embrace. But when the competition comes between them, will their ambitions force them to lose out on love?
This is an upbeat and modern African American couple's romance set against a hotel management background. The pair meet at a conference in Puerto Rico, before the recent hurricane obviously. After hitting it off well they continue to see each other in New York but all does not go smoothly.
I found many family scenes and a positive image, as well as lots of information about running the hospitality industry. The story is intended for adults but mature teens could read the romance.
I downloaded a copy from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
A modern day version of Romeo and Juliet. Donovan and Chloe are really attracted to each other, even though they are business rivals. Unfortunately their mothers, Elnora and Joliet had a huge conflict when they were in college and now they hate each other. Donovan is tired of being Chloe's dirty little secret but revealing their relationship is just not an option: family or otherwise.
CONCEPT A couple trying to find establish a relationship while their companies are in the middle of a bidding contract. STORY Stunning, sensual Puerto Rico is the perfect place to combine business with pleasure. Yet Chloe Chandler can't indulge her attraction to Donovan Rivers when they cross paths at a convention. Heir to an exclusive Long Island venue, Donovan is vying to host the same A-list gala that her parents' restaurant hopes to gain. And as events director for her family's empire, Chloe and her loyalty are being tested by an intense longing for a man who's determined to win both her…and the client. An in-demand bachelor who plays by his own rules, Donovan never stops until he gets what he wants. Falling for his beautiful competitor will anger their families, but Chloe has already sacrificed too much to please others. Now Donovan intends to show her everything she's been missing—including the heat of his embrace. But when the competition comes between them, will their ambitions force them to lose out on love? CHARACTERS Chloe Chandler is the Events’ Director for her family’s business and is on a business trip in Puerto Rico when she encounters Donovan Rivers, an old school mate and rival. Donovan has always liked Chloe but was hesitant to ask her out when they were in high school. Fast forward to Puerto Rico and Donovan wants to explore the attraction. He and Chloe continue to communicate once they are stateside and Donovan finally asks her out. Still hesitant because of the brewing feud between the mothers and neither Donovan nor Chloe can understand, the two embark on a relationship until the competition for a bid rears its head and bring discord. Chloe is loyal to her family and torn, however Donovan is determined to make her see they can work. Readers will enjoy this story. DIALOGUE The dialogue of the story flowed and fell in line with the plot. STRUCTURE The structure of the story was well crafted and will have readers wanting to know what was the discord that tore the two mothers a part. OVERALL It Started in Paradise was my first book by Ms. Night and I thoroughly enjoyed reading Chloe and Donovan’s story. Readers should not sleep on this writer.
I read one chapter of this book while finishing another book and I was so enthralled by the characters I had to buy the entire book and I am so glad I did. The story was about two people who were competitive business rivals yet knew of each other since they were both young. Donovan Rivers has had a crush on Chloe Chandlers ever since they were children yet didn't pursue her because of how his parents would feel about it. Yet he decided why not just have fun with her and see where it leads. Chloe who was attracted to Donovan as well was hesitant about spending time with Donovan because she knew her family would not approved. Yet they decided to date to get to know one another while attending a business conference in Puerto Rico. After the conference was over Chloe expected nothing more from Donovan yet Donovan wanted more and he was determine to pursue her. Will their relationship suffer when their family businesses have to compete against each other to win a high profile client? Will they be able to overcome their parents disapproval?
I love the simplicity of the plot and yet it was believable and engaging. I love how Donovan brought out the confidence in Chloe and how she showed him was true sexy was all about while still be elegant and poise at the same time. Chloe and Donovan were good for each other and it was worth seeing their relationship grow. I enjoyed reading it.
It Started in Paradise #1 [Two rivals. One desire. Stunning, sensual Puerto Rico is the perfect place to combine business with pleasure. Yet Chloe Chandler feels she can’t indulge her attraction to Donovan Rivers when they cross paths at a convention due to a long-time family feud. Heir to an exclusive Long Island venue, Donovan is vying to host the same A-list gala that her parents’ restaurant hopes to gain. And as events director for her family’s empire, Chloe and her loyalty are being tested by an intense longing for a man who’s determined to win both her…and the client. An in-demand bachelor who plays by his own rules, Donovan never stops until he gets what he wants. Falling for his beautiful competitor will anger their families, but Chloe has already sacrificed too much to please others. Now Donovan intends to show her everything she’s been missing—including the heat of his embrace. But when the competition comes between them, will their ambitions force them to lose out on love?]
Joliet Rivers and El Chandler were best friends in college, until a misunderstanding and a horrible event tore their friendship apart and made them rivals while building their respective empires. Years later, their children, Chole Chandler and Donovan Rivers have a fling in Puerto Rico while there on business and decide to continue things when they return back to New York. What will they chose, their families or love for each other.
Romance stories have always been my favorite genre, and I Nicki has become one of my new favorite authors. Plus with a Kimani Romance, you are always in store for such an eye catching cover. You can feel the chemistry between the two characters, as well as the fears they had to face. Thankfully this won't be the only book in the series, and hopefully we will be able to read about all of the Chandler siblings, including the only son Chris.
I recieved a copy of this book for review purposes only
This was an excellent read! This was a well written, easy to follow story in the vein of a Hatfield’s and McCoy’s style drama. The Chandlers and Rivers families grew up together and run in the same circles, but bad blood from the past has left the matriarchs at odds. When Chloe and Donovan begin a secret relationship, things obviously get interesting. This was such an enjoyable read by this fairly new to me author.
Chloe and Donovan make an awesome couple after they are able to work through Chloe's rough interior! Both of their mother's have a long history and became rivals after a college incident! This bad blood spilled over into their professional lives as well as put a damper on the growing feelings between Chloe and Donovan! I loved the breakthrough though on all parties!
Great Romance story, most stories end up in paradise but this one started in Paradise which made it different. Really enjoyed the story of Chloe and Donovan and look forward to the next book in the series.
Enjoyed the meeting...the process ..and the struggle...this author did not disappoint...can't wait to read the series the sister sounds wild...this was a good beginning...#goodread...#love
Loved Donovan and Chloe's story. However, Our parent's issues should stay their problems and not be inherited by their children. Love is always the answer!
Paradise beautiful and peaceful. A place where you can let your hair down and be free to try new and adventurous things. Chloe and Donovan love story was one of best I've read.
I loved the story line two kids who didn't know the why's as to why their families were enemies fell in love and brought them back together. Looking forward to the next book! 💋