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Carpe Diem Chronicles #1.5
New York Engagement
Love takes you to unexpected places
Meeting the Parents
In a New York Minute
Krista Lopez has traveled from the white sands of Boracay Island to the bright lights of New York City for love. With Carpe diem as her motto and her boyfriend by her side, she is confident she can take on The Big Apple and the prospect of ...
Meeting the Parents
Blake Ryan won the approval of his girlfriend’s conservative family when they met in the Philippines. Now, he’s eager to introduce the woman he loves to his Irish-American clan. To share his past with her as he prepares to ask her to be part of his future. But an urgent call in the middle of the night reminds him that things can change ...
In a New York Minute
When a life-changing secret is revealed, will the ensuing fireworks blow up Krista and Blake’s romance? Or will they signal the celebration of a lasting commitment?
123 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2018
5 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Maida Malby
15 books463 followersFilipino-American author Maida Malby cooks up foodie, multicultural, and contemporary destination romance stories filled with heat, sizzle, spice, and a whole lotta love.
She is a member of select writing groups and romance book clubs. Her To-Be-Read Mountain and book reviews are featured here on her blog Carpe Diem Chronicles. Readers can also find her on Lone Star Literary Life via her regular Texas Reads Roundup Romance column.
When not writing, reading, or reviewing books, Maida discusses current affairs with her husband, records her son’s Travels and Eats videos, cooks the dishes she features in her stories, procrastibakes more often than she should, and watches golf and food shows on TV.
She is a member of select writing groups and romance book clubs. Her To-Be-Read Mountain and book reviews are featured here on her blog Carpe Diem Chronicles. Readers can also find her on Lone Star Literary Life via her regular Texas Reads Roundup Romance column.
When not writing, reading, or reviewing books, Maida discusses current affairs with her husband, records her son’s Travels and Eats videos, cooks the dishes she features in her stories, procrastibakes more often than she should, and watches golf and food shows on TV.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 10, 2024
Charming and beautifully written, Maida Malby’s New York Engagement, in her contemporary romance series, Carpe Diem Chronicles, is in many ways refreshing. New York Engagement is the follow-up to Krista's and Blake’s story from the first book in the series, Boracay Vows, a bigger novel.
While I believe one could, as I did, choose to read this shorter novella and greatly enjoy New York Engagement as a stand-alone entry, I do believe the audience at which this feel-good contemporary romance is aimed will be at a very short-lived disadvantage for a brief period, just as I was. The author’s deftly crafted story and the vibe she has for her characters in this light romantic piece does eventually wash over the reader, however, allowing the reader to catch up.
New York Engagement has a lovely atmospheric opening that sets the perfect tone for this kind of light and enjoyable romance. Because I hadn’t read Boracay, however, the steamy scene which quickly follows that romantic and descriptive opening had little context for me. I knew little about the two or why they were in love. In addition, the male half of the couple, Blake, seemed very one-dimensional at first — even for a light romance such as this. This changes by the time I reached the end, but for that reason, based on the uplifting and romantically satisfying story Maida Malby presents here, I’d definitely recommend getting the couple’s backstory as told in Boracay Vows first. Now onto New York Engagement itself…
I loved nearly everything about this. It’s written by someone who knows how to write, and it’s lovingly crafted. Maida Malby gives New York Engagement just enough — but not too much — resonance to make it a top-notch read in this genre. It does, however, if you haven’t read Boracay Vows, take a bit to get there. For about the first quarter of the story it seemed nice enough, and it was well crafted and written, but nothing really jumped out at me. Then some stuff happened, and I laughed, suddenly realizing this story was actually going someplace, and it was going there in capable hands.
You know how when you recite out loud all the wild doings in a favorite soap opera, how outlandish and implausible it sounds? Yet you watch it and get caught up in it on a daily basis anyway, because it’s so nicely done you want to know everything that happens. That, in essence, is New York Engagement.
This story reads like a glitzy romantic soap centering on one couple — a well-off Irish-American and a very sweet Filipino girl — arriving in New York around Christmas from the Philippines so that Krista can finally meet Blake’s parents and family; apparently in Boracay he has already met her family. Mix in a host of nicely defined brothers, a cheeky little sister, an uncle who has been mugged and in hospital, an old flame of more than one brother, who just happens to be…well, I won’t ruin that moment. Throw in the unexpected possibility of Krista finally making a connection in New York with her biological father, add in some resentment and fallout from that, and you’ve got the recipe for a very engaging story in the right hands. And Maida Malby’s are definitely the right hands.
New York Engagement is a wonderful light romance that makes you feel like you’re watching some polished late 80s or early 90s TV miniseries, based on a glitzy bestseller. Even though it’s a light romance, it is also an interracial romance, and the reader learns things about Filipino future and traditions as Krista and Blake navigate their way through this lovely story. It’s done with a light, unobtrusive touch by Maida Malby, who works these tidbits so deftly into her narrative that the knowledge never once seems forced, as in an info drop.
New York Engagement has just the kind of ending romantics long for, and will leave a smile on your face. The minor caveats I had at the beginning got washed away in a refreshing waterfall by story’s end, and this one has my highest rating for those who spend way more time in this genre than I do. Splendid and refreshing.
While I believe one could, as I did, choose to read this shorter novella and greatly enjoy New York Engagement as a stand-alone entry, I do believe the audience at which this feel-good contemporary romance is aimed will be at a very short-lived disadvantage for a brief period, just as I was. The author’s deftly crafted story and the vibe she has for her characters in this light romantic piece does eventually wash over the reader, however, allowing the reader to catch up.
New York Engagement has a lovely atmospheric opening that sets the perfect tone for this kind of light and enjoyable romance. Because I hadn’t read Boracay, however, the steamy scene which quickly follows that romantic and descriptive opening had little context for me. I knew little about the two or why they were in love. In addition, the male half of the couple, Blake, seemed very one-dimensional at first — even for a light romance such as this. This changes by the time I reached the end, but for that reason, based on the uplifting and romantically satisfying story Maida Malby presents here, I’d definitely recommend getting the couple’s backstory as told in Boracay Vows first. Now onto New York Engagement itself…
I loved nearly everything about this. It’s written by someone who knows how to write, and it’s lovingly crafted. Maida Malby gives New York Engagement just enough — but not too much — resonance to make it a top-notch read in this genre. It does, however, if you haven’t read Boracay Vows, take a bit to get there. For about the first quarter of the story it seemed nice enough, and it was well crafted and written, but nothing really jumped out at me. Then some stuff happened, and I laughed, suddenly realizing this story was actually going someplace, and it was going there in capable hands.
You know how when you recite out loud all the wild doings in a favorite soap opera, how outlandish and implausible it sounds? Yet you watch it and get caught up in it on a daily basis anyway, because it’s so nicely done you want to know everything that happens. That, in essence, is New York Engagement.
This story reads like a glitzy romantic soap centering on one couple — a well-off Irish-American and a very sweet Filipino girl — arriving in New York around Christmas from the Philippines so that Krista can finally meet Blake’s parents and family; apparently in Boracay he has already met her family. Mix in a host of nicely defined brothers, a cheeky little sister, an uncle who has been mugged and in hospital, an old flame of more than one brother, who just happens to be…well, I won’t ruin that moment. Throw in the unexpected possibility of Krista finally making a connection in New York with her biological father, add in some resentment and fallout from that, and you’ve got the recipe for a very engaging story in the right hands. And Maida Malby’s are definitely the right hands.
New York Engagement is a wonderful light romance that makes you feel like you’re watching some polished late 80s or early 90s TV miniseries, based on a glitzy bestseller. Even though it’s a light romance, it is also an interracial romance, and the reader learns things about Filipino future and traditions as Krista and Blake navigate their way through this lovely story. It’s done with a light, unobtrusive touch by Maida Malby, who works these tidbits so deftly into her narrative that the knowledge never once seems forced, as in an info drop.
New York Engagement has just the kind of ending romantics long for, and will leave a smile on your face. The minor caveats I had at the beginning got washed away in a refreshing waterfall by story’s end, and this one has my highest rating for those who spend way more time in this genre than I do. Splendid and refreshing.
January 1, 2020
New York Engagement was the the first book I’ve read by this author. I think the characters are interlinked through the books but this can easily be read as a standalone.
Krista and Blake’s trip to New York is anything but ordinary. His attraction and love was instant but Krista’s grew deep. A romantic trip is just the start of this journey. When a twist of fate brings Krista into the heat of Blake’s family.
A short sweet story with a lot of heart.
# competition win
Krista and Blake’s trip to New York is anything but ordinary. His attraction and love was instant but Krista’s grew deep. A romantic trip is just the start of this journey. When a twist of fate brings Krista into the heat of Blake’s family.
A short sweet story with a lot of heart.
# competition win
October 24, 2019
I love reading family series (Malory/Anderson, Bridgertons, Hathaways, Bedwyns, Sullivans, Montgomery/Armstrong, etc.) and I find myself loving writing them as well.
In NEW YORK ENGAGEMENT, the theme of family is very strong alongside Krista and Blake's growing romance. The Lopezes, the Ryans, and the O'Connors feature prominently and I hope readers take to them as I have.
In NEW YORK ENGAGEMENT, the theme of family is very strong alongside Krista and Blake's growing romance. The Lopezes, the Ryans, and the O'Connors feature prominently and I hope readers take to them as I have.
May 23, 2018
This was a continuation of Blake and Krista's story! Short and sweet and full of lots of twists and turns, Blake and Krista's Christmas trip to NY keeps them on their toes!
May 21, 2018
I love revisiting characters I love!
I knew I’d love this book from the first line, and the reference to one of my favorite movies! “Debra Kerr is right, Krista thought. The Empire State Building was the nearest thing to heaven in New York City.”
This novella is a follow up to Boracay Vows, and we join Blake and Krista when they go to visit Blake’s family for Christmas in New York. I enjoyed learning more about Blake’s family, and meeting some new characters.
I can’t wait for the next installment of The Carpe Diem Chronicles!
I knew I’d love this book from the first line, and the reference to one of my favorite movies! “Debra Kerr is right, Krista thought. The Empire State Building was the nearest thing to heaven in New York City.”
This novella is a follow up to Boracay Vows, and we join Blake and Krista when they go to visit Blake’s family for Christmas in New York. I enjoyed learning more about Blake’s family, and meeting some new characters.
I can’t wait for the next installment of The Carpe Diem Chronicles!
February 4, 2019
A sweet and engaging followup to Blake and Krista's story in Boracay Vows, New York Engagement finds our couples in NY during Christmas time. During their vacation, an incident occurs which has far reaching consequences for Krista. I enjoyed meeting the rest of Blake's family and the resolution of a long-standing mystery. I particularly enjoyed the meaningful ways Malby incorporates Krista's culture and the realistic negotiations Blake and Krista must still make as a newly in- love couple. I'm looking forward to futher installments of this series.
May 18, 2018
In this follow-up novella to Boracay Vows we get to see more of Krista and Blake. Yay! This time they’re in NYC meeting Blake’s family. The interactions between family members may be the best part of this one. Without giving anything away, I also really enjoyed the developments that happened for Krista. I really loved this story so much and I cannot wait for the next.
January 6, 2019
Beautiful novella
The family drama kept me turning pages, and I even teared up in a few places. Maida does a fantastic job with even the minor characters, leaving you looking forward to future stories.
The family drama kept me turning pages, and I even teared up in a few places. Maida does a fantastic job with even the minor characters, leaving you looking forward to future stories.
December 31, 2018
The continuing love story of a wonderfully diverse couple, and the ties of the past that bring their families together. A nice read to end 2018!
June 19, 2020
Loved this book! Great characters. Great flow with the story. Easy to read. Dialogue and descriptions were done well. Excellent feel good story. Tasteful steamy scenes with just enough heat! Would highly recommend.
I voluntarily give my review of this book.
I voluntarily give my review of this book.
January 27, 2020
She did it again, Malby crafts a love story with all the feels and more.
January 1, 2020
A novella published between Carpe Diem Chronicles novels that I missed upon first publication, I made sure to snap it up in time to ring in the New Year (and decade, depending on how you count) with. It was a blast to see Krista and Blake’s engagement and her meeting more of his family (as well as finding out the identity of her own father). Malby’s signature blend of sweetness, scrumptiousness (of course there’s food!), and steaminess is all here.
March 9, 2020
After Boracay vows, I was impatient to see how Blake and Krista’s relationship would evolve. Without much surprise, there isn’t any conflict between them. On the contrary, they’re ready to take the next step. The tension here comes from something else.
We discovered in the first book that Krista never knew her father, and since she’s of mixed race, it’s important for her to know her roots. By an amazing coincidence, she finds her biological father, and now she’s afraid of being rejected. THAT is this book’s conflict. And though the resolution comes quickly, it was nice to feel all the love those families have for each other, the bonds they share--and how easy it is for them to accept someone new.
It was a nice change from reality--where, we hear so often, The Other is an enemy. It’s so much easier to love, and to be loved in return. And so much more satisfying.
It was a nice little novella to end Blake and Krista’s story--before, hopefully, we see them again.
Quickie
Series: Carpe diem chronicles #1,5 (direct follow up of Boracay vows)
Hashtags: #multicultural romance #billionaire romance #mixed race #family
Main couple: Krista Lopez & Blake Ryan
Hotness: 2/5
Romance: 5/5
+ loved the acceptance
- major suspension of disbelief for the coincidence
We discovered in the first book that Krista never knew her father, and since she’s of mixed race, it’s important for her to know her roots. By an amazing coincidence, she finds her biological father, and now she’s afraid of being rejected. THAT is this book’s conflict. And though the resolution comes quickly, it was nice to feel all the love those families have for each other, the bonds they share--and how easy it is for them to accept someone new.
It was a nice change from reality--where, we hear so often, The Other is an enemy. It’s so much easier to love, and to be loved in return. And so much more satisfying.
It was a nice little novella to end Blake and Krista’s story--before, hopefully, we see them again.
Quickie
Series: Carpe diem chronicles #1,5 (direct follow up of Boracay vows)
Hashtags: #multicultural romance #billionaire romance #mixed race #family
Main couple: Krista Lopez & Blake Ryan
Hotness: 2/5
Romance: 5/5
+ loved the acceptance
- major suspension of disbelief for the coincidence
May 22, 2018
I just love Krista and Blake. They support each other and trust each other, even when little things get in the way.
Ms. Malby gets all the details just right here: the chilly Christmas time weather, the sumptuous Plaza Hotel, the food (of course, the food), the steamy romance, the references to religion and celebration of Catholic and Filipino holiday traditions, and the loving and crazy family relationships--this time of Blake's Irish-Italian Catholic family. The inter-racial relationships and cultural differences are handled with sensitivity and even love.
What ties this story together, though, is Krista and her discovery of a family secret that could have torn her apart. No spoilers here, just an acknowledgment of the fact that all works out in the end and Blake and Krista still have their HEA, with more HEAs to come, it seems. I can't wait for the next book in this fun series!
**I received an ARC of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Ms. Malby gets all the details just right here: the chilly Christmas time weather, the sumptuous Plaza Hotel, the food (of course, the food), the steamy romance, the references to religion and celebration of Catholic and Filipino holiday traditions, and the loving and crazy family relationships--this time of Blake's Irish-Italian Catholic family. The inter-racial relationships and cultural differences are handled with sensitivity and even love.
What ties this story together, though, is Krista and her discovery of a family secret that could have torn her apart. No spoilers here, just an acknowledgment of the fact that all works out in the end and Blake and Krista still have their HEA, with more HEAs to come, it seems. I can't wait for the next book in this fun series!
**I received an ARC of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2019
New York Engagement is a great follow up to Krista and Blake's story from Boracay Vows. I loved meeting all the characters in Blake's family and the family business. Plus Krista learns some unexpected news, a true holiday gift. While the "twist" wasn't surprising to me, I thought it was handled gently and authentically. Right now that is a true hallmark of Maida Malby's contemporary romances, characters that are authentic. And who doesn't want to get engaged in New York City at Christmas time? A sweet follow up with a holiday bow on top for Krista and Blake's happy ever after.
May 29, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the sequel to Boracay Vows and getting to know Blake's family. There are some surprises and I love how she weaves the Philippines culture and cuisine within the storyline, you take notice but it does not overwhelm. I am looking forward to more books with this series and getting to know Blake's family and Krista's friends.
June 2, 2018
This book is a continuation of Maida's Boracay Vows New York Engagement. the love story of Blake and Krista. The book reminded me of my own family. We are noisy, loud, and kidding around when we get together with one another. My mother was one of eight children. It makes Blake family seem little. The book was a fast read and I love every minute of it.
June 7, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed New York Engagement.
Malby knows how to grab the reader's attention and keep it.
The plot of this novella is engaging, and I found myself sneaking in reading time at work. It's a beautiful continuation of Krista and Blake's story.
I highly recommend Maida Malby to anyone who enjoys multi-cultural romance or romance in general.
Malby knows how to grab the reader's attention and keep it.
The plot of this novella is engaging, and I found myself sneaking in reading time at work. It's a beautiful continuation of Krista and Blake's story.
I highly recommend Maida Malby to anyone who enjoys multi-cultural romance or romance in general.
July 3, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this novella and the continuation of Krista and Blake's relationship. Reading this story was a breath of fresh air and something I would pick up to read again in the future. It leaves me wanting to read more about the other characters introduced. I look forward to the next Carpe Diem Chronicles story.
November 9, 2018
I loved revisiting this sweet couple. A lovely engagement story highlighting the importance of family.
January 31, 2024
Delightful tale of finding family and unearthing the past. Krista and Blake go to New York City so Krista can meet Blake’s family. Things take a dramatic turn when Blake’s Uncle Jack ends up in the hospital with a serious wound. Blake’s family comes together to help with the bar and with the fall out of some shocking news. The story ends with a proposal!
November 7, 2019
Live tweet thread: https://twitter.com/BookThingo/status... #boracayvows
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews