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Sun, Sea and Sangria
Escape to the palm-fringed beaches of the Canary Islands and wash your worries away.
Kat swore off dating many years ago, after her marriage ended in a catastrophic mess. Having moved to the Canary Islands for a fresh start, she has never had much time for romance, channelling all her energy into managing all-male dance troupe – the Heavenly Hunks.
With golden beaches, sparkling blue water and relaxing after work with a glass of sangria – or three – for Kat, it’s summer all year round. But despite life being postcard perfect, Kat can’t help but wonder if she is missing out on the most important thing of all… love.
The dancers are all well-known for their flirtatious antics and aren’t looking for anything serious… except Jay. Sitting by the pool, watching the sun reflecting in the water, Kat feels like she can tell him anything.
Handsome, caring and a good listener, he ignites a fire in Kat’s heart that scares her witless. But her relationship with Jay should stay strictly professional… right? There is absolutely no way that she can be his boss and his date.
As the temperature rises, will Kat be able to take the plunge, let go of her past and find romance in paradise?
Kat swore off dating many years ago, after her marriage ended in a catastrophic mess. Having moved to the Canary Islands for a fresh start, she has never had much time for romance, channelling all her energy into managing all-male dance troupe – the Heavenly Hunks.
With golden beaches, sparkling blue water and relaxing after work with a glass of sangria – or three – for Kat, it’s summer all year round. But despite life being postcard perfect, Kat can’t help but wonder if she is missing out on the most important thing of all… love.
The dancers are all well-known for their flirtatious antics and aren’t looking for anything serious… except Jay. Sitting by the pool, watching the sun reflecting in the water, Kat feels like she can tell him anything.
Handsome, caring and a good listener, he ignites a fire in Kat’s heart that scares her witless. But her relationship with Jay should stay strictly professional… right? There is absolutely no way that she can be his boss and his date.
As the temperature rises, will Kat be able to take the plunge, let go of her past and find romance in paradise?
320 pages, Paperback
Published August 6, 2020
31 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Cooke
13 books128 followersVictoria Cooke grew up in the city of Manchester before crossing the Pennines in pursuit of her career in education. She now lives in Huddersfield with her husband and two young daughters and when she’s not at home writing by the fire with a cup of coffee in her hand, she loves working out in the gym and travelling. Victoria was first published at the tender age of eight by her classroom teacher who saw potential in a six-page story about an invisible man. Since then she’s always had a passion for reading and writing, undertaking several writers’ courses before completing her first romantic comedy novel, 'The Secret to Falling in Love,' in 2016.
Her third novel, Who Needs Men Anyway? became a digital bestseller in 2018.
Her third novel, Who Needs Men Anyway? became a digital bestseller in 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
August 9, 2021
Sun, Sea and Sangria by Victoria Cooke is a contemporary romance set in the Canary Islands. Of course being a fan of exotic locations and seeing this beachy beautiful cover I had to pick this one up.
Now getting into this one we meet Kat who had sworn off dating and dove into her work. Of course Kat’s work is most women’s fantasy because Kat manages an all male dance group known as the Heavenly Hunks. And being around these flirtatious hotties has only reinforced Kat’s non-dating policy over the years, that is until Jay joins Kat’s group and sparks fly.
At the time everyone is looking for beachy reads how could something called Sun, Sea and Sangria not fit into that category? This was actually a fun one to read with some laughs along the way and probably as close as I’ll get to the actual Canary Islands so A+ for the setting. I also liked the characters in here and getting to know Kat and her dance group while watching the relationship grow. Now excuse me while I make a cocktail and find my sunglasses!
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Now getting into this one we meet Kat who had sworn off dating and dove into her work. Of course Kat’s work is most women’s fantasy because Kat manages an all male dance group known as the Heavenly Hunks. And being around these flirtatious hotties has only reinforced Kat’s non-dating policy over the years, that is until Jay joins Kat’s group and sparks fly.
At the time everyone is looking for beachy reads how could something called Sun, Sea and Sangria not fit into that category? This was actually a fun one to read with some laughs along the way and probably as close as I’ll get to the actual Canary Islands so A+ for the setting. I also liked the characters in here and getting to know Kat and her dance group while watching the relationship grow. Now excuse me while I make a cocktail and find my sunglasses!
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
July 18, 2020
5☆ Sizzling Sun, Stunning Location, Plenty of laughs, Giggles and smiles. A Must Read!
Sun, Sea and Sangria is a whole lot of fun, and as the title suggests Sun, Sea and a very hot under the collar sexy dance group, what more can you ask for 😏
Kat has moved to the stunning Canary Islands to help manage a Male Exotic Dance Group ...The Heavenly Hunks (think magic Mike!)
As you expect with alot of male testosterone running about, things are not exactly easy, with plenty of drama and cheeky moments. Kat certainly has her work cut out for her.
But one of the members Jay is slowly making an impact on Kat, and it's not just her heart that he has got racing!
But can Kat break her own rules and never date her staff, or is Jay too much of a catch to let slip away!
I adore the Canary islands and my very first holiday abroad was Gran Canaria so any book that travels to the stunning islands is a winner. Brings back lots of memories!
Wow oh wow to say this book didn't leave me a lil hot would be an understatement it was sizzling.
The Characters are superbly written. Kat and Jay are perfectly suited despite the emotional baggage they each carry.
Once again Victoria Cooke has written an absolute Gem of a book! What would of made this even better would be a picture of two, or three of The Heavenly Hunks!
Steamy hot Hunky Men, Stunning locations, Sexy Dance Moves, Sizzling Heat and a potential romance oh and plenty of laughs, giggles and smiles.
Sun, Sea and Sangria is the perfect read for a lil piece of escapism, I can't recommend reading enough!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
http://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/07...
Sun, Sea and Sangria is a whole lot of fun, and as the title suggests Sun, Sea and a very hot under the collar sexy dance group, what more can you ask for 😏
Kat has moved to the stunning Canary Islands to help manage a Male Exotic Dance Group ...The Heavenly Hunks (think magic Mike!)
As you expect with alot of male testosterone running about, things are not exactly easy, with plenty of drama and cheeky moments. Kat certainly has her work cut out for her.
But one of the members Jay is slowly making an impact on Kat, and it's not just her heart that he has got racing!
But can Kat break her own rules and never date her staff, or is Jay too much of a catch to let slip away!
I adore the Canary islands and my very first holiday abroad was Gran Canaria so any book that travels to the stunning islands is a winner. Brings back lots of memories!
Wow oh wow to say this book didn't leave me a lil hot would be an understatement it was sizzling.
The Characters are superbly written. Kat and Jay are perfectly suited despite the emotional baggage they each carry.
Once again Victoria Cooke has written an absolute Gem of a book! What would of made this even better would be a picture of two, or three of The Heavenly Hunks!
Steamy hot Hunky Men, Stunning locations, Sexy Dance Moves, Sizzling Heat and a potential romance oh and plenty of laughs, giggles and smiles.
Sun, Sea and Sangria is the perfect read for a lil piece of escapism, I can't recommend reading enough!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
http://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/07...
July 4, 2020
Sun, C, and heavenly hunks. Victoria Cook never disappoints and this might be my absolute favorite from her. A delightful relatable female protagonist, a gorgeous tropical setting, friendship, romance, and hot hot men. Kat had a toxic marriage and now is living her best life in the Canary Islands. Kat is the manager of a creative exotic male dance troupe. She is not only manager but kind of a mother figure to this group of adorable good looking men. She has always abided by her rule not to get romantically involved with any of the dancers, that is until Jay joins the troupe and there is a definite spark. BUT Kat and Jay both have a lot of baggage.
Loved Kat and this colorful group of men. The setting sounded so divine I am not certain I’ve ever read a book that took place in the Canary Islands? I loved how talented all these characters were and had a lot of fun when they participated in a talent show of sorts. By the pool, on the sand, or even on your couch this is the perfect afternoon treat.
This book in emojis 🏖 🍹 🕺 🏝 🎰 🌴
*** Big thank you to HQ Digital for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Loved Kat and this colorful group of men. The setting sounded so divine I am not certain I’ve ever read a book that took place in the Canary Islands? I loved how talented all these characters were and had a lot of fun when they participated in a talent show of sorts. By the pool, on the sand, or even on your couch this is the perfect afternoon treat.
This book in emojis 🏖 🍹 🕺 🏝 🎰 🌴
*** Big thank you to HQ Digital for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
July 10, 2020
So much fun reading this as it takes place on the beaches of the Canary Islands and a perfect beach read to take you away.
Kat has sworn off dating after a horrible divorce and put all her energy into her business, The Heavenly Hunks, and all male dance troupe. All the men are known for their flirtatious antics and they take care of her and not cross the line while she tries to keep them in line. Jay just sits back and watches and doesn't get into trouble and not after the other ladies. He just likes to sit by the pool and be quiet. He is handsome, caring and a good listener and it has Kat wanting more than a professional relationship with him.
Kat really wants to keep taking care of the men and keep their career going and to something better. Maybe even a Las Vegas act. But more and more resorts are cancelling their shows and saying they want more family friendly shows.
I loved all the personalities of each of these men and they all had respect for Kat. Some of them had me laughing out loud with their antics.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC to review.
#SunSeaandSangria #NetGalley
Kat has sworn off dating after a horrible divorce and put all her energy into her business, The Heavenly Hunks, and all male dance troupe. All the men are known for their flirtatious antics and they take care of her and not cross the line while she tries to keep them in line. Jay just sits back and watches and doesn't get into trouble and not after the other ladies. He just likes to sit by the pool and be quiet. He is handsome, caring and a good listener and it has Kat wanting more than a professional relationship with him.
Kat really wants to keep taking care of the men and keep their career going and to something better. Maybe even a Las Vegas act. But more and more resorts are cancelling their shows and saying they want more family friendly shows.
I loved all the personalities of each of these men and they all had respect for Kat. Some of them had me laughing out loud with their antics.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC to review.
#SunSeaandSangria #NetGalley
May 29, 2020
Wow, wow, wow, I never thought anything would beat The Holiday Cruise, as my favourite Victoria Cooke book (and I still want a sequel to it!), but I think this may have done - its just what I needed!!
.....hot men
....Canary Island location
.... exotic dance troup
.... sangria
.... a will they, won't they romance?
... some bad blind dates
... all Canary Island talent contest featuring some fabulous acts
.... an all around fabulous feel good book that really got me hot under the collar!
I was hooked from the first few moments of this book, from the first mentions of oil, and that first performance we see of The Heavenly Hunks - think Magic Mike-esuqe entertainment. Given I saw Magic Mike Live earlier this year before lockdown, I could really picture just about all the scenes of the Hunks so so clearly.
Anyone that knows me knows I love holiday style entertainment, and I'm quite happy to go to a ticketed extravaganza of a show whether on holiday or at home, so everything about this book appealed to me. Add in a Canary Islands location, featuring Tenerife, Gran Canaria and a small stint in Lanzarote, a set of island I know fairly well, and this really is just the perfect book for me.
I read it in one hot afternoon in the garden, and well felt even hotter while reading it. This is perfect poolside, beach, garden reading, or even on a cold winters day if you want to feel a whole lot warmer!
It's a story that hit all the right buttons with me, it had me laughing and also on the verge of tears at points, as we see how Kat is trying her best to manage the hunks, and also we get snippets of just what happened in her past, that led to her living in Tenerife for 8 years.
And Jay, what can I say about Jay, other than gimme.... I want him in my life!! And the rest of the boys really had a soft spot in my heart too.
There is so much going on in this book that its really quite fast paced, and I loved every single second of it. I want more from this location, I'd love to see more from the Hunks, and generally I just want more Victoria Cooke books, like this that hit all right notes for me.
I love, loved, loved it.... gimme more! Now why isn't there a pool anywhere near here, I need to cool off?!!!
Thank you to HQ Digital and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
.....hot men
....Canary Island location
.... exotic dance troup
.... sangria
.... a will they, won't they romance?
... some bad blind dates
... all Canary Island talent contest featuring some fabulous acts
.... an all around fabulous feel good book that really got me hot under the collar!
I was hooked from the first few moments of this book, from the first mentions of oil, and that first performance we see of The Heavenly Hunks - think Magic Mike-esuqe entertainment. Given I saw Magic Mike Live earlier this year before lockdown, I could really picture just about all the scenes of the Hunks so so clearly.
Anyone that knows me knows I love holiday style entertainment, and I'm quite happy to go to a ticketed extravaganza of a show whether on holiday or at home, so everything about this book appealed to me. Add in a Canary Islands location, featuring Tenerife, Gran Canaria and a small stint in Lanzarote, a set of island I know fairly well, and this really is just the perfect book for me.
I read it in one hot afternoon in the garden, and well felt even hotter while reading it. This is perfect poolside, beach, garden reading, or even on a cold winters day if you want to feel a whole lot warmer!
It's a story that hit all the right buttons with me, it had me laughing and also on the verge of tears at points, as we see how Kat is trying her best to manage the hunks, and also we get snippets of just what happened in her past, that led to her living in Tenerife for 8 years.
And Jay, what can I say about Jay, other than gimme.... I want him in my life!! And the rest of the boys really had a soft spot in my heart too.
There is so much going on in this book that its really quite fast paced, and I loved every single second of it. I want more from this location, I'd love to see more from the Hunks, and generally I just want more Victoria Cooke books, like this that hit all right notes for me.
I love, loved, loved it.... gimme more! Now why isn't there a pool anywhere near here, I need to cool off?!!!
Thank you to HQ Digital and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
August 16, 2020
I just couldn’t resist reading this book, set in one of my favourite holiday destinations, I usually go to visit at least one of the Canary Islands most years but I’ve never seen a dance troupe like the Heavenly Hunks! This is a lovely story about Kat, their manager, who moved to the islands more than eight years ago, after divorcing her husband who was controlling, trying to isolate her and convince her she was losing her mind! That experience means she no longer trusts easily and she hasn’t dated since settling there. She is like a mother to the dancers, until they have an unexpected new recruit, Jay, with whom she struggles to keep to her usual professional relationship. He’s great at listening to her and she actually enjoys talking to him but can she really be his boss and partner? What about the man her supportive friend wants her to date? Is now the chance for her to find romance in the idyllic islands?
There are secrets, surprises, competitions, worries and more in this delightful story which also explores the impact of past experiences on relationships. Everyone really needs a friend like Andrea, someone who is supportive but straight talking, always ready to be a shoulder to cry on or the person who forces you to stop feeling sorry for yourself and helps you move on – what a superb character! The troupe of dancers are all highly individual and have a great, heartwarming relationship with Kat. It shared how important it can be to risk running to someone who matters in your life and not to always run away – the risk can be well worth taking. This is a great story to escape into, a lovely romance with settings that had me dreaming of holidaying in the region again soon!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
There are secrets, surprises, competitions, worries and more in this delightful story which also explores the impact of past experiences on relationships. Everyone really needs a friend like Andrea, someone who is supportive but straight talking, always ready to be a shoulder to cry on or the person who forces you to stop feeling sorry for yourself and helps you move on – what a superb character! The troupe of dancers are all highly individual and have a great, heartwarming relationship with Kat. It shared how important it can be to risk running to someone who matters in your life and not to always run away – the risk can be well worth taking. This is a great story to escape into, a lovely romance with settings that had me dreaming of holidaying in the region again soon!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
May 31, 2020
I've read and enjoyed all of Victoria Cooke's books, but this is up there in my top two, alongside A Summer To Remember.
Set primarily in the Canary Islands, but latterly in Las Vegas, it follows Kat — manager of all-male dance troupe The Heavenly Hunks — as she battles the odds in a diminishing market to find new gigs and keep the act afloat. Kat is nursing a damaged heart after an eight-year relationship that battered her self-esteem and ability to trust, When she meets the enigmatic (and drop-dead gorgeous) Jay, her defences start to crumble. But Jay is harbouring his own dark secret, and it's far from clear if the two of them can conquer their demons and find true happiness.
I loved all the detail about the locations, the back stories of the Hunks and — of course — their raunchy and crowd-pleasing routines. I went with friends many years ago to see a similar act, who cancelled at the last minute. Reading this book made me smile and transported me to a world of sunshine, sea and a drop or two of sangria. Perfect for these troubling times, and filled with so much warmth and wit. Take this line for example — 'The red one (dress) that I thought would bring out the blue in my eyes is too tight, and the beige one makes me look naked from afar, and not in a hot Instagram way but more of an erotic potato sort of way.'
Even if a beach holiday seems an unlikely dream right now, I recommend you pull up a sun lounger, pour yourself something fruity and potent, and settle down for a delicious and entertaining read.
Set primarily in the Canary Islands, but latterly in Las Vegas, it follows Kat — manager of all-male dance troupe The Heavenly Hunks — as she battles the odds in a diminishing market to find new gigs and keep the act afloat. Kat is nursing a damaged heart after an eight-year relationship that battered her self-esteem and ability to trust, When she meets the enigmatic (and drop-dead gorgeous) Jay, her defences start to crumble. But Jay is harbouring his own dark secret, and it's far from clear if the two of them can conquer their demons and find true happiness.
I loved all the detail about the locations, the back stories of the Hunks and — of course — their raunchy and crowd-pleasing routines. I went with friends many years ago to see a similar act, who cancelled at the last minute. Reading this book made me smile and transported me to a world of sunshine, sea and a drop or two of sangria. Perfect for these troubling times, and filled with so much warmth and wit. Take this line for example — 'The red one (dress) that I thought would bring out the blue in my eyes is too tight, and the beige one makes me look naked from afar, and not in a hot Instagram way but more of an erotic potato sort of way.'
Even if a beach holiday seems an unlikely dream right now, I recommend you pull up a sun lounger, pour yourself something fruity and potent, and settle down for a delicious and entertaining read.
May 23, 2020
Eight years ago Kat left her controlling husband and started life anew in Tenerife. Now she is the manager of a successful troupe of male exotic dancers but still isn't ready for romance again. When, Jay, a new dancer joins the troupe they form a friendship and start to share their demons. Will they be able to move on and find love?
The setting for this novel was fantastic with both Tenerife and Las Vegas being described vividly . Kat was great but her experiences in the past left her deeply flawed and her journey to some form of recovery was slow an uncertain and very realistically portrayed. At times it was easy to get frustrated with Kat but the past extracts from her marriage, whilst horrifically portraying an emotionally and mentally abusive marriage, were necessary to understand her mind set. It was also great that the hero of the story also had issues and wasn't seen as Kat's saviour. I also loved the other characters especially Andrea who turned out to be such a great friend to Kat.
Overall, a great summer read with a bit of a sharper edge.
The setting for this novel was fantastic with both Tenerife and Las Vegas being described vividly . Kat was great but her experiences in the past left her deeply flawed and her journey to some form of recovery was slow an uncertain and very realistically portrayed. At times it was easy to get frustrated with Kat but the past extracts from her marriage, whilst horrifically portraying an emotionally and mentally abusive marriage, were necessary to understand her mind set. It was also great that the hero of the story also had issues and wasn't seen as Kat's saviour. I also loved the other characters especially Andrea who turned out to be such a great friend to Kat.
Overall, a great summer read with a bit of a sharper edge.
June 3, 2020
Kat's rebuilt her life in Tenerife (love it!) after leaving her abusive ex. She manages the Heavenly Hunks, a group of hot dancing guys, but she doesn't engage with them in a romantic way. And then Jay comes along and he's different- he listens to her in a way her ex never did. Unfortunately, the Hunks are having difficulty getting gig and everyone's facing a challenge- Las Vegas! Cooke does a good job of building the back stories of both Kat and Jay (not as simple as you might think initially) as well as in reading the atmosphere in the Canary Islands and Vegas. You might guess how this will end but gosh it has a unique way of getting there. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A fun read with good characters you will root for.
May 22, 2020
It’s been 8 years since Kat’s divorce, when she fled the UK and her emotionally abusive ex-husband to start afresh in the Canary Islands. Kat now manages the Heavenly Hunks, an all male exotic dance group (think Magic Mike 🔥) who travel around the Canary Islands performing at all the major hotels. Kat has created her own success with the group and she’s happy but when new hot guy Jay joins the hunks and shows an interest in Kat, it becomes abundantly clear that she has a lot of work to do to get her self esteem back after years of emotional abuse from her sicko ex-husband.
I found it hard to read the flash back scenes from Kat’s because they were just super upsetting to see how badly her husband treated her (think manipulation, gaslighting, belittling, etc). They were totally essential to building Kat’s backstory and a lot of depth to her character (that you sometimes don’t get with ‘woman’s fiction’/romance) though so I’m glad they were there. All in all I was so pleasantly surprised with this book, it was the perfect summer escape read and gets 4 stars from me. I will definitely be checking out Cooke’s other books in the future. If you like Magic Mike, woman’s fiction, tropical islands and summery romance then this book is for you! 😍
I found it hard to read the flash back scenes from Kat’s because they were just super upsetting to see how badly her husband treated her (think manipulation, gaslighting, belittling, etc). They were totally essential to building Kat’s backstory and a lot of depth to her character (that you sometimes don’t get with ‘woman’s fiction’/romance) though so I’m glad they were there. All in all I was so pleasantly surprised with this book, it was the perfect summer escape read and gets 4 stars from me. I will definitely be checking out Cooke’s other books in the future. If you like Magic Mike, woman’s fiction, tropical islands and summery romance then this book is for you! 😍
June 17, 2020
There aren't many books out there that come with the Pony music track playing in the reader's head, but this is that book! I loved the sound of it - I am a huge fan of Magic Mike, and this was a great story to feed that reading need! You really root for the main character, in between lusting over the dancers and wishing you were employed as a baby oil application assistant, and lusting over a certain shirtless and mysterious someone....
A great book with real life characters, just trying to make their own mark in the world and having a great deal of naughty fun along the way! Cooke is a skilful writer, with her you are in safe hands. A touch of romance, glamour, sweat and dirty dancing all make this book a great read. Now, where's that stack of dollar bills I had around here? I fancy a re-read...
We are all missing our holidays right now, and our fun nights out, and this well timed book is the perfect antidote, all wrapped up neatly in a glittery jock strap
A great book with real life characters, just trying to make their own mark in the world and having a great deal of naughty fun along the way! Cooke is a skilful writer, with her you are in safe hands. A touch of romance, glamour, sweat and dirty dancing all make this book a great read. Now, where's that stack of dollar bills I had around here? I fancy a re-read...
We are all missing our holidays right now, and our fun nights out, and this well timed book is the perfect antidote, all wrapped up neatly in a glittery jock strap
July 4, 2020
I’m not quite sure how I’ve managed to miss Victoria Cooke’s previous books, but having read Sun, Sea and Sangria, I will be remedying that at the earliest opportunity. This book provided the perfect armchair travel for these lockdown days, taking us not only to the Canary Islands, but also a quick trip to Las Vegas!
The main protagonist Kat has clearly been through a lot, with her catastrophic marriage, of which we get intermittent flashbacks, so much so that for eight years after her marriage ended she had steered clear from dating, or moving on. Quite how she managed that whilst managing an all-male dance troupe touring the venues of the Canary Islands is a testament to her strength of character, but it was also nice to see her vulnerabilities too.
I loved The Heavenly Hunks, a Magic Mike style dance troupe who were all very different and entertaining characters. Jay, however, was a cut above the others, and as book boyfriends go, I thought he was completely adorable. Like Kat, in the respect that he was also damaged by his own past, his good qualities shone from the page, and from their very first meeting, I spent the ‘will they? won’t they?’ moments of the book firmly on the Team Kat and Jay bus, desperately willing them to be together. I also loved Andrea, Kat’s faithful friend in Tenerife, who was there for her in pretty much every way possible.
I really enjoyed reading about the competition Kat entered the Heavenly Hunks in, as well as the dates that Kat went on before she could admit her feelings for Jay. It all gave depth to the story, and provided some lighter moments to counteract the seriousness of Kat’s flashbacks. The locations were so vibrantly described I could picture myself there. I don’t think I’ve read another book set in the Canary Islands, and other than an off-season holiday to Lanzarote in the early 90s, it was a refreshing look at locations I had heard of but did not know a great deal about. I’ve never been to Vegas either, but from things I’ve watched on tv, I found myself picturing the locations that the characters visited. I’m still reluctant to head anywhere at the moment, whilst still pining for the places I haven’t been able to visit this year, so having a story that takes me on a journey from the safety of my armchair has been so enjoyable and rewarding.
Sun, Sea and Sangria was the perfect summer read, even on a miserable July day with the rain falling and the heating on! It whisked me away to the soundtrack of ‘Pony’, and captured my heart.
The main protagonist Kat has clearly been through a lot, with her catastrophic marriage, of which we get intermittent flashbacks, so much so that for eight years after her marriage ended she had steered clear from dating, or moving on. Quite how she managed that whilst managing an all-male dance troupe touring the venues of the Canary Islands is a testament to her strength of character, but it was also nice to see her vulnerabilities too.
I loved The Heavenly Hunks, a Magic Mike style dance troupe who were all very different and entertaining characters. Jay, however, was a cut above the others, and as book boyfriends go, I thought he was completely adorable. Like Kat, in the respect that he was also damaged by his own past, his good qualities shone from the page, and from their very first meeting, I spent the ‘will they? won’t they?’ moments of the book firmly on the Team Kat and Jay bus, desperately willing them to be together. I also loved Andrea, Kat’s faithful friend in Tenerife, who was there for her in pretty much every way possible.
I really enjoyed reading about the competition Kat entered the Heavenly Hunks in, as well as the dates that Kat went on before she could admit her feelings for Jay. It all gave depth to the story, and provided some lighter moments to counteract the seriousness of Kat’s flashbacks. The locations were so vibrantly described I could picture myself there. I don’t think I’ve read another book set in the Canary Islands, and other than an off-season holiday to Lanzarote in the early 90s, it was a refreshing look at locations I had heard of but did not know a great deal about. I’ve never been to Vegas either, but from things I’ve watched on tv, I found myself picturing the locations that the characters visited. I’m still reluctant to head anywhere at the moment, whilst still pining for the places I haven’t been able to visit this year, so having a story that takes me on a journey from the safety of my armchair has been so enjoyable and rewarding.
Sun, Sea and Sangria was the perfect summer read, even on a miserable July day with the rain falling and the heating on! It whisked me away to the soundtrack of ‘Pony’, and captured my heart.
July 6, 2020
Well, I have to admit - I completely feel like I've just spent a good few days on the shores of Tenerife. Sun, Sea, Sangria, cocktails and some Heavenly Hunks were all inclusive - what more could you want?
Sun, Sea and Sangria is such a fun and enjoyable read and if you have the time - you can easily consume it in one sitting. The plot flows along at a fast pace and is filled with various story lines.
As a main character Kat is relateable and unique. Through flashbacks we are shown snippets of her backstory and it's heartbreaking but she is such a strong woman and has carved out a new life for herself in Tenerife managing the Heavenly Hunks. I love how Kat shows herself as a fearless and confident woman on stage but then underneath is vulnerable and still afraid of certain things. I loved her story and spent the whole novel cheering for her to find what she truly wanted in life - whatever that may look like.
A sub-plot of the novel is set around the Hunks. Work is drying up due to the local economy and they guys enter a competition to try and win some cash to help them out. I loved how Victoria portrays all the hunks individually and with a plethora of personalities - not always the stereotypical exotic dancer types. I adore how protective they are of Kat and how she has several 'big brothers' taking care of her.
This is a fun and enjoyable novel, perfect for a holiday read (or in my case a replacement holiday) and I highly recommend it but be warned - you may not want to put it down and return to reality.
Sun, Sea and Sangria is such a fun and enjoyable read and if you have the time - you can easily consume it in one sitting. The plot flows along at a fast pace and is filled with various story lines.
As a main character Kat is relateable and unique. Through flashbacks we are shown snippets of her backstory and it's heartbreaking but she is such a strong woman and has carved out a new life for herself in Tenerife managing the Heavenly Hunks. I love how Kat shows herself as a fearless and confident woman on stage but then underneath is vulnerable and still afraid of certain things. I loved her story and spent the whole novel cheering for her to find what she truly wanted in life - whatever that may look like.
A sub-plot of the novel is set around the Hunks. Work is drying up due to the local economy and they guys enter a competition to try and win some cash to help them out. I loved how Victoria portrays all the hunks individually and with a plethora of personalities - not always the stereotypical exotic dancer types. I adore how protective they are of Kat and how she has several 'big brothers' taking care of her.
This is a fun and enjoyable novel, perfect for a holiday read (or in my case a replacement holiday) and I highly recommend it but be warned - you may not want to put it down and return to reality.
July 2, 2020
If you're looking for some sunshine and a little romance, this story is for you. Kat's the manager of an all-male exotic dance troupe in the Canary Islands, sound interesting? Well, it is, but she's more of a mother than a lover, keeping her relationships strictly business until Jay joins the group and threatens the status quo.
Kat fled to the islands, in the wake of a disastrous controlling marriage. Jay makes her take a look at her life and risk dating again with some hilarious and sometimes poignant results. Jay's past threatens his future happiness, but his attraction to Kat is hard to ignore.
The story balances fun and more serious moments in a relatable holiday setting. With believable characters and gentle romance, it's easy to lose yourself in this story. A must-have Summer read.
I received a copy of this book from HQ in return for an honest review.
Kat fled to the islands, in the wake of a disastrous controlling marriage. Jay makes her take a look at her life and risk dating again with some hilarious and sometimes poignant results. Jay's past threatens his future happiness, but his attraction to Kat is hard to ignore.
The story balances fun and more serious moments in a relatable holiday setting. With believable characters and gentle romance, it's easy to lose yourself in this story. A must-have Summer read.
I received a copy of this book from HQ in return for an honest review.
June 7, 2020
A perfect beach read with a touch more set in the Canary Islands with just a splash of Las Vegas. After a bad marriage, which you find out about a snippet at a time, Lat leaves the UK and heads to the Canary Islands town of Tenerife to get away and have a fresh start. She builds an entertainment business in which she manages a group of exotic male dancers. Kat is there “mother” figure and never mixes business with pleasure, an easy easy to do feat since she’s sworn of dating for the past eight years following her bad marriage. And then the story unfolds! There was a point in the book where I was actually brought to tears because I felt Kat’ pain so strongly. When you feel the characters emotions that strongly you know you’ve found a well written book! #SunSeaandSangria #NetGalley #VictoriaCooke
July 6, 2020
day is my turn on the blog tour for this book, thank you to @rachelsrandomresources for inviting me on the tour and @victoriacookewriter @netgalley for my advanced readers copy.
☀️
Kat is suffering after a nasty marriage break up and moves to The Canary Islands to escape and start rebuilding her life again.
☀️
She builds up an entertainment masterpiece called The Heavenly Hunks and becomes like a family with them as they rehearse and perform together.
☀️
Then along comes Jay asking to be part of the team but Kat finds herself falling in head over heels no matter how hard she tried not too, but obstacles get in the way.
☀️
This is a nice easy read perfect for those summer feels and escape.
☀️
You really do feel like you are in the Island with them!
☀️
Kat is suffering after a nasty marriage break up and moves to The Canary Islands to escape and start rebuilding her life again.
☀️
She builds up an entertainment masterpiece called The Heavenly Hunks and becomes like a family with them as they rehearse and perform together.
☀️
Then along comes Jay asking to be part of the team but Kat finds herself falling in head over heels no matter how hard she tried not too, but obstacles get in the way.
☀️
This is a nice easy read perfect for those summer feels and escape.
☀️
You really do feel like you are in the Island with them!
June 28, 2020
I enjoyed this novel but did not love it.. Yet I’m glad that I continued reading it because I was happy with the outcome of this fun novel.
June 9, 2024
Not my cup of tea... or sangria. But I did need a light and easy read after a WW2 book and it was that, so I'll give it a little credit.
July 24, 2020
Victoria Cooke is sure to bring some sunshine into your summer – regardless of the weather – with her latest breezy, feel-good and enjoyable new novel Sun, Sea and Sangria. As delicious as your favourite cocktail and as uplifting as sunshine after a rainy day, Sun, Sea and Sangria is another unmissable treat by this wonderfully talented writer of romantic comedy.
After the acrimonious end of her marriage, Kat had sworn off men and vowed never to make that mistake ever again. Leaving her life behind and moving to the Canary Islands, Kat plans to invest all of her time, energy and effort into her new career. Who needs romance, marriage and commitment when she gets to spend her life under the sun-kissed sky of the Canary Islands managing a troupe of sexy male dancers? The Heavenly Hunks provide Kat with all the excitement she could possibly need. She has never been tempted to take things further with any one of her gorgeous dancers – until she meets Jay and begins to wonder whether she has been too hasty in writing off the opposite sex….
Jay is nothing like the usual dancers who form part of Kat’s troupe. Sure, he has all the good looks and smooth moves, but he has made Kat feel like there is something missing from her life. Hardening her heart and refusing to let anyone in might have precluded her from getting hurt, but it certainly hasn’t stopped her from feeling lonely. Is Kat about to take the plunge after spending years keeping everyone at arm’s length?
Is Kat ready to take on last chance on a happy ending? Or will she continue to hide in the shadows?
A delightful romp that is escapist, enjoyable and wonderfully romantic, Sun, Sea and Sangria charms and entertains from beginning to end and whether you are reading Victoria Cooke’s latest rom-com on a sunny day by the pool or curled up at home on the sofa with a cup of tea, one thing is guaranteed: you are absolutely going to love this brilliantly written and wonderfully funny tale.
A terrific antidote to all the worrying things going on in the world at the moment, there simply is nothing better than escaping between the pages of Victoria Cooke’s latest novel: Sun, Sea and Sangria.
After the acrimonious end of her marriage, Kat had sworn off men and vowed never to make that mistake ever again. Leaving her life behind and moving to the Canary Islands, Kat plans to invest all of her time, energy and effort into her new career. Who needs romance, marriage and commitment when she gets to spend her life under the sun-kissed sky of the Canary Islands managing a troupe of sexy male dancers? The Heavenly Hunks provide Kat with all the excitement she could possibly need. She has never been tempted to take things further with any one of her gorgeous dancers – until she meets Jay and begins to wonder whether she has been too hasty in writing off the opposite sex….
Jay is nothing like the usual dancers who form part of Kat’s troupe. Sure, he has all the good looks and smooth moves, but he has made Kat feel like there is something missing from her life. Hardening her heart and refusing to let anyone in might have precluded her from getting hurt, but it certainly hasn’t stopped her from feeling lonely. Is Kat about to take the plunge after spending years keeping everyone at arm’s length?
Is Kat ready to take on last chance on a happy ending? Or will she continue to hide in the shadows?
A delightful romp that is escapist, enjoyable and wonderfully romantic, Sun, Sea and Sangria charms and entertains from beginning to end and whether you are reading Victoria Cooke’s latest rom-com on a sunny day by the pool or curled up at home on the sofa with a cup of tea, one thing is guaranteed: you are absolutely going to love this brilliantly written and wonderfully funny tale.
A terrific antidote to all the worrying things going on in the world at the moment, there simply is nothing better than escaping between the pages of Victoria Cooke’s latest novel: Sun, Sea and Sangria.
May 21, 2020
Finally, a women's fiction novel set on Spanish soil. I have reviewed many a novel set in Italy, France or Greece and it was wonderful to have the change because I adore anything Spanish themed and love Spain. I always have done since my first word of Spanish at school so this was a natural book for me to request.
Extremely fun from the outset, the novel follows Kat who left the UK fleeimg an abusive relationship and who decides to start afresh in the Canary Islands. Think Full Monty in the sun and you'll be as gripped by this as I was. The group of men who form Kat's shows all have their own personalities and the way she mets Jay was realistic and slipped naturally into the story.
I liked how professional she was about the group and their appreciation of her. A very heartwarming and fun romance with drama at its core in Kat's backstory.
And what a fabulous setting: I love the cover so much.
Thanks to Victoria Cooke and HQ for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
Extremely fun from the outset, the novel follows Kat who left the UK fleeimg an abusive relationship and who decides to start afresh in the Canary Islands. Think Full Monty in the sun and you'll be as gripped by this as I was. The group of men who form Kat's shows all have their own personalities and the way she mets Jay was realistic and slipped naturally into the story.
I liked how professional she was about the group and their appreciation of her. A very heartwarming and fun romance with drama at its core in Kat's backstory.
And what a fabulous setting: I love the cover so much.
Thanks to Victoria Cooke and HQ for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
June 15, 2020
If you're tired of the typical romance/love stories, with the billionaire alpha male and the sweet, yet strong female, I recommend you check out "Sun, Sea and Sangria" by Victoria Cooke.
What makes it different? First of all, it takes place in a location that I haven't yet discovered in a chicklit or romance book: The Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the coast of Morocco. Secondly, the heroine isn't the usual sweet and wide-eyed ingenue, but rather a sassy and strong woman named Kat/Katelyn who has a rather interesting profession: she is the founder, manager and compere of a male exotic dance troupe. Thirdly, the lead male isn't your hero who runs several multinational companies. Yes, he's devastatingly handsome (because aren't all male leads in these books), but Jay is the newest dancer in her Heavenly Hunks dance troupe.
By outward appearances Kat is strong and self-assured. But as the reader gets to know her, we began to realize that the strength is just her outer persona. Deep inside, she battles with issues of self-worth, mainly due to a ghastly abusive marriage. (She fled from England to the Canary Islands to escape her verbally abusive husband.)
She has a strict policy about not dating her dancers. In fact, they are all 20-somethings, and even though she's only about 10 years older than them, they view her as a mother figure. But when Jay, who is close to her age, joins the troop, she finds herself attracted to him unlike she has ever been to any man before. He's not only beautiful outside, but has a kind, thoughtful personality that allows her to open up and reveal the demons she's hidden for so long.
She fights her attraction to Jay, but just as she tells him that she's willing to try a relationship with him, something happens. The dance troupe is offered an amazing opportunity--a six month residency at a large Las Vegas hotel. If it is successful, they could become famous throughout the world, rather than just in the Canary Islands. Unfortunately, the hotel owner has a big name female star in mind to play the compere for the act. He offers to purchase the Heavenly Hunks brand from Kat. She's left with a tough decision: Can she give up the one thing that has helped her overcome the devastation of an abusive marriage, so she can give the guys the opportunity of a lifetime? It also means she will need to give up a relationship with Jay, since she can't go with them to Las Vegas.
Jay tells her that he would stay for her, but she refuses his offer. She suffers from the fear that Jay will eventually resent her and turn into a man like her ex-husband. He leaves brokenhearted for Las Vegas.
Forlorn and depressed, Kat wonders if she's made a mistake letting the group go, and especially letting Jay go.
How does she deal with it? I guess you'll have to read the book to find out!
I really enjoyed reading this book because it wasn't the typical trope. I thought Cooke did a great job in helping the reader understand Kat and her demons. For example, the flashbacks to her husband's abusive words and actions were especially heart-breaking. I thought the story was well developed and moved along quickly. My only criticism was near the end. (Spoiler alert--I'm going to reveal a bit of the ending here.) Jay and Kat talk about some of the roadblocks that would prevent them from having a relationship, but we never really see how they work them out. Then in the epilogue, the roadblocks are miraculously gone, and we see Jay making a surprising grand gesture to Kat. I just felt like too much was skipped between the last chapter and the epilogue, and felt a little cheated that I didn't get to experience how they worked out their differences.
But the book is still a great read, so if you're looking for something a little different in chicklit or romance, check out Sun, Sea and Sangria by Victoria Cooke!
What makes it different? First of all, it takes place in a location that I haven't yet discovered in a chicklit or romance book: The Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the coast of Morocco. Secondly, the heroine isn't the usual sweet and wide-eyed ingenue, but rather a sassy and strong woman named Kat/Katelyn who has a rather interesting profession: she is the founder, manager and compere of a male exotic dance troupe. Thirdly, the lead male isn't your hero who runs several multinational companies. Yes, he's devastatingly handsome (because aren't all male leads in these books), but Jay is the newest dancer in her Heavenly Hunks dance troupe.
By outward appearances Kat is strong and self-assured. But as the reader gets to know her, we began to realize that the strength is just her outer persona. Deep inside, she battles with issues of self-worth, mainly due to a ghastly abusive marriage. (She fled from England to the Canary Islands to escape her verbally abusive husband.)
She has a strict policy about not dating her dancers. In fact, they are all 20-somethings, and even though she's only about 10 years older than them, they view her as a mother figure. But when Jay, who is close to her age, joins the troop, she finds herself attracted to him unlike she has ever been to any man before. He's not only beautiful outside, but has a kind, thoughtful personality that allows her to open up and reveal the demons she's hidden for so long.
She fights her attraction to Jay, but just as she tells him that she's willing to try a relationship with him, something happens. The dance troupe is offered an amazing opportunity--a six month residency at a large Las Vegas hotel. If it is successful, they could become famous throughout the world, rather than just in the Canary Islands. Unfortunately, the hotel owner has a big name female star in mind to play the compere for the act. He offers to purchase the Heavenly Hunks brand from Kat. She's left with a tough decision: Can she give up the one thing that has helped her overcome the devastation of an abusive marriage, so she can give the guys the opportunity of a lifetime? It also means she will need to give up a relationship with Jay, since she can't go with them to Las Vegas.
Jay tells her that he would stay for her, but she refuses his offer. She suffers from the fear that Jay will eventually resent her and turn into a man like her ex-husband. He leaves brokenhearted for Las Vegas.
Forlorn and depressed, Kat wonders if she's made a mistake letting the group go, and especially letting Jay go.
How does she deal with it? I guess you'll have to read the book to find out!
I really enjoyed reading this book because it wasn't the typical trope. I thought Cooke did a great job in helping the reader understand Kat and her demons. For example, the flashbacks to her husband's abusive words and actions were especially heart-breaking. I thought the story was well developed and moved along quickly. My only criticism was near the end. (Spoiler alert--I'm going to reveal a bit of the ending here.) Jay and Kat talk about some of the roadblocks that would prevent them from having a relationship, but we never really see how they work them out. Then in the epilogue, the roadblocks are miraculously gone, and we see Jay making a surprising grand gesture to Kat. I just felt like too much was skipped between the last chapter and the epilogue, and felt a little cheated that I didn't get to experience how they worked out their differences.
But the book is still a great read, so if you're looking for something a little different in chicklit or romance, check out Sun, Sea and Sangria by Victoria Cooke!
June 17, 2020
This was my first Victoria Cooke novel and it has a real good summer vibe making it the perfect holiday read, if only we could could travel! I can imagine this to be the ideal book to dive into whilst relaxing on a sun bed around the pool, maybe sipping a cocktail or two. Instead let your imagination take over, wherever you may be, as you join Kat and her Heavenly Hunks in the Canary Islands exotically dancing their way through the hotels entertaining and delighting the crowds of women who flock to see them. With temperatures soaring,and I don’t just mean in terms of the climate, just the sight of these Adonis like creatures is enough to make your heart spin and get you well and truly hot under the collar. Blue skies, hot sandy beaches and images of well oiled, ripped and toned bodies aka Magic Mike style are the backdrop to this lighthearted novel, providing the opportunity for pure escapism. It’s frivolous, fun, uncomplicated and ever so cheesy, which is of course part of its appeal.
Kat is the manager and mother hen of this bunch of lads and has worked hard to build up their reputation, forging a new life away from the UK and a controlling,manipulative husband. She’s your typical unlucky in love character who’s had her heart shattered, so shuns any ideas of romance, preferring instead to throw herself into work. The Heavenly Hunks adore her, although she’s resolute in her determination to never mix business with pleasure, until that is, Jay joins the troupe. With a winning combination of good looks, a kind heart and a listening ear could Kat finally put the past behind her and open her heart to romance?
With a few disastrous dates under her belt Kat finds her resolve weakening when it comes to the heavenly delights of Jay but as always it is the business that must come first. Gigs are getting cancelled amid a lack of holiday makers and bad press so Kat is left worrying about the future of her business and what that means for this likeable group of young men. What can she do to save her business from going under? Maybe a local talent contest with the chance to appear in Las Vegas could be just the ticket to enhancing their profile, showcase their talents and prove to be more lucrative in the future.
Despite its predictability, there’s nothing to dislike about any of these characters and you can’t help but get wrapped up in their lives.
The will they won’t they situation between Kat and Jay adds the necessary romantic element to what is a harmless, fairly innocent, often funny read.
Kat is the most fleshed out character as the occasional insight into her life back in the Uk with husband Iain highlights and this turns her into a more than one dimensional figure. These snapshots provide more understanding of why Kat is so wary of men in general but as
all characters like her need, good friend Andrea is always there to offer a shoulder to cry on and be brutally honest when the need arises.
Sun Sea and Sangria is an easy, enjoyable read and although it won’t set the world alight it is perfect for satisfying a need for some light hearted romance. The writing is full of warmth and humour and to read this kind of book is like indulging a sweet craving, you just can’t help coming back for more. I will definitely add this author to my list for the occasions when my mood craves a good dose of escapism. My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read.
Kat is the manager and mother hen of this bunch of lads and has worked hard to build up their reputation, forging a new life away from the UK and a controlling,manipulative husband. She’s your typical unlucky in love character who’s had her heart shattered, so shuns any ideas of romance, preferring instead to throw herself into work. The Heavenly Hunks adore her, although she’s resolute in her determination to never mix business with pleasure, until that is, Jay joins the troupe. With a winning combination of good looks, a kind heart and a listening ear could Kat finally put the past behind her and open her heart to romance?
With a few disastrous dates under her belt Kat finds her resolve weakening when it comes to the heavenly delights of Jay but as always it is the business that must come first. Gigs are getting cancelled amid a lack of holiday makers and bad press so Kat is left worrying about the future of her business and what that means for this likeable group of young men. What can she do to save her business from going under? Maybe a local talent contest with the chance to appear in Las Vegas could be just the ticket to enhancing their profile, showcase their talents and prove to be more lucrative in the future.
Despite its predictability, there’s nothing to dislike about any of these characters and you can’t help but get wrapped up in their lives.
The will they won’t they situation between Kat and Jay adds the necessary romantic element to what is a harmless, fairly innocent, often funny read.
Kat is the most fleshed out character as the occasional insight into her life back in the Uk with husband Iain highlights and this turns her into a more than one dimensional figure. These snapshots provide more understanding of why Kat is so wary of men in general but as
all characters like her need, good friend Andrea is always there to offer a shoulder to cry on and be brutally honest when the need arises.
Sun Sea and Sangria is an easy, enjoyable read and although it won’t set the world alight it is perfect for satisfying a need for some light hearted romance. The writing is full of warmth and humour and to read this kind of book is like indulging a sweet craving, you just can’t help coming back for more. I will definitely add this author to my list for the occasions when my mood craves a good dose of escapism. My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read.
September 26, 2020
Kat's history is interesting albeit sad that has made her a fighter. Through flashbacks we're shown that she was in a bad marriage where her husband spent the entire time gaslighting her. Once her marriage was over she took off for the Canary Islands to build a new life. It's here that she has found her independence, gained back her confidence and is now a stronger person. As a business woman who's responsible for one of the area's must-see entertainment attractions - Heavenly Hunks - she's done well for herself and she can be proud of that. Everything is going swimmingly until Jay joins the Hunks and provides a new kind of emotional connection that she hasn't had in years. He tests the boundaries that she's firmly set since her divorce. Being attracted to Jay is one thing - she can control how far that goes - but falling in love, being in a relationship signals giving up control which is frightening for someone who survived an abusive marriage. Then there's also the question of the Heavenly Hunks future - whether the show can go on as is on their island paradise or if they need to dream bigger.
Let's get this out of the way - Kat's a freaking warrior to get where she is today! It's taken so much out of her to achieve her independence and learn to rely on herself. Her recollections of her husband are heart-rending but they explain why she's hyper sensitive or quick to draw conclusions when she senses even a hint of the mistreatment she received in the past. I'm glad she and Jay became friends and gradually developed a level of intimacy that they were both in need of. The pair come with burdened hearts that require a lot of patience and sympathy, and most of all, trust - something that they're both attempting to be better at.
All that being said, I'm sad to admit that I didn't quite feel the story pull me in completely. Sometimes it felt like Kat was listing things she was doing or feeling. It's a bit confusing, really because the flashbacks from her marriage felt more poignant compared to what felt kind of robotic in the present. It seemed like whatever was going on with her took me to just the very surface without allowing me in any further so it felt more like I was observing the motions rather than experiencing along with her. It's odd that I felt that difference but that's how I interpreted things.
Overall, Sun, Sea and Sangria was fine. Aspects of it were interesting like the behind-the-scenes workings of the Heavenly Hunks, their camaraderie, and of course, Kat's metamorphosis from victim to being her own heroine. The island life is an obvious draw. It's just that I wanted something more in the in between; to delve deeper into Kat's mindset but that would probably have taken the story in a different direction than what the author intended. It's still a good read for anyone looking for fun and island love.
Source: ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
Let's get this out of the way - Kat's a freaking warrior to get where she is today! It's taken so much out of her to achieve her independence and learn to rely on herself. Her recollections of her husband are heart-rending but they explain why she's hyper sensitive or quick to draw conclusions when she senses even a hint of the mistreatment she received in the past. I'm glad she and Jay became friends and gradually developed a level of intimacy that they were both in need of. The pair come with burdened hearts that require a lot of patience and sympathy, and most of all, trust - something that they're both attempting to be better at.
All that being said, I'm sad to admit that I didn't quite feel the story pull me in completely. Sometimes it felt like Kat was listing things she was doing or feeling. It's a bit confusing, really because the flashbacks from her marriage felt more poignant compared to what felt kind of robotic in the present. It seemed like whatever was going on with her took me to just the very surface without allowing me in any further so it felt more like I was observing the motions rather than experiencing along with her. It's odd that I felt that difference but that's how I interpreted things.
Overall, Sun, Sea and Sangria was fine. Aspects of it were interesting like the behind-the-scenes workings of the Heavenly Hunks, their camaraderie, and of course, Kat's metamorphosis from victim to being her own heroine. The island life is an obvious draw. It's just that I wanted something more in the in between; to delve deeper into Kat's mindset but that would probably have taken the story in a different direction than what the author intended. It's still a good read for anyone looking for fun and island love.
Source: ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
July 3, 2020
My first introduction to Victoria Cooke’s writing was when I read and reviewed her lovely novel A Summer to Remember last year, so I was eager to jump into another of her books, especially since her stories are such a great escape from the every-day. In this summer of lockdown, a novel that takes place in Tenerife and features a cast of hunky male dancers was just what I needed.
But, Cooke’s books are never the fluff they might seem. In this novel, Sun, Sea and Sangria, we get a protagonist in Kat who isn’t some idealistic twenty-year-old. Rather, she’s eight years out of a bad marriage, and pointedly not-dating while managing the Heavenly Hunks. It’s a breathtaking relief to encounter a character who has experience in both love and life, and has learned from it, and I really appreciated Kat’s journey – she had healing to do that she’d been compartmentalizing for the better part of a decade, and when love walked – danced – into her life again, she had to prepare herself. I loved that. I loved that even though she wasn’t a fresh-faced college kid, she was still unsure and cautious. I think most of us are, and it made her character seem that much more real.
The leading male, Jay, was, likewise, not as young as the rest of the dancers. He, too, brought experience into the story, even if his initial overtures to Kat were strictly professional.
Dating someone you work with is always a risky proposition, but Cooke makes that a plot point, and does so with the same deftness she does everything else. I had no trouble envisioning any of the characters or settings, though I think this book should be sold with a bottle of sangria on the side.
Overall, this is a lovely, flirty, flight of fancy with just enough realism to keep it from becoming saccharine. The perfect summer read. Even in quarantine.
Goes well with pulled pork sandwiches and drinks with umbrellas and rum. Lots of rum.
But, Cooke’s books are never the fluff they might seem. In this novel, Sun, Sea and Sangria, we get a protagonist in Kat who isn’t some idealistic twenty-year-old. Rather, she’s eight years out of a bad marriage, and pointedly not-dating while managing the Heavenly Hunks. It’s a breathtaking relief to encounter a character who has experience in both love and life, and has learned from it, and I really appreciated Kat’s journey – she had healing to do that she’d been compartmentalizing for the better part of a decade, and when love walked – danced – into her life again, she had to prepare herself. I loved that. I loved that even though she wasn’t a fresh-faced college kid, she was still unsure and cautious. I think most of us are, and it made her character seem that much more real.
The leading male, Jay, was, likewise, not as young as the rest of the dancers. He, too, brought experience into the story, even if his initial overtures to Kat were strictly professional.
Dating someone you work with is always a risky proposition, but Cooke makes that a plot point, and does so with the same deftness she does everything else. I had no trouble envisioning any of the characters or settings, though I think this book should be sold with a bottle of sangria on the side.
Overall, this is a lovely, flirty, flight of fancy with just enough realism to keep it from becoming saccharine. The perfect summer read. Even in quarantine.
Goes well with pulled pork sandwiches and drinks with umbrellas and rum. Lots of rum.
July 6, 2020
Quick warning for an abusive past relationship including gaslighting.
From the outside, Kat's life looks perfect. She's buried her painful past and manages (read: plays mom to) an all-male troupe of dancers in the Canary Islands. Rather understandably, she's a little leery of relationships and spends most of her free time with her hilarious friend Andrea. Jay is looking for work and thinks he can hack it as one of Kat's Heavenly Hunks. He's a bit older than the rest of her dancers, but he knows what he's doing and is an awfully good listener. Too bad he's Kat's employee.
To be honest, Jay was almost too good to be true. Hot, talented, considerate, and incredibly patient with Kat even as her feelings see-sawed all over the place. For a woman pushing 40 (and yay for slightly older heroines!), Kat has an awful lot of growth to do in a short time. While her failed marriage did a number on her, the last eight years have left her in stasis so she's completely unprepared for a new relationship. After a while I got a bit tired of her 'relationships suck' angst but at least she did pull it together at last.
I really loved the family feel of the Hunks. Each of the boys are so distinct but you can tell Kat cares about each of them and is loved in return. As previously mentioned, Andrea is hilarious: an awesome friend, a steady rock, and not too high and mighty to turn up her nose at a bunch of hot guys using her bar as a practice area during the day. It would've been a very different book without Andrea on hand to push Kat to do better.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own
From the outside, Kat's life looks perfect. She's buried her painful past and manages (read: plays mom to) an all-male troupe of dancers in the Canary Islands. Rather understandably, she's a little leery of relationships and spends most of her free time with her hilarious friend Andrea. Jay is looking for work and thinks he can hack it as one of Kat's Heavenly Hunks. He's a bit older than the rest of her dancers, but he knows what he's doing and is an awfully good listener. Too bad he's Kat's employee.
To be honest, Jay was almost too good to be true. Hot, talented, considerate, and incredibly patient with Kat even as her feelings see-sawed all over the place. For a woman pushing 40 (and yay for slightly older heroines!), Kat has an awful lot of growth to do in a short time. While her failed marriage did a number on her, the last eight years have left her in stasis so she's completely unprepared for a new relationship. After a while I got a bit tired of her 'relationships suck' angst but at least she did pull it together at last.
I really loved the family feel of the Hunks. Each of the boys are so distinct but you can tell Kat cares about each of them and is loved in return. As previously mentioned, Andrea is hilarious: an awesome friend, a steady rock, and not too high and mighty to turn up her nose at a bunch of hot guys using her bar as a practice area during the day. It would've been a very different book without Andrea on hand to push Kat to do better.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own
July 4, 2020
Who wouldn't want to read a book about a woman managing a group of hot male exotic dancers on a tropical island?
Whew! Ms. Cooke knows how to reel you in from the start by throwing you into the wild fray of Kat prepping her "boys" to get ready for their next hot and sexy gig. Let me just say I wish I were there in the flesh. ;)
I really enjoyed the romance between Kat and Jay, the newest and oldest member of the Heavenly Hunks. Though Kat doesn't like to mix business with pleasure, they slowly become friends who open up about the pasts they would rather forget, but which still affect them when it comes to relationships. Kat is a strong, savvy manager who cares greatly for the guys and when she needs to make a decision that is best for all of them, she unselfishly sacrifices her happiness for theirs. It takes her some time to come to terms with her insecurities, but she finally makes the right decision. And Jay is someone every woman needs. He is compassionate, considerate, and oh, so hot. His past is heartbreaking and I would have snatched it up in a minute. As for Marcus, Sammy, Paul, Ant, and Hugh...what can I say? Yummy!!!
I relished this fun and romantic story full of hot men and a beautiful setting. I recommend you kick back, grab a Sangria, and immerse yourself in a great summer read! Also, pick up Ms. Cooke's A Summer to Remember for another fun summer read.
Thank you to Ms. Cooke for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Whew! Ms. Cooke knows how to reel you in from the start by throwing you into the wild fray of Kat prepping her "boys" to get ready for their next hot and sexy gig. Let me just say I wish I were there in the flesh. ;)
I really enjoyed the romance between Kat and Jay, the newest and oldest member of the Heavenly Hunks. Though Kat doesn't like to mix business with pleasure, they slowly become friends who open up about the pasts they would rather forget, but which still affect them when it comes to relationships. Kat is a strong, savvy manager who cares greatly for the guys and when she needs to make a decision that is best for all of them, she unselfishly sacrifices her happiness for theirs. It takes her some time to come to terms with her insecurities, but she finally makes the right decision. And Jay is someone every woman needs. He is compassionate, considerate, and oh, so hot. His past is heartbreaking and I would have snatched it up in a minute. As for Marcus, Sammy, Paul, Ant, and Hugh...what can I say? Yummy!!!
I relished this fun and romantic story full of hot men and a beautiful setting. I recommend you kick back, grab a Sangria, and immerse yourself in a great summer read! Also, pick up Ms. Cooke's A Summer to Remember for another fun summer read.
Thank you to Ms. Cooke for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
June 17, 2020
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. You can get your copy herehttps://www.amazon.com/Sun-Sea-Sangri...
This book starts with Andrea’s Sunny Sangria Recipe! This right here seems like a promising beginning to me! Chapter One then begins with “…Sammy needs to be glistening like an Adonis and smelling of coconut in five.” As you can see this book has some extraordinary laugh out loud moments! Even better…” Yes, well you look like a deep-fried sausage and don’t smell much better.” You would think from this introduction to some of our characters that this is going to be about a comedy club, but it is about a Male Review Show called Heavenly Hunks. Kat is their MC and manager and more or less their mother in many ways, from making sure that they do not leave anything behind, booking their gigs and making sure they get to the doctor. We are taken on ups and downs with success and the failures and the reinvention of careers. Social media bashing, love and loss. This book is filled with some drama that isn’t as thick as the drama surrounding us, so it is a nice escape!
This book starts with Andrea’s Sunny Sangria Recipe! This right here seems like a promising beginning to me! Chapter One then begins with “…Sammy needs to be glistening like an Adonis and smelling of coconut in five.” As you can see this book has some extraordinary laugh out loud moments! Even better…” Yes, well you look like a deep-fried sausage and don’t smell much better.” You would think from this introduction to some of our characters that this is going to be about a comedy club, but it is about a Male Review Show called Heavenly Hunks. Kat is their MC and manager and more or less their mother in many ways, from making sure that they do not leave anything behind, booking their gigs and making sure they get to the doctor. We are taken on ups and downs with success and the failures and the reinvention of careers. Social media bashing, love and loss. This book is filled with some drama that isn’t as thick as the drama surrounding us, so it is a nice escape!
September 14, 2020
Kat lives in the Canary Islands and manages an exotic male group called the Heavenly Hunks. She escaped an abusive marriage (BIG TIME coercive control) eight years ago and has made her life as an independent woman, not dating or even thinking about it. A new Hunk joins the group and convinces her to try dating to see how she feels but her marriage holds her back.
I liked this book. It was a solid three stars. There were parts I didn't love or had a couple of issues with but overall, it was generally a good romance. The romantic interest came into her life in the third chapter (maybe a spoiler but it was pretty obvious) and her dating experiences are both very bad and perfection. I love the Hunks. They all treated her with respect and had no romantic interest in her at all. I'm not saying they were perfect gentlemen because they definitely weren't but as Kat goes, they treated her like a mum or a sister.
It was a nice summer, romance read but don't expect the best book you've read all year. Just enjoy it for what it is and you'll be left with a smile on your face.
This was an e-ARC given to me by Netgalley.
I liked this book. It was a solid three stars. There were parts I didn't love or had a couple of issues with but overall, it was generally a good romance. The romantic interest came into her life in the third chapter (maybe a spoiler but it was pretty obvious) and her dating experiences are both very bad and perfection. I love the Hunks. They all treated her with respect and had no romantic interest in her at all. I'm not saying they were perfect gentlemen because they definitely weren't but as Kat goes, they treated her like a mum or a sister.
It was a nice summer, romance read but don't expect the best book you've read all year. Just enjoy it for what it is and you'll be left with a smile on your face.
This was an e-ARC given to me by Netgalley.
June 6, 2020
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for an advanced copy of this book.
Kat left her controlling husband and started life anew in Tenerife as the manager of a successful team of male exotic dancers. When, Jay, a new dancer joins the group they form a friendship and start to share their demons.
The story is set in both Tenerife and Las Vegas with great descriptions of the places that make you feel you are there. I loved all of the boys and their respect for Kat but for some reason I couldn’t quite take to her. I found her background seemed to drag on too long and I got frustrated with her indecisiveness, especially how she carried on when the boys were in Vegas and she was in Tenerife being supported by Andrea (another great character and true friend).
My favourite character was Jay – everyone could do with having him in their life.
This is definitely a sunny holiday beach read and I’m scoring it 3.5 stars as I didn’t really like Kat.
Kat left her controlling husband and started life anew in Tenerife as the manager of a successful team of male exotic dancers. When, Jay, a new dancer joins the group they form a friendship and start to share their demons.
The story is set in both Tenerife and Las Vegas with great descriptions of the places that make you feel you are there. I loved all of the boys and their respect for Kat but for some reason I couldn’t quite take to her. I found her background seemed to drag on too long and I got frustrated with her indecisiveness, especially how she carried on when the boys were in Vegas and she was in Tenerife being supported by Andrea (another great character and true friend).
My favourite character was Jay – everyone could do with having him in their life.
This is definitely a sunny holiday beach read and I’m scoring it 3.5 stars as I didn’t really like Kat.
June 13, 2020
Many Thanks to the author and Netgalley for allowing me to read this book before being published in exchange for an honest review.
This was an ok book for me. I chose it because I thought it will be a bit more spiced up. A group of boys who do shows dancing in hotels and discos around the Canary Islands and they are managed by a British woman who, from the beginning, you realise is really insecure and she hasn´t been out on a date for more than 8 years and suddenly she starts dating a few guys.
I really liked the “other” story. How she, after years of suffering in an abusive marriage was able to fight it and make the correct amends and start over in another country starting her own business. And the friendship relations between the guys and her, and also between her and the lady where they go to practice their show.
You have a few laughs, you could even cry, nice romance book. It was an easy and quick read and it doesn´t make you think much.
3.5 stars.
This was an ok book for me. I chose it because I thought it will be a bit more spiced up. A group of boys who do shows dancing in hotels and discos around the Canary Islands and they are managed by a British woman who, from the beginning, you realise is really insecure and she hasn´t been out on a date for more than 8 years and suddenly she starts dating a few guys.
I really liked the “other” story. How she, after years of suffering in an abusive marriage was able to fight it and make the correct amends and start over in another country starting her own business. And the friendship relations between the guys and her, and also between her and the lady where they go to practice their show.
You have a few laughs, you could even cry, nice romance book. It was an easy and quick read and it doesn´t make you think much.
3.5 stars.
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