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Aloha #1
Try Easy
Photographer Mary "Lou" Hunter has the life she's always dreamed of in Seattle—complete with a great job, doting boyfriend, and a fun-loving best friend.
A free trip to Hawaii changes everything.
Meeting Keoni changes everything.
Keoni Makai is a famous surfer, known on the island for his brave rescues. He’s been burned by tourists his whole life, and he wants nothing to do with them.
Until he meets Lou.
She makes him laugh. She makes him feel. She draws him in.
Keoni shows Lou the best parts of paradise, and they capture more than just the breathtaking views.
But Lou’s life is back in Seattle.
Torn between the perfect man back home, and the vacation fling who has stolen her heart, Lou is forced to make a decision that will shatter someone.
When love is on the line, there’s no easy way out…
A free trip to Hawaii changes everything.
Meeting Keoni changes everything.
Keoni Makai is a famous surfer, known on the island for his brave rescues. He’s been burned by tourists his whole life, and he wants nothing to do with them.
Until he meets Lou.
She makes him laugh. She makes him feel. She draws him in.
Keoni shows Lou the best parts of paradise, and they capture more than just the breathtaking views.
But Lou’s life is back in Seattle.
Torn between the perfect man back home, and the vacation fling who has stolen her heart, Lou is forced to make a decision that will shatter someone.
When love is on the line, there’s no easy way out…
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 17, 2019
130 people are currently reading
1305 people want to read
About the author
Jill Brashear
28 books362 followersJill Brashear is a hopeless romantic and author of swoon-worthy contemporary romances that will leave you breathless. With a pen in her hand and a heart full of love, Jill weaves tales of passion, longing, and happily-ever-afters that will make your heart skip a beat.
From a young age, Jill has been fascinated by love stories, and she's never lost her passion for exploring the intricacies of the heart. Whether she's crafting steamy scenes that will leave you blushing or laugh-out loud moments that will tickle your funny bone, Jill's stories are always full of emotion, depth, and soul.
With her books, Jill hopes to show readers that the journey to finding love is always worth it. So if you're looking for a read that will make your heart sing and your pulse race, pick up one of Jill Brashear's books today. Who knows, you just might fall in love.
From a young age, Jill has been fascinated by love stories, and she's never lost her passion for exploring the intricacies of the heart. Whether she's crafting steamy scenes that will leave you blushing or laugh-out loud moments that will tickle your funny bone, Jill's stories are always full of emotion, depth, and soul.
With her books, Jill hopes to show readers that the journey to finding love is always worth it. So if you're looking for a read that will make your heart sing and your pulse race, pick up one of Jill Brashear's books today. Who knows, you just might fall in love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
March 14, 2020
I loved it so much!!! 💜💜
January 25, 2022
(audiobook+ebook) It was interesting to go back to the beginning of the series after reading its conclusion, a bit like a time machine. It was especially nice to read Keoni’s story, since he’s a sort of ‘Arlésienne’–we talk about him a lot, but we barely see him.
He sure was a compelling character, and a fascinating entry into Hawaiian culture. History and legends, habits and customs, even language and, of course, surfing and the sea–Keoni was an ocean of knowledge, and the reader learns about Hawaii at the same time Lou does. As for Lou, since she’s an amateur photographer, she was another point of view on the island, the newbie point of view, full of wonder and curiosity.
Their romance was nice–connecting through their love for the land and the culture, the mentor and his pupil. They resist the attraction for the longest time, what with their upcoming separation looming. And, most of all, the fact that Lou’s boyfriend is waiting for her in Seattle.
Yep, be prepared, this book is about cheating. If you don’t love the person you’re with, is it cheating? If you aren’t with someone anymore, but you still love them, is it cheating? If you have sex with someone while thinking of someone else, is it cheating? If it doesn’t mean anything to you, should it mean anything to your partner? That’s only some of the questions that don’t really get an answer, but that are raised in the story. If you aren’t comfortable with cheating, though, I would advise you to not read this book.
Surfing is the third important theme. Fighting the element, winning or losing, feeling the ocean–almost whispering to it. It was a powerful feature of Keoni, and it offered beautiful images and moments.
I enjoyed the narration. The male narrator had a subtle but discernable accent that brought a bit of exotism. The female narrator did her job perfectly. Good dual narration.
Quickie
- Series: Aloha #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #retro romance #opposites attract #multicultural romance #hawaii
- Triggers: a lot of cheating, past death
- Main couple: Mary Lou Hunter & Keoni Makai
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + the male narrator’s subtle accent
- – though it was an interesting subject, that was a lot of cheating
He sure was a compelling character, and a fascinating entry into Hawaiian culture. History and legends, habits and customs, even language and, of course, surfing and the sea–Keoni was an ocean of knowledge, and the reader learns about Hawaii at the same time Lou does. As for Lou, since she’s an amateur photographer, she was another point of view on the island, the newbie point of view, full of wonder and curiosity.
Their romance was nice–connecting through their love for the land and the culture, the mentor and his pupil. They resist the attraction for the longest time, what with their upcoming separation looming. And, most of all, the fact that Lou’s boyfriend is waiting for her in Seattle.
Yep, be prepared, this book is about cheating. If you don’t love the person you’re with, is it cheating? If you aren’t with someone anymore, but you still love them, is it cheating? If you have sex with someone while thinking of someone else, is it cheating? If it doesn’t mean anything to you, should it mean anything to your partner? That’s only some of the questions that don’t really get an answer, but that are raised in the story. If you aren’t comfortable with cheating, though, I would advise you to not read this book.
Surfing is the third important theme. Fighting the element, winning or losing, feeling the ocean–almost whispering to it. It was a powerful feature of Keoni, and it offered beautiful images and moments.
I enjoyed the narration. The male narrator had a subtle but discernable accent that brought a bit of exotism. The female narrator did her job perfectly. Good dual narration.
Quickie
- Series: Aloha #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #retro romance #opposites attract #multicultural romance #hawaii
- Triggers: a lot of cheating, past death
- Main couple: Mary Lou Hunter & Keoni Makai
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + the male narrator’s subtle accent
- – though it was an interesting subject, that was a lot of cheating
August 15, 2020
I was given a free copy of this book through the Goodreads giveaway program. This does not in any way affect my opinion. I try to express only my most honest opinion in a spoiler-free way. Unfortunately, there is still always a risk of slight spoilers despite my best efforts. If you feel something in my review is a spoiler please let me know. Thank you.
So for the most part I really liked this story. I liked learning about some of the Hawaiian cultures. I knew very little before this book so if it's inaccurate I would have no way of knowing that, unfortunately. The only reason I can't give this a 5-star rating is how annoyed I am by 'perfect' characters.
Lou is the female lead character. She is an amazing photographer who is described as one of the hottest girls they ever saw. She already has what she considers a perfect fiance, till she meets Keoni of course, and a perfect plan moving forward in life. I can't speak for everyone but I don't find her to be a very relatable character at all. I like my characters to have flaws.
Then there is Keoni. He is this super hot and amazing surfer, who can also do amazing storytelling, guitar playing, and singing. If you visualize me rolling my eyes right now, your right. No one is that good.
Where are the character flaws here? Something to show they are human and not the author's idea of a dream couple? So in the end I had a hard time connecting with the romance because I couldn't connect with the characters. I did love the setting of the story. Makes me want to go to Hawaii. When my annoyance dies down a bit I might consider reading the book in the series.
So for the most part I really liked this story. I liked learning about some of the Hawaiian cultures. I knew very little before this book so if it's inaccurate I would have no way of knowing that, unfortunately. The only reason I can't give this a 5-star rating is how annoyed I am by 'perfect' characters.
Lou is the female lead character. She is an amazing photographer who is described as one of the hottest girls they ever saw. She already has what she considers a perfect fiance, till she meets Keoni of course, and a perfect plan moving forward in life. I can't speak for everyone but I don't find her to be a very relatable character at all. I like my characters to have flaws.
Then there is Keoni. He is this super hot and amazing surfer, who can also do amazing storytelling, guitar playing, and singing. If you visualize me rolling my eyes right now, your right. No one is that good.
Where are the character flaws here? Something to show they are human and not the author's idea of a dream couple? So in the end I had a hard time connecting with the romance because I couldn't connect with the characters. I did love the setting of the story. Makes me want to go to Hawaii. When my annoyance dies down a bit I might consider reading the book in the series.
April 3, 2020
An enjoyable and easy read. It made me long for a Hawaii getaway. The descriptive element of the surfing gave me a new appreciation for the sport and a better understanding of what a surfer feels in those moments. The characters were well constructed. A lovely book.
December 21, 2021
This is my first book by Jill Brashear. I loved the idea of historical romance set in the 60s (1968). Brashear does an amazing job with her descriptions of Hawaii, surfing, photography, and the people living on the island. It was also a lot of fun to visit a time before cell phones, email, and digital photography.
I connected with Keoni and all his friends and relatives. I loved hearing about their close knit community and their traditions. Unfortunately, I struggled to connect with Lou and, to a lesser extent, Penny. The fact is that Lou cheated on Paul (as did Penny on her boyfriend) and the resolution of that didn’t work for me.
Or perhaps it’s that the resolution happened too close to the end of the book. I wanted more time with Keoni & Leo being in a real relationship so I could truly feel their HFN/HEA.
That said, I am looking forward to Declan’s book, Try Me.
Narration:
Kaleo Griffith & Desiree Ketchum were wonderful here. I enjoyed both of their performances and thought they complimented the writing and each other wonderfully.
I received a free copy of the audiobook from Home Cooked Books and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I connected with Keoni and all his friends and relatives. I loved hearing about their close knit community and their traditions. Unfortunately, I struggled to connect with Lou and, to a lesser extent, Penny. The fact is that Lou cheated on Paul (as did Penny on her boyfriend) and the resolution of that didn’t work for me.
Or perhaps it’s that the resolution happened too close to the end of the book. I wanted more time with Keoni & Leo being in a real relationship so I could truly feel their HFN/HEA.
That said, I am looking forward to Declan’s book, Try Me.
Narration:
Kaleo Griffith & Desiree Ketchum were wonderful here. I enjoyed both of their performances and thought they complimented the writing and each other wonderfully.
I received a free copy of the audiobook from Home Cooked Books and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 30, 2021
I should have read the description more thoroughly before agreeing to read this for an honest review.
I have no one to blame but myself.
There are 2 main reasons why I didn't like this but I'll start with this.
Try Easy is written pretty well for a self-published book. The only thing I didn't like about the writing was the occasional repetition - such as names being used too often and sentences starting and ending with the same words or phrases. It took me out of the story every now and then.
Ok here we go. Reason one:
I was enjoying the story until (about halfway through)
and I must have missed this in previous chapters and the book description
I found out Lou had a boyfriend????? And he wasn't a guy she had a thing with every now and then??? How did I miss that??
And I get it, her boyfriend is painted to be a right tool
but that doesn't make it okay
It's simple, we all know it
don't get with someone else if you're already in a committed relationship.
And, even worse, she continued being in that relationship until like 90% of the way through?????
' "I thought you ended things with him."
"I did," she said. "I just haven't told him that yet. I just decided it when I saw you in the lobby of the bank." '
deep breath
gurl....are you for real
break. up. with. him.
Romanticised cheating is not my thing and I hated reading about it. And it's my fault because it was so clearly stated and somehow I managed to miss it.
Here is reason two:
I don't blame the author for this - I should have been more careful about picking this book and I 100% take the blame.
I nearly drowned to death about 3 years ago, and then watched someone I loved nearly drown to death. It was one of the scariest things I've ever experienced and honestly, I was traumatised for months after it happened. But by the Grace of God, we are both alive. Praise the Lord, my hero.
I still love the beach, collecting shells and swimming (this is why the cover was appealing to me)- but when the waves pick up, I always go back to that moment and I'm helpless again.
Throughout this book (especially at the beginning) there are many scenes about being stuck under the water and getting tumbled about by the waves. There is also the mention of a friend drowning. And I just had to put the book down because it was too much for me personally. It wasn't over the top descriptive, but it was enough and it surprised me that it even had such an effect on me.
Again, this is not the author's fault and I'm not blaming anyone for my triggers. But I really should have known better and it made reading difficult at points. (Also, I'm stubborn and hate DNFing books unless they are truly awful)
So, I'm not rating this on the whole drowning trigger thing, because that wouldn't be fair, but on everything else.
Overall,
+ enjoyed the writing (although repetitive)
+ liked the Hawaiian culture and the feel of island life
but didn't like
+ cheating
+ lack of character depth
+ most side characters were pointless
AND FINALLY
Moral of the story, read the book description before agreeing to read and review it!
I have no one to blame but myself.
There are 2 main reasons why I didn't like this but I'll start with this.
Try Easy is written pretty well for a self-published book. The only thing I didn't like about the writing was the occasional repetition - such as names being used too often and sentences starting and ending with the same words or phrases. It took me out of the story every now and then.
Ok here we go. Reason one:
I was enjoying the story until (about halfway through)
and I must have missed this in previous chapters and the book description
I found out Lou had a boyfriend????? And he wasn't a guy she had a thing with every now and then??? How did I miss that??
And I get it, her boyfriend is painted to be a right tool
but that doesn't make it okay
It's simple, we all know it
don't get with someone else if you're already in a committed relationship.
And, even worse, she continued being in that relationship until like 90% of the way through?????
' "I thought you ended things with him."
"I did," she said. "I just haven't told him that yet. I just decided it when I saw you in the lobby of the bank." '
deep breath
gurl....are you for real
break. up. with. him.
Romanticised cheating is not my thing and I hated reading about it. And it's my fault because it was so clearly stated and somehow I managed to miss it.
Here is reason two:
I don't blame the author for this - I should have been more careful about picking this book and I 100% take the blame.
I nearly drowned to death about 3 years ago, and then watched someone I loved nearly drown to death. It was one of the scariest things I've ever experienced and honestly, I was traumatised for months after it happened. But by the Grace of God, we are both alive. Praise the Lord, my hero.
I still love the beach, collecting shells and swimming (this is why the cover was appealing to me)- but when the waves pick up, I always go back to that moment and I'm helpless again.
Throughout this book (especially at the beginning) there are many scenes about being stuck under the water and getting tumbled about by the waves. There is also the mention of a friend drowning. And I just had to put the book down because it was too much for me personally. It wasn't over the top descriptive, but it was enough and it surprised me that it even had such an effect on me.
Again, this is not the author's fault and I'm not blaming anyone for my triggers. But I really should have known better and it made reading difficult at points. (Also, I'm stubborn and hate DNFing books unless they are truly awful)
So, I'm not rating this on the whole drowning trigger thing, because that wouldn't be fair, but on everything else.
Overall,
+ enjoyed the writing (although repetitive)
+ liked the Hawaiian culture and the feel of island life
but didn't like
+ cheating
+ lack of character depth
+ most side characters were pointless
AND FINALLY
Moral of the story, read the book description before agreeing to read and review it!
April 12, 2020
Try Easy is a story that is written with beautiful language that makes you feel like you are actually in Hawaii. I loved how Jill Brashear was able to capture the beauty of the island and make me feel like I was there with the characters. I want to visit the island even more than I did before!
The biggest issue that I had with this story was that the main story line included two women going on vacation and cheating on their long term boyfriends. I did not like Paul from the start, but we never even met Joe. I started to resent both Penny and Lou for having "flings" even though their current relationships might be crappy.
I think the story would have been way better if it were written in a way where I didn't start to hate the main female character.
The biggest issue that I had with this story was that the main story line included two women going on vacation and cheating on their long term boyfriends. I did not like Paul from the start, but we never even met Joe. I started to resent both Penny and Lou for having "flings" even though their current relationships might be crappy.
I think the story would have been way better if it were written in a way where I didn't start to hate the main female character.
March 6, 2019
I read Try Easy in one sitting and fell in love with Keoni and Lou's sweet, sizzling, and modern love story. Their romance is emotionally engaging, adorable, and deeply romantic while the twists and turns of the storyline keep you on your toes and tug at your heart. Bravo to Jill Brashear in her incredibly entertaining and sexy debut novel!
March 25, 2020
Loved it...surf sand and romance...what more could you ask for...
May 15, 2020
In the late 1960’s, fledgling photographer Mary Lou Hunter has always followed the rules to get the life she wants. She plans to marry her picture perfect boyfriend, live in a picture perfect house, and have a picture perfect life. When her best friend invites her on a Hawaiian vacation, Lou and her camera get a shot at something new. But when she steps off the plane and is greeting by a man with a busted lip and the broadest shoulder’s she’d ever seen, Lou realized things aren’t always perfect.
Keoni Makai is a surfing legend on his home island of Oahu. If he could, he’d make surfing his life and reclaim the sport his ancestors created, but the born and bred Hawaiians are still treated as second class citizens in their own homes. Between working at a pineapple cannery by night and surfing by day, he’s been trying to escape his demons, the ones he comes to face with nearly every day on the water. Keoni also has a rule about never getting involved with tourists, even ones who look like Lou.
As the time to Lou’s departure flight draws near, the siren song of the Hawaiian sea entangles her and Keoni in a way neither thought possible.
Try Easy was a good read and a solid travel romance that wasn’t just a cut and dry tale of holiday lust. I curled up on my back deck over several warm afternoons and drifted along the story Brashear wove happily, really never able to guess what would happen next. Every time I thought I had the ending figured out, something else came to pass that was so wonderfully human in that messy way. There was no straight shot to the last page, which was a nice change to some books where you can guess where the story’s heading.
Keoni’s experience as a native Hawaiian was also one I found particularly interesting, from a historian’s standpoint. Hawaii’s entrance into the United States wasn’t some simple signing of papers, but an overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy started by white plantation owners. The racial issues and prejudices began years before Queen Lili’uokalani was forced off her throne and continue to this day. I liked how Brashear touched upon these ongoing issues though Keoni being barred from participating in a local surfing competition, although his white friend, who wasn’t as talented as him, was formally invited.
My only issue with this book is that there wasn’t more! The time jump during Lou’s trip to Hawaii killed me. I’m a huge deal person and thrive on really being in the moment. I would have liked to see the moments between her and Kione really fleshed out, mostly since whenever they did have a scene together, I could really feel the tension between them, which I adored.
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone who misses the feeling of sand between their toes as they’re staying safe at home.
Keoni Makai is a surfing legend on his home island of Oahu. If he could, he’d make surfing his life and reclaim the sport his ancestors created, but the born and bred Hawaiians are still treated as second class citizens in their own homes. Between working at a pineapple cannery by night and surfing by day, he’s been trying to escape his demons, the ones he comes to face with nearly every day on the water. Keoni also has a rule about never getting involved with tourists, even ones who look like Lou.
As the time to Lou’s departure flight draws near, the siren song of the Hawaiian sea entangles her and Keoni in a way neither thought possible.
Try Easy was a good read and a solid travel romance that wasn’t just a cut and dry tale of holiday lust. I curled up on my back deck over several warm afternoons and drifted along the story Brashear wove happily, really never able to guess what would happen next. Every time I thought I had the ending figured out, something else came to pass that was so wonderfully human in that messy way. There was no straight shot to the last page, which was a nice change to some books where you can guess where the story’s heading.
Keoni’s experience as a native Hawaiian was also one I found particularly interesting, from a historian’s standpoint. Hawaii’s entrance into the United States wasn’t some simple signing of papers, but an overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy started by white plantation owners. The racial issues and prejudices began years before Queen Lili’uokalani was forced off her throne and continue to this day. I liked how Brashear touched upon these ongoing issues though Keoni being barred from participating in a local surfing competition, although his white friend, who wasn’t as talented as him, was formally invited.
My only issue with this book is that there wasn’t more! The time jump during Lou’s trip to Hawaii killed me. I’m a huge deal person and thrive on really being in the moment. I would have liked to see the moments between her and Kione really fleshed out, mostly since whenever they did have a scene together, I could really feel the tension between them, which I adored.
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone who misses the feeling of sand between their toes as they’re staying safe at home.
August 13, 2023
I'm definitely a mood/vibe reader - and this was my mood of the moment! Beach, sun, and surfing - so this breezy little romance jumped out at me and I downloaded it on audio, a nice dual narration!! I probably cycled though wanting to give this 3 stars at times, 4 stars at times, and 2 stars at various points too! All in all it was a nice little basic romance with a Hawaiian island vibe!!! I think it's a 3 or 4 books series but I don't think I will continue!
November 19, 2022
this was entertaining for this stressful week but the writing and structure and flow felt like it was the first draft of the novel, I loved the setting and the time period tho gave great vibes
April 27, 2020
Enjoyed this book. Nice easy read that flowed along nicely, didn't get bored with the characters at all.
Complimentary copy of the book from Voracious Readers Only
Complimentary copy of the book from Voracious Readers Only
April 19, 2020
This author has delivered great characters that are well developed and engaging with plenty of chemistry that draw us from the start. The even flow of the storyline kept me entertained.
I received aN advanced review copy for free and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received aN advanced review copy for free and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 11, 2020
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Voracious Readers Only and woah, baby. I wanted to give this a 4.7 star rating.
Apart from two slightly too cheesy scenes, I was hooked into this whirlwind romance from the beginning. While I do normally read this genre, I felt like I was part of this love duo the whole step of the way. Sometimes I felt frustrated and sometimes I felt my heart ready to burst, either with aching or with love.
Brashear did well with bringing this love story to life - not just with the main characters, but with the scenery, the love, and the culture.
Apart from two slightly too cheesy scenes, I was hooked into this whirlwind romance from the beginning. While I do normally read this genre, I felt like I was part of this love duo the whole step of the way. Sometimes I felt frustrated and sometimes I felt my heart ready to burst, either with aching or with love.
Brashear did well with bringing this love story to life - not just with the main characters, but with the scenery, the love, and the culture.
April 15, 2020
Lou travels with her friend to Hawaii for a holiday, and ends up meeting someone who changes her life forever. Things between them are complicated due to past relationships (and current relationships) but the pull between them is undeniable.
This was a sweet, feel good romance story, with loveable characters who just need their happy ever after!
This was a sweet, feel good romance story, with loveable characters who just need their happy ever after!
April 8, 2020
I absolutely loved this book.
I visited Hawaii a few years ago so could relate to the scenes and places and people.
The story line was magical, it helped me relive the feelings I had while in Hawaai, as it really is the most amazing place.
When I stepped off the plane and on to the ground, I felt like I had come home.
This book made me feel like I was there again.
I visited Hawaii a few years ago so could relate to the scenes and places and people.
The story line was magical, it helped me relive the feelings I had while in Hawaai, as it really is the most amazing place.
When I stepped off the plane and on to the ground, I felt like I had come home.
This book made me feel like I was there again.
April 7, 2020
4.5 - rounding up. I enjoyed this book. The story was detailed and descriptive, allowing the reader to become immersed in the story. Lou and Keoni’s love story was engaging, and I didn't want the story to end. I'll read the next book and this author again.
I requested and received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I requested and received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 11, 2020
I received a free copy via Voracious Readers Only.
This was a good book to read on a quick vacation on the beach. It is one that I won't be reading again. While the story was fun, and books that take place in exotic, beach locations make me happy, I wasn't thrilled with a lot of points in this book.
I don't like when authors write in dialects. While I understand that the authors do this to help the readers immerse into the book and characters, I find it takes me away from the story. I have to bring myself out of the narrative to translate what the author is trying to say which frustrates me. I don't enjoy having to work to read a book, especially one that is supposed to be as easy as this.
I felt a lot of the plot drivers were forced and faked. None of them seemed realistic, and if they are realistic, the characters don't react in realistic or understandable ways. It works to move the story along, but it doesn't work to tell the story.
The characters were pretty frustrating as well. I liked Lou a lot in the beginning. I like characters who are photographers. I think it's a fun way to paint the pictures of the story. However, she was overall a weak character with no backbone. She spends a few pages gushing about her blossoming relationship with Paul, but within 24 hours of her vacation is making out with an islander, and that is obnoxious (on that note, this book was much more inappropriate than I can enjoy).
All in all, it is a book I won't pick up again. It was quick to read and had some positive notes, but the negatives outweighed the positives for me.
This was a good book to read on a quick vacation on the beach. It is one that I won't be reading again. While the story was fun, and books that take place in exotic, beach locations make me happy, I wasn't thrilled with a lot of points in this book.
I don't like when authors write in dialects. While I understand that the authors do this to help the readers immerse into the book and characters, I find it takes me away from the story. I have to bring myself out of the narrative to translate what the author is trying to say which frustrates me. I don't enjoy having to work to read a book, especially one that is supposed to be as easy as this.
I felt a lot of the plot drivers were forced and faked. None of them seemed realistic, and if they are realistic, the characters don't react in realistic or understandable ways. It works to move the story along, but it doesn't work to tell the story.
The characters were pretty frustrating as well. I liked Lou a lot in the beginning. I like characters who are photographers. I think it's a fun way to paint the pictures of the story. However, she was overall a weak character with no backbone. She spends a few pages gushing about her blossoming relationship with Paul, but within 24 hours of her vacation is making out with an islander, and that is obnoxious (on that note, this book was much more inappropriate than I can enjoy).
All in all, it is a book I won't pick up again. It was quick to read and had some positive notes, but the negatives outweighed the positives for me.
March 29, 2020
I loved this book.
March 9, 2024
One ticket to Hawaii and a time machine, please.
I almost gave up on this book, it was slow to start but it's definitely worth it.
Jill Brashear has crafted a story with three main characters. Lou, Keoni, and Hawaii.
The gentle but swift way Keoni and Lou fell in love is written beautifully and I was sad the book ended. Their chemistry is almost instant, and the sex scenes were well-written without a lot of cliché or euphemism and packed an emotional punch that showed the development of their burgeoning relationship.
I felt Lou's melancholy looking at the colonist, capitalist modern buildings encroaching on the naturally beautiful Hawaiian landscape. I could easily imagine them exploring Hawaii and Lou listening to Keoni tell tales of old gods and kings.
Keoni's emotions were well crafted and the use of Hawaiian language accentuated his character. The physical description of him adds to the picture of a young Hawaiian surfer shaped with her detailed location and time period.
I was happy Lou ultimately made a choice for herself to be happy and went after who she wanted. She is a great character with flaws and fears.
Bones and Penny were great secondary characters, I hoped for a happier ending for them and perhaps their tale is yet to be written.
I highly recommend this.
I received a free copy through Voracious Readers in exchange for an honest review.
I almost gave up on this book, it was slow to start but it's definitely worth it.
Jill Brashear has crafted a story with three main characters. Lou, Keoni, and Hawaii.
The gentle but swift way Keoni and Lou fell in love is written beautifully and I was sad the book ended. Their chemistry is almost instant, and the sex scenes were well-written without a lot of cliché or euphemism and packed an emotional punch that showed the development of their burgeoning relationship.
I felt Lou's melancholy looking at the colonist, capitalist modern buildings encroaching on the naturally beautiful Hawaiian landscape. I could easily imagine them exploring Hawaii and Lou listening to Keoni tell tales of old gods and kings.
Keoni's emotions were well crafted and the use of Hawaiian language accentuated his character. The physical description of him adds to the picture of a young Hawaiian surfer shaped with her detailed location and time period.
I was happy Lou ultimately made a choice for herself to be happy and went after who she wanted. She is a great character with flaws and fears.
Bones and Penny were great secondary characters, I hoped for a happier ending for them and perhaps their tale is yet to be written.
I highly recommend this.
I received a free copy through Voracious Readers in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2020
What happens in Hawaii...
...might not stay in Hawaii. Lou heads to Hawaii with a friend for a vacation, and to capture photographs. Both ladies have long term boyfriends back home that are forgotten when they're greeted at the airport by two Hawaiian surfing gods. (Rawr). What's described in the title as a fling turns to more quickly, with typical romance back and forth 'should I or shouldn't I' angst. Keoni struggles with his own demons also, another recurring point.
The writing is good, with a small amount of remaining typos. Random words to sound like dialect annoyed, but that can be a pet peeve of mine. (K'den, awrite, heh). Overall a sexy read beautifully set in an amazing island wonderland. An example:
"Lou lowered her camera and stared out at Keoni with her own eyes . She had to admit to herself that she was enchanted with him. It was impossible not to be. Keoni was easy to talk to, and he made Lou laugh even when he wasn’t trying. He was a family man who loved to tell stories about Hawaiian culture, play his guitar, and spend every moment he could in the water. Lou would have traded in everything her parents gave her for the love she knew Keoni’s family shared."
I received a copy for review purposes.
...might not stay in Hawaii. Lou heads to Hawaii with a friend for a vacation, and to capture photographs. Both ladies have long term boyfriends back home that are forgotten when they're greeted at the airport by two Hawaiian surfing gods. (Rawr). What's described in the title as a fling turns to more quickly, with typical romance back and forth 'should I or shouldn't I' angst. Keoni struggles with his own demons also, another recurring point.
The writing is good, with a small amount of remaining typos. Random words to sound like dialect annoyed, but that can be a pet peeve of mine. (K'den, awrite, heh). Overall a sexy read beautifully set in an amazing island wonderland. An example:
"Lou lowered her camera and stared out at Keoni with her own eyes . She had to admit to herself that she was enchanted with him. It was impossible not to be. Keoni was easy to talk to, and he made Lou laugh even when he wasn’t trying. He was a family man who loved to tell stories about Hawaiian culture, play his guitar, and spend every moment he could in the water. Lou would have traded in everything her parents gave her for the love she knew Keoni’s family shared."
I received a copy for review purposes.
March 11, 2020
This was a good book. The beginning was a little slow, but when it picked up it was hard to put down.
Mary Lou Hunter lives on Seattle with her roommate Penny, they both ha boyfriends and have their futures planned out.
Lou and Penny are taking a two week vacation to Hawaii, and
Lou has purchased a new camera lens and film to capture everything.
When they meet Bones and Keoni they never dreamed that their lives would be changed forever. Lou is able to open Keoni up about things that happened in his past that he’s never shared before. They are both drawn to each other as he shows her his island and she captures every moment with her camera.
This is a beautiful love story where two people meet that are destined to be together. The characters are very captivating and will draw you into their world. I think the ending could have been better, but I still recommend this book to read.
Mary Lou Hunter lives on Seattle with her roommate Penny, they both ha boyfriends and have their futures planned out.
Lou and Penny are taking a two week vacation to Hawaii, and
Lou has purchased a new camera lens and film to capture everything.
When they meet Bones and Keoni they never dreamed that their lives would be changed forever. Lou is able to open Keoni up about things that happened in his past that he’s never shared before. They are both drawn to each other as he shows her his island and she captures every moment with her camera.
This is a beautiful love story where two people meet that are destined to be together. The characters are very captivating and will draw you into their world. I think the ending could have been better, but I still recommend this book to read.
October 3, 2020
Book Sirens
2020 Book Hoarders #22. FREEBIE! No Cost to Me!
In exchange for a copy of this book, I promised to write an honest review.
Set in 1960s Hawaii, we watch as Lou (from Seattle) goes on vacation without her fiancé. She immediately meets Keoni, a local surfer of renown who is picking her up at the airport as a favor to a friend. She and Keoni, with hours, start to develop a friendship and an unusual connection. We follow them as they both fight their attraction to each other and how they begin to settle the demons and uncertainties that haunt them.
I loved the book! Maybe it's because I understood the 1960s since I grew up them. AS with most people, I am fascinated by the new state of Hawaii. Yet Brashear develops a story of two unlikely people who are soulmates. I want to read other Aloha stories.
2020 Book Hoarders #22. FREEBIE! No Cost to Me!
In exchange for a copy of this book, I promised to write an honest review.
Set in 1960s Hawaii, we watch as Lou (from Seattle) goes on vacation without her fiancé. She immediately meets Keoni, a local surfer of renown who is picking her up at the airport as a favor to a friend. She and Keoni, with hours, start to develop a friendship and an unusual connection. We follow them as they both fight their attraction to each other and how they begin to settle the demons and uncertainties that haunt them.
I loved the book! Maybe it's because I understood the 1960s since I grew up them. AS with most people, I am fascinated by the new state of Hawaii. Yet Brashear develops a story of two unlikely people who are soulmates. I want to read other Aloha stories.
March 20, 2020
Aww...
This book had the explosive chemistry I am always looking for between the two main characters. Loved their story from the start.
This book had the explosive chemistry I am always looking for between the two main characters. Loved their story from the start.
March 7, 2020
Haven’t read a romance novel in years. Received this unexpected gem in the mail from the Author herself, with a signed copy and a personal note to me!!....was very interested (not to mention impressed and thrilled) and excited to divulge in this little number. You will not be dissatisfied or disappointed. A GoodRead and a for sure 🤙...an excellent recommendation. Pick up this book and get lost in this love story. You will be transformed away to the Islands of Hawaii and ❤️ 💕 !!!!
March 14, 2019
While reading the pages, I was filled with surprise, laughter and tears. It was an easy, fast read - so fast, that I didn't want it to end! Love the tropical, Island setting and the feeling of being back in the 1960's, when times were simpler. This is a classic love story for all ages! Can't wait for the movie!
August 27, 2019
Best book I’ve read all year
Loved the characters, the setting, the writing style. I read this amazing book in one day, and I think I might re-read it tomorrow! The worst part of this book was that it had to end. Maybe the lead characters will have children in a sequel? Hint, hint...
Loved the characters, the setting, the writing style. I read this amazing book in one day, and I think I might re-read it tomorrow! The worst part of this book was that it had to end. Maybe the lead characters will have children in a sequel? Hint, hint...
February 27, 2020
Try Easy is a fantastic surfing love story. I love Lou and Keoni. You can just feel the sparks within the first meeting. You get why they are both scared to start something. And Lou never expected to find her true love while on her Hawaiian vacation. This is just a beautiful love story. I can't wait for more surfer romance to come.
January 21, 2020
I loved this book and can not wait until the next one comes out. The story is entertaining and the writing makes you feel like you are in Hawaii...who doesn’t want that? Excitement, romance and hot guys on surfboards.
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