Finding Paradise

Paradise, Alaska #2

by Barbara Dunlop

Passion heats up in Paradise, Alaska, for two people who couldn't be more different in this sweet, sizzling romance from New York Times bestselling author Barbara Dunlop.

Accomplished Los Angeles lawyer Marnie Anton has always been sensible, but when her friend Mia Westberg asks for help with a ridiculous matchmaking project, she can't say no. The idea of transporting city girls into the small town of Paradise, Alaska, is so crazy it just might...work? Against her best judgment, she tags along. Having grown up in a family of intimidating men, Marnie developed a preference for the urbane lawyers and clients in her life in LA. But when she meets a mountain of a buff Alaskan man with an intriguing snake tattoo, intimidated is definitely not the first thing she feels.

Conrad "Cobra" Stanford was skeptical of the matchmaking event from the start. Big-city women weren't adventurous, they were judgmental. They'd take one look at him and scorn his lifestyle, just like his first love did. Cobra planned to give the women a wide berth, but one of them won't be ignored. Marnie's everything that's wrong and everything that's right for him all at the same time. Just when he thinks he's got her pegged, she blindsides him with a startling past, falling into his arms and igniting his protective instincts and so much more....

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Fiction, Adult, Small Town Romance

336 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published November 30, 2021

About the author

Barbara Dunlop is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over sixty romance and romantic comedy novels, including the new Paradise, Alaska Romance series for Berkley and the recent Gambling Men series with Harlequin Desire. Published in multiple languages across a worldwide market, Barbara’s books have received numerous awards with a number of her stories optioned for film and television.

Reviews

[♥Rachel♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marnie is helping Mia (the heroine from the last book) organize the matchmaking trip for Los Angeles women tired of the local dating scene to the men in Paradise, Alaska. Marnie isn’t looking for a husband and is fond of city living so she wasn’t planning on going with the group. However, last minute the women push for her to come along seeing as she helped put everything together and before you know it Marnie’s in Alaska.

Conrad “Cobra” Stanton, Aircraft Maintenance Engineer for West Slope Aviation, isn’t buying into this matchmaking business and so plans to stay far away from all the dinners and activities. However, it’s hard to stay completely away in such a small town and Marnie catches his eye at every turn. Especially when she surprises him with skills he wouldn’t attribute to an LA lawyer.

I love the thought of leaving the big city behind and moving somewhere remote and beautiful, but this didn’t appeal to Marnie so she didn’t want to get into a romance, yet she couldn’t help her attraction to Cobra. They end up drawn to each other over and over. Attraction leads to lusty kisses and more, but neither want to give up their place in life.

Even though I hate the big city I could understand why Marnie wouldn’t just want to leave after working so hard to become a successful attorney. Especially after her past and all she had to overcome is revealed. Same with Cobra, he was doing what he loved in a beautiful, pristine place. Both were relatable situations. This is a romance, though, so I knew they’d figure things out somehow. I like how they appreciated and supported each other, and I was eager for them to find a way to make their relationship permanent. Even though there were a couple of bumps in the road I enjoyed every minute!

I loved the time spent in Alaska, the activities sounded like a lot of fun and featured the best parts of being out in Alaska. At least, I think so! I’ve never been, but I’d like to go even more so after reading this story. A perfect romance for someone who craves an escape and a change of scenery!

A copy was kindly provided by Berkley Books in exchange for an honest review

[Nursebookie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can a Los Angeles lawyer and a buff Alaskan man have their happy ever after in this heartwarming romance set in Paradise, Alaska? You better believe it, and in this amazing romance, I was transported to the gorgeous Alaskan landscape while my heart warms for this romantic story. Opposites attract between city girl Marnie Anton and small town guy Conrad Stanford - I loved reading about their characters, and how Marnie’s past bring them closer to each other. I love this series…. Be sure to check out Book 1 Match Made in Paradise!

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in Barbara Dunlop’s Paradise, Alaska series and while I enjoyed the first book in this series, I absolutely adored Finding Paradise. L.A. attorney Marnie Anton was happy to help her friend Mia bring willing single women to Paradise for a singles mixer weekend, but she didn’t expect to accompany them. When it became evident the women wanted her with them, she made the snap decision to go and while it causes a bit of problems with accommodations, she is welcomed not only by her friend Mia but others in the tiny town. What she doesn’t expect is to find airplane mechanic Conrad “Cobra” Stanford so interesting and engaging. A quiet, giant of a man, Conrad had no intentions of joining any of the single’s weekend activities but once he sees Marnie, he’s drawn to her like a moth to a flame.

While it seems like Marnie and Cobra are complete opposites, they in fact have a lot in common and I loved the way Marnie surprised Cobra at every turn. It was nice to see a man realize that he’d judged her based on her outward appearance and she was so much more than the polished lawyer. I loved the way they both opened up so much about their past and how it shaped them even though Marnie didn’t divulge everything all at once, Cobra was smart enough to know there was more going on and was patient with her as she worked her way up to telling him everything.

I completely understood why Marnie didn’t want to leave her career and so it thrilled me to no end that Cobra, not only got that but supported her in any way that he could. I also loved that when he made an error in judgment that caused Marnie to flee, he did everything in his power to make it right and more. There’s a lot to say about a man who is willing to put his pride on the back burner, admit he was wrong, fix it, and promise to do better.

Barbara Dunlop captured my interest in the first book of this series, but in Finding Paradise she captured my heart. I cannot wait to see what comes next in this exciting and captivating series.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.

[Sarah | Kerosene.Lit · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was a little wary about the direction this series was heading after book one, to be honest, but this took a turn I really enjoyed. This is definitely a standalone romance, but I should mention there's a storyline that is a continuation from Match Made in Paradise.

Following Cobra and Marnie, both have no personal interest in the matchmaking scheme brought to Paradise, Alaska. Planning to help the women arrive and hightail herself back to LA, lawyer Marnie unexpectedly discovers a spark with the rugged Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. Connecting over their past and family hardships, I loved seeing the quiet Cobra become totally smitten with the visiting city girl.

Despite her LA lifestyle, Marnie had some hidden small-town roots and skills that were fun to uncover. This is a slower paced story, but in a positive way that really immerses you into the Alaskan wilderness. Filled with adrenaline-filled adventures, local competitions, and bear encounters, I loved seeing these characters in action.

And I always love an ending that differs from the norm. This one made me absolutely swoon!

I received an advanced copy from the publisher in exchange for review

[Stacee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had enjoyed the first book in this series, so I was eager to see how the matchmaking event happened.

I really liked Marnie and Cobra. They’re both smart, loyal people who feel separate from their family and friends. I loved reading them find something in each other. Of course, seeing Mia and Silas again was delightful and I’ll just be over here waiting for Raven and Brodie’s book.

Plot wise, it was okay. There’s a lot a lot a lot of push and pull and I did get slightly annoyed at how closed off Marnie could be. Especially after Cobra found out The Secret. I wish these two would have just had a five minute conversation without getting interrupted, but then where would we be?

Overall, it was a great addition to the series and I really hope there’s more. This is a great set of characters in a unique setting and I would definitely love to read more.

**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**

[Denise Wilbanks | This Is My Everybody · Rating 4 out of 5]

BOOK REVIEW: Finding Paradise by Barbara Dunlop
Series: A Paradise, Alaska Romance Series | Book 2

Most Anticipated Books of 2021

T.I.M.E. Book Recipe: Mix Seven Brides For Seven Brothers with The Bachelorette... Mixes nicely without any "creepy factor"... Your story will rise quickly to double in size due to the strong female character leads and fab Alaskan setting... And result in the perfect amount of spice that will leave your tastebuds with a hint of heat without all the details... ✨😎✨

T.I.M.E. Jalapeno Rating: 🌶 (Very Mild)

Pages: 336
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Sub-Genre: Fish Out Of Water Romance | Holiday Romance | Books About Alaska
Time Period: Contemporary
Location: Alaska

IF YOU LIKE THIS BOOK THEN TRY…
Book: Match Made In Paradise by Barbara Dunlop (A Paradise, Alaska Romance Series | Book 1)
Movie: The Proposal

--------------------

All my reviews can be seen at This Is My Everybody | Simple Living | Denise Wilbanks at www.thisismyeverybody.com

♡ Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. I voluntarily chose to review it and the opinions contained within are my own.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

HAPPY PUB DAY REVIEW

A perfect next title in the author’s Paradise, Alaska romance series! I loved the first book and this newest is equally fun! (Isn’t that cover gorgeous?)

💖 While Covid madness swirled outside, I stayed cozily enrapt in this sweet story featuring a matchmaker (Mia from the first book), L.A. lawyer Marnie, and aviation mechanic Cobra. Could you ever imagine true love between a usually sane big-city professional and a gruff but buff Alaskan mountain man?

💖 Never say never when it comes to a Barbara Dunlop romance — that’s what makes her books so compelling. Highly recommended for romance lovers and anyone who longs for an Alaskan escape.

5 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 30 Nov 2021
#FindingParadise #NetGalley

Thanks to Barbara, Berkley Publishing Group, and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up.

I didn't love this second Paradise, Alaska story quite as much as the first but I did REALLY love Cobra and Marnie together as a couple so, so much!! These two couldn't be more different but they compliment each other so well and I loved how sweet Cobra was - a giant big cinnamon roll. The outdoor game competition and the matchmaking service plots were all lots of fun too! Thanks to @prhaudio for a complimentary audio copy in exchange for my honest review. I'm excited to see how this series ends!

[Dikshya Pattnaik · Rating 4 out of 5]

With a matchmaking scheme going on from the previous book of this series, neither Lawyer, Marnie or Aircraft engineer, Cobra have any interest in taking part in the process.
Cobra thinks very little of the big-city women & LA resident Marnie can never imagine herself in the wilderness of Alaska.
But both of 'em unexpectedly discover a spark & connection.

Another great love story based in the Alaskan wilderness, that had my attention throughout. I loved how Marnie & Cobra bonded & connected with each other through shared past stories, fun activities, mutual friends, rifle competitions & what not.

The kinda suspense backstory of Marnie had me curious the whole time. I appreciated how Cobra flew out thousand miles to be there for here. Twice.

Their chemistry was sweet & subtle that added more charm to the story. Despite being a romance novel, the detailed BTS of aircraft maintenance etc was incredibly described.

My only pet peeve would be the fact how Marnie never said 'I love you' even at the end of the book. I mean I get that actions & emotions portrayed it but damn if my hopeless romantic heart wanted to hear those words.

[Tonya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marnie and Cobra do not seem like a perfect fit, or a compatible fit at all at first glance but there is something between them that keeps drawing them together in Finding Paradise written Barbara Dunlop. In Book 2 of the Paradise, Alaska series Marnie is back to coordinate getting a group of single women to the airport to head to Alaska for some fun matchmaking. At the last minute, Marnie is pressured by the women into going along for the ride and she makes it clear she is not there to get married to anyone.

Then she meets Cobra and at first, she is drawn to him because he is also out of this whole matchmaking plan. There is attraction and resistance which leads to a sizzle between the two combined with a bit of stubbornness in both of them.

I liked the first book just a bit better because I thought the character development and characters were better, but book two definitely has appeal. There are side plots and stories that come up that are intriguing along with the Alaska wilderness that I truly miss. I also liked that previous characters were in this book too!

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this advance review digital copy of Finding Paradise for me to read and enjoy. My opinions are my own and my reviews are voluntary.

[Erin (erinevelynreads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Marnie Anton’s best friend Mia comes to her with a matchmaking project, she decides to help. The plan is simple, girls from L.A. will fly to Paradise, Alaska to meet the pilots and mechanics that make up the small town, and hopefully, fall in love. Marnie is only supposed to help with the logistics from L.A., but the girls convince her to fly with them to Alaska. The men of Paradise are all excited for the event, with the exception of Conrad “Cobra” Stanford who does not approve of the matchmaking event. He plans to steer clear of the activities, that is until he meets Marnie.

I loved getting to return to Paradise, Alaska! The first book, Match Made in Paradise follows Marnie’s best friend Mia, who flees to Paradise and falls in love with a pilot, Silas. Finding Paradise focuses on Mia’s friend Marnie, her friend and lawyer, and Cobra, a mechanic who works with Silas. It alternates perspectives between Marnie and Cobra.

I highly recommend Finding Paradise to fans of books set in Alaska, especially The Simple Wild series!

Thank you to Berkley Romance and Netgalley for the review copy! All opinions are my own.

[Brook Obsessed · Rating 4 out of 5]

A heartwarming small town romance where the big city lawyer falls for the grizzly and quiet airplane mechanic. This one has all the same characters I’ve grown to love and the added craziness that comes with living in “The Last Frontier.” A gem of a novel and a great series I look forward to continuing. If you’re a fan of “The Simple Wild” you should give this series a shot.

At the last minute Marnie is convinced to join the girls on their trip to Alaska and almost instantly meets Cobra, who is kicked out of his room to make way for Marnie while she’s in town. The two hit it off and find ways to hang out at every opportunity. Can the big city girl find a way to have a relationship with the small town introvert?

There’s something nostalgic and comforting about returning to the world of Paradise. The people and the setting make this an easy read, perfect during the winter months by an open fire. I enjoyed every second of Marnie and Cobra’s secret relationship and adore the way Cobra goes out of his way to make big gestures that seem so unexpected. This is a hopelessly romantic novel and one I enjoyed during the quiet moments at home.

[Stefanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The crisp air awakened her senses as a bitter wind blew across her face. She could feel the beginnings of an icicle threatening to take over her nose. The snow on the ground glistened and the white blanketing the pine trees was pristine and fresh. She felt alive out here with nothing but nature surrounding her. The mountains in the distance protected the small town and the river snaked through the forest creating a serene sound in the background. This place was heaven on earth and she couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.

Finding Paradise is book two of the Paradise, Alaska series, but it can honestly be read as a standalone.
Marnie is in Alaska on an impromptu trip as she helps get things running for a matchmaking event she has helped start. Little does she know that some matchmaking may be coming her way as well.

The setting of this book was gorgeous and I couldn’t get enough of the Alaskan scenery and the characters were fun to read about. I loved the strength of Marnie’s character!
But… I felt the book was so rushed. There were so many different things happening and things were just flying across the pages without any true fleshing out of the storylines. I also felt the romance was a little forced as well and I just didn’t feel a strong chemistry between the two main characters. I’m not a big instalove fan, and that’s what this romance felt like. Plus, the chasing after Marnie across the country (twice), was a bit odd.

If you’re a fan of fast moving relationships and a gorgeous Alaskan setting, then you may want to give this book a read.

TW: Family in Prison, Death of a Loved One.

*I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.

[Janae · Rating 4 out of 5]

At the end of "Match Made in Paradise" we see that Mia and Marnie are creating a matchmaking program in Paradise, Alaska. Mia got her happy ending so of course, now it's Marnie's turn. Except of course, she doesn't want to live in Paradise. In fact she doesn't even want to go.

Of course, she does find her way there. Once there she meets the rugged Conrad who goes by Cobra. Cobra's nickname suits him. Marnie also suits him, but her life is in LA.

We find many things wonderful in the book. We get to see situations that feel quite life-like. There is imprisoned family members, black sheeps, blue collar and white collar professions, grand gestures of love, and more. This story could happen to you neighbor, and I loved it. I binged the entire thing in one sitting. I wanted more!

Thank you Berkley and Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book for my honest opinion.

[Jenn C Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh I liked Cobra and Marnie's book even more than Silas and Mia! Something about the big tough guy who everyone sees as quiet pairing up with the lawyer who wasn't meant to be there was just perfect. They were obviously interested from the start and nothing was going to get in their way and I loved it. Plus his need to protect her? Sign me up!

[A_Stylish_Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to @berkleyromance for this book. I love books set in Alaska and the opposite attract trope. Marnie and Cobra seems like such an unlikely match and I love that Marnie is such a bad ass with guns and being able to fix cars. I adore the other characters in this book and now need to go back and read Mia’s story.

[Stevie Carroll · Rating 3 out of 5]

Previously reviewed on The Good, The Bad, and The Unread:

I’ve mentioned before that I have a soft spot for stories of any kind that are set in Alaska, dating back at least to when Northern Exposure was first aired in the UK. Having read Annabeth Albert’s delightful trio of gay and bisexual romances, it seemed only fair that I read a heterosexual romance with the same setting for the sake of comparison. I somehow missed the first book in this series when it was released, so I dived straight into the second. although this may not have been the best idea.

Small-town girl done good, Marnie Anton successfully won a legal battle over an inheritance, only for her client to decide that the other side was more deserving of the majority of it and then moved to Alaska to be with her new love. Now Marnie is friends with all of them and finds herself involved in a scheme to match a dozen successful, adventurous LA women with lonely Alaskan men in her former client’s new hometown. Marnie knows all about towns like Paradise and has no wish to return to her roots. However, she is persuaded to tag along at the last minute, purely as as observer, which throws her straight into the path of Conrad “Cobra” Stanford, an ex-Military aircraft engineer. Cobra is intrigued by Marnie, but has no expectation that she, or any of the other women, will stick around when they could have their high-flying careers and day-to-day luxuries back in LA.

Cobra and Marnie have both gone against the expectations of their families – hers were survivalists and criminals, while his were all conventionally successful and expected Cobra to attend a prestigious college and follow a career track similar to the one Marnie chose. On the plus side, they both know their way around an engine and excel at target shooting. Before we get to most of that, though, we spend a bunch of time with the impossibly large cast of career women and their potential beaus. I kind of suspect all will eventually get their own books, but it felt like a massive crowd of people to be introduced to, only for them to mostly disappear into the background – or back to LA – halfway through the story.

I quite liked the subplot about Marnie’s father, uncle, and brother – especially her brother – but Cobra really annoyed me with his belief that he knew what was best for Marnie and could fix any problem she might have by paying for stuff – expensive stuff at that. Unlike the Albert series, there was no acknowledgement that relationships of types other than that of the central pairings might happen: no gay bachelors in Paradise and no bisexual flirting amongst the women from LA. I was also disappointed at the solution to the logistical issue our protagonists faced. They had to jump straight into a full-on relationship, when for once I could have foregone my dislike of epilogues to be told they spent a year or more getting to know each other better before either of them made any sort of commitment to uprooting and moving in together.

All in all, not a series I plan on dipping into again, despite the enticing setting.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deliciously witty, intensely emotional and wonderfully entertaining, Barbara Dunlop’s Finding Paradise is a terrific contemporary romance I couldn’t get enough of!

Los Angeles lawyer Marnie Anton is a city girl through and through. She loves her job and her life in a hustling and bustling metropolis and she cannot imagine what on earth possessed her friend Mia to leave it all behind to settle in Paradise, Alaska. Marnie might only date sophisticated hotshot lawyers, but she cannot help but be intrigued by her friend’s crazy idea to host a match-making event in town where single city girls will have the chance to mingle with Paradise’s most eligible bachelors. Marnie cannot help but be sceptical about this event – until she finds herself in very close proximity to a brooding Alaskan man with a snake tattoo who immediately gets her hot and bothered: Conrad ‘Cobra’ Stanford.

Cobra prefers to give city women a very wide berth. He doesn’t want to be judged and assessed and then found lacking by snooty women who look down their noses at him – just like his first love did. Cobra doesn’t plan on having anything to do with this event – until he meets Marnie Anton and finds himself unable to stop himself from thinking about her. Cobra knows that he should give Marnie a very wide berth, but that soon proves far easier said than done…

Cobra and Marnie might seem like polar opposites, but they are actually more alike than they initially thought. As the chemistry between them intensifies, so too do their feelings for one another and as they start getting closer and closer, they wonder whether they could dare hope to have a future together – until a shocking secret from the past comes to light that threatens to destroy everything.

Will Cobra and Marnie manage to triumph over all the obstacles standing in their way? Or will their differences and their insecurities end up costing them this unexpected chance at happiness?

Barbara Dunlop’s Finding Paradise is a fantastic contemporary romance that delivers delicious repartee, heartfelt emotion, red-hot chemistry and page-turning drama in an irresistible concoction that will delight and enchant readers. Cobra and Marnie are two wonderful characters readers will warm to straight away. It’s hard not to fall in love with them and cheer them on to get their much-deserved happy ending.

A scintillating contemporary romance that sizzles and sparkles, Barbara Dunlop’s Finding Paradise is an enjoyable read that warms the heart, tickles the funny bone and will have readers eagerly awaiting their next visit to Paradise, Alaska.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marnie Anton is a Los Angeles lawyer. One of her best clients, Mia Westberg, met and fell in love with a bush pilot from Paradise, Alaska. Mia left everything behind to move to Alaska to be with her guy. Marnie was asked to help Mia with a matchmaking project where twelve eligible Los Angels young ladies were invited to Paradise to meet the eligible bachelors living there. Paradise having few eligible young ladies living there. Marnie's job was to get the ladies to the airport for their flight to Paradise. At the airport the ladies ended up talking Marnie into going along. Marnie wasn't looking for a match but fate stepped in. Or rather aviation mechanic Cobra Stanford did.

After his stint in the US Air Force Conrad "Cobra" Stanton ended up as the aviation mechanic for West Slope Aviation in Paradise, Alaska. Cobra kept pretty much to himself there. He was one of the few guys opposed to the matchmaking project planned for Paradise. He certainly wasn't expecting to be attracted to pretty redhead Marnie Anton. So okay maybe a little fling with her might not be a bad thing. Forget fling. It's flat out falling in love. Is Marnie onboard though?

Finding Paradise by Barbara Dunlop is the second book in her Paradise, Alaska series. I really enjoyed this storyline. It seems Alaska is a popular setting for romance stories these days. In this case the town of Paradise is located in an area of natural wonder with lots to see and do. Marnie, as a big city dweller, doesn't seem to fit in such a rugged place but it surprises her how much she likes it. I really like Cobra who, as a mechanic, believes himself the black sheep of his family which consists of a doctor, engineer, accountant and a State Senator's aide. It was lots of fun reading about the big fall celebration of the Klondike Challenge. That included such fun competitions as Partner Packing, Snowshoe Racing, Pie Baking, Shooting and Firewood Stacking. Certainly some different kinds of competition. This was a really fun read!

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.

[M. K. French · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marnie Anton is an LA-based lawyer caught up in her best friend's idea of playing matchmaker for the men of Paradise, Alaska. Twelve women interested in meeting the men and possibly relocating to Alaska are selected for the first run of this matchmaking program, and they ask Marnie to tag along. Against her better judgment, she does. There she meets Cobra, ex-Air Force, and hesitant to think this scheme will work. The two bond almost instantly, and neither of them is what the other thinks they would be.

I enjoyed seeing the friendship that Marnie and Mia have, that even if they don't see eye to eye about living in Alaska and leaving behind the big city life, they still support and love each other. The landscapes in Alaska are beautifully described, as are the moments that help Marnie and Cobra connect. She's the odd one out of her family by going into law when her family was concerned with being off-grid and having survivalist knowledge, he's the odd one out of his family by not being a white-collar professional. As much as they don't want to take part in the matchmaking festivities, they get along very well, and Mia convincing Marnie to stay longer only allows them more time to get to know each other. Cobra is there for Marnie when stressed, and is also a source of stress for her; he loves it in Alaska and she loves being in a big city and letting her career take off. The discussions they had felt very real and heartfelt, so that I was right there with them when they inevitably separated before their reconciliation and happily ever after after.

This is the second Paradise, Alaska novel, but I hadn't read the first one. I suspect it's Mia's story, given that they're the first couple between the big city woman and small-town man and are the template for the matchmaking program that set up this novel. I don't miss anything from starting with this story, and Mia's romantic model seems like any other bit of backstory for our heroine. I had a lot of fun reading this book, and I think you will, too.

[Thindbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

*this e-arc was sent to me by the publisher to give an honest review in return*

I really enjoyed reading this book! It's about lawyer Marnie who ends up in Alaska for a matchmaking project where she meets Cobra but her LA lifestyle is not something that she wants to give up. So when I started this book, I didn't know this was book two of the series but apparently it could be read as a standalone which is great! I really enjoyed the story plot line which I was hooked from page one. The author's writing is very well done as it was entertaining with many romantic conflicts thrown in. The pacing was well done but I have to say that the story kind of dragged on longer then necessary. Other then that the writing was well done.

This book is written in both Marnie and Cobra's pov. Marnie is a lawyer who had a hard past and made a new life for herself while Cobra ran away from the city life. I enjoyed both character's story and seeing their character development. There there are the side characters who are very well written along with the main characters and I can totally see some potential books coming for them. The main characters from book one are mentioned in this book as side characters and now I need to read their story as it sounds like they had an enemies to lovers romance. Well for the romance in this book, it was friends to lovers also instant love. The romance was really cute and an enjoyable story but I wished their were steamy scenes as a couple would have sex but you don't notice they are until they say they did.

The ending was well done and I can't wait for book three. I just love how this book takes place in Alaska with hot guys with great romance. I wish it was more steamy for my liking but overall this book was amazingly written. I totally recommend reading this book as it's totally worth it. It's perfect for fans of Schitt's Creek and It Happened One Summer.

[Smitten · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Marnie wasn’t here to participate in the matchmaking weekend. She didn’t mind helping with the event. And hanging out with Mia again was going to be a load of fun, but she had no intention of interacting with Alaskan men looking for romance. She was an introvert at heart, and she loved the city. She was the last person who’d have screened in as a potential match for an Alaskan man, and she wouldn’t risk giving anyone the wrong idea about her future.”

Marnie Anton is a successful and driven lawyer who is sensible to a fault, but when one of her friend’s asks for help with a matchmaking project she can’t resist helping out with her crazy scheme. Will it work? Who knows, but Marnie knows that she can’t leave her friend undertaking it alone. She has to transport big city women to a matchmaking event in Paradise, Alaska, but will Marnie find her true love there too?

Conrad Cobra Stanford is your typical ruggish and handsome Alaskan mountain man, but he doesn’t have the patience for a foolish matchmaking scheme. Neither him nor Marnie were looking for a match with each other, but fate had other plans for them.

Do you like Hallmark movies? Because if you do then then you should stop what you are doing and read this book right now. I love Hallmark movies. Yes, they’re cheesy and silly, but is there anything better than a big city lawyer finding love with a small-town ex- Air Force hero? I think not. Is the premise a little out there? Absolutely. It was endearing though, and these characters found a way to weave themselves around my heart a little bit. I think with everything going on in the world, these small-town romances are a means to escape to a simpler life one not burdened by our worries or our struggles. This is the perfect read to curl up with this winter if you’re looking for something to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Fans of romances set in Alaska like those of Alanna Martin may find this read to be immensely enjoyable.

~ Michelle

[Pj Ausdenmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alaska seems to be the setting of choice for contemporary romances lately and I'm okay with that. I love the rugged country, the pioneer spirit, the wildlife, and pretty much everything else that goes along with life in our 49th state.

This was my first Barbara Dunlop book. I will definitely be reading more, beginning with book one of this series: Match Made in Paradise. You don't have to have read that book in order to enjoy Finding Paradise but Mia and Silas pulled me in and left me wanting to experience their story too.

Dunlop's characters are all well developed and intriguing. There are already several secondary characters from Finding Paradise that I'm eager to know better. As for the main couple of this book, I was intrigued with Marnie and Cobra from the get-go and thoroughly enjoyed them. Much of their journey is filled with fun, adventure, and sizzle but they also both turned out to be more complex than I had anticipated. I appreciated the depth that the past - and current - situation with Marnie's family brought to her character and how it influenced her decisions. And she wasn't the only one dealing with difficult family dynamics. In the end, both Marnie and Cobra had very satisfying growth arcs. I was in their corner all the way and happy with the conclusion to their story.

With going into spoiler territory, I will also say that I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a story featuring a person close to Marnie who - like her - deserves a chance for a happy ending.

If you enjoy small-town romance with adventure, rugged men, strong women, and hard-won happily-ever-afters, give this series a try. I'm already looking forward to my next visit to Barbara Dunlop's Paradise, Alaska.
4.5 Stars
ARC received for fair and unbiased review

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

*4.5 stars*

Loved Marnie and Cobra!

Fill a plane with city women, fly them to a small town in Alaska and wait for the sparks to fly. It sounds like a Hallmark movie, doesn’t it? I’m not going to lie, I was leery of this plotline. Reality show meets Grizzly Adams? It didn’t take me long though to figure out this was going to be a whole lotta fun! I really enjoyed the first read in this series and Marnie and Cobra – and the host of other irresistible characters – now have me wanting to move to Paradise. Permanently…

Marnie was a city lawyer but that didn’t mean she didn’t know how to take care of herself. Calm, cool under pressure, she was content with her life in LA and the career path she was on. Cobra had nothing but disdain for the matchmaking going on in the Alaskan town he called home. He was content to stay in the background, observing the goings on from the safety he found behind a quiet demeanor and less than welcoming façade. They talked, they fought, and the revelations kept coming.

Full of heart, humour and warmth, I loved every moment of their courtship. Getting to know them had me up all night, unable to put down their story even for a little bit. I found the ending too quick but I really just didn’t want their romance to end… I sure hope there is more to come for this lovely town – and more from these two for sure. Bring it on!

*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to NetGalley

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went into Finding Paradise with a bit of uncertainty. I knew that the first book (Match Made in Paradise) was decent, but it didn't fully wow me. So I had that playing in the back of my mind.

I will say, I was pleasantly surprised by Finding Paradise. Returning to Paradise Alaska with the group of women was going to be a wild ride. Especially since none of them had been in the town before, it was totally going to be a fish out of water experience. Granted the women had been thoroughly vetted, but still.

The relationship between Marnie and Cobra grabbed my attention away from all the other "matchmaking" that was attempting to happen. Looking at the two, you wouldn't think they'd work, but yet they did. Especially was Marnie revealed more and more of her skills (as well as her past). She showed how easily she'd be able to fit into this small town, as well as be perfectly suited for Cobra.

I also loved how Marnie jumped in where ever she could to help out. Whether it was with the matchmaking group, the community, with Cobra, or even with Mia, it just speaks to her character.

There was so much of this book that I enjoyed. That being said, the ending wasn't my favorite. Granted it works for Marnie, but in my heart of hearts I wanted something a tidbit different. Honestly, I wanted her to make a grand gesture for Cobra.

Now when do we get Brodie and Raven's story?

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another cute story in Paradise Alaska between two strong and stubborn individuals. Marnie is a LA lawyer with an interesting background she thought she left behind but something about Paradise Alaska and a rugged mechanic named Cobra brings it out in her. Cobra was uninterested in the matchmaking endeavor from the beginning until he sees Marnie, who wasn’t even supposed to be there, and something inside him changes. Can these two be more than a weekend fling or will their strong personalities clash too much?

Marnie and Cobra has chemistry together and strong personalities. Marnie brings out the protectiveness in Cobra and his strong desire to see her happy. Marnie is overwhelmed by her feelings for Cobra and unsure how they fit in the life she’s built. Once they realized what was important to them and each other, they were able to meet in the middle and both be happy moving forward.

Finding Paradise is the second book in Barbara Dunlop‘s Paradise Alaska Romance series and I hope Raven and Brodie’s story is the next one in the series. These books are well written and easy to read small town romance stories set in beautiful Alaska.

Thank you @netgalley and @berkleypub for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.

[JoAnne · Rating 4 out of 5]

FINDING PARADISE is the second book in the PARADISE, ALASKA series. It was nice to be back and reunited with many characters we've met before. The scenery is rustic and vivid and I could picture being there. There was wildlife, outdoor activities, beautiful descriptions of the mountains, animals, homes, competitions as well as a more rugged lifestyle.

This is Marnie and Cobra's story and there's a lot of depth to the characters. They each have secrets and lives they enjoy but are distanced from their families. I liked how they connected but it was heartbreaking to see they weren't on the same page with his life in Alaska and hers in LA. But could that be changed? There are many stories being told and they are woven nicely together. The story had a good flow and I laughed a few times at some of the antics. There is nice closure and a happily ever after with compromises but definitely more stories to tell. I look forward to returning to Paradise over and over again! The cover is spot on and drew me in.

Ms. Dunlop is an almost new author to me and whose books I look forward to reading. This is only the second book of hers that I've read, but I plan to correct that. I've added some of her books to my TBR pile.

[Lynne Spreen · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this second book in the Paradise, Alaska series, the author focuses on uptown girl Marnie Anton, a shiny LA lawyer for Mia’s fashion enterprise (whom we met in book one). On an uncharacteristic whim, Marnie boards the second flight of single women heading for a weekend in Paradise, a scheme Mia cooked up to help bring romance to the men of the town. When Marnie deplanes, Cobra is drawn to her immediately. He’s the quiet giant who serves as the town’s aviation mechanic, one of the few in town who think the romance weekend ventures are ridiculous. He’d planned to lay low while the women were about, but he can’t take his eyes off the petite redhead, and soon, sparks are flying.

Barbara Dunlop is really good at creating appealing characters. When I finished book one, I had a feeling she would feature Cobra in the next, and I couldn’t wait! In this story, you know Cobra and Marnie are perfect for each other, which they quickly acknowledge to themselves and each other. The only mystery is how they’ll come together due to their big city/small town divide. In the meantime, Paradise is a great setting with a lot of fun people in it, and I can’t wait for the next installment.

[Izzy | ilashreads · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really do love small-town romances, and after reading Match Made in Paradise I knew that I had to keep reading the Paradise, Alaska series. Finding Paradise can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading Match Made in Paradise first.

Both Marnie and Cobra have no interest in being part of the matchmaking process happening in Paradise, Alaska. Marnie is a lawyer that ends up on a plane to Alaska, where she meets Cobra, an engineer. Sparks fly from the moment they meet. As Marnie spends more time in Alaska, she recalls her past that made her a sharpshooter and prepared her for the wild. As they bond over being the black sheep of their family, they spend more and more time together.

I wish that I would have felt a stronger connection between Marnie and Cobra. I felt more interested in what was going on with Marnie's family than the romance or the matchmaking business.

Regardless, I can't wait for the next book and am praying that it's going to be Brodie and Raven's story.

Thank you to Berkley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just love small-town romance, and when it's set in Alaska, I am completely unable to pass it up. Finding Paradise brings us back to the Paradise, Alaska series, and I enjoyed this one as much as the series opener, Match Made in Paradise. I'll go ahead and say now that this can be read as a standalone, but there are crossover characters and there's a continuing storyline - it's explained, but it is there.
Our romantic couple this time around is Marnie and Cobra, and they have some really good chemistry going on. There's a lot of push and pull between them, and I kept wanting them to just have a dang conversation but had that happened sooner, we'd have missed out on all the fun. It is a romance, but there's also adventure and excitement that comes with the location, so this one has a little of this and a little of that, and it all comes together wonderfully.
The Paradise, Alaska series is my first experience with Barbara Dunlop, and I'm liking what I see. The characters are likable, the stories are engaging, and I'll definitely be watching for the next book in the series.