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Suite Dreams #4
Gaycation in Paradise
On the run from scandal, Rook is about to get in even more trouble with sassy Aldo. Is he ready to risk his career for love?
Rook Warrick
As one of Hollywood’s most bankable action heroes, I have a reputation for always defeating the bad guys and getting the girl in the end. When a video of me passionately kissing my male co-star outs me from the closet and puts my career in jeopardy, I run away to a luxurious resort in the Maldives to hide out until the scandal blows over. That’s where I meet Aldo, my sassy live-in butler. My world feels like it’s collapsing around me, but he brightens my days and sees the real me that I’ve had to keep hidden. Our repartee turns my unwanted sabbatical into a true vacation in paradise.
Plus, the longer I’m around Aldo, the more his playful innuendos make me think things I really shouldn’t about a baby-faced twenty-year-old. Even worse, I think I’m actually starting to fall in love with him for real. But how can it be wrong when it feels so right?
Aldo Farnese
It’s no wonder Rook is tightly wound when he’s a gay man who has spent his entire professional career pretending to be a straight movie star. He needs someone laid-back like me to help him relax as I take care of all his needs. It starts as a fun way to make both of us feel better as we pass the time, but it quickly becomes so much more than that.
I’ve never been interested in a committed relationship, but Rook makes me want that with him. I know he could be the perfect boyfriend for me, but how can I convince him to give us a chance to star in our own romantic happily ever after?
Gaycation in Paradise is the fourth book in the Suite Dreams series and part of the Sunnyside universe. This novel features a celebrity/regular guy, age gap, opposites attract romance. If you love cute sweetness, sexy fun, and no angst stories that will make you laugh and swoon, you’ll enjoy this satisfying HEA without cliffhangers. Each book can be read as a standalone or as part of the series in order.
Rook Warrick
As one of Hollywood’s most bankable action heroes, I have a reputation for always defeating the bad guys and getting the girl in the end. When a video of me passionately kissing my male co-star outs me from the closet and puts my career in jeopardy, I run away to a luxurious resort in the Maldives to hide out until the scandal blows over. That’s where I meet Aldo, my sassy live-in butler. My world feels like it’s collapsing around me, but he brightens my days and sees the real me that I’ve had to keep hidden. Our repartee turns my unwanted sabbatical into a true vacation in paradise.
Plus, the longer I’m around Aldo, the more his playful innuendos make me think things I really shouldn’t about a baby-faced twenty-year-old. Even worse, I think I’m actually starting to fall in love with him for real. But how can it be wrong when it feels so right?
Aldo Farnese
It’s no wonder Rook is tightly wound when he’s a gay man who has spent his entire professional career pretending to be a straight movie star. He needs someone laid-back like me to help him relax as I take care of all his needs. It starts as a fun way to make both of us feel better as we pass the time, but it quickly becomes so much more than that.
I’ve never been interested in a committed relationship, but Rook makes me want that with him. I know he could be the perfect boyfriend for me, but how can I convince him to give us a chance to star in our own romantic happily ever after?
Gaycation in Paradise is the fourth book in the Suite Dreams series and part of the Sunnyside universe. This novel features a celebrity/regular guy, age gap, opposites attract romance. If you love cute sweetness, sexy fun, and no angst stories that will make you laugh and swoon, you’ll enjoy this satisfying HEA without cliffhangers. Each book can be read as a standalone or as part of the series in order.
223 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 21, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
July 30, 2022
So this is absolutely one hundred percent over the top and I loved every second of it.
Read
June 23, 2022DNF I wouldn’t have started this if I’d realized the little fem guy was going to be the Dom. That’s a real turn off for me. I don’t like Daddy books and I don’t like fem Doms. If you like those kinks then there are plenty of books to satisfy your reading desires. There are also plenty of books to satisfy mine. Why would I read something I won’t enjoy? I left no star rating because the book is well written and I wouldn’t want to hurt a good author’s rating.
January 6, 2022
Oh, this was a sweet surprise. It was my first book by this author and I loved Rooks and Aldos story.
Yes, I think the start if their romance was a bit quick and not very realistic . .. especially if you consider why Rook is there. I think it would have been better if they had some time together before falling in love or Lust but that is just me.
In the whole this was a very sweet love at first sight story with great characters and an awesome secondary cast. I will definitely read some other books just to get their stories.
The ending could have been longer... but OK, hopefully there will be two other books at least where we can get more of Rook and Aldo.
If you are looking for a sweet love story, this is perfect
Yes, I think the start if their romance was a bit quick and not very realistic . .. especially if you consider why Rook is there. I think it would have been better if they had some time together before falling in love or Lust but that is just me.
In the whole this was a very sweet love at first sight story with great characters and an awesome secondary cast. I will definitely read some other books just to get their stories.
The ending could have been longer... but OK, hopefully there will be two other books at least where we can get more of Rook and Aldo.
If you are looking for a sweet love story, this is perfect
December 26, 2021
I’ve loved all the books in this series but I think this one is my favourite.
Aldo is small but with a huge strength of character and against the larger Rook he is so cute and adorable. I loved that he knew when to take charge of Rook but also when to let himself be dominated. They made for a fantastic couple and their story was lovely.
I also liked that the author brought in a few characters from others of her books and they were wonderful additions and rounded out the tale nicely.
This was an upbeat age gap, instant attraction read, full of emotions, heat, fun and a satisfying HEA.
I received a copy of this book from GRR to review and this is my honest and voluntary opinion.
Aldo is small but with a huge strength of character and against the larger Rook he is so cute and adorable. I loved that he knew when to take charge of Rook but also when to let himself be dominated. They made for a fantastic couple and their story was lovely.
I also liked that the author brought in a few characters from others of her books and they were wonderful additions and rounded out the tale nicely.
This was an upbeat age gap, instant attraction read, full of emotions, heat, fun and a satisfying HEA.
I received a copy of this book from GRR to review and this is my honest and voluntary opinion.
December 22, 2021
Sooo cute, toppy Aldo falls for the forced out of the closet Rook.
While hiding out from the paps, Rook meets his live in butler Aldo. As Rook is a normal relaxed person, he requests Aldo be himself. What a request that is.... Aldo is sassy, funny, snarky. He doesnt allow himself time to be bored. By being himself, he allows Rook to decompress and find what he wants in his life and career.
I adored the previous characters and how they helped Rook find his way.
While hiding out from the paps, Rook meets his live in butler Aldo. As Rook is a normal relaxed person, he requests Aldo be himself. What a request that is.... Aldo is sassy, funny, snarky. He doesnt allow himself time to be bored. By being himself, he allows Rook to decompress and find what he wants in his life and career.
I adored the previous characters and how they helped Rook find his way.
December 27, 2021
This is a sweet low angst story and I loved it. Actor has always been in the closet due to his career but gets caught on camera kissing a co star. He goes to a tropical island to escape the media. He is being looked after by the younger butler Aldo. Despite their age difference they get on well and have tons of chemistry. I enjoyed reading about their journey and I also thought it was refreshing that Aldo accepts Rook helping him get his dream job without a fight.
I loved reading this story 💜
I loved reading this story 💜
March 18, 2022
Incredible
I loved this book so much. Rook and Aldo’s story was beautiful and sweet and delightfully funny.
And the video call scene Aldo has with his siblings? One of my favorite scenes in the whole series. So good.
I loved seeing Rook grow as a person, too, especially as he works through the unfortunate circumstances he found himself in, and I loved the part Aldo played in that.
These two. *happy sigh* All the stars.
I loved this book so much. Rook and Aldo’s story was beautiful and sweet and delightfully funny.
And the video call scene Aldo has with his siblings? One of my favorite scenes in the whole series. So good.
I loved seeing Rook grow as a person, too, especially as he works through the unfortunate circumstances he found himself in, and I loved the part Aldo played in that.
These two. *happy sigh* All the stars.
December 27, 2021
This was a nice May December cinderfella romance.
Absolutely zero angst, everything fit perfectly. No drama and adorable couple.
The L word said right after a few days pf f*cking...um, dating.
And they lived happily ever after.
Absolutely zero angst, everything fit perfectly. No drama and adorable couple.
The L word said right after a few days pf f*cking...um, dating.
And they lived happily ever after.
January 17, 2023
3.5 stars
September 21, 2024
'Gaycation in Paradise' (Suite Dreams, #4)
by Ariella Zoelle (paperback) (and Kindle)
November 2026
Update: rereading (yet again) What can I say? This storyline makes me laugh!
Multi-talented spitfire Aldo is one of my all-time favorite characters!
Kind of a mashup between a Hallmark-type romance and gay erotica! Fun times!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
July 2026 This is back on my re-reading stack as it's a really easy fun book to read! I tend to jump around with whatever I'm reading, mixing fiction and non-fiction, the heavier themes with the lighter.
This would be in my "beach book" category, like if you're looking for something light & easy, along the lines of "erotic Hallmark" (yes, I know, it's an oxymoron, lol), and insta-lust with snark.
So, here we are again, enjoying one of my fave MM themes, a sort of forced-proximity situation! This book alway has me laughing (well, except for the homophobic bits).
And being a foodie person, I love the food-chats about whatever the characters are cooking up, plus appreciate the author's attention to detail both in the storyline and in the extras on her website newsletters where she shows photos and descriptions of some of her inspirations, both the amazing foods and other things such as locations, buildings, clothing...well, you get the drift.
You can drool over the guys, or you can drool over the food, or you can (like me) drool over both! ;-)
Not to mention the push-pull of the intense sexual tension flying between them!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Previous review:
This book and the previous one, 'Love at Fourth Sight', are my two favorite books in this series! There's just something about well-written silliness that brightens up a cloudy day...or any day, really!
There were some really funny bits in here; one made me snort-laugh my cuppa java all over the table...thankfully missing the book!
And OMG, did these guys steam up the whole neighborhood! Hot-hot-hot! doesn't even begin to describe their sexual chemistry!
I loved the character of Aldo so much (one of my all-time fave characters, along with his polar-opposite grumpy-chef brother, in the previous book). A small in stature but strong athletic guy, his snarky personality was off-the-charts! He could definitely hold his own, and then some!
And, it was too cool that he got to meet both:
1. one of his wanker-worthy film-idols!
2. and his favorite world-class French photographer!
And what happened after that...?
(you'll have to read it find out; no spoilers)
Two thumbs up! 👍👍
by Ariella Zoelle (paperback) (and Kindle)
November 2026
Update: rereading (yet again) What can I say? This storyline makes me laugh!
Multi-talented spitfire Aldo is one of my all-time favorite characters!
Kind of a mashup between a Hallmark-type romance and gay erotica! Fun times!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
July 2026 This is back on my re-reading stack as it's a really easy fun book to read! I tend to jump around with whatever I'm reading, mixing fiction and non-fiction, the heavier themes with the lighter.
This would be in my "beach book" category, like if you're looking for something light & easy, along the lines of "erotic Hallmark" (yes, I know, it's an oxymoron, lol), and insta-lust with snark.
So, here we are again, enjoying one of my fave MM themes, a sort of forced-proximity situation! This book alway has me laughing (well, except for the homophobic bits).
And being a foodie person, I love the food-chats about whatever the characters are cooking up, plus appreciate the author's attention to detail both in the storyline and in the extras on her website newsletters where she shows photos and descriptions of some of her inspirations, both the amazing foods and other things such as locations, buildings, clothing...well, you get the drift.
You can drool over the guys, or you can drool over the food, or you can (like me) drool over both! ;-)
Not to mention the push-pull of the intense sexual tension flying between them!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Previous review:
This book and the previous one, 'Love at Fourth Sight', are my two favorite books in this series! There's just something about well-written silliness that brightens up a cloudy day...or any day, really!
There were some really funny bits in here; one made me snort-laugh my cuppa java all over the table...thankfully missing the book!
And OMG, did these guys steam up the whole neighborhood! Hot-hot-hot! doesn't even begin to describe their sexual chemistry!
I loved the character of Aldo so much (one of my all-time fave characters, along with his polar-opposite grumpy-chef brother, in the previous book). A small in stature but strong athletic guy, his snarky personality was off-the-charts! He could definitely hold his own, and then some!
And, it was too cool that he got to meet both:
1. one of his wanker-worthy film-idols!
2. and his favorite world-class French photographer!
And what happened after that...?
(you'll have to read it find out; no spoilers)
Two thumbs up! 👍👍
January 14, 2022
I rounded up the rating for this story from 2.5 stars. If you enjoy insta-love, age gap stories, you'll most likely enjoy this one. Bishop "Rook" Warwick, the famous Hollywood actor hiding from a scandal that could end his career, meets Aldous "Aldo" Farnese, who is the butler assigned to him by the resort on his trip to the Maldives. Aldo is almost two decades younger than Rook, but he's just what the older man needs...a friendly, trustworthy, eminently sexy, and lovable supporter. It's a low-angst tale about how they find love with each other and how Aldo receives an offer he can't refuse from another celebrity idol of his and moves back to the States to pursue his dream job. I found the storytelling technique to be somewhat awkward and the characters to be unbelievable in some places. Sometimes the things they said sounded more like the author's voice than theirs, and there was also a lot of repetition of ideas. Even their nicknames for each other were a little cringy.
November 28, 2021
Wow. This series has been fantastic, but this is definitely my favorite book. Aldo & Rook are so amazing together. I love how they brought each other something they each didn't know was missing. This can be read as a standalone, even with the appearance of several characters from pervious books (and a previous series) but I HIGHLY recommend reading the entire series. Read the previous one as well!
December 29, 2021
2.5 stars Too insta and surface level perfect for my tastes. It was a situation that should have had at least *some* angst/complication/drama considering the plot and circumstances of the characters, but everything was easily solved and tied up in a neat little bow. My least favorite of this series.
June 8, 2024
old post reposted
The next stop in Ariella Zoelle's Sunnyside universe is the Suite Dreams series (they all take place at Luxuriant Suites Hotels, hence the suite/sweet dreams pun). The fourth book is "Gaycation in Paradise."
["On the run from scandal, Rook is about to get in even more trouble with sassy Aldo. Is he ready to risk his career for love?
Rook Warrick
As one of Hollywood’s most bankable action heroes, I have a reputation for always defeating the bad guys and getting the girl in the end. When a video of me passionately kissing my male co-star outs me from the closet and puts my career in jeopardy, I run away to a luxurious resort in the Maldives to hide out until the scandal blows over. That’s where I meet Aldo, my sassy live-in butler. My world feels like it’s collapsing around me, but he brightens my days and sees the real me that I’ve had to keep hidden. Our repartee turns my unwanted sabbatical into a true vacation in paradise.
Plus, the longer I’m around Aldo, the more his playful innuendos make me think things I really shouldn’t about a baby-faced twenty-year-old. Even worse, I think I’m actually starting to fall in love with him for real. But how can it be wrong when it feels so right?
Aldo Farnese
It’s no wonder Rook is tightly wound when he’s a gay man who has spent his entire professional career pretending to be a straight movie star. He needs someone laid-back like me to help him relax as I take care of all his needs. It starts as a fun way to make both of us feel better as we pass the time, but it quickly becomes so much more than that.
I’ve never been interested in a committed relationship, but Rook makes me want that with him. I know he could be the perfect boyfriend for me, but how can I convince him to give us a chance to star in our own romantic happily ever after?"]
The last series had a theme of best-friends-to-lovers and this one has a theme (besides the vaca one) of me?-fall-in-love?-ha!-that-will-never-happen. Poor Aldo, never saw it coming.
These two, man...I just... They were so playful and honest and soft with each other, so open and vulnerable. No wonder they fell in love so fast. Then again, with ice cream and ocean sounds and sunshine (and the perfect person for you), who wouldn't fall in love?
Also, points to Rook for figuring out who in his life is worth it and who isn't. Double points for the way he told Aldo's family about their relationship (poor Albie is still picking his jaw up off the floor)!
#snowbodylikeyou #comefrombehind #flawsomeexplorations #loveatfourthsight #gaycationinparadise #honeymooneverafter #suitedreams #suitedreamsseries #ariellazoelle #sunnyside #sunnysideuniverse #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
The next stop in Ariella Zoelle's Sunnyside universe is the Suite Dreams series (they all take place at Luxuriant Suites Hotels, hence the suite/sweet dreams pun). The fourth book is "Gaycation in Paradise."
["On the run from scandal, Rook is about to get in even more trouble with sassy Aldo. Is he ready to risk his career for love?
Rook Warrick
As one of Hollywood’s most bankable action heroes, I have a reputation for always defeating the bad guys and getting the girl in the end. When a video of me passionately kissing my male co-star outs me from the closet and puts my career in jeopardy, I run away to a luxurious resort in the Maldives to hide out until the scandal blows over. That’s where I meet Aldo, my sassy live-in butler. My world feels like it’s collapsing around me, but he brightens my days and sees the real me that I’ve had to keep hidden. Our repartee turns my unwanted sabbatical into a true vacation in paradise.
Plus, the longer I’m around Aldo, the more his playful innuendos make me think things I really shouldn’t about a baby-faced twenty-year-old. Even worse, I think I’m actually starting to fall in love with him for real. But how can it be wrong when it feels so right?
Aldo Farnese
It’s no wonder Rook is tightly wound when he’s a gay man who has spent his entire professional career pretending to be a straight movie star. He needs someone laid-back like me to help him relax as I take care of all his needs. It starts as a fun way to make both of us feel better as we pass the time, but it quickly becomes so much more than that.
I’ve never been interested in a committed relationship, but Rook makes me want that with him. I know he could be the perfect boyfriend for me, but how can I convince him to give us a chance to star in our own romantic happily ever after?"]
The last series had a theme of best-friends-to-lovers and this one has a theme (besides the vaca one) of me?-fall-in-love?-ha!-that-will-never-happen. Poor Aldo, never saw it coming.
These two, man...I just... They were so playful and honest and soft with each other, so open and vulnerable. No wonder they fell in love so fast. Then again, with ice cream and ocean sounds and sunshine (and the perfect person for you), who wouldn't fall in love?
Also, points to Rook for figuring out who in his life is worth it and who isn't. Double points for the way he told Aldo's family about their relationship (poor Albie is still picking his jaw up off the floor)!
#snowbodylikeyou #comefrombehind #flawsomeexplorations #loveatfourthsight #gaycationinparadise #honeymooneverafter #suitedreams #suitedreamsseries #ariellazoelle #sunnyside #sunnysideuniverse #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
December 26, 2021
This is a zero-angst romance that offers up some fun tropes: there’s the celebrity/normal guy pairing and an age gap (the closest thing we get to angst is in fact the older character stressing about that gap, and while he does that a lot, it’s still fairly low key and obviously not a real issue). Fans of the author’s earlier works will be delighted to see quite a few previous characters make guest appearances here. There’s also a beautiful tropical setting, and plenty of heat as well the development of a lightning fast emotional connection ( I wouldn’t quite call it instalove, but the timing is tight).
Rook and Aldo clearly suit each other well, and their dynamic together is fun to watch. While I enjoyed them as a couple, I’ll freely admit that I actually liked Rook as an individual a lot more than Aldo. Aldo has his moments, but he also had, for me, a few drawbacks as well. One thing I didn’t find particularly charming about Aldo is how he somehow magically knows, within minutes of meeting Rook, that Rook “secretly wants to be dominated” and tells him so— and we’re supposed to think that’s somehow hot and not weird, creepy, and a huge overreach? Generally speaking, you want to stay away from people who confidently tell you who you are after knowing you for a few seconds, and that’s especially true if sex is involved. I understand that this is a fantasy, not real life, but I honestly don’t get the appeal of that kind of behavior. To be fair, however, it really works for Rook, so there’s that. Also, and I realize I’m just being petty now, but Aldo is legitimately terrible at nicknames. “Bishie?” Really? Still, he’s also fierce, kind, and genuinely talented at pretty much everything he tries to do, and that definitely counts for something.
Overall, this is a super fun read. There is absolutely nothing subtle, nuanced, or angsty about it: if you want love, sunshine, and a lot of over the top feels, all of them good (and don’t we all want that sometimes) this is the book for you.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
Rook and Aldo clearly suit each other well, and their dynamic together is fun to watch. While I enjoyed them as a couple, I’ll freely admit that I actually liked Rook as an individual a lot more than Aldo. Aldo has his moments, but he also had, for me, a few drawbacks as well. One thing I didn’t find particularly charming about Aldo is how he somehow magically knows, within minutes of meeting Rook, that Rook “secretly wants to be dominated” and tells him so— and we’re supposed to think that’s somehow hot and not weird, creepy, and a huge overreach? Generally speaking, you want to stay away from people who confidently tell you who you are after knowing you for a few seconds, and that’s especially true if sex is involved. I understand that this is a fantasy, not real life, but I honestly don’t get the appeal of that kind of behavior. To be fair, however, it really works for Rook, so there’s that. Also, and I realize I’m just being petty now, but Aldo is legitimately terrible at nicknames. “Bishie?” Really? Still, he’s also fierce, kind, and genuinely talented at pretty much everything he tries to do, and that definitely counts for something.
Overall, this is a super fun read. There is absolutely nothing subtle, nuanced, or angsty about it: if you want love, sunshine, and a lot of over the top feels, all of them good (and don’t we all want that sometimes) this is the book for you.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
January 10, 2022
I LOVED THIS!!! Aldo and Rook are the absolute best. After a disastrous coming out, Rook has gapped it to the Maldives for a little vacation while the heat dies down. While there, he gets his very own live in butler, Aldo. Aldo is one of his biggest fans, and even though he’s freaking out, he’s going to help out Rook as best as he can.
Rook, even though he’s freaking out about his career being in ruins because of a video of him kissing his male co-star, begins to blossom with Aldo. Aldo who is funny and exciting, brings out a side of Rook he’s kept very carefully hidden, even from himself. Aldo is kind of a jack of all trades, master of whichever one he wants. Including photography, a dream of his.
As the two spend time together, Rook gets to show more of his true self, including his real name, leading to a new nickname. Getting to know each other makes them better, and when Rook helps Aldo to make his dreams come true, it’s such a lovely moment.
Despite the massive age gap, and Aldo being only twenty, they are well matched and it makes for such a delightful read. Them falling in love was so beautifully written, and obviously with Aldo living in the Maldives and Rook being in California, there are obstacles, but this doesn’t really have the issue where the characters don’t talk to each other, so it does resolve really nicely.
A lot of the side characters are from other books, and it’s just enough information that you don’t need to read those books, but they sound awesome, so I’m thinking I’ll have to check them out, because if they are anything like Gaycation in Paradise, then they will be a must read because Ariella Zoelle is an amazing author. The writing was beautiful and it was so easy to fall in love with Rook and Aldo.
If you loved it there is also a quick little bonus chapter linked at the end if you’re into it, and it’s a great little addition to the story.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
January 5, 2022
This is one fantastic light-hearted read!!!!!
Firstly let me say I’ve got this book from gay romance reviews and this is me choosing to leave my honest review.
Rook’s life had been turned upside down. He is a famous action packed film star who was hiding a big secret. He is gay but He had always hidden it because he knew that he would be treated differently and not get any leading roles. So when a film becomes apparent of him kissing his co-star, his famous male co-star the press went crazy. His manager got him to flee to a beautiful stunning location to lay low while things calm down. But in his heart Rook knew his life was never gonna be the same again.
Aldo was a live in butler at the resort and he couldn’t believe his luck when his new guest was the famous Hollywood star Rook who he had the biggest crush on. But Aldo was a professional and he never let on. When it quickly comes apparent that Rook wants him to be himself, someone that he can talk to and share meals with so he’s not alone, Aldo let’s rip with his own charming personality. For such a young man he has the foresight to see the real Rook. And the sexual chemistry between these two is off the charts. They both can’t help but flirt with each other. It isn’t long till they share a kiss and things change quickly after that. But what can Rook offer this charming young man?? Doesn’t know where his future is leading, he needs to decide what he wants.
This book just blew me away I just could not put it down and read it well into the night. There is something extremely special about the connection that these two have. And how Aldo just made Rook relax and see what future he could have if he was just brave enough To be honest with himself. This is one dreamy book to get lost in.
Firstly let me say I’ve got this book from gay romance reviews and this is me choosing to leave my honest review.
Rook’s life had been turned upside down. He is a famous action packed film star who was hiding a big secret. He is gay but He had always hidden it because he knew that he would be treated differently and not get any leading roles. So when a film becomes apparent of him kissing his co-star, his famous male co-star the press went crazy. His manager got him to flee to a beautiful stunning location to lay low while things calm down. But in his heart Rook knew his life was never gonna be the same again.
Aldo was a live in butler at the resort and he couldn’t believe his luck when his new guest was the famous Hollywood star Rook who he had the biggest crush on. But Aldo was a professional and he never let on. When it quickly comes apparent that Rook wants him to be himself, someone that he can talk to and share meals with so he’s not alone, Aldo let’s rip with his own charming personality. For such a young man he has the foresight to see the real Rook. And the sexual chemistry between these two is off the charts. They both can’t help but flirt with each other. It isn’t long till they share a kiss and things change quickly after that. But what can Rook offer this charming young man?? Doesn’t know where his future is leading, he needs to decide what he wants.
This book just blew me away I just could not put it down and read it well into the night. There is something extremely special about the connection that these two have. And how Aldo just made Rook relax and see what future he could have if he was just brave enough To be honest with himself. This is one dreamy book to get lost in.
December 20, 2021
This was pretty good. I’m rounding up to 4 stars but this hits more of a 3.5-3.75 to me. I have really enjoyed this series in general and it was great to get a cameo from some of my other favorite couples but I had a hard time with the insta insta INSTA love of this one.
I did like both Rook and Aldo but I didn’t feel like there was even a shrewd of emotional build up before BAM true love. I enjoy insta love most of the time because there is something about intense fast relationships that really works for me but this one crossed the line into unbelievable a little too much. First off Aldo knows everything and I do mean everything about Rook from the start so it killed any “get to know the real yous” that could have advanced their emotional connection. I also felt like I was dropped into the middle of a new relationship where the characters already played out the “this is just sex” part and are finally being honest about what they want. I didn’t feel the tension or the fun excitement of a build and crescendo just the downhill ride into HEA. Not necessarily a bad thing but I’m left a little unsatisfied.
I’m also not generally a huge fan of books that all take place on vacation. I want to see at least some real settling into real life but that’s just a personal opinion. In this case specifically I felt cheated out of finding out how Rook felt with everything back home and what happened to his career.
The steam was pretty good and I did really like the flirty banter between the MCs. This was enjoyable but not one of my favorites from this author, or from the series.
I did like both Rook and Aldo but I didn’t feel like there was even a shrewd of emotional build up before BAM true love. I enjoy insta love most of the time because there is something about intense fast relationships that really works for me but this one crossed the line into unbelievable a little too much. First off Aldo knows everything and I do mean everything about Rook from the start so it killed any “get to know the real yous” that could have advanced their emotional connection. I also felt like I was dropped into the middle of a new relationship where the characters already played out the “this is just sex” part and are finally being honest about what they want. I didn’t feel the tension or the fun excitement of a build and crescendo just the downhill ride into HEA. Not necessarily a bad thing but I’m left a little unsatisfied.
I’m also not generally a huge fan of books that all take place on vacation. I want to see at least some real settling into real life but that’s just a personal opinion. In this case specifically I felt cheated out of finding out how Rook felt with everything back home and what happened to his career.
The steam was pretty good and I did really like the flirty banter between the MCs. This was enjoyable but not one of my favorites from this author, or from the series.
January 5, 2022
It took me a while to get into this book for some reason. I kept reading a few chapters and then walking away for a while, but I did keep on coming back to it. The story kept drawing me in and I just couldn’t stop reading it. I liked this take on an actor romance and found it a change to have the love interest the butler of the room Rook, the actor, was staying in. Also, the very cute butler was trying his best to tempt Rook out of his shell with his sassy, and snarky self. I was happy this story didn’t go with the in the closet actor all the way through the book and that he was booted out of the closet at the start. He runs far away to hide the fallout and meets Aldo, at the very exclusive resort he is staying in.
I love the story and I’m happy that it’s low-angst. It also has one of my favourite tropes of age-gap love! It is always one of my favourites and it will always draw me in to the story. The dynamic between them was a breath of fresh air, I loved that Aldo was dominant in the relationship and that pushed Rook's buttons. They do know how to change it up in the bedroom though and it excited me to see that. Their relationship progressed naturally, and maybe Aldo being determined to have Rook did help. They get drawn to each other and it was inevitable that they wouldn’t be able to fight the attraction between them. I’ve not read the other books in the series, but this book can be read as a standalone book. This book has encouraged me to read the rest of the series and other books by this author.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
I love the story and I’m happy that it’s low-angst. It also has one of my favourite tropes of age-gap love! It is always one of my favourites and it will always draw me in to the story. The dynamic between them was a breath of fresh air, I loved that Aldo was dominant in the relationship and that pushed Rook's buttons. They do know how to change it up in the bedroom though and it excited me to see that. Their relationship progressed naturally, and maybe Aldo being determined to have Rook did help. They get drawn to each other and it was inevitable that they wouldn’t be able to fight the attraction between them. I’ve not read the other books in the series, but this book can be read as a standalone book. This book has encouraged me to read the rest of the series and other books by this author.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
May 7, 2023
At first, Aldo seemed a little over-the-top to me, as we learn in the first 15-20% of the book that at not quite 21, he’s an excellent butler at an exclusive resort who has fantastic instincts/people-reading skills … and picked up massage as a side hustle … and personal training too … and website design … oh, and he’s a fabulous photographer. It helped that he was a bit less certain of his photography (at least when it came to people), and then the story moved more into the actual interactions with Rook, and I enjoyed those a lot. I think it would have made more sense to make Aldo at least a bit older to make it more realistic that he’d picked up all these skills so well, but once we were focussed on the photography and getting to know Rook, I really enjoyed their relationship.
The whole thing is a bit fairytale, but in a very endearing way, with the angst of the video that Rook is running from a mostly distant thread that underpins the story but doesn’t impinge too often because what’s happening between Aldo and Rook is so much more interesting (for them and me as a reader, lol). I enjoyed being able to see previous couples and how delighted Rook was to be able to connect Aldo and Arsène. I liked the higher concentration of getting to know one another versus sex in this book than some of the others in the series. I really felt like these two would be happy together.
The whole thing is a bit fairytale, but in a very endearing way, with the angst of the video that Rook is running from a mostly distant thread that underpins the story but doesn’t impinge too often because what’s happening between Aldo and Rook is so much more interesting (for them and me as a reader, lol). I enjoyed being able to see previous couples and how delighted Rook was to be able to connect Aldo and Arsène. I liked the higher concentration of getting to know one another versus sex in this book than some of the others in the series. I really felt like these two would be happy together.
January 7, 2022
Aldo and Rook's story was an easy steamy read. I thought the guys complemented each other very well, especially with Aldo being a matured young man who understood Rook and was able to provided that safe landing place he needed to be able to just be himself without all the pressures his career provided. I also enjoyed the wide array of secondary characters, that although difficult to keep track of, added to the story as well as my enjoyment of it. I appreciated the author's effort in keeping this a fun, no drama story but with enough depth for me to understand Rook's struggles. I would have liked a bit more development when it came to the romance though. Aldo and Rook's relationship felt too insta-lovey and their connection, although present, felt too fragile for me to make this a lasting pairing.
Keep in mind that although this is billed as a stand alone book in the series, I had a hard time keeping track of who was who and who was with whom when all these couples from the previous books started making an appearance. Eventually, I caught up and even became interested in their stories the more I read their interactions, so I guess it wasn't all bad on that front.
All in all, a sweet yet steamy, low angst story.
Keep in mind that although this is billed as a stand alone book in the series, I had a hard time keeping track of who was who and who was with whom when all these couples from the previous books started making an appearance. Eventually, I caught up and even became interested in their stories the more I read their interactions, so I guess it wasn't all bad on that front.
All in all, a sweet yet steamy, low angst story.
January 2, 2022
True to the series, this is a sunny and sweet, low/no-angst, pleasant insta-love story, with some steam, flirty banter, and a significant age-gap and size difference between MCs.
After being publicly outed by the paparazzi, action film star Rook (38) seeks refuge at a secluded resort paradise in the Maldives, only to meet his match - in more ways than one - in his spunky resort-provided live-in butler Aldo (20). Shedding all pretenses, brawny Rook is able to fully be himself for the first time ever, which includes letting go as a sub to twink Dom Aldo when things turn steamy.
Rook and Aldo have a lot of chemistry from the start, and I enjoyed how self-assured, playful and unfazed Aldo is despite being so much younger and given Rook's celebrity status. Their saucy banter and innuendo is great fun, too.
Suite Dreams has been a fun and fluffy series, and I look forward to its finale with the next book and seeing the many crossover-universe characters pop up in the author's future work. I received an advance reading e-copy of this book and have left this honest review voluntarily. (Also read in KU.)
After being publicly outed by the paparazzi, action film star Rook (38) seeks refuge at a secluded resort paradise in the Maldives, only to meet his match - in more ways than one - in his spunky resort-provided live-in butler Aldo (20). Shedding all pretenses, brawny Rook is able to fully be himself for the first time ever, which includes letting go as a sub to twink Dom Aldo when things turn steamy.
Rook and Aldo have a lot of chemistry from the start, and I enjoyed how self-assured, playful and unfazed Aldo is despite being so much younger and given Rook's celebrity status. Their saucy banter and innuendo is great fun, too.
Suite Dreams has been a fun and fluffy series, and I look forward to its finale with the next book and seeing the many crossover-universe characters pop up in the author's future work. I received an advance reading e-copy of this book and have left this honest review voluntarily. (Also read in KU.)
January 3, 2022
4.5 stars. I was all set to rate this 5 stars cause I loved it but the ending was too HFN for me. The author does go on to say there is a bonus in their newsletter but in terms of the story as it's sold, it left me wanting more.
I loved this book. Once I started reading I couldn't put it down. It was a fairly quick, no angst, steamy read. The book does only span a period of time of a couple weeks so it was also kind of instalove. I didn't mind though as these 2 are so cute together. They had amazing chemistry both in and out of the bedroom and I loved both the main characters on their own. Especially Aldo who I found adorable and funny. Even though it is the 4th book in this series, it can be read as a standalone. The ending of the 3rd book did set the scene for this book but its not necessary to have read it. There's is one scene in this book though in particular, that if you're like me, it will make u want to read the other books with those characters. Despite the HFN ending I did really love this one. Maybe even more than book 3 which I also really loved. I can't wait to read the next one.
I loved this book. Once I started reading I couldn't put it down. It was a fairly quick, no angst, steamy read. The book does only span a period of time of a couple weeks so it was also kind of instalove. I didn't mind though as these 2 are so cute together. They had amazing chemistry both in and out of the bedroom and I loved both the main characters on their own. Especially Aldo who I found adorable and funny. Even though it is the 4th book in this series, it can be read as a standalone. The ending of the 3rd book did set the scene for this book but its not necessary to have read it. There's is one scene in this book though in particular, that if you're like me, it will make u want to read the other books with those characters. Despite the HFN ending I did really love this one. Maybe even more than book 3 which I also really loved. I can't wait to read the next one.
January 1, 2022
When hot movie star Rook Warrick is forced out of the closet he is advised to lay low in the Maldives. He has a private bungalow over the water that comes with its own butler. Aldo is that butler and he is very aware of who his famous client is, but he just wants to he able to give Rook a reprieve from the prying eyes and help him relax. When the two men are just able to be themselves the attraction simmers and, despite the almost 20 year age gap, slowly becomes something neither expected. Aldo has a more dominant streak, despite his young age and smaller stature, that presses all the right buttons for Rook. He also knows when to give up control to Rook and let him take the lead. When the opportunity of a lifetime is presented to Aldo will he take the chance to move stateside? Both men take a leap of faith in each other and decide that what they've found in a paradise halfway around the world is worth any risk. It was great to catch up with some of the other couples in the Sunnyside universe as well. Definitely looking forward to the next book!!
December 23, 2021
I’m a sucker for a “Sunny” story and this was one of the brightest! Rook, a film star staying in a resort in the Maldives running from a scandal finds his surprisingly perfect “One” in Aldo, his butler for his stay. Though the story starts out on a low point for Rook, it just goes up from there. Rook very much puts out what he wants the world to see, and Aldo is able to see beyond the facade to the sensitive person inside. This was just a really happy, but HOT story of two men who seem like opposites, but soon realize they are both looking for the same thing; Love, We all want someone to love and support us the way Aldo and Rook both do for each other. I have read the other books in the series, all fantastically written stories of love. The author has a true talent for writing light low-angst love stories with a bit of steam thrown in for good measure. Can’t wait for the final in the series and now want to go find other Sunnyside Stories as well!
December 24, 2021
Gaycation in Paradise taught me that "celebrity on the run" is a trope to add to my favorites list. Or maybe, it's acting like a favorite because Zoelle knows how to create characters that push my reader buttons. Rook and Aldo are characters that make me want to spend time with them and follow along as they discover their forever love. I enjoyed their very witty banter, as well as their lovely romantic moments.
Gaycation in Paradise is part of the Suite Dreams series, but could be read as a stand-alone. However if you have read some of the other books, you will see a few familiar faces making appearances, such as my favorite French-talking Arsène.
I would definitely recommend this book to readers not afraid of heat and looking for a sassy younger man in the role of a personal butler for an established action-hero celebrity who is needing to hide away for awhile at a high-end resort because of a scandal that may ultimately push him out of the closet.
Gaycation in Paradise is part of the Suite Dreams series, but could be read as a stand-alone. However if you have read some of the other books, you will see a few familiar faces making appearances, such as my favorite French-talking Arsène.
I would definitely recommend this book to readers not afraid of heat and looking for a sassy younger man in the role of a personal butler for an established action-hero celebrity who is needing to hide away for awhile at a high-end resort because of a scandal that may ultimately push him out of the closet.
December 26, 2021
I am so in love with this author’s books! If you are in need of a fluffy and sweet, hot and spicy, no angst book to read, this author should be at the top of your list! I love Sunnyside and all of its residents, as well as Wintervale and the Luxurian Hotel chain. I also love how characters mentioned in passing or who just pop in for a minute may wind up with their own book later. Aldo is Albie’s little brother, the one who went to sunnier locales to work and experience life. Rook is an action movie star hiding from his rather public outing to the world and worried his career is over. These two meet and have some instant sizzling chemistry that will make you reach for your fan to cool off! Rook comes to realize that you will eventually meet someone that makes living your whole truth worth the risk. I can’t wait for the next book to see how the other person caught in Rook’s scandal catches his HEA too!
December 27, 2021
This book had the potential to be angsty and angry. Instead, the author went another route, and I couldn't be happier with the result. Aldo was the cocky young man that movie star Rook didn't know he needed in his life. These two were adorable together, and I enjoyed their snark, humor, chemistry, and almost instant dive into love. Aldo was cute and funny, but he was also hardworking and caring. Rook was famous and well aware of his charms, but he was also a dreamer who wanted to find the man of his dreams. Both were sweetly vulnerable as they fell into a wonderful romance. Their age difference was mentioned often as something others would have an issue with, but it didn't bother either of them.
This is the first book I've read in the Suite Dreams series, but I'm now anxious to know all the other stories. Rook and Aldo were easy to care about, and I can't wait to know more about the couples who found love before them.
This is the first book I've read in the Suite Dreams series, but I'm now anxious to know all the other stories. Rook and Aldo were easy to care about, and I can't wait to know more about the couples who found love before them.
December 31, 2021
Ariella Zoelle is one of my favourite authors when it comes to a no-angst, instalove romance.
Gaycation in Paradise brings together Rook Warrick, famous movie star caught in kissing a man, and Aldo Farnese, brother of Albie who we met in Love at Fourth Sight. Aldo is Rook's private butler while he's hiding out in a private villa and from their first meeting, with Aldo's sassy, dominant personality, sparks fly and they both fall. It's a mostly lighthearted, steamy and romantic story. It may be an instalove romance with how quickly the two men fall for each other but it feels so natural with their interactions and developing relationship.
Fans of the author will love having so many previous characters appear, from both Suite Dreams and Good Bad Idea. It's always fun getting to catch up with them and see how they've moved on since their own stories. Definitely a recommended read!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Gaycation in Paradise brings together Rook Warrick, famous movie star caught in kissing a man, and Aldo Farnese, brother of Albie who we met in Love at Fourth Sight. Aldo is Rook's private butler while he's hiding out in a private villa and from their first meeting, with Aldo's sassy, dominant personality, sparks fly and they both fall. It's a mostly lighthearted, steamy and romantic story. It may be an instalove romance with how quickly the two men fall for each other but it feels so natural with their interactions and developing relationship.
Fans of the author will love having so many previous characters appear, from both Suite Dreams and Good Bad Idea. It's always fun getting to catch up with them and see how they've moved on since their own stories. Definitely a recommended read!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
February 21, 2022
**3.5 Stars**
A sweet instalment to this series, again there were a few missteps (ie, shirt on then magically not) but I really loved these guys!
QUICK THOUGHTS
-- Quick easy read -- Celebrity/regular guy pairing -- age difference (20-ish years) -- opposites attract -- Hallmark esque -- newly outed -- insta everything -- no angst -- no real drama -- some really sweet moments -- younger top/older bottom -- a bit repetitive -- a few missteps -- some eye rolling (lol) -- still kind of heavy on the sex &/or the scenes are too long (just my opinion) -- lots of secondary characters which made it a bit confusing (even though I recognize them) -- some secondary characters come from the Good Bad Idea Series -- the nicknaming thing is getting to me, a bit silly (IMO) -- loved the MCs... Rook & Aldo -- wish the end was a tad longer, didn't feel quite complete -- not really a stand-alone
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