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Christmas Escape
A Not-So Holiday Paradise
Things you bring on a desert island...
1) Sunscreen, obviously. Because these Irish freckles of mine will burn, baby, burn, and lobster red is not a great color on me.
2) An extra dose of my seizure meds, just in case.
3) A backpack full of snacks, including but not limited to a canteen of Dr. Pepper, a box of mini Christmas cookies, and granola bars—the gross crumbly kind, not the chocolate chip kind, because I'm trying to be healthy.
4) Sunglasses, so that when I inevitably wind up staring at my brother's best friend—who I haven't seen in years—no one will be able to tell. I've been in love with him forever, but it would never work out; he lives on a literal island, while I'm still in grad school. It can't hurt to look, though, right?
5) Also bug spray.
My packing list is all well and good for a quick port excursion as part of my family’s Christmas cruise. But when the cruise ship leaves me behind, with only the contents of my bag and my brother’s best friend to keep me company? Well, I’ve got problems—especially since I'm going to run out of medicine soon. And I don’t think they make sunscreen strong enough to block the sparks that are growing between Beckett and me...
1) Sunscreen, obviously. Because these Irish freckles of mine will burn, baby, burn, and lobster red is not a great color on me.
2) An extra dose of my seizure meds, just in case.
3) A backpack full of snacks, including but not limited to a canteen of Dr. Pepper, a box of mini Christmas cookies, and granola bars—the gross crumbly kind, not the chocolate chip kind, because I'm trying to be healthy.
4) Sunglasses, so that when I inevitably wind up staring at my brother's best friend—who I haven't seen in years—no one will be able to tell. I've been in love with him forever, but it would never work out; he lives on a literal island, while I'm still in grad school. It can't hurt to look, though, right?
5) Also bug spray.
My packing list is all well and good for a quick port excursion as part of my family’s Christmas cruise. But when the cruise ship leaves me behind, with only the contents of my bag and my brother’s best friend to keep me company? Well, I’ve got problems—especially since I'm going to run out of medicine soon. And I don’t think they make sunscreen strong enough to block the sparks that are growing between Beckett and me...
250 pages, Paperback
First published November 16, 2022
325 people are currently reading
2888 people want to read
About the author
Gracie Ruth Mitchell
19 books792 followersGracie lives in a tiny town in Idaho, where she subsists on a diet of chocolate, romance novels, and kisses from her cute family. She may or may not have a cheesecake addiction, as well as an addiction to scribbling story ideas on whatever flat surfaces happen to be nearby. Clean romance, romantic comedy, and mystery rom coms are her passion.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 440 reviews
November 21, 2022
Set in the Virgin Islands, I loved this tropical twist on a holiday romance!
Molly has always had an unrequited crush on Beckett, her brother's best friend. But Molly is older now, and when her family Christmas cruise stops in the Virgin Islands, conveniently where Beckett is working on an astronomy research facility, the mutual attraction simply cannot be ignored.
The sunshine personality of this pairing, Molly was so fun. Getting her master's degree in ichthyology, her random, chatty fish facts made me giggle. I really enjoyed how her experience of living with epilepsy was naturally woven in the story, too. It was super informative! AND it brought out an assertive protectiveness in Beckett that made me absolutely swoon.
I was so appreciative of the dual POV in this story! Seeing Beckett attempt to hide his attraction was delightful. There's a very memorable one bed (or shall I say hut) scene that was truly the pivotal moment in this romance. The chemistry ignited full force and I was hooked. Another win for the Christmas Escape series!
(heat level: kissing only)
Molly has always had an unrequited crush on Beckett, her brother's best friend. But Molly is older now, and when her family Christmas cruise stops in the Virgin Islands, conveniently where Beckett is working on an astronomy research facility, the mutual attraction simply cannot be ignored.
The sunshine personality of this pairing, Molly was so fun. Getting her master's degree in ichthyology, her random, chatty fish facts made me giggle. I really enjoyed how her experience of living with epilepsy was naturally woven in the story, too. It was super informative! AND it brought out an assertive protectiveness in Beckett that made me absolutely swoon.
I was so appreciative of the dual POV in this story! Seeing Beckett attempt to hide his attraction was delightful. There's a very memorable one bed (or shall I say hut) scene that was truly the pivotal moment in this romance. The chemistry ignited full force and I was hooked. Another win for the Christmas Escape series!
(heat level: kissing only)
December 23, 2022
i really did not enjoy this at all ):
i felt zero chemistry between the two main characters and felt like i really didn’t care about the plot.
whenever i picked this up i never felt excited about where the story was taking me.
i felt zero chemistry between the two main characters and felt like i really didn’t care about the plot.
whenever i picked this up i never felt excited about where the story was taking me.
December 26, 2022
UNIQUE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
This felt fresh to the holiday genre. Set on a cruise and a small island, it’s got a much different vibe without any snow around (but there’s a big storm, don’t worry!).
What I didn’t know would be my kryptonite was the phrase good girl used in here. Not commonly seen in sweet romance books I loved how this was used here! I’m going to need to see that more often ASAP.
There’s some great forced proximity moments between these two and I always love a brother’s best friend trope. I thought both of these played well. I didn’t always love the FMC, but I did love the epilepsy rep. And the MMC anxiety rep! Both of these were written well and I loved learning more about epilepsy from the author.
I thought the book overall was sweet and fast paced. I really just enjoyed reading it, ya know? There’s bit of a momentum loss towards the end but those last few pages help make it up and I love a down the years epilogue to feel all the flutters.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Holiday Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: on page epileptic seizure, anxiety depiction
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
This felt fresh to the holiday genre. Set on a cruise and a small island, it’s got a much different vibe without any snow around (but there’s a big storm, don’t worry!).
What I didn’t know would be my kryptonite was the phrase good girl used in here. Not commonly seen in sweet romance books I loved how this was used here! I’m going to need to see that more often ASAP.
There’s some great forced proximity moments between these two and I always love a brother’s best friend trope. I thought both of these played well. I didn’t always love the FMC, but I did love the epilepsy rep. And the MMC anxiety rep! Both of these were written well and I loved learning more about epilepsy from the author.
I thought the book overall was sweet and fast paced. I really just enjoyed reading it, ya know? There’s bit of a momentum loss towards the end but those last few pages help make it up and I love a down the years epilogue to feel all the flutters.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Holiday Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: on page epileptic seizure, anxiety depiction
December 12, 2022
I’m here for the grumpy/sunshine! And the forced proximity! And brother’s best friend! Yeah, I’m a sucker for tropes!!
This book was cute! Molly was adorable! All sunshine, fish lover, and off-key Christmas carol singing. I loved her zest for life, and just utter lack of filter. She toyed the line between too-much and just enough perfectly.
Beckett was fantasticly grumpy and overprotective and just good. His acceptance of all Molly was, and how endearing he found her was so cute!
I loved the open conversations they had! There were no miscommunications, or unspoken feelings and ah I loved that!
I also really enjoyed the reality check they gave themselves about things moving fast and taking time to make sure it was real.
I appreciated the epilepsy representation, and the fact that it was drawn on from the author’s own experiences. It was eye-opening! It’s a way of life for some people, and Wes’ walk through of how to handle the seizure was great!
It was the perfect length! Not to short, but not too long! I loved the tropical setting! It was such a unique choice!
4/5 stars
*not cf but clean*
This book was cute! Molly was adorable! All sunshine, fish lover, and off-key Christmas carol singing. I loved her zest for life, and just utter lack of filter. She toyed the line between too-much and just enough perfectly.
Beckett was fantasticly grumpy and overprotective and just good. His acceptance of all Molly was, and how endearing he found her was so cute!
I loved the open conversations they had! There were no miscommunications, or unspoken feelings and ah I loved that!
I also really enjoyed the reality check they gave themselves about things moving fast and taking time to make sure it was real.
I appreciated the epilepsy representation, and the fact that it was drawn on from the author’s own experiences. It was eye-opening! It’s a way of life for some people, and Wes’ walk through of how to handle the seizure was great!
It was the perfect length! Not to short, but not too long! I loved the tropical setting! It was such a unique choice!
4/5 stars
*not cf but clean*
December 27, 2024
Meh holiday romance. I'am not a christmas in paradise kind of person. I need snowy christmas romance
December 6, 2024
I really didn’t enjoy this book. The premise was difficult to engage with, and the characters felt dull and lacked chemistry. At one point, Beckett described Molly as “chubby" and later remarked that her eating habits were "obscene.” He also repeatedly called her a "good girl"; is she a dog? Yuck.
The grumpy/sunshine trope lacked credibility. If you have to repeatedly state how grumpy a character is instead of demonstrating it through his actions, then there’s an issue.
Also, I don’t mind the “brother’s best friend trope” in books. What puzzles me is why the brother often seems upset about his best friend and sister getting together. Wouldn’t it be exciting to think your best friend might become part of your family? I just don’t get it.
The epilogue also felt very disconnected from the story.
I refrained from giving it just one star because I really appreciated how the author wove her experience with epilepsy into the story. This added more depth to the book, and it’s a perspective that doesn’t come up in literature very often.
Content: Clean romance, chapter 17 depicts a character having a seizure.
The grumpy/sunshine trope lacked credibility. If you have to repeatedly state how grumpy a character is instead of demonstrating it through his actions, then there’s an issue.
Also, I don’t mind the “brother’s best friend trope” in books. What puzzles me is why the brother often seems upset about his best friend and sister getting together. Wouldn’t it be exciting to think your best friend might become part of your family? I just don’t get it.
The epilogue also felt very disconnected from the story.
I refrained from giving it just one star because I really appreciated how the author wove her experience with epilepsy into the story. This added more depth to the book, and it’s a perspective that doesn’t come up in literature very often.
Content: Clean romance, chapter 17 depicts a character having a seizure.
November 15, 2022
I loved so many things about this book. It was very unique, especially for a Christmas Romcom. The tropical vacation setting was very enjoyable. I loved the FMC, Molly, so much. Her vulnerability and overall sweetness and love for life made her so likable. Beckett and his nicknames 😍 I loved how he came to realize he was in love with Molly, and his journal entries? Absolutely yes.
I really appreciated the representation in this book, our FMC has epilepsy and the way it was written was very insightful and moving for me. Thank you to the author, Gracie Ruth Mitchell, for sharing such a personal part of herself in that aspect of the story.
The kisses were swoony, the FMC is unique and spunky and wonderful, the MMC is a dreamy grump, it’s overall just a recipe for a great story. I laughed, I cried, I had butterflies, I absolutely recommend this book!
CW: clean, closed door, kissing only, epilepsy representation, don’t read if you don’t want to giggle and swoon and feel all the holiday happiness
Thanks to Gracie for the advanced copy of this fantastic book. All thoughts are completely my own and genuine 🤍
I really appreciated the representation in this book, our FMC has epilepsy and the way it was written was very insightful and moving for me. Thank you to the author, Gracie Ruth Mitchell, for sharing such a personal part of herself in that aspect of the story.
The kisses were swoony, the FMC is unique and spunky and wonderful, the MMC is a dreamy grump, it’s overall just a recipe for a great story. I laughed, I cried, I had butterflies, I absolutely recommend this book!
CW: clean, closed door, kissing only, epilepsy representation, don’t read if you don’t want to giggle and swoon and feel all the holiday happiness
Thanks to Gracie for the advanced copy of this fantastic book. All thoughts are completely my own and genuine 🤍
November 22, 2022
Does your Christmas tree have white lights or colored lights?
In A Not so Holiday Paradise by @authorgracieruth it’s not your traditional ‘buffalo print matching pj’s and a blazing fire in the fireplace’ kind of Christmas and it worked for me!
You know why? It’s because I COULD be reading this while wearing buffalo plaid pajamas and next to a blazing fire!
This is book 5 in the Christmas Escape series and features the following elements:
•Tropical setting
•brother’s best friend
•unrequited crush
•forced proximity
•protective skills/instincts
•grumpy/sunshine
•epilepsy representation
•a monkey with a grudge🙊😂
This was a fun, unique and completely romcom worthy read.
Beckett is a broody, grump with a HUGE heart. Molly is comfortable in her own skin and doesn’t let anything hold her back! I absolutely LOVED their meet-cute! This story was unique, festive and charming!
If you’re ready for Christmas with a twist be sure to check this one out!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own!
A Not So Holiday Paradise
By @authorgracieruth
Coming Nov 16 on kindle…paperbacks may or may not be available now🙃link in stories!
Content: on page epileptic seizure, mild innuendo
Happy reading!
In A Not so Holiday Paradise by @authorgracieruth it’s not your traditional ‘buffalo print matching pj’s and a blazing fire in the fireplace’ kind of Christmas and it worked for me!
You know why? It’s because I COULD be reading this while wearing buffalo plaid pajamas and next to a blazing fire!
This is book 5 in the Christmas Escape series and features the following elements:
•Tropical setting
•brother’s best friend
•unrequited crush
•forced proximity
•protective skills/instincts
•grumpy/sunshine
•epilepsy representation
•a monkey with a grudge🙊😂
This was a fun, unique and completely romcom worthy read.
Beckett is a broody, grump with a HUGE heart. Molly is comfortable in her own skin and doesn’t let anything hold her back! I absolutely LOVED their meet-cute! This story was unique, festive and charming!
If you’re ready for Christmas with a twist be sure to check this one out!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own!
A Not So Holiday Paradise
By @authorgracieruth
Coming Nov 16 on kindle…paperbacks may or may not be available now🙃link in stories!
Content: on page epileptic seizure, mild innuendo
Happy reading!
December 18, 2025
This sweet, clean, holiday romcom was such a great audio book to listen to! I loved so many things about it. First, I loved that it was an unusual location with forced proximity on an island. Second, I loved that it was a brother’s best friend romance with years of unrequited love on the part of the younger sister. Third, I loved that the heroine was a bit curvy, not a stick thin model. Fourth, I loved that the author was not afraid to delve into showing what an epileptic seizure really entailed. The fact that the not pretty and very uncomfortable reality arose for Molly while she was alone with Beckett put these two in a unique situation. The way he handled the ugly parts of the scenario spoke as to what type of man he was and how he was falling for Molly. I loved the epilogue, too! This entire story just made me so happy! The narration for the audio was really well done, too. I highly recommend both the novel and the audio version.
I received a complimentary copy of this audio book, however, I also own the ebook version. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I received a complimentary copy of this audio book, however, I also own the ebook version. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
November 13, 2022
This was such a fun, unique Christmas romance! It was not in a typical Christmas setting with the usual things most of us associate with Christmas, but getting stuck on an island with your brother's best friend...who also happens to be your crush? Sounds like an interesting Christmas to me!
What to expect:
Tropical Setting
Forced proximity
Unrequited Crush
One bed
Survival situation/storm
Brother's best friend
Epilepsy representation
I loved how protective Beckett was with Molly - so sweet! He definitely comes off as an anti-social grump but underneath he is a cinnamon roll. I would have loved a little bit more chemistry between them though, and Molly's brother was a bit dramatic for me when it came to Molly and Beckett.
Overall, a light, cute read with laugh out loud moments and sweet romance, a great addition to the Christmas escape series!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
What to expect:
Tropical Setting
Forced proximity
Unrequited Crush
One bed
Survival situation/storm
Brother's best friend
Epilepsy representation
I loved how protective Beckett was with Molly - so sweet! He definitely comes off as an anti-social grump but underneath he is a cinnamon roll. I would have loved a little bit more chemistry between them though, and Molly's brother was a bit dramatic for me when it came to Molly and Beckett.
Overall, a light, cute read with laugh out loud moments and sweet romance, a great addition to the Christmas escape series!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
December 8, 2022
I LOVED this book! The idea of being on a cruise in the Caribbean for Christmas appeals to me so much. Getting stuck on a deserted island in a storm…not so much. But I loved reading about Molly and Beckett’s adventures.
Molly is the type of character who is not perfect. I loved that! One of my favorite things about her was that she had made peace with her body, realizing that she was how she was. Curves, epilepsy and all. And she’s a planner, like me. I loved how she was the one with the sunscreen and bug spray. But she never planned to get caught in a storm with Beckett.
Beckett is a grumpy guy. But he’s definitely the person you want to get caught on a deserted island with. He knew what to do for shelter, warmth and water. All very important. I loved the way he wanted to take care of Molly. He was there for her even in her darkest moments. And that was so great!
This is not your typical Christmas book. I loved that so much! You’re going to want to read this one!
Molly is the type of character who is not perfect. I loved that! One of my favorite things about her was that she had made peace with her body, realizing that she was how she was. Curves, epilepsy and all. And she’s a planner, like me. I loved how she was the one with the sunscreen and bug spray. But she never planned to get caught in a storm with Beckett.
Beckett is a grumpy guy. But he’s definitely the person you want to get caught on a deserted island with. He knew what to do for shelter, warmth and water. All very important. I loved the way he wanted to take care of Molly. He was there for her even in her darkest moments. And that was so great!
This is not your typical Christmas book. I loved that so much! You’re going to want to read this one!
December 11, 2022
Yikes that was not for me. I liked the overall premise of it, but I did not like the main characters at all 😢 and I felt like there wasn’t enough that happened in the storyline to keep my interest
December 20, 2024
“It’s hard to keep my distance when he’s looking at me like he wants me closer.”
* Her hair struggles are so mine 😅
* Ahh I love Molly and I love his reactions to her hehe
* I can’t decide if I like him or if he’s a jerk 😂
* Their whole situation is hilarious
* The amount of times her lifelong crush has been made known to Beckett is too funny (and also mortifying hahaha)
* YES! Go Beckett
* Ahh forehead kisses are just so dang tender
* Aww I love just how natural they are together
* Heh I love how dramatic this is
* Aww yay!
“She’s the flame and I’m the moth. The completely confused moth.”
“Molly O’Malley…I do believe you’re the cutest thing I’ve ever seen.”
This was so cute! I really enjoyed it. Molly and Beckett were so fun and their banter and teasing was the best. The secret and not so secret longing was so sweet and I loved the island setting. All around just so good!
I listened to the audiobook and the narrators did a great job.
* Her hair struggles are so mine 😅
* Ahh I love Molly and I love his reactions to her hehe
* I can’t decide if I like him or if he’s a jerk 😂
* Their whole situation is hilarious
* The amount of times her lifelong crush has been made known to Beckett is too funny (and also mortifying hahaha)
* YES! Go Beckett
* Ahh forehead kisses are just so dang tender
* Aww I love just how natural they are together
* Heh I love how dramatic this is
* Aww yay!
“She’s the flame and I’m the moth. The completely confused moth.”
“Molly O’Malley…I do believe you’re the cutest thing I’ve ever seen.”
This was so cute! I really enjoyed it. Molly and Beckett were so fun and their banter and teasing was the best. The secret and not so secret longing was so sweet and I loved the island setting. All around just so good!
I listened to the audiobook and the narrators did a great job.
December 3, 2022
3.5 rounded up.
Part of the Christmas Escape series, I enjoyed this sweet, brother's best friend, kissing only, dual POV, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity holiday romance.
Molly and Beckett get stranded on a remote island during a storm only to make their way back to the larger Virgin Islands where they have to wait for Molly's family to reunite with them - bringing her much needed epilepsy medication.
Slow in places, I did still really like this cute holiday romance. I'm a sucker for a good brother's best friend story and really enjoyed the #ownvoices epilepsy rep in the book.
Much thanks to the author for sharing an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review. Recommended for fans of Sarah Adams's The match (another kissing only book with great epilepsy rep!).
Part of the Christmas Escape series, I enjoyed this sweet, brother's best friend, kissing only, dual POV, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity holiday romance.
Molly and Beckett get stranded on a remote island during a storm only to make their way back to the larger Virgin Islands where they have to wait for Molly's family to reunite with them - bringing her much needed epilepsy medication.
Slow in places, I did still really like this cute holiday romance. I'm a sucker for a good brother's best friend story and really enjoyed the #ownvoices epilepsy rep in the book.
Much thanks to the author for sharing an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review. Recommended for fans of Sarah Adams's The match (another kissing only book with great epilepsy rep!).
December 10, 2022
A cute little tropical rom-com!
December 14, 2022
Grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, brother’s best friend…this story was just perfect! I loved it a lot, even though the Christmas vibes weren’t as strong as the last four (because tropical paradise just doesn’t scream Christmas 😂) I still loved it a lot!
•
Five out of five
•
Five out of five
November 15, 2022
A Christmas story set within a tropical island?! Yes please! This was such a gorgeously sweet brother’s-best-friend romance, and an absolutely heartwarming and uplifting read. Another fantastic addition to the Christmas Escape series!
Molly has been in love with Beckett for as long as she can remember. He’s her older brother’s best friend, and she spent her entire childhood following them around, crushing on him madly. But he never looked at her as anything other than his best friend’s little sister. All grown up now and for Christmas this year, her family decide to spend Christmas on a cruise. A quick port excursion, where Beckett lives and works, as part of the Christmas cruise means Molly will be seeing him again for the first in years. She’s determined to move on from Beckett. But he was Molly’s adolescent crush and despite trying to move on from those unrequited feelings, she still carries that torch for him. However, things go badly wrong when they end up being stranded together on the island. Cue the forced proximity....!
A Not So Holiday Paradise was such a beautiful and heartwarming love story. The balance Gracie Ruth Mitchell struck between Beckett’s grumpy anti-social exterior, his vulnerabilities and protective male side made him a completely swoon-worthy hero, and his pairing with the kind, joyful, bundle of sunshine Molly, was nothing short of perfect. I was rooting so hard for them, and this tender romance was packed full of palpable chemistry. I loved that it was such a fun festive story that was balanced with some serious topics. Gracie handles the representation of epilepsy with such nuance, care, and relatability. It was such a lovely holiday romance and I loved it. The Christmas Escape series has been an absolute joy so far, and I am so excited to continue this series in the standalone books to come!
Molly has been in love with Beckett for as long as she can remember. He’s her older brother’s best friend, and she spent her entire childhood following them around, crushing on him madly. But he never looked at her as anything other than his best friend’s little sister. All grown up now and for Christmas this year, her family decide to spend Christmas on a cruise. A quick port excursion, where Beckett lives and works, as part of the Christmas cruise means Molly will be seeing him again for the first in years. She’s determined to move on from Beckett. But he was Molly’s adolescent crush and despite trying to move on from those unrequited feelings, she still carries that torch for him. However, things go badly wrong when they end up being stranded together on the island. Cue the forced proximity....!
A Not So Holiday Paradise was such a beautiful and heartwarming love story. The balance Gracie Ruth Mitchell struck between Beckett’s grumpy anti-social exterior, his vulnerabilities and protective male side made him a completely swoon-worthy hero, and his pairing with the kind, joyful, bundle of sunshine Molly, was nothing short of perfect. I was rooting so hard for them, and this tender romance was packed full of palpable chemistry. I loved that it was such a fun festive story that was balanced with some serious topics. Gracie handles the representation of epilepsy with such nuance, care, and relatability. It was such a lovely holiday romance and I loved it. The Christmas Escape series has been an absolute joy so far, and I am so excited to continue this series in the standalone books to come!
November 17, 2022
3.5/5 ⭐️
Well if you are looking for a Christmas read that’s not set in a snowy location then you need to pick this one up!
Molly has had a crush on her older brother’s best friend, Beckett, since she was a kid. For Christmas this year her family decides to take a cruise. The cruise will be stopping near the island where Beckett lives and works and Molly will be seeing him for the first time in ten years. She’s ready to see him again and put this crush behind her and move on. Things don’t go quite according to plan…they get stuck on a small island together and alone.
I have to applaud Gracie for the epilepsy rep in this book!!! 👏🏻👏🏻 Having a MC who has epilepsy was so eye opening and handled perfectly in my opinion.
Molly and Beckett were too much fun and I loved seeing their story unfold. I’m always down for a grumpy/sunshine story and add in brother’s best friend and forced proximity? Yes, please!! 😍 And chapter 20…𝘀𝘄𝗼𝗼𝗻!! 🥰 Molly is so endearing. You just can’t help but love her. And Beckett is so sweet and caring under his grumpy and anti-social exterior.
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
🌵Grumpy/Sunshine
🌵Brother’s best friend
🌵Forced Proximity
🌵Fish
🌵Tropical islands
Well if you are looking for a Christmas read that’s not set in a snowy location then you need to pick this one up!
Molly has had a crush on her older brother’s best friend, Beckett, since she was a kid. For Christmas this year her family decides to take a cruise. The cruise will be stopping near the island where Beckett lives and works and Molly will be seeing him for the first time in ten years. She’s ready to see him again and put this crush behind her and move on. Things don’t go quite according to plan…they get stuck on a small island together and alone.
I have to applaud Gracie for the epilepsy rep in this book!!! 👏🏻👏🏻 Having a MC who has epilepsy was so eye opening and handled perfectly in my opinion.
Molly and Beckett were too much fun and I loved seeing their story unfold. I’m always down for a grumpy/sunshine story and add in brother’s best friend and forced proximity? Yes, please!! 😍 And chapter 20…𝘀𝘄𝗼𝗼𝗻!! 🥰 Molly is so endearing. You just can’t help but love her. And Beckett is so sweet and caring under his grumpy and anti-social exterior.
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
🌵Grumpy/Sunshine
🌵Brother’s best friend
🌵Forced Proximity
🌵Fish
🌵Tropical islands
December 17, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️✨
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was overly tropey. He calls her sunshine often and she calls him grumpy constantly. She also says he’s her “brothers best friend” ALL THE TIME. This was just cringy. The best part was the seizure rep and mutual pining. I also liked the tropical setting
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was overly tropey. He calls her sunshine often and she calls him grumpy constantly. She also says he’s her “brothers best friend” ALL THE TIME. This was just cringy. The best part was the seizure rep and mutual pining. I also liked the tropical setting
November 15, 2022
What I loved:
- the epilepsy representation. Based on the authors personal life, she shared it in this story in a way that made it real and vulnerable. It was done perfectly that we all now see Molly as a superhero
- Molly was adorable. Her love for fish, her insights, and her rambling.
- how Beckett cared and worried for Molly just made my heart melt! It was obvious he loved her.
- all my favorite tropes, brothers best friend, grumpy/sunshine, one bed
What I didn't like:
- I struggled to see the chemistry and connection from Molly to Beckett.
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
Romance: kisses
CW: on page seizure
- the epilepsy representation. Based on the authors personal life, she shared it in this story in a way that made it real and vulnerable. It was done perfectly that we all now see Molly as a superhero
- Molly was adorable. Her love for fish, her insights, and her rambling.
- how Beckett cared and worried for Molly just made my heart melt! It was obvious he loved her.
- all my favorite tropes, brothers best friend, grumpy/sunshine, one bed
What I didn't like:
- I struggled to see the chemistry and connection from Molly to Beckett.
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
Romance: kisses
CW: on page seizure
December 5, 2022
If Christmas books aren’t your thing, try this one out. It’s the holiday romance that is light on the holiday and heavier on the romance ;)
This is the story for you if you love
Brother’s best friend
Childhood crush
Forced proximity
Christmas romance
One bed/shelter
Protective/caregiver role
Guys! This book was SO sweet. And the protectiveness that Beckett has over Molly 🥹 awww! This has an on page epileptic episode, so if they could be a trigger for you, just know to be cautious. The author does state where it is at the beginning of the book (chapter 17) and I thought it was handled SO well. I have been in the position of a non holding their 3 year old while they went through a seizure, it is not something I care to EVER repeat, but I thought Gracie Ruth Mitchell handled and represented that scene perfectly. I love when an author can infuse personal experiences into a story that might help the rest of us see a bit more into the life of someone we might not understand otherwise. Books are for these reasons! We can be entertained by them, but to broaden our understanding of everything around us, specifically people and their differences AND similarities?? Love it. I’m very appreciative to those who share the world with us through their eyes.
Grab this book, you’ll be ready to take a cruise and spend your holiday somewhere a little more tropical
This is the story for you if you love
Brother’s best friend
Childhood crush
Forced proximity
Christmas romance
One bed/shelter
Protective/caregiver role
Guys! This book was SO sweet. And the protectiveness that Beckett has over Molly 🥹 awww! This has an on page epileptic episode, so if they could be a trigger for you, just know to be cautious. The author does state where it is at the beginning of the book (chapter 17) and I thought it was handled SO well. I have been in the position of a non holding their 3 year old while they went through a seizure, it is not something I care to EVER repeat, but I thought Gracie Ruth Mitchell handled and represented that scene perfectly. I love when an author can infuse personal experiences into a story that might help the rest of us see a bit more into the life of someone we might not understand otherwise. Books are for these reasons! We can be entertained by them, but to broaden our understanding of everything around us, specifically people and their differences AND similarities?? Love it. I’m very appreciative to those who share the world with us through their eyes.
Grab this book, you’ll be ready to take a cruise and spend your holiday somewhere a little more tropical
November 15, 2022
“And that, in short, is how I end up watching my parents and brother sail off into the sunset while I remain on shore, accompanied by one grumpy, gorgeous man.” 🛳
Without giving too much away, I want to tell you about the cutest non-Christmas-y location ever, Christmas kinda insta-love story around! It’ll make you wanna run off to the closest beach 🏖
✨Book Review✨
A Not-So Holiday Paradise
@authorgracieruth
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Molly has had a crush on her brother’s best friend Beckett for years! Literally over a decade and a half… but she’s always been “the little sister” and overlooked. Until…
“Also kept to myself is my appreciation of her curves—because good grief, those curves are flawless—and sexiest of all, the way she handles herself with complete and utter confidence. Not once does she look around to see who’s watching her; not once does she seem unsure. It’s…well, it’s attractive. Really, really attractive to see a woman—and as much as I hesitate to think of her that way, Molly is all woman—who’s happy with herself.”
This one one of my favorite quotes/moments in the whole book! It’s when Beckett has his ah ha moment, but it takes him forever to fess up and admit his attraction! (But the “forever” makes for good tension and awkward moments). 🥰😉🤭
So, in sort, if you like:
🏖tropical / deserted islands
🏖matchmaking mamas
🏖close-proximity
🏖overprotectiveness
🏖kinda insta love, but they’ve known each other forever…it’s more on his side than hers (aka unrequited love)
🏖one-bed/blanket troupe
🏖mud
🏖storms
🏖characters with disabilities
Then this book is your next Christmas read! But be warned, you may find yourself buying a ticket to a beach or cruise ship very soon! 🎟
TW: main character has epilepsy and it is a problem talked a lot about in the book
Thanks to @authorgracieruth for allowing me to be on her ARC team! I am thankful for my complimentary ebook copy! I cannot wait to read more of the #christmasescapeseries books! 3/7 read
#bookstagram #tuesdayteaser #bookreview #bookrecommendations #bookrelease #tropicalisland #christmasbooks #moodboard #bookmoodboard #cleanromancenovels #cleanreads #romcom #romancebooks
Without giving too much away, I want to tell you about the cutest non-Christmas-y location ever, Christmas kinda insta-love story around! It’ll make you wanna run off to the closest beach 🏖
✨Book Review✨
A Not-So Holiday Paradise
@authorgracieruth
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Molly has had a crush on her brother’s best friend Beckett for years! Literally over a decade and a half… but she’s always been “the little sister” and overlooked. Until…
“Also kept to myself is my appreciation of her curves—because good grief, those curves are flawless—and sexiest of all, the way she handles herself with complete and utter confidence. Not once does she look around to see who’s watching her; not once does she seem unsure. It’s…well, it’s attractive. Really, really attractive to see a woman—and as much as I hesitate to think of her that way, Molly is all woman—who’s happy with herself.”
This one one of my favorite quotes/moments in the whole book! It’s when Beckett has his ah ha moment, but it takes him forever to fess up and admit his attraction! (But the “forever” makes for good tension and awkward moments). 🥰😉🤭
So, in sort, if you like:
🏖tropical / deserted islands
🏖matchmaking mamas
🏖close-proximity
🏖overprotectiveness
🏖kinda insta love, but they’ve known each other forever…it’s more on his side than hers (aka unrequited love)
🏖one-bed/blanket troupe
🏖mud
🏖storms
🏖characters with disabilities
Then this book is your next Christmas read! But be warned, you may find yourself buying a ticket to a beach or cruise ship very soon! 🎟
TW: main character has epilepsy and it is a problem talked a lot about in the book
Thanks to @authorgracieruth for allowing me to be on her ARC team! I am thankful for my complimentary ebook copy! I cannot wait to read more of the #christmasescapeseries books! 3/7 read
#bookstagram #tuesdayteaser #bookreview #bookrecommendations #bookrelease #tropicalisland #christmasbooks #moodboard #bookmoodboard #cleanromancenovels #cleanreads #romcom #romancebooks
November 22, 2022
This story is just darling! I really love the characters, a lot. And I really appreciate the author sharing her experience with epilepsy. Light on Christmas and well balanced with romance, this is the holiday book for you if you love:
Unrequited childhood crushes
Brother's best friend
Tropical islands
Forced proximity
Plenty of heartfelt conversation
Epilepsy rep
Thanks to the author for my complimentary e-arc of this book. All opinions here are my own.
Unrequited childhood crushes
Brother's best friend
Tropical islands
Forced proximity
Plenty of heartfelt conversation
Epilepsy rep
Thanks to the author for my complimentary e-arc of this book. All opinions here are my own.
December 10, 2022
Having read all of the works of Gracie Ruth Mitchell thus far, I have to say how impressed I am with this book in particular. The plot is fun and the premise intriguing, but the most interesting part to me was Mitchell’s approach to describing life with epilepsy. Knowing that the author has epilepsy herself, it was enlightening to learn through our protagonist what that is like. It’s a brave task to write about, and I feel that Mitchell did it with grace and respect.
December 27, 2023
A clean & happy romcom that had me crying happy tears at the end
Edit for reread in 2023:
This is a very cute grumpy x sunshine story! He is her brothers best friend and he is an antisocial grumpy pants and she’s sunshiney.
I didn’t like some of Beckett’s behaviour in this book, like no red flags but some yellow flags that just rubbed me the wrong way. HOWEVER, it is a very lovely story and a super happy ending that makes me emotional 🥹
Edit for reread in 2023:
This is a very cute grumpy x sunshine story! He is her brothers best friend and he is an antisocial grumpy pants and she’s sunshiney.
I didn’t like some of Beckett’s behaviour in this book, like no red flags but some yellow flags that just rubbed me the wrong way. HOWEVER, it is a very lovely story and a super happy ending that makes me emotional 🥹
December 9, 2024
I’m still torn about this one. Maybe 3.5⭐️? But maybe not. Molly was great almost the whole time — I loved her confidence and big personality!!
But… the quiet, brooding type is usually my fav, but Beckett was not at all. Even when he started to open up, he was just not my fav.
I did love the care with which they handled epilepsy. Beckett’s care for Molly wanted to make me love him more, but I couldn’t quite get there.
But… the quiet, brooding type is usually my fav, but Beckett was not at all. Even when he started to open up, he was just not my fav.
I did love the care with which they handled epilepsy. Beckett’s care for Molly wanted to make me love him more, but I couldn’t quite get there.
October 11, 2024
"Something giddy and full of sunshine is bubbling up inside of me."
So many deliciously sweet swooning moments in the pages of this story. Admittedly, I wasn't Team Beckett at the start. He had a unique personality, but that what makes him so endearing and memorable.
So many deliciously sweet swooning moments in the pages of this story. Admittedly, I wasn't Team Beckett at the start. He had a unique personality, but that what makes him so endearing and memorable.
October 6, 2024
I listened to the audiobook of this one and while doing so I kept messaging my book besties and telling them that they absolutely had to read this one. Or listen to it!!! I loved the audiobook of it. The two narrators were so much fun. They didn't just read they book, they added sound effects and lots of great emotion into their narration!
Molly and Beckett are so much fun! I was giggling so much while listening! I couldn't help myself. So funny! Molly is this pure ray of sunshine! Sure, she has struggles and stuff, but she doesn't let it get her down! She finds the joy in whatever is happening. And she also rambles. Like big time when she gets nervous. About fish! Hahaha! She's studying fish as part of her degree and I just loved all of her rambling and the tidbits we learned.
And Beckett, he's mr. grumpy pants! Ok, that's probably not 100% accurate but he's definitely not a people person. And he has his reasons. But he's really trying not to let Molly's beauty and zeal for life break through his persona. Lol! But just you wait because who couldn't smile at sweet and adorable Molly?!
This is a sibling's best friend, forced proximity, same room, holiday rom-com that will pull you in, make you life your head off, and have you swooning and smiling for more adorableness!!!
I will definitely be returning to this one when I need a good happy and sweet love story read!
Content: Sweet. Characters share a room together due to weather circumstances but it is clean. Molly has epilepsy and has a seizure. There are some kisses. Some mild innuendos and nothing more.
I received a copy from the producer, Dreamscape Select, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading & Listening!!!
Molly and Beckett are so much fun! I was giggling so much while listening! I couldn't help myself. So funny! Molly is this pure ray of sunshine! Sure, she has struggles and stuff, but she doesn't let it get her down! She finds the joy in whatever is happening. And she also rambles. Like big time when she gets nervous. About fish! Hahaha! She's studying fish as part of her degree and I just loved all of her rambling and the tidbits we learned.
And Beckett, he's mr. grumpy pants! Ok, that's probably not 100% accurate but he's definitely not a people person. And he has his reasons. But he's really trying not to let Molly's beauty and zeal for life break through his persona. Lol! But just you wait because who couldn't smile at sweet and adorable Molly?!
This is a sibling's best friend, forced proximity, same room, holiday rom-com that will pull you in, make you life your head off, and have you swooning and smiling for more adorableness!!!
I will definitely be returning to this one when I need a good happy and sweet love story read!
Content: Sweet. Characters share a room together due to weather circumstances but it is clean. Molly has epilepsy and has a seizure. There are some kisses. Some mild innuendos and nothing more.
I received a copy from the producer, Dreamscape Select, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading & Listening!!!
December 20, 2022
“You got your PhD in rocket science? That’s all well and good, but I managed not to trip over my own feet in front of my unrequited love. So who’s really winning here?”
‘A Not-So Holiday Paradise’ by Gracie Ruth Mitchell is such a cute story with an amazing mix of tropes! Brother’s best friend, unrequited love + forever crush, so much close proximity goodness, plus a wonderful grump and sunshine trope!
Molly is an adorable red headed ray of sunshine and Beckett is a guarded, serious anti-social and protective grump. These two get caught in close proximity situations and the love story that unfolds was so fun to read! This book had me smiling, laughing, tearing up, and it touched me!
I enjoyed the pinning, the humor, the tender moments, the fun, and the tough situations. Molly has Epilepsy and reading her story opened my eyes and taught me so much. It made Molly feel so real and I’m thankful for the empathy and understanding I gained from reading this book!
The dedication at the beginning of the book made me cry and was just what I needed to hear. I knew this book would be good from that moment! I loved how the dedication theme was a theme throughout the story and my favorite part of this book is how Beckett and Molly help each other through their struggles and broken pieces.😭🥰Beautiful!
This is a story with unique Christmassy moments, family, wonderful character growth, lovable characters, a fun setting, humor, and a sweet and touching love story!
Content:an on page seizure, and the author has a content warning at the beginning of the book. Kisses only. One brief mild innuendo.
4.5 stars
‘A Not-So Holiday Paradise’ by Gracie Ruth Mitchell is such a cute story with an amazing mix of tropes! Brother’s best friend, unrequited love + forever crush, so much close proximity goodness, plus a wonderful grump and sunshine trope!
Molly is an adorable red headed ray of sunshine and Beckett is a guarded, serious anti-social and protective grump. These two get caught in close proximity situations and the love story that unfolds was so fun to read! This book had me smiling, laughing, tearing up, and it touched me!
I enjoyed the pinning, the humor, the tender moments, the fun, and the tough situations. Molly has Epilepsy and reading her story opened my eyes and taught me so much. It made Molly feel so real and I’m thankful for the empathy and understanding I gained from reading this book!
The dedication at the beginning of the book made me cry and was just what I needed to hear. I knew this book would be good from that moment! I loved how the dedication theme was a theme throughout the story and my favorite part of this book is how Beckett and Molly help each other through their struggles and broken pieces.😭🥰Beautiful!
This is a story with unique Christmassy moments, family, wonderful character growth, lovable characters, a fun setting, humor, and a sweet and touching love story!
Content:an on page seizure, and the author has a content warning at the beginning of the book. Kisses only. One brief mild innuendo.
4.5 stars
December 19, 2022
I hate writing bad reviews and this author had a good storyline, I just did not love how it was organized. The shifts in character development of the guy was over dramatic and unrealistic. I did like the perspective of the girls point of view in this book though. She followed the outline of an emotional journey that seems logical and touching. I felt I related to how she felt just from reading her experiences. That’s why this book got a three star instead of a two star. Whenever strong emotion can be embodied to the reader that is a partial success.
The basic summary of how I felt about this book…
First 50% was slow even though it should have felt more intense, all of the sudden the characters felt more embarrassed around each other (their cheeks turning pink often), and than all of the sudden the guy turned into a vampire (not literally) and was over possessive saying, “good girl”. Gross! I like a possessive boy when they’re caring, but somehow this reminded me in the weird parts of twilight. That is probably just me though. Don’t get me wrong I like Twilight, but there are some weird parts in it. And the guy in this book embodied the over possessive dramatic characteristics while still being human and partially “normal.”
The basic summary of how I felt about this book…
First 50% was slow even though it should have felt more intense, all of the sudden the characters felt more embarrassed around each other (their cheeks turning pink often), and than all of the sudden the guy turned into a vampire (not literally) and was over possessive saying, “good girl”. Gross! I like a possessive boy when they’re caring, but somehow this reminded me in the weird parts of twilight. That is probably just me though. Don’t get me wrong I like Twilight, but there are some weird parts in it. And the guy in this book embodied the over possessive dramatic characteristics while still being human and partially “normal.”
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