Member Reviews

An age gap romance, the story of Jasmine and Alejandro. They work together and each have their own reasons for not dating,but will two weeks away confidante things? I loved the setting and how it was told from both points of view.

Was this review helpful?

This was a sweet, romantic read. Alejandro is swoon-worthy and the setting and characters in Jamaica really made this book for me.

Was this review helpful?

What Happens in Paradise by Olivia Spring was a light, fun read with an engaging romance and a gorgeous island setting. The story follows Zara, a career-driven woman who finds herself unexpectedly single and takes a much-needed trip to a tropical paradise. What was meant to be a solo getaway quickly turns into something more when she meets Noah, a charming and mysterious stranger. Their chemistry is instant, but with secrets lingering between them, Zara has to decide if she’s willing to take a chance on love again.

I enjoyed the blend of romance, self-discovery, and escapism. The setting was beautifully described, making me feel like I was right there on the beach. Zara’s journey was relatable, and while some parts were predictable, it didn’t take away from the enjoyment. The tension between Zara and Noah kept things interesting, and I appreciated the balance of emotional depth with lighthearted moments.

Overall, it was a great escapist read—perfect for when you want a feel-good romance with a dreamy setting.

Was this review helpful?

This was my first book by this author which means I didn't read the first in this series but i still loved it!! I love a forbidden romance and the tension leading up to the spice was so worth it. I loved the fake dating twist this story had and the whole "love hotel" concept.

Was this review helpful?

This was another strong entry in this series, it had that feel that I was looking for and enjoyed the overall romance element to this book. The characters were everything that I was looking for and enjoyed the way this was told. Olivia Spring wrote this perfectly and was glad I got to read this.

Was this review helpful?

If you’re looking for a beach read to get you in the mood for sun, sand, and sizzling romance, I’ve got just the thing for you. Jasmine and Alejandro enjoy beautiful Jamaican cuisine and scenery while exploring their forbidden attraction to each other.

The chemistry between the two protagonists is strong.  It is refreshing to see how they discovered they had so much in common, even with their reverse age gap and ethnic differences. That said, I missed out on that delicious tension we all love because they were all nervous about the big boss finding out.

I think I would have enjoyed seeing the characters develop that admiration and attraction gradually in the workplace. It would’ve added so much depth to their romance! Instead, we kind of just jumped straight into the feels.

What really took the cake (or should I say the jerk chicken?) were the mouthwatering descriptions of food throughout the story. Seriously, I could almost smell the spices wafting off the pages! It was like a mini vacation to Jamaica with every bite they described.

Overall, I enjoyed What Happens in Paradise for its cuteness and picturesque settings but couldn’t help but wish for a little more substance. If you’re into sweet stories that make you smile, this one is right up your alley.

Thank you to Ms. Spring for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.

Was this review helpful?

Thank you Netgalley for this advance reader copy of this cute little romance book! This is book two in a serious. It was super cute. Loved the characters connections. Loved the atmosphere of this book. It did read a bit slow for me and took me a little longer than it should to get it done. But over all, a great summer read. Perfect to take on vacation this summer!

Was this review helpful?

This was a cute read but a little difficult to follow. The characters had a good connection and the ending was good but I wouldn't say this is her best book. Still will recommend though

Was this review helpful?

This book is actually book two from ‘The Love Hotel’ series but can very easily be read as a stand alone but does contain a few recurring characters and continuing storyline. And to be quite honest they are such amazing books why wouldn’t you want to read them all!!

Right from the very first page i was absolutely cackling with laughter and i knew instantly that this book was going to pull me in and swallow me up whole!

Even at the very beginning of the story i was intrigued and couldn’t wait to find out what Jasmine’s back story was - i just needed to know all about her!!

This book is set in London, Spain and Jamaica and through Olivia’s wonderful writing style, i honestly felt as though i was there and i could imagine all these amazing places.

Alejandro was not only very swoonworthy but was extremely funny too. He was hilarious when he kept getting confused over different words and phrases!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and really enjoyed being immersed in all its heartwarming goodness.

It was funny and romantic and hot and spicy and sensitive and full of the most amazing sounding food!

What Happens In Paradise contains some of my most favourite tropes - age-gap, only one bed, workplace relationship and each of them was written perfectly.

This was an absolutely wonderful, sizzling read and perfect for a spot of armchair travel too…….

Was this review helpful?

The first thing I had to note down before I even finished the book, so I remembered, was LUCY PEARL! What a band! When this came up, it gave me all the feels and reminded me of a time in my past, and since then, I have played the album on repeat!

Anyway, the book! Oh, I love this series, and I hope we have more to come, too. It really is romantic and breathtaking, and why can't there be something like this in the world? It is such a happy and feel-good thing to do and have, and the sizzle! I've been dying for this book ever since I read The One That Got Away, and we were given that cliffhanger!! It was most definitely worth the wait! I love Jasmine!

I had to listen to the audiobook as Chloë Sommer is amazing and she gave Jasmine life! So much life! I could imagine some of those scenes might have been fun to record 😉

Just a wonderful time in Jamaica and I loved Bob! He made every page he was on, so much fun and he made me smile. He was just an absolute delight - is there a book about him in the works?

So many tropes, obstacles and morning/afternoon/evening delights. Jasmine is one lucky lady. But I cared about both these characters as they step into uncharted territories. It was beautiful to watch this love blossom and to feel a part of their story.

Can we have more?

Was this review helpful?

What Happens in Paradise was a quick fun forbidden reverse age gap romance. Jasmine and Alejandro work together and do there best to fight their attraction. Spicy banter and amazing locations make this the perfect beach read or book on a cold winter's day. This is my first book by Olivia Spring and it won't be the last. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my copy. This is my honest review.

Was this review helpful?

This is the 2nd in a a series but can be read as a standalone (which I did) It takes place in Jamaica and is Dual POV (I'm a sucker for dual POV). You are captivated by the storyline, a forbidden workplace romance. and you will be left wanting to visit Jamaica.

Was this review helpful?

I enjoyed this book. Jasmine and Alejandro work together at Love Hotel. They are both attracted to each other but there is a strict rule within the hotel that employees are forbidden to date. Jasmin and Alejandro get selected to go help open a new Love hotel in Jamaica for 2 weeks. Their attraction starts to grow as they spend more time together and they are finding it hard to not act on their feelings. They go do excursions together and try out restaurants. They try to hide their attraction for each other but it becomes impossible and they decide to have a fling while there....what could possibly go wrong? This is an reverse age gap romance. Overall, I thought it was a quick cute read with some spice and would definitely read more in this series.

Thank you to Netgalley for an eARC of this book.

Was this review helpful?

Jasmine and Alejandro are sent from Spain to Jamica to open a new hotel. Jasmine develops feelings for Alejandro. sweet read.

Was this review helpful?

What Happens in Paradise by Olivia Spring is a charming and heartwarming holiday romance that expertly combines forbidden love, self-discovery, and the festive spirit. The story revolves around Jasmine, the hotel’s dedicated guest manager and talented “Love Alchemist,” known for her perfect matchmaking skills. However, workplace romance is strictly forbidden, and Jasmine finds herself struggling to resist her growing attraction to Alejandro, the alluring and skilled sous-chef.

In an attempt to distance herself from Alejandro and maintain professionalism, Jasmine agrees to open a new hotel branch in Jamaica. But her plan backfires when Alejandro is also sent to Jamaica for two weeks. The sultry tropical setting, professional secrecy, and undeniable chemistry between them create the perfect backdrop for a romance full of tension, passion, and tenderness.

Jasmine is a determined and passionate protagonist, deeply committed to her work and the happiness of her guests. Alejandro, equally charming and accomplished, shares a natural connection with Jasmine that feels genuine and engaging. Their relationship is developed with a mix of tenderness and realism, allowing readers to become deeply invested in their lives and emotions.

Olivia Spring’s narrative is vivid and immersive, with detailed descriptions that transport readers to the beautifully decorated holiday setting. Her smooth writing style draws readers in, balancing romance and suspense to create an engaging and enjoyable reading experience. The story’s themes—love against the odds, self-discovery, and the transformative power of romance—are handled with care and depth, making this novel both thought-provoking and entertaining.

Spring uses multi-perspective storytelling and flashbacks to reveal the characters’ backgrounds and motivations, enriching the narrative with emotional layers. The dialogue is natural and insightful, effectively conveying character dynamics and relationships. The pacing is well-balanced, transitioning smoothly between slower, introspective moments and faster, action-driven scenes.

What Happens in Paradise is an ideal holiday read for fans of contemporary romance, offering a lively and heartwarming story that celebrates love, community, and the festive season. With its unforgettable characters, compelling narrative, and enchanting holiday atmosphere, this book is a delightful addition to the holiday romance genre—perfect for curling up with during the Christmas season. It’s a story that will leave readers thinking long after the final page and is sure to become a cherished favorite among romance lovers.

Was this review helpful?

4.6 stars 🤩

A Passionate Escape to Paradise

The latest release in the Love Hotel series delivers a sizzling forbidden romance set in a luxurious resort. Jasmine, a dedicated matchmaker, follows strict workplace rules—until her undeniable attraction to sous-chef Alejandro complicates everything. When they are sent to open a new hotel in Jamaica, resisting temptation becomes impossible. A secret fling seems like the perfect solution, but emotions soon blur the lines between passion and love.

With engaging tropes like forced proximity, age gap, and “only one bed,” this novel masterfully blends tension, desire, and emotional depth. The vivid setting enhances the escapist charm, making it a compelling read for romance fans.

Go for it & feel yourself in heaven (& in arms of Alejandro) 💓

Was this review helpful?

This is a spicy romance written in dual POV.

Jasmine and Alejandro are sent on a work trip from Spain to Jamaica to help with the opening of the newest Love hotel. Even as jasmine tries to stay professional and keep her feeling in check, the universe has other plans and each date/ adventure had her lowering her guard and eventually learning what is important to her.

Olivia does a good job writing as she made me want to book a trip to Jamaica and try the cuisine and have bob as my driver.

I now want to go back and read the first story in the series

Thank you Boldwood publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC

Was this review helpful?

This book was a sweet love story and I loved the spice. I look forward to reading more by this author.

Was this review helpful?

I went into this book expecting a cute, spicy rom-com that would leave me smiling and maybe even blushing a little. Unfortunately, what I got instead was a complete disappointment.

The story dragged on with no real excitement, and I found myself yawning more than anything. The characters felt flat and one-dimensional, lacking the depth and emotional connection that would have made me care about them. There was absolutely no chemistry between the leads—where was the banter and witty back-and-forth that I was hoping for? Without that spark, the romance just felt forced and lifeless. On top of that, the plot was all over the place. I had a difficult time following the storyline, as the pieces never really seemed to come together in a coherent way. Overall, it just didn’t deliver the fun, lighthearted experience I was looking for.

Was this review helpful?

I missed the boat for the first book in this series, but will certainly try to read it in the future. I loved the premise of the Love Hotel chain and was even on board with the kooky job titles, such as guest relations being known as Love Alchemists! I didn’t even experience a single eye roll, well maybe just a couple of tiny ones!
The setting at the beginning of the book is Spain, and that is delightful but short-lived as our heroine, Jasmine, is tasked with helping to set up a new venue in Jamaica. The only complication to this plan is that her secret crush, Alejandro, the sous-chef, is going with her. He’s younger and devastatingly handsome and has made it clear that he definitely feels the same way about her. However, inter-staff relationships are forbidden and being caught is a sackable offence. What a premise for a spicy rom-com! There is plenty of sizzle but not to the detriment of a really adorable love story.
The chemistry between Jasmine and Alejandro is clear, but so is their reluctance to jeopardise their careers, so an opportunity to explore their feelings away from the Spanish observers is too good to miss. I really liked getting to know Jasmine and understanding her reluctance to risk her heart and her job gave me a clear insight into her character. She was determined to rise through the ranks and make a success of the hotel concept that had taken a chance on her.
Alejandro, on the other hand, was willing to take risks and had a confidence that was both beguiling and super sexy. His skills in the kitchen were stifled by his domineering head chef, and he also had an overwhelming desire to reach an improved grade within the hotel, maybe even become a Cuisine King. Yes, he was younger than Jasmine but that didn’t concern him even slightly, he knew what he wanted and was determined to claim her as his prize.
Once they reached Jamaica, their resolve began to disintegrate, and all bets were off. So buckle up and enjoy the chemistry between this couple of lovestruck employees. I’m pretty sure that you’ll be looking for a return booking.

Was this review helpful?