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norwayellesea's review
5.0
A modern-day fairytale… yes, please!
Freddie Highgrove and Jasmine Walker were once engaged. Now ten years later, they are matched via the elite M Dating Agency and their blind date is a week-long break at a tropical paradise resort… the same location they'd planned to have as their honeymoon before their relationship fell apart...
When Freddie saw Jasmine...when Jasmine realised Freddie was her date; the awkward comments, foot-in-mouth remarks… and suspicions. The emotional highs and lows are heartfelt as the pair navigate their current surroundings yet, the old feelings for each other are still there… as if they never went away at all…only their priorities and life goals have shifted…as harsh truths are navigated.
The back story tells of how the two originally got together… the jarring discrepancy in their differing social status. However, during the intervening time, they are now equal, at least in wealth. So, after ten years, Is it possible for the former housekeeper's daughter to gain acceptance into the Highgrove family?
Happy endings are hard-fought and Jas and Freddie's follows a well-trodden bumpy path. Second-chance romance is one of my favourite tropes and Ms Stewart has written a wonderful story set against the contrasting backdrops of The Seychelles and Edinburgh. The narrative is escapism at its finest with exotic locations, rich protagonists, wise words and just a hint of calculated intervention and of course a happily-ever-after!
Readers familiar with this author will delight at this new novel and for those who have yet to discover the wonderful stories she creates… take a chance… they won't disappoint. As for Surprise Reunion With His Cinderella, prepare to be swept away in a whirlwind of romance!
***arc generously received courtesy of Harlequin Romance via Rachel's Random Resources***
Freddie Highgrove and Jasmine Walker were once engaged. Now ten years later, they are matched via the elite M Dating Agency and their blind date is a week-long break at a tropical paradise resort… the same location they'd planned to have as their honeymoon before their relationship fell apart...
When Freddie saw Jasmine...when Jasmine realised Freddie was her date; the awkward comments, foot-in-mouth remarks… and suspicions. The emotional highs and lows are heartfelt as the pair navigate their current surroundings yet, the old feelings for each other are still there… as if they never went away at all…only their priorities and life goals have shifted…as harsh truths are navigated.
The back story tells of how the two originally got together… the jarring discrepancy in their differing social status. However, during the intervening time, they are now equal, at least in wealth. So, after ten years, Is it possible for the former housekeeper's daughter to gain acceptance into the Highgrove family?
Happy endings are hard-fought and Jas and Freddie's follows a well-trodden bumpy path. Second-chance romance is one of my favourite tropes and Ms Stewart has written a wonderful story set against the contrasting backdrops of The Seychelles and Edinburgh. The narrative is escapism at its finest with exotic locations, rich protagonists, wise words and just a hint of calculated intervention and of course a happily-ever-after!
Readers familiar with this author will delight at this new novel and for those who have yet to discover the wonderful stories she creates… take a chance… they won't disappoint. As for Surprise Reunion With His Cinderella, prepare to be swept away in a whirlwind of romance!
***arc generously received courtesy of Harlequin Romance via Rachel's Random Resources***
wilko's review
4.0
Jasmine and Freddie were the perfect match for each, yes they were on opposite sides of the wealth scale but their love was strong or so they thought. Now ten years later they get their second chance at love, but was their love a one off and their memories of it through rose tinted glasses or is the spark still there even though they have changed somewhat over time. I loved seeing them meet again and work through their feelings and struggle with what they really want which is each other forever not just a week but will the heart finally rule over all else? best you read it and find out!!!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
lilaclicoricetissie's review
4.0
If a character is able to overcome every obstacle thrown her way, like it happens with Jasmine, then the whole book gets complex, richer.
[Keep reading @ Bookshelves & Teacups]
[Keep reading @ Bookshelves & Teacups]
oliviasbookishworld's review
3.0
I had a hard time connecting with the characters but it was still a quick and fun read.
jessbookishlife's review
5.0
Rachael Stewart is one of those authors that I always get excited to see what new book she has come up with. And since she writes romance, the possibilities are endless. This book is part of a series, which is so much exciting.
Freddie and Jasmine, two characters that have a past together. Because of that, this is a second change romance and I love that. I love that there is a history between them. It gave so many information and at the same time, questions.
Thanks to the scenery and the context the characters were put in by the elite M dating agency and the date, I was so in-to the story. I love how things developed and how the characters interacted. Although I didn't know the setting, the Seychelles, and once I Googled it, I was amazed. I went to the story with a clearer image and interest. Rachael Stewart did a brilliant job with setting the scenes and the beautiful places described.
Overall, I love the story. It was just perfect. Maybe it was because of the second chance that both Freddie and Jasmine got. Maybe it was the beauty around them that made me dream. Maybe it was the plot, and how fun it was and how I felt like I was part of the story in some way. Maybe it was a combination of all of those things, added to the lovely writing tone that the author has, one that constantly catches my attention. Nevertheless, if you like romance and steamy moments, if you like second chances, if you like paradise on Earth... this is a book for you.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Rachael Stewart for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
Freddie and Jasmine, two characters that have a past together. Because of that, this is a second change romance and I love that. I love that there is a history between them. It gave so many information and at the same time, questions.
Thanks to the scenery and the context the characters were put in by the elite M dating agency and the date, I was so in-to the story. I love how things developed and how the characters interacted. Although I didn't know the setting, the Seychelles, and once I Googled it, I was amazed. I went to the story with a clearer image and interest. Rachael Stewart did a brilliant job with setting the scenes and the beautiful places described.
Overall, I love the story. It was just perfect. Maybe it was because of the second chance that both Freddie and Jasmine got. Maybe it was the beauty around them that made me dream. Maybe it was the plot, and how fun it was and how I felt like I was part of the story in some way. Maybe it was a combination of all of those things, added to the lovely writing tone that the author has, one that constantly catches my attention. Nevertheless, if you like romance and steamy moments, if you like second chances, if you like paradise on Earth... this is a book for you.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Rachael Stewart for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
ceriwelshmumof3reads's review
4.0
I am a sucker for an easy romance book and this just ticked all the boxes!
We meet Freddie and Jasmine, who dated 10 years earlier, be set up on a blind date holiday together. The book follows how they decide to forget about the past and move on. Will it be together or separately?
It was a fun easy read, as the majority of the book is on the holiday, the main characters we meet are only the two, there are little parts for others.
Enjoyable read, perfect for the summer. For me, personally, it was just lacking a little more of something to make it a 5 star read.
We meet Freddie and Jasmine, who dated 10 years earlier, be set up on a blind date holiday together. The book follows how they decide to forget about the past and move on. Will it be together or separately?
It was a fun easy read, as the majority of the book is on the holiday, the main characters we meet are only the two, there are little parts for others.
Enjoyable read, perfect for the summer. For me, personally, it was just lacking a little more of something to make it a 5 star read.
joreadsromance's review
5.0
Second chances in the sultry sun
5 stars
I adore a second chance romance and what could be better than one written by the brilliant [a:Rachael Stewart|15103378|Rachael Stewart|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1526372299p2/15103378.jpg]? Turns out, not a lot!
We start off with a prologue set 10 years past, witnessing the beginning of the end of Freddie and Jasmine’s young love. With him being aristocracy and her the daughter of the hired help, the pair are world’s apart.
10 years later, Jasmine and Freddie are world’s apart again - but a week long date in paradise set up by a matchmaker brings our two lovers back together once again. But are they doomed to repeat the past or is this the start of a new beginning?
Jasmine is an extremely likeable heroine both when we glimpse her as a shy teen and as a more confident, assured adult. She’s got guts and smarts and is no longer afraid to ask for what she wants - and go after it. But that’s not to say she’s not as normal as you or me. She blushes easily, worries often and is still conflicted over the feelings that the past has brought up. I loved her for all her strength as well as all her relatable insecurities.
Now Freddie… Freddie was a hero I can 100% get behind - and not just because he was a hot Scot! Young Freddie was playful and sweet while older Freddie more mature, more stoic and a little cold. Or at least he was before Jasmine comes back in his life. I love, love, love it when a man can’t help but show his feelings. Even if he’s learned to master his emotions and is now something of a ruthless businessman, Freddie is overcome by Jasmine and he is almost tortured by his feelings for her. And I do so love it when an author tortures a hero in the quest for true love.
And I guess that’s one of the reasons why I adore a second chance romance - there’s always that underlying chemistry, passion and love all just waiting to burst through once again, and Jasmine and Freddie are the perfect example of this. They re-click almost immediately and you feel every moment. There’s an underlying simmering of emotion throughout the whole book which is subtle but packs a huge punch. It’s not too much that you’ll be a blubbering mess, but it touches you and makes you feel for these characters and will them to get it right this time.
[a:Rachael Stewart|15103378|Rachael Stewart|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1526372299p2/15103378.jpg] was one of the stand out stars of Mills & Boon’s now defunct Dare line and she brings her passion and storytelling perfectly to the Romance category. There’s still sex in this tale and it is perfection - probably in part due to the emotions between our couple. Maybe not as spicy as in a Dare, but still wholly satisfying.
In terms of the writing - as per usual - Ms Stewart is on point. It’s not often I actually stop reading a book simply to exclaim to myself over the wonderful intricacy of the writing. And the author herself will probably belie this fact - but it’s just so effortlessly done. It’s so smooth and readable and I’m a little (okay a lot) in awe.
Wherever you are, this story will transport you to an island paradise and give you that satisfaction of true love winning over all. You will devour this book and - I warn you now - you’ll want to buy up everything [a:Rachael Stewart|15103378|Rachael Stewart|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1526372299p2/15103378.jpg] has written once you’re done. 5 stars.
cuppacora's review
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
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