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From Paradise...to Pregnant!
One night with consequences…
A week in Bali was accountant Zoe Summers's dream vacation. But when the tropical island paradise is hit by an earthquake, she's trapped—alongside Mitch Bailey, sports star and blast from her past! High on the thrill of survival, they seek comfort in each other's arms…
It was only supposed to be one night, but Zoe soon discovers an unexpected souvenir—she's pregnant! Now Zoe and Mitch will have to ask themselves…can one night lead to parenthood and a lifetime of love?
A week in Bali was accountant Zoe Summers's dream vacation. But when the tropical island paradise is hit by an earthquake, she's trapped—alongside Mitch Bailey, sports star and blast from her past! High on the thrill of survival, they seek comfort in each other's arms…
It was only supposed to be one night, but Zoe soon discovers an unexpected souvenir—she's pregnant! Now Zoe and Mitch will have to ask themselves…can one night lead to parenthood and a lifetime of love?
256 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 1, 2015
About the author
Kandy Shepherd
201 books106 followersKandy Shepherd left a fast-paced career as a magazine editor to write award-winning romantic fiction.
Kandy lives in a small farm in the Blue Mountains near Sydney, Australia, with her husband, daughter and a menagerie of four-legged friends.
She believes in love-at-first-sight and real-life romance—they worked for her!
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 21, 2015
I read and loved "The Summer They Never Forgot" by Kandy Shepherd, so I was filled with anticipation when her latest release fell into my hands. And I’m happy to say I wasn’t disappointed at all.
Zoe is a wonderful heroine. All too often, if the main character isn’t beautiful, she’s ugly. Not Zoe. She started out as a plain Jane and turned into not a swan but a common yet beautiful bird. I loved the way she was portrayed as a woman with brains and confidence, but also with a burdened past and hidden insecurities. She’d make an awesome friend, I think, and she’s indeed a perfect match for Mitch, though it doesn’t seem like that at first.
As for Mitch, I’ll be swooning over him for some more days… There’s a lot to be said for a hunky soccer star – especially if he’s determined, dedicated, intelligent, charismatic and slightly hurt. I fell in love with him alongside Zoe, and I heartily approve that the author didn’t just give him gorgeous looks.
The story itself reads simple on the surface, but it goes deeper and feels very authentic. The pregnancy itself was of course no surprise, but I still hung in there with Zoe and bit my nails at how Mitch would react. I enjoyed the soccer / football info mixed in because my husband has turned me into a fan, and because they fit nicely into the plot. The glimpses of exotic Bali and amazing Sydney were the icing on the cake. There’s only one thing I wish would have been different: the book’s length. I would have happily read another 100 pages with this great couple and Shepherd’s lush, modern, appealing style!
Zoe is a wonderful heroine. All too often, if the main character isn’t beautiful, she’s ugly. Not Zoe. She started out as a plain Jane and turned into not a swan but a common yet beautiful bird. I loved the way she was portrayed as a woman with brains and confidence, but also with a burdened past and hidden insecurities. She’d make an awesome friend, I think, and she’s indeed a perfect match for Mitch, though it doesn’t seem like that at first.
As for Mitch, I’ll be swooning over him for some more days… There’s a lot to be said for a hunky soccer star – especially if he’s determined, dedicated, intelligent, charismatic and slightly hurt. I fell in love with him alongside Zoe, and I heartily approve that the author didn’t just give him gorgeous looks.
The story itself reads simple on the surface, but it goes deeper and feels very authentic. The pregnancy itself was of course no surprise, but I still hung in there with Zoe and bit my nails at how Mitch would react. I enjoyed the soccer / football info mixed in because my husband has turned me into a fan, and because they fit nicely into the plot. The glimpses of exotic Bali and amazing Sydney were the icing on the cake. There’s only one thing I wish would have been different: the book’s length. I would have happily read another 100 pages with this great couple and Shepherd’s lush, modern, appealing style!
June 8, 2015
One wrong step ruined their friendship.
But what they did not realise was that they were in love when they were seventeen.
As fate would have it, they meet again a decade later on the exotic island of Bali and the strength of the feelings they once had, bring them together for a celebratory reunion resulting in them returning to want more from each other.
Though, no boundaries are set, Zoe and Mitch are not ready to let go of each other and now they have a new life to welcome.
Will this new life be a pleasant surprise or an unpleasant shock?
Of course, they want their baby and they want to be a family.
But what they did not realise was that they were in love when they were seventeen.
As fate would have it, they meet again a decade later on the exotic island of Bali and the strength of the feelings they once had, bring them together for a celebratory reunion resulting in them returning to want more from each other.
Though, no boundaries are set, Zoe and Mitch are not ready to let go of each other and now they have a new life to welcome.
Will this new life be a pleasant surprise or an unpleasant shock?
Of course, they want their baby and they want to be a family.
June 6, 2015
All fun filled nights are usually without consequences, well except if you count the hangover part that you are always aware of will be there the next day. Bu the fun filled nights that always hold the most consequences are when we say " I will never ......." because then it always happens !
In the latest read from Kandy Shepherd, we meet account Zoe Summer. A week in Bali was meant to be her dream vacation, the one vacation that is meant to replenish her energy and just generally give her back some zest in life. But when the tropical island paradise she's meant to be enjoying is hit by an earthquake, she's trapped. Reading about the heroine being trapped was very realistic and had me in tears. I mean can you image , here you are on a tropical holiday soaking up the sun and voila boom suddenly you're trapped with no escape in sight. Talk about dream jumping into nightmare mode!
Anyways , being trapped is the least of her problems, because she his trapped alongside Mitch Bailey, sports star extraordinaire and also the blast from her past! Mitch is high on the thrill of survival, and when there is fear it's always the number one little " do not do" that let's couples end up in each other's arms.
It 's meant to only be for the night, to simply just get through the rough patch life has dished out, but soon Zoe discovers she's pregnant. Now this adrenaline, fear induced one night only couple have to decide can they do forever and raise their child together, or will one of them start running for that non existent dream of no worries in life?
When I stated this read, I did not look at the back blurb, because heck it's Kandy Shepherd 's name on the cover and anyone that knows me well knows I love her books, so why would I read the back?! So I was of course completely knocked for a six when what I thought was a lovely per chance vacation meeting, falling in love after the discovery of pregnancy romance read , got turned up side down into not only one of the most tear-jerkker reads ever but also one of the most exquisite I have ever read.
The tears come from the very realistic fear I experienced when reading about the earthquake, it sent me feeling desperate to climb into the book and save the characters. It's a small earthquake but it's powerfully written, so powerful that I felt every single part of it happening , and thanking my lucky stars that I don't live in a country that's known for shattering earthquakes.
The character of Zoe is a very private person, she's not the type to go out and shout out anything and everything on her mind, whereas the character of Mitch lives pretty much smack bam right in the middle of the media. I found it fascinating watching these two try to get to know each other again, and keep it all together, and all the time I was thinking " Gosh, what happens if these two get dragged into a media circus, would they survive it?" .
A stunning journey of love, self discovery and the beginning to a beautiful, remarkable, passionate love story. I cannot wait for the next Kandy Shepherd masterpiece to enter my life, I love this author's fun , flirty yet so heartfelt and emotionally overwhelming it sends me into fits of tears , writing style.
5/5 star review
" Vacation forecast : Sun and fun , with a chance of pregnancy!"
In the latest read from Kandy Shepherd, we meet account Zoe Summer. A week in Bali was meant to be her dream vacation, the one vacation that is meant to replenish her energy and just generally give her back some zest in life. But when the tropical island paradise she's meant to be enjoying is hit by an earthquake, she's trapped. Reading about the heroine being trapped was very realistic and had me in tears. I mean can you image , here you are on a tropical holiday soaking up the sun and voila boom suddenly you're trapped with no escape in sight. Talk about dream jumping into nightmare mode!
Anyways , being trapped is the least of her problems, because she his trapped alongside Mitch Bailey, sports star extraordinaire and also the blast from her past! Mitch is high on the thrill of survival, and when there is fear it's always the number one little " do not do" that let's couples end up in each other's arms.
It 's meant to only be for the night, to simply just get through the rough patch life has dished out, but soon Zoe discovers she's pregnant. Now this adrenaline, fear induced one night only couple have to decide can they do forever and raise their child together, or will one of them start running for that non existent dream of no worries in life?
When I stated this read, I did not look at the back blurb, because heck it's Kandy Shepherd 's name on the cover and anyone that knows me well knows I love her books, so why would I read the back?! So I was of course completely knocked for a six when what I thought was a lovely per chance vacation meeting, falling in love after the discovery of pregnancy romance read , got turned up side down into not only one of the most tear-jerkker reads ever but also one of the most exquisite I have ever read.
The tears come from the very realistic fear I experienced when reading about the earthquake, it sent me feeling desperate to climb into the book and save the characters. It's a small earthquake but it's powerfully written, so powerful that I felt every single part of it happening , and thanking my lucky stars that I don't live in a country that's known for shattering earthquakes.
The character of Zoe is a very private person, she's not the type to go out and shout out anything and everything on her mind, whereas the character of Mitch lives pretty much smack bam right in the middle of the media. I found it fascinating watching these two try to get to know each other again, and keep it all together, and all the time I was thinking " Gosh, what happens if these two get dragged into a media circus, would they survive it?" .
A stunning journey of love, self discovery and the beginning to a beautiful, remarkable, passionate love story. I cannot wait for the next Kandy Shepherd masterpiece to enter my life, I love this author's fun , flirty yet so heartfelt and emotionally overwhelming it sends me into fits of tears , writing style.
5/5 star review
" Vacation forecast : Sun and fun , with a chance of pregnancy!"
September 20, 2015
The Harlequin Romance imprint is one of my favorites when it comes to heartwarming, deeply romantic stories, and Kandy Shepherd's From Paradise... to Pregnant! is no different.
What I loved about this story is not just how likable both Zoe and Mitch are as characters but the focus on them as a couple and their relationship. I love reading a romance where the romance is the focus, where I learn about the characters and watched their relationship develop throughout the story. Kandy does a marvelous job of this by giving us Zoe and Mitch and saturating us with Zoe and Mitch. This makes my silly, romantic heart very happy.
I adored Zoe right from the get go, the nerdy girl who's made something of herself, but deep down, she's still the nerdy girl. I loved her confidence in the woman she'd become but I also love the glimpses into the girl she once was, the moments of vulnerability that make her so endearing. I love she tries to do what she think is the right thing for Mitch even if it meant sacrificing her own happiness.
Mitch is an awesome hero and I do adore a world class soccer player. I confess to a soft spot for sexy soccer playing heroes. :-) Mitch is a great guy all around. Talented, determined, driven, but at the core of him, he's a kind and compassionate man. I loved he wanted to right past wrongs and he was man enough to deal with the elephant in the pool (they were in Bali!) and all the other elephants tromping their way through his and Zoe's relationship each time they encountered each other. And when Zoe pushes him away, he's strong enough and determined enough to fight for her.
Thank you for writing a wonderfully engaging and romantic story, Kandy. I can't wait till the next one.
What I loved about this story is not just how likable both Zoe and Mitch are as characters but the focus on them as a couple and their relationship. I love reading a romance where the romance is the focus, where I learn about the characters and watched their relationship develop throughout the story. Kandy does a marvelous job of this by giving us Zoe and Mitch and saturating us with Zoe and Mitch. This makes my silly, romantic heart very happy.
I adored Zoe right from the get go, the nerdy girl who's made something of herself, but deep down, she's still the nerdy girl. I loved her confidence in the woman she'd become but I also love the glimpses into the girl she once was, the moments of vulnerability that make her so endearing. I love she tries to do what she think is the right thing for Mitch even if it meant sacrificing her own happiness.
Mitch is an awesome hero and I do adore a world class soccer player. I confess to a soft spot for sexy soccer playing heroes. :-) Mitch is a great guy all around. Talented, determined, driven, but at the core of him, he's a kind and compassionate man. I loved he wanted to right past wrongs and he was man enough to deal with the elephant in the pool (they were in Bali!) and all the other elephants tromping their way through his and Zoe's relationship each time they encountered each other. And when Zoe pushes him away, he's strong enough and determined enough to fight for her.
Thank you for writing a wonderfully engaging and romantic story, Kandy. I can't wait till the next one.
June 3, 2015
Kandy Shepherd warms the heart of romance readers ,with her vivid descriptions and such wonderfully delivered sweet stories of love. From Paradise to Pregnant is no exception.
Her stories always leave me feeling gooey and lovey dovey, sated and happy. I turn the last page, content and sheepishly grinning knowing that this book was another one to add to my list of favourites by this author.
I love the settings Kandy depicts her stories in , the wonderfully detailed surroundings she so flawlessly pens and the characters she puts forth on the pages.
The writing is flawless and richly detailed, and the characters well delivered with depth and definition. The romance is gradual , but rich in extent , but manages to so show emotion and moments between the characters that give us more then just words. A character driven romance that will have you reading from front to back enjoying the characters, the storyline and everything in between.
Another delightful story from Kandy that fulfilled all my expectations..
FULL REVIEW TO COME .
Her stories always leave me feeling gooey and lovey dovey, sated and happy. I turn the last page, content and sheepishly grinning knowing that this book was another one to add to my list of favourites by this author.
I love the settings Kandy depicts her stories in , the wonderfully detailed surroundings she so flawlessly pens and the characters she puts forth on the pages.
The writing is flawless and richly detailed, and the characters well delivered with depth and definition. The romance is gradual , but rich in extent , but manages to so show emotion and moments between the characters that give us more then just words. A character driven romance that will have you reading from front to back enjoying the characters, the storyline and everything in between.
Another delightful story from Kandy that fulfilled all my expectations..
FULL REVIEW TO COME .
June 19, 2015
"From Paradise...to Pregnant" by Kandy Shepherd is a quick, intense read. Our heroine in the story is Zoe Summer's who is supposed to be on vacation but when an earthquake hits the dream vacation becomes more. First she is trapped with a person from her past, Mitch Bailey, and when they are rescued they seek comfort in each others arms. What was one glorious night turns into something else a couple of months later.
The author writes with such intensity of what happens during the earthquake that me, as a reader, can visualize Zoe and Mitch being trapped. Zoe was also plain Jane, nerdy girl who turns into a swan. I love stories like this. So much more, hence the title, and really worth reading.
The author writes with such intensity of what happens during the earthquake that me, as a reader, can visualize Zoe and Mitch being trapped. Zoe was also plain Jane, nerdy girl who turns into a swan. I love stories like this. So much more, hence the title, and really worth reading.
May 23, 2015
Lovely romance with an only too real feel starting with a Tsunami on holiday in Bali and ending with a wonderful love story.
July 24, 2015
Characterizations with "something extra" add depth to the sweetly sensual storyline of author Kandy Shepherd's "From Paradise to Pregnant". Long ago, while working through the typical teenage angst of one who marches to their own drummer, Zoe Summers decided to make the most of her unique looks and individual sense of style. With her intelligence, business smarts, and her ability to cater to the specific working needs of her clientele, Zoe had bloomed both personally and professionally. A decade out of high school, she was at the top of her game. Indulging herself with a well-deserved vacation in Bali seems to be the perfect break from her workaholic lifestyle. She was unprepared for the impact of two devastating events: an earthquake, and its aftershocks, and an unexpected reunion with the boy who had been so important to her in high school. Mitch Bailey was definitely no longer a boy--he was a devastatingly handsome grown man--and he was an internationally renowned soccer superstar. Despite the changes Zoe had made, Mitch remembers her very well. In fact, he's never forgotten the brainy girl who helped him with his studies. He's always regretted how his then-girlfriend Lara had treated Zoe so badly that his friendship with her had ended. As Mitch and Zoe renew their acquaintance, he repeatedly apologizes, and the combination of old times and their new appreciation of surviving the earthquake spark a new interest in each other. Circumstances and mutual need lead to a night of passion, with an understanding that they can only have one night together. However, hearts entangled by the hand of Fate sometimes are driven to seek further contact, and Mitch and Zoe will see each other again. To her great surprise, Zoe discovers that she is pregnant. Knowing that Mitch is extremely focused on his career and his contract with his team necessitates that he lives in Madrid, Spain, Zoe tries to keep the pregnancy from Mitch. Zoe's life and her business are located in Sydney. How could things work out between them without a great deal of compromise from them both? Will love and a newborn little life remove the obstacles in their way? Has a friendship from their youth proved to be the lasting foundation for a life of happiness together? Despite their success in their adult life, the characters of Mitch and Zoe each have retained some of the quirks and insecurities from the past, and this gives them a charming vulnerability. Coming full circle, back to each other, they find exactly what they have been looking for all along. A lovely contemporary romance from the talented Kandy Shepherd.
Review Copy Gratis Author
Review Copy Gratis Author
May 30, 2015
This is a beautiful story in a beautiful setting it was a joy to read and it had me smiling and tearing up at times as Zoe Summers meets up with and old school friend Mitch Bailey while on holiday in Bali.
Zoe and Baily have not seen each other for many years since the end of school and they had a close friendship during school while Zoe who had recently moved to this school after losing her parents in an accident and moving in with her grandmother who was not a loving person was helping Mitch with his English poetry in particular Mitch has always been the popular good looking guy even in school and he had a girlfriend then and now he is one of Australia's top soccer players playing in Spain and Zoe is shocked that he even remembers her she has always felt out of place around Mitch and his friends, but he does remember her and he has never forgotten Zoe and the way that they parted and there is an instant spark between them but of course there has just been a small earthquake that has them both shaken and a little worried but Mitch is keen to reacquaint himself with Zoe but Zoe is wary her life is so different from Mitch's, but after a fright and the sensual pull between them they spend a very passionate night together and Zoe leaves quietly in the morning without saying goodbye.
Mitch also heads home later in the day across the other side of the world wanting to see Zoe again but Zoe is not sure that she wants to see Mitch again. But that one night has left Zoe pregnant can this mean a life filled with happiness and love for both of them when Zoe is such a private person and Mitch lives in such an media based world ? this is such a great story beautifully written and very enjoyable as Zoe and Mitch open up to one another Mitch is such a great hero caring loving and Zoe is a little vulnerable but loving this is one not to be missed I loved it.
Zoe and Baily have not seen each other for many years since the end of school and they had a close friendship during school while Zoe who had recently moved to this school after losing her parents in an accident and moving in with her grandmother who was not a loving person was helping Mitch with his English poetry in particular Mitch has always been the popular good looking guy even in school and he had a girlfriend then and now he is one of Australia's top soccer players playing in Spain and Zoe is shocked that he even remembers her she has always felt out of place around Mitch and his friends, but he does remember her and he has never forgotten Zoe and the way that they parted and there is an instant spark between them but of course there has just been a small earthquake that has them both shaken and a little worried but Mitch is keen to reacquaint himself with Zoe but Zoe is wary her life is so different from Mitch's, but after a fright and the sensual pull between them they spend a very passionate night together and Zoe leaves quietly in the morning without saying goodbye.
Mitch also heads home later in the day across the other side of the world wanting to see Zoe again but Zoe is not sure that she wants to see Mitch again. But that one night has left Zoe pregnant can this mean a life filled with happiness and love for both of them when Zoe is such a private person and Mitch lives in such an media based world ? this is such a great story beautifully written and very enjoyable as Zoe and Mitch open up to one another Mitch is such a great hero caring loving and Zoe is a little vulnerable but loving this is one not to be missed I loved it.
May 20, 2015
What do you get when you have Zoe Summer who always feels she is plain women, and Mitch Bailey a sports star that is everything a hot man should be? You get a fantastic romance that puts two people that knew each other in the past , an earthquake in Bali and a night to remember. Zoe feels there is no future for her with Mitch who is busy traveling the world with his team, but the fact that they spent nights together may have to change that. When Mitch goes off to his games Zoe finds that their affair left her with a child. Not wanting to make him have to make choices she keeps it a secret even when he comes to see her. She sends him off explaining that she really thinks its best to end this so he leaves but on the way to the airport, Mitch realizes he has feelings for her that are deeper than he thought so instead of flying out with his team he goes back and finds out the truth. What happens next I am not going to say but its a HEA that the reader must find out for themselves. Wonderful story by Kandy Shepherd, that leaves you smiling.
July 30, 2015
FROM PARADISE…TO PREGNANT by Kandy Shepherd is warm, sweet and emotionally touching. The romance between the hero and heroine gives this beautiful story a touch of zest and sizzle.
An earthquake disrupts Zoe Summer's one week vacation in Bali and she is out of her wits end. Amidst all the confusion caused by Mother Nature, she meets Mitch Bailey, the famous footballer and high school crush, wrapped in just a towel (!) Ten years she'd last seen Mitch and since they hadn't parted on good terms, Zoe doesn't have a clue what to expect. However, Mitch is glad to see her. They catch up with each other. Unsure whether there would be aftershocks, Zoe is stuck with Mitch. Finding comfort in Mitch's arms stirs old memories, Mitch and Zoe share an unforgettable night together. As a result Zoe becomes pregnant.
What would Mitch's reaction be, when he finds out he is a father-to-be? After all, he is Mitch Bailey, the famous footballer!
A recommended read for anyone looking for a warm and passionate romance
5/5 Stars
May 17, 2015
FROM PARADISE TO PREGNANT by author Kandy Shepherd is a June 2015 release by Harlequin Romance series.
Zoe Summer’s vacation in Bali is brought to a shuddering halt when an earthquake hits the island. She is scared stiff and with no idea what would happen next, she found comfort in famous footballer Mitch Bailey’s arms. Mitch was her high school crush.
Would Mitch want to continue their liaison after that night? Because he was after his own career oriented goal which had no place for long-term commitment. Could he commit to Zoe?
FROM PARADISE TO PREGNANT is a stunning romance, which starts in Bali. Author Kandy Shepherd wrote the earthquake situation so realistically that I was scared for Zoe and Mitch and applauded when she decides to spend the night with him. This is a mesmerizing tale with a gorgeous hero and a plain but feisty heroine and the result sparkles on the pages.
Highly recommended for all readers of romance.
Zoe Summer’s vacation in Bali is brought to a shuddering halt when an earthquake hits the island. She is scared stiff and with no idea what would happen next, she found comfort in famous footballer Mitch Bailey’s arms. Mitch was her high school crush.
Would Mitch want to continue their liaison after that night? Because he was after his own career oriented goal which had no place for long-term commitment. Could he commit to Zoe?
FROM PARADISE TO PREGNANT is a stunning romance, which starts in Bali. Author Kandy Shepherd wrote the earthquake situation so realistically that I was scared for Zoe and Mitch and applauded when she decides to spend the night with him. This is a mesmerizing tale with a gorgeous hero and a plain but feisty heroine and the result sparkles on the pages.
Highly recommended for all readers of romance.
June 14, 2015
This was my first ever taste of Kandy Shepherd's work, and it definitely won't be the last.
We meet Zoe, a young woman spending her vacation in Bali. During a relaxing message an earthquake hits and sends everything into chaos, and who does she run into? An old friend from High school. What makes it more uncomfortable is they did not part on good terms. It's been 10yrs and he's still as handsome as ever! Fearing aftershocks, Zoe is now stuck on the island with a guy she used to have a huge crush on, whats a girl to do?! ^_^
What a breathtakingly beautiful story! I was drawn in right from the start and was hanging on through the whole book. I loved the romance, and how they found each other again years later. I married my high school love so it really brought something real for me.
If you're looking for a quick, fun story full of warmth and emotion, than look no further. I highly recommend this one to everyone that loves reading contemporary romance. Now go forth and enjoy! ^_^
We meet Zoe, a young woman spending her vacation in Bali. During a relaxing message an earthquake hits and sends everything into chaos, and who does she run into? An old friend from High school. What makes it more uncomfortable is they did not part on good terms. It's been 10yrs and he's still as handsome as ever! Fearing aftershocks, Zoe is now stuck on the island with a guy she used to have a huge crush on, whats a girl to do?! ^_^
What a breathtakingly beautiful story! I was drawn in right from the start and was hanging on through the whole book. I loved the romance, and how they found each other again years later. I married my high school love so it really brought something real for me.
If you're looking for a quick, fun story full of warmth and emotion, than look no further. I highly recommend this one to everyone that loves reading contemporary romance. Now go forth and enjoy! ^_^
June 8, 2015
I had never read anything by Kandy Shepherd but From Paradise to Pregnant really grabbed my attention.
What a sweet love story this was. When Zoe Summer's was back in high school she was the nerdy geek who had a crush on Mitch Bailey the school jock. She also ended up tutoring him and the two became friends until they didn't. Mitch said some hurtful things to Zoe that last day and neither of them has ever forgotten them.
It is now ten years later......Zoe is a successful woman with her own business on vacation in Bali. Mitch is a famous soccer player also on vacation. Then an earthquake strikes and they find each other amongst all the guests at the resort......and the best is yet to come.
Sometimes what we want is not always what we need....a lesson Mitch and Zoe will learn. This was a wonderful, quick read.
I received a copy of this book from Goodreads First-Reads.
What a sweet love story this was. When Zoe Summer's was back in high school she was the nerdy geek who had a crush on Mitch Bailey the school jock. She also ended up tutoring him and the two became friends until they didn't. Mitch said some hurtful things to Zoe that last day and neither of them has ever forgotten them.
It is now ten years later......Zoe is a successful woman with her own business on vacation in Bali. Mitch is a famous soccer player also on vacation. Then an earthquake strikes and they find each other amongst all the guests at the resort......and the best is yet to come.
Sometimes what we want is not always what we need....a lesson Mitch and Zoe will learn. This was a wonderful, quick read.
I received a copy of this book from Goodreads First-Reads.
October 26, 2015
This book was exactly what I love to find (and often look for) in my romance novels: it was fluffy and sweet yet still interesting, and all-around awesome too. I love the we-used-to-know-each-other plot-lines, and I love them a thousand times more if, for whatever the reason, the first time the two characters knew each other, they weren't dating. You get a lot of reuniting exes stories, but it's such a treat for me to find the ones where they liked each other but didn't get the chance to date until just now. Like fate is trying to fix what was missed the first time around or something. The author had a wonderful way with words, and I couldn't help but smile about the thought bubbles. It made me think of my fiance and the kind of silly inside jokes we have. I'm definitely going to have to look for more books by this author.
August 5, 2015
Immediately read this book, knowing it was set at Bali, paradise for honeymoon and surfers.
And not to mention, since I was born in Jakarta, Indonesia, going to Bali once (or more) in your lifetime is a must in the bucket list!
Love the author going to the very depth of the research to this book, from mentioning the beautiful souvenirs, amazing food and the scenery.
It took me back to my last trip to Bali in 2009, just few months after the wrap up shooting of Elizabeth Gilbert's Eat, Pray and Love and got some juicy gossip from the hotel employees where I stayed at, since the crew stayed at the hotel where I was staying in Ubud, which was a perfect slice of heaven, cooler and more tranquil and peaceful than in Nusa Dua or Kuta.
And love the ending of the story too!
And not to mention, since I was born in Jakarta, Indonesia, going to Bali once (or more) in your lifetime is a must in the bucket list!
Love the author going to the very depth of the research to this book, from mentioning the beautiful souvenirs, amazing food and the scenery.
It took me back to my last trip to Bali in 2009, just few months after the wrap up shooting of Elizabeth Gilbert's Eat, Pray and Love and got some juicy gossip from the hotel employees where I stayed at, since the crew stayed at the hotel where I was staying in Ubud, which was a perfect slice of heaven, cooler and more tranquil and peaceful than in Nusa Dua or Kuta.
And love the ending of the story too!
May 26, 2015
This is the first book I've read by Kandy Shepherd and am looking forward to reading more by her. I love her voice and thoroughly enjoyed Mitch and Zoe's story. One of my favorite story lines is when a celebrity falls in love with an ordinary person and Ms. Shepherd does a wonderful job with it in this book. Just for added measure, Mitch and Zoe were jock and nerd friends in high school and the relationship didn't end well. All the ingredients for a great story in my book! Thanks for a wonderful read, Ms. Shepherd!
October 13, 2015
This was a really cute book. Mitch and Zoe knew each other in high school and meet up by a twist of fate in Bali. Mitch, Zoe's only friend during that dark, difficult time, betrayed her and even though it was years ago, she finds his misstep hard to forgive. But an earthquake throws them together and attraction sizzles and what happens after that, you'll just have to read to find out. Both characters are likable and fun and their love story kept me turning pages. Don't miss it!
May 28, 2018
Being a bit of a romantic guy myself, I have always been curious as to what romance novels are actually like. I spotted this book on the shelf in the book store. And finally decided to satisfy my curiosity once and for all, so I bought it. And I must say. I was very pleasantly surprised. I was an amazing read. And I enjoyed the journey.
May 25, 2015
review to come soon ..... loved
Read
January 12, 2016"Fans of romance will be captivated by this thrilling tale, which turns a disaster into a blessing in disguise" (RT Book Reviews, 4 stars).
September 19, 2018
What I love about Kandy Shepherd's stories is their authentic characters. Zoe has had to fight for her success in life, but it hasn't changed her genuine, lovely nature. When she meets sports star Mitch, her high school crush, she forgives him for his rejection of her when they were teenagers. Although their journey to love and happiness isn't a smooth one, there are no contrived misunderstandings, simply two honest people finding their way together. Refreshing, and very very enjoyable.
June 13, 2017
This was a sweet story and I enjoyed it enough to place it on my reread list.
May 16, 2019
3.5 Stars
November 1, 2015
A sweet and heartwarming reunion story. Zoe is on vacation in Bali when she is caught in an earthquake. The last person she expects to see there is her old high school crush Mitch Bailey. Zoe is surprised that Mitch remembers her, especially now that he's a famous soccer star. But Mitch had never forgotten the girl that helped get him through his English poetry class, and often regretted the teenage jerkiness that ended their friendship. This is his chance to finally apologize and try to make things right.
The attraction between Mitch and Zoe is strong from the moment they see each other again, but both try to resist it. Zoe has the outlook that Mitch is way out of her league, thanks to his fame and good looks. There's no way he'd be interested in anything long term, and she wants marriage with a man she loves and who loves her. Mitch is focused on his career. He's just coming off a bad injury and needs to concentrate on playing, not be distracted by a woman. When an aftershock hits, Zoe suddenly realizes that she'd never forgive herself if she passed up this chance to fulfill a dream. With the understanding that this is a "one and done", they take their night together and part ways in the morning.
Two months later, Zoe is back at work when she gets a surprise visit from Mitch. She hadn't expected to see him again, and she isn't sure if she's happy or not. She hasn't been able to forget that night, but nothing has really changed. Mitch can't either, and when the chance comes to visit Sydney again he can't pass up the chance to see her again. That meeting is a bit awkward until they find a way to relax with each other again. I loved seeing how they had the maturity to talk out the reasons for their discomfort and find a way to be easy again.
I was a bit frustrated with Mitch at this point because he's trying to find a way to continue with Zoe without making any changes to his life. He expects her to come to Madrid to see him, but isn't willing to find a way to go see her. He's basically looking for a way to continue to have sex with her without making any commitments. I had a lot of respect for Zoe at this point, because she has the courage to stick up for her own convictions, even though it hurts to deny him.
It's at this point that Zoe discovers her pregnancy and is torn over what to do. She hasn't forgotten about Mitch's determination to remain entanglement free. She doesn't want to tell him and have him think that she is trying to trap him, or get money from him. She also can't imagine keeping him in the dark and denying him the chance to be a father to their baby. When she waffles about telling him and sends him away, Mitch suspects there's something she's not telling him. He doesn't get far before turning back to confront her.
I loved his protectiveness when he comes back to find her sick, and how he takes charge to care for her. He has a few moments of jerkiness when she finally tells him, but he recovers pretty quickly. Some of the things he says definitely play into Zoe's fears, and she's afraid to risk her own heart if he doesn't feel the same. Mitch has his own fears to face before he can accept that he can have it all if he can only find the courage to grab hold of it. The epilogue was fantastic and gave a great view of what you can do when you have the support of the one you love.
The attraction between Mitch and Zoe is strong from the moment they see each other again, but both try to resist it. Zoe has the outlook that Mitch is way out of her league, thanks to his fame and good looks. There's no way he'd be interested in anything long term, and she wants marriage with a man she loves and who loves her. Mitch is focused on his career. He's just coming off a bad injury and needs to concentrate on playing, not be distracted by a woman. When an aftershock hits, Zoe suddenly realizes that she'd never forgive herself if she passed up this chance to fulfill a dream. With the understanding that this is a "one and done", they take their night together and part ways in the morning.
Two months later, Zoe is back at work when she gets a surprise visit from Mitch. She hadn't expected to see him again, and she isn't sure if she's happy or not. She hasn't been able to forget that night, but nothing has really changed. Mitch can't either, and when the chance comes to visit Sydney again he can't pass up the chance to see her again. That meeting is a bit awkward until they find a way to relax with each other again. I loved seeing how they had the maturity to talk out the reasons for their discomfort and find a way to be easy again.
I was a bit frustrated with Mitch at this point because he's trying to find a way to continue with Zoe without making any changes to his life. He expects her to come to Madrid to see him, but isn't willing to find a way to go see her. He's basically looking for a way to continue to have sex with her without making any commitments. I had a lot of respect for Zoe at this point, because she has the courage to stick up for her own convictions, even though it hurts to deny him.
It's at this point that Zoe discovers her pregnancy and is torn over what to do. She hasn't forgotten about Mitch's determination to remain entanglement free. She doesn't want to tell him and have him think that she is trying to trap him, or get money from him. She also can't imagine keeping him in the dark and denying him the chance to be a father to their baby. When she waffles about telling him and sends him away, Mitch suspects there's something she's not telling him. He doesn't get far before turning back to confront her.
I loved his protectiveness when he comes back to find her sick, and how he takes charge to care for her. He has a few moments of jerkiness when she finally tells him, but he recovers pretty quickly. Some of the things he says definitely play into Zoe's fears, and she's afraid to risk her own heart if he doesn't feel the same. Mitch has his own fears to face before he can accept that he can have it all if he can only find the courage to grab hold of it. The epilogue was fantastic and gave a great view of what you can do when you have the support of the one you love.
July 20, 2015
I must confess, before reviving my ways as an avid fiction reader
I scoffed at the romance genre... I know, I know, I hang my head in shame,
but this gorgeous little read reminded me why I took up with romance in the first place...
to find joy in reliving those feely feels of first loves, first heartbreaks, first every-things
and boy did Zoe & Mitch's story deliver!
I identified with Zoe's character immediately, The narrator
describes her as aesthetically "unremarkable"
and "plain"..(uh-huh, tick box) but as you read on and you get to know Zoe,
her appeal intensifies and you can see why Mitch falls head over heels over her.
The story begins in the northern suburbs of Sydney.
We become acquainted with Zoe the bookish quiet type, and Mitch
the ever popular jock, in their younger years.
Theirs is an unlikely pairing, but pair they do as Zoe is saddled with the task
of helping Mitch improves his ailing grades. Despite their obvious
differences in stature,
they seem to connect on a deeper level.
Sadly circumstances arise which sees their journey together abruptly cut short.
However fate isn't finished with them just yet and years later
they find themselves synchronically thrown together once again...
only this time Zoe is no longer that shrinking wall-flower.
She is a confident, successful and sexy woman in her own right
and Mitch is helpless to resist her.
This is an extremely satisfying and stirring little read.
It obvious that Kandy is a seasoned and talented writer,
demonstrating an effortless knack for luring her readers in
and keeping them there for the entirety of the book.
I'll definitely be reading more from Kandy Shepherd.
A 4.5 Star read!! I didn't want it to end!
I scoffed at the romance genre... I know, I know, I hang my head in shame,
but this gorgeous little read reminded me why I took up with romance in the first place...
to find joy in reliving those feely feels of first loves, first heartbreaks, first every-things
and boy did Zoe & Mitch's story deliver!
I identified with Zoe's character immediately, The narrator
describes her as aesthetically "unremarkable"
and "plain"..(uh-huh, tick box) but as you read on and you get to know Zoe,
her appeal intensifies and you can see why Mitch falls head over heels over her.
The story begins in the northern suburbs of Sydney.
We become acquainted with Zoe the bookish quiet type, and Mitch
the ever popular jock, in their younger years.
Theirs is an unlikely pairing, but pair they do as Zoe is saddled with the task
of helping Mitch improves his ailing grades. Despite their obvious
differences in stature,
they seem to connect on a deeper level.
Sadly circumstances arise which sees their journey together abruptly cut short.
However fate isn't finished with them just yet and years later
they find themselves synchronically thrown together once again...
only this time Zoe is no longer that shrinking wall-flower.
She is a confident, successful and sexy woman in her own right
and Mitch is helpless to resist her.
This is an extremely satisfying and stirring little read.
It obvious that Kandy is a seasoned and talented writer,
demonstrating an effortless knack for luring her readers in
and keeping them there for the entirety of the book.
I'll definitely be reading more from Kandy Shepherd.
A 4.5 Star read!! I didn't want it to end!
August 26, 2015
World class soccer player meets high powered career woman, realise they were once high school friends, share a frightening earthquake moment and make a baby.
The protagonists are both career oriented and relationship commitments are the last complication either of them is looking for.
The story starts out slow but the pace picks up. There is a lot of internal dialogue but overall it was a pleasant read with some smile moments and some awww moments.
A good book to curl up with on a chilly afternoon to while away the time.
The protagonists are both career oriented and relationship commitments are the last complication either of them is looking for.
The story starts out slow but the pace picks up. There is a lot of internal dialogue but overall it was a pleasant read with some smile moments and some awww moments.
A good book to curl up with on a chilly afternoon to while away the time.
August 13, 2015
Wonderful read, I highly recommend reading it.
April 9, 2017
From Paradise...to Pregnant
What happens when you meet the one person from your childhood that still makes your heart beat faster? When Zoe meets Mitch after several years apart there seemed to be those same old feelings. But was it all because of the earthquake while in Bali? Will they be able to keep the connection? Or was it the tropical setting? And what about the baby?
What happens when you meet the one person from your childhood that still makes your heart beat faster? When Zoe meets Mitch after several years apart there seemed to be those same old feelings. But was it all because of the earthquake while in Bali? Will they be able to keep the connection? Or was it the tropical setting? And what about the baby?
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews