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Meet Me in Paradise
Marin Cole has never:
Seen the ocean
Climbed a mountain
Taken a risk on love
....But if her sister's plan works, she just might do all three.
Ever since her journalist mother died on assignment, Marin has played it safe, refusing to set foot outside the state of Tennessee. Her wild-child younger sister, Sadie, has trotted the globe as a photographer, living off of art and adrenaline.
When Sadie returns from a tough assignment abroad and looks a little worse for wear, Marin reluctantly agrees to a sisters' spa weekend on the tropical island of Saba. But her lifelong fear of travel is affirmed when Sadie misses the flight, Marin's luggage gets mixed up with another passenger's, and an episode of turbulence sends her hurtling into the lap of Lucas Tsai, the handsome stranger who stole her sister's seat.
For the first time in a long time, Marin has to step outside of her comfort zone as she explores the island with Lucas and learns what she's been missing out on. With each breathtaking new experience, Marin gets closer to her real self, the man she's falling for, and the heart-wrenching truth about why she's there in the first place.
Seen the ocean
Climbed a mountain
Taken a risk on love
....But if her sister's plan works, she just might do all three.
Ever since her journalist mother died on assignment, Marin has played it safe, refusing to set foot outside the state of Tennessee. Her wild-child younger sister, Sadie, has trotted the globe as a photographer, living off of art and adrenaline.
When Sadie returns from a tough assignment abroad and looks a little worse for wear, Marin reluctantly agrees to a sisters' spa weekend on the tropical island of Saba. But her lifelong fear of travel is affirmed when Sadie misses the flight, Marin's luggage gets mixed up with another passenger's, and an episode of turbulence sends her hurtling into the lap of Lucas Tsai, the handsome stranger who stole her sister's seat.
For the first time in a long time, Marin has to step outside of her comfort zone as she explores the island with Lucas and learns what she's been missing out on. With each breathtaking new experience, Marin gets closer to her real self, the man she's falling for, and the heart-wrenching truth about why she's there in the first place.
352 pages, Paperback
First published March 23, 2021
About the author
Libby Hubscher
4 books741 followersLibby Hubscher is an author and scientist. She studied biology at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine and holds a doctor of philosophy in molecular toxicology from North Carolina State University. Her work has appeared online and in textbooks, scientific journals, and literary journals. Her short story “The Unwelcome Guest” was long-listed for the Wigleaf Top 50 in 2018. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, two young children, and a menagerie of pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,482 reviews
September 6, 2022
I’m truly emotional mess! I was expecting to read a sweet, entertaining, soft romcom takes place in exotic island but this book is so much more than that! It’s powerful, incredibly emotional sisterhood story!
Two sisters who are polar opposites: Marin is uptight, analytic, a true worrier, planner, systematic, always likes to be in control. Everything is scheduled detailedly in her including the clothes she wears, her each meals, her daily routines. She lives in her cocoon, safe, secluded life without taking risks or trying new things.
But her sweet sister Sadie she has literally raised after her mother’s tragic murder is a WILD CARD! She loves living spontaneously, dangerously, experiencing different things, taking less responsibility, crossing lines, having fun, traveling around world as photographer. It’s so adventurous lifestyle when you compare it with Marin’s boring advertising writer work and organized home life!
Now sisters plan to getaway for a week to enjoy themselves at an exotic island trip. But at the last minute Sadie ditches Marin which is not quite surprising for her character and Marin finds herself traveling with handsome, mysterious, arrogant hotel tycoon Lucas Tsai: hot Asian Adonis who is also the owner of the hotel where her sister reserved for them on Saba Island.
As Marin pushes harder to cut her travel short to go back to her home, something unexpected comes out! She finally finds herself trapped in this island but when you get trapped in paradise with an ultra sexy archangel, you get to learn the ways of having fun, experiencing new things like snorkeling, climbing rocks, trying new dishes, singing at traditional island karaoke nights (Sabaoke for islanders).
Marin realizes she is attracted at Lucas a little too much but this is only one week trip and he still deals with his father’s loss so this cannot be more than a fling, right?
Maybe you think this sounds like a classic romcom plotline but you can’t be so wrong! I’m not giving you so much details because I don’t want to ruin your reading experience. I can only warn you to stock napkins, toilet papers, any kind of tear dryer! You’re gonna need all of them! At some chapters I truly cried my eyes out and literally howled like a wolf!
This is a sweet, heartfelt, tear jerker siblings, family, sacrifices, self discovery, taking second chances story! So meaningful, bittersweet but memorable earning my four ugly tears, adrenaline rush, divine sisterhood stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
Two sisters who are polar opposites: Marin is uptight, analytic, a true worrier, planner, systematic, always likes to be in control. Everything is scheduled detailedly in her including the clothes she wears, her each meals, her daily routines. She lives in her cocoon, safe, secluded life without taking risks or trying new things.
But her sweet sister Sadie she has literally raised after her mother’s tragic murder is a WILD CARD! She loves living spontaneously, dangerously, experiencing different things, taking less responsibility, crossing lines, having fun, traveling around world as photographer. It’s so adventurous lifestyle when you compare it with Marin’s boring advertising writer work and organized home life!
Now sisters plan to getaway for a week to enjoy themselves at an exotic island trip. But at the last minute Sadie ditches Marin which is not quite surprising for her character and Marin finds herself traveling with handsome, mysterious, arrogant hotel tycoon Lucas Tsai: hot Asian Adonis who is also the owner of the hotel where her sister reserved for them on Saba Island.
As Marin pushes harder to cut her travel short to go back to her home, something unexpected comes out! She finally finds herself trapped in this island but when you get trapped in paradise with an ultra sexy archangel, you get to learn the ways of having fun, experiencing new things like snorkeling, climbing rocks, trying new dishes, singing at traditional island karaoke nights (Sabaoke for islanders).
Marin realizes she is attracted at Lucas a little too much but this is only one week trip and he still deals with his father’s loss so this cannot be more than a fling, right?
Maybe you think this sounds like a classic romcom plotline but you can’t be so wrong! I’m not giving you so much details because I don’t want to ruin your reading experience. I can only warn you to stock napkins, toilet papers, any kind of tear dryer! You’re gonna need all of them! At some chapters I truly cried my eyes out and literally howled like a wolf!
This is a sweet, heartfelt, tear jerker siblings, family, sacrifices, self discovery, taking second chances story! So meaningful, bittersweet but memorable earning my four ugly tears, adrenaline rush, divine sisterhood stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
March 30, 2021
This book had the completely wrong cover. It should be big sad, scary lettering with buckets of tears. This has Lifetime movie written all over it. Unbelievable circumstances and coincidences, and heartstring tugs (jerks? Kicks in the throat?) aplenty. The writing was not bad, you can tell by the other reviews that people did enjoy the story. But it was a total bait and switch, looks like a fun tropical romp in paradise with a hot stranger. That is what the readers signed up for with the cover and description. Totally fair. What we got was a three hanky book about abandonment, loss, death, etc, and some time on an island. Boo to that.
I wanted 👙 🍹 ☀️ 😎 😘 🏝
I got 😭 😭 😭 💀
I know covers sell books but I feel purposely deceived.
I wanted 👙 🍹 ☀️ 😎 😘 🏝
I got 😭 😭 😭 💀
I know covers sell books but I feel purposely deceived.
July 27, 2022
I was promised a funny, easy-to-read summer romance: they meet, they fall in love, happily ever after. Everybody is happy and delighted, we can move on.
But this… is exactly the opposite.
Marin and Lucas - even if they are the perfect match - aren't the protagonists of this novel, not the real one at least. Because even if you find yourself amused by their adventures and deep gaze, it's impossible to not feel involve from the relationship between Sadie and Marin, to sisters so different but tight by the same grief.
And even if there is so much pain in this story - from the past and the present -, it's also impossible to not feel the love and the joy from it.
From the same loss Sadie and Marin reacted in two different ways. But they were always there for one another, even if Sadie was at the other part of the world.
Sadie is cool and adventurous, but Marin is the one I related more. She put everything aside to take care of her sister and, even if Sadie never asked her, she stayed for her.
I don't know if this bond is possible to be found in every sisterhood, I don't have a sister and I never thought of wanting one, but seeing their relationship made me think I miss something from my life.
Sadie and Marin are not the only one involved: you'll also gonna fall in love with Felix, the perfect match for Sadie and love of her life, whom point of view will make you cry even more; Ken, the friend everybody wants in their life; Ronaldo, Laurentina and all the amazing people in this little island in the Carribean Sea. And, of course, Lucas.
Lucas who knows everytime what to do, who put everybody else before, who can't help if not falling in love with Marin. The fact he's also rich and handsome are just a plus.
In this story of grief and finding themselves it's easy to get lost. One moment you're swimming on a private beach or hiking a mountain, and the other you realized you have soaked your pillow with tears.
Libby Hubscher’s narrative moves from Marin to Sadie’s letters, making us understand what's going to happen before the truth comes out. Since this story is setting in a paradise island with a lot of fun things to do, I'll say the description really help the imagination. For the next novel, though, maybe it's good to add a couple more dialogues.
The catchy cover and the plot will trick you to think this story is so ordinary that it won't change your life. But it will happen, with or without your will, so friendly advice: prepare the tissues.
↠ 4 stars
But this… is exactly the opposite.
Marin and Lucas - even if they are the perfect match - aren't the protagonists of this novel, not the real one at least. Because even if you find yourself amused by their adventures and deep gaze, it's impossible to not feel involve from the relationship between Sadie and Marin, to sisters so different but tight by the same grief.
And even if there is so much pain in this story - from the past and the present -, it's also impossible to not feel the love and the joy from it.
From the same loss Sadie and Marin reacted in two different ways. But they were always there for one another, even if Sadie was at the other part of the world.
Sadie is cool and adventurous, but Marin is the one I related more. She put everything aside to take care of her sister and, even if Sadie never asked her, she stayed for her.
I don't know if this bond is possible to be found in every sisterhood, I don't have a sister and I never thought of wanting one, but seeing their relationship made me think I miss something from my life.
Sadie and Marin are not the only one involved: you'll also gonna fall in love with Felix, the perfect match for Sadie and love of her life, whom point of view will make you cry even more; Ken, the friend everybody wants in their life; Ronaldo, Laurentina and all the amazing people in this little island in the Carribean Sea. And, of course, Lucas.
Lucas who knows everytime what to do, who put everybody else before, who can't help if not falling in love with Marin. The fact he's also rich and handsome are just a plus.
In this story of grief and finding themselves it's easy to get lost. One moment you're swimming on a private beach or hiking a mountain, and the other you realized you have soaked your pillow with tears.
Libby Hubscher’s narrative moves from Marin to Sadie’s letters, making us understand what's going to happen before the truth comes out. Since this story is setting in a paradise island with a lot of fun things to do, I'll say the description really help the imagination. For the next novel, though, maybe it's good to add a couple more dialogues.
The catchy cover and the plot will trick you to think this story is so ordinary that it won't change your life. But it will happen, with or without your will, so friendly advice: prepare the tissues.
↠ 4 stars
March 23, 2021
Thank you to Berkley & NetGalley for this complimentary copy! All opinions are my own.
Marin's been living a safe & small life. After losing her mother at a young age and growing up overnight to be her wild-child younger sister's stand-in parental figure, Marin's all but forgotten how to take risks, live for her happiness, and pursue her dreams.
The subplot of this story is honestly heartbreaking. As Marin realizes who she's about to lose in her life, this story's pace accelerates brilliantly, a reflection of the desperation anyone who's lost a loved one to terminal illness will recognize: as if time is sand slipping through your fingers, as if there will never be enough hours to share and say and feel everything you need to.
The romantic element of this story is gentle and reflective. There's an old flame who shows up and a new man who could be Marin's future. By the end of this story, Marin—true to this genre which is (women's) fiction first and foremost—beautifully chooses herself. And in her choice to live bravely, boldly, authentically, she finds her heart's choice revealed.
Content Warnings: grief, loss of a parent (off-page), loss of immediate family to terminal illness (cancer, end of life days on-page and in detail).
Marin's been living a safe & small life. After losing her mother at a young age and growing up overnight to be her wild-child younger sister's stand-in parental figure, Marin's all but forgotten how to take risks, live for her happiness, and pursue her dreams.
The subplot of this story is honestly heartbreaking. As Marin realizes who she's about to lose in her life, this story's pace accelerates brilliantly, a reflection of the desperation anyone who's lost a loved one to terminal illness will recognize: as if time is sand slipping through your fingers, as if there will never be enough hours to share and say and feel everything you need to.
The romantic element of this story is gentle and reflective. There's an old flame who shows up and a new man who could be Marin's future. By the end of this story, Marin—true to this genre which is (women's) fiction first and foremost—beautifully chooses herself. And in her choice to live bravely, boldly, authentically, she finds her heart's choice revealed.
Content Warnings: grief, loss of a parent (off-page), loss of immediate family to terminal illness (cancer, end of life days on-page and in detail).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2024
Let it be known, I did not finish this book. I got 65% and knew exactly where it was going and did not have the patience to get there. To say this was predictable would be an understatement. I knew where it was headed from chapter 2, and I'm sorry, that very much upsets me. Let's also talk about how this isn't a romance... like at all. Like, sure there's "romance", but is the romance actually romantic? No. There was no chemistry or anything about the romance that made me want to continue reading. This book is also a cancer book which I feel like was intentionally left out of the description. I don't know why it would be left out of the description because it would be extremely disappointing to those who thought they were just going to read a happy, light romance book. I was also very very angry at the sister for reasons I can't say because they would be spoilers. This could have went a different way and it should have. All in all.. I don't understand the 4 average stars this book has.
November 24, 2020
Oh, this book. Oh, this magnificent, heartbreaking, heart-re-building book.
I must say, I went in not really knowing what to expect. I knew it was going to be women’s fic with a strong romantic element. And boy, did the romance part deliver: I would like to formally announce that I will be shortly divorcing my husband and marry Lucas Tsai. Sorry.
There is a bit of a mystery in this book that really keeps the pages turning, and the most amazing meddling little sister (yes, Sadie’s my fave and I love her), and the most #relatable anxious, control-freak heroine who learns to love her life and let go, and incredibly luscious settings that are exactly what I needed, and the perfect balance of laugh-at-loud and tearjerker moments. I cannot wait till this book goes live, so I can talk about all the little things I loved about it with everyone.
I must say, I went in not really knowing what to expect. I knew it was going to be women’s fic with a strong romantic element. And boy, did the romance part deliver: I would like to formally announce that I will be shortly divorcing my husband and marry Lucas Tsai. Sorry.
There is a bit of a mystery in this book that really keeps the pages turning, and the most amazing meddling little sister (yes, Sadie’s my fave and I love her), and the most #relatable anxious, control-freak heroine who learns to love her life and let go, and incredibly luscious settings that are exactly what I needed, and the perfect balance of laugh-at-loud and tearjerker moments. I cannot wait till this book goes live, so I can talk about all the little things I loved about it with everyone.
April 8, 2021
Stop right now and don’t bother with this book. Instead read “Unhoneymooners”, “Shipped”, or “Float Plan”. All three are perfect examples of a getaway romance read, with humor, charming characters, and are full of wanderlust.
Where do I even begin with how awful this book is? How about how the (completely unlikeable) protagonist refers to herself several times with the derogatory phrase of “pansy ass”?
The point at which I couldn’t take any more of this book was when the main character repeatedly throws articles of clothing into the ocean. Really? Because a few chapters ago while scuba diving you were remarking on how people are ruining this earth, but it’s totally cool if you whip your shoes that are hurting your feet into the ocean for comedic effect.
Perhaps the author would prefer I now march down to the shore and chuck this book into the sea. But I care too much about the ocean for that (and thankfully this is a library copy).
Where do I even begin with how awful this book is? How about how the (completely unlikeable) protagonist refers to herself several times with the derogatory phrase of “pansy ass”?
The point at which I couldn’t take any more of this book was when the main character repeatedly throws articles of clothing into the ocean. Really? Because a few chapters ago while scuba diving you were remarking on how people are ruining this earth, but it’s totally cool if you whip your shoes that are hurting your feet into the ocean for comedic effect.
Perhaps the author would prefer I now march down to the shore and chuck this book into the sea. But I care too much about the ocean for that (and thankfully this is a library copy).
March 12, 2021
It's sisters before misters for Marin. When she was just eighteen, her journalist mother died in a tragic helicopter crash. It was up to Marin to watch over her impetuous younger sister Sadie. That meant giving up some of her dreams and it was okay, right? Maybe not. More than a decade later, Marin is still planted firmly in their old house with a respectable career while Sadie jets around the world as a photographer. A girls' weekend is in order and Sadie has the perfect plan -- only it might turn out much differently than Marin expected. This is a book that will tear at your heartstrings as the sisters deal with loss, illness, and recovering lost dreams. I imagined Lucas Tsai -- Marin's meet-cute on the plane-- looking like Chris Pang. The island of Saba sounds like a dream. I think I need to add it to my travel list. This ticked a good number of boxes for me on the contemporary romance list and I am looking forward to Hubscher's next novel.
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2021
After losing their brave and adventurous mother to tragedy, sisters Marin and Sadie internalize the loss in entirely different ways. While Marin becomes fearful of taking risks, Sadie is all about living life to its absolute Maximum. Without spoiling the story too much, Meet Me in Paradise is about Sadie’s determination to set Marin back on the path she was on before their mother’s death. Through some very Machiavellian plotting, she sends Marin to a small island in the Caribbean where she meets Lucas, the gorgeous resort owner.
What I thought was going to be a fun, vacation romp of a rom com turned out to be so much more than that. While the romance is sincere, authentic and charming, the heart of this story is Marin and Sadie’s relationship. All I can say is have the tissues handy!
Beautifully written, heartbreakingly poignant and utterly satisfying, Meet Me in Paradise is an outstanding debut.
What I thought was going to be a fun, vacation romp of a rom com turned out to be so much more than that. While the romance is sincere, authentic and charming, the heart of this story is Marin and Sadie’s relationship. All I can say is have the tissues handy!
Beautifully written, heartbreakingly poignant and utterly satisfying, Meet Me in Paradise is an outstanding debut.
May 21, 2021
Meet Me in Paradise is an emotional story with romance. Marin is always careful and looking out for her sister, Sadie. Sadie is adventurous and traveling the world as a photographer. Sadie convinces Marin to go on a sisters trip but Sadie misses their flight. Marin ends up exploring the island with Lucas, the stranger that sat next to Marin on the plane. Meet Me in Paradise is a story of unexpected love and stepping outside your comfort zone. It is also a story about family and looking out for others. Don’t let the cover fool you, this book is a tear jerker and emotional rollercoaster. I loved the story and the characters. The differences between Marin and Sadie are interesting. I recommend Meet Me in Paradise for fans of emotional novels.
Thank you Berkley Romance for Meet Me in Paradise.
Full Review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
Thank you Berkley Romance for Meet Me in Paradise.
Full Review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
October 12, 2021
Whoa, this one threw me for a loop!!
Look at the cover of Libby Hubscher's Meet Me in Paradise . Doesn’t it look like a fun rom-com set in a beautiful location? Well don’t be fooled—there is some rom, and some com, but this book is gonna tear you apart emotionally!!
Marin has always been the safe one. Since her journalist mother died while on assignment she’s always taken care of her younger sister Sadie, and she’s never left her home state of Tennessee. She has a good, solid job, and she’s always right there waiting when Sadie, a photojournalist, comes home from a globetrotting trip.
Sadie reluctantly convinces Marin to take a sisters’ trip to the small Caribbean island of Saba. As much as Marin doesn't want to travel, she thinks it's the perfect opportunity to convince Sadie to settle down and join her in a business venture. Then Sadie misses the flight, leaving anxious-flyer Marin to face the trip alone. And what a trip it is—including a bout of turbulence that sends her into the lap of her sexy seatmate.
With plans to return home or meet up with Sadie foiled by residual weather delays, Marin reluctantly decides to take advantage of the trip Sadie planned. She spends more and more time in the company of Lucas, the sexy hotelier she met on the plane. And as she lives outside her comfort zone for the first time in forever, it becomes clear to her why Sadie planned this trip in the first place, and Marin has to come to terms with what that will mean for her.
I don’t want to spoil the plot but suffice it to say this book is SAD for a while. And if you’ve recently dealt with a loss or if reading about that is a trigger, avoid this book.
I enjoyed Meet Me in Paradise but really wish it was marketed more accurately.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
Look at the cover of Libby Hubscher's Meet Me in Paradise . Doesn’t it look like a fun rom-com set in a beautiful location? Well don’t be fooled—there is some rom, and some com, but this book is gonna tear you apart emotionally!!
Marin has always been the safe one. Since her journalist mother died while on assignment she’s always taken care of her younger sister Sadie, and she’s never left her home state of Tennessee. She has a good, solid job, and she’s always right there waiting when Sadie, a photojournalist, comes home from a globetrotting trip.
Sadie reluctantly convinces Marin to take a sisters’ trip to the small Caribbean island of Saba. As much as Marin doesn't want to travel, she thinks it's the perfect opportunity to convince Sadie to settle down and join her in a business venture. Then Sadie misses the flight, leaving anxious-flyer Marin to face the trip alone. And what a trip it is—including a bout of turbulence that sends her into the lap of her sexy seatmate.
With plans to return home or meet up with Sadie foiled by residual weather delays, Marin reluctantly decides to take advantage of the trip Sadie planned. She spends more and more time in the company of Lucas, the sexy hotelier she met on the plane. And as she lives outside her comfort zone for the first time in forever, it becomes clear to her why Sadie planned this trip in the first place, and Marin has to come to terms with what that will mean for her.
I don’t want to spoil the plot but suffice it to say this book is SAD for a while. And if you’ve recently dealt with a loss or if reading about that is a trigger, avoid this book.
I enjoyed Meet Me in Paradise but really wish it was marketed more accurately.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
March 25, 2021
Marin has been stuck in protective, safety mode since she lost her mother at the age of seventeen and had to be the adult for both her and her younger sister, Sadie. Marin’s sister took after their mother and is the risk taker, living life on the edge while traveling around the globe as a photojournalist. Marin hasn’t ever left the state.
Sadie invites Marin to take a trip with her to recharge. A sort of sister spa vacation and Marin can’t say no to her beloved sister the only family she has left. Marin is forced to take her life out of the safe zone, have fun, and live life. Something she hasn’t done since her mother died.
Meet Me in Paradise is not the light, fluffy beach read it appears (from the cover) to be. It’s so much more. My emotions were all over the place! The story was at times funny, flirty, and silly, with outings of adventure that felt more like magical dates, but then it’d take a sharp turn into serious and heart wrenching! I must confess I sobbed! Ugly, snotty crying and I wasn’t expecting that at all! I don’t want to scare people, so know this: This romance junkie has a to have happy ending and I wasn’t disappointed but be prepared to break out the tissues!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
Sadie invites Marin to take a trip with her to recharge. A sort of sister spa vacation and Marin can’t say no to her beloved sister the only family she has left. Marin is forced to take her life out of the safe zone, have fun, and live life. Something she hasn’t done since her mother died.
Meet Me in Paradise is not the light, fluffy beach read it appears (from the cover) to be. It’s so much more. My emotions were all over the place! The story was at times funny, flirty, and silly, with outings of adventure that felt more like magical dates, but then it’d take a sharp turn into serious and heart wrenching! I must confess I sobbed! Ugly, snotty crying and I wasn’t expecting that at all! I don’t want to scare people, so know this: This romance junkie has a to have happy ending and I wasn’t disappointed but be prepared to break out the tissues!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2020
This was such a beautiful, heart-wrenching, funny gem of a novel. The romantic story is adorable and sweet (meet cute on a plane!), and the island setting was the perfect escapist getaway that I needed in my reading life! But the standout for me is the way this book explores the unshakable bonds between sisters—how they will make painful, selfless sacrifices to give the other joy. Make sure you have some tissues on hand when you pick up this gorgeous debut.
April 1, 2021
I loved this book. It is so much more than the cute romance cover leads you to believe. It's much deeper than you'd think.
I don't want to spoil anything so I'll keep it vague. This novel is an exploration of grief and guilt and sisterhood and I laughed and cried my way through every page. If you are looking for a swoon-worthy romantic connection, that's there too.
Just keep the tissues handy. I'm officially a fan of Libby Hubscher, can't wait to see what she writes next. Oh- and I'm now absolutely OBSESSED with visiting Saba!
Berkley gifted me with a free copy of this novel. All opinions are my own.
I don't want to spoil anything so I'll keep it vague. This novel is an exploration of grief and guilt and sisterhood and I laughed and cried my way through every page. If you are looking for a swoon-worthy romantic connection, that's there too.
Just keep the tissues handy. I'm officially a fan of Libby Hubscher, can't wait to see what she writes next. Oh- and I'm now absolutely OBSESSED with visiting Saba!
Berkley gifted me with a free copy of this novel. All opinions are my own.
July 24, 2022
Presently surprised by how much I loved this story!!
June 11, 2021
This book is not a light, fluffy and feel good beach read. Don't let the cutesy cover fool you. I started this book expecting it to be good for passing time kind of romcom. Instead I was left utterly heartbroken and gutted. Meet me in Paradise is so much more than a romcom. It is powerful and moving story about sisterhood. It is emotional and silly which will make you laugh and cry at the same time. Most importantly it is about self discovery and adventures.
It is the story of sisters Marin and Sadie who could not be more different than each other. After their mother passed away, Marin has taken up on herself to take care of Sadie. Their mother's death changes Marin in lots of ways. She shuts off herself from anything remotely adventurous or risky and makes her complete life revolve around Sadie. On the other hand Sadie is a free spirit. She is wild and thrill seeker. She travels around the world going on these amazing assignments and doing all kind of new things.
After one such assignments of her when Sadie returns home, she finally convinces Marin to take a trip together. Marin could not be more freaked about it, still she plans to give it a chance for Sadie's sake. But things don't go as planned as Sadie misses her flight and Marin has to go through the trip alone. On the flight she meets Lucas, the owner of the hotel she is supposed to stay. What follows is Marin's journey of rediscovering her love for adventures. And finally when she begins enjoying her trip, she receives a news which potentially shakes up her whole world.
I have a younger sister and I have been like Marin my whole life, so yes this hit too close to home. I loved these sisters. The love they had and how much they cared for each other just made my heart break so hard. I loved Lucas. He was more of the supporting characters I feel as this was more about Sadie and Marin. But I loved how patient he was with Marin and that he respected her decision and gave her space.
An absolutely amazing read which I would recommend to everyone ❤.
It is the story of sisters Marin and Sadie who could not be more different than each other. After their mother passed away, Marin has taken up on herself to take care of Sadie. Their mother's death changes Marin in lots of ways. She shuts off herself from anything remotely adventurous or risky and makes her complete life revolve around Sadie. On the other hand Sadie is a free spirit. She is wild and thrill seeker. She travels around the world going on these amazing assignments and doing all kind of new things.
After one such assignments of her when Sadie returns home, she finally convinces Marin to take a trip together. Marin could not be more freaked about it, still she plans to give it a chance for Sadie's sake. But things don't go as planned as Sadie misses her flight and Marin has to go through the trip alone. On the flight she meets Lucas, the owner of the hotel she is supposed to stay. What follows is Marin's journey of rediscovering her love for adventures. And finally when she begins enjoying her trip, she receives a news which potentially shakes up her whole world.
I have a younger sister and I have been like Marin my whole life, so yes this hit too close to home. I loved these sisters. The love they had and how much they cared for each other just made my heart break so hard. I loved Lucas. He was more of the supporting characters I feel as this was more about Sadie and Marin. But I loved how patient he was with Marin and that he respected her decision and gave her space.
An absolutely amazing read which I would recommend to everyone ❤.
Currently reading
October 19, 2020Meet Me in Paradise will be out in the world on March 23, 2021! It's a destination love story about family, facing fears, and finding yourself. MMIP is women's fiction with a strong romantic element. It's available to request on NetGalley here!
Here's what awaits in MMIP:
*Unbreakable sister bonds
*Mischief, mishaps, and luggage mixups
*Slow burn romance
*Themes of anxiety, grief, and hope
What people are saying about Meet Me in Paradise:
"A beautifully moving mix of humbling self-discovery, heartfelt sister bonds & swoony slow burning romance that’s 100% pure pleasure!" --Priscilla Oliveras, USA Today Bestseller
“Meet Me in Paradise is a stunning tale of love, loss, and the capacity for wonder...that left me laughing, crying, and unable to put it down.” --Denise Williams, Author of How to Fail at Flirting
“Both a romantic escape and an ode to sisterhood, Meet Me in Paradise made me swoon, laugh, and then sneaked up on me and made me cry. Marin and Sadie are the beating heart of this story—I adored them in all their wild, wonderful messiness. A radiantly hopeful book.” --Rachel Lynn Solomon, Author of Today Tonight Tomorrow, The Ex Talk, Our Year of Maybe, You'll Miss Me When I'm Gone
“Meet Me in Paradise will sweep you off your feet. Marin’s leap into the unknown is full of love, romance and adventure, and I felt like I was right there with her on the pristine beaches of Saba as she climbs mountains, dives for pearls, and learns how to open herself up to the possibilities of love.”---Sonya Lalli, Author of The Matchmaker's List, Grown-up Pose, and Serena Singh Flips the Script
Here's what awaits in MMIP:
*Unbreakable sister bonds
*Mischief, mishaps, and luggage mixups
*Slow burn romance
*Themes of anxiety, grief, and hope
What people are saying about Meet Me in Paradise:
"A beautifully moving mix of humbling self-discovery, heartfelt sister bonds & swoony slow burning romance that’s 100% pure pleasure!" --Priscilla Oliveras, USA Today Bestseller
“Meet Me in Paradise is a stunning tale of love, loss, and the capacity for wonder...that left me laughing, crying, and unable to put it down.” --Denise Williams, Author of How to Fail at Flirting
“Both a romantic escape and an ode to sisterhood, Meet Me in Paradise made me swoon, laugh, and then sneaked up on me and made me cry. Marin and Sadie are the beating heart of this story—I adored them in all their wild, wonderful messiness. A radiantly hopeful book.” --Rachel Lynn Solomon, Author of Today Tonight Tomorrow, The Ex Talk, Our Year of Maybe, You'll Miss Me When I'm Gone
“Meet Me in Paradise will sweep you off your feet. Marin’s leap into the unknown is full of love, romance and adventure, and I felt like I was right there with her on the pristine beaches of Saba as she climbs mountains, dives for pearls, and learns how to open herself up to the possibilities of love.”---Sonya Lalli, Author of The Matchmaker's List, Grown-up Pose, and Serena Singh Flips the Script
March 13, 2021
DNF at 41%.
I struggled with this book and it’s MC, Marin, from the very beginning. But, I kept reading in hopes that something would “click” and I could sink into paradise along with the characters. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen for me and life is too short (and my Kindle is too full!!) to read something I’m not enjoying.
From what I can tell from other advanced readers, I am an anomaly, so please read other reviews before you decide if this book is for you or not!!
Thank you to the publisher for my advanced copy.
I struggled with this book and it’s MC, Marin, from the very beginning. But, I kept reading in hopes that something would “click” and I could sink into paradise along with the characters. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen for me and life is too short (and my Kindle is too full!!) to read something I’m not enjoying.
From what I can tell from other advanced readers, I am an anomaly, so please read other reviews before you decide if this book is for you or not!!
Thank you to the publisher for my advanced copy.
June 12, 2022
Thank you Libby, i’ll send you my next therapy bill.
Ay hiç iyi değilim. Offf öncelikle o kadar ağladım ki ve sonu çok çok güzeldi. Kitabın kapağına aldanıp romcom sandım içim çıktı geberdim resmen. Hassas damarlarıma bastı çok fena oldum gerçekten. Marin'i, Sadie'yi, Lucas'ı, Felix'i ve tüm ada sakinlerini çok sevdim. Ted salağı hariç. Ted'ler genelde salak olur zaten. Neyse.. Kitap bi aşk kitabından ziyade iki kız kardeşin birbirlerine karşı sevgisinin etrafında dönüyo yani bi aşk kitabı beklemeyin. Aşk var mı? Var ve bence bu kitaba yakışır şekilde var. Yani burda aşk ön planda olsa romcom olurdu o yüzden aşk az diye puan kırmaya elim gitmedi.. Biraz kendini bulma hikayesi, biraz kardeş ilişkisi, biraz ölüm, yas ve ölümü kabullenme süreci. Çok güzeldi ya iyi ki okumuşum ağladım ama sonu yüzünden çok mutlu da oldum.. Seninle gurur duyuyorum Marin 🥺❤️ Lucas çok güzel bi erkek karakterdi kalbimi çaldı ve bu kitapta hayatımda okuduğum en en ennn güzel evlilik sahnelerinden birini okudum😭😭 hem de ana karakterlerin düğünü olmamasına rağmen??? ay yine ağlicam gözlerim doluyo gidiyorum uyumaya şimdi ama bu kitabı öperek uyuyorum.
Ay hiç iyi değilim. Offf öncelikle o kadar ağladım ki ve sonu çok çok güzeldi. Kitabın kapağına aldanıp romcom sandım içim çıktı geberdim resmen. Hassas damarlarıma bastı çok fena oldum gerçekten. Marin'i, Sadie'yi, Lucas'ı, Felix'i ve tüm ada sakinlerini çok sevdim. Ted salağı hariç. Ted'ler genelde salak olur zaten. Neyse.. Kitap bi aşk kitabından ziyade iki kız kardeşin birbirlerine karşı sevgisinin etrafında dönüyo yani bi aşk kitabı beklemeyin. Aşk var mı? Var ve bence bu kitaba yakışır şekilde var. Yani burda aşk ön planda olsa romcom olurdu o yüzden aşk az diye puan kırmaya elim gitmedi.. Biraz kendini bulma hikayesi, biraz kardeş ilişkisi, biraz ölüm, yas ve ölümü kabullenme süreci. Çok güzeldi ya iyi ki okumuşum ağladım ama sonu yüzünden çok mutlu da oldum.. Seninle gurur duyuyorum Marin 🥺❤️ Lucas çok güzel bi erkek karakterdi kalbimi çaldı ve bu kitapta hayatımda okuduğum en en ennn güzel evlilik sahnelerinden birini okudum😭😭 hem de ana karakterlerin düğünü olmamasına rağmen??? ay yine ağlicam gözlerim doluyo gidiyorum uyumaya şimdi ama bu kitabı öperek uyuyorum.
May 23, 2021
Not the kind of book I was expecting, but I’m here for it! This book explores self confidence, being brave, and sisterly bonds. Honestly, I did not expect to cry at ALL during this book, but guess who cried half the time? Me bahahaha!
The characters might come across as slightly childish at times, but it’s easy to overlook that (I feel like I should always note this, because I know some people aren’t a fan!). I really enjoyed the setting, and the weirdness of it all. Like a really hot guy just conveniently saving a woman from her fear of travelling alone, and he just so happens to be a multi-millionaire? Damn, where’s my luck?
If you’re looking for something kind of like Beach Read, a romance for beginners-esque that tackles some darker themes and also rips your heart in two, then pick this up ASAP! I don’t want to say it’s a quick and easy read, but it kind of is, just maybe not so easy!
The characters might come across as slightly childish at times, but it’s easy to overlook that (I feel like I should always note this, because I know some people aren’t a fan!). I really enjoyed the setting, and the weirdness of it all. Like a really hot guy just conveniently saving a woman from her fear of travelling alone, and he just so happens to be a multi-millionaire? Damn, where’s my luck?
If you’re looking for something kind of like Beach Read, a romance for beginners-esque that tackles some darker themes and also rips your heart in two, then pick this up ASAP! I don’t want to say it’s a quick and easy read, but it kind of is, just maybe not so easy!
March 31, 2021
remember all of those times i said i cried? it might be true but i have never cried as hard and much as i did with this book... i don't think my head is ever going to stop hurting bye
full review including trigger warnings: https://www.instagram.com/p/CNFW8Ocr86B/
full review including trigger warnings: https://www.instagram.com/p/CNFW8Ocr86B/
April 10, 2021
Meet Me in Paradise by Libby Hubscher
RATING 4/5 stars
The last time I read a novel about sisterhood and loved it was You Have a Match by Emma Lord. Now it's this novel. The bond between Marin and Sadie was too adorable and the highlight of this novel. This novel revolved about living your life without restrictions. How do you live your life after tragedy, illness, and death? Marin lives a restricted life after the death of her mother while Sadie lives her life with no restriction or boundaries. Both sisters have vastly different priorities in life, but they have each other. However, that may not be the case anymore. It is here that Sadie decides to push Marin towards living a more full life and what follows is a journey of self-discovery for both girls. Sadie devises a scheme and sends Martin off on a vacation solo where she meets with Lucas Tsai, a resort owner and now a sorta vacation partner.
Marin is the female lead, but Sadie was sprinkled throughout the novel. I loved Sadie's POVs, the way she looks at living her life, and how spontaneous she was. Grief, unfortunately, is something that we all experience in our lifetime but how we choose to deal with it can either make or break us. This novel encompasses a beautiful example of how to make it.
“She doesn’t know what it feels like to swim naked in ocean water that glows with tiny, almost-magical algae, or to nearly explode from the heat of a passionate love affair. Marin lives like a nanny. She swims in a one-piece bathing suit. One-piece. She’s forgotten how to catch fireflies and go wild.
There is nothing wrong with any of this.
It’s just that sometimes I wonder how Marin breathes without air.
I tried it once, on Everest, but I couldn’t go on without oxygen. This plan is an oxygen tank. Not just for Marin, but for me. Put on your own oxygen mask before helping those around you. Live so you don’t have any regrets.”
Excerpt From: Libby Hubscher. “Meet Me in Paradise.” Apple Books.
RATING 4/5 stars
The last time I read a novel about sisterhood and loved it was You Have a Match by Emma Lord. Now it's this novel. The bond between Marin and Sadie was too adorable and the highlight of this novel. This novel revolved about living your life without restrictions. How do you live your life after tragedy, illness, and death? Marin lives a restricted life after the death of her mother while Sadie lives her life with no restriction or boundaries. Both sisters have vastly different priorities in life, but they have each other. However, that may not be the case anymore. It is here that Sadie decides to push Marin towards living a more full life and what follows is a journey of self-discovery for both girls. Sadie devises a scheme and sends Martin off on a vacation solo where she meets with Lucas Tsai, a resort owner and now a sorta vacation partner.
Marin is the female lead, but Sadie was sprinkled throughout the novel. I loved Sadie's POVs, the way she looks at living her life, and how spontaneous she was. Grief, unfortunately, is something that we all experience in our lifetime but how we choose to deal with it can either make or break us. This novel encompasses a beautiful example of how to make it.
“She doesn’t know what it feels like to swim naked in ocean water that glows with tiny, almost-magical algae, or to nearly explode from the heat of a passionate love affair. Marin lives like a nanny. She swims in a one-piece bathing suit. One-piece. She’s forgotten how to catch fireflies and go wild.
There is nothing wrong with any of this.
It’s just that sometimes I wonder how Marin breathes without air.
I tried it once, on Everest, but I couldn’t go on without oxygen. This plan is an oxygen tank. Not just for Marin, but for me. Put on your own oxygen mask before helping those around you. Live so you don’t have any regrets.”
Excerpt From: Libby Hubscher. “Meet Me in Paradise.” Apple Books.
Read
February 5, 2023Sen nasıl cici bir kitapsın ama ya!
June 20, 2023
PEvet bana vaad edilen ağlama seansı için bu kitabı okudum ama maalesef ki sonu hüsran. Özellikle bu ara booktuberların sürekli olarak bu kitapları abartması sonucu aşırı hüsrana uğrayan bir okur olarak lütfen durun diyorum. Evet kitap sona doğru üzücüydü ama o kadar ayrıntı okumaya ne gerek vardı. Başta güzeldi de bilmiyorum sonra çok boğdu beni. Yazarın kalemi sarmadı beni herhalde, kalem gerçekten önemli. Biraz acıyı betimlemesini o duyguyu bana geçirmesini üstün körü geçmemesini isterdim. Ve Ted ne alaka? Ted de heyecan katsın diye girmiş ama bizim hikayenin ana mantığı kız kardeşler olmalıydı ki acımız daha çok olsun ama olmamış. Yani açıkçası zırıl zırıl ağlamak istiyorum derseniz film olarak Sanam Teri Kasam ve kitap olarak da Bin Öpücük öneririm. Hadi benden size bir iyilik 🙃
March 1, 2021
I am just so on the fence about this book. The writing was good and the author seemed to have a great handle on her characters... I just didn’t really like the full situation.
Marin is an overbearing and boring older sister to a younger and more free Sadie. After the death of their mother, Marin felt she had no other choice but to become the sole protector of her little sister. The woman goes so far as to live not even half a life in order to secure the safety of her sister, which makes absolutely no sense to me... Marin declines to make big important steps in her own life in order to stay close to her sister, who ends up living a carefree and wild life anyway.
And all of this culminated in the beginning of our story where Marin waits dotingly for Sadie to return home from yet another incredible adventure only for Sadie to act uncharacteristically strange up until the day they decide to board a plane for a sisters’ vacation... where Sadie just doesn’t show up. No, instead Sadie has a secret and instead of informing her sister who has given up her life for her, she cons her into taking a trip completely out of her comfort zone ALONE (unbeknownst to Marin).
I understand the point of Sadie’s goal here. She wants her sister to begin to live life, but to more importantly understand that she has a life to live, a life that will go on, and one that deserves living it to the fullest. While I understand the logic behind Sadie’s ridiculous antics, I was still in a constant state of disbelief that it would even happen in the first place...
I didn’t like Marin’s absolute faith on the idea that she had to excuse everything in her own life to give attention to her sister. It made me mad and just felt completely implausible.
With all of my criticism aside, I enjoyed Marin’s character growth. I did, in fact, enjoy the sister bond that Sadie and Marin share. And I liked the story as a whole... but getting from the beginning to the end was a bit of a leap for me.
On this trip, Marin grows so immensely. She meets new people, must make amends with her past demons and even falls in love. I loved watching her come out of her shell and make big improvements to her own character.
Marin is an overbearing and boring older sister to a younger and more free Sadie. After the death of their mother, Marin felt she had no other choice but to become the sole protector of her little sister. The woman goes so far as to live not even half a life in order to secure the safety of her sister, which makes absolutely no sense to me... Marin declines to make big important steps in her own life in order to stay close to her sister, who ends up living a carefree and wild life anyway.
And all of this culminated in the beginning of our story where Marin waits dotingly for Sadie to return home from yet another incredible adventure only for Sadie to act uncharacteristically strange up until the day they decide to board a plane for a sisters’ vacation... where Sadie just doesn’t show up. No, instead Sadie has a secret and instead of informing her sister who has given up her life for her, she cons her into taking a trip completely out of her comfort zone ALONE (unbeknownst to Marin).
I understand the point of Sadie’s goal here. She wants her sister to begin to live life, but to more importantly understand that she has a life to live, a life that will go on, and one that deserves living it to the fullest. While I understand the logic behind Sadie’s ridiculous antics, I was still in a constant state of disbelief that it would even happen in the first place...
I didn’t like Marin’s absolute faith on the idea that she had to excuse everything in her own life to give attention to her sister. It made me mad and just felt completely implausible.
With all of my criticism aside, I enjoyed Marin’s character growth. I did, in fact, enjoy the sister bond that Sadie and Marin share. And I liked the story as a whole... but getting from the beginning to the end was a bit of a leap for me.
On this trip, Marin grows so immensely. She meets new people, must make amends with her past demons and even falls in love. I loved watching her come out of her shell and make big improvements to her own character.
February 3, 2022
Meet Me in Paradise was a book that took me on an emotional roller coaster ride. In it, you will meet Marin and Lucas. She is very careful and always looks out for her little sister Sadie. After being convinced to go on a sister's trip, she doesn't know what to do after Sadie misses the flight. While on the island, Marin can only really do one thing: explore. Luckily for her, she's not alone.
Enter Lucas. The random stranger who sat next to her on the same flight. Coincidence? Maybe. In a way, he helps break her out of a shell. A shell she has been way too comfortable hiding in and looking after Sadie. Marin really did need to sit back, relax, and then have lots of fun. Heck, get drunk girl and go wild.
With such a pretty cover, I wasn't expecting for things to turn so sad, but they did. It also helped Lucas and Marin lean on one another and get closer too. The romance between them was really cute and seeing the island just seemed magical. I also really liked Marin and Sadie getting closer in a way too. A way that would forever change.
In the end, I'm really happy that I finally found the time to jump into this. I will definitely have to look into another book of Libby's soon.
Enter Lucas. The random stranger who sat next to her on the same flight. Coincidence? Maybe. In a way, he helps break her out of a shell. A shell she has been way too comfortable hiding in and looking after Sadie. Marin really did need to sit back, relax, and then have lots of fun. Heck, get drunk girl and go wild.
With such a pretty cover, I wasn't expecting for things to turn so sad, but they did. It also helped Lucas and Marin lean on one another and get closer too. The romance between them was really cute and seeing the island just seemed magical. I also really liked Marin and Sadie getting closer in a way too. A way that would forever change.
In the end, I'm really happy that I finally found the time to jump into this. I will definitely have to look into another book of Libby's soon.
Want to read
July 15, 2020Meet cute on a plane ✈️ Need. This. Now!
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You can find me here too ☞
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
July 11, 2021
it’s really as the saying goes: “don’t judge a book by its cover” T-T i thought this would be a cute, heartwarming romance novel but NO wtf this tore at my heartstrings my god. i did not expect the turn it took. there really wasn’t that much romance and i think it was more centered around the main character’s growth development. i enjoyed the book but definitely would have preferred more scenes with the main love interest.
September 14, 2020
This was such a beautiful book!! Intense but fun. Sweet and romantic, but also heart-breaking. I recommend reading with a box of tissues and a fruity, tropical drink because you will feel all the things.
June 12, 2024
This was a good one! I was surprised by how many things were included in it which was nice. It's deeper than I was expecting. It took me quite a while to start liking the main character, and I'm still not sure she was my favorite, but she definitely got better as the story went on. One thing I wanted more of was chemistry between the characters. I feel like that could've been more intense. But the story was good and I enjoyed reading it.
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