The perfect escapism, uplifting read which I can’t get enough of – you will love Meet Me in Hawaii by Georgia Toffolo.
The plot:
Malie Pukui doesn’t believe in happy ever after. After a tragedy caused her to flee her family and friends in Devon she found a fresh start in Hawaii. Here, working at a surf school, she can give back to those in need and try to overcome the greatest loss in her life.
Moved around foster homes throughout his childhood, Todd Masters has worked hard to be able to offer a brighter future to young disadvantaged children. Now he has his own charitable foundation working with a surf school in Hawaii, a job he loves, but he still can’t put his past behind him.
When Malie rescues Todd from the sea a spark ignites between them, and the two wounded souls find a common ground. But amidst the surf, sunsets and sizzling kisses, can Malie let go of her past and risk something she’d locked away forever… her heart?
These are books to get obsessed over
UGH I LOVE!!! Meet Me in Hawaii is the second in a quartet of romances, with each story following a protagonist of a four-friend group. Catch up with the first story, Meet Me in London with my review here (which also made it into my Top Reads of 2020 post!)
Whilst this can be read as a standalone, I’d highly recommend starting from the beginning – mainly because these are books to get obsessed over, but also you miss an introduction into Malie and there are spoilers. I really felt like I’d been welcomed back into the character’s lives and treat them like my new besties.
The characters are just so so brilliant. I love the protagonists, but also the smaller characters who really add to the theme of overcoming the past – there’s also a surfing dog (!!!), so that’s an immediate win for me.
I found myself smiling for pages on end – this is just the uplifting book we all need right now, and alongside not being able to travel, Toffolo has brought Hawaii to life in front of you. Honestly, spray a bit of coconut mist, have some waves as white noise in the background and you’re there.
In comparison to Meet Me in London, this felt like more of a light-hearted read due to the content, however I think this would depend on each reader. It’s much more about finding yourself and how the past shapes the person you are today.
Of course, tears are to be expected with a soppy romance, but all in all, this book made me feel like my heart was being hugged.
Lots of conversation and the inner dialogue of both Malie and Todd, letting you see deeper into their stories and feelings.
Meet Me in Hawaii envelopes you with its realism and perfect backdrop, and GOD I want to be in Hawaii right now!
Another easy 5-stars – these books can’t come into my life quick enough. Highly recommend.
Meet Me in Hawaii, Georgia Toffolo, RRP £7.99 (paperback); Book Depository
Pages: 323
Publisher: Mills & Boon
Genre: Romance
