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Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
Meet Me at Lanikai Beach by Susan Jean Ricci is a heartwarming romance that feels authentic, from the characters to the setting and the vibe. The author presents two genuinely flawed characters and their loneliness and develops a plot that beautifully explores their emotions and a connection that grows naturally. Edwina Krone has just lost her husband tragically and is on a journey to Oahu that should help her find closure and reset her life, so she thinks. Ali Pitko is a middle-aged, handsome, and single man. But he still suffers from the trauma of a childhood accident and a past filled with regrets. He arrives on the island seeking peace when he crosses paths, unexpectedly, with Edwina. With each of them carrying their emotional baggage, the romance seems most unlikely until a series of encounters, confessions, and shared adventures through the enchanting beaches, lively luau, and cultural sites force them to confront their vulnerable selves and get serious about what they feel.
Susan Jean Ricci just won my heart as one of the finest romance writers, thanks to her deft exploration of human emotion. This is a slow-burning romance that is incredibly captivating. It is character-driven, and I enjoyed how the author explores the backstories, providing depth to her characters and making them even more relatable. Not only are the characters realistic, but they also resemble everyday individuals, wounded and burdened by their pasts. Meet Me at Lanikai Beach also appeals with a finely drawn setting, especially the tropical backdrop of Oahu, with glimpses from the descending plane to vivid descriptions of iconic beaches like Lanikai and Waikiki, as well as the local culture. This novel transports readers to some of Hawaii's most exotic places as two memorable characters confront their fears to find love and embrace each other. Lovely!
