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Hula Girl
What happens in Maui, stays in Maui. Unless you run into your vacation fling back home...
Much to her annoyance, workaholic lawyer Ava Ruiz is forced to take a vacation to a tropical paradise. Unable to tear her mind off her cases, she's counting down the days until she can go back to work.
Until she meets Ford.
Admittedly, she has nothing in common with the gorgeous surfer. She's type-A and he's the definition of laid-back. But for a few steamy days, that fails to matter thanks to their instant and undeniable attraction.
Inevitably, all good things must come to an end... or do they?
Once back to their "real world" lives, Ava and Ford come face-to-face in a surprise reunion that takes a turn when he asks her to help him out by playing along with a fake engagement. Reluctantly going along with the ruse, Ava soon finds herself wondering if either of them are pretending, after all.
Fans of sizzling vacation romance with a guaranteed happily ever after will find themselves swooning over Hula Girl!
Much to her annoyance, workaholic lawyer Ava Ruiz is forced to take a vacation to a tropical paradise. Unable to tear her mind off her cases, she's counting down the days until she can go back to work.
Until she meets Ford.
Admittedly, she has nothing in common with the gorgeous surfer. She's type-A and he's the definition of laid-back. But for a few steamy days, that fails to matter thanks to their instant and undeniable attraction.
Inevitably, all good things must come to an end... or do they?
Once back to their "real world" lives, Ava and Ford come face-to-face in a surprise reunion that takes a turn when he asks her to help him out by playing along with a fake engagement. Reluctantly going along with the ruse, Ava soon finds herself wondering if either of them are pretending, after all.
Fans of sizzling vacation romance with a guaranteed happily ever after will find themselves swooning over Hula Girl!
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2019
574 people are currently reading
1,952 people want to read
About the author
Lara Ward Cosio
14 books221 followersLara Ward Cosio is the author of contemporary romances that are raw, realistic, sometimes funny, and always feature swoon-worthy men and strong-willed women.
Hula Girl: A Standalone Romance with a HEA is now available.
The Rogue Series, an angsty rock star romance saga with interconnected stories, is now complete and all books are available with KindleUnlimited.
The Rogue Series is:
★ Tangled Up In You
★ Playing At Love
★ Hitting That Sweet Spot
★ Finding Rhythm
The Rogue Series continues with these "Extras":
★ Looking For Trouble
★ Felicity Found
★ Rogue Christmas Story
★ Problematic Love
★ Rock Star on the Verge
For more information, visit larawardcosio.com
Signup for news: http://www.larawardcosio.com/contact/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaraWardCosi...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/laracosio
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lara_ward_c...
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lara-...
Hula Girl: A Standalone Romance with a HEA is now available.
The Rogue Series, an angsty rock star romance saga with interconnected stories, is now complete and all books are available with KindleUnlimited.
The Rogue Series is:
★ Tangled Up In You
★ Playing At Love
★ Hitting That Sweet Spot
★ Finding Rhythm
The Rogue Series continues with these "Extras":
★ Looking For Trouble
★ Felicity Found
★ Rogue Christmas Story
★ Problematic Love
★ Rock Star on the Verge
For more information, visit larawardcosio.com
Signup for news: http://www.larawardcosio.com/contact/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaraWardCosi...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/laracosio
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lara_ward_c...
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lara-...
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
February 5, 2022
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was a cute, light, sexy read! I liked both characters and I liked the overall premise. I also liked the realistic obstacle of their lives being so far apart that they faced while trying to give in to their feelings for one another. I wanted much more in the end and while I did like the connection between them, I wanted a little more there too. Great for a freebie!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ava and Ford’s story. Ava is on a mandatory vacation in Maui from her law firm when she meets Ford and they start up a steamy vacation fling. When they see each other again after she returns home, things get messy, and they end up in a fake engagement. Feelings develop and lines get crossed while they both struggle with the obstacles in their way. There is some family and work drama, some sexy times, and some sweet moments…and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Ava and Ford’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of when looking at the overall timeframe, but it didn’t feel like the instalove that bugs me.
H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Ford. I liked him. I liked his outlook on life and how he just went for what he wanted (and communicated that)
h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Ava. I liked her. I appreciated her loyalty and how she cared for others.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Mild
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes, but mild
Closure: This ends in a good place with what I would call a HEA , but I wanted a much farther and detailed glimpse into their future HEA.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: This was a cute, light, sexy read! I liked both characters and I liked the overall premise. I also liked the realistic obstacle of their lives being so far apart that they faced while trying to give in to their feelings for one another. I wanted much more in the end and while I did like the connection between them, I wanted a little more there too. Great for a freebie!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ava and Ford’s story. Ava is on a mandatory vacation in Maui from her law firm when she meets Ford and they start up a steamy vacation fling. When they see each other again after she returns home, things get messy, and they end up in a fake engagement. Feelings develop and lines get crossed while they both struggle with the obstacles in their way. There is some family and work drama, some sexy times, and some sweet moments…and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Ava and Ford’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of when looking at the overall timeframe, but it didn’t feel like the instalove that bugs me.
H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Ford. I liked him. I liked his outlook on life and how he just went for what he wanted (and communicated that)
h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Ava. I liked her. I appreciated her loyalty and how she cared for others.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Mild
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes, but mild
Closure: This ends in a good place with what I would call a HEA , but I wanted a much farther and detailed glimpse into their future HEA.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
November 1, 2019
The perfect vacation, sun, sand and a hot beach bum for “no attachment, no commitment,” what more could Ava want to leave her high pressure work behind?
You think the sun is scorching hot? Lara Ward Cosio’s HULA GIRL is a steamy, fun romance that is unpredictable, filled with surprises and an unexpected connection between two people who once thought their life paths were neatly drawn out in the legal battlegrounds of the courts. Sometimes, the heart knows what the heart wants, and it wants to follow an uncharted course, consequences be damned.
Hang on tight for a rollercoaster of emotions, untold secrets, legal wrangling and the passions of two souls caught up in the magic of the islands. Will that magic last?
Once again, Lara Ward Cosio has written a tale that has light-hearted humor, flirtation and most of all, sizzling romance. Fun reading with heart and a touch of drama!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Lara Ward-Cosio! This review is both honest and voluntary.
Publication Date: November 7, 2019
Publisher: Lara Ward Cosio
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
You think the sun is scorching hot? Lara Ward Cosio’s HULA GIRL is a steamy, fun romance that is unpredictable, filled with surprises and an unexpected connection between two people who once thought their life paths were neatly drawn out in the legal battlegrounds of the courts. Sometimes, the heart knows what the heart wants, and it wants to follow an uncharted course, consequences be damned.
Hang on tight for a rollercoaster of emotions, untold secrets, legal wrangling and the passions of two souls caught up in the magic of the islands. Will that magic last?
Once again, Lara Ward Cosio has written a tale that has light-hearted humor, flirtation and most of all, sizzling romance. Fun reading with heart and a touch of drama!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Lara Ward-Cosio! This review is both honest and voluntary.
Publication Date: November 7, 2019
Publisher: Lara Ward Cosio
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
October 21, 2019
Hula Girl delivered it all. My emotions ran the gamut. I happily sat back and enjoyed the vacation I took in Maui with Ford and Ava. Not only is this a fun, romantic read; it has some serious and intense moments. Honestly, it was just so much more than I expected, and I really hope readers pick up a copy and enjoy this one.
I don’t think author Lara Ward-Cosio has written steamier scenes, and that is saying something. She dug real deep here and gives the reader lots to writhe over while falling in love with the Boy Wonder. This book is way more than beautiful scenery, toned surfer boys, and steamy sex. The aloha spirit is alive and well in this book, and I learned some life lessons along the way.
Hula Girl, aptly named as you will discover, brought smiles to my face, tingles to my fingertips, and tears to my eyes (that always earns a book 5-stars from me). It’s an unpredictable, roller-coaster ride of emotions. The characters are multi-faceted and when their “real world’s” collide, possibilities start to unfold which give Ford and Ava a little push into what the universe might have set in motion by way of a rogue chicken.
Ford is more than he appears to be; Ava is smart, loyal, and frustrating. They may be a match destined to be but the Hawaiian gods have their work cut out for them. This is definitely one of my most favourite books by this author. I will continue to follow and read her work for the ultimate joy it brings to my life.
I don’t think author Lara Ward-Cosio has written steamier scenes, and that is saying something. She dug real deep here and gives the reader lots to writhe over while falling in love with the Boy Wonder. This book is way more than beautiful scenery, toned surfer boys, and steamy sex. The aloha spirit is alive and well in this book, and I learned some life lessons along the way.
Hula Girl, aptly named as you will discover, brought smiles to my face, tingles to my fingertips, and tears to my eyes (that always earns a book 5-stars from me). It’s an unpredictable, roller-coaster ride of emotions. The characters are multi-faceted and when their “real world’s” collide, possibilities start to unfold which give Ford and Ava a little push into what the universe might have set in motion by way of a rogue chicken.
Ford is more than he appears to be; Ava is smart, loyal, and frustrating. They may be a match destined to be but the Hawaiian gods have their work cut out for them. This is definitely one of my most favourite books by this author. I will continue to follow and read her work for the ultimate joy it brings to my life.
November 8, 2019
Every time I read a Lara Ward Cosio book I think, "This is my favorite." HULA GIRL knocked it out of the park. From smart, sassy Ava to the brilliant, sexy (and oh so surprising) Ford, to the breezy, balmy island of Maui, each character is as multi-faceted and layered as a rich, delicious coconut-pineapple torte.
If you're looking for a smart, sexy read that's sure to warm you up and keep you reading into the wee hours, then you need to grab a copy of HULA GIRL. I highly recommend Lara's latest novel!
If you're looking for a smart, sexy read that's sure to warm you up and keep you reading into the wee hours, then you need to grab a copy of HULA GIRL. I highly recommend Lara's latest novel!
November 4, 2019
Lara Ward Cosio's Hula Girl was full of humor, passion and unexpected discoveries blended together just right for the perfect book getaway!
Sometimes you don't know what you are missing until you are confronted with it. Both the leads in this work, Ford and Ava, thought they knew what they wanted out of life and had very clear visions of what their futures held before they met each other. To outsider's Ford would appear to have it all. Looks, money and a brilliant career yet none of that held real meaning to him causing him to reexamine his priorities in life. Ford was incredibly attractive as a hero. His easy personality camouflaged a wealth of depth from his ability to maneuver with unprincipled people to his retention of his humanity and core goodness. Ava tackled the difficult challenge of being a successful woman in a man's world. This heroine had it going on from her career savvy to her impeccable work ethics but most importantly in how caring and genuine she was.
The chemistry between Ford and Ava was intense and impossible to ignore. This was a relationship built on basic attraction and desire versus details. Ms. Ward Cosio did a great job of showing how revelations took seemingly clear perceptions and concrete initial impressions and complicated matters. Ford and Ava were offset well showcasing both their similarities and differences to the advantage of their evolution as a couple.
Lara Ward Cosio breaks away from her signature rock star world and takes the plunge into contemporary romance proving her talent is more than just a one genre wonder. Comfortable with her unique style of writing she brings a thoughtful and introspective work effortlessly to readers in Hula Girl. Heavy weighted decisions were juxtaposed well against genuine funny and romantic moments. Smart, sexy and thought provoking plotting accompanied by this author's addictive prose made this a wonderful read. Lara Ward Cosio's Hula Girl is just what every bookshelf needs to be complete!
*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *
Sometimes you don't know what you are missing until you are confronted with it. Both the leads in this work, Ford and Ava, thought they knew what they wanted out of life and had very clear visions of what their futures held before they met each other. To outsider's Ford would appear to have it all. Looks, money and a brilliant career yet none of that held real meaning to him causing him to reexamine his priorities in life. Ford was incredibly attractive as a hero. His easy personality camouflaged a wealth of depth from his ability to maneuver with unprincipled people to his retention of his humanity and core goodness. Ava tackled the difficult challenge of being a successful woman in a man's world. This heroine had it going on from her career savvy to her impeccable work ethics but most importantly in how caring and genuine she was.
The chemistry between Ford and Ava was intense and impossible to ignore. This was a relationship built on basic attraction and desire versus details. Ms. Ward Cosio did a great job of showing how revelations took seemingly clear perceptions and concrete initial impressions and complicated matters. Ford and Ava were offset well showcasing both their similarities and differences to the advantage of their evolution as a couple.
Lara Ward Cosio breaks away from her signature rock star world and takes the plunge into contemporary romance proving her talent is more than just a one genre wonder. Comfortable with her unique style of writing she brings a thoughtful and introspective work effortlessly to readers in Hula Girl. Heavy weighted decisions were juxtaposed well against genuine funny and romantic moments. Smart, sexy and thought provoking plotting accompanied by this author's addictive prose made this a wonderful read. Lara Ward Cosio's Hula Girl is just what every bookshelf needs to be complete!
*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *
Read
August 22, 2020HULA GIRL 🏖💍🌺
➔ Stand-alone contemporary romance
➔ Vacation romance
➔ Fake fiancée
➔ Guaranteed HEA
➔ Add to your Goodreads TBR: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
➔ Cover reveal October 7
➔ Release date: November 7
tag
➔ Stand-alone contemporary romance
➔ Vacation romance
➔ Fake fiancée
➔ Guaranteed HEA
➔ Add to your Goodreads TBR: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
➔ Cover reveal October 7
➔ Release date: November 7
tag
April 8, 2025
I've had this book on my kindle awhile, it's from 2019. So glad I finally opened it up because I ate this book up completely!!! This was a lot of my favorites all tied up in one. Anything with a beach/surf setting is definitely for me. This was light hearted, but also deeply romantic. Still getting over the joyous pleasure of reading a romance without any unnecessary girl drama.
The nicest part about this book was the dialogue ~ Surfer boy(Ford) and Hula girl(Ava) had all the chemistry and build that makes an insta love so believable. They crackled with intense fire and the little banter and conversation just lit up!! I also love a fake fiance trope. And extra characters that support the personalities of 2 main characters always takes any book up a notch. I loved everything about this book and am soooooo sad that this new to me author has only written 1 more book since this 2019 release. Pick this up for a little romance where lawyers collide with the aloha coast!!
The nicest part about this book was the dialogue ~ Surfer boy(Ford) and Hula girl(Ava) had all the chemistry and build that makes an insta love so believable. They crackled with intense fire and the little banter and conversation just lit up!! I also love a fake fiance trope. And extra characters that support the personalities of 2 main characters always takes any book up a notch. I loved everything about this book and am soooooo sad that this new to me author has only written 1 more book since this 2019 release. Pick this up for a little romance where lawyers collide with the aloha coast!!
July 18, 2021
2.5 STARS
I don't mind steam, but these two had zero chemistry to back it up. Meh...
I don't mind steam, but these two had zero chemistry to back it up. Meh...
April 19, 2020
YES!
+Interracial romance! And Ava is a little older than Ford!
+Ava is a workaholic who was forced on vacation by her boss. This woman needs to relax!
+Ford left the corporate world on his own to live in Maui! Well, kinda. There's some loose strings back in LA.
+Hot sexual chemistry.
+The "island romance" actually takes up quite a large chunk of the book, rather than a quickie followed up by dragged out "real world" drama.
+Pretend engagement!!! My favorite trope.
NO!
-Ava gets mad that Ford told some half-truths even though she straight up lied to him. Plus, they had agreed on no "real world" discussions, so what's the problem?
-Missed opportunities for "Why did the chicken cross the road?" jokes.
+Interracial romance! And Ava is a little older than Ford!
+Ava is a workaholic who was forced on vacation by her boss. This woman needs to relax!
+Ford left the corporate world on his own to live in Maui! Well, kinda. There's some loose strings back in LA.
+Hot sexual chemistry.
+The "island romance" actually takes up quite a large chunk of the book, rather than a quickie followed up by dragged out "real world" drama.
+Pretend engagement!!! My favorite trope.
NO!
-Ava gets mad that Ford told some half-truths even though she straight up lied to him. Plus, they had agreed on no "real world" discussions, so what's the problem?
-Missed opportunities for "Why did the chicken cross the road?" jokes.
October 20, 2019
You have to read this book! Those who are familiar with Lara Ward Cosio’s Rogue series know she has a knack for taking her readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and Ford and Ava’s story is no different. On the surface it seems like your typical boy meets girl story, however, I promise you their story is so much more. You will be left hanging on every word and just when you think you have it figured out, you’ll realize what you thought was only the beginning. This book will leave you wanting more and that much better for having read it.
November 4, 2019
Another Hit!!!
This is another great story from this author of whom I am never let down and I want to do justice for this review without giving much away. Suffice to say I was drawn to this book of Ford and Ava and the rollercoaster ride I was taken on. Just about the time I thought things were going one way I was taken in a whole other direction. This sexy fun story took me through all kinds of emotions.
Hula Girl is a definite must read for everyone who loves steam, romance and one heck of a ride!!
This is another great story from this author of whom I am never let down and I want to do justice for this review without giving much away. Suffice to say I was drawn to this book of Ford and Ava and the rollercoaster ride I was taken on. Just about the time I thought things were going one way I was taken in a whole other direction. This sexy fun story took me through all kinds of emotions.
Hula Girl is a definite must read for everyone who loves steam, romance and one heck of a ride!!
November 7, 2019
Delicious!
Hot surfer dude, hot vacation girl and the beautiful beaches of Hawaii...what more do you need? This was a good storyline with some great characters. While the implication of hot s*x is there, it was tastefully done as is usual for this author. The “bad” guy was a nice addition but I would have loved more of the gay co-worker. He seemed like a blast! And little clarinet playing Eli? Adorable!
All in all I loved this and read it in one sitting! It was just as I expected from the author of the Rogue Series...wonderful!
Hot surfer dude, hot vacation girl and the beautiful beaches of Hawaii...what more do you need? This was a good storyline with some great characters. While the implication of hot s*x is there, it was tastefully done as is usual for this author. The “bad” guy was a nice addition but I would have loved more of the gay co-worker. He seemed like a blast! And little clarinet playing Eli? Adorable!
All in all I loved this and read it in one sitting! It was just as I expected from the author of the Rogue Series...wonderful!
August 4, 2020
A lovely, light hearted romance. I can't get over the many missed opportunities for the "Why did the chicken cross the road?" line, though. But I really enjoyed the story. A great summer read.
Want to read
February 4, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/4/2022)! 🎁
March 13, 2024
What can I say good trash but make it en el mejor lugar del mundo y encima con referencias que entiendo 💅🏽💞😭
November 8, 2019
Sweet yet sassy and sexy with a side of yummy. Ava is forced to take a vacation as her ambition and drive in her career take their toll on her life. But she doesn't know how to slow down. Then life (actually a chicken) leads her in another direction, down an entirely different path that has some surprising twists. While trying to connect to the "real" world, she finds herself in one of the most beautiful places in Maui with quite the view .... of one hot surfer with a crooked smile ... The ocean was pretty too.
She takes a chance on this mystery surfer and then a few shots of tequila which led her down a beach to a seriously hot night! But what appears on the surface to be this gorgeous surfer with wild hair and an inexplicable connection is a man with many layers.
Then it's over... The vacation that is...
Returning to life In LA... She tries to jump back into work but life has other plans yet again. In a rapid series of events, Ford and Ava are thrown back into the fire and a very complicated situation. They must play it out and keep up a charade... But are they playing?
She tries to protect herself, but she's no match for this sweet man who keeps chipping away at her fortress. Persistent and genuine in every way, this Surfer Boy becomes so much more. But how? How do they make it work? When do you know you have to take that leap of faith? When do you know it's worth the compromise?
This is a story of a fiercely independent, strong, stubborn and sassy Latina crossing paths with what appears on the surface as just a surfer but turns out to be everything she never knew she wanted.
Thank goodness for that Rogue chicken!
Here is a playlist I came up with for this story, enjoy,
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5uF...
I was lucky enough to read an early draft of this novel and loved it right from the start. I'm a huge fan of this author's writing and glad she is delving into the contemporary genre. Plus, I love a story that can be romantic but also hot as hell. Good guys got it too!
Sneak peak was fantastic!
She takes a chance on this mystery surfer and then a few shots of tequila which led her down a beach to a seriously hot night! But what appears on the surface to be this gorgeous surfer with wild hair and an inexplicable connection is a man with many layers.
Then it's over... The vacation that is...
Returning to life In LA... She tries to jump back into work but life has other plans yet again. In a rapid series of events, Ford and Ava are thrown back into the fire and a very complicated situation. They must play it out and keep up a charade... But are they playing?
She tries to protect herself, but she's no match for this sweet man who keeps chipping away at her fortress. Persistent and genuine in every way, this Surfer Boy becomes so much more. But how? How do they make it work? When do you know you have to take that leap of faith? When do you know it's worth the compromise?
This is a story of a fiercely independent, strong, stubborn and sassy Latina crossing paths with what appears on the surface as just a surfer but turns out to be everything she never knew she wanted.
Thank goodness for that Rogue chicken!
Here is a playlist I came up with for this story, enjoy,
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5uF...
I was lucky enough to read an early draft of this novel and loved it right from the start. I'm a huge fan of this author's writing and glad she is delving into the contemporary genre. Plus, I love a story that can be romantic but also hot as hell. Good guys got it too!
Sneak peak was fantastic!
November 18, 2019
Hula Girl
By: Lara Ward Cosio
5 out of 5 stars
The story Hula Girl by Lara Ward Cosio is a new adult/romance book. It pulled me in from the very beginning and didn’t let me go until I finished the final page. I loved reading about the characters of Ava and Ford. Ava is a woman who works hard at her job. She is not one for vacations and relationships seem to not work out. She finds herself forced into a vacation and that it is there that she meets Ford. Ford is a man who has decisions that he must make. He has taken time off and loves to wake up and go surfing. Then he meets Ava. There is an attraction, connection, and a pull toward each other. They are comfortable talking to each other which surprises Ava. It was only to be a vacation romance. When she returns to work there is a surprise reunion and Ava finds herself talked into a fake engagement. Ava believes that even though they have feelings for each other their relationship will never work. Can Ford change her mind? What does the future hold for Ford and Ava? Read this book to find out. This is a story that had my emotions going up and down. I grew to care about Ford and Ava with each chapter that I read. I wanted them to find happiness. I also enjoyed reading about the other characters introduced. Some of them are friends and family and are helpful to Ford and Ava. Others have their own agenda and plans. This is a book whose storyline, characters, and dialogue many times had me with a smile on my face. Don’t miss out on an amazing romance story. I highly recommend reading it.
By: Lara Ward Cosio
5 out of 5 stars
The story Hula Girl by Lara Ward Cosio is a new adult/romance book. It pulled me in from the very beginning and didn’t let me go until I finished the final page. I loved reading about the characters of Ava and Ford. Ava is a woman who works hard at her job. She is not one for vacations and relationships seem to not work out. She finds herself forced into a vacation and that it is there that she meets Ford. Ford is a man who has decisions that he must make. He has taken time off and loves to wake up and go surfing. Then he meets Ava. There is an attraction, connection, and a pull toward each other. They are comfortable talking to each other which surprises Ava. It was only to be a vacation romance. When she returns to work there is a surprise reunion and Ava finds herself talked into a fake engagement. Ava believes that even though they have feelings for each other their relationship will never work. Can Ford change her mind? What does the future hold for Ford and Ava? Read this book to find out. This is a story that had my emotions going up and down. I grew to care about Ford and Ava with each chapter that I read. I wanted them to find happiness. I also enjoyed reading about the other characters introduced. Some of them are friends and family and are helpful to Ford and Ava. Others have their own agenda and plans. This is a book whose storyline, characters, and dialogue many times had me with a smile on my face. Don’t miss out on an amazing romance story. I highly recommend reading it.
November 29, 2019
Hula Girl by Lara is a wonderful story and set in one of the world’s most beautiful locations, Hawaii. Throw in a hot and sexy surfer, a sexy and sassy girl on vacation and you are in for one great ride. This story is addicting and I fell in love with the characters and it was a pleasure to read their story. Well done Lara will this very emotive and well written characters. I loved this so much I read it in one sitting!
Ava finds herself at odds when she is forced to take a vacation from her highly stressful job. She doesn’t know how to do nothing, unwind and enjoy herself. When she narrowly misses a disaster due to a wandering chicken, little does she know her life is about to change and for the better if only she would take a chance. Now the vacation is over and was it just a dream?
Ford is more than he first seems and he is thankful for a chicken that changed his world not that he was looking for anything other than a vacation fling. Unfortunately that is all it can be because his life is complicated and his time has run out. Forced to attend a gala he once again finds himself face to face with his Hula girl and whilst trying to prove a point makes a mess of things. Now if she would only give him time to explain exactly how he is going to fix things.
This is a sweet and sexy love story that you are cheering for the best outcome for them. I loved the setting as I have always wanted to go to Hawaii and will get the chance on my next holiday.
Ava finds herself at odds when she is forced to take a vacation from her highly stressful job. She doesn’t know how to do nothing, unwind and enjoy herself. When she narrowly misses a disaster due to a wandering chicken, little does she know her life is about to change and for the better if only she would take a chance. Now the vacation is over and was it just a dream?
Ford is more than he first seems and he is thankful for a chicken that changed his world not that he was looking for anything other than a vacation fling. Unfortunately that is all it can be because his life is complicated and his time has run out. Forced to attend a gala he once again finds himself face to face with his Hula girl and whilst trying to prove a point makes a mess of things. Now if she would only give him time to explain exactly how he is going to fix things.
This is a sweet and sexy love story that you are cheering for the best outcome for them. I loved the setting as I have always wanted to go to Hawaii and will get the chance on my next holiday.
November 3, 2019
A wayward chicken....
A wayward chicken leads Ava Ruiz to her destiny and of all places on vacation. While on vacation Ava meets the man of her dreams. I mean really this guy lives in a shack, a surfer and just gorgeous as ever. She's had the hottest sex of her life....which Lara done an amazing job with hot AF sex scenes in this one. Ava thinks this is just a vacay fling or is it??
Ford has some decisions to make I mean life changing decisions. He loves to surf, teach music in his mothers music school and hit the waves. When he see's Ava doing a dance with her cell phone it's like a lightening bolt to the chest. It helps the sex with her is off the charts hot! But he's in Hawaii and she lives in the high lawyer life. They have more in common then what they think though....
Let's see we have a surprise meeting at a social lawyer function, a surprise engagement and decisions, decisions, decisions to make.
Just know that this is a great love story. Fast paced storyline, and I did say off the charts HOT AF sex scenes in this one and some major heart stopping chemistry between maybe 2 opposites or not?? Just read the book...
I highly recommend this book. I've loved everything by this author she's a one-click author for myself.
I received an ARC for this book and my review is freely and honestly given.
thanks jamie nibarger ellis
A wayward chicken leads Ava Ruiz to her destiny and of all places on vacation. While on vacation Ava meets the man of her dreams. I mean really this guy lives in a shack, a surfer and just gorgeous as ever. She's had the hottest sex of her life....which Lara done an amazing job with hot AF sex scenes in this one. Ava thinks this is just a vacay fling or is it??
Ford has some decisions to make I mean life changing decisions. He loves to surf, teach music in his mothers music school and hit the waves. When he see's Ava doing a dance with her cell phone it's like a lightening bolt to the chest. It helps the sex with her is off the charts hot! But he's in Hawaii and she lives in the high lawyer life. They have more in common then what they think though....
Let's see we have a surprise meeting at a social lawyer function, a surprise engagement and decisions, decisions, decisions to make.
Just know that this is a great love story. Fast paced storyline, and I did say off the charts HOT AF sex scenes in this one and some major heart stopping chemistry between maybe 2 opposites or not?? Just read the book...
I highly recommend this book. I've loved everything by this author she's a one-click author for myself.
I received an ARC for this book and my review is freely and honestly given.
thanks jamie nibarger ellis
December 1, 2019
This story has all the feels! Right away I knew this was going to be a good one. Meeting the characters and getting their back story is done well. I feel like I know these two and only get to know them better as the story moves along. The attraction...yup I could feel that. The worry and concern...yup I could feel that. What about the heartbreak....yup that was the worst feeling. The love....yes that was the best!
I enjoyed each of these characters and the story took me for a ride. Just when I thought it was done. Nope it wasn’t. Her BIG gesture was wonderful! All of his weren’t too bad either. I felt myself smiling while reading about his Hula Girl and her Surfer Boy.
I enjoyed each of these characters and the story took me for a ride. Just when I thought it was done. Nope it wasn’t. Her BIG gesture was wonderful! All of his weren’t too bad either. I felt myself smiling while reading about his Hula Girl and her Surfer Boy.
June 18, 2020
This book made me feel all the feels
I fell in love with Ava and Ford from the very beginning. I loved that there wasn’t just a meet cute and then boom: happily ever after. There were struggles and heartache and hard choices to be made but the connection between Ford and Ava could not be broken. I loved every minute of this book with frustration and swooning happiness. The perfect balance of real life and a fairytale. Highly recommend Hula Girl! I also loved the nicknames and how they stuck all the way through!
I fell in love with Ava and Ford from the very beginning. I loved that there wasn’t just a meet cute and then boom: happily ever after. There were struggles and heartache and hard choices to be made but the connection between Ford and Ava could not be broken. I loved every minute of this book with frustration and swooning happiness. The perfect balance of real life and a fairytale. Highly recommend Hula Girl! I also loved the nicknames and how they stuck all the way through!
November 14, 2019
Hula Girl is a perfect read to escape reality and winter weather! Romance, travel, adventure, and hotness abound in this book. Main characters, Ford and Ava, have mega chemistry. She's a strong career-minded woman, swept off her feet by an unsuspecting surfer dude with a heart of gold. But there's more to Ford than surf and sand. Not only is he successful and super-smart, he also plays guitar and teaches music to local children. What's not to love?
November 8, 2019
I really loved it. I’m usually not into the trope of 1. The girl being older, 2. The girl being uptight, but this was beautifully done. You could feel the love between the characters, and I spent most of the book wondering what compromise they would come up with to solve their location issues. It was so sweet but also really moving. Definitely had more depth than your average “vacation trope” book. I’ll be checking out more books by this author.
November 19, 2019
I loved this book. This is a romance story that kept me turning pages until the end. I loved being pulled into the story right from the beginning. This is an engaging story that heat up the pages. What happens when a workaholic meets the beach bum on vacation? Than they run into each other after vacation and pretend to be engaged. Are they really pretending or is there more to it? They are great characters with a strong chemistry. This is a must read.
November 25, 2019
HULA GIRL is a contemporary romance that was an easy breezy read.
Told in dual POV, this story takes place in L.A. and Hawaii and at times it reads like an Island vacation guide and I'm totally in.
I really enjoyed this story and was able to escape into it on a cold and rainy Sunday afternoon.
I absolutely recommend this book.
Told in dual POV, this story takes place in L.A. and Hawaii and at times it reads like an Island vacation guide and I'm totally in.
I really enjoyed this story and was able to escape into it on a cold and rainy Sunday afternoon.
I absolutely recommend this book.
June 23, 2021
I loved this! This was my first time reading this author and I will definitely check out her other books. A must read:)
November 12, 2024
Ava really got on my nerves. The story was super slow, kinda dry. She fights him the whole way...me me me me me me fuck what he wants.
The mention of Beyonce dropped you to 1 star DNF.
Ava is a lawyer who was sent away on a mandatory vacation to Maui. Insert surfer guy, Ford, they meet and hit it off immediately. After an off handed comment from Ford about hating lawyers, Ava decides it's a great idea to keep "real world" out of the fling. They share a little family history but no last names.
Time jump: Ford gallantly rescuses her from drunk ex by pretending to be her fiance. Bosses and
Ava's reaction:
“I really want an answer. Because I’m so confused. And honestly, I think I’m a little mad at you, too.”
“Mad at me? Why?” I shake my head, trying to formulate all the reasons. In the end, I simply say, “Because you lied to me.” “Uh, no, I didn’t.”
“You’re not just some surfer, dude. You’re a lawyer. You don’t live in Maui. You live here. You played some really jacked up game over there, pretending to be something you’re not.” “No, you’ve got it all wrong.”
“Ford McAvoy? That’s your full name?” I realize with some embarrassment that I never got his last name.
Girl, what happened to leaving the real world off the island?? You can't feel betrayed by your decision not to find out his last name.
She says over and over.......YOU ARE GONNA RUIN MY CAREER
The mention of Beyonce dropped you to 1 star DNF.
Ava is a lawyer who was sent away on a mandatory vacation to Maui. Insert surfer guy, Ford, they meet and hit it off immediately. After an off handed comment from Ford about hating lawyers, Ava decides it's a great idea to keep "real world" out of the fling. They share a little family history but no last names.
Time jump: Ford gallantly rescuses her from drunk ex by pretending to be her fiance. Bosses and
Ava's reaction:
“I really want an answer. Because I’m so confused. And honestly, I think I’m a little mad at you, too.”
“Mad at me? Why?” I shake my head, trying to formulate all the reasons. In the end, I simply say, “Because you lied to me.” “Uh, no, I didn’t.”
“You’re not just some surfer, dude. You’re a lawyer. You don’t live in Maui. You live here. You played some really jacked up game over there, pretending to be something you’re not.” “No, you’ve got it all wrong.”
“Ford McAvoy? That’s your full name?” I realize with some embarrassment that I never got his last name.
Girl, what happened to leaving the real world off the island?? You can't feel betrayed by your decision not to find out his last name.
She says over and over.......YOU ARE GONNA RUIN MY CAREER
September 1, 2021
Hula Girl by Lara Ward Cosio blew me away. Once I read the synopsis, I knew it would be one that I would drop everything to read. I wanted to slow down and savor the story but I could not put it down. This book is straight up addicting and I loved every second.
Ava is a young woman who works at a law firm and is a dedicated and hard worker, she is so dedicated that she has to be forced to take a vacation on the lovely isle of Maui. While trying to relax and enjoy her vacation she meets a swoony man named Ford who is a surfer and loves the island life.
Both Ava and Ford have had some tough times in their personal lives but they have an instant attraction to each other which is why they decide on an island fling. The questions come when they have Togo back to their real lives what happens then.
I’ve read all of Lara Ward Cosio.s books, and This one does not disappoint and is a favorite reread of mine. It was the perfect mix of everything I love in a book. This book is a must read.
Ava is a young woman who works at a law firm and is a dedicated and hard worker, she is so dedicated that she has to be forced to take a vacation on the lovely isle of Maui. While trying to relax and enjoy her vacation she meets a swoony man named Ford who is a surfer and loves the island life.
Both Ava and Ford have had some tough times in their personal lives but they have an instant attraction to each other which is why they decide on an island fling. The questions come when they have Togo back to their real lives what happens then.
I’ve read all of Lara Ward Cosio.s books, and This one does not disappoint and is a favorite reread of mine. It was the perfect mix of everything I love in a book. This book is a must read.
July 26, 2020
This was a really enjoyable romance! I loved that it partially takes place in Maui. I could have gone for more beach time, but I did like what we got. The plot was ultimately quite entertaining and cute. This does explore some deeper topics like being a woman of color in the workplace, parental death, strained relationships, and dementia. Also, the descriptions of poke and Mexican food made me really want to eat all of these things!
I really liked both Ava and Ford. I really respect Ava for working super hard in order to succeed at her job. She does have a really terrible work/life balance at the beginning, but I found this to be a very relatable plot point throughout the book. I also respect Ford for walking away from a life he didn't want in order to pursue his dreams. I also really liked his discussion about the importance of restoring balance in life. I definitely bought the romance here!
I really liked both Ava and Ford. I really respect Ava for working super hard in order to succeed at her job. She does have a really terrible work/life balance at the beginning, but I found this to be a very relatable plot point throughout the book. I also respect Ford for walking away from a life he didn't want in order to pursue his dreams. I also really liked his discussion about the importance of restoring balance in life. I definitely bought the romance here!
September 6, 2021
QOTD: WHY AREN’T MORE PEOPLE READING THIS BOOK?!
My A: I have no clue, but let’s fix that!
.
If you’ve been around the last two weeks, you may have heard me talking about my current love for tropical romances and Kindle Unlimited hidden gems. Today’s find: Hula Girl by Lara Ward Cosio. Holy. Cow. Seriously, why isn’t this book on everyone’s TBR list? Why aren’t I seeing this all over Booksta and Goodreads? This book hit every single mark. A fun and flirty vacation romance with sexy steam, chemistry out the roof is good enough, but then we get to see them in a fake romance, in the office and sticking it to the man. I mean, seriously, this book has it all without being predictable or cheesy. There was no cringy dialogue or crappy communication. Just two adults who fit so perfectly you do nothing but root for them and smile along as they fall in love. I loved this book. I loved these two. And I HIGHLY recommend you go read this book!
My A: I have no clue, but let’s fix that!
.
If you’ve been around the last two weeks, you may have heard me talking about my current love for tropical romances and Kindle Unlimited hidden gems. Today’s find: Hula Girl by Lara Ward Cosio. Holy. Cow. Seriously, why isn’t this book on everyone’s TBR list? Why aren’t I seeing this all over Booksta and Goodreads? This book hit every single mark. A fun and flirty vacation romance with sexy steam, chemistry out the roof is good enough, but then we get to see them in a fake romance, in the office and sticking it to the man. I mean, seriously, this book has it all without being predictable or cheesy. There was no cringy dialogue or crappy communication. Just two adults who fit so perfectly you do nothing but root for them and smile along as they fall in love. I loved this book. I loved these two. And I HIGHLY recommend you go read this book!
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