Getting Lei'd

Escape #1

by Ann Omasta

Jilted by text message.
Honeymooning with her grandma.
The resort's bartender may look like Jason Momoa, but Roxy is NOT interested.

**Kindle Scout Winning Book**

Being jilted nearly-at-the-altar by text message is not at all how prim and proper Roxy Rose thought her wedding day would go.

Getting dragged along anyway on her Hawaiian honeymoon by her self-centered sister and irreverent grandma is the icing on the horrible wedding-day cake.

Can Kai, the resort's hunky and talented chauffeur / bartender / flame-thrower, turn this disaster of a trip into a romantic adventure to last a lifetime?

Or will his mysterious secrets keep their love from blossoming?

This novel is part of The Escape Series, which includes the prequel novella, Aloha, Baby!, as well as this book's sequel, Cruising for Love, and the sweet short story, Coconutty Christmas. You can read and enjoy these books in any order!

Escape with Roxy into the enchanting Hawaiian Islands as she finally discovers the joys of hanging loose and "Getting Lei'd."

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Fiction, Audiobook, Amazon, Rom Com

252 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2015

About the author

Ann Omasta is a USA Today bestselling author.

Subscribe to her YouTube channel for FREE audiobooks! https://www.youtube.com/@annomastaauthor

Here is a Top 10 list from Ann about her likes, dislikes, and oddities:

1. I despise whipped cream. There, I admitted it in writing. Let the ridiculing begin.
2. Even though I have lived as far south as Key Largo, Florida and as far north as Maine, I landed in the middle.
3. If I don't make a conscious effort not to, I will drink nothing but tea morning, noon and night. Hot tea, sweet tea, green tea––I love it all.
4. There doesn't seem to be much in life that is better than coming home to a couple of big dogs who are overjoyed to see me. My other family members usually show significantly less enthusiasm about my return.
5. Singing in my bestest, loudest voice does not make my family put on their happy faces. This includes the big, loving dogs referenced above.
6. Yes, I am aware that bestest is not a word.
7. Dorothy was right. There's no place like home.
8. All of the numerous bottles in my shower must be lined up with their labels facing out. It makes me feel a little like Julia Roberts' mean husband from the movie 'Sleeping with the Enemy,' but I can't seem to control this particular quirk.
9. I love, love, love finding a great bargain.
10. Did I mention that I hate whipped cream? It makes my stomach churn to look at it, touch it, smell it, or even think about it. Great––now I'm thinking about it. Ick!

** Ann would LOVE to send you a free novella ~ Aloha, Baby! Visit annomasta.com to let her know where to send it.

Reviews

[⚜️XAR the Bookwyrm · Rating 1 out of 5]

I really wanted to enjoy this, but it felt like too much telling rather than showing. It read as if we were reading an extended diary or journal entry rather than an actual plot. There was very little meaningful interaction between the main characters. I also found it unfathomable that Roxie wouldn't have been more torn up about her previous relationship ending. She wound up jumping into things with Kai awfully fast! It also was irksome that it seemed like half the plot was missing only to find out that there was a prequel that should have been read before this! Not worth keeping on my Kindle and will be avoiding the author in the future.

[Victoria · Rating 1 out of 5]

Everything you read is being told to you as opposed to being showed. I was looking for a quick fluffy read and there were some steamy moments but the characters were poorly developed and the writing was hard to read through.

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/18/2019)! 🎁

[Donna Bell · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don’t usually write reviews on a book, but I couldn’t even finish this one. I will let you come to your own conclusion

[Carmen Falcone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this one! If you're looking for an amazing rom com, don't pass this one up :)

[Stephanie Lasley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outrageously Entertaining 5 Stars
It is Roxie’s wedding day and everyone is gathered at the church. Just before the ceremony is to begin, Roxie receives a text from the groom “I can’t do this. Lizzy and I R in love. Sorry.” Her first thought is…well that explains the absence of Lizzy from the wedding party. Suddenly, reality comes crashing down and Roxie realizes she has been dumped and left to face their family and friends alone. Feeling appalled, shocked and humiliated, Roxie finds herself at a loss as to what to do next.
Now enters the heroine of the story, the spunky spit fire of a grandmother, Grandma Baggy. After breaking the news of the cancelled wedding, Baggy and Roxie’s sister Ruthie accompany Roxie on her honeymoon to Hawaii and that’s when the real story begins.
With author Ann Omasta’s outstanding writing skills, she was able to turn this compelling story of a life tragedy into a romantic, feel good comedy/love story. If you are in need of a pick me up, this is the book for you, such a delightful read!
Stephanie Lasley, from The Kindle Book Review
The Kindle Book Review received a free copy of this book for an independent, fair, and honest review. We are not associated with the author or Amazon.

[Kathleen Bradbury (Bulfon) · Rating 5 out of 5]

It Grabbed My attention and focus so strong I could not put it down. A word of advice when you get your copy. Grab a snack, a comfy seat, kick back and relax. You will not be moving until you finish this bad boy here. Remarkable job. Thanks for sharing.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michele Winton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful read. I live way down under in New Zealand and this was a perfect beach read.

[Amanda Winkworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun read about a holiday romance in Hawaii. I want to go to Hawaii now!

[Sheri Morell · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun romance

[Stephenee · Rating 5 out of 5]

* I received an ebook in exchange for an honest review. *

I try not to judge a book by it's cover, but this one looked so peaceful, relaxing and fun that I decided to forgo reading the back and just went all in, and I am so glad that I did!! I loved this book - it was a fun, flirty, light read that is perfect for summer, sunshine and romance.

The author did a remarkable job mixing in humor, fun and excitement for the reader, with just a tiny, tiny bit of mystery. The plot was fast moving and pretty predictable but it didn't take anything away from the story for me. I enjoyed the way in which the author was able to paint the picture of Hawaii and make the reader feel as if they were right on the beach, sitting at the bar or finding waterfalls. I could almost feel the sand between my toes and the sun toasting my face.

The characters were a huge part of the fun factor in this book. I loved Roxy - I could relate to her straight and narrow, think things threw personality, but I loved Baggy and Ruthie. They were more a fly by the seat of their pants kinda gals and I enjoyed their antics. I think that the author knew what she was doing with them - it made things fun while at the same time shaped a bit of the story! You will laugh out loud while reading this book more than once!

Kai and Roxy instantly connect as Roxy arrives at the resort, however, Kai has something holding him back...Roxy decides to stay on her path, but sees its not all it is cut out to be and on a whim decides to veer and it may be the best decision of her life. I enjoyed the Happily Ever After and I will definitely be adding the authors other books to my TBR list!

Make sure you pick up this amazing book - It will be sure to brighten up any type of weather that you read it in. It is a quick read (because it is so much fun), and it is a happy one (mostly)...It is a must read though for any season! Add it to your TBR list and you won't be sorry!

***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***

[Barbara Hackel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A bride gets jilted at the altar via text, and who rescues her? Her grandmother(Baggy) and sister (Ruthie)! What starts as an escape from the church and endless rounds of sympathy ends in an Hawaiian honeymoon for three. Somehow Roxy is stuffed into an economy class seat as Baggy and Ruthie glide to Hawaii in first class, thanks to a seemingly endless supply of one hundred dollar bills in Baggy's purse. Things continue in this vein-bride taking second to her take over companions-right through the hooking up with eligible men! Oh Roxy meets Kai who is eligible and handsome, but isn't willing to give Roxy what she really wants. It isn't until Roxy has left Hawaii and returned to work that she realizes what she really wants is Kai. Nothing is ever simple, but when Roxy returns to the island, she discovers Baggy is getting married the next day. Even though there is no hook-up with Kai, she is glad to be there for Baggy's special day!

This light hearted book touches on many topics and island romance abounds. It is over all too quickly, Interesting characters, beautiful descriptions of Hawaii, and love make this a book not to be missed. Perfect for summer reading and daydreaming.

I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Read2BeCool · Rating 5 out of 5]

This short book is a delight. You know, the kind of book that makes you feel gooey and get that funny feeling in your stomach with innocent love. The story starts with Roxy being jilted just before her wedding is to start by a text message from her fiancé saying that he is in love with her best friend. Her freewheeling Grandma and sister decide they should all go on what would have been her honeymoon. There Roxy meets and is immediately attracted to Kai, who seems to be a jack-of-all-trades at the resort. As the story unfolds and we learn more about Kai, you will fall in love with him also! This is really a sweet, mostly innocent, love story. It is full of interesting characters and the descriptions of Hawaii are luscious. The Grandmother is a hoot and the sister a good side character. It fulfills a common fantasy of throwing away the staid life you are expected to lead for the unsure life you really want. Warning, there is one explicit sex scene at the end. However, by then, you are very ready for it!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review.

[T.L. Zalecki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. I really, really loved this book. I normally don't read romance novels, but the cover/title drew me in. I read the description on Kindle Scout and was hooked by the excerpt. This book had me laughing and crying, and I read it at lightning speed because I simply could not put it down. I saw the whole thing play out on the big screen the whole time I was reading. I loved the Hawaiian setting, and the characters were so real and full of color that I was drawn into their emotions easily. Especially Baggy, the grandmother, who was hilarious. The romance aspect is fun and steamy, although as a disclaimer I will say that Kai is the kind of man who kind of makes all real live men pale in comparison. Super fun read, and perfect to curl up with on a lounge chair by the pool or beach.

[M. R. Pritchard · Rating 5 out of 5]

A bride dumped, a spirited grandmother, and loads of fun in the Hawaiian sun. Who wouldn't want to recover from being jilted at the altar in paradise? After some redirecting by her free-spirited grandmother and sister - who is a bit on the selfish side - Roxie gets a second chance at love. Filled with spunk and sweet romantic scenes, "Getting Lei'd" is a great summer read!

http://secretlifeofatownie.blogspot.c...

[Anthonia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very well written romantic comedy. I enjoyed it very much. Roxie is the main character who is about to get married but her fiance sends her a text telling her the wedding off and he is in love with someone else. Love how she has this kick butt grandmother who will be the one to make her live again even if she has to drag her there. Got to love it. A must read for all those who love

[Lisa Weaver · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun-filled, literary joy ride of a novel! With a gorgeous setting, fabulously engaging characters, and a sparkling storyline heavy on humor, Ann Omasta has penned the perfect read for kicking back with on a summer day...or cozying up with months later. This romantic romp is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and a glow in your heart

[Brandy Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this book from the author for FREE for a honest review.

We all have those family members that go about by the beat of there on drum. A funny, sweet book. A good read, you will enjoy this book.

[April Raimond · Rating 3 out of 5]

When you are left at the alter what is the best thing to do? Go on your honeymoon with your mom and grandma. She met another guy that lived in Hawaii. They went on dates and became close. She left and went home. She went back to Hawaii.

[Nina Derr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a fun beach read! The characters are all relatable and so likable. It was a super quick read and makes me want to go to Hawaii even more than I have before.

[Rayni · Rating 1 out of 5]

When I read books like this I always wonder, "Who would spend time and money publishing this stuff:" How do books like this get published? It truly boggles the mind.

I don't always summarize books in my reviews, but I will for this one--just because. And, yes there is a spoiler--if it is possible to have a spoiler.

Roxie, the lead character, has been jilted on her wedding day--via text from her intended, who has run off to marry Roxie best friend and maid-of-honor. Roxie, her sister, and her really-do-you-expect-anyone-to-believe-this-character grandmother "steal" the almost grooms car and decide to go on the honeymoon the groom had planned.

Up to this point, the writing and story were cringe-worthy, but not so bad that I dismissed the entire book. However, when the group gets to the airport things really start to go downhill. Suffice to say that the grandmother and sister are very lucky! Did I mention that she arrived at the airport ready for her honeymoon trip in her wedding dress. Not kidding here. Just boarded the plane like it was normal.

But, it gets worse because it turns out she does not know the name of the hotel/resort her almost groom booked. Yes, it is true that the author of this mess wants us to believe that there is a woman on planet earth who is planning a "huge" wedding with an obviously wealthy man (he drives a Rolls) and who does not ask where in paradise (Hawaii) they will be staying. Even if her only reason for asking is to know what type of wardrobe--she would ask.

But our very dumb heroine does not. But not to worry, because there is a gentleman (who turns out to be the jilted brides love interest) at the airport holding up a sign for her party. He is, of course, a gorgeous specimen. She is immediately smitten. No joke. Just hours after being jilted.

Now, here is where I began to think I should trash this trash--they ride to the resort and are bowled over by the beauty and by their room! There is no mention of how in the heck they checked into the hotel, how they paid for the room, why they were allowed to check in, etc., etc. It appears that the handsome hunk just drove them immediately to their "room". Yeah. That is when I should have given up. But, alas, I did not. I kept reading.

There was much third-grade writing describing how the grandmother and sister found romantic interests on the first or second day. Really third-grade writing. So bad.

And there was unbelievable interactions with Roxie and Kai (the handsome hunk driver), who also happened to be a bartender and tour guide and many other things at the hotel. It is not a spoiler alert to say that it turns out he owns the hotel because any reader with enough brain cells to read would have guessed this plot "twist" well before the author exposed him in her plodding, third-grade writing style.

There were a few interactions between Roxie and Kai, but only a few, before it became apparent that they were destined to be a couple. Now the real spoiler of the book is that Kai could not consummate their relationship because he had promised his dying mom that he would always respect women and would not engage in sexual relationships until he committed to a woman. (Read: he was a virgin.) Again, not kidding. Truly not kidding.

Of course, they continued to see each other although sex was "off the table." Since the honeymoon was a honeymoon of some limited amount of time (it seems like five days passed in book time), that was all the time Roxie and Kai had to "commit." But time was not important because, although she saw him only a few hours every day, they feel in love. They were committed!

There was other really ridiculous stuff in this book. Really ridiculous. For example, Grandma met and married the man of her dreams--someone as crazy as her. They all used a special ointment or cream that was invented by Kai's grandmother. They went to a food market. They had an excursion on a deserted island. They did other things, all of which would have been interesting--if they were not told by a third-grader.

No brain cells required for this one, so I will not say "save your brain cells" and don't read it. But I will say that, if you are anything like me, reading it will just make you a bit frustrated. You will ask yourself "How did this happen?"

[Marsha Keeper Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at Romance Is Ageless

When was the last time you really laughed uncontrollably while reading a Romance. No, I mean a full belly laugh, snorting and all. Yeah, I couldn’t remember the last time either before I got caught up in Getting Lei’d. (And don’t judge a book by its title… that’s a different lei – the Hawaiian flower kind and a perfect play on words for this story.)

Roxy was all set to walk down the aisle, everyone was in place, nothing more to do but step out that door. Until the man she was to marry sent her a text… one stupid, cowardly text because he couldn’t even show up in person to dump her almost at the altar. Thankfully for Roxy she has a completely free-spirited, irreverent grandmother who takes the situation in hand by puling a Thelma and Louise (without the cliff jumping) – stealing the almost groom’s car, heading for a wild joy ride with the almost bride and her sister. Eventually they end up near the airport and proceed to go on Roxy’s honeymoon themselves – if anyone needs to get away, it’s Roxy. What follows will have you laughing until you cry – and maybe believing in fate’s hand in a life by putting two people in exactly the right place to fall in love.

I had an absolute blast with this one. And I don’t want to go into any more details for that would take away the fun for you. But… if you can laugh as the silly stuff, find humor in the worst situations and can even laugh at yourself, then you’d enjoy Getting Lei’d. The author has stated that any of these stories can be read in no particular order at all, although I’ll probably stick to the order line up – that’s just my style. No matter which of these stories you pick up first, you’ll be reaching for another one pretty fast after The End shows up. Have fun with this one, be irreverent for a little bit and fall in love with some crazy characters, a sexy guy and a woman who needs someone very special in her life. … and if you’d like to imagine Betty White and Sandra Bullock in the lead roles, you’d probably laugh all the harder.

I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.

[JigsawGirl · Rating 2 out of 5]

I both read the ebook and listened to the audiobook. I was kind of disappointed.

When reading the book, it seemed more like someone was reading you a book instead of engaging you in a story. I could see where the story could be really entertaining with the quirky grandmother, but I never felt that connection with the characters.

Roxie was dumped, at the altar, via text, and her best friend FROM GRADE SCHOOL was involved, but by the time she got to Hawaii, it seemed like she had forgotten about it. She saw Kai and was laser focused on him.

For me, it felt like there were a few holes in the story. I'm not 100% sure it would have made a big difference. I don't know if I would have felt that connection, even with additional information.

I'm not sure how I felt about Kai and Roxie. I know Kai was supposed to look like Jason Momoa with a gap in his teeth, but I honestly can't remember what either Roxie or Ruthie was supposed to look like. I got a hint of attraction between Roxie and Kai, and it never seemed to become any more intense. No real chemistry.

Listening to the Audiobook was not much better. I really wanted to like this book. The narration was bland. Once again, I felt like the book was being read to me, almost as if the narrator was reading a newspaper article.

It was a quick, easy read and listen, but it was just ok. I purchased the book and voluntarily listened to and reviewed the audiobook.

[Ohboy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect summer read, transport to Hawaii and fall in love!

Roxy is left humiliated (but curiously not really broken hearted) when her fiancé texts her (while she’s in her dress, at the church), that he’s not coming because he’s now in love with her best friend. Her sister, Ruthie and Grandmother, Baggy decide that the accountant (responsible, reliable, logical) in Roxy needs to be left behind, while they steal the fiancé’s car, drive to Atlanta and fly to Hawaii on her honeymoon with her. The luxury resort boasts so much more than Roxy expects, including her muse Kai,(Roxy is more painter than her occupation of accountant would indicate) who is compared to the HOT Jason Momoa. Roxy spends some time by herself while she paints, and daydreams about the hunky Kai. Kai zeros in on Roxy as soon as she arrives, and his adorableness (is that a word?) makes the reader blush. He’s innocent, kind and direct. She doesn’t stand a chance. Baggy and Ruthie provide endless entertainment - both falling for other men at the resort, and indulging in their whimsical, spontaneous nature - so out of the comfort zone for Roxy, but just what she needs to find out who she really is. Hot scenes include jellyfish (who knew?), Magic Balm and a very happy ending in a sex themed outdoor shower.

[Felecia Rodney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Getting Lei’d by Ana Omasta was such a fun surprise! I had never read her before, but now I need to check out her entire catalog. From the very first chapter, I was fully invested in Roxy’s mess of a love life—being left at the altar via text? Girl, I would've needed more than a Hawaiian vacation after that!

But what made this book so addictive wasn’t just the sunshine and steamy vibes (though Kai absolutely brings both 🔥). It was the chaos—and heart—that came from her trip with her totally self-centered sister and the MVP of the whole book: her wild grandma, Baggy. I genuinely wish I had a Baggy in my life—she's the unfiltered, ride-or-die energy I didn’t know I needed.

Kai was giving hot bartender and secret softie energy. Their banter, slow-burn chemistry, and unexpected connection had me smiling like a fool. I loved how Ana gave Roxy space to heal, let loose, and rediscover herself in the middle of all the madness. This was the kind of rom-com that leaves you laughing, swooning, and maybe even looking up Hawaiian flights. Don’t sleep on this one—especially if you’re in need of a vacation and a fictional bestie like Baggy. 💕

[Joni Saner · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm honestly shocked to see how many people gave this a five star review. I thought it would be a quick, steamy read. One of those where you enjoy it enough, but probably won't go back and reread it. Hardly so. This woman gets dumped at the altar and is basically kidnapped by her grandma, disturbingly referred to as "Baggy", and her selfish sister Ruthie.

I love a good "this would never happen in real life but it makes for a great story" situation, but even this was amazingly farfetched. She doesn't seem to care about her fiance running off with her best friend, and falls for the hot bartender (spoiler, be owns the whole resort and is a virgin because of course he is) while barely having any meaningful interactions with him. Whatever, that's fine I guess.

But THEY NEVER EVEN GET FRISKY UNTIL VERY END OF THE BOOK. They glaze over it, and then BAM the book is over. How are you gonna title a book Getting Lei'd when there's only one marginally interesting sex scene at best??? I mean if the plot isn't good the smut should at least be.

Hard pass on any of the rest of this series.

[Joy Bender · Rating 1 out of 5]

I found this book to be silly! It is written simply with the plot being the main characters getting “lei’d”. Roxy tells the story in first person. She gets left at the altar by a text message from her fiancé. Her grandmother, Baggy (Bad Grandmother), and her sister, Ruthie, accompany her on her “honeymoon “ to Hawaii. As soon as they arrive, they are all on the hunt for men. I found it ridiculous that a girl, just jilted, would be looking for love and find it in less than a week from her last planned nuptial. And she’s not the only one. The stories with Baggy are supposed to be funny, but I found them far-fetched and silly. Ruthie, the sister, is self-absorbed. A true sister would be there for her sister who would be mourning the love lost. At the end, I felt like the author was fantasizing for herself, not realistic! I was not impressed! This isn’t even a good beach read-don’t waste your time with it!

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Roxie gets dumped by text on her wedding day. Her grandmother and sister, in a sense, kidnap her and take her to Hawaii, which is where the honeymoon was supposed to be. Roxie immediately falls for the handsome Ki. As well, Baggie (the grandmother) and Ruth, the sister, also find romance.

Roxie is the sensible one, so she goes home when she is supposed to, only to make a impulsive decision in the hopes of finding true love. 

I can give this a lot of leeway, being that it's a romance set of books, so suspend your disbelief over a) Roxie not mourning or being angry over being jilted, b) her immediately falling in love with a complete stranger, and c) no repercussions over her decisions. It's a nice escape for readers.

[Bette Stanek · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Escape series by Ms Omasta and I read it for an escape. Meh. It didn't pan out as I had hoped. The story is told rather than letting the reader experience it. The characters were static. Of course, the entire story takes place within a week's time so I suppose there isn't time for things like character development or more than telling of a tale. This is definitely not much more than an afternoon read that's got a jilted bride, a crazy grandma, and an impulsive sister all going away on an adventure in Hawaii. There are laugh-out-loud moments and crazy antics to make up for the shortcomings of this book.

[Laurie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Skimmed most of the book. Just not believable. I know it’s fiction but still. Just happened to have an art studio in her luggage. Grandma dropping $100 bills like she brought a suitcase full (but actually grandma and sister had no luggage). She didn’t seemed to need to get over being jilted. Does not really spend much time with male lead. Plus a secondary couple went on a few dates but aren’t together yet she’s pregnant. It sounded like they were just friends-apparently close friends.

Plus the time frame was ridiculous. She’s in Hawaii, than she’s back home, than she’s back in Hawaii and probably in about 10 days time.

Just so much bothered me about this story.