Jill Brashear's Try Easy is a captivating romance novel that transports readers to the sun-drenched beaches of Hawaii, where the allure of the ocean is matched only by the intensity of newfound love. The novel's premise is simple yet compelling: Lou, a woman who seemingly has it all in Seattle, finds her world turned upside down by a chance encounter with Keoni Makai, a renowned surfer with a guarded heart. Brashear's narrative is a testament to the transformative power of love and the difficult choices it often demands.

One of the most striking aspects of Try Easy is its vivid setting. Brashear paints Hawaii not just as a backdrop but as a living, breathing character in its own right. The descriptions of the island's breathtaking landscapes, from its pristine beaches to its lush greenery, are so evocative that readers can almost feel the sand between their toes and hear the rhythmic crash of the waves. This immersive setting serves as the perfect stage for the unfolding romance, enhancing the novel's emotional depth and drawing readers into its world.

At the heart of the story are Lou and Keoni, two characters who are as complex as they are relatable. Lou is portrayed as a woman who is content with her life in Seattle, yet her journey to Hawaii reveals a yearning for something more. Her character arc is one of self-discovery, as she grapples with the tension between her established life and the new possibilities that Keoni represents. Brashear skillfully navigates Lou's internal conflict, making her struggle both believable and poignant.

Keoni, on the other hand, is a character shaped by his past experiences with tourists, which have left him wary and guarded. His initial reluctance to engage with Lou is a reflection of his protective instincts, yet it is precisely this vulnerability that makes his eventual openness to love so compelling. Brashear does an excellent job of peeling back the layers of Keoni's character, revealing a man who is both brave and tender, and whose love for Lou is as deep as the ocean he surfs.

The chemistry between Lou and Keoni is palpable from their first meeting, and Brashear captures the nuances of their relationship with a deft touch. Their interactions are filled with humor, warmth, and a sense of genuine connection that makes their romance feel authentic. The progression of their relationship is paced perfectly, allowing readers to savor each moment of their growing intimacy while also building anticipation for the choices that lie ahead.

One of the novel's central themes is the idea of choice and the impact it has on our lives. Lou's dilemma between her life in Seattle and the new possibilities in Hawaii is a universal one, reflecting the difficult decisions we all face when confronted with change. Brashear explores this theme with sensitivity, acknowledging the pain of leaving behind the familiar while also celebrating the courage it takes to embrace the unknown. The novel's title, Try Easy, is a nod to the Hawaiian philosophy of taking life as it comes, a lesson that Lou must learn as she navigates her own path.

In comparison to other romance novels, Try Easy stands out for its rich character development and its ability to balance lighthearted moments with deeper emotional truths. Fans of authors like Nicholas Sparks or Jojo Moyes will find much to appreciate in Brashear's storytelling, which combines the escapism of a vacation romance with the emotional resonance of a more grounded love story.

Overall, Try Easy is a beautifully written novel that captures the essence of love in all its complexity. Brashear's ability to create a vivid sense of place, coupled with her nuanced portrayal of her characters, makes this a standout read for anyone who has ever been torn between the life they know and the life they dream of. It's a story that will resonate with readers long after the final page is turned, reminding us that when it comes to matters of the heart, there are no easy answers, only the courage to follow where love leads.

In conclusion, Jill Brashear's Try Easy is a must-read for romance enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story about love, choice, and the beauty of embracing life's uncertainties. Whether you're lounging on a beach or curled up at home, this novel offers a perfect escape into a world where the sun is always shining, and love is always worth the risk.