Discovering Love Abroad

By Sophie Grant

Nora leads a quiet life, finding comfort in her daily writing routine and modest one-bedroom apartment. Though her older sister and friends push her to get out more, the introverted writer prefers solitude and the fictional worlds she creates on the page to the uncertainty of adventure.

 

When Nora's sister gifts her a solo trip to Costa Rica for her 30th birthday, she decides to reluctantly step outside her comfort zone. The tour is designed for thrill-seekers, with zip-lining, surfing lessons, and rappelling on the itinerary, much to Nora's chagrin. Attempting to appease her sister, Nora vows to try it all.

 

Enter Brandon, Nora's thrill-seeking backpacker of a tour guide whose magnetic smile and spontaneous spirit push a reluctant Nora to face each adrenaline-filled challenge. While friendly banter gives way to deeper connection and Nora's guardedness begins melting away, a disastrous surfing mishap makes her question if she's cut out for Brandon's daring lifestyle.

 

When the week draws to a close, Nora must decide if the sparks she feels with Brandon are merely a travel fling or the start of a once-in-a-lifetime romance worth the jump into the unknown. In learning to embrace life's surprises abroad, Nora discovers the greatest adventure may be opening her heart to love.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lovestruck Publishing
• Release date: Mar 8, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224842278

Sophie Grant

Sophie Grant is an exciting new voice in contemporary romance. Her debut novel, "Discovering Love Abroad," draws readers in with a relatable heroine and an irresistible meet-cute with a charming backpacker abroad. Though "Discovering Love Abroad" marks Sophie's first published novel, she is no stranger to writing romantic tales that pull at the heartstrings. She has been writing fiction since she was a little girl, filling notebooks with stories about star-crossed love and adventuresome characters finding unexpected partnership. After studying English and Creative Writing at college in her home state of Oregon, Sophie continued penning her passion projects while working office jobs to pay the bills. Still, she nurtured a dream of becoming a full-time author. When she's not working on her next book, you'll find Sophie exploring the Pacific Northwest, learning new cultures through films and food, trying out new hiking trails, and adding stamps to her ever-growing passport. The allure of wanderlust and heartfelt human connection inspire the fictional worlds she builds. Sophie currently resides in Portland with her golden retriever, but she hopes the success of her first published book will enable her to travel more and keep discovering love in new and exciting places around the globe. Wherever Sophie goes next, readers can expect more steamy, will-they-won't-they page-turners with happily-ever-afters to warm the heart.

Book preview

Discovering Love Abroad

A Backpacker's Guide to Romance

Copyright © 2024 by Sophie Grant.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any form whatsoever without written permission except in the case of brief quotations in critical articles or reviews.

First Edition : March 2024

Content

Chapter 1 : The Comfort Zone

Chapter 2 : An Unexpected Gift

Chapter 3 : Arrival in Paradise

Chapter 4 : The Zipline Challenge

Chapter 5 : Surfing Lessons and Wipeouts

Chapter 6 : The Waterfall Hike

Chapter 7 : Rappelling and Revelations

Chapter 8 : Midnight Beach Walks

Chapter 9 : The Village Visit

Chapter 10 : Doubts and Distance

Chapter 11 : The Solo Adventure

Chapter 12 : Rescue and Realizations

Chapter 13 : The Volcano Hike

Chapter 14 : The Last Adventure

Chapter 15 : The Farewell Party

Chapter 16 : The Airport Goodbye

Chapter 17 : Home, but Not Alone

Chapter 18 : A Surprise Visitor

Chapter 19 : The Next Chapter

Chapter 20 : Epilogue - A New Adventure

Chapter 1 : The Comfort Zone

NORA SAT AT HER DESK, fingers poised over the keyboard, as the soft glow of the computer screen illuminated her face. She took a deep breath, closing her eyes for a moment before diving into the fictional world she had meticulously crafted. As she typed, the characters came to life, their dialogues flowing effortlessly from her imagination to the page.

Lost in her writing, Nora barely noticed the hours slipping by until a sharp knock on the door jolted her back to reality. She glanced at the clock, surprised to see that it was already past noon. Saving her work, she stood up and stretched, her joints cracking from the prolonged sitting.

Another knock, more insistent this time. Nora, open up! It's me, Emma!

Nora sighed, recognizing her sister's voice. She walked to the door and opened it, revealing Emma's beaming face. Hey, sis! Happy birthday! Emma exclaimed, engulfing Nora in a tight hug.

Nora returned the hug, a small smile tugging at her lips. Thanks, Emma. I didn't expect you to come by today.

Emma pulled back, her eyebrows raised in disbelief. Are you kidding? It's your 30th birthday! Of course, I had to come and celebrate with you.

Nora stepped aside, allowing Emma to enter the modest one-bedroom apartment. Emma glanced around, taking in the familiar surroundings - the overstuffed bookshelf, the cozy reading nook by the window, and the wall adorned with Nora's framed writing achievements.

I see not much has changed since my last visit, Emma remarked, plopping down on the comfortable couch.

Nora shrugged, joining her sister. You know me. I like my routine. It helps me focus on my writing.

Emma leaned forward, her expression growing serious. Nora, I know your writing means the world to you, but don't you think it's time to step out of your comfort zone? Experience new things, meet new people?

Nora fidgeted with the hem of her shirt, avoiding Emma's gaze. I'm content with my life, Emma. I don't need grand adventures to be happy.

Emma reached out and squeezed Nora's hand. I'm not saying you need grand adventures, but a minor change can do wonders. It might even inspire your writing in ways you never imagined.

Nora remained silent, contemplating her sister's words. Deep down, she knew Emma had a point. Her life had become a comfortable routine, each day blending into the next with minor variation. But the thought of venturing into the unknown terrified her.

Emma sensed Nora's hesitation and changed the subject. Anyway, I didn't just come here to lecture you. I have a surprise for you!

Nora looked up, curiosity piqued. A surprise?

Emma grinned, reaching into her purse and pulling out an envelope. Happy birthday, sis!

Nora took the envelope, her hands trembling slightly as she opened it. Inside was a colorful brochure featuring lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and smiling people engaged in various outdoor activities. Costa Rica? she asked, confusion clear in her voice.

Emma nodded enthusiastically. A solo trip to Costa Rica! I know it's a bit outside your comfort zone, but hear me out. This tour is designed for adventurers, with activities like zip-lining, surfing lessons, and rappelling. I thought it would be the perfect way for you to try something new and exciting.

Nora's eyes widened as she flipped through the brochure, her heart racing at the thought of participating in such daring activities. Emma, I don't know about this. It's not really my thing.

Emma's expression softened. "I know it's scary, but sometimes we experience the greatest personal growth when we push ourselves beyond our limits. Just think about it, okay?

Nora saw the hopeful look in her sister's eyes and felt a pang of guilt. Emma had always been there for her, supporting her through the difficulties of her writing career. The least she could do was consider the gift.

I'll think about it, Nora conceded, managing a small smile.

Emma clapped her hands, her face lighting up. That's all I ask! Now, let's go grab some lunch and celebrate your birthday properly. You can't spend the entire day cooped up in your apartment.

Nora hesitated for a moment, glancing at her computer screen. The characters and their unfinished story beckoned her, but she knew Emma wouldn't take no for an answer. Okay, let me just save my work and grab my coat.

As Nora saved the document and shut down her computer, she couldn't shake the feeling that her life was about to change. She had always found comfort in the predictability of her routine, but maybe Emma was right. Maybe it was time to step outside her comfort zone and embrace the uncertainty of adventure.

She grabbed her coat and followed Emma out the door; the brochure tucked securely in her purse. Little did she know that the glossy pages held the key to a journey that would not only challenge her fears but also open her heart to the possibility of love.

As they walked down the street, Emma looped her arm through Nora's. I'm proud of you, sis. I know considering this trip isn't easy for you, but I have a feeling it's going to be life-changing.

Nora leaned into her sister's embrace, drawing strength from her unwavering support. I hope you're right, Emma. I guess there's only one way to find out.

With a mix of anticipation and trepidation swirling in her heart, Nora allowed herself to imagine the adventures that awaited her in Costa Rica. Maybe, just maybe, this trip would be the push she needed to break free from the confines of her comfort zone and discover a new side of herself.

As they entered their favorite cafe, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the chatter of patrons enveloped them. Nora smiled, realizing that this birthday lunch with Emma was the first step to embracing the unknown. And for once, she was ready to take that leap of faith.

Chapter 2 : An Unexpected Gift

TWO WEEKS HAD PASSED since Emma's surprise visit, and Nora stood in front of her open suitcase, a mix of excitement and nerves churning in her stomach. She had spent the past few days packing and unpacking, questioning her decision to embark on this solo adventure to Costa Rica.

Nora picked up the brochure, her fingers tracing the vibrant images of the rainforest and the smiling faces of the adventurers. She couldn't deny the allure of the lush landscapes and the promise of new experiences, but the fear of the unknown still lingered in the back of her mind.

A knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. Come in! she called out, knowing it could only be one person.

Emma peeked her head in, a wide grin on her face. Hey, sis! Are you ready for your big adventure?

Nora gestured to the open suitcase, a wry smile on her lips. As ready as I'll ever be, I guess.

Emma walked over to the bed and sat down, patting the space beside her. Nora joined her, letting out a sigh. I don't know, Emma. I'm excited, but I'm also terrified. What if I can't keep up with the group? What if I embarrass myself?

Emma wrapped an arm around Nora's shoulders, giving her a reassuring squeeze. Nora, you're stronger than you give yourself credit for. This trip is about challenging yourself and discovering new sides of who you are. And who knows, maybe you'll even meet someone special along the way.

Nora rolled her eyes playfully. I'm going on this trip for personal growth, not to find romance.

Emma laughed, her eyes twinkling with mischief. Hey, you never know! Love has a way of finding us when we least expect it.

Nora