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Unusualities #1
What's Luck Got to Do With It
Caiomhe Ryan is the luckiest girl in Boston—she has a great job, a cute apartment, and a ride-or-die best friend. All her ancestral luck as a leprechaun doesn’t hurt either. When she takes a chance on an urgent client, the mysterious man at the heart of a scandal has her wondering how much longer she can keep herself a secret.
Leith Riordan just wants to drive boats by day and turn back into a merman at night—as simple as that. All his plans are destroyed, however, when a single lost temper lands him in a viral social media storm—and on Caiomhe Ryan’s client roster. He knows his life can’t go back to being simple. After all, it’s not easy to tell a beautiful woman you’re actually a merman.
Sparks fly and porridge burns when these two magical beings in the heart of Boston must decide if they can hide themselves from the public while still being true to one another—and themselves.
Leith Riordan just wants to drive boats by day and turn back into a merman at night—as simple as that. All his plans are destroyed, however, when a single lost temper lands him in a viral social media storm—and on Caiomhe Ryan’s client roster. He knows his life can’t go back to being simple. After all, it’s not easy to tell a beautiful woman you’re actually a merman.
Sparks fly and porridge burns when these two magical beings in the heart of Boston must decide if they can hide themselves from the public while still being true to one another—and themselves.
211 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 7, 2023
28 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
Kel Bruem
14 books15 followersKel Bruem is a Bay Area-based indie monster romance author. Her Unusualities series include WHAT'S LUCK GOT TO DO WITH IT, EVERY BITE YOU TAKE, and the forthcoming NEVER GONNA DIG YOU UP in Fall 2024. She is also an editor for the annual monster romance anthology for debut writers TAILS, TRYSTS, and TENTACLES. When she's not writing, Kel trains her pit bull to be less stupid, explores new restaurants with her husband, and catches flights to her Sagittarian heart's content. You can find her online everywhere @kelbruem.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
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May 8, 2023It’s the first paranormal romance in which I meet a leprechaun. I didn’t know what to expect, but man, was it worth it!
From the first pages, I was caught up in the plot and it kept me on the edge of my seat until the end. The plot was well-written and catchy, and the characters complex and awesomely constructed. My heart went out to Caiomhe and Leigh both and I felt like I was right there with them through it all. This story touches in a very realistic way the dangers of being a paranormal creature in the modern world and what can happen if the humans find out…
This novel has everything you could want, a heart-melting romance, a quirky best friend (with her own romance!!!), fairies, sirens and mermen, humor and heart-ache. I recommend this to everyone looking for an adorable and sexy paranormal romance that will suck you in and make you wish you were living right there among the characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
From the first pages, I was caught up in the plot and it kept me on the edge of my seat until the end. The plot was well-written and catchy, and the characters complex and awesomely constructed. My heart went out to Caiomhe and Leigh both and I felt like I was right there with them through it all. This story touches in a very realistic way the dangers of being a paranormal creature in the modern world and what can happen if the humans find out…
This novel has everything you could want, a heart-melting romance, a quirky best friend (with her own romance!!!), fairies, sirens and mermen, humor and heart-ache. I recommend this to everyone looking for an adorable and sexy paranormal romance that will suck you in and make you wish you were living right there among the characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 19, 2023
Leprechaun meets Mershark in this sassy take of mythical creatures you know and you are definitely going to fall in love with it by the end of the book! I love the characters! Caiomhe is sassy, outgoing and I love how she uses her powers to help others as a publicist! Leith is a bit broody and surprisingly bold, but the chemistry between him and Caiomhe is lovely. The friendship between Caiomhe and Evelyn is really well written and I'm all for it! They're supportive of each other. The book is a really unique take on leprechauns and other folk and it breaks stereotypes around how we view them! It's completely immersive and I managed to read it one sitting! That's how much of a page turner it is! It's not your typical read, it's so much better because you honestly feel you can relate to their lives despite them being magical creatures. Makes you wonder if the author created the story or took inspiration from real life...hm...discretion is advised for the smut though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2025
A cute but spicy paranormal romance.
January 7, 2025
Rating: 🌕🌕🌕
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
Short review: Paranormal romance (mershark/leprechaun), hidden identities, forbidden love, rom-com. I loved Will.
Long review:
This was... and interesting reading. This is my first book featuring other paranormal creatures different than vampires and werewolves and I'm honestly not disappointed, just intrigued. The book was short and fun to read, so if you're looking for a quick, fun reading, this is for you.
The blurb said it was grumpy/sunshine but to me it was more awkward/reserved guy x insecure/oblivious girl. The insecure part doesn't have to do at all with confidence but you'll have to read the book to know what I'm talking about. 😉
They're relationship is fast paced but I didn't mind it since it seems to have a mate situation involved and it didn't feel forced. I just loved, loved, loved the second pairing (or meddling best friends), specially Will's humour.
I have to warn you on the spicy department tho:
If you're into paranormal romances that involve shifting to mystical forms, I hope you like it!
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
Short review: Paranormal romance (mershark/leprechaun), hidden identities, forbidden love, rom-com. I loved Will.
Long review:
This was... and interesting reading. This is my first book featuring other paranormal creatures different than vampires and werewolves and I'm honestly not disappointed, just intrigued. The book was short and fun to read, so if you're looking for a quick, fun reading, this is for you.
The blurb said it was grumpy/sunshine but to me it was more awkward/reserved guy x insecure/oblivious girl. The insecure part doesn't have to do at all with confidence but you'll have to read the book to know what I'm talking about. 😉
They're relationship is fast paced but I didn't mind it since it seems to have a mate situation involved and it didn't feel forced. I just loved, loved, loved the second pairing (or meddling best friends), specially Will's humour.
I have to warn you on the spicy department tho:
If you're into paranormal romances that involve shifting to mystical forms, I hope you like it!
March 20, 2023
"When you’re presented with a masterpiece, you don’t spend five minutes and move on. You take your time. You give attention to every detail. You savor every second.”
Caiomhe is a publicist living in Boston. She's pretty lucky, which may have something to do with her ancestral lineage as a leprechaun. Against her better judgement, she takes on a new client. Leith just wants to drive his boat and survive in the human world as a merman in disguise. It was going okay until his temper gets the best of him and he's forced to take Caiomhe's advice to avoid a media storm. Will the two be able to share their secrets or will their responsibilities get the best of them?
Let me tell you, this was a wild wild ride. Like the Racers at Kings Island where you think you know what's going to happen than out of nowhere you're being thrown around and you're holding on to dear life. This book is not going to be for everyone. This book is for my peeps who like a little extra spice and fun with their romance. This is my warning.
Caiomhe is a publicist living in Boston. She's pretty lucky, which may have something to do with her ancestral lineage as a leprechaun. Against her better judgement, she takes on a new client. Leith just wants to drive his boat and survive in the human world as a merman in disguise. It was going okay until his temper gets the best of him and he's forced to take Caiomhe's advice to avoid a media storm. Will the two be able to share their secrets or will their responsibilities get the best of them?
Let me tell you, this was a wild wild ride. Like the Racers at Kings Island where you think you know what's going to happen than out of nowhere you're being thrown around and you're holding on to dear life. This book is not going to be for everyone. This book is for my peeps who like a little extra spice and fun with their romance. This is my warning.
April 17, 2023
Overall, I thought this was a very sweet and fun story with great characters. The little details like the fairies messing around with Caoimhe, were funny. One thing that was frustrating from the start, however, was not being given a phonetic spelling of Caoimhe's name, so that I could pronounce it properly. Especially as it was a point made early on in the book that she often had to put up with people not being able to pronounce it.
That aside, I did really enjoy Caoimhe's confidence in herself, especially in her work. Sure, being a leprechaun helped, but a female character who knows her value is refreshing.
The chemistry between Caoimhe and Leith is explosive. The secondary characters and supportive "locals" were great. I would love to see another story in this world.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
That aside, I did really enjoy Caoimhe's confidence in herself, especially in her work. Sure, being a leprechaun helped, but a female character who knows her value is refreshing.
The chemistry between Caoimhe and Leith is explosive. The secondary characters and supportive "locals" were great. I would love to see another story in this world.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 23, 2023
A truly delightful rom-com! This book gives you the warm fuzzies without stupid decisions or unrealistic reactions. Characters, while magical in origin, have grounded rules and ultimately are trying to live without revealing themselves to humans.
I initially felt Caiomhe was a bit superficial, but as the story progresses her inner personality shines through. Leith is by far the more compelling character and his brooding angst is fairly understandable without bogging down the tale. Both characters have believable relationships with other three-dementional characters who have more to do than just promote the protagonists' relationship.
An overall comfortable, fun read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I initially felt Caiomhe was a bit superficial, but as the story progresses her inner personality shines through. Leith is by far the more compelling character and his brooding angst is fairly understandable without bogging down the tale. Both characters have believable relationships with other three-dementional characters who have more to do than just promote the protagonists' relationship.
An overall comfortable, fun read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 7, 2024
*spoiler free* I loved this leprechaun/mershark romance set in Boston. I was at first worried that part of the drama would be the FMC's rejection of a sensitive spot for the MC but that never happened. Instead, this romance unfolded like a beautiful love letter to the city, to the supernatural, and to having a bestie who gets you (and also gets some herself!) It's sweet and spicy. You can feel the angst of the two love interests when it comes to their separate lives, and how their attraction is a pleasant but puzzling distraction. These are well-written characters I could bump into on the streets by the harbor. Can't wait to read the next in the series!
March 17, 2023
A fun and delightful quick read about a magical creature romance (and my first read of this romance genre). The friendship between the protagonist and her best friend is sassy, but warm (and I need to find life changing fries). The lore behind the creatures is intriguing and leaves me pondering additional possibilities this world could have .
As other reviews discussed there is a lot of *spice* in this one, so be warned!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC.
As other reviews discussed there is a lot of *spice* in this one, so be warned!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC.
April 9, 2023
Caiomhe and Leith are just amazing. They are each trying to find their own spot in a world that really has no space for them. Caiomhe is an independent, strong, kindhearted woman who really wants to make things work in her world and Leith wants to be at peace - in his job and in the niche he carved out in his world. When these two collide, it is spicy and just outright great! The story is just hilarious. I laughed so loudly, I woke up my dog… Just such a great book 😁
If you like fantasy and fun romance, I think this might be a good fit for you ♥️
If you like fantasy and fun romance, I think this might be a good fit for you ♥️
March 15, 2024
"What's Luck Got to Do With It" is the perfect read, whether you're getting festive for St. Patrick's Day or any time of the year.
On the surface, it's a cozy monster romance between a leprechaun and a merman, but it’s also an adorable, hilarious story about belonging and living as your authentic self. It’s witty and sharp, and there were lines in this book that I’m jealous I didn’t write myself.
If you love found families, fairy magic, and extra special 🍆🍆 then Kel Bruem has you covered!
On the surface, it's a cozy monster romance between a leprechaun and a merman, but it’s also an adorable, hilarious story about belonging and living as your authentic self. It’s witty and sharp, and there were lines in this book that I’m jealous I didn’t write myself.
If you love found families, fairy magic, and extra special 🍆🍆 then Kel Bruem has you covered!
February 28, 2023
The relationship between Caoimhe and Leith don't start off on the right foot, but they both internally express their feelings towards each other when the chapters switch between their perspectives. This is a mature romance and fantasy story that explores characters' true selves and whether they are comfortable to reveal to each other - and to themselves - who they really are.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 10, 2023
A little biased, but DELICIOUSLY WICKED
I might be biased, but my bestie possibly wrote the cutest and sexiest urban fantasy romance. Not only did it pull at my cold dead heartstrings with tender moments and raw emotions, but it made me holl with laughter at the witty banter and goofy friendships. And the SPICE! If you're not ready to feel the heat, too bad. The spice is thick with it and I honestly wanted more. I cannot wait for book #2!
I might be biased, but my bestie possibly wrote the cutest and sexiest urban fantasy romance. Not only did it pull at my cold dead heartstrings with tender moments and raw emotions, but it made me holl with laughter at the witty banter and goofy friendships. And the SPICE! If you're not ready to feel the heat, too bad. The spice is thick with it and I honestly wanted more. I cannot wait for book #2!
May 8, 2023
This book was a lighthearted joy to read. It’s witty and sweet, with great chemistry between the two lead characters. The author has set up her world with a great found family. The supporting characters are funny and endearing and the connections feel natural and real.
There is definitely monster spice, but it’s a great gateway to monster spice.
It’s a quick read and fits well in the romcom summer beach read genres. I look forward to more books in the series!
There is definitely monster spice, but it’s a great gateway to monster spice.
It’s a quick read and fits well in the romcom summer beach read genres. I look forward to more books in the series!
July 8, 2024
loved it !! love this series !! love Leith and Caoimhe... this is their story... a mershark and a royal leprechaun... a fast paced laugh out loud tom/com drama... so good !! so funny !! it all started with it going viral.. Leith is having a moment and it's not a good moment.. he needs help now .. and that's Caoimhe... secrets and more... so good !!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2025
REVIEW: The story was pretty cute and simple. I did enjoy the wide variety supernatural/shifter characters there was in this story and the spicy scenes were short but did include unique anatomy. There wasn’t much character development, nor was I particularly attached to any of them by the end but their banter was enjoyable.
RATING: 3.5/5
SPICINESS: 3.5/5
RATING: 3.5/5
SPICINESS: 3.5/5
April 14, 2023
The book was written well, it was very spicy. The characters were just a tad underwhelming, but with a little character development, they would have been outstanding. I did enjoy the twists and turns of the story, though.
March 19, 2023
This book was such a fun read! With plenty of steamy twists and turns, refreshingly real (despite their fantastic nature) characters, and witty charm, this book won’t let you put it down.
March 29, 2023
I liked this book but I didn't love it. It felt a bit rushed for my taste but all in all a nice read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 19, 2023
A fun, fantasy romance. Quick read and escapism at its best. Loved it!
January 13, 2024
Funny, sexy, cute, and creative.
June 13, 2024
I'm still blushing...
February 5, 2025
Short, cute, great characters
dnf
May 20, 2025Just got some serious fatphobia vibes. “Gotta stay slim”
November 2, 2025
I wanted more paranormal moments. They were both passing as human. Fairies follow her around and she has issues with her grandmother.
I read over 100 pages and it didn't grab me.
I read over 100 pages and it didn't grab me.
March 24, 2023
This is a quick read, full of quirky and sassy characters. I really enjoyed this book! And the side character Evelyn? So much fun!
Caoimhe is a leprechaun that wants to live life on her own terms, not those of her family. She just wants to find a love that truly satisfies her.
Leith is a shark who is trying to resist the call of the ocean. He enjoys human arts too much to leave. After his temper causes a publicity problem, Leith's friend Will employs publicist Caoimhe to clean up their company's image.
Leith knows he needs to stay away from Caoimhe, but he is drawn to her.
Caoimhe does not get involved with clients, but she may be tempted to with Leith...
This book is so original and I loved reading it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Caoimhe is a leprechaun that wants to live life on her own terms, not those of her family. She just wants to find a love that truly satisfies her.
Leith is a shark who is trying to resist the call of the ocean. He enjoys human arts too much to leave. After his temper causes a publicity problem, Leith's friend Will employs publicist Caoimhe to clean up their company's image.
Leith knows he needs to stay away from Caoimhe, but he is drawn to her.
Caoimhe does not get involved with clients, but she may be tempted to with Leith...
This book is so original and I loved reading it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 4, 2025
This was a cute story. Highly recommend.
April 21, 2023
This was a fun romcom! I’m not always a big fantasy reader, but I do love a good romance and enjoyed how the fantasy elements brought a little extra to the story. I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next in the series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews