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Brighton Academy #2
Unpredictable
Since the moment that was crossed, I knew things had changed forever. I was no longer just one of the guys. I was now something to be desired. Wanted. Too bad he never promised me forever. Now with my future bleak and my life uncertain, can I pick up the shattered pieces of my life and make it good again? Or am I destined to chase after the ghost of my past forever?
152 pages, Paperback
Published August 7, 2023
101 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
Cala Riley
56 books728 followersCala Riley, better known as Cala and Riley, are a pair of friends with a deep seated love of books and writing. Both Cala and Riley are happily married and each have children, Cala with the four-legged kind while Riley has a mixture of both two-legged and four. While they live apart, that does not affect their connection. They are the true definition of family. What started as an idea that quickly turned into a full-length book and a bond that will never end.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 15, 2020
Unpredictable is the second book in the Brighton Academy series and I couldn’t wait to dive in and see what Cala Riley had in store for me.
Sterling and Victoria’s story caught me off guard with how emotional it was. Their friendship was being tested to the max and I couldn’t wait to see how it ended. The fight they had with themselves broke my heart because I just wanted them both to be happy.
I will say though that there were several times I wanted to throat punch Sterling. That guy made me so mad, I had to take a breather a few times just so I didn’t break my kindle!
Sterling and Victoria’s story caught me off guard with how emotional it was. Their friendship was being tested to the max and I couldn’t wait to see how it ended. The fight they had with themselves broke my heart because I just wanted them both to be happy.
I will say though that there were several times I wanted to throat punch Sterling. That guy made me so mad, I had to take a breather a few times just so I didn’t break my kindle!
May 21, 2020
As i said in my review for unbidden, Cala Riley is a seriously underrated author. Her work seems fabulous to me. Both sterling and victoria took me on a ride that was very enjoyable for me. I was interested in sterling from the moment i met him the first book of Brighton academy series. His ruthless exterior had me falling in love with him in just a few chapters. I honestly could not give this book anything less that 4 stars because it deserves all the damn stars . Even though sterling was an asshole of major proportions, I still liked him a lot.
My first opinion about Victoria was that she needed to grow a pair of balls , but a part of me also understood from where she was coming from!!
Sterling just kept on hurting her so stupidly. I just wanted her to give him a huge smack!
At last all i would like to say is that , i enjoyed the way the characters of this book overcame their issues and the ending was good for me. I just can't wait for tinsley's book!!!!!!!!!
This book is recommended to all the romance category lovers, who want their hero to be a major asshole with issues , with a bit of a bullying and their heroine to be this spitfire , who makes the hero work for it!
May 2, 2020
This story is good. I liked it. It's nothing wrong with the story I mean it gets you to hell and heaven. Smile, scream and cry.
Overall is a good friends to lovers. What I would liked different. Some connections inside the story. Because the piece that sometimes link the main moments of the story is missing. Without spoil but I hope you'll get it, you get from white to black without any grey shade. I can get that maybe it was a choice conditioned by the plot, dynamic and all you want, but that element that lead to another significant part of the story as tiny it could seen it's fundamental and it can get you a little confused.like "what did I miss?"
Back to the story. Yes it has a lot of tear-jerker scenes, an jerk as hero, and a nice and loyal heroine.
Their story is alternate hot episodes, like really hot with the opposite ones when you'll like to punch that guy for real.
If you have read the first book of the series, you'll be pleasurable surprise to meet the main characters of it in this one too. And some new entries too.
So, give it a try, you'll instantly be #teamVictoria!
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review*
Overall is a good friends to lovers. What I would liked different. Some connections inside the story. Because the piece that sometimes link the main moments of the story is missing. Without spoil but I hope you'll get it, you get from white to black without any grey shade. I can get that maybe it was a choice conditioned by the plot, dynamic and all you want, but that element that lead to another significant part of the story as tiny it could seen it's fundamental and it can get you a little confused.like "what did I miss?"
Back to the story. Yes it has a lot of tear-jerker scenes, an jerk as hero, and a nice and loyal heroine.
Their story is alternate hot episodes, like really hot with the opposite ones when you'll like to punch that guy for real.
If you have read the first book of the series, you'll be pleasurable surprise to meet the main characters of it in this one too. And some new entries too.
So, give it a try, you'll instantly be #teamVictoria!
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review*
May 11, 2020
Gah! This writing duo, Cala Riley just kills me! I need more, more of their words! I Love the Brighton Academy Series so Hard! I highly recommend you read book one first, these characters are the best group of friends. I've loved Victoria since book 1, and I'm so happy this was her book! Victoria and Sterling are Everything! They will give you all the feels and make you want to pull out all your hair! I devoured this book in one sitting in just two hours! AHHH! It was short but it couldn't have been any more perfect. Full of sexiness and moments that will have you alternating between screaming and sighing at your kindle. We get the gang and bits of their crazy, I really freaking love Sage, she is the ultimate Cousin/Sister! Unpredictable, had a wonderfully predictable surprise that you weren't expecting until you were right on top of it! It went down so completely different than you would think. I'm very happy with that ending and little Tins is going wreak havoc, I just know it! I can't wait! My heart is full and I'm very excited for the next book in this series! I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
May 13, 2020
GAHHH...Cala Riley what are you doing to me!? This book put me through so many emotions, I couldn't put it down. A heart-gripping friends to lovers story.
Victoria and Sterling have been friends forever. They know each other very well, and somewhere along the line, their friendship turns into something more. There's always been chemistry between them, so they decide to enter into a no strings attached relationship. Together they are electric, but Sterling prefers to keep things casual because he's not looking to ever settle down. Their relationship has an expiring date and Victoria might be on board with this agreement but her feelings for her best friend go much deeper than she lets on, and she's only setting herself up for heartbreak.
This story tugged at my heartstrings, as I could deeply relate to Victoria. I loved her character so much. She's an amazing girl, hardworking, intelligent, kind and always there to help a friend in need. She opens her heart to Sterling time after time, and always manages to pick up the broken pieces and push on. I admired her determination. As for Sterling, I wanted to slap him silly throughout the whole book, I just couldn't get behind his reasons for being hot and cold with Victoria. He redeemed himself in the end, but I would have liked to see him grovel a bit more.
Overall I enjoyed this story very much. It was fast-paced, full of angst and drama, but also sweet moments that made me swoon. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Victoria and Sterling have been friends forever. They know each other very well, and somewhere along the line, their friendship turns into something more. There's always been chemistry between them, so they decide to enter into a no strings attached relationship. Together they are electric, but Sterling prefers to keep things casual because he's not looking to ever settle down. Their relationship has an expiring date and Victoria might be on board with this agreement but her feelings for her best friend go much deeper than she lets on, and she's only setting herself up for heartbreak.
This story tugged at my heartstrings, as I could deeply relate to Victoria. I loved her character so much. She's an amazing girl, hardworking, intelligent, kind and always there to help a friend in need. She opens her heart to Sterling time after time, and always manages to pick up the broken pieces and push on. I admired her determination. As for Sterling, I wanted to slap him silly throughout the whole book, I just couldn't get behind his reasons for being hot and cold with Victoria. He redeemed himself in the end, but I would have liked to see him grovel a bit more.
Overall I enjoyed this story very much. It was fast-paced, full of angst and drama, but also sweet moments that made me swoon. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 13, 2020
“Unpredictable” is the second book in the “Brighton Academy” series. We met Victoria and Sterling in book 1. I was curious about their story, since there was apparently something going on between them.
Victoria and Sterling have been friends since elementary school. Somewhere along the way, sparks started flowing between them and they made a deal. Since neither of them wanted a relationship, they decided on an exclusive friends with benefits arrangement. However, Sterling might not want a relationship, but Victoria definitely wants more.
Sterling is a really troubled character. He has issues, mostly because of his father’s relationships. Growing up, he saw women associating with his father only to gain money. That fact is why he doesn’t want to get involved with anyone. Victoria had feelings for him for quite a while. Even though it hurts, she agrees with the arrangement so she can be with him. There’s more to the story than their relationship. I must admit that Sterling is not a character I can love. He’s toxic for Victoria and until he works out his issues, he will only hurt her. Victoria’s character was my favorite. We got to know her more than the bubbly happy cousin we met in book 1 and I liked that!
I liked book 2 more than the first. Victoria’s story is my favorite so far! I’m curious about the rest of the characters’ stories. I’ll be in the lookout for them!!
Victoria and Sterling have been friends since elementary school. Somewhere along the way, sparks started flowing between them and they made a deal. Since neither of them wanted a relationship, they decided on an exclusive friends with benefits arrangement. However, Sterling might not want a relationship, but Victoria definitely wants more.
Sterling is a really troubled character. He has issues, mostly because of his father’s relationships. Growing up, he saw women associating with his father only to gain money. That fact is why he doesn’t want to get involved with anyone. Victoria had feelings for him for quite a while. Even though it hurts, she agrees with the arrangement so she can be with him. There’s more to the story than their relationship. I must admit that Sterling is not a character I can love. He’s toxic for Victoria and until he works out his issues, he will only hurt her. Victoria’s character was my favorite. We got to know her more than the bubbly happy cousin we met in book 1 and I liked that!
I liked book 2 more than the first. Victoria’s story is my favorite so far! I’m curious about the rest of the characters’ stories. I’ll be in the lookout for them!!
May 24, 2020
2.5 stars, i was kind of looking forward to this one since the later books in hs na series are usually much better but this was WAY too short. it was literally novella length around 130 pages meaning everything felt super rushed and just meh.
May 10, 2020
"Stop it, V. Stop him right now. Don't let him do this to you again. My mind is begging me to see reason. Oh, but that traitorous heart is yelling over her."
4 Unpredictable Stars! What a bumpy, sexy ride this book was!!
Victoria and Sterling have been friends forever, and now that they are older, they've moved their relationship to "friends with benefits." But these two can't seem to come together as an actual couple because while Victoria comes from a loving family. Sterling's dad is constantly marrying gold diggers, so he doesn't want to settle down. And because of this he won't commit to Victoria, and well, she's done.
This book definitely hits you in the feels, but there is points where you'll want to punch Sterling straight in the face! The back and forth between these two is very dramatic but so worth the read!
May 6, 2020
I waited in anticipation for the 2nd book in the 'Brighton Academy' series after falling in love with Sage and Reed in 'Unbidden'. Well I wasn't disappointed - Sterling and Victoria blew me away! Once I started reading I didn't stop until the last page was turned!
Victoria and Sterling have know each other since childhood and for the last 6 months have been 'friends with benefits'. But Victoria has always loved Sterling but they have been raised into different environments - Victorias family full of love Sterlings dad continuing in a circle of marrying gold diggers! Deep routed in Sterling is the mind set that he will never settle down! He is happy with his arrangement with Victoria unit it all goes wrong.
At some point enough is enough for Victoria her heart can't keep getting broken by Sterling. To keep her sanity there is only one option left!
Cala and Riley write from the heart - this is a YA romance so these youngest are just beginning to grow in their own skins, just becoming their own people and realising that although you are rich; although you may attend an elite school have cooks butlers nice cars, clothes at the end of the day you experience hurt and pain like everyone else especially when the people you love are the ones that betrayal you!
Victoria and Sterling have know each other since childhood and for the last 6 months have been 'friends with benefits'. But Victoria has always loved Sterling but they have been raised into different environments - Victorias family full of love Sterlings dad continuing in a circle of marrying gold diggers! Deep routed in Sterling is the mind set that he will never settle down! He is happy with his arrangement with Victoria unit it all goes wrong.
At some point enough is enough for Victoria her heart can't keep getting broken by Sterling. To keep her sanity there is only one option left!
Cala and Riley write from the heart - this is a YA romance so these youngest are just beginning to grow in their own skins, just becoming their own people and realising that although you are rich; although you may attend an elite school have cooks butlers nice cars, clothes at the end of the day you experience hurt and pain like everyone else especially when the people you love are the ones that betrayal you!
May 11, 2020
They aren't dating, just sleeping together. She wants more, but he's unable to give it.
Can his promises, and her dreams ever be one and the same?
Awww what a fantastic little read! I could of read so much more about these two.
We are back at Brighton Academy with the gang, but this time the focus is on Victoria and Sterling.
The first book in this series "Unbidden" belonged to Sage and Reed, and was equally amazing!
Victoria is the girl who's willing to settle but wants so much more. Sterling is the guy who is afraid to open his heart.
He's quite cold and clinical but that just made me want to know more and see more.
She's desperately trying to hide the light he creates in her and I felt so melancholy watching it dim bit by bit.
This book is quite thought provoking and I found myself wandering down the "What if" path several times. Maybe I'm a closet optimist.
Cala and Riley make for an amazing writing duo. The world they create, and the characters they bring forth are secondary to none.
I love how real the relationships feel, and the group dynamics between them all.
I only hope each couple gets a book!
Can his promises, and her dreams ever be one and the same?
Awww what a fantastic little read! I could of read so much more about these two.
We are back at Brighton Academy with the gang, but this time the focus is on Victoria and Sterling.
The first book in this series "Unbidden" belonged to Sage and Reed, and was equally amazing!
Victoria is the girl who's willing to settle but wants so much more. Sterling is the guy who is afraid to open his heart.
He's quite cold and clinical but that just made me want to know more and see more.
She's desperately trying to hide the light he creates in her and I felt so melancholy watching it dim bit by bit.
This book is quite thought provoking and I found myself wandering down the "What if" path several times. Maybe I'm a closet optimist.
Cala and Riley make for an amazing writing duo. The world they create, and the characters they bring forth are secondary to none.
I love how real the relationships feel, and the group dynamics between them all.
I only hope each couple gets a book!
May 3, 2020
Unpredictable is the 2nd instalment in the Brighten Academy Series, after reading Unbidden I was hooked.
Sterling and Victoria have been friends since they were kids, growing up they leaned on each other and then they took their friendship further, they knew the rules this was exclusively casual what can go wrong?
Sterling is closed off he guards his heart more than he knows, when 1 decision has a flow on effect that impacts not only them but their entire friendship group Sterling is forced to look in the mirror before he loses everything, including his self.
I personally loved this story; it ticked every box for me. Cala & Riley write like 1 and they continue to bring their best with every book. If I could give this book more than 5 stars I would; waiting not so patiently for Undeniably & Unapologetically. If you have not started this series I suggest you do that right now!!
Star Ratings; Plot: 5/5 Characters: 5/5 Heat: 5/5 Writing Style: 5/5 Overall: 5/5
Sterling and Victoria have been friends since they were kids, growing up they leaned on each other and then they took their friendship further, they knew the rules this was exclusively casual what can go wrong?
Sterling is closed off he guards his heart more than he knows, when 1 decision has a flow on effect that impacts not only them but their entire friendship group Sterling is forced to look in the mirror before he loses everything, including his self.
I personally loved this story; it ticked every box for me. Cala & Riley write like 1 and they continue to bring their best with every book. If I could give this book more than 5 stars I would; waiting not so patiently for Undeniably & Unapologetically. If you have not started this series I suggest you do that right now!!
Star Ratings; Plot: 5/5 Characters: 5/5 Heat: 5/5 Writing Style: 5/5 Overall: 5/5
May 14, 2020
Unpredictable was such a great story by this dynamic duo which makes up Cala Riley. Sterling & Victoria have been friends since they were kids, but things took a turn when they took it a bit further, and not in a relationship way, but more of a casual way. Man, Sterling really had my rage at high levels with his actions much of this story, and frankly, I'm still not sure if I forgive him or not since he spent so much time stomping on Victoria's heart on purpose. Victoria was a genuinely kind soul, who gave her heart to a cowardly jerk, and he put her through it for real. I found myself screaming at my kindle more than once, find someone else already, but she wasn't listening to me unfortunately. There is so much to this story that I'm not describing, so you'll have to hit those one click buttons to experience all the emotions for yourselves. HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
May 4, 2020
4-1/2 stars!!!
First off I hated Sterling so so so much throughout the entire first half of this book. But he won me over & I thought that would be hard to do. These two almost beat out Reed & Sage for first place but Sage kept their ranking after all her moments in this book.
Victoria’s book was everything I had hoped it would be & more. To love a boy you’d been best friends with since childhood isn’t easy especially when that boys Sterling.
I loved the twist in this book, & at first I wanted to climb through the book and nut punch Sterling but he turned it around. He made up for it & their story was perfect.
I can’t wait to read Tinsley’s story. I’m hoping it’s next. I received an arc of this book in return for an honest review.
First off I hated Sterling so so so much throughout the entire first half of this book. But he won me over & I thought that would be hard to do. These two almost beat out Reed & Sage for first place but Sage kept their ranking after all her moments in this book.
Victoria’s book was everything I had hoped it would be & more. To love a boy you’d been best friends with since childhood isn’t easy especially when that boys Sterling.
I loved the twist in this book, & at first I wanted to climb through the book and nut punch Sterling but he turned it around. He made up for it & their story was perfect.
I can’t wait to read Tinsley’s story. I’m hoping it’s next. I received an arc of this book in return for an honest review.
May 11, 2020
Book 2 of the Brighton Academy we are now faced with Victoria & Sterling trying to figure out their no-relationship. A friends to lovers romance this book hit all the buttons. We have love, anger, tears and friends coming together to battle the ugly together leading to and HEA that will fill your soul.
I love how the author gave us the whole gang from book one rallying for the their friends to get their acts together making this a heart felt book 2. The Brighton Academy group are a tight group of friends that will stick together through thick and thin.
Another hit for Cala Riley, and the books leaves you with a taste for the next book of the series.
I love how the author gave us the whole gang from book one rallying for the their friends to get their acts together making this a heart felt book 2. The Brighton Academy group are a tight group of friends that will stick together through thick and thin.
Another hit for Cala Riley, and the books leaves you with a taste for the next book of the series.
May 12, 2020
Otay y'all I was super excited for Sterling and Victoria's story.... I wasn't sure how I was gonna feel about Sterling and it was mixed feelings through most of the book. I was really shocked by how strong Victoria's emotions were but that she never really stuck to how she felt. She kept letting him talk her into it over and over but when you love the guy how much do you put up with. Sterling really stepped up toward the end and he made great effort to prove himself and change his ways. I really enjoyed the ending. Can't wait for the next book.
May 7, 2020
Unpredictable was definitely that! I don't think I've ever been more grateful for emotional whiplash in my life, ugly cry and all! Victoria and Sterling's story is messy and all the more beautiful for it. I just can't get enough of this series! Totally ready for Book 3!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2020
Contemporary Romance, Young Adult/New Adult, Friends-to-Lovers
First Person, Dual-POV (mostly heroine's)
This is Brighton Academy's book #2 and I wouldn't recommend it to be read as a stand-alone.
I loved the first book and was really excited for this one. I have truly enjoyed it for completely different reasons than the first.
Yes, we do see a bit of all of our favorite characters from the group of friends, but this book felt more mature than the first.
O.M.G, may I say that I wasn't expecting this story at all? Can I say that I wasn't expecting Sterling to be so hot?
Everlasting love!!!
34.5/35 STARS – 5 STARS (between 33.5 stars and 35 stars)
Addictiveness: 5 Character: 5 Cover: 4.5 Freshness: 5 Plot: 5 Romance: 5 Writing Style: 5
Action 1/5 Angst 2/5 Darkness 0/5 Humor 0/5 Romance 5/5 Suspense/Mystery 0/5
Would I recommend? YES!!!!!!!!!
Would I re-read this book/series? Yes, I have already read it twice, to write this review.
Would I read more from the author? I'm looking forward to reading more from them.
Addictiveness: 5/5 I love all the characters from this series so much that I have been invested on their happiness and story. This book grabbed me from the first page and I read it in one sitting. Couldn't let go. As addictive as chocolate!!!
Character: hero 4.5/5, heroine 5/5, secondary characters 5/5, growth 5/5, real 5/5 Multidimensional characters with lots of depth and very well written background stories.
Victoria was a perfect heroine. She was a kick-ass young woman, an amazing friend, a lovely daughter and overall nice girl. At the same time, she had a bit side of temptress and was very mature for her age. If we looked at her background we could see she came from a loving family and always had the best possible support system. It truly shined through her and made her one of my favorite characters ever.
Sterling was a great hero. As light and "sunshine" as Victoria was, Sterling was quiet, brooding and dark. In fact, from the first book, I hadn't really liked him and I had him pegged as a jerk. Yes, my overall opinion of him changed, but it didn't change the fact that he was a jerk. Sterling didn't have the same support system as Victoria growing up, he had lots of issues and a lot of growing up to do. At the end of it all, he came up on top. His personal growth was huge and his story arch was really well written.
Secondary characters I love them all so much. I can't wait to learn about them all. I mean, I was expecting Tinsley and Finley on the next book, but of course I wanted Keaton's book as well. I just don't really know what to expect yet, because of the unknown factor. I want to give a major shout out for Victoria's parents that were amazing and we don't find this very often in books anymore.
Villain/antagonists ... there wasn't no real villain here or antagonist. The hurdles of Victoria and Sterling's journey were all internal.
All characters so easy to love, connect and understand!!!
Cover: art 4.5/5, title 5/5, color-font 5/5, buy 5/5 I’m obsessed with book covers. I love to find snippets of the stories within the art. I love this one. I love Brighton Academy in the background and a gorgeous heroine as the main focus. I like the title and I really love the subtitle, that was intriguing enough and very spot on. I would definitely buy this book by its cover without needing to read the blurb!!!
Freshness: 5/5 Unexpected!!! Yes, that is the biggest word I could find for this story. I was never expecting this plot, it was different and a big WOW. Loved it! As fresh as water in the middle of summer at the desert.
Plot: believable 5/5, conflict 5/5, dialogue 5/5, ending 5/5, enjoyment 5/5, opening 5/5, pace 5/5, setting 5/5, subplots 5/5, twists 5/5 Amazing opening and superb ending. Very believable plot, with hot dialogues and great pace. Adorable setting, interesting subplots with unexpected twists. Highest level of enjoyment!
This plot was so so so good. After a story filled with action and outside interference like in the first book, this one gave us the opposite. It was all about relationships and family. Can't think of anything I would have liked it differently!
Romance: believable 5/5, chemistry 5/5, description 5/5, development 5/5, steam 5/5 Wow wow wow! Really, what was this? I wasn't expecting this kind of heat, passion and dominance in such young people. I loved Victoria and Sterling's relationship. The fact that they have been friends their whole lives, made it all very believable. Sexy romance!!!
Writing Style: 5/5 These two authors together are fire!!! Really, if feels like they each bring the best of each other and write almost perfect romance ( I don't like perfection and don't really believe in it). Amazing characters, unexpected plot, sexy beautiful romance, cohesive writing and wonderfully written dialogues. Work of wordsmiths!!!
Because I try to be very analytical and I don't really like perfection...
I guess I would preferred if the heroine of the next book had appeared a bit more on this story.
Also, I love dual-POV voices, and would have liked more from Sterling.
You MAY read this because you have been following the series; you SHOULD read this because you like fantastic characters; you MUST read this because the plot is wonderful and unforeseen!!!
April 30, 2020
I’ve been waiting for this book since before I finished Unbidden. There was just something about the two that had me needing more. And Cala Riley did not disappoint. Sterling and Victoria took me on a ride I couldn’t have stopped if I wanted.
As much as I loved Sage and Reed, I love Victoria and Sterling more. (I know I maybe a little sad about this too) Their story is emotional and raw and runs deep. They have years of friendship that makes them so much more complicated. It’s not simple in anyway. They both struggle with their feelings for the other, for very different reasons but the struggle is there and it’s real.
Sterling Brooks, what to say about him? He made me hate him. I wanted to reach through my kindle and punch him in the throat more than once. I knew he would be a jerk after Unbidden, I just really underestimated how big of one he would be. He was a coward, and scared, and honestly Victoria should have cut her loses and moved on.
Victoria Davenport may just be too kind for her own good. She saw something in Sterling that the rest of the world didn’t, even after he warned her not to. She gave him her heart and he stomped all over it like a marching band in a parade. Victoria is smart, loyal, and sweet and could have found anyone to love her but she picked the one guy who told her he couldn’t.
Sterling and Victoria have a push/pull relationship but not in the normal way. They are each fighting themselves. Sterling is in this constant state of tug-a-war with himself. When he feels himself being pulled towards Victoria he pushes away harder. They are in this limbo where one wrong move will send them crashing down. They have this rollercoaster of a relationship. The good was good but the bad was terrible. My heart hurt for each of them, Sterling for the past he carried with him, and Victoria for loving with her whole heart.
Unpredictable was an amazing book I could not get enough of, and I may or may not have already read it twice. Victoria and Sterling’s story is heartbreaking, and amazing. Cala Riley made me feel all the feels with Unpredictable. I was completely hooked on Sterling and Victoria. I could not get enough, and I was honestly sad when read “The End”. If you have not read Cala Riley yet Unpredictable is the book to start with. 5 stars for Cala Riley and Unpredictable!
As much as I loved Sage and Reed, I love Victoria and Sterling more. (I know I maybe a little sad about this too) Their story is emotional and raw and runs deep. They have years of friendship that makes them so much more complicated. It’s not simple in anyway. They both struggle with their feelings for the other, for very different reasons but the struggle is there and it’s real.
Sterling Brooks, what to say about him? He made me hate him. I wanted to reach through my kindle and punch him in the throat more than once. I knew he would be a jerk after Unbidden, I just really underestimated how big of one he would be. He was a coward, and scared, and honestly Victoria should have cut her loses and moved on.
Victoria Davenport may just be too kind for her own good. She saw something in Sterling that the rest of the world didn’t, even after he warned her not to. She gave him her heart and he stomped all over it like a marching band in a parade. Victoria is smart, loyal, and sweet and could have found anyone to love her but she picked the one guy who told her he couldn’t.
Sterling and Victoria have a push/pull relationship but not in the normal way. They are each fighting themselves. Sterling is in this constant state of tug-a-war with himself. When he feels himself being pulled towards Victoria he pushes away harder. They are in this limbo where one wrong move will send them crashing down. They have this rollercoaster of a relationship. The good was good but the bad was terrible. My heart hurt for each of them, Sterling for the past he carried with him, and Victoria for loving with her whole heart.
Unpredictable was an amazing book I could not get enough of, and I may or may not have already read it twice. Victoria and Sterling’s story is heartbreaking, and amazing. Cala Riley made me feel all the feels with Unpredictable. I was completely hooked on Sterling and Victoria. I could not get enough, and I was honestly sad when read “The End”. If you have not read Cala Riley yet Unpredictable is the book to start with. 5 stars for Cala Riley and Unpredictable!
May 19, 2020
Book two in the Brighton Academy this time we focus on Victoria and Sterling. The pair have been friends for as long as they can remember and have shifted to friends with benefits.
Sterling has always been a love em and leave em kind of guy. Victoria has been ok with the following suit. The situation had worked for them both, but with a change in circumstances, there is a shift in feelings.
How do the pair navigate this new environment? And will they be strong enough to fight for their relationship?
EXPERT
"V, is this peasant bothering you?" The shivers his voice evokes never ceases to amaze me.
"Peasant? Seriously? The disgust in his voice is evident as his eyes move back to me. "You could do so much better. Find me when you wise up."
I don't respond as I feel Sterling's hand slide down my arm and grasp my hand.
"Come on," he murmurs. Sterling pulls me through the party, up the stairs, and down the hall to the last door.
Sterling's room.
"You have a house full of people, Brooks," I tease.
"Shut up, Victoria." He pulls me into his room and slams the door shut behind me before pushing me up against the wall and getting in my face. "What the fuck was that?"
"What are you talking about?"
"He was all over you!" he yells.
"Are you kidding me?" I ask cooly.
May 21, 2020
YEEESSSSSS😍 this was everything I wanted and more. I knew Sterling and Victoria’s story was going to be intense but WOW! I was not expecting the twist that happened.... but dude note! I was looking everywhere for a book WITH THAT TWIST and I couldn’t find any and then I read this ... I DIED🤧😭 this story was so heartbreaking yet so beautiful And they got exactly what they deserved! I will say Sterling was an ass for MOST of the book but in my opinion he redeemed himself soooo🤷🏼♀️ I also kind of love guys who are assholes and then become mush with their girlfriends so I mean it worked for me!! I highly recommend this book if your looking for a quick, beautiful, thought provoking, romance talking about how TEENAGERS handle very ADULT situations.... everyone remember that they are teenagers in this book! Also... SECRET SOCIETY OMG GUYS MY FAVOURITE EVER READ NOW!!!!
June 9, 2020
This is the 2nd book in this amazing series and is Victoria and Sterling’s story. These two have been friends for years but when their feelings for each other turn to move then things become complicated. This is a well written story which is raw, gritty, emotional, and heartbreaking, which had me totally hooked and intrigued throughout this addictive page turner. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
August 26, 2020
Holy Hell this is what I was thinking after I read this book. It is the second book in the series and DAMN was it amazing. I love how the story unfolds with Victoria and Sterling. I loved both characters and the supporting characters. This book lays everything out in an orderly fashion. Plus I have to say that this author knows how to capture you the reader and keeps you reading.
This is a must read series so go on out and one click this series!
This is a must read series so go on out and one click this series!
March 31, 2022
If you to read about a girl who has no morals, pride or dignity, this book is for you😉🙄
May 11, 2025
Cheater and a weak heroine..
This was the worst one of the series.. Can't believed how pathetic the heroine was after the h cheAted on her. Caught him after sleeping with OW then went back with him afterwards. He slept with 11 women and then had unprotected sex with the pathetic FMC. Then they ended up together as HE A. Not believable in my opinion. Don't care for this one. Book one was awesome. This one was about a cheater and the women that has no self respect. Disappointed and disgusted. Zero rating.
This was the worst one of the series.. Can't believed how pathetic the heroine was after the h cheAted on her. Caught him after sleeping with OW then went back with him afterwards. He slept with 11 women and then had unprotected sex with the pathetic FMC. Then they ended up together as HE A. Not believable in my opinion. Don't care for this one. Book one was awesome. This one was about a cheater and the women that has no self respect. Disappointed and disgusted. Zero rating.
December 27, 2024
Really sweet
The first one was tough for me serious triggers but I was warned and took it slow. The rest have been stellar stories about difficult times people have with or without money. Good reads.
The first one was tough for me serious triggers but I was warned and took it slow. The rest have been stellar stories about difficult times people have with or without money. Good reads.
Read
April 19, 2024...
Only thing wrong is it was way to short. Amazing like all the rest of the series but wished it would have been so much longer
Only thing wrong is it was way to short. Amazing like all the rest of the series but wished it would have been so much longer
June 8, 2020
He was her best friend in elementary school, then as they started to get older things shifted between them and feelings started to take hold. Sterling was her first crush, her first kiss, and her first love... but unfortunately for Victoria, Sterling decided early on that love would never be something he wanted. But that didn't stop them from getting involved, they have a relationship of convenience now, one where Sterling takes what he wants, and Victoria secretly loves the time she gets with him, even though at times it makes her feel used and unappreciated.
But she is growing tired of their little arrangement, she wants more from him, she wants a real relationship... she wants it all from him! But when he finds out that is what she truly wants he starts to push her away... and makes a decision that wrecks everything between them.
Unpredictable is a perfectly blended tale of romance, second chances, new beginnings, and friendship. Sterling and Victoria have that "once in a lifetime" kind of love, only Victoria is the only one who is willing to admit her feelings, Sterling on the other hand is afraid of feelings and what they mean. He has watched his father struggle to find the right woman and constantly pick the wrong ones who only want him for his money, and Sterling is determined to never be like him. Which means that anytime Victoria starts to get too close he pushes her away, watching these two constantly circle around one another and try to ignore the feelings between them was torturous on the ticker. It was evident early on that they cared for one another and could have something truly special but Sterling was holding back, and it tough to see how he took Victoria for granted. I loved that she didn't let him off so easily, she stood her stand her ground with him and made him work for her time and attention later on in the story. This was such wonderful pairing their story kept me enthralled from beginning to end... I just couldn't pry my eyes from the pages! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
But she is growing tired of their little arrangement, she wants more from him, she wants a real relationship... she wants it all from him! But when he finds out that is what she truly wants he starts to push her away... and makes a decision that wrecks everything between them.
Unpredictable is a perfectly blended tale of romance, second chances, new beginnings, and friendship. Sterling and Victoria have that "once in a lifetime" kind of love, only Victoria is the only one who is willing to admit her feelings, Sterling on the other hand is afraid of feelings and what they mean. He has watched his father struggle to find the right woman and constantly pick the wrong ones who only want him for his money, and Sterling is determined to never be like him. Which means that anytime Victoria starts to get too close he pushes her away, watching these two constantly circle around one another and try to ignore the feelings between them was torturous on the ticker. It was evident early on that they cared for one another and could have something truly special but Sterling was holding back, and it tough to see how he took Victoria for granted. I loved that she didn't let him off so easily, she stood her stand her ground with him and made him work for her time and attention later on in the story. This was such wonderful pairing their story kept me enthralled from beginning to end... I just couldn't pry my eyes from the pages! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
April 28, 2023
The second book in the BA series.
Well, I was hoping this would be an improvement. In some ways, it was. In others, it was exactly the same.
Bad grammar. Editing does not seem to be a thing, these days. "You're" is still 'your', and that's just one example of many. One 'your' oops can be forgiven; every single 'you're' to 'your' is not forgivable. There were also too many one sentence lines. Which made it fairly choppy.
It felt like this book was rushed. Maybe it wasn't, but it would have been a lot more solid had there been time to develop the reader's relationship with these characters. Instead, it's just... 'this happened' 'then this happened' 'then we had sex' 'then this happened'.
I hadn't minded Victoria in the first BA book. In her own book, however, I didn't like her as much. Especially the immediate acceptance/happiness of the major incident that happens. I'm sure there are girls out there like this, but it didn't feel very natural or realistic to me. She just didn't seem very mature throughout the entire book, and then, all of a sudden, she makes her big decision like she's thought about it for years.
Sterling was, again, your typical asshat. I really wanted to like him. And at times I did. But there wasn't really much depth to his character, and that's a shame. I did like the swap of POVs; the first book only had Sage's perspective. I might not have wanted to finish this one if it was just from Victoria's pov. I think Sterling had a lot of potential, and character growth, but it was all so rushed I almost got whiplash.
Once again, the secret society thing is just pointless filler, at least to me.
I gave this one more star than the first book, because I liked the two pov aspect, but it still felt like a very juvenile read. A juvenile read with sex scenes.
Well, I was hoping this would be an improvement. In some ways, it was. In others, it was exactly the same.
Bad grammar. Editing does not seem to be a thing, these days. "You're" is still 'your', and that's just one example of many. One 'your' oops can be forgiven; every single 'you're' to 'your' is not forgivable. There were also too many one sentence lines. Which made it fairly choppy.
It felt like this book was rushed. Maybe it wasn't, but it would have been a lot more solid had there been time to develop the reader's relationship with these characters. Instead, it's just... 'this happened' 'then this happened' 'then we had sex' 'then this happened'.
I hadn't minded Victoria in the first BA book. In her own book, however, I didn't like her as much. Especially the immediate acceptance/happiness of the major incident that happens. I'm sure there are girls out there like this, but it didn't feel very natural or realistic to me. She just didn't seem very mature throughout the entire book, and then, all of a sudden, she makes her big decision like she's thought about it for years.
Sterling was, again, your typical asshat. I really wanted to like him. And at times I did. But there wasn't really much depth to his character, and that's a shame. I did like the swap of POVs; the first book only had Sage's perspective. I might not have wanted to finish this one if it was just from Victoria's pov. I think Sterling had a lot of potential, and character growth, but it was all so rushed I almost got whiplash.
Once again, the secret society thing is just pointless filler, at least to me.
I gave this one more star than the first book, because I liked the two pov aspect, but it still felt like a very juvenile read. A juvenile read with sex scenes.
July 19, 2020
3.5 ★★★★
I can't stop reading once I start reading the series... 😍
[Each story is pretty short, you can read it in one sitting]
Victoria and Sterling's story.
Victoria has been harboring feelings towards Sterling for a very long time.
They choose to become friends-with-benefits but Victoria always hopes for more.
Alas, Sterling does not seem to have the same view as her.
He claims he is not capable to love other people...
When I first met Victoria in Unbidden, I thought she was your typical rich girl:
Pampered, spoiled, and egotistical.
Well, during my read, I found a lot more to her than it seems.
She is very smart, highly compassionate, and strong.
Sterling, on the other hand, I kinda like him after saves Sage . However, here I turn to hate him again since he is so awful with Victoria.
But, well, he has issues of his own which lead him to do what he has done.
Sterling deserves to do some hard groveling towards Victoria.
What I'm not expected from this book is
It shocks me, still, I love how Victoria handles the situation (again, not like Sterling)
It proves her maturity and I adore her for it.
The story is fast-paced, yet the plot is written well and the characters' development is perfect.
Thoroughly enjoy reading this! On to the next one!
I can't stop reading once I start reading the series... 😍
[Each story is pretty short, you can read it in one sitting]
Victoria and Sterling's story.
Victoria has been harboring feelings towards Sterling for a very long time.
They choose to become friends-with-benefits but Victoria always hopes for more.
Alas, Sterling does not seem to have the same view as her.
He claims he is not capable to love other people...
When I first met Victoria in Unbidden, I thought she was your typical rich girl:
Pampered, spoiled, and egotistical.
Well, during my read, I found a lot more to her than it seems.
She is very smart, highly compassionate, and strong.
Sterling, on the other hand, I kinda like him after saves Sage . However, here I turn to hate him again since he is so awful with Victoria.
But, well, he has issues of his own which lead him to do what he has done.
Sterling deserves to do some hard groveling towards Victoria.
What I'm not expected from this book is
It shocks me, still, I love how Victoria handles the situation (again, not like Sterling)
It proves her maturity and I adore her for it.
The story is fast-paced, yet the plot is written well and the characters' development is perfect.
Thoroughly enjoy reading this! On to the next one!
Read
September 9, 2020Book 2 in the Brighton Academy series. Can be read as a standalone but you get a better introduction to all the characters if you read Unbidden first.
Unpredictable is Victoria and Sterling's story. They have been best friends since they were little and now with the added "benefits"- lets face it, this almost always turns out disastrous.
I enjoyed the story line but it was so incredibly fast paced! Everything moved at lightening speed. I managed to read this book in about 2 hours. There was definitely no mucking around with this book. It got straight to it! I won't lie, they were pretty hot together!
Although I did enjoy the story line, I feel like this book fell a little short. There were so many parts that could have been explored more and it kind of just felt a little rushed. I would have loved to have seen a bit more! And Victoria gave in to Sterling way to easily. He was an absolute d*ck and what he did was so hurtful - both times! I would have made him sweat...given him hell for pulling that crap! Idiot.
I have to say that I am really looking forward to Tinsley and Finn's story!
Unpredictable is Victoria and Sterling's story. They have been best friends since they were little and now with the added "benefits"- lets face it, this almost always turns out disastrous.
I enjoyed the story line but it was so incredibly fast paced! Everything moved at lightening speed. I managed to read this book in about 2 hours. There was definitely no mucking around with this book. It got straight to it! I won't lie, they were pretty hot together!
Although I did enjoy the story line, I feel like this book fell a little short. There were so many parts that could have been explored more and it kind of just felt a little rushed. I would have loved to have seen a bit more! And Victoria gave in to Sterling way to easily. He was an absolute d*ck and what he did was so hurtful - both times! I would have made him sweat...given him hell for pulling that crap! Idiot.
I have to say that I am really looking forward to Tinsley and Finn's story!
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