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Love At All Cost #4
Unexpectedly Ruined
It was only supposed to be one night…
After our amazing night in New York, I never thought I'd see my hot Scot again. Months later, Jack's stumbled into my life, proving that fate has other plans for us.
He's the golden retriever of golden retrievers, the cinnamon roll of cinnamon rolls… until we're behind closed doors.
As a romantic suspense author, I'm not qualified to help him on his quest for fortune and glory. Yet, here I am, in a dreary Scottish castle, with a man I'm trying desperately to not fall in love with.
In one night, he ruined me for all other non-fictional men—and fictional men. How am I supposed to survive six months, when we haven't kept our hands off each other since I arrived?
Unexpectedly Ruined is a deliciously spicy, instalove romantic comedy. For the best reading experience, enjoy after the prequel novella, Maybe in Fifty. This book contains spoilers for the Love At All Cost series, including Maybe in Fifty, A Voice Without Reason, and Not Her Villain.
After our amazing night in New York, I never thought I'd see my hot Scot again. Months later, Jack's stumbled into my life, proving that fate has other plans for us.
He's the golden retriever of golden retrievers, the cinnamon roll of cinnamon rolls… until we're behind closed doors.
As a romantic suspense author, I'm not qualified to help him on his quest for fortune and glory. Yet, here I am, in a dreary Scottish castle, with a man I'm trying desperately to not fall in love with.
In one night, he ruined me for all other non-fictional men—and fictional men. How am I supposed to survive six months, when we haven't kept our hands off each other since I arrived?
Unexpectedly Ruined is a deliciously spicy, instalove romantic comedy. For the best reading experience, enjoy after the prequel novella, Maybe in Fifty. This book contains spoilers for the Love At All Cost series, including Maybe in Fifty, A Voice Without Reason, and Not Her Villain.
365 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 19, 2024
9 people are currently reading
294 people want to read
About the author
Irene Bahrd
53 books186 followersIrene Bahrd is a feisty Capricorn and one of the most avid readers you will ever meet. Her favorite genres to read or write include romantic comedies, political romance, romantasy, and the occasional contemporary dark romance.
She started her writing journey as a dare from a friend, after recounting dating stories from her early twenties. They inspired her to write spicy romantic comedies and parodies that feature a variety of book boyfriends—though most are cinnamon roll golden retrievers. Many of her stories contain LGBTQIA+, disabled, and neurodivergent characters.
Irene can be found on Instagram and TikTok under @irenebahrdauthor
She started her writing journey as a dare from a friend, after recounting dating stories from her early twenties. They inspired her to write spicy romantic comedies and parodies that feature a variety of book boyfriends—though most are cinnamon roll golden retrievers. Many of her stories contain LGBTQIA+, disabled, and neurodivergent characters.
Irene can be found on Instagram and TikTok under @irenebahrdauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
January 14, 2024
Stars: ⭐⭐
Peppers: 🌶🌶🌶
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Mild spoilers ahead.
What I expected: Adventure, a sexy Indiana Jones, cool Scottish vibes, fun rom-com vibes.
What I got: Contrived plot, random billionaires, an unused whip, Scott-ish, repetitive dialogue.
The plot: When I say this plot is contrived, I mean it. Many stories rely on the suspension of disbelief, which is fine. However, this book relies entirely on completely random, increasingly implausible events that keep getting more ridiculous. It’s a series of events so improbable, you’re more likely to get hit by lightning, be bitten by a shark, and win the lottery on the same day.
The most action that happens is when the MMC almost hits a cow while driving his motorcycle. Otherwise, it’s mostly people talking in nondescript indoor settings.
The world: This is Scotland in name only. There’s barely any description of the setting, culture, or customs. If you want Scottish vibes - aside from the occasional “wee spitfire” dialogue - look elsewhere.
At one point, the characters ponder a riddle that says “The key to a good drink is age”, and they mention that there used to be vineyards… in a castle in northern Scotland?? If there is something Scotland is not known for, it’s wine. You know what other drink is better aged? Whisky.
The characters: Let’s start with the MMC. His entire personality is being a hot Scot, and he is described as a golden retriever. That was in the summary, and that’s about it. Occasionally, he turns on his “Fae male” possessive behavior.
The FMC is… a piece of work. She is a romance writer who is, frankly, wildly immature. She repeatedly mentions that she is jealous of her other friends’ relationships, and is obsessed with that “hot Scot” she had a one-night stand with in NYC. But when she runs into him again, she is suddenly unwilling to continue that connection. Why? Because she cares about him too much… or something like that. It’s purely contrived drama that amounts to a whole lot of nothing salad.
Letting the readers know up front that a book is insta-love does not exempt authors from making it somewhat believable. These two are in love… just because. They repeat the same phrases over and over again when they are together. Just gushing at how the other is so amazing, and that they can never let go. Why? No clue. Or maybe because she can solve simple riddles that completely stump trained archeologists.
Other characters, including the supposed villain, are one-dimensional and mostly irrelevant.
The spice: It’s… fine? A lot of scenes were rushed, especially when the kinks were concerned.
Overall, I felt that the sexy Indiana Jones premise underdelivered, and the MCs were too flat to have a romance I could be invested in.
Peppers: 🌶🌶🌶
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Mild spoilers ahead.
What I expected: Adventure, a sexy Indiana Jones, cool Scottish vibes, fun rom-com vibes.
What I got: Contrived plot, random billionaires, an unused whip, Scott-ish, repetitive dialogue.
The plot: When I say this plot is contrived, I mean it. Many stories rely on the suspension of disbelief, which is fine. However, this book relies entirely on completely random, increasingly implausible events that keep getting more ridiculous. It’s a series of events so improbable, you’re more likely to get hit by lightning, be bitten by a shark, and win the lottery on the same day.
The most action that happens is when the MMC almost hits a cow while driving his motorcycle. Otherwise, it’s mostly people talking in nondescript indoor settings.
The world: This is Scotland in name only. There’s barely any description of the setting, culture, or customs. If you want Scottish vibes - aside from the occasional “wee spitfire” dialogue - look elsewhere.
At one point, the characters ponder a riddle that says “The key to a good drink is age”, and they mention that there used to be vineyards… in a castle in northern Scotland?? If there is something Scotland is not known for, it’s wine. You know what other drink is better aged? Whisky.
The characters: Let’s start with the MMC. His entire personality is being a hot Scot, and he is described as a golden retriever. That was in the summary, and that’s about it. Occasionally, he turns on his “Fae male” possessive behavior.
The FMC is… a piece of work. She is a romance writer who is, frankly, wildly immature. She repeatedly mentions that she is jealous of her other friends’ relationships, and is obsessed with that “hot Scot” she had a one-night stand with in NYC. But when she runs into him again, she is suddenly unwilling to continue that connection. Why? Because she cares about him too much… or something like that. It’s purely contrived drama that amounts to a whole lot of nothing salad.
Letting the readers know up front that a book is insta-love does not exempt authors from making it somewhat believable. These two are in love… just because. They repeat the same phrases over and over again when they are together. Just gushing at how the other is so amazing, and that they can never let go. Why? No clue. Or maybe because she can solve simple riddles that completely stump trained archeologists.
Other characters, including the supposed villain, are one-dimensional and mostly irrelevant.
The spice: It’s… fine? A lot of scenes were rushed, especially when the kinks were concerned.
Overall, I felt that the sexy Indiana Jones premise underdelivered, and the MCs were too flat to have a romance I could be invested in.
January 18, 2024
I went into this book expecting mystery, Indiana jones vibes, and a romcom. However, it fell flat for me. What I got was billionaire, random plots, and confusion.
When I say random plots, I felt like the plot was all over the place. Wild things kept happening, and I’m not sure if that was to try and increase suspense, but it just made the story so unbelievable for me.
There is a lot of spice so if that’s what you’re interested in, it does have that.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
When I say random plots, I felt like the plot was all over the place. Wild things kept happening, and I’m not sure if that was to try and increase suspense, but it just made the story so unbelievable for me.
There is a lot of spice so if that’s what you’re interested in, it does have that.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2024
This was a great insta love story! I love that it tells you up front it’s an insta love story. The spice was next level. Give me a Scotsman and I will be so in love every time. I’m glad I read the prequel novella, it set the stage so well. This made me wanna go find an Indiana Jones-esc Scotsman.
January 19, 2024
This book was entertaining, fun, spicy, and had some unexpected twists and turns! This book is part of a larger series that I would recommend reading beforehand to connect with the side characters a bit more, but you can definitely still enjoy this book as a stand-alone as well. I would definitely recommend reading the novella “maybe in fifty” prior to this book as it will give you the two main characters backstory!
January 15, 2024
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
To me, this book felt flat and confusing. It’s filled with a bunch of unbelievable and wacky events.
I know this book was marketing as instalove but their relationship didn’t really make me feel anything. They loved eachother just because they did. The whole book felt pretty flat. The FMC was also pretty immature. She’s been fantasizing about this “hot Scot” she met and had a one night stand with. But as soon as she meets him at her friend’s super sudden wedding( which was weird within itself), she hops on a plane and flies away. It was so dramatic. Crazy things were happening just because it could. But it is spicy. So I’ll give it that I guess
To me, this book felt flat and confusing. It’s filled with a bunch of unbelievable and wacky events.
I know this book was marketing as instalove but their relationship didn’t really make me feel anything. They loved eachother just because they did. The whole book felt pretty flat. The FMC was also pretty immature. She’s been fantasizing about this “hot Scot” she met and had a one night stand with. But as soon as she meets him at her friend’s super sudden wedding( which was weird within itself), she hops on a plane and flies away. It was so dramatic. Crazy things were happening just because it could. But it is spicy. So I’ll give it that I guess
January 15, 2024
ARC Review: Unexpectedly Ruined, Irene Bahrd
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
‘Unexpectedly Ruined’ follows Amanda, a romantic suspense author and Jack a Scottish archeologist. For them it was supposed to be a one-night stand but fate had other plans. ‘Unexpectedly Ruined’ is a rom-com spicy novel following the love story of Amanda and Jack after the events in ‘Maybe in Fifty’ (a prequel novella to ‘Unexpectedly Ruined’).
This novel (just like ‘Maybe in Fifty’) had me on my toes from start to finish. I instantly fell in love with these characters back when I read ‘Maybe in Fifty’ and needed MORE! ‘Unexpectedly Ruined’ is action packed, filled with humor and wit. 🏰 It’s a book for people that love adventure, treasure hunts sprinkled in with an epic fated-mates trope ✨
My favorite part of this novel is how the author incorporated a treasure hunt side plot that complimented the protagonists love story. It was a quick read and perfect to get out of a reading slump.
Irene created an amazing universe (‘Love at All Cost’) where love and fate are the driving force.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
‘Unexpectedly Ruined’ follows Amanda, a romantic suspense author and Jack a Scottish archeologist. For them it was supposed to be a one-night stand but fate had other plans. ‘Unexpectedly Ruined’ is a rom-com spicy novel following the love story of Amanda and Jack after the events in ‘Maybe in Fifty’ (a prequel novella to ‘Unexpectedly Ruined’).
This novel (just like ‘Maybe in Fifty’) had me on my toes from start to finish. I instantly fell in love with these characters back when I read ‘Maybe in Fifty’ and needed MORE! ‘Unexpectedly Ruined’ is action packed, filled with humor and wit. 🏰 It’s a book for people that love adventure, treasure hunts sprinkled in with an epic fated-mates trope ✨
My favorite part of this novel is how the author incorporated a treasure hunt side plot that complimented the protagonists love story. It was a quick read and perfect to get out of a reading slump.
Irene created an amazing universe (‘Love at All Cost’) where love and fate are the driving force.
January 17, 2024
Oowee can you say SPICY (don’t actually -.-) This definitely was a match for the prequel novella, which was all spice. The dedication states that its for if you want Indiana Jones but smutty, and while there is a treasure hunts of sorts (the answer is actually kinda cute), I would go into this expecting more smut than actual pillaging— well, I mean… there is a pillaging of sort ;)
To catch you up from the prequel novella, Jack and Amanda don’t know each other’s real names, so they’re not able to find each other once they go their separate ways. However, at a friends/siblings wedding, they reunite. Amanda joins Jack on an archaeology project that leads down to some genealogy roots. Also there is a lot of reunion smut occurring because they finally found each other again and no way are they letting go.
So in essence, if you’re looking for a smutty book with some adventure/mystery involved— tada!!
Thank you Happily Booked PR and Irene for the copy of this book!
To catch you up from the prequel novella, Jack and Amanda don’t know each other’s real names, so they’re not able to find each other once they go their separate ways. However, at a friends/siblings wedding, they reunite. Amanda joins Jack on an archaeology project that leads down to some genealogy roots. Also there is a lot of reunion smut occurring because they finally found each other again and no way are they letting go.
So in essence, if you’re looking for a smutty book with some adventure/mystery involved— tada!!
Thank you Happily Booked PR and Irene for the copy of this book!
January 15, 2024
ARC review! Huge thank you to Happily Booked PR to allow me to read and review this book early (:
Maybe in Fifty was the perfect prequel to Unexpectedly Ruined!! I love all of the characters and always love a little suspense and drama with my romance. Excited to read more of Irene’s books!!
Maybe in Fifty was the perfect prequel to Unexpectedly Ruined!! I love all of the characters and always love a little suspense and drama with my romance. Excited to read more of Irene’s books!!
January 29, 2024
First and foremost, I would like to thank the author and her team for sending me the arc of this book, I highly appreciate it, and here is my honest revIew:
Everybody shut up this was adorable!!
As much as I love me a good slowburn romance and all that jazz, I cannot help myself, but to adore insta love stories as well. (I understand if it’s not your cup of tea, but this my review so hush.)
I was going into the book excited because I adored the prequel novela, but at the same time I was going into it terrified. Not going to lie the beginning although it was very fast paced and smoothly flowing, was still a little wild for me. I think a lot of the times going into books we expect beautiful words exchanges in modern days, but let’s be real - it’s not going to happen. Despite the conversations between girl catching me off guard from time to time I had to admit this is actually how girls, how I and my friends, usually talk to each other - unfiltered, vulgar and some might say boundlessly offensive. I liked the transparency, instead of making girls all elegant and delicate.
I saw a lot of people complaining about the mentions of billionaires, while yes, at a certain point the repetitiveness of it was a little annoying I feel like it was quite important for filling out some parts, and I KNOW so many people would complain about “plot holes” if a certain aspect wouldn’t be filled.
While some people might expect Indiana Jones kind of adventure I have to say I adored this plot line? It was absolutely adorable and fun and have zero complaints whatsoever.
When I mentioned to the author I’m excited to get into her books especially after inhaling the novela she told me her stories are “funny, smutty books that are meant to be a good time” and that is exactly what it was. There were no necessary boring parts, the pace was fast enough to not want to put it down, there wasn’t too much interfering of plot lines from other books yet it maintained the exclusiveness of the friend group, it was funny, it was hella smutty (mans was FEASTING) and I genuinely finished the book feeling refreshed, happy and pleasantly surprised.
There were few things that were predictable, but some left me surprised so it was balancing it all out.
One thing that stood out for me the most though was how much I could see of myself in Amanda which I wasn’t expecting at all. Her inner conflicts regarding the pressure she put on herself work wise, the struggles of acknowledging how shortly they know each other yet how much she feels, the way she wasn’t exactly sure how to deal with her emotions and her inability to let people in really resonated with me.
And yeah, I also want Scottish man to go on an adventure with.
However, what pissed me off - Amanda’s first ‘I love you.’ Looking back at it, it was funny, but reading it in that very moment I was just like “ohh lord so help me god this is horrible.”.
Lastly, I did have a tear or two in my eyes at the last chapters not gonna lie. Truly adorable book in the most adult sense of way.
Everybody shut up this was adorable!!
As much as I love me a good slowburn romance and all that jazz, I cannot help myself, but to adore insta love stories as well. (I understand if it’s not your cup of tea, but this my review so hush.)
I was going into the book excited because I adored the prequel novela, but at the same time I was going into it terrified. Not going to lie the beginning although it was very fast paced and smoothly flowing, was still a little wild for me. I think a lot of the times going into books we expect beautiful words exchanges in modern days, but let’s be real - it’s not going to happen. Despite the conversations between girl catching me off guard from time to time I had to admit this is actually how girls, how I and my friends, usually talk to each other - unfiltered, vulgar and some might say boundlessly offensive. I liked the transparency, instead of making girls all elegant and delicate.
I saw a lot of people complaining about the mentions of billionaires, while yes, at a certain point the repetitiveness of it was a little annoying I feel like it was quite important for filling out some parts, and I KNOW so many people would complain about “plot holes” if a certain aspect wouldn’t be filled.
While some people might expect Indiana Jones kind of adventure I have to say I adored this plot line? It was absolutely adorable and fun and have zero complaints whatsoever.
When I mentioned to the author I’m excited to get into her books especially after inhaling the novela she told me her stories are “funny, smutty books that are meant to be a good time” and that is exactly what it was. There were no necessary boring parts, the pace was fast enough to not want to put it down, there wasn’t too much interfering of plot lines from other books yet it maintained the exclusiveness of the friend group, it was funny, it was hella smutty (mans was FEASTING) and I genuinely finished the book feeling refreshed, happy and pleasantly surprised.
There were few things that were predictable, but some left me surprised so it was balancing it all out.
One thing that stood out for me the most though was how much I could see of myself in Amanda which I wasn’t expecting at all. Her inner conflicts regarding the pressure she put on herself work wise, the struggles of acknowledging how shortly they know each other yet how much she feels, the way she wasn’t exactly sure how to deal with her emotions and her inability to let people in really resonated with me.
And yeah, I also want Scottish man to go on an adventure with.
However, what pissed me off - Amanda’s first ‘I love you.’ Looking back at it, it was funny, but reading it in that very moment I was just like “ohh lord so help me god this is horrible.”.
Lastly, I did have a tear or two in my eyes at the last chapters not gonna lie. Truly adorable book in the most adult sense of way.
January 18, 2024
I was given this arc in exchange for a review. This is my honest opinion.
This is a short quick read, and I give it 3.5💫 there were things I liked and things I didn't like.
I liked the characters' banter. They had me laughing a bit, and I mean all the characters. I loved the supportive friendships and the fact that the main FMC was a writer. It was neat to have the MMC as an archaeologist and not the stereotypical "romance book MMC" when it came to profession or background. I liked how feisty and confident the FMC was at the beginning but was so confused how she kind of did a complete flip and was like I don't know not that, I wouldn't say timid and bashful, he just wasn't how she was the night they met. It was like she was the strong, independent woman vibe, boss babe energy, and then suddenly she wasn't.
This books packs so many romance tropes and some kinks, I don't kink shame but sheesh hearing about "the billionaires" certain kink so much in the first part with her friend, which then to me lead to a sort of "pregnancy trope" cause it fulfilled the billionaires kink was wild. There were other frequently used dialogue or sexual circumstances. At times, it felt slightly a little overused. Like their nicknames.
The instalove/love at first sight thing confused me. It was more of a lust, and then I guess turned into love. I was a bit confused. Maybe I am a little dumb, it didn't help that Amanda spent ages thinking of Jack and even wrote a book about their amazing night of passion, but then she ran from him like a primary school crush on the playground the second he turned up to the wedding. Which was the oddest thing I have ever experienced. I would kill my Significant Other if they secretly invited my family and friends overseas to secretly propose as an engagement party thing, but then propose to me after finding out the deed with the seed may have worked fulling their ummm extra attraction to this particular act. Then to be like, "WEDDING TONIGHT." I mean, I was like, huh?! The friend just goes along with it. Like Miss girl, how?
Though, as I said, the book is rather funny, and even though I was confused, it did make me laugh. The "spice" was what it was supposed to be. It was a short read, and I wanted a bit more with the story and plot. As I didn't get all the vibes that were sold.
If you like rom commy vibes and you like zesty bedroom Olympics, this is a read for you. If you want plot and story over horizontal and vertical polka then I don't know if this read as a standalone is for you, as it is apart of a bigger series and I am sure the things I was confused on were probably explained in previous books.
This is a short quick read, and I give it 3.5💫 there were things I liked and things I didn't like.
I liked the characters' banter. They had me laughing a bit, and I mean all the characters. I loved the supportive friendships and the fact that the main FMC was a writer. It was neat to have the MMC as an archaeologist and not the stereotypical "romance book MMC" when it came to profession or background. I liked how feisty and confident the FMC was at the beginning but was so confused how she kind of did a complete flip and was like I don't know not that, I wouldn't say timid and bashful, he just wasn't how she was the night they met. It was like she was the strong, independent woman vibe, boss babe energy, and then suddenly she wasn't.
This books packs so many romance tropes and some kinks, I don't kink shame but sheesh hearing about "the billionaires" certain kink so much in the first part with her friend, which then to me lead to a sort of "pregnancy trope" cause it fulfilled the billionaires kink was wild. There were other frequently used dialogue or sexual circumstances. At times, it felt slightly a little overused. Like their nicknames.
The instalove/love at first sight thing confused me. It was more of a lust, and then I guess turned into love. I was a bit confused. Maybe I am a little dumb, it didn't help that Amanda spent ages thinking of Jack and even wrote a book about their amazing night of passion, but then she ran from him like a primary school crush on the playground the second he turned up to the wedding. Which was the oddest thing I have ever experienced. I would kill my Significant Other if they secretly invited my family and friends overseas to secretly propose as an engagement party thing, but then propose to me after finding out the deed with the seed may have worked fulling their ummm extra attraction to this particular act. Then to be like, "WEDDING TONIGHT." I mean, I was like, huh?! The friend just goes along with it. Like Miss girl, how?
Though, as I said, the book is rather funny, and even though I was confused, it did make me laugh. The "spice" was what it was supposed to be. It was a short read, and I wanted a bit more with the story and plot. As I didn't get all the vibes that were sold.
If you like rom commy vibes and you like zesty bedroom Olympics, this is a read for you. If you want plot and story over horizontal and vertical polka then I don't know if this read as a standalone is for you, as it is apart of a bigger series and I am sure the things I was confused on were probably explained in previous books.
January 13, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Jack/the hot Scot & Amanda/wee spitfire
These two UGH!!! Let’s just say until I got to about 40% in I was pretty ticked off at Amanda…I’m not sure why though…the way she acted & reacted was realistic…when men act a certain way (even when it’s out of love) our brains scream “red flag” & we run for the hills….its not until we have a chance to really dissect the situation that we see what is in front of our faces…thankfully Amanda got it together
Then we have Jack…that man!!! Thankfully so persistent…I’m just glad he listened to reason & only chased when he knew the timing was right
Then you have Jacks ex-wife Blair…such a miserable heifer….I have a feeling she’s got what’s coming to her eventually
You have got to give this spicy RomCom a read…the plot twist/mystery was on point…you are given little clues along the way but all the pieces don’t fall into place until towards the end
We do get more of Becca & Julian & of Layla & Ben….fortunately they are all either friends or family…you could read this as a standalone but I would recommend reading A Voice Without Reason & Not Her Villain first…there are spoilers for both in this book
I can’t wait for the next one…by the end you figure out who the next couple will be…spoiler alert they are in the same circle of friends/family 😉
Jack/the hot Scot & Amanda/wee spitfire
These two UGH!!! Let’s just say until I got to about 40% in I was pretty ticked off at Amanda…I’m not sure why though…the way she acted & reacted was realistic…when men act a certain way (even when it’s out of love) our brains scream “red flag” & we run for the hills….its not until we have a chance to really dissect the situation that we see what is in front of our faces…thankfully Amanda got it together
Then we have Jack…that man!!! Thankfully so persistent…I’m just glad he listened to reason & only chased when he knew the timing was right
Then you have Jacks ex-wife Blair…such a miserable heifer….I have a feeling she’s got what’s coming to her eventually
You have got to give this spicy RomCom a read…the plot twist/mystery was on point…you are given little clues along the way but all the pieces don’t fall into place until towards the end
We do get more of Becca & Julian & of Layla & Ben….fortunately they are all either friends or family…you could read this as a standalone but I would recommend reading A Voice Without Reason & Not Her Villain first…there are spoilers for both in this book
I can’t wait for the next one…by the end you figure out who the next couple will be…spoiler alert they are in the same circle of friends/family 😉
January 19, 2024
4.25 ⭐️/5
Thank you to Happily Booked PR and Irene Bahrd for an advanced copy of this book.
**Please note: I suggest reading the novella Maybe in Fifty prior to reading this book**
Summary:
It was only supposed to be one night in New York, but months later Jack and Amanda paths intertwine again. There only so many times a girl can run from a Hot Scot. Fate strikes to bring them together on Jack’s archeology project. Amanda, a romance suspense author, signs up to help Jack on his quest for treasure hidden within a dreary Scottish castle. But being trapped with him in those stone walls might make it impossible to keep her hands to herself and inevitably fall in love with him.
I am ready to hop on a plane, move to Scotland, and scout castles for my Jack. I fell for him in Maybe in Fifty, and I couldn't help but continue to love the kilt-wearing, dirty-talking, Scottish Indiana Jones. Despite the instant connection, the relationship between Amanda and Jack grew naturally as Jack patiently waited for Amanda to feel comfortable to open up. Their banter was addicting, and I love that it doesn't quit! I could not stop reading as they slowly picked away at the riddles and mysteries buried in the castle's walls.
Read if you like:
💜 Indiana Jones
🌶️ Dirty Talk
💜 Tight group of friends
👩❤️👨 Dual POV
Thank you to Happily Booked PR and Irene Bahrd for an advanced copy of this book.
**Please note: I suggest reading the novella Maybe in Fifty prior to reading this book**
Summary:
It was only supposed to be one night in New York, but months later Jack and Amanda paths intertwine again. There only so many times a girl can run from a Hot Scot. Fate strikes to bring them together on Jack’s archeology project. Amanda, a romance suspense author, signs up to help Jack on his quest for treasure hidden within a dreary Scottish castle. But being trapped with him in those stone walls might make it impossible to keep her hands to herself and inevitably fall in love with him.
I am ready to hop on a plane, move to Scotland, and scout castles for my Jack. I fell for him in Maybe in Fifty, and I couldn't help but continue to love the kilt-wearing, dirty-talking, Scottish Indiana Jones. Despite the instant connection, the relationship between Amanda and Jack grew naturally as Jack patiently waited for Amanda to feel comfortable to open up. Their banter was addicting, and I love that it doesn't quit! I could not stop reading as they slowly picked away at the riddles and mysteries buried in the castle's walls.
Read if you like:
💜 Indiana Jones
🌶️ Dirty Talk
💜 Tight group of friends
👩❤️👨 Dual POV
January 19, 2024
ARC Review:
This book was such a fun read!
Amanda and Jack’s love story was perfect. He is her Hot Scot, and she is his Wee Spitfire ❤️❤️ I won’t go too much into their love story, but their instant connection and banter were everything you need in a love story.
The pacing of this book was perfect; I was able to read it in under 24 hours. There was so much adventure in this book I never knew where the next chapter would take me. I just couldn’t put it down!
Irene Bahrd’s Unexpectedly Ruined released today! It’s the fourth book in the Love at All Cost series and is a steamy, instalove adventure rom-com. Order your copy today!
Goodreads: http://tinyurl.com/yf3atk59
Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/4ekwah49
Thank you @irenebahrdauthor and @happilybookedpr for providing me with this ARC!
January 28, 2024
I was expecting a lot from this book. The story itself, fell flat. The cliche story events, the way the characters act, and most of all the nicknames just made the book difficult for me to read. I was so frustrated by the constant “Hot Scot” and “wee spitfire” throughout the book. The lack of plot drove me crazy as we jumped from one scenario to another and the sudden importance of the main character was lacking. The MMC was dull for me and we got basically no cultural change from him being Scottish. Frankly, he could have been any other cultural background and you wouldn’t have noticed except for the occasional mention of a kilt. I feel like the book made me expect more than I got, but it could be good for someone else.
January 13, 2024
Thank you so much to both Irene Bahrd and Happily Booked PR for the ARC in an exchange for an honest review.
After reading Maybe in Fifty I KNEW I was going to devour this book and I did.
It has spice, a puppy dog golden retriever MMC, a little bit of adventure, banter, and an author FMC.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Jack and Amanda’s story was so good and so easy to read. After spending a night together (Maybe in Fifty) neither of them can stop thinking about the other. It was supposed to be ONE night, but fate keeps bringing them back together.
I haven’t given a 5 Star review in a while but I’m a true mood reader and this book gave me all the good feels. It was funny, the characters were likable and I just honestly found myself rooting for them to make their way back to each other.
I’ll be adding the other books in the series to the TBR. This can be read as a standalone book, however it is part of a series so there are some slight spoilers for the previous books.
After reading Maybe in Fifty I KNEW I was going to devour this book and I did.
It has spice, a puppy dog golden retriever MMC, a little bit of adventure, banter, and an author FMC.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Jack and Amanda’s story was so good and so easy to read. After spending a night together (Maybe in Fifty) neither of them can stop thinking about the other. It was supposed to be ONE night, but fate keeps bringing them back together.
I haven’t given a 5 Star review in a while but I’m a true mood reader and this book gave me all the good feels. It was funny, the characters were likable and I just honestly found myself rooting for them to make their way back to each other.
I’ll be adding the other books in the series to the TBR. This can be read as a standalone book, however it is part of a series so there are some slight spoilers for the previous books.
January 19, 2024
Arc review✨️
Unexpectedly Ruined by Irene Bahrd
Love At All Cost Series, Book 4
🧡Instalove
🏰Age Gap
🧡He Falls Harder
🏰Adventure RomCom
🧡Spicy
🏰Hot Scottish Archeologist
🧡Romance Author
🏰Interconnected Standalone
Think billionaire romance(not him) with outlander and indiana jones vibes
With a romancing the stone twist, and lots and lots of spice including a bullwhip lol
Read this in one night, such a easy, fun, and super sexy read. I would suggest reading maybe in fifty first, its a prequel novella but i didnt, i still understood the story.
Man, the hot scot has it bad and so does amanda but doesnt wanna let love in.
I was laughing throughout the entire book, at some times im like i knew it and damn jack go get the girl, only thing missing was indiana jones himself hahaha. And i think most people can relate to amanda, not wanting to let love in, scared of falling and no one catching you. But it was love at first for these two. 🧡
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
AVAILABLE JANUARY 19TH!!!
Unexpectedly Ruined by Irene Bahrd
Love At All Cost Series, Book 4
🧡Instalove
🏰Age Gap
🧡He Falls Harder
🏰Adventure RomCom
🧡Spicy
🏰Hot Scottish Archeologist
🧡Romance Author
🏰Interconnected Standalone
Think billionaire romance(not him) with outlander and indiana jones vibes
With a romancing the stone twist, and lots and lots of spice including a bullwhip lol
Read this in one night, such a easy, fun, and super sexy read. I would suggest reading maybe in fifty first, its a prequel novella but i didnt, i still understood the story.
Man, the hot scot has it bad and so does amanda but doesnt wanna let love in.
I was laughing throughout the entire book, at some times im like i knew it and damn jack go get the girl, only thing missing was indiana jones himself hahaha. And i think most people can relate to amanda, not wanting to let love in, scared of falling and no one catching you. But it was love at first for these two. 🧡
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
AVAILABLE JANUARY 19TH!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️.5
🏴 Hot Scot
🏴 Author/Archaeologist
🏴 Gum*** play 😏
🏴 Mystery & Adventure
🏴 Edging
🏴 HEA
What a fun story! Jack is someone all women would love to have in their life. He’s been pining for Amanda for months since their one night in New York. But of course neither of them know the other’s name. Fate brought them together again.
Amanda is working on her novel. Jack has to research in a castle with his brother Cam who is digging more than just artifacts 😏. And Jack ex-wife is a B!t€h!
The chemistry between Jack and Amanda is swoon worthy. He knows his way around the bedroom. And bathroom. And bookstore. And pretty much anywhere Amanda is! 😂
Irene Bahrd wrote a wonderful, witty, romantic, and exciting story! I’m so thankful that I was able to read this before release day! Everyone needs to read it!
🌶️🌶️.5
🏴 Hot Scot
🏴 Author/Archaeologist
🏴 Gum*** play 😏
🏴 Mystery & Adventure
🏴 Edging
🏴 HEA
What a fun story! Jack is someone all women would love to have in their life. He’s been pining for Amanda for months since their one night in New York. But of course neither of them know the other’s name. Fate brought them together again.
Amanda is working on her novel. Jack has to research in a castle with his brother Cam who is digging more than just artifacts 😏. And Jack ex-wife is a B!t€h!
The chemistry between Jack and Amanda is swoon worthy. He knows his way around the bedroom. And bathroom. And bookstore. And pretty much anywhere Amanda is! 😂
Irene Bahrd wrote a wonderful, witty, romantic, and exciting story! I’m so thankful that I was able to read this before release day! Everyone needs to read it!
January 15, 2024
4.25 stars. I was kindly given an ARC of this by Irene Bahrd in exchange for an honest review. I really liked this book, the characters, plot, setting, all of it was amazing. Honestly if a book has a Scottish guy in it sign me up. I read this quickly because it was so good. I’ll admit the middle was a bit slow but the swoon worthy ending more than made up for it. It’s everything I want in a romance book- great characters with someone to root for, low stakes and a swoon worthy love story. The spice was also top tier and there was a ton of it. Overall such a great story and I’m so thankful I was able to read it. I have to check out her other books in the series (the other characters are there but I was able to figure out what was going on easily). I was also invested in the side characters flirtation which made the story that much better.
January 14, 2024
2.5⭐️ but rounding up to three. 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (very light kink).
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book unfortunately didn’t meet the expectations with the “Indiana Jones but sexier” dedication page. I was expecting fast paced adventure, mystery and maybe even some villains. About half of the book is Amanda, our FMC, denying herself of the man she’s been pining after for months, and the other half is predictable mystery and repetitive dialogue.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book unfortunately didn’t meet the expectations with the “Indiana Jones but sexier” dedication page. I was expecting fast paced adventure, mystery and maybe even some villains. About half of the book is Amanda, our FMC, denying herself of the man she’s been pining after for months, and the other half is predictable mystery and repetitive dialogue.
January 17, 2024
ARC REVIEW: thank you to Happily Booked PR and the author!
Release date: Jan 19!
One night…that’s all it was supposed to be. Amanda and Jack met at a bar and for one night they spend it together. Months and months go by and they cannot stop thinking about each other. It’s instant love, it’s he falls first. What happens when an archeologist and a romance writer are roped into a project together?
This book was SO much fun! I liked the national treasure vibe. I also really enjoyed that it was the woman who was afraid of love instead of the man. It is definitely a he falls first cause Jack is crazyyyyy about Amanda and I love every minute of it. The characters are so funny and have such great personalities that I loved all of them and that rarely happens for me. If you’re like for a fun and adventurous read that will have you cracking up, this is the book!!!
Release date: Jan 19!
One night…that’s all it was supposed to be. Amanda and Jack met at a bar and for one night they spend it together. Months and months go by and they cannot stop thinking about each other. It’s instant love, it’s he falls first. What happens when an archeologist and a romance writer are roped into a project together?
This book was SO much fun! I liked the national treasure vibe. I also really enjoyed that it was the woman who was afraid of love instead of the man. It is definitely a he falls first cause Jack is crazyyyyy about Amanda and I love every minute of it. The characters are so funny and have such great personalities that I loved all of them and that rarely happens for me. If you’re like for a fun and adventurous read that will have you cracking up, this is the book!!!
January 14, 2024
ARC REVIEW
BEST book of the series by far. Amanda & Jack's story feels more realistic to me than the first two books. Sure, it was still a love at first sight sorta thing, but their connection felt more real and realistic than the other two books. You can feel their connection, and how it continues to grow. There are some cliches in this book, but I still loved it.
Also, there are definitely a lot of spoilers from from "Not Her Villain," so make sure you read that book first if you don't want spoilers. Being accepted to the author's ARC team, I decided to also read the previous books so that I knew all the characters and such since they are part of the same world and connect to each other.
BEST book of the series by far. Amanda & Jack's story feels more realistic to me than the first two books. Sure, it was still a love at first sight sorta thing, but their connection felt more real and realistic than the other two books. You can feel their connection, and how it continues to grow. There are some cliches in this book, but I still loved it.
Also, there are definitely a lot of spoilers from from "Not Her Villain," so make sure you read that book first if you don't want spoilers. Being accepted to the author's ARC team, I decided to also read the previous books so that I knew all the characters and such since they are part of the same world and connect to each other.
January 19, 2024
Unexpeditly Ruined is a cross between National Treasure and Love at First Sight. Set between New York City and Scotland, romance writer Amanda and archeologist Jack can’t seem to get over one another. The suspense through the story of if they will end up back together keeps you engaged as well as the links that bring them back to each other. The treasure hunt is an added bonus that adds even more to this spicy romance that makes you want to hop on a plane to find your own “hot Scot”. I highly recommend the prequel of their story before you start on this one. While it’s not necessary, it’s a fun addition and has some call backs in it. I can’t wait to dive into the rest of Irene’s novels.
January 15, 2024
✨🏰 ARC Review 🏰✨
“Unexpectedly Ruined” by @irenebahrdauthor is out THIS FRIDAY, January 19th!
I was so excited to read this after I DEVOURED the prequel novella, “Maybe in Fifty.” This book was such a fast read for me and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I gave it a 3/5 for spice and 4/5 stars for overall impression. While this wasn’t the spiciest of books, I appreciated that Irene prioritized the plot, but still brought the spice in those intimate scenes.
In my opinion, it’s definitely worth the read! Make sure you check it out this Friday, January 19th!
Here is what to expect:
❤️ Adventure Romcom
❤️ Scottish Archeologist MMC
❤️ Romantic Suspense Author FMC
❤️ Billionaire Romance (not him!)
❤️ Interconnected Standalone
❤️ Instalove
❤️ Age Gap
❤️ Spicy
#unexpectedlyruined #irenebahrd #loveatallcostseries #romance #romcom #adventureromcom #instalove #agegap #billionaireromance #interconnectedseries #steamyread #happilybookedpr
“Unexpectedly Ruined” by @irenebahrdauthor is out THIS FRIDAY, January 19th!
I was so excited to read this after I DEVOURED the prequel novella, “Maybe in Fifty.” This book was such a fast read for me and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I gave it a 3/5 for spice and 4/5 stars for overall impression. While this wasn’t the spiciest of books, I appreciated that Irene prioritized the plot, but still brought the spice in those intimate scenes.
In my opinion, it’s definitely worth the read! Make sure you check it out this Friday, January 19th!
Here is what to expect:
❤️ Adventure Romcom
❤️ Scottish Archeologist MMC
❤️ Romantic Suspense Author FMC
❤️ Billionaire Romance (not him!)
❤️ Interconnected Standalone
❤️ Instalove
❤️ Age Gap
❤️ Spicy
#unexpectedlyruined #irenebahrd #loveatallcostseries #romance #romcom #adventureromcom #instalove #agegap #billionaireromance #interconnectedseries #steamyread #happilybookedpr
January 27, 2024
Unexpectedly Ruined is the sequel to Maybe in Fifty.
I was completely invested in learning if Amanda and Jack would somehow find each other. The way they met and their steamy chemistry in Maybe in Fifty had me hoping!!
Thankfully they met again. I was sometimes frustrated with Amanda because she missed him and regretted not getting his number, just to remain scared and ready to run at any minute. While Jack remained forever steady and determined to wait for her.
It didn’t matter if they were in New York or Scotland, they were happy as long as they were together.
I love that they both enjoy reading and found themselves in another bookstore in this sequel. They really did have a lot in common. They were passionate about their careers and each other, money was not a big deal for either of them and they liked solving mysteries. The castle in Scotland held so many secrets and I loved that part of the story as much as the romancce.
Although this was instalove and things moved quickly, it was excellent. I want to read more about Amanda and Jack!!
I was completely invested in learning if Amanda and Jack would somehow find each other. The way they met and their steamy chemistry in Maybe in Fifty had me hoping!!
Thankfully they met again. I was sometimes frustrated with Amanda because she missed him and regretted not getting his number, just to remain scared and ready to run at any minute. While Jack remained forever steady and determined to wait for her.
It didn’t matter if they were in New York or Scotland, they were happy as long as they were together.
I love that they both enjoy reading and found themselves in another bookstore in this sequel. They really did have a lot in common. They were passionate about their careers and each other, money was not a big deal for either of them and they liked solving mysteries. The castle in Scotland held so many secrets and I loved that part of the story as much as the romancce.
Although this was instalove and things moved quickly, it was excellent. I want to read more about Amanda and Jack!!
January 12, 2024
“What’s a pretty lass like yourself doing in a place like this?”
ARC Review
Thank you for an early copy of Unexpectedly Ruined. This is Jack and Amanda’s story in the Love at All Cost Series. Available on January 19, 2024.
4 ⭐️
3 🌶️
Tropes:
Instalove
Romcom
Age gap
Dual POV
Suspense Author x
Banter
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
ARC Review
Thank you for an early copy of Unexpectedly Ruined. This is Jack and Amanda’s story in the Love at All Cost Series. Available on January 19, 2024.
4 ⭐️
3 🌶️
Tropes:
Instalove
Romcom
Age gap
Dual POV
Suspense Author x
Banter
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2024
This fun romance novel will have you waiting for your own version of a "hot scot" and the bedroom scenes are perfectly spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
January 31, 2024
Romance author Amanda Storm doesn't date. She has never been in love, and claims that she doesn't know how to. So when she met a mysterious Scottish guy in a bar four months previously and spent the best night of her life with him, it was only ever going to be something strictly limited to that one night. Unfortunately since then, Amanda hasn't stopped thinking about him, about what could have been. And regretting her own insistence on 'no names, no jobs', which is the reason why her mystery hot Scot is to remain a memory destined to fade with time. A memory that completely ruined her.
On the other side of the ocean, archaeologist Jack can't stop obsessing over the blonde girl who stole his heart on a fated night that started in a New York bar. Jack can't rationalise why he feels so strongly about a woman he only met once, even though the night he spent with her stirred such deep and intense feelings that he can't stop pining, much to the annoyance of his nearest and dearest.
Neither Amanda nor Jack could possibly imagine that a surprise engagement and wedding combo party would bring them face to face once again, and force a situation on them involving billionaires, Scottish Castles, and a bizarre archeological project turned treasure hunt, which might reveal more than they could possibly imagine about deep buried family secrets.
💭 I've made no secret of not being an avid reader of romcoms, however at the time of applying for this ARC I was so burned out that romcoms were just about the only sort of books I could manage. Having been sent the prequel novella Maybe in Fifty, which I enjoyed, I felt like giving this a go and I found myself giggling and overall enjoying this book. I never expected a masterpiece, but I was looking for exactly what I got: a really pleasant, light hearted and fun read.
I really appreciated how the plot is quite different from the archetypical romcom and the fact that it steers clear of many tropes that I personally find hard to get on with, such as miscommunication and toxic masculinity disguised as infatuation/ love. However, parts of the plot ended up being so far fetched they felt a little bit too unhinged to feel convincing, such as the high concentration of billionaires and how easily such extreme wealth was thrown around, or how this was glorified, which is not something I would normally look for in a story. But this, of course, is entirely up to individual taste.
The dual point of view as the story is told by both Amanda and Jack, as well as short chapters and genuinely fun dialogue, all keep the pace of the story quick and snappy. However, there are parts where the language used for Jack (who is supposed to be a Scot)'s PoV is off, as American English expressions were used, like the use of 'seep' for leaving tea to brew, or calling a mobile phone signal 'cell reception'. Not wanting to overanalyse too much, I would say this is a book that is perfect if you're looking for something that isn't particularly deep or intense. It definitely gave me a good laugh, a lovely distraction and some pretty decent spicy scenes.
On the other side of the ocean, archaeologist Jack can't stop obsessing over the blonde girl who stole his heart on a fated night that started in a New York bar. Jack can't rationalise why he feels so strongly about a woman he only met once, even though the night he spent with her stirred such deep and intense feelings that he can't stop pining, much to the annoyance of his nearest and dearest.
Neither Amanda nor Jack could possibly imagine that a surprise engagement and wedding combo party would bring them face to face once again, and force a situation on them involving billionaires, Scottish Castles, and a bizarre archeological project turned treasure hunt, which might reveal more than they could possibly imagine about deep buried family secrets.
💭 I've made no secret of not being an avid reader of romcoms, however at the time of applying for this ARC I was so burned out that romcoms were just about the only sort of books I could manage. Having been sent the prequel novella Maybe in Fifty, which I enjoyed, I felt like giving this a go and I found myself giggling and overall enjoying this book. I never expected a masterpiece, but I was looking for exactly what I got: a really pleasant, light hearted and fun read.
I really appreciated how the plot is quite different from the archetypical romcom and the fact that it steers clear of many tropes that I personally find hard to get on with, such as miscommunication and toxic masculinity disguised as infatuation/ love. However, parts of the plot ended up being so far fetched they felt a little bit too unhinged to feel convincing, such as the high concentration of billionaires and how easily such extreme wealth was thrown around, or how this was glorified, which is not something I would normally look for in a story. But this, of course, is entirely up to individual taste.
The dual point of view as the story is told by both Amanda and Jack, as well as short chapters and genuinely fun dialogue, all keep the pace of the story quick and snappy. However, there are parts where the language used for Jack (who is supposed to be a Scot)'s PoV is off, as American English expressions were used, like the use of 'seep' for leaving tea to brew, or calling a mobile phone signal 'cell reception'. Not wanting to overanalyse too much, I would say this is a book that is perfect if you're looking for something that isn't particularly deep or intense. It definitely gave me a good laugh, a lovely distraction and some pretty decent spicy scenes.
January 20, 2024
Unexpectedly Ruined by Irene Bahrd
Summary (without spoilers) 📖
Amanda is a romance author who ironically doesn’t have much experience in the love department. She witnesses her two best friends find their fairytale ending, but just doesn’t think that that’s an option for her. While out at a bar she meets a handsome long haired stranger with a sexy Scottish accent. This “hot Scot” and Amanda the “spitfire” have an intense and magical one night stand that left them both replaying that night in their heads months later and wondering about the what ifs.
As fate would have it, their paths crossed again but under unusual circumstances. Amanda had one too many whisky sour’s at a gala and agreed to invest in the hot Scot’s current archeological dig. Now, she has to spend six months in a castle with a stranger, (might I add that she doesn’t even know his name!?).
Will their instalove flourish or will Amanda just end up with inspiration for a new novel?
My Thoughts 💭
First off, I just have to say WOW. This was such a hot read with the perfect amount of humor added in. The chemistry between Amanda and Jack is insane, no wonder they both fell almost immediately for each other. I could write my own novel about all of the things I loved about this book, but I’ll try to keep it to just a handful!
Having a FMC that’s a romance author was such a fun idea. I loved all of the bookish talk that was sprinkled throughout the book. I loved how the spellings and language changed when we went from Amanda to Jack’s POV. I could hear Jack in his Scottish accent while I was reading his parts. I felt like I was watching Outlander when I read the exchanges between Jack and Amanda with their differences in terminology, way of life, etc. (If you’ve never watched Outlander PLEASE DO, or read the books. But, just to warn you, they’re extremely long.)
The intensity between Amanda and Jack is just unmatched. I’m glad that I read this in the comfort of my own home, because if I was out in public I’m sure I would have been bright red. 🥵 I sometimes can be critical of intimate scenes, mainly just the words authors use to describe it, but Irene knows how to write some hot scenes. There were a couple times that I caught myself catching my breath. 😬
While I loved the hot and heavy scenes I also enjoyed the adventure/mystery aspect of the storyline! It had a nice plot twist that I honestly did not see coming!
I loved this book so much that I just had to get a physical copy! Easy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
Irene, thank you so much for the ARC opportunity. This was such a fun read, now to start on your other books 👀.
Unexpectedly Ruined is available now on Amazon! Check it out!
Spice level 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️/5
Tropes:
-Instalove
-Age gap
-Spicyyy
-Adventure RomCom
-Scottish Archeologist MMC
-Romantic Suspense Author FMC
-Billionaire Romance (not him!)
Summary (without spoilers) 📖
Amanda is a romance author who ironically doesn’t have much experience in the love department. She witnesses her two best friends find their fairytale ending, but just doesn’t think that that’s an option for her. While out at a bar she meets a handsome long haired stranger with a sexy Scottish accent. This “hot Scot” and Amanda the “spitfire” have an intense and magical one night stand that left them both replaying that night in their heads months later and wondering about the what ifs.
As fate would have it, their paths crossed again but under unusual circumstances. Amanda had one too many whisky sour’s at a gala and agreed to invest in the hot Scot’s current archeological dig. Now, she has to spend six months in a castle with a stranger, (might I add that she doesn’t even know his name!?).
Will their instalove flourish or will Amanda just end up with inspiration for a new novel?
My Thoughts 💭
First off, I just have to say WOW. This was such a hot read with the perfect amount of humor added in. The chemistry between Amanda and Jack is insane, no wonder they both fell almost immediately for each other. I could write my own novel about all of the things I loved about this book, but I’ll try to keep it to just a handful!
Having a FMC that’s a romance author was such a fun idea. I loved all of the bookish talk that was sprinkled throughout the book. I loved how the spellings and language changed when we went from Amanda to Jack’s POV. I could hear Jack in his Scottish accent while I was reading his parts. I felt like I was watching Outlander when I read the exchanges between Jack and Amanda with their differences in terminology, way of life, etc. (If you’ve never watched Outlander PLEASE DO, or read the books. But, just to warn you, they’re extremely long.)
The intensity between Amanda and Jack is just unmatched. I’m glad that I read this in the comfort of my own home, because if I was out in public I’m sure I would have been bright red. 🥵 I sometimes can be critical of intimate scenes, mainly just the words authors use to describe it, but Irene knows how to write some hot scenes. There were a couple times that I caught myself catching my breath. 😬
While I loved the hot and heavy scenes I also enjoyed the adventure/mystery aspect of the storyline! It had a nice plot twist that I honestly did not see coming!
I loved this book so much that I just had to get a physical copy! Easy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
Irene, thank you so much for the ARC opportunity. This was such a fun read, now to start on your other books 👀.
Unexpectedly Ruined is available now on Amazon! Check it out!
Spice level 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️/5
Tropes:
-Instalove
-Age gap
-Spicyyy
-Adventure RomCom
-Scottish Archeologist MMC
-Romantic Suspense Author FMC
-Billionaire Romance (not him!)
January 19, 2024
*3.5 stars rounded up*
Thank you to Irene Bahrd for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I read the prequel novella prior to reading this one and I loved it. I loved the introduction to the characters and their night together. I definitely recommend reading the prequel prior to reading the full-length novel, as it gives the full background of the MCs meeting.
I really liked the MMC, Jack. I don't necessarily think of him as a "golden-retriever" or a "cinnamon roll" as he was portrayed in the synopsis but I do think he is a sweetheart and the loving guy every girl deserves (if she wants that). On the reverse end, I was not the biggest fan of the FMC, Amanda. In the prequel, she is a strong independent woman, which I love to see. But I felt like it was flipped in the novel and she becomes almost like a...brat. I liked the side characters of Cameron and Lizzy a lot.
If I hadn't read the synopsis ahead of time, I wouldn't have thought it was "Indiana Jones but sexier". The MMC being an archaeologist was a refreshing change of pace but I would have liked to see more of it. Same with the Scottish background. There was so little about the culture, language, location, etc that this book could have taken place anywhere. Other than the castle, the only parts that were Scottish to me were the nicknames used in the dialogue (Hot Scot, wee lass, sprite), all of which kinda gave me the ick. The brother really didn't even seem Scottish to me.
*Minimal spoilers ahead*
(Obviously this is my own opinion)
There were some aspects of the novel that were so far fetched or unnecessary to me. The beginning with the friends prior to the surprise engagement/wedding/etc seemed unnecessary. The surprise engagement/wedding/etc was a bit much by itself.
Jack's ex-wife was a bitch and didn't add much to the story. The use/transfer of money in order to make yet another (!) character in the universe a billionaire seemed extra. Why? And why are there so many billionaires in this universe?! Three couples, all of which have a billionaire in them. Right. But...How do I move here and become one myself?!
The MCs spend months fantasizing about each other than the FMC runs away at the first sight of the MMC? Again, why? She seemed more confident than that.
The spice was sexy and good, if a little repetitive at times. The book was a quick read that's worth checking out though.
Thank you to Irene Bahrd for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I read the prequel novella prior to reading this one and I loved it. I loved the introduction to the characters and their night together. I definitely recommend reading the prequel prior to reading the full-length novel, as it gives the full background of the MCs meeting.
I really liked the MMC, Jack. I don't necessarily think of him as a "golden-retriever" or a "cinnamon roll" as he was portrayed in the synopsis but I do think he is a sweetheart and the loving guy every girl deserves (if she wants that). On the reverse end, I was not the biggest fan of the FMC, Amanda. In the prequel, she is a strong independent woman, which I love to see. But I felt like it was flipped in the novel and she becomes almost like a...brat. I liked the side characters of Cameron and Lizzy a lot.
If I hadn't read the synopsis ahead of time, I wouldn't have thought it was "Indiana Jones but sexier". The MMC being an archaeologist was a refreshing change of pace but I would have liked to see more of it. Same with the Scottish background. There was so little about the culture, language, location, etc that this book could have taken place anywhere. Other than the castle, the only parts that were Scottish to me were the nicknames used in the dialogue (Hot Scot, wee lass, sprite), all of which kinda gave me the ick. The brother really didn't even seem Scottish to me.
*Minimal spoilers ahead*
(Obviously this is my own opinion)
There were some aspects of the novel that were so far fetched or unnecessary to me. The beginning with the friends prior to the surprise engagement/wedding/etc seemed unnecessary. The surprise engagement/wedding/etc was a bit much by itself.
Jack's ex-wife was a bitch and didn't add much to the story. The use/transfer of money in order to make yet another (!) character in the universe a billionaire seemed extra. Why? And why are there so many billionaires in this universe?! Three couples, all of which have a billionaire in them. Right. But...How do I move here and become one myself?!
The MCs spend months fantasizing about each other than the FMC runs away at the first sight of the MMC? Again, why? She seemed more confident than that.
The spice was sexy and good, if a little repetitive at times. The book was a quick read that's worth checking out though.
January 19, 2024
Big thanks to Happily Booked PR & Marketing and the author for an advanced reader copy of this novel in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own and freely given.
I recently dove into Irene Bahrd's "Unexpectedly Ruined," the latest addition to the "Love at All Cost" series, and what an unexpected delight it turned out to be. The publisher's synopsis promised a spicy, instalove romantic comedy, and it delivered just that.
The story begins with Amanda and Jack, two characters whose chemistry leaps off the pages from their first encounter in New York. What was supposed to be a fleeting connection turns into something much more when Jack reappears in Amanda's life, leading them to a Scottish castle with secrets waiting to be unraveled. As a romantic suspense author, Amanda finds herself entangled in Jack's quest for fortune and glory, all while grappling with her growing feelings for him.
Bahrd's writing style is undeniably humorous, and the banter between Amanda and Jack adds a layer of charm to the narrative. The dual point of view allows readers to delve into the minds of both characters, making their connection feel more genuine. The spice level is commendable, earning the book a solid three peppers on the heat scale.
However, no book is without its flaws. There are instances where a suspension of disbelief is required, as some plot elements take unexpected turns into the realm of the bizarre. Additionally, the novel could benefit from more descriptive details about locations and settings to fully immerse the reader in the Scottish castle's atmosphere.
One standout feature is the endearing nickname Jack gives Amanda – "wee spitfire," adding a touch of sweetness to the spicy romance. It's worth noting that "Unexpectedly Ruined" is part of a series and contains spoilers for previous books, and the novella "Maybe in Fifty" is recommended reading before diving into this installment.
In conclusion, I rate "Unexpectedly Ruined" with 4 stars. It's a fun and spicy rom-com that successfully explores tropes like instalove, age gap, and dual POV. If you're in the mood for a lighthearted read with a hint of adventure, this book is a delightful choice – just be prepared for a bit of smut more than actual Indiana Jones-like treasure hunts.
I recently dove into Irene Bahrd's "Unexpectedly Ruined," the latest addition to the "Love at All Cost" series, and what an unexpected delight it turned out to be. The publisher's synopsis promised a spicy, instalove romantic comedy, and it delivered just that.
The story begins with Amanda and Jack, two characters whose chemistry leaps off the pages from their first encounter in New York. What was supposed to be a fleeting connection turns into something much more when Jack reappears in Amanda's life, leading them to a Scottish castle with secrets waiting to be unraveled. As a romantic suspense author, Amanda finds herself entangled in Jack's quest for fortune and glory, all while grappling with her growing feelings for him.
Bahrd's writing style is undeniably humorous, and the banter between Amanda and Jack adds a layer of charm to the narrative. The dual point of view allows readers to delve into the minds of both characters, making their connection feel more genuine. The spice level is commendable, earning the book a solid three peppers on the heat scale.
However, no book is without its flaws. There are instances where a suspension of disbelief is required, as some plot elements take unexpected turns into the realm of the bizarre. Additionally, the novel could benefit from more descriptive details about locations and settings to fully immerse the reader in the Scottish castle's atmosphere.
One standout feature is the endearing nickname Jack gives Amanda – "wee spitfire," adding a touch of sweetness to the spicy romance. It's worth noting that "Unexpectedly Ruined" is part of a series and contains spoilers for previous books, and the novella "Maybe in Fifty" is recommended reading before diving into this installment.
In conclusion, I rate "Unexpectedly Ruined" with 4 stars. It's a fun and spicy rom-com that successfully explores tropes like instalove, age gap, and dual POV. If you're in the mood for a lighthearted read with a hint of adventure, this book is a delightful choice – just be prepared for a bit of smut more than actual Indiana Jones-like treasure hunts.
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