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Shameless Expectations
Escaping the past is hard. Living in the present is harder.
Monti Schroeder is on a quest for peace. She has been since the moment she was born, but peace has remained elusive. Living as a nomad, she takes work where she can get it. When her sister calls with a favor for her neurotic boss, Monti agrees for a few extra bucks. What Monti finds when she arrives is a woman just as broken as she is. And no matter what, she can’t leave Athena to flounder on her own.
Athena Pruitt has made it through the last twenty-two years with one rule. Avoid everything uncomfortable. Her house has become her prison, and she is desperate for respite. Unable to handle physical touch, she’s wary when her personal assistant hires a “special” masseuse who can help. But Monti isn’t a typical massage therapist.
Each day, each massage, each moment Monti and Athena spend together they unravel just a little more. With wells of trauma and pain filling both to the brim, just what will happen when their vessels break?
Will Monti find peace? Will Athena learn to live without shame? Will they both mend their brokenness beyond repair?
Monti Schroeder is on a quest for peace. She has been since the moment she was born, but peace has remained elusive. Living as a nomad, she takes work where she can get it. When her sister calls with a favor for her neurotic boss, Monti agrees for a few extra bucks. What Monti finds when she arrives is a woman just as broken as she is. And no matter what, she can’t leave Athena to flounder on her own.
Athena Pruitt has made it through the last twenty-two years with one rule. Avoid everything uncomfortable. Her house has become her prison, and she is desperate for respite. Unable to handle physical touch, she’s wary when her personal assistant hires a “special” masseuse who can help. But Monti isn’t a typical massage therapist.
Each day, each massage, each moment Monti and Athena spend together they unravel just a little more. With wells of trauma and pain filling both to the brim, just what will happen when their vessels break?
Will Monti find peace? Will Athena learn to live without shame? Will they both mend their brokenness beyond repair?
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2024
160 people are currently reading
996 people want to read
About the author
Adrian J. Smith
76 books417 followersAdrian J. Smith has been publishing since 2013 but has been writing nearly her entire life. With a focus on women loving women fiction, AJ jumps genres from action-packed police procedurals to the seedier life of vampires and witches to sweet romances with a May-December twist. She loves writing and reading about women in the midst of the ordinariness of life. Two of her novels, For by Grace and Memoir in the Making, received honorable mentions with the Rainbow Awards.
AJ currently lives in Cheyenne, WY, although she moves often and has lived all over the United States. She loves to travel to different countries and places. She currently plays the roles of author, wife, and mother to two rambunctious kids, occasional handy-woman. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, or her blog.
AJ currently lives in Cheyenne, WY, although she moves often and has lived all over the United States. She loves to travel to different countries and places. She currently plays the roles of author, wife, and mother to two rambunctious kids, occasional handy-woman. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, or her blog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
November 25, 2025
I loved this! Was such a great story about overcoming trauma and self discovery. (There is mention of past SA but no details and nothing on page). The audiobook is narrated by two of the best narrators, Quinn Riley and Lori Prince. They did a fantastic job at bringing this book to life! Highly recommend.
The book has 2 POV’s, written in third person. Age gap, slow burn, toaster oven, opposites attract, workplace romance. 4x (in detail) spicy scenes. (5 total).
The book has 2 POV’s, written in third person. Age gap, slow burn, toaster oven, opposites attract, workplace romance. 4x (in detail) spicy scenes. (5 total).
August 1, 2024
I have read other books from this author, and I enjoyed them. However, this story, though well-written most of the time, was just a huge barrel of red flags for me. Age gap is one thing, power imbalance is another, but therapist/patient is just a situation that isn't enjoyable for me to read. By the time I got to the point where it became obvious this gave me the ick, I was invested enough in the characters to want to know what happened, so I kept reading. Happy for you if this is your jam, but it was not mine.
April 9, 2025
Lori Prince AND Quinn Riley reading to me for 11 hours? Yes please. The audio was amazing, the book itself I had some issues with. Overall it was a good read, nothing major was wrong, I just expected more from the second half of the book. The first half really had me with the issues of Athena. However, when Athena was the health one out of the 2, things just started going downhill for me.
It was just too easy, and for all the issues Athena had in the first half of the book, I just wish it was a little slowers almost.
I did have a good time reading it, I just feel a little disappointed because the second half of the book didn't live up to the first half in my eyes.
It was just too easy, and for all the issues Athena had in the first half of the book, I just wish it was a little slowers almost.
I did have a good time reading it, I just feel a little disappointed because the second half of the book didn't live up to the first half in my eyes.
October 9, 2024
2.75⭐
The premise sounded so good and I had really high hopes.
I really enjoy books with a deeper topic, like trauma.
But the execution in this one wasn't really good in my opinion.
The first half was enjoyable, but I just didn't enjoy the second half at all
Obviously everyone deals different with trauma, but Athena has apparently suffered a lot in the last 22 years and it's mentioned how she's "unable to handle physical touch"...I did not see that.
I found it extremely weird how fast she was okay and comfortable with Monti touching her.
Again, everyone deals different with trauma but I was expecting it to take at least a little longer.
I also found it extremely strange how fast they developed feelings for each other, especially Athena.
Also, some things were never explained or talked about enough.
For example the scars Athena has, because you don't get scars like that from "simply" being r*ped.
I also did not see why Athena is still so traumatized, even after 22 years.
Obviously being r*aped is extremely traumatic, but I just wanted a little more explaining?
Like more of her thoughts why certain things still trigger her and are still hard for her.
There were cute moments between the characters and I liked reading from Athenas perspective.
Monti wasn't my favorite character and reading from her perspective was a little boring to me.
I honestly liked her sister Fallon way more.
Overall it was fine.
The premise sounded so good and I had really high hopes.
I really enjoy books with a deeper topic, like trauma.
But the execution in this one wasn't really good in my opinion.
The first half was enjoyable, but I just didn't enjoy the second half at all
Obviously everyone deals different with trauma, but Athena has apparently suffered a lot in the last 22 years and it's mentioned how she's "unable to handle physical touch"...I did not see that.
I found it extremely weird how fast she was okay and comfortable with Monti touching her.
Again, everyone deals different with trauma but I was expecting it to take at least a little longer.
I also found it extremely strange how fast they developed feelings for each other, especially Athena.
Also, some things were never explained or talked about enough.
For example the scars Athena has, because you don't get scars like that from "simply" being r*ped.
I also did not see why Athena is still so traumatized, even after 22 years.
Obviously being r*aped is extremely traumatic, but I just wanted a little more explaining?
Like more of her thoughts why certain things still trigger her and are still hard for her.
There were cute moments between the characters and I liked reading from Athenas perspective.
Monti wasn't my favorite character and reading from her perspective was a little boring to me.
I honestly liked her sister Fallon way more.
Overall it was fine.
August 16, 2024
Athena is a lawyer, but one with a past that haunts her. She tries to get justice for women wherever she can, because it’s what she has never had. Monti is a wandering free spirit, hiding from her own memories. In a previous time she was a therapist - both a psychological and a massage therapist. Their point of connection is Monti’s older sister Fallon, Athena’s assistant,
This is how Monti is asked to help Athena, because she can’t sleep. The whole of this story is based around these two characters plus Fallon, with occasionally Athena’s husband Kevin making an appearance. Athena slowly falls for Monti, as Monti learns how to help her. Then Monti slowly catches feeling for Athena too.
This is a very deep story, lots of discussion of past traumas for both women, discussions of how to avoid triggers for each of them, how to heal. There are many times that we think they find their mutual connection, then one of them takes a step back. Eventually they are both frustrated enough with their own fears and traumas, and decide they won’t be governed by the past. Then they have the bravery to communicate, to say their deepest fears, hopes and wants.
This is a beautiful story, quite slow moving, but showing how some can overcome their fear. It isn’t an easy fix story, but it is worth reading.
This is how Monti is asked to help Athena, because she can’t sleep. The whole of this story is based around these two characters plus Fallon, with occasionally Athena’s husband Kevin making an appearance. Athena slowly falls for Monti, as Monti learns how to help her. Then Monti slowly catches feeling for Athena too.
This is a very deep story, lots of discussion of past traumas for both women, discussions of how to avoid triggers for each of them, how to heal. There are many times that we think they find their mutual connection, then one of them takes a step back. Eventually they are both frustrated enough with their own fears and traumas, and decide they won’t be governed by the past. Then they have the bravery to communicate, to say their deepest fears, hopes and wants.
This is a beautiful story, quite slow moving, but showing how some can overcome their fear. It isn’t an easy fix story, but it is worth reading.
December 8, 2024
This book was interesting.
The story is well-written around trauma and healing from it. Both characters and side characters are lovable. However, I didn’t fully connect with Monti the way I’d have liked to fully enjoy this book.
Some moments are a tiny bit too unrealistic to fully make sense to me. I’d have loved to stay in the depth of the trauma, but it’s not majorly an issue if you keep an open mind while you’re reading.
Also, I think it’s not mentioned enough, but this book does have topics that need more obvious trigger warnings. It’s nothing too detailed, but it’s important to acknowledge the SA, PTSD, and anxiety content before diving into it.
Overall, it’s a good book. If you’re looking for an original and sweet romance story, this one is a good pick.
The story is well-written around trauma and healing from it. Both characters and side characters are lovable. However, I didn’t fully connect with Monti the way I’d have liked to fully enjoy this book.
Some moments are a tiny bit too unrealistic to fully make sense to me. I’d have loved to stay in the depth of the trauma, but it’s not majorly an issue if you keep an open mind while you’re reading.
Also, I think it’s not mentioned enough, but this book does have topics that need more obvious trigger warnings. It’s nothing too detailed, but it’s important to acknowledge the SA, PTSD, and anxiety content before diving into it.
Overall, it’s a good book. If you’re looking for an original and sweet romance story, this one is a good pick.
September 23, 2025
Oh man. A trigger warning was definitely needed for this one. I have so many things on the list, so strap on (or in, rather). Spoilers ahead.
Okay, I'm already not a huge fan of gender-neutral names in Sapphic books, but Monty is something else. Probably because that was one of my pet's names, so I was already not feeling this off the jump. Add in the zero warning for heavy themes of SA and the extremely inappropriate/unethical relationship between Monty, the massage therapist and Athena, her 'attempted Ice-Queen' client, who was SA'd and I almost rage-quit this book.
Additionally, I listened to the audio book and have decided that I do not care for Lori Prince's work. If the random deep, older, shaky woman voice given to Athena from time to time wasn't cringe enough, (especially during steamy scenes), they would throw in repeated discussions of mutual masturbation (and use those words verbatim for 7 mins straight) and make Monty one of the most unlikeable main characters I've ever read.
This book was all over the place and I understand they both had their own trauma to overcome, but Monty was truly a dick to Athena and to her sister, Fallon. I cringed through the entire book, but am not one to DNF so I pushed through. There was maybe one part of "playful banter" towards the end of the book, but it was so out of pocket that it felt unnecessary to add it in and definitely was not part of the relationship they built throughout the story. Athena deserved better than an insecure, hot-and-cold, rude, unsexy character to settle with.
1/5
Okay, I'm already not a huge fan of gender-neutral names in Sapphic books, but Monty is something else. Probably because that was one of my pet's names, so I was already not feeling this off the jump. Add in the zero warning for heavy themes of SA and the extremely inappropriate/unethical relationship between Monty, the massage therapist and Athena, her 'attempted Ice-Queen' client, who was SA'd and I almost rage-quit this book.
Additionally, I listened to the audio book and have decided that I do not care for Lori Prince's work. If the random deep, older, shaky woman voice given to Athena from time to time wasn't cringe enough, (especially during steamy scenes), they would throw in repeated discussions of mutual masturbation (and use those words verbatim for 7 mins straight) and make Monty one of the most unlikeable main characters I've ever read.
This book was all over the place and I understand they both had their own trauma to overcome, but Monty was truly a dick to Athena and to her sister, Fallon. I cringed through the entire book, but am not one to DNF so I pushed through. There was maybe one part of "playful banter" towards the end of the book, but it was so out of pocket that it felt unnecessary to add it in and definitely was not part of the relationship they built throughout the story. Athena deserved better than an insecure, hot-and-cold, rude, unsexy character to settle with.
1/5
April 17, 2024
By the title and the cover I thought the book would be light and frothy. It’s not, and I enjoyed the slightly darker and more meaty story. This writer does a lot of description, setting the scene. Not a complaint. Just a comment. It is taking quite a while for the mains to connect. The descriptions continue. Everything is descriptive.
I am not sure why, but I have not connected either with the mains or their connection.
I am also feeling that I am told a lot about one mains trial work, but I am not really seeing any sign. They have a big case coming up but no detail of work being done. Everything, thoughts, feelings, sights are very descriptive so this stands out for not being 3d. There is a passing reference just after I wrote that, about 75% in.
Boundaries are crossed. The setting and run up, I didn’t particularly enjoy.
I enjoyed the healing part of the story. 2.5 for romance, 3.5 for personal growth. 3 for the book all in.
I am not sure why, but I have not connected either with the mains or their connection.
I am also feeling that I am told a lot about one mains trial work, but I am not really seeing any sign. They have a big case coming up but no detail of work being done. Everything, thoughts, feelings, sights are very descriptive so this stands out for not being 3d. There is a passing reference just after I wrote that, about 75% in.
Boundaries are crossed. The setting and run up, I didn’t particularly enjoy.
I enjoyed the healing part of the story. 2.5 for romance, 3.5 for personal growth. 3 for the book all in.
October 24, 2024
This book isn’t bad, it just dragged out too long
And it was only 348 pages…. It took me 10 days to read 348 pages? I swear it felt longer
There was just no anticipation in reading this book. I wasn’t thinking about it while I was in class or at work. Honestly it was more like an afterthought- like “oh yeah, I forgot I was reading that book, guess I’ll read some more”😭
And it was only 348 pages…. It took me 10 days to read 348 pages? I swear it felt longer
There was just no anticipation in reading this book. I wasn’t thinking about it while I was in class or at work. Honestly it was more like an afterthought- like “oh yeah, I forgot I was reading that book, guess I’ll read some more”😭
August 7, 2024
interesting read!
November 22, 2024
Raised every red flag it could: totally selfish therapist with older unhappy woman, I can go on but that is the crux of it. Read to see what happened - AJS writes well.
April 15, 2024
This book has me torn a little. I really enjoyed the story, how the two characters sorted their problems by communicating after a while. There was not too much angst which I like and an ice queen, age gap which are two of my favourite tropes.
So it should all be good yes? No. Athena had a body full of scars that was never explained. She was r*ped but with scars like these she was also assaulted and would have been in a bad way in hospital. Her trauma would be even more because of this. But this was never part of her story, and it irked me as I have personal feelings on this subject. Plus she hated hands in pockets. Why?
Aleo I couldn’t warm to Monti at all. I found her selfish and self-centred.
Luckily the story pulled me in so I could nearly overlook these things and enjoy the book for what it was.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
So it should all be good yes? No. Athena had a body full of scars that was never explained. She was r*ped but with scars like these she was also assaulted and would have been in a bad way in hospital. Her trauma would be even more because of this. But this was never part of her story, and it irked me as I have personal feelings on this subject. Plus she hated hands in pockets. Why?
Aleo I couldn’t warm to Monti at all. I found her selfish and self-centred.
Luckily the story pulled me in so I could nearly overlook these things and enjoy the book for what it was.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
August 20, 2024
This was an excellent novel. I am working through this authors catalogue, and every single entry delivers with a high quality. The novel is well written. The plot is compelling, and the writing style keeps you tearing through pages. The plot is fairly straightforward, but there is also a lot going on and layers to the story, so it is a satisfying reading experience. The characters are very well done, being well developed and feeling like real people.
This novel is very emotional, in a satisfying way. The characters have a lot going on, past and present, and the result is some very big emotions. Even the spicy scenes, which were certainly spicy, were very emotional and filled with a surprising amount of plot development. The entire reading experience is an emotional roller coaster, which is exactly what I wanted and expected.
The downsides to this novel are relatively nitpicky, and there wasn’t anything sufficient to ruin the reading experience or drag down the overall novel. There was somewhat of an issue with instalove, which always annoys me, but it also wasn’t too bad as I can understand how these characters would develop a strong connection quickly. I felt like the ending was too abrupt and that a lot of smaller plot points were not properly resolved or followed up with. I think there could have been several more chapters around the ending, which would have resulted in a more satisfying experience.
This might just be me, but the characters endlessly talked about “finding peace” and for some reason it annoyed me. I just hand-waved this away and decided to go with it, which worked, but it bothered me how they never really explained what that meant to the characters. They even said a few times that they were not sure what they were looking for (which, fine!), which left me wondering why they would be so compelled to search for it in the first place. Just a little rant I wanted to get off my chest.
This novel is very emotional, in a satisfying way. The characters have a lot going on, past and present, and the result is some very big emotions. Even the spicy scenes, which were certainly spicy, were very emotional and filled with a surprising amount of plot development. The entire reading experience is an emotional roller coaster, which is exactly what I wanted and expected.
The downsides to this novel are relatively nitpicky, and there wasn’t anything sufficient to ruin the reading experience or drag down the overall novel. There was somewhat of an issue with instalove, which always annoys me, but it also wasn’t too bad as I can understand how these characters would develop a strong connection quickly. I felt like the ending was too abrupt and that a lot of smaller plot points were not properly resolved or followed up with. I think there could have been several more chapters around the ending, which would have resulted in a more satisfying experience.
This might just be me, but the characters endlessly talked about “finding peace” and for some reason it annoyed me. I just hand-waved this away and decided to go with it, which worked, but it bothered me how they never really explained what that meant to the characters. They even said a few times that they were not sure what they were looking for (which, fine!), which left me wondering why they would be so compelled to search for it in the first place. Just a little rant I wanted to get off my chest.
May 10, 2024
It was alright. It was dark and definitely not a light read as i expected. However, it fell off around the second half, the build up and development all came to a standstill. Even their time together didn't feel romantic to me at all. There was some disconnect, but i can't figure out what.
What i can't take is the missing information. The book didn't deliver the emotions it wanted to me because i felt like i was missing bit and pieces here and there. I didn't get the full picture.
Also, the ending was disappointing, where was the conclusions after that? The aftermath of what they were doing? i didn't want a timeskip at all.
2 stars.
What i can't take is the missing information. The book didn't deliver the emotions it wanted to me because i felt like i was missing bit and pieces here and there. I didn't get the full picture.
Also, the ending was disappointing, where was the conclusions after that? The aftermath of what they were doing? i didn't want a timeskip at all.
2 stars.
November 12, 2025
Shameless Expectations by Adrian J. Smith is an emotional deep dive into trauma, touch, and the fragile art of healing. It’s the kind of story that sneaks under your skin not with melodrama, but with quiet truth.
Monti Schroeder is beautifully written a drifter who wears her resilience like armor but is aching beneath the surface. Then there’s Athena Pruitt, the anxious recluse who’s mastered avoidance so completely that her own home has become her cage. When these two women’s worlds collide, it’s both electric and excruciating two wounded souls circling the idea of intimacy, afraid to touch, desperate to connect.
Smith handles trauma with tenderness and authenticity, showing that recovery isn’t about perfection or happy endings it’s about presence, consent, and courage. Their relationship unfolds like a slow symphony: tentative at first, then deeply human, and ultimately transformative.
Fans of Talia Hibbert or Casey McQuiston will find themselves swept up in the vulnerability, the humor tucked between heavy moments, and the ultimate hope that even broken things can be beautiful.
Monti Schroeder is beautifully written a drifter who wears her resilience like armor but is aching beneath the surface. Then there’s Athena Pruitt, the anxious recluse who’s mastered avoidance so completely that her own home has become her cage. When these two women’s worlds collide, it’s both electric and excruciating two wounded souls circling the idea of intimacy, afraid to touch, desperate to connect.
Smith handles trauma with tenderness and authenticity, showing that recovery isn’t about perfection or happy endings it’s about presence, consent, and courage. Their relationship unfolds like a slow symphony: tentative at first, then deeply human, and ultimately transformative.
Fans of Talia Hibbert or Casey McQuiston will find themselves swept up in the vulnerability, the humor tucked between heavy moments, and the ultimate hope that even broken things can be beautiful.
December 8, 2024
this would’ve been 5 stars if it wasn’t for the ending. it was too cheesy for me. i feel like maybe it could’ve been a little bit longer to let their feelings develop more instead of rushing in after a few sessions. the dynamic isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but i don’t mind it. it was cute and the trauma was well written. plus i love anything sapphic
July 24, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ very cute
April 16, 2024
what a book. someone sedate me
May 29, 2024
Another romance, lovely story of two damaged people finding peace in each other.
October 18, 2024
Rounding up, for now. This title should have been Unethically Shameless instead. So, I really liked the first half of this book. The second half, was disappointing sadly. I was instantly invested in Athena’s backstory even if I figured out what it was within 60 pages. It’s about the journey after all and the beginning of this journey was delicious. It was going so well up to the line between a therapist and a client but once the line was crossed, the tension just fizzled out. I was expecting way more angst, anger, a pause at least but these two nuke that line from orbit in an insta-lust, insta-love mushroom cloud. The second half of this tale just felt rushed and sapphic toaster oven pedestrian. I guess if you’re gonna HIPAA violate, gotta go all in. 🤷♂️
August 18, 2025
Stars: 3.5
Format: Audiobook
Narrator: Quinn Riley & Lori Prince
Series: My Boss’s Stalker Book 2
Steam Level: Steamy
CW: SA (past), abuse (past), murder (past), suicide (past)
I read this for the I Heart Sapphic 2025 Reading Challenge for the prompt Self-Discovery.
Whew. This was a hard book to listen to. I would have taken A LOT more time to finish this if I had to physically read it.
I don’t know yet if this one can be skipped in the series but I do know one of the protagonists in the next book is Monti’s aunt.
Quick Thoughts:
- Oooooo, the lawyer from the previous book is one of the protagonists in this one. Nice
- I adore that consent is asked for all over the place and is never assumed. Not only that, but boundaries are respected and followed
- Monti really does exemplify the adage that doctors make the worst patients
- Zoe makes a small appearance!
- Love how messy, and committed, each person is to each other (in all kinds of relationships) in this book
- No third act break up! But that’s mostly because they don’t become a couple until the end
- I did enjoy this book but I just could not give this more than 3.5 stars. I am fine with one, maybe two (if it’s done by different characters) “where did that come from?” thoughts but it happened multiple times by the same character
- The BIG thing that bothered me was that the pace of this story was slow and that made absolute sense considering the subject matter and situation, but I had a problem with the fact that the story ends with the two protagonists confessing their love and wanting a relationship then BOOM! Epilogue set two years later. Monti states a couple of times that she doesn’t want a traditional relationship, and Athena agrees, but after all the trauma we get a front row seat to, there is nothing on how that non-traditional relationship will look for them. It caused me to be super let down by the ending and made the epilogue unsatisfying
- Lori Prince and Quinn Riley are amazing as always. I just can’t get enough of these two. I did feel like they should have been narrating each other’s characters though. There was a couple of Lori Prince’s sections where, with my very expensive, good quality headphones, that I could hear some faint banging in the background
Overall I don’t know how I feel about this book. I enjoy a slow paced book and it made perfect sense to me for that to be the case here, it just feels like the story stopped very abruptly and, in the end, didn’t give me the payoff it was building up to. I will say that Adrian J. Smith writes people working through trauma very well and that was extremely well done.
Format: Audiobook
Narrator: Quinn Riley & Lori Prince
Series: My Boss’s Stalker Book 2
Steam Level: Steamy
CW: SA (past), abuse (past), murder (past), suicide (past)
I read this for the I Heart Sapphic 2025 Reading Challenge for the prompt Self-Discovery.
Whew. This was a hard book to listen to. I would have taken A LOT more time to finish this if I had to physically read it.
I don’t know yet if this one can be skipped in the series but I do know one of the protagonists in the next book is Monti’s aunt.
Quick Thoughts:
- Oooooo, the lawyer from the previous book is one of the protagonists in this one. Nice
- I adore that consent is asked for all over the place and is never assumed. Not only that, but boundaries are respected and followed
- Monti really does exemplify the adage that doctors make the worst patients
- Zoe makes a small appearance!
- Love how messy, and committed, each person is to each other (in all kinds of relationships) in this book
- No third act break up! But that’s mostly because they don’t become a couple until the end
- I did enjoy this book but I just could not give this more than 3.5 stars. I am fine with one, maybe two (if it’s done by different characters) “where did that come from?” thoughts but it happened multiple times by the same character
- The BIG thing that bothered me was that the pace of this story was slow and that made absolute sense considering the subject matter and situation, but I had a problem with the fact that the story ends with the two protagonists confessing their love and wanting a relationship then BOOM! Epilogue set two years later. Monti states a couple of times that she doesn’t want a traditional relationship, and Athena agrees, but after all the trauma we get a front row seat to, there is nothing on how that non-traditional relationship will look for them. It caused me to be super let down by the ending and made the epilogue unsatisfying
- Lori Prince and Quinn Riley are amazing as always. I just can’t get enough of these two. I did feel like they should have been narrating each other’s characters though. There was a couple of Lori Prince’s sections where, with my very expensive, good quality headphones, that I could hear some faint banging in the background
Overall I don’t know how I feel about this book. I enjoy a slow paced book and it made perfect sense to me for that to be the case here, it just feels like the story stopped very abruptly and, in the end, didn’t give me the payoff it was building up to. I will say that Adrian J. Smith writes people working through trauma very well and that was extremely well done.
November 23, 2024
This book was a 3.5 star for me. The first half of the book kept me going but I found it hard to finish the second half of it.
There were a few things that bothered me or you can say felt off were: (TW: for those who have been through sexual assault/ra*e or are disturbed by reading such things)
1. In the beginning of the book Athena was really traumatised with her being rap*d for 22 years and then I couldn’t understand how could a character go from there to develop feelings for someone within a few interactions? Like it clearly said “she doesn’t like to be touched at all” and yet, within her first therapy session she just let go? Sort of?
2. She had so many scars on her body and I was really waiting to hear the entire story what had happened to her and it was not clear because they never got to talk about it where as Monti could openly discuss about her traumas.
3. It wasn’t made totally sure how Simon was born even though hints were given but like how did Athena and Kevin deal with Simon’s birth at all.
4. It was kind of really hard to picture someone who has been traumatised for 22 years just let go within a couple of months? These cases might happen, I am sure but I would have liked more material on it from Athena’s perspective as to why was it more easier for her to be comfortable with Monti.
5. There was a lot of communication gap between Monti and Athena which left room for “assumptions”? Like when Monti was struggling with her nightmares and she was disappointed with the way Athena reacted and Athena knew that she cannot be emotionally available for Monti, it really felt like a misfit. There should have been a communication where Athena could at least try to explain her side later?
However, I did like the powerful character of Athena and I did enjoy reading a few moments between them and some of them even made me snort.
Overall it’s a decent read if you just want to listen to a story with traumas + healing but if you are someone who likes to read more detailed information then read it at your own risk but hey, who knows you might still like it because this is just my review and how I felt about this book.
P.S: I absolutely loved that Athena had a big library.
There were a few things that bothered me or you can say felt off were: (TW: for those who have been through sexual assault/ra*e or are disturbed by reading such things)
1. In the beginning of the book Athena was really traumatised with her being rap*d for 22 years and then I couldn’t understand how could a character go from there to develop feelings for someone within a few interactions? Like it clearly said “she doesn’t like to be touched at all” and yet, within her first therapy session she just let go? Sort of?
2. She had so many scars on her body and I was really waiting to hear the entire story what had happened to her and it was not clear because they never got to talk about it where as Monti could openly discuss about her traumas.
3. It wasn’t made totally sure how Simon was born even though hints were given but like how did Athena and Kevin deal with Simon’s birth at all.
4. It was kind of really hard to picture someone who has been traumatised for 22 years just let go within a couple of months? These cases might happen, I am sure but I would have liked more material on it from Athena’s perspective as to why was it more easier for her to be comfortable with Monti.
5. There was a lot of communication gap between Monti and Athena which left room for “assumptions”? Like when Monti was struggling with her nightmares and she was disappointed with the way Athena reacted and Athena knew that she cannot be emotionally available for Monti, it really felt like a misfit. There should have been a communication where Athena could at least try to explain her side later?
However, I did like the powerful character of Athena and I did enjoy reading a few moments between them and some of them even made me snort.
Overall it’s a decent read if you just want to listen to a story with traumas + healing but if you are someone who likes to read more detailed information then read it at your own risk but hey, who knows you might still like it because this is just my review and how I felt about this book.
P.S: I absolutely loved that Athena had a big library.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2024
Sometimes heavy but also sensual and hopeful
This is my first read by Adrian J Smith as a solo writer (I read a book co-written by her with TB Markinson recently). The subject matter is on the heavy side and sometimes dark so if you're looking for fluffy beach reading this is not it. If however you want a slower paced lesfic story where the characters reveal themselves as much (if not more) thru body language than by what they say, where emotions are more nuanced than in most lesfic, this fits the bill. Main characters Athena and Monti grow and develop (emotionally and in other respects) thru the book in a realistic way, like the game of chutes (or snakes) and ladders where they move forward and at a certain point you come to a place where pitfalls move them backwards or freeze them in place before moving forward again and eventually past the pitfalls; they are true works in progress where their healing takes time, patience and understanding. That is reflected in the pace of the story rather than skipping over difficult moments with a time jump in the narrative. I was more invested in the development of the characters than the romance aspect of the story but it is fascinating reading to see how trust is established between them and communication is done poorly or well. By the end of the book I felt hopeful for Monti and Athena as individuals and the foundation they built for their relationship regardless of the shape it took. Some readers may take issue with certain parts of the plot or potentially questionable ethical moments in the story but it didn't disturb or ruin my enjoyment of the book. For those who like ice queens it could be argued there are two in this story, a first to my knowledge; a possible double ice queen trope. In that vein, there is plenty of heat and passion in words and actions between the characters, sensuality and intimacy that's unique for its settings and circumstances.
I would like to read more of author Smith's work to see what other stories she has to tell, both future works and those already published.
This is my first read by Adrian J Smith as a solo writer (I read a book co-written by her with TB Markinson recently). The subject matter is on the heavy side and sometimes dark so if you're looking for fluffy beach reading this is not it. If however you want a slower paced lesfic story where the characters reveal themselves as much (if not more) thru body language than by what they say, where emotions are more nuanced than in most lesfic, this fits the bill. Main characters Athena and Monti grow and develop (emotionally and in other respects) thru the book in a realistic way, like the game of chutes (or snakes) and ladders where they move forward and at a certain point you come to a place where pitfalls move them backwards or freeze them in place before moving forward again and eventually past the pitfalls; they are true works in progress where their healing takes time, patience and understanding. That is reflected in the pace of the story rather than skipping over difficult moments with a time jump in the narrative. I was more invested in the development of the characters than the romance aspect of the story but it is fascinating reading to see how trust is established between them and communication is done poorly or well. By the end of the book I felt hopeful for Monti and Athena as individuals and the foundation they built for their relationship regardless of the shape it took. Some readers may take issue with certain parts of the plot or potentially questionable ethical moments in the story but it didn't disturb or ruin my enjoyment of the book. For those who like ice queens it could be argued there are two in this story, a first to my knowledge; a possible double ice queen trope. In that vein, there is plenty of heat and passion in words and actions between the characters, sensuality and intimacy that's unique for its settings and circumstances.
I would like to read more of author Smith's work to see what other stories she has to tell, both future works and those already published.
April 15, 2024
Adrian J. Smith
Shameless Expectations
Favorite quote We’re never completely broken, and we’re never completely fixed.”
I was deeply moved by the profound message of this book there is no amount of brokenness that can overshadow the incredible power of healing within oneself. As someone who has personally overcome a great deal of trauma, this resonated with me on a profound level. I've come to realize that finding the right soulmate isn't always the key to making peace with the past and moving forward. It's about not allowing the pain to break you, but rather using it as fuel to propel yourself towards victory.
Athena was struggling with sleep issues and other challenges, but when Monti entered her life, she became a source of support and healing in various ways. It was heartwarming to witness their journey and see how their story continued to unfold.
The author's previous book, "My Boss's Stalker: Spoiler It's Not Me," was one of my favorite reads this year. I must say that this book hasn't disappointed either. The writing is exceptional, bringing everything full circle. Adrian's last two books have been a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with steamy and intense moments. As someone who has experienced trauma and healing, I am drawn to her books because they capture the pain and the transformative power of healing. Adrian has truly become one of my favorite authors.
In this story, two broken souls find love and healing. Though they each carried their own pain, together they discovered a sense of peace. This book delivers everything you could hope for, and I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to read it. To be honest, I'm eagerly anticipating the author's next book, which is set to release today, April 15th. It's available on Amazon Kindle Unlimited, so be sure to grab a copy. I promise you won't be disappointed. I highly recommend it.
Shameless Expectations
Favorite quote We’re never completely broken, and we’re never completely fixed.”
I was deeply moved by the profound message of this book there is no amount of brokenness that can overshadow the incredible power of healing within oneself. As someone who has personally overcome a great deal of trauma, this resonated with me on a profound level. I've come to realize that finding the right soulmate isn't always the key to making peace with the past and moving forward. It's about not allowing the pain to break you, but rather using it as fuel to propel yourself towards victory.
Athena was struggling with sleep issues and other challenges, but when Monti entered her life, she became a source of support and healing in various ways. It was heartwarming to witness their journey and see how their story continued to unfold.
The author's previous book, "My Boss's Stalker: Spoiler It's Not Me," was one of my favorite reads this year. I must say that this book hasn't disappointed either. The writing is exceptional, bringing everything full circle. Adrian's last two books have been a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with steamy and intense moments. As someone who has experienced trauma and healing, I am drawn to her books because they capture the pain and the transformative power of healing. Adrian has truly become one of my favorite authors.
In this story, two broken souls find love and healing. Though they each carried their own pain, together they discovered a sense of peace. This book delivers everything you could hope for, and I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to read it. To be honest, I'm eagerly anticipating the author's next book, which is set to release today, April 15th. It's available on Amazon Kindle Unlimited, so be sure to grab a copy. I promise you won't be disappointed. I highly recommend it.
July 12, 2024
Monti Schroeder is always searching for peace. Living as a nomad, she takes odd jobs wherever she can. When her sister (Athena's assistant) asks her to help her neurotic boss struggling to sleep, Monti agrees and takes on the job. Monty is a professional therapist and masseuse.
Athena is a lawyer, wife, and mother who has spent 22 years avoiding anything uncomfortable. Her home is her prison, and she can't stand physical touch.
As Monti and Athena spend time together, they slowly unravel their traumas and pain.
I just finished this book and had to immediately write a review about it.
The story is the complete opposite of a meet-cute. Monti and Athena come from traumatic pasts. Athena lives with a lot of physical and emotional pain as a result of memories and traumas that manifest in her body and daily life. She can't stand being touched and doesn't feel comfortable exposing herself to anyone. Athena is very sick with insomnia and Monti tries to help her with massages that allow her to fall asleep and relax. For much of the book, Athena is in a constant battle to overcome her fears. Monti's arrival in her life has an incredible influence on her improvement. The writer takes the time to give each of them the time they need to be able to trust each other and develop more than a friendship. Athena surprised and moved me with her growth, her bravery, and her willingness to give herself a chance at happiness. Once Athena and Monti trust each other, they develop a relationship that allows Athena to experience everything that she suppressed for many years when she thought she was broken. The story transitions so beautifully to steamy and much of the book becomes so. The ending made me smile. I want to read more books by this author.
Athena is a lawyer, wife, and mother who has spent 22 years avoiding anything uncomfortable. Her home is her prison, and she can't stand physical touch.
As Monti and Athena spend time together, they slowly unravel their traumas and pain.
I just finished this book and had to immediately write a review about it.
The story is the complete opposite of a meet-cute. Monti and Athena come from traumatic pasts. Athena lives with a lot of physical and emotional pain as a result of memories and traumas that manifest in her body and daily life. She can't stand being touched and doesn't feel comfortable exposing herself to anyone. Athena is very sick with insomnia and Monti tries to help her with massages that allow her to fall asleep and relax. For much of the book, Athena is in a constant battle to overcome her fears. Monti's arrival in her life has an incredible influence on her improvement. The writer takes the time to give each of them the time they need to be able to trust each other and develop more than a friendship. Athena surprised and moved me with her growth, her bravery, and her willingness to give herself a chance at happiness. Once Athena and Monti trust each other, they develop a relationship that allows Athena to experience everything that she suppressed for many years when she thought she was broken. The story transitions so beautifully to steamy and much of the book becomes so. The ending made me smile. I want to read more books by this author.
October 27, 2025
The story was worth the endeavor. Such a long tenuous journey for the one main character who is in a fake marriage due to a rape that wound up in pregnancy. The son is well loved , the fake husband as well, but the main character without any physical attention. The husband has a male lover in a committed relationship, and the son is off at college.
Main character is a lawyer, who is very successful in her work. Her assistant is the sister of the second main character who is brought in to help with massages. The sister is also therapist who no longer practices. Having a wanderlust, running away from her own previous demons, she takes this job as a temporary holding place.
Through the initial meeting, the lawyer, main character actually has a few hours of connected sleep, which is a rarity for this person. Finding some solace in this peacefulness, attributing it to her new masseuse.
This woman’s body holds onto so much trauma that she actually dictates when and where and how this masseuse can touch her.
Eventually, they both realize there is something starting. Even though the therapist masseuse might not stay, sparks begin to fly.
Once there is some beginnings of physicality, they both travel to a vacation home for relaxation and preparation for an oncoming case.
After they’ve consummated their relationship officially. Things go well, then they go south.
There is a little bit more drama that’s created from the therapist side of the equation now. All is not lost, as they found their way through it together.
I enjoyed the ending of the book tremendously. Great book.
Main character is a lawyer, who is very successful in her work. Her assistant is the sister of the second main character who is brought in to help with massages. The sister is also therapist who no longer practices. Having a wanderlust, running away from her own previous demons, she takes this job as a temporary holding place.
Through the initial meeting, the lawyer, main character actually has a few hours of connected sleep, which is a rarity for this person. Finding some solace in this peacefulness, attributing it to her new masseuse.
This woman’s body holds onto so much trauma that she actually dictates when and where and how this masseuse can touch her.
Eventually, they both realize there is something starting. Even though the therapist masseuse might not stay, sparks begin to fly.
Once there is some beginnings of physicality, they both travel to a vacation home for relaxation and preparation for an oncoming case.
After they’ve consummated their relationship officially. Things go well, then they go south.
There is a little bit more drama that’s created from the therapist side of the equation now. All is not lost, as they found their way through it together.
I enjoyed the ending of the book tremendously. Great book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2025
This was so much more than I was expecting. (Pun intended!) The tale follows the introduction and subsequent connection between Monti (a free spirit in search of peace) and Athena (a closed off, ice queen).
Discusses a few themes some might be wary of so please check the TW before diving in. That being said, dive the fuck in! Athena is a wonderfully crafted ice queen, walls so high and barriers so solid, they’re almost impenetrable. Enter Monti. A retired masseuse, trained psychiatrist, and hired to help Athena get some much needed rest.
The connection between the two was glorious to watch, the way they were just drawn to each other, inexplicably, as you sometimes are, was deliciously explored. Both fully rounded with their own trauma, issues and flaws (you all know how much I love a flawed character!).
The spice was…knee buckling. The way the tension was built was just…. (growls in gay!) I don’t think I can add more to that. I listened to this, rather than eyeball read, and when I say that two major queens of the sapphic book community brought me to heel, I mean, do NOT LISTEN IN PUBLIC, check your Bluetooth connections and get your poker face in place!
Speaking of narration, and do such a tremendous job at bringing these two, wonderfully complex ladies to life. I was sad to leave them, always the tell of a good book.
Definitely need to check out more of Smith’s work. And what better time to do it than with her new release having hit KU yesterday. I’m on it! But, I do also need some warning if the narrators are staying the same.
Discusses a few themes some might be wary of so please check the TW before diving in. That being said, dive the fuck in! Athena is a wonderfully crafted ice queen, walls so high and barriers so solid, they’re almost impenetrable. Enter Monti. A retired masseuse, trained psychiatrist, and hired to help Athena get some much needed rest.
The connection between the two was glorious to watch, the way they were just drawn to each other, inexplicably, as you sometimes are, was deliciously explored. Both fully rounded with their own trauma, issues and flaws (you all know how much I love a flawed character!).
The spice was…knee buckling. The way the tension was built was just…. (growls in gay!) I don’t think I can add more to that. I listened to this, rather than eyeball read, and when I say that two major queens of the sapphic book community brought me to heel, I mean, do NOT LISTEN IN PUBLIC, check your Bluetooth connections and get your poker face in place!
Speaking of narration, and do such a tremendous job at bringing these two, wonderfully complex ladies to life. I was sad to leave them, always the tell of a good book.
Definitely need to check out more of Smith’s work. And what better time to do it than with her new release having hit KU yesterday. I’m on it! But, I do also need some warning if the narrators are staying the same.
January 15, 2025
everything i read is subject to the same level of rigor, okay? every piece of art deserves earnest engagement. the art we consume and process is something we took precious time to experience, so i think of everything through that lens
that said: i really do not understand what kind of story was trying to be told here
for a 300 page novel that is so laser-focused on its leads, there is precious little exploration of the characters' interior lives. i don't know much more about them than i did at the start. what's being explored? what is being said? what is the intention? monti is closed off, athena is closed off, there is nothing given over to exploring the emotional worlds that they inhabit, the all-important WHY of it. it's fine enough in a less thematically serious romance novel, but here, with an age gap, deep trauma, and a client/practitioner relationship, there is nothing given over to the inherent complexities of their bond.
there is a ton of hand waving and what i will charitably call contrivance to move things along, which i'll call "fine". there's some fucking and a couple of half-hearted heart to heart conversations, and that's it. boom, ding, bing bong, done. HEA.
okay, cool.
i truly do enjoy romance and romantic fiction, but you gotta give me something beyond pining, surface-level talking, and fucking.
that said: i really do not understand what kind of story was trying to be told here
for a 300 page novel that is so laser-focused on its leads, there is precious little exploration of the characters' interior lives. i don't know much more about them than i did at the start. what's being explored? what is being said? what is the intention? monti is closed off, athena is closed off, there is nothing given over to exploring the emotional worlds that they inhabit, the all-important WHY of it. it's fine enough in a less thematically serious romance novel, but here, with an age gap, deep trauma, and a client/practitioner relationship, there is nothing given over to the inherent complexities of their bond.
there is a ton of hand waving and what i will charitably call contrivance to move things along, which i'll call "fine". there's some fucking and a couple of half-hearted heart to heart conversations, and that's it. boom, ding, bing bong, done. HEA.
okay, cool.
i truly do enjoy romance and romantic fiction, but you gotta give me something beyond pining, surface-level talking, and fucking.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2025
Shameless Expectations is an emotionally charged and beautifully written sapphic romance that dives deep into the complexities of trust, vulnerability, and second chances. Adrian J. Smith crafts a love story that feels both mature and refreshingly real — full of tension, tenderness, and moments that linger long after the final chapter.
The chemistry between the two leads is undeniable, but what really sets this audiobook apart is the emotional honesty. Smith doesn’t shy away from messy feelings or difficult conversations — instead, she lets her characters grow through them. The result is a story that feels grounded, deeply human, and genuinely heartfelt.
The narration by Lory Prince and Quinn Riley is once again phenomenal. Their dual performance brings the characters vividly to life — Prince’s smooth confidence balances perfectly with Riley’s warmth and emotional nuance. Together, they elevate the story, making every intimate moment and quiet confession pulse with authenticity.
This is more than just a romance — it’s a story about learning to open up, forgive, and find joy without apology.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 — Stunningly written, beautifully performed, and emotionally resonant. Shameless Expectations is a must-listen for fans of sincere, character-driven sapphic love stories.
The chemistry between the two leads is undeniable, but what really sets this audiobook apart is the emotional honesty. Smith doesn’t shy away from messy feelings or difficult conversations — instead, she lets her characters grow through them. The result is a story that feels grounded, deeply human, and genuinely heartfelt.
The narration by Lory Prince and Quinn Riley is once again phenomenal. Their dual performance brings the characters vividly to life — Prince’s smooth confidence balances perfectly with Riley’s warmth and emotional nuance. Together, they elevate the story, making every intimate moment and quiet confession pulse with authenticity.
This is more than just a romance — it’s a story about learning to open up, forgive, and find joy without apology.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 — Stunningly written, beautifully performed, and emotionally resonant. Shameless Expectations is a must-listen for fans of sincere, character-driven sapphic love stories.
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