Unscripted Love

Alpine Ridge #3

by Melanie A. Smith

Sometimes you have to go off-script to find your true role in life ...

Carrie Anderson has always put others first, following the path that was expected of her over her own desires. But when she finds herself jobless and disillusioned, she takes a chance on a new venture in the charming town of Alpine Ridge, discovering a strength she never knew she had. As she helps shape the town’s future, Carrie finds herself drawn to the last person she ever expected to find in a small, out-of-the-way town in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State – Hollywood heartthrob Evan Edwards.

Evan thought he had it all — fame, fortune, and a successful career as an action movie star. But when a scandal threatens to derail his career, he retreats to his brother’s mountain hideaway to escape the spotlight. In Alpine Ridge, he finds a simpler life and a connection he never thought possible with the town's ambitious political consultant. As Evan grapples with his future in Hollywood, he realizes that true happiness might lie far from the red carpet.

As Carrie and Evan navigate their growing feelings, they must confront their fears and overcome the challenges of their different worlds. Will Carrie find the courage to step into the spotlight of Evan's world? Or will Evan be willing to leave behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood for a chance at real happiness? In this heartwarming tale of love, self-discovery, and small-town charm, Carrie and Evan must learn that sometimes the greatest love stories are unscripted.

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2024

About the author

Melanie A. Smith is an award-winning, international best-selling author of steamy romance with smart, self-sufficient heroines and strong, swoony book boyfriends with hearts of gold. A former engineer turned stay-at-home mom and author, when Melanie is not lost in the world of books you’ll find her spending time with her husband and son, crafting, or cross-stitching.

Reviews

[Lindsey Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful addition to the Alpine Ridge series, which I am absolutely loving! All of these characters are such a pleasure to read, and now I get to add Carrie and Evan to the list too!
Movie star meets a woman who is figuring out where her life goes when she ends up in Alpine Ridge. I loved reading how they grew as individuals, and also the dynamics of the Alpine Ridge gang.
I don’t want to give away any spoilers but definitely pick this one up and get into those small-town, winter, Xmas vibes!
Another fantastic book, Melanie.
Five stars.

[Bec · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the characters and the unique personality each one brought to the story. It's a fast, feel-good read that's charming and sweet with just the right amount of spice.

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book. It flowed pretty well and the characters seemed to be well written. A lot of people have dreamed of meeting and dating their favorite actor and in this book the MFC gets lucky enough to do so.
This book has some good ups and down but in the end love prevails and the characters learn what really matters in their lives.
I will look for this author again :).

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Linda J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carrie Anderson’s parents are horrible, but she’s put up with them, even after they cast off her sister for following her own dream. Now it’s Carrie’s turn. She heads to Alpine Ridge to be with her sister and jump-start her career. She meets movie star Evan Edwards. He’s disillusioned with his life, so he decides to hang out in Alpine Ridge with his brothers. Soon Carrie and Evan have feelings for each other, but can they survive the ups and downs of a Hollywood romance?

I loved this book, especially when Carrie finally stood up to her parents and told them off!

I received an advance review copy from Book Sirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Melanie A. Smith]

This steamy small-town celebrity romance is now available in ebook, paperback, and hardcover! For buy links, book trailer, and more go to https://melanieasmithauthor.com/books...

[Dawn Griffith · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars! I couldn't put this one down—I literally finished it in less than 24 hours! The chemistry between the characters is so adorable and genuine, it made my heart melt. Though the spice level is mild, it’s the sweet connection that really shines. From their banter to their tender moments, I was hooked on watching their relationship grow. Every chapter kept me wanting more, and I was completely drawn in by their journey. It's one of those feel-good reads that leaves you with a warm smile by the end!

Thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to receive this ARC to review.

[Julie Booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first visit to Alpine Ridge, but not my last, as I enjoyed my time there. A found family I would love to be included in; every single person brings something to the table and is so easy to like. A small town with plenty of charm adds to the story.

Both Carrie and Evan are in Alpine Ridge to take a step back from their lives, to regroup or hide out. Both are finding the slower pace to their liking.

What stands out is the character growth, relationship growth, and overall journey. A fast paced read that I did not want to put down. This book has the chemistry but is a bit milder on the spice.

Thank you to NetGalley and Wicked Dreams Publishing for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another sweet and spicy read from Alpine Ridge!

Unscripted Love is a fairly low angst, small town/celebrity romance between two people who are essentially starting over in life. Carrie Anderson's newly graduated from grad school *and* newly estranged from her toxic parents and has moved to Alpine Ridge to start anew, taking inspiration from her sister Mia ( Tough Love ). The superstar celebrity life has started to sour for Evan Edwards, even before his trip back to Alpine Ridge for his brother's wedding (to Mia, naturally) Once he meets Carrie, though? He's on his way to changing things forever.

Carrie and Evan's story has a touch of the Cinderella to it, though she's certainly not waiting around for anyone to rescue her, as her actions here consistently prove. She's creating her own job opportunity, surrounding herself with a new found family, and even buying a new home. And when she stands up to her toxic parents? The cherry on top.

And oh yeah, she also gets the guy in the end. (Spoiler alert!)

Unscripted Love is the third in the series, and it could be read as a standalone--but don't you want to see how Mia and Nate and Joanie and Greg ( Recklessly in Love ) first got together before seeing how cute they are together now?

That's what I thought ;) #yourewelcome

Rating: 4 stars / B+

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Hannah & Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unscripted Love by Melanie A Smith

4 Stars

Overview: Evan Edwards isn't loving his Hollywood life, but he isn't sure what is next. When he travels to Alpine Ridge for his older brother's wedding, he finds friendship, true friendship! He also meets Carrie. Carrie hasn't been in Alpine Ridge long but has decided this is her new home. With her found family and a dream job intact, what more could she want? The problem is, that there are real sparks between Carrie and Evan. Something is happening between them, but is it enough to survive Hollywood, distance, and other external forces at work?

Our Thoughts: Carrie and Evan were two characters we found ourselves rooting for the whole book. We wanted them to find their happiness in Alpine Ridge. Also, any small-town, busybody book has our hearts. We come from a small town, so we connect with these characters so much. A fun found family, strangers to lovers romance!
#AlpineRidgeorbust

Perfect if you like ...
Small Town Romance
Found Family
Finding Your True Self

Similar To:
In the Weeds by B.K. Borison

#UnscriptedLove #NetGalley #AlpineRidge #smalltownromance #series #book #bookrecs #bookrecommendations #bookreviews #readwithushm

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely story that takes place over months, rather than just a week. I thought this really helps the relationship develop rather than just being quick to get married and live happily ever after. Time moves on at a good pace, nothing rushed or awkwardly spaced and it adds a nice realism to the story!

Carrie and Evan are absolutely adorable together! They have an amazing, understated chemistry that has a nice realism to it. Carrie is a bit wayward after college (and previous job opportunities falling through), and she heads to Alpine Ridge for her sister's wedding and meets a certain leading man from Hollywood. Evan is taking a break from work, because who hasn't experienced burnout in their profession? I quite liked this celebrity/non-celebrity romance! It was different from a lot of the others I've read. It was less flashy from Hollywood and more small town vibes in Alpine Ridge.

This is the third book in the series and can be read as a standalone story. It's nicely spicy, but still very plot-based. If you want something steamier, I'd recommend this author's earlier works.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Krissy C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as an ARC and leaving my honest review voluntarily. An easy to read, low/zero angst romance that had the right amount of steam and emotion. There is a strong found family feel to the story that added to the depth and connection of the characters and the town of Alpine Ridge. Carrie started off lost and pretty much a doormat trying to please her parents and everyone else but she slowly finds her confidence and learns to stand up for herself which I thought was so important for her before she has a relationship. I liked that Evan was a nice person and didn't have airs and expectations, despite being an actor. The 2 pretty much have an insta attraction to each other and act on it but his hollywood life gets in the way of their budding relationship so it was a little bumpy and they both had to figure out what's worth fighting and sacrificing for to get their HEA.

[KH_mama_08 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carrie and Evan's story is the third Alpine Ridge romance we get the privilege of immersing ourselves in and it did not disappoint me. Once again, Melanie A. Smith weaves a story between two loveable characters who are flawed but open to changing and growing. Alpine Ridge is contrasted with the hustle and bustle of LA giving a glimpse of opposing lifestyles and the significant shifts change can lead to. I enjoyed the chemistry between Carrie and Evan and appreciated both of their character growths, which I think made them stronger in the end. I would have preferred a little bit less of the back and forth of "will it work, won't it work" but overall enjoyed the story. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy irresistible chemistry between characters who have some growing to do and put in the work to make that change a reality.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Michelle C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carrie is a people pleaser and she is not pleasing her awful parents with her decisions. So she leaves and heads to Alpine Ridge a beautiful small community where her sister lives. She is hoping to find something there to make her life better. In walks Evan this bright and shining movie star who just happens to be her new brother in laws younger brother.
This book has a great story, just enough heat and some heart warming situations. I was hooked from the beginning. Enjoy their story and all these fun and quirky characters around the .
Always remember sometimes unscripted is the way to go in life and love.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

♥️ARC REVIEW♥️
Unscripted Love was such a lovely read! I couldn’t put it down! The love the characters had for each other felt so genuine and their chemistry was off the charts! This was my first reading a book written by Melanie but I won’t be my last! Thank you so much for allowing me to read Unscripted love!!

[Alexsis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Melanie can write books. Every one of her books sucks me right in and doesn’t let me go! I enjoyed Carrie and Evan in this one. They’re not a couple you’d expect and seeing their story come together and the way they ended up just really got me 🥹 I loved it!

[Louise J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book three in the Alpine Ridge series which can be read as a standalone. Carrie finds herself unsupported and jobless in Seattle after giving so much to her parents and so-called friends as she completes her master’s degree in political science. She decides to stay with her sister Mia in Alpine Ridge to start afresh and build her career in her chosen field which she loves. Evan is an A list movie star who seems to have it all, but when he visits Alpine Ridge for his brother Nate’s wedding to Mia, he is instantly attracted to Carrie, who has long fantasised about him. They quickly grow close and intimate, but Evan has to return to his life in LA and Carrie won’t allow herself to wait around for him until he can return. This is an intoxicating read, both for the feelings and emotions which Carrie and Evan experience, and the changes they go through as they figure out what they really want from life, and what will make them happy. Carrie grows in strength and confidence and it is a thrill to see her stand up for herself. For Evan, the realisation of what is important to him and what he can’t live without is equally as powerful. Highly recommended for readers who are looking for emotional depth and angst, the heartbreaking push and pull between giving into attraction and what will work in real life and breathtaking steam.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

This the most captivating book I've read by Melanie A Smith

The story blurb, you can read for yourself, below is my opinion.

From the beginning I found Carrie and Evan relatable, both of them had to look inwards to realise that there's more to life than being people-pleasers. We get to follow their emotional maturing and, if we are honest with ourselves, at some stage of our lives, most of us have to do the same.

Melanie just gets it (w)right with the words that are used to describe what Carrie and Evan's emotions & reactions change throughout the story; maybe it would be better to use the word empathic?

When Evan bailed out on Carrie, I was gutted for her but then it was awesome to see how she took control of her life and when she finally stood up for herself, I applauded her (while my family looked at me as if I was nuts). Evan thought he was living his dream...until he wasn't; ultimately he too had to stand up for himself against yourself (read the book to find out what I mean).

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[_bookswithhart_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a story about Carrie who realizes she needs to make a change in her life and that includes standing up for herself. So, she decides to go to Alphine Ridge to be closer to her sister, Mia and start this change. In doing so, she meets Hollywood star Evan who ends up being Nate’s brother who is soon to marry Mia. The have an instant connection but Hollywood calls and Carrie doesn’t think she can handle the spotlight and all that comes with it. Will they 'nd to a way to make this work or is not in the stars for them?I will not lie, I am never usually a fan of the celebrity trope cause, it usually comes o) as I’m rich, I can buy you this and that and just over the top. That is NOT the case with this one. This one was perfectly written! I loved every part of this! Evan was a great MMC and realized the errors of his ways per say without being over the top and so drawn out. Carrie showed it’s hard to want something so bad but also knowing she needs to focus on herself to be the best version of herself. This story just played out so well with little to no drama but wasn’t to mushy! Again, I love this authors books and totally recommend not only this book but this series. I can’t wait till the next one!

[Bev · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carrie has parents who are insufferable. They will not hear anything but what they want her to do, regardless of how she feels. They have not spoken to their other daughter, Mia, because she left town to open a bakery in Alpine Ridge. Carrie always let people walk all over her but has decided to make a change. When her parents kick her out of the house because she didn't do what they insisted she do, she phoned Mia. Once she got to Alpine Ridge, she felt like home. Evan is a movie star and feeling very jaded. He decides to head for Alpine Ridge for a break as that is where his brother lives. Of course, he and Carrie meet, and the atmosphere is electric between them. Of course, love never runs smooth. This was an absolutely wonderful story and I loved it from start to finish.

[Louise - romance.movies.and.books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This author knows how to write a series.

Evan heads to his brother's house due to the pit falls in his glamours life and seeks solace in Alphine Ridge but he did not count of Carrie. Carrie has a quiet strength and genuine kindness, but she too has her own reasons on being with her sister in Alphine Ridge.

Enjoy as these two try and navigate the ins and outs of life and Carrie seeing the man behind the fame. As their relationship develops you will see the emotional depth and vulnerability of both.

The author has given a warning at the beginning of this book advising that there are some elements of this book that might not be suitable for some readers. So please check this out before reading.

I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this book from the author for an honest review.

[QueenOfBooks88 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melanie knows how to captivate hearts within small town romance!
Absolutely beautiful story for Carrie & Evan. Oh my heart melted and some moments brought a few tears! I love the raw unfiltered people you get within these characters especially when there are aspects of the characters lives that you can relate to as it makes you feel seen. I love whenever previous book characters make an appearance whether through the whole book or small parts as it feels like a little family reunion because we all know the best of friends can be the family you need 🥰
I am super excited to see what's next ❤️

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This romance follows Carrie and Evan as they meet each other and get to know each other. They are both at a crossroad in their lives so are working through their own issues as they figure out their relationship and if it will work or not. There is sensitivity on both sides as they work through the twists and turns life gives them. A satisfying romance well written with lots of thought put into all the characters as well as the town.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jacqueline Gunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful read by Melanie A. Smith. As always, her believable, well-developed characters pulled me right into the story. I loved Carrie and Evan and I loved visiting Alpine Ridge again. What an interesting backdrop (being a city-girl, I am always intrigued by small town environs and dynamics)! Carrie and Evan each have their own backstories with ample baggage. We see the growth and change and, ultimately, the evolution of their love. A great 5-star read. I highly recommend the whole Alpine Ridge series to all romance lovers. Smith is a master of her genre.

[Judith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotional growth for both protagonists.
This was a very well-written, entertaining, and captivating story about Carrie and Evan, coming to terms with their relationship from opposite ends of the social and economic spectrum. There is a lot of angst due to the emotional baggage they both carry. Their attraction and their honesty about their situation lead them eventually to a HEA. I am more than happy to recommend this book to all who love this genre.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Eris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book. The two main characters are Carrie and Evan. Carrie is helping the town set up voting systems. Evan is a movie star. They meet when Evan comes to town to see his brothers. One of his brother is engaged to Carrie’s sister. There is an instant attraction. They secretly see each other. Evan gets a phone call to come back to Hollywood to talk about a movie. He leaves, it doesn’t come back for several months. He comes back and they decide to break up and be friends. Several months later, he decides to come back and see Carrie. They fall in love.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carrie is lucky her sister (Mia) always has her back, so when she finds herself adrift, Mia is there to help her. Carrie meets Evan and the sparks fly, but will his career make it impossible for it to be something more? I enjoyed Carrie and Evan's rollercoast ride, the interesting side character, the humour, and the drama.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had never heard of this author, this book, or this series. The main female character was Carrie and it was SO fun to read my own name and nicknames. I LOVED these characters, and the story. I couldn’t put this book down and then downloaded book 1 and 2 of this series. Give it a try you wont be disappointed.

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved these characters, as wishes come true in meeting their favorite actor. Liked the pace of this book, as the author really develops these characters as the story goes along. Enjoyed the chemistry between them as each of them also takes control of their own life and go after what they want.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anne Sinclair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely LOVED this book 🥰. Another great addition to the fabulous Alpine Ridge series. All the dearly loved characters (and not so loved ones!) from Tough Love and Recklessly in Love made appearances and helped to mould Carry and Evan’s story.
Just as expected from the amazing story telling by Melanie A Smith.
A definite 5✨

[Ritu · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Carrie and Evan grow personally, and professionally. I really love Carrie standing up for herself, so refreshing!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.