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Desperate Haste

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Malcolm Kacee is Charleston’s biggest playboy. Known for his inked up skin and the fact that he would rather have a woman fall in love with him for only a weekend instead of forever, he’s perfectly content in his arrangement with the opposite gender. One and done, nothing more. That is, until the night of his best friend’s wedding when he finally gets the girl he’s been trying to bag for weeks—the bride’s best friend. After their hasty one night stand, he can’t seem to shake her from his mind. For the first time in his life, he’s ready to call her his for good, even if it means burning his entire playboy image to the ground.

Ophelia Sommers loves sex and isn’t afraid to own it. If men are allowed to take a different girl home each weekend and be seen as ‘the man’, then why can’t women? She loves who she is as a curvy, successful businesswoman and for reasons she rarely shares, refuses to let any man claim her as his own.

Yet, why can’t she stop thinking about the tattooed bartender that took her home after her best friend’s wedding? And why does she find his thick-framed glasses and the fact that he reads the newspaper every day so annoyingly hot? And why, even in his darkest season, does she want to do anything she can to pull him back into the light?

What starts out as a desperate haste to share just one night together becomes a love neither of them expected. Together they learn that you can always start over and find love no matter how hard you’ve fallen in the past.

• content warnings •
While Malcolm and Ophelia’s story is on overall positive one, there are some potentially sensitive topics & subjects covered within it. Please read the content warnings inside the book prior to reading.

A detailed dicktionary is included inside the book should you want closed-door modifications!

Desperate Haste is a reformed playboy x reformed playgirl, spicy and emotional romance story with a whole lotta found family, heart, and heat . It is an interconnected, stand-alone story and is the third book in The Nat. 20 Series!

362 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 15, 2025

72 people are currently reading
652 people want to read

About the author

Rebecca Wrights

9 books316 followers
Rebecca Wrights is a romance author writing stories about swoon-worthy men and the women they adore. She is all about creating stories and characters that her readers can connect and relate to, while also falling madly in love with them. Small-town romances and steamy love scenes can be expected in each of her stories.

When she’s not writing, Rebecca is playing with her pups or spending time with her very own, swoon-worthy guy. She is based in Charleston, SC which inspires the setting in her debut novel, Feels Like Coming Home which is set to release in early 2024!

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5 stars
124 (45%)
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102 (37%)
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38 (13%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
Profile Image for Chiara^•^.
438 reviews118 followers
May 19, 2025
Desperate Haste by Rebecca Wrights
4/5⭐
2,5/5🌶️

This book is a delightful mix of spice, emotion, and heartwarming moments! I loved the chemistry between the two main characters. What really stood out for me was how genuine and relatable their struggles felt. Watching them support each other as they faced their demons and healed together was so touching. This is my first book by this author, and even though I was unfamiliar with the characters, I could immediately sense the deep connection they shared.

Malcolm and Ophelia are afraid of feelings and commitment; they’re more into casual flings and one-night stands. But then they have this incredible night together, and from that moment on, Malcolm can’t shake off his feelings for Ophelia. He realizes there’s something special between them and believes they could be more than just a hookup. On the other hand, Ophelia insists they should keep things strictly physical—no feelings, no relationships, just fun.

I loved that Malcolm was the first to open up to Ophelia, and as she started feeling more comfortable, she eventually let her guard down too. They have their share of dark pasts, and it tugged at my heartstrings. I admired how Malcolm was determined to embrace his feelings for Ophelia instead of running away. He’s committed to showing her that they could have something beautiful together. Ophelia is a fantastic character—smart, hardworking, independent, and super confident. I admired her self-assurance with her body and sexuality, and it was so rewarding to see her gradually admit her feelings for Malcolm. They truly become each other’s rock and biggest fans throughout the story.

Overall, this book beautifully captures themes of trust, healing, overcoming trauma, and love. It’s about the decision to get better not just for others, but for yourself. The characters felt so real and relatable, and their growth throughout the story was amazing to witness. The friendships and found family bonds are strong, and you’ll be cheering for these characters to the end!
Profile Image for krista | kristas_bookshelf.
426 reviews1 follower
May 13, 2025
- arc review -

4.5 ⭐️

I cried while beta reading and I’m crying all over again 😭 I love these two so much and I’m so glad they have each other.

RW continues to write heartbreaking and healing all within the same lines and it’s always so beautiful.

Still my fave of the series and still my fave RW.

- reformed playboy / playgirl
- found family
- dislike to love
- banter
- curvy & confident fmc
- grief & loss rep
- addiction rep

——

- beta read -

god dammit, she’s done it again and this is officially my new fave RW 🥹 I didn’t expect this book to have such an impact on me but boy am I happily surprised. I can’t wait to share more deets closer to release!
Profile Image for Christina (Christina's Book Corner).
915 reviews180 followers
May 9, 2025
Malcolm Kacee is Charleston’s biggest playboy. Known for his inked up skin and the fact that he would rather have a woman fall in love with him for only a weekend instead of forever, he’s perfectly content in his arrangement with the opposite gender. One and done, nothing more. That is, until the night of his best friend’s wedding when he finally gets the girl he’s been trying to bag for weeks—the bride’s best friend. After their hasty one night stand, he can’t seem to shake her from his mind. For the first time in his life, he’s ready to call her his for good, even if it means burning his entire playboy image to the ground.

Ophelia Sommers loves sex and isn’t afraid to own it. If men are allowed to take a different girl home each weekend and be seen as ‘the man’, then why can’t women? She loves who she is as a curvy, successful businesswoman and for reasons she rarely shares, refuses to let any man claim her as his own.

Yet, why can’t she stop thinking about the tattooed bartender that took her home after her best friend’s wedding? And why does she find his thick-framed glasses and the fact that he reads the newspaper every day so annoyingly hot? And why, even in his darkest season, does she want to do anything she can to pull him back into the light?

What starts out as a desperate haste to share just one night together becomes a love neither of them expected. Together they learn that you can always start over and find love no matter how hard you’ve fallen in the past.


Review: I absolutely loved Malcolm and ophelia story it was real and raw and of course spicy


ophelia and Malcolm hook up the night of Hank and Bailey wedding

and after that, Malcolm can't stop thinking about her

they start hooking up regularly

they open up to each other about their past Malcolm with drug use and ophelia with an abusive partner .


when Malcolm sponsor marshal dies Malcolm starts using it again and hurts the people who love him

he gets the help he needs, and ophelia is there for him along with his friends. him and ophelia move in together.

I'm curious about Conrad's book, and if him and Margaret are gonna be a thing .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Evelyn.
55 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2025
you have no idea how obsessed i am with this

thank you to rebecca for an earc!!!
my rating: 5/5 stars

tropesss
playboy X playgirl
tattooed bartender
cute nicknames
found family
he falls first then harder

ok so like ophelia is probably my new favorite fmc from rebecca like i aspire to be her idk??? shes such a vibe and so confident and i love it. i was instantly hooked from the first chapter and ophelia and malcolm's relationship arc was like the cutest
being so honest tho i wasn't expecting to like malcolm as much as i did like i usually hate playboys yk but DAMN???? his backstory and character arc and everything was just askjdghakdjs my poor baby just needs a hug and he says the sweetest things about ophelia, that boy was down BAD (me and who)
i was literally sobbing towards the end, everything was so good and sad and i love this little group they actually deserve the world my poor babies
um anyways i was emotionally wrecked everyone please go read this when it comes out on may 15th!!!!! (def check trigger warnings self care is hot ily)
Profile Image for Lauren Sexton.
182 reviews9 followers
May 15, 2025
I will read ANYTHING Rebecca writes! I love this series so much, and book 3 (Desperate Haste) did not disappoint!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Holy moly! Rebecca writes some spicy stuff, but so far this was the spiciest book in the series!

Ophelia & Malcolm are both flawed individuals who were scared of commitment and marriage based on their pasts. Ophelia is a confident, business-woman with a mean/drunk of an ex-fiancé. Malcolm is a handsome, tattooed bar manager with a history of drug abuse. When Ophelia and Malcolm hook up after their best friend’s wedding, they both swear it was a one time thing, but why can’t they stop thinking about one another?

I absolutely adored these characters. Their relationship and personalities seemed so believable. I love that Rebecca chose to incorporate addiction and mental health into this book. Both are topics that can be difficult and are frequently shied away from.

Small spoilers! My tiny complaint for DH:
I felt some parts were repetitive in this book. For example, with both Malcolm and Ophelia’s back stories, ie: Malcolm and his drug addiction & Ophelia and her ex-fiancé, I don’t think these stories needed to be repeated both at the beginning of the book AND again when they confided in one another about their past. I think it would have made more of an emotional impact had those backstories been withheld until they shared their stories with one another.

I loved this book. I can’t wait for book 4 and to find out how our grumpy Conrad finds love! Sounds like his story is already in motion…. 🥰❤️

As always, thank you Rebecca for the absolute privilege of being on your arc team! I truly adore you, your books, and your characters! (My review of DH above is my honest review! )
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Stella Murray.
128 reviews22 followers
February 11, 2025
"The way he looks at me, talks to me, and treats me makes me love who I am even more than I ever did before." - Ophelia

Tropes:
❤️‍🔥 Found family
❤️‍🔥 Playboy X Playgirl
❤️‍🔥 Tattooed bartender
❤️‍🔥 He falls first then harder
❤️‍🔥 He calls her "little fox" and "princess"
❤️‍🔥 She calls him "pretty boy"
❤️‍🔥 Interracial couple
❤️‍🔥 Grief & loss rep
❤️‍🔥 "You came", "You called"
❤️‍🔥 Interconnected standalone (book 3)
❤️‍🔥 Addiction & recovery rep
❤️‍🔥 Dislike to love

Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️.5 /5

I was given the opportunity to read this book as an ARC and I loved it just as much as I did the first 2. I always wanted these two to get together and oh I'm so glad that they did.

Malcolm and Ophelia only ever do one-night stands and on the night of their best friend's wedding, they get together. But after that one night, Malcolm starts to realize that he wants more with Ophelia. Slowly, Ophelia starts to let Malcolm in even though she has strict rules for herself when it comes to guys (due to past trauma) but she starts to break all of them because of Malcolm.

This story is about overcoming past trauma, building trust, overcoming addiction, learning how to deal with grief, learning that you don't need to be perfect and that if people truly love you then they will stay and show you that you matter. Malcolm and Ophelia fit together so well and build such a beautiful relationship where they are always showing up for one another even if they don't necessarily understand why in the beginning.

"Desperate Hatse" will be released on May 15th and I promise, if you loved the first two books then you will absolutely love this book as well. If you haven't read the first 2 books, then go read those and come back here. And now to patiently wait for Conrad's book.

"It feels as if I have lived a thousand lives in one night but the one I like the most is the one where I am with her." - Malcolm
Profile Image for Meilin.
72 reviews
May 19, 2025
arc review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️|🌶️🌶️🌶️

Wow 😭 I did not expect this one to hurt the way it did, or as much as it did. I knew it was gonna hurt a bit, like the others did but damn, this one *hurt*, and it’s definitely my favourite of the series (so far).

Both Ophelia and Malcolm have my heart. These two really went through so much, but they both came of out it so strong. I admire the two of them, and their strength.

The cameos and the found family in this one were just next level. I mean to a point where they weren’t even cameos, and I absolutely loved it.

Getting to see even more of the groups friendship was everything 😭 and seeing just how important all they are to, and loved by, each other, ugh my heart. And especially not just the boys but the girls too. They’re little girl group and how they all care for each of the boys.

The core 8 of the nat 20 series is definitely one of my favourite found family.

Whether I would recommend this one is not even a question. Hell yes I would. This one emotionally wrecked up and put me back together by the end in the best way possible.

thank you so much for the arc!!


Profile Image for Jamie.
1,113 reviews277 followers
will-not-read
February 24, 2025
Note to self: I probably won’t read this bc I don’t like Malcolm and Ophelia is eh, but I don’t want to completely rule it out on my won’t read shelf so I’m storing it in the maybe
——————————————
Actually I changed my mind after finishing mending me. I really really really disliked Malcolm. he is a pig tbh and I don’t want to read about a man like that.

From mending me: Malcolm turned his neck to look at her and I didn’t miss how his eyes passed over her chest for a few seconds too long. (Malcolm ogling his friends’s girlfriend)

“Hey, how’s that hot piece of a—” Malcolm ( Malcolm about to call his friend’s girlfriend a “hot piece of ass”🤮)

I AM looking forward to Conrad’s book tho
Profile Image for Tasma.
212 reviews7 followers
May 23, 2025
I have been SO EXCITED waiting for this book, especially for the little sneak peek of this romance that we saw in Divine Sense and the fact that it’s Malcolm and Ophelia JUST IS FUCKING SENDING ME.

The IMMEDIATE spice and electricity between these two just WRECKED ME in the best of ways. Their banter and chemistry towards each other was just TOP FUCKING TIER. FINALLY having Malcolm’s story, I was SO EXCITED to finally be able to dive into the inner workings of the infamous playboy of the group. And my GOD is he the cutest? Not only is he charming, which he definitely is as you can tell by his title of ‘playboy’ but he cares a lot for the people he loves and shows it in the kindest and most heartwarming ways. But you couldn’t have prepared me for his struggles. That shit had my heart BREAKING. My poor baby Malcolm! Not only was I waiting for Malcolm, but I was also waiting for Ophelia’s story too! Being Bailey’s best friend and her own ‘playgirl’ if you will, I was interested in seeing how it would all play out! But my god, Ophie is one hell of a woman, and I can see why Malcolm finds himself not being able to stop thinking about her. She’s just as charming as he is, flirty, witty, and a firecracker of a personality and a goddess! Oh, and not to mention she is a CURVY GODDESS. We love the curvy representation! But as Malcolm does, she has her own struggles too, and how she has overcome them definitely makes her a BAD ASS BITCH!

Of course seeing the gang and when they also play D&D, not to forget the group chat is ALWAYS a highlight when reading this series and I definitely had my fix again with this book! Overall I LOVED everything about this story including seeing the futures for the already couples; Hank & Bailey as well as Kobi & Magnolia, and I can’t wait to dive into Connie’s story and his well-deserved happily ever after!
Profile Image for Kika ִ⋆ ࣪.
102 reviews5 followers
May 23, 2025
⋆May 12.
GUYS GUYS GUYS OMG??? THIS IS SO GOOD, I LOVE THIS GANG!!
ALSO!! Can't wait for Conrad's story. I feel it's going to be my favourite 👀
Current rank:
1- Mending Me (my loves)
2- Desperate Haste
3- Divine Sense

ִ⋆ ࣪ May 23.
4,7★
I know I've already said it, but thank you, Rebecca, for the chance to arc read this book.

I've been following the Nat. 20 series from the very beginning, and I love all of my boys sooo much.

This book is the third in the series and it follows Ophelia (Bailey's best friend) and Malcolm.

The characters, as always, are so well developed. They have a personality and voice of their own, and I love them so incredibly much.
Ophelia is a confident woman. She has no shame whatsoever in the life she takes (after all, if men don't, why would she? #queen) and she is a survivor and fighter.
Malcolm is an addict in recovery, always the funny one, and a really hot nerd, really. When dealing with the loss of one of the most important people in his life, he reaches rock bottom, trying to build his life back up all over again.

This book deals with some serious stuff, so be mindful of the trigger warnings if you decide to read it. If you've never read anything from this author, I just want to state that she is one of the best authors when approaching this kind of matters. She takes time to learn the best way to work it. (I love her 😓)

The end??? Oh my god. Not what I expected, at all! I was bawling my eyes out through the last 10%, and it didn't really end how I wanted it to. But you know what? It just felt right to end that way, so congratulations to Rebecca for writing such a powerful story.

If you want a hot & cute romance between a playboy and a playgirl, with lots of found family and a powerful confident FMC, this book's definitely for you.
Profile Image for Maria.
55 reviews
June 27, 2025
wanted an easy read and it was acc kinda good
Profile Image for MadQueen.
42 reviews
May 23, 2025
Once again, Ms. Rebecca Wright creates an amazing book in her catalog because this book I have been waiting patiently to hopefully receive an ARC from and when I got chosen, I immediately started to read it because she writes incredible books and I knew this was going to be incredible and it was. The way the feed off of one another and their connection to for each other is off the charts.
Profile Image for kk.
95 reviews1 follower
November 30, 2024
*beta read*

Rebecca Wrights has done it again! I have loved every book in this series so far, but this one hits different. If you’re looking for a sweet but heartbreaking and gut wrenching romance, then this book was made for you. This book deals with abuse, drug use, and grief, so please read the trigger warnings before getting into. However, Rebecca did a phenomenal job of handling these topics with the utmost care that they deserve. As per usual, if you want to feel things, both the giggling and kicking your feet or those agonizing tears, this book is it.

Thank you Rebecca Wrights for the opportunity to beta read this book. These are my own thoughts.
Profile Image for Angel.
163 reviews12 followers
January 1, 2025
Everything Rebecca does is an auto read for me and they have all been 5⭐️ so far! I absolutely loved these characters dynamic and this series as a whole honestly. This couple is probably the least expected aside from one other & their relationship comes together absolutely perfectly per usual! So excited for the next book🥹
Profile Image for Briana Bailon.
850 reviews16 followers
May 2, 2025
*Thank you so much Rebecca Wrights for providing me with an arc of this story! Greatly appreciated and I’m a big fan of this series!

*Please check Content/ Trigger Warnings before reading.

4.25⭐️/ 3-4🌶️

The Nat 20 series has quickly become a favorite series of mine that has, found family, humor, emotional depth, romance, and a core group of friends who are not only handsome but also nerds who love to play Dungeons and Dragon. This story followed, Malcolm and Ophelia, our two characters who have been known to play the hookup scene as well seasoned players. There’s no shame in having one night stands or just being a fan of sex as Ophelia and Malcolm were. With their best friends getting married, the tension between Ophelia and Malcolm finally reached its ends and those two went at it in the bedroom! This story showed as Malcolm and Ophelia slowly but surely started to realize that their one and done rule was never that and there was more between them than just booking up.

Like Rebecca’s previous books, this story did have some heavier elements that was discussed in the book. Malcolm and Ophelia each had a past that affected them due to the nature of it. While each circumstance was different, it nonetheless made them change parts of their lives. For Malcolm, it was the fact that he was a recovering addict and Ophelia was running from her past. I don’t want to give away too much information, but just know that the way Rebecca wrote this book especially in terms of Malcolm’s story didn’t hold back. Malcolm’s story was raw, and showed the highs and lows of what I imagine some recovering addicts either go through or have gone through similarly. Malcom was already a strong character, but to see him at his lowest points broke my heart which I’m sure the rest of his friends must have felt the same way. Regardless, Malcom’s story was one that I felt really was focused on more throughout the book, and ultimately showed more growth in his character development. Ophelia was also a force of nature with the way she was able to command a room with her presence and take the initiative. Similar to Malcolm, Ophelia was hiding parts of her past, but only because she was trying to prevent it from finding her. As you’ll see in the book, there was a reason why Ophelia was the way that she was, and the moment I found out about her past and why her independence mattered so much to her, I felt like I under her better. Both, Ophelia and Malcolm each had different experiences from their lives, but throughout the book I saw how they gradually lowered their guards, and revealed all their vulnerabilities to each other.

Even with all the angst, and emotional parts of the story, there was still some lighthearted banter and of course, the amazing found family! I got to see, Hank, Bailey, Magnolia, Kolbi, and Conrad once again, which was lovely. Another part of why I love this series so much is the way the friend group is always there for one another. No matter the situation, everyone always shows up, and you can see how much loyalty and love there is amongst them. Definitely would recommend you read these series if you want to read a book that has found family.

Overall, this was another good book written by Rebecca. While I didn’t exactly feel the same type of way that I did with the first two books, I still see how this book really took the time and effort to make sure Malcolm and Ophelia’s stories were told authentically and raw. Malcolm was always that character who I just saw as a playboy and didn’t really care for much aside from his friends, but this book showed me there was more to him. In addition, even a man such as, Malcolm struggled with inner demons, grief, and addiction aren’t an easy thing to deal with. Ophelia was a strong character and I really loved how unapologetic she was in how she loved sex, she was confident in herself, and definitely hot and knew it! I want to be as confident as Ophelia and even be a bit of a boss queen like her too! I think this story showed Malcolm and Ophelia as the perfect couple to be paired up, but also through the highs and lows they were there for one another. Now, I’m excited to read CONRAD’S STORY! GIVE IT TO ME I WANNA READ IT! OMG! Highly recommend this book/ series to read.
Profile Image for Jennifer Squillante.
238 reviews3 followers
May 20, 2025
I have been waiting for this book since I met both Ophelia and Malcolm in Mending Me( book 1 of the Nat 20 series).
That being said you can read this novel as a complete standalone, as Rebecca does a excellent job orienting new readers to her world.

Both of the MCs in this book have sworn off love, relationships and everything that comes with it. That is until Malcolm and Ophelia share a very cliched night at their best friends wedding. After that all bets were off, at least for Malcolm.

Let's start with Ophie. She is your curvy, strong, take no crap of anyone FMC, who is not afraid to tell you what she needs both in and out of the bedroom. And while her strength and steely spine are beautifully written, it is what is between the lines for her that make her all the more beautiful. She is running from a traumatic past relationship and toxic family, that has pushed her to distance herself from everyone( except a select few) in her life. " one and done" is her relationship motto, but beneath it all, all she wants is the loved the way one is supposed to be loved, without condition.

Malcolm, this beautifully broke boy, has battled addiction and has come out on the other side with the help of his brothers and Marshall, the man he credits with everything that got him to where he is. He doesn't see himself worthy of love and therefore has that playboy rep. There is a whole lot more to Malcolm that what we get on the surface, and it isn't until we start getting the voice of his inner demons do we understand just how deep-seated his brokenness is. Like Ophelia, a lot of Malcolm is between the lines. He wants to feel a connection and be worthy of the love that his best friends have found.

There were moments when I wanted to throw this book at the wall in both anger and excitement. Many times I wanted to drop in Rebecca's inbox and scream at her for Malcolm's actions, but then I can't because of the authenticity she brings to his character. The pressures of growing up in an Asian- American household, the pressures of being an addict in recovery, dealing with loss, I can see why Malcolm falls back on old habits, and as painful as it was to read, it is true to the story Rebecca is telling. The excitement of bearing witness to these two fall in love with each other, even after vowing they never would, of watching their walls come crumbling down little by little.

The way this book made me feel everything these two together were pure excellence, I think even Bailey makes the comment that the only one who would be able to "chain" Malcolm down would be Ophie and she is correct. There is something magnetic about these two and as much as they would like to deny that anything is there, it is hard to do. The nicknames and the banter. The give and take, the acceptance of who each individual and loving them for that reason, is just another reason I love this( and all the previous books on this series).


Tropes:
❤️‍🔥 Found family
❤️‍🔥 Playboy X Playgirl
❤️‍🔥 Tattooed bartender
❤️‍🔥 He falls first then harder
❤️‍🔥 He calls her "little fox" and "princess"
❤️‍🔥 She calls him "pretty boy"
❤️‍🔥 Interracial couple
❤️‍🔥 Grief & loss rep
❤️‍🔥 "You came", "You called"
❤️‍🔥 Interconnected standalone (book 3)
❤️‍🔥 Addiction & recovery rep
❤️‍🔥 Dislike to love

Thank you Rebecca for the ARC in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Readwithtaz.
127 reviews
May 15, 2025
This book completely stole my heart and left me a little love-drunk.

This is one about found family, recovery, healing, the beauty of starting over, resilience, and finding that one person who sees every part of you & chooses you anyway. It’s about realizing that you don’t have to meet impossible “perfect” standards to be loved, you, exactly as you are, are already enough.

Rebecca’s writing was immersive & emotionally rich with every emotion beautifully expressed. She didn’t shy away from heavy themes in this one but handled them with the tenderness, respect, & authenticity they deserve. It was sweet, spicy, heartwarming, SPICY- in case you missed the first one- & at times heartbreaking. And yet, somehow, it all worked together in perfect harmony.

Both characters came into the story carrying emotional weight; past traumas & demons, insecurities, & the kind of baggage life doesn’t let go of easily. But what made their journey so special was how they didn't just fall in love, they grew into it. Separately, but side by side. There was no rushing, no pressure. Just space. Actions. And a steady quiet love that built itself on trust and showing up.

Ophelia was a force of nature, fierce, confident badass, utterly unapologetic, spitfire. A true phoenix. She didn’t hide her softness, fears, vulnerability or her fire. She let herself be in front of Malcom. Real & unguarded. Although I’m well past the age of "growing up," I so want to be her.

Malcom, the nerdy playboy. Watching his journey unfold was beautiful. Getting to see his highs and lows was authentic & added much to his character. Raw, honest, and quietly powerful, a testament of his strength & heart. He realized his feelings for her early on, but never once forced them on her. Instead, he showed up: consistently, gently, patiently making me believe in soft love. He was her safe place, a reminder that love doesn't have to be loud to be real.

The chemistry? Electric. The banter? Top-tier. The teasing nicknames, the playful pull and push tension, the way they were in each other’s corner, it all just worked. And the spice? Whew. It was sizzling & intense. Mamma Mia indeed.

This series just keeps getting better and I don't want to think of the time when I have to bid farewell to this group. Last man standing, Connie. I can’t wait to read about your downfall!

Thank you so much Rebecca for providing me with an ARC of this story!
Profile Image for Lainey M.
4 reviews
May 31, 2025
ARC REVIEW

Main Song Association: One and Only by Adele

Review:
Desperate Haste is arguably the best work Rebecca Wrights has ever produced. In Desperate Haste, we follow the journey towards love between Malcolm Kacee and Ophel a Sommers. A story that evolves from a casual hookup to an unforgettable romance. Readers can feel the passion between Malcolm and Ophelia. This book left me giggling, twirling one of my two-strand twists, and kicking my feet. Outside of the tangible sexual tension throughout the book, Wrights empathetically articulates the struggles faced by an addicted/recovering person. The way she writes about the journey made me sob, and made me think about the people in my family who suffer from the disease of addiction. Wrights crafts her characters in a way that conveys reality. I found myself getting lost in the lives of these characters and caring about them deeply. Also, the discussion of the societal expectation of marriage and kids is an underlying centerpiece in the book. I appreciate that Wrights ensured both characters stuck to their convictions and boundaries. Everyone’s definitions of their relationships should be an individual experience. I am honored to have been selected to give this review. If any of this resonates with you, please remember that you matter. You are worthy. You did not come this far without having to fight to survive. Do not let anyone discourage you from how you choose to take up space. ALWAYS. PROVE. THEM. WRONG!

My personal playlist:
-Something New by Zendaya, Chris Brown
-Alone by Halsey
-Oh My God by Adele
-Be Cool by LOONY
-What if She Wants You by John Splithoff
-Automatic by The Bonfyre
-Rock The Boat by Aaliyah
-Bed Chem by Sabrina Carpenter
-Bad Liar by Selena Gomez
-Crazy by Kat Dahlia
-Love Me Not (feat. Rex Orange County) by Ravyn Lenae
-According to You by Orianthi
-You Should by Sad by Halsey
-She Used to Be Mine by Sara Bareilles
-She Will Be Loved by Maroon 5
-We Might Be Falling In Love by Victoria Monet, Bryson Tiller
-raw by LOONY
-Before You Go by Lewis Capaldi
-How Do I Say Goodbye by Dean Lewis
-Lost Without You by Freya Riddings
-How Could You by Jessie Murph
-Unsteady by X Ambassadors
-In My Blood by Shawn Mendes
-How to Save a Life by The Fray
-For the First Time by The Script
-Love Again by RuthAnne
-Over and Over Again by Nathan Sykes, Ariana Grande
-One and Only by Adele
Profile Image for Ashley Dalley.
50 reviews7 followers
May 8, 2025
Desperate Haste ❤️‍🔥 @rebeccawrightsauthor

🦊 ARC Review 🦊

Release Date: May 15th✨

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

THINGS TO EXPECT 👇🏼
❤️‍🔥 playboy X playgirl
🥃 tattooed bartender
🦊 cute nicknames
❤️‍🔥 spice from chapter one
🥃 found family
🦊 he falls first then harder
❤️‍🔥 a curvy FMC who’s hot AF & knows it

Where do I sign up to be Ophelia’s new best friend? No really though. Rebecca knows how to write a girl gang, and does it so well.

The way this story had me. The sexual tension between Malcolm and Ophelia was off the charts instantly. While they agreed this was a one time thing, their relationship began to form chapter by chapter while providing just the right amount of anticipation. Malcolm hooked me when he said, “she lights up my life in a way I never thought possible and I’ll do anything to keep her light close.” It’s an amazing feeling when someone really sees you, and you could feel it the moment it happened. The love story between these two really did give me all the feels, and they were hands down my favorite couple of the nat. 20 series.

Vulnerabilities are shown when they open up to one another about their pasts. Experiencing each other’s struggles and showing up for one another, strengthens their bond and they understand one another on a level others can’t. This friend group really shows up for one another and rally together and by showing up and providing support and love.

Their story was absolutely beautiful, and at times gut wrenching. From running from commitment, to them coming to the realization that they really were meant for one another.

I loved how “always in your corner” came into play time and time again without you even knowing it.

*I was already a fan of Rebecca’s writing as well as this series, so to be selected as an ARC reader was an absolute honor. I was thrilled to be able to provide my honest thoughts, opinions, and review. I cannot wait for Conrad’s story and the rest of this series.

Rebecca, you nailed it with this one! 👏🏻

IG: @ashleyheartsbooks
Profile Image for Another librarian.
248 reviews8 followers
May 15, 2025
✍️ 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑰𝑬𝑾 ✍️
“DESPERATE HASTE” REBECCA WRIGHTS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5 💧/5

Third book in this series I stumbled upon completely by chance last summer, and I’ve had the absolute pleasure of being an ARC reader for all three installments. I was eagerly waiting for Malcolm’s story, he had really piqued my curiosity. Despite his ill-timed remarks and bad-boy attitude, I always sensed there was so much more beneath the surface.

Malcolm is Charleston’s most sought-after playboy, used to short-lived, no-strings-attached flings. But after one night with Ophelia—the bride’s best friend at his best friend’s wedding—everything changes. He can’t get her out of his head, and for the first time, he wants more.
Ophelia is confident, independent, and allergic to commitment, but something about Malcolm—his tattoos, his thick-framed glasses, and that unexpectedly deep side—gets under her skin.
What was meant to be just one night turns into something real. Together, they discover that love can bloom even where neither of them was looking for it.

Maybe I was expecting anything from this story… except what I actually read. I didn’t anticipate this incredible depth, this plot so full of rawness and real-life struggles that we all face every day.
It’s a story of pain and healing, one that teaches us how sometimes we have to hit rock bottom—truly fall apart—before we can rise again on the other side.

I strongly recommend checking the TW, because what starts off as a seemingly light story about a playboy who never sleeps with the same woman twice—and the woman who brings him to his knees—turns out to be so much more than you might think.

I absolutely loved Ophelia’s character: strong, independent, unfiltered, unafraid to speak and act exactly how she wants, always respectful but never submissive. A curvy woman with a bold personality who doesn’t take crap from anyone—until she meets her pretty boy.

Malcolm. Dear, sweet Malcolm. You are the true phoenix of this story.

Just like in Mending Me, Rebecca Wrights delivers a tale of broken characters, people who believe this is just how life is for them now—but who, through the power of love, slowly mend.

I can’t wait to read Conrad’s story, and we’ve already been introduced to his possible love interest... but something tells me Rebecca has a big surprise in store for us.
50 reviews
May 19, 2025
I have patiently been waiting for Ophelia’s and Malcolm’s story ever since we got a sneak peak of them in Divine Sense! And let me tell you their story did not disappoint one bit! These two are one and the same and it is makes for some of the best banter filled, funny, and hot scenes. Our dear Malcolm is our playboy, commitment-phobe, and bartender extraordinaire. He is just there for a good time with no strings attached until our girl blows his mind! Ophie is such a strong-willed, self-made, and confident character that you can’t help but want to be just like HER! I AM OBSESSED WITH HER. She was able to accomplish what no other woman before her could. Without trying, she brought Malcolm down on his knees for her. He knew after their ONS that she was not like the rest, especially after she gave him a taste of his own medicine, and that is what lead him to fall hard for her! Beware though, because there are also some emotional scenes that will have you shedding some tears! I love how we get to see deeper into Ophelia and Malcolm than the Playboy/Playgirl personas they show the world. Being able to read about them connecting and sharing their past with each other really had me shedding some tears! There are some sensitive subjects talked about in this book, so please check the trigger warnings, but this is what Rebecca is so amazing at. At showing real world situations and people and how they can also get their HEA! Granted it did not come easy, but Malcolm put in the work to prove to Ophelia that he wants to be with her, and he is not afraid of some work. This story has it all, a feisty, self-made, strong-willed woman and man who is down bad for the only girl that will give it as good as she gets and is completely obsessed with her! So go read Desperate Haste ASAP, you will not regret it!
 
Profile Image for Simone.
21 reviews
May 31, 2025
Oh my god. This book was so good. Desperate Haste is the third book in the Nat. 20 series and I think it was the best one yet. I also believe this is the spiciest one of the three but maybe that’s just because it starts with spice from the very beginning. I’m not sure. But besides the very well written spice, there is so much more. Ophelia and Malcom write their own story. They both fight traumas and have both learnt to hide behind their playboy/playgirl personas. It was so good to see that they heal for and with each other and slowly open up. Somewhen there will be the person you want to open up and share what’s beneath. I think that this was captured perfectly. I also really loved how they both have their „no commitment“ past and the new feelings they develop were hard to accept at first. But eventually they came around. It all felt super natural and the way how Rebecca intertwines trauma and healing journeys into the romances is so good. I feel like these could be real people dealing with real problems and learning along the way. I have had this feeling before but had it again in this book. It feels so close to reality and I love that. The story still shows that there will be light at the end of the tunnel and eventually everyone can find their happy ends. Additionally, I have to add that I love love love the guys so much. Malcom cares so much for everyone close to his heart but also the other guys do, too. I love to read their text messages and have them all interact at their Dungeons and Dragons evenings. It’s so nerdy but so much fun. I love how these „boy meetings“ were extended with the girls naturally. All in all, I really loved Ophelia’s and Malcom’s story with all ups and downs. If you love reformed playboys (and/or playgirls), found family, spice and very well written trauma reps, then this one is for you.
Profile Image for Gabriella.
353 reviews
May 22, 2025
god, this book had everything! i cant even start my review before i say holy shit the ending was so perfect and different than i was expecting. Rebecca literally blew this book out of the water!

This book follows Malcolm and Ophelia, the known playboy and playgirl of their friend group. They hook up at Hank and Bailey's wedding, and they can't stop thinking about each other after the fact. That leads to one hook-up and then another. But they aren't perfect people. Malcolm is an addict in recovery, and Ophelia is guarded from a past relationship. These two things make it very hard for them to open up to each other, but slowly and surely, they start to grow together and form a strong relationship. With upcoming twists, will their relationship be able to handle the chaos?

I personally could not be happier with a release! I had to wait till after finals were over to read and review for my ARC, but it was so worth the wait. Malcolm was so patient with Ophelia, and I love that he was so easily changed. He knew immediately that Ophie was different and wanted to be different for her. Ophelia is a strong ass mother fucker! She got through so much for herself and the people around her! The ending was so perfect for the story! I was emotional through the last like 30-50% of the book, and I am not a crier when it comes to books. I was sobbing and so satisfied with the fact that it wasn't an ending that wraps everything up in a bow. There are still pieces being put back together, but THAT IS WHAT'S SO GOOD!!! The realism of the situation and the realistic feelings that the characters go through were what made it perfect! It also makes me that much more excited for Conrad’s book because not only will I get to see him fall to his feet for a woman but also because I will get to see all my babies with their partners one last time! I’ll get to see all their endings and I’m so excited!!

Thank you to Rebecca Wright for this ARC! You’ve written the book I will obsess over for the foreseeable future!
Profile Image for Lex.
70 reviews18 followers
May 24, 2025
Y’all I don’t even know where to start for this one Malcom and Ophelia were a couple I was so excited for and they exceeded my expectations!! Two people with the hardest of pasts, since the day they got out they made it their personal mission to change the lives they had. Malcom is an addict in recovery and Ophelia has a past with an abusive partner, both have family’s that didn’t really understand them. They’ve sworn off dating and getting married so the next best thing is sleeping around no feelings involved until the night of their best friends wedding when things between them changed forever. (I’m being dramatic with my wording but things really did change after that night 🤭) They’re just having fun, at least that’s what they’re telling themselves well Ophie at least but after a night where Malcom can’t stop thinking of her, he’s all in and he’s willing to wait till she’s ready to see it.
If I was to recommend you a series to read right now I’d tell you to go read the Nat. 20 series asap!!

5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“Ophelia?” I murmur, my brain starting to drift. “Yeah?” I hear her whisper back. “This might be just sex, but I think you’re one of the prettiest girls I’ve ever had ‘just sex’ with.”

“Mmm, you say that. But I think what you mean is you like me. It’s okay, one day you’ll say it and I’ll be here to say ‘I told you so.’”

“You made some poor choices, but you’re stronger than your addiction and you prove that every day you wake up and choose not to use again. Your parents see that.”

“You mean a lot to me, Malcom. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else than right here with you.”
Profile Image for Yessenia.
276 reviews1 follower
May 15, 2025
4.5 🌟

Malcolm and Ophelia are the couple I've been waiting for, and it didn't disappoint. The way that Malcolm knew he had to take it slow with her to not have her run away and slowly bring the idea of being a couple.

it was nice to see both of them open up about to the other back to back. You could see that they both trusted each other and wanted to further their relationship and be open to each other.

When she got the call to meet him at the hospital because Marshall was admitted, you could tell their relationship had developed further than they both realized. Marshall knew it was sweet to see their conversation through Malcolms point of view.

When he started using it again and his friends/family realized it. It was through their teamwork that they found him and got him back to Kolbis house to detox. Seeing Malcolm decide on his own prior to his friends talking to go back to rehab, as he realized he was trying to be perfect and do all the work himself. He went to Ophelia and apologizing then giving her Marshall's ring to hold onto until he was the man she needed him to be.

Seeing Ophelia finally admit she loved him and taking care of the business Marshall left him, working two jobs to make sure she kept her promise to Marshall and to feel like she was looking after Malcolm. When he returned and they finally reunited was sweet and overall what you'd expect for them.

Thank you Rebecca Wrights for the opportunity to once again read the ARC. I can't wait to see what's to come in Conrad's book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Madison Wells.
222 reviews
May 9, 2025
Rebecca, you will pay for your crimes for writing the most perfect angst in a book. Oh my God do I just love this series and these characters and everything?? First of all, Ophelia I literally love you so much and I aspire to be the woman you are and how you carry yourself. Ophelia was the confident, hot, sexy woman that everyone wants to either sleep with or be, and honestly I’m not sure if I’m one or the other! Second of all, Malcolm my sweet baby boy I love you so down bad I cannot believe that you OUTRANKED HANK????? Never would I thought to have seen the day!! But Jesus did I love Malcolm and all of his struggles and beautiful transformation. I was utterly obsessed with how this book portrayed some of the heaviest themes, yet still wrote it with grace and healing! The found family has been choking me up since Hank and Bailey’s story, but in this book I damn near suffocated it was so good. I was in love with how realistic Malcolm’s mental health struggles were—self-talk is such an overlooked struggle when it comes to addiction I feel like! I just could not contain my tears nearing the end of the book, it was like one fucking thing after the other. I was crying tears of sadness and disappointment and then I was crying tears of happiness and contentment. I just love this group so much, and I am actually salivating at the chance to read Conrad’s book—I am so sat that my ass is fused to my chair!!
Profile Image for Briana Scott.
450 reviews16 followers
May 3, 2025
ARC Review ✨
First I would like to say a big thank you to Rebecca for letting me be apart of this ARC Team!
Rate: 5/5⭐️
Spice: 2.5/5🌶️

What to expect when reading Desperate Haste;
-Reformed Playboy
-Reformed Playgirl
-Dislike to Love
-Found Family
-Addiction/ Recovery Rep

Okay, Rebecca hit the mark with this one! First makes sure to read trigger warnings. It does talk about certain topics that may be heavy for some. Malcolm is and forever will be in his playboy era! Well that was until the Queen playgirl herself Ophelia came into the picture! Have these two meet their match? From the beginning these two had me so captivated I couldn’t put this book down. These two had a lot to unpack, which was so beautifully written. The push and pull between these two jumped right off the pages! This book show to definition that blood family isn’t your only family and it’s OK to go through things as long as you get back up. I don’t wanna say too much more without giving it away, but this is a definitely must read, even if you haven’t read the beginning of the series.

Side notes:
-he has met his match
-I wanna be friends with Dale
-Marshall!!

Fav Quote: “I want to slap him and kiss him at the same time”

Make sure you get your copy of the book when it releases May 15th❤️
#bookstagram #romance #review
Profile Image for Mary Meadows.
235 reviews6 followers
May 3, 2025
Did someone else cry while reading this book? Cause I was in the last half! I mean WHAT

This book had everything.. the hot, the sad, the drama and the groveling
I think this relationship between Malcolm and Ophelia has progressed so amazingly and the tension and intimacy was so strong, I felt it through the screen while reading

That whole friend group is freaking amazing and how the guys stick by him, no matter what, is what true friendship should be like! The girls as usual keep the guys on their toes and I am also so intrigued about Conrad and Margret and their book

Malcolm, bless his heart, went through so much and then when everything seemed to go right, something happed again that send him spiraling into despair, all of them were there for him and I wish I had friends like that

This book was beautiful and I really loved that they found each other and how two “one and done” people started something that was gonna be serious sooner that later and the realization was a little late but once it was there, everything was just right, but of course, there’s no book without drama, her ex and also his past. Her past wasn’t explored too much but I think that wasn’t really interesting cause Malcolm handele that, his thing made more impact on their relationship and I loved that

Rebecca, thank you so much for writing this beautiful story! I can’t wait for more from the nerds 🥰
Profile Image for Calypso✨.
165 reviews6 followers
May 16, 2025
ARC Review🔥

❤️First off I want to say to the Author I am soo happy you released this book. Seriously I loved all these characters and can’t get enough of them. It was a great book to read!🥹

✨Desperate Haste is everything I love in a contemporary romance—equal parts steamy, messy, and emotionally satisfying🫶🏽. Malcolm Kacee is the classic tattooed bad boy who unexpectedly falls hard, and Ophelia Sommers is a breath of fresh air: confident, curvy, and unapologetically herself💛. Their one-night stand after a wedding is just the spark, but what follows is a slow unraveling of emotional walls neither of them expected to let down.💕

The chemistry? ❤️‍🔥Off the charts. The banter? Sharp and fun🤭. But what really hooked me was the vulnerability beneath the heat—especially when Malcolm hits a dark point and Ophelia shows up in a way that feels raw and real.🥹 I also appreciated that Wright let Ophelia be sexually empowered without making her “less” for it—a win for female characters in romance.🤌🏽

⭐️Overall, this is a well-written, heartfelt romance with just the right amount of angst and a whole lot of heat. If you’re into reformed playboys, fiercely independent fmc, and second-chance vibes with a modern twist—add this one to your TBR.🙌🏽

Thank you the Author Rebecca Wright for the opportunity to read this ARC!❤️
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