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Slaycation #3
Ship Happens
Love hurts, but I like the pain
Maverick
The second I board the Bruise Cruise, I’m ready to indulge—top-shelf liquor, five-star meals, and maybe a little pain to round out the night.
What I don’t expect? Falling for the one woman guaranteed to ruin everything.
A federal agent.
She’s here to sink us, and I’m stuck sharing a suite—and a bed—with the enemy.
Frankie
Get in. Take down Jim and his crew. Get out. That’s the mission.
But nothing about the Bruise Cruise goes according to plan.
Especially not Maverick—handsome, odd, aggravating . . . and weirdly charming.
Which is a problem.
And then he tells me his secrets, leaving me with two options: jump ship or go down with him.
Ship Happens is book three in the dark romantic comedy series rocking the TikTok charts—and this time, all aboard means no one is safe. Expect savage banter, killer humor, and a romance that’s anything but smooth sailing.
Pack your bags, grab your life vest, and book your ticket—Ship Happens is your next slaycation! One click today!
Tropes:
Reverse age-gap
Serial unaliver x detective
Enemies-to-lovers
Forced proximity
One bed
Banter
Dark humor
Although this dark rom-com is "DIET" Lauren Biel, it still has adult themes. Full list of content warnings on my website. Please read responsibly!
Maverick
The second I board the Bruise Cruise, I’m ready to indulge—top-shelf liquor, five-star meals, and maybe a little pain to round out the night.
What I don’t expect? Falling for the one woman guaranteed to ruin everything.
A federal agent.
She’s here to sink us, and I’m stuck sharing a suite—and a bed—with the enemy.
Frankie
Get in. Take down Jim and his crew. Get out. That’s the mission.
But nothing about the Bruise Cruise goes according to plan.
Especially not Maverick—handsome, odd, aggravating . . . and weirdly charming.
Which is a problem.
And then he tells me his secrets, leaving me with two options: jump ship or go down with him.
Ship Happens is book three in the dark romantic comedy series rocking the TikTok charts—and this time, all aboard means no one is safe. Expect savage banter, killer humor, and a romance that’s anything but smooth sailing.
Pack your bags, grab your life vest, and book your ticket—Ship Happens is your next slaycation! One click today!
Tropes:
Reverse age-gap
Serial unaliver x detective
Enemies-to-lovers
Forced proximity
One bed
Banter
Dark humor
Although this dark rom-com is "DIET" Lauren Biel, it still has adult themes. Full list of content warnings on my website. Please read responsibly!
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2025
503 people are currently reading
3125 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Biel
37 books4,773 followersLauren’s stories are often emotionally raw, with lots of twists and turns. She describes her writing as “where light meets dark”, which represents how her witty humor compliments the darkness in every story. Instead of trying to mold her writing to fit in a box, she chooses to be unapologetically herself. While her focus is on Romance with dark elements, subgenre is no constraint for her. The common theme in every book is finding love when you least expect it. She enjoys putting her characters through tribulations, allowing their triumphs to be that much more poignant. Make sure you have your seatbelts secured. It’s always a bumpy ride.
When she’s not working, she’s writing. When she’s not writing, she’s spending time with her husband, her friends, or her pets. You might also find her on a horseback trail ride or sitting beside a waterfall in Upstate New York. She has a pretty normal life, yet her stories are anything but.
When she’s not working, she’s writing. When she’s not writing, she’s spending time with her husband, her friends, or her pets. You might also find her on a horseback trail ride or sitting beside a waterfall in Upstate New York. She has a pretty normal life, yet her stories are anything but.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 651 reviews
July 22, 2025
Lauren has pulled it out of the ocean once more!
Frankie our FMC is a FED and is part of a covert infiltration team aboard the Bruise Cruise but as one may suspect it doesn’t go according to their plan. It does however, go according to Jim’s plan as he’s always one step ahead. Maverick, meets his match in Frankie, even though there is an age difference they eventually find even ground and boy! Their spicy times are 🌶️🔥 That being said, their onboard games, their love lives aren’t all plain sailing…yes, I went there 🛳️ I won’t give you anymore, if you haven’t read the series yet what are you waiting for?
I loved that Maverick found some happiness, the twists for Frankie were 🤌 (Though one we kind of knew), the writing as usual from Lauren was brilliant, her descriptive text creating effect visuals. To be honest, at this stage I couldn’t pick out my fav and can’t wait for the next Slaycation book 🫦
Frankie our FMC is a FED and is part of a covert infiltration team aboard the Bruise Cruise but as one may suspect it doesn’t go according to their plan. It does however, go according to Jim’s plan as he’s always one step ahead. Maverick, meets his match in Frankie, even though there is an age difference they eventually find even ground and boy! Their spicy times are 🌶️🔥 That being said, their onboard games, their love lives aren’t all plain sailing…yes, I went there 🛳️ I won’t give you anymore, if you haven’t read the series yet what are you waiting for?
I loved that Maverick found some happiness, the twists for Frankie were 🤌 (Though one we kind of knew), the writing as usual from Lauren was brilliant, her descriptive text creating effect visuals. To be honest, at this stage I couldn’t pick out my fav and can’t wait for the next Slaycation book 🫦
August 8, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Okay we finished buddy rereading this book and ill be honest it wasn’t as shocking as the last 2 books. Lol we have Frankie who is an agent going on a mission on the cruise to get closer to the serial killers and catch them. She meets few killers since her cover is a killer as well. Her roommate on the ship is Maverick who already knows something is up with her. She’s squeamish and he already has a mission by Jim. And once Jim tells him his mission all the clues sorta click.
Now these two are sorta friends tiny enamels when they play games on the ship killing agents and cattle. This is confusing Frankie since she promise Jim shell keep an open mind when he talked to her. Mac is worried he pushed her too far and her moral compass is tainted. Beside the feelings of back and forth and right and wrong. I loved Frankies friendship with the other killers who well.. I wont spoil it lol.
There is a big secret and I’ll be honest I sorta knew right away lol.
No ow/om drama, no cheating, secondary charas, sexy times, no virgins
Recommended-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶️🌶️🌶️
Slowinsta
Reverse age gap
38h/22H
Tiny push away
tiny Seperation few weeks
Murder
CSA history
Risk of SA
Assault
Emotional abuse from parent
Erectile dysfunction
Masochism
Sadism
Self harm
Premature emac
Bitting
Temperature play
Knife play
Impact play
Praise kink
Rimming
Edging
Public sex
Blood play
Degradation
No condom
Hea
Epilogue
Okay we finished buddy rereading this book and ill be honest it wasn’t as shocking as the last 2 books. Lol we have Frankie who is an agent going on a mission on the cruise to get closer to the serial killers and catch them. She meets few killers since her cover is a killer as well. Her roommate on the ship is Maverick who already knows something is up with her. She’s squeamish and he already has a mission by Jim. And once Jim tells him his mission all the clues sorta click.
Now these two are sorta friends tiny enamels when they play games on the ship killing agents and cattle. This is confusing Frankie since she promise Jim shell keep an open mind when he talked to her. Mac is worried he pushed her too far and her moral compass is tainted. Beside the feelings of back and forth and right and wrong. I loved Frankies friendship with the other killers who well.. I wont spoil it lol.
There is a big secret and I’ll be honest I sorta knew right away lol.
No ow/om drama, no cheating, secondary charas, sexy times, no virgins
Recommended-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶️🌶️🌶️
Slowinsta
Reverse age gap
38h/22H
Tiny push away
tiny Seperation few weeks
Murder
CSA history
Risk of SA
Assault
Emotional abuse from parent
Erectile dysfunction
Masochism
Sadism
Self harm
Premature emac
Bitting
Temperature play
Knife play
Impact play
Praise kink
Rimming
Edging
Public sex
Blood play
Degradation
No condom
Hea
Epilogue
July 19, 2025
5⭐️/4🔥
I am Shipwrecked in the Best Way
Ship Happens is the 3rd book in Lauren Biel's Slaycation Series and like the first 2 books, I LOVED it!!! This woman knows how to write pitch-black romance AND rom-coms?! Say less and take my money! We get Maverick's story in this book and I thought I couldn't love him more, and yet, here we are. Frankie's inner dialogue was hilarious and I will now be using the term "meat flaps" in everyday conversation just for my entertainment. Here's to celebrating another success for Lauren Biel and hanging by a thread until book 4 comes out.
I am Shipwrecked in the Best Way
Ship Happens is the 3rd book in Lauren Biel's Slaycation Series and like the first 2 books, I LOVED it!!! This woman knows how to write pitch-black romance AND rom-coms?! Say less and take my money! We get Maverick's story in this book and I thought I couldn't love him more, and yet, here we are. Frankie's inner dialogue was hilarious and I will now be using the term "meat flaps" in everyday conversation just for my entertainment. Here's to celebrating another success for Lauren Biel and hanging by a thread until book 4 comes out.
November 5, 2025
This was my least favorite couple of the series but still a good book. I absolutely adore the Found Serial Killer family though and have been loving this series.
July 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶.5
🔥🔥🔥🔥
This series is the perfect blend of serial killer antics and rom-com vibes, ideal for any vacation destination.
Maverick isn’t exactly the relationship type. He’s into something a little unconventional in the bedroom, so he’s not expecting this trip to be anything more than a bit of fun playing with some Cattle. What he definitely didn’t plan for was getting roped into babysitting a secret federal agent named Frankie. That little twist was not mentioned in the slaycation brochure.
Frankie, on the other hand, needs this assignment. She’s going undercover as a serial killer to catch Jim, the big boss, and finally score that long-overdue promotion. But she wasn’t supposed to bond with the other killers. She definitely wasn’t supposed to enjoy killing a person or two. And falling in love? Absolutely not on the mission brief.
Ship Happens is another delicious installment in this wild, chaotic series, and I devoured it like it was my favorite dessert. The chemistry between Frankie and Maverick is electric, and I loved watching their messy, jagged edges slowly click into place. Yes, the series sticks to a common “theme,” but each book feels fresh and totally its own. I wasn’t bored for a second, and putting this one down was not an option.
Cat and Bennet still hold the crown as my favorite couple in the series, so seeing them pop in throughout this book genuinely made my heart happy.
Also, side note, but can we please get a win for Ice Pick? I’m obsessed. That man has the biggest heart in the entire crew and deserves all the love. 😭😭😭
⟣Tropes⟢
✅ Touch her and 💀
✅ 🩶 Morally Grey MMC 🩶
✅ Reverse Age Gap
✅ Dual POV’s (first person)
✅ Enemies-to-Lovers
✅ Found Family
✅ He falls first
✅ 🔪 Play
✅ 🩸Bløød Play
✅ One Bed
✅ Serial Unalivers
✅ HEA
***I was given this as an ARC for free and writing a review voluntary. All opinions are my own.***
🌶🌶🌶.5
🔥🔥🔥🔥
This series is the perfect blend of serial killer antics and rom-com vibes, ideal for any vacation destination.
Maverick isn’t exactly the relationship type. He’s into something a little unconventional in the bedroom, so he’s not expecting this trip to be anything more than a bit of fun playing with some Cattle. What he definitely didn’t plan for was getting roped into babysitting a secret federal agent named Frankie. That little twist was not mentioned in the slaycation brochure.
Frankie, on the other hand, needs this assignment. She’s going undercover as a serial killer to catch Jim, the big boss, and finally score that long-overdue promotion. But she wasn’t supposed to bond with the other killers. She definitely wasn’t supposed to enjoy killing a person or two. And falling in love? Absolutely not on the mission brief.
Ship Happens is another delicious installment in this wild, chaotic series, and I devoured it like it was my favorite dessert. The chemistry between Frankie and Maverick is electric, and I loved watching their messy, jagged edges slowly click into place. Yes, the series sticks to a common “theme,” but each book feels fresh and totally its own. I wasn’t bored for a second, and putting this one down was not an option.
Cat and Bennet still hold the crown as my favorite couple in the series, so seeing them pop in throughout this book genuinely made my heart happy.
Also, side note, but can we please get a win for Ice Pick? I’m obsessed. That man has the biggest heart in the entire crew and deserves all the love. 😭😭😭
⟣Tropes⟢
✅ Touch her and 💀
✅ 🩶 Morally Grey MMC 🩶
✅ Reverse Age Gap
✅ Dual POV’s (first person)
✅ Enemies-to-Lovers
✅ Found Family
✅ He falls first
✅ 🔪 Play
✅ 🩸Bløød Play
✅ One Bed
✅ Serial Unalivers
✅ HEA
***I was given this as an ARC for free and writing a review voluntary. All opinions are my own.***
November 18, 2025
3.5⭐️ So I have to say, this was my least favorite in the series (both the couple and the story), but I still had a good time. The audiobooks for this series are so good the full cast narration honestly saved this one for me.
I love the whole premise, and I love that we’re following different serial killers each book. Plus my favorite characters from the first two books were still around in this one. Friends that kill together, you know? And the ship setting was fun, but this was the first time in the series where I caught myself feeling a little bored. I really think it’s because I just didn’t connect with the couple. Their dynamic just isn’t my thing. But that shouldn’t stop anyone from picking this up, because overall the series is great.
There’s still that touch of humor, the fun unhinged banter, and I loved the twist at the end when we find out who the FMC really is. And if there’s another book coming? You better believe my ass will be reading it, because I’m honestly having a blast.
If you want to kick your feet up and have a good time while maybe getting a little grossed out and a tad traumatized( but in a fun way??) you need to read this series.
I love the whole premise, and I love that we’re following different serial killers each book. Plus my favorite characters from the first two books were still around in this one. Friends that kill together, you know? And the ship setting was fun, but this was the first time in the series where I caught myself feeling a little bored. I really think it’s because I just didn’t connect with the couple. Their dynamic just isn’t my thing. But that shouldn’t stop anyone from picking this up, because overall the series is great.
There’s still that touch of humor, the fun unhinged banter, and I loved the twist at the end when we find out who the FMC really is. And if there’s another book coming? You better believe my ass will be reading it, because I’m honestly having a blast.
If you want to kick your feet up and have a good time while maybe getting a little grossed out and a tad traumatized( but in a fun way??) you need to read this series.
October 16, 2025
I've thoroughly enjoyed this series. This was an enjoyable and quick read. It wasn't as crazy as the other two books in the series but it was extremely enjoyable and entertaining.
January 2, 2026
Not as good as the first, but better than the second. I highly recommend you read Slay Ride before you read this one. There's info in there you'll need.
Frankie Grant (38, worst "FBI" agent on the planet, annoying wench) is on an undercover mission to infiltrate the latest serial killer social event. She's only one of several agents sent on this mission, but when her partner is nabbed upon boarding, she has to go at things alone. The fact that she absolutely sucks at her job makes blending in a little difficult.
Maverick Eaton (22, precious angel, Midnight Masochist) learns that he's going to have a roommate on the cruise, and our master of ceremonies, Jim Madigan, has a task for him. He wants Mav to keep an eye on Frankie and keep her safe. The task proves more difficult than he anticipated because nothing screams, "I'm an undercover FBI agent" louder than Frankie's frequent freakouts!
There's some attraction, Frankie annoys the shit out of me, an adorable story with Ice Pick, unsavory dining experiences, roofies, sad face Ice Pick, kinky playtime, some hot sex, a mystery, more hot sex, sad separation, a confrontation, a revelation, and an HEA.
SEX: I actually enjoyed the sex! Their first time is at 45%, and yay! No condoms! They had several good romps but remember it's Lauren Biel so absolutely NONE of this is "safe" sex. It's even better with the audio.
FUN: It's a pretty good time. I mostly loved Maverick and Ice Pick. I'm also praying for a Jim & King love story. That one would be fucking amazing!
AUDIO: Since there aren't many highlightable moments, you'd do good just listening to the audio. It's a full cast, and a little unnecessary. Gregory Salinas narrates for Maverick and fuck me, he's hot. Mariana Olmeda narrates for Frankie, and she's surprisingly good. The only other character that benefited from having a unique voice was Eve, and she's narrated by Elyce Anthony. The rest of the cast were barely included so they didn't really need to have their own voices.
She smells like fresh mint, and she looks like something I struggle to put words to. She looks like my downfall.
Frankie Grant (38, worst "FBI" agent on the planet, annoying wench) is on an undercover mission to infiltrate the latest serial killer social event. She's only one of several agents sent on this mission, but when her partner is nabbed upon boarding, she has to go at things alone. The fact that she absolutely sucks at her job makes blending in a little difficult.
I don’t know how I feel about this new version of Frankie. The experience last night seemed to unlock some unhinged part of her, and I think I’d like to shove it back in its box now. I wanted her to loosen up, not completely come undone.
Maverick Eaton (22, precious angel, Midnight Masochist) learns that he's going to have a roommate on the cruise, and our master of ceremonies, Jim Madigan, has a task for him. He wants Mav to keep an eye on Frankie and keep her safe. The task proves more difficult than he anticipated because nothing screams, "I'm an undercover FBI agent" louder than Frankie's frequent freakouts!
There's some attraction, Frankie annoys the shit out of me, an adorable story with Ice Pick, unsavory dining experiences, roofies, sad face Ice Pick, kinky playtime, some hot sex, a mystery, more hot sex, sad separation, a confrontation, a revelation, and an HEA.
"So, I’m telling you now. I’m crazy about you, sweetheart. You’ve opened doors I’ve kept shut for so long, and I want to walk through them with you. I can’t change who I am and what I do, and I don’t want to change anything about you, either."
SEX: I actually enjoyed the sex! Their first time is at 45%, and yay! No condoms! They had several good romps but remember it's Lauren Biel so absolutely NONE of this is "safe" sex. It's even better with the audio.
FUN: It's a pretty good time. I mostly loved Maverick and Ice Pick. I'm also praying for a Jim & King love story. That one would be fucking amazing!
AUDIO: Since there aren't many highlightable moments, you'd do good just listening to the audio. It's a full cast, and a little unnecessary. Gregory Salinas narrates for Maverick and fuck me, he's hot. Mariana Olmeda narrates for Frankie, and she's surprisingly good. The only other character that benefited from having a unique voice was Eve, and she's narrated by Elyce Anthony. The rest of the cast were barely included so they didn't really need to have their own voices.
August 1, 2025
⚠️⚠️Check all TW ⚠️⚠️
I loved this book from the first chapter. I love a book that keeps me guessing about what is going to happen next. I recommend this series.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 15, 2025
4/5 ⭐️
2.5/5 🌶️
I loved the reverse age gap (her 38, him 22). I also loved that she wasn’t a serial killer, but a fed. Added a different aspect to the series we hadn’t seen yet.
The writing was great, typical LB… but the story felt like it was missing something. Plus, the ending wrap up and (surprise?) twist ending felt a little too neat. However, I do love that it paves the way for a 4th book.
The spice wasn’t as spicy as the first two books, but it was still 🥵🥵🥵
2.5/5 🌶️
I loved the reverse age gap (her 38, him 22). I also loved that she wasn’t a serial killer, but a fed. Added a different aspect to the series we hadn’t seen yet.
The writing was great, typical LB… but the story felt like it was missing something. Plus, the ending wrap up and (surprise?) twist ending felt a little too neat. However, I do love that it paves the way for a 4th book.
The spice wasn’t as spicy as the first two books, but it was still 🥵🥵🥵
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2025
OMG!!! Lauren you mastered this book!!! I freaking devoured this book so quickly. The banter and tension between Frankie and Maverick was off the charts and I was there for it!!! Smut what???? hands down one of my only few 5* reads for this year. There were a few times I was laughing so hard I was crying. Thank you Lauren for this masterpiece...
July 30, 2025
We once again get to meet our beloved serial unalivers. We get all the great banter that we got in previous books, but the twist in this book is so delicious. I love getting to see Maverick's side of this series, and Frankie is to perfect for him. I can't wait to see who's story is next!
August 20, 2025
A Bruise Cruise for the serial killers hosted by Jim takes a twist when there are federal agents aboard to bust the killers. The gangs all here and this is Mavericks time to shine. The youngest of the killers at 22 he's tasked by Jim to actually protect one of the feds. Frankie the 38 yr old fed is hoping to make her career by busting some killers and is rooming with Maverick. The age gap quirky romance starts while she learns Mav's kinks and finds out a lot about herself. Another satisfying installment of the series. I felt bad for Ice Pick and hope he gets a books soon. The only gripe about the book was the repetitive use of Frankie "nibbling her lip" & "Biting her lip" way too much. I'm surprised she has a lip left. Looking forward to the next book "Slaughter Park" which doesn't have a synopsis yet.
November 15, 2025
3.5✨. Ship Happens was cute, but it definitely followed the same blueprint as the other two books — just with new characters plugged in. I really missed the banter that the first books showcased so much better, and our FMC in this one just felt a bit annoying and not super believable.
That said, it was a fun, cute, quick read, and I didn’t have a bad time with it. 🤷🏽♀️📚✨
That said, it was a fun, cute, quick read, and I didn’t have a bad time with it. 🤷🏽♀️📚✨
July 23, 2025
I just finished reading "Ship Happens," the mext installment in the Slaycation series by Lauren Biel, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! If you’ve enjoyed her previous books, you’re in for a real treat. This one is packed with the perfect blend of humor and spicy romance that Lauren is known for.
The characters you’ve grown to love are back, along with some exciting new faces. The setting of a cruise ship adds a whole new layer of fun and chaos, especially when you throw in some regular folks interacting with our favorite serial unalivers. The witty banter and hilarious situations had me laughing out loud more than once!
Overall, "Ship Happens" is a delightful read that perfectly balances spice with comedy. It’s a fark romcom book that’s great for a cozy afternoon or a getaway of your own. Don’t miss out on this one; it’s sure to bring a smile to your face!
The characters you’ve grown to love are back, along with some exciting new faces. The setting of a cruise ship adds a whole new layer of fun and chaos, especially when you throw in some regular folks interacting with our favorite serial unalivers. The witty banter and hilarious situations had me laughing out loud more than once!
Overall, "Ship Happens" is a delightful read that perfectly balances spice with comedy. It’s a fark romcom book that’s great for a cozy afternoon or a getaway of your own. Don’t miss out on this one; it’s sure to bring a smile to your face!
July 29, 2025
I really enjoyed the story line and plot of this book. It is well written and made me want more with every turn of the page. The characters are all so fun and their connections to each other make it even better. Maverick and Frankie go thru a whirlwind of a romance if you want to call it that. The way Maverick reacts to her… muah😘… Lol… the events and the interactions create humor, suspense and fun. I want to read it again already!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2025
4.5⭐️
Absolutely love this series so much!
Absolutely love this series so much!
July 27, 2025
I received this as an ARC and love that this series continues. I will be eagerly awaiting the 4th installment.
I liked this book, but it's not my favorite of the three. I found the Federal agent story line to be unbelievable and had a hard time with her as a main character. Thankfully, all the original characters are there, and all the usual shenanigans take place along with some twists. It's all the same vibes but on a boat, silly fun Serial Killer style that made me excited for book 4.
I liked this book, but it's not my favorite of the three. I found the Federal agent story line to be unbelievable and had a hard time with her as a main character. Thankfully, all the original characters are there, and all the usual shenanigans take place along with some twists. It's all the same vibes but on a boat, silly fun Serial Killer style that made me excited for book 4.
July 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️— All aboard the SS Trauma Bond!
If you’ve ever thought, “You know what this cruise is missing? Serial killers and sexual tension,” then Ship Happens is your weird little dream come true.
We’ve got Frankie—a fed with trust issues, a badge, and exactly zero chill—sharing a cabin (and eventually a bed, oops) with Maverick, a man so suspiciously charming he practically screams “I have secrets and great abs.” Together they’re on the Bruise Cruise, which is less Royal Caribbean, more “Royal Carnage.”
The setup? Chef’s kiss. The banter? Sharp enough to slice through Maverick’s emotional walls. The romance? Equal parts steamy and stabby.
Is it ridiculous? Yes. Entertaining? Also yes. Deep and unpredictable? Not exactly. But if you’re in the mood for murder, makeouts, and a man named Maverick who’s probably lying but hot enough that you don’t care… then ship definitely happens.
If you’ve ever thought, “You know what this cruise is missing? Serial killers and sexual tension,” then Ship Happens is your weird little dream come true.
We’ve got Frankie—a fed with trust issues, a badge, and exactly zero chill—sharing a cabin (and eventually a bed, oops) with Maverick, a man so suspiciously charming he practically screams “I have secrets and great abs.” Together they’re on the Bruise Cruise, which is less Royal Caribbean, more “Royal Carnage.”
The setup? Chef’s kiss. The banter? Sharp enough to slice through Maverick’s emotional walls. The romance? Equal parts steamy and stabby.
Is it ridiculous? Yes. Entertaining? Also yes. Deep and unpredictable? Not exactly. But if you’re in the mood for murder, makeouts, and a man named Maverick who’s probably lying but hot enough that you don’t care… then ship definitely happens.
July 24, 2025
Dark RomCom
FED X Serial Unaliver
Enemies to Lovers
Reverse Age Gap
One Bed
Forced Proximity
FED X Serial Unaliver
Enemies to Lovers
Reverse Age Gap
One Bed
Forced Proximity
July 24, 2025
Welp…🍾 another food item ruined 🤣
December 15, 2025
I have to say that I think this was my favorite Dark Rom Com trilogy. All of the books were consistently good! However I never want to here the phrase “globs of cum” EVERY AGAIN
August 5, 2025
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶🌶🌶
Dual POV
Dark romcom
Murder retreat
Federal agent x contract killer
Reverse age gap (38/22)
Forced proximity
One bed
Instalust/ instalove
Found family
Ruined champagne
HEA
Ship Happens was a fun cruise, but it didn’t quite hit the same high notes as the other two books in the Slaycation series for me. The premise of a murder retreat cleverly disguised as a legitimate cruise was genius. And, I usually love a reverse age gap dynamic, but I found it harder to connect with this particular couple. While I appreciated the setup featuring a confident, career-driven Federal agent older woman paired with a contract killer younger man—I was surprised by how often Frankie came off as strangely helpless. For someone with her background, I expected more agency and self-assurance. Instead, she often felt diminished—like her intelligence had been dialed down just to give Maverick a chance to swoop in and play protector.
Maverick has been a total sweetheart character in the background of the first two books, and that charm carries over now that he’s center stage. But while his protective nature was endearing at times, his “I know what’s best for you” attitude began to grate. It felt more patronizing than protective, and Frankie’s sudden 180 on murder—from horrified to unbothered—gave me whiplash. These weird attitude changes contributed to the pacing of their connection feeling off. I’m all for a good instalust situation (vacation fling? Yes, please), but the leap to insta-love in just a few days felt rushed. I struggled to see how such deep feelings developed so quickly, especially when their emotional groundwork felt thin.
Humor-wise, this installment didn’t land as many punches as its predecessors. The banter between the main couple lacked the spark and sharpness I’ve come to love from this series. Honestly, I found myself enjoying the scenes with the full killer crew (Ezra, Kindra, Cat, Bennett, and Eve) way more than the main couple. Their chaotic chemistry, unhinged banter, and murderous mischief are the heartbeat of this series. Every time they were on the page, the energy lifted. The found family dynamic runs strong here, and it’s one of my favorite things about Slaycation. Their loyalty, dysfunction, and ride-or-die attitude bring the kind of emotional depth and entertainment the central romance just didn’t deliver this time around.
That said, the spice in this one was dark and delicious. The sex scenes didn’t hold back, leaning into masochism, power dynamics, spanking, and even a little breath and blood play. It was intense, boundary-pushing, and suited for readers who like their romance with a side of pain.
I also enjoyed getting more time with our enigmatic host, Jim. His weirdly paternal energy had me half-convinced he was Frankie's long-lost father. The actual reveal about her father was an unexpected but welcome twist!
All in all, this story had its entertaining moments, especially thanks to the killer crew and the creative setting, but as far as favorites go, this one sails in behind the others.
** For maximum enjoyment, I highly recommend reading the books in order as there's more depth from the previous characters' stories**
Spice 🌶🌶🌶
Dual POV
Dark romcom
Murder retreat
Federal agent x contract killer
Reverse age gap (38/22)
Forced proximity
One bed
Instalust/ instalove
Found family
Ruined champagne
HEA
Ship Happens was a fun cruise, but it didn’t quite hit the same high notes as the other two books in the Slaycation series for me. The premise of a murder retreat cleverly disguised as a legitimate cruise was genius. And, I usually love a reverse age gap dynamic, but I found it harder to connect with this particular couple. While I appreciated the setup featuring a confident, career-driven Federal agent older woman paired with a contract killer younger man—I was surprised by how often Frankie came off as strangely helpless. For someone with her background, I expected more agency and self-assurance. Instead, she often felt diminished—like her intelligence had been dialed down just to give Maverick a chance to swoop in and play protector.
Maverick has been a total sweetheart character in the background of the first two books, and that charm carries over now that he’s center stage. But while his protective nature was endearing at times, his “I know what’s best for you” attitude began to grate. It felt more patronizing than protective, and Frankie’s sudden 180 on murder—from horrified to unbothered—gave me whiplash. These weird attitude changes contributed to the pacing of their connection feeling off. I’m all for a good instalust situation (vacation fling? Yes, please), but the leap to insta-love in just a few days felt rushed. I struggled to see how such deep feelings developed so quickly, especially when their emotional groundwork felt thin.
Humor-wise, this installment didn’t land as many punches as its predecessors. The banter between the main couple lacked the spark and sharpness I’ve come to love from this series. Honestly, I found myself enjoying the scenes with the full killer crew (Ezra, Kindra, Cat, Bennett, and Eve) way more than the main couple. Their chaotic chemistry, unhinged banter, and murderous mischief are the heartbeat of this series. Every time they were on the page, the energy lifted. The found family dynamic runs strong here, and it’s one of my favorite things about Slaycation. Their loyalty, dysfunction, and ride-or-die attitude bring the kind of emotional depth and entertainment the central romance just didn’t deliver this time around.
That said, the spice in this one was dark and delicious. The sex scenes didn’t hold back, leaning into masochism, power dynamics, spanking, and even a little breath and blood play. It was intense, boundary-pushing, and suited for readers who like their romance with a side of pain.
I also enjoyed getting more time with our enigmatic host, Jim. His weirdly paternal energy had me half-convinced he was Frankie's long-lost father. The actual reveal about her father was an unexpected but welcome twist!
All in all, this story had its entertaining moments, especially thanks to the killer crew and the creative setting, but as far as favorites go, this one sails in behind the others.
** For maximum enjoyment, I highly recommend reading the books in order as there's more depth from the previous characters' stories**
July 31, 2025
https://rottenreads.blog/shiphappens/
Frankie is an FBI agent sent to infiltrate a cruise ship full of serial killers on vacation. As it turns out, Frankie is the one infiltrated…by a hot young serial killer named Maverick.
Ship Happens by Lauren Biel is the third entry in the Slaycation series, and if you haven’t read the first two, Sinner’s Retreat and Slay Ride, I highly recommend you do before reading Ship Happens. Also, this review will contain minor spoilers for those books as well.
Ship Happens takes place not long after the events of Slay Ride. Jim has purchased a cruise ship, but this time, he has something a little different planned. Along with the Sinners and Catle, Jim invites the “normies” on board as well. Joining our usual suspects, Ezra, Kindra, Bennett, and Cat, this time around are Maverick and Frankie, who are the main focus of this book. Frankie is the newcomer to the series, and despite the reverse gap, she and Maverick take an instant liking to each other. Maverick also knows about Frankie’s secret, and thankfully, he does everything he can to protect her.
I really enjoyed Ship Happens’ plot and liked the fact that Biel raised the stakes a bit higher compared to the first two entries in the series. There were points in the story where the tension increased, and I was biting my nails and other parts when I was literally laughing out loud. I never got bored or felt like skimming over parts to get to the next plot point. The driving force behind this roller coaster is the three-dimensional characters Lauren created.
The characters breathe so much life into the story. Maverick is a young man in his twenties, and you really get that from the way he’s written. Frankie is a mature woman of thirty-eight, and the banter between her and Maverick makes this reverse age gap so believable. The characters are diverse, and each one feels like their own person with their own personalities. Biel managed to build this living, breathing world that you live in while reading. What I loved most about Frankie and Maverick is the chemistry between them. Whether they’re joking with each other (shout out to Chester Copperpot) or getting hot’n’heavy with the champagne, they really drive this story forward.
There isn’t much to dislike about Ship Happens, or the other books, for that matter. This is one of my favorite book series, and I see it just getting better. Lauren leaves us with a hint at the end as to what Jim has cooked up for the next book, and I can’t wait! Speaking of the ending, this is where readers will either like or dislike it. For me, it was cute, cheesy, and kind of like a Scooby-Doo moment. I can’t say more than that without spoiling anything. So the question is, should you read Ship Happens, and the answer is a resounding, “YES!”
Frankie is an FBI agent sent to infiltrate a cruise ship full of serial killers on vacation. As it turns out, Frankie is the one infiltrated…by a hot young serial killer named Maverick.
Ship Happens by Lauren Biel is the third entry in the Slaycation series, and if you haven’t read the first two, Sinner’s Retreat and Slay Ride, I highly recommend you do before reading Ship Happens. Also, this review will contain minor spoilers for those books as well.
Ship Happens takes place not long after the events of Slay Ride. Jim has purchased a cruise ship, but this time, he has something a little different planned. Along with the Sinners and Catle, Jim invites the “normies” on board as well. Joining our usual suspects, Ezra, Kindra, Bennett, and Cat, this time around are Maverick and Frankie, who are the main focus of this book. Frankie is the newcomer to the series, and despite the reverse gap, she and Maverick take an instant liking to each other. Maverick also knows about Frankie’s secret, and thankfully, he does everything he can to protect her.
I really enjoyed Ship Happens’ plot and liked the fact that Biel raised the stakes a bit higher compared to the first two entries in the series. There were points in the story where the tension increased, and I was biting my nails and other parts when I was literally laughing out loud. I never got bored or felt like skimming over parts to get to the next plot point. The driving force behind this roller coaster is the three-dimensional characters Lauren created.
The characters breathe so much life into the story. Maverick is a young man in his twenties, and you really get that from the way he’s written. Frankie is a mature woman of thirty-eight, and the banter between her and Maverick makes this reverse age gap so believable. The characters are diverse, and each one feels like their own person with their own personalities. Biel managed to build this living, breathing world that you live in while reading. What I loved most about Frankie and Maverick is the chemistry between them. Whether they’re joking with each other (shout out to Chester Copperpot) or getting hot’n’heavy with the champagne, they really drive this story forward.
There isn’t much to dislike about Ship Happens, or the other books, for that matter. This is one of my favorite book series, and I see it just getting better. Lauren leaves us with a hint at the end as to what Jim has cooked up for the next book, and I can’t wait! Speaking of the ending, this is where readers will either like or dislike it. For me, it was cute, cheesy, and kind of like a Scooby-Doo moment. I can’t say more than that without spoiling anything. So the question is, should you read Ship Happens, and the answer is a resounding, “YES!”
August 1, 2025
WHAT A RIDE. (Unintentional book 4 foreshadowing?)
This was a hilariously delicious blend of dark humor, easy-to-love serial killers, and consensual spicy fun times.
Frankie, our FMC, is an almost-40 federal agent who is tasked to attend a serial killer retreat taking place on a cruise trip so that she can get intel on their leader of sorts. What comes next is a series of serial killer relay games full of antics and murder that ultimately have her questioning her life’s path. And along the way, she may or may not fall in love with the most lovable serial killer 12 years her junior, Maverick. I freaking adored Maverick and his little bout of ED. He is such a sweetheart, and I love that Lauren made it so effortless to love him.
I had such a good time reading this book, and since it was my first Slaycation series read (I know, crazy right?) I am now racing to read books 1&2 and (not so) patiently waiting for book 4!
Thank you to Lauren Biel & Book Sirens for the eARC of this book. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review after reading.
Rating: 5 ⭐️
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
This was a hilariously delicious blend of dark humor, easy-to-love serial killers, and consensual spicy fun times.
Frankie, our FMC, is an almost-40 federal agent who is tasked to attend a serial killer retreat taking place on a cruise trip so that she can get intel on their leader of sorts. What comes next is a series of serial killer relay games full of antics and murder that ultimately have her questioning her life’s path. And along the way, she may or may not fall in love with the most lovable serial killer 12 years her junior, Maverick. I freaking adored Maverick and his little bout of ED. He is such a sweetheart, and I love that Lauren made it so effortless to love him.
I had such a good time reading this book, and since it was my first Slaycation series read (I know, crazy right?) I am now racing to read books 1&2 and (not so) patiently waiting for book 4!
Thank you to Lauren Biel & Book Sirens for the eARC of this book. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review after reading.
Rating: 5 ⭐️
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
July 29, 2025
Just when I think it can’t get anymore chaotic we get “Ship Happens”. This book is deliciously twisted and hilarious and I loved every minute of it.
Frankie is the FED tasked to go under cover on the Bruise Cruise and uncover all the secrets and the people involved.
Maverick is tasked to watch her, that includes becoming her roommate for the entirety of the event.
The chemistry between them is electric and they can’t deny their attraction even if they know they shouldn’t be feeling things for the enemy.
There’s secrets to be revealed along the way too which I did work out half way through but it’s sooo freaking good.
If you like these tropes then you will love this book.
Reverse age-gap
Serial unaliver x detective
Enemies-to-lovers
Forced proximity
One bed
Banter
Dark humor
I’m excited for the next book and to find out who the MMC will be next.
Frankie is the FED tasked to go under cover on the Bruise Cruise and uncover all the secrets and the people involved.
Maverick is tasked to watch her, that includes becoming her roommate for the entirety of the event.
The chemistry between them is electric and they can’t deny their attraction even if they know they shouldn’t be feeling things for the enemy.
There’s secrets to be revealed along the way too which I did work out half way through but it’s sooo freaking good.
If you like these tropes then you will love this book.
Reverse age-gap
Serial unaliver x detective
Enemies-to-lovers
Forced proximity
One bed
Banter
Dark humor
I’m excited for the next book and to find out who the MMC will be next.
September 18, 2025
I laughed so hard, but oh boy did I question myself too 😂
If you’ve read the first two books you know exactly what you’re in for. I think it was actually less queasy, but the laughs and ridiculous jokes were so on point! Ahhhh Gary.
I loved the reverse age gap.
The cop vs k!ller dynamic
The challenges they were both set made it all fun.
There’s also found family and one bed 👀.
As always with Lauren Biel, check the TW but it is a part of her diet series so pretty light as these things go.
I had a blast. As always the audio was brilliant!
I was so excited to get the vibe that there will be a book 4!!!
If you’ve read the first two books you know exactly what you’re in for. I think it was actually less queasy, but the laughs and ridiculous jokes were so on point! Ahhhh Gary.
I loved the reverse age gap.
The cop vs k!ller dynamic
The challenges they were both set made it all fun.
There’s also found family and one bed 👀.
As always with Lauren Biel, check the TW but it is a part of her diet series so pretty light as these things go.
I had a blast. As always the audio was brilliant!
I was so excited to get the vibe that there will be a book 4!!!
July 17, 2025
This series just gets better and better. I can’t wait for book 4. The banter and sexual tension keep me coming back for more. Each book holds its own but the banter just keeps getting better with every book. The misuse of food is the cherry on top (don’t tell Bennett). The ending is even better and makes everything come full circle. She knocked another one out of the park.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
"For the next week, I’m no longer Frankie Grant the Ghost. I’m a ser!al k!ller." 🔪Our federal agent FMC has to fit in with the world's most notorious ser!al k!llers for a week long cruise.🚢 Can she do it?
Well, she's already introduced herself as The Fisherman, who's de@d as a doornail and everybody knows it so...
Enter Maverick. Our MMC is her host and roomie for the week and has been assigned to Frankie to give her cover and guide her through events and basically (struggle to) give her the white glove treatment for the duration and then send her (ALIVE) back home. After all, nobody wants a secret fed to d!e on their watch 🧐
There is mystery and spice, banter all around with every character, and a book that turns out to be as heartwarming as it is funny.
When I say spice, I mean sweet, bl00dy, k!nky s3x. This is 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶5/ 5 chilies on the spicy scale. If you've ever thought 'I wonder what bl00d as lube would be like?' Ship Happens delivers that answer and more! Definite splash warning on this one 💦
Frankie and Maverick get their HEA with a super satisfying epilogue that has us running to our TBRs and waiting with bated breath for Slaughter Park!
🔊Lauren is the audiobook queen and everything she touches turns into audiobook gold, I have absolute faith that this book will be the same. This will make the BEST duet full cast audiobook ever. I can't wait to listen to it🔊
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
"For the next week, I’m no longer Frankie Grant the Ghost. I’m a ser!al k!ller." 🔪Our federal agent FMC has to fit in with the world's most notorious ser!al k!llers for a week long cruise.🚢 Can she do it?
Well, she's already introduced herself as The Fisherman, who's de@d as a doornail and everybody knows it so...
Enter Maverick. Our MMC is her host and roomie for the week and has been assigned to Frankie to give her cover and guide her through events and basically (struggle to) give her the white glove treatment for the duration and then send her (ALIVE) back home. After all, nobody wants a secret fed to d!e on their watch 🧐
There is mystery and spice, banter all around with every character, and a book that turns out to be as heartwarming as it is funny.
When I say spice, I mean sweet, bl00dy, k!nky s3x. This is 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶5/ 5 chilies on the spicy scale. If you've ever thought 'I wonder what bl00d as lube would be like?' Ship Happens delivers that answer and more! Definite splash warning on this one 💦
Frankie and Maverick get their HEA with a super satisfying epilogue that has us running to our TBRs and waiting with bated breath for Slaughter Park!
🔊Lauren is the audiobook queen and everything she touches turns into audiobook gold, I have absolute faith that this book will be the same. This will make the BEST duet full cast audiobook ever. I can't wait to listen to it🔊
July 20, 2025
Frankie’s a no-nonsense federal agent with nerves of steel, great instinct, and zero time for distractions, especially not the kind with tousled blonde hair and a cocky smile. But when she’s sent undercover on the Bruise Cruise (yes, it’s exactly as wild as it sounds), things quickly veer off-course. The mission? Infiltrate. The reality? Slowly falling for the one who is assi to watch over her during the cruise. Maverick might be younger, but he’s clever, calculated, and always two moves ahead, which drives Frankie absolutely insane… in all the best ways. Their push-pull dynamic is explosive, and when the tension finally breaks? Let’s just say sparks don’t even begin to cover it. Those scenes where Maverick can only get hard for Frankie, Hotter than the tropics. Still, it’s not all flirtation and fireworks, danger is always lurking around the shuffleboard court. Between shady passengers, serial killer shenanigans, and some serious emotional curveballs, their cruise turns into a full-throttle thrill ride. But in true Slaycation fashion, there’s heart beneath the chaos. Watching Frankie navigate some truly jaw-dropping twists and Maverick finally drop his guard is chef’s kiss. Lauren’s writing is as sharp and cinematic as ever, with visuals that leap off the page, and that ending? Total mic drop. Can’t wait to see what mayhem awaits in the next Slaycation adventure.
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