Unlucky in Love

Unlucky In Love

by Kiva Hart

After a painful breakup, Bella moves to Crescent Hill, Utah, hoping for a fresh start. Struggling with bills and a malfunctioning garbage disposal, she reluctantly rents out the other side of her grandmother’s duplex to a stranger—Mason Larson, a former teacher turned hardware store worker. Their first meeting is filled with awkward humor, but soon Bella finds herself intrigued by Mason’s quiet strength and genuine kindness.

As Thanksgiving approaches, Bella’s once solitary world begins to shift. Mason becomes more involved in her life, helping with household repairs and navigating chaotic holiday preparations with her loud and loving family. Despite the mess, Bella feels a deep connection growing between them.

But when Mason’s painful past resurfaces, Bella’s fear of being hurt again leads her to pull away. As their bond faces its biggest test, Bella must confront her fears and learn to trust Mason—if he’ll still be there to give their love a chance.

Set against the backdrop of a small-town Thanksgiving, this heartwarming romantic comedy shows that second chances, even with a little bit of holiday magic, can lead to unexpected and lasting love.

Genres: Romance, Novella, Thanksgiving

114 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 4, 2025

About the author

Kiva Hart is a passionate romance author known for her ability to weave steamy, heart-pounding love stories with unforgettable characters. With a love for exploring intense chemistry, forbidden romance, and emotional conflict, Kiva creates stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Whether it's enemies turning into lovers, brooding heroes falling for bright-eyed heroines, or love blossoming in the most unexpected circumstances, Kiva’s books are filled with sizzling tension and heart-stopping moments.

Reviews

[Marissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a quick, Thanksgiving-themed read, this one is a great option! Bella and Mason’s journey had me smiling, even though I was occasionally left a bit confused.

Bella is a sweet yet stubborn character. Due to past relationship struggles (not fully explained), she comes across as somewhat guarded. At first, I wasn’t sure how to feel about Mason. However as the story progressed I began to understand him more. The pacing is fast, which kept me engaged. Though at times I felt like certain details or context were missing.

My favorite part of the book was Bella’s family—especially during the Thanksgiving scenes. They’re the kind of warm, lovable family you can’t help but want to spend time with. During these moments is when the book really came to life for me.

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

[Nadine Sturgill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super cute but emotional quick read. Mason, reeling from some drama and trying to build a new life starts to fall for his next door Duplex neighbor/landlord, Bella. She finds out the past and pushes him away. Both are miserable but end up together after realizing they are good together. Relationship trauma is represented very well.

[Shea P · Rating 3 out of 5]

3️⃣⭐️-“Then you get hurt. But at least you gave someone a fair chance. At least you didn’t run from something real before it could even grow.”
I’m a big second chance girly!! But how are you gonna condemn someone without even talking to them??!! I was all up in my feels with this short story. Uhhhh Bella.
Mason was too sweet for all that.

[Ceej · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute read. I’m confused tho. I swear she had his phone number but then didn’t once he left???

[Kristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️ rounded up

Unlucky in Love (the Thanksgiving edition) was cute, though it didn’t land quite as strongly for me as the Halloween one. Mason and Bella are genuinely adorable together, and I loved how seamlessly he fit into her life, especially when she invited him for Thanksgiving. Her family’s warm, chaotic holiday energy was one of my favorite parts. Mason’s quiet steadiness and the way he always seemed to know exactly what Bella needed made their connection feel soft and sincere.

The one downside for me was Mason’s backstory. It just felt like a strange choice and pulled me out of the story a bit. And if miscommunication tropes drive you wild, just know this series leans into them pretty hard.

Still, there’s plenty of charm here. Mason and Bella are sweet, the small-town holiday vibes are cozy, and even with its quirks, it made for a pleasant seasonal read. I’ll definitely keep going with the series because I’m a total sucker for anything holiday-themed.

[Sandy C · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartfelt autumn story.
Bella is hardworking and helpful, especially when it comes to holiday preparations, making it crazy and fun for everyone involved.She has an energetic, witty, and sincere family.
Mason is kind, quiet, and helpful, even if the outcome may be disastrous. He makes an impression that, no matter what he does, the outcome is unfortunate. Kinda makes me sad. Mason bakes a few times, but there are no good or bad responses from anyone. I want to know how the food tastes.
Bella has sarcastic remarks and dry humor, which he matches quite well.
Both are guarded because of various betrayals in the past.
Their past experience may ruin their ability to be happy and loved.
They get good advices for their reconciliation.

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

[Rachelle Whynott · Rating 4 out of 5]

For those that enjoy cute romantic stories that are centered around specific holidays, this is for you. I am a seasonal living type of girl and like to immerse myself in the holidays that are approaching. This Thanksgiving story was really good and left me wanting more at the end.

Bella is looking for someone to rent out the other side of her duplex and Mason answers her ad. Bella and her family are a little obsessed with Thanksgiving and lots of cute little scenes surrounding that occur. Mason has a secret which keeps you guessing throughout.

Kiva Hart is quickly becoming a favorite of mine for quick, cute reads that leave you feeling refreshed.

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

[Ineta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Last time it was about Halloween Magic, now it is Thanksgiving time in Unlucky in Love series by Kiva Hart. Too many attention to Thanksgiving preparations? But it is what Thanksgiving coordinators do. So is Bella. And you will love her family as yours. Because it feels so. He is between chapters, nerdy and clumsy. And so she is. You feel their matching from the first interaction. And Mason just needs somebody in his corner, somebody who believes.
Love is about opening your hearts, accepting and understanding, not keeping walls high. Will Bella give him a chance?
Engaging and emotional love story. I like the Authors writing style and how this series is developed.

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

[Asulley4785 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlucky in Love: Bella & Mason by Kiva Heart is a beautifully written, heart-tugging romance that had me hooked from the very first page. Bella and Mason’s story is filled with raw emotions, second chances, and the kind of chemistry that jumps right off the page.

I loved how Kiva Heart balanced the heartbreak with hope — you can truly feel Bella’s struggles and Mason’s determination to prove their love is worth fighting for. The banter between them was witty, the romantic tension was sizzling, and the emotional moments hit deep.

If you love slow-burn romance with a perfect mix of passion, drama, and redemption, this book is a must-read. Kiva Heart once again delivers a story that stays with you long after you finish.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 2 of the Unlucky in Love series. It can be read as a standalone. From the author: 'Set against the backdrop of a small-town Thanksgiving, this heartwarming romantic comedy shows that second chances, even with a little bit of holiday magic, can lead to unexpected and lasting love.'

The plot was well written and developed. World building was solidly drawn. The characters drove the storyline and they were so very appealing and likeable and perfect for each other. All in all a great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend this series.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

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

[Caroline Reichardt · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story about Bella and Mason. Mason in his past was found guilty by public opinion even before he was tried. Bella had a past with men that left her with an impossible ability to automatically trust men. This story has such a feeling that it could be true and actually felt like it was happening in real time. Bella and Mason are becoming trusting of each other until Bella reads gossip and her instincts are telling her to hide in herself. Mason makes an attempt to explain and Bella panics. When Bella listens to real people it is too late. Bella remembers where Mason works and goes there to fix what she has broken. This story has a down to earth lesson in it to learn. I would love to recommend this book to anyone.

[OneMadReader · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unlucky in Love: A Small Town Romance With A Little Bit of Thanksgiving Magic was a sweet, fast-paced read. I loved that this author wrote a Thanksgiving themed romance because in my opinion Thanksgiving is the forgotten holiday between Halloween and Christmas. The characters were all very nice, and I felt that their developments were really nice as well. It was a very short, easy-to-read book. If you're looking for a quick read on the way to visit family for Thanksgiving, I would definitely recommend Unlucky in Love: A Small Town Romance With A Little Bit of Thanksgiving Magic.

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

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wanted to share my thoughts on "Unlucky In Love," the second story in the series. It's a romantic comedy that begins with Bella moving to Crescent Hill, Utah, after a difficult breakup. There, she meets Mason Larson, and their initial encounter is wonderfully awkward and humorous. The story unfolds around Thanksgiving, filled with misunderstandings, twists, and turns that kept me engaged. I really enjoyed reading Bella and Mason's story. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laughc2 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Kiva Hart and Goodreads for a complimentary copy of Unlucky in Love: A Small Town Romance With A Little Bit Of Thanksgiving Magic (Kindle Edition) for an honest review. I just found a new author to love. First I love small town, love second chances in life, love an overcome prejudice and pridefulness, love a redemption, love holiday and short and sweet. This is a quick novella and so worth the read. No spice per say as some would want, but all the tension, a bit of insta attraction (which I ate up), just plain sweetness, a great Golden retriever MMC, meddling sisters, found family, neighbor/landlord, broken garbage disposals, light fixtures and faucets, mixed in with some wonderful Chamomile tea. A man that would bring me tea based on my mood - YES PLEASE! Bella is an FMC I can relate to, she’s a bit older, jilted and unsure. Mason is sweet, cautious, kind, thoughtful and puts others first and has to overcome judgement from others. Loved watching them fall for each other and of course the sister’s encouragement to get out there and try. I read Kiva Hart’s first book Unlucky in Love: A Small Town Romance With A Little Bit Of Halloween Magic (Kindle Edition) just before this (i like to read in order) and loved it just as much. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series. If you love a cozy, seasonal/fall vibe, then do yourself a favor and read this. Wholly recommend.

[Rosa Medina · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ✨

If you’re looking for a quick, fun, cozy, family type series, I would recommend this one. It was such a cute read that are relatable, makes you feel like you’re in this cozy little towns. The men in these series are the true definition of “fictional men”. Even if it’s a short read it will have you feeling the romance, angst & family aspects but I would have loved for the angst to have had a longer resolution than just a quick make up but I know it’s due to it being so short, still reallly liked it.

[Charmaine Nouwen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unlucky in Love: A Small Town Romance With A Little Bit Of Thanksgiving Magic a romance story of Bella and Mason..A woman whos been hurt before,owned a duplex and wanted to rent it out the other halve.A man with a secret whos loking for a place to rent and so the ADS for a duplex and met the owner..A quick,cute,sweet,and enjoyable story..

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

[Natasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wholesome holiday love novella.
This is a slice of life novella that follows Bella and Mason on their journey to trust in love and people again. Bella is the headstrong older sister and Mason is the quirky and sweet new neighbour she didn't know was missing in her life.
The story takes place around Thanksgiving and it is the perfect setting for a fall romance that makes your heart ache for Mason and make you hope that they can both heal together as eachothers perfect counterpart.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story was cute, short and sweet…but overall not my favorite in this series. This book seemed a little slower to me. I do like Bella and Mason’s story— it just didn’t give me all the feels like the Halloween one and especially the Christmas one did.

Regardless, I am going to continue the series and I look forward to reading the newest one about New Years.

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

[Fatima Salih · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel wraps you in flannel comfort and serves emotional honesty on a silver Thanksgiving platter. Bella’s fear of history repeating meets Mason’s quiet resilience, creating a romance that feels both tender and earned. Their journey is full of fumbled repairs, family mayhem, and soft revelations — all threaded with the reminder that healing isn’t linear, but love is worth the crooked path.

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

[LizNReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Noo!! Why would you leave me hanging like that, Kiva? I mean, I guess it’s common sense what happens next, but I couldn’t believe the book was over until I reached the last page. 😭
Honestly, this is one of the cutest, sweetest, easiest short read I have read in A Long time!
Thank you GoodReads & Kiva Hart for allowing me to read this ARC.
And Kiva, you’re under my radar now. 🫶

[Suze82 · Rating 4 out of 5]

thankful
I like the holiday related themes in this series, what better time to find understanding and support to help you heal than around Thanksgiving? I liked how Bella and Mason grew closer while helping each other out and by helping each other heal found the courage to open their hearts again and seize their chance at a HEA.

[Kate Worth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very cute story and perfect for the autumn season. While it was a quick read, it did not feel rushed. I fell right into the playful banter between the two main characters and instantly wanted the best for them. If you are looking for something short to get you in the fall mood - this one is for you!

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this storyline! Bella and Mason just about have it all figured out when thanksgiving comes and bam they’re hit with his exes meddling and she’s there back pedalling is Bella as she doesn’t want to get hurt by another fella . What happens ,do they turn things around? Just read it on see . It really is heavenly

[D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story with healing and love. Bella and Mason's story was great. I really enjoyed how they started as friends and before they knew it they were more. Even with the struggles, they made it. A great story.

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

[A Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlucky in Love: A Small Town Romance With A Little Bit Of Thanksgiving Magic is another great book in the series. The story was interesting, entertaining and was enjoyable. The characters were likable, fit well together. This was another enjoyable read!.

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

[Tabrina S · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute to a point

Ok so I know it's hard to write these in 100 pages. I do not believe for a second that a Principal at an elite school would just take a random person's call & then divulge private information regarding the student. The FMC should have believed him after he discussed it. The first part of the story was super cute though.

[Skanessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute, quick Novella.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this novella and I enjoyed.

For being short, there was still so much depth and emotion to it. I enjoyed and thought it was lovely.

Both characters were protecting each others hearts and minds.

Very cute and I had fun reading it.

[Mandy Prather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for Unlucky in Love: Second Chance with a bit of Thanksgiving Magic...

Mason moves into the duplex next to Bella that she owns. He had a ruff time at his last job. So he moves into town for a fresh start. He doesnt have family to spend Thanksgiving with so she invites him to celebrate with her and her family.
These two are sweet. Off to read the next book.

[Lauren Meuer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a perfect quick Thanksgiving read that is both emotional and will leave you filled! I loved the setting and how descriptive it is and how you just feel connected to the characters throughout the story. I highly recommend!.

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

[Frances Packingham · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a super cute, quick, Thanksgiving time read. The emotions are high. I cried when Mason told her the truth and how Bella reacted. And then when her sisters intervened. I was hoping for more at the end!