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Unlucky In Love

Unlucky in Love

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What if the person who knows your heart best has been right beside you all along?

After one impulsive kiss years ago, Taylor vowed never to fall for Ryan Carter—her best friend’s older brother and the man who called her a “kid” before walking out of her life.
Now he’s back in town, bruised by the past and trying to find his footing again. When mysterious love notes start appearing in Taylor’s café—filled with memories only someone close could know—the whole town joins in on the guessing game.

As Valentine’s Day nears, Taylor follows each clue straight to the last person she the man who once broke her heart and might just be brave enough to mend it.

Full of laughter, small-town mischief, and second chances, Unlucky in A Secret Admirer Romance with a Little Bit of Valentine’s Day Magic is a sweet, slow-burn rom-com that proves love letters never go out of style.

117 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 22, 2025

40 people are currently reading
76 people want to read

About the author

Kiva Hart

31 books161 followers
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.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
Profile Image for Juniper.
104 reviews30 followers
December 14, 2025
I read this in a state of annoyance the whole time. It had pretty much everything I hate in a romance book.

- The girl who is a boring loser with the personality of a wet sock. She’s been suspended and paralyzed in her life, afraid to do anything more than what she’s always done. She works in the same coffee shop that she has since she was 17. She secretly writes books and self publishes but doesn’t really make any money from it. She wants to travel but just doesn’t. She lets herself be pushed into doing things she doesn’t want to do. She just gives in with a sigh and an “ok”.

-The guy who comes back into her life after hurting her and leaving 9 years ago. He constantly has a stupid smirk on his face and he’s bossy and pushy, not ever accepting a no from the FMC. Just bulldozed his way into her life whether she likes it or not while not being honest with her about his feelings. Of course he’s a tortured soul who didn’t think he was good enough for her.

- The annoying best friend who has to tease the FMC about every move she makes. She also doesn’t accept no from the FMC.

- The pushy, gossipy townspeople who have to stick their nose in the FMC’s life and once again….never listen to her no’s.

- The weird banter that I guess is supposed to be cute or funny but really it’s just filler in a story that has no depth.

- The details that make no sense. How does everyone know her pen name? How does the MMC know so many secret details about the FMC when he’s been gone for 9 years? It’s never explained.

- The relationship development which was not developed. Literally every conversation was about remembering things they did when they were kids. They haven’t talked to each other in 9 years, they aren’t the same people they were when they were teens (well, actually she might be since she’s done absolutely nothing with her life). But do they spend any time talking and getting to know the people they are now?? No, they do not, they barely even spent any time together. Why does he love her? We don’t know. Why does she love him? We don’t know.

- The ending that wraps up absolutely nothing.

I know I’m being really critical over a book that is less than 120 pages but as I said, I was annoyed the whole time and here is where I am choosing to purge myself of that annoyance. I don’t expect much from these short stories but I also don’t expect them to be completely pointless.

It was pretty well written with only a few editing errors that I spotted. Would not recommend unless you’re just looking for a meaningless waste of time to read while you’re sitting on the toilet or something.

Safety: Totally safe. She’s of course never really dated and has only had a few short term boyfriends that led nowhere and meant nothing. Nothing about his dating history since he left town. No spicy scenes, only a few kisses.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
3,250 reviews28 followers
December 30, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sweet, Sincere, and Full of Heart – Unlucky in Love
Kiva Hart | Small-Town Secret Admirer Romance

Unlucky in Love is a charming, feel-good romance that leans into longing, second chances, and the quiet magic of being truly seen by someone who’s known you all along.

Taylor is an easy heroine to root for—warm, grounded, and just guarded enough to feel real. That single impulsive kiss in the past casts a long emotional shadow, and her hurt feels earned, not manufactured. The fact that Ryan once dismissed her as a “kid” adds an extra layer of vulnerability to their dynamic, especially now that he’s back in town carrying his own regrets and bruises from life.

Ryan Carter is the kind of hero who grows on you slowly—in the best way. He’s not flashy or overbearing; he’s reflective, restrained, and quietly emotional. His arc is about timing, maturity, and realizing that the person who felt “off-limits” before might actually be the one who knows you best.

The secret admirer element is where this book really sparkles. The love notes are thoughtful, personal, and steeped in shared history, making the mystery feel intimate rather than gimmicky. Watching Taylor (and the entire small town) speculate adds humor and warmth without overshadowing the emotional core. Each clue nudges her closer not just to the truth—but to confronting her own unresolved feelings.

This is a true slow burn: gentle tension, meaningful glances, emotional restraint, and payoff that feels earned rather than rushed. There’s no unnecessary drama—just honest miscommunication, healing, and the bravery it takes to risk your heart again.

Unlucky in Love proves that sometimes the most romantic stories aren’t about grand gestures—but about the quiet devotion that’s been there all along. A cozy, heartwarming read that leaves you smiling and believing in love letters again. 💕.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jessica Good.
45 reviews3 followers
December 24, 2025
This book had me from page 1 and wouldn’t let me go. Such a cute story of love denied yet still lasting. A quick read that will have your heart singing and your eyes leaking.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nicole.
109 reviews7 followers
February 9, 2026
This was a very cute story. I adored Ryan and Taylor immediately. The second chance aspect of the story was key. I honestly thought her secret admirer was going to be her best friend just trying to get her out of her comfort zone and falling for Ryan was just a bonus.
Profile Image for Heidi Lengenfelder.
499 reviews
December 19, 2025
There’s something undeniably magical about a romance built on history, unanswered feelings, and words left unsaid—and Unlucky in Love leans into that magic beautifully. This is a story about timing, second chances, and the quiet hope that maybe the love you thought you lost was only waiting for the right moment to return.

Taylor has built a life she’s proud of, running her café and keeping her heart carefully guarded. Years ago, one impulsive kiss shattered her certainty, leaving her hurt by Ryan Carter—the boy who was too old, too close, and too forbidden. Being dismissed as “just a kid” before he disappeared from her life left a scar she never quite acknowledged, choosing instead to move forward without looking back.

Ryan’s return to town reopens everything Taylor thought she’d buried. He’s changed—softer around the edges, bruised by his past, and clearly carrying regrets he never voiced. But before Taylor can decide what his presence means, anonymous love notes begin appearing in her café. Each one is thoughtful, intimate, and filled with memories only someone who truly knows her could write. Suddenly, the entire town is buzzing, and Taylor is caught between the thrill of being seen and the fear of hoping again.

What makes this story shine is its emotional restraint. The romance unfolds slowly, letting glances linger and words matter. Ryan doesn’t rush forgiveness, and Taylor doesn’t hand over trust easily. Their connection is layered with shared history, unresolved hurt, and genuine tenderness, making every moment between them feel earned.

The small-town setting adds warmth and charm, amplifying the mischief, speculation, and collective investment in Taylor’s mysterious admirer. And with Valentine’s Day approaching, the stakes feel higher, the emotions sharper, and the payoff sweeter.

Unlucky in Love is a soft, heartfelt rom-com that celebrates love letters, healing, and the courage it takes to open your heart again. It’s cozy, romantic, and quietly swoony—proof that sometimes the love meant for you never really leaves.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Michelle Frater.
1,777 reviews20 followers
November 29, 2025
Sometimes Taylor feels like she just fades into the background. Sure, people see her every day as the barista who fuels their caffeine addiction with flawless cappuccinos and silky lattes, but almost no one looks past the practiced smile to the loneliness she keeps tucked beneath. However, when her best friend’s brother, Ryan Carter, returns to town, he notices everything she thought she’d hidden. For Taylor, he’s a painful reminder of one of the most embarrassing moments of her life. For Ryan, she may be the very reason he’s come home after all these years. When mysterious notes begin showing up at her café, something stirs inside Taylor. Each one is a small spark, part clue, part quiet confession, reminding her that she isn’t as invisible, or as alone, as she’s convinced herself she is. Sure, it doesn’t take a detective to guess the identity of her secret admirer, but that’s hardly the point. The magic lies in the anticipation: the flutter of waiting for the next note, the thrill of discovering where it will lead, the sweetness of knowing someone cares enough to craft this tender, nostalgic treasure hunt just for her. In the end, this isn’t just a story about secret notes or second chances. It’s about recognizing the love that’s been there all along and finding the courage to finally claim it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Michelle Boyer.
1,923 reviews27 followers
January 15, 2026
PopSugar 2026 reading challenge #41: ARC

This book is so sweet you may actually get a toothache from reading it.

The basics: Taylor is living in a small town and works in a café making coffee, even though she's always wanted to be a writer (and gasp, may be already writing!). She once had a big crush on her best friend's brother because who hasn't? He was a jerk though and left to be in the military.

Well, he's back in town. Right around the same time a secret admirer starts leaving little notes for Taylor. I know what you're thinking, these two things must be related. Calm down romance reader, calm down (like, you're not wrong, but just enjoy the story!).

There are some long walks. There are sweets. There are some longing stares. There are even some deep, passionate kisses. This is pretty closed bedroom though and there's no crazy wild night in bed (which I mean, I would have been fine with, but that's just not the style of this author or this story).

Does it end happily? Yes.
Is is predictable in all the ways you want it to be as a reader? Yes.
Are you going to like it? I'd say yes.
Profile Image for Kristina.
152 reviews9 followers
February 9, 2026
4.5⭐️ rounded up

This installment of Unlucky in Love was such a sweet Valentine’s Day read. I’m honestly torn between this one and the New Year’s book as my favorite in the series. A very personal Valentine’s scavenger hunt in a small town? I'm swooning.

Taylor felt incredibly relatable, stuck in the routine of life while being quietly terrified to chase her dream of becoming a writer. Ryan is Taylor's best friend’s older brother. He is trying to find his footing after leaving the military, and that sense of searching for purpose really grounded his character. The fact that they’ve both been in love with each other for years (secretly, and not-so-secretly) made every interaction extra swoony.

Sweet, emotional, and full of longing, this is a slow-burn, closed-door romance. The small-town vibes are immaculate, the romance is tender and heartfelt, and the Valentine’s vibe woven throughout just works. The ending absolutely had me in tears. Definitely recommend if you're looking for a quick read to get you in the Valentine’s Day spirit. 💘
30 reviews1 follower
November 28, 2025
This romance delivers everything a Valentine’s lover hopes for: delicious tension, a trail of handwritten clues, and a town shamelessly invested in two people falling in love. Taylor’s guarded heart feels wonderfully real, and Ryan’s return adds weight, history, and irresistible charm. Their past wounds don’t disappear — instead, they shape the tenderness of their second chance.

The anonymous love notes are a perfect touch: intimate, sweet, and nostalgic. They feel like tiny time capsules — reminders that the heart never forgets where it once hoped. As the mystery unfolds, so does Taylor’s courage. And when the truth finally lands, it hits with equal parts swoon and sincerity.

Cozy, witty, and full of Valentine’s warmth — this is the kind of book you read with hot cocoa and a heart ready to root for love’s quiet comeback.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
671 reviews9 followers
November 30, 2025
I have loved the previous books in this series, so this new book was just the right addition.

Taylor is a barista who feels lonely and overlooked not just by the customers, but life and love. She has had one major regret in life and that is kissing her best friend's brother, because it expose her attraction, and show her what rejection feels like. Ryan returns to town after years away, he has mature and sees Taylor with a new light, and he notices everything about her. Suddenly small notes start to appear at Taylor's work that light up her spirit (though we know it is Ryan) it is the thrill of the hunt, the wait, the expectative that make each note that much more delightful, and slowly Taylor starts to bloom, and Ryan will have to arm himself with courage to face his work and words by Valentine's day.


A beautiful short read for your next reading break!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Brandi.
21 reviews
December 24, 2025
So cute!

A charming, lighthearted romance built around a secret admirer, playful clues, and Valentine’s Day magic. At its heart is an off-limits romance that adds just enough tension to keep things interesting without tipping into angst. The story blends flirtation, mystery, and slow-burn chemistry in a way that feels fun and engaging from start to finish.
My Review:
I loved the banter, the story, and the playful mystery woven throughout this book. The dialogue is witty and natural, the pacing keeps things moving, and the off-limits dynamic gives the romance an extra spark.
The secret-admirer angle kept me guessing, the chemistry felt genuine, and the tone stayed cozy, clever, and enjoyable without becoming overdramatic. This is one of those romances that’s easy to fall into and hard to put down.
If you enjoy flirty banter, a touch of mystery, and an off-limits love that actually works, this book is a really fun read.
Profile Image for Lovergirl25.
41 reviews1 follower
December 25, 2025
Kiva Hart has done it again. A small love story that still captures everyone's attention. I love her stories and this one wasn't any different. Ryan coming home was kinda at the right time. And proving himself to Taylor because he's been skating by not giving in to his feelings. But showing her and letting her see she's not invisible she matters. Even though before he hurt her dearly admitting your wrong and proving your different. Shows improvement and growth that you didn't have before. Not gonna lie that scavenger humt he really got me because I thought it was him from the beginning then he acted like it wasn't him in his pov but it was him lol. I hope I keep reading more kiva hart books her books make me smile and believe in these simple romances that come with trials but are worth it lol.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kelli Lunsford.
14 reviews1 follower
February 15, 2026
Ryan Carter returns home after his contract with the Marine Corps ends, ready to settle back into small-town life. When he realizes that the girl who had a crush on him all throughout their childhood is still single, he can’t ignore the feelings he’s kept buried for years.
When she starts receiving mysterious clues from a secret admirer, Ryan steps in to help her solve them. But as they follow each hint, old memories resurface and the line between friendship and something more begins to blur.
It’s a sweet, feel-good story about growing up as childhood friends, second chances, and discovering that the person you were meant to be with may have been right beside you all along.

You can run for only so long, if you’re meant to be, you will always find a way back. This was an incredible story. I enjoyed every second of it. I give it 5 stars.
549 reviews2 followers
January 7, 2026
A sweet romantic story with a slightly melancholic undertone. Ryan and Taylor practically grew up together. Years later, they meet again, both a bit dissapinted by life, insecurities, choices, fears, guilt. But Ryan has returned to their small town and to her, and has no intention of leaving again.
It's well-written, an entertaining short novel. The characters are easy to follow. Towards the end, I just felt that not everything was clear and developed, for example, Taylor's family situation, or Ryan's career.
The overly enthusiastic villagers and family members who were featured towards the end were a bit sudden and much in my opinion.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,084 reviews17 followers
December 2, 2025
loved it !! love this series !!! love Taylor and Ryan... this is their story... a fun fast paced rom/com drama short story... she kissed him once and he kissed her back then, he called her a kid and walked away right into the Marines...nine years later and he's back ...he's her best friends older brother... only by two years... now, she runs a coffee shop...and he waits for her and wants to walk her home..she is so over him and tells him "no"...then, the love notes start appearing... so sweet !!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
6,245 reviews115 followers
January 15, 2026
Unlucky in Love: A Secret Admirer Romance With A Little Bit Of Valentine’s Day Magic by Kiva Hart – This is on kindle unlimited. This is the first one in the series I have had any beef with. These three grew up together, and yet they are constantly qualifying their answers instead of confidently reporting facts. Emma at least should confidently report all details of her best friend! I would request a rewrite with a confident transference of personal details to the brother that she wants to date her best friend lol! But the story is sweet! Happy Reading!
Profile Image for Reann.
114 reviews3 followers
November 28, 2025
I absolutely loved Unlucky in Love! This book, and the series as a whole, is incredibly enjoyable. The characters are so cute and relatable, which made it easy to get invested in their story. Kiva Hart has created a sweet, slow-burn romance with a perfect touch of small-town mischief and Valentine's Day magic. Highly recommend!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nadine Sturgill.
180 reviews10 followers
November 28, 2025
Super cute!

Gotta love the best friend's brother! I think we've all had our own experiences with this. Kiva's Unlucky in Love series is one of the best in my opinion. Great for getting that feel good vibe and cutesy/rom com vibes. I was impatiently waiting for this Valentine's one since I have read the Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year. Perfect novella length and just right at the sweet spot.
Profile Image for Barbara.
19.3k reviews8 followers
December 2, 2025
Part of the Unlucky In Love. another engaging short story in the series. The story is exceptionally well-written, featuring a compelling storyline and great, memorable characters, and a happy ending. I was particularly interested in Taylor's vow never to fall for Ryan Carter, her best friend’s older brother. I was especially pleased with the happy ending. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
210 reviews2 followers
December 5, 2025
I received an ARC for Unlucky in Love: A secret admirer Romance with a bit of Valentine's Magic...

Taylor and Ryan grew up together he was her best friends brother. They both had feelings for each other Taylor kissed him when she was 17 but he pushed her away.
Now he is back in town. And Taylor has a secret Admirer that knows alot about her.
These two are so sweet. Ryan really paid attention to her when they were younger.
372 reviews3 followers
December 11, 2025
This is such a fun and sweet story of long time friends and their journey to more. Taylor and Ryan are perfect for one another, but fate knew they needed more time before they found their HEA. Great banter and sweet love notes with a fun town and setting make this a great story. My only issue with the story is it is too short!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Ineta.
1,454 reviews11 followers
December 13, 2025
I love this series - Unlucky in Love and Author’s writing style. It is so amazing. And this book was the great addition to the series. It was emotional and sweet and heartwarming story. Their second chance, not easy to open up to each other. Loved the secret admirer and scavenger hunt, amazing family and community and their support. Amazing Valentine’s romance to enjoy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for TheSugaredBookworm.
702 reviews15 followers
December 21, 2025
Loved it!

This was such a cute novella! I loved the small town and now involved everyone is in everyone else's lives. You get small town romance, best friends brother, childhood friends to lovers and kind of a second chance. Taylor is a sweetheart! She feels so unseen and lonely. Ryan has just returned from the military and is trying to rediscover himself. Their chemistry is so sweet! I couldn't put it down and read it all in one sitting!
Profile Image for Cassie Smith.
Author 2 books
January 13, 2026
My first secret admirer romance and it was super cute. Taylor has a coffee shop and has basically sworn off romance until she starts receiving little notes in the back booth of her coffee shop. She secretly loves this and even in this small town, she wonders who has fallen for her and how it's kept so secret. I don't want to give away any spoilers, but you should pick this one up if you have a chance. It's a short, witty, fun small town romance that will pull at your heart strings.
Profile Image for Rachelle Whynott.
101 reviews5 followers
January 24, 2026
Another great read from Kiva Hart. This unlucky in love holiday series has been quite enjoyable. This book is a best friends brother romance where they have been friends since they were kids. Taylor (the fmc) also has a secret admirer who is leaving her sweet clues and gifts that make me wish for a scavenger hunt myself. This was a fabulously written, quick novella that leaves you feeling great at the end.

I received this book as an arc and am leaving my honest review
Profile Image for Barbara Hackel.
2,889 reviews44 followers
February 4, 2026
A charming love story between Ryan and his sister's best friend, Taylor. He loved her quietly in his youth, and when he returns years later from serving in the Marines he decided to let her know his feelings. What follows is a romantic courtship of surprises.
Marvelous characters and vivid descriptions make the reader feel like they are present in the story. Reading this book made my heart happy!
Profile Image for Tina.
Author 2 books36 followers
November 26, 2025
This was a cute, fast romance.
There were a couple of inconsistencies, and I felt like this could have delved deeper into the characters, especially Ryan.
I was obvious who her secret admirer was, and the fact that she didn't figure it out until the end was a little improbable. She knew the only people who knew her well enough. And only one of them was a guy.
Profile Image for Chyenne Brooks.
27 reviews
November 27, 2025
This was such a cute read! I loved this second-chance romance. The way the male main character proves to the female main character that he sees her more than she knows is absolutely adorable. I also enjoyed the way his family and the town were all invested.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Angi.
1,386 reviews
November 29, 2025
Brooke and Toby had been a couple in high school, wanting different futures Brooke breaks up with Toby and moves from the small town. When she comes back to take care of her grandma, her and Toby reunite. This is a short but sweet second chance holiday love story. This is an adorable read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
439 reviews2 followers
November 30, 2025
A sweet, lovely story. From a hurtful experience in youth to a reconnection of friendship.
Someone cares, notices, and woos in a romantic and special way right before Valentine's Day.
Makes me wonder how important it is to fulfill dreams or let them be.


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