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Unexpected #10
Caleb
I don’t let anyone in… I can’t afford to. But he’s the first person who makes me want to try.
My new roommate, Caleb, breezes into my life like unexpected sunshine lighting up the darkness. My secrets and sharp edges are built to keep people out.
But when he wraps his warm body around mine—needy and trusting—something in me cracks open and unfurls.
And the deeper Caleb sinks into my chest, the more I know I should push him away before he sees too much.
Before it’s too late. Because in the end, I know the truth will break us both.
My new roommate, Caleb, breezes into my life like unexpected sunshine lighting up the darkness. My secrets and sharp edges are built to keep people out.
But when he wraps his warm body around mine—needy and trusting—something in me cracks open and unfurls.
And the deeper Caleb sinks into my chest, the more I know I should push him away before he sees too much.
Before it’s too late. Because in the end, I know the truth will break us both.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2026
294 people are currently reading
851 people want to read
About the author
Cora Rose
47 books2,935 followersCora Rose loves any kind of romance and consumes way too many books each year. She currently lives in the U.S. and spends her days daydreaming about the characters inside her head.
You can email her at CoraRoseRomance@gmail.com or visit her website at www.coraroseromance.com
You can email her at CoraRoseRomance@gmail.com or visit her website at www.coraroseromance.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
May 3, 2026
So unnecessary. But that’s on me because I love this couple enough to read this second installment! I guess in my ideal world where I’m getting a book from Whit’s POV - there’d be a new story to tell. It’s years down the line or something. Not a retread of past events where we’re not even really learning much new information at all anyways. I don’t feel like I know Whit much better even if this book is from his POV. I think it speaks to the success of the first book (for me) that he felt like a fully formed enough character to make this not needed. I didn’t really enjoy this very much. Just a lot of sex and scenes I already know well enough from the first book.🤷🏼♀️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Everything you ever wanted from Whit's POV. The yearning is endless.
April 25, 2026
As promised, this was Whit from Whit's p.o.v. Nothing was essentially changed in the story other than we got more insight into a few scenes we were not given in the original book. Plus much more headspace and understanding where Whit's brain was the whole time. This gets 5 stars for not ruining my favorite book🤗... Because it is exactly that. Whit retold.
May 1, 2026
Thank you for that cover 😍
April 27, 2026
Tropes: roommates, forced proximity, opposites attract, rich/poor, grumpy/sunshine
Feels: 4.5/5
Steam*: 3.5/5
Kinks: spanking, edging
Angst: medium
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: physically and emotionally abusive parents, alcoholic mother, past suicide attempts and self-harm by MMC, third act break up, grief, death of mother in past by cancer
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: before the mmcs started anything, but after Whit started to have feelings, Whit went out intending to hook up, but couldn't follow through, barely even talked to anyone. Which was also engaged to a woman and keeping it secret, but there was absolutely nothing between them, it was just his abusive parents manipulating him.
5 stars
I am a huge fan of this couple. I read their first book eight times (and I will read it more), it is one of my favourite comfort books to reread. I love how preoccupied with each other they are, both of them are whipped and down bad for each other, to the point that they can't think of other things. And I think they are the best touch starved couple that I have ever read. They both just need the comfort of touch so much. And it's not just sexual, they touch platonically and they breathe easier and relax more when they are touching and in a good place with each other. I just love their connection.
As a long time fan, a Caleb/Whit connoisseur, I really enjoyed this book, I love that we got it. But I will be honest and say that the book that I will keep rereading over and over again is Whit. To me, it's more special, I really loved the vulnerability of getting Caleb's POV with how down bad he was and how open to love he was, and it really worked having Whit be so closed off in that book, keeping you guessing about what was going on behind the scenes, what he had been through.
Whit's POV just wasn't as enjoyable as Caleb's because you're seeing Whit struggle with deceiving Caleb but continue to deceive him anyway because he selfishly wants to have this for as long as he can before he gives it up, but he knows he's going to give it up. Whit is still very likeable, he's so vulnerable, he's so emotionally invested, so you don't hate him. But I just find it more enjoyable to spend more time in Caleb's head, it's more positive emotion. But these boys are both so vulnerable, their hearts beat for each other. I love them.
My only complaints are these. I wish we had a little bit more of Caleb's POV in this one, we only had two pages of his POV at 90%. Based on the last book, I thought we would get like three snippets of his POV, and I was looking forward to some new moments with him because he's such a sweetheart. I wish there had been a little bit less repetition of scenes from the two books, but I get the author was trying to stay true to the events.
Things I loved that we got to see:
- I love that we got to see Whit meeting Caleb and immediately deciding to offer him the contract to move in. He was immediately smitten.
- I loved seeing Whit and Aunt Del's relationship. She really cared about him, she was so kind to him, she was so excited to talk to him and see him, and Whit needed people who cared about him for him. And I felt like Aunt Del cared about him, not just because of Caleb.
- I love how preoccupied Whit was with Caleb's pouty bottom lip. And how he could read Caleb's emotions so well, he knew when they were in a good place, he knew when Caleb wasn't being himself and was hurting.
- I loved that Whit saw the adoration, affection, attraction that Caleb felt towards Whit. I don't think I fully realized before, how much Caleb was wearing his heart on his sleeve. Whit felt loved/special to Caleb, it was never casual despite his protestations.
- I liked that we got to see that on that one night that Whit stayed out all night, he didn't hook up with someone else, I had always kind of worried that he and Magnus had to hook up that night.
Some notable moments:
"“Get in,” I say, my voice snapping. “Tucking me in?” he asks, his lips curling up in a soft, adoring smile. Absolutely not. This is not happening. Thankfully, he slips between the covers, and I toss them over his body, hiding him from me. It’s only then that I can breathe."
I always was a wee bit suspicious about how hard Whit tried... Lol. "“Why am I still naked?” he says instead. “You complained the fabric was too scratchy. I gave up trying to clothe you after the first day.” He huffs, and I can feel him staring at me. To be honest, I didn’t try that hard. I tried very little. My attempt at trying was nonexistent."
"“The boys are here,” Aunt Del shouts and then rushes toward me, pulling me into a crushing hug. I still don’t know what to do with all this affection. So, I just lean down and hold her against me for a moment. My hands pat her back awkwardly, and she chuckles softly."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 4.5/5
Steam*: 3.5/5
Kinks: spanking, edging
Angst: medium
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: physically and emotionally abusive parents, alcoholic mother, past suicide attempts and self-harm by MMC, third act break up, grief, death of mother in past by cancer
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: before the mmcs started anything, but after Whit started to have feelings, Whit went out intending to hook up, but couldn't follow through, barely even talked to anyone. Which was also engaged to a woman and keeping it secret, but there was absolutely nothing between them, it was just his abusive parents manipulating him.
5 stars
I am a huge fan of this couple. I read their first book eight times (and I will read it more), it is one of my favourite comfort books to reread. I love how preoccupied with each other they are, both of them are whipped and down bad for each other, to the point that they can't think of other things. And I think they are the best touch starved couple that I have ever read. They both just need the comfort of touch so much. And it's not just sexual, they touch platonically and they breathe easier and relax more when they are touching and in a good place with each other. I just love their connection.
As a long time fan, a Caleb/Whit connoisseur, I really enjoyed this book, I love that we got it. But I will be honest and say that the book that I will keep rereading over and over again is Whit. To me, it's more special, I really loved the vulnerability of getting Caleb's POV with how down bad he was and how open to love he was, and it really worked having Whit be so closed off in that book, keeping you guessing about what was going on behind the scenes, what he had been through.
Whit's POV just wasn't as enjoyable as Caleb's because you're seeing Whit struggle with deceiving Caleb but continue to deceive him anyway because he selfishly wants to have this for as long as he can before he gives it up, but he knows he's going to give it up. Whit is still very likeable, he's so vulnerable, he's so emotionally invested, so you don't hate him. But I just find it more enjoyable to spend more time in Caleb's head, it's more positive emotion. But these boys are both so vulnerable, their hearts beat for each other. I love them.
My only complaints are these. I wish we had a little bit more of Caleb's POV in this one, we only had two pages of his POV at 90%. Based on the last book, I thought we would get like three snippets of his POV, and I was looking forward to some new moments with him because he's such a sweetheart. I wish there had been a little bit less repetition of scenes from the two books, but I get the author was trying to stay true to the events.
Things I loved that we got to see:
- I love that we got to see Whit meeting Caleb and immediately deciding to offer him the contract to move in. He was immediately smitten.
- I loved seeing Whit and Aunt Del's relationship. She really cared about him, she was so kind to him, she was so excited to talk to him and see him, and Whit needed people who cared about him for him. And I felt like Aunt Del cared about him, not just because of Caleb.
- I love how preoccupied Whit was with Caleb's pouty bottom lip. And how he could read Caleb's emotions so well, he knew when they were in a good place, he knew when Caleb wasn't being himself and was hurting.
- I loved that Whit saw the adoration, affection, attraction that Caleb felt towards Whit. I don't think I fully realized before, how much Caleb was wearing his heart on his sleeve. Whit felt loved/special to Caleb, it was never casual despite his protestations.
- I liked that we got to see that on that one night that Whit stayed out all night, he didn't hook up with someone else, I had always kind of worried that he and Magnus had to hook up that night.
Some notable moments:
"“Get in,” I say, my voice snapping. “Tucking me in?” he asks, his lips curling up in a soft, adoring smile. Absolutely not. This is not happening. Thankfully, he slips between the covers, and I toss them over his body, hiding him from me. It’s only then that I can breathe."
I always was a wee bit suspicious about how hard Whit tried... Lol. "“Why am I still naked?” he says instead. “You complained the fabric was too scratchy. I gave up trying to clothe you after the first day.” He huffs, and I can feel him staring at me. To be honest, I didn’t try that hard. I tried very little. My attempt at trying was nonexistent."
"“The boys are here,” Aunt Del shouts and then rushes toward me, pulling me into a crushing hug. I still don’t know what to do with all this affection. So, I just lean down and hold her against me for a moment. My hands pat her back awkwardly, and she chuckles softly."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Read
April 30, 20267/10 Може і не варто було писати цю ж книгу з погляду іншого персонажу, кардинально нового не було, проте сама книга топ в цієі авторки. Дуже різні хлопці змушені жити в одній хаті. Калеб великий мязистий гетеро хлопець, який працює на сміттєзвалищі і Віт, заможний закритий ОКРщик-румун. Дивно думати, що я більше розумію Віта і його проблеми спадкоємця заможного, звісно, але це так, ахаха
April 26, 2026
i’ve never reread whit because i was terrified of not liking it as much the second time.
so, i was pretty damn excited about this.
the issue is that life is definitely getting in the way of my reading lately and it bothers me so much that i keep dnfing stuff.
so the fact that i made it through the end is a win.
so, i was pretty damn excited about this.
the issue is that life is definitely getting in the way of my reading lately and it bothers me so much that i keep dnfing stuff.
so the fact that i made it through the end is a win.
April 27, 2026
I’ll love Whit and Caleb forever, but this was not at all necessary and didn’t really add much to their story in my opinion.
April 11, 2026
4.5⭐️
Whit was one of the books that inspired me to start really getting into reading again, so I’ve been DYING to get my hands on Caleb! This book follows the same love story as ‘Whit’ the iconic first book in Cora Rose’s Unexpected series, yet this time it’s told from Whit’s point of view.
You should definitely read ‘Whit’ before reading ‘Caleb’, (and the rest of the series … and the spinoff) but this book could technically stand on its own
This book is going to give you:
-roommates
-opposites attract
-black cat / golden retriever
-deeper insight into Whit’s psyche, trauma, and line of thought
I really loved this book. I felt so nostalgic, and I was actually just grinning through the first few chapters because of that. While most of cora’s books are dual POV, we never really got to see what Whit was thinking, until now! He’s full of turmoil, but the way he loves Caleb is so sweet.
For sure. I wasn’t bored at all, even though I already knew the entire plot from ‘Whit’. We definitely also get so much added to their stories.
I love this series so much. ❤️ definitely a must-read for me for MM romance enjoyers!
Whit was one of the books that inspired me to start really getting into reading again, so I’ve been DYING to get my hands on Caleb! This book follows the same love story as ‘Whit’ the iconic first book in Cora Rose’s Unexpected series, yet this time it’s told from Whit’s point of view.
You should definitely read ‘Whit’ before reading ‘Caleb’, (and the rest of the series … and the spinoff) but this book could technically stand on its own
This book is going to give you:
-roommates
-opposites attract
-black cat / golden retriever
-deeper insight into Whit’s psyche, trauma, and line of thought
I really loved this book. I felt so nostalgic, and I was actually just grinning through the first few chapters because of that. While most of cora’s books are dual POV, we never really got to see what Whit was thinking, until now! He’s full of turmoil, but the way he loves Caleb is so sweet.
For sure. I wasn’t bored at all, even though I already knew the entire plot from ‘Whit’. We definitely also get so much added to their stories.
I love this series so much. ❤️ definitely a must-read for me for MM romance enjoyers!
May 1, 2026
I don’t really understand the point of this book. I love “Whit” and a few other books from the series, but this one feels pretty unnecessary. If anything it makes me upset that Cora kind of made Caleb come off as an insensitive jerk. There were some elements that were extremely repetitive, like Whit’s mantra that the relationship would never work. It made the book feel too long. We also didn’t get that much added information about Whit’s background. So it just felt like sex + rumination on loop. Meh.
May 4, 2026
4.5⭐️
I absolutely loved Whit, and I loved this just as much. Sad to say goodbye to them again! 🥺
I absolutely loved Whit, and I loved this just as much. Sad to say goodbye to them again! 🥺
April 11, 2026
Whit was the story that started it all when it comes to my reading adventure with Cora’s books. Finally getting book 10 as Whit’s POV of what happened was freaking everything. Caleb is a freaking masterpiece. It felt so full circle and ooooof it hurt so much more getting all of Whits internal monologue throughout everything. They have always been my favorite couple of the Unexpected series and this 100% reinforced that. They are the perfect opposites attract story and I’ll be honest while I didn’t cry during Whit, I teared up a LOT during Caleb. Caleb is so freaking supportive and loving to Whit who just deserves the absolute best after his horrid childhood. I will never not love these two, this was so well written it’s insane. I don’t even know what else to say, this book was freaking amazing. Go freaking read it as soon as it releases, holy moly.
April 28, 2026
It was so gooood to revisit Caleb and Whit’s story from another POV! I only remembered a few details here and there. And just as I remembered, these two are just so hot and sweet at the same time. Whit couldn’t do anything but fall for Caleb, and seeing his struggles was a bit heartbreaking at times. A must read if you love the first book in the series, Whit !
April 30, 2026
Thank you to The Author Agency and Cora Rose for this arc in exchange for an honest review
Whit isn’t allowed to have a roommate. Whit wants to defy his parents in any way he can so he searches for one. Caleb comes in and for some reason Whit hands him the roommate contract. Whit doesn’t know what he’s getting into. Whit is not ready for the hurricane that is Caleb.
I love that Caleb calls Whit “Baby”. I think Whit shocked himself when he gave Caleb the contract and not the nice girl who was there before him. It’s cute how Caleb said he is a clean person but he is anything but. How sweet is it that Whit uses his kindle as a ruse to make it look like he’s reading but really he’s paying attention to Caleb. Whit answering Aunt Del’s call is a big deal. I like how needy Caleb is when he’s sick. I adore Caleb’s family. It’s adorable how Caleb always pouts when he doesn’t get his way but Whit always gives in. That ending is absolutely beautiful.
Whit isn’t allowed to have a roommate. Whit wants to defy his parents in any way he can so he searches for one. Caleb comes in and for some reason Whit hands him the roommate contract. Whit doesn’t know what he’s getting into. Whit is not ready for the hurricane that is Caleb.
I love that Caleb calls Whit “Baby”. I think Whit shocked himself when he gave Caleb the contract and not the nice girl who was there before him. It’s cute how Caleb said he is a clean person but he is anything but. How sweet is it that Whit uses his kindle as a ruse to make it look like he’s reading but really he’s paying attention to Caleb. Whit answering Aunt Del’s call is a big deal. I like how needy Caleb is when he’s sick. I adore Caleb’s family. It’s adorable how Caleb always pouts when he doesn’t get his way but Whit always gives in. That ending is absolutely beautiful.
April 25, 2026
It has been a hot minute since I read Whit - it was November 2024 I was in a hotel room waiting for a concert to start - (tell me your a reader without telling me your a reader 🤣) So some parts really stretched my brain but seeing this from Whits pov was just 😩. My heart hurt for him before but it definitely hit harder here. I’m not sure if it was too fresh at the time (just over a year since I lost mine) but I didn’t remember what happened to Caleb’s mom, I might have blocked it out because I wasn’t ready to read something so close to home. Like Caleb I lost my mom to cancer, quickly and out of the blue. He’s a character that will always stick with me, his big heart, his capacity for love. I’m glad to have seen their story from this POV. I want to thank Cora for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 24, 2026
I love that we got to see their first meeting. For so long it was just Caleb’s impression of Whit. Now we get to see why Whit let Caleb move in and how neither of these two had any idea how much their lives were going to change.
Reading them at the same time they do follow the same pacing. Chapter for chapter.
I loved getting to see Whits perspective meeting Caleb’s family. Knowing what is coming for Sem and Maggie was cute too.
The love confession at the end from Whits perspective was just what I needed.
I think the only thing I wished for was more of Whit confronting his family and ending things. Things wrapped up pretty quickly and after all the stress Whits family caused him I thought it would be more of a blow up.
Overall if you loved Caleb’s perspective in Whit you will love Whit’s perspective in Caleb.
Reading them at the same time they do follow the same pacing. Chapter for chapter.
I loved getting to see Whits perspective meeting Caleb’s family. Knowing what is coming for Sem and Maggie was cute too.
The love confession at the end from Whits perspective was just what I needed.
I think the only thing I wished for was more of Whit confronting his family and ending things. Things wrapped up pretty quickly and after all the stress Whits family caused him I thought it would be more of a blow up.
Overall if you loved Caleb’s perspective in Whit you will love Whit’s perspective in Caleb.
April 27, 2026
I just love these characters. I am so happy this book was written. I loved Whit and this was just as good.
April 13, 2026
An absolute spectacular ending to an amazing series and I couldn’t be happier that it ended where it started!! I’m a little obsessed with Whit so I was going to explode waiting on this book and it didn’t disappoint! I devoured every page like I had every book of the series before it but this one was special. Getting to read Whit’s POV was so insightful and made me love Caleb and Whit even more! I can’t wait to do a reread of the whole series but they will have a special place in my heart forever!! I 100% recommend!
April 25, 2026
I’ve truly loved this series and Caleb and Whit are one of my favourite couples.
Unfortunately I still don’t think we saw a lot of Whit in this. Not the depths anyways. I felt like there was something missing from his story. And his big moment of getting away from his father felt anti-climactic.
It was still a really good read and I’m glad I got some insight to Whit and how he is.
Unfortunately I still don’t think we saw a lot of Whit in this. Not the depths anyways. I felt like there was something missing from his story. And his big moment of getting away from his father felt anti-climactic.
It was still a really good read and I’m glad I got some insight to Whit and how he is.
April 24, 2026
4.75 stars
I’m going to preface this by saying: While I've previously read Whit, it was a couple of years ago and I can't recall much of the story. I did consider reading it again in advance of starting this, but I decided to go into it with ‘fresh eyes.’
I got absolutely lost in these two. Opposites in an extreme way, but they worked so well. I was glued to the page.
I loved that their relationship starts with Whit letting Caleb cuddle (*cough* smother) him when the latter's ill and that it evolves into so much more from there. I loved how they just fall into a routine of cuddles and holding hands. I was so eager for their first kiss, and it didn’t disappoint.
I adored seeing how Caleb helps Whit get out of his head and forget his burdens, even if just for a short period of time, by encouraging him to do things outside of his comfort zone.
Caleb is so gorgeous. He drew me in with his endearing as heck confident charm, open sincerity and big sunshine personality. I loved how much of a snuggle bug he is. That blasted plastic bag is so very him! His recklessness, which would have made me cringe in worry in real life, made me smile at how free he is – though it did highlight even more how dire Whit’s situation is.
[Quote] ‘Is this what having a family is like? Is this how it should feel? I’m envious of what he has.’
If my heart hadn't already broken for Whit, this line would have done it; as it was, these words managed to shatter it even more.
Whit’s just going through the motions of life rather than being able to enjoy anything, and I ached for him so badly. He’s been abused and neglected and now forced into arrangements he hates by vile, awful parents. Every new thing we learn about Whit’s past hurt like a punch to the gut. Gosh, I wanted to hug him so badly.
I cannot tell you how happy I was that Caleb explodes into his life like a whirlwind and disrupts Whit’s strict routine. Whit’s world is rocked by this messy, uncomplicated man, and I did relish seeing how his careful control failed when faced with Caleb and his laidback ways.
Caleb doesn't just crack Whit's barrier; he smashes through it completely with his enthusiastic confidence and those winning smiles. It felt like a little bit of Whit came alive again every time he blushed.
Caleb and his family invade Whit’s life bringing noise and chaos and unfiltered banter, but with it, love and affection that he’s never had before. I’d forgotten how much I loved them! They're wild and loud, and have no boundaries or awareness of personal space, but the heart they bring is what stands out most about them. They adopt Whit wholeheartedly into their family with open arms. Aunt Del is the BEST. I loved how warmly she welcomes Whit into Caleb's life from that first phone call.
Some of my favourite moments from the book: when these two are cuddled up on the sofa together and their time at the yurt. Those scenes melted my heart. I was chuckling like mad at the image of Whit driving the ATV like a grandma. And, of course, I loved it when Aunt Del and Whit made pies together.
This book had my emotions all over the place, and then gifted us that wonderful ending.
-----
Some of my favourite quotes
I could have my pick, but do I want anyone else at the moment? No. No, I don’t. I want the man who drove me through a muddy lake and delivered me back home looking like some kind of deranged mud sculpture.
The feelings he’s sparked, they aren’t embers anymore. They’re flames, impossible to ignore.
“Just so there’s no confusion in the future. I always want to hold your hand, Whit.”
“I’m willing to give it a go. I already handed in my straight card for you. What’s a little chaos? I happen to like messy. Have you met my family?”
“I’m glad we have you now. We’re going to smother you with love, Whit.”
He’s a lighthouse in the darkness of my life, guiding me home.
He steals my breath from my lungs. He always has. From the moment I laid eyes on him, I was left gasping.
“I could never be with anyone but you.”
“Because you’re strong and smart, and you put up with my family. Because you deserve it after everything. You deserve to be loved. Because I just do, Whit. I’ve been in love with you for ages.”
“I will always look at you like that. Get used to it.”
I’m going to preface this by saying: While I've previously read Whit, it was a couple of years ago and I can't recall much of the story. I did consider reading it again in advance of starting this, but I decided to go into it with ‘fresh eyes.’
I got absolutely lost in these two. Opposites in an extreme way, but they worked so well. I was glued to the page.
I loved that their relationship starts with Whit letting Caleb cuddle (*cough* smother) him when the latter's ill and that it evolves into so much more from there. I loved how they just fall into a routine of cuddles and holding hands. I was so eager for their first kiss, and it didn’t disappoint.
I adored seeing how Caleb helps Whit get out of his head and forget his burdens, even if just for a short period of time, by encouraging him to do things outside of his comfort zone.
Caleb is so gorgeous. He drew me in with his endearing as heck confident charm, open sincerity and big sunshine personality. I loved how much of a snuggle bug he is. That blasted plastic bag is so very him! His recklessness, which would have made me cringe in worry in real life, made me smile at how free he is – though it did highlight even more how dire Whit’s situation is.
[Quote] ‘Is this what having a family is like? Is this how it should feel? I’m envious of what he has.’
If my heart hadn't already broken for Whit, this line would have done it; as it was, these words managed to shatter it even more.
Whit’s just going through the motions of life rather than being able to enjoy anything, and I ached for him so badly. He’s been abused and neglected and now forced into arrangements he hates by vile, awful parents. Every new thing we learn about Whit’s past hurt like a punch to the gut. Gosh, I wanted to hug him so badly.
I cannot tell you how happy I was that Caleb explodes into his life like a whirlwind and disrupts Whit’s strict routine. Whit’s world is rocked by this messy, uncomplicated man, and I did relish seeing how his careful control failed when faced with Caleb and his laidback ways.
Caleb doesn't just crack Whit's barrier; he smashes through it completely with his enthusiastic confidence and those winning smiles. It felt like a little bit of Whit came alive again every time he blushed.
Caleb and his family invade Whit’s life bringing noise and chaos and unfiltered banter, but with it, love and affection that he’s never had before. I’d forgotten how much I loved them! They're wild and loud, and have no boundaries or awareness of personal space, but the heart they bring is what stands out most about them. They adopt Whit wholeheartedly into their family with open arms. Aunt Del is the BEST. I loved how warmly she welcomes Whit into Caleb's life from that first phone call.
Some of my favourite moments from the book: when these two are cuddled up on the sofa together and their time at the yurt. Those scenes melted my heart. I was chuckling like mad at the image of Whit driving the ATV like a grandma. And, of course, I loved it when Aunt Del and Whit made pies together.
This book had my emotions all over the place, and then gifted us that wonderful ending.
-----
Some of my favourite quotes
I could have my pick, but do I want anyone else at the moment? No. No, I don’t. I want the man who drove me through a muddy lake and delivered me back home looking like some kind of deranged mud sculpture.
The feelings he’s sparked, they aren’t embers anymore. They’re flames, impossible to ignore.
“Just so there’s no confusion in the future. I always want to hold your hand, Whit.”
“I’m willing to give it a go. I already handed in my straight card for you. What’s a little chaos? I happen to like messy. Have you met my family?”
“I’m glad we have you now. We’re going to smother you with love, Whit.”
He’s a lighthouse in the darkness of my life, guiding me home.
He steals my breath from my lungs. He always has. From the moment I laid eyes on him, I was left gasping.
“I could never be with anyone but you.”
“Because you’re strong and smart, and you put up with my family. Because you deserve it after everything. You deserve to be loved. Because I just do, Whit. I’ve been in love with you for ages.”
“I will always look at you like that. Get used to it.”
April 27, 2026
"He tastes like a dream. Like a wish I sent up to the stars."
Caleb by Cora Rose
This series holds such a special place for me, it was one of the very first MM series I ever read, and it all began with Whit. What captivated me immediately was the unique narrative style. Experiencing the story almost entirely through Caleb’s perspective, with only fleeting glimpses of Whit, made it feel as though Caleb was confiding in us, sharing something intimate and deeply personal. Whit remained just out of reach, mysterious, guarded, and quietly compelling.
And then this book changes everything.
Here, we are finally given Whit in full, his thoughts, his fears, his quiet resilience, and the depth of his love for Caleb. It’s raw and illuminating in a way that makes you feel like you’re truly seeing him for the first time. The weight he carries, the sacrifices he makes, and the emotional toll of fighting for Caleb’s trust, at the cost of his own mental health and even his safety, are both devastating and profoundly moving. He earns that trust in the most painful, human way possible, and he deserves every piece of it.
The presence of his father looms heavily over everything, calculated and cruel, always one step ahead, ensuring Whit remains trapped. Watching how that control shapes Whit over the years is heartbreaking. You feel every crack, every moment of quiet suffering.
And then Caleb enters, chaotic, bold, and utterly transformative.
He doesn’t just step into Whit’s life; he upends it. Like a force of nature, Caleb brings light where there was none. Through him, Whit experiences something entirely new, acceptance, warmth, belonging. It’s as if Caleb teaches him how to breathe again, deep, full breaths filled with love instead of fear. For the first time, Whit isn’t just surviving, he’s living. He’s seen, wanted, and embraced exactly as he is.
That contrast, between a life bound by control and one opened by love makes Whit’s ultimate realization so powerful. When he finally looks beyond the constraints of his trust and sees what his life could be, the choice becomes heartbreakingly simple. Caleb isn’t just the man he loves, he is Whit’s freedom, his peace, his future.
This book feels like an intimate unraveling of Whit’s soul. We may have met him before, but here, we truly know him. It’s emotional, beautiful, and quietly profound, a reminder that sometimes, the path to happiness requires letting go of everything that once held you in place.
If this is where the series leaves us, it’s unforgettable. But if there’s more to come, I’ll be waiting eagerly, heart wide open.
Caleb by Cora Rose
This series holds such a special place for me, it was one of the very first MM series I ever read, and it all began with Whit. What captivated me immediately was the unique narrative style. Experiencing the story almost entirely through Caleb’s perspective, with only fleeting glimpses of Whit, made it feel as though Caleb was confiding in us, sharing something intimate and deeply personal. Whit remained just out of reach, mysterious, guarded, and quietly compelling.
And then this book changes everything.
Here, we are finally given Whit in full, his thoughts, his fears, his quiet resilience, and the depth of his love for Caleb. It’s raw and illuminating in a way that makes you feel like you’re truly seeing him for the first time. The weight he carries, the sacrifices he makes, and the emotional toll of fighting for Caleb’s trust, at the cost of his own mental health and even his safety, are both devastating and profoundly moving. He earns that trust in the most painful, human way possible, and he deserves every piece of it.
The presence of his father looms heavily over everything, calculated and cruel, always one step ahead, ensuring Whit remains trapped. Watching how that control shapes Whit over the years is heartbreaking. You feel every crack, every moment of quiet suffering.
And then Caleb enters, chaotic, bold, and utterly transformative.
He doesn’t just step into Whit’s life; he upends it. Like a force of nature, Caleb brings light where there was none. Through him, Whit experiences something entirely new, acceptance, warmth, belonging. It’s as if Caleb teaches him how to breathe again, deep, full breaths filled with love instead of fear. For the first time, Whit isn’t just surviving, he’s living. He’s seen, wanted, and embraced exactly as he is.
That contrast, between a life bound by control and one opened by love makes Whit’s ultimate realization so powerful. When he finally looks beyond the constraints of his trust and sees what his life could be, the choice becomes heartbreakingly simple. Caleb isn’t just the man he loves, he is Whit’s freedom, his peace, his future.
This book feels like an intimate unraveling of Whit’s soul. We may have met him before, but here, we truly know him. It’s emotional, beautiful, and quietly profound, a reminder that sometimes, the path to happiness requires letting go of everything that once held you in place.
If this is where the series leaves us, it’s unforgettable. But if there’s more to come, I’ll be waiting eagerly, heart wide open.
April 24, 2026
✨ ARC Review ✨
We first fell in love with Whit through Caleb's perspective and now we get to fall in love with him again through his own! Caleb is a heartfelt story about two men falling in love, despite their differences and the odds stacked against them 💜.
Caleb is such a heartwarming golden retriever character and it was so sweet to witness his quirks and amazing-ness through Whit's eyes 🫶 plus Whit is so hilarious in his own way! His inner dialogue about his thoughts on Caleb and his turmoil with trying to deny himself all the warmth that Caleb brings out in him and his desire towards his new roommate was spectacular 🔥.
The tension between these two was just as amazing as the first book and gave SO much insight to Whit's mind while going through this journey with Caleb and I loved every second of it 🫶. This story is ultimately a story about love between two men that feels inevitable, it's written across the sky and these two fall into each other and in love with one another 🥹🥰.
If you love Cora, love the first book Whit then definitely check this out because it gives so much more context and backstory as well as reliving our favourite moments from the first story 👀😈💯. I cannot recommend this enough! It's a beautiful love story and has such beautiful characters, especially the found family that accepts Whit without question.. you get to fall in love with these characters all over again 😍💜.
We first fell in love with Whit through Caleb's perspective and now we get to fall in love with him again through his own! Caleb is a heartfelt story about two men falling in love, despite their differences and the odds stacked against them 💜.
Caleb is such a heartwarming golden retriever character and it was so sweet to witness his quirks and amazing-ness through Whit's eyes 🫶 plus Whit is so hilarious in his own way! His inner dialogue about his thoughts on Caleb and his turmoil with trying to deny himself all the warmth that Caleb brings out in him and his desire towards his new roommate was spectacular 🔥.
The tension between these two was just as amazing as the first book and gave SO much insight to Whit's mind while going through this journey with Caleb and I loved every second of it 🫶. This story is ultimately a story about love between two men that feels inevitable, it's written across the sky and these two fall into each other and in love with one another 🥹🥰.
If you love Cora, love the first book Whit then definitely check this out because it gives so much more context and backstory as well as reliving our favourite moments from the first story 👀😈💯. I cannot recommend this enough! It's a beautiful love story and has such beautiful characters, especially the found family that accepts Whit without question.. you get to fall in love with these characters all over again 😍💜.
April 24, 2026
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review.
Wow. The dedication alone is lovely. This is the tenth book in the Unexpected series. Each one has been an absolute delight and I am so happy that we are coming full story with Caleb. Whit’s account of the story that started it all is everything I could have hoped for and more. Seeing his backstory, thought process(es), and the emotions behind it all is *chef’s kiss* and will make you want to hug both him and Caleb.
It was marvelous experiencing Caleb and Whit again. Aunt Del, Uncle Daniel, Magnus, Sem, Luke, Liam, Anne, Bev, Kate all enhance the ambience of the book. Even knowing what happens, this book drew me in and kept me captivated. I couldn’t put it down. I finished it and kept coming back for more. Rose made me fall in love with these MCs a second time.
The Unexpected series is one that stays with you. It’s exceptionally well written, humorous, heartwarming, and full of HEAs. It started with these two and words cannot express how happy I am to see Caleb and Whit’s beautiful, complex, heartfelt, and wonderful story from another perspective. There’s so much heart to Caleb. Whit has more depth than we can imagine. Their connection and chemistry is beyond compelling.
This book gave me all the feels. My heart swooned and ached. It’s the best kind of reading experience. You should absolutely give it a read!
This is my honest and voluntary review.
Wow. The dedication alone is lovely. This is the tenth book in the Unexpected series. Each one has been an absolute delight and I am so happy that we are coming full story with Caleb. Whit’s account of the story that started it all is everything I could have hoped for and more. Seeing his backstory, thought process(es), and the emotions behind it all is *chef’s kiss* and will make you want to hug both him and Caleb.
It was marvelous experiencing Caleb and Whit again. Aunt Del, Uncle Daniel, Magnus, Sem, Luke, Liam, Anne, Bev, Kate all enhance the ambience of the book. Even knowing what happens, this book drew me in and kept me captivated. I couldn’t put it down. I finished it and kept coming back for more. Rose made me fall in love with these MCs a second time.
The Unexpected series is one that stays with you. It’s exceptionally well written, humorous, heartwarming, and full of HEAs. It started with these two and words cannot express how happy I am to see Caleb and Whit’s beautiful, complex, heartfelt, and wonderful story from another perspective. There’s so much heart to Caleb. Whit has more depth than we can imagine. Their connection and chemistry is beyond compelling.
This book gave me all the feels. My heart swooned and ached. It’s the best kind of reading experience. You should absolutely give it a read!
April 11, 2026
This story is just as good from Whit’s POV!
The yearning. The angst. The heat. I was head over heels for these two when I read Whit, and I’ve been anxiously awaiting the story from his point of view. And it did not disappoint! It felt like rereading a beloved fave, with extra tidbits.
Whit and Caleb are one of my all-time favorite black cat x golden retriever pairings. My poor baby Whit is so closed off, and it stuns him and heals him to be with someone as unabashedly open as Caleb van Beek. Their chemistry is off the charts, and it hurts so good seeing Whit experience love (and chaos) with not only Caleb, but the whole raucous van Beek clan. I highly recommend this to those looking for an angsty, opposites attract romance! This is the tenth book in the series and while many can be read as standalones, you should definitely at least read Whit before this one.
*I received an advance copy and am voluntarily leaving my review*
The yearning. The angst. The heat. I was head over heels for these two when I read Whit, and I’ve been anxiously awaiting the story from his point of view. And it did not disappoint! It felt like rereading a beloved fave, with extra tidbits.
Whit and Caleb are one of my all-time favorite black cat x golden retriever pairings. My poor baby Whit is so closed off, and it stuns him and heals him to be with someone as unabashedly open as Caleb van Beek. Their chemistry is off the charts, and it hurts so good seeing Whit experience love (and chaos) with not only Caleb, but the whole raucous van Beek clan. I highly recommend this to those looking for an angsty, opposites attract romance! This is the tenth book in the series and while many can be read as standalones, you should definitely at least read Whit before this one.
*I received an advance copy and am voluntarily leaving my review*
April 25, 2026
So good, like a spoonful of that delightful s’mores dip they have at Walmart. So sweet and full of great moments. I believe in the couple I think the author does an excellent job of explaining how they complement each other. I don’t think there was enough different from the first book. Like it was nostalgic but didn’t really add to the story. If it were my dream it would be about different anecdotes of the couple from Whits perspective. Especially in the epilogues…. Could have been Whit in a different romantic scene with Caleb where Caleb is in control (not trying to be so explicit on here but if you know, you know) and what about a scene where they are married and happy, maybe expanding their family? I doubt anyone who reads this book hasn’t read Whit so why put the exact same epilogue’s? If there is more to the story why not give us that, if there isn’t then no need to write a new book.
May 2, 2026
I haven't read Whit yet so I think my tandem read will make me love this even more.
This book was... oh, god. Darkness meets light. It was so emotional to see Whit and Caleb go through all those things together. I am extra curious now to see this story from the Caleb's perspective.
Seeing Whit fight his attraction was both infuriating sometimes but also sad. He is so closed off and sometimes I had this urge to shake him a bit, but I get it. When you live in darkness for so long it is hard to imagine and accept that you will find good in your life. He did not deserve all the things went through and I am glad in the end he found his person.
This is the 2nd book I've read in this series ( the other one being Ben ) and I feel like I missed so much... I need to go back and start from the beginning. By doing that I think this book will change from a 4.25 to a 5 star really quick.
Don't be like me, go and read the series from the beginning, it is absolutely worth it.
This book was... oh, god. Darkness meets light. It was so emotional to see Whit and Caleb go through all those things together. I am extra curious now to see this story from the Caleb's perspective.
Seeing Whit fight his attraction was both infuriating sometimes but also sad. He is so closed off and sometimes I had this urge to shake him a bit, but I get it. When you live in darkness for so long it is hard to imagine and accept that you will find good in your life. He did not deserve all the things went through and I am glad in the end he found his person.
This is the 2nd book I've read in this series ( the other one being Ben ) and I feel like I missed so much... I need to go back and start from the beginning. By doing that I think this book will change from a 4.25 to a 5 star really quick.
Don't be like me, go and read the series from the beginning, it is absolutely worth it.
May 4, 2026
I absolutely LOVED being able to read this from Whit's perspective! It felt like it was still different while being the same story but obviously more of Whit's perspective and background. We really never knew much of what was going on with him in Whit. He was an enigma truly but being able to see more of his family and the trials and tribulations that were kind of dropped on Caleb was great. I also loved seeing inside his head during all the "redneckery" as I like to think of it. Obviously we know he tolerates it but seeing his thoughts first hand was great. Is it bad I want the whole series from opposite POV? I know Seb's would be insane cause how did you even think of the way he and Magnus started? I feel like if someone mentions they hate a dual POV i would suggest they read Whit's, get their thoughts then give them Caleb and see what they think cause it really does bring everything full circle
Thank you to the author agency for letting me arc read!
Thank you to the author agency for letting me arc read!
Currently Reading
April 24, 2026I AM OBSESSED. But is that truly surprising when I was captivated by Whit? This story while told in the same timeline but from a different POV, does not take away from its depth. It truly stands on its own because Whit had so many internal, private struggles happening that we weren't privy to.
Whit's internal monologue from the beginning had me grinning, Caleb is full of mischief and I didn't want to put it down. Whit was going through it and I couldn't get enough, it was like he saw the train wreck before it happened and still wanted to go full steam ahead.
I could not put the story down and while I didn't want it to end, the ending was so satisfying. A true full circle moment, and a journey I am so grateful I got to go on.
Whit's internal monologue from the beginning had me grinning, Caleb is full of mischief and I didn't want to put it down. Whit was going through it and I couldn't get enough, it was like he saw the train wreck before it happened and still wanted to go full steam ahead.
I could not put the story down and while I didn't want it to end, the ending was so satisfying. A true full circle moment, and a journey I am so grateful I got to go on.
April 30, 2026
I had NO IDEA this book was even in existence until Goodreads sent me an email on release day like an absolute angel. Did I immediately start reading it and devour it over the next six days? Yes, yes I did.
Seeing everything from Whit’s perspective was so gut wrenching and heartbreaking. There were times that I had to stop reading because I could physically feel his pain and yearning. Whit was one of the first queer books I read and coming back to Caleb feels like I’m home. 🏠
I am happy to say I did not get bored at all hearing the same story but from a different POV. This was written in such a way that it felt both familiar and completely alien at the same time. Overall, a work of art and a wonderful story.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Format: 📖
Seeing everything from Whit’s perspective was so gut wrenching and heartbreaking. There were times that I had to stop reading because I could physically feel his pain and yearning. Whit was one of the first queer books I read and coming back to Caleb feels like I’m home. 🏠
I am happy to say I did not get bored at all hearing the same story but from a different POV. This was written in such a way that it felt both familiar and completely alien at the same time. Overall, a work of art and a wonderful story.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Format: 📖
April 26, 2026
When I first read Whit, my first Cora Rose book I fell in love with him. I always have a soft spot for the silent, stoic, sad boy type I guess 😉 I was overjoyed that now we have the opportunity to see things from his point of view. Because you just know that behind that facade things are brewing, heating and bound to explode. I loved seeing Caleb through his eyes. How Whit just can’t help himself and just falls and falls. This book was like coming home in a way, to things you know and are comforting, it was lovely (it was waaay too steamy, but oh well) 🫠
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