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Second Chance #4
Never Expected Love
Richard Stone devoted his life to work and family. When his parents died tragically, the life he'd known came crashing down, causing him to spiral out of control. That is until the postcard came.
Nicole House was graduating college when the unthinkable happened. Brutally attacked, her life was forever changed. Leaving her family, dream job and the only life she knew behind, she moved, hoping she could escape her attacker and she shame that fateful night left her with.
Two people who Never Expected Love are brought together
But will the demons secrets and fears of their past stop them from their future?
ORDER OF BOOKS:
Never Forgotten Love - Beckett and Harlow's Story
Loving Redemption - Mitchell and Raven's Story
Second Beginnings - Carson and Charlie's Story
Never Expected Love - Richard and Nicole's Story
Sacrifice Of Love - Richard and Nicole's conclusion
***AUTHOR'S NOTES*** Although this book is in a series, each book can also be a standalone. But it will cross over. ****Due to strong language and sexual content & physical abuse, this book is not intended for readers under the age of 18.
Nicole House was graduating college when the unthinkable happened. Brutally attacked, her life was forever changed. Leaving her family, dream job and the only life she knew behind, she moved, hoping she could escape her attacker and she shame that fateful night left her with.
Two people who Never Expected Love are brought together
But will the demons secrets and fears of their past stop them from their future?
ORDER OF BOOKS:
Never Forgotten Love - Beckett and Harlow's Story
Loving Redemption - Mitchell and Raven's Story
Second Beginnings - Carson and Charlie's Story
Never Expected Love - Richard and Nicole's Story
Sacrifice Of Love - Richard and Nicole's conclusion
***AUTHOR'S NOTES*** Although this book is in a series, each book can also be a standalone. But it will cross over. ****Due to strong language and sexual content & physical abuse, this book is not intended for readers under the age of 18.
187 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 13, 2015
59 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Stryker
25 books274 followersSM Stryker is an Amazon international bestselling author who writes emotionally charged romance and romantic suspense novels that dive deep into love, trauma, and healing. An Oregon native, she draws inspiration from long drives, quiet walks along the river, and the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
By day, she’s a dedicated mortgage broker—organized, focused, and driven. But by night, she steps into her alter ego: a storyteller who weaves gut-wrenching, steamy love stories that aren't afraid to explore the shadows. Her characters are intense and unforgettable—survivors of heartbreak, betrayal, and trauma who learn to rise, heal, and love again.
Each of her stories is rooted in truth—some inspired by real events, others by the silent battles many face but never voice. Through powerful storytelling, SM Stryker gives those struggles a voice, reminding readers that even in the darkest moments, love can be found—and it can be life-changing.
A wife, mother of four grown daughters, and proud grandmother, she writes from a place of quiet reflection and fierce empathy. Her dream is to become a New York Times bestselling author, not for the title, but for the chance to reach more hearts and share stories that stay with you long after the final page.
Though introverted by nature, she deeply values connection with her readers. You can find her at www.smstryker.com, where she shares updates, sneak peeks, and exclusive content for those on her mailing list.
Because sometimes, the love you weren’t looking for is the one that saves you.
She has shared more of the events of her life in many of her other books.
TO JOIN MY MAILING LIST AND TO RECEIVE A FREE COPY OF NEVER FORGOTTEN LOVE,
PLEASE SIGN UP HERE.
http://facebook.com/Author.S.M.Stryker
www.smstryker.com
shelly@smstryker.com
By day, she’s a dedicated mortgage broker—organized, focused, and driven. But by night, she steps into her alter ego: a storyteller who weaves gut-wrenching, steamy love stories that aren't afraid to explore the shadows. Her characters are intense and unforgettable—survivors of heartbreak, betrayal, and trauma who learn to rise, heal, and love again.
Each of her stories is rooted in truth—some inspired by real events, others by the silent battles many face but never voice. Through powerful storytelling, SM Stryker gives those struggles a voice, reminding readers that even in the darkest moments, love can be found—and it can be life-changing.
A wife, mother of four grown daughters, and proud grandmother, she writes from a place of quiet reflection and fierce empathy. Her dream is to become a New York Times bestselling author, not for the title, but for the chance to reach more hearts and share stories that stay with you long after the final page.
Though introverted by nature, she deeply values connection with her readers. You can find her at www.smstryker.com, where she shares updates, sneak peeks, and exclusive content for those on her mailing list.
Because sometimes, the love you weren’t looking for is the one that saves you.
She has shared more of the events of her life in many of her other books.
TO JOIN MY MAILING LIST AND TO RECEIVE A FREE COPY OF NEVER FORGOTTEN LOVE,
PLEASE SIGN UP HERE.
http://facebook.com/Author.S.M.Stryker
www.smstryker.com
shelly@smstryker.com
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
November 12, 2015
My Rating:
Favorite Quotes:
“I feel like a prepubescent teenager because my voice cracks as I say it.”
“Before you I didn’t know I wanted more, and now that’s all I can think of.”
“I’m forty years old, what did you think they would do, forbid you from seeing me?”
“You gave me something to live for when all I wanted to do was vanish.”
“Before I met you I never knew what it was like to be able to look at someone and smile for no reason.”
My Review:
My first time reading this author and I enjoyed the sweet and steamy romance until – hiss – cliffhanger. Arg! The book contained a little bit of everything with likeable everyday common characters, some family drama and trauma, a little suspense, a bit of intrigue, steamy sensual scenes, a sweet love story, and… no ending - huff – not for another month anyway.
Favorite Quotes:
“I feel like a prepubescent teenager because my voice cracks as I say it.”
“Before you I didn’t know I wanted more, and now that’s all I can think of.”
“I’m forty years old, what did you think they would do, forbid you from seeing me?”
“You gave me something to live for when all I wanted to do was vanish.”
“Before I met you I never knew what it was like to be able to look at someone and smile for no reason.”
My Review:
My first time reading this author and I enjoyed the sweet and steamy romance until – hiss – cliffhanger. Arg! The book contained a little bit of everything with likeable everyday common characters, some family drama and trauma, a little suspense, a bit of intrigue, steamy sensual scenes, a sweet love story, and… no ending - huff – not for another month anyway.
October 26, 2017
Amount of sex 2.5 / 5
How explicit 2.5 / 5
Story 4 / 5
Overall: 3.5 / 5 (Rounded to 4 / 5)
Never Expected Love is the fourth book in the Second Chance series by author S.M. Stryker. This is the first book that I have read in the series, and I had no difficulties with following along. Just so you know, the story does end on a cliffhanger and continues in the next book, Sacrifice of Love.
Never Expected Love is the love story between Richard and Nicole, as well as Beckett and Harlow. For those that want to know Harlow's backstory, I recommend reading from the beginning of the series. Just know that it’s not necessary.
Never Expected Love is written in the first person and told from Richard’s POV. Everyone has their preferences, and I am not a big fan of writing in the first person. Although, I did enjoy the story written from the male's POV. Most stories are told in a dual POV or solely from the female's view.
The main characters, Richard and Nicole, are both in their 40’s, which I love! Their age results in an accelerated love story, which I liked. At this age, I’m 45 years old, you kind of know what you want and don’t. Richard and Nicole had a palpable love story, and it will be fun to see what happens to them next!
*Voluntarily Reviewed a Gifted Copy*
How explicit 2.5 / 5
Story 4 / 5
Overall: 3.5 / 5 (Rounded to 4 / 5)
Never Expected Love is the fourth book in the Second Chance series by author S.M. Stryker. This is the first book that I have read in the series, and I had no difficulties with following along. Just so you know, the story does end on a cliffhanger and continues in the next book, Sacrifice of Love.
Never Expected Love is the love story between Richard and Nicole, as well as Beckett and Harlow. For those that want to know Harlow's backstory, I recommend reading from the beginning of the series. Just know that it’s not necessary.
Never Expected Love is written in the first person and told from Richard’s POV. Everyone has their preferences, and I am not a big fan of writing in the first person. Although, I did enjoy the story written from the male's POV. Most stories are told in a dual POV or solely from the female's view.
The main characters, Richard and Nicole, are both in their 40’s, which I love! Their age results in an accelerated love story, which I liked. At this age, I’m 45 years old, you kind of know what you want and don’t. Richard and Nicole had a palpable love story, and it will be fun to see what happens to them next!
*Voluntarily Reviewed a Gifted Copy*
November 19, 2015
They say love will find you at the most unexpected times and this book couldn't describe it any better. There is an emotional battle that goes on based upon the curveball life through at Richard and Nicole. OMG I laughed, I cried and the twist provided keeps you wanting to forget real life and finish in one sitting until you get to the end that is... why you ask? Well because this is book 1 of 2 based upon these characters and we won't get the rest of the story until December 2015.
I don't want to spoil anything for anyone, but in book 2 I hope it goes where I think it will go. The only downfall to this will be sad portion of the story, but turned happy. Well we can only see and my lips are sealed on which part of the story I am referring to so that I don't ruin it for others.
I will have to say that going into this book, I was like ok, yes, it's a standalone in the series, but am I truly going to enjoy it and understand the surrounding characters in the series. Well the answer is, YES, the author did an awesome job filling in the other characters and this just makes me want to go back and read the other books on these secondary characters in this book so that I can get their full stories. I truly loved how the author had a character profile of all the characters so that it all made sense cause at first it was hard trying to figure out who was who and keeping all in line. This was awesome and truly made that story that much better for those of us who picked up the story in book 4 and not from book 1. My only suggestion for those who don't like waiting for book 2 is to read back to back so that you aren't like me and waiting to find out the outcome. Time is a ticking!!
I don't want to spoil anything for anyone, but in book 2 I hope it goes where I think it will go. The only downfall to this will be sad portion of the story, but turned happy. Well we can only see and my lips are sealed on which part of the story I am referring to so that I don't ruin it for others.
I will have to say that going into this book, I was like ok, yes, it's a standalone in the series, but am I truly going to enjoy it and understand the surrounding characters in the series. Well the answer is, YES, the author did an awesome job filling in the other characters and this just makes me want to go back and read the other books on these secondary characters in this book so that I can get their full stories. I truly loved how the author had a character profile of all the characters so that it all made sense cause at first it was hard trying to figure out who was who and keeping all in line. This was awesome and truly made that story that much better for those of us who picked up the story in book 4 and not from book 1. My only suggestion for those who don't like waiting for book 2 is to read back to back so that you aren't like me and waiting to find out the outcome. Time is a ticking!!
November 13, 2015
Never Expected Love by S.M. Stryker
This is Richard & Nicole story book 4.
This is a beautiful story of 2nd chances.
As all Shelly's other books in this series this is another great book & beautiful cover.
1st I wanna say this can be read as a stand alone but i do recommend to read them in order otherwise you will miss out on getting to know all the great characters in this book with their own stories in the other books in this series.
I have read all Shelly books & I gotta say I am a big fan you won't be disappointed in her books. She writes great books you can really feel the characters jumping from the pages. It's great having the previous characters from the other books. still appearing in this book.
Richard Stone devoted his life to work and family. When his parents died tragically, the life he'd known came crashing down, causing him to spiral out of control. That is until the postcard came.
Nicole House was graduating college when the unthinkable happened. Brutally attacked, her life was forever changed. Leaving her family, dream job and the only life she knew behind, she moved, hoping she could escape her attacker and she shame that fateful night left her with.
Two people who Never Expected Love are brought together
But will the demons secrets and fears of their past stop them from their future?
Wow a brilliant read. I laugh & cried with this book
Read this book in a couple of days every time I had a spare minute I was reading it
This is Richard & Nicole story book 4.
This is a beautiful story of 2nd chances.
As all Shelly's other books in this series this is another great book & beautiful cover.
1st I wanna say this can be read as a stand alone but i do recommend to read them in order otherwise you will miss out on getting to know all the great characters in this book with their own stories in the other books in this series.
I have read all Shelly books & I gotta say I am a big fan you won't be disappointed in her books. She writes great books you can really feel the characters jumping from the pages. It's great having the previous characters from the other books. still appearing in this book.
Richard Stone devoted his life to work and family. When his parents died tragically, the life he'd known came crashing down, causing him to spiral out of control. That is until the postcard came.
Nicole House was graduating college when the unthinkable happened. Brutally attacked, her life was forever changed. Leaving her family, dream job and the only life she knew behind, she moved, hoping she could escape her attacker and she shame that fateful night left her with.
Two people who Never Expected Love are brought together
But will the demons secrets and fears of their past stop them from their future?
Wow a brilliant read. I laugh & cried with this book
Read this book in a couple of days every time I had a spare minute I was reading it
December 4, 2015
.•*¨`*•. 5 STAR REVIEW .•*¨`*•
Never Expected Love
Second Chances Crossover Series Book 4
SM Stryker
You will never expected to fall in love with this book. You will learn Richard's story and not only will it warm your heart, you will love him more if you haven't yet.
Richard Stone had taken under his wing Beckett Dalton after he turned his life around when he went to the dark side when his parent die in that vacation he was supposed to be. When Beckett and Harlow reunite Nicole House, Harlow's aunt will make a very strong imprint in Richard's life. Something he never imagined.
As Richard and Nicole's relationship becomes stronger than ever. Sophia a young mother of three will come into their lives and will shine a light on the one thing Nicole has dreamed but can't accomplish it.
Please be aware you might need tissues and wine while reading this installment. Love, compassion, loyalty, friendship, are the message this story send. Is so good you forget this are fictional characters.
I recommend for you to read this book, don't wait too much.
https://www.facebook.com/Bookaholican...
Never Expected Love
Second Chances Crossover Series Book 4
SM Stryker
You will never expected to fall in love with this book. You will learn Richard's story and not only will it warm your heart, you will love him more if you haven't yet.
Richard Stone had taken under his wing Beckett Dalton after he turned his life around when he went to the dark side when his parent die in that vacation he was supposed to be. When Beckett and Harlow reunite Nicole House, Harlow's aunt will make a very strong imprint in Richard's life. Something he never imagined.
As Richard and Nicole's relationship becomes stronger than ever. Sophia a young mother of three will come into their lives and will shine a light on the one thing Nicole has dreamed but can't accomplish it.
Please be aware you might need tissues and wine while reading this installment. Love, compassion, loyalty, friendship, are the message this story send. Is so good you forget this are fictional characters.
I recommend for you to read this book, don't wait too much.
https://www.facebook.com/Bookaholican...
December 13, 2015
This story actually has two love stories to enjoy with some suspense thrown in. You have Richard who at 40 has never actually had a relationship due to work and Nicole, also 40, who due to secrets in her past has never had a real relationship either. They are introduced by Richards protege Beckett who just found his long long love Harlow, who is Nicole's niece. Richard and Nicole are very loving and nurturing people who are perfect for each other if they can get by the obstructions to their relationship. I don't want to give too much away but you will love this book!!!!! You find love and family in unexpected places!!!! I received this book as an arc for a honest review
February 12, 2016
Richard was so dedicated to his job and family that he didn't have time to think about a love life. When tragedy strikes he is left feeling sad and empty until a postcard arrives.
Nicole is graduating college and ready to experience life. She has all her ducks in a row and is ready for whatever life throws at her. Except being attacked, she never imagined that her life could go so wrong so fast.
These two never expected love but fate as usual has other ideas. Will these two have a future or are there too many skeletons in the closet?
Nicole is graduating college and ready to experience life. She has all her ducks in a row and is ready for whatever life throws at her. Except being attacked, she never imagined that her life could go so wrong so fast.
These two never expected love but fate as usual has other ideas. Will these two have a future or are there too many skeletons in the closet?
December 8, 2015
Richards life spirals outta control after his parents died. He was acting out big time. That's until a post card came and changed everything or will it?
I received a ARC of the book for my honest review from hurricane readers book review
I loved this story. It was awesome
I received a ARC of the book for my honest review from hurricane readers book review
I loved this story. It was awesome
January 4, 2016
S.M. Stryker has started the new year off amazing for me with Never Expected Love! Once again I was hooked instantly and could not put it down. Love is a beautiful journey once you find your other half to share it with. I look forward to what 2016 brings for S.M. Stryker!! <3
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews