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Unexpected #2

White Noise

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Everything he didn’t know he wanted, and now couldn’t live without…

Paramedic and mountain rescuer Stratford ‘Ford’ Wallace fell hard and fast for pro-snowboarder, Reef Reid. For a ‘straight’ guy, falling in love with a dude was not what he expected, but his explosive attraction to Reef is undeniable. Neither of them have uttered those three little words yet, but Ford knows Reef feels the same. At least, he thinks he does.

Reef is smashing his pre-season training at Fernie, the idyllic Canadian snow resort, getting wicked air and landing what could be season-winning jumps. What’s even better is that his man is with him. Going home to Ford every night is what Reef always dreamed of— his very own happily ever after.

Knowing they’re ready, they take the next step in their relationship— meeting the parents. But when tragedy strikes on the slopes, can Ford push through the painful memories and be what Reef needs?

Ford will sacrifice himself, literally putting both his heart and his life on the line, to protect his man. But will it all be for nothing when Reef is presented with an offer that’s too good to refuse?

ebook

First published July 26, 2016

67 people are currently reading
191 people want to read

About the author

Ann Grech

40 books545 followers
By day Ann Grech lives in the corporate world and can be found sitting behind a desk typing away at reports and papers or lecturing to a room full of students. She graduated with a PhD in 2016 and is now an over-qualified nerd. Glasses, briefcase, high heels and a pencil skirt, she’s got the librarian look nailed too. If only they knew! She swears like a sailor, so that’s got to be a hint. The other one was “the look” from her tattoo artist when she told him that she wanted her kids initials “B” and “J” tattooed on her foot. It took a second to register that it might be a bad idea.
She’s never entirely fit in and loves escaping into a book—whether it’s reading or writing one. But she’s found her tribe now and loves her MM book world family. She dislikes cooking, but loves eating, can’t figure out technology, but is addicted to it, and her guilty pleasure is Byron Bay Cookies. Oh and shoes. And lingerie. And maybe handbags too. Well, if we’re being honest, we’d probably have to add her library too given the state of her credit card every month (what can she say, she’s a bookworm at heart)!
She also publishes her raunchier short stories under her pen name, Olive Hiscock.

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5 stars
114 (34%)
4 stars
126 (38%)
3 stars
70 (21%)
2 stars
15 (4%)
1 star
6 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Zetti.
1,152 reviews24 followers
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July 20, 2016
White Noise by Ann Grech

This is the continuation of Ford and Reef’s book and I’m so in love with them. It was like returning home to greet some friends. This book carries on from the first book Whiteout where they find each other. This book focuses on their relationship, and building a life together.

In this book they face the challenges of telling the people in their lives about what they mean to each other. There are some pretty surprising reactions but not all the reactions go the way they want it to but to be fair anything that is new and different is always going to be a scary prospect for people to face. This book shows that in many different ways. I’m proud of the way it portrays the reactions because it mirrors the real world. Whilst this is fiction, it is also realistic, raw and relatable at the same time.

Ford and Reef have their issues with each other as they learn to rely and make sure the other man understands the depth of their love. There are misunderstandings but that in my honest opinion makes them grow as characters. The steaminess between these two is so much more explosive in this book and I love it, I may have read those scenes more than once, twice? Three times? Anyways they’re explosive together and I love how their love is gradual and not just instant, if it was instant, for these characters I don’t think it’d work especially considering how they met.

This book showcases their journey and I am running out of ways to explain how much I’m in love with it. I could read these two forever and not be bored of them. I don’t think anyone will be disappointed with this book at all.

5 stars!
Profile Image for booklover.
1,494 reviews6 followers
July 20, 2016
**ARC RECEIVED FOR HONEST REVIEW**
So, in this Reef and Ford are still as sexy as ever, both are finally comfortable with their sexualities, but they now feel the time is right to let their families know......
Yet again this had some emotional moments, and a few times i wanted to climb in the book and beat a certain person around the head !!
I also wanted to hug both the guys for what they have to put up with and can't wait for the next installment....
Profile Image for Beth.
365 reviews14 followers
July 4, 2017
As much as I liked Ford and Reef in the first book and quickly bought this one as soon as I'd finished it, this book didn't quite pull me in in the same way. It started to feel repetitive, with the same word choices over and over. I found myself skimming at times, which is never a good sign. I will more than likely read the next book in the series when it comes out, but I expect a fair amount of eye rolling will be involved.
Profile Image for Darcy.
10 reviews29 followers
July 17, 2016
This was my first Ann Gresh book, and thoroughly enjoyed it. I am looking forward to reading the second book and eagerly await its release.
Profile Image for Tee loves Kyle Jacobson.
2,524 reviews180 followers
December 11, 2018
This is the continuation of Reef and Ford's love story and I have to say that after reading this one Ann you brought your A game with this one. After reading Whiteout I was dying to see where Reef and Ford would end up. I wanted to know if these two could weather the storm so to speak. Just like in heterosexual relationships you have your ups and down so I was really interested to see what would happen between these two because being out and gay in a relationship can be hard on each other. Then add in the fact that Reef is a professional snowboarder things get a little tricky.

I just have to say that I absolutely love Reef and Ford together. Reef has his career and his pre-season training is kicking some serious arse and he is rocking it! Plus he has his man by his side to go home to every night and share his day with. Ford is more than happy to be home waiting for his man to come home and shower him with love. For Ford it is all new because he was straight and fell hard for Reef and knew that things were going to be different for him but he is growing and learning each day how to openly love Reef.

They decide to take the next step and meet each others parents and boy oh boy is that one crazy ride for each of them. This was where I wanted to kick some serious arse because Ford's parents are aholes and they don't take things well and do not accept the fact that their son is gay. Haters I say and I wanted to shuttle kick them in the arse because they were such asses about their sons love interest. Reef's parents were great well his mother was great and his father had to come around but he was not an arse like Ford's parents were.

Then as you know life is no bowl of cherries so there are issues that arise and they have to navigate through them but they get through them together. Plus Reef is offered a sweet deal and he will have to decide whether or not he is going to take the deal or turn it down and stand by his man. This is such a rollercoaster of a ride for these two that I can't wait to read the third book to see where these two end up.
Profile Image for Sheridan.
582 reviews15 followers
July 15, 2018
After a few weeks apart, Ford takes on a demotion to be with the man he loves.
Although the three little words haven’t been said yet.

In this part of their journey, they come out to their parents.

Reef is up first and telling Momma Bear and Coach is putting the pressure on himself.
Momma Bear is caring as always, but Coach takes it harder and Reef has to give him time.
That night Ford nearly walks out on him but couldn’t abandon him when so many other people in his life already have.

Fords parents... omg you just want to punch those bigots! They are so far up themselves and put Reef down so much, you just want to jump in the book and throttle them!

Ford makes the decision then to cut ties with his family until they can accept Reef!

It’s also the first time LOVE has been said and it couldn’t of been said at a more perfect time!!

Their friends are more understanding and excited for them. So at least they have some support.

Their relationship grows, their love grows and their journey together continues...
Profile Image for Louise.
464 reviews3 followers
November 29, 2018
Oh my goodness I am so glad I have all 3 books to read at once because I love them so much i can only taking a quick break to leave a review and then I'm jumping into the final book.

I rated White Noise more than White Out which I thought was really good I just found this one even better. The boys have a great combination of sweetness and manliness. They are funny and sensitive and there are time I just want to hug them both. Their chemistry in the bedroom is off the charts and super steamy and has me crushing on these two boys really hard. I loved how the book progressed and felt like we saw something different and I look forward to the final installment. I just can't wait to get back to my Sweet and Hon.
Profile Image for Kim .
278 reviews
April 14, 2017
Not too bad however I was hoping book two would have progressed more it still seems like a prequel to an actual story. Also there were so many references back to book one the story line didn't progress much at all. Book two ended the same way as book one. Only meeting parents on that not a star removed. Let's get going here!!
1,010 reviews4 followers
May 25, 2019
liked the continuation of Ford and Reef's story of their love. meeting the parents, acceptance and non-acceptance. I continued to grow and get to know a bit more about each man, what has made them who they are both in a positive way and also in an annoying negative way. the author is developing the series well and one that i will continue to follow
Profile Image for Tony.
14 reviews9 followers
November 2, 2024
More erotic than fiction

I liked the story. I enjoyed the meeting of parents and all. I am disappointed in the number of pages spent detailing their intimate, sexual time. It robbed from the story.
Profile Image for James.
17 reviews32 followers
November 5, 2024
cute story but felt AI generated

Too many "my man"s and sweet cheeks and Hun. The format felt very AI generated. The word choice for some scenes was off and didn't fit the characters
33 reviews2 followers
January 30, 2025
Absolutely adore these men! I love how unexpected it is for them, how sweet they are with each other and the way Ann writes the issues they deal with by this being so unexpected for them. I can’t wait to see where they end up. Love it!
178 reviews1 follower
October 20, 2018
Great Read!!

Love this series!! The stories had me
hooked from beginning to end. I just wish
there was more. Thank you Ann!! 😘
Profile Image for Smut Librarian.
1,298 reviews51 followers
March 20, 2020
A wonderful continuation of the story between Ford and Reef.  Feelings get deeper, connections blossom and distance feels further.
Profile Image for Faye  Lock.
2 reviews
May 7, 2020
I absolutely love Ford and Reef. I think I could read about them forever. Their love is hot, steamy and full of respect.
Profile Image for Staycha Lawson.
144 reviews2 followers
August 19, 2024
I laughed and I cried and I cried again. This book outta the series definitely got me in my feelings. But I loved it soo much.
Profile Image for Caroline.
1,502 reviews9 followers
December 14, 2018
Another great book, I'm loving this series. Ann Grech again hands us a beautiful romance.

What Reef and Ford started in New Zealand has heated up further. They are in Canada while Reef prepares for to return to the snowboarding circuit. They are serious about each other and it's time to meet each other's parents. The reactions had me in tears.
Profile Image for DB Kimmers.
225 reviews42 followers
December 31, 2020
Ann Grech continues her “Unexpected” series with White Noise. In book two we’re treated to an opening with Ford, who is making his way to meet up with Reef in Fernie, while Reef starts his pre-season training. When he gets there, however, there is some unexpected tension, which, when explained, results in some very “risky business” between the two.

If you’ve not read Whiteout what are you waiting for? Although Grech does a wonderful job of catching up any new reader, you definitely want to enjoy the complete Reef and Ford journey from the beginning.

White Noise is “domesticated”, as Reef and Ford train, work and live within the Canadian ski town. As they get to know one another on a more personal, heartfelt level, they realize exactly where they are headed – into a relationship neither saw coming.

Grech’s writing has so much feeling, whether the men themselves express their thoughts, or it’s a description of the mountainous landscape; it’s as if she’s expressing what she enjoys or finds incredible in a moment… drawing you into the depths of what’s transpiring.

....Ann Grech has a wonderful knack for taking you to the edge of angst, yet immediately squashing the anticipatory dread in the most delightful of ways.

From a chilly airport reunion, to a heartbreaking loss on the slopes, or ill-received introductions to parents, and a scary lodge inferno, Ann Grech has a wonderful knack for taking you to the edge of angst, yet immediately squashing the anticipatory dread in the most delightful of ways.

Through highlighting others’ coldness and the greed of their social standing, Ms. Grech shows just how powerful a love Reef and Ford have developed. In fact, when Reef is presented with an offer that would tempt a lesser man, and stands up for himself – for Ford, I only wish I could be there to witness it.

Knowing they’re ready, these men are taking the next steps with friends and family, to show what they mean to one another. As they face their internal fears and outward prejudice from those they love, they quickly realize the way to survive individually, and together…. It is to become one force.

With White Noise, Ann Grech leaves us holding our hearts and “saving a spot” for the conclusion of Reef and Ford’s love story, a spot this reader hopes will find them both on top the podium.

Be sure not to miss the little bonus at the end of the book, Ann’s interview, Coffee with Reef and Ford. You’ll have to suspend disbelief as to when this Q & A with their favorite readers might have taken place. Although the men are not “hiding” they are together, they are keeping Reef’s sexual orientation on the down low so he can concentrate on the championship title, without a certain reporter turning his success into a “coming out” story instead.
564 reviews3 followers
July 29, 2016
This is the second book in the Unexpected Series by Ann Grech ,and I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet story. Ann Grech has given us a another lovely story ,that just sucks us in and keeps us there from start to finish and then leaves us wanting more from this author. This story is just like the first one ,but it's not really cliffy. This whole story will make you feel the love these two really have for each other ,but like every relationships their have they up and downs too. Reef is a professional skateboarder and Ford is a ski rescue worker .But with their jobs they don't see much. I was wondering just how much angst and drama ,and what it would do to their relationship. But do you know what I really found these two main characters are really a pleasure to get to know and to watch them grow . In this story Ford is heading to Canada to be with Reef ,you see Reef is in Canada training for the World Championship .They are so devoted to each other , and their strength and their determination that is put forth by each other is great. It's what make every relationship work. The time has come for each of them to introduce the other to their families ,but the problem is that they don't know what or how they would take the new. But what their found out was a surprise about each other over everything else. The characters in this story is charming ,sweet and very lovable ,and what you will learn from them is the priorities is right where they should be . I could tell you more about this touching story but that would spoil it for you. I highly recommend that you read this touching story, you won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Lisa Cullinan.
569 reviews28 followers
July 27, 2016
I absolutely loved this one. After the first book, Whiteout, I was really looking forward to more of Reef and Ford's story to see what direction these two would be heading in.
Reef is a professional snowboarder who trains constantly while Ford is a ski rescue worker. Their jobs do keep them away from each other quite a bit, so I was curious to see how much drama or angst that was going to cause. What I found was a story where the two main characters were a pleasure to get to know better.
In White Noise, Ford heads to Canada to be with Reef while he trains for the World Championship. These two are incredibly devoted to each other—I was in awe of the strength and determination put forth by both of them, together and individually, to make their relationship work. They made the decision to introduce each other to their respective families. Of course, they had no clue how it would all go down—what they found out was so much more about each other than anything else. I just loved these two ~ they're completely enchanting on their own—together? Reef and Ford are the whole package: athletic, hot as all hell, reasonable—more mature than plenty of others, hysterically funny, and most of all, their priorities are exactly where they should be. Ann Grech did a fabulous job letting us see more of their life together and how they've progressed as a couple. I highly recommend this one. I'm easily giving White Noise five bunny-kins stars! I was given this ARC for an honest review and honest it certainly is.
Profile Image for Ria Alexander.
2,656 reviews51 followers
July 29, 2016
A BEAUTIFUL STORY OF LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP

Ford and Reef are once again back in our hearts. This time they are to be found in Canada, where Reef is in training for the World Championships. Ford has left New Zealand and travelled overseas to where the man he loves, but has yet to admit it. What will happen once they are back together again?
Will their families accept them for the men that they are?

The love these two men share for each other is the driving force behind this story. The two totally different reactions that they received from their respective families was done with perfection. Reef's parents are magnificent, they love their son for who he is and are more than happy to welcome Ford into the fold. Whereas Ford's parents, well they really need a swift kick up the backside for the way in which they treat their son.

Ford and Reef are the perfect couple, they are hot, humourous, loving, and they know how they feel towards each other and that's what is important.

Kudos to Ms Grech for such a touching and heartfelt story. I love her style of writing, it was easy to read and flowed brilliantly from beginning to end. I literally didn't want this book to end. Thank goodness there will be a third installment in their story - Whitewash, which I will definitely be reading.

Definitely FIVE STARS from this reader.

Review written for Reading Is Our Satisfaction Blog.



Profile Image for Kirha.
495 reviews11 followers
July 28, 2016
I was lucky enough to be gifted a copy of this book by the author and I'm glad she did.
Having read and enjoyed the first book,White Out, I was really looking forward to this one.

When we last left off, Reef and Ford decided to pursue a relationship. Ford followed him to his training camp, securing a job in the process. Things were definitely great between them. They both decided to inform their respective families about the new relationship and it didn't go well. I was surprised about some of the family related turmoil, but satisfied with the outcome.

The love between these two characters is what makes this book amazing for me. I found myself smiling at every heartfelt scene. My favorite is when Reef sees Ford on the slopes. At first they smile at each other, but then Reef barrels toward him, knocking him to the ground and gives him a passionate kiss. That whole sequence made my heart melt and fall even deeper in love with these characters. Looking forward to the next book.

Five stars!


B2B Kirha
Profile Image for Traceys.
1,481 reviews71 followers
July 27, 2016
I decided to read this book after reading book one Whiteout, I didnt read the blurb so expected it to be a story about another couple - how delighted I was to find out this was Reef and Fords continuing relationship.

The book starts with Reef deep in training and Ford going out to join him, the heat between them is as hot, if not hotter than book one.

They have reached a stage where things are great between them and its time to come out a little more, to the people closer to them. I had the feeling Ford's parents were going to be a bit stuck up, but OMG they were outrageous, rude, snobby, I don't know how they stayed sitting at the table so long or how Ford is the person he is coming from them!

I loved reading this continuation of their story, there are challenges that they have to deal with. Reef and Ford are great couple with lives that are entertaining enough to make this a great read.

ARC REVIEW
Profile Image for Pat.
1,578 reviews18 followers
December 15, 2018



Pat Johnson
Thu, Dec 13, 5:06 PM (2 days ago)
to me

Reef and Ford, their continuing love story has its highs and lows ..

The guys together are so romantic and oh so sexy !

When apart from each other they hurt as being together is what they need.

Its surprising that neither has been with a guy before but its who they feel right with comfortable and at home.

They know themselves that they are meant for each other but will obstacles get between them?



They come out to their parents and you know why Ford can't tolerate his parents if you can call them that!





Their journey isn't all easy but when they are together you see the love bursting through each of them.

Ann writes is a way that you can see and smell the cold a great flowing story.



This is a beautiful journey I have been on in book one and too.

Well written and a great story and me wanting to read White Wash book three.



Profile Image for Tina.
824 reviews23 followers
February 28, 2017
This series just gets better and better. Ann really knocked this out of the park. It goes from making you ugly cry, to needing a change if panties, to laughing. What more could you ask for in a book?

In this book, we watch Reef and Ford's relationship continue to unfold and grow stronger every day. They will meet each others parents and those meetings don't go as planned. I won't say what happens because that would be giving a big part of this story away. Just know it will not be what you think.

I am beyond thrilled that we are getting another book from Ann continuing this story. I will take as much as she will give. I'm greedy like that. I only hope I don't have to wait long to get my hands on it. I will impatiently waiting for its arrival. Congratulations Ann on another phenomenal release.
Profile Image for Lianne Anta.
560 reviews31 followers
September 18, 2016
I really loved the continuation of Reef and Ford’s story, I fell in love with this paring during Whiteout and have been rooting for them from the get go. These two just get each other, they understand the others passion for their jobs and for their sports. In this book Reef and Ford must face more Drama and heartache with dramatic happenings on the slopes and in the clubhouse. They also face the hard tasks of introducing the other to their parents, this does not go well at all and not everyone is happy with the new.
A beautifully written Love story with enough steamy scenes to melt all the snow in Canada, well played Ann I can’t wait to see where the story takes us next.


Profile Image for Donna.
1,448 reviews23 followers
August 7, 2016
WOW! I Just Love Reed And Ford, I Love Their Story So So Much. It's A Pure Love Story And A Beautiful One At That. I Just Can't Say Enough About How Lovely This Book Is.

Against All Odds Constantly, These Men Keep You Swooning At The Devotion They Show For Each Other. This Book Is A Must Read And Leaves You Feeling All So Many Emotions.

It's Hot And Sexy, Emotional And Shows You Just How Love Is Supposed Be And How You Should Stand Up For What You Want In This Life.  I Recommend This Book/Series So Much
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews

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