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Unexpectedly You
Brooke Winters has every second of her day planned out. She makes lists for the satisfaction of checking things off. When Marks Events and Weddings has an opening, she knows she’s perfect for the job. What she doesn’t expect is that the boss’s unkempt and full of bad attitude son will be the person she works most closely with.
Nate Marks lost his fiancé and his best friend the moment he walked in on them sleeping together. He finds himself back at home in Las Vegas with his mother, taking photos for her wedding planning business instead of creating a portfolio to show at art galleries. Heartbroken and lost, Nate couldn’t care less about how he’s perceived by wedding clients… or the newest hire, Brooke.
When Brooke finds Nate at the office passed out and hung over, she quickly fixes him up to look presentable for their meetings. Nate spills about his broken relationship, and soon their clashed personalities balance each other out. But when they both discover there might be more between them, they panic.
Brooke’s determined to live life on her schedule, which never included a relationship with a co-worker or friend, and with Nate still aching over the girl he thought he’d spend his life with—they’re both about to lose a love they never expected to find.
Nate Marks lost his fiancé and his best friend the moment he walked in on them sleeping together. He finds himself back at home in Las Vegas with his mother, taking photos for her wedding planning business instead of creating a portfolio to show at art galleries. Heartbroken and lost, Nate couldn’t care less about how he’s perceived by wedding clients… or the newest hire, Brooke.
When Brooke finds Nate at the office passed out and hung over, she quickly fixes him up to look presentable for their meetings. Nate spills about his broken relationship, and soon their clashed personalities balance each other out. But when they both discover there might be more between them, they panic.
Brooke’s determined to live life on her schedule, which never included a relationship with a co-worker or friend, and with Nate still aching over the girl he thought he’d spend his life with—they’re both about to lose a love they never expected to find.
187 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2013
16 people are currently reading
684 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
November 12, 2013
2 MAYBE 3 SUPER DUPER CUTE STARS.
After reading previous books by one of the authors of this story I most definitely wanted to give this book a try. 'Unexpectedly you' is a super duper cute book with a lovely storyline and gorgeous characters and here are my book thoughts ...
What's it all about?
Brooke Winters is a planner, she does nothing in her life without the aid of her phone and it's constant lists. This organised cutie soon lands herself as a wedding planner assistant but what she never planned on was working alongside the boss' son, Nate Marks. First impressions don't go down too well and after a shaky start these two unlikely's form a close friendship and soon find there might be more than meets the eye to their relationship. so will they take a chance on each other or will this pair loose out on a love that they both never expected to find?
What did I like?
The storyline was easy peasy, it had a sweet as could be predicable factor that meant I had a couple of hours of top enjoyment factor reading time. The characters were relatable and engaging and the writing style was humorous and easy flowing.
What not five ...
Simply said this book needed to be longer, I wanted more meat on the bones and character development. This book had bags of potential but it didn't quite reach the finishing line and it really is a shame as this likeable book could have been an all out loveable novel.
Final thoughts ...
This book is a great story for those looking for a quick easy read which is low on the angst and high on the predictability. If you like your books with a friends to more theme and you fancy a short, romantic fix then this may do it for you, Go grab it readers... Enjoy, Kisses.
After reading previous books by one of the authors of this story I most definitely wanted to give this book a try. 'Unexpectedly you' is a super duper cute book with a lovely storyline and gorgeous characters and here are my book thoughts ...
What's it all about?
Brooke Winters is a planner, she does nothing in her life without the aid of her phone and it's constant lists. This organised cutie soon lands herself as a wedding planner assistant but what she never planned on was working alongside the boss' son, Nate Marks. First impressions don't go down too well and after a shaky start these two unlikely's form a close friendship and soon find there might be more than meets the eye to their relationship. so will they take a chance on each other or will this pair loose out on a love that they both never expected to find?
What did I like?
The storyline was easy peasy, it had a sweet as could be predicable factor that meant I had a couple of hours of top enjoyment factor reading time. The characters were relatable and engaging and the writing style was humorous and easy flowing.
What not five ...
Simply said this book needed to be longer, I wanted more meat on the bones and character development. This book had bags of potential but it didn't quite reach the finishing line and it really is a shame as this likeable book could have been an all out loveable novel.
Final thoughts ...
This book is a great story for those looking for a quick easy read which is low on the angst and high on the predictability. If you like your books with a friends to more theme and you fancy a short, romantic fix then this may do it for you, Go grab it readers... Enjoy, Kisses.
August 23, 2014
I loved this book! Brooke is obsessed with making lists, staying on schedule, planning and trying to make her parents proud of her. Nate is getting over an awful break-up where he caught his girlfriend cheating on him with his best friend. Brooke and Nate end up working together for Nate's mom who owns a wedding planning business. They go from annoyed strangers to friends. Brooke is looking for her level 4 romance and Nate is not over his break-up. I loved the sexual tension between these characters. I love that it was a slow-building romance and that it wasn't insta-love. I love that this book was in dual POV. I really love this one and highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good friends to lover story.
September 28, 2013
Possibly biased review ;-)
BUT I can say this is hilarious and fun and sweet and sexy ;-)
BUT I can say this is hilarious and fun and sweet and sexy ;-)
June 24, 2017
How cute was this? Just so cute. Brooke was so OCD when it came to schedules and lists, but it was a fun quark. Nate helped her let loose lol and it was fun watching them fall in love. Fun quick read.
November 17, 2013
Light, funny and the perfect book to lift my spirits. It was fantastic. I couldn't stop laughing. I adored it and smiled the whole way through. So much fun to read!
November 12, 2013
Nate I think he's secretly a mama's boy and there is nothing wrong with that, "mom kisses her fingers and presses them to my forehead. Twenty-two seems old for this kind of gesture, but Mom won't be deterred." And the boy can't help but tease Brooke, "I can't but harass her again. "A Marks Weddings and Events. This is Brooke. What can I do for you? Blowjob? Handjob? Back alley transaction?" Also sometimes an incoming call can hurt the family jewels and poor Nate had to learn that the hard way, "but the main phone rings and it jolts us both so much I kick a little too hard and he moves a little too much to the right, and WAM! Perfect nut shot. "Ughnn.." he groans, shoving my leg off him and curling over." Also he's the type of man who doesn't care what type of panties Brooke is wearing, "I don't give a s*** what kind of underwear you have on, Brooke. They won't be on you much longer." The book was quirky, cute and funny and I really enjoyed reading it.
August 30, 2014
Such a great read. Brooke is adorable, even with her crazy obsession with schedules. She funny, quirky, and real. Her interactions with Nate always had me grinning. There teasing was so great.
Nate.. oh Nate. I mean, damn. I love that guy. Poor guy gets his heart broken, decides love is stupid...But slowly pulls out of his funk by his spunky new friend Brooke!
All there interactions were so real and funny and sigh worthy.
And the ending?? Damn!!!!!
Oh, but the epilogue was just perfect. Gah! I just loved this fun, flirty, swoon-worthy story.
Great read!
Nate.. oh Nate. I mean, damn. I love that guy. Poor guy gets his heart broken, decides love is stupid...But slowly pulls out of his funk by his spunky new friend Brooke!
All there interactions were so real and funny and sigh worthy.
And the ending?? Damn!!!!!
Oh, but the epilogue was just perfect. Gah! I just loved this fun, flirty, swoon-worthy story.
Great read!
Want to read
June 17, 2014
November 12, 2013
Sweet and romantic.
Wonderful.
The characters are amazing and the plot was very well developed.
Loved it.
Wonderful.
The characters are amazing and the plot was very well developed.
Loved it.
November 27, 2013
You can read this and other reviews at Madison Says
Hmm… This dynamic duo seems rather familiar. The writing is reminiscent of some of my absolute favorite authors. *scratching my head* Wonder why that is…
Brooke winters is everything I am not. She’s got her life planned out to a T. Seriously, the chick keeps a detailed log of things that need to be accomplished during the day – in her phone. It alerts her to upcoming “events” ensuring that she’s on time, in line, and on top of anything and everything. I’d love to say she has a stick shoved up her tookus, but that’s just not the case. She just feels like she needs to be perfect. It stems from her parents. It is scary sad how much your parents can screw with your self-esteem… Brooke’s obsession with lists and schedules has gotten so severe that she actually schedules sex. Yeah, you read that right.
“There’s that word. Perfect. Why be perfect, Brooke? Some of the greatest things in life are great because of their imperfections.”
When Brooke arrives at a job interview for an assistant position at successful party planning company, she’s disgusted by the man waiting alongside her. He’s smoking. Smoking… who smokes in the waiting room of a party planning company? Especially when you’re waiting to be interviewed! Even though she should keep her mouth shut, she just can’t. After essentially telling the man off, she’s called into the back by Ms. Marks, the owner of said company. It’s then that she finds out that Smokey the bear is her potential boss’s son. A man that she’ll have to work closely with if she can actually land this gig.
Nathaniel Marks, or Nate, is pretty much Brooke’s complete opposite. He’s easy going; doesn’t have an obsession with his phone, schedules or check marks. He does however, have a very broken heart. He moved from New York back to Vegas to escape his cheating ex and the scumbag ex-best friend that shared her bed. Talk about a double whammy. Yikes. My heart hurts just thinking about it. He’s pretty much given up on love. This was the chick he planned on marrying, and she was screwing his BFF behind his back. I’m not sure it gets much worse. I take that back. It could probably be worse, but still, this sucks.
Talk about crappy first impressions… Brooke comes across as a stuck up snob; Nate as more of an ‘I’m too cool for school’ badass. After some interesting circumstances, Brooke is offered and accepts the job a Marks Events. The two are forced to work closely together. As they get to know one another, a relationship builds. They’re complete opposites, yet strangely perfect for one another. Now, if they could just get their heads out of their behinds, they’d be able see it.
Funny that I didn’t expect my best friend in Las Vegas to be a girl, but after the past couple weeks, that’s exactly what’s happened.
Seriously sweet story. The kind that gives you a tooth ache. Love the writing. Love the dialogue between Brooke and Nate. I even love the fact that Brooke is so crazy organized. Somehow it only adds to her appeal. I guess if my parents deemed me the screw up, I’d feel the same way. I’d want to prove them all wrong. Sometimes it takes a little time to realize that you don’t have to marry a doctor or a lawyer, or earn a six figure pay check to be successful in life.
I have to say, the thing I loved most about this story is that Brooke refused to change for anyone. She figured that when the right person came along he’d make her WANT to change. That alone made me do a tiny happy dance. Figure out who you are and OWN IT! That’s what she did and eventually she found a guy who would love her and her checkmarks. The way that Nate challenges Brooke to live outside her comfort zone is simply beautiful. Sometimes the love of your life can turn out to be someone completely unexpected.
Most of all, I want to cling onto him, and who we are together. It equally scares me and thrills me, because I’m finding everything I wanted, and I didn’t even plan for it to happen.
I had a hard time putting this one down. Unexpectedly You is the type of story that doesn’t delve too deep. It won’t have you contemplating your life, or leave you with puffy eyes and wads of tissue scattered around your house. It’s the fun loving story of two unlikely people who happen to be perfect for one another, and fight their attraction every step of the way. Don’t miss out on this sweet, sassy, and irritatingly adorable read.
Hmm… This dynamic duo seems rather familiar. The writing is reminiscent of some of my absolute favorite authors. *scratching my head* Wonder why that is…
Brooke winters is everything I am not. She’s got her life planned out to a T. Seriously, the chick keeps a detailed log of things that need to be accomplished during the day – in her phone. It alerts her to upcoming “events” ensuring that she’s on time, in line, and on top of anything and everything. I’d love to say she has a stick shoved up her tookus, but that’s just not the case. She just feels like she needs to be perfect. It stems from her parents. It is scary sad how much your parents can screw with your self-esteem… Brooke’s obsession with lists and schedules has gotten so severe that she actually schedules sex. Yeah, you read that right.
“There’s that word. Perfect. Why be perfect, Brooke? Some of the greatest things in life are great because of their imperfections.”
When Brooke arrives at a job interview for an assistant position at successful party planning company, she’s disgusted by the man waiting alongside her. He’s smoking. Smoking… who smokes in the waiting room of a party planning company? Especially when you’re waiting to be interviewed! Even though she should keep her mouth shut, she just can’t. After essentially telling the man off, she’s called into the back by Ms. Marks, the owner of said company. It’s then that she finds out that Smokey the bear is her potential boss’s son. A man that she’ll have to work closely with if she can actually land this gig.
Nathaniel Marks, or Nate, is pretty much Brooke’s complete opposite. He’s easy going; doesn’t have an obsession with his phone, schedules or check marks. He does however, have a very broken heart. He moved from New York back to Vegas to escape his cheating ex and the scumbag ex-best friend that shared her bed. Talk about a double whammy. Yikes. My heart hurts just thinking about it. He’s pretty much given up on love. This was the chick he planned on marrying, and she was screwing his BFF behind his back. I’m not sure it gets much worse. I take that back. It could probably be worse, but still, this sucks.
Talk about crappy first impressions… Brooke comes across as a stuck up snob; Nate as more of an ‘I’m too cool for school’ badass. After some interesting circumstances, Brooke is offered and accepts the job a Marks Events. The two are forced to work closely together. As they get to know one another, a relationship builds. They’re complete opposites, yet strangely perfect for one another. Now, if they could just get their heads out of their behinds, they’d be able see it.
Funny that I didn’t expect my best friend in Las Vegas to be a girl, but after the past couple weeks, that’s exactly what’s happened.
Seriously sweet story. The kind that gives you a tooth ache. Love the writing. Love the dialogue between Brooke and Nate. I even love the fact that Brooke is so crazy organized. Somehow it only adds to her appeal. I guess if my parents deemed me the screw up, I’d feel the same way. I’d want to prove them all wrong. Sometimes it takes a little time to realize that you don’t have to marry a doctor or a lawyer, or earn a six figure pay check to be successful in life.
I have to say, the thing I loved most about this story is that Brooke refused to change for anyone. She figured that when the right person came along he’d make her WANT to change. That alone made me do a tiny happy dance. Figure out who you are and OWN IT! That’s what she did and eventually she found a guy who would love her and her checkmarks. The way that Nate challenges Brooke to live outside her comfort zone is simply beautiful. Sometimes the love of your life can turn out to be someone completely unexpected.
Most of all, I want to cling onto him, and who we are together. It equally scares me and thrills me, because I’m finding everything I wanted, and I didn’t even plan for it to happen.
I had a hard time putting this one down. Unexpectedly You is the type of story that doesn’t delve too deep. It won’t have you contemplating your life, or leave you with puffy eyes and wads of tissue scattered around your house. It’s the fun loving story of two unlikely people who happen to be perfect for one another, and fight their attraction every step of the way. Don’t miss out on this sweet, sassy, and irritatingly adorable read.
July 26, 2014
AAAHH!! SO good! Will post my full review after it goes live on my blog! :)
UPDATE: (from the blog)
I cannot even tell you how many times I laughed out loud while reading this last night/this morning! All of Nate and Brooke's little quirks, and the way they BANTER! Seriously! It's so much fun to read!
First of all, I LOVE the dual POV. Both of these characters have a pretty big back story of one sort or another, and I think it's important that we get to see their thoughts, memories, ideas, etc. throughout. Plus, we the reader get to be mad at both of them when we're just like, "Come ON! One of you just spit it out already!" :) (If you don't know this about me, I actually enjoy being mad at characters in books. I know, I'm weird.) :-D
So Brooke...well, you see, she has this thing with checklists, and alarms, on her phone. In a way it's kind of endearing, but at the same time it's like, "Seriously Brooke, LIVE A LITTLE!" Of course, she thinks she is living, on her own terms. But that's not exactly true...at least not until after Nate walks into her life.
And Nate. MAN I wish he were real, and that I could have him! This poor young man has been ruined by his pain-in-the-butt ex (and ex-best friend). But don't you worry...between meeting Brooke, trying to help her be spontaneous every once in a while, and a few other experiences, he'll figure out that not all relationships are doomed to eventually fail...at least, I hope he'll truly figure it out!
And together...these two are such awesome friends! They are totally honest with each other (most of the time) and they do things in front of each other that they wouldn't normally in front of the opposite sex, because there's no pressure to be perfect, or sexy, or even happy with their situation. They can just be themselves. And even though 'being themselves' may sometimes annoy each other, they know that the other person deals with their own idiosyncrisies, and therefor they don't judge each other.
ANYWAY, just go buy the book! It's so much fun! I promise, if you like a good romantic comedy, you'll enjoy this one!
UPDATE: (from the blog)
I cannot even tell you how many times I laughed out loud while reading this last night/this morning! All of Nate and Brooke's little quirks, and the way they BANTER! Seriously! It's so much fun to read!
First of all, I LOVE the dual POV. Both of these characters have a pretty big back story of one sort or another, and I think it's important that we get to see their thoughts, memories, ideas, etc. throughout. Plus, we the reader get to be mad at both of them when we're just like, "Come ON! One of you just spit it out already!" :) (If you don't know this about me, I actually enjoy being mad at characters in books. I know, I'm weird.) :-D
So Brooke...well, you see, she has this thing with checklists, and alarms, on her phone. In a way it's kind of endearing, but at the same time it's like, "Seriously Brooke, LIVE A LITTLE!" Of course, she thinks she is living, on her own terms. But that's not exactly true...at least not until after Nate walks into her life.
And Nate. MAN I wish he were real, and that I could have him! This poor young man has been ruined by his pain-in-the-butt ex (and ex-best friend). But don't you worry...between meeting Brooke, trying to help her be spontaneous every once in a while, and a few other experiences, he'll figure out that not all relationships are doomed to eventually fail...at least, I hope he'll truly figure it out!
And together...these two are such awesome friends! They are totally honest with each other (most of the time) and they do things in front of each other that they wouldn't normally in front of the opposite sex, because there's no pressure to be perfect, or sexy, or even happy with their situation. They can just be themselves. And even though 'being themselves' may sometimes annoy each other, they know that the other person deals with their own idiosyncrisies, and therefor they don't judge each other.
ANYWAY, just go buy the book! It's so much fun! I promise, if you like a good romantic comedy, you'll enjoy this one!
January 19, 2014
Sometimes you just pick up a book from the list thinking it is some ordinary romance and you wont expect much from it except its entertaining purpose.....Unexpectedly You was exactly such a book for me when i added it to my To-Read list but once i started reading it, Wow....i was surprised by the author's writing and the story itself!! It was really deep, emotional read and realistic...which usually use to be missing in some of the books i read lately!!
The characters - Nate and Brooke were so interesting, i loved the book because of them! The romance was sweet, but heard one...not much different but Nate and Brooke made it so lovely...i don't have mush word for it. Brooke...i think first time i'm reading such a character who is planning every minute of her life...it is like she is crazy about planning, she does not spend any spare minute without consulting her iphone planner. Hmmm.....the sweet thing you wont feel irritated with her such behaviors....you get enchanted with it and start loving her just like Nate falls in love with her!! And Nate...he is not a typical alpha, macho hero....but a sweet guy who is heartbroken and was betrayed by his loved ones who were closest to him! I loved how the author did not make him very tough but a normal guy who shows his feelings through out the book!! I loved how the two connect...and become best friends!! They were so perfect to each other even though were exactly opposite in character! Oh, so many things i love about the book..if i start i can't finish this review today.
But, the best thing about the story was the way both Brooke and Nate take their time and understand their real feelings and realize they are made for each other!!
I have given excellent ratings for the book and this is a must re-read for me!!
The characters - Nate and Brooke were so interesting, i loved the book because of them! The romance was sweet, but heard one...not much different but Nate and Brooke made it so lovely...i don't have mush word for it. Brooke...i think first time i'm reading such a character who is planning every minute of her life...it is like she is crazy about planning, she does not spend any spare minute without consulting her iphone planner. Hmmm.....the sweet thing you wont feel irritated with her such behaviors....you get enchanted with it and start loving her just like Nate falls in love with her!! And Nate...he is not a typical alpha, macho hero....but a sweet guy who is heartbroken and was betrayed by his loved ones who were closest to him! I loved how the author did not make him very tough but a normal guy who shows his feelings through out the book!! I loved how the two connect...and become best friends!! They were so perfect to each other even though were exactly opposite in character! Oh, so many things i love about the book..if i start i can't finish this review today.
But, the best thing about the story was the way both Brooke and Nate take their time and understand their real feelings and realize they are made for each other!!
I have given excellent ratings for the book and this is a must re-read for me!!
February 12, 2015
4.5 stars.
Well, I'd had this book on my "to-read" list for some time, but had avoided because I'd been worried it would disappoint me. Turns out I should have put my doubts aside earlier because this was a great book. At least, it was a book I was definitely in the mood for and the book I really needed today.
The majority of books I've started reading in 2015 have fallen into two categories. Category 1 - not enough tension/inst-love/weak obstacles. Category 2 - ridiculous obstacles/contrived drama, and misunderstandings that make me want to tear my hair out. Fortunately, this book fell into neither category. It was a perfect balance of everything and I enjoyed the characters and the story immensely. I laughed many times out loud, and even though this was a fairly clean romance, I found it steamy enough in places.
Brooke, the female MC, is quirky but very cool. I totally dug her. She did not do one thing that annoyed me or made me want to throw my kindle through the window. And I loved the way she started to validate herself towards the end. And Nate, well, he didn't swear and screw everything in a skirt, but he was still gorgeous and manly and I adored him. I especially adored him with Brooke.
Because this is the best new adult book I've read in a long time, I'm giving it 5 stars.
Well, I'd had this book on my "to-read" list for some time, but had avoided because I'd been worried it would disappoint me. Turns out I should have put my doubts aside earlier because this was a great book. At least, it was a book I was definitely in the mood for and the book I really needed today.
The majority of books I've started reading in 2015 have fallen into two categories. Category 1 - not enough tension/inst-love/weak obstacles. Category 2 - ridiculous obstacles/contrived drama, and misunderstandings that make me want to tear my hair out. Fortunately, this book fell into neither category. It was a perfect balance of everything and I enjoyed the characters and the story immensely. I laughed many times out loud, and even though this was a fairly clean romance, I found it steamy enough in places.
Brooke, the female MC, is quirky but very cool. I totally dug her. She did not do one thing that annoyed me or made me want to throw my kindle through the window. And I loved the way she started to validate herself towards the end. And Nate, well, he didn't swear and screw everything in a skirt, but he was still gorgeous and manly and I adored him. I especially adored him with Brooke.
Because this is the best new adult book I've read in a long time, I'm giving it 5 stars.
June 19, 2014
A stranger to friends to lovers story that's humorous, sweet, poignant and just romantic. Brooke and Nate will take you into the world of wedding planning. Brooke finds the perfect job as a wedding planner, she's organized, efficient and everything runs on schedule even her dating life. So why is she still looking for Mr. right? Nate's been burned pretty bad, his almost fiancee and his best friend, how could they do this to him. Weddings are a joke. Forever after a myth! So why is he a wedding photographer, exposed to the forever afters he doesn't believe in? It turns out his mother owns the business and he needs the job. When this two opposites meet, sparks fly but in the fun lets be friends zone. This is one best friend who gets them, but they might have forgotten the memo about falling in love with your buddy. Things are about to change. If you want a lighthearted romantic comedy, guaranteed to make you appreciate the simplicity of falling in love, then Unexpectedly You is just right for you. Wonderfully written, charming and sweet.
January 19, 2015
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
If you are in the mood for a cute NA read then you are definitely looking in the right place.
Brooke is incredibly organised, to the point of obsessive and coming off as perfect.Nate had it all and lost it. In a bid to get over his recent heartbreak he has taken to not caring about organisation or appearance. They really couldn't be more opposite if they tried.
When Brooke ends up with a job working closely with Nate they unexpectedly become friends and find they actually enjoy spending time with each other.
All set in the wedding planning business in Las Vegas, this is an incredibly cute read that will have you laughing out loud along with some of the odd things Brooke comes up with and Nate can be exceedingly sweet and swoon worthy when he wants to be. A refreshing NA read that is a nice break from alot of the steamier stuff that fills up the genre.
If you are in the mood for a cute NA read then you are definitely looking in the right place.
Brooke is incredibly organised, to the point of obsessive and coming off as perfect.Nate had it all and lost it. In a bid to get over his recent heartbreak he has taken to not caring about organisation or appearance. They really couldn't be more opposite if they tried.
When Brooke ends up with a job working closely with Nate they unexpectedly become friends and find they actually enjoy spending time with each other.
All set in the wedding planning business in Las Vegas, this is an incredibly cute read that will have you laughing out loud along with some of the odd things Brooke comes up with and Nate can be exceedingly sweet and swoon worthy when he wants to be. A refreshing NA read that is a nice break from alot of the steamier stuff that fills up the genre.
June 19, 2014
I have pretty much read everything from this author and once again she does not disappoint. I loved the main male character - I found him snarky, sexy and just the right amount of broken. This author has a talented for writing about characters that makes you quickly invested in their lives - which is not an easy thing to do as a writer. I would definitely recommend this book, and for those who haven't read anything else from her check out her other books. I only wished that with every book it would come with my very own 'book boyfriend' - ;)
August 4, 2018
Yup, that was a big old pile of smile-inducing awesomeness. Cute characters, with adorable quirks but also depth and dimension. Great chemistry between Brooke and Nate, both in the *fans face* department, and in the friend department. Their interactions just always made me laugh, occasionally cringe, and just want them to be real people. Loved it! And the epilogue pretty much just made me melt with perfection. Nice to have a smile to go to bed with....
November 14, 2016
The main sex scene was with both characters but there were instances in this book where you are aware of OW/OM situations going on! It wasn't like they were hot for everyone else but it just wasn't something I wanted to know about! My favourite part of this book was the epilogue it was super sweet!
November 22, 2013
What a cute quick read that was quite enjoyable. Loved the storyline and the characters were great. The book was very well written and I think Mia Josephs is a fabulous author. Brooke & Nate have a cute friendship that turns into a great relationship. Would highly recommend this book!!!
November 17, 2013
Funny and romantic is the best way to describe this story. I likey! NAte ❤️ Brooke
January 24, 2020
This is one of those books that I wanted to like more than I actually did. When I would start to enjoy it, I was reminded of why I didn't. Let me explain: When we meet our male lead, Nate, he's recovering from being cheated on by his fiancee. Before you feel too bad for him, you learn he stole some family heirlooms from her and is basically holding them hostage for...? Because he's hurt? Not a good enough reason. When he starts to become likeable, the ex-fiancee is mentioned again and he moons over her. This happens not just once, not even just twice, but multiple times.
I also wanted to like the female lead, Brooke, but something about the way she's written rubbed me the wrong way. She's introduced as entitled and bratty and I guess I just never got over that. Plus her "rules for dating" or whatever were extremely dumb and made me cringe each time they were brought up. Again, not once, not twice, but multiple times.
Also, the background characters (Nate's brother, Brooke's family) are horrid and over the top and worse, unnecessary for the story. Should've left them out because it was distracting.
I also wanted to like the female lead, Brooke, but something about the way she's written rubbed me the wrong way. She's introduced as entitled and bratty and I guess I just never got over that. Plus her "rules for dating" or whatever were extremely dumb and made me cringe each time they were brought up. Again, not once, not twice, but multiple times.
Also, the background characters (Nate's brother, Brooke's family) are horrid and over the top and worse, unnecessary for the story. Should've left them out because it was distracting.
January 19, 2023
Brooke Winters is struggling to be her perfect self. Everything is planned out, even relationships. She lands a job as a wedding event coordinator and is frustrated by the boss' son and the company's photographer, Nate Marks. Nate is her total opposite and it drives her bonkers, but yet somehow his messy look and spontaneous ways wiggle into her heart. A relationship with a co-worker is not in Brooke's planner, but she can't help her heart aching for him.
This was a fun and light contemporary romance. The writing is smooth and the characters easy to like. Brooke was a riot with all her schedules and checklists. Nate was absolutely wonderful, and his struggles with his breakup with his previous long term girlfriend was well done. Nate and Brooke clashed but in the best of ways. The cast of characters was hilarious especially moments with Nate's brother and their mother's boyfriend. Lots of laughs and the romance was absolutely sweet.
This was a fun and light contemporary romance. The writing is smooth and the characters easy to like. Brooke was a riot with all her schedules and checklists. Nate was absolutely wonderful, and his struggles with his breakup with his previous long term girlfriend was well done. Nate and Brooke clashed but in the best of ways. The cast of characters was hilarious especially moments with Nate's brother and their mother's boyfriend. Lots of laughs and the romance was absolutely sweet.
June 9, 2019
Loved it
Always a pleasure to read anything Cassie Mae has a hand in and this is no exception. I wont say it's my favourite but I enjoyed it none the less.
Always a pleasure to read anything Cassie Mae has a hand in and this is no exception. I wont say it's my favourite but I enjoyed it none the less.
May 7, 2020
5+ stars
Soooooo cute!
It's a bit of a slow burn, which I love.
This book is just adorable.
Read it, you'll love it.
Soooooo cute!
It's a bit of a slow burn, which I love.
This book is just adorable.
Read it, you'll love it.
November 29, 2020
This is a super cute story!
July 12, 2020
This was a fun read - sweet, cute, entertaining and also moving at some points. I don't feel like it was really gripping or engrossing but for a light read with a satisfying ending I would certainly recommend it to romance fans. :)
March 19, 2017
Pretty funny...Brooke is quite a planner and makes her job as wedding planner a piece of cake. Her boss has a son who learns to accept "planning Brooke" and showing her that letting go is ok too.
August 15, 2014
Unexpectedly You is a sweet, light, romantic read. I have read books by both authors, but not as a collaboration of the two. If you're looking for a dash of heartbreak broken up by romance and humor, look no further.
Summary:
Brooke Winters is a planner. Practically every second of her day is planned out, and she's always prepared. There is nothing like that overwhelming feeling of accomplishment when she ticks another task or goal off her many lists. Despite her extreme organization, Brooke has a set of five goals she's never been able to check off, even after years and no matter how hard she tries. Currently, her goal is to land a great paying job, which will then line everything up to fall into place. Her big chance comes with the offer of a job from Mark Events and Weddings. Brooke is very organized (see her lists), efficient, and friendly so she doesn't expect difficulties with getting the job or being successful. Unfortunately for Brooke, she never could have planned for working closely with the boss's scruffy, bad attitude bearing son. Nate Marks isn't gung-ho on the whole wedding process or love in general, despite his job as wedding photographer. Romance used to be part of Nate's everyday life until he found his fiancé and best friend having an affair. To recover, he's moved home to Vegas to work for his mom, and finds himself working with the uptight Brooke. This isn't an ideal situation for either Nate or Brooke. Nate is stuck with a broken heart and can't be bothered with how he appears to others, and Brooke is struggling against the chaos Nate brings to her every plan. Soon, endless time spent working together finds that their personalities and quirks really balance each other instead of clash. Friendship is a bright and beautiful surprise, but readily accepted, until the possibility of that little bit of something extra is discovered between them and panic abounds. Nate isn't sure he's ready to move on from his broken heart, and Brooke isn't at all his usual type. Besides, Brooke is determined to follow through on her plan or risk not reaching the goals she's kept for years and never earning her parent's approval. Can love and relationships be so easily planned to achieve success or is the spontaneous kind of love, the love you never intended, the most real, passionate, and enduring?
This was such a sweet read. I loved the fact that it was romance, obviously, but more, I loved that it made me laugh so much. Brooke was the most adorable heroine, and I found her list-making to be endearing. I can also relate because I'm a bit of a list-maker myself. She was also smart, hardworking, fun, and loving, all without really trying. Nate was great. I hated his bad habits, but I understood he was emotionally lost and needed that outlet. He was sexy, funny, adorably male, and could make Brooke relax. Nate and Brooke's banter throughout the story was probably my favorite part of their relationship. I loved the story line, and yes it maybe could have done with a bit of angst, but it was nice without it, too. It's always amazing when the writing doesn't openly show that two authors are actually writing instead of only one. Dialogue was easy and seamless. Now my complaints... The formatting of the book could use an uplift. It looks almost as if the text was copy and pasted. Also, the whole book could use a good proofreading. There weren't many mistakes, but if you can fix known ones, why not? Lastly, I felt this could have been much longer. Nate and Brooke were great characters to read about, and I feel there were some unanswered questions or issues. For one, nothing was ever really resolved with Nate and Xavier, and the reason for the animosity wasn't made clear. Second, Brooke's issues with her parents were never resolved and kind of left hanging. I felt this to be a big part of the story and a major reason behind Brooke's obsessive planning, but I didn't find closure in the end. Other than that, this was great, I'd read it again, and I plan on reading more from these authors, both together and apart. <3
Summary:
Brooke Winters is a planner. Practically every second of her day is planned out, and she's always prepared. There is nothing like that overwhelming feeling of accomplishment when she ticks another task or goal off her many lists. Despite her extreme organization, Brooke has a set of five goals she's never been able to check off, even after years and no matter how hard she tries. Currently, her goal is to land a great paying job, which will then line everything up to fall into place. Her big chance comes with the offer of a job from Mark Events and Weddings. Brooke is very organized (see her lists), efficient, and friendly so she doesn't expect difficulties with getting the job or being successful. Unfortunately for Brooke, she never could have planned for working closely with the boss's scruffy, bad attitude bearing son. Nate Marks isn't gung-ho on the whole wedding process or love in general, despite his job as wedding photographer. Romance used to be part of Nate's everyday life until he found his fiancé and best friend having an affair. To recover, he's moved home to Vegas to work for his mom, and finds himself working with the uptight Brooke. This isn't an ideal situation for either Nate or Brooke. Nate is stuck with a broken heart and can't be bothered with how he appears to others, and Brooke is struggling against the chaos Nate brings to her every plan. Soon, endless time spent working together finds that their personalities and quirks really balance each other instead of clash. Friendship is a bright and beautiful surprise, but readily accepted, until the possibility of that little bit of something extra is discovered between them and panic abounds. Nate isn't sure he's ready to move on from his broken heart, and Brooke isn't at all his usual type. Besides, Brooke is determined to follow through on her plan or risk not reaching the goals she's kept for years and never earning her parent's approval. Can love and relationships be so easily planned to achieve success or is the spontaneous kind of love, the love you never intended, the most real, passionate, and enduring?
This was such a sweet read. I loved the fact that it was romance, obviously, but more, I loved that it made me laugh so much. Brooke was the most adorable heroine, and I found her list-making to be endearing. I can also relate because I'm a bit of a list-maker myself. She was also smart, hardworking, fun, and loving, all without really trying. Nate was great. I hated his bad habits, but I understood he was emotionally lost and needed that outlet. He was sexy, funny, adorably male, and could make Brooke relax. Nate and Brooke's banter throughout the story was probably my favorite part of their relationship. I loved the story line, and yes it maybe could have done with a bit of angst, but it was nice without it, too. It's always amazing when the writing doesn't openly show that two authors are actually writing instead of only one. Dialogue was easy and seamless. Now my complaints... The formatting of the book could use an uplift. It looks almost as if the text was copy and pasted. Also, the whole book could use a good proofreading. There weren't many mistakes, but if you can fix known ones, why not? Lastly, I felt this could have been much longer. Nate and Brooke were great characters to read about, and I feel there were some unanswered questions or issues. For one, nothing was ever really resolved with Nate and Xavier, and the reason for the animosity wasn't made clear. Second, Brooke's issues with her parents were never resolved and kind of left hanging. I felt this to be a big part of the story and a major reason behind Brooke's obsessive planning, but I didn't find closure in the end. Other than that, this was great, I'd read it again, and I plan on reading more from these authors, both together and apart. <3
January 21, 2015
I definitely enjoyed the book. It was funny, light, and quirky, and quite a perfect choice for a travelling book. That’s right. I read this book while I was abroad in Peru. I didn’t have much time to read, only when we had to catch a train or a bus. So, what made this book perfect for it was its fast pace, easy to follow plot and lightness of the story. You don’t want to get too invested with a book, or bring up too much drama while on vacation do you? Unless you are spending some time on a lake or beach where you can chill and relax all the time. But in this case we were constantly on the move, so I needed a book that was good enough it would be easy to get back to whenever I could, but also not too absorbing I wouldn’t want to go sightseeing anymore.
This book got me hooked from chapter one which was Brooke’s most embarrassing moment throughout the book, in my opinion. Great start I might add, because it allows the reader to get the vibe of the book right away. It gives an excellent introduction to the characters as well, because we learn straight ahead that Brook is an absolute control freak obsessed with perfection and Nate, well…he’s a mess.
I have to admit that my favourite part of the whole book was its characters, especially Brooke. She is definitely unique and I haven’t ever met or read about anyone like her. Her quirks were so obvious and she didn’t even care about it. She knew her real self and wasn’t afraid to show it to the world. She also wasn’t willing to change for anyone. Great role model actually. But what is great is that we can also tell she has her own personal issues which mess her up a bit, so yeah, very honest and distinctive character. For me she was the sole responsible for making this story quite memorable.
The plot was definitely predictable, starting from the title which ironically starts with the word unexpected. I guess that explains why my rating was 4 and not 5 stars. Anyway, that doesn’t mean that you won’t enjoy reading about how the predictable ending comes to be, because the story is filled with funny and not so predictable moments.
But the best thing about this book is that it portrays beautifully that even quirky and obsessive people get their chance at love; and in the end you are rooting for it so bad! The love story is pretty cool, too. It’s not insta-love or anything. You can actually witness the whole process from hate, to scepticism, to comfort, to friendship and then love; and as everything in this story, very truthful.
It even has some powerful messages hidden between all the fluff and peculiarities. Like you don’t need to seek others approval, the most important one in your life should be your own and you can always get a second chance in love.
In sum, this book offers a perfect fun and quick escape from your everyday chores, and will provide for an entertaining read. If you are looking for a fresh twist to a timeless love story, this is for you.
*Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review, but my opinion was not biased in any way by this fact.
This book got me hooked from chapter one which was Brooke’s most embarrassing moment throughout the book, in my opinion. Great start I might add, because it allows the reader to get the vibe of the book right away. It gives an excellent introduction to the characters as well, because we learn straight ahead that Brook is an absolute control freak obsessed with perfection and Nate, well…he’s a mess.
I have to admit that my favourite part of the whole book was its characters, especially Brooke. She is definitely unique and I haven’t ever met or read about anyone like her. Her quirks were so obvious and she didn’t even care about it. She knew her real self and wasn’t afraid to show it to the world. She also wasn’t willing to change for anyone. Great role model actually. But what is great is that we can also tell she has her own personal issues which mess her up a bit, so yeah, very honest and distinctive character. For me she was the sole responsible for making this story quite memorable.
The plot was definitely predictable, starting from the title which ironically starts with the word unexpected. I guess that explains why my rating was 4 and not 5 stars. Anyway, that doesn’t mean that you won’t enjoy reading about how the predictable ending comes to be, because the story is filled with funny and not so predictable moments.
But the best thing about this book is that it portrays beautifully that even quirky and obsessive people get their chance at love; and in the end you are rooting for it so bad! The love story is pretty cool, too. It’s not insta-love or anything. You can actually witness the whole process from hate, to scepticism, to comfort, to friendship and then love; and as everything in this story, very truthful.
It even has some powerful messages hidden between all the fluff and peculiarities. Like you don’t need to seek others approval, the most important one in your life should be your own and you can always get a second chance in love.
In sum, this book offers a perfect fun and quick escape from your everyday chores, and will provide for an entertaining read. If you are looking for a fresh twist to a timeless love story, this is for you.
*Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review, but my opinion was not biased in any way by this fact.
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