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An Unexpected Romance #1
Unexpected
Self-made business owner Dale McGuire has always enjoyed two things in life: women and fast cars. Now in her mid-30s, she's restless and can't work out why. Then one day a 10-year-old boy turns up, claiming to be her son, and her simple ordered world turns upside down.
Rebecca Harper bears the emotional scars of her father's crimes, and now she has two rules: never let anyone get too close and never admit weakness. Thanks to an anonymous egg donor, infertility didn't stop her from having her son Jake. Now pregnant for a second time, she's horrified when Jake brings home the woman he believes is his other mother.
When distrust turns to understanding and passion, can Dale and Rebecca, two women bound by fate, make a family neither expected?
Length: 6 hrs and 29 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Rebecca Harper bears the emotional scars of her father's crimes, and now she has two rules: never let anyone get too close and never admit weakness. Thanks to an anonymous egg donor, infertility didn't stop her from having her son Jake. Now pregnant for a second time, she's horrified when Jake brings home the woman he believes is his other mother.
When distrust turns to understanding and passion, can Dale and Rebecca, two women bound by fate, make a family neither expected?
Length: 6 hrs and 29 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Audible Audio
First published August 15, 2017
41 people are currently reading
744 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Frame
30 books444 followersJenny Frame is from the small town of Motherwell in Scotland, where she lives with her partner, Lou, and their well loved and very spoiled dog. She has a diverse range of qualifications, including a BA in public management and a diploma in acting and performance. Nowadays, she likes to put her creative energies into writing rather than treading the boards. When not writing or reading, Jenny loves cheering on her local football team, which is not always an easy task!
Jenny Frame is the Royal Academy of Bards 2013 Hall of Fame Author.
Jenny Frame is the Royal Academy of Bards 2013 Hall of Fame Author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
August 7, 2017
'Netgalley ARC provided by the Publisher in exchange for my unbiased review'
Liked! i'm beginning to see a similar pattern with all of Ms.Frame's books since i started reading,there is this particular sex slogan/rhyme in all of them: 'COME ON ME'..what is this? Ms.Frame's writings has become very repetitive as of late..not trying to critique her work too much but i've realize it's becoming a habit and her book is just enjoyable to us the readers...there was so much potential with this book but the storyline miss its mark on substance plus a wider range of juicier parts..backstory and a few good supporting cast help to create a little plot twist but then there was no chemistry to talk of between the leading characters..i'm not gonna get into the premise of the book because its not important at least the synopsis tells readers a bit of it..entertaining ending
Liked! i'm beginning to see a similar pattern with all of Ms.Frame's books since i started reading,there is this particular sex slogan/rhyme in all of them: 'COME ON ME'..what is this? Ms.Frame's writings has become very repetitive as of late..not trying to critique her work too much but i've realize it's becoming a habit and her book is just enjoyable to us the readers...there was so much potential with this book but the storyline miss its mark on substance plus a wider range of juicier parts..backstory and a few good supporting cast help to create a little plot twist but then there was no chemistry to talk of between the leading characters..i'm not gonna get into the premise of the book because its not important at least the synopsis tells readers a bit of it..entertaining ending
August 10, 2017
I was going to make some corny joke about how unexpected this book was, but I will save you all from that. I have read almost all of Frame's books, and they have been really up and down for me. It almost feels like Frame has been trying to find her perfect zone as a writer, but had not quite gotten there yet. Well, that is until now. For me, this was by far Frame's best book yet.
This is a sweet, family-style romance. While the chemistry was not jumping off the pages at you, it was such a feel good romance that I didn't mind. I was absolutely sucked into the story from page one, and enjoyed every second of it.
There are two main characters Dale and Becca. Both characters have flaws, but there is valid reasons for them. They are really likeable characters especially Dale. At times Dale was almost to good to be true, but I was so caught up in this fairy tale type romance, I didn't care. There also were a few kid characters in this book. I think Frame does a good job of writing kids in lesfic. She did well in Courting the Countess, and again in this book.
My only small complaint, the crazy ex storyline, I didn't like. You are in the POV of an awful women named Ash. It does not take up too much of the book, thank goodness. I know Frame did this for a little excitement, but I was enjoying the romance and didn't want this to interfere. Luckily, the way the conflict occurred, was handled well. I could feel a sigh of relief come out of me. It did not ruin the book and I am so grateful.
This is easy to recommend to sweet romance fans. I have a feeling a lot of people are really going to like this one. As I said above, I believe this is Frame's best by far. I look forward to reading more books of hers like this.
An ARC was given to me by BSB for a honest review.
This is a sweet, family-style romance. While the chemistry was not jumping off the pages at you, it was such a feel good romance that I didn't mind. I was absolutely sucked into the story from page one, and enjoyed every second of it.
There are two main characters Dale and Becca. Both characters have flaws, but there is valid reasons for them. They are really likeable characters especially Dale. At times Dale was almost to good to be true, but I was so caught up in this fairy tale type romance, I didn't care. There also were a few kid characters in this book. I think Frame does a good job of writing kids in lesfic. She did well in Courting the Countess, and again in this book.
My only small complaint, the crazy ex storyline, I didn't like. You are in the POV of an awful women named Ash. It does not take up too much of the book, thank goodness. I know Frame did this for a little excitement, but I was enjoying the romance and didn't want this to interfere. Luckily, the way the conflict occurred, was handled well. I could feel a sigh of relief come out of me. It did not ruin the book and I am so grateful.
This is easy to recommend to sweet romance fans. I have a feeling a lot of people are really going to like this one. As I said above, I believe this is Frame's best by far. I look forward to reading more books of hers like this.
An ARC was given to me by BSB for a honest review.
August 12, 2017
I am surprised how much I liked Unexpected. It is the fifth published book by Jenny Frame, and she has really grown as an author and storyteller. She remains true to herself and continues to write in her style (butch-femme relationship dynamics, vivid imagination, strong happily ever afters...), but her writing is more mature and confident than before, with all elements done quite properly. The main and secondary characters are very good, the plot is interesting and really holds one's interest all through. Only one thing about the plot was a bit of a let down for me -- not all subplots were resolved entirely (bribed Mike, used Nika, user and main villain Ashley). This is just a minor flaw and the story has not lost anything important, but I like to have all loose ends nicely wrapped up.
I recommend this book, and am looking forward to the next book by the author.
4.25 stars
Aug 12, 2017
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
I recommend this book, and am looking forward to the next book by the author.
4.25 stars
Aug 12, 2017
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
April 14, 2025
This really touched my heart.
Sexy Dale is downright irresistible but Becca is doing everything to resist her. She must ignore the attraction because the risk of losing her family is too big. She can’t afford to let anybody in her life, she is very cautious after a horrific experience. Dale has her own dark past. A past that is the reason of her perseverance. She is determined to break through that wall and win her trust but Becca is as stubborn as hell. Asking anyone at anytime for help is never an option for her. Yes, sometimes the best things are unexpected. Just as this book. WOW, what a passionate story! This book has everything, even more. You can feel the love, the hurt, the dedication, the doubt, the warmth, the desperation. The chemistry was electrifying. From the very beginning, I knew this was going to be one of the best romance I’ve ever read. I laughed and I cried. This really touched my heart. I know for sure that you don’t want to miss this amazing story.
Sexy Dale is downright irresistible but Becca is doing everything to resist her. She must ignore the attraction because the risk of losing her family is too big. She can’t afford to let anybody in her life, she is very cautious after a horrific experience. Dale has her own dark past. A past that is the reason of her perseverance. She is determined to break through that wall and win her trust but Becca is as stubborn as hell. Asking anyone at anytime for help is never an option for her. Yes, sometimes the best things are unexpected. Just as this book. WOW, what a passionate story! This book has everything, even more. You can feel the love, the hurt, the dedication, the doubt, the warmth, the desperation. The chemistry was electrifying. From the very beginning, I knew this was going to be one of the best romance I’ve ever read. I laughed and I cried. This really touched my heart. I know for sure that you don’t want to miss this amazing story.
January 10, 2018
“Unexpected” was very….wait for it….unexpected!
First, the cover made me think that the plot would involve an unexpected pregnancy for a lesbian, perhaps as the result of a drunken one-nighter such as with “Tats” (by Layce Gardner and Saxon Bennet). Oh, yes, the art folks certainly managed to stretch yet another cover for the audiobook. Creating art takes talent….transfering art from one aspect ratio to another takes a special kind of talent to screw up what should be an easy task.
Secondly, this book is by Author Jenny Frame. Despite there now being six of her books on Audible, many well reviewed by GR friends, my only previous experience with her books is “Heart of the Pack” - one of the most truly awful books I’ve ever listened to.
So, what was most unexpected by me is the result - I really enjoyed “Unexpected”. I chose to listen to this book immediately after the terrific “The Secret Pond”, and it compares very well. As with “Pond”, in "Unexpected", we also have two women trying to come to terms with tragedies in their past. Also as with “Pond”, it takes a precocious 9yo boy to act as a human emulsifier to bring the women together and combine everyone into a family.
At 36yo, successful business owner Dale is tired of the one-night-stand bar scene and works hard to convince Becca that she has more substance than her reputation as a player. Intensely private Becca is reluctant and distrustful, but is eventually won over, in part, by Dale’s endless stream of truly terrible jokes!
Oh, there’s more…lots more. My RL friends are avoiding me until I tire of telling them every one of these!
Dale’s desire and efforts to protect Becca and Jake are very believable, as is Becca’s desire to be touched and loved again after so many years alone. Becca’s former gf Trent is believable in her role, as are Dale’s friends at the office. The villainess is rather over-the-top batshit crazy, even if her reason for hating Becca was finally explained. I would have liked to have seen the individual who betrayed Dale for money exposed, but despite the betrayal we get a wonderful HEA.
The narrator did a fantastic job with Scottish and upper-middle class English accents, and she really added to my enjoyment of “Unexpected”. 4.5*, and once again I wish goodreads offered half-star ratings. This is much better than many books I’ve rated 4*, but isn’t quite as stellar as most of my 5* rated books (I preferred “The Secret Pond”, for example). Still, this was very enjoyable to listen to, and perhaps partly because of the unusual accents I’ll probably relisten to it, so 5* for “Unexpected”.
First, the cover made me think that the plot would involve an unexpected pregnancy for a lesbian, perhaps as the result of a drunken one-nighter such as with “Tats” (by Layce Gardner and Saxon Bennet). Oh, yes, the art folks certainly managed to stretch yet another cover for the audiobook. Creating art takes talent….transfering art from one aspect ratio to another takes a special kind of talent to screw up what should be an easy task.
Secondly, this book is by Author Jenny Frame. Despite there now being six of her books on Audible, many well reviewed by GR friends, my only previous experience with her books is “Heart of the Pack” - one of the most truly awful books I’ve ever listened to.
So, what was most unexpected by me is the result - I really enjoyed “Unexpected”. I chose to listen to this book immediately after the terrific “The Secret Pond”, and it compares very well. As with “Pond”, in "Unexpected", we also have two women trying to come to terms with tragedies in their past. Also as with “Pond”, it takes a precocious 9yo boy to act as a human emulsifier to bring the women together and combine everyone into a family.
At 36yo, successful business owner Dale is tired of the one-night-stand bar scene and works hard to convince Becca that she has more substance than her reputation as a player. Intensely private Becca is reluctant and distrustful, but is eventually won over, in part, by Dale’s endless stream of truly terrible jokes!
Why do cows wear bells? Because their horns don’t work!
Oh, there’s more…lots more. My RL friends are avoiding me until I tire of telling them every one of these!
Dale’s desire and efforts to protect Becca and Jake are very believable, as is Becca’s desire to be touched and loved again after so many years alone. Becca’s former gf Trent is believable in her role, as are Dale’s friends at the office. The villainess is rather over-the-top batshit crazy, even if her reason for hating Becca was finally explained. I would have liked to have seen the individual who betrayed Dale for money exposed, but despite the betrayal we get a wonderful HEA.
The narrator did a fantastic job with Scottish and upper-middle class English accents, and she really added to my enjoyment of “Unexpected”. 4.5*, and once again I wish goodreads offered half-star ratings. This is much better than many books I’ve rated 4*, but isn’t quite as stellar as most of my 5* rated books (I preferred “The Secret Pond”, for example). Still, this was very enjoyable to listen to, and perhaps partly because of the unusual accents I’ll probably relisten to it, so 5* for “Unexpected”.
August 8, 2017
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review.
For various reasons, this is a difficult review to write. Partly because I'm writing immediately after finishing the book and . . . stupid book made it difficult to see.
Title of the book is 'Unexpected'. That was definitely an unexpected result. Finding myself with wet eyes. Unexpected.
Book stars Dale McGuire and Rebecca Harper - though there are three point of views. With the third point of view that of Ashley, bitch reporter (in many many ways). All three are near the end of their third decade of life on Earth, though the only one whose age I know is Dale - 36.
There's a mix of cultures here - Dale, Scottish, and from the East end of Glasgow (which I think is supposed to imply something like the working class section or something, I don't know Glasgow), Rebecca 'Becca' Harper - English, and as Dale noted, even though Rebecca currently lives in a run down house, she's still 'posh', or upper class.
Both of the main characters, and I'm not including Ashley in 99% of this review, have 'issues' that they faced long ago, and the ramifications of those issues still haunt them. I don't want to give everything away, of course, so I'll just note that Dale is quite good at picking up women (without trying), but doesn't believe she's good enough to be in a relationship because of her past; while Rebecca can't allow herself to be in a romantic relationship because her trust was broken long ago, and the woman she was with after that couldn't stand the idea of children. And Rebecca needed children.
Which is how Rebecca and Dale meet up. They didn't bump into each other in a bar, dance floor, or the like, like Dale normally ends up meeting women, no, they meet up through a little fella named Jake. 10 year old Jake. Jake, you see, has seen how . . . poorly his mother, Rebecca, has been recently and has gone looking for help. And has turned to Dale - just turning up on her doorstep (well, at her place of work). For, you see, Dale got a little bit of extra money about 11 years ago when she donated eggs to a fertility clinic. And Jake, with his massively high IQ, had hacked the place and gotten Dale's name. The 36 year old who never thought she'd have children or deserved them has a ten year old demanding help from her.
Naturally Dale, knowing Jake's family must be worried about him, rushes him back to his house in a small village nearish (by about 20 minutes by car (ETA: actually, it might be more like an hour - if I recall the drive Dale went on)) to London. The mother she meets there, Rebecca, wants nothing to do with Dale and demands that she leave.
Dale had made a promise to Jake though and . . . well, complications ensue. Not just because of that promise, of course.
Meanwhile, in a side thread, Ash is hooked up with the daughter of an owner of a newspaper - and circulation is down. Ash is going to need to come up with a big story to justify her existence and big salary. So she's hunting around for a story and 'lucks' upon a photograph that shows Victoria Carter -the Carter story, that Ash broke, 'made her'. If she could just track Victoria down again . . . she'd be set.
And yes, the two plot lines converge . . . eventually.
Of note:
sex - occurs and is graphic.
characters - there are more people of importance than those I've already mentioned, including Sadie (next door neighbor to Rebecca), Val & Sammy (Dale's friends; along with their kid Mia), and Trent - Rebecca's lawyer and ex-lover. This is in addition to Rebecca (and Jake), Dale, and Ash (and Ash's girlfriend who I haven't named).
Rating: 4.55
August 7 2017
For various reasons, this is a difficult review to write. Partly because I'm writing immediately after finishing the book and . . . stupid book made it difficult to see.
Title of the book is 'Unexpected'. That was definitely an unexpected result. Finding myself with wet eyes. Unexpected.
Book stars Dale McGuire and Rebecca Harper - though there are three point of views. With the third point of view that of Ashley, bitch reporter (in many many ways). All three are near the end of their third decade of life on Earth, though the only one whose age I know is Dale - 36.
There's a mix of cultures here - Dale, Scottish, and from the East end of Glasgow (which I think is supposed to imply something like the working class section or something, I don't know Glasgow), Rebecca 'Becca' Harper - English, and as Dale noted, even though Rebecca currently lives in a run down house, she's still 'posh', or upper class.
Both of the main characters, and I'm not including Ashley in 99% of this review, have 'issues' that they faced long ago, and the ramifications of those issues still haunt them. I don't want to give everything away, of course, so I'll just note that Dale is quite good at picking up women (without trying), but doesn't believe she's good enough to be in a relationship because of her past; while Rebecca can't allow herself to be in a romantic relationship because her trust was broken long ago, and the woman she was with after that couldn't stand the idea of children. And Rebecca needed children.
Which is how Rebecca and Dale meet up. They didn't bump into each other in a bar, dance floor, or the like, like Dale normally ends up meeting women, no, they meet up through a little fella named Jake. 10 year old Jake. Jake, you see, has seen how . . . poorly his mother, Rebecca, has been recently and has gone looking for help. And has turned to Dale - just turning up on her doorstep (well, at her place of work). For, you see, Dale got a little bit of extra money about 11 years ago when she donated eggs to a fertility clinic. And Jake, with his massively high IQ, had hacked the place and gotten Dale's name. The 36 year old who never thought she'd have children or deserved them has a ten year old demanding help from her.
Naturally Dale, knowing Jake's family must be worried about him, rushes him back to his house in a small village nearish (by about 20 minutes by car (ETA: actually, it might be more like an hour - if I recall the drive Dale went on)) to London. The mother she meets there, Rebecca, wants nothing to do with Dale and demands that she leave.
Dale had made a promise to Jake though and . . . well, complications ensue. Not just because of that promise, of course.
Meanwhile, in a side thread, Ash is hooked up with the daughter of an owner of a newspaper - and circulation is down. Ash is going to need to come up with a big story to justify her existence and big salary. So she's hunting around for a story and 'lucks' upon a photograph that shows Victoria Carter -the Carter story, that Ash broke, 'made her'. If she could just track Victoria down again . . . she'd be set.
And yes, the two plot lines converge . . . eventually.
Of note:
sex - occurs and is graphic.
characters - there are more people of importance than those I've already mentioned, including Sadie (next door neighbor to Rebecca), Val & Sammy (Dale's friends; along with their kid Mia), and Trent - Rebecca's lawyer and ex-lover. This is in addition to Rebecca (and Jake), Dale, and Ash (and Ash's girlfriend who I haven't named).
Rating: 4.55
August 7 2017
August 15, 2017
Another great one by Frame 4.5*
I love Jenny Frame books and its easy to see why she is a favortie with this book. Dale and Becca are from two different sides of the track but the paths they have walked are very similiar. All the characters are great and do support and even progress the main story without stealing the spotlight. I did feel Ash's part if the story was underplayed and felt like I was waiting for the shoe to drop the entire time and didn't really get the closure I was hoping or looking for with that line. Maybe that would have taken away or maybe there will more about in the future. Honestly the character I wanted to know more about when all was done was Nika...she has such a small role but for some reason her story stuck with me. Anyway, thats why the 4.5 rating but really it is easily a 5 and any fan of Frame will love it...i think...hope...maybe. Ah doesn't matter cause I did :)
I love Jenny Frame books and its easy to see why she is a favortie with this book. Dale and Becca are from two different sides of the track but the paths they have walked are very similiar. All the characters are great and do support and even progress the main story without stealing the spotlight. I did feel Ash's part if the story was underplayed and felt like I was waiting for the shoe to drop the entire time and didn't really get the closure I was hoping or looking for with that line. Maybe that would have taken away or maybe there will more about in the future. Honestly the character I wanted to know more about when all was done was Nika...she has such a small role but for some reason her story stuck with me. Anyway, thats why the 4.5 rating but really it is easily a 5 and any fan of Frame will love it...i think...hope...maybe. Ah doesn't matter cause I did :)
August 20, 2017
4.5 Stars rounding up to 5 stars.
A really good, pleasant romance, Jenny Frame style. You've got your single Femme, Rebecca, a mother of a gifted 10 yr old son and she is pregnant with her second. Fiercely independent and private which leads to problems when her pregnancy is not going smoothly. Then you have your Butch, Dale. A player who has become weary of her lifestyle. I feel that Dale isn't Frame's typical Butch - a bit softer maybe? All the MC's are very likable, except for the villain of course. I also loved Jake, scarily genius but still a 10yr old if not younger socially.
Funny, it was one those books that I read over half in one sitting. Then I forced myself to slow down and not rush through it. I will warn you *everything* is very predictable. But it didn't matter to me. I enjoyed the book. Frame has become one of my favorite authors who's books I enjoy rereading. I'm looking forward to her next book, "Charming the Vicar" with the Vicar, Bridget from Courting the Countess.
A really good, pleasant romance, Jenny Frame style. You've got your single Femme, Rebecca, a mother of a gifted 10 yr old son and she is pregnant with her second. Fiercely independent and private which leads to problems when her pregnancy is not going smoothly. Then you have your Butch, Dale. A player who has become weary of her lifestyle. I feel that Dale isn't Frame's typical Butch - a bit softer maybe? All the MC's are very likable, except for the villain of course. I also loved Jake, scarily genius but still a 10yr old if not younger socially.
Funny, it was one those books that I read over half in one sitting. Then I forced myself to slow down and not rush through it. I will warn you *everything* is very predictable. But it didn't matter to me. I enjoyed the book. Frame has become one of my favorite authors who's books I enjoy rereading. I'm looking forward to her next book, "Charming the Vicar" with the Vicar, Bridget from Courting the Countess.
August 3, 2017
I liked the storyline and plot a lot, but not so much on the way it is written. The book is entertaining nevertheless.
July 17, 2017
4.5 stars
Dale McGuire built up her car-repair business from scratch. Now that it is a thriving business, and she has had her fill of fast cars and fast women, she’s looking for something a bit more permanent in her personal life. When Jake, a ten-year-old boy, turns up one day claiming to be her son, Dale’s world changes in a day.
Jake’s mum, Rebecca Harper, is stunned to find that her brilliant son has found his birth mother. On the run from the world after escaping from her father’s crimes, Rebecca is terrified of losing her son to his egg donor parent. Bound by their connection to Jake, both women struggle with the aftermath of the revelation, and their possible attraction.
This is a really unusual story. I really liked the unexpected plotline. Frame uses this to great advantage, while pulling in more standard romantic fiction tropes to ground the story into something eminently relatable. It is cleverly written and conceived.
Dale is a classic working-class lesbian who loves working with her hands. Smart and capable, she’s built a business from scratch and works with her best friends. She has enough swagger to catch the eye of any woman she wants, but is bored by it all, and knows she is missing something.
Rebecca is more complex in some ways. Her middle-class upbringing is full of privilege, and she has managed to deal with most of the trauma inflicted on her by a criminal father and a fall from grace for the whole family. The fact that she is still in hiding is an indication of how much is still to come, in terms of plot.
Jake is an interesting creation. Most kids of that age are often not well written, and Jake is better fleshed-out than most. His brilliance excuses his higher knowledge in some areas, and his lack of social skills excuses social faux pas that would normally be difficult to come to terms with for an audience. It’s quite a clever mix, but he never overtakes the main relationship in the book.
The romantic elements were all in place, and there was a nice build up between the two main characters, although there wasn’t a huge amount of heat. Being a bit picky, I’d perhaps like a bit more build up in this case, to overcome the difficulties they both had at the start, and I’d give Dale a few more flaws, as she comes across as a little too perfect at times.
This was an easy book to read, and the different plot line kept it interesting all the way through. The resolution was a little quick, and more could have been developed toward the end here, but it is well resolved and works within the context of the romance. I really enjoyed it, and highly recommend it as a romance.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Dale McGuire built up her car-repair business from scratch. Now that it is a thriving business, and she has had her fill of fast cars and fast women, she’s looking for something a bit more permanent in her personal life. When Jake, a ten-year-old boy, turns up one day claiming to be her son, Dale’s world changes in a day.
Jake’s mum, Rebecca Harper, is stunned to find that her brilliant son has found his birth mother. On the run from the world after escaping from her father’s crimes, Rebecca is terrified of losing her son to his egg donor parent. Bound by their connection to Jake, both women struggle with the aftermath of the revelation, and their possible attraction.
This is a really unusual story. I really liked the unexpected plotline. Frame uses this to great advantage, while pulling in more standard romantic fiction tropes to ground the story into something eminently relatable. It is cleverly written and conceived.
Dale is a classic working-class lesbian who loves working with her hands. Smart and capable, she’s built a business from scratch and works with her best friends. She has enough swagger to catch the eye of any woman she wants, but is bored by it all, and knows she is missing something.
Rebecca is more complex in some ways. Her middle-class upbringing is full of privilege, and she has managed to deal with most of the trauma inflicted on her by a criminal father and a fall from grace for the whole family. The fact that she is still in hiding is an indication of how much is still to come, in terms of plot.
Jake is an interesting creation. Most kids of that age are often not well written, and Jake is better fleshed-out than most. His brilliance excuses his higher knowledge in some areas, and his lack of social skills excuses social faux pas that would normally be difficult to come to terms with for an audience. It’s quite a clever mix, but he never overtakes the main relationship in the book.
The romantic elements were all in place, and there was a nice build up between the two main characters, although there wasn’t a huge amount of heat. Being a bit picky, I’d perhaps like a bit more build up in this case, to overcome the difficulties they both had at the start, and I’d give Dale a few more flaws, as she comes across as a little too perfect at times.
This was an easy book to read, and the different plot line kept it interesting all the way through. The resolution was a little quick, and more could have been developed toward the end here, but it is well resolved and works within the context of the romance. I really enjoyed it, and highly recommend it as a romance.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
October 4, 2017
This was a sweet romance, with one of the most likeable main character I've ever found. Definitely one of the best books by Jenny Frame, if not the best.
July 30, 2017
It offical… I have a new favourite Jenny Frame book.
Firstly, Jenny Frame has executed another great and well thought out plot that has readers on the edge of their seats from the first chapter. I read it in one sitting because I quite literally couldn’t put it down.
Being a mother who has went through IVF and used donor sperm, I feel like I connected with this story more than I have with other story lines. I could completely feel Rebecca’s panic when her son turns up their door step with his genetic mother - I had to stop for a moment and breath. There were quite a few moments when I felt that I could understand Rebecca’s feelings, this is a main reason I enjoy when Jenny writes mothers into her novels because she truly gets it, she understands the love and adoration you feel for your child and that nothing comes before them.
I fell for Dale in a big way, she’s this strong, clever and extremely sexy butch lesbian that acts like a big kid but she has this vulnerability and honesty about her that endears her to you in an unexpected way (excuse the pun). I enjoyed Dale emerging as a fantastic parent from her play girl person.
Jenny Frame once again wrote some of the most erotic sex scenes I have read in a non-erotica romance. She has this beautiful way of writing a phenomenally hot scene while incorporating the love and tenderness between the couple.
This has gone to the top of the list for Jenny Frame novels and I can’t wait to read it again. I can only hope Jenny Frame continues their story into a second book.
Unequivocally 5 stars
Firstly, Jenny Frame has executed another great and well thought out plot that has readers on the edge of their seats from the first chapter. I read it in one sitting because I quite literally couldn’t put it down.
Being a mother who has went through IVF and used donor sperm, I feel like I connected with this story more than I have with other story lines. I could completely feel Rebecca’s panic when her son turns up their door step with his genetic mother - I had to stop for a moment and breath. There were quite a few moments when I felt that I could understand Rebecca’s feelings, this is a main reason I enjoy when Jenny writes mothers into her novels because she truly gets it, she understands the love and adoration you feel for your child and that nothing comes before them.
I fell for Dale in a big way, she’s this strong, clever and extremely sexy butch lesbian that acts like a big kid but she has this vulnerability and honesty about her that endears her to you in an unexpected way (excuse the pun). I enjoyed Dale emerging as a fantastic parent from her play girl person.
Jenny Frame once again wrote some of the most erotic sex scenes I have read in a non-erotica romance. She has this beautiful way of writing a phenomenally hot scene while incorporating the love and tenderness between the couple.
This has gone to the top of the list for Jenny Frame novels and I can’t wait to read it again. I can only hope Jenny Frame continues their story into a second book.
Unequivocally 5 stars
August 4, 2017
READ THIS!!!!
First time reader of Jenny Frame, and bloody hell! WOW! What a fantastic read this was! Nearly forgot to feed the kids I got that engrossed in it! I've never read a book like this... This is a completely different story that I've come across. You know how it gets, one book is similar to another, well, this one isn't,,, and if i could, i'd give it a higher rating. Everything about this story is spot on... would love to see a sequel to see what happens next, and learn a bit more about Trent too.
First time reader of Jenny Frame, and bloody hell! WOW! What a fantastic read this was! Nearly forgot to feed the kids I got that engrossed in it! I've never read a book like this... This is a completely different story that I've come across. You know how it gets, one book is similar to another, well, this one isn't,,, and if i could, i'd give it a higher rating. Everything about this story is spot on... would love to see a sequel to see what happens next, and learn a bit more about Trent too.
July 28, 2017
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I liked this the most of all of Frame's books. I could see some parallels to her Dylan Morgan online stories (insta-attraction/insta-family).
This one features two women bought together by the son they 'share' through one of them (Dale) being an egg donor.
Becca lives with her son in a secluded spot so as not to draw attention to herself, and doesn't trust anyone, for fairly good reason. Dale owns a business with her best friend/surrogate family, and is shocked to discover she has a son.
The two then meet and spend a fair amount of time together while Dale tries to help Becca out. I liked the way their relationship unfolded, their romance was very sweet and both characters were interesting. Dale's friends were also interesting, and they helped move her side of the story along.
Becca's side was where the story fell down, the debt thing was an ok storyline, but the whole reporter thing was just annoying. Ash came across like an old time villain. I ended up skimming most of her storyline, and if it had been left out it would have made for a better book. Trent was a bit one dimensional as well, until about the 3/4 mark where she does an about face and becomes Dale's champion/buddy, because we were clearly being set up for a sequel that features her.
I did like that there wasn't really any big breakup, and that there were a few times where I thought the plot would go the tried and true trope route and it didn't, so kudos for that.
This is probably a 3.5 star book but I've rounded up because I think it's better than her other novels and it did surprise me a few times.
I liked this the most of all of Frame's books. I could see some parallels to her Dylan Morgan online stories (insta-attraction/insta-family).
This one features two women bought together by the son they 'share' through one of them (Dale) being an egg donor.
Becca lives with her son in a secluded spot so as not to draw attention to herself, and doesn't trust anyone, for fairly good reason. Dale owns a business with her best friend/surrogate family, and is shocked to discover she has a son.
The two then meet and spend a fair amount of time together while Dale tries to help Becca out. I liked the way their relationship unfolded, their romance was very sweet and both characters were interesting. Dale's friends were also interesting, and they helped move her side of the story along.
Becca's side was where the story fell down, the debt thing was an ok storyline, but the whole reporter thing was just annoying. Ash came across like an old time villain. I ended up skimming most of her storyline, and if it had been left out it would have made for a better book. Trent was a bit one dimensional as well, until about the 3/4 mark where she does an about face and becomes Dale's champion/buddy, because we were clearly being set up for a sequel that features her.
I did like that there wasn't really any big breakup, and that there were a few times where I thought the plot would go the tried and true trope route and it didn't, so kudos for that.
This is probably a 3.5 star book but I've rounded up because I think it's better than her other novels and it did surprise me a few times.
July 11, 2017
*The copy provided by NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books Inc. in exchange for an honest review*
Dale is mid thirties but stil acts like she just got out of her teen years... A magnet for women, she uses that without blinking. Is she happy living like that? Not exactly, but her past and her family issues as a burden convinced her that there is no other way for her. So one day, when a cute child named Jake appears at her door claiming to be her son, she's stunned! Surely he couldn't be! Yes, she donated her eggs after a moment of selflessness and/or stupidity, but this can't be the truth! And then she meets Jake's mom Rebecca! Stubborn and independent but in dire need of help because of her health she clashes with Dale at first, but reluctantly agrees for Dale to help with some errands. Rebecca is everything Dale wants in a woman, but is she ready to open herself completely to this woman? Moreover, is Rebecca ready to try a serious, co-parenting relationship with someone that never lasted with the same woman more that couple of nights?
This is a nice book. The characters are nicely written, the plot is good. I particularly liked the development of Dale as a person and as a parent/partner. There is a beautifully written transition from a careless human being to a very responsible adult.
Dale is mid thirties but stil acts like she just got out of her teen years... A magnet for women, she uses that without blinking. Is she happy living like that? Not exactly, but her past and her family issues as a burden convinced her that there is no other way for her. So one day, when a cute child named Jake appears at her door claiming to be her son, she's stunned! Surely he couldn't be! Yes, she donated her eggs after a moment of selflessness and/or stupidity, but this can't be the truth! And then she meets Jake's mom Rebecca! Stubborn and independent but in dire need of help because of her health she clashes with Dale at first, but reluctantly agrees for Dale to help with some errands. Rebecca is everything Dale wants in a woman, but is she ready to open herself completely to this woman? Moreover, is Rebecca ready to try a serious, co-parenting relationship with someone that never lasted with the same woman more that couple of nights?
This is a nice book. The characters are nicely written, the plot is good. I particularly liked the development of Dale as a person and as a parent/partner. There is a beautifully written transition from a careless human being to a very responsible adult.
September 8, 2017
I enjoyed this read, no angst and quite a sweet romance. I loved the plot and the characters although not sure about the selfish Ash as there wasn't much depth to her character, you got an understanding as to why she was viscous to Becca even though it was undeserved, but why she was as selfish and viscous to other women I wasn't sure of her reasoning. I also would have liked Dale to have discovered who the leak was within her work force. A sweet romance.
October 7, 2017
I absolutely loved this audiobook, not only because of narrator did such an amazing job. It’s a heartwarming book about too souls finding each other.
April 19, 2018
It was a nice read read, likable characters, Dale was my favorite here, not too much angst, the pace of the romance was well manage.
If you like family romances this one is for you.-
If you like family romances this one is for you.-
September 16, 2022
Didn't do review at time of reading - but I loved this tale and gave it 5*s - even better with the second book. Well worth a read! :)
August 12, 2017
I've got quite the soft spot for UK lesfic. Heh. I just love it. I love the vernacular, settings, et. all. I think this is my 4th or 5th JF book and I really enjoyed this. Dale is a completely utterly an adorable character. Becca takes some time to get warmed up to but she gets there. Thanks to a GR buddy for recommending this to me. Really enjoyed it.
August 10, 2017
I don't know how she does it every book I've read by her and finish I'm already looking forward to the next one. My only complaint is not knowing if Ash got what she deserve and the worker whom work for Dale as well.
September 28, 2017
Way back when, when I used to read het romance because I didn't really have any access to queer romance, one of my favorite tropes was the "family" type romance where a single woman is either pregnant or has a kid and someone comes into their family. Okay, so I'll admit that I usually just pretended in my head that the guy in the het romance was a really butch woman. But I gravitated towards those types of romances otherwise, because they were usually chock full of fuzzy feels.
I've never really seen one of those in lesbian form until I saw the preview on Bold Strokes Books' site for "Unexpected" by Jenny Frame. And as soon as I saw that cover and read the synopsis, I knew that I had to have it. Now, as those who stalk BSB's site obsessively, such as myself, know, BSB is both amazing and evil - amazing, because they list forthcoming books almost a year in advance at times (YAY LOOK AT ALL OF THESE GREAT BOOKS I'LL BE ABLE TO READ), and evil because they list forthcoming books almost a year in advance at times (OH THE AGONY OF WAITING FOR A MUCH ANTICIPATED BOOK).
And you know what? "Unexpected" was really worth the wait!
Dale was, well, *fans self*. Err, I mean, a great character. ;) I really identified with that character almost immediately - she was smart, funny, and seemed to have a great life, and yet she was looking for something a little more. Oh yes, bad girl wanting to settle down? MOAR PLZ. Also a huge fan of that trope (in fiction, at least). ;) And I loved that she was from a working class family and she built herself an empire chasing the things that she loved.
She was perfect for Becca, who was even more reserved when it came to her heart and emotions than Dale was. Becca really needed someone in her life to lean on, and trusting people in the past hasn't worked out so well for her, and she's determined to make it on her own. And she was quite "posh," as Dale kept saying, so the upper-crust-meets-working-class theme was great, too. Add Jake, who hacked into a database to find his "other mother" (the egg donor) because his mummy wasn't feeling well and needed help and the baby on the way, and well, I was just smitten with this story. It's totally a feel-good kind of thing.
The only thing that I really didn't like in this story was Ash.
But it's still okay, because I really did enjoy this story quite a bit - so much so, in fact, that I purchased a paper copy of the book, because I really want to see it sitting on my shelf. :)
I've never really seen one of those in lesbian form until I saw the preview on Bold Strokes Books' site for "Unexpected" by Jenny Frame. And as soon as I saw that cover and read the synopsis, I knew that I had to have it. Now, as those who stalk BSB's site obsessively, such as myself, know, BSB is both amazing and evil - amazing, because they list forthcoming books almost a year in advance at times (YAY LOOK AT ALL OF THESE GREAT BOOKS I'LL BE ABLE TO READ), and evil because they list forthcoming books almost a year in advance at times (OH THE AGONY OF WAITING FOR A MUCH ANTICIPATED BOOK).
And you know what? "Unexpected" was really worth the wait!
Dale was, well, *fans self*. Err, I mean, a great character. ;) I really identified with that character almost immediately - she was smart, funny, and seemed to have a great life, and yet she was looking for something a little more. Oh yes, bad girl wanting to settle down? MOAR PLZ. Also a huge fan of that trope (in fiction, at least). ;) And I loved that she was from a working class family and she built herself an empire chasing the things that she loved.
She was perfect for Becca, who was even more reserved when it came to her heart and emotions than Dale was. Becca really needed someone in her life to lean on, and trusting people in the past hasn't worked out so well for her, and she's determined to make it on her own. And she was quite "posh," as Dale kept saying, so the upper-crust-meets-working-class theme was great, too. Add Jake, who hacked into a database to find his "other mother" (the egg donor) because his mummy wasn't feeling well and needed help and the baby on the way, and well, I was just smitten with this story. It's totally a feel-good kind of thing.
The only thing that I really didn't like in this story was Ash.
But it's still okay, because I really did enjoy this story quite a bit - so much so, in fact, that I purchased a paper copy of the book, because I really want to see it sitting on my shelf. :)
December 18, 2020
This is a nice book about family.
10 year old Jake appears at Dale’s doorstep one day, claiming to be her biological son and asking for help. Turns out Jake is some sort of genius, spawn out of her egg that she donated years back. Jake leads her to Becca, his surrogate mother and only parent. Becca is also in debt and pregnant with a second child. At this point, Dale is stunned with the revelation that she has two bio children but Becca is just plain unhappy to see her. Although Becca is threatened by Dale’s unexpected appearance, she grudgingly agrees to let Dale stay on.
This is the first book I’ve seen where the tables are turned and the one being inserted into the family is the bio parent. Bio aside, Dale is careful not to overstep her place, which works out fine because Becca is generally distrusting of everyone. There is a backstory there about why Becca is so distrusting but I won't go into that. But Dale is a good person and Becca finally sees that.
Dale is easy to love because of the way she is and this is the only reason why she fits right into the family so naturally. She is a stark contrast to Trent, whom we know as Becca’s lawyer / ex / best friend. Trent and Becca have a history together but broke up because Becca wanted children and Trent didn’t. In fact, Trent’s pedophobia is so strong, she never once made the effort to speak to Jake. But Trent is still somewhat hung up over Becca and for whatever she is, she's still a loyal friend.
Dale is one of the reasons I like this book a lot. She seemed to play the field a lot at the beginning but she isn't really a player, not quite. Deep down she has always longed for a family and she got one at the end, so that was nice.
This is a nice book about family that would be worth your time.
10 year old Jake appears at Dale’s doorstep one day, claiming to be her biological son and asking for help. Turns out Jake is some sort of genius, spawn out of her egg that she donated years back. Jake leads her to Becca, his surrogate mother and only parent. Becca is also in debt and pregnant with a second child. At this point, Dale is stunned with the revelation that she has two bio children but Becca is just plain unhappy to see her. Although Becca is threatened by Dale’s unexpected appearance, she grudgingly agrees to let Dale stay on.
This is the first book I’ve seen where the tables are turned and the one being inserted into the family is the bio parent. Bio aside, Dale is careful not to overstep her place, which works out fine because Becca is generally distrusting of everyone. There is a backstory there about why Becca is so distrusting but I won't go into that. But Dale is a good person and Becca finally sees that.
Dale is easy to love because of the way she is and this is the only reason why she fits right into the family so naturally. She is a stark contrast to Trent, whom we know as Becca’s lawyer / ex / best friend. Trent and Becca have a history together but broke up because Becca wanted children and Trent didn’t. In fact, Trent’s pedophobia is so strong, she never once made the effort to speak to Jake. But Trent is still somewhat hung up over Becca and for whatever she is, she's still a loyal friend.
Dale is one of the reasons I like this book a lot. She seemed to play the field a lot at the beginning but she isn't really a player, not quite. Deep down she has always longed for a family and she got one at the end, so that was nice.
This is a nice book about family that would be worth your time.
November 17, 2018
I was hooked at 5%. The story was full of promises. Interesting main and secondary characters, a beginning who reminded me of the tv-show Once upon a time with a bright and cute ten-year-old kid popping up and saying "Luke I'm your father" ... Oups, wrong story, let me rewind, ... and saying "Your are my mom !" .
Nice beginning.
Then it goes slowly downhill because after being introduced, most secondary characters become mere figurants, including the kid.
And the two main seem to repeat the same conversation, over and over, in their heads, with each other, and sometimes a passerby. This gets tiresome to hear, the 'Trust me, I will take care of you"/"I can't, it's not you it's me, okay, but I really can't".
The story could have been way much more if there wasn't such an imbalence with those two.
But Dale is stuck in the prince in shining armor persona while Becca has the unlucky pick to be the princess in need of savior. Despite many "No way, I can do it myself", she gave in.
Conclusion ? It's a fairy tale, sweet if you like some unidimensional characters going through the motions to reach HEA.
It's a 2.5 for me and I rounded it up to 3 stars because I'm in awe with Nicola Victoria Vincent voice (except for the love scenes which despite her efforts sounded more ridiculous than anything, I wish we had the possibility to skip them over easily in an audio version... )
Nice beginning.
Then it goes slowly downhill because after being introduced, most secondary characters become mere figurants, including the kid.
And the two main seem to repeat the same conversation, over and over, in their heads, with each other, and sometimes a passerby. This gets tiresome to hear, the 'Trust me, I will take care of you"/"I can't, it's not you it's me, okay, but I really can't".
The story could have been way much more if there wasn't such an imbalence with those two.
But Dale is stuck in the prince in shining armor persona while Becca has the unlucky pick to be the princess in need of savior. Despite many "No way, I can do it myself", she gave in.
Conclusion ? It's a fairy tale, sweet if you like some unidimensional characters going through the motions to reach HEA.
It's a 2.5 for me and I rounded it up to 3 stars because I'm in awe with Nicola Victoria Vincent voice (except for the love scenes which despite her efforts sounded more ridiculous than anything, I wish we had the possibility to skip them over easily in an audio version... )
November 5, 2018
*ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher for an honest review*
I have been pretty hard on Jenny Frames recent works, especially since I saw a lot of them to be the same story repackaged. This book is definitely not that. Frame has stuck to her style of writing and the characters that she has created suit the type of author that she is but there was something about this book that made me love reading a Jenny Frame book again.
Dale was the first change that I liked about this book, she is butch but not overbearing and she didn't constantly walk around in a suit with a scowl on her face. She is an overgrown child and I loved it.
Rebecca and Jake and the storyline that they create is what really made this book interesting and new.
This is definitely a book that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good Jenny Frame book and if you have read one before, then start here.
*4.5 stars
I have been pretty hard on Jenny Frames recent works, especially since I saw a lot of them to be the same story repackaged. This book is definitely not that. Frame has stuck to her style of writing and the characters that she has created suit the type of author that she is but there was something about this book that made me love reading a Jenny Frame book again.
Dale was the first change that I liked about this book, she is butch but not overbearing and she didn't constantly walk around in a suit with a scowl on her face. She is an overgrown child and I loved it.
Rebecca and Jake and the storyline that they create is what really made this book interesting and new.
This is definitely a book that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good Jenny Frame book and if you have read one before, then start here.
*4.5 stars
September 15, 2017
Miss Frame writes a nice enough romance and it was entertaining, but as I went along I found the motivation for Rebecca Harper's sequestered life somewhat odd. I can understand shame but I don't understand the guilt as she was just as much a victim of her father's actions as her mother was. They just weren't aware of his criminal activities and what it unleashed. But Rebecca's behaviour is that of a deeply guilty woman.
Dale was very much the noble butch who got on my nerve when she turned into a broken record going on and on about taking care of everything, her family, her children. Rebecca's trust issues were milked way too long.
The plot was very thin and a non-issue in my eyes, but maybe I am too cynical for this author's writing style. It wasn't a good fit for me.
3.4 stars.
Dale was very much the noble butch who got on my nerve when she turned into a broken record going on and on about taking care of everything, her family, her children. Rebecca's trust issues were milked way too long.
The plot was very thin and a non-issue in my eyes, but maybe I am too cynical for this author's writing style. It wasn't a good fit for me.
3.4 stars.
February 22, 2021
*Audio addition*
I just recently started listening to audiobooks and I immediately sought out any Frame books available. I had already read Unexpected multiple times, so I knew it by heart which made listening to it easy and a dream. Oh my, the narrator captured Dale beautifully. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect voice for the quirky, fun-loving yet devoted mechanic with the heart of gold. I had so much fun listening to this and I even teared up a couple times during the more emotional scenes. I don't have much else to say that hasn't already been said down below in my original review. Another 5 stars added on!
I love Jenny Frame's stories. I love her shapeshifter stories, her immortal vampires stories, and her royal stories. You get a little of everything with her. If you're not a fan of werewolves or vampires, or even a royal storyline, that's okay, because Unexpected is none of those. It's just a simple, heart-warming, funny story that will make you smile and root for the good guy to save the day and win the girl's heart ;).
I immediately fell for Dale and all her quirky, comedic, sweet, down-to-earth, personality. I guess you could say I was a tad 'Crazy' for her. Dale owned a couple of repair shops for vehicles and was on the verge of expanding her business until a young boy entered her life, claiming to be her son. This, of course, threw a wrench (ha) into Dale's plans to further her career, however, not realizing that the boy and the boys' mother was exactly what Dale had been yearning for as she aged. With a reputation around the bars as a 'Womanizer' and a bed-hopper, she knew she was tired of the game and wanted more substance in her life than the 'Toxic' revolving door life-style she had been leading.
Rebecca and Jake lived a quiet, secluded life in the country away from any scandal that could reach Rebecca. Having experienced scandal early on in her life, and now pregnant a second time with Dale's egg donation, the last thing she needed was more responsibility and a playboy with women chasing after them shouting 'Hit me baby one more time'. Thanks to Jake, the super genius kid with an IQ higher than most adults, who tracked down Dale and dragged her to Rebecca's home, the two women were then forced to acknowledge the elephant in the room. Dale wasn't expecting to feel such a strong, maternal and protective pull towards Rebecca, Jake and the wee, unborn, yin. Once Dale had thawed out Rebecca's icy exterior, there was no stopping Dale from keeping her new family safe and secure, even from the vultures who had been secretly swooping around Rebecca's past trying to penetrate her future just for a quick buck and a flashy headline. With the love and devotion Dale brought to the small, unexpected family, they grew 'Stronger' as a team, warding off those bad guys.
This was a charming story that had me cracking up at times, and I've read it more than once. I can't wait for the sequel. I consider myself 'Lucky' for having found Jenny Frame and her charming stories.
I just recently started listening to audiobooks and I immediately sought out any Frame books available. I had already read Unexpected multiple times, so I knew it by heart which made listening to it easy and a dream. Oh my, the narrator captured Dale beautifully. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect voice for the quirky, fun-loving yet devoted mechanic with the heart of gold. I had so much fun listening to this and I even teared up a couple times during the more emotional scenes. I don't have much else to say that hasn't already been said down below in my original review. Another 5 stars added on!
I love Jenny Frame's stories. I love her shapeshifter stories, her immortal vampires stories, and her royal stories. You get a little of everything with her. If you're not a fan of werewolves or vampires, or even a royal storyline, that's okay, because Unexpected is none of those. It's just a simple, heart-warming, funny story that will make you smile and root for the good guy to save the day and win the girl's heart ;).
I immediately fell for Dale and all her quirky, comedic, sweet, down-to-earth, personality. I guess you could say I was a tad 'Crazy' for her. Dale owned a couple of repair shops for vehicles and was on the verge of expanding her business until a young boy entered her life, claiming to be her son. This, of course, threw a wrench (ha) into Dale's plans to further her career, however, not realizing that the boy and the boys' mother was exactly what Dale had been yearning for as she aged. With a reputation around the bars as a 'Womanizer' and a bed-hopper, she knew she was tired of the game and wanted more substance in her life than the 'Toxic' revolving door life-style she had been leading.
Rebecca and Jake lived a quiet, secluded life in the country away from any scandal that could reach Rebecca. Having experienced scandal early on in her life, and now pregnant a second time with Dale's egg donation, the last thing she needed was more responsibility and a playboy with women chasing after them shouting 'Hit me baby one more time'. Thanks to Jake, the super genius kid with an IQ higher than most adults, who tracked down Dale and dragged her to Rebecca's home, the two women were then forced to acknowledge the elephant in the room. Dale wasn't expecting to feel such a strong, maternal and protective pull towards Rebecca, Jake and the wee, unborn, yin. Once Dale had thawed out Rebecca's icy exterior, there was no stopping Dale from keeping her new family safe and secure, even from the vultures who had been secretly swooping around Rebecca's past trying to penetrate her future just for a quick buck and a flashy headline. With the love and devotion Dale brought to the small, unexpected family, they grew 'Stronger' as a team, warding off those bad guys.
This was a charming story that had me cracking up at times, and I've read it more than once. I can't wait for the sequel. I consider myself 'Lucky' for having found Jenny Frame and her charming stories.
April 10, 2018
Dale, a Scottish butch with a successful motor repair business, is getting tired of meaningless pickups even though she doesn’t think relationships are for her. She has her two close friends, a lesbian couple, and their daughter who are like family to her. One day, a 10 year old boy shows up claiming Dale is his mother. Turns out Dale donated eggs to a clinic and this boy is the product. He’s being raised by his mother in a house in the country but they’ve fallen on hard times and the boy is hoping Dale can help. But his mom, Becca, wants no part of Dale or her help.
This is a wonderfully written and well plotted romance of Dale and Becca that gives us two memorable characters with interesting back stories and plot tensions that keep the reader interested. It is highly recommended.
This is a wonderfully written and well plotted romance of Dale and Becca that gives us two memorable characters with interesting back stories and plot tensions that keep the reader interested. It is highly recommended.
August 8, 2017
I enjoyed the characters in this book quite a lot. The writing wasn't my favorite. Conversations felt forced sometimes and there were "plot" points that honestly didn't really add much to the story. However, the romance is sweet and I loved how quickly Dale embraced parenthood.
All in all it was an enjoyable read. 3.5 stars rounded up.
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
All in all it was an enjoyable read. 3.5 stars rounded up.
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2019
Loved the audiobook. Great UK accents :) Specially the Scottish brogue for Dale. Reminded me a lot of my fam when growing up.
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