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Unexpected Arrivals: A Geneva Key Beach Novel
Their story started in high school on the affluent shores of Geneva Key. Years later, that same beach would bring them full circle in this second-chance romance filled with secrets and surprises, twists and turns.An unexpected arrival brought our worlds together...
From the moment I saw Cora walking the halls of our high school, I was drawn to her. From graduation to college, and life beyond, our story wasn’t without its ups and downs. But we had finally settled into happily wedded bliss...
Until a certified letter turned our world upside down.
When I fell for James I was swept up in his plans and aspirations, even choosing the same college to be with him. Until the fear of resentment if I gave up my dreams prompted me to end things and follow my career to Paris. Never had I been happier than when James showed up years later.
Little did either of us know, our time apart had created a secret that could destroy our entire future.
Now, life's unexpected arrivals threatened to tear our world apart.
From the moment I saw Cora walking the halls of our high school, I was drawn to her. From graduation to college, and life beyond, our story wasn’t without its ups and downs. But we had finally settled into happily wedded bliss...
Until a certified letter turned our world upside down.
When I fell for James I was swept up in his plans and aspirations, even choosing the same college to be with him. Until the fear of resentment if I gave up my dreams prompted me to end things and follow my career to Paris. Never had I been happier than when James showed up years later.
Little did either of us know, our time apart had created a secret that could destroy our entire future.
Now, life's unexpected arrivals threatened to tear our world apart.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2017
445 people are currently reading
777 people want to read
About the author
Stephie Walls
51 books1,687 followersStephie Walls is a literary whore - she loves words in all forms and will read anything put in front of her. She has an affinity for British Literature and Romance novels and an overall love of writing. She currently has fifteen novels out, six short stories, and two collections; all provocatively written to elicit your imagination and spice up your world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews
February 25, 2018
Hate to be a naysayer, but this novel depressed me more than anything else. I may have my head stuck way too far down in Romance Land as this is more of a couples journey through life than a romance. Far too much reality and reality based angst for me on top of some of crazy coincidences that seem to happen far too frequently in fiction, and only sometimes in life.
The blurb was a little misleading as it implied something a little frothier to me.
PLOT/PREMISE
The story starts out with the hero receiving a letter that he has a heretofore unknown plot moppet.
Flashback central immediately.
The blurb was a little misleading as it implied something a little frothier to me.
PLOT/PREMISE
The story starts out with the hero receiving a letter that he has a heretofore unknown plot moppet.
Flashback central immediately.
November 25, 2017
"If you don't have nothing nice to say don't say anything at all."
November 20, 2017
I had a very difficult time deciding how to rate this book. I found myself having to re-read parts of this book because it was very confusing and the personalities of the characters were inconsistent at times but HOLY MOLY what a GREAT story. The plot was just way too intriguing for me to give this less than 4 stars.
For some reason I had difficulty with the dialogue in this book. It was hard to figure out who was saying what. I found myself re-reading certain parts quite a few times to understand the flow in conversations. Nevertheless, by the last part of the book I was so enthralled with this story that it wasn't a problem anymore.
You think you know how this story goes from the blurb but there is so much more. James finds himself himself in a precarious position when he receives a letter requesting he perform a paternity test for a child that could possibly be his. The mother of this child was someone he hooked up with and has not been in contact with for a few years. This poses a huge problem as he is happily married to someone else.
The story is told from past to present and we get several POVs. This is an unconventional second chance romance of high school sweethearts who become separated when the heroine feels the need to "find herself" and follow her own dreams. At this point I felt both MCs made really bad decisions and I questioned their 'love' for each other based on their actions. This middle part of the book was kind of slow but the last third of the book totally made up for it.
There are a lot of 'have your tissues ready' moments in this book but also a lot of swoon worthy moments. Seeing James interact with his son gave me all the feels. I loved how they easily became a family. Oh my gosh the last third of the book had so many revelations but it was so good too. I feel so emotionally overloaded but in a seriously good way!
I have to put in my 2 cents on Hannah, the heroine's supposed best friend. What a horrible character! She was such a trouble maker, creating problems and voicing opinions on matters that should not have concerned her. I wanted to smack her so many times. I'm not sure if that's how the author wanted us to feel about her but that's how she came off to me.
Overall a really emotional second chance romance with sooo many surprises along the way. I loved how this book end up being so much more than I expected!
4 Stars
Contemporary Romance
Heat Level: Light
POV: multiple
HEA
COME FIND ME!
For some reason I had difficulty with the dialogue in this book. It was hard to figure out who was saying what. I found myself re-reading certain parts quite a few times to understand the flow in conversations. Nevertheless, by the last part of the book I was so enthralled with this story that it wasn't a problem anymore.
You think you know how this story goes from the blurb but there is so much more. James finds himself himself in a precarious position when he receives a letter requesting he perform a paternity test for a child that could possibly be his. The mother of this child was someone he hooked up with and has not been in contact with for a few years. This poses a huge problem as he is happily married to someone else.
The story is told from past to present and we get several POVs. This is an unconventional second chance romance of high school sweethearts who become separated when the heroine feels the need to "find herself" and follow her own dreams. At this point I felt both MCs made really bad decisions and I questioned their 'love' for each other based on their actions. This middle part of the book was kind of slow but the last third of the book totally made up for it.
There are a lot of 'have your tissues ready' moments in this book but also a lot of swoon worthy moments. Seeing James interact with his son gave me all the feels. I loved how they easily became a family. Oh my gosh the last third of the book had so many revelations but it was so good too. I feel so emotionally overloaded but in a seriously good way!
I have to put in my 2 cents on Hannah, the heroine's supposed best friend. What a horrible character! She was such a trouble maker, creating problems and voicing opinions on matters that should not have concerned her. I wanted to smack her so many times. I'm not sure if that's how the author wanted us to feel about her but that's how she came off to me.
Overall a really emotional second chance romance with sooo many surprises along the way. I loved how this book end up being so much more than I expected!
4 Stars
Contemporary Romance
Heat Level: Light
POV: multiple
HEA
COME FIND ME!
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January 2, 2018
Oh man, this book kind of took me through a whirlpool of emotions. I was kind of all over the place before I read this book. I definitely was a hot mess while reading this book. And now I'm a hot mess after reading Unexpected Arrivals because I expected none of the crap that went down in this book to go down.
Spoilers ahead!
I liked that I took a chance on this book and this author and I will probably see if I can find another book of hers.
Spoilers ahead!
I liked that I took a chance on this book and this author and I will probably see if I can find another book of hers.
November 20, 2017
Unexpected Arrivals by Stephie Walls is my first time reading this author. This story spans years and wow, I will tell you it is truly an emotional read, one that will have you reaching for tissues. I thought I knew what the story was going to be about, yet it was so much more and yet so different. It is about friendship, about romance, about unexpected relationships and how life does get in the way of everything and unexpected consequences that occur and how each person handles it. There was some parts of the story that had me wondering if the story could have gone another way but overall, the story ended the way it could have and I ended up liking how the story ended, even when some of the moments of the story were a bit emotional and sad. There is a twist in this story that I didn’t see coming which does make this story take on a bit of a OMG moment and it does make this seem like what happen seem like all of it was meant to happen. You’ll understand when you read this book. I do wish the ending was a bit more rounded out but overall, was a very good first time read for me of this author and I would be happy to read her again.
My Rating: 4.5 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
My Rating: 4.5 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
April 24, 2019
Too much angst for my taste. Great cover, though.
My Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
My Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
November 15, 2017
Unexpected Arrivals
By: Stephie Walls
4.5 Stars
Just closed my kindle on my very first Stephie Walls book! After reading this one, I am scratching my head wondering why have I not read any of her other books?
This very emotional roller-coaster ride was one I could not get off. Picked up the book and buckled up. Didn’t stop reading till the kindle had no more pages to turn.
In this book, we cover a lot of years. Starting in high school when Carp is the superstar basketball player and Cora is the new gal in the high school. A school where the kids have started preschool together and gone through all the years together. It was then that these two met and became the couple everyone in school was jealous of.
Through college and grad school, these two were inseparable. The only thing they could see was a future that was Carp and Cora. But as life throws everyone hurdles to jump, Cora heads off to pursue her career. Leaving Carp devastated.
The hurdles these two manage to jump can only be called fate. But with successfully jumping means there has got to be more in store for them. Because no one ever gets the easy route in life.
I really, really enjoyed this book! Was written flawlessly and flowed perfectly.
An added note---Why oh why would someone NOT pick the University of Kentucky to play basketball at? I wanted to smack Carp upside the head for picking the not to be mentioned college to play basketball!!!!
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By: Stephie Walls
4.5 Stars
Just closed my kindle on my very first Stephie Walls book! After reading this one, I am scratching my head wondering why have I not read any of her other books?
This very emotional roller-coaster ride was one I could not get off. Picked up the book and buckled up. Didn’t stop reading till the kindle had no more pages to turn.
In this book, we cover a lot of years. Starting in high school when Carp is the superstar basketball player and Cora is the new gal in the high school. A school where the kids have started preschool together and gone through all the years together. It was then that these two met and became the couple everyone in school was jealous of.
Through college and grad school, these two were inseparable. The only thing they could see was a future that was Carp and Cora. But as life throws everyone hurdles to jump, Cora heads off to pursue her career. Leaving Carp devastated.
The hurdles these two manage to jump can only be called fate. But with successfully jumping means there has got to be more in store for them. Because no one ever gets the easy route in life.
I really, really enjoyed this book! Was written flawlessly and flowed perfectly.
An added note---Why oh why would someone NOT pick the University of Kentucky to play basketball at? I wanted to smack Carp upside the head for picking the not to be mentioned college to play basketball!!!!
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November 18, 2017
It's a heartwarming story of the Breakfast Club James Carpenter ,the love of his life -Cora Chase and their best friend Neil and their journey from Geneva Key to Chapel hill to New York
James meets Cora in high school cafeteria and it's love at first sight , and HE KNOWS IT TOO ! That's the finality I loved. James knows he's staring at his Happily Ever After , right there. No conflict, no doubt. And he treats her as such, never more than an arm's distance and a kiss away. Cora has been through an upheaval and finds solace in his enveloping arms and solid wide chest, listening to his heartbeat, her own heart finds peace. James is a perfect man, taking care of his girl , being the loyal friend to Neil, he's just perfect **sigh**😍
With Cora in my arms and the ocean lapping at our feet, my heart fell, our souls collided, and I’d found the love of my life. At seventeen and a junior in high school, fate—no serendipity—had delivered the missing piece of my rib in the form of Cora Chase.
That the thing about young love, it's tensile and adaptive in its naivetè . Life throws punches at them, temptations, and career goals threatening their relationships, yet they work through it somehow.
The what ifs creep up between them and they are seperated .
It seemed no matter which way we turned another obstacle moved in front of us, but I couldn’t dodge them all, and she’d quit trying.
I’d lost her. I hadn’t fought when it mattered, and now I was too late. She’d seized the opportunity in front of her.
I vowed to start living tomorrow as though Cora Chase had never existed. She’d chosen her path, and now I’d blaze mine.
Separate yet still in each other's hearts. They find their way back BUT.....its a big BUT , there's evidence of indiscretions, staring right in their faces.
The story is peppered with Big questions and big decisions , big problems and big dilemmas, lots of bitterness and big hearted forgiveness.
I loved the story, it's natural smooth flow and it's grasping power. I couldn't put it down and was constantly thinking about the characters. Cora was all forgiving, big hearted , golden girl. James was the do-goode perfect alpha and they had perfect supportive friends -Neil & Hannah. Th surprise towards the end was like W.T.H was that and though Cora is third wheel,she's NOT, she's more attached than we had realised.
A very feel good book. It's
4.5 Fragile Legends Stars
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James meets Cora in high school cafeteria and it's love at first sight , and HE KNOWS IT TOO ! That's the finality I loved. James knows he's staring at his Happily Ever After , right there. No conflict, no doubt. And he treats her as such, never more than an arm's distance and a kiss away. Cora has been through an upheaval and finds solace in his enveloping arms and solid wide chest, listening to his heartbeat, her own heart finds peace. James is a perfect man, taking care of his girl , being the loyal friend to Neil, he's just perfect **sigh**😍
With Cora in my arms and the ocean lapping at our feet, my heart fell, our souls collided, and I’d found the love of my life. At seventeen and a junior in high school, fate—no serendipity—had delivered the missing piece of my rib in the form of Cora Chase.
That the thing about young love, it's tensile and adaptive in its naivetè . Life throws punches at them, temptations, and career goals threatening their relationships, yet they work through it somehow.
The what ifs creep up between them and they are seperated .
It seemed no matter which way we turned another obstacle moved in front of us, but I couldn’t dodge them all, and she’d quit trying.
I’d lost her. I hadn’t fought when it mattered, and now I was too late. She’d seized the opportunity in front of her.
I vowed to start living tomorrow as though Cora Chase had never existed. She’d chosen her path, and now I’d blaze mine.
Separate yet still in each other's hearts. They find their way back BUT.....its a big BUT , there's evidence of indiscretions, staring right in their faces.
The story is peppered with Big questions and big decisions , big problems and big dilemmas, lots of bitterness and big hearted forgiveness.
I loved the story, it's natural smooth flow and it's grasping power. I couldn't put it down and was constantly thinking about the characters. Cora was all forgiving, big hearted , golden girl. James was the do-goode perfect alpha and they had perfect supportive friends -Neil & Hannah. Th surprise towards the end was like W.T.H was that and though Cora is third wheel,she's NOT, she's more attached than we had realised.
A very feel good book. It's
4.5 Fragile Legends Stars
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November 20, 2017
3.5 Stars
I picked up Unexpected Arrivals by Stephie Walls solely because I just read Third Base and wanted to get to know the authors better. Stephie Walls and Leddy Harper writing together are known as Stella, and Third Base is their debut book together. I enjoyed it so I immediately grabbed copies of each of their new books to try them out individually.
Unexpected Arrivals is an unusual book in that it is told from a male POV for the majority of the book. I liked this change from the usual, unfortunately, I didn't start to really enjoy the book until we got to Chelsea's point of view. Chelsea was a doll and I actually enjoyed her point of view so much that I wished she was the *actual* heroine of the story. Cora annoyed me for the majority of the book. It's not often that I dislike the heroine, and I wish it wasn't the case in this one. I eventually warmed up to her, but it wasn't until my feelings about her had already tainted the first 2/3 of the book. I did enjoy the multiple POVs and the storyline was also something interesting that I hadn't heard before. My favorite part of the book was when I realized that Cora & Legend made a cameo appearance in Leddy Harper's The Roommate 'dis'Agreement. Those parts that I did enjoy were enough to make me want to keep trying Stephie Walls. I bet her next book will be a better fit for me.
I received an advance reader copy of this book that I have chosen to review.
I picked up Unexpected Arrivals by Stephie Walls solely because I just read Third Base and wanted to get to know the authors better. Stephie Walls and Leddy Harper writing together are known as Stella, and Third Base is their debut book together. I enjoyed it so I immediately grabbed copies of each of their new books to try them out individually.
Unexpected Arrivals is an unusual book in that it is told from a male POV for the majority of the book. I liked this change from the usual, unfortunately, I didn't start to really enjoy the book until we got to Chelsea's point of view. Chelsea was a doll and I actually enjoyed her point of view so much that I wished she was the *actual* heroine of the story. Cora annoyed me for the majority of the book. It's not often that I dislike the heroine, and I wish it wasn't the case in this one. I eventually warmed up to her, but it wasn't until my feelings about her had already tainted the first 2/3 of the book. I did enjoy the multiple POVs and the storyline was also something interesting that I hadn't heard before. My favorite part of the book was when I realized that Cora & Legend made a cameo appearance in Leddy Harper's The Roommate 'dis'Agreement. Those parts that I did enjoy were enough to make me want to keep trying Stephie Walls. I bet her next book will be a better fit for me.
I received an advance reader copy of this book that I have chosen to review.
November 6, 2017
5 Legendary Stars
Young love is grand, but hard and uncertain when real life happens. James Carpenter and Cora Chase have only each other and they like it that way until she gets the opportunity of a lifetime and takes it. Life lessons, heartache, real emotions, the test of true love, second chances and blessings they didn’t know they wanted all embrace you in this amazing story of love. Told in three parts from different points of view, the emotions can be felt as you read – love, happiness, heartache, forgiveness. It’s told seamlessly and beautifully with twists and turns. It’s a story about life, love and family. It’s a story to be shared. I definitely recommend you read it.
Young love is grand, but hard and uncertain when real life happens. James Carpenter and Cora Chase have only each other and they like it that way until she gets the opportunity of a lifetime and takes it. Life lessons, heartache, real emotions, the test of true love, second chances and blessings they didn’t know they wanted all embrace you in this amazing story of love. Told in three parts from different points of view, the emotions can be felt as you read – love, happiness, heartache, forgiveness. It’s told seamlessly and beautifully with twists and turns. It’s a story about life, love and family. It’s a story to be shared. I definitely recommend you read it.
May 29, 2018
4.5 stars
November 20, 2017
5 Spectacular Stars! Oh my heart! James and Cora's story is just everything...it's a story of young love, coming of age, mistakes, and second chances. This book captivated me, it reeled me in within minutes and I was hooked! There were many plot twists to keep me on my toes and guessing throughout the pages. My heart went through a gamut of emotions while reading before settling on joy for how their story ended. This book is like life can often times be...messy and complicated but oh so worth it in the end! And oh boy, do I love the end.
I have loved every single book I've read by this author and she has never disappointed me yet, so every new title is an instant one-click for me! I'd highly recommend giving her and this book a read!
#BookSmackedReviewer
I have loved every single book I've read by this author and she has never disappointed me yet, so every new title is an instant one-click for me! I'd highly recommend giving her and this book a read!
#BookSmackedReviewer
November 21, 2017
This was my first time reading anything by Stephie Walls. It took me a while to get into it but once I did, I couldn't put it down. The books plot twists kept me guessing and I loved that. I don't want to be reading something and knowing exactly what happens next. You certainly don't with this book :)
James and Cora's story had pretty much everything you want in a book. Second chance love, secret baby, estranged family etc.... I could go on but I think you should just 1-click it and see for yourself :)
James and Cora's story had pretty much everything you want in a book. Second chance love, secret baby, estranged family etc.... I could go on but I think you should just 1-click it and see for yourself :)
November 8, 2017
Unexpected Arrivals grabbed my breath from the beginning and held it until the very last word! Stephie Walls books just keep getting better and better! She again works a hard, very real, topic in to this tale that is utterly captivating. Covering a large time span in a manner where the story doesn't drag and you stay on the edge of your seat with anticipation isn't easy, but Stephie Walls handled it remarkably well. Unexpected Arrivals contains well placed glimpses in to the past that carefully reveal an intricate backstory. With these reveals, carefully built webs of deceit untangle and truths come out, while the humor woven in is a perfect balance where you'll both laugh and cry. “You look like my daddy after my mommy yells at him. Did Mrs. Carpenter yell at you?” “Not yet, but I’m sure she will.” I mumbled under my breath, “Right before she files for divorce.”
The story, wisely written in three parts, begins with James and Cora in high school discovering each other, and then discovering themselves throughout the years. "For the first time in my life, I breathed for someone else. My heart pumped to fuel my body to make her day better. She gave the same in return. There was nothing about our relationship that was one-sided." After a tumultuous relationship, James has finally found his happiness only to have the shock of a DNA request dropped at his feet. "There hadn’t been a text, an email, a phone call, not even a Facebook message. She’d disappeared from my life as randomly as she’d stumbled into it." Then BOOM! We need your DNA. (Note: There is NO CHEATING...although I do keep hearing Ross from Friends screaming, "WE WERE ON A BREAK!") Not the point. One of my favorite things about Unexpected Arrivals is seeing the perspective of various characters. These perspective changes tie everything together beautifully. My favorite note: This is the saddest, most beautiful love story. Cora and James, brought together by tragedy, are absolutely beautiful together. Unexpected Arrivals is a MUST READ!!!
The story, wisely written in three parts, begins with James and Cora in high school discovering each other, and then discovering themselves throughout the years. "For the first time in my life, I breathed for someone else. My heart pumped to fuel my body to make her day better. She gave the same in return. There was nothing about our relationship that was one-sided." After a tumultuous relationship, James has finally found his happiness only to have the shock of a DNA request dropped at his feet. "There hadn’t been a text, an email, a phone call, not even a Facebook message. She’d disappeared from my life as randomly as she’d stumbled into it." Then BOOM! We need your DNA. (Note: There is NO CHEATING...although I do keep hearing Ross from Friends screaming, "WE WERE ON A BREAK!") Not the point. One of my favorite things about Unexpected Arrivals is seeing the perspective of various characters. These perspective changes tie everything together beautifully. My favorite note: This is the saddest, most beautiful love story. Cora and James, brought together by tragedy, are absolutely beautiful together. Unexpected Arrivals is a MUST READ!!!
November 25, 2017
In my eyes the synopsis, and prologue, promised a story about a man being in a difficult situation - one where he has a son together with a short fling, and where it might be the end of his relationship with his wife - his true love.
But I´m sorry to say that the story was something totally different because of the build up.
The story is told in three POVs. James (the male main character) Chelsea (the fling, and the son´s mother) and Cora (James´s true love, and female main character)
While the prologue is told in present tense, then from first chapter and up to 68% on a kindle, it was told in past tense, from the moment James meets Cora, till they split up, James meets Chelsea, Chelsea´s POV about meeting James, and James and Cora getting back together.
It was "boring" and dragging, because I of course wanted to continue with the present from the prologue. The past was not written as this great build up, so you understand why it ends the way it does. It was standard procedure in writing a romance. Not very exciting, or surprising.
I found it very difficult to connect to the characters - and the reason is quite simple. We are told the story, but don´t get to experience the feelings behind our self.
The story also had a touch of being inconsistent, which leads to me being confused, and giving up on understanding simple things, like how much time is passing.
Also the characters felt unrealistic at times because of their behavior.
I wish I could have given this book a better rating, but I´m so disappointed you don´t believe it. I wish I had read the reviews before buying this book, but I only saw the star rating. Shame on me.
But I´m sorry to say that the story was something totally different because of the build up.
The story is told in three POVs. James (the male main character) Chelsea (the fling, and the son´s mother) and Cora (James´s true love, and female main character)
While the prologue is told in present tense, then from first chapter and up to 68% on a kindle, it was told in past tense, from the moment James meets Cora, till they split up, James meets Chelsea, Chelsea´s POV about meeting James, and James and Cora getting back together.
It was "boring" and dragging, because I of course wanted to continue with the present from the prologue. The past was not written as this great build up, so you understand why it ends the way it does. It was standard procedure in writing a romance. Not very exciting, or surprising.
I found it very difficult to connect to the characters - and the reason is quite simple. We are told the story, but don´t get to experience the feelings behind our self.
The story also had a touch of being inconsistent, which leads to me being confused, and giving up on understanding simple things, like how much time is passing.
Also the characters felt unrealistic at times because of their behavior.
I wish I could have given this book a better rating, but I´m so disappointed you don´t believe it. I wish I had read the reviews before buying this book, but I only saw the star rating. Shame on me.
November 15, 2017
Every time I read a book by Stephie Walls, I sound like a broken record. I use words like 'phenomenal storyline, brilliant writing, talented author.' Sometimes I even say, 'best book I've ever read'.
Every once in a great while, you find an author whose words touch your soul and leave an imprint on your heart. That's how I feel about Ms. Walls.
I read Unexpected Arrivals in a day because I couldn't put it down. This story has all the elements that you'll find in any book by the author, from an expertly executed and unique plot to words woven so intricately you feel like they're part of you. Within these pages you'll find heartbreak and love, loss and hope, and most importantly, a story that you will not forget.
With the hopes of not sounding like a crazy stalker, Ms. Walls, I am officially your biggest fan. Thank you for your words - they mean the world to me. Congratulations on the beautiful tale that is Unexpected Arrivals.
Every once in a great while, you find an author whose words touch your soul and leave an imprint on your heart. That's how I feel about Ms. Walls.
I read Unexpected Arrivals in a day because I couldn't put it down. This story has all the elements that you'll find in any book by the author, from an expertly executed and unique plot to words woven so intricately you feel like they're part of you. Within these pages you'll find heartbreak and love, loss and hope, and most importantly, a story that you will not forget.
With the hopes of not sounding like a crazy stalker, Ms. Walls, I am officially your biggest fan. Thank you for your words - they mean the world to me. Congratulations on the beautiful tale that is Unexpected Arrivals.
November 21, 2017
Unexpected Arrivals by Steph Walls is an emotional rollercoaster ride, and I was hooked from the start. This isn't your run of the mill love story, it's heartbreaking, and a bit of angst.
James (Carp) Carpenter is the superstar basketball player at the high school. He's been in this small town his whole life and is ready for "more.' Enter Cora...
Cora is the new girl town, and Carp is instantly attracted to her. She's suffered the loss of her parents, and has just moved to town to live with her estranged grandparents.
In Unexpected Arrivals we travel through many years following James and Cora, through college, grad school, moving to NYC, they thought they would be together forever....
But we know if doesn't work that way. When Cora just leaves James to pursue her career, he was devastated!! My heart broke for him to say I was a bit miffed with Cora is an understatement. I felt he deserved so much better. But love can't die for these two, and even though James had a couple of transgressions, Cora always had his heart. And then, we get that unexpected arrival!!!
I felt the author did a PHENOMENAL job with this story. I ADORED the characters and the storyline flowed BRILLIANTLY!!! A definite must read.
*I voluntarily read an advance copy from the author. This is my honest review.*
James (Carp) Carpenter is the superstar basketball player at the high school. He's been in this small town his whole life and is ready for "more.' Enter Cora...
Cora is the new girl town, and Carp is instantly attracted to her. She's suffered the loss of her parents, and has just moved to town to live with her estranged grandparents.
In Unexpected Arrivals we travel through many years following James and Cora, through college, grad school, moving to NYC, they thought they would be together forever....
But we know if doesn't work that way. When Cora just leaves James to pursue her career, he was devastated!! My heart broke for him to say I was a bit miffed with Cora is an understatement. I felt he deserved so much better. But love can't die for these two, and even though James had a couple of transgressions, Cora always had his heart. And then, we get that unexpected arrival!!!
I felt the author did a PHENOMENAL job with this story. I ADORED the characters and the storyline flowed BRILLIANTLY!!! A definite must read.
*I voluntarily read an advance copy from the author. This is my honest review.*
November 19, 2017
Unexpected Arrivals was such a great read. I was captivated by the characters and this story from the very beginning and stayed that way until the very end. Young love always seems unbreakable and if the couple is fortunate enough stay in love and together throughout their adulthood that's an amazing achievement. However, its not always easy and sometimes adult choices have to be made and every one has to travel down their own road knowing it might not always end at the same point. Hearts will get broken.
This is the story of James and Cora. The girl who not only took his seat, but his heart. Will their love be strong enough to withstand the obstacles in the roads they have to travel in this thing called life? Secrets will be revealed and words will be withheld, but the truth will always come out? Will it do more damage than good? This is a fantastic story of friendship, love, loss and second chances. I loved the side characters as much as I did the main characters but it did take a while for me to warm up to Neil. However, I loved him and Hannah and I hope they get their own story. This story ended perfectly, and I look forward to reading more books from this author in the future. I highly recommend this book to readers looking for an enjoyable read that will pull on their heart strings.
This is the story of James and Cora. The girl who not only took his seat, but his heart. Will their love be strong enough to withstand the obstacles in the roads they have to travel in this thing called life? Secrets will be revealed and words will be withheld, but the truth will always come out? Will it do more damage than good? This is a fantastic story of friendship, love, loss and second chances. I loved the side characters as much as I did the main characters but it did take a while for me to warm up to Neil. However, I loved him and Hannah and I hope they get their own story. This story ended perfectly, and I look forward to reading more books from this author in the future. I highly recommend this book to readers looking for an enjoyable read that will pull on their heart strings.
October 31, 2017
4.5 Cranky Stars
When we first meet James Carpenter he’s a cocky boy who plays basketball. He has all he could ever need in life including a trust fund. He is set to attend a prestigious college on a basketball scholarship until he sets eyes on a beautiful girl across the cafeteria. You see everyone in Geneva Key is weathly and there are never any new kids around so he sets out to meet this mysterious girl who sets his world on fire. They make a life for themselves. College, their own apartment and even prestigious jobs. Sadly all good things must come to an end or do they?
Cora Chase loved James Carpenter but he was all she had ever known. Her life was marred by tragedy and the one person supposed to comfort her has abandoned her which is why she turns to James. They become each others world until Cora thinks maybe they need more and to explore themselves without each other.
When James and Cora collide again they don’t expect ghosts of the past to show up and change how they view life or even how they view past relationships. The truth isn’t pretty but this truth has set
them on a path of love and acceptance. I adored this story. The way it effortlessly flowed from teenage years to college years to adulthood was seemless and done wonderfully. You felt for James and see how much he loves Cora despite running off the rails for awhile. Cora is still that little girl who need acceptance yet she wants you to believe she has it together. While this story arc is one that has been done often Stephie Walls has done it her way. It’s fresh and new and you find yourself needing to know the story of Cora and James.
When we first meet James Carpenter he’s a cocky boy who plays basketball. He has all he could ever need in life including a trust fund. He is set to attend a prestigious college on a basketball scholarship until he sets eyes on a beautiful girl across the cafeteria. You see everyone in Geneva Key is weathly and there are never any new kids around so he sets out to meet this mysterious girl who sets his world on fire. They make a life for themselves. College, their own apartment and even prestigious jobs. Sadly all good things must come to an end or do they?
Cora Chase loved James Carpenter but he was all she had ever known. Her life was marred by tragedy and the one person supposed to comfort her has abandoned her which is why she turns to James. They become each others world until Cora thinks maybe they need more and to explore themselves without each other.
When James and Cora collide again they don’t expect ghosts of the past to show up and change how they view life or even how they view past relationships. The truth isn’t pretty but this truth has set
them on a path of love and acceptance. I adored this story. The way it effortlessly flowed from teenage years to college years to adulthood was seemless and done wonderfully. You felt for James and see how much he loves Cora despite running off the rails for awhile. Cora is still that little girl who need acceptance yet she wants you to believe she has it together. While this story arc is one that has been done often Stephie Walls has done it her way. It’s fresh and new and you find yourself needing to know the story of Cora and James.
November 19, 2017
Oh my life. This book was amazing. It really tugged on my heart string. All the emotions that you feel with this book is out of this world. All the secrets that knock you on your ass, all the elation and revelations keep you turning the pages at a fast pace. I really didnt want to put this book down. Absolutely amazing!
December 4, 2017
Now that I am a blubbering mess after finishing this book...
Unexpected Arrivals is my first book written by Stephie Walls alone and now I completely understand why I loved her co-written book - Third Base with Leddy Harper. Stephie Walls is an AMAZING storyteller. She just took my heart on a roller coaster ride that would probably have put me in a book hangover in my early days of reading. This story were you meet James and Cora is a beautiful, heart breaking, twisty, turning, journey of life, friendship, family, heartbreak, mending fences, grief, and LOVE!!! I was a little distracted at the halfway point because the beginning of the book starts off with some hard hitting information but nothing is even remotely clear by the 50% mark. But I kept pushing on, the fog started to clear, ah-ha moments happened left and right, there are even some connections made from that amazing author friend Leddy Harper to her recent standalone (The Roommate 'dis' Agreement) book as well. Overall, this story rocked my world and I loved every single moment of it!
I don't usually talk about other authors books during a review but to read both their co-written (Third Base) as well as their standalone (Unexpected Arrivals & The Roommate ‘dis’ Agreement) books I can see why Stephie Walls and Leddy Harper are such amazing writers. Both have found a new reader stalker in me!!
Provided as an ARC for an honest and voluntary review.
This specific video review will be in the December 2018 Wrap Up.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Rom Book Talk.
Unexpected Arrivals is my first book written by Stephie Walls alone and now I completely understand why I loved her co-written book - Third Base with Leddy Harper. Stephie Walls is an AMAZING storyteller. She just took my heart on a roller coaster ride that would probably have put me in a book hangover in my early days of reading. This story were you meet James and Cora is a beautiful, heart breaking, twisty, turning, journey of life, friendship, family, heartbreak, mending fences, grief, and LOVE!!! I was a little distracted at the halfway point because the beginning of the book starts off with some hard hitting information but nothing is even remotely clear by the 50% mark. But I kept pushing on, the fog started to clear, ah-ha moments happened left and right, there are even some connections made from that amazing author friend Leddy Harper to her recent standalone (The Roommate 'dis' Agreement) book as well. Overall, this story rocked my world and I loved every single moment of it!
I don't usually talk about other authors books during a review but to read both their co-written (Third Base) as well as their standalone (Unexpected Arrivals & The Roommate ‘dis’ Agreement) books I can see why Stephie Walls and Leddy Harper are such amazing writers. Both have found a new reader stalker in me!!
Provided as an ARC for an honest and voluntary review.
This specific video review will be in the December 2018 Wrap Up.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Rom Book Talk.
November 27, 2017
I struggled with this book right from the beginning. I wasn’t really feeling the writing style. And I really wasn’t feeling how this story unfolded.
I really thought this book was going to be a little deeper than it was. And I honestly thought Chelsea was going to be the one. That even though James had this great history with Cora. Chelsea coming forward with the big news would’ve played a big part in James’s and Cora’s relationship.
Because I really wasn’t feeling Cora and her not wanting kids thing. Especially after their little scared moment in college. We saw how Cora and James reacted to it. James wanted kids. Right from the beginning.
I really wanted to read the struggle of finding out her husband had a child with someone else!
There was so much history with Cora. That just made things impossible for me to forgive what James had did.
But Cora was ok with it all. Like nothing.
The whole Chelsea twist thing. Why? Ughhh!
This book wasn’t for me.
I really thought this book was going to be a little deeper than it was. And I honestly thought Chelsea was going to be the one. That even though James had this great history with Cora. Chelsea coming forward with the big news would’ve played a big part in James’s and Cora’s relationship.
Because I really wasn’t feeling Cora and her not wanting kids thing. Especially after their little scared moment in college. We saw how Cora and James reacted to it. James wanted kids. Right from the beginning.
I really wanted to read the struggle of finding out her husband had a child with someone else!
There was so much history with Cora. That just made things impossible for me to forgive what James had did.
But Cora was ok with it all. Like nothing.
The whole Chelsea twist thing. Why? Ughhh!
This book wasn’t for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2017
I’m not even sure how to write a review to do this book justice. When I read the description it comes off as easy going with some mild drama, but I should have known better. This may have been my first book by this author but she blew me away and earned a life long fan.
James and Cora have a love story that spans more then a decade, and with all the ups and downs, it makes them the people that are by the end of this book. The story as a whole drew me in and kept my heart on alert. I’ll admit that I cried. I even laughed. But overall, this book made me realize to live each day to its filled, because what’s supposed to happen will. The good and the bad. It just makes us into the people we are supposed to be. 5 Stars #2OCCJD
James and Cora have a love story that spans more then a decade, and with all the ups and downs, it makes them the people that are by the end of this book. The story as a whole drew me in and kept my heart on alert. I’ll admit that I cried. I even laughed. But overall, this book made me realize to live each day to its filled, because what’s supposed to happen will. The good and the bad. It just makes us into the people we are supposed to be. 5 Stars #2OCCJD
December 29, 2017
Unexpected Arrivals was not what I was expecting, instead we get an emotional contemporary romance that spans years. This was not as angsty as I anticipated but instead Stephie Walls put her own spin on becoming an unsuspecting baby daddy. This book was full of unexpected twists and turns and a few of my favourite tropes, high school sweethearts, second chance romance and unexpected pregnancy, but what I loved the most was the friendships, sacrifices made and the secrets they generated. How making the ultimate sacrifice for the one you love ony hurts you the most. This was a great read from Stephie Walls.
“She told me how much my daddy loved you, and when her turn with me was over, that you would be special. I’m glad she was right.”
December 14, 2017
JUST OK FOR ME
I definitely didn't expect the curveball towards the end. I loved James, a man with that much love for his girl, minus the "certain things that happened" but hey, it was what the story was meant to be. I'm sure many will love this read, but I really didn't like Cora for some reason... maybe it was the decision she made that broke James. I wanted things to turn out differently, but it was good nonetheless.
I definitely didn't expect the curveball towards the end. I loved James, a man with that much love for his girl, minus the "certain things that happened" but hey, it was what the story was meant to be. I'm sure many will love this read, but I really didn't like Cora for some reason... maybe it was the decision she made that broke James. I wanted things to turn out differently, but it was good nonetheless.
Read
December 11, 2017Not for me (which is why I haven’t rated it) but I can totally see many others loving it!
November 15, 2017
"Unexpected Arrivals " was a captivating romantic read, that draws you in and holds on to you till the very end.
Ms Walls takes you n a journey one she starts in the present with out male lead getting a request for a paternity test , for a juvenile child of a women he only dated once, for a women he was phone freinds with for a few months , a women who helped him ,pushed him to propose to his beloved Cora ten dissapeared form his life. How is he supposed to tell his wife, the very women who never wanted children that he may be a father and if he is ; James is the child's only surviving parent .
That is where out author leaves us before she flashes us back to James and Cora meeting in high school and their journey.
James Carpenter and Cora Cash; are both from wealthy families , families that jet set about leaving them with employees and house staff to be then few of ; which is common place in who live in Geneva Bay , Florida So when Cora's grandparents dropped her off in Geneva bay and take off to Europe a short week after loosing her parents, Cora trees to move on . Cora tries for normalcy and gone to school. ; which is when this couple first meet . We follow this couple on their relationship journey,the ups , the downs , the secrets and the love and the break. The eighteen months James was lost and lonely , the time during which he met Chelsea and one date changed his future , one date lead to a freindship which lead him back to Cora .
A riveting story of love, loss and the unexpected joy of having a child in your life.
Arc copy won from OMG reads .
Ms Walls takes you n a journey one she starts in the present with out male lead getting a request for a paternity test , for a juvenile child of a women he only dated once, for a women he was phone freinds with for a few months , a women who helped him ,pushed him to propose to his beloved Cora ten dissapeared form his life. How is he supposed to tell his wife, the very women who never wanted children that he may be a father and if he is ; James is the child's only surviving parent .
That is where out author leaves us before she flashes us back to James and Cora meeting in high school and their journey.
James Carpenter and Cora Cash; are both from wealthy families , families that jet set about leaving them with employees and house staff to be then few of ; which is common place in who live in Geneva Bay , Florida So when Cora's grandparents dropped her off in Geneva bay and take off to Europe a short week after loosing her parents, Cora trees to move on . Cora tries for normalcy and gone to school. ; which is when this couple first meet . We follow this couple on their relationship journey,the ups , the downs , the secrets and the love and the break. The eighteen months James was lost and lonely , the time during which he met Chelsea and one date changed his future , one date lead to a freindship which lead him back to Cora .
A riveting story of love, loss and the unexpected joy of having a child in your life.
Arc copy won from OMG reads .
November 20, 2017
Unexpected Arrivals is the story of James and Cora. The story takes you through their lives from falling in love in high school, through college, and into adulthood. Cora suffered the loss of her parents and the rejection of her remaining family. James falls in love with Cora and when he falls he goes all in. He tries to be everything for Cora and give her the love she is missing. As they grow and change and move past college James wants the fairy tale. Cora’s career is taking off and she isn’t so sure that they should stay together. She wants to give them some time so they don’t have any regrets. This leads to a long separation and during this time things happen that will change their future.
I really enjoyed this story. I felt it was a realistic portrayal of young love and people changing as they grow. It was a bit slow in the beginning but I pressed on. I was anxious to see how things played out and if Cora could get on board with the the new life that her and James were faced with. This was my first read by Stephie Walls but I would read another book by her.
**Copy provided in advance for voluntary review.**
I really enjoyed this story. I felt it was a realistic portrayal of young love and people changing as they grow. It was a bit slow in the beginning but I pressed on. I was anxious to see how things played out and if Cora could get on board with the the new life that her and James were faced with. This was my first read by Stephie Walls but I would read another book by her.
**Copy provided in advance for voluntary review.**
November 7, 2017
Unexpected Arrivals by Stephie Walls is a standalone, full-length romance novel.
Meet James and Cora. Both met as teenagers and are a couple nearly the whole time. Through College they were inseparable. Now, years later, they are happily married and everything is sunshine and roses. They´re soulmates and their love is deep.
Then a bomb explodes into their faces. Neither knows what happens next. They are totally helpless and have to lean on each other. New circumstances forces them to travel to their home town.
Unexpected Arrivals is a lovestory, a story about soulmates, secrets, lies and truths.
Every time I thought I had a grip on the story, there was another unexpected twist and turn.
I read the book in one sitting, I couldn´t put it down. I had to know what happens to the characters.
I love the story, the writing and the characters.
I give 4,5 sweet stars. Thank you, Stephie Walls !
Meet James and Cora. Both met as teenagers and are a couple nearly the whole time. Through College they were inseparable. Now, years later, they are happily married and everything is sunshine and roses. They´re soulmates and their love is deep.
Then a bomb explodes into their faces. Neither knows what happens next. They are totally helpless and have to lean on each other. New circumstances forces them to travel to their home town.
Unexpected Arrivals is a lovestory, a story about soulmates, secrets, lies and truths.
Every time I thought I had a grip on the story, there was another unexpected twist and turn.
I read the book in one sitting, I couldn´t put it down. I had to know what happens to the characters.
I love the story, the writing and the characters.
I give 4,5 sweet stars. Thank you, Stephie Walls !
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