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Hope Valley #11
When You Least Expect It
The last thing Stella Ryan had time for was a man. With her family in trouble and looking to her to fix everything, romance and commitment were the furthest things from her mind. Until she ran into a man with a jawline that could cut granite and arms she wanted to lick like an ice cream cone. A man who made her forget the things that really mattered.
West Scott was one of the last bachelors standing. With all his Alpha Omega brothers settling down and popping out a bunch of kids, he had become the target for meddling women looking to fix him up. But there was one woman, in particular, he couldn’t get out of his head. The one in the killer dress with a gift for picking pockets.
When fate puts Stella in his path again, he’s determined to get to the cause of her desperation and help solve all her problems. If only the headstrong, stubborn woman would let him in. She’s trying her hardest to keep her walls up, but he’s dead set on showing her that the best things happen when you least expect it.
West Scott was one of the last bachelors standing. With all his Alpha Omega brothers settling down and popping out a bunch of kids, he had become the target for meddling women looking to fix him up. But there was one woman, in particular, he couldn’t get out of his head. The one in the killer dress with a gift for picking pockets.
When fate puts Stella in his path again, he’s determined to get to the cause of her desperation and help solve all her problems. If only the headstrong, stubborn woman would let him in. She’s trying her hardest to keep her walls up, but he’s dead set on showing her that the best things happen when you least expect it.
297 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2022
392 people are currently reading
370 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Prince
104 books2,538 followersBorn and raised around Houston, Jessica is a self proclaimed caffeine addict, connoisseur of inexpensive wine, and the worst driver in the state of Texas. In addition to being all of these things, she’s first and foremost a wife and mom.
Growing up, she shared her mom and grandmother’s love of reading. But where they leaned toward murder mysteries, Jessica was obsessed with all things romance.
When she’s not nose deep in her next manuscript, you can usually find her with her kindle in hand.
To be in-the-know before anyone else, follow along on my website, or join my newsletter.
www.authorjessicaprince.com
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/_KJ0n
Connect with me everywhere else:
Facebook: authorjessicaprince
Instagram: @jessprince_writes
Twitter: @JessPrince2013
Growing up, she shared her mom and grandmother’s love of reading. But where they leaned toward murder mysteries, Jessica was obsessed with all things romance.
When she’s not nose deep in her next manuscript, you can usually find her with her kindle in hand.
To be in-the-know before anyone else, follow along on my website, or join my newsletter.
www.authorjessicaprince.com
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/_KJ0n
Connect with me everywhere else:
Facebook: authorjessicaprince
Instagram: @jessprince_writes
Twitter: @JessPrince2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
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September 21, 2023The heroine is a grifter and goes after cash, jewelry and other valuables because....her mom needs a kidney transplant, her brother needs life saving heart surgery? Hell no! She simply comes from a family of grifters that love grifting. Her dad is too stupid and lazy to go get a job at Walmart and steals yet again from another bad guy. I guess being hospitalized wasn't enough, he has to throw his kids to the wolves too. I did learn that if you life a wallet get rid of it immediately so there's some educational value here.
It's mildly entertaining when she lifts the wallet of the jackass that rude to the bartender, but what about the others she and her family takes from. All I could think is how I would feel if someone stole the cameo pin my best friend gave me. Hunt her down like a dog.
If only she had posted on Reddit, AITH for NOT stealing from innocent people because my father and whole family is amoral and lazy?
Go No Contact stupid.
BetterKristen Ashley Jessica Prince out there.
It's mildly entertaining when she lifts the wallet of the jackass that rude to the bartender, but what about the others she and her family takes from. All I could think is how I would feel if someone stole the cameo pin my best friend gave me. Hunt her down like a dog.
If only she had posted on Reddit, AITH for NOT stealing from innocent people because my father and whole family is amoral and lazy?
Go No Contact stupid.
Better
March 13, 2022
More than I expected!
I love, love, LOVE Jessica Prince! This is the latest Hope Valley book and it just keeps getting better and better with each book. Stella and her family are con artists. Weston meets her when he is doing surveillance for the police and notices her steal a wallet from a belligerent man. When she goes to pick the pocket of her next victim, West stops her because it happens to be one of the bad men he was watching. They have a connection right from the beginning.
The story was well written with lots of funny moments and great secondary characters. Of course we get to reconnect with all the Alpha Omega men and their wives, but we also get to meet and fall in love with Stella's family - mom, dad, older brother and older sister.
I had completely forgotten that West was one of the guys that was watching one of the women ( Eden, I think?) In an earlier book. After his shift he always left her house a mess because he was a slob. I remember thinking I probably was not going to like his story, but I was proved wrong. He is still messy in this book, but we forgive him because he is super-hot and sweet on Stella. This book is HIGHLY recommended!!!
I love, love, LOVE Jessica Prince! This is the latest Hope Valley book and it just keeps getting better and better with each book. Stella and her family are con artists. Weston meets her when he is doing surveillance for the police and notices her steal a wallet from a belligerent man. When she goes to pick the pocket of her next victim, West stops her because it happens to be one of the bad men he was watching. They have a connection right from the beginning.
The story was well written with lots of funny moments and great secondary characters. Of course we get to reconnect with all the Alpha Omega men and their wives, but we also get to meet and fall in love with Stella's family - mom, dad, older brother and older sister.
I had completely forgotten that West was one of the guys that was watching one of the women ( Eden, I think?) In an earlier book. After his shift he always left her house a mess because he was a slob. I remember thinking I probably was not going to like his story, but I was proved wrong. He is still messy in this book, but we forgive him because he is super-hot and sweet on Stella. This book is HIGHLY recommended!!!
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January 31, 2022WHEN YOU LEAST EXPECT IT is LIVE! Grab your copy HERE
January 30, 2022
Stella Ryan may not want to do the things she does for her family, but her family is everything to her. Needing to help fix the problem her Dad ran into, she goes outside her comfort zone and ends up catching the eye of West Scott. Little does Stella know that West is a investigator for Alpha Omega and although she brushes him off, he is still very much interested in her. When he sees Stella a second time, the night goes in a completely different direction and West decides he is going to be the one to protect her. Feelings arise and Stella begins to have feelings for West, but believes he wont be able to accept her family, but West is out to prove to Stella she couldn't be more wrong.
So let me start by saying that I generally avoid books with con artist-grifters. No particular reason why but I have not read one that I have liked the character. This book changed that for me, I really liked Stella and her family. I thought the way the author handled the family dynamic really brought insight to the characters. Another terrific read by this author and West is one of the most alpha males in the series thus far.
So let me start by saying that I generally avoid books with con artist-grifters. No particular reason why but I have not read one that I have liked the character. This book changed that for me, I really liked Stella and her family. I thought the way the author handled the family dynamic really brought insight to the characters. Another terrific read by this author and West is one of the most alpha males in the series thus far.
January 29, 2022
Oh, Stella. Your heart and loyalty and willingness to step way outside of your comfort zone to save those you love may be the smartest or dumbest thing ever. You made me worry and wonder about you a few times there, honey. But your stubbornness and refusal to walk away from a situation when you could help (poor Gertrude) made you a solid gold woman and more than deserving of West and his love.
And as for you, West. Smart man plus good man plus awesome apparently equals you. You combatted Stella’s stubbornness with an even stronger dose of your own when it counted. And it counted a lot! From knowing exactly who and what you were dealing with to taking on the problem and risk as your own to loving Stella better than anyone else ever could made you fabulous.
These two had an odd first meeting…and second…and a scary third encounter. But that’s all it took for West to decide he was all-in with Stella. The end. He couldn’t be swayed. He wouldn’t be distracted. And he sure wouldn’t be the man to let her down. But they both did an equal amount of saving themselves and each other along the way, and I found myself slowing down toward the end of their book simply because I wasn’t ready to be done with them. I mean, I know we have more heading our way, but these two were just wonderful and they never once forgot how to communicate, which is definitely my jam. So enjoy your time with Stella and West because it’ll fly by faster than you’re expecting!
And as for you, West. Smart man plus good man plus awesome apparently equals you. You combatted Stella’s stubbornness with an even stronger dose of your own when it counted. And it counted a lot! From knowing exactly who and what you were dealing with to taking on the problem and risk as your own to loving Stella better than anyone else ever could made you fabulous.
These two had an odd first meeting…and second…and a scary third encounter. But that’s all it took for West to decide he was all-in with Stella. The end. He couldn’t be swayed. He wouldn’t be distracted. And he sure wouldn’t be the man to let her down. But they both did an equal amount of saving themselves and each other along the way, and I found myself slowing down toward the end of their book simply because I wasn’t ready to be done with them. I mean, I know we have more heading our way, but these two were just wonderful and they never once forgot how to communicate, which is definitely my jam. So enjoy your time with Stella and West because it’ll fly by faster than you’re expecting!
February 7, 2022
This for me was okay.
I wanted to like it more, I really did, I'm not sure why I didn't, and it could be just life getting in the way.
So recently this author has resembled Kristen Ashley in writing style, it even feels like she's rewritten some of her storylines but better.
It reminded me at the start of Play it Safe. But I think because of that I struggled with the heroine a bit.
In the KA book, the heroine has a huge reason for conning people, she has noone else and feels she owes a huge debt to her brother.
In this book, the heroine is swift of hand and picks pockets etc but only picks on men who deserve it.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Some funny snarky lines.
It was an instant attraction but she takes longer to trust how she feels.
Ex drama for heroine, her ex asks her to give them another go. No interest from the heroine.
I think I just felt it lacked depth or something.
She was drooling over the whole security gang. There must be something in the water, etc...
Cute dog. Girl gang posse. Chin lifting approving Hero's buds.
Reference to previous characters and couples in series.
Very small breadcrumbs dropped for future book in series, Hunter.
It seems the woman he had eyes for sent him a wedding invitation, so I'm not sure if he will start with someone new or rescue the bride.
HEA.
Epilogue.
I wanted to like it more, I really did, I'm not sure why I didn't, and it could be just life getting in the way.
So recently this author has resembled Kristen Ashley in writing style, it even feels like she's rewritten some of her storylines but better.
It reminded me at the start of Play it Safe. But I think because of that I struggled with the heroine a bit.
In the KA book, the heroine has a huge reason for conning people, she has noone else and feels she owes a huge debt to her brother.
In this book, the heroine is swift of hand and picks pockets etc but only picks on men who deserve it.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Some funny snarky lines.
It was an instant attraction but she takes longer to trust how she feels.
Ex drama for heroine, her ex asks her to give them another go. No interest from the heroine.
I think I just felt it lacked depth or something.
She was drooling over the whole security gang. There must be something in the water, etc...
Cute dog. Girl gang posse. Chin lifting approving Hero's buds.
Reference to previous characters and couples in series.
Very small breadcrumbs dropped for future book in series, Hunter.
It seems the woman he had eyes for sent him a wedding invitation, so I'm not sure if he will start with someone new or rescue the bride.
HEA.
Epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2022
This for me was okay.
I wanted to like it more, I really did, I'm not sure why I didn't, and it could be just life getting in the way.
So recently this author has resembled Kristen Ashley in writing style, it even feels like she's rewritten some of her storylines but better.
It reminded me at the start of Play it Safe. But I think because of that I struggled with the heroine a bit.
In the KA book, the heroine has a huge reason for conning people, she has noone else and feels she owes a huge debt to her brother.
In this book, the heroine is swift of hand and picks pockets etc but only picks on men who deserve it.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
He's not a man whore and she's not been in a relationship for 2 years.
Some funny snarky lines.
It was an instant attraction but she takes longer to trust how she feels.
Ex drama for heroine, her ex asks her to give them another go. No interest from the heroine.
I think I just felt it lacked depth or something.
She was drooling over the whole security gang. There must be something in the water, etc...
Cute dog. Girl gang posse. Chin lifting approving Hero's buds.
Reference to previous characters and couples in series.
Very small breadcrumbs dropped for future book in series, Hunter.
It seems the woman he had eyes for sent him a wedding invitation, so I'm not sure if he will start with someone new or rescue the bride.
HEA.
Epilogue.
I wanted to like it more, I really did, I'm not sure why I didn't, and it could be just life getting in the way.
So recently this author has resembled Kristen Ashley in writing style, it even feels like she's rewritten some of her storylines but better.
It reminded me at the start of Play it Safe. But I think because of that I struggled with the heroine a bit.
In the KA book, the heroine has a huge reason for conning people, she has noone else and feels she owes a huge debt to her brother.
In this book, the heroine is swift of hand and picks pockets etc but only picks on men who deserve it.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
He's not a man whore and she's not been in a relationship for 2 years.
Some funny snarky lines.
It was an instant attraction but she takes longer to trust how she feels.
Ex drama for heroine, her ex asks her to give them another go. No interest from the heroine.
I think I just felt it lacked depth or something.
She was drooling over the whole security gang. There must be something in the water, etc...
Cute dog. Girl gang posse. Chin lifting approving Hero's buds.
Reference to previous characters and couples in series.
Very small breadcrumbs dropped for future book in series, Hunter.
It seems the woman he had eyes for sent him a wedding invitation, so I'm not sure if he will start with someone new or rescue the bride.
HEA.
Epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2022
I could live in Jessica Prince’s stories. I love them so…full review to follow
February 22, 2022
This for me was okay.
I wanted to like it more, I really did, I'm not sure why I didn't, and it could be just life getting in the way.
So recently this author has resembled Kristen Ashley in writing style, it even feels like she's rewritten some of her storylines but better.
It reminded me at the start of Play it Safe. But I think because of that I struggled with the heroine a bit.
In the KA book, the heroine has a huge reason for conning people, she has noone else and feels she owes a huge debt to her brother.
In this book, the heroine is swift of hand and picks pockets etc but only picks on men who deserve it.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Some funny snarky lines.
It was an instant attraction but she takes longer to trust how she feels.
Ex drama for heroine, her ex asks her to give them another go. No interest from the heroine.
I think I just felt it lacked depth or something.
She was drooling over the whole security gang. There must be something in the water, etc...
Cute dog. Girl gang posse. Chin lifting approving Hero's buds.
Reference to previous characters and couples in series.
Very small breadcrumbs dropped for future book in series, Hunter.
It seems the woman he had eyes for sent him a wedding invitation, so I'm not sure if he will start with someone new or rescue the bride.
HEA.
Epilogue.
I wanted to like it more, I really did, I'm not sure why I didn't, and it could be just life getting in the way.
So recently this author has resembled Kristen Ashley in writing style, it even feels like she's rewritten some of her storylines but better.
It reminded me at the start of Play it Safe. But I think because of that I struggled with the heroine a bit.
In the KA book, the heroine has a huge reason for conning people, she has noone else and feels she owes a huge debt to her brother.
In this book, the heroine is swift of hand and picks pockets etc but only picks on men who deserve it.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Some funny snarky lines.
It was an instant attraction but she takes longer to trust how she feels.
Ex drama for heroine, her ex asks her to give them another go. No interest from the heroine.
I think I just felt it lacked depth or something.
She was drooling over the whole security gang. There must be something in the water, etc...
Cute dog. Girl gang posse. Chin lifting approving Hero's buds.
Reference to previous characters and couples in series.
Very small breadcrumbs dropped for future book in series, Hunter.
It seems the woman he had eyes for sent him a wedding invitation, so I'm not sure if he will start with someone new or rescue the bride.
HEA.
Epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2022
Amazon US / Amazon Worldwide
West took one look at the woman he just clocked stealing from a guy at the bar and knew he had to get to know her. He's intrigued at first glance, and even more so once he has a few words with the sassy, feisty woman who turns him down flat when he hands her his business card. But it's when he finds out she's in serious danger that his protective (and other) tendencies slam into overdrive and he goes all in with his beautiful grifter. He just has to find a way to get past her defenses to prove to her how he feels, that he can and will keep her and her family safe.
Stella doesn't want the life she's forced to live, she never has. She wants normal, not the grifting lifestyle her family has always lived. But just because she wants to get out doesn't mean she doesn't love her family fiercely, and won't do whatever she can to help protect them, even if it means tangling with some dangerous people. West presents a distraction but he's also offering help. Will she take him up on it even if it means she might end up letting him past her walls and into her heart?
I love the bossy, protective alphas of Hope Valley, and the women who turn their worlds upside down. I think this couple is extra special, though, because Stella managed to completely change my mind about grifters. I normally avoid reading romances with cons because I just can't get past how completely douchey they tend to be. Stella, though she was indeed a con, she wasn't a bad person, and really wanted out. She not only redeemed herself along with her family, but she turned out to be an absolute sweetheart underneath it all. I adored her and loved that she found the perfect man for her. A sweet but protective, hot af alpha who didn't know what hit him when she walked into his life.
ARC provided by the Love Affair With Fiction for an honest review.
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January 31, 2022
I have to just start off by saying how absolutely perfect West was for Stella! Stella and her family are not the typical conventional family or always law-abiding, but the love they have for each other is unbreakable. It is because of this love that Stella was out there being something she just does not want to be anymore. She just wants some normalcy, but being part of this family, they all had to do whatever they can to protect one another. Stella has a special set of skills that were needed and West was pretty much the only one who caught on from the very beginning. It was after seeing Stella a second time, that West realized he could not let her walk away from him again. He instantly saw there was something going on with her and he was determined to help in any way he can.
I loved how accepting West was of Stella’s family and their way of life. He did however let them have it when he realized the danger Stella was in because of her family, but after meeting them, he couldn’t not like them. They all had the same goal, to keep Stella safe. West was all in with her and was willing to go the distance. She did fight the pull, she didn’t think she was good enough for him or his friends, but like West, they all rallied around her and accepted her. The interactions between Stella and Sage and the rest of the girls were awesome.
This series just keeps getting better and better and I can’t wait for the next in this series. I did see that this author had put out her 2022 coming soon list and #12 is coming out in October, I want to know who that one is going to be about. I really want Stella’s sister to have a story!! This was another fantastic, 5-star read!
I loved how accepting West was of Stella’s family and their way of life. He did however let them have it when he realized the danger Stella was in because of her family, but after meeting them, he couldn’t not like them. They all had the same goal, to keep Stella safe. West was all in with her and was willing to go the distance. She did fight the pull, she didn’t think she was good enough for him or his friends, but like West, they all rallied around her and accepted her. The interactions between Stella and Sage and the rest of the girls were awesome.
This series just keeps getting better and better and I can’t wait for the next in this series. I did see that this author had put out her 2022 coming soon list and #12 is coming out in October, I want to know who that one is going to be about. I really want Stella’s sister to have a story!! This was another fantastic, 5-star read!
February 5, 2022
I enjoyed this book so much!! It's different than what Jess usually writes, and I love how she wrote an h that has a rather unusual "career" and family, but I loved them all!
Stella is posed to fix her father's grave mistake, by pick pocketing those she believes deserves it. She doesn't like doing this by any means, but she loves her family with her entire heart and will do anything to protect them. When West clues in immediately on what she's doing, he can't help but be amused by the spitfire, and the attraction between them is pure fire. With Stella being in even more danger than she initially realized, West moves her in with him to keep her safe, but her heart just might be in the most danger.
I truly loved West soooo much! He was all in with Stella from the very first page and its so refreshing to have a male lead not screw the entire female population because he's in denial about his feelings. West loves so openly and beautifully, plus he is just literally Stella's other half. These two are just perfect together. Their sexual tension is scorching, and the banter had me laughing like crazy. This is definitely one of my favorite books from this author!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions.**
Stella is posed to fix her father's grave mistake, by pick pocketing those she believes deserves it. She doesn't like doing this by any means, but she loves her family with her entire heart and will do anything to protect them. When West clues in immediately on what she's doing, he can't help but be amused by the spitfire, and the attraction between them is pure fire. With Stella being in even more danger than she initially realized, West moves her in with him to keep her safe, but her heart just might be in the most danger.
I truly loved West soooo much! He was all in with Stella from the very first page and its so refreshing to have a male lead not screw the entire female population because he's in denial about his feelings. West loves so openly and beautifully, plus he is just literally Stella's other half. These two are just perfect together. Their sexual tension is scorching, and the banter had me laughing like crazy. This is definitely one of my favorite books from this author!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions.**
February 1, 2022
When you least expect it, Jessica Prince supplies us with a feel good, sweet, tender and a bit sassy romance for us.
Stella's family has a unique career choice but it has gotten them into some serious trouble. Stella, always the problem solver is out on the hunt for a way to make things right once again and then hopefully withdrawal from the family business thus making her own choices and creating a new path.
West is still one of the few single men in the Alpha Omega agency and that has all the females trying to pair him up. While out on a job for the agency, his path crosses with that of Stella and his eyes are set on her. He loves all her eccentricities, unusual skills and all around uniqueness. Of course West does not know what he is in for when he finds Stella once again and in a very grim situation.
I loved all the banter in this story as well as all the love and support that Stella has for her family.
It is a bit suspenseful in some parts but the story actually is quite heart warming and just an all around heart warming tale and of course some trademark Jessica Prince steam.
Stella's family has a unique career choice but it has gotten them into some serious trouble. Stella, always the problem solver is out on the hunt for a way to make things right once again and then hopefully withdrawal from the family business thus making her own choices and creating a new path.
West is still one of the few single men in the Alpha Omega agency and that has all the females trying to pair him up. While out on a job for the agency, his path crosses with that of Stella and his eyes are set on her. He loves all her eccentricities, unusual skills and all around uniqueness. Of course West does not know what he is in for when he finds Stella once again and in a very grim situation.
I loved all the banter in this story as well as all the love and support that Stella has for her family.
It is a bit suspenseful in some parts but the story actually is quite heart warming and just an all around heart warming tale and of course some trademark Jessica Prince steam.
February 1, 2022
5 Stars!
Jessica Prince is back with the next book in the sexy, swoony, all in your feels Hope Valley series. Y'all, this small town has become one of my absolute favorites to visit every few months. I cannot tell you how many times I've reread the books in this series and devoured all the emotions it gives. I've totally got my favorite couples in Hope Valley and y'all, what I can say is that Stella and West are super, super special. They blew away every single expectation that I had for their story completely out of the water and gave me.. everything.
When You Least Expect It was packed with everything typical in a Jessica Prince book... but that little spark of.. more.
This series has been so, so good... everything that I've needed it to be in all the best moments and addicting from the first time. I'm excited for the next new release and keeping all my fingers crossed we never ever have to leave Hope Valley.
I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Jessica Prince is back with the next book in the sexy, swoony, all in your feels Hope Valley series. Y'all, this small town has become one of my absolute favorites to visit every few months. I cannot tell you how many times I've reread the books in this series and devoured all the emotions it gives. I've totally got my favorite couples in Hope Valley and y'all, what I can say is that Stella and West are super, super special. They blew away every single expectation that I had for their story completely out of the water and gave me.. everything.
When You Least Expect It was packed with everything typical in a Jessica Prince book... but that little spark of.. more.
This series has been so, so good... everything that I've needed it to be in all the best moments and addicting from the first time. I'm excited for the next new release and keeping all my fingers crossed we never ever have to leave Hope Valley.
I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
January 31, 2022
West and Stella, grown up different, one somewhat straight laced, somewhat law abiding, the other, eeehhh, just never getting caught. West and the AO guys do certain jobs that police can’t do. But once they meet their match, it’s so on! West and Stella, have an excellent introduction to each other, although brushing it off and thinking she would never see him again, he just can’t get her out of his mind! As much as I didn’t want to like Stella because of her ill doings because of her dad but, she couldn’t help it. I ended up liking her. Dangit! Jessica made me like her. LOL. West is so easy to like, he took charge of the situation concerning Stella and made it amazingly aware to her family what they were doing to her safety. She is stubborn but loyal, also falling for West and that, is something so out of her control. She needed someone like West in her life. I loved loved reading their story. Love seeing Stella blend in with the rest of the HV girls. Jessica can really make each couple’s story so unique and all so good. Such a great addition to the series!!!!
January 29, 2022
Wonderful and so funny!
4,5 stars
It's amazing the ability this author has of bringing romance, suspense, action and fun all in the same book.
I swooned, I laughed, I was wary and afraid, and most of all I loved this book.
This author is my go-to author for a good reason, and I don't see that changing at all.
I loved West and Stella.
West was incredible. He was all alpha, yet respectful of Stella's limits. He was sweet in his own manly way and he accepted her for who she was, never acting like loving her was a chore or a hardship.
Especially because it wasn't.
She was adorable, loyal almost to a fault, charmingly clumsy and utterly protective.
As unconventional as her life might have been, she and her family were great people who loved dearly.
I loved West and Stella's story, their HEA was definitely earned and well deserved.
4,5 stars
It's amazing the ability this author has of bringing romance, suspense, action and fun all in the same book.
I swooned, I laughed, I was wary and afraid, and most of all I loved this book.
This author is my go-to author for a good reason, and I don't see that changing at all.
I loved West and Stella.
West was incredible. He was all alpha, yet respectful of Stella's limits. He was sweet in his own manly way and he accepted her for who she was, never acting like loving her was a chore or a hardship.
Especially because it wasn't.
She was adorable, loyal almost to a fault, charmingly clumsy and utterly protective.
As unconventional as her life might have been, she and her family were great people who loved dearly.
I loved West and Stella's story, their HEA was definitely earned and well deserved.
February 15, 2022
Really enjoyed loved everything about this story , the author is amazing and I can't wait to read more by her in the future .
January 31, 2022
Another great book by Jessica. You definitely want to read this book about west. What a guy! You will love this book just like I did.
December 27, 2022
5 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has pain, secrets, abuse, suspense, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Out of My League (Hope Valley #1)
Come Back Home Again (Hope Valley #2)
The Best of Me (Hope Valley #3)
Wrong Side of the Tracks (Hope Valley #4)
Stay With Me (Hope Valley #5)
Out of the Darkness (Hope Valley Book 6)
The Second Time Around (Hope Valley #7)
Waiting for Forever (Hope Valley #8)
Love to Hate You (Hope Valley #9)
Playing for Keeps: A Small-Town Romance (Hope Valley Book 10)
This is Stella and West‘s story. Stella is not looking for a man she is only out to help fix a problem her father caused. They whole family is helping. But they are running out of time. When West sees her doing something he goes over to her to help out. She runs from the pull he has on her. When they meet again her once again helps her out. When her secrets come out, he is all about helping her but he is pissed when she gets hurt. Her getting hurt give him the chance to prove that he is all in but will she allow him to help her? Or will him helping put her in more danger? Can they have a future together with her and her family the way they are? Or will he help and then walk away?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has pain, secrets, abuse, suspense, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Out of My League (Hope Valley #1)
Come Back Home Again (Hope Valley #2)
The Best of Me (Hope Valley #3)
Wrong Side of the Tracks (Hope Valley #4)
Stay With Me (Hope Valley #5)
Out of the Darkness (Hope Valley Book 6)
The Second Time Around (Hope Valley #7)
Waiting for Forever (Hope Valley #8)
Love to Hate You (Hope Valley #9)
Playing for Keeps: A Small-Town Romance (Hope Valley Book 10)
This is Stella and West‘s story. Stella is not looking for a man she is only out to help fix a problem her father caused. They whole family is helping. But they are running out of time. When West sees her doing something he goes over to her to help out. She runs from the pull he has on her. When they meet again her once again helps her out. When her secrets come out, he is all about helping her but he is pissed when she gets hurt. Her getting hurt give him the chance to prove that he is all in but will she allow him to help her? Or will him helping put her in more danger? Can they have a future together with her and her family the way they are? Or will he help and then walk away?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
February 7, 2022
Hero - West
Heroine - Stella
2 Stars
Overall Opinion
When You Least Expect It By Jessica Prince, I'm certainly in the minority here. But after reading the blurb, I couldn't wait to get started. But this fell flat, I wanted to dnf this so many times, but I pushed through.
West was really amazing, loved his character.
Stella, oh my word...I couldn't stand her, she was absolutely childish and her behaviour made me cringe.
I didn't feel the connection between the main characters at all...sometimes it felt as if the relationship was forced
Secondary Characters
Alpha Omega Team 💜
Ratings
Hero ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Heroine
Chemistry 🔥
Plot 📚
Emotional Level 💧
Heroine - Stella
2 Stars
Overall Opinion
When You Least Expect It By Jessica Prince, I'm certainly in the minority here. But after reading the blurb, I couldn't wait to get started. But this fell flat, I wanted to dnf this so many times, but I pushed through.
West was really amazing, loved his character.
Stella, oh my word...I couldn't stand her, she was absolutely childish and her behaviour made me cringe.
I didn't feel the connection between the main characters at all...sometimes it felt as if the relationship was forced
Secondary Characters
Alpha Omega Team 💜
Ratings
Hero ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Heroine
Chemistry 🔥
Plot 📚
Emotional Level 💧
April 18, 2024
West was introduced earlier on in the series and TBH I couldn't even remember him as a character. That said, he was okay as a character whereas I just couldn't warm to Stella and her grifting family. I must be old school because I was raised to work for what I want and not to take from others because I didn't like them as a person or because they have it and I want it.
January 31, 2022
When a new JP book hits my kindle, all I can do is my happy dance. When You Least Expect it is book eleven in the Hope Valley series. The book can be read as a standalone or in series order, the series is amazing and will only make life better if you read it.
When You Least Expect It is a romantic, suspenseful story filled with smiles, love and family. I was a little curious how JP was going to spin a tale of HEA for a con artist and a glorified lawman like West, but as always with her books, it was a great read that I loved.
Stella is under a lot of stress, her family in trouble and like always they expect her to fix it. West is the last of the single men from AO and such a perfect match for Stella. He always stands up for her and her family, and never pushes more than she can handle. Stella is funny, and kind, but she also wears her heart on her sleeve. This leads her to finding more drama than she can deal with sometimes. West is the balm she didn’t know she needed. Over protective, alpha male, but one that wants the best for her and her family. He doesn’t judge her, or let others either, their chemistry is fire and that leads to more than Stella was expecting.
I think that may be the point though, when you least expect love, it’s just around the corner waiting to take a chunk out of you.
-Happy sigh-
Finishing a JP book is bittersweet, when you first pick it up, it’s like opening presents on Christmas morning, but closing that last page is like saying goodbye to the family that came for the holidays. I loved every moment of Stella and West’s story, it was just what I needed. The Hope Valley series is one that I always come back to when I want a feel good read that warms me to the bone. Way to go Jessica Prince!
When You Least Expect It is a romantic, suspenseful story filled with smiles, love and family. I was a little curious how JP was going to spin a tale of HEA for a con artist and a glorified lawman like West, but as always with her books, it was a great read that I loved.
Stella is under a lot of stress, her family in trouble and like always they expect her to fix it. West is the last of the single men from AO and such a perfect match for Stella. He always stands up for her and her family, and never pushes more than she can handle. Stella is funny, and kind, but she also wears her heart on her sleeve. This leads her to finding more drama than she can deal with sometimes. West is the balm she didn’t know she needed. Over protective, alpha male, but one that wants the best for her and her family. He doesn’t judge her, or let others either, their chemistry is fire and that leads to more than Stella was expecting.
I think that may be the point though, when you least expect love, it’s just around the corner waiting to take a chunk out of you.
-Happy sigh-
Finishing a JP book is bittersweet, when you first pick it up, it’s like opening presents on Christmas morning, but closing that last page is like saying goodbye to the family that came for the holidays. I loved every moment of Stella and West’s story, it was just what I needed. The Hope Valley series is one that I always come back to when I want a feel good read that warms me to the bone. Way to go Jessica Prince!
January 31, 2022
Okay here’s the deal, if Jessica Prince did a rewrite of the Webster dictionary, I’d happily one click and read it. Luckily, she would never do that to us…instead, she tries to outdo herself with every book and this was no exception! I remember meeting West way back in Eden and Lincoln’s story “Out of My League” (which has always had such a huge place in my heart) and thinking he was a sweetheart. Yes, I was right…he is a BIG sweetheart!
Here’s where Jessica Prince gets me – I wasn’t sure if I would be able to connect with Stella when I learned that she and her family were grifters. How could I connect with someone who skirts the law when we’re talking about West’s happily ever after? Literally getting into half of the first chapter and I felt guilty that I ever doubted Ms. Prince’s ability to make me love a heroine. Stella is strong, feisty, independent, loyal to a fault and just will not stop getting back up, no matter what life throws at her. Meeting West wasn’t perfect timing for her, but he is absolutely swoon worthy in his dedication to showing her that she deserves happiness.
A trip back to Hope Valley is like a warm hug, and Stella and West did NOT disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed their banter, getting to know them individually and then watching their love story unfold. Jessica Prince has really hit her stride and she continues to write fantastic books that suck you in and make it impossible to stop reading. Sometimes to the exclusion of everything else – who needs to eat? Make sure you one click this one and clear your calendar – you can thank me later!
Here’s where Jessica Prince gets me – I wasn’t sure if I would be able to connect with Stella when I learned that she and her family were grifters. How could I connect with someone who skirts the law when we’re talking about West’s happily ever after? Literally getting into half of the first chapter and I felt guilty that I ever doubted Ms. Prince’s ability to make me love a heroine. Stella is strong, feisty, independent, loyal to a fault and just will not stop getting back up, no matter what life throws at her. Meeting West wasn’t perfect timing for her, but he is absolutely swoon worthy in his dedication to showing her that she deserves happiness.
A trip back to Hope Valley is like a warm hug, and Stella and West did NOT disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed their banter, getting to know them individually and then watching their love story unfold. Jessica Prince has really hit her stride and she continues to write fantastic books that suck you in and make it impossible to stop reading. Sometimes to the exclusion of everything else – who needs to eat? Make sure you one click this one and clear your calendar – you can thank me later!
February 6, 2022
5 Getting Found Out and Finding Love
Stella and West are EVERYTHING I wanted them to be! This is a woman that is completely loyal to her family even when what they’re doing is not so legal! I admire her so much. Her family is everything to her and no matter what it takes, even when it becomes dangerous. But West just may be the answer to her prayers, even if doesn’t know it at the time.
Like all the men at Alpha Omega, West sees this spitfire of a woman and he’s intrigued and wants to know more about her because he knows she’s a spitfire and is confident based on what he just witnessed her doing. And when West comes to her rescue it opens Stella’s eyes as to what may be possible even if her family may not be on her side about her decisions, but she realizes that she can’t handle what she’s doing anymore…but can she AND her family step away from it?
I loved these two together because he sees below her surface and what an amazing and sweet woman she is underneath the façade of what the world sees. And she finally has someone that wants to care for and love her beyond anything or anyone else; who will put her first! And the heat these two generate is combustible!
Coming back to Hope Valley and my favorite couples has been such a joy. I love how Ms. Prince writes this story that has a heroine that some people may not like given her con/grifter lifestyle but she made me fall in love with her and her family and when West enters their lives and not only is protective of his woman but her family it changes all of them. And the suspense part of this story was excellent. I loved the build up to when all the men of Alpha Omega get involved and life takes a turn in all the best ways possible.
This is an excellent addition to this series and I for one can never get enough of Hope Valley and Ms. Prince’s stories!!
Stella and West are EVERYTHING I wanted them to be! This is a woman that is completely loyal to her family even when what they’re doing is not so legal! I admire her so much. Her family is everything to her and no matter what it takes, even when it becomes dangerous. But West just may be the answer to her prayers, even if doesn’t know it at the time.
Like all the men at Alpha Omega, West sees this spitfire of a woman and he’s intrigued and wants to know more about her because he knows she’s a spitfire and is confident based on what he just witnessed her doing. And when West comes to her rescue it opens Stella’s eyes as to what may be possible even if her family may not be on her side about her decisions, but she realizes that she can’t handle what she’s doing anymore…but can she AND her family step away from it?
I loved these two together because he sees below her surface and what an amazing and sweet woman she is underneath the façade of what the world sees. And she finally has someone that wants to care for and love her beyond anything or anyone else; who will put her first! And the heat these two generate is combustible!
Coming back to Hope Valley and my favorite couples has been such a joy. I love how Ms. Prince writes this story that has a heroine that some people may not like given her con/grifter lifestyle but she made me fall in love with her and her family and when West enters their lives and not only is protective of his woman but her family it changes all of them. And the suspense part of this story was excellent. I loved the build up to when all the men of Alpha Omega get involved and life takes a turn in all the best ways possible.
This is an excellent addition to this series and I for one can never get enough of Hope Valley and Ms. Prince’s stories!!
February 1, 2022
I was so excited to head back to Hope Valley for this story! I've been wondering about West ever since we met him in book one and he made a mess of Eden's living room. I'll admit, I was a bit skeptical once I realized what Stella's "profession" was. But I should have known that Jessica would have me loving her just like all the rest. She was the perfect match for our Alpha Omega hero.
This book is filled with lots of humor, so be prepared to laugh out loud. I found myself smiling through the majority of this story. I can always count on Jessica for some hilarious commentary! The situations Stella got herself into were hysterical, and best of all, I loved how Weston thought they were the most adorable thing he had ever seen. There was absolutely no judgement towards her or her family for how they lived their lives, he completely accepted her for who she was, and that in itself is completely swoon worthy and romantic. This was a light-hearted and funny read, but we still get our usual excitement that we can always come to expect and rely on with Jessica's writing. I was so excited when their story hit my kindle and I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to go back to Hope Valley again for Hunter's story!
This book is filled with lots of humor, so be prepared to laugh out loud. I found myself smiling through the majority of this story. I can always count on Jessica for some hilarious commentary! The situations Stella got herself into were hysterical, and best of all, I loved how Weston thought they were the most adorable thing he had ever seen. There was absolutely no judgement towards her or her family for how they lived their lives, he completely accepted her for who she was, and that in itself is completely swoon worthy and romantic. This was a light-hearted and funny read, but we still get our usual excitement that we can always come to expect and rely on with Jessica's writing. I was so excited when their story hit my kindle and I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to go back to Hope Valley again for Hunter's story!
February 1, 2022
When you least expect it, Jessica Prince supplies us with a feel good, sweet, tender and a bit sassy romance for us.
Stella's family has a unique career choice but it has gotten them into some serious trouble. Stella, always the problem solver is out on the hunt for a way to make things right once again and then hopefully withdrawal from the family business thus making her own choices and creating a new path.
West is still one of the few single men in the Alpha Omega agency and that has all the females trying to pair him up. While out on a job for the agency, his path crosses with that of Stella and his eyes are set on her. He loves all her eccentricities, unusual skills and all around uniqueness. Of course West does not know what he is in for when he finds Stella once again and in a very grim situation.
I loved all the banter in this story as well as all the love and support that Stella has for her family.
It is a bit suspenseful in some parts but the story actually is quite heart warming and just an all around heart warming tale and of course some trademark Jessica Prince steam.
Stella's family has a unique career choice but it has gotten them into some serious trouble. Stella, always the problem solver is out on the hunt for a way to make things right once again and then hopefully withdrawal from the family business thus making her own choices and creating a new path.
West is still one of the few single men in the Alpha Omega agency and that has all the females trying to pair him up. While out on a job for the agency, his path crosses with that of Stella and his eyes are set on her. He loves all her eccentricities, unusual skills and all around uniqueness. Of course West does not know what he is in for when he finds Stella once again and in a very grim situation.
I loved all the banter in this story as well as all the love and support that Stella has for her family.
It is a bit suspenseful in some parts but the story actually is quite heart warming and just an all around heart warming tale and of course some trademark Jessica Prince steam.
February 1, 2022
I love this authors stories and I adore all the women and men of Hope Valley, so I was so excited to go back to Hope Valley and this time get West's story. It is very much a bad girl vs good guy romance.
This story was a slow burn story. It took some time for the story to build as Stella is a brand-new character and has no connection to Hope Valley until she meets West.
These two form a friendship and I enjoyed watching them both spend time with each other as friends and then that led to more. Stella is a very different character, but I fell in love with her and her crazy family. I also loved watching West fall for her and how connected these two are.
We also get to see Stella with the guy's West work with and I love how she ends up a few times in saving the day. She is a very strong woman and I really adored that about her, and I loved how West adored that about her. I also loved how cute she was with Sage.
I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story was a slow burn story. It took some time for the story to build as Stella is a brand-new character and has no connection to Hope Valley until she meets West.
These two form a friendship and I enjoyed watching them both spend time with each other as friends and then that led to more. Stella is a very different character, but I fell in love with her and her crazy family. I also loved watching West fall for her and how connected these two are.
We also get to see Stella with the guy's West work with and I love how she ends up a few times in saving the day. She is a very strong woman and I really adored that about her, and I loved how West adored that about her. I also loved how cute she was with Sage.
I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 2, 2022
Another solid book from this amazing author.
Every series that this author creates is amazing but Hope Valley is the one that truly owns my heart. There is just something special about this group of friends. They are all so individually different which in a series that is eleven books long says something. Yet, even in their differences, they still all fit perfectly together.
I wasn't sure how Stella and West were going to fit together since they are on opposite sides of the "career" field. However, color me surprised because they really did work so well together. I loved the cameos of some of the other characters, especially Stella's sister, Serenity.
Some parts of this story reminded me of another author's series, especially, seeing this girl posse and how they acted when they were around each other (KA and her Rock Chicks). That is not a bad thing by any means. If anything I liked it even more because of that fact. I do wish that there had been more depth in a couple of spots because I think that would have helped give it more depth in regards to getting invested in the characters more, as well as the story itself. Still, this was a great book to add to this great series.
Every series that this author creates is amazing but Hope Valley is the one that truly owns my heart. There is just something special about this group of friends. They are all so individually different which in a series that is eleven books long says something. Yet, even in their differences, they still all fit perfectly together.
I wasn't sure how Stella and West were going to fit together since they are on opposite sides of the "career" field. However, color me surprised because they really did work so well together. I loved the cameos of some of the other characters, especially Stella's sister, Serenity.
Some parts of this story reminded me of another author's series, especially, seeing this girl posse and how they acted when they were around each other (KA and her Rock Chicks). That is not a bad thing by any means. If anything I liked it even more because of that fact. I do wish that there had been more depth in a couple of spots because I think that would have helped give it more depth in regards to getting invested in the characters more, as well as the story itself. Still, this was a great book to add to this great series.
January 29, 2022
This was not only a sweet romance, but an incredibly fun story to read. Stella comes from a family of con artists and when she meets West she is on a job, grifting from someone and West runs interference to keep her from running one on the wrong person. In many ways the two of them couldn't have been more different, but they were both incredibly taken and intrigued by the other with that first meeting.
Jessica Prince has written a sweet romance here, but it also has angst and some really touching moments. Stella has a rough time grappling with who she is and understanding her self worth, and West's tenacious pursuit of her, and his willingness to step in and help keep her safe is exactly what she needs. If you love the other books in the Hope Valley series, you'll love this one and even if this is your first, it would be a fun place to start.
Jessica Prince has written a sweet romance here, but it also has angst and some really touching moments. Stella has a rough time grappling with who she is and understanding her self worth, and West's tenacious pursuit of her, and his willingness to step in and help keep her safe is exactly what she needs. If you love the other books in the Hope Valley series, you'll love this one and even if this is your first, it would be a fun place to start.
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