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The Material Witnesses #1
Unexpected
I’m a waitress. He’s a Rockstar.
It was supposed to be simple.
He was the gorgeous mystery occupying a stool at the bar.
An anonymous one-night stand.
No names, no numbers, no regrets.
A temporary escape for us. Mine from the brutality of my life, his from a life in the spotlight. Both of us trying to ease the pain of unimaginable loss.
Unfortunately, nothing good ever stays secret for long, and the consequences of our tryst send our lives toppling over a cliff so steep, we may never be able to climb out.
Everything that happens after is unexpected.
UNEXPECTED is an unputdownable emotional new adult full-length, standalone single dad rockstar contemporary romance about missed connections, loss, learning to love, and being slow to trust again. This love story between a celebrity and a heroine with a hard life is rife with plot twists, steamy encounters, and emotional hairpin turns. UNEXPECTED is a sexy novel that has no cheating, cliffhangers, or love triangles. What you will find is a good smutty book with a little bit of angst and a definite HEA.
Make UNEXPECTED your one-click read today!
It was supposed to be simple.
He was the gorgeous mystery occupying a stool at the bar.
An anonymous one-night stand.
No names, no numbers, no regrets.
A temporary escape for us. Mine from the brutality of my life, his from a life in the spotlight. Both of us trying to ease the pain of unimaginable loss.
Unfortunately, nothing good ever stays secret for long, and the consequences of our tryst send our lives toppling over a cliff so steep, we may never be able to climb out.
Everything that happens after is unexpected.
UNEXPECTED is an unputdownable emotional new adult full-length, standalone single dad rockstar contemporary romance about missed connections, loss, learning to love, and being slow to trust again. This love story between a celebrity and a heroine with a hard life is rife with plot twists, steamy encounters, and emotional hairpin turns. UNEXPECTED is a sexy novel that has no cheating, cliffhangers, or love triangles. What you will find is a good smutty book with a little bit of angst and a definite HEA.
Make UNEXPECTED your one-click read today!
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2022
262 people are currently reading
1700 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 603 reviews
August 21, 2022
I'm not crying; you’re crying. That is what I said for the majority of the book. Unexpected is just that. Unexpectedly a fantastic read for a debut novel.
Something you should know, I am not a fan of Rockstar Romance unless it's emotional with a profound, meaningful plot. That is precisely what the author delivered.
Whit is a rockstar and single father raising his precious daughter. After a show and an argument with his ex, he does something out of his character and goes in incognito to a local bar. Now enters Ava. This poor girl and her story. God, you can’t help but love her and want to help her.
I was in total awe of Whit’s devotion and the sacrifices he made for his daughter.
I didn't expect so many raw, heartfelt emotions and how well-written the book is. But It was a pleasant surprise, and I enjoyed every minute.
I don't know if you can hear me, but I am standing on a rooftop highly recommending this book. Word of advice has those tissues on hand. I can't wait to see what is next.
Something you should know, I am not a fan of Rockstar Romance unless it's emotional with a profound, meaningful plot. That is precisely what the author delivered.
Whit is a rockstar and single father raising his precious daughter. After a show and an argument with his ex, he does something out of his character and goes in incognito to a local bar. Now enters Ava. This poor girl and her story. God, you can’t help but love her and want to help her.
I was in total awe of Whit’s devotion and the sacrifices he made for his daughter.
I didn't expect so many raw, heartfelt emotions and how well-written the book is. But It was a pleasant surprise, and I enjoyed every minute.
I don't know if you can hear me, but I am standing on a rooftop highly recommending this book. Word of advice has those tissues on hand. I can't wait to see what is next.
August 7, 2022
3.5 stars
Why did I read this book? As per usual, if it has a surprise baby trope, you bet I will read it, and this was exactly the case with this one. On top of all that, I read some reviews stating this was dramatic and angsty and I was in the mood to be sad lol. I’m debating whether this is a 3 or 4 stars for me and I think I’m gonna eventually round it up to 4 because I liked the writing and the story did make me cry regardless of the other issues I took with the plot.
Side Note: I actually saw a TikTok promoting this book - and I was hooked - I wanted to mention this because I think it’s important to note how useful and impactful BookTok can be at promoting books - especially since this seems to be a debut from a new author.
Second side note: this book needs a different cover! As much I like the hot guy covers on books, sometimes they really don’t fit the tone, message and plot of the story - and I think this is exactly what happened with this book.
And I’ll just say this - it was heavy! The topics it approached in terms of trauma, the constant struggle of the heroine, the never ending barrage of bad luck and circumstances- it was … a lot. To be honest I don’t know if a lot of people would be on board with the seemingly never ending drama AND trauma - because if I was the heroine I would need years of therapy, probably 5 times a week for good measure.
Anyway, maybe it was the 2 glasses of wine I had which helped me get even more into those sad, woe is me feelings, or maybe it was just my overall mood, but I did enjoy reading this. I felt a little bit emotionally battered by the end because too much had happened to the heroine and I wanted to protect her and make sure she lives happily forever after.
The hero was really sweet, he had his moments when I thought he would make the wrong decisions but I actually loved that he never crossed any lines. He trusted the wrong people and let himself be led around a bit but when it mattered he did make up his own mind and acted as such.
He was a great father, a great friend and he really wanted to eventually be a great boyfriend or husband. He wasn’t one of those people who professed they don’t need or want love. He was apprehensive due to his past experience but he did admit to himself what he really craved. I did love how he acted with the heroine. And I think whenever he made a mistake or when he failed to understand something about her it wasn’t because he didn’t try but because their lives were so different, it was hard for him to put himself in her shoes.
The heroine - I think she was exhausted. In every way possible and I honestly don’t understand how there was never talk of her going to therapy. Even if she got her happy ever after - she has been through too much and I didn’t feel like the ending provided me with that sense of healing I wanted to see her have. I get that the hero and heroine ended up getting a HEA but after being witness to everything life threw at her, I can’t help but feel like I was cheated of seeing her journey of being … ok. If you’re gonna have me see her buried to her neck in grief and trauma - show me not just that she got the guy but also her own personal path to healing. I think that would ultimately make her stronger as a partner, mother, friend and person in general.
Anyway, I’ve made this longer than it needed to be. Long review short: I don’t think this is something I’d recommend to just anyone. I wouldn’t recommend it to me either unless I was in a specific mood - because this wasn’t angsty - it was sad.
One more thing I want to mention is the TW note that the author wrote, which I thing was beautifully said.
Here it is: ”TRIGGER WARNING: Child death. Please practice self-care and read this book at another time if this topic is a tender spot for you. The book will be here when you're ready, friend.”
EDIT: Scroll to the comments where you will see that the author Elizabeth, has explained how she handled the mental health representation in the book and she added some extra clarification in regards to the things I mentioned in my review.
Why did I read this book? As per usual, if it has a surprise baby trope, you bet I will read it, and this was exactly the case with this one. On top of all that, I read some reviews stating this was dramatic and angsty and I was in the mood to be sad lol. I’m debating whether this is a 3 or 4 stars for me and I think I’m gonna eventually round it up to 4 because I liked the writing and the story did make me cry regardless of the other issues I took with the plot.
Side Note: I actually saw a TikTok promoting this book - and I was hooked - I wanted to mention this because I think it’s important to note how useful and impactful BookTok can be at promoting books - especially since this seems to be a debut from a new author.
Second side note: this book needs a different cover! As much I like the hot guy covers on books, sometimes they really don’t fit the tone, message and plot of the story - and I think this is exactly what happened with this book.
And I’ll just say this - it was heavy! The topics it approached in terms of trauma, the constant struggle of the heroine, the never ending barrage of bad luck and circumstances- it was … a lot. To be honest I don’t know if a lot of people would be on board with the seemingly never ending drama AND trauma - because if I was the heroine I would need years of therapy, probably 5 times a week for good measure.
Anyway, maybe it was the 2 glasses of wine I had which helped me get even more into those sad, woe is me feelings, or maybe it was just my overall mood, but I did enjoy reading this. I felt a little bit emotionally battered by the end because too much had happened to the heroine and I wanted to protect her and make sure she lives happily forever after.
The hero was really sweet, he had his moments when I thought he would make the wrong decisions but I actually loved that he never crossed any lines. He trusted the wrong people and let himself be led around a bit but when it mattered he did make up his own mind and acted as such.
He was a great father, a great friend and he really wanted to eventually be a great boyfriend or husband. He wasn’t one of those people who professed they don’t need or want love. He was apprehensive due to his past experience but he did admit to himself what he really craved. I did love how he acted with the heroine. And I think whenever he made a mistake or when he failed to understand something about her it wasn’t because he didn’t try but because their lives were so different, it was hard for him to put himself in her shoes.
The heroine - I think she was exhausted. In every way possible and I honestly don’t understand how there was never talk of her going to therapy. Even if she got her happy ever after - she has been through too much and I didn’t feel like the ending provided me with that sense of healing I wanted to see her have. I get that the hero and heroine ended up getting a HEA but after being witness to everything life threw at her, I can’t help but feel like I was cheated of seeing her journey of being … ok. If you’re gonna have me see her buried to her neck in grief and trauma - show me not just that she got the guy but also her own personal path to healing. I think that would ultimately make her stronger as a partner, mother, friend and person in general.
Anyway, I’ve made this longer than it needed to be. Long review short: I don’t think this is something I’d recommend to just anyone. I wouldn’t recommend it to me either unless I was in a specific mood - because this wasn’t angsty - it was sad.
One more thing I want to mention is the TW note that the author wrote, which I thing was beautifully said.
Here it is: ”TRIGGER WARNING: Child death. Please practice self-care and read this book at another time if this topic is a tender spot for you. The book will be here when you're ready, friend.”
EDIT: Scroll to the comments where you will see that the author Elizabeth, has explained how she handled the mental health representation in the book and she added some extra clarification in regards to the things I mentioned in my review.
July 11, 2022
***ARC was provided from the author in exchange for an honest review***
ｃｈｅｃｋ ｏｕｔ ｍｙ ｂｏｏｋｓｔａｇｒａｍ: https://www.instagram.com/the_romanti...
Whit is the lead singer of a successful rock band, but he isn't a typical rockstar... he doesn't party, drink with his band mates or sleep around with groupies. He has a 4-year-old girl at home that he prefers to spend his time with. No wonder his band mates call him "Brother Whit". 🤪
Ava is 23 years old but feels double her age with everything she has experienced, her life has been a tragedy after another. She is now homeless, totally broke and completely alone - without any family or friends. 💔
One evening, instead of dealing with the loneliness, she decides to go out to a 'Fuck It' night and forget her troubles, and then she meets Whit... 💥
After a night of passion, she returns to her life, without exchanging phone numbers or even names - only the memories remain... and then, everything gets complicated! 💔
📚 "𝙂𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙛 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙙𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚. 𝙎𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙙𝙞𝙚𝙨, 𝙣𝙚𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙛." 📚
So while the book was not perfect, I enjoyed it very much. The beginning was a bit clichéd (especially their first night together, because of course she was a virgin and all that jazz 😂). Some of the twists were pretty expected and there were some repetitive parts. Plus, Ava was a bit like an abandoned puppy, so the connection between her and Whit was not always clear to me. 😬
At the same time - the plot was written in a beautiful and heartbreaking way (I even shed a few tears 😱).
I waited to get back to the story every time I had to stop and hoped the characters would get the happy ending they deserved (Although the drama was a bit exaggerated at the end). 💔
I was surprised to know that this is Elizabeth Aton's first book - and this, like the name of the book, was definitely unexpected... The woman can write! 👏👏👏
***ARC was provided from the author in exchange for an honest review***
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📖 ᖴOᒪᒪOᗯ ᗰE Oᑎ IᑎᔕTᗩGᖇᗩᗰ: https://www.instagram.com/the_romanti...
📖 ᐯIᔕIT ᗰY ᗷᒪOG ᖴOᖇ ᗰOᖇE ᖇEᐯIEᗯᔕ: https://books-romance.com/
📖 GOOᗪᖇEᗩᗪᔕ: https://bit.ly/3acMRMP
💕 לקריאת הסקירה בעברית, כנסו לבלוג: https://books-romance.com/ 💕
August 22, 2022
Following a series of unimaginable losses, a bewildered Ava Anderson allows herself a night of freedom, forgetting all the pain and problems that plague her. What she doesn’t expect is the undeniable chemistry with an incognito, Whit Colter, lead singer of the wildly popular, Material Witnesses.
While that one night of reprieve gives her daydream fodder, her circumstances go from bad to worse. As a reader, your heart will chip, crack, and ultimately break right along with Ava‘s. However, at the conclusion of Unexpected, you will be rewarded with a renewed belief in the possibility of a happily ever after.
Elizabeth Aton met and exceeded all of my expectations with her debut novel. I’m never one to wish away the summer, but I’m counting the days until December for Undaunted, Allie and Elijah’s story. I’m crossing my fingers that we see a bit more steam and a lot more of Elizabeth’s trademark humor.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶
Range of Emotions: 😢🥵😭🤬🥰
Ending: HEA
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Contemporary Romance
✨ Tropes: Rockstar, Cinderella Story, Miscommunication, Single Parent
⚠️ Safety Squad: There is one major trigger that’s also a spoiler for a major plot twist. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Unexpected is a standalone.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
While that one night of reprieve gives her daydream fodder, her circumstances go from bad to worse. As a reader, your heart will chip, crack, and ultimately break right along with Ava‘s. However, at the conclusion of Unexpected, you will be rewarded with a renewed belief in the possibility of a happily ever after.
Elizabeth Aton met and exceeded all of my expectations with her debut novel. I’m never one to wish away the summer, but I’m counting the days until December for Undaunted, Allie and Elijah’s story. I’m crossing my fingers that we see a bit more steam and a lot more of Elizabeth’s trademark humor.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶
Range of Emotions: 😢🥵😭🤬🥰
Ending: HEA
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Contemporary Romance
✨ Tropes: Rockstar, Cinderella Story, Miscommunication, Single Parent
⚠️ Safety Squad: There is one major trigger that’s also a spoiler for a major plot twist. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Unexpected is a standalone.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
July 4, 2022
3,5 💔💔💘🌟s
Let me tell you how I felt when I finished reading Unexpected.
I was holding my breath, as if I had just found the 5 winning numbers in a lottery game and I missed only the last one!
I thought I had a great winner and I was so thrilled!!!
Ava’s journey was highly emotional and heartbreaking. The levels of hardship she endured were intolerant!
While Ava’s life broke my heart, she suffered so much that felt like the author went overboard with all those difficulties.
I liked the writing style, it was arresting, intense and strong, yet a few phrases or words were either unsuitable or excessive.
Whit was a very nice character, a rockstar down to earth. Tbh, I wanted more scenes of his rockstar life. He could have been either a businessman or a mechanic. I know life didn’t treat him well, but he was too good to be true (for a rock star persona).
The villain of the story was obvious, but in the end the author went over the top where everything was unravelled.
There were a lot of dramatic moments, with Francis, Val, Michael, it just felt overloaded.
I wanted more scenes with Whit and Ava as a couple in love, lesser miscommunications and a more expanded epilogue.
Regardless, I devoured this story and I will certainly read the next book!
Let me tell you how I felt when I finished reading Unexpected.
I was holding my breath, as if I had just found the 5 winning numbers in a lottery game and I missed only the last one!
I thought I had a great winner and I was so thrilled!!!
Ava’s journey was highly emotional and heartbreaking. The levels of hardship she endured were intolerant!
While Ava’s life broke my heart, she suffered so much that felt like the author went overboard with all those difficulties.
I liked the writing style, it was arresting, intense and strong, yet a few phrases or words were either unsuitable or excessive.
Whit was a very nice character, a rockstar down to earth. Tbh, I wanted more scenes of his rockstar life. He could have been either a businessman or a mechanic. I know life didn’t treat him well, but he was too good to be true (for a rock star persona).
The villain of the story was obvious, but in the end the author went over the top where everything was unravelled.
There were a lot of dramatic moments, with Francis, Val, Michael, it just felt overloaded.
I wanted more scenes with Whit and Ava as a couple in love, lesser miscommunications and a more expanded epilogue.
Regardless, I devoured this story and I will certainly read the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2022
Loved it. Ava went through so much, her POV's had me crying most of the time and I think that it's a testament to how amazing Elizabeth Aton's writing is. I wish we could of had an extended epilogue. Looking forward to reading more from the author.
June 6, 2022
Unexpected by Elizabeth Aton was, well this may be corny to say but…UNEXPECTED! I fell in love with Whit right away. Not just his rock god good looks but his devotion to his daughter and the pain and loneliness he struggles with even as from the outside his life looks picture perfect. Then you meet Ava, and her pain and loneliness makes Whit’s look like a walk in the freaking park. I love how strong she is, how she doesn’t throw herself at Whit, the opposite in fact, and how she is committed to making it on her own. She isn’t the typical “damsel in distress” that stars in too many romance novels. And no matter how hard or dismal her life may get it doesn’t change who she is at her core. I was rooting for her from the start! This book had it all for me and then some. There is hot and heavy romance, but it doesn’t feel forced. The author does a great job of avoiding all the cliché and cringy moments that can really ruin a sex scene for me. There is drama, a LOT of drama, I threw my phone at one point and at another I pitched a toddler sized tantrum that had my husband running for cover! I am not one to be surprised as I have a strange “spidey-sense” when it comes to plot twists, but this book got me and it got me HARD…well good, it got me GOOD! I had actual goosebumps, I got nervous, I was angry, I got turned on, I cycled through every emotion reading this book. The pace of the story is unrushed in just the right way and everything that the author tells you is pertinent to the story. I found myself simultaneously dying to get to the end and dreading it being over. I highly recommend this book! I will warn you that you may not be able to put it down so read responsibly!
July 1, 2022
REVIEW: 3 STARS
"This is life in all its ugly and dirty reality. Not one of us matters, and no amount of love will spare us from it. We are all alone and will always be alone."
That opening quote is kinda ominous, wouldn't you say? Well, it clearly set the tone for this book and it was a little rough at times, but summed up the heroine's situation quite well.
I love finding a new to me author. I especially love when it's a debut author because as long as they can keep me interested, I will continue to read and enjoy watching them grow in their craft. I feel like this is such an amazing storyline, and I really enjoyed the story for what it was, but was hoping for a little more strength in the words - a little more depth. Whit was a really good guy, and Ava was such an honest character. Aton really pulled their story together.
I did not find this on my own. To be fair, this book description was originally sent to me by a friend that happened to see it in her IG feed. Once I saw it, I knew I needed to read it. I love a down and out heroine and a rockstar/heavy hitter/Mr. MoneyBags because I love the ability for personal emotions and lack of trust to play a pivotal role in the blossoming of the relationship at hand. Distrust and pain are hard ones to work through, and that was very obvious with this couple - so that was good to read and watch them work through. It added just the right amount of drive to give the push and pull that I love so much. I loved that she was able to describe the variables between these two characters. Obviously, we have a well to do, rich rockstar that has the world in the palm of his hands and a struggling waitress that has nothing to her name and is really feeling the pinch of the world - it was definitely what I signed up for.
So once I did a little recon and found her and her signup, I was ready to read this one. For real, her ARC signup had me laughing with her sass and hilarity. She has a sense of humor that I loved, but was super sad to not actually see that part in her book, but that gives me something to look forward to. That obviously doesn't always transfer, but she is hilarious and I hope the next book has some more of her quick wit and personality in it. In all seriousness, I would love to read a RomCom by her. I don't usually like those - but she has the perfect wit to pull it off!
"I usually think smirks make for jerks, but Lord does this man make a smirk look like sex."
Whit was delicious in the sense that I loved his heart. He worked hard for what he had and was very protective of what was his - so very admirable and made me fall a little harder for him. Ava was determined and had a good, solid head on her shoulders and I couldn't help but be her cheerleader. As positive as I want to be about this book - because I feel like Aton has the ability to write that 5 star, emotionally gripping book, some things stood out that dropped this from high praise to a recommendation with reason.
I found myself enjoying the flow of the book pretty easily. Basic writing isn't the right description, but very laid back, chill writing - it had an easy flow to it. Some word usage had me quirking my eyebrows a few times because it almost felt as if it didn't fit the established tone. They felt gratuitous ...cherry picking some words for added oomph. I understand using words that cause one to think, to kind of up the ante for brain power - I most certainly appreciate it. But when the writing is very easy going and smooth and you try to throw random words in that are a few levels higher than the actual storytelling vibe - that jostles the flow for me. I struggled with that, but it didn't ruin the overall enjoyment of the book as a whole. Just something that stuck out to me.
However, not only were some words completely out of place, I cringed a few times when intimate descriptions were laid out. If you cannot adequately give me a good visual of how this is going down, you're going to ruin some of the "steaminess" of the story, which was an unfortunate side effect of some of her descriptions. Case in point: "His heavy length presses against the outside of my sopping folds." Ummm.....gross, ok? Sopping folds? Just no. I feel like she has some room to grow on the sensual side of her writing. I read it. I saw it. I know she has the ability to tell me a story. I just want to reeeead that part of their intimacy without cringing.
I did struggle with the amount of crap thrown Ava's way. I understand showing a character going through a really rough time so we can become emotionally entangled with the character, but it felt overly played out and the beatdown was ultimately hard to continue reading. By chapter 16, I found myself skimming at the first sign of MORE DRAMA than any one person should have to deal with. I understand having a period in your life that is down and out - don’t get me wrong, I’ve been there and I’ve done that, but the constant trepidation and downbeat of Ava‘s drum was very tiring and felt toxic to the overall story. Unfortunately, I also felt like we spent more time getting to know Francis, dealing with Ava‘s problems, and Whit as a single father, individually - but decidedly less time working on the actual reason for a romance book, which should've been the relationship between Whit and Ava. I wish we spent more time growing their relationship and less time building up other parts of the story that overall were nice but not the reason for the story.
I'm not an author, don't pretend to be - and most definitely don't know what goes into it but I know what I like and don't like to see in a book. I'm here for the romance aspect of it - the growing of a love that cannot be tamed, social aspects be damned. Needless to say, I liked what I read with a few minor exceptions. Overall - it was a positive experience with a few hiccups along the way. I'm looking forward to her next book, because it's going to be a couple that you could *feel* their sexual tension just from the interactions we got in this story. I am so going to check that one out!
Disclaimer: she has MANY raving 5 star reviews, so please take this with a grain of salt. This is only my personal opinion.
"This is me not wanting to live anywhere you're not because you feel like home."
~BEE
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"This is life in all its ugly and dirty reality. Not one of us matters, and no amount of love will spare us from it. We are all alone and will always be alone."
That opening quote is kinda ominous, wouldn't you say? Well, it clearly set the tone for this book and it was a little rough at times, but summed up the heroine's situation quite well.
I love finding a new to me author. I especially love when it's a debut author because as long as they can keep me interested, I will continue to read and enjoy watching them grow in their craft. I feel like this is such an amazing storyline, and I really enjoyed the story for what it was, but was hoping for a little more strength in the words - a little more depth. Whit was a really good guy, and Ava was such an honest character. Aton really pulled their story together.
I did not find this on my own. To be fair, this book description was originally sent to me by a friend that happened to see it in her IG feed. Once I saw it, I knew I needed to read it. I love a down and out heroine and a rockstar/heavy hitter/Mr. MoneyBags because I love the ability for personal emotions and lack of trust to play a pivotal role in the blossoming of the relationship at hand. Distrust and pain are hard ones to work through, and that was very obvious with this couple - so that was good to read and watch them work through. It added just the right amount of drive to give the push and pull that I love so much. I loved that she was able to describe the variables between these two characters. Obviously, we have a well to do, rich rockstar that has the world in the palm of his hands and a struggling waitress that has nothing to her name and is really feeling the pinch of the world - it was definitely what I signed up for.
So once I did a little recon and found her and her signup, I was ready to read this one. For real, her ARC signup had me laughing with her sass and hilarity. She has a sense of humor that I loved, but was super sad to not actually see that part in her book, but that gives me something to look forward to. That obviously doesn't always transfer, but she is hilarious and I hope the next book has some more of her quick wit and personality in it. In all seriousness, I would love to read a RomCom by her. I don't usually like those - but she has the perfect wit to pull it off!
"I usually think smirks make for jerks, but Lord does this man make a smirk look like sex."
Whit was delicious in the sense that I loved his heart. He worked hard for what he had and was very protective of what was his - so very admirable and made me fall a little harder for him. Ava was determined and had a good, solid head on her shoulders and I couldn't help but be her cheerleader. As positive as I want to be about this book - because I feel like Aton has the ability to write that 5 star, emotionally gripping book, some things stood out that dropped this from high praise to a recommendation with reason.
I found myself enjoying the flow of the book pretty easily. Basic writing isn't the right description, but very laid back, chill writing - it had an easy flow to it. Some word usage had me quirking my eyebrows a few times because it almost felt as if it didn't fit the established tone. They felt gratuitous ...cherry picking some words for added oomph. I understand using words that cause one to think, to kind of up the ante for brain power - I most certainly appreciate it. But when the writing is very easy going and smooth and you try to throw random words in that are a few levels higher than the actual storytelling vibe - that jostles the flow for me. I struggled with that, but it didn't ruin the overall enjoyment of the book as a whole. Just something that stuck out to me.
However, not only were some words completely out of place, I cringed a few times when intimate descriptions were laid out. If you cannot adequately give me a good visual of how this is going down, you're going to ruin some of the "steaminess" of the story, which was an unfortunate side effect of some of her descriptions. Case in point: "His heavy length presses against the outside of my sopping folds." Ummm.....gross, ok? Sopping folds? Just no. I feel like she has some room to grow on the sensual side of her writing. I read it. I saw it. I know she has the ability to tell me a story. I just want to reeeead that part of their intimacy without cringing.
I did struggle with the amount of crap thrown Ava's way. I understand showing a character going through a really rough time so we can become emotionally entangled with the character, but it felt overly played out and the beatdown was ultimately hard to continue reading. By chapter 16, I found myself skimming at the first sign of MORE DRAMA than any one person should have to deal with. I understand having a period in your life that is down and out - don’t get me wrong, I’ve been there and I’ve done that, but the constant trepidation and downbeat of Ava‘s drum was very tiring and felt toxic to the overall story. Unfortunately, I also felt like we spent more time getting to know Francis, dealing with Ava‘s problems, and Whit as a single father, individually - but decidedly less time working on the actual reason for a romance book, which should've been the relationship between Whit and Ava. I wish we spent more time growing their relationship and less time building up other parts of the story that overall were nice but not the reason for the story.
I'm not an author, don't pretend to be - and most definitely don't know what goes into it but I know what I like and don't like to see in a book. I'm here for the romance aspect of it - the growing of a love that cannot be tamed, social aspects be damned. Needless to say, I liked what I read with a few minor exceptions. Overall - it was a positive experience with a few hiccups along the way. I'm looking forward to her next book, because it's going to be a couple that you could *feel* their sexual tension just from the interactions we got in this story. I am so going to check that one out!
Disclaimer: she has MANY raving 5 star reviews, so please take this with a grain of salt. This is only my personal opinion.
"This is me not wanting to live anywhere you're not because you feel like home."
~BEE
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April 5, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
''It is what it is''
Safety warnings:
- H (late 20s?) / h 23
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Loss of loved ones
- Mention of physical abuse/child neglect
- Loss of child
- Trauma
- Homelessness
- Unexpected pregnancy
- Single parent
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
Ava has been dealt with the worst hand I think I have ever read for a book FMC. One by one she has lost her father, mother, and younger brother in the span of just a few years. She is about to become homeless as she cannot afford her family homes mortgage. She cannot afford to pay for the utilities, so she lives in the house without water or electricity or food.
One night she decides to live a little bit before it all implodes and indulges in life. She meets Whit who we come to find is a famous rock star. He is incognito in the bar and picks her up and it is NOT because he is a manwhore, he is actually a single father and has been celibate for ages (probably since she was born). He cannot stop but feel the pull towards Ava and takes her to his hotel room.
Ava lies about her virginity, and he never finds out about, but they spend the night together but never exchange names. She never knew who he was even after as she does not own a tv, has a prepaid flip phone and the radio in her car was stolen years ago. Her entire life revolved around her working or surviving.
In the morning, they go their separate ways but sadly her boss fires her because she witnessed Ava hooking up with Whit and earlier that evening wanted him for herself but he rejected her so out of spite she fires Ava and refuses to recommend her to other places.
Ava loses her home (basically kicked out) and is forced to live in her car. She finds a job at a seedy bar and continues to live in her car until a kind older man named Francis offers his couch and she accepts.
Francis was the definition of an angel tbh. He was the sweetest man and he loved Ava. He was her savior in the moments she needed the most and never wanted anything from her.
HOWEVER,.... SURPRISE
Ava passes out after feeling horrible and it's revealed she was pregnant (well we knew but she was oblivious) and had a premature baby.
The whole thing is captured on video and is famous, Whit sees it and believes it to his child.
You see Whit has not stopped thinking about her and immediately regretted not getting her contact information but needed to be home with his little girl. He wishes he could see his mystery girl so when he sees her, he flies out to see her and also finds out if that is his son.
In the midst of all this we are introduced to a few side characters: Allie, Elijah and Val.
Allie and Elijah (one of his bandmates) have been best friends for YEARS and he trusts them completely.
Val is the bands manager and his financial manager. She seemed to be always on top of things for him and always having his best interest, but you soon find out that she is evil and plays a massive, horrible role in their story.
Whit remains by Ava's side after a first encounter, and they are there for their son Michael. Whit refuses to leave her side and delays the release of the band’s album. Pissing off Val.
They follow a basic routine since Micharl is in the NCU.
Sadly though, during this Francis passes away, leaving Ava alone once again with no home but Whit refuses to allow it and moves her into the rental home and takes care of her. They gradually give in to their attraction and fall slowly in love but of course not everything works out for Ava right?
If you thought Ava would get a break then you are wrong.
One day Val shows up at the hospital and informs Ava that Whit is going to go back to LA for his band and life and he will leave Ava alone. Val being a great actress gets Ava to believe but at the same moment Michael goes into respiratory arrest and the scene is muted since they are in room with him, and Ava/Val are in the hall watching through the glass. Val goes in after the doctors seem sad and comes out to tell Ava that Michael has died.
Ava distraught, leaves and runs off.
This is where Val is pure evil:
She lied about Michael being dead, the doctors just said that he needed more time to recuperate. Val lies to Whit about Ava leaving and puts her stuff in garbage bags, sends it to Ava with a note from ''Whit'' along with ASHES.
Allie being the best friend anyone could ask for knows something is up and tells Whit things are fishy with Val and finally Whit wakes up and realizes it too.
Ava is found after a month or more and is told her son is not dead and that Val was behind it all, even going as far as faking a death certificate.
VAL HAS MORE SHIT ON HER PLATE BUT OMG. How fucking horrible?
AND FINALLY, AVA catches a break and Whit confesses his love for her and his future plans that all involve her.
This book was emotionally draining.
Every second I felt like another bombshell would hit Ava.
Despite everything she went through, she was so brave and never wanted more than what she could get. She didn't see Whit as a bank account.
Whit was an idiot, but he also trusted someone who always made him think she was trustworthy.
I'm glad this got an HEA because if anyone deserves one it was Ava lol
''It is what it is''
Safety warnings:
- H (late 20s?) / h 23
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Loss of loved ones
- Mention of physical abuse/child neglect
- Loss of child
- Trauma
- Homelessness
- Unexpected pregnancy
- Single parent
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
Ava has been dealt with the worst hand I think I have ever read for a book FMC. One by one she has lost her father, mother, and younger brother in the span of just a few years. She is about to become homeless as she cannot afford her family homes mortgage. She cannot afford to pay for the utilities, so she lives in the house without water or electricity or food.
One night she decides to live a little bit before it all implodes and indulges in life. She meets Whit who we come to find is a famous rock star. He is incognito in the bar and picks her up and it is NOT because he is a manwhore, he is actually a single father and has been celibate for ages (probably since she was born). He cannot stop but feel the pull towards Ava and takes her to his hotel room.
Ava lies about her virginity, and he never finds out about, but they spend the night together but never exchange names. She never knew who he was even after as she does not own a tv, has a prepaid flip phone and the radio in her car was stolen years ago. Her entire life revolved around her working or surviving.
In the morning, they go their separate ways but sadly her boss fires her because she witnessed Ava hooking up with Whit and earlier that evening wanted him for herself but he rejected her so out of spite she fires Ava and refuses to recommend her to other places.
Ava loses her home (basically kicked out) and is forced to live in her car. She finds a job at a seedy bar and continues to live in her car until a kind older man named Francis offers his couch and she accepts.
Francis was the definition of an angel tbh. He was the sweetest man and he loved Ava. He was her savior in the moments she needed the most and never wanted anything from her.
HOWEVER,.... SURPRISE
Ava passes out after feeling horrible and it's revealed she was pregnant (well we knew but she was oblivious) and had a premature baby.
The whole thing is captured on video and is famous, Whit sees it and believes it to his child.
You see Whit has not stopped thinking about her and immediately regretted not getting her contact information but needed to be home with his little girl. He wishes he could see his mystery girl so when he sees her, he flies out to see her and also finds out if that is his son.
In the midst of all this we are introduced to a few side characters: Allie, Elijah and Val.
Allie and Elijah (one of his bandmates) have been best friends for YEARS and he trusts them completely.
Val is the bands manager and his financial manager. She seemed to be always on top of things for him and always having his best interest, but you soon find out that she is evil and plays a massive, horrible role in their story.
Whit remains by Ava's side after a first encounter, and they are there for their son Michael. Whit refuses to leave her side and delays the release of the band’s album. Pissing off Val.
They follow a basic routine since Micharl is in the NCU.
Sadly though, during this Francis passes away, leaving Ava alone once again with no home but Whit refuses to allow it and moves her into the rental home and takes care of her. They gradually give in to their attraction and fall slowly in love but of course not everything works out for Ava right?
If you thought Ava would get a break then you are wrong.
One day Val shows up at the hospital and informs Ava that Whit is going to go back to LA for his band and life and he will leave Ava alone. Val being a great actress gets Ava to believe but at the same moment Michael goes into respiratory arrest and the scene is muted since they are in room with him, and Ava/Val are in the hall watching through the glass. Val goes in after the doctors seem sad and comes out to tell Ava that Michael has died.
Ava distraught, leaves and runs off.
This is where Val is pure evil:
She lied about Michael being dead, the doctors just said that he needed more time to recuperate. Val lies to Whit about Ava leaving and puts her stuff in garbage bags, sends it to Ava with a note from ''Whit'' along with ASHES.
Allie being the best friend anyone could ask for knows something is up and tells Whit things are fishy with Val and finally Whit wakes up and realizes it too.
Ava is found after a month or more and is told her son is not dead and that Val was behind it all, even going as far as faking a death certificate.
VAL HAS MORE SHIT ON HER PLATE BUT OMG. How fucking horrible?
AND FINALLY, AVA catches a break and Whit confesses his love for her and his future plans that all involve her.
This book was emotionally draining.
Every second I felt like another bombshell would hit Ava.
Despite everything she went through, she was so brave and never wanted more than what she could get. She didn't see Whit as a bank account.
Whit was an idiot, but he also trusted someone who always made him think she was trustworthy.
I'm glad this got an HEA because if anyone deserves one it was Ava lol
June 3, 2022
I was hooked from the moment I started reading this story. It took me for a whirlwind of emotions and there are some parts where I was glad I wasn't reading around anyone else. Elizabeth Aton is an amazing author… This story did not disappoint one little bit except for the fact that it wasn't longer as I just wanted to keep reading. There is love, loss, and all types of emotions throughout it.
I recieved an early copy of this book as part of an arc research team
I recieved an early copy of this book as part of an arc research team
June 30, 2022
I absolutely love, love - LOVE Unexpected! Elizabeth Aton, thank you so much for sharing your book with me in exchange for an honest review. Your debut novel blew me away and deserves 5 HUGE stars!
Unexpected the story of Ava and Whit.
Ava is still in so much pain. She couldn't afford her brother's cremation. And it hurts her to the bone that he got cremated with others. She is struggling to make ends meet. But even though all her loss, she has a fighting spirit and keeps putting one foot in front of the other.
Whit is a famous musician and lead singer of a band. He just gave a concert and is dying to return home to his daughter Lily. Lily's mother is out of the picture and he is raising her on his own with the help of a few friends.
One night Ava decides to spend her twenty bucks of tips in a bar. She puts on her most gorgeous dress and goes out.
Whit is so stressed after Lily's mother called him for money, and only money. He is stressed out and decides to go out for a drink.
And then they meet. Sparks fly and I absolutely love that scene! Their connection flew of the pages and ignited my soul. And that is where the story truly kickstarts. The author asked for a spoiler free review, and I will honor that wish.
Unexpected is a beautiful, gorgeous and heartbreaking story. I didn't expect a few plot twists and one had my mouth gaping wide open!
But what I love most is that both Ava and Whit are kind, honest and wonderful people. Most books with a rockstar contain so much hostility, stupid actions, cheating and God knows whats more.
I loved how true it felt. How real. The realness of it grabbed my soul. And my heart cannot stop screaming: PLEASE PICK UP THIS BOOK. It deserves to be read! It doesn't feel like a debut novel. It stunning and captivating and in recommend it to all who read this review!
5 HUGE stars from me!
Unexpected the story of Ava and Whit.
Ava is still in so much pain. She couldn't afford her brother's cremation. And it hurts her to the bone that he got cremated with others. She is struggling to make ends meet. But even though all her loss, she has a fighting spirit and keeps putting one foot in front of the other.
Whit is a famous musician and lead singer of a band. He just gave a concert and is dying to return home to his daughter Lily. Lily's mother is out of the picture and he is raising her on his own with the help of a few friends.
One night Ava decides to spend her twenty bucks of tips in a bar. She puts on her most gorgeous dress and goes out.
Whit is so stressed after Lily's mother called him for money, and only money. He is stressed out and decides to go out for a drink.
And then they meet. Sparks fly and I absolutely love that scene! Their connection flew of the pages and ignited my soul. And that is where the story truly kickstarts. The author asked for a spoiler free review, and I will honor that wish.
Unexpected is a beautiful, gorgeous and heartbreaking story. I didn't expect a few plot twists and one had my mouth gaping wide open!
But what I love most is that both Ava and Whit are kind, honest and wonderful people. Most books with a rockstar contain so much hostility, stupid actions, cheating and God knows whats more.
I loved how true it felt. How real. The realness of it grabbed my soul. And my heart cannot stop screaming: PLEASE PICK UP THIS BOOK. It deserves to be read! It doesn't feel like a debut novel. It stunning and captivating and in recommend it to all who read this review!
5 HUGE stars from me!
June 1, 2022
This is one of those stories that will grip you and not let go. I read Unexpected as a Beta reader and just loved the characters. They felt real and raw and I couldn’t put this book down. I laughed. I definitely cried. I smiled. I felt broken hearted. It left me with a book hangover and I had a hard time starting something new, which, for me, is always a sign it was good! I can’t wait to read more of this author.
July 5, 2022
ONS and unexpected pregnancy
Nice sweet hero
Jinxed by Voldemort heroine
Evil H manager
Dramma a lot of drama waterfalls of drama and no communication
Not happy
1,5 stars the 0.5 is for baby Mike 😚
Nice sweet hero
Jinxed by Voldemort heroine
Evil H manager
Dramma a lot of drama waterfalls of drama and no communication
Not happy
1,5 stars the 0.5 is for baby Mike 😚
July 14, 2022
This book was not for me. I am of generally sound mind and this book is traumatic. There is nothing light or fun in it. The h has constant struggles, hardships and bad luck. She even meets the rockstar and it manages to get worse. The ending was just over the top when the villains plot is revealed, like WTF, a whole subplot that could have been its own book. I was left feeling like I had a weight on my chest. Don't get me wrong I like some angst and a good cry but this is beyond. I was so overwhelmed by the heroines life I couldn't cry. It wasn't a cathartic angst more like she should get a cleansing or special blessing. So no thx.
I read this was the authors debut novel. Good for you girl! Just remember less is more. I found this author on TikTok and it's making me question if I should trust those videos. 😂
I read this was the authors debut novel. Good for you girl! Just remember less is more. I found this author on TikTok and it's making me question if I should trust those videos. 😂
June 6, 2022
The name of this book says it all. The plot twists were very much so unexpected and blindsiding. The characters went through so much individually and went through even more together. My heart literally aches so much for both of them through the whole book. It was a unique story with a very hard won happy ending. This is definitely an epic love story that will stick with you.
June 24, 2022
★4 abundantly sweet stars★
Expect the unexpected from this debut novel by new to me author Elizabeth Aton.
Whit is a rockstar whose one night stand will completely take him by surprise. Unlike what you would expect from a man leading a famous life he felt like home and safety, he’s anchored to his values and he never lets his guard down. Fame didn’t get in the way of his being a decent human with feelings. The story focuses on Whit as a man and not on his career, since rockstar isn’t my scene I didn’t mind it at all.
Ava is as good hearted as they come, life has thrown her punch after punch but she never loses her kindness and love for other people. Her selfless side is one of the most endearing trait in her admirable personality. The drama surrounding Ava is a lot, borderline excessive however, if you like this kind of trope you have material to sink your teeth in.
Told in dual POV the narrative pace would appeal to readers who enjoy a slow paced story. Although I appreciate the attention to details I felt sometimes the descriptions were too long winded thus slowing down the progress of the story. The chemistry between Ava and Whit is evident from their first encounter, I could feel the atmosphere fizzle whenever they were close, however their relationship was more pointed on their feelings than steamy connection, my inner slut
would have liked more spice in the bedroom.
Overall this was a comfortable, steady journey, if you like your boat to sail safe calm water a sweet hero and don’t mind little to no smut, then this is the right ticket for you.
Expect the unexpected from this debut novel by new to me author Elizabeth Aton.
Whit is a rockstar whose one night stand will completely take him by surprise. Unlike what you would expect from a man leading a famous life he felt like home and safety, he’s anchored to his values and he never lets his guard down. Fame didn’t get in the way of his being a decent human with feelings. The story focuses on Whit as a man and not on his career, since rockstar isn’t my scene I didn’t mind it at all.
Ava is as good hearted as they come, life has thrown her punch after punch but she never loses her kindness and love for other people. Her selfless side is one of the most endearing trait in her admirable personality. The drama surrounding Ava is a lot, borderline excessive however, if you like this kind of trope you have material to sink your teeth in.
Told in dual POV the narrative pace would appeal to readers who enjoy a slow paced story. Although I appreciate the attention to details I felt sometimes the descriptions were too long winded thus slowing down the progress of the story. The chemistry between Ava and Whit is evident from their first encounter, I could feel the atmosphere fizzle whenever they were close, however their relationship was more pointed on their feelings than steamy connection, my inner slut
would have liked more spice in the bedroom.
Overall this was a comfortable, steady journey, if you like your boat to sail safe calm water a sweet hero and don’t mind little to no smut, then this is the right ticket for you.
July 1, 2022
Ava has lost almost everything. One night she decides to cut lose and take a break from her depressing everyday life and go out for a night after her shift waitressing. It’s there she meets a mysterious very handsome stranger. They agree to one night of no names and no numbers.
As a famous rockstar you’d think Whit would be the life of the party but as a single dad with broken trust he’s more likely to be found in bed early then at the bar after a show. But tonight is different. He needs to blow off some steam when he sees a beautiful woman and he forgets his antisocial ways for a chance to spend just one night with her. He agrees to her no names stipulations and in the morning he’s headed back home.
After that night their paths should have never crossed again but fate has other plans.
Okay so I can’t tell you much more about the story than this because you really need to go into this one blind from here on out to get the best experience. There are some big twists in this one. My heart broke so many times when reading Ava and Whit’s story. The angst is next level and Elizabeth really puts us through the ringer to get to their HEA. But because of their struggles that HEA just feels so much more gratifying.
I will say that there is a trope in here that is not my favorite but I still really enjoyed this book despite that. If you’re a fan of rockstar, single dad, one night stand and high angst stories then I think you’ll love this one!
Thanks so much to Elizabeth for giving me an early copy to review!
As a famous rockstar you’d think Whit would be the life of the party but as a single dad with broken trust he’s more likely to be found in bed early then at the bar after a show. But tonight is different. He needs to blow off some steam when he sees a beautiful woman and he forgets his antisocial ways for a chance to spend just one night with her. He agrees to her no names stipulations and in the morning he’s headed back home.
After that night their paths should have never crossed again but fate has other plans.
Okay so I can’t tell you much more about the story than this because you really need to go into this one blind from here on out to get the best experience. There are some big twists in this one. My heart broke so many times when reading Ava and Whit’s story. The angst is next level and Elizabeth really puts us through the ringer to get to their HEA. But because of their struggles that HEA just feels so much more gratifying.
I will say that there is a trope in here that is not my favorite but I still really enjoyed this book despite that. If you’re a fan of rockstar, single dad, one night stand and high angst stories then I think you’ll love this one!
Thanks so much to Elizabeth for giving me an early copy to review!
June 20, 2022
4.5 stars
Stop reading the reviews, and read the book! This story is an experience you need to go in blind. But, I will say this one did bring a tear or two, and I am not a crier.
For a debut effort, I was blown away at the quality of the storyteller the author is. I am going to enjoy reading many great books in the future.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Stop reading the reviews, and read the book! This story is an experience you need to go in blind. But, I will say this one did bring a tear or two, and I am not a crier.
For a debut effort, I was blown away at the quality of the storyteller the author is. I am going to enjoy reading many great books in the future.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
June 26, 2022
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4/5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : None
Hero : Whit
Heroine : Ava
Pace of the story : Moderate
Review :
This was a new to me author and I loved this one!! I am a dark romance lover but sometimes I hit the angst contemporary genre too for a change so I picked this book. I definitely did not regret that decision.
Whit and Ava have a tale which is full of emotional pain, character growth and so much love. It has tropes like rock star, single parent, a hardworking heroine who is struggling with her life and the chemistry between them is amazing. I read this book in a single go and even though there was no big shock or plot twist, it was a smooth read, the emotions kept me going and I liked it.
Definitely recommending this book to all the contemporary romance loving people out there!
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June 19, 2022
Unexpected was an interesting reading with plot twists that capture you throughout so many chapters. Ava and Whit’s story has felt like a rollercoaster of emotions. They both go through so much not only together but also individually. I liked getting to know both characters and reading their pov! Ava is honestly so strong and I LOVE her character. Her personality was written so well and you really feel for her and what she goes through.
Ava and Whit’s chemistry is just insane and I liked reading their moments together. Whether it was based on lust, love, happiness, and strong emotions you really see how much they feel for each other.
Overall this was a really great read! It’s the first I read by this author and it definitely won’t be the last (:
Ava and Whit’s chemistry is just insane and I liked reading their moments together. Whether it was based on lust, love, happiness, and strong emotions you really see how much they feel for each other.
Overall this was a really great read! It’s the first I read by this author and it definitely won’t be the last (:
June 17, 2022
Omg! I just finished Unexpected… I laughed, I cried, I got so mad and then happy again! What a rollercoaster ride of emotions that was!! I thought ‘oh I’ll just read a couple of chapters..’ next minute… 4 and a half hours have passed!!! The twists and turns will have you gripping whatever you are reading on, not wanting to let go! There may be some tantrums thrown.. but it is so worth it!!! It was un-put-downable! Elizabeth Aton you made my heart hurt - in a good way! I don’t usually cry when reading books.. Well done on your debut novel! It was well written! I can’t wait to continue the Material Witnesses journey with you!!
June 27, 2022
A rockstar walks into a bar, picks up a chick, they have a one night stand, sounds like every other Rich Rockstar/Everyday Normal Female book you’ve read right?……WRONG, so so wrong
This book takes you on an emotional ride and it is so good it is hard to believe that this is a debut novel!
This book has one of the strongest, bravest most resilient female main characters I have ever read.
This has the heart of Carian Cole’s Asher’s & Embers Series and the drama of Kylie Scott’s Stage Dive Series - if you like either of those you need to read this.
Cannot wait for the next book in this series.
This book takes you on an emotional ride and it is so good it is hard to believe that this is a debut novel!
This book has one of the strongest, bravest most resilient female main characters I have ever read.
This has the heart of Carian Cole’s Asher’s & Embers Series and the drama of Kylie Scott’s Stage Dive Series - if you like either of those you need to read this.
Cannot wait for the next book in this series.
June 6, 2022
This engaging first novel by Elizabeth Aton opens up hitting the ground running.
I was up several nights way too late because I couldn’t put it down. The twists and turns kept coming and kept me riveted from beginning to end. It’s sexy, heartbreaking and intense with an HEA that makes the gut wrenching feels worth it. I’ve read so many romances and I’ve never encountered characters like this. It’s hard even to put it into a specific genre. That’s what makes this so unique.
Loved the build-up. We really dive deep into what Ava is going through in her life and feel all of it right along with her. It’s refreshing to see a rockstar MC, like Whit, where the story is based on his life outside of his career. These two are magical together.
You know a book is really good when you get those pangs. You know the ones... that feel like someone reached in you gut and twisted it. Yea.. that’s this book. I keep starting and deleting sentences as I write this review as I don’t want to give away spoilers. And boy… there’s a few whoppers. So, I’ll leave with… You won’t be disappointed with this sexy engaging read.
Advanced reader copy provided by the author. All opinions are my own.
I was up several nights way too late because I couldn’t put it down. The twists and turns kept coming and kept me riveted from beginning to end. It’s sexy, heartbreaking and intense with an HEA that makes the gut wrenching feels worth it. I’ve read so many romances and I’ve never encountered characters like this. It’s hard even to put it into a specific genre. That’s what makes this so unique.
Loved the build-up. We really dive deep into what Ava is going through in her life and feel all of it right along with her. It’s refreshing to see a rockstar MC, like Whit, where the story is based on his life outside of his career. These two are magical together.
You know a book is really good when you get those pangs. You know the ones... that feel like someone reached in you gut and twisted it. Yea.. that’s this book. I keep starting and deleting sentences as I write this review as I don’t want to give away spoilers. And boy… there’s a few whoppers. So, I’ll leave with… You won’t be disappointed with this sexy engaging read.
Advanced reader copy provided by the author. All opinions are my own.
June 10, 2022
Grab your Kleenex and hold on tight while your heart is broken, your eyes are flooded and your mind is stunned. This is an unforgettable book by an outstanding new author
July 1, 2022
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: ONS
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥
Unexpected is absolutely wonderful debut novel that drew me in from the first page with the explosive, pain filled, opening paragraphs... and just kept coming. Whit is a rock star that feels super discombobulated. Like he's living a double life. He's a rockstar, but really he's just a dad. A dad with crappy luck with the women in his life, just trying to do right by his daughter. Ava, oh Ava. That girl brings new meaning to down on her luck. Her story will have you in tears, her pain super relatable and real. They both want to escape for the night, so they do. With each other. No names. No games. But the connection felt so real, they both regretted not sharing information by the end of the following day. When a chance encounter brings Ava back to Whit, they both need to figure out if a chance at happiness is worth the pain that can come with it.
Holy h e double hockey sticks people! Heart wrenching! I laughed. I sobbed. Like, multiple times. I don't cry on the regular from books and this one wrecked me. Well written, interesting storyline, super witty dialogue, and even a little twist you may or may not see coming - all things that bring a smile to my face. Whit was an awesome, sweet hero with the biggest soft spot for his girls. There is really nothing better than finding a debut novel that knocks your socks off. I'll definitely be keeping my eye out for the next book from this author. Looking forward to great things!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes contain spoilers
Trope: ONS
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥
Unexpected is absolutely wonderful debut novel that drew me in from the first page with the explosive, pain filled, opening paragraphs... and just kept coming. Whit is a rock star that feels super discombobulated. Like he's living a double life. He's a rockstar, but really he's just a dad. A dad with crappy luck with the women in his life, just trying to do right by his daughter. Ava, oh Ava. That girl brings new meaning to down on her luck. Her story will have you in tears, her pain super relatable and real. They both want to escape for the night, so they do. With each other. No names. No games. But the connection felt so real, they both regretted not sharing information by the end of the following day. When a chance encounter brings Ava back to Whit, they both need to figure out if a chance at happiness is worth the pain that can come with it.
Holy h e double hockey sticks people! Heart wrenching! I laughed. I sobbed. Like, multiple times. I don't cry on the regular from books and this one wrecked me. Well written, interesting storyline, super witty dialogue, and even a little twist you may or may not see coming - all things that bring a smile to my face. Whit was an awesome, sweet hero with the biggest soft spot for his girls. There is really nothing better than finding a debut novel that knocks your socks off. I'll definitely be keeping my eye out for the next book from this author. Looking forward to great things!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes contain spoilers
July 1, 2022
I've seen a lot of comments lately about romance readers wanting Rockstar romances with more depth, without the usual groupies and drugs that seem to surround them and YA'LL, THIS IS THE BOOK YOU ARE LOOKING FOR. Omfg, this book is so freaking emotional. It was nothing like I thought it would be and that's such a freaking good thing! And knowing this is this authors DEBUT?! Knock me over with a feather! This lady is going to have an excellent career, mark my words!!
This book starts off with two people who couldn't be more opposite: Whit is a super famous musician with a life of luxury but still feels all alone while being a single dad and trying to give his daughter the very best out life while being the best dad. Then there's Ava : Look I grew up super poor so I immediately connected with this girl, but it also made me realize that while my family certainly struggled, I was blessed too because there's poor and there's what Ava was going through. Life just couldn't give this poor girl a break: she lost her entire family, her house, and she almost died too. I went through so many tears with her story that I full on cheered when Whits babdmates enveloped her in their makeshift family. And Avas relationship with his daughter was absolutely PRECIOUS. I seriously just loved everything about this woman -- she's so real, so relatable and her struggles are just so very painful to read but it's what so many people in our country goes through , so while it was painful to read, our author here was very accurate in everything, which just goes to show just how much care she has for her own characters.
As for Whit, man I adored him. There was times he was dumb (but still lovable) but I loved how at his very core that all he wanted was to be a good dad and give his daughter a good home. When he meets a woman that has him completely enamored and they have a one night stand, he never expected his life to change the way he did, but he found the missing piece of himself along the way, and goodness it was everything. I loved how sweet he was too -- he wasn't your usual manho -- he was burned really badly in his last relationship so he has the scars from that, and his own trauma from his childhood, so he's a real fleshed out character too. But his relationship with Ava was just beautiful and I loved how he always wanted to protect her and give her everything she's been missing.
There's SO much that happens in this book. And there's a certain character that made me absolutely homicidal (trust me, you'll know who) and while there's so much pain in this book, there's also so much beauty too. This was definitely unexpected in all the best of ways and I cannot wait for more in this series. Don't sleep on this author ya'll!! You'll definitely regret it if you do!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
This book starts off with two people who couldn't be more opposite: Whit is a super famous musician with a life of luxury but still feels all alone while being a single dad and trying to give his daughter the very best out life while being the best dad. Then there's Ava : Look I grew up super poor so I immediately connected with this girl, but it also made me realize that while my family certainly struggled, I was blessed too because there's poor and there's what Ava was going through. Life just couldn't give this poor girl a break: she lost her entire family, her house, and she almost died too. I went through so many tears with her story that I full on cheered when Whits babdmates enveloped her in their makeshift family. And Avas relationship with his daughter was absolutely PRECIOUS. I seriously just loved everything about this woman -- she's so real, so relatable and her struggles are just so very painful to read but it's what so many people in our country goes through , so while it was painful to read, our author here was very accurate in everything, which just goes to show just how much care she has for her own characters.
As for Whit, man I adored him. There was times he was dumb (but still lovable) but I loved how at his very core that all he wanted was to be a good dad and give his daughter a good home. When he meets a woman that has him completely enamored and they have a one night stand, he never expected his life to change the way he did, but he found the missing piece of himself along the way, and goodness it was everything. I loved how sweet he was too -- he wasn't your usual manho -- he was burned really badly in his last relationship so he has the scars from that, and his own trauma from his childhood, so he's a real fleshed out character too. But his relationship with Ava was just beautiful and I loved how he always wanted to protect her and give her everything she's been missing.
There's SO much that happens in this book. And there's a certain character that made me absolutely homicidal (trust me, you'll know who) and while there's so much pain in this book, there's also so much beauty too. This was definitely unexpected in all the best of ways and I cannot wait for more in this series. Don't sleep on this author ya'll!! You'll definitely regret it if you do!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
June 17, 2022
This story. I swear, it’s so powerful I can’t even think straight. I must say that I didn’t expect what I thought I would see in this book… Elizabeth seems like a such crackhead that’d write something sweet almost idyllic. But I’m very very surprised about how much this story got into me and how heartbreaking the story itself was.
Ava is the biggest selfless person I have even seen. I cant even describe how much pain she went though, still believing in people and being so grateful and such a great sweet soul. I love how she didn’t give up on her dreams and just tried again, again and again to be stabbed in the back by a person that I hate with my whole heart. But she still went on and I’m really happy to say that she gets the beautiful amazing *wink wink* relationship and family she deserves.
Whit is a great father and omg. I am a sucker for a SINGLE DAD RASING HIS CHILD and this book made me like it even more. His relationship with Lily his daughter is everything I even wanted. He’s really sweet and always taking care of her, playing with her and making sure she doesn’t feel left out or alone. In this whole situation I think Lily took it the best, she was so excited about everything!!
Whit’s relationship with his sister Allie-also amazing. They act like bestest bestfriends, teasing each other and teaching and learning each other about a LOT LOT. Allie seems like a great, really loyal girl with a big heart that waits for someone to let in. AND I CANNOT WAIT FOR HER STORY TO BE HERE ALREADY.
I love how caring and supportive Whit was about Ava. The fact that he judged her wrongly because of his past and then was so well surprised about the whole personality of Ava and everything he wanted to do was take care of her was so so cute. I love that he was there for her all the time, when bad things happened and the good ones too.
Although I wish I could see more of them and their intimacy. It was so not enough for me. I hated them being apart, I just wanted more more and more of their sweet loving relationship with Whit’s family in the background.
Ava is the biggest selfless person I have even seen. I cant even describe how much pain she went though, still believing in people and being so grateful and such a great sweet soul. I love how she didn’t give up on her dreams and just tried again, again and again to be stabbed in the back by a person that I hate with my whole heart. But she still went on and I’m really happy to say that she gets the beautiful amazing *wink wink* relationship and family she deserves.
Whit is a great father and omg. I am a sucker for a SINGLE DAD RASING HIS CHILD and this book made me like it even more. His relationship with Lily his daughter is everything I even wanted. He’s really sweet and always taking care of her, playing with her and making sure she doesn’t feel left out or alone. In this whole situation I think Lily took it the best, she was so excited about everything!!
Whit’s relationship with his sister Allie-also amazing. They act like bestest bestfriends, teasing each other and teaching and learning each other about a LOT LOT. Allie seems like a great, really loyal girl with a big heart that waits for someone to let in. AND I CANNOT WAIT FOR HER STORY TO BE HERE ALREADY.
I love how caring and supportive Whit was about Ava. The fact that he judged her wrongly because of his past and then was so well surprised about the whole personality of Ava and everything he wanted to do was take care of her was so so cute. I love that he was there for her all the time, when bad things happened and the good ones too.
Although I wish I could see more of them and their intimacy. It was so not enough for me. I hated them being apart, I just wanted more more and more of their sweet loving relationship with Whit’s family in the background.
June 21, 2022
The story of Ava and Whit.
Their lives could not be any more different. Ava has had extreme (!) loss in her life at the young age of 23. Whit is wealthy and in a popular rock band. He's also an amazing single father to his four-year-old daughter, Lily. Seriously. The best dad.
The narrative goes back and forth between Ava and Whit's POV, which really highlights just how different their lives are. But, when they meet, they are two strangers without names for one steamy night.
What happens next is a lot more emotion, drama and angst. Ava goes through a lot of stuff. Like wow...there was a point where I felt enough already. That's why I took a star off. It just felt like too much was thrown at her. That and I guessed early what the twist would be.
Still, this is a wonderful debut. The author's writing did not seem like it is her first book. I was hooked from the start in their story. I would definitely read more from this author.
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Their lives could not be any more different. Ava has had extreme (!) loss in her life at the young age of 23. Whit is wealthy and in a popular rock band. He's also an amazing single father to his four-year-old daughter, Lily. Seriously. The best dad.
The narrative goes back and forth between Ava and Whit's POV, which really highlights just how different their lives are. But, when they meet, they are two strangers without names for one steamy night.
What happens next is a lot more emotion, drama and angst. Ava goes through a lot of stuff. Like wow...there was a point where I felt enough already. That's why I took a star off. It just felt like too much was thrown at her. That and I guessed early what the twist would be.
Still, this is a wonderful debut. The author's writing did not seem like it is her first book. I was hooked from the start in their story. I would definitely read more from this author.
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 19, 2022
Do. Not. Sleep. On. This. Book!! This is Elizabeth Aton’s debut novel and when I say it is phenomenal it’s not an understatement. This has easily become one of my top reads of this year. We have a hot male rockstar who might be jaded, but has a heart of gold. Then the sweetest waitress who can’t catch a break. A little girl who’s scream had me highlighting the description because it was so funny. (Side note. I don’t highlight. Well rarely.) There’s a best friend that everyone needs in their life. Lastly an evil hag that I couldn’t stand from the start. She made me laugh, she made me cry, she made me swoon, she made me fan my face from the steam, and she made me angry. I might have messaged her and told her I was flipping her off and F you and your book, and meant it with all the love of course. Did you miss the part where I said read this book? Because you absolutely should. This book is everything!!
July 1, 2022
An awesome debut book. Elizabeth Aton has created an amazing story that has love and hope intertwined with so much loss and heartache that had this reader engaged and totally invested in this story until the very last page.
Unexpected was a story of two main characters, Whit and Ava, who met when they were both looking for a reprieve from the demands and responsibilities of life. It was beautiful and so romantic and sweet but too brief. But as life usually does, they both tried to carry on, reliving their one night of passion, each wondering what could have been. This story has regrets, unrequited love, coupled with a bad past and trust issues, but also has passion, love and everlasting hope.
Fabulous and highly recommended story!
Unexpected was a story of two main characters, Whit and Ava, who met when they were both looking for a reprieve from the demands and responsibilities of life. It was beautiful and so romantic and sweet but too brief. But as life usually does, they both tried to carry on, reliving their one night of passion, each wondering what could have been. This story has regrets, unrequited love, coupled with a bad past and trust issues, but also has passion, love and everlasting hope.
Fabulous and highly recommended story!
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