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Unexpected #6
Colin
Colin
I’ve devoted my life to my son, always putting his needs first, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Becoming a father was the best decision I’ve ever made, but hell, single parenting is difficult. I’m so tired of holding everything together. I need a partner, someone to share my life with. I miss intimacy and passion. I want someone who will take charge and help me let go of all this control I cling to. But an endless string of bad dates and rejection has me feeling like maybe love will never come for me. Maybe a father is all I’m meant to be in this life.
Ethan
My next-door neighbor is infuriating. He’s intelligent and flirty and just so bloody gorgeous. Why are Americans so cheerful and loud? I hate him. I could not hate him more. But what began as a reckless feud between competitive neighbors, has somehow morphed into an attraction I can’t ignore. I feel unhinged around him. I want Colin. I want him so badly it hurts. But he has a kid—an inquisitive, bright little boy who is just as charming as his dad. And the hard truth is, Colin can’t afford to take a chance on me. I don’t do commitment. Not anymore. Not since my ex. And a stubborn, set-in-his-ways prat like me isn’t cut out to be a father, right?
Colin is a funny and steamy MM romance that features a single father, enemies-to-lovers, and a HEA. It is the sixth standalone in the Unexpected series.
I’ve devoted my life to my son, always putting his needs first, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Becoming a father was the best decision I’ve ever made, but hell, single parenting is difficult. I’m so tired of holding everything together. I need a partner, someone to share my life with. I miss intimacy and passion. I want someone who will take charge and help me let go of all this control I cling to. But an endless string of bad dates and rejection has me feeling like maybe love will never come for me. Maybe a father is all I’m meant to be in this life.
Ethan
My next-door neighbor is infuriating. He’s intelligent and flirty and just so bloody gorgeous. Why are Americans so cheerful and loud? I hate him. I could not hate him more. But what began as a reckless feud between competitive neighbors, has somehow morphed into an attraction I can’t ignore. I feel unhinged around him. I want Colin. I want him so badly it hurts. But he has a kid—an inquisitive, bright little boy who is just as charming as his dad. And the hard truth is, Colin can’t afford to take a chance on me. I don’t do commitment. Not anymore. Not since my ex. And a stubborn, set-in-his-ways prat like me isn’t cut out to be a father, right?
Colin is a funny and steamy MM romance that features a single father, enemies-to-lovers, and a HEA. It is the sixth standalone in the Unexpected series.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 15, 2023
344 people are currently reading
1976 people want to read
About the author
Cora Rose
42 books2,638 followersCora Rose loves any kind of romance and consumes way too many books each year. She currently lives in the U.S. and spends her days daydreaming about the characters inside her head.
You can email her at CoraRoseRomance@gmail.com or visit her website at www.coraroseromance.com
You can email her at CoraRoseRomance@gmail.com or visit her website at www.coraroseromance.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 565 reviews
November 19, 2023
re-read October 2023
So so good once again!
Can't wait for Ben's book next month. 😍
4.5***** stars
HOW WAS THIS SO GOOD? I didn’t see that coming! The last releases in this series didn’t work for me and I didn’t even attempt to read Cora’s other series. This was recommended to me, but considering I found Colin as a character in previous books boring and uninteresting as fuck I didn’t have high expectations. So color me surprised here.
Even though it was a different setting, the way their romance began reminded me a lot of Sem & Maggie. Maybe that’s why it was such a blast for me. Even more because I saw Sem & Maggie again too! (There is def a re-read on the horizon for me.)
And Ethan’s like (watching them): My god, who are these people? lmaooo
With Colin being American and Ethan being British, their taunting each other about it was especially entertaining. I loved Cora's afterword on the matter. *lol
And man, I forgot HOW HOT these books are. And like in previous books, their animosities towards each other made it even hotter. God, Ethan was so deliciously filthy. And possessive. And jealous. And overall such a great guy as Colin discovers later. When Ethan is also so damn good with his kid it’s Game Over for Colin.
Of course it was, again, ridiculously OTT but I loved it. Had a hell of a good time —too good to put it down, actually. And the ending was so freaking damn swoony and adorable!!!! I LOVED IT! From the very first to the very last page. Well done, Cora!
***********
Unexpected Series
Book 1 - Whit - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Sem - 4.5 stars ♡
Book 3 - Emery - 4.5 stars
Book 4 - Luke - 3.5 stars
Book 5 - Lex - dnf
Book 6 - Colin - 4.5 stars ♡
Book 7 - Diablo
Book 8 - Ben - 3.0 stars
So so good once again!
Can't wait for Ben's book next month. 😍
4.5***** stars
HOW WAS THIS SO GOOD? I didn’t see that coming! The last releases in this series didn’t work for me and I didn’t even attempt to read Cora’s other series. This was recommended to me, but considering I found Colin as a character in previous books boring and uninteresting as fuck I didn’t have high expectations. So color me surprised here.
Even though it was a different setting, the way their romance began reminded me a lot of Sem & Maggie. Maybe that’s why it was such a blast for me. Even more because I saw Sem & Maggie again too! (There is def a re-read on the horizon for me.)
And Ethan’s like (watching them): My god, who are these people? lmaooo
With Colin being American and Ethan being British, their taunting each other about it was especially entertaining. I loved Cora's afterword on the matter. *lol
And man, I forgot HOW HOT these books are. And like in previous books, their animosities towards each other made it even hotter. God, Ethan was so deliciously filthy. And possessive. And jealous. And overall such a great guy as Colin discovers later. When Ethan is also so damn good with his kid it’s Game Over for Colin.
Of course it was, again, ridiculously OTT but I loved it. Had a hell of a good time —too good to put it down, actually. And the ending was so freaking damn swoony and adorable!!!! I LOVED IT! From the very first to the very last page. Well done, Cora!
“I cannot get enough of you.”
“Same,” I whisper.
“Why is that?” he asks, sounding so perplexed.
“I put a spell on you,” I manage to tease, and he scoffs.
“Most likely. Fucking Americans,”
“There’s no getting over you, is there?”
I shake my head. “No, Ethan. It seems you’re stuck with me now.”
***********
Unexpected Series
Book 1 - Whit - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Sem - 4.5 stars ♡
Book 3 - Emery - 4.5 stars
Book 4 - Luke - 3.5 stars
Book 5 - Lex - dnf
Book 6 - Colin - 4.5 stars ♡
Book 7 - Diablo
Book 8 - Ben - 3.0 stars
April 20, 2024
I absolutely LOVED this!!! I was worried I wouldn't like Colin, but he's so funny and then Ethan's Englishness was so perfect.
I laughed so much, the little comments about being a parent were so real, not like most books where people are competing to be seen as the perfect stepford parent. The way my heart was feeling as Ethan realised what he wanted... So, so good.
The English from Ethan was so great, if you haven't affectionately called someone a c#!t are you even English?? The breakfast was hilarious too, I'm sorry but you cannot beat a Full English and that's a hill I'm willing to die on.
I think this may just be my favourite Cora Rose book, but I am very keen to see Ben with some biker Daddies 🧐
I laughed so much, the little comments about being a parent were so real, not like most books where people are competing to be seen as the perfect stepford parent. The way my heart was feeling as Ethan realised what he wanted... So, so good.
The English from Ethan was so great, if you haven't affectionately called someone a c#!t are you even English?? The breakfast was hilarious too, I'm sorry but you cannot beat a Full English and that's a hill I'm willing to die on.
I think this may just be my favourite Cora Rose book, but I am very keen to see Ben with some biker Daddies 🧐
![Profile Image for Lilly [Hiatus due to School] .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1663899589i%2F10381707._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
February 17, 2023
“I told myself that I’d never fall for someone again…and then you walked into my life…. I am utterly and completely wrecked for you, Colin. Entirely fucking gone for you.”
I was so excited when I found out the next book in the Unexpected series was going to be about Colin! He is the single father we meet in Sem. I was curious about him, and this story delivered.
Colin is honestly too adorable. He's a devoted, hardworking single parent who just wants someone to love. He has raised his son alone ever since his ex-husband left. He also feels like he is boring and not worthy enough for people to stick around. In comes Ethan, a handsome British Lawyer who lives right across from him. He has also been hurt and betrayed, so due to the trauma, he does not do relationships.
I loved the voyeuristic/exhibitionist kink aspect of their relationship. The way they started getting closer to one another was like that. There was initial animosity, but that quickly morphed into lust. So there is that instant attraction aspect to their relationship. However, it takes time for them to realize (or rather Ethan) that it is okay to trust and that Colin would never hurt him. If anything, he has a lot of love to give, and his heart is safe with him.
I also found it adorable how Colin wanted to be with a partner who was more aggressive in the bedroom; he is sassy and talks back but is quite submissive, so Ethan was the perfect partner for him. Their sexual chemistry was off the charts! Cora always writes very steamy sex scenes, and we get a lot of them in Colin (which I love and appreciate Cora for)
It was sweet to see how emotionally involved Ethan became despite his fears and reservations and how touching it was seeing him interact with Daniel, Colin's son. It was adorable how he became someone important to him. I enjoy single-father stories, and when children are involved, it can sometimes take away from the story if not done correctly, but Daniel was a delight. He was not used as a prop in the story, and it felt authentic.
As I have come to expect in Cora's story - the wild siblings/parents dynamic! This was no different as we met Ethan's parents and brother and Colin's sister. We also get appearances from Sam and Magnus!
This book also had a more mature feel to it as well as the characters are older compared to previous books, so that was lovely to see.
Overall it was a great read. I love this author's work, and this book is no different. If you enjoy Cora's stories, low-angst, single father, an older couple, and a bit of voyeurism kink, you'll love Colin.
Also it seems like for Ben's story we might get a MMM relationship???
I was so excited when I found out the next book in the Unexpected series was going to be about Colin! He is the single father we meet in Sem. I was curious about him, and this story delivered.
Colin is honestly too adorable. He's a devoted, hardworking single parent who just wants someone to love. He has raised his son alone ever since his ex-husband left. He also feels like he is boring and not worthy enough for people to stick around. In comes Ethan, a handsome British Lawyer who lives right across from him. He has also been hurt and betrayed, so due to the trauma, he does not do relationships.
I loved the voyeuristic/exhibitionist kink aspect of their relationship. The way they started getting closer to one another was like that. There was initial animosity, but that quickly morphed into lust. So there is that instant attraction aspect to their relationship. However, it takes time for them to realize (or rather Ethan) that it is okay to trust and that Colin would never hurt him. If anything, he has a lot of love to give, and his heart is safe with him.
I also found it adorable how Colin wanted to be with a partner who was more aggressive in the bedroom; he is sassy and talks back but is quite submissive, so Ethan was the perfect partner for him. Their sexual chemistry was off the charts! Cora always writes very steamy sex scenes, and we get a lot of them in Colin (which I love and appreciate Cora for)
It was sweet to see how emotionally involved Ethan became despite his fears and reservations and how touching it was seeing him interact with Daniel, Colin's son. It was adorable how he became someone important to him. I enjoy single-father stories, and when children are involved, it can sometimes take away from the story if not done correctly, but Daniel was a delight. He was not used as a prop in the story, and it felt authentic.
As I have come to expect in Cora's story - the wild siblings/parents dynamic! This was no different as we met Ethan's parents and brother and Colin's sister. We also get appearances from Sam and Magnus!
This book also had a more mature feel to it as well as the characters are older compared to previous books, so that was lovely to see.
Overall it was a great read. I love this author's work, and this book is no different. If you enjoy Cora's stories, low-angst, single father, an older couple, and a bit of voyeurism kink, you'll love Colin.
Also it seems like for Ben's story we might get a MMM relationship???
March 26, 2023
Not your typical Cora Rose book - a swoonworthy romance between two mature men who stopped believing in a HEA.
Colin is a single father to Daniel, a 7yo boy, and we met both in the previous book where they visited Colin’s grandmother at the care facility. Ethan is his neighbour who moved in recently, and whom he fights over a huge weed growing between the two properties, each claiming the OTHER one needs to pull it out.
At night however, they engage in an unusual pastime: they jerk off together, each standing in their own room, watching and teasing each other.
Until, one day, this “distant” relationship isn’t enough for them any more.
Is it because he was in my room last night? He did touch my knee when he came. Maybe he thinks we’re married now.
This book is completely different from the other books in this series - no ridiculous, OTT characters with even stranger plots, even though we do meet Sem and Marcus at some point.
It’s the story of two grown up men, both with emotional scars - Colin after breaking up with his ex, whom he envisioned a family future with, and who always, ALWAYS, as most parents do, puts the well-being of his son first, and who has begrudgingly accepted that it’s difficult for a single parent to find a new partner.
And Ethan, who left England 10 years earlier after having been left standing at the altar by his cheating almost-husband, who has sworn off relationships.
It was lovely seeing them both falling in love, and getting the HEA they both deserved. I loved Ethan’s British brand of humour and sarcasm, and Colin’s ever consuming love for his son - and yes, I know some of you don’t like kids in romances, but trust me, this one was adorable.
“I told myself that I’d never fall for someone again… and then you walked into my life…. I am utterly and completely wrecked for you, Colin. Entirely fucking gone for you.”
4.5 stars, rounded up because it brightened a very rainy, dreary Sunday ❤️
Colin is a single father to Daniel, a 7yo boy, and we met both in the previous book where they visited Colin’s grandmother at the care facility. Ethan is his neighbour who moved in recently, and whom he fights over a huge weed growing between the two properties, each claiming the OTHER one needs to pull it out.
At night however, they engage in an unusual pastime: they jerk off together, each standing in their own room, watching and teasing each other.
Until, one day, this “distant” relationship isn’t enough for them any more.
Is it because he was in my room last night? He did touch my knee when he came. Maybe he thinks we’re married now.
This book is completely different from the other books in this series - no ridiculous, OTT characters with even stranger plots, even though we do meet Sem and Marcus at some point.
It’s the story of two grown up men, both with emotional scars - Colin after breaking up with his ex, whom he envisioned a family future with, and who always, ALWAYS, as most parents do, puts the well-being of his son first, and who has begrudgingly accepted that it’s difficult for a single parent to find a new partner.
And Ethan, who left England 10 years earlier after having been left standing at the altar by his cheating almost-husband, who has sworn off relationships.
It was lovely seeing them both falling in love, and getting the HEA they both deserved. I loved Ethan’s British brand of humour and sarcasm, and Colin’s ever consuming love for his son - and yes, I know some of you don’t like kids in romances, but trust me, this one was adorable.
“I told myself that I’d never fall for someone again… and then you walked into my life…. I am utterly and completely wrecked for you, Colin. Entirely fucking gone for you.”
4.5 stars, rounded up because it brightened a very rainy, dreary Sunday ❤️
July 3, 2023
dear colin, i’m so sorry i said that you were as interesting as a worm, you absolutely aren’t.
this is so funny. i actually laughed out loud several times. i’ll definitely reread this when i feel sad.
then i would like to add that there are a lot of adult fun times and while i liked them and found them all entertaining, if you don’t like a lot of smut this book probably isn’t for you.
i loved all the characters in this book (thank god) and they worked so well. there’s just enough idiocy to make this funny but not so much that it’s ridiculous.
i liked this a lot, but honestly i just love this series in general. will definitely read again.
i want ben’s story!!
this is so funny. i actually laughed out loud several times. i’ll definitely reread this when i feel sad.
then i would like to add that there are a lot of adult fun times and while i liked them and found them all entertaining, if you don’t like a lot of smut this book probably isn’t for you.
i loved all the characters in this book (thank god) and they worked so well. there’s just enough idiocy to make this funny but not so much that it’s ridiculous.
i liked this a lot, but honestly i just love this series in general. will definitely read again.
i want ben’s story!!
August 1, 2023
Talk about an unconventional start to a relationship. Colin and Ethan are neighbors and are not looking for anything serious. Colin is a single father who is looking for someone to share his life with, while Ethan is not interested in anything serious due to a traumatic event in his past. Together they have great banter, sizzling chemistry, and an unwillingness to leave each other alone.
Of course, feelings develop, but whether both are open to something more serious is the question. Unbeknownst to Coin and Ethan they are already playing house and once they realize this truth, both are shocked at how natural it all feels.
Overall I loved this story, even though at first I was a bit suspicious of how this was going to work out, but I was quickly won over by the amazing chemistry between Colin and Ethan. I loved seeing them both grow together and make the cutest family. This story is so sweet and leaves me so excited about what is next in this addicting series.
Of course, feelings develop, but whether both are open to something more serious is the question. Unbeknownst to Coin and Ethan they are already playing house and once they realize this truth, both are shocked at how natural it all feels.
Overall I loved this story, even though at first I was a bit suspicious of how this was going to work out, but I was quickly won over by the amazing chemistry between Colin and Ethan. I loved seeing them both grow together and make the cutest family. This story is so sweet and leaves me so excited about what is next in this addicting series.
February 7, 2023
4.5 Stars (rounded up)
All I really want to do is to meet someone who will be good to Daniel. And maybe even love me too.
Colin is a single dad and history professor at a local college. He had a new neighbor move in a couple months ago and they have been having a bit of a spat over a very large weed located right on their property line. Things get spicy from there. Listen, this is a Cora Rose book. Just go with it!! Enjoy the proverbial ride. The set up is bit OTT, maybe a little ridiculous, but that is what makes it so entertaining! I'm here for it.
Suddenly, the light in his bedroom flicks on and my eyes are drawn to it. My cock instantly hardens between my legs because it knows exactly what’s coming. Ethan and I have been at this for weeks. I don’t even know how it started. It just happened one night and neither of us has put an end to it.
Things progress from watching through windows, to watching in person, to touching in person, etc. It is really freaking hot.
This is a dangerous, intoxicating game we’re playing now. One where I touch him instead of just imagining it. One where I can see and smell and hear him as he comes undone.
I was living for when Maggie and Sem show up in this book!
“Colin,” he begins, but he’s cut off by a loud, resounding sluuuuuuurp. Both of our gazes swivel to Magnus who is watching us like we’re a riveting matinee movie. “Don’t mind me,” he says, his mouth still around the straw. “I’m totally minding my own business and not listening to this at all.”
Colin has not had ANY luck dating. No joke, his last date fell asleep while at dinner.
I know I’m being a bit of a whiner, but listen, what I want is simple. I just want to be thrown around a room every once in a while, or find a bottom who really likes to take control in the bedroom. I want a toppy-bottom or a toppy-top. I want to be fucked and wake up the next day sore and bruised and aching. I want to walk crooked for days. Is that too much to ask?
As it should be, Colin's main focus is on his son Daniel. Daniel is adorable as all heck. He befriends everyone. I was swooning when we find out he has been trading his drawings to Ethan for treats.
“He draws you pictures?” I ask slowly, my brain trying to catch up. “Ah, yes,” Ethan says, rubbing his jaw. “It’s a trade of sorts…” My heart thumps awkwardly in my chest. Because this…it changes everything.
Both of these guys think the other one is incredibly hot and attractive and that they are out of each other's league.
The sex is good, but what do I really know about this man other than he has a nice cock and a sexy body? And that he’s good at aftercare. And he finds my documentaries interesting. And he’s nice to my son. Shit.
Keep an eye out for how Colin refers to Ethan in his text messages. It changes throughout the book and its just one of the little things in this story that I thought was super cute.
Just like with the other books in this series, the families of both MCs show up and occasionally steal the show. They are hilarious.
“I don’t think you understand what you’ve done to me…” “What have I done?” I ask, clenching around him. He bites down on his bottom lip as he pulls out and thrusts back in, making me gasp. “I told myself that I’d never fall for someone again…and then you walked into my life…. I am utterly and completely wrecked for you, Colin. Entirely fucking gone for you.”
These two have both been hurt so badly before that they are scared to enter into a relationship. Eventually, though, it becomes clear that they are perfect for one another. There's even a little fake fiancé bit thrown in here. As things progress, Ethan becomes super protective of Daniel and if that doesn't just give you heart eyes, idk what will.
“It seems I’m in love with you too. I mean, that must be it. I’m infuriatingly obsessed with you. I want you all the time. I never want to let you go. It’s maddening, really. But yes, it feels like love.”
***I received an ARC of this book from Indie Author Creative and this is my honest opinion.***
All I really want to do is to meet someone who will be good to Daniel. And maybe even love me too.
Colin is a single dad and history professor at a local college. He had a new neighbor move in a couple months ago and they have been having a bit of a spat over a very large weed located right on their property line. Things get spicy from there. Listen, this is a Cora Rose book. Just go with it!! Enjoy the proverbial ride. The set up is bit OTT, maybe a little ridiculous, but that is what makes it so entertaining! I'm here for it.
Suddenly, the light in his bedroom flicks on and my eyes are drawn to it. My cock instantly hardens between my legs because it knows exactly what’s coming. Ethan and I have been at this for weeks. I don’t even know how it started. It just happened one night and neither of us has put an end to it.
Things progress from watching through windows, to watching in person, to touching in person, etc. It is really freaking hot.
This is a dangerous, intoxicating game we’re playing now. One where I touch him instead of just imagining it. One where I can see and smell and hear him as he comes undone.
I was living for when Maggie and Sem show up in this book!
“Colin,” he begins, but he’s cut off by a loud, resounding sluuuuuuurp. Both of our gazes swivel to Magnus who is watching us like we’re a riveting matinee movie. “Don’t mind me,” he says, his mouth still around the straw. “I’m totally minding my own business and not listening to this at all.”
Colin has not had ANY luck dating. No joke, his last date fell asleep while at dinner.
I know I’m being a bit of a whiner, but listen, what I want is simple. I just want to be thrown around a room every once in a while, or find a bottom who really likes to take control in the bedroom. I want a toppy-bottom or a toppy-top. I want to be fucked and wake up the next day sore and bruised and aching. I want to walk crooked for days. Is that too much to ask?
As it should be, Colin's main focus is on his son Daniel. Daniel is adorable as all heck. He befriends everyone. I was swooning when we find out he has been trading his drawings to Ethan for treats.
“He draws you pictures?” I ask slowly, my brain trying to catch up. “Ah, yes,” Ethan says, rubbing his jaw. “It’s a trade of sorts…” My heart thumps awkwardly in my chest. Because this…it changes everything.
Both of these guys think the other one is incredibly hot and attractive and that they are out of each other's league.
The sex is good, but what do I really know about this man other than he has a nice cock and a sexy body? And that he’s good at aftercare. And he finds my documentaries interesting. And he’s nice to my son. Shit.
Keep an eye out for how Colin refers to Ethan in his text messages. It changes throughout the book and its just one of the little things in this story that I thought was super cute.
Just like with the other books in this series, the families of both MCs show up and occasionally steal the show. They are hilarious.
“I don’t think you understand what you’ve done to me…” “What have I done?” I ask, clenching around him. He bites down on his bottom lip as he pulls out and thrusts back in, making me gasp. “I told myself that I’d never fall for someone again…and then you walked into my life…. I am utterly and completely wrecked for you, Colin. Entirely fucking gone for you.”
These two have both been hurt so badly before that they are scared to enter into a relationship. Eventually, though, it becomes clear that they are perfect for one another. There's even a little fake fiancé bit thrown in here. As things progress, Ethan becomes super protective of Daniel and if that doesn't just give you heart eyes, idk what will.
“It seems I’m in love with you too. I mean, that must be it. I’m infuriatingly obsessed with you. I want you all the time. I never want to let you go. It’s maddening, really. But yes, it feels like love.”
***I received an ARC of this book from Indie Author Creative and this is my honest opinion.***
June 30, 2023
reread March and June 2023
4.5/5 stars
Why was this so good? I was not expecting much going into it, but damn I finished the entire book in one sitting. I actually love this book. It was drama-ish free which I enjoy from time to time.
I loved Ethan’s relationship with Daniel, it just made my entire fucking heart melt. Also seeing how both, Colin and Ethan’s relationship progressed was amazing. I loved seeing them be mature and actually act their age. I teared up in the end because I just didn’t want this to end. It’s so refreshing to finally love a book.
4.5/5 stars
Why was this so good? I was not expecting much going into it, but damn I finished the entire book in one sitting. I actually love this book. It was drama-ish free which I enjoy from time to time.
I loved Ethan’s relationship with Daniel, it just made my entire fucking heart melt. Also seeing how both, Colin and Ethan’s relationship progressed was amazing. I loved seeing them be mature and actually act their age. I teared up in the end because I just didn’t want this to end. It’s so refreshing to finally love a book.
March 31, 2023
I had no desire to read this book because after meeting Colin in “Sem”, I thought he was as boring as dirty dish water. One of my friends on here thought the same thing, but she said the story was gorg, and I trust my goodreads friends with my life, so I decided to try it. And you know what? It was gorg.
Colin and Ethan were so fun and sweet. I loved the banter between them and the sexy times, too (it starts off with mutual masturbation sessions through a window and that’s fun!). This book was also extremely funny. I laughed out loud a lot. I also adored Colin’s son Daniel and how Ethan was with him.
I want Mrs. Rose to write about Ben and his two motorcycle daddies next. Hellurrrr
Colin and Ethan were so fun and sweet. I loved the banter between them and the sexy times, too (it starts off with mutual masturbation sessions through a window and that’s fun!). This book was also extremely funny. I laughed out loud a lot. I also adored Colin’s son Daniel and how Ethan was with him.
I want Mrs. Rose to write about Ben and his two motorcycle daddies next. Hellurrrr
August 25, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
oh this was super cute. i’m such a sucker for the single dad trope and it was done so well here. i loved watching ethan fall in love with both colin and daniel.
the spice was crazy, as per usual with a cora rose book. i really enjoyed how their relationship started with their little exhibitionism/voyeurism games. HOT.
sem and luke are still my favey babies but colin has jumped to third place easily.
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
oh this was super cute. i’m such a sucker for the single dad trope and it was done so well here. i loved watching ethan fall in love with both colin and daniel.
the spice was crazy, as per usual with a cora rose book. i really enjoyed how their relationship started with their little exhibitionism/voyeurism games. HOT.
sem and luke are still my favey babies but colin has jumped to third place easily.
June 6, 2023
Loved this - a very quick funny sweet read
This actually felt toned down from Cora’s usual insanity - while I really enjoyed this book I’m gonna need something extra over the top and insane next time 😂😂
This actually felt toned down from Cora’s usual insanity - while I really enjoyed this book I’m gonna need something extra over the top and insane next time 😂😂
Read
December 10, 2023DNF @34%. Too much sex. Not enough plot.
February 22, 2023
I quite enjoyed this installment of the Unexpected series.
It features Colin, who it took me a bit to remember who he was. He is the slightly older - than the past MC's in this series - man at around age 33, who is a single father to a boy, Daniel, who is 7 years old.
He was briefly in Magnus and Sem's book as a guy Magnus almost went out with - I think? I have vague recollections of that and Sem getting all growly possessive over it, and that's how Sem ends in Magnus' yoga classes with him lol. And still, in this book, is going with Magnus.
Colin is divorced. His ex-husband is pretty much a grade-A asshole, who barely even tries to be in Daniel's life, and flakes out on the once a month visitation that he does have fairly often. Or postpones.
Ethan is Colin's new next door neighbor, and they don't get along the best at first. Ethan is British, while Colin is a big history - and especially of the Revolutionary War - buff. Ethan "doesn't like" how much Colin smiles (when really, I think he likes it a bit too much ;)) and Ethan is more on the frown-y, broody side of things. Then they get into a silly fight over who has to pull the weed that is between both of their properties, and both are refusing to be the one to pull it.
If this is trying to be enemies-to-lovers, it doesn't pull it off. These two don't actually dislike each other at all, and it's very surface level and it goes away fairly quickly, the "dislike" between them.
They're already lusting after each other from the get go, so yeah, them butting heads at first is barely anything in the grand scheme of things. They are also, consensually, looking at each other through their windows, as Colin can see through his office window to Ethan's bedroom and vice versa, as they get off.
It's this thing where they pretend they won't totally move to physically touching each other at some point and wanking off together through their windows is as far as it'll go.
But of course, it soon becomes more.
I enjoyed this. I liked these two together, and I enjoyed the steam between them - although at times near the end it did feel like it was bordering on too much sex, which is saying something as I love sex in my romance books. But even for me, there's a point where it gets to be too much even for me. Not that I don't enjoy it all on it's own, but after quite a lot of sex scenes, the steam had kind of leveled off and I wasn't feeling quite as much heat as I originally did.
Hence, my star off. I enjoyed these two a lot, but I wasn't always 100% invested and they weren't off the charts steamy. Some sex scenes were hot AF, and some where just okay or moderate steam for me.
I really enjoyed Daniel, Colin's son, in this. He was adorable and sweet but also acted like a kid - like him talking too loud sometimes in his excitement, and making deals with the adults around him for candy and other sweets behind his dad's back lol. "You got the goods?" coming from a 7 year old is so hilarious. Also he loved to go with his Aunt Cat on fun adventures and come home dirty and in need of a bath lol. But he was also sweet and joyful and had both Colin and Ethan wrapped around his finger. Especially Ethan.
I loved Ethan and Daniel's relationship, how the author took the time to develop their relationship, for them to get to the point where Ethan truly felt like his other father instead of just "Mr. Ethan."
Which he basically becomes. Legally, Colin's ex is his other parent, but I like to think that that bastard eventually gave up his parental rights as he clearly didn't care enough to be a father, and that Ethan got to adopt Daniel. We get a quick epilogue which takes place 10 years later, but we don't learn if Ethan officially became his father or not. I like to think he did. He become more of a father than Colin's ex ever was, so.
Which, the ending felt a tad rushed, as these two only knew each other a few months and they got married - off page, so we didn't even get to see it *pout* and then we got the super quick epilogue of 10 years later. Which, while nice to see a snapshot of their life, I would have liked a little more detail to see them more settled into their life. Like why not show them with Daniel - who would then we 17/18 at his graduation? And we'd get to meet the twins they adopted too. But we don't get to see Daniel or meet their two other children, and that's a bummer. It would have been nice to get more of their HEA together.
But anyway, aside from those things, I did enjoy this a lot. I would love to get Diablo and Skyler's love story next. I'm sure that'd be a fun ride. I would like Ben's love story, but I'm getting the vibe his might go the MMM route, so that's out for me, unless I'm wrong about Ben's story being poly. Guess we'll see!
Anywho, I definitely recommend this. It's a solid addition to the series and it was wonderful seeing sweet, kind single-dad Colin gets his HEA.
My Ratings for the Unexpected series:
✨ Whit: 4.25 stars (my review)
✨ Sem: 4.25 stars (my review)
✨ Emery: 4.5 stars (my review)
✨ Luke: 3.25 stars (my review)
✨ Lex: 4.5 stars (my review)
✨ Colin: 4 stars
It features Colin, who it took me a bit to remember who he was. He is the slightly older - than the past MC's in this series - man at around age 33, who is a single father to a boy, Daniel, who is 7 years old.
He was briefly in Magnus and Sem's book as a guy Magnus almost went out with - I think? I have vague recollections of that and Sem getting all growly possessive over it, and that's how Sem ends in Magnus' yoga classes with him lol. And still, in this book, is going with Magnus.
Colin is divorced. His ex-husband is pretty much a grade-A asshole, who barely even tries to be in Daniel's life, and flakes out on the once a month visitation that he does have fairly often. Or postpones.
Ethan is Colin's new next door neighbor, and they don't get along the best at first. Ethan is British, while Colin is a big history - and especially of the Revolutionary War - buff. Ethan "doesn't like" how much Colin smiles (when really, I think he likes it a bit too much ;)) and Ethan is more on the frown-y, broody side of things. Then they get into a silly fight over who has to pull the weed that is between both of their properties, and both are refusing to be the one to pull it.
If this is trying to be enemies-to-lovers, it doesn't pull it off. These two don't actually dislike each other at all, and it's very surface level and it goes away fairly quickly, the "dislike" between them.
They're already lusting after each other from the get go, so yeah, them butting heads at first is barely anything in the grand scheme of things. They are also, consensually, looking at each other through their windows, as Colin can see through his office window to Ethan's bedroom and vice versa, as they get off.
It's this thing where they pretend they won't totally move to physically touching each other at some point and wanking off together through their windows is as far as it'll go.
But of course, it soon becomes more.
I enjoyed this. I liked these two together, and I enjoyed the steam between them - although at times near the end it did feel like it was bordering on too much sex, which is saying something as I love sex in my romance books. But even for me, there's a point where it gets to be too much even for me. Not that I don't enjoy it all on it's own, but after quite a lot of sex scenes, the steam had kind of leveled off and I wasn't feeling quite as much heat as I originally did.
Hence, my star off. I enjoyed these two a lot, but I wasn't always 100% invested and they weren't off the charts steamy. Some sex scenes were hot AF, and some where just okay or moderate steam for me.
I really enjoyed Daniel, Colin's son, in this. He was adorable and sweet but also acted like a kid - like him talking too loud sometimes in his excitement, and making deals with the adults around him for candy and other sweets behind his dad's back lol. "You got the goods?" coming from a 7 year old is so hilarious. Also he loved to go with his Aunt Cat on fun adventures and come home dirty and in need of a bath lol. But he was also sweet and joyful and had both Colin and Ethan wrapped around his finger. Especially Ethan.
I loved Ethan and Daniel's relationship, how the author took the time to develop their relationship, for them to get to the point where Ethan truly felt like his other father instead of just "Mr. Ethan."
Which he basically becomes. Legally, Colin's ex is his other parent, but I like to think that that bastard eventually gave up his parental rights as he clearly didn't care enough to be a father, and that Ethan got to adopt Daniel. We get a quick epilogue which takes place 10 years later, but we don't learn if Ethan officially became his father or not. I like to think he did. He become more of a father than Colin's ex ever was, so.
Which, the ending felt a tad rushed, as these two only knew each other a few months and they got married - off page, so we didn't even get to see it *pout* and then we got the super quick epilogue of 10 years later. Which, while nice to see a snapshot of their life, I would have liked a little more detail to see them more settled into their life. Like why not show them with Daniel - who would then we 17/18 at his graduation? And we'd get to meet the twins they adopted too. But we don't get to see Daniel or meet their two other children, and that's a bummer. It would have been nice to get more of their HEA together.
But anyway, aside from those things, I did enjoy this a lot. I would love to get Diablo and Skyler's love story next. I'm sure that'd be a fun ride. I would like Ben's love story, but I'm getting the vibe his might go the MMM route, so that's out for me, unless I'm wrong about Ben's story being poly. Guess we'll see!
Anywho, I definitely recommend this. It's a solid addition to the series and it was wonderful seeing sweet, kind single-dad Colin gets his HEA.
My Ratings for the Unexpected series:
✨ Whit: 4.25 stars (my review)
✨ Sem: 4.25 stars (my review)
✨ Emery: 4.5 stars (my review)
✨ Luke: 3.25 stars (my review)
✨ Lex: 4.5 stars (my review)
✨ Colin: 4 stars
February 19, 2023
4.5 Stars
I wouldn’t normally read a book with a kid in it but since I do quite enjoy this series, I of course had to continue it and surprise surprise I actually loved it in spite of the kid!
Ethan and Colin had crazy hot chemistry and as usual, I loved how obsessed they were with each other. God that just hits the spot for me. The kid didn’t take up too much romance time and he actually acted his age when he was on page which was a nice change. I really loved the British sarcasm/sass of Ethan combined with the adorable, lovable kindness of Colin. They were so great together.
I really enjoy Cora Rose’s humour and it was in fine form here. If you didn’t like her previous books you likely won’t like this one. However, this one does have less trucks and guns, and the MCs are older and she does a fantastic job of transitioning into a story appropriate for 30 year olds. The one thing that did bug me, is Colin is clearly insecure and thinks he’s boring and dull and comments on it a few times. Each time, Ethan has an internal monologue on how crazy untrue that is, but I don’t think he ever comforted Colin verbally about it and told him it was untrue. It was jarring for me.
Lastly, I’m so grateful this wasn’t written as a Patreon story. So I have to start giving credit when books aren’t?
I wouldn’t normally read a book with a kid in it but since I do quite enjoy this series, I of course had to continue it and surprise surprise I actually loved it in spite of the kid!
Ethan and Colin had crazy hot chemistry and as usual, I loved how obsessed they were with each other. God that just hits the spot for me. The kid didn’t take up too much romance time and he actually acted his age when he was on page which was a nice change. I really loved the British sarcasm/sass of Ethan combined with the adorable, lovable kindness of Colin. They were so great together.
I really enjoy Cora Rose’s humour and it was in fine form here. If you didn’t like her previous books you likely won’t like this one. However, this one does have less trucks and guns, and the MCs are older and she does a fantastic job of transitioning into a story appropriate for 30 year olds. The one thing that did bug me, is Colin is clearly insecure and thinks he’s boring and dull and comments on it a few times. Each time, Ethan has an internal monologue on how crazy untrue that is, but I don’t think he ever comforted Colin verbally about it and told him it was untrue. It was jarring for me.
Lastly, I’m so grateful this wasn’t written as a Patreon story. So I have to start giving credit when books aren’t?
February 12, 2023
"I just stand there in the middle of all this chaos, swiping at my eyes, and coming to the undeniable realization that I am utterly and completely in love with this man."
Awww, this was just so cute and sooo steamy! I've got to say, Colin is probably my favourite book from Cora Rose since the fabulous Whit.
As is standard with a Cora Rose read, you need to suspend reality for a while, just go with the flow and enjoy!
Tropes:
❣️single father
❣️hate to love
❣️voyeuristic neighbours
❣️opposites attract
❣️Brit v American
❣️all the steam
❣️HEA
4.25 steamy AF stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awww, this was just so cute and sooo steamy! I've got to say, Colin is probably my favourite book from Cora Rose since the fabulous Whit.
As is standard with a Cora Rose read, you need to suspend reality for a while, just go with the flow and enjoy!
Tropes:
❣️single father
❣️hate to love
❣️voyeuristic neighbours
❣️opposites attract
❣️Brit v American
❣️all the steam
❣️HEA
4.25 steamy AF stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 7, 2025
Re-read on 7th May/25
This book is actually quite decent. I'm going to rate it 3.5⭐ because l did like Colin getting his dream guy.
I just needed him to be a bit less desperate and Ethan to go beyond that British banter and give me something more - he did that at the very end, but it wasn't enough.
And
"The real Dorito is currently in a box in the fridge."
So when a hamster dies, we put him in the fridge before we bury him? Where there's ...food? A dead rodent?
_____________________________________
Original review on 11th Mar/23
Surprisingly so, I did like Colin.
Rating : 3⭐
I say surprisingly, because I wasn't really invested in his story in the previous books, but he's a good character and he got a quite a nice love story.
🟣 Single dad / a Brit (lawyer)
🔵 Age gap 33/36
🟢 Some size difference
🟡 Neighbours
🟣 A kid who's very present in the story
🌶️ Descriptive sex; undressing by the windows, jacking off and looking at each other; oral, penetrative; t/b hinting at vers
Colin is a single father out of a bad relationship. He's living alone with his son and has absolutely no luck in love.
When Ethan moves in next door, things start turning around for Colin. First having only an interesting interaction every night by their windows, but very soon switching to Ethan coming over and them having amazing sex.
Ethan had a really bad experience in his past serious relationship, so he didn't want to get serious with Colin, but their attraction and feelings for one another were too strong and eventually they became a couple with plans to actually get married.
This was my Ethan.
I, however, didn't like the way Ethan was portrayed. I get the grumpy Englishman and the dislike of Americans, but his character felt like an old man talking, just trying to be overly sarcastic. A sentence or two is fine, but it was getting old.
I wanted more of those easy dialogues between two people getting to know each other, more of their connection besides the sex, it was all very insta. Insta relationship, insta family, insta wedding.
Insta and not believable.
What surprised me the most were the sex scenes. The sex scenes in this series were always good, but somehow they didn't impress me in this book.
The book was much better than Lex and I'm really hoping to read Diablo's book next.
This book is actually quite decent. I'm going to rate it 3.5⭐ because l did like Colin getting his dream guy.
I just needed him to be a bit less desperate and Ethan to go beyond that British banter and give me something more - he did that at the very end, but it wasn't enough.
And
"The real Dorito is currently in a box in the fridge."
So when a hamster dies, we put him in the fridge before we bury him? Where there's ...food? A dead rodent?
_____________________________________
Original review on 11th Mar/23
Surprisingly so, I did like Colin.
Rating : 3⭐
I say surprisingly, because I wasn't really invested in his story in the previous books, but he's a good character and he got a quite a nice love story.
🟣 Single dad / a Brit (lawyer)
🔵 Age gap 33/36
🟢 Some size difference
🟡 Neighbours
🟣 A kid who's very present in the story
🌶️ Descriptive sex; undressing by the windows, jacking off and looking at each other; oral, penetrative; t/b hinting at vers
Colin is a single father out of a bad relationship. He's living alone with his son and has absolutely no luck in love.
When Ethan moves in next door, things start turning around for Colin. First having only an interesting interaction every night by their windows, but very soon switching to Ethan coming over and them having amazing sex.
Ethan had a really bad experience in his past serious relationship, so he didn't want to get serious with Colin, but their attraction and feelings for one another were too strong and eventually they became a couple with plans to actually get married.
This was my Ethan.
I, however, didn't like the way Ethan was portrayed. I get the grumpy Englishman and the dislike of Americans, but his character felt like an old man talking, just trying to be overly sarcastic. A sentence or two is fine, but it was getting old.
I wanted more of those easy dialogues between two people getting to know each other, more of their connection besides the sex, it was all very insta. Insta relationship, insta family, insta wedding.
Insta and not believable.
What surprised me the most were the sex scenes. The sex scenes in this series were always good, but somehow they didn't impress me in this book.
The book was much better than Lex and I'm really hoping to read Diablo's book next.
December 24, 2025
MM
Single dad
Neighbors
They hate each other but watch each other through their windows 🥵
Found family
Single dad
Neighbors
They hate each other but watch each other through their windows 🥵
Found family
February 18, 2023
I loved Colin and Ethan, reading this was like receiving the warmest of hugs.🥰
February 15, 2023
Tropes:
- single dad
- neighbors
- older MCs (33/36, they’re practically ancient 🤣 jk)
- low angst
Move over Whit & Caleb, Ethan & Colin have stolen your spot as my favorite couple in the Unexpected series!
Ethan and Colin are neighbors who can’t stand each other, and have been at a standoff for months over a weed that has grown several feet tall between their properties. As their silly feud continues and both parties refuse to remove it, an undeniable attraction forms and turns into something neither of them expected.
Their story is ridiculous but sweet! I loved that Colin brought out softness and emotions in Ethan that he’d tried to ignore for years, and I loved how fiercely protective he was over Colin’s son, Daniel.
*sigh* I just loved this so much.
- single dad
- neighbors
- older MCs (33/36, they’re practically ancient 🤣 jk)
- low angst
Move over Whit & Caleb, Ethan & Colin have stolen your spot as my favorite couple in the Unexpected series!
Ethan and Colin are neighbors who can’t stand each other, and have been at a standoff for months over a weed that has grown several feet tall between their properties. As their silly feud continues and both parties refuse to remove it, an undeniable attraction forms and turns into something neither of them expected.
Their story is ridiculous but sweet! I loved that Colin brought out softness and emotions in Ethan that he’d tried to ignore for years, and I loved how fiercely protective he was over Colin’s son, Daniel.
*sigh* I just loved this so much.
April 16, 2023
4.25 stars
Now this was way better than I expected.
While I have liked Cora Rose's previous books, I haven't liked all of them and I figured I was a bit done with her writing style.
But then this book came along.
I really liked that these guys were not college aged. It felt more grown up and real somehow.
I do love how intense Cora Rose's writes her characters. They feel so deeply and I love that.
Ethan and Colin were absolutely great together. I love their banter and their disagreement over 'the weed'. The sex was scorching hot and while I'm pretty used to skimming sex scenes, here I didn't.
Now this was way better than I expected.
While I have liked Cora Rose's previous books, I haven't liked all of them and I figured I was a bit done with her writing style.
But then this book came along.
I really liked that these guys were not college aged. It felt more grown up and real somehow.
I do love how intense Cora Rose's writes her characters. They feel so deeply and I love that.
Ethan and Colin were absolutely great together. I love their banter and their disagreement over 'the weed'. The sex was scorching hot and while I'm pretty used to skimming sex scenes, here I didn't.
February 27, 2023
Love this sorry! The British humour was on point! (I’m British!) It proper had me laughing! You don’t see a lot of British banter in US books so it was fun to read!
You can’t go wrong with a Cora Rose book, you’ll always finish with a smile on your face and a bounce in your step!
It was funny, swoony (still not sure it’s a word but sticking with it) the spice was great, Daniel was cute! I’ve had a Dorito, it was a vicious little shit we had to poke it’s food in with a pencil to stop us from loosing fingers!
Anyway I loved the weed, I feel like he was a Dave, so I’m calling him that! He was a great side character, had a great outside presence!!! Standing his ground and growing tall no fucks given that he was making the yard look untidy!!!
Great funny, comfort read with, good hug in a book with all the feels!!
Hoping for Bens story next!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book contains-
🤎Single dad
🤎Neighbours
🤎Window Smex
🤎Grumpy/Sunshine
🤎Banter
🤎Candy trades
🤎Low angst
🤎Savage pet
You can’t go wrong with a Cora Rose book, you’ll always finish with a smile on your face and a bounce in your step!
It was funny, swoony (still not sure it’s a word but sticking with it) the spice was great, Daniel was cute! I’ve had a Dorito, it was a vicious little shit we had to poke it’s food in with a pencil to stop us from loosing fingers!
Anyway I loved the weed, I feel like he was a Dave, so I’m calling him that! He was a great side character, had a great outside presence!!! Standing his ground and growing tall no fucks given that he was making the yard look untidy!!!
Great funny, comfort read with, good hug in a book with all the feels!!
Hoping for Bens story next!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book contains-
🤎Single dad
🤎Neighbours
🤎Window Smex
🤎Grumpy/Sunshine
🤎Banter
🤎Candy trades
🤎Low angst
🤎Savage pet
February 19, 2023
Sometimes books are just fun to read and that's what this book was for me. Colin and Ethan both had inner monologues that cracked me up and the side characters added another layer of levity that kept me smiling through each and every page. Also, MAGNUS AND SEM! That scene nearly broke my face!
I feel bad for thinking that Colin was boring (and a little desperate, though that opinion hasn't changed much). The way each rejection and failed date diminished him a little more broke my heart. He was such a sweet man and a wonderful dad and I hated that he had been made to feel so dejected. I loved how much he wanted to hate Ethan. This would probably be considered a failed attempt at an enemies-to-lovers trope, but in the cutest and most acceptable way possible.
Ethan was interesting. He was a standoffish Brit with an aversion to smiles (I have to concede, we Americans are terminally smiley. Honestly, I annoy myself sometimes.) and a classic hard stop policy on relationships. I loved watching the cracks form in his armor, especially when it came to Colin's son, Daniel.
Everything was going so well until it was time to the land the plane at the end. Then everything turned into fiance this and marriage that and the rush of all that tradition knocked my enjoyment down a peg. That probably says more about me than this book, so feel free to ignore me. As a whole, I really liked this story and felt it fully redeemed the mess that was Lex.
I'd like to bestow the honor of matchmaker of the year on...(drum roll, please)...the weed. I imagined this thick stalked, hulking monstrosity, swaying in the breeze and tormenting the living hell out of the HOA. I took an unreasonable amount of pleasure from that vision.
So, as much as I don't like polyamory in my romance novels, I think my vote has to go to Ben for the next book. It's hard to ignore the curiosity his "situation" sparked in me.
I feel bad for thinking that Colin was boring (and a little desperate, though that opinion hasn't changed much). The way each rejection and failed date diminished him a little more broke my heart. He was such a sweet man and a wonderful dad and I hated that he had been made to feel so dejected. I loved how much he wanted to hate Ethan. This would probably be considered a failed attempt at an enemies-to-lovers trope, but in the cutest and most acceptable way possible.
Ethan was interesting. He was a standoffish Brit with an aversion to smiles (I have to concede, we Americans are terminally smiley. Honestly, I annoy myself sometimes.) and a classic hard stop policy on relationships. I loved watching the cracks form in his armor, especially when it came to Colin's son, Daniel.
Everything was going so well until it was time to the land the plane at the end. Then everything turned into fiance this and marriage that and the rush of all that tradition knocked my enjoyment down a peg. That probably says more about me than this book, so feel free to ignore me. As a whole, I really liked this story and felt it fully redeemed the mess that was Lex.
I'd like to bestow the honor of matchmaker of the year on...(drum roll, please)...the weed. I imagined this thick stalked, hulking monstrosity, swaying in the breeze and tormenting the living hell out of the HOA. I took an unreasonable amount of pleasure from that vision.
So, as much as I don't like polyamory in my romance novels, I think my vote has to go to Ben for the next book. It's hard to ignore the curiosity his "situation" sparked in me.
February 12, 2023
"See, Colin, what you do to me? I'm throwing away all my meticulously built boundaries, just to be here with you."
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual, First Person
HEA: Yes
Spice Rating: 3/5 🔥🔥🔥
"I am utterly and completely wrecked for you, Colin. Entirely gone for you."
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
When I got my first glimpse of Colin in Sem and in Lex, I was really hoping he would get his own happy ending, and was pumped when Cora surprised us with this beauty! Colin is different from all her other books, because the MCs are not in college or in their early 20s, they're matured adults in their 30s and have both been through the wringer with relationships in the past. Not only this, but Colin is the father of the most adorable kiddo, who was written as a child should be! The whole book had a hilarious tone throughout it, but it was not without the emotions and feels. Colin and Ethan are two sad souls, one wanting nothing more than a relationship, the other not wanting a relationship at all, but absolutely drawn to one another. The exhibitionist/voyeurism kink was super hot and set my kindle on fire with the spice, but there was also passionate emotional scenes between these two as well. The little pops of jealousy from both parties was adorable and it was clear from early on that there wasn't anyone better for the one another. My heart hurt for Colin, when date after date were calling him boring, when really in my eyes he was too good for them and deserved so much more! Overall, Cora is killing it with her books, pumping out masterpiece after masterpiece and this was just as amazing!
Read if you like:
❣️ M/M Romance
❣️ Single Father
❣️ Enemies to Lovers
❣️ Voyeurism/Exhibitionist
❣️ Low Angst
❣️ HEA
Trigger and Content Warnings: N/A
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual, First Person
HEA: Yes
Spice Rating: 3/5 🔥🔥🔥
"I am utterly and completely wrecked for you, Colin. Entirely gone for you."
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
When I got my first glimpse of Colin in Sem and in Lex, I was really hoping he would get his own happy ending, and was pumped when Cora surprised us with this beauty! Colin is different from all her other books, because the MCs are not in college or in their early 20s, they're matured adults in their 30s and have both been through the wringer with relationships in the past. Not only this, but Colin is the father of the most adorable kiddo, who was written as a child should be! The whole book had a hilarious tone throughout it, but it was not without the emotions and feels. Colin and Ethan are two sad souls, one wanting nothing more than a relationship, the other not wanting a relationship at all, but absolutely drawn to one another. The exhibitionist/voyeurism kink was super hot and set my kindle on fire with the spice, but there was also passionate emotional scenes between these two as well. The little pops of jealousy from both parties was adorable and it was clear from early on that there wasn't anyone better for the one another. My heart hurt for Colin, when date after date were calling him boring, when really in my eyes he was too good for them and deserved so much more! Overall, Cora is killing it with her books, pumping out masterpiece after masterpiece and this was just as amazing!
Read if you like:
❣️ M/M Romance
❣️ Single Father
❣️ Enemies to Lovers
❣️ Voyeurism/Exhibitionist
❣️ Low Angst
❣️ HEA
Trigger and Content Warnings: N/A
January 26, 2024
Re-read January 26, 2024
Sweet sweet enemies to lovers story with an adorable kid and a very satisfying ending. I like it.
I think Ben's story might be next, but unfortunately for me, it hints that it might be a MMM romance and so I'll probably have to skip it.
Sweet sweet enemies to lovers story with an adorable kid and a very satisfying ending. I like it.
I think Ben's story might be next, but unfortunately for me, it hints that it might be a MMM romance and so I'll probably have to skip it.
October 15, 2024
Absolutely beautiful. After meeting Colin in Maggie and Emery’s books, I was so happy that he finally got his happily ever after. Daniel was so bloody cute as well. Loving the epilogue that is set 10 years into the future.
December 19, 2023
4.5 stars
What a pleasant surprise.
Colin and Ethan had great chemistry and I actually really enjoyed how they clung onto this ridiculous neighbourly rivalry (they're literally arguing over a weed on their fence line) as a way to resist their obvious connection.
Their motives for doing so felt legitimate, though perhaps slightly drawn out on Ethan's behalf, and I enjoyed the development and reveal of their feelings. Along the way, there were so many domestic moments, which is something I love and it made it all feel quite realistic. This is a couple where I absolutely buy into their romance.
Much to everyone's surprise, Ethan is actually a generous and considerate person who likes kids and respects them as people, and I liked his relationship with Colin's son Daniel: he is the purveyor of sweet treats, ofc, because bribery always works with children. I know next to nothing about children but anyway, I jest, he really was wonderful with Daniel, and it was a stark contrast with Colin's shitty ex. Overall I thought Daniel was well woven into the story too, present and important without being overwhelming.
The one thing I didn't love was that in between a general vibe of maturity and honesty (wonderful) there were a couple of annoying moments of making assumptions and then getting all dramatic. That said, I have a very low tolerance for that kind of stuff. None of it was drawn out and it was overall low drama, it just didn't seem to fit with the rest of the story and I don't think it was necessary to the plot.
I'd definitely recommend this for people who enjoy sweet, domestic stories that still have a spicy side. I'm happy to report that you can comfortably dive in at book 6 not having read any of the others, there's only one cameo from an existing couple and it wasn't an issue for me at all. I'm off to check out the others now!
What a pleasant surprise.
Colin and Ethan had great chemistry and I actually really enjoyed how they clung onto this ridiculous neighbourly rivalry (they're literally arguing over a weed on their fence line) as a way to resist their obvious connection.
Their motives for doing so felt legitimate, though perhaps slightly drawn out on Ethan's behalf, and I enjoyed the development and reveal of their feelings. Along the way, there were so many domestic moments, which is something I love and it made it all feel quite realistic. This is a couple where I absolutely buy into their romance.
Much to everyone's surprise, Ethan is actually a generous and considerate person who likes kids and respects them as people, and I liked his relationship with Colin's son Daniel: he is the purveyor of sweet treats, ofc, because bribery always works with children. I know next to nothing about children but anyway, I jest, he really was wonderful with Daniel, and it was a stark contrast with Colin's shitty ex. Overall I thought Daniel was well woven into the story too, present and important without being overwhelming.
The one thing I didn't love was that in between a general vibe of maturity and honesty (wonderful) there were a couple of annoying moments of making assumptions and then getting all dramatic. That said, I have a very low tolerance for that kind of stuff. None of it was drawn out and it was overall low drama, it just didn't seem to fit with the rest of the story and I don't think it was necessary to the plot.
I'd definitely recommend this for people who enjoy sweet, domestic stories that still have a spicy side. I'm happy to report that you can comfortably dive in at book 6 not having read any of the others, there's only one cameo from an existing couple and it wasn't an issue for me at all. I'm off to check out the others now!
October 23, 2023
Audiobook relisten update (October 2023): was the British narration chaotic? For sure. But after a few minutes I got used to it and it’s still my favorite of the series!
——
Sweet Colin and Grumpy Possessive Ethan are out in the world!
Y’all know I’ve loved all of Cora’s books but Colin was something special. As an American married to a Brit am I a bit biased? Probably. But this book also has the cutest, most realistic and age appropriately written kid I’ve ever read (and normally I’m like 🙅🏼♀️🙅🏼♀️🙅🏼♀️ when it comes to kids in books), and I just loved it from start to finish.
Both our MCs, Colin & Ethan, have been burned by relationships in the past. But where Ethan has fully shut himself off from forming any attachments with feelings, Colin is still out there kissing frogs in a tenacious search for his Prince Charming that hopefully also likes history documentaries and doing laundry. Is that too much to ask? I think not.
This is a gem of a romance, with plenty of quality banter and hilarious internal dialogue. But don’t worry, it’s a Cora book after all so it is obviously spicy AF too 🫠
Though this ties into the Unexpected series as we have briefly met Colin before in Sem & Lex, you could definitely read this as a standalone!
*I received an arc copy of the book, all thoughts & honest opinions are my own*
——
FRTC but I devoured this book, it was delightful 🥹
——
Sweet Colin and Grumpy Possessive Ethan are out in the world!
Y’all know I’ve loved all of Cora’s books but Colin was something special. As an American married to a Brit am I a bit biased? Probably. But this book also has the cutest, most realistic and age appropriately written kid I’ve ever read (and normally I’m like 🙅🏼♀️🙅🏼♀️🙅🏼♀️ when it comes to kids in books), and I just loved it from start to finish.
Both our MCs, Colin & Ethan, have been burned by relationships in the past. But where Ethan has fully shut himself off from forming any attachments with feelings, Colin is still out there kissing frogs in a tenacious search for his Prince Charming that hopefully also likes history documentaries and doing laundry. Is that too much to ask? I think not.
This is a gem of a romance, with plenty of quality banter and hilarious internal dialogue. But don’t worry, it’s a Cora book after all so it is obviously spicy AF too 🫠
Though this ties into the Unexpected series as we have briefly met Colin before in Sem & Lex, you could definitely read this as a standalone!
*I received an arc copy of the book, all thoughts & honest opinions are my own*
——
FRTC but I devoured this book, it was delightful 🥹
February 9, 2023
Another one… another f**king one. Can she do something bad? Half ass it or something? I go in thinking I’ll be ok, have a good time, a glass of wine, and I won’t even need to cry. Like that was those other f**king stories… that was “old Cora”; these be new times me boy. Bright, fun, sexy times with no worries B. No, no, no, no. These be the same old dark times. Zero changes my dood. Did you ever find yourself staring at the page, tongue out, ass up, holding the cheeks for a good view? ….Huh. That’s just how I read? Wow... Well get a f**king picture because this book will make you feel exposed like that!! I was absolutely all in at the window. The way these two men just attacked what they wanted and communicated needs without actually doing any of that was soooooo sexy. New kink unlocked 🔒 Did I look out my window to see if my sex soulmate was peering in? You bet your a$$ I did. Pressed me cheeks to the glass, I was NOT going to miss an opportunity like that.
Know what really tickles my taint? A twatbucket of an ex. They make me throw my head back, joker smile and laugh at the moon. I am that b**ch. Colin is magic. I felt my junk in my throat, Double Shot boardwalk style, when man after man called him boring. I was crushed for him. But you were so much more. Ethan you were honest to a fault. Always knowing what you didn’t want… but that’s where the where it stopped. You needed a honest b-slap around 70%. I also secretly wished Colin would have made you watch him with the biker… ya kind of deserved it. The story was naughty, beautiful and hung like a horse. What? Show me the lie. As always I found myself willing it to be less good so I don’t add it the longest list of books I must own. Did you hear that? Yup, the cries of my wallet because I WILL add this to my collection of Cora perfection ❤️
Know what really tickles my taint? A twatbucket of an ex. They make me throw my head back, joker smile and laugh at the moon. I am that b**ch. Colin is magic. I felt my junk in my throat, Double Shot boardwalk style, when man after man called him boring. I was crushed for him. But you were so much more. Ethan you were honest to a fault. Always knowing what you didn’t want… but that’s where the where it stopped. You needed a honest b-slap around 70%. I also secretly wished Colin would have made you watch him with the biker… ya kind of deserved it. The story was naughty, beautiful and hung like a horse. What? Show me the lie. As always I found myself willing it to be less good so I don’t add it the longest list of books I must own. Did you hear that? Yup, the cries of my wallet because I WILL add this to my collection of Cora perfection ❤️
February 26, 2023
2.5
I’m gonna get cancelled for this but i really really didnt enjoy this. I do give it props for being soft and having hot sexual tension for… the one scene in the beginning before it went downhill but yeah… lets begin-
1. Like i said, the beginning where they both have so much sexual tension in that one scene where they both stare at each other through the window was so stood but they ruin it so fast by Ethan coming over to his house… man. I wanted more of that. But okay.
2. The kid was adorable but once again as it is with these books, extremely unrealistic. Atleast i thought so. But since it helped make him a lot less annoying… who am i to complain.
3. Ethan was so just… badly written and so was Colin for that matter and none of their background was ever really explored at all. Ethan was written to be so stereotypically British i really don’t know what it is with Americans writing British people but they’re all the fucking same.
4. AND he was so overbearing. Theres scenes where he snaps at Colin because he’s supposedly worried about the kid but it just came off as him being presumptuous and undermining Colin as well as making him seem incompetent. And Colin doesn’t even give a fuck and in fact thinks ts cute that he cares… okay sure man.
5. You’re telling me that if my son throws up a guy is gonna mop up the barf while i take care of my son and im supposed to believe you. Okay sure.
6. Theres also absolutely no basis for their attraction in the beginning. And i hate how Colin is enough of a doormat to go with whatever Ethan is asking of him even though it completely goes against what he supposedly wants.
7. Also Colin can’t fucking cook. What is he fucking feeding his child on a daily basis.
8. Also he’s such a terrible judge of character proven by the fact that his previous ex that he was in a long term relationship with and had a kid with turned out to be a douche and yet, now with a kid, he decides to marry a guy within five months. I bet you liked your ex in the beginning too,,, wtf who does this. And im supposed to think you’re a mature adult.
Bye i don’t even know why i rounded up this rating.
I’m gonna get cancelled for this but i really really didnt enjoy this. I do give it props for being soft and having hot sexual tension for… the one scene in the beginning before it went downhill but yeah… lets begin-
1. Like i said, the beginning where they both have so much sexual tension in that one scene where they both stare at each other through the window was so stood but they ruin it so fast by Ethan coming over to his house… man. I wanted more of that. But okay.
2. The kid was adorable but once again as it is with these books, extremely unrealistic. Atleast i thought so. But since it helped make him a lot less annoying… who am i to complain.
3. Ethan was so just… badly written and so was Colin for that matter and none of their background was ever really explored at all. Ethan was written to be so stereotypically British i really don’t know what it is with Americans writing British people but they’re all the fucking same.
4. AND he was so overbearing. Theres scenes where he snaps at Colin because he’s supposedly worried about the kid but it just came off as him being presumptuous and undermining Colin as well as making him seem incompetent. And Colin doesn’t even give a fuck and in fact thinks ts cute that he cares… okay sure man.
5. You’re telling me that if my son throws up a guy is gonna mop up the barf while i take care of my son and im supposed to believe you. Okay sure.
6. Theres also absolutely no basis for their attraction in the beginning. And i hate how Colin is enough of a doormat to go with whatever Ethan is asking of him even though it completely goes against what he supposedly wants.
7. Also Colin can’t fucking cook. What is he fucking feeding his child on a daily basis.
8. Also he’s such a terrible judge of character proven by the fact that his previous ex that he was in a long term relationship with and had a kid with turned out to be a douche and yet, now with a kid, he decides to marry a guy within five months. I bet you liked your ex in the beginning too,,, wtf who does this. And im supposed to think you’re a mature adult.
Bye i don’t even know why i rounded up this rating.
July 18, 2023
This book was sweet and sexy and delicious and dirty and fun. I mean why else would I be having such a chuckle about a fight over a weed.
These two played off each other so well. Both so stubborn. Both clearly ignoring the elephant in the room. Being inside their heads was so much fun to read.
My only complaint was that after such good pacing for the first 3/4 this ends all in a rush.
These two played off each other so well. Both so stubborn. Both clearly ignoring the elephant in the room. Being inside their heads was so much fun to read.
My only complaint was that after such good pacing for the first 3/4 this ends all in a rush.
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