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Saint Stephen's Lake #2
(Un)Planned: A Grumpy/Sunshine, Workplace Romance
The first rule of starting over?
Never fall for your brand-new boss.
But I’ve never been very good at following the rules.
Calla Winters is starting a brand new chapter in her life. After four years of wandering around Saint Stephen’s Lake without a purpose, her family has had enough and given her an ultimatum: get on board with their program or get cut off.
Refusing to give in to their demands, Calla moves to the city that never sleeps, determined to discover her true passion. Pursuing her independence, however, comes with a steep price tag, one she can’t afford without her family’s support. With her confidence waning and her options dwindling, Calla starts to get desperate. Thank goodness for friends with connections, right?
Theo Ayad has spent the last decade climbing the ladder at the Wallace and Associates Talent Agency. Making partner has been his top goal, really his only goal, since he started, personal life and other responsibilities be damned. His hard work finally pays off when he’s gifted the keys to the new New York office and six months to prove that he can lead a team.
However, when his best client and close friend asks for a favor, Theo can’t say no, even if the favor means hiring a new assistant with absolutely no experience and a smile that throws him off-kilter.
As they work together, Calla and Theo develop a connection, one they’re both trying to ignore due to the agency’s strict no-fraternization policy. However, the more they get to know each other, the harder that becomes. When their relationship deepens, Calla and Theo have to decide if it is worth the risk, even if falling in love was never part of the plan.
Never fall for your brand-new boss.
But I’ve never been very good at following the rules.
Calla Winters is starting a brand new chapter in her life. After four years of wandering around Saint Stephen’s Lake without a purpose, her family has had enough and given her an ultimatum: get on board with their program or get cut off.
Refusing to give in to their demands, Calla moves to the city that never sleeps, determined to discover her true passion. Pursuing her independence, however, comes with a steep price tag, one she can’t afford without her family’s support. With her confidence waning and her options dwindling, Calla starts to get desperate. Thank goodness for friends with connections, right?
Theo Ayad has spent the last decade climbing the ladder at the Wallace and Associates Talent Agency. Making partner has been his top goal, really his only goal, since he started, personal life and other responsibilities be damned. His hard work finally pays off when he’s gifted the keys to the new New York office and six months to prove that he can lead a team.
However, when his best client and close friend asks for a favor, Theo can’t say no, even if the favor means hiring a new assistant with absolutely no experience and a smile that throws him off-kilter.
As they work together, Calla and Theo develop a connection, one they’re both trying to ignore due to the agency’s strict no-fraternization policy. However, the more they get to know each other, the harder that becomes. When their relationship deepens, Calla and Theo have to decide if it is worth the risk, even if falling in love was never part of the plan.
312 pages, Paperback
Published June 27, 2024
31 people are currently reading
684 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
June 27, 2024
✨ARC Review 📚✨
This is book 2 of the Saint Stephens Lake series, I have not read book 1 but I don't think you need to in order to understand the second book. But I will definitely be going back to read book one now that I've read this one. This book follows Calla Winters and Theo Ayad, he is in charge of running a talent agency and Calla needs a job and ends up being hired to be Theo's assistant. The banter, chemistry and how they slowly started falling for each other was written so beautifully. Calla moved to New York after her mother kicked her out, which is why she needed a job. Theo has been working hard for over a decade to get to where he is and make partner at his job. Calla brings color and life to Theo's life, making him realize he's job isn't the most important thing in his life anymore. Definitely, pick this book up you won't regret it.
This is the first book I read by author K.C. Brooks and let me just say it didn't disappoint. Thank you to author K.C. Brooks and Luna Literary for the opportunity to ARC read this book.
This is book 2 of the Saint Stephens Lake series, I have not read book 1 but I don't think you need to in order to understand the second book. But I will definitely be going back to read book one now that I've read this one. This book follows Calla Winters and Theo Ayad, he is in charge of running a talent agency and Calla needs a job and ends up being hired to be Theo's assistant. The banter, chemistry and how they slowly started falling for each other was written so beautifully. Calla moved to New York after her mother kicked her out, which is why she needed a job. Theo has been working hard for over a decade to get to where he is and make partner at his job. Calla brings color and life to Theo's life, making him realize he's job isn't the most important thing in his life anymore. Definitely, pick this book up you won't regret it.
This is the first book I read by author K.C. Brooks and let me just say it didn't disappoint. Thank you to author K.C. Brooks and Luna Literary for the opportunity to ARC read this book.
July 15, 2024
Star Rating: 3.5/5 ⭐
Heat Rating: 3/5 🌶️
What to Expect:
- Workplace Romance
- Boss/Assistant
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Forbidden Romance
- Small Town meets Big City
- Found Family
- Dual POVs
Calla is struggling to meet her parents' expectations. She cannot commit to a career path, so she leaves school and heads back to her family's resort. Calla has no intention of following her mother's plan for her life, so she is given an ultimatum—either return to school or leave the resort. Two months later, Calla finds herself jobless and in New York with her sister. Her friend pulls some strings and gets her an interview to work for his manager, Theo.
As Calla and Theo work together, their connection grows. Although their relationship is forbidden and frowned upon, they can't help themselves. Calla and Theo's chemistry is undeniable, but they must keep their relationship a secret to protect their jobs. I loved Calla and Theo together and enjoyed their character growth. They experienced real and relatable situations that showed the difficulties of balancing love with career aspirations. Call and Theo supported each other in reaching their goals. I loved seeing Calla finally find a path that made her happy. Through all the obstacles, I loved that they held onto their faith in each other. Ultimately, they earned their happily ever after.
Heat Rating: 3/5 🌶️
What to Expect:
- Workplace Romance
- Boss/Assistant
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Forbidden Romance
- Small Town meets Big City
- Found Family
- Dual POVs
Calla is struggling to meet her parents' expectations. She cannot commit to a career path, so she leaves school and heads back to her family's resort. Calla has no intention of following her mother's plan for her life, so she is given an ultimatum—either return to school or leave the resort. Two months later, Calla finds herself jobless and in New York with her sister. Her friend pulls some strings and gets her an interview to work for his manager, Theo.
As Calla and Theo work together, their connection grows. Although their relationship is forbidden and frowned upon, they can't help themselves. Calla and Theo's chemistry is undeniable, but they must keep their relationship a secret to protect their jobs. I loved Calla and Theo together and enjoyed their character growth. They experienced real and relatable situations that showed the difficulties of balancing love with career aspirations. Call and Theo supported each other in reaching their goals. I loved seeing Calla finally find a path that made her happy. Through all the obstacles, I loved that they held onto their faith in each other. Ultimately, they earned their happily ever after.
June 18, 2024
First off thank you to K.C. Brooks for the ARC. I truly appreciate being able to read your work.
For my honest review with no spoilers, see below.
(Un)Planned (Saint Stephens Lake #2) was the first book I read in this series. With that being said, I don't think you need to read the Book 1 first. I thought this was a cute, quick read that showed how it does take time to fall in love. In so many books nowadays, it seems like the lovers fall in love in like half a day. This was refreshing and helped to solidify their relationship.
Overall, I gave this book 4 stars. I think that it was a great summer read. I loved the family dynamics and the dynamics between friends. The humor and banter were also delightful.
My one dislike of this book was that I did feel like some of the story was rushed. Not the love part, but I felt like more could have been described or more detail. But maybe that is just because I haven't read the first one?
If you are looking for a quick but lovely love story, (Un)Planned is a great book to read.
For my honest review with no spoilers, see below.
(Un)Planned (Saint Stephens Lake #2) was the first book I read in this series. With that being said, I don't think you need to read the Book 1 first. I thought this was a cute, quick read that showed how it does take time to fall in love. In so many books nowadays, it seems like the lovers fall in love in like half a day. This was refreshing and helped to solidify their relationship.
Overall, I gave this book 4 stars. I think that it was a great summer read. I loved the family dynamics and the dynamics between friends. The humor and banter were also delightful.
My one dislike of this book was that I did feel like some of the story was rushed. Not the love part, but I felt like more could have been described or more detail. But maybe that is just because I haven't read the first one?
If you are looking for a quick but lovely love story, (Un)Planned is a great book to read.
July 4, 2024
Such a cute and quick romance! There were some amazing tropes in here that were executed so well! We had forbidden romance, secret dating, age gap, workplace romance - it was packed with some good ones!
I thought the characters were amazing and the medium burn hit just right! I always love when the MMC is kind of driven crazy by the FMC and he low key thinks he hates her but is actually in love with her! It hits every time!
I also LOVED how there was no miscommunication. This was big because there were a lot of times I was nervous it was going to happen but it really didn’t! I guess there was like one small part but nothing that would really stick out or be used to further the plot more just like a normal couple miscommunication thing.
I really loved this book. I felt like the third act breakup was a little draggy with one too many things thrown in the mix but other than that I genuinely couldn’t put it down!
I would HIGHLY recommend
I thought the characters were amazing and the medium burn hit just right! I always love when the MMC is kind of driven crazy by the FMC and he low key thinks he hates her but is actually in love with her! It hits every time!
I also LOVED how there was no miscommunication. This was big because there were a lot of times I was nervous it was going to happen but it really didn’t! I guess there was like one small part but nothing that would really stick out or be used to further the plot more just like a normal couple miscommunication thing.
I really loved this book. I felt like the third act breakup was a little draggy with one too many things thrown in the mix but other than that I genuinely couldn’t put it down!
I would HIGHLY recommend
June 16, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
I received an ARC but these are my honest opinions and thoughts. I loved this book, and was so pleasantly surprised. i legit loved that they slowly started to fall for each other, instead of an insta love trope.
Theo and Calla are just so amazing for each other, the banter between them but also the support and love that they have shared is amazing. The communication was so nice and realistic and i just loved reading their story.
I CANT WAIT TO READ MORE FROM THIS AUTHOR ✨💚🙌🏽
I received an ARC but these are my honest opinions and thoughts. I loved this book, and was so pleasantly surprised. i legit loved that they slowly started to fall for each other, instead of an insta love trope.
Theo and Calla are just so amazing for each other, the banter between them but also the support and love that they have shared is amazing. The communication was so nice and realistic and i just loved reading their story.
I CANT WAIT TO READ MORE FROM THIS AUTHOR ✨💚🙌🏽
July 6, 2024
I'm far from impartial, but I love Calla and Theo. Writing their story was so much fun, and I loved every minute of it. I hope you enjoy it too 💛
June 14, 2024
This was absolutely DIVINE! What a lovely trip back to Saint Stephen’s Lake (well, sorta--only because the majority of this story takes place in the Big Apple) and this sweet cast of characters!
Calla and Theo are on two very different journeys with two very different outlooks on life. He's a cut-throat (and quite grumpy) talent agent; she's a sassy Disney princess who was just hired on to be his assistant. And yet, they have more in common than what meets the eye. Their professional relationship quickly becomes something more as they discover what they want in life while soothing the wounds from past hurts.
I absolutely LOVE these characters! KC does a fabulous job in developing realism and depth into their individual stories. The plot and the pacing were perfect, keeping me interested and wanting more.
Okay... let's not just skim over one of the most important parts of this story: the spice! KC turned up the heat with this one... hello, Mr. Ayad! The smut was delicious!
You can read this as a standalone (there's a few cameos and "life updates" in the book), buuuuuuuut I think the best experience is to read (Un)Expected and then read this.
Great story about finding yourself and finding your voice! Very sweet romance!
⭐️- 5.0
🌶- 2.5
Calla and Theo are on two very different journeys with two very different outlooks on life. He's a cut-throat (and quite grumpy) talent agent; she's a sassy Disney princess who was just hired on to be his assistant. And yet, they have more in common than what meets the eye. Their professional relationship quickly becomes something more as they discover what they want in life while soothing the wounds from past hurts.
I absolutely LOVE these characters! KC does a fabulous job in developing realism and depth into their individual stories. The plot and the pacing were perfect, keeping me interested and wanting more.
Okay... let's not just skim over one of the most important parts of this story: the spice! KC turned up the heat with this one... hello, Mr. Ayad! The smut was delicious!
You can read this as a standalone (there's a few cameos and "life updates" in the book), buuuuuuuut I think the best experience is to read (Un)Expected and then read this.
Great story about finding yourself and finding your voice! Very sweet romance!
⭐️- 5.0
🌶- 2.5
July 11, 2024
Calla and Theo are everyone's dream of grump x sunshine! Calla becomes Theo's assistant after a friend and client asks him for a favor, and the fun starts! Their banter is top notch, the sizzle is amazing, and the slow burn is burnin'!! I loved this book for so many reasons, but these characters are ones I'll always remember! Highly recommend this book to romance lovers everywhere!!
Featured tropes: workplace romance, boss/assistant, forbidden romance, age gap, forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine, small town/big city
Featured tropes: workplace romance, boss/assistant, forbidden romance, age gap, forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine, small town/big city
June 24, 2024
3.5 stars - ARC Read 😎
This book was cute, but I wish there was a bit more to it. Some of the storylines in the third act felt slightly rushed to me. I also felt that Theo and Calla's relationship happened really quickly. I personally wish there was a little more build up about their attraction to each other. This book was still fun, and I'm interested in the next book since it's Adam's story. 😎
This book was cute, but I wish there was a bit more to it. Some of the storylines in the third act felt slightly rushed to me. I also felt that Theo and Calla's relationship happened really quickly. I personally wish there was a little more build up about their attraction to each other. This book was still fun, and I'm interested in the next book since it's Adam's story. 😎
June 23, 2024
4 🌶️
A totally predictable ending, but still very enjoyable. I usually stay in the fantasy/romantasy genre, but I love to take ARCs that are these small-town, second-chance, forbidden-love type books because 1) it spices up my reading list and 2) it allows me to have a fun, easy read before delving back into war-torn fantasy realms :P.
Theo Ayad is a hard-working agent, helping celebrities, athletes, and actors negotiate their contracts and in doing so, his life has become inundated and focused completely on work and climbing that corporate ladder. His previous marriage dissolved because of his work-focused lifestyle. In a bid to become a named partner at his company, he is moved to New York City to start up a satellite office. If successful, his hopes may be fulfilled. However, that is all before Calla Winters enters his life and change it for the better.
Calla Winters just wants to have her own life, not shadowed by her shallow mother and stepfather. She is kicked out of her childhood home for refusing to follow the path her parents have laid for her, and has to move to NYC to live with her older sister. With no money to her name, and her only work experience having been working at her families hotel, she is wary towards her future. Her friends pull some strings for her, and she ends up working for Theo as his personal assistant…and more.
A story of forbidden romance, finding true love and acceptance, and finding oneself, this book was very enjoyable to read. I mostly enjoyed the banter, tension, heartache and emotional ineptness of Theo and Calla both. The refusal to acknowledge their mutual feelings towards one another, yet the banter and teasing they still exchanged was just *chefs kiss*. Soooo good!!!! So well written, and a sweet story, I highly recommend this book to those people out there who love a spicy forbidden (yet still super sweet) romance.
A totally predictable ending, but still very enjoyable. I usually stay in the fantasy/romantasy genre, but I love to take ARCs that are these small-town, second-chance, forbidden-love type books because 1) it spices up my reading list and 2) it allows me to have a fun, easy read before delving back into war-torn fantasy realms :P.
Theo Ayad is a hard-working agent, helping celebrities, athletes, and actors negotiate their contracts and in doing so, his life has become inundated and focused completely on work and climbing that corporate ladder. His previous marriage dissolved because of his work-focused lifestyle. In a bid to become a named partner at his company, he is moved to New York City to start up a satellite office. If successful, his hopes may be fulfilled. However, that is all before Calla Winters enters his life and change it for the better.
Calla Winters just wants to have her own life, not shadowed by her shallow mother and stepfather. She is kicked out of her childhood home for refusing to follow the path her parents have laid for her, and has to move to NYC to live with her older sister. With no money to her name, and her only work experience having been working at her families hotel, she is wary towards her future. Her friends pull some strings for her, and she ends up working for Theo as his personal assistant…and more.
A story of forbidden romance, finding true love and acceptance, and finding oneself, this book was very enjoyable to read. I mostly enjoyed the banter, tension, heartache and emotional ineptness of Theo and Calla both. The refusal to acknowledge their mutual feelings towards one another, yet the banter and teasing they still exchanged was just *chefs kiss*. Soooo good!!!! So well written, and a sweet story, I highly recommend this book to those people out there who love a spicy forbidden (yet still super sweet) romance.
June 22, 2024
4.25 stars out of 5.
Calla and Theo were a great coupling. I do think there were some moments that felt odd, like the "dark thoughts" Theo would have of Calla and him thinking he'd bring her down into his dark. I feel that sort of stuff could have been better explained earlier on in the story about him but it overall made sense as the story progressed.
Calla deciding to be herself and really go her own way was my favorite part. It was so wonderful to see her spread her wings and make something of herself even when she thought she might fail or doubted herself from personal trauma.
Thank you K.C. Brooks and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read this story. I very much enjoyed it and cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Calla and Theo were a great coupling. I do think there were some moments that felt odd, like the "dark thoughts" Theo would have of Calla and him thinking he'd bring her down into his dark. I feel that sort of stuff could have been better explained earlier on in the story about him but it overall made sense as the story progressed.
Calla deciding to be herself and really go her own way was my favorite part. It was so wonderful to see her spread her wings and make something of herself even when she thought she might fail or doubted herself from personal trauma.
Thank you K.C. Brooks and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read this story. I very much enjoyed it and cannot wait for the next book in the series.
June 26, 2024
•ARC Review•
(Un) Planned by @kaybrookswrites
After I read the first book (Un) Expected I KNEW I needed Theo and Callas’s story.
Calla who is the sunshine girl moves to the city and finds a job as Theo’s assistant. (wink wink) Theo is a grumpy workaholic man with one thing in mind. Make partner.
Calla and Theo were in the area of forbidden because of their working relationship, boss and assistant (employee). They had chemistry, he cared about her, he supported her. Calla worked hard to show Theo there is more to life than just work. He comes to realize she just might be right.
I absolutely loved this book. If you have not read the first please do!
• small town x big city
• forbidden
• office romance
• grumpy x sunshine
• boss x assistant
(Un) Planned by @kaybrookswrites
After I read the first book (Un) Expected I KNEW I needed Theo and Callas’s story.
Calla who is the sunshine girl moves to the city and finds a job as Theo’s assistant. (wink wink) Theo is a grumpy workaholic man with one thing in mind. Make partner.
Calla and Theo were in the area of forbidden because of their working relationship, boss and assistant (employee). They had chemistry, he cared about her, he supported her. Calla worked hard to show Theo there is more to life than just work. He comes to realize she just might be right.
I absolutely loved this book. If you have not read the first please do!
• small town x big city
• forbidden
• office romance
• grumpy x sunshine
• boss x assistant
June 28, 2024
4.5 but rounded up
(Un) planned by K.C.Brooks
Out now! Available on Kindle Unlimited!
K.C. Brooks just knows how to write romances! I thoroughly enjoyed reading Theo and Callas love story. It was filled with tension, banter, angst, spice, and some wonderful main characters. I love these books because there is always more to the story than just romantic relationships. The story explores family relationships & friendships as well. It gives the book a deeper meaning and has me wanting to read every book that comes after! I also loved getting a glimpse back into Alex and Cole's life throughout this book. The way they were intertwined with Calla and Theo's love story just worked so well.
So looking forward to reading Adam's story next!
(Un) planned by K.C.Brooks
Out now! Available on Kindle Unlimited!
K.C. Brooks just knows how to write romances! I thoroughly enjoyed reading Theo and Callas love story. It was filled with tension, banter, angst, spice, and some wonderful main characters. I love these books because there is always more to the story than just romantic relationships. The story explores family relationships & friendships as well. It gives the book a deeper meaning and has me wanting to read every book that comes after! I also loved getting a glimpse back into Alex and Cole's life throughout this book. The way they were intertwined with Calla and Theo's love story just worked so well.
So looking forward to reading Adam's story next!
July 5, 2024
My first workplace romance book and I liked the vibes! The forbidden romance trope is a favorite but I loved the characters in this book. It also had some small town moments, so even though it was mainly in NYC I did enjoy the background on Calla’s home. Other than the romance one of my favorite things about this book was watching Calla grow up in a way. Coming out of the shadows of her family and finding her own footing, but also standing up for herself and setting those healthy boundaries even with her own mother. It had heartfelt moments for myself personally. I’m excited for the next book in this series!
June 27, 2024
This was my first book by Brooks and I thoroughly enjoyed it. If you’re looking for a feel good, fluffy romance with a strong plot, this is the one.
I fell in love with Theo and his grumpy old self, he definitely stole the show for me!
And the spice definitely hit lol, it was a bit of a slow burn but once it ramped up it was 🔥 haha, I did appreciate that there weren’t a lot of cringe worthy words used in this book (think, “lady garden” or “her caverns” lmao) and the spice wasn’t anything too crazy just a guy who likes making his girl feel good!
Overall 4/5 and I will be reading book 1 when I have time in my TBR
I fell in love with Theo and his grumpy old self, he definitely stole the show for me!
And the spice definitely hit lol, it was a bit of a slow burn but once it ramped up it was 🔥 haha, I did appreciate that there weren’t a lot of cringe worthy words used in this book (think, “lady garden” or “her caverns” lmao) and the spice wasn’t anything too crazy just a guy who likes making his girl feel good!
Overall 4/5 and I will be reading book 1 when I have time in my TBR
July 28, 2024
This was super cute. Low stakes office romance. I loved their chemistry and it was a great light read. The spice was good and the story was interesting enough that I didn’t feel bored. The tension was not as heavy as it could have been. I wanted a bit more character depth but honestly it wasn’t that kind of book, so it was fine. Fun read!
June 27, 2024
First of all, look at this book cover!! It’s to die for!!
(Un) Planned (Saint Stephens Lake #2) was the first book I read in this series! I loved this office romance story! The perfect grumpy and sunshine mix with Calla & Theo. It was def a slow burn but worth the wait of their love development. As always, the banter between a grump and sunshine is always fun and K.C Brooks Definitely delivered!
(Un) Planned (Saint Stephens Lake #2) was the first book I read in this series! I loved this office romance story! The perfect grumpy and sunshine mix with Calla & Theo. It was def a slow burn but worth the wait of their love development. As always, the banter between a grump and sunshine is always fun and K.C Brooks Definitely delivered!
April 25, 2025
Calla and Theo’s story was such a cute read!
Theo, this broody man who just hates everyone and everything instantly had a soft spot for Calla. Hiring her out of spite for his clients friend, he knew that there was some sort of thing he liked about her. His icy exterior was melting for her.
Calla, her happy go lucky persona made everyone shine around her. She’s had a crappy hand dealt her way, but she still shined no matter what. Wanting to protect herself but also allowing herself to fall.
This was such a sweet read and I found myself relating to both characters at different times.
Theo, this broody man who just hates everyone and everything instantly had a soft spot for Calla. Hiring her out of spite for his clients friend, he knew that there was some sort of thing he liked about her. His icy exterior was melting for her.
Calla, her happy go lucky persona made everyone shine around her. She’s had a crappy hand dealt her way, but she still shined no matter what. Wanting to protect herself but also allowing herself to fall.
This was such a sweet read and I found myself relating to both characters at different times.
July 10, 2024
After meeting Calla’s quirky, vibrant, unique self in (Un)Expected it was really nice to get a full experience of her character in this book. And Theo was SUCH a grouch in (Un)Expected… but the unlikely match of Theo & Calla was a really fun dynamic. She quite literally brings color back into his world. I absolutely adore them!
I cannot wait for the next Saint Stephen’s Lake Series. I have hunches about the next 2 books ;)
Thanks for the ARC! Definitely recommend this series.
I cannot wait for the next Saint Stephen’s Lake Series. I have hunches about the next 2 books ;)
Thanks for the ARC! Definitely recommend this series.
June 19, 2024
After refusing to let her mother and stepfather control her life, Calla leaves her small town for the big city. For the first time in her life, she is standing on her own two feet (or trying to, once she can find a job!). Calla is easy to like and is a relatable FMC that is finding her own way, despite trauma that wants to keep her tethered to other people’s expectations of her life. Theo is a career driven executive that has given up on love. But when he does a favor for a friend, fate gets involved when he takes a chance on Calla as she starts living her life on her own terms. Their relationship is sweet as it escalates and they definitely have chemistry together, but certain circumstances threaten to prevent them from getting their HEA.
This was the first book I’ve read by K.C. Brooks and I really enjoyed it!
(Un)Planned includes:
✨ Forbidden Relationship
✨ Grumpy x Sunshine
✨ Office Romance
✨ Boss/Assistant
✨ Small Town Meets Big City
𝘚𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘓𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘭: 🔥🔥🔥
𝘖𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘙𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you K.C. Brooks and Luna Literary Management for the ARC opportunity!
This was the first book I’ve read by K.C. Brooks and I really enjoyed it!
(Un)Planned includes:
✨ Forbidden Relationship
✨ Grumpy x Sunshine
✨ Office Romance
✨ Boss/Assistant
✨ Small Town Meets Big City
𝘚𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘓𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘭: 🔥🔥🔥
𝘖𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘙𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you K.C. Brooks and Luna Literary Management for the ARC opportunity!
June 18, 2024
Rating: 4.5 ⭐
After reading Alex and Cole’s book (which was amazing, by the way), I was super excited to read about Calla! She was such a fun character in Alex’s book that I wanted to see her get her happily ever after because she deserved it so much.
Calla has just moved out of her small town and into the big city, but unfortunately, she was cut off by her family, which led to her move in the first place. Luckily, her older sister was supportive and let her live with her. She also had good friends in Alex and her fiancé, Cole, and his friend Adam, who was willing to help Calla get a job in the city. Theo Ayad was looking for an assistant after moving to New York, but when his good friend and client, Adam, asked him to hire his friend who has no experience, he was hesitant to agree. After he meets with her, he’s even more reluctant because Calla made him feel too many things that he shouldn't be feeling for a potential new assistant. Eventually, he gives her the job, despite how his heart rate picks up just seeing her smile. Soon, Calla and Theo find themselves getting to know each other better and forming a connection that’s against all the company rules, but the more they get to know each other, the harder denying the chemistry between them becomes. As things between them deepen, they’ll have to decide if risking their jobs is worth it, or if they’ll give up their new relationship instead.
Let me tell you: I freaking loved this story!! Grumpy/sunshine plus workplace romance? Yes, please! I honestly completely forgot about Theo until I started this story and I had a moment of “wait, Theo?” (if you’ve read (Un)Expected, you’ll get it) but I was so excited once I started reading it because I loved Theo so much! When we met him in (Un)Expected, he just seemed like Adam’s grumpy agent, but he proved himself to be so much more in this story. I think a lot of that was because of Calla’s influence because he found it hard to resist her sunny personality–even though he desperately wanted to! As for Calla, I knew I was going to love her story and I was right! She was so freaking sweet and kind and the perfect match for grumpy and serious Theo. She never let him walk all over her and was always willing to put him in his place if he needed it, and that was another one of the things that he liked so much about her, too.
One thing I like about K.C. Brooks's stories is that she’s able to make them seem real. Sometimes, fiction can be a little too far from real life, but with these books, it’s realistic. The problems and issues that arise make sense in the real world, and I could see things playing out in real life how they do in these books, which I appreciate because even though I want the escape of reading, I still want it to be more realistic if it’s taking place in the real world. I also appreciate that any problems that come about are handled by the characters realistically, but are also talked through well.
I loved this story a lot! I enjoyed Calla and Theo’s story and how it all played out for them. I can’t wait to head back to Saint Stephen’s Lake for the next story!
Quotes I Loved:
"...with that smug smile on her face, I wanted to bend her over that chair and slap her ass until my handprint was branded on her skin." -Theo
"She was young, vibrant, and full of life, and I was the darkness, a shadow passing through the world without engaging with it." -Theo
"Sure, he looked like he was carved out of my deepest fantasies, but having a fling with my boss would be a terrible life choice." -Calla
"It had been a long time since I felt the pull to someone like I did with Calla. She was quickly becoming my reason for getting out of bed in the morning, the reason my smiles came easier. She'd brought joy back into my life, and I'd fight like hell to keep it." -Theo
Thank you, K.C. and Luna Literary Management, for providing me with an ARC!
After reading Alex and Cole’s book (which was amazing, by the way), I was super excited to read about Calla! She was such a fun character in Alex’s book that I wanted to see her get her happily ever after because she deserved it so much.
Calla has just moved out of her small town and into the big city, but unfortunately, she was cut off by her family, which led to her move in the first place. Luckily, her older sister was supportive and let her live with her. She also had good friends in Alex and her fiancé, Cole, and his friend Adam, who was willing to help Calla get a job in the city. Theo Ayad was looking for an assistant after moving to New York, but when his good friend and client, Adam, asked him to hire his friend who has no experience, he was hesitant to agree. After he meets with her, he’s even more reluctant because Calla made him feel too many things that he shouldn't be feeling for a potential new assistant. Eventually, he gives her the job, despite how his heart rate picks up just seeing her smile. Soon, Calla and Theo find themselves getting to know each other better and forming a connection that’s against all the company rules, but the more they get to know each other, the harder denying the chemistry between them becomes. As things between them deepen, they’ll have to decide if risking their jobs is worth it, or if they’ll give up their new relationship instead.
Let me tell you: I freaking loved this story!! Grumpy/sunshine plus workplace romance? Yes, please! I honestly completely forgot about Theo until I started this story and I had a moment of “wait, Theo?” (if you’ve read (Un)Expected, you’ll get it) but I was so excited once I started reading it because I loved Theo so much! When we met him in (Un)Expected, he just seemed like Adam’s grumpy agent, but he proved himself to be so much more in this story. I think a lot of that was because of Calla’s influence because he found it hard to resist her sunny personality–even though he desperately wanted to! As for Calla, I knew I was going to love her story and I was right! She was so freaking sweet and kind and the perfect match for grumpy and serious Theo. She never let him walk all over her and was always willing to put him in his place if he needed it, and that was another one of the things that he liked so much about her, too.
One thing I like about K.C. Brooks's stories is that she’s able to make them seem real. Sometimes, fiction can be a little too far from real life, but with these books, it’s realistic. The problems and issues that arise make sense in the real world, and I could see things playing out in real life how they do in these books, which I appreciate because even though I want the escape of reading, I still want it to be more realistic if it’s taking place in the real world. I also appreciate that any problems that come about are handled by the characters realistically, but are also talked through well.
I loved this story a lot! I enjoyed Calla and Theo’s story and how it all played out for them. I can’t wait to head back to Saint Stephen’s Lake for the next story!
Quotes I Loved:
"...with that smug smile on her face, I wanted to bend her over that chair and slap her ass until my handprint was branded on her skin." -Theo
"She was young, vibrant, and full of life, and I was the darkness, a shadow passing through the world without engaging with it." -Theo
"Sure, he looked like he was carved out of my deepest fantasies, but having a fling with my boss would be a terrible life choice." -Calla
"It had been a long time since I felt the pull to someone like I did with Calla. She was quickly becoming my reason for getting out of bed in the morning, the reason my smiles came easier. She'd brought joy back into my life, and I'd fight like hell to keep it." -Theo
Thank you, K.C. and Luna Literary Management, for providing me with an ARC!
June 16, 2024
First and foremost, MANY THANKS to Luna Literary Management and KC Brooks for sending me a copy of this e-ARC! These opinions are my own and given freely.
Second of all.. can we all just stop a moment and give Calla a huge hug?? My word. The youngest daughter of an overbearing toxic mother, she just wants to find her way in the world.
Our story begins where book 1 leaves out .. there is a slight spoiler concerning book 1 as it relates to the outcome of that story so BEWARE. If you're someone who wants to read all the books in a series in order, although this is a very successful interconnected standalone you should NOT proceed (but also, read book 1 as I've gotten to the 65% mark and enjoyed the angst and tension between MCs and plan to immediately go back and finish now that I've got this one read).
FMC Calla is young and ready to prove she can find her footing in the world without the funding and approval of her family. Decades of being made to feel less-than and not good enough for her mother have her feeling adrift and insecure. The job her friend secures her in NYC as she lives with her middle sister will help her get a start - she doesn't plan to stay an assistant to some talent agent forever, but a solid income is a great jumping off point.
Theo is Calla's new boss and as our MMC and the other POV in the story, we see how honest he is about his temper and workaholic tendencies. He's got a rough exterior that not many are able to withstand but something about Calla calls to his more gentle nature. She's real and honest in a way he's forgotten exists in the glitz of Hollywood.
Working together in close proximity essentially causes them to both catch on fire - the chemistry that sparks between them is like a raging inferno that neither of them could have expected. So what happens when they have to decide if risking both their careers is worth the leap of faith? There's an aspect to this story I wasn't prepared for and when THINGS HAPPENED I was not prepared for the level of rage I felt.
THIS WHOLE STORY WAS JUST THE SWEETEST, y'all. I'm a HUGE fan of forbidden romance and the way this age-gap is written is not one that leans towards the side of unbelievable. Theo's backstory is so deeply moving. Calla's vulnerability when it comes to validation of her work ethic and as person is incredibly touching. Both of the characters develop in ways that not only compliment each other, but are also inspired by the other.
If you like:
- strong communication between romantic partners who have been jaded or burnt by past relationships, or have very little experience and are still able to figure it out
- workplace romance, where the thrill of clandestine meetings is part of the story, but it doesn’t add so much anxiety that you stay stressed out the entire time
- when both characters are able to grow in their respective areas of underdeveloped personality traits, thanks to the introduction of the other, but without necessarily being codependent..
.. this is right up your alley and you'd do yourself a disservice if you didn't get this added to your TBR. Personally I don't think reading book 1 is required (I haven't finished it just yet) but you're going to want to revisit St Stephens Lake once you get through with this one!
Second of all.. can we all just stop a moment and give Calla a huge hug?? My word. The youngest daughter of an overbearing toxic mother, she just wants to find her way in the world.
Our story begins where book 1 leaves out .. there is a slight spoiler concerning book 1 as it relates to the outcome of that story so BEWARE. If you're someone who wants to read all the books in a series in order, although this is a very successful interconnected standalone you should NOT proceed (but also, read book 1 as I've gotten to the 65% mark and enjoyed the angst and tension between MCs and plan to immediately go back and finish now that I've got this one read).
FMC Calla is young and ready to prove she can find her footing in the world without the funding and approval of her family. Decades of being made to feel less-than and not good enough for her mother have her feeling adrift and insecure. The job her friend secures her in NYC as she lives with her middle sister will help her get a start - she doesn't plan to stay an assistant to some talent agent forever, but a solid income is a great jumping off point.
Theo is Calla's new boss and as our MMC and the other POV in the story, we see how honest he is about his temper and workaholic tendencies. He's got a rough exterior that not many are able to withstand but something about Calla calls to his more gentle nature. She's real and honest in a way he's forgotten exists in the glitz of Hollywood.
Working together in close proximity essentially causes them to both catch on fire - the chemistry that sparks between them is like a raging inferno that neither of them could have expected. So what happens when they have to decide if risking both their careers is worth the leap of faith? There's an aspect to this story I wasn't prepared for and when THINGS HAPPENED I was not prepared for the level of rage I felt.
THIS WHOLE STORY WAS JUST THE SWEETEST, y'all. I'm a HUGE fan of forbidden romance and the way this age-gap is written is not one that leans towards the side of unbelievable. Theo's backstory is so deeply moving. Calla's vulnerability when it comes to validation of her work ethic and as person is incredibly touching. Both of the characters develop in ways that not only compliment each other, but are also inspired by the other.
If you like:
- strong communication between romantic partners who have been jaded or burnt by past relationships, or have very little experience and are still able to figure it out
- workplace romance, where the thrill of clandestine meetings is part of the story, but it doesn’t add so much anxiety that you stay stressed out the entire time
- when both characters are able to grow in their respective areas of underdeveloped personality traits, thanks to the introduction of the other, but without necessarily being codependent..
.. this is right up your alley and you'd do yourself a disservice if you didn't get this added to your TBR. Personally I don't think reading book 1 is required (I haven't finished it just yet) but you're going to want to revisit St Stephens Lake once you get through with this one!
July 12, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
KC knocks it out of the park with her second novel, as Theo and Calla shine as individuals and as a couple. The second book of the Saint Stephens Lake series solidified KC’s talent as an author and giving life to fictional characters that you won’t stop from loving.
In (Un)Expected, Calla chose to live her life for her and only her. Moving out of the Isadora, her home for the past number of years, she finds herself in New York moving in with her sister Devney. Alex and Cole are back, as they help her move and Cole makes sure she can reach Adam if she needs anything. Unknown to her, Adam and his agent, Theo are back in New York as life has taken them in a direction neither saw coming.
Theo, in book one, was all business. Loved his NDA’s more than anything, and his whole life revolved around making money and more money. He starts off the same way in book two, but we quickly learn there is a huge heart buried under his designer suits. Doing Adam a favor by meeting with Calla for a job interview and not having time to find the perfect assistant, he hires Calla expecting to let her go after 30 days.
They both quickly discover they create a very good team. Calla brings color into Theo’s boring world, while Theo brings stability into hers. As their work relationship brings success to the agency they work for, they find themselves thinking about each other more and more outside of a professional relationship. Both are quick to state they can’t cross the line they toe with their flirting, but can’t help but fall.
And although Theo and Calla were the stars of the book, other relationships did not suffer. We had beautiful moments between Calla and Alex, besties for life; Adam and Theo as they strengthen their relationship as friends not client and agent; and get to see more of the sister bond between Calla and Devney. Cole was next to Alex supporting her every step still and remaining my favorite KC man still. Two new characters were introduced that I hope to see again; one to get the justice he deserves and the other to get the second chance love story he deserves.
It is through the dual POV that we are able to see the layers begin to peel back from Theo and his heart allowed to beat for someone else. The slow burn, erupts in a glorious “F*ck the rules” moment and finally they are all in. Their conversations are meaningful, their partnership at work is perfectly synchronized, and the passion that burns between the two of them is heart pounding. The spice hits perfectly, the swoon worthy moments had me weak in the knees while laying down, and the amazing talent of KC’s as an author makes this a must read!
KC shines in her ability to weave multiple storylines together where they each strength each other, not take away. She brought us back characters we fell in love with in (Un)Expected, back to Saint Stephens Lake, but gave us a future you can’t wait to see unfold. With two more books left in this series, I am so excited to see where KC takes us next and see her develop other characters the same way she did Theo and Calla.
As always, review any trigger warnings before reading.
Tropes:
👗Sunshine FMC
👨💼Grumpy MMC
👗Found Family/Finding Home
👨💼Workplace Romance
👗Witty, Sexy Banter
👨💼Dual POV
👗HEA
KC knocks it out of the park with her second novel, as Theo and Calla shine as individuals and as a couple. The second book of the Saint Stephens Lake series solidified KC’s talent as an author and giving life to fictional characters that you won’t stop from loving.
In (Un)Expected, Calla chose to live her life for her and only her. Moving out of the Isadora, her home for the past number of years, she finds herself in New York moving in with her sister Devney. Alex and Cole are back, as they help her move and Cole makes sure she can reach Adam if she needs anything. Unknown to her, Adam and his agent, Theo are back in New York as life has taken them in a direction neither saw coming.
Theo, in book one, was all business. Loved his NDA’s more than anything, and his whole life revolved around making money and more money. He starts off the same way in book two, but we quickly learn there is a huge heart buried under his designer suits. Doing Adam a favor by meeting with Calla for a job interview and not having time to find the perfect assistant, he hires Calla expecting to let her go after 30 days.
They both quickly discover they create a very good team. Calla brings color into Theo’s boring world, while Theo brings stability into hers. As their work relationship brings success to the agency they work for, they find themselves thinking about each other more and more outside of a professional relationship. Both are quick to state they can’t cross the line they toe with their flirting, but can’t help but fall.
And although Theo and Calla were the stars of the book, other relationships did not suffer. We had beautiful moments between Calla and Alex, besties for life; Adam and Theo as they strengthen their relationship as friends not client and agent; and get to see more of the sister bond between Calla and Devney. Cole was next to Alex supporting her every step still and remaining my favorite KC man still. Two new characters were introduced that I hope to see again; one to get the justice he deserves and the other to get the second chance love story he deserves.
It is through the dual POV that we are able to see the layers begin to peel back from Theo and his heart allowed to beat for someone else. The slow burn, erupts in a glorious “F*ck the rules” moment and finally they are all in. Their conversations are meaningful, their partnership at work is perfectly synchronized, and the passion that burns between the two of them is heart pounding. The spice hits perfectly, the swoon worthy moments had me weak in the knees while laying down, and the amazing talent of KC’s as an author makes this a must read!
KC shines in her ability to weave multiple storylines together where they each strength each other, not take away. She brought us back characters we fell in love with in (Un)Expected, back to Saint Stephens Lake, but gave us a future you can’t wait to see unfold. With two more books left in this series, I am so excited to see where KC takes us next and see her develop other characters the same way she did Theo and Calla.
As always, review any trigger warnings before reading.
Tropes:
👗Sunshine FMC
👨💼Grumpy MMC
👗Found Family/Finding Home
👨💼Workplace Romance
👗Witty, Sexy Banter
👨💼Dual POV
👗HEA
June 28, 2024
{3.75/5}
CW: strained familial relationships, prior loss of family, spice
Thank you to the author for allowing me to be a part of the ARC team! “(Un)Planned” is available now!
Every so often one needs a good palate cleanser, a change from their usual genre(s). This one was adorable and an excellent variation in my standard fantasy line-up.
Calla Winters has been kicked out of her home. Never one to try and play fake perfect, despite her mother’s wishes, Calla has found herself jobless and adrift, unable to stay at her beloved Isadora Resort. Meanwhile, talent agent Theo has landed his dream promotion. Tasked with starting up a satellite office in New York, Theo’s working with a skeleton crew, and he desperately needs an assistant. When a mutual acquaintance puts in a good word for Calla, the two find themselves launched into a whirlwind they never expected.
Let’s get the tropes out of the way— it’s a grumpy/sunshine workplace romance that positively *screams* “you’re going to love this” from page one.I did, indeed, love this book from page one. Both of our MCs are wonderfully talented, damaged individuals, and I really enjoyed both of them. They made mature, reasonable choices (obviously ignoring the whole ‘workplace romance’ portion, because it’s kind of difficult to have a workplace romance book without the actual romance), and they both saw their flaws and worked to grow past them. The actual connection between Calla and Theo was all kinds of adorable. Calla particularly comes across as this warm, wonderful person, and she just sort of grows on everyone she meets, including this reader.
With this being a contemporary romance, we don’t really see or need a lot of additional world building. With this also being a character-driven story (as opposed to plot-driven), the focus is almost entirely on our MCs, giving us very little in the way of side characters. Of those side characters, two are the MCs from book 1 in the “Saint Stephens Lake” series (this is book 2). While you don’t need to have read book 1 to enjoy this one, you’ll get some spoilers about how book 1 ends. The rest of book 2’s side characters are fine, but we don’t really get to see into any of them in any great depth. If you’re wanting depth, though, the story is told in a first person dual POV, so we get *all* the glorious details about what our MCs are thinking and feeling about each other.
Overall, this story was super cute. It’s a fun, light-ish sort of read with some well-placed, but not overwhelming, emotional depth to balance out the fluff. We get to avoid that nasty miscommunication issue that some romance novels like to utilize, and the adults actually act like adults. If you like the tropes I mentioned above, if contemporary romance is something you like to read, or if you just like to watch two people have some really fun banter while they desperately pretend they aren’t falling for each other, then this is definitely a book you’re going to want to check out.
CW: strained familial relationships, prior loss of family, spice
Thank you to the author for allowing me to be a part of the ARC team! “(Un)Planned” is available now!
Every so often one needs a good palate cleanser, a change from their usual genre(s). This one was adorable and an excellent variation in my standard fantasy line-up.
Calla Winters has been kicked out of her home. Never one to try and play fake perfect, despite her mother’s wishes, Calla has found herself jobless and adrift, unable to stay at her beloved Isadora Resort. Meanwhile, talent agent Theo has landed his dream promotion. Tasked with starting up a satellite office in New York, Theo’s working with a skeleton crew, and he desperately needs an assistant. When a mutual acquaintance puts in a good word for Calla, the two find themselves launched into a whirlwind they never expected.
Let’s get the tropes out of the way— it’s a grumpy/sunshine workplace romance that positively *screams* “you’re going to love this” from page one.I did, indeed, love this book from page one. Both of our MCs are wonderfully talented, damaged individuals, and I really enjoyed both of them. They made mature, reasonable choices (obviously ignoring the whole ‘workplace romance’ portion, because it’s kind of difficult to have a workplace romance book without the actual romance), and they both saw their flaws and worked to grow past them. The actual connection between Calla and Theo was all kinds of adorable. Calla particularly comes across as this warm, wonderful person, and she just sort of grows on everyone she meets, including this reader.
With this being a contemporary romance, we don’t really see or need a lot of additional world building. With this also being a character-driven story (as opposed to plot-driven), the focus is almost entirely on our MCs, giving us very little in the way of side characters. Of those side characters, two are the MCs from book 1 in the “Saint Stephens Lake” series (this is book 2). While you don’t need to have read book 1 to enjoy this one, you’ll get some spoilers about how book 1 ends. The rest of book 2’s side characters are fine, but we don’t really get to see into any of them in any great depth. If you’re wanting depth, though, the story is told in a first person dual POV, so we get *all* the glorious details about what our MCs are thinking and feeling about each other.
Overall, this story was super cute. It’s a fun, light-ish sort of read with some well-placed, but not overwhelming, emotional depth to balance out the fluff. We get to avoid that nasty miscommunication issue that some romance novels like to utilize, and the adults actually act like adults. If you like the tropes I mentioned above, if contemporary romance is something you like to read, or if you just like to watch two people have some really fun banter while they desperately pretend they aren’t falling for each other, then this is definitely a book you’re going to want to check out.
June 27, 2024
"(Un) Planned" by K.C. Brooks is an emotionally engaging romance novel that explores the journey of self-discovery, love, and the complexities of navigating personal and professional boundaries. Calla Winters has always felt the weight of her mother’s expectations. Failing to meet those standards, she decides to quit school and return to her family's resort in Saint Stephens Lake, hoping to figure out her true calling. However, her mother’s ultimatum—either return to school or leave the resort—pushes Calla to move to New York City to stay with her sister. In search of a job and a sense of purpose, Calla gets a helping hand from her friend Adam, who calls in a favor to his agent friend, Theo Ayad. Theo Ayad, a top agent in Hollywood, has recently moved to New York to open a new branch of his firm. Ambitious and dedicated, Theo aims to become a partner in the firm. When he hires Calla, he is immediately captivated by her carefree spirit and optimistic outlook. Despite their growing attraction, Theo knows he must maintain professionalism as her boss.
As Calla and Theo work together, their connection deepens, leading to a clandestine relationship. Their chemistry is undeniable, and they bring out the best in each other—Calla’s warmth and positivity complementing Theo’s driven nature. However, they must keep their romance a secret as Theo is Calla’s boss. Brooks expertly portrays the emotional struggles and growth of both characters. Calla’s journey of self-discovery and Theo’s balancing act between ambition and love are depicted with depth and nuance. The novel explores themes of self-worth, the pressure of expectations, and the courage to pursue one’s true desires. The dynamic between Calla and Theo is intense and heartfelt, making their romance both believable and compelling. For the first time in her life, Calla feels seen and valued being with Theo. When their relationship is exposed they are faced with a critical choice that threatens to tear them apart.
In conclusion, I gave this book 5 stars because the climax of the story, where their secret is revealed, is particularly poignant. The choices they must make are heart-wrenching, emphasizing the sacrifices and compromises inherent in relationships. Brooks crafts a satisfying resolution that underscores the importance of honesty, communication, and staying true to oneself. "(Un) Planned" is a beautifully written romance that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories about personal growth and the complexities of love. I also must mention we do get to see Alex, Cole and Adam from the first book in the series (Un) Expected. It was nice to see an update as to where those characters are in their lives at the moment.
As Calla and Theo work together, their connection deepens, leading to a clandestine relationship. Their chemistry is undeniable, and they bring out the best in each other—Calla’s warmth and positivity complementing Theo’s driven nature. However, they must keep their romance a secret as Theo is Calla’s boss. Brooks expertly portrays the emotional struggles and growth of both characters. Calla’s journey of self-discovery and Theo’s balancing act between ambition and love are depicted with depth and nuance. The novel explores themes of self-worth, the pressure of expectations, and the courage to pursue one’s true desires. The dynamic between Calla and Theo is intense and heartfelt, making their romance both believable and compelling. For the first time in her life, Calla feels seen and valued being with Theo. When their relationship is exposed they are faced with a critical choice that threatens to tear them apart.
In conclusion, I gave this book 5 stars because the climax of the story, where their secret is revealed, is particularly poignant. The choices they must make are heart-wrenching, emphasizing the sacrifices and compromises inherent in relationships. Brooks crafts a satisfying resolution that underscores the importance of honesty, communication, and staying true to oneself. "(Un) Planned" is a beautifully written romance that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories about personal growth and the complexities of love. I also must mention we do get to see Alex, Cole and Adam from the first book in the series (Un) Expected. It was nice to see an update as to where those characters are in their lives at the moment.
July 3, 2024
ARC review for (Un)Planned by K.C. Brooks
Thanks to K.C. and Luna Literary Management for the ARC opportunity!
Featured tropes: workplace romance, boss/assistant, forbidden romance, age gap, forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine, small town/big city
Trigger warning: parental abandonment/manipulation, betrayal of friendship...honestly, this was pretty tame in terms of TWs (I thought), so those two are about it.
Review: 4/5
The second installment of the Saint Stephen's Lake series and definitely the better of the two currently released. I appreciated that this one was a little shorter than the first. I felt like things in the plot were tightened up a little compared to the first and made my enjoyment go up for sure.
Things I liked:
- Calla is a boss. Things happen in her life to kick the book off that many people of her upbringing/lifestyle wouldn't be able to cope with. Calla stood her ground, found a way to move forward, and did something for herself, by herself. She was a strong FMC and I liked her spunk (especially compared to Alex from book 1).
- Theo is a hard worker, there's no question about it. But when he found his match, his priorities shifted with no hesitation and we love to see it.
- I found it refreshing when the MCs got together relatively early in the book. So often I feel like the build up gets dragged out, sometimes too long, and then the end is rushed but you haven't really gotten to enjoy the characters together. We get Calla and Theo together for a good chunk of the book and it's great seeing them develop as a team.
- Theo's word vomit in Chapter 32. When you get there you'll know you're there and it's just the sweetest little diatribe he goes on.
Things I disliked or missed the mark:
- I can't say there was much I disliked. The story hit well for me. It didn't necessarily have that *thing* that you know a five-star book has that just leaves you obsessed with it, leaving it live rent-free in your head but still nothing major I disliked. And no illegal banking activities in this book (IYKYK, check out my review for (Un)Expected to hear my rant, haha).
Overall, if you're a fan of any of these tropes, I don't think you can go wrong reading this book. Julia weaves a nice story between Theo and Calla and it's just a happy, little endorphin booster.
I do want to say, after book one, I was REALLY hoping for Adam and Gray to be one of the upcoming couples. There were just a few moments that had me connecting them in book one and could see that plot development building based on each of their mentions in book two. Based on the epilogue, I'm guessing that's not happening and Adam will have a best friend's little sister book. K.C., I would LOVE for you to prove me wrong. PLEASE prove me wrong.
Thanks to K.C. and Luna Literary Management for the ARC opportunity!
Featured tropes: workplace romance, boss/assistant, forbidden romance, age gap, forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine, small town/big city
Trigger warning: parental abandonment/manipulation, betrayal of friendship...honestly, this was pretty tame in terms of TWs (I thought), so those two are about it.
Review: 4/5
The second installment of the Saint Stephen's Lake series and definitely the better of the two currently released. I appreciated that this one was a little shorter than the first. I felt like things in the plot were tightened up a little compared to the first and made my enjoyment go up for sure.
Things I liked:
- Calla is a boss. Things happen in her life to kick the book off that many people of her upbringing/lifestyle wouldn't be able to cope with. Calla stood her ground, found a way to move forward, and did something for herself, by herself. She was a strong FMC and I liked her spunk (especially compared to Alex from book 1).
- Theo is a hard worker, there's no question about it. But when he found his match, his priorities shifted with no hesitation and we love to see it.
- I found it refreshing when the MCs got together relatively early in the book. So often I feel like the build up gets dragged out, sometimes too long, and then the end is rushed but you haven't really gotten to enjoy the characters together. We get Calla and Theo together for a good chunk of the book and it's great seeing them develop as a team.
- Theo's word vomit in Chapter 32. When you get there you'll know you're there and it's just the sweetest little diatribe he goes on.
Things I disliked or missed the mark:
- I can't say there was much I disliked. The story hit well for me. It didn't necessarily have that *thing* that you know a five-star book has that just leaves you obsessed with it, leaving it live rent-free in your head but still nothing major I disliked. And no illegal banking activities in this book (IYKYK, check out my review for (Un)Expected to hear my rant, haha).
Overall, if you're a fan of any of these tropes, I don't think you can go wrong reading this book. Julia weaves a nice story between Theo and Calla and it's just a happy, little endorphin booster.
I do want to say, after book one, I was REALLY hoping for Adam and Gray to be one of the upcoming couples. There were just a few moments that had me connecting them in book one and could see that plot development building based on each of their mentions in book two. Based on the epilogue, I'm guessing that's not happening and Adam will have a best friend's little sister book. K.C., I would LOVE for you to prove me wrong. PLEASE prove me wrong.
June 20, 2024
“You know how I feel about you, Theo. But the rules–” “F*** the rules.”
✨Grumpy/Sunshine
✨Workplace Romance
✨Boss/Assistant
✨Forbidden Romance
✨Opposites Attract
“She was quickly becoming my reason for getting out of bed in the morning, the reason my smiles came easier. She’d brought joy back into my life, and I’d fight like hell to keep it.”
Calla has been put into a situation where she is starting a brand new chapter all on her own, and that’s includes finding a job. And that turns out to be harder than she expected. Thankfully, a friend makes a call and lands her an interview to be Theo’s assistant. Theo has just received the keys to the new New York talent agency office and has 6 months to prove that he can be a leader. The last thing Theo wants to do is hire an assistant with no experience, but after finding out his last assistant won’t be joining him, he’s left with no choice. As time goes on, Calla and Theo develop a connection. One problem, there’s a strict no fraternization rule and must keep their feelings a secret. However, neither expected to fall in love with each other and must decide if love truly does conquer all.
“I’ve had enough of people telling me I can’t have you. The only person who can tell me to stop is you.”
This is my first read by this author, and I really enjoyed it. I’m a sucker for a forbidden, boss/assistant romance, and especially when they can’t hide their feelings any longer and cave in. The tension between Calla and Theo was brewing and was so much fun to read. You just can’t help but cheer them on and root for them. Calla and Theo are complete opposites—Calla being a small-town, sunshine-filled woman, Theo a city-boy and a big time grump—but they really do complement each other. They work great together as boss and assistant, but they are even better partners.
“Theo had no idea, did he? That home had been a foreign concept to me until he crashed into my life.”
The flow of the story was perfect and the writing was very easy to read. There was a little spice sprinkled within the book, but there was so much more intimacy between the two main characters that showed true love exists, even if you think you don’t believe in it anymore. The communication between Calla and Theo was mature and healthy (which was a big plus in my eyes). I truly loved reading this story and about this found family in Saint Stephens Lake.
Thank you to K.C. Brooks for the ARC, I can’t wait to read more of your work!!!
✨Grumpy/Sunshine
✨Workplace Romance
✨Boss/Assistant
✨Forbidden Romance
✨Opposites Attract
“She was quickly becoming my reason for getting out of bed in the morning, the reason my smiles came easier. She’d brought joy back into my life, and I’d fight like hell to keep it.”
Calla has been put into a situation where she is starting a brand new chapter all on her own, and that’s includes finding a job. And that turns out to be harder than she expected. Thankfully, a friend makes a call and lands her an interview to be Theo’s assistant. Theo has just received the keys to the new New York talent agency office and has 6 months to prove that he can be a leader. The last thing Theo wants to do is hire an assistant with no experience, but after finding out his last assistant won’t be joining him, he’s left with no choice. As time goes on, Calla and Theo develop a connection. One problem, there’s a strict no fraternization rule and must keep their feelings a secret. However, neither expected to fall in love with each other and must decide if love truly does conquer all.
“I’ve had enough of people telling me I can’t have you. The only person who can tell me to stop is you.”
This is my first read by this author, and I really enjoyed it. I’m a sucker for a forbidden, boss/assistant romance, and especially when they can’t hide their feelings any longer and cave in. The tension between Calla and Theo was brewing and was so much fun to read. You just can’t help but cheer them on and root for them. Calla and Theo are complete opposites—Calla being a small-town, sunshine-filled woman, Theo a city-boy and a big time grump—but they really do complement each other. They work great together as boss and assistant, but they are even better partners.
“Theo had no idea, did he? That home had been a foreign concept to me until he crashed into my life.”
The flow of the story was perfect and the writing was very easy to read. There was a little spice sprinkled within the book, but there was so much more intimacy between the two main characters that showed true love exists, even if you think you don’t believe in it anymore. The communication between Calla and Theo was mature and healthy (which was a big plus in my eyes). I truly loved reading this story and about this found family in Saint Stephens Lake.
Thank you to K.C. Brooks for the ARC, I can’t wait to read more of your work!!!
June 27, 2024
K.C. Brooks is a new to me, and I can say that she will be one that I continue to follow.
(Un)Planned is the second novel in the Saint Stephens Lake series; it is an interconnected standalone, which was great because I read this one first.
This novel tells the story of Calla, a twenty-something who is just trying to figure out where she fits in, has been forced to move away from the only place she would call home—her family's hotel—after her mother cuts her off. She is now forced to figure out what she wants, and she hopes someone is willing to take a chance on her, but what she doesn't expect to find is something she wasn't even looking for.
For Theo, a grumpy agent who has just been promoted and uprooted to NYC to open a new branch of the LA based agency, he has a lot going on. His ex-wife won't leave him alone; he has the pressure to prove that he is more than capable of running the NYC office, and now his best client is asking him for a huge favor The last thing he needs is a distraction, however, he will soon realize that she is more than just a distraction.
Now that Calla and Theo are working together, things get interesting. Calla is all sunshine and she is not afraid to call Theo out. She definitely keeps him on his toes and opens his eyes to what more could be out there. She has a lot to prove, not only to Theo but also to herself. Theo is pure grump. Seemingly set in his ways, he needs to prove that he can handle and run the new office. He is slow to compliment Calla on how well she is assisting him, but it is not because he doesn't appreciate her, but because he is afraid of what will happen if he lets his guard down, because it seems Theo is not as single-minded as he wants us to believe, and he is having a hard time accepting that he wants something else.
I loved every minute of this story, starting with dedication. The writing is beautiful and the depth of development of these characters is amazing. The time the author takes to develop the relationship between Call and Theo makes all aspects of their relationship all the more believable.
Tropes
* Grumpy/Sunshine
*Age Gap
*Boss/Assistant
*Banter
*Spice
(Un)Planned is the second novel in the Saint Stephens Lake series; it is an interconnected standalone, which was great because I read this one first.
This novel tells the story of Calla, a twenty-something who is just trying to figure out where she fits in, has been forced to move away from the only place she would call home—her family's hotel—after her mother cuts her off. She is now forced to figure out what she wants, and she hopes someone is willing to take a chance on her, but what she doesn't expect to find is something she wasn't even looking for.
For Theo, a grumpy agent who has just been promoted and uprooted to NYC to open a new branch of the LA based agency, he has a lot going on. His ex-wife won't leave him alone; he has the pressure to prove that he is more than capable of running the NYC office, and now his best client is asking him for a huge favor The last thing he needs is a distraction, however, he will soon realize that she is more than just a distraction.
Now that Calla and Theo are working together, things get interesting. Calla is all sunshine and she is not afraid to call Theo out. She definitely keeps him on his toes and opens his eyes to what more could be out there. She has a lot to prove, not only to Theo but also to herself. Theo is pure grump. Seemingly set in his ways, he needs to prove that he can handle and run the new office. He is slow to compliment Calla on how well she is assisting him, but it is not because he doesn't appreciate her, but because he is afraid of what will happen if he lets his guard down, because it seems Theo is not as single-minded as he wants us to believe, and he is having a hard time accepting that he wants something else.
I loved every minute of this story, starting with dedication. The writing is beautiful and the depth of development of these characters is amazing. The time the author takes to develop the relationship between Call and Theo makes all aspects of their relationship all the more believable.
Tropes
* Grumpy/Sunshine
*Age Gap
*Boss/Assistant
*Banter
*Spice
June 26, 2024
Starting over is hard. Starting over in a new city when you have no money and no work experience, is even harder.
Calla Winters has decided she is done playing by her overbearing mother and step-father’s rules. After being told it was either follow their plan for her life or be cut off, she couldn’t pack her bags faster. Moving to New York City and away from her beloved hometown, is risky. Moving and having no job lined up and no way to support herself, even riskier. But when the chance for a job interview comes along, she jumps at the opportunity. Ignoring the fact that her potential boss is an emotionless workaholic grump, at least it’ll make it easy to resist his devilishly good looks.
Theo Ayad, has spent the last 10 years working from the bottom, in hopes that his dream of making partner at Wallace and associate talent agency. He’s sacrificed his personal life to show his dedication and that he deserves to be promoted. When he’s told the company is expanding, and he is expected to re-locate from L.A. to New York, he knows he is close to achieving his ultimate goal. But when his biggest client asks for a favor and grants his friend, Calla, an interview he can’t say no. Calla is exactly the kind of distraction he does not need, but such as in life, the best distractions are often unplanned.
(Un) Planned is book two in the St. Stephens Lake Series. While it is technically book 2, it can definitely be read as a standalone.
This might be my favorite read of the year so far. I absolutely devoured this book, not wanting to put it down for even a second. Theo and Calla were both so beautifully written, that I was completely engrossed in watching their love story unfold. I also found myself falling in love with the side characters just as much, especially Devyn and Gray! Holding out hope for their story! 🤞
Huge thanks to the author, K.C. Brooks for not only giving me the opportunity to read this book but giving me my new obsession 😍
Calla Winters has decided she is done playing by her overbearing mother and step-father’s rules. After being told it was either follow their plan for her life or be cut off, she couldn’t pack her bags faster. Moving to New York City and away from her beloved hometown, is risky. Moving and having no job lined up and no way to support herself, even riskier. But when the chance for a job interview comes along, she jumps at the opportunity. Ignoring the fact that her potential boss is an emotionless workaholic grump, at least it’ll make it easy to resist his devilishly good looks.
Theo Ayad, has spent the last 10 years working from the bottom, in hopes that his dream of making partner at Wallace and associate talent agency. He’s sacrificed his personal life to show his dedication and that he deserves to be promoted. When he’s told the company is expanding, and he is expected to re-locate from L.A. to New York, he knows he is close to achieving his ultimate goal. But when his biggest client asks for a favor and grants his friend, Calla, an interview he can’t say no. Calla is exactly the kind of distraction he does not need, but such as in life, the best distractions are often unplanned.
(Un) Planned is book two in the St. Stephens Lake Series. While it is technically book 2, it can definitely be read as a standalone.
This might be my favorite read of the year so far. I absolutely devoured this book, not wanting to put it down for even a second. Theo and Calla were both so beautifully written, that I was completely engrossed in watching their love story unfold. I also found myself falling in love with the side characters just as much, especially Devyn and Gray! Holding out hope for their story! 🤞
Huge thanks to the author, K.C. Brooks for not only giving me the opportunity to read this book but giving me my new obsession 😍
June 27, 2024
Honored to have received an ARC. I wanted something a little less dark than what I had been reading and this was it. May need tissues…
🌟🌟🌟🌟
2.5-3🌶️
Tropes
Grumpy x Sunshine
Workplace Romance
Forbidden Romance
City Meets Small Town
Boss x Assistant
Found Family
ARC reader honest review: Slow burn new to the career of receptionist cannot get her boss out of her head, but it’s frowned upon to date your boss. Determined in a new city to keep her job she swoons the boss in ways he never expected.
Maybe because I’ve been reading 4-5 level spice i personally felt the spice could have heated up more. There was several opportunities for it to elaborate on the scene and then it would start to heat up ending the chapter to start the next chapter with “The next morning.” It eventually does get more descriptive but I would have liked more in the beginning as well.
For me him calling her “beautiful” happened too much. It gave me the ick factor. It was turning me away from what the author was writing. I almost didn’t finish this book due to the slow burn and I felt like i would be like oh the spice is going to heat up to be ripped back down lol or left empty handed. I do not like to start things I cannot finish.
I am so glad that I did not stop reading it because the book got deeper into their story and had you thinking it may go one way but then going another way. It had me feeling that ache in my chest and tears falling down my face. I knew jack was grimy! I wish it may have had more details on that blow out but may have taken away from Calla and Theo. I needed this sweet story and a good cry after reading a lot of darker stories lately.
It lines you up for the next book with Adam’s story. Be interesting to find out what had him in the clouds..would love to read it
#unplanned #K.C.Brooks #smut #smutlover #romance #arcreader #arc #books #bookstagram #NYC #romancebooks #romancenovels #spice
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