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A Touch Unexpected
Kept safe from all of he, until two and twenty, a border born shall be.
Since birth, Rosalind Carver has maintained a careful distance from the opposite sex. Too close, and she risks provoking the enchantment. Yet, if the proverb is true, her twenty-second birthday promises a new beginning—one that puts the touch of a man within her reach.
In the weeks leading up to her imminent foray into the world of men, a familiar face returns to Brighthall: Jonathan Rashford, the newly inducted Chancellor of Denault and enigmatic older brother of Rosalind’s dearest friend, Valentina.
For all of Rosalind's rather reserved disposition, reconnecting with Jonathan proves easier than anticipated, despite not having seen one another for several years. Still, she can't help but feel flustered around him in a way she never had before. And when something unexpected transpires between the two, sparks fly in more ways than one.
Soon, Rosalind finds herself juggling the intricacies of society, secrets, and a touch of magic—all while grappling with her burgeoning feelings for Jonathan as their friendship ventures into uncharted territory.
Without the protection of the enchantment, should she chance an unguarded heart?
Nestle into your favorite snug spot and escape into this gentle friends-to-lovers tale—a feel-good popcorn read, brimming with warmth, humor, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. This standalone cozy romantasy is ideal for readers craving a light fantasy, low-stakes romance with historical and fairytale charm.
This story contains mature themes.
Since birth, Rosalind Carver has maintained a careful distance from the opposite sex. Too close, and she risks provoking the enchantment. Yet, if the proverb is true, her twenty-second birthday promises a new beginning—one that puts the touch of a man within her reach.
In the weeks leading up to her imminent foray into the world of men, a familiar face returns to Brighthall: Jonathan Rashford, the newly inducted Chancellor of Denault and enigmatic older brother of Rosalind’s dearest friend, Valentina.
For all of Rosalind's rather reserved disposition, reconnecting with Jonathan proves easier than anticipated, despite not having seen one another for several years. Still, she can't help but feel flustered around him in a way she never had before. And when something unexpected transpires between the two, sparks fly in more ways than one.
Soon, Rosalind finds herself juggling the intricacies of society, secrets, and a touch of magic—all while grappling with her burgeoning feelings for Jonathan as their friendship ventures into uncharted territory.
Without the protection of the enchantment, should she chance an unguarded heart?
Nestle into your favorite snug spot and escape into this gentle friends-to-lovers tale—a feel-good popcorn read, brimming with warmth, humor, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. This standalone cozy romantasy is ideal for readers craving a light fantasy, low-stakes romance with historical and fairytale charm.
This story contains mature themes.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2025
16 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 16, 2025
If you ever wondered what Bridgerton could feel like with a sprinkle of magic, read this book. My heart is full of so much love for this book. It was cute and perfect and if I could give it a billion stars, I would, but I shall settle for five.
A Touch Unexpected is a standalone cozy Romantasy that is the perfect blend of Historical Romance and Fantasy with a light sprinkle of magic, set in a fantasy upper class with all the intrigue that goes with it. The protagonist is Rosalind Carver, who we first see as a young girl at the train station with her father, who is sending her to the city where his cousin Maria will take care of her. Maria is the housekeeper for Brighthall Manor, whose Lady takes in Rosalind and allows her to grow alongside her grandchildren Jonathan and Valentina. Flash forward fifteen years, Rosalind and Valentina are close friends, and Jonathan, newly inducted Chancellor of Denault, returns home after several years of study and he is not the same tall spindly young man Rosalind remembers. Sparks fly between the two but oh wait! There is a twist! There is an enchantment that prevents Rosalind from touching any man before her twenty-second birthday. A birthday that is soon approaching…
This book gave me a little bit of everything I love: high society in a historical setting, romance, and a dash of magic. And let’s not forget lovable characters! I loved the interactions between Rosalind and Jonathan, who have the friendliness of people who knew each other before and the tension of wanting to rediscover each other in a new light. Their love is so sweet. Even their steamy moments melted my heart in all the best ways. Jonathan is the kind of handsome, intelligent, kind and clever man that I am weak for, and Rosalind is the sweetest girl.
I also loved Rosalind’s friendship with Valentina, who is coincidentally my favorite character. She made me laugh like no other, I adore her! I also very much ship with a a certain rugged wielder… Yes, I would very much love a book about Valentina.
Here are the tropes!
✨ light magic & low angst
💛 friends to lovers
❤️🔥 best friend's brother
🙅♀️ no man can touch her (literally)
🎩 soft FMC x dapper MMC
🐴 one horse
🔥 open door spice
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
A Touch Unexpected is a standalone cozy Romantasy that is the perfect blend of Historical Romance and Fantasy with a light sprinkle of magic, set in a fantasy upper class with all the intrigue that goes with it. The protagonist is Rosalind Carver, who we first see as a young girl at the train station with her father, who is sending her to the city where his cousin Maria will take care of her. Maria is the housekeeper for Brighthall Manor, whose Lady takes in Rosalind and allows her to grow alongside her grandchildren Jonathan and Valentina. Flash forward fifteen years, Rosalind and Valentina are close friends, and Jonathan, newly inducted Chancellor of Denault, returns home after several years of study and he is not the same tall spindly young man Rosalind remembers. Sparks fly between the two but oh wait! There is a twist! There is an enchantment that prevents Rosalind from touching any man before her twenty-second birthday. A birthday that is soon approaching…
This book gave me a little bit of everything I love: high society in a historical setting, romance, and a dash of magic. And let’s not forget lovable characters! I loved the interactions between Rosalind and Jonathan, who have the friendliness of people who knew each other before and the tension of wanting to rediscover each other in a new light. Their love is so sweet. Even their steamy moments melted my heart in all the best ways. Jonathan is the kind of handsome, intelligent, kind and clever man that I am weak for, and Rosalind is the sweetest girl.
I also loved Rosalind’s friendship with Valentina, who is coincidentally my favorite character. She made me laugh like no other, I adore her! I also very much ship with a a certain rugged wielder… Yes, I would very much love a book about Valentina.
Here are the tropes!
✨ light magic & low angst
💛 friends to lovers
❤️🔥 best friend's brother
🙅♀️ no man can touch her (literally)
🎩 soft FMC x dapper MMC
🐴 one horse
🔥 open door spice
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
June 8, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This was such a cozy fantasy with Bridgerton vibes. I really enjoyed it! Jonathan and Rosalind’s love story was super sweet, but I do wish there had been a bit more chemistry between them. I also would’ve loved more magical elements - especially learning more about Rosalind’s enchantment.
Still, it was a fun, cozy read that will totally have you craving blueberry scones (iykyk)
Thank you to A.L. Rivers for sending me a copy! 💛
This was such a cozy fantasy with Bridgerton vibes. I really enjoyed it! Jonathan and Rosalind’s love story was super sweet, but I do wish there had been a bit more chemistry between them. I also would’ve loved more magical elements - especially learning more about Rosalind’s enchantment.
Still, it was a fun, cozy read that will totally have you craving blueberry scones (iykyk)
Thank you to A.L. Rivers for sending me a copy! 💛
January 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
January 7, 2025
Thank you to Book Sirens and A.L. Rivers for the ARC.
Plot 3.75/5
Characters 4.25/5 Ending 4/5
Interest 4.5/5
Overall 4/5
-I had a really good time reading this book. I must admit that I really wasn’t sure where the plot was heading because I didn’t really feel like it really had one other than the romance which was a shame. I was definitely discovering the world as I read and I quite enjoyed being transported in it. It was a shame that the enchantement that kind of made this whole book was over so fast. It still popped up hear and there but I felt like it was just the starting point and then it was over, I guess I kind of wished that it lasted longer or that there was more plot surround that particular element. Despite the plot lacking overall, the book didn’t fail to compel me to keep on reading and enjoying myself.
-I really liked these characters. Sometimes I wished that Rosalind spoke up a bit more, not in a bad way but it feel sometimes like others would speak for her and we would only hear her thoughts. It still made her a charming and sweet girl and in the end it was slightly better. I really liked Valentina’s spirit and Jonathan was an overall great guy, even though he felt a bit bland at times. The romance was really cute though, and I really liked it.
-Similarly to the problem I had with the plot, the ending kind of came out of nowhere and I wished that the build up towards it was more intense and drawn out because something happened, and then it was the end. There wasn’t really an in between and I guess I was left wanting more, which I guess is a good thing.
Plot 3.75/5
Characters 4.25/5 Ending 4/5
Interest 4.5/5
Overall 4/5
-I had a really good time reading this book. I must admit that I really wasn’t sure where the plot was heading because I didn’t really feel like it really had one other than the romance which was a shame. I was definitely discovering the world as I read and I quite enjoyed being transported in it. It was a shame that the enchantement that kind of made this whole book was over so fast. It still popped up hear and there but I felt like it was just the starting point and then it was over, I guess I kind of wished that it lasted longer or that there was more plot surround that particular element. Despite the plot lacking overall, the book didn’t fail to compel me to keep on reading and enjoying myself.
-I really liked these characters. Sometimes I wished that Rosalind spoke up a bit more, not in a bad way but it feel sometimes like others would speak for her and we would only hear her thoughts. It still made her a charming and sweet girl and in the end it was slightly better. I really liked Valentina’s spirit and Jonathan was an overall great guy, even though he felt a bit bland at times. The romance was really cute though, and I really liked it.
-Similarly to the problem I had with the plot, the ending kind of came out of nowhere and I wished that the build up towards it was more intense and drawn out because something happened, and then it was the end. There wasn’t really an in between and I guess I was left wanting more, which I guess is a good thing.
January 6, 2025
Conceptually, this was great. The idea of Rosalind literally being unable to touch men until her birthday, and the social impacts that had on her (especially in the magic-less society they’ve enforced), is fascinating! I did like all the characters and the way they interacted… plus it’s a fascinating world with strong magic systems.
That said, I found Rosalind a little frustrating. She’s not a proactive character at all. Literally the only two things she does for herself are , and . Every other event in the book is driven by other characters, or political circumstances that she not only isn’t involved in, but also deliberately avoids when they do try to involve her. Normally, when I read about socially avoidant characters, they go through quite a decided arc of being pushed into the spotlight and learning to manage that… but Rosalind really didn’t. I just wanted her to do or say something for once, instead of trailing along, following in everyone else’s path.
I also found the whole subplot with Ilora and Padraic’s father a bit weird. Yes, it was an opportunity for Rosalind to explore magic for the first time, and yes, it provided a handy challenge to her relationship with Jonathan, so I see the plot reasons… but it just felt off.
An easy read, but the protagonist could be more protaganist-y.
That said, I found Rosalind a little frustrating. She’s not a proactive character at all. Literally the only two things she does for herself are , and . Every other event in the book is driven by other characters, or political circumstances that she not only isn’t involved in, but also deliberately avoids when they do try to involve her. Normally, when I read about socially avoidant characters, they go through quite a decided arc of being pushed into the spotlight and learning to manage that… but Rosalind really didn’t. I just wanted her to do or say something for once, instead of trailing along, following in everyone else’s path.
I also found the whole subplot with Ilora and Padraic’s father a bit weird. Yes, it was an opportunity for Rosalind to explore magic for the first time, and yes, it provided a handy challenge to her relationship with Jonathan, so I see the plot reasons… but it just felt off.
An easy read, but the protagonist could be more protaganist-y.
December 11, 2024
I received an advance review copy of this book for free from Book Sirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A Touch Unexpected was a cozy read, and I thought the world building elements behind the magic system were unique and creative. I absolutely loved Valentina, and some of her lines actually made me laugh out loud (so I’m really hoping for her love story in a sequel)! There were lines of dialogue and descriptions surrounding the main romance that also made me fully believe in the love between the two characters, as well as the certainty of the friendship between Valentina and Ros.
I would rate this 3.5, rounded up to 4 stars. There were some grammatical errors that took me out of the reading experience a bit, such as semicolons being implemented incorrectly. I enjoyed the level of detail in the prose regarding setting and characters, as it provided a clear image of exactly what was happening. However, because of this wonderful amount of detail, there were moments of repetition re-describing scenes we had just encountered or previously read that fell a bit flat as a result.
Overall, this was quite promising for a debut, and I can’t wait to read more work from this author.
A Touch Unexpected was a cozy read, and I thought the world building elements behind the magic system were unique and creative. I absolutely loved Valentina, and some of her lines actually made me laugh out loud (so I’m really hoping for her love story in a sequel)! There were lines of dialogue and descriptions surrounding the main romance that also made me fully believe in the love between the two characters, as well as the certainty of the friendship between Valentina and Ros.
I would rate this 3.5, rounded up to 4 stars. There were some grammatical errors that took me out of the reading experience a bit, such as semicolons being implemented incorrectly. I enjoyed the level of detail in the prose regarding setting and characters, as it provided a clear image of exactly what was happening. However, because of this wonderful amount of detail, there were moments of repetition re-describing scenes we had just encountered or previously read that fell a bit flat as a result.
Overall, this was quite promising for a debut, and I can’t wait to read more work from this author.
December 30, 2024
I read this book as an ARC and enjoyed it.
It was a nice comfort read for me and because of that some parts were a little boring for me but I still enjoyed the book. I will say though the first chapter had me wanting to cry for a second.
I liked Rosalind and Jonathan and seeing how their relationship happens with her enchantment. I really liked Valentina and the conversations she would have with anyone she interacted with.
There was just something that seemed lacking when it came to Rosalind and Jonathan that Valentina had because for some reason I liked her a lot more than them.
Overall I enjoyed the book some things were good but some things could have been a little better so I rounded up to 4 because I would probably give it 3 1/2 stars but since I did like some things I gave it a 4.
It was a nice comfort read for me and because of that some parts were a little boring for me but I still enjoyed the book. I will say though the first chapter had me wanting to cry for a second.
I liked Rosalind and Jonathan and seeing how their relationship happens with her enchantment. I really liked Valentina and the conversations she would have with anyone she interacted with.
There was just something that seemed lacking when it came to Rosalind and Jonathan that Valentina had because for some reason I liked her a lot more than them.
Overall I enjoyed the book some things were good but some things could have been a little better so I rounded up to 4 because I would probably give it 3 1/2 stars but since I did like some things I gave it a 4.
April 20, 2025
I absolutely loved A Touch Unexpected by A.L. Rivers. This book is the perfect blend of cozy and romantic, making it an ideal companion for a quiet evening or a vacation read. The author’s writing is beautifully descriptive, transporting you right into Rosalind’s enchanting world, so much so that I recommend pairing it with a glass of wine to fully immerse yourself in the story!
The characters are incredibly likable and well developed, drawing you into their lives and emotions. While there are hints of fantasy, the story leans closer to realistic fiction, which made it feel grounded and relatable. And let’s not forget the touch of spice, just enough steamy moments to keep things exciting without being over the top.
If you’re looking for an easy, satisfying read that balances heartfelt romance with a dash of enchantment, A Touch Unexpected is a must. Highly recommend!
The characters are incredibly likable and well developed, drawing you into their lives and emotions. While there are hints of fantasy, the story leans closer to realistic fiction, which made it feel grounded and relatable. And let’s not forget the touch of spice, just enough steamy moments to keep things exciting without being over the top.
If you’re looking for an easy, satisfying read that balances heartfelt romance with a dash of enchantment, A Touch Unexpected is a must. Highly recommend!
July 20, 2025
I’m crying by page 4 - I know this is going to be a good book!
The characters are well developed, some you’ll love….others you’ll detest, making it fun to read through the very end. A Romantasy novel that serves up what you would expect and much more.
It’s steamy, romantic, and magical making it a delightful story and an easy read.
I had the honor of meeting the author A. L. Rivers (@alriverswrites) at the Books and Blooms event in California. It was a pleasure to chat with her and get a signed copy of her book. And many thanks for the bookmark, stickers, and pin - an unexpected treat in the bag!
The characters are well developed, some you’ll love….others you’ll detest, making it fun to read through the very end. A Romantasy novel that serves up what you would expect and much more.
It’s steamy, romantic, and magical making it a delightful story and an easy read.
I had the honor of meeting the author A. L. Rivers (@alriverswrites) at the Books and Blooms event in California. It was a pleasure to chat with her and get a signed copy of her book. And many thanks for the bookmark, stickers, and pin - an unexpected treat in the bag!
December 23, 2024
Rosalind is sent to stay with her father’s cousin, housekeeper at Brighthall Manor, but is quickly claimed by the children of the house there, and grows up alongside them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily
This is a Magical story, which is so well written by the author, with believable characters and situations, that kept me enthralled to the end.
It’s a Romance wrapped up in Magic, and I couldn’t wait to see if the main characters got their HEA.
I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily
This is a Magical story, which is so well written by the author, with believable characters and situations, that kept me enthralled to the end.
It’s a Romance wrapped up in Magic, and I couldn’t wait to see if the main characters got their HEA.
May 9, 2025
A Touch Unexpected was such a light, happy read—I truly enjoyed it! The slow burn romance was just the kind of pacing I love, and the characters were sweet and easy to root for. It gave me all the cozy, feel-good vibes I was hoping for.
That said, I do wish the magical system had been explained a bit more. There were moments where I wanted just a little more clarity or depth to fully immerse myself in that part of the world.
Still, I had a great time with this book and sincerely hope the author continues the story. I definitely want to know what happens next!
That said, I do wish the magical system had been explained a bit more. There were moments where I wanted just a little more clarity or depth to fully immerse myself in that part of the world.
Still, I had a great time with this book and sincerely hope the author continues the story. I definitely want to know what happens next!
December 13, 2024
I loved the book! A very gentle and cute romance story with a touch of magic added into to it. In general, a light and easy read, I finished the book in a day or two.
I didn't read the book in paperback, but via my e-reader. However, it has such a beautiful cover the colours are so lovely, it would be a treat having it displayed or on my bookshelf!<3
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I didn't read the book in paperback, but via my e-reader. However, it has such a beautiful cover the colours are so lovely, it would be a treat having it displayed or on my bookshelf!<3
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 2, 2025
I loved this book. It was the perfect mix of will they or won’t they and you knew they would end up together in the end. This book being low fantasy made it an interesting story without having to keep track of the ins and outs of the world building. I loved the dynamic of the side characters and their impact to the flow of the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2025
Lovely. This was exactly my cup of tea. It’s elegantly written, witty, and nicely paced. Every chapter leaves you eager for more. It features just a touch of fantasy which I didn’t even realize I missed in this genre. Thank you for making me aware of that. I also specifically loved how it kept me on my toes - something I did not anticipate, but greatly enjoyed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 2, 2025
Thank you so much. This novel was not my typical genre and I'm so glad I read it. Wonderful alternate world-building and I adored Jonathan and Rosalind. Valentina, Jonathan's sister, is equally marvelous and I'd love to see a follow-up story with her as the heroine. Twists and turns and, as I said, I couldn't put the book down. Thanks so much for the ARC and my opinions are my own and given voluntarily.
August 20, 2025
3.5⭐
This was a cozy, enjoyable read with low stakes and a sweet love story. However, I do find myself kind of wishing that more had happened? The FMC was terribly passive, and she never DID anything. Everything that moved the plot along seemed to happen off page, or just happen TO her. She was just a bland character, and so was Jonathan really. Valentina on the other hand, I would totally eat up a sequel about her and Sylvan... definitely lots of sparks between them!
This was a cozy, enjoyable read with low stakes and a sweet love story. However, I do find myself kind of wishing that more had happened? The FMC was terribly passive, and she never DID anything. Everything that moved the plot along seemed to happen off page, or just happen TO her. She was just a bland character, and so was Jonathan really. Valentina on the other hand, I would totally eat up a sequel about her and Sylvan... definitely lots of sparks between them!
January 16, 2025
A really sweet book with cute characters and even cuter relationships. The story felt really natural and didn't feel forced. Very easy read and relaxing. I loved Ros and Val’s friendship so much! The author did a good job detailing the clothes and scenery which I really enjoyed. Definitely recommend!!
May 5, 2025
This book makes for a great cozy romance! I find I love books like this, that fit into the Romantasy genre, but give my brain a bit of a break from more intense Romantasy books. I was instantly gripped by the tension between Ros and Jonathan. The way he treats her really sets the standard 🥰 the ending wrapped up beautifully, no cliffhanger or unanswered questions!
May 14, 2025
very good
Well developed plot… Amazing characters! Valentina was a wonderful best friend and sister with tons of fun dialogue. Rosalind and Johnathan were perfect for each other. Johnathan did not chase Rosalind but moments were sensual and romantic. All around easy and sweet love story set in a wonderful world of fantasy! Super fun!
Well developed plot… Amazing characters! Valentina was a wonderful best friend and sister with tons of fun dialogue. Rosalind and Johnathan were perfect for each other. Johnathan did not chase Rosalind but moments were sensual and romantic. All around easy and sweet love story set in a wonderful world of fantasy! Super fun!
July 26, 2025
I loved the story the first 30% kind of annoyed me because of the constant he , her I become overly annoyed. I do believe it could have been written better I would have loved more of Jonathan & Rosalind love story and more about her enchantment and the magic .
Valentina was absolutely hilarious I loved her character.
Valentina was absolutely hilarious I loved her character.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2025
A sweet story about an insecure that can touch men until turn twenty two. Rosalind grows afraid of other people think of her. But she have Val, the best friend that will do anything for her happiness. And falls in love for Jonathan, Val´s brother, that will protect her.
December 9, 2024
What a delightful magically romantic fantasy story. I enjoyed reading it.
Well written debut novel.
A+++++
Well written debut novel.
A+++++
January 10, 2025
This was a well written, cozy romantasy. I really enjoyed reading it. The concept of this story was amazing. The main characters were very likeable and I hope for a sequel about Valentina.
February 7, 2025
An easy cosy read
February 12, 2025
I loved this book, it was sweet and sexy. It had a fun layer of fantasy. I can see myself reading this again when I want an easy read on a cold rainy day.
March 20, 2025
Nice cozy read but i feel like i have a lot of questions? Not sure if there's another book coming out that will answer those or if that's just the end!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2025
From its beginning - not loving but feeling the dedication note -, I've enjoyed this - adorable through the elements mix - read a lot.
July 28, 2025
I truly scarfed down this book and the authors note at the end was all I never knew I needed ! A beautiful sweet yet spicy book and happy ending 💕💕SOOO RECOMMEND
December 23, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed myself - don’t expect much more than a short sweet historical romance with a twinge of magic. Hopeful for more books from this author. Great debut!
January 24, 2025
I liked the fact that this book was low fantasy and that there wasn't a lot of world building. The main characters were okay, especially the FMC. The MMC was unremarkable in that there wasn't anything that distinguished him from the rest of the male characters in the book. The story follows Rosalind who was placed under an enchantment until her 22nd birthday. Under the enchantment she is protected from being touched by a male. As her birthday approaches she realizes that the enchantment is weakening and there's one male that can touch her without being hurt, Jonathan Rashford, the new Chancellor of Denault. She makes a request of him as a "gift" for her birthday that totally changes the dynamics of their relationship. The side characters, especially Jonathan's sister Valentina, add levity and sarcasm to the story. The couple thinks Valentina is oblivious to their developing feelings for each other, but is she really? Or is she maneuvering to bring the two closer together?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews