Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Life Unexpected #1

Falling for the Unexpected

Rate this book
The best things in life can be unexpected…

When she came into my life, she dropped a bombshell that shattered my sister’s world.

Simone was nothing more than the other woman.

I never expected to find her at my door, begging for help two years later.

She needs a lawyer…and a divorce.

My loyalty lies with my sister, but despite the unusual situation that brought us together, I can’t deny Simone’s request…

Or my growing attraction to the woman who caused so much turmoil.

Though I vowed to keep things strictly professional, her beauty, drive, and dedication to providing a good life for her daughter touch something inside me I thought long-dead—the desire for more.

But when the scars and ugly truths of the past surface, will it be enough to overcome the things that threaten to drag us apart?


Falling for the Unexpected is intended for readers 18+ due to strong language and adult situations. This book touches on themes of domestic abuse and drug use.

374 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 1, 2022

85 people are currently reading
245 people want to read

About the author

Rachel Lyn Adams

32 books631 followers
Rachel Lyn Adams is a USA Today bestselling author. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband, five children, and a crazy number of fur babies. When life isn’t complete chaos, you’ll often find her with a Starbucks drink in her hand, reading a book, or coming up with new story ideas.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
85 (36%)
4 stars
75 (31%)
3 stars
57 (24%)
2 stars
14 (5%)
1 star
4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for L Cherry.
700 reviews20 followers
December 28, 2022
I picked this up at an author event several years ago and am just getting to a chance to read it.
I really fell in love with these characters. I felt the emotion from each of the characters and I could easily relate to some of the circumstances they went through.
I hope the author adds more to the series.
Profile Image for Kimberly.
341 reviews37 followers
April 21, 2022
I'm slowly dipping my toes in Adult romance. This was a pretty ordinary story with some steamy scenes, but it was quick and I liked it.

I still don't understand the covers of these books though, especially since the front cover doesn't look like the main male character, and it really bothers me, lol. He has GREEN eyes not brown! Hahahaha, the little things. Maybe its because the book mentions his eye color a million times. Oh well. :)
Profile Image for BookSmackedMel.
916 reviews386 followers
July 22, 2017
An amazing debut that hit me in a way I least expected it to. If this is her first book I can only imagine what's to come.

I went in blind like I usually do. It's my thing if you don't know this by now. As I started reading I wasn't sure what kind of storyline was going to happen.

I actually assumed it was about different characters then it ended up being about. But I digress ...

There was a character in this book that I wanted to maim I'm talking castrate and bitch slap the hell out of.

Then there is Kyle, smart, protective and oh he was a "knight in shining armour".

The heroine Simone, I felt for her in so many ways. Mostly because there were elements of her situation that hit really close to home and it brought up emotions from my past that were somewhat painful. However as this story unfolds I again found similar elements of my own story when I found my own knight in shining armour also known as my husband aka fuckface. Now don't worry it's a term of endearment it's how we flirt with one another.

What I'm trying to say is this book is sweet it's so heartwarming and for me it was somewhat cathartic. It's a must read you should all go preorder it. Because something's when you least expect it you end up Falling For The Unexpected.

Releasing Tues July 25th

http://amzn.to/2ujycNi
Profile Image for Stacey Broadbent.
Author 63 books249 followers
July 25, 2017
Wow! What a fantastic debut novel from Rachel! I am blown away at how much I loved this book.
Falling for the Unexpected tells the tale of Simone and Kyle, two people who had been dealt a rough hand in their childhoods.

Kyle has spent his life keeping people at arm’s length, never wanting to let anyone get too close. He finds it hard to trust anyone who isn’t part of his extended family.
Simone has always wanted the perfect family; something she didn’t really have as a child, and even though things didn’t quite go to plan, she’s tried her best to turn things around.
When she hits breaking point, she turns to the one person she thinks can help her, and slowly, they start to see in each other, what they’ve been missing.

This is a truly beautiful story of love and acceptance. Of finding that peace in yourself, and being strong enough to stand up for what you want.
I cannot wait to see what else Rachel has up her sleeves for this series!
Profile Image for Jessica.
6 reviews1 follower
April 17, 2018
I enjoyed the book. Looking forward to reading more of the series when it becomes available.
Profile Image for S.K..
Author 3 books567 followers
July 25, 2017
I'm still in shock that this was a DEBUT NOVEL!! Got an ARC btw for an honest review! I got quite sucked in and was really taken with the struggles of poor Simone. This girl goes through hell and back with situations that many can relate to. So many times I found myself wanting to scream for her to put on her big girl panties and stand up for herself!!! The beautiful thing was watching her grow and how much she changed for the better. Inspirational character!

Kyle and Trent were LIFE!!!! I loved these characters so much. They gave me some serious swoon moments the both of em'. OH and if I ever met anyone even remotely like Brad I may or may not get stabby. Just. Sayin.

I would have liked a little more at the end, it seemed to end so abruptly...but perhaps I just wanted to know MORE!

Well done!
Profile Image for Sue.
335 reviews43 followers
May 22, 2023
I was so fortunate to get a signed copy of this book from my Indie bookstore friend and I read this at the perfect time. I loved the characters, storyline, the spice. . it was all very realistic to me. This was just what I needed after some heavy reads. Now I want a second book in the series!
Profile Image for Claire Cronin.
1,244 reviews19 followers
July 24, 2017
A new author and this is her debut novel, which turned out to be really very good, especially for her first.

This is a 'real life' book - a very plausible story - getting married for the wrong reasons, settling for things that are less than perfect for an easy life, attraction to other members in the in-law family - things that happen everyday, but when put together with this type of storyline, make for a really good read!

Its well written with some great characters that make you feel - Kyle was just lovely, having worked hard to get where he is with problems in his family life growing up, giving him problems with relationships. Simone - I really felt for her, her bad situation growing up, and the mess she found herself in, but how strong she was for her little family! Some great secondary characters also with Trent and his family!

This isn't just a boy meets girl story, there's an awful lot more to it than that, and its a bit of a long haul along the way with some pitfalls thrown in for good measure. Kyle and Simone have a lot going for them, but they both have their own issues that complicate matters even further. Quite emotional at times, and it parts it made me quite angry too, one character in particular needed a good slap!

All in all a great first book, a little long and drawn out for me and a real slow burn for the main characters, but definitely worth the read.
Profile Image for Colette.
571 reviews7 followers
July 17, 2017
To say I was fortunate to read this book is an understatement. It's a wonderful book! It's more than a coming of age story. It's more than a boy meets girl and fall in love story. It's more than two broken people who overcame sad childhoods and become stronger, better people.

It's more than those things. It's truly hard to believe this is a debut novel for the author. It's wonderfully written! The main characters, Kyle and Simone are incredibly likable. They've made mistakes in life but they work hard to overcome them.

This book will put you on a roller coaster of emotions and all the while you are rooting for them. You want them to have their happily ever after because their lives are less than perfect but still they persevere.

I don't want to give away anything because the story is so beautiful, you'll want to go in not knowing what happens because you want to feel all the emotions. Life is unexpected but you can be sure to expect to love this book. I picked it up and before I knew, it was over and I was left with a warm feeling all over. It's truly a beautiful story. Honestly, if I could give more than five stars I would. It did not disappoint in the least!
450 reviews5 followers
July 25, 2017
Falling for the Unexpected is book 1 in the Life Unexpected Series by Rachel Lyn Adams. This is her debut book and omg what a book it was. Will definitely read more from this author. In this book we meet Simone and Kyle. Simone is a single mom trying to do right by her daughter. She has gone through a lot of drama in her young life. All she wants now is to have a family. Kyle is a lawyer that too has had a traumatic life. Subconsciously he want a family although verbally he says no. With all the crap that had gone on him his younger years he's not too willing to settle down. While the reason these to know each other is unconventional, she is his best friends little brothers ex wife that's a mouthful, they seem to attract each other. I absolutely LOVE that we get a story out of this book, we fall in love with the characters and their struggles. I can honestly say I even feel bad for the "villian" in this book. I give this a 5 star review and can't wait for book 2. I will definitely recommend this book. Great Job Rachel!
Profile Image for Brandy Lykins.
7 reviews
July 30, 2017
This was Rachel's debut novel and she knocked the ball out of the park!! Homerun all the way!! You felt every emotion Simone (main character) had. Her anxiety, sadness, the pure love she felt from Kyle and the turmoil she experienced as a result of Brad's selfishness and overly dickish ways!

Rachel touched on so many issues people face everyday. Physical, emotional, and verbal abuse. And also drug addictions. So many people struggle with how to deal with these daily. Some survive, some are barely hanging on and others don't make it.

But how will Simone deal with the trial and tribulations she faces in this book? You'll have to read it because it's so worth the emotional roller coaster your emotions go through. I can't wait to read more from Rachel. She'll do amazing if her debut novel is any indication of this fact!!
Profile Image for Rmederios.
97 reviews3 followers
July 14, 2017
I am amazed that this is the authors debut.
The story line flowed so well you get caught up into it. Simone, like most females, has issues with herself. Mostly with how she was raised in her past. She gets hooked up in a bad situation but she makes the best of what she got thrown into.
Kyle also has past issues but like most guys, thinks they can handle everything themselves. The only one he trust is his sister. He trusts his friends but to a point. He meets Simone in such a horrible way. I love that the author didnt make this a instantaneous love affair. There's a reality to this book that takes in everyday life.
I love the start of what I know is going to be an amazing series. Definitely want more of this author
Profile Image for Jennifer.
18 reviews6 followers
July 26, 2017
A must read!!! Loved this Debut book and if this is what we got from her first book then I absolutely cannot wait for what she writes next!! Beautiful story but filled with lots of conflict and emotions! Oh Simone and Kyle! I wanted to hate Simone at first but after seeing what she went through in her childhood and continued to endure pain and heartache with Brad aka the JERK, you couldn't help but feel for her and love her. And Kyle with his own childhood demons that he mentally locks up...my heart hurt for him! Their story proves you can overcome so much and end up happy! Loved their friends and family and getting to see glimpses of their stories mingled throughout the story and cannot wait for the next...fingers crossed for Addie and Ian;) 5 stars!!!
Profile Image for Stefanie Pace.
90 reviews2 followers
January 7, 2018
3.5 Stars!! Great story but written in a very telling way. Almost narrated. There was a lot of repetition and information upfront that I felt could have been brought to light later in the story or in different ways other than inner monologue. I know this is her debut novel and see that it’s the first in a series. I hope that with her future books we will see improvements in these areas because the story was on point!

I absolutely loved the family dynamics. Watching Simone grow, let her walls down, and build her confidence was so inspiring. Stella provided so much sweetness to the story. Kyle was super swoon worthy. Trent was the older brother I wish I had. I’m very interested in what’s to come. I would love for Addie to have a book and for Trent to get a book!!
Profile Image for Andrea.
9 reviews2 followers
January 8, 2018
For a new author Rachel really hit it out of the park. Simone is so easy to love with all of the heartbreak she has had in her life. Kyle with his jacked up childhood was easy to feel for. Those 2 together just make a perfect couple. Stella just seals the deal when you have a super sweet cuddly baby. For all the things that the couple have to overcome and all the emotional twist and turns you can feel for them at every step. This was a great book. I can't wait for the next one. I sure hope it is Ian and Addison. Those 2 have a connection you can tell. I also can't wait for Trents book. It is gonna take one he'll of a lady for him to turn around. Erick we didn't hear to much about other than the racing and auto shop. I can't wait for the series to continue.
Profile Image for Terri Handschumacher.
383 reviews19 followers
November 23, 2018
what an amazing debut novel for Rachel Lyn Adams.
this book was one that had some aspects to it that hit me on a personal level. and that is one of the reasons that i found myself not able to put it down. i found mysekf wanting to strangle a character or two and then i would find myself having sympathy for some of the others. watching the characters find each other is the best part of this book.
this is definitly a book for someone that is looking for a book that shows the female character finding the she is stronger that what she was made to believe.
looking forward to reading more by this author in the future.
Profile Image for Yeri (wildflowerreader).
1,494 reviews78 followers
July 25, 2017
Beautiful Debut

Author Rebecca Lyn Adams has written such a beautiful and heartfelt debut.
Her story is filled with real life struggles and fears, warmth and growth, something not many authors achieve with the first book.
Her characters enchanting and charming (except Brad, he's just *gag*). Her ability to show not just tell her readers the story is astounding.

This tale is one of mistakes, learning from them, and growing. Life isn't easy and if you don't fight you'll get nowhere.

Love it when an author doesn't just write a story but adds a lesson in there. Adams has done just that and she's done it beautifully.

Cannot wait to see more from this author.
Profile Image for Katy Birch.
471 reviews4 followers
July 17, 2017
Kyle and Simone. Wow. I loved this book!

I am normally a bit hard faced when it comes to crying over books but i will admit i shed a tear reading this. It was heartbreaking with what Simone went through and her and Kyle share a lot of pain. Both of their pasts are horrible and they both work hard to mask it. They have a lot to deal with with Simones ex Brad doing his hardest to create problems for then. They both over come them to be what they always wanted. Something they dreamed of. A family.


An amazing story line that left me hooked from beginning to end.
Profile Image for Jackie Ashmead.
254 reviews4 followers
July 17, 2017
This is my first book by Rachel Adams and I absolutely loved it! I loved how both main characters Simone and Kyle had to fight there own personal demons through the book. Along with that they both fought how they were feeling about each other. In the end they decided to give into it and realized they both were feeling the same. Suddenly Simone's past comes back to haunt her and try to destroy the happiness between her and Kyle. In the end they overcome there challenges and end up together. I really enjoyed reading this book. I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Krista Richardson.
251 reviews19 followers
July 18, 2017
I absolutely love this book!! The entire book, characters and storyline are so real. I could relate to almost every character. Simone is my hero, haha. She's such an amazing, strong woman and I admire a mom that puts her child(ren) first, at all times. The relationship between her and Addie is remarkable and all real. I love me some Trent and am definitely in love with Kyle!! I can't wait to read more about these characters, especially Addie and Ian! This was just a beautiful, real book that definitely gives you all the feels. A must read, for sure!!
Profile Image for Kristina.
177 reviews3 followers
July 26, 2017
Amazing

This book blew me away, I can't believe that this is the authors debut novel. It's very well written, the story flows nicely and the characters are very relatable and likable.
I loved both Simone and Kyle, their love story was a whirlwind romance, they took their time and it made the story very believable.
I really liked Addi, Ian, Eric and Trent as well and I hope they'll get their stories told, even Brad the douche needs a second chance at a HEA.
I'm definitely a fan and will be stalking this author in the future <3
Profile Image for Molly B.
228 reviews
January 26, 2018
Offff. Este año definitivamente lo empecé con el pie izquierdo en cuanto a mis lecturas. Vengo con un asqueroso promedio de dos estrellas...
Historia mala. Odio cuando los protagonistas no protagonizan la historia. Es decir, durante más de la mitad del libro cuenta la historia de Simone y su marido... Kyle, bueno... recién entra al 50% y ni bien empiezan una relación, enseguida empiezan los conflictos sin sentido, las inseguridades de él y qué se yo.
Dos estrellas, y soy generosa.

Pregunta, ¿soy solo yo o realmente los libros están viniendo malos?
342 reviews3 followers
February 2, 2020
Good thing this is available for free as part of Kindle Unlimited! As of 2/1/20

If you ment your Baby Daddy while he was engaged . . . per story you didn't know. . . WHY would you EVER think he would be faithful to you?
Why would you even contemplate marrying this douch?
THEN, when getting home from work, be surprised when you find him, his new flavor and nose candy in your marital bedroom . . . . WITH your child in the same apartment. . . That he is suppose to be taking care of . . . while you work.
This was in the first few chapters.
DID NOT IMPROVE as the book progressed.
Profile Image for Emma Johnston.
935 reviews29 followers
July 29, 2017
I read this book in one sitting, I was so drawn into this story! I cannot believe this is a debut novel!

It was fantastically written and had the right amount of sexy and sweet. It was a totally believable story and wasn't farfetched.

I loved Kyle, he's definitely one of my favourite book boyfriends I've ever read. a definite must read from a debut author <3
Profile Image for Angela James.
1,411 reviews14 followers
July 25, 2017
4.5 Stars! Oh my goodness, what a fabulous book! Simone and Kyle...eek! This book was so well written and had a fantastic storyline that you can't help but love it! Angst and romance are always an amazing combination, throw in some unexpected twists and ultimately a HEA and I'm sold! #BookSmackedReviewer
Profile Image for Nancy.
430 reviews
July 30, 2017
New author Rachel Lyn Adams just WOWed me with this book. They way Simone grew and Kyle fell just made me love them. This book ran through all my emotions. I laughed, cried and got really angry at one point. This book kept me up most of the night. I just couldn't put it down. I can't wait to see what happens next!
Profile Image for Ambere  Sabo.
Author 9 books186 followers
July 25, 2017
I received an ARC copy of this book and spent my Sunday reading. I could not put it down!! The story that Kyle and Simone share is both amazing and heartbreaking. They both had so much to overcome in life and in their pursuit of happiness. It is wonderfully written and I would highly recommend it!! I'm hoping Addie gets a book as well!
2,773 reviews57 followers
January 10, 2018
Rachel Lyn Adams was a new author to me when I read this book. It was nice reading something that was a little different. The relationship dynamics were enjoyable to read and quite unique. My favorite character is Simone. She has had a crappy life but she doesn't give up. When it gets even crappier, I thought the story would collapse. I was happily mistaken.
Profile Image for Coffee with Lacey.
36 reviews8 followers
May 18, 2018
The reason why I felt this was a true romance, is yes, it does involve sex, but it had the raw feelings. A wife scorned, with the knight in shining armor who does what he believes in. It really did feel like the family in the book is mine. I have been raised around guys, I do have that one girl friend, I am a mother, I know what Simone is feeling when it comes to her child.
Profile Image for Anny hernandez.
1,181 reviews14 followers
May 10, 2020
Wow

Wow this is not what I was expecting, after reading the two books from the Desert Sinner MC. I gave a chance to read this one , and wow love it. I felt in love with it from the first page to the last one. Love the characters and love how the story turned out to be. Can’t wait to read more books from this Author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.