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In Unexpectedly Ruined, Irene Bahrd delivers a high-heat, fast-paced sequel to Maybe in Fifty that masterfully blends a spicy rom-com with a captivating treasure-hunting adventure. Narrated with brilliant precision by Paige Reisenfeld and William Macleod, the story reunites Amanda, a witty romantic suspense author, and Jack, a rugged Scottish archaeologist.Book Description
It was only supposed to be one night…
After our amazing night in New York, I never thought I'd see my hot Scot again. Months later, Jack's stumbled into my life, proving that fate has other plans for us.
He's the golden retriever of golden retrievers, the cinnamon roll of cinnamon rolls… until we're behind closed doors.
As a romantic suspense author, I'm not qualified to help him on his quest for fortune and glory. Yet, here I am, in a dreary Scottish castle, with a man I'm trying desperately to not fall in love with.
In one night, he ruined me for all other non-fictional men—and fictional men. How am I supposed to survive six months, when we haven't kept our hands off each other since I arrived?
Unexpectedly Ruined is a deliciously spicy, instalove romantic comedy. For the best reading experience, enjoy after the prequel novella, Maybe in Fifty. This book contains spoilers for the Love At All Cost series, including Maybe in Fifty, A Voice Without Reason, and Not Her Villain.
About Irene Bahrd
Irene Bahrd is a feisty Capricorn and one of the most avid readers you will ever meet. Her favorite genres to read or write include romantic comedies, political romance, romantasy, and the occasional contemporary or dark romance.
She started her writing journey as a dare from a friend, after recounting dating stories from her early twenties. They inspired her to write spicy romantic comedies and parodies that feature a variety of book boyfriends—though most are cinnamon roll golden retrievers. Many of her stories contain LGBTQIA+, disabled, and neurodivergent characters.
Irene can be found on Instagram and TikTok under @irenebahrdauthor
My Thoughts
In Unexpectedly Ruined, Irene Bahrd delivers a high-heat, fast-paced sequel to Maybe in Fifty that masterfully blends a spicy rom-com with a captivating treasure-hunting adventure. Narrated with brilliant precision by Paige Reisenfeld and William Macleod, the story reunites Amanda, a witty romantic suspense author, and Jack, a rugged Scottish archaeologist.
Jack is the ultimate "golden retriever" in public but a dominant, protective force behind closed doors. Their connection, which began as a single unforgettable night in New York, reignites with an intensity that makes their "instalove" feel both genuine and earned. The dual POV narration adds a unique layer of immersion, especially with the authentic shift between American and British English to reflect their different backgrounds.
As the setting moves from the bustling streets of Manhattan to a dreary, secret-filled castle in Scotland, the "found family" of side characters adds a warm, grounding touch to the high-stakes plot. Amanda, despite her initial urge to run from the vulnerability of her feelings, finds herself perfectly matched with a man who is as obsessed with her as he is with solving the castle's mysteries.
Beyond the "steamier-than-Outlander" intimacy, the book shines through its clever "bookish" details. Amanda’s frequent trope references and the couple’s shared passion for reading and bookstores make them incredibly relatable to any romance fan. The story expertly utilizes forced proximity and the "he falls first" trope, building a tension that contrasts beautifully with their quick emotional bond.
Jack’s steady determination to wait for Amanda, paired with their shared interest in solving puzzles, creates a partnership that feels solid and balanced. The adventure aspect of the storyline is just as compelling as the romance, featuring a well-executed plot twist that catches even seasoned suspense readers off guard.
Irene Bahrd balances "cinnamon roll" energy with a protective edge, making this an addictive, joy-filled read. It proves that some people are simply written in the stars, leaving readers—much like the title suggests—completely ruined for any other fictional book boyfriends.
Other books by Irene Bahrd
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