Rating: ★★★★★ 

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Available On: Amazon

Unexpected Eva is a masterful conclusion to VH Nicolson’s Triple Trouble series (they are all standalone novels with related characters, so don’t worry if you’ve not read the first two!), weaving a compelling narrative of forbidden love that tugs at the heartstrings. This book stands out for its rich portrayal of complex family dynamics and the sizzling romance between Eva and Knox Black. The depth of their relationship, set against the trials of Eva’s life and Knox’s past struggles, makes their journey profoundly touching. The blend of heartache, humour, and heat, coupled with a beautifully crafted happy ending, left a significant impression on me. Nicolson’s ability to capture intense emotional scenes with elegance and authenticity cements her as a go-to author in contemporary romance. This story entertains and resonates deeply, making it a perfect read for those who cherish an excellent romance with substantial emotional depth.

As the title suggests, Unexpected Eva centres on Eva, a single mother navigating a challenging divorce, who finds herself falling for Knox Black, her father’s wealthy best friend. Knox bids a significant amount to win dance lessons with her at a charity auction, initiating their relationship. Despite his insecurities stemming from past relationship troubles, Knox supports Eva through her difficulties, providing stability and love. Their relationship, filled with intense chemistry and deep emotional connection, faces scrutiny and challenges but ultimately leads to a heartfelt and satisfying happy ever after. 

As with the first two books in the series (Hunting Eden and Inevitable Ella), Eva’s story is set in Scotland, adding a layer of charm and intrigue to the narrative. I’m a massive fan of British romance authors (being as I am a British romance author myself), so this is a real extra treat as far as I’m concerned. The Scottish setting, in particular, is a breath of fresh air in every single one of these novels. I’m not sure I can think of another romance series set in Scotland, but I’m so here for it!

Forbidden Love Due To An Age Gap? Yes, Please!

If you loved the relationship between Monica and Richard in Friends, Unexpected Eva gives some of the same vibes, and again, I’m so here for it! Knox is Eva’s dad’s friend and is of a similar age to her father. The result of this is a deliciously sexy age gap that creates a lot of forbidden love energy due to the perceptions and views of everyone else. People are so judgy.

The result is a powerhouse created by two popular romance tropes that create a rich and complex layer of drama and tension. Knox represents a taboo allure that intensifies their connection. This aspect of their relationship challenges societal norms and heightens the stakes of their secret romance. The age gap adds depth to their interactions, creating natural tension and the benefits of opposites attract, through differences in life experience and perspectives. The forbidden nature of their love brings an element of risk and secrecy that keeps the pages turning, making their journey towards acceptance and happiness all the more rewarding.

I thoroughly enjoyed this one, which wasn’t a surprise as I have loved every one of Ms Nicholson’s novels so far. 

Why Five Stars for Unexpected Eva? 

Unexpected Eva earns a resounding five-star rating for its rich character arcs and the intense, palpable dynamics between Eva and Knox. VH Nicolson excels in weaving a plot that’s both intricate and compelling, drawing readers into an intensely emotional journey. The tension and chemistry between the protagonists enhance the narrative’s depth, making every scene charged with emotion and significance. Nicolson’s adept storytelling ensures that each chapter resonates with the reader, cementing the novel’s place as a standout in contemporary romance.

How Spicy Is Unexpected Eva? 

Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Eva and Knox’s encounters sizzle with intensity, making their tale a must-read for those who appreciate a romance that’s as steamy as it is heartfelt. Eva and Knox’s interactions are not just intense but are beautifully interwoven with emotional depth, ensuring that their sizzling encounters resonate deeply and add to the overall allure of their forbidden love story.

What Romance Tropes Are In The Novel? 

Trope Count: 💚💚💚💚💚

Unexpected Eva leverages a rich tapestry of romance tropes that enhance its narrative depth and emotional resonance. Each trope is carefully woven into the story, providing layers of complexity that captivate and engage the reader throughout the romantic journey of Eva and Knox.

Age Gap Romance

As mentioned, Unexpected Eva skillfully explores the age gap romance trope, in which Eva and Knox’s relationship is marked by a significant difference in age. This element adds layers of complexity and allure as they navigate the social judgments and personal insecurities that come with such dynamics.

Billionaire Romance

Knox Black epitomises the billionaire romance trope, bringing the allure of power and luxury to the relationship. His wealth influences the plot and dynamics of their relationship, offering Eva stability and unexpected opulence amidst her personal turmoil.

While reading this, one interesting thought was whether or not the Fifty Shades of Grey issue applies to all billionaire romance novels. By that, I mean that if Christian Grey wasn’t a billionaire, the novel wouldn’t be a spicy romance so much as an episode of Criminal Minds. This begs the question, does money make otherwise deal-breaker quirks or circumstances acceptable? I hated Fifty Shades on every level, but reading Unexpected Eva, I genuinely had to wonder. Would it hit the same if Knox wasn’t a billionaire? I couldn’t figure it out, because I don’t feel like it would, but it would alter the plot considerably if he didn’t have that much money. 

So, is an older guy who is compassionate, supportive and sexy still sexy if he cannot financially support you and make extravagant romantic gestures by flashing the cash?

Genuinely, I can’t answer. I’d like to think the romance would still hit this hard even if the bold romantic gestures weren’t money-driven, but who knows?

Forbidden Love

The theme of forbidden love is central to Eva and Knox’s story, as their relationship defies social norms and familial expectations. This trope heightens the tension and stakes, making their secret encounters and the development of their romance thrilling and fraught with danger.

Secret Romance

Their relationship initially thrives in secrecy due to the controversial nature of their connection. This trope amplifies the intensity of their interactions, as every stolen moment and covert meeting adds to their narrative’s suspense and emotional depth.

Single Parent

Eva’s role as a single parent adds a realistic and relatable dimension to her character. This trope explores the challenges and triumphs of balancing motherhood with personal desires and romantic pursuits, enriching the story’s emotional landscape.