“The perfect blend of soul-crushing angst, laugh out loud wit, and heart-melting romance.” – Helena Hunting, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author.From #1 Amazon Bestseller L.J. Shen comes a new, star-crossed lovers romance about loss, love, and meeting The One when you are too young to know how to keep them.Sometimes you meet people who are out of this world, so you make them a part of … this world, so you make them a part of yours.
A one-night stand born from vengeance in a foreign land.
An explosive chemistry neither of us could deny.
We signed a contract on the back of a Boar’s Head Pub napkin that said if we ever met again, we would drop everything and be together.
Eight years and thousands of miles later, he’s here.
In New York.
And he’s America’s music obsession.
The intangible Irish poet who brings record executives to their knees.
The blizzard in my perfect, unshaken snow globe.
Last time we spoke, he was a beggar with no intention of becoming a king.
But a king he became, and now I’m his servant.
I’m not the same broken princess Malachy Doherty put back together with his callused hands.
I have a career I love.
A boyfriend I adore.
An apartment, a roommate, a life.
I changed. He changed, too.
But Mal kept the napkin.
Question is, will I keep my word?
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I didn’t see this coming!
This book was not Leigh’s normal style but so amazing either way! You could really feel that she wrote it with everything she got. It was so heart-wrenching, emotional, lovely book with a touch of secrecy. I read this book in a whole day – no I consumed it!
In the Unlikely Event is an extraordinary love story about two people that meet kinda by chance in Ireland. They swear to marry if they’ll ever meet again. Some years later they actually meet again and one can only imagine where this is going – your typical wam bam 101 love story. But that’s definitely not the case with Leigh’s books. She surprises in every corner and makes you feel for and with the characters so much.
Guys, if you love a great, funny and heartwarming and at the same time heart breaking story – in the unlikely event is just the book for you
Leigh Shen really wills me to believe, that love stories like Rorys and Mals actually happen a love that is strong enough to fight everything that is in the way and will happen any way
It was funny, infuriating at times, super steamy, angsty, and tragic. One of my favorite authors and she never disappoints. I loved listening to the audiobook. The narrator’s did a phenomenal job at bringing these characters to life.
The premise of the book was interesting. I liked the characters – they were complex and interesting. I enjoyed the book and it kept my attention right through.
I’m a little late to the game with reading ITUE but of course I knew I would get to it because LJ Shen will always be a must read author for me. So because I’m late reading it, I have seen the reviews noting how different—yet still spectacular—this book is from her others. Well I am here to say that I understand now. I understand the charmed, completely original story that is In the Unlikely Event. This is my new favorite Shen book and that it quite a feat because she really is just an amazingly talented author. I loved that she went with her gut and forged on to write Mal and Rory’s story.
First, I think it’s completely warranted for me to say that Mal and Rory are going on my all-time favorites list of book characters. Individually they are each these tortured, artistic and GOOD humans. Together they collide in a tangle of hilarious and deviously heartwarming banter and sexy times, with a dash of misguided betrayal and revenge thrown in to keep things REALLY interesting! What a delightfully sweet, sexy, funny and heartbreaking trip their story was. Shen is a damn, DAMN good writer and she brings it in ITUE with an almost magical quality of true soulmates stumbling their way through life to try and hold on to each other. Oh, and the notes from the side characters were absolutely brilliant! 5 plus plus stars for ITUE!
I had a love~hate relationship with Mal going for a little while. I totally love how the end played out. I read this on Audible and couldn’t put it down, or wait to finish the book. Great job!
This is unlike any other book I’ve read by this author or others for that matter. It’s got romance, comedy, angst, and twists you wont overtly see coming. I loved both Rory and Mal and enjoyed the duel perspectives throughout the book. I could have also rang the neck of the character who was responsible for keeping them apart all those years, so much time wasted! The only thing I dislike about this book is that it is over and that it’s a stand-a-lone. I need more Rory and Mal!…the epilogue did help some, but I would love love to read the in between parts.
Over the Christmas holiday, I read In the Unlikely Event by LJ Shen. Leigh writes with a kind of beautiful rhythm that sucks you in. While in the prose of the story, you discover that every character has jerkish tendencies and makes poor choices with the little information at their disposal. No one in this novel is without some sort of sin. Even the hero and heroine are terribly flawed.
I have a girlfriend who prefer s movies without a HEA (GASP). Believe me, I know. She says that she prefers when writers make the story more real and don’t pretty it up at the end. Well, I recommended this book to her. It does have an HEA but you have to work REALLY hard to get there. I think I read somewhere that LJ Shen uses at least 6 storylines to make things interesting and she definitely does that here. Aurora (Rory) and Malachy (Mal) meet early in the story and share an unbelievable night together. As they leave each other they draw up a crazy pact that if the universe means them to be together then they will drop whatever life they have at that moment (marriage kids, mortgage) and run away together and live out their life humping happily. What could go wrong right? Chances are they will never meet again since they live in separate countries, right? Wrong. Which is what starts the story when they meet again years down the road.
Just like I lost count of how many people died in the movie, FARGO, I lost count of the number of obstacles these two actually had to overcome to make this book an HEA. It was one of the most unique reads I have been engrossed within a long time. Many people I’ve read either loved it or hated it. I found myself liking it and I recommend it if you want something other than Hallmark. If you are looking for an Affair to Remember, keep walking. But “In the Unlikely Event” is edgy and fun and will have you looking at chocolate bars in a whole new way.
I give it Four STARS
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In the Unlikely Event was a captivating second chance romance. Malachy and Aurora drew me in and swept me away with their complex and beautifully unique whirlwind love story. Aurora was feisty, sweet and the perfect balance to Mal’s charming, carefree and charismatic personality. I loved that both characters were broken, flawed, and relatable. These two tugged at my emotions with their love that was by no means easy or all hearts and flowers. In the Unlikely Event was a captivating, witty, and emotional rollercoaster of a read that had me laughing out loud, groaning in frustration and swooning like a schoolgirl.
4.5 unlikely stars
I actually really enjoyed this book ! It wa a different to what I’ve known of LJ But definately in a good way ! I went into reading it without knowing anything other then the title – I like to do that sometimes and I’m glad I did . No pre thoughts and no expectations other then. It’ll be good 😉
There’s a mixture of entertaining banter , some lovers angst , lots of hot steamy chemistry , a bit of insta love mixed with second chance as well as a hint of enemies to lovers – a real cocktail!
I loved both Rory and Mals characters ! They had a lot to say , were fun and engaging !
I highly recommend giving this book a go !
I have very mixed feelings about L.J. Shen’s “In the Unlikely Event” (aka ITUE), but I think my strongest reaction was, “WTF did I just read?” The last time I felt this way was just after I read Colleen Hoover’s “Verity,” though admittedly for different reasons.
There are some definite quirks to ITUE, such as the random changes in POV from one of the main characters to a random side character (including a dead person!) or even an inanimate object like a napkin. Also, about halfway through the book, the story suddenly and inexplicably took a turn for the kinky and (IMO) just plain weird. For example, there was a tragic misuse of a perfectly innocent chocolate bar which, personally, I found to be very off-putting. I totally get that everyone’s turn-ons are different, and if that kind of thing happens to do it for you, great. However, I would have preferred not to hear the details of this incident repeated multiple times, or learn how it excited main character Rory’s best friend so much that she needed both her vibrator and an immediate Tinder hookup. Reading it once was enough for me, thank you.
Unfortunately, the weirdness did not end there. Later in the book, main characters Rory and Mal attended a party and ended up playing spin the bottle with the other guests. (Sidenote: How old were these people, 13? Do people still play spin the bottle after they’re out of junior high?) As the game progresses, Rory suddenly starts daydreaming about Mal railing another guy from behind. This fantasy seemed to come completely out of left field, and really made me question her feelings for him. Again, this is just my opinion, but at that point in their relationship development, I wanted to see evidence of Rory and Mal’s desire for each other, not some random third party (regardless of gender). If Rory had gotten jealous instead of turned on while thinking about Mal being with another person, I think I would have found their feelings for each other to be more believable.
Overall, ITUE was a very compelling story that managed to work in a good amount of humor despite the angst and keep me interested despite the various things that bothered me as I read. I liked both Mal and Rory even though they were flawed, and I wanted them both to find some happiness even if I wasn’t entirely convinced that their best shot at happiness was together. I’m not sure I would recommend this book, however. It’s certainly unique, but I think it ended up being just a little too out there for me.
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Review Truely unique. This fun, angsty, quirky written romance with talking inanimate objects and various povs. The writing is one of a kind, i’ve read nothing like this. Completely different, and surprising in a good way.
I enjoyed the multiple points of views from all the characters. It gave me an insight to their motives and who they are. Rather then being typecast for the typical bad guy role. It highlighted the fact that noone in anyone’s story is two dimensional. We are all more than just one thing; we all make mistakes and do selfish things but still a hero or heroine in someone elses story.
I havnt read a book like this in a really long time, and the premise reminded me of something I read a few years back. The jumping of timelines from past and present, trying to slowly unravel the mystery of figuring out what went wrong in their relationship eight years ago in order to see how they are now in the present.
” . , , .”
Past Mal and present Mal are two completely different people. Time wasnt good to Mal, turning him into a broody, dirty talking, hateful man out for revenge. Unlike his carefree younger self. He was a breath of fresh air. I could fall in love with young, happy go lucky, Mal. It’s sad knowing how he spent the 8 years apart. I dont think I could get over him marrying her half sister. I didnt enjoy the fact that the heroine didnt think much of the fact.
” , . ? , .”
Aurora is broken, lost and uncertain about where she stands in life. Not knowing her father and being kept in the dark her whole life. Rory’s character broke me. Her circumstance in life was heartbreaking to read. Written perfectly, it was so raw and simple, with the smallest of details thought out. It was conveyed very well in my opinion. I honestly dont know how LJ Shen draws out all these emotions in me. She must be a sorceress.
Whilst reading I constantly felt frustrated, wanting to know all the answers and find out what was being kept from Aurora. The pace was fast with never a dull moment. Continuous twists and unanswered secrets, thinking you’ve figured it out but then something happens that creates more theories. Definitely unputdownable.
I embrace this new side to her writing, and applaud her bravery for this uniquely written book. I gave this book 4 stars. Her words on living, love, and death; it all resonates with me. It’s like shes expressing my thoughts and feelings through her wise words. Her writing is so real. I consumed every word. Their love was beautiful and ugly and real. And after all the years and obstacles I’m grateful they got their happy ending. Tamsin was a surprising turn of event in the plot but a delight to read about. I fell in love with Tolka, Ireland, and would love to visit there one day.
You know you need to be prepared when it comes to reading a LJ Shen book. Its always an emotional rollercoaster ride. #ifyouknowyouknow As always, I am waiting paitently for her next release.
Warning: Cheating, and rape.
ITUE is definitely original writing; have you ever been told part of the story from the perspective of an animal or inanimate object? In reading their perspective you understand them and also the story better?
This book brought all of my emotions out; happiness, anger, sadness, even tears but also lots of laughs.
It is interesting how family, friends, love, hate and untold stories can leave a person doubting themself and hating others. We learn how people can deal with a terminal illness, missing parents, etc.
It is a must-read!
I don’t understand the reading community. People just finished going bonkers over the Franco gymnastics book, yet they think this one is okay? If you enjoy authors who glorify rape, this author is for you. The bully “hero” is not a hero, but a rapist who shoves and candy bar up a woman’s vagina WITHOUT her consent and lets it melt. Gross.
DNF. The minute the hero shoved a candy bar INTO HER VAGINA without her consent, I was done.
Five snowflakes! Malachy and Rory’s story is a unique blend of angst, loss, heart-breaking and HOPE!
Oh my poor pounding heart! LJ Shen has done it again! She slayed it! In the Unlikely Event destroyed me in the best and unique way possible. It was an emotional and beautiful read that had me glued to my e-reader the whole time. It pulled the right strings of my tender heart like no other book has done it in a very long time. It lulled my soul. It was so unexpectedly intense and different from what Leigh usually writes. She took her writing to a new level. It is refreshing when and author dares to venture in a new way, to step out of her comfort zone and gift us an eccentric, angsty and beautiful novel! Unlike anything I read before. When you tough, you have read everything Leigh comes and writes a book that has the most curious POV’s!
The excitement I felt to finally get this book in my hands can be describe as pure and unadulterated bliss! I am not the same after reading this masterpiece. It changed me and shook me to my core. This is a complex, intense and beautiful story about finding “the one” when you are young, reckless and full of crazy hormones. A romance written in the stars. A journey of loss and finding solace. A roll coaster of emotions. Unique and angsty. Romantic and full of hope.
What I love the most about L.J. Shen characters is that she brings us sassy, beautiful and unique heroines and passionate, possessive alpha heroes that are broken, flawed and complex. All of that make them very real and their journey to find love makes it even more real and compelling. She writes women with character and personality and charming and hot-blooded men who will do anything for their woman.
In the Unlikely Event is a one of a kind novel that shines like moonlight in the darkest night. It is a second chance romance with shadows of angst and fun that make it a very addictive read. It is dangerously beautiful! Malachy and Rory’s story is a unique blend of angst, loss, heart-breaking and HOPE!
Malachy is like a silent storm that will consume Rory when she less expects it. Rocking her world in the most luscious and tempting way. A steamy night, a promise written on a napkin and hearts full of dreams will test their world in the years that come. The bet is on love, hope and a promise that will change their future. The question is, will they honour the promise that set their fate?
Malachy Doherty is an enigma of a man. Too complex. To intense. He goes from sweet to cruel in the time of eight years. Life and lies changed him but when he sees Rory again he will do everything to make her keep her promise although she has a boyfriend and a life where he is not included. He will threat her. He will push her until he has her where he wants.
Rory is the kind of girl you want as your best friend. She is sassy, fierce and smart. She was heartbroken, lost and in search for solace. Meeting Mal will turn her world upside and down. He intrigues her and he reminds everything her dad was, a flirt, a drunk, a man who avoids responsibility. She knows he is bad news but she took the risk and years later she will pay with her heart. Mal is hot, warm. She is cold, ice. An exceptional and dangerous combination.
Their story was not fate. It was they. From the start to finish. Twisted, screwed, obsessed and wonderful they!
I recommend you this book with closed eyes! A top read of 2019 that no reader should miss. With this book L.J. Shen proved that she has mastered her writing to be addictive in her own flawless way. I can’t wait for her to surprise me with other enticing novel like this.
Heart wrenching and brutal! Elizabeth @ Carolina Chic’s Read
In the Unlikely Event was filled with so much love, angst, secrets and destiny for so many characters. I cried at the end of this story just because of all the emotions that it pulled from me.
Great Narration from all the narrators.
I read In the Unlikely Event in one sitting so the story definitely sucked me in, but my reactions were a bit all over the place.
I really enjoyed the beginning. I’m not a huge believer in love at first sight, but in this case it feels genuine when Rory and Mal fall hard for each other virtually instantly. Somehow the one day they spend together feels like more.
I accepted most of the misunderstandings and I totally got Mal’s bitterness, but I couldn’t look past the immature and over the top way he approaches their reunion. Why not just confront Rory directly like an adult and give her a chance to defend herself? Why doesn’t she make more of an effort to figure out why Mal has such animosity towards her?
Throughout the entire book, Rory has to wade through a sea of secrets and lies created by everybody and their grandmother. Mal selfishly strings Rory along while keeping her in the dark. It’s so frustrating.
Their magnetic chemistry is insane, though, and it results in some seriously spicy sexy times! Despite their flaws, I loved these two passionate artists together. The importance that Mal places on their napkin contract made my heart melt over and over again.
In terms of writing style, I didn’t care for the kooky sidebar observations that are interwoven throughout the story. They are written from the point of view of everyone from Rory’s best friend to a cow and even the napkin. I think the author was going for some lighthearted humor, but it just seemed cheesy and false to me.
On the whole, I would call this an intricate and steamy second chance romance with a heavy dose of drama. Give this book a try if that’s your cup of tea.
I’m having a love-hate relationship with this book! I loved it cover to cover, but I hate that it kept me up so late reading. I could NOT put it down.
It’s probably not for everyone, but I found it to be beautifully written and enjoyable. I had to just stop and re-read some of the lines so I could enjoy their originality and humor.
In a genre full of tired, predictable tropes, this one is a standout that I highly recommend.
I got about halfway through and lost interest. I even tried to pick it back up and try again because I genuinely liked the characters. I went ahead and gave it three stars because this losing interest probably has more to do with me than the book.