Unfortunate

An Unlucky 13 Standalone

By: Nicole Dykes

Narrated by: Liam DiCosimo, Tim Paige

Welcome to the Black Diamond Resort and Spa...

I'm in exile in this luxurious refuge after a scandal, which shouldn't be a scandal, at all.

I'm Elijah Hunt, former child actor, now beloved action star. When a picture of me in a compromising position is posted online for the entire world to see, my agent sent me here to escape the limelight.

Here, it's different from my crazy, loud, glitzy life. It's quiet and peaceful. No one seems impressed with my celebrity.

No one is less impressed than the sexy, aloof member of the cleaning crew. He couldn't care less who I am or why I'm here.

He's convinced I'm one of the fortunate ones—and I suppose I am. I've had it all—big houses, the best care, money, fame, and shallow adoration... but I've never been loved.

I've never known if people like me for who I am underneath it all or just for my money and fame.

And to me... that seems awfully unfortunate.

©2023 Nicole Dykes (P)2024 Podium Audio

Narration was fantastic!

I had waited to grab this when it was on the big audible sale and had no idea what the book was about before diving in (this author is one of my 2025 favs so I knew I would like it regardless).

I liked the concept of the different backgrounds or wealthy/rich trope (not normally my fav) and appreciated how Atlas chose to be where he ended up being on the resort, he wasn't forced there with his circumstances. He had a good thing going and then life happened and he chose to go down a different path, which is perfectly fine and needs to be more widely accepted. I also liked the nurturing part of this story with Atlas letting Elijah be his true self, despite having to put on a fake front with his job and the fans. I liked Atlas and Elijah gave it back to each other though, didnt hold back with the snark and chemistry haha.

Steam was fantastic, it did feel a little quick for me but I still enjoyed it. I gave this a 4.5 stars I think because of that, it would have been easily 5 if we could have had more time but it was supposed to be a series from al these authors of shorter stories so I understand. I liked Atlas's bestie hahaha causing trouble and forcing Atlas's hand early haha. I thought the other coworkers of Atlas helped cause more tension, I hope they got their HEAs too. I liked the concept of this island though, and the workers doing their nude beach night was hilarious haha. Made their extracurriculars pretty entertaining haha.

Narration was fabulous as always from these two. They are some of my favorite narrators of M/M romances and they didnt disappoint one bit. I enjoyed their rollercoaster of emotions, both did a good job with the hard moments but also bringing so levity and steam. The backlash from the paps and being outed outside your control was done well between them both. I enjoyed it and finished in one day!