Love at first sight is only found in romance books… Right?
A hot Scottish archeologist walks into a curator’s office—sounds like the set up for a bad joke. Yet, here I am, face-to-face with the flirtatious and ruggedly handsome, Dr. Cameron Jackson, delivering items to catalog and display for the museum.
Falling prey to his charms should be the least of my worries. Except I want to give in, let him chase me.
Since I am working on his brother’s upcoming excavation, spending time with him is a terrible idea. The last thing I should do is sleep with him, but I can’t deny the instant connection we share, or how I desperately want more than either of us can offer.
What could go wrong if we had one night… or maybe two?
Sip Happens is a deliciously spicy sequel novella, best read after Unexpectedly Ruined. It contains major spoilers for the Love At All Cost and Top Shelf Romances series.
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 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
I adored this novella - I love Irene’s writing, she always draws you in immediately and her characters are super relatable. I pretty much am rooting for both the MC’s from the first one and this one was no different!! I also loved that we get to see some of the characters from other books - especially Harriet, I loved her sweet novella last year.
Lizzy is a museum curator with BIG dreams, she wants to dominate the Natural History Museum… she doesn’t count on meeting the gorgeous, wonderful and smooth talking Cam. A Scottish archeologist, who dropping off some Celtic crosses from a dig (please read Unexpectedly Ruined!!!!). He is sinful, dirty-mouthed and willing to give her anything she wants… I freaking LOVE him!!!! Each MMC of Irene’s I meet I say is my fave, until the next one 😂😂. Cam and Jack are tied first place at the moment!! Both remind me of Scottish Indiana Jones’, and both are sinfully gorgeous!!
These two have AMAZING chemistry, their banter is top notch and they’re so well matched (but there’s also angst!! And you know I love that in Rom-coms!!)
This fast paced novella is fantastic, smütty and perfect for a light read!! Go go go get it NOW!!
I love a good chase, and this book has me wanting to play chase in the dinosaur exhibition the next time I visit a museum.
Forget what I said about all the other men of this series, Cam is the yummiest! Cameron and Lizzy had an instant connection that they explored during a two-night stand, and it was so freaking explosive. Unlike the other couples in the series, Cam and Lizzy had a brief star-crossed lovers moment that had me feeling so heartbroken, but I love the little game that they developed during this time and how it comes into play near the end.
This book should not be read as a stand alone, since a chunk of Cam and Lizzy's story happens during the events of Unexpectedly Ruined, and it is not included in this novella.
This was a really good ending to the Love At All Cost series, and I'm looking forward to reading about the rest of the crew in the Top Shelf Romances series
Quote: “I asked you to join me for a pint because I’d like to get to know the woman who took my breath away the moment I walked into her office.”
Oh what a wild ride this fun novella was. Cam and Lizzy go toe to toe and hold their own against the other. I love how well matched they are. The level of playfulness they share is definitely goals for me. This was a wonderful quick read and one that will absolutely put a smile on your face. Even with all the fun you can truly feel their connection. I completely adore these two. I don’t recommend reading this if you haven’t read the other books in the series. So, what are you waiting for? You have 30 seconds… the download will be worth it.
“I’ve always been surrounded by grandiose love stories. My father found his first love after years apart, and they are now happily married. My uncle and aunt fell in love, and seeing how obsessed he is with her has set a standard. My other aunt fell for her step-sister’s ex-husband. I’m still trying to wrap my head around that one; my family is a hot mess that deserves daytime talk show praise. Hell, my sister married a professional baseball player and eloped to avoid media coverage. I’ve grown up knowing that there’s no such thing as too much love and that it comes from unexpected places. Here I am in a bar, and there’s a man serenading me with 90s pop hits. What if this is how my own love story begins? Who am I to discount him?” 🌌🌉 After catching up on the Top Shelf Romances series and meeting Lizzy’s entire family (it’s a village really), this novella felt like the perfect conclusion to both series. But, as the author warns in the beginning, you should NOT read this novella before reading these books... or at least some of them. I also really liked that we got to see what happened when Cam went back to San Francisco because we got a teaser of this in Unexpectedly Ruined, but never knew the full story... until now.
And boy, oh boy, was it a good story! Cam and Lizzy meet at her museum but nothing can keep them from each other. I mean, it’s not called a workplace romance troupe for nothing! However, they are both playful with one another and balance each other out in a way that’s hard not to love. There’s definitely spice and tons of humor, but my favorite scenes are the group ones when we see all of our favorite couples and Cam fits in perfectly. I adore Lizzy’s personality and how well Cam fits into her family unit, plus, they really seem to be the perfect match. It’s near impossible to pick a favorite, but Cam and Lizzy are definitely top contenders for me in Irene’s world. It’s going to be sad to say goodbye to the Top Shelf and Love at All Cost crew, but I’m pleased with where their happily ever afters have gone. 🌉🌌 “‘Why do you insist on calling me Liz?’ I laugh and look up at him. ‘Because no one else does. It’s something that’s only mine.’”
I am an Irene Bahrd stan. These stories, these characters, they have me in an absolute chokehold.
This novella is a supplemental work that’s connected to the Love At All Costs and Top Shelf Romance series so for the best reading experience I would recommend heeding Irene’s advice in the author note to read at least Unexpectedly Ruined before jumping in! I promise you’ll have no regrets in delving into Irene’s backlist! Her characters are so deeply relatable and their stories have you hooked from the start.
Something I love about Irene’s writing is how she masterfully intertwines the characters from other books in both series. The continued glimpses at their stories hits me right in the feels! Getting more Emma and Dylan, Ethan, Harriet and Robbie?! Swoon.
Lizzy and Cam’s chemistry is on fire and I’ve been so excited for more of their story since Unexpectedly Ruined. M'anam cara says it all! Lizzy is driven, passionate, intelligent, and an old soul and Cameron is protective, suave, confident, dominant, and sweet. There’s just something about a good chase and let’s just say Sip Happens was a great time! You get a bit of star crossed lovers, he falls first, insta-love (a Bahrd signature done in a way that converted me to love this trope), workplace romance, and age gap. Spice wise the dirty talk? In a Scottish accent?Chefs kiss.
This is a light, spicy, fast paced read (there were a few parts I wish we got to spend a bit more time in) and a fabulous conclusion to Love At All Costs and Top Shelf Romances - if you’re prepared for a new auto-read author immerse yourself in this world right now!!!
Beyond grateful to Irene Bahrd for a free eARC copy in exchange for my candid thoughts!
"Sip Happens" by Irene Bahrd is a delightful concoction of romance and humor that leaves a lasting impression. Lizzy, the ambitious museum curator, finds herself entangled with the irresistible Scottish archeologist, Dr. Cameron Jackson. Their chemistry is palpable from the moment they meet, and despite Lizzy's reservations, she can't help but be drawn to Cameron's charm and wit. As they navigate the complexities of their budding relationship, Bahrd skillfully explores themes of desire, ambition, and the unpredictable nature of love.
What sets "Sip Happens" apart is its perfect blend of steamy romance and lighthearted banter. Bahrd has a knack for creating characters that feel authentic and relatable, making it easy for readers to become invested in their journey. The novella may be short, but it's packed with memorable moments that will leave you laughing, swooning, and eagerly turning the pages for more. Whether you're a fan of romance novels or simply looking for a feel-good read to brighten your day, "Sip Happens" is sure to satisfy your cravings for a heartwarming story with a side of spice.
Read if you like: - age gap - scottish accents - instalove - dirty talk - chasing
Overall Rating: 4.5 stars 3.5 chili peppers
*Sip Happens is a sequel novella, best read after Unexpectedly Ruined. It contains major spoilers for the Love At All Cost and Top Shelf Romances series. Would also recommend reading the content warnings and author notes prior to reading
Big thanks to the author for providing this eARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and freely given.
💙 Museum curator 🩶 Archaeologist 💙 Chasing 🩶 M'anam cara 💙 Dirty t@lk 🥵
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 🌶️🌶️
What an absolute blast this was! I enjoyed diving back into this world with these characters. It was great to see how the two got their start and of course what happened after!
Irene has a way of writing that makes me swoon, smile, and put a hand to my chest with “aww” or “ohhh 😏.” And I am here for it! I’m so thankful to be able to ARC yet another book in this series. The books really are “aftercare for dark romance readers.” 😂
Cameron. O. M. G. What a growly, ‘take charge’ cinnamon roll MMC. Whew. The hand necklace that he supplied in chapter seven. SIR. 🥵 He has the dirty talk game down. To. A. friggin. T. The amount of highlights I have in this novella is insane. 40. In 98 pages. 40 highlights. And most of them are Cam saying…things. 😂
I love Elizabeth. No, Lizzy. No. Liz. Because no one else calls her that (swoon!). She is a spitfire and an intellectual. Girl Boss that sh!t ma’am! I enjoyed seeing her come out of her shell and try things; say what she wants instead of being all meek and whatnot.
Cam and Liz together…I was smiling a lot when the two were together. They just had a chemistry that came off the page. I really enjoyed her family and their interactions. And the epilogue, gah!
🦕 “Are you afraid of me? Or are you afraid that if I touch you, no other man will satiate your needs like I can?” 🦕 “You enjoy being hunted, don’t you, little doe?” 🦕 “Such a good f ***ing girl, you listen so beautifully for me,” 🦕 “There will only ever be you.”
Sip Happens is the fifth book in the Love at All Costs series. Dr. Cameron Jackson is a Scottish archeologist delivering items to a museum in America when he meets Lizzy who works at the museum. The insane chemistry between Cam and Lizzy is cut short because they only have two days to be together. Will this budding relationship end because of distance or work out in the end?
I have really enjoyed everything I’ve read by Irene Bahrd and this book is no exception. This book does give a lot of spoilers and ties into Unexpectedly Ruined, so if you haven’t read that book first, I wouldn’t recommend reading this as a standalone. We got a glimpse of this relationship in Unexpectedly Ruined and I loved Cam and Lizzy together and was hopeful we would get to see more of their story. This novella didn’t disappoint! I love the chemistry between this couple and I enjoyed seeing their story play out on the pages. I can’t wait to read more in this series! If you are looking for a good, quick read steamy romance I would recommend this book and Unexpectedly Ruined!
I have loved everything from this series but I truly think this little novella might be my favorite! I loved Jack but Cameron, oh my goddess CAMERON. This man’s had me from the moment he was introduced in the last book, and being able to learn more about him in this one scratched an itch I didn’t know I had. He’s golden retriever mixed with Doberman vibes, sweet when he needs to be but switches to in charge when they’re in the bedroom.
Elizabeth, Lizzy, gives off innocent professional vibes until you get her behind closed door (or in cars) with Mr Cameron. I love watching them grow and learn what she likes, watching her be herself with him is refreshing!
Their banter was hilarious, I love a good he-falls-first trope. The chasing in this book was amazing, being right people at the wrong time but waiting till it’s the perfect time is chefs kiss!
Irene never fails to capture me in her books, but this one hit all of the spots that I want in a novella, the only issue I have is I wish it was longer! I loved them both so much!
📖Sip Happens by Irene Bahrd📖 @irenebahrdauthor Book 5 ⭐️ Spice 3.5 ⭐️
I absolutely loved this book by Irene! It is best to read the others before it as part of their story is in Unexpectedly Ruined. Although it is a quick read, the book had me giddy the entire time I was reading it. I was on the edge of my seat either going “awwweee” while touching my chest or “ohhhh myyy” while gripping my covers. I devoured it in one sitting!
Cameron is a take charge cinnamon roll MMC. Very “growly” with the dirty talk down pat. Oh, and the hand necklaces he gives Liz?! 🥵
Liz is an intelligent woman and a spitfire to boot. She really came out of her shell when she was with Cam trying things and asking for what she wanted.
These two are perfect together. Their chemistry is off the charts, their banter will keep you smiling, and the spice will keep things steamy!
Quick easy read. You do want to read the books in the Love At All Cost series prior to this one. There is mention of those characters and connections with the our main characters. There are also spoilers for Unexpectedly Ruined, so that one needs to be read prior to this one as well.
Lizzy is working at a Museum. Dr Cam Jackson is delivering items to the establishment causing the two to cross paths. He is immediately attracted to her and finds a way to get her alone. From there it's instalove and their romance takes off. But they knew it would be limited. What they both didn't expect was to fall in love. Lizzy has plans to finish school and Cam has to return to his home in Scotland. Not before making an agreement with one another.
This is a golden retriever, he falls first, rom com. The banter between them makes the read even more enjoyable. I highly recommend it. And the spicy scenes...yes please!
Another fun, flirty, spicy read from Bahrd. I am slowly becoming (oh, who am I kidding? Already beyond totally) obsessed with her writing, especially when it comes to the hot Scots she writes.
I loved Lizzy and Cam's story; the banter, the flirting, the spice. And the pining. Oh my goodness, I didn't expect to feel so many emotions whilst reading a novella, but Bahrd got me again.
The sneak we got of these two in Unexpectedly Ruined was expanded so beautifully, and I love that Bahrd didn't recap the events that we'd already seen in that story. This is definitely best read after UR, but now I feel I need to binge the whole series.
Lizzy's family were hilarious to read about, and I love how Cam just fit in so perfectly with the chaos. Their HEA was beautiful, and such a perfect way to tie up their story.
Sip Happens is the fifth and final book in the Love at all Cost series. Lizzy and Cam are just too adorable, Lizzy is the quiet and shy one of the two where Cam just wants to chase Lizzy around and dirty talk her into the wall *wink wink*. This is the third book I have read by Irene Bahrd (Maybe in Fifty, Unexpectedly Ruined and now Sip Happens) and I just love it. The characters are wonderful, you can hear them talk throughout the book which is one of my favorite things.
I was just thinking about overnight field trips at museums! Now how about a game of chase?! That sounds wonderfully adult.
Note: this is not meant as a standalone, there is a part where the author does say there is more that happens in the story, but you would get that from Unexpectedly Ruined. But it is a very short novella, pretty much what I love on a lazy Friday.
Sip Happens by Irene Bahrd is the perfect pick-me-up for anyone in need of a delightful romance fix. Picture this: a chance encounter between a sassy curator and a charming Scottish archaeologist that turns into a whirlwind romance. The chemistry between Cam and Lizzy is off the charts, and you can't help but root for them as they navigate the ups and downs of falling in love.
What I loved most about this novella is how it packed all the best romance tropes into one captivating story. From love at first sight to strangers-to-lovers, it had everything I could ask for and more. Plus, revisiting the world of Unexpectedly Ruined was an added bonus that left me craving more from this talented author. If you're in the mood for a quick and steamy read that'll leave you with a smile on your face, then Sip Happens is the perfect choice. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!
I love all books by @irenebahrdauthor , but Sip Happens has to be one of my favorites. We got a glimpse of Cam and Lizzy’s story in Unexpectedly Ruined, and Sip Happens answered to many questions I had about their relationship.. Without giving away spoilers, this book made my laugh, gasp, swoon and left me wanting more of Cam and Lizzy. I love that Irene does such a great job at developing her characters and stories, that you become fully invested in them. My only complaint is that I wish it was a full book instead of a novella because I wanted MORE, MORE & MORE! As always, congrats Irene on another beautifully written story!
Thank you to @happilybookedpr for my ARC of Sip Happens!
Lord have mercy!!! We left off in Unexpectedly Ruined knowing that something was happening between Lizzy & Cameron….we just didn’t know what for sure….well I know now & I’m here for it!!!
You definitely need to read Unexpectedly Ruined before jumping into this book…Lizzy & Cameron were side characters but Sip Happens brings it all together with a pretty little bow….
From the family meal with Lizzys entire family to the finally tour of the museum…I was on the edge of my seat…just be prepared…these two went through it…they both broke my heart a little only to put the pieces back together….I love this series…you feel like they are part of your own family…I wasn’t ready for it to end…that being said I loved it & wouldn’t change a thing
This is the fifth book in the Love at All Costs series by Irene Bahrd. I recommend reading this series in order, but you definitely need to read Unexpectedly Ruined before jumping into this book.
MMC Dr. Cameron Jackson is a Scottish archeologist delivering items to a museum in America when he meets FMC Lizzy who works at the museum. There is insane chemistry between Cam and Lizzy that is cut short because they only have two days to be together.
Will things work out, will they get their HEA? If you want to know then go read the book. This is a packed novella that keeps you hooked all the way through.
I will always recommend this series and this author.
This was such a fun and spicy quick read and I absolutely adored both Cam and Lizzy. They were so fun together and it was great getting the rest of their story in this book. This spice and the banter in this story was next level and I throughly enjoyed every moment of reading this. They were also featured in Unexpectedly Ruined so I would recommend either reading that before this book or as a tandem read. This author is really amazing at writing short and spicy stories with really wonderful and relatable characters. I’m going to go back and read the first few books in this series so I can meet the side characters mentioned in this story. Thank you to Irene Bahrd for allowing me to ARC read this story!
Irene, you've done it again. Just when I think you've written my favorite, I find a new book boyfriend to swoon over. So after reading Unexpectedly Ruined, we knew a story between Cam and Lizzie was bound to happen. What I didn't prepare for, was how much I would fall in love with them. I love Cam almost as much as I love Jack. I'm definitely a sucker for the chase. I never wanted it to end. The banter, the spice everything was authentically Irene and I am so thankful to get the opportunity to read her books! Thank you for constantly making out fantasies come to fruition! You truly are the Queen!
This amazing Novella is the perfect summary for the Love At All Cost series.
*This book is not to be read as a standalone - Cam and Lizzy's story appears during the events of Unexpectedly Ruined, and events during Unexpectedly Ruined are not included here. Please read it first (100% worth the read as well).
Cam and Lizzy's firecracker romance has me looking at museums in a whole new light. Might check out the butterfly exhibit soon. From start to finish, this spicy book had me on the edge of my seat swooning right along with the MCs.
Includes: - age gap - scottish accents - instalove - dirty talk - chasing
I really enjoyed reading Lizzy and Cameron’s story. My only complaint is that it wasn’t long enough. LOL when you have a great cast of characters like this, you want to really be able to dive in and get to know them. I loved that Lizzy is confident, but also struggles sometimes with being her true authentic self. I think all of us can relate a little bit to that. Of course Cameron is sexy as hell, I mean he is a gorgeous, dirty talking Scotsman! The part where they were texting back and forth really pulled my heartstrings and really showed how deep their love really is. (Cryptic I know, but if you want the details you’ll have to read the book!)
I got to know Cameron a bit from Unexpectedly Ruined. So, I was excited to read his story. He is just as funny as his brother, Jack. It was great to see underneath the professional appearance that Liz is a wild woman. She and Cam are a perfect match for each other.
While the steamy scenes are great, it was the chemistry and the emotions that these two shared that I loved the most. That and the innuendos. The family dinner was a hoot. Liz's family may have loved Cam more than her at that time.
Don't let Sip Happen to you and miss out on this must read novella!
Omg! I thought I was swooning over the other Love At All Cost men, but Cam has definitely taken the #1 spot. I have loved the whole series and am sad it has come to an end. This little novella is packed full of funny, swoon-worthy, and spicy moments. Cam is to die for and Lizzy is amazing. I just loved her character so much. Sip Happens is a very fun, light-hearted quick read. I'll forever be a fan of Irene. I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes. "While my two-night stand with Cameron was never supposed to be more, sometimes sip happens." -Lizzy ❤️
I have quickly become a huge STAN of Irene Bahrd after reading Maybe in Fifty and Unexpectedly Ruined. This read was cool because it is a post novella that is best to be read after Unexpectedly Ruined, where we are first introduced to Cam and Lizzy’s relationship.
I did not think anyone could beat the sizzling Scottish Indiana Jones (Jack), but his brother Cam might be my new favourite 🥵♥️ This confident sexy scot with a man in and a VERY DIRTY MOUTH will not only melt your panties, but also melt your heart. The banter was on point, and the angst, oh the ANGST! Though this is technically a spicy novella, it also squeezes and warms your heart in all the best ways - that ending ♥️🖤♥️
Overall rating: 4.5/5⭐️ Spice: 4/5 🌶️
Thanks so much to the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All ratings and opinions listed above are entirely my own.
Damm, have I told y'all lately how much i love Irene Bahrd and her writing! Happenstance of stumbling upon her book last year was the best thing ever and once again she proves how much fun reading her books are. Cameron and Lizzy aka Jack's brother and Dylan's daughter. I feel this love story was just perfect and sweet and all green flags waving around. He falls first and falls hard with insta love , oooo I'm squealing here . I love love love this universe that Irene has created makes me want to be a part of that world. Always and forever, read this for a quick sweet loving novella!
I'm a little obsessed with this series. I'm sad it is over, but this was an amazing end!
I loved Cam and Lizzy. They were so much fun! The banter was amazing and I loved how playful they were.
I thought the instalove and the timeline of the book was done really well. You definitely need to read Unexpectedly Ruined as this story skips the events found there, but the story feels complete.
I can't wait for the next book by the author! I love the writing style and how witty the books are!
I absolutely adored this novella, I had wondered if we were going to get Cam and Lizzie's story - I'm so glad we got this. It was really well written, and I really, really liked Cam's character more because of this book. I liked him in Unexpectedly Ruined - but getting to know him more in Sip Happens made me really like him. I love Lizzie's family, they were brilliant. I love the way the timeline is set out in the book, and I really liked the way Bahrd didn't revisit what happened during Unexpectedly Ruined. Love this story and I am fast becoming a HUGE fan of Bahrd.
I really enjoyed Jack and Amanda’s story in Unexpectedly Ruined and knew something was happening between Cam and Lizzy. Irene Bahrd writes with so much emotion and spice! I love seeing Cam and Lizzy’s story and only wish it was longer! The Scottish Jackson brothers will both be added to my fictional boyfriend list.
Beyond the incredible spice and dirty talk, the storyline is fantastic, characters were so lovable! Loved! Totally recommend!
Recommend reading Unexpectedly Ruined before this one. Dr. Cameron Jackson an archaeologist from Scotland delivers artefacts to the museum that Lizzy curates in America and its Instalove exhibiting this day. With only two days remaining in town does the good doctor prescribe a good time to go or is he digging it too much to leave? Brilliantly amusing , and romping good read. I was forwarded this book and I’m leaving a review voluntarily in my own thoughts.
Sip Happens is the 5th book in the Love At All Costs series. It introduces the 2 new new leads of the book. It also has a little spoilers from Amanda & Jack's story. So, make sure you're up to date with the books.
Sip Happens wasn't my favorite in the series by far, but I still enjoyed it. There are some spicy moments, and the plot moves fast like the other books. I do like that all the characters are somehow linked with each other making it possible to see some of them again.