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One night to forget the rules…

Noelle Olsen is braced for another bad blind date — until a sexy stranger sweeps her off her feet and tempts her on a wild midnight tour of New York City.

Ash Callahan doesn’t lose control. He’s built an empire on cool logic and sense — until a chance encounter with Noelle brings out the reckless streak he never knew he had.

One night. Two unlikely hearts. No holding back. As the night unfolds, Ash and Noelle discover new passion and adventure, but can their moment of connection last until the morning light? Find out in the sexy, fun new novella from New York Times bestselling author, Melody Grace!

65 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 29, 2015

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About the author

Melody Grace

66 books2,613 followers
NYT bestselling author of small-town romance. A new chapter in the Sweetbriar Cove series begins with Two Hearts - July 30th!

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5 stars
606 (41%)
4 stars
457 (31%)
3 stars
270 (18%)
2 stars
77 (5%)
1 star
34 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
Profile Image for Lovetoread.
342 reviews27 followers
April 16, 2019
this was my first Melody Grace book. Unmasked is a short story about the night Noelle Olsen meets Ash Callahan.

Ash while getting out of his limo to go to a charity event, spots a woman having a problem with her shoe. Noelle is a young dissatisfied with her life lawyer. She works 18 hour days 7 days a week with no life. Tonight she is going to a charity event bracing herself to meet one of her fathers associates on another bad blind date her father set her up with. Everything was going smoothly until her heel got stuck in a heating grate on the street. Ash Callahan is a multi millionaire real-estate developer in New York and globally. He is an all business, always in control individual. He never ever looses control, He has built an empire on cool logic and sense which he is very proud of. Until this one night he forget the rules when he meets Noelle. Noelle meets Ash, this sexy stranger sweeps her off her feet and tempts her on a wild midnight tour of New York City. — This chance encounter with Noelle brings out the reckless streak Ash never knew he had. One night. Two unlikely hearts. No holding back. As the night unfolds, Ash and Noelle discover new passion and adventure, but can their moment of connection last until the morning light?


This was an incredible read for a short story....it is book 7.5 part of Melody Grace's series Beachwood Bay. You can read this on its own or book 8 picks up the rest of Ash and Noelle's story. I highly recommend this read....sensual level I would grade an 8+. Hot and sizzling.....looking forward to book 8.
Profile Image for Rose Sharon (a.k.a #FairyProofmother) .
1,867 reviews319 followers
May 24, 2015
Gasoline on the fire...BOOM!
Oh my...what a tease! I have been a fan of the series for a while now. I've always been curious about Ash. He's the oldest sibling, the no-nonsense responsible workaholic that is always too busy to enjoy life. He's shouldered the responsibility of taking care of his family after the death of their parents. He just keeps working and pushing himself. When will it be his turn to find the woman who will make him see that there is more to life? Well, she might not be his forever, but Noelle makes a fun and flirty 'right now'. Rarely is Ash tempted to 'play', he's usually too serious and doesn't waste time, always shooting straight for his goal. And then, he accidentally runs into the mystery woman at a masked ball, thus the title Unmasked, right? She's different. He lets her see a side of him that nobody else has seen. If's harmless, right? It's just one night. Tomorrow the real world will be pressing in, demanding all of his time and attention. But that one night... "Hot and slow, deep and sweet." And that was just the kiss (wink-wink).
Profile Image for Amy .
2,845 reviews
November 26, 2015
Great intro to Ash and Noelle! This novella might be short, but Melody Grace does not disappoint! I'm looking forward to seeing how the rest of their story plays out!

*Novella included with Unforgettable ARC copy*
Profile Image for Tami Talbert.
448 reviews17 followers
October 5, 2015
4 1/2 Stars

Unmasked is the novella from Melody Grace's amazing Beachwood Bay series which is leading us to her final novel in this series in spectacular fashion. Unmasked introduces us to Ash and Noelle, two characters who share an undeniable connection of souls at first sight. In her typically perfect writing and storytelling style, Ms. Grace has grasped ahold of our heartstrings leaving us dangling with anticipation of what direction their story will take.

Ash spends his life focused on business always serious and in control, concentrating on the current or next big realty project, not falling in love. Noelle is living the life she has always felt her family wanted her to live. She is the daughter of a lawyer and from a family of overachievers and Noelle spends her life working hard, not worrying about having fun. But when she is unexpectedly saved by a stranger while on her way to a masked charity event, as they gaze into each other’s eyes and share moments of banter, both Noelle and Ash are drawn towards each other almost immediately opening both of their hearts. Ash and Noelle make the spur of the moment choice that for just one night they will push aside their propensity for always being focused on business and spend an unexpected and magical evening together that they both know they will ever forget.

In her usual and delightful fashion, Ms. Grace has given us an entertaining and heartfelt introduction into the worlds of these wonderful characters, leaving us now awaiting with great anticipation the conclusion of their love story in hopes they too will find their happily ever after. Despite the fact Unmasked is a novella, we are given plenty of insight to know there is nothing simple about them. The magical connection they share is apparent very quickly and the way their souls seem to meld together from the beginning gives us so much understanding and vision into the possible future they could share together.

Ms. Grace’s knack for drawing us in very quickly is consummate. Although I have not read all of the books in her Beachwood Bay series (though I have read the majority of them), that in no way diminishes the pleasure I have experienced while reading Unmasked. It is a splendid addition to this emotional and entertaining series which is leading us towards what I anticipate will be a memorable (and sad) conclusion as we begin to say goodbye to all of the characters of Beachwood Bay who have become a part of our lives.
Profile Image for Paula  Phillips.
5,143 reviews322 followers
June 2, 2015
It is nearing the end of the long-loved and enjoyed Beachwood Bay series as we have Book 7.5 released in Novella format. Unmasked is the type of story that if you have a spare half-hour you can read it in one sitting and it is a story that will have you wrapped up and spun into a whirlwind of love, mystery and romance. The book features Ash Callahan who is the oldest of the Callahan Siblings - they are the ones we have read and seen featured in the latter of Melody Grace's books. He has his own architectural firm and they have just finished a major project which will have them raking in the big bucks. We also catch a glimpse of Emmett who is Britt's older brother from the first round of Beachwood Bay books released. The story starts with Ash headed off to another boring charity masquerade gala, but this time around it will be anything but as outside he meets a girl with a stuck shoe - think Wedding Planner intro with Matthew McCounaghey and Jennifer Lopez . The two later meet in the ball and they have a romance-filled and amazing night , the night though will change their lives forever. What happens when the clock strikes 12 and Cinderella aka Noelle must leave the occasion ? Will this be just a romantic whirlwind one night stand or will Ash and Noelle find each other another time ?

This book ends on a major cliffhanger and finishes as the Clock strikes 12 and Noelle disappears off into the moonlight and Ash is well, you'll see.
Profile Image for Danielle .
2,572 reviews77 followers
June 1, 2015
4.5 stars

Melody Grace has some kind of magic that makes her write books that I love. Unmasked was no different. I was drawn in from page one and when it ended I wanted more.

Ash Callagahn is the head of his family. When his parents died, he took his brother and sister under his supervision. He gave up everything for them. No, they are all grown up with lives of their own. You would think it would be Ash's time to find love and happiness. But there is soothing holding him back. For him, it is all work and nothing else. That is until he meets Noelle Olson.

Noelle is a cute and quirky lawyer who is sick of blind dates and working 18 hr days. She is trying her best to be what her parents wanted her to be.She is getting tired of living someone else's life. On her way to a masquerade ball, she is in need of help when she gets literally stuck. Ash is in the right place at the right time and becomes her knight in shining armor.

The attraction is instant. The chemistry is explosive and the two end up having one incense night. In Ash's eyes, one night is all it can be. There is nothing in his future that is long term. He only has room for family and work. Nothing more.

After their one night.. they never thought they would see each other again. This can't be the end for Ash and Noelle.... can it???
Profile Image for Deanna Sauer.
143 reviews16 followers
June 1, 2015
I forget how easily it is to fall into Melody Grace's books until I start reading another one. I get lost in her amazing word choice & beautifully flowing words. The story just surrounds you like few other authors can do, and you just lose yourself into the book, so easily transported into this other world.

In this novella, set before Unforgettable, Ash & Noelle meet by chance & sparks fly. They are both drawn to each other, while admittedly supposed to be focused on other things. They agree to forget their responsibilities for the evening & share the night.

This quick glimpse into their lives gives you enough to start to get to know them, but definitely leaves you wanting more! The chemistry between Ash & Noelle is amazing and incredibly hot! Their personalities are fun and feisty, making you wish you really knew them.
*received ARC for honest review.*
Profile Image for Stephanie.
404 reviews8 followers
May 24, 2015
This is a short book only 6 chapters but I loved the flow of the book. Have you ever met someone and just felt a connection not knowing what it means. Ash is not that guy he knows what he has to do but she makes him loose control. Noelle is a girl who has done everything she's supposed to do but for one night she just wants to be free. They agreed one night can they both walk away and not look back. Only time will tell. This is an honest review thank you I enjoyed this novella now I can't wait to read next book. Reviewing for Night and Day book blog http://ndbbr2014.com Stephanie Powell
Profile Image for Jeraca.
2,506 reviews26 followers
March 11, 2019
I didn't have this book on my kindle but after getting a taste of Ash in the previous book i knew I had to finish the series completly. Thankfully this one was free and I'm so glad i decided to read it because i really liked it! I'm hoing that Ash will change his tune in the next book and take action with Noelle, but I have a feeling that Noelle is going to be the one chasing Ash. Hopefully im wrong though! I loved the masquerade and the mystery in this book and I'm excited to see how everything ends :)
Profile Image for Ness.
400 reviews15 followers
January 1, 2019
Google Books - 3.5 stars

Noelle - lawyer
Ash - property developer

I read this between 3am and 5am when I couldn't sleep (and still had hope of reaching my Reading Challenge goal). It was a fun little story, set at a masquerade ball in New York City. It was all instant attraction stuff, nice banter between the characters. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series, I'm kinda OCD like that.
Profile Image for Karen Wood.
617 reviews3 followers
March 12, 2019
this is a short novella before the main book the same as all the others, it gives you an insight into the two main characters, Noelle Olsen (grand-daughter of Mrs Olsen of Beachwood bay) and Ash Callahan, ( the only one of the Callahans to find love) they bump into each other outside a charity party they were both going to as Noelle's heal was caught in a drain, the passion was there and they made a vow, One night. Two unlikely hearts. No holding back.

Looking forward to the next book!
Profile Image for Char (1RadReader59).
2,520 reviews13 followers
May 9, 2019
Can’t say I loved it or hated it. This was a short story which is only 81 pages in length. So, it is a quick read for sure.
It was cute in the way of it being its fairy tale meeting and the hero rescues the fair maiden. (Shoe caught in the grid in the middle of the street.) She is everything, he’s not. He’s mysterious and sexy.
Ash knows there could never be anything between them. Oh, I don’t know, because he is so much better? You know million-dollar deals and all. Noel is fun loving and outgoing. Not polished like the women he normally dates. So, she must be beneath his standards.
She is beautiful, her curves are sexy, and her fresh personality calls to him. Making him lose control and kiss her. Coming back to their senses they get out of the street. She goes to meet her blind date he goes in to make an appearance.
What irks me is he came from nothing and he acts like she’s beneath him. When really, she is the one with a long, family history and real old money in N.Y. They do meet up again.
She gets him to run away with her for one night. She gets away from who her dad has set her up with as a blind date. The night started off great but the ending felt very open-ended and to me, a cliffhanger. Not a fan.
I give this: 3 stars. Free from Amazon. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
Profile Image for Sue Parker.
1,251 reviews14 followers
October 13, 2019
Noelle is going to a blind date at a charity event when she gets her heel stuck in a grate in the middle of the road. Ash has just arrived and comes to help her. However he isn’t her date and when she sees him again she decides to take off with him and leave the dud of a date behind. They have a great evening and she has to leave him sleeping. And hoping he will call her.
Profile Image for Jo-Ann Fitzgerald.
746 reviews1 follower
March 17, 2022
This is a short read about the last sibling which we’ve heard of but haven’t really met.

The hero goes to a ball. There he meets the heroine and he rescues her twice in one night. Then they decide to leave and do things that matter to them. During this time together they start recognizing things they don’t like about themselves… then a family emergency has one of them sprinting off…
Profile Image for Susanne Scott.
1,315 reviews10 followers
October 3, 2019
This was a great quick read. The connection was so steamy and instant. Who wouldn’t love the chance to be who they always wanted to be and not who they are? I can only imagine how hot their continuing story is going to be.
150 reviews2 followers
February 14, 2021
Absolutely loved it

I absolutely loved this story. The emotions fly off the pages. It is very hot. Of course, the ending leaves you up in the air. I can't wait to read the continuation in my TBR pile. I highly recommend it all romance lovers.
1,034 reviews6 followers
July 23, 2017
A teaser- a short story leading to the main book Unforgettable which has to be read.
Personally would rather just read the story in one whole book but it did the trick of making me want to read on.
856 reviews2 followers
February 7, 2018
Ash has made appearances, or had references, in most of the previous books but we don’t really know him. This was an interesting introduction. On to the BIG story.
March 24, 2018
Very disappointing.

Really did not like the way you write. You disappoint me by just giving us a short story line.
Then you throw in two chapters of another book.
1,337 reviews5 followers
November 30, 2018
5 Stars

I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys stories that are funny, steamy, and romantic, with characters that are strong both male and female.
Profile Image for Nicole.
2,528 reviews10 followers
October 2, 2019
Wow! A teaser, but what a tease!
Sadly, the number of dependent clauses written as sentences prohibits me from giving it 5 stars, even though I was totally caught up in the story by the end.
59 reviews
March 14, 2017
Lovely

I have loved reading this book as I felt that it was keeping me wanting for more and the characters kept you wondering
June 7, 2015
I was so excited and grateful to see that Unmasked was provided at the start of the ARC for Unforgettable !! How freakin awesome is that !! Melody is phenomenal and I am so sad to see the series end BUT WOW it goes out with a bang !! The bonus of this story and then the Epilogue at the end of Unforgettable !!

Unmasked is the little piece into Ash and Noelle's first encounter, how their obsession with each other began !! I mean as a guy how can you forget Noelle and as a chick there is no way to forget Ash , the hot night in shining armor !! Not only did he save you from oncoming traffic but he also managed to save the freakin shoe too and OMG don't forget about the lame blind date she ditched for Ash !! One little charity event , one moment in time.

Noelle lives in New York she is working her tail off , following her dads footsteps in the world of law. Exhausted and overworked never having time for much of a social life. There must be something more for her out there ?? Ash is a workaholic , what we know of him from his siblings is that he is the oldest and the one who stepped up to care for them after they lost their parents. He has worked hard to ensure his siblings never wanted for nothing. But now they are all grown up doing their own thing , Ash still cannot seem to get out of the work mode. He is lonely and doesn't realize how much he needs a break. This one night at the charity event may just change that...

Ash and Noelle take off and have an amazing night together. Sadly it all comes to end when Noelle is awakened by a text about her grandmother's health. Leaving a sleeping Ash with a simple note. Will he or won't he ??
Profile Image for books are love.
3,134 reviews24 followers
June 1, 2015
My only complaint this read went too quickly. I want more of Ash and Noelle. I love the concept of forgetting who you are for one night and letting everything go. Being the real you and allowing one person to see it for one day. That is awesome and so is this first part to the series. I was sad how it ended but do hope they see each other again. Noelle and Ash are two people stuck in positions that neither really want to be in. Too many responsibilities and burdens plague them. Ash has been there since his parents died and Noelle since high school wanting to make her parents proud. Now both are lost in their roles and cannot break out. They meet in the street and instant chemistry but they fight themselves to do what is proper and right. I love watching Ash fight himself. He is a gentleman but is so desiring Noelle. He wants her but can’t be that person until they are on the run from her blind date. Than they make this crazy pact for one night to be together and be who they really want to be and not what their lives are dictating they are. This leads to a sweet date and a sizzling time on the roof. A steamy fun quick read that will have you hoping these two have more together and that they get to step out of their roles in life more. Two fun loving characters that draw you in and don’t let you go and leave you wanting more.
Profile Image for Kirsty & Erin Muir.
1,252 reviews80 followers
October 16, 2015
I downloaded this on a bit of a shopping spree but it was free at the time of purchase so that’s why I thought why not? I’ve read one book by Melody Grace before called First Position, you can read my review here, but I didn’t click that it was the same author until I had finished Unmasked.

This is the prelude to the last book in Melody’s Beachwood Bay series featuring the Callahan brothers. I’ve never read any of the books in the series but going on this little snippet I would probably think about giving them a go. It sounds like a similar series to Crista McHugh’s Kelly brothers series.

The story is super short so you don’t really get to know the characters in any depth. One thing you do learn about both characters is that they both have done things because it’s been the right thing or because it’s been what’s expected of them. The masked ball that the characters are in the process of attending give both the characters and the story a feeling of being free, being someone new and being unburdened by everyday life for a short time. There is an exciting chemistry between the characters. It’s an instant spark that is prominent from the beginning of their time together.


The story leaves you on a cliffhanger setting you up for the start of the full novel however it could be enjoyed as a novella on its own, out with the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews

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