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Money Can't Buy Love: A Novel
From a New York Times bestselling author comes a quirky and outrageous story of a middle-aged women sitting behind the scenes of luxury until she wins the lottery and now has the money to buy everything she needs -- or does she?
Lenora Stone used to say if she didn't have bad luck, she wouldn't have any luck at all. At age thirty-eight, instead of socializing with Baltimore's A-list, she photographs them for Baltimore Scene, a glossy magazine filled with beautiful people who, unlike Lenora, never have to worry about car trouble and overdue bills. As much as she'd love to slam the door on her overbearing boss, quitting isn't an option. She's barely making her mortgage payments and, though her condo might not be a palace, it's hers. Lately even things with her boyfriend Gerald haven't been right. They've been together for three years but he can't seem to ask the one question she's been waiting for. But what Lenora doesn't know is that her luck is about to change...
Just when she thinks things can't get worse, Lenora wins the jackpot in the Maryland lottery. In a heartbeat, all her dreams become possible. She quits her job and indulges her every desire-starting with a shiny, silver BMW and a million-dollar mansion. Gerald is finally ready to put a ring on her finger and the city's most exclusive women's group is dying for her to join, officially moving Lenora from behind the lens, into the limelight. But in Lenora's lavish new world, all that glitters definitely isn't gold. Her old friend's are concerned about her sudden changes, and Ray, a sexy, young landscaper Lenora covered for the magazine is looking for more than a purely professional relationship.
As her life starts to come together, the things Lenora holds dear begin to fall apart. Has her world really changed for the better, or does fortune come with a heavy price?
Lenora Stone used to say if she didn't have bad luck, she wouldn't have any luck at all. At age thirty-eight, instead of socializing with Baltimore's A-list, she photographs them for Baltimore Scene, a glossy magazine filled with beautiful people who, unlike Lenora, never have to worry about car trouble and overdue bills. As much as she'd love to slam the door on her overbearing boss, quitting isn't an option. She's barely making her mortgage payments and, though her condo might not be a palace, it's hers. Lately even things with her boyfriend Gerald haven't been right. They've been together for three years but he can't seem to ask the one question she's been waiting for. But what Lenora doesn't know is that her luck is about to change...
Just when she thinks things can't get worse, Lenora wins the jackpot in the Maryland lottery. In a heartbeat, all her dreams become possible. She quits her job and indulges her every desire-starting with a shiny, silver BMW and a million-dollar mansion. Gerald is finally ready to put a ring on her finger and the city's most exclusive women's group is dying for her to join, officially moving Lenora from behind the lens, into the limelight. But in Lenora's lavish new world, all that glitters definitely isn't gold. Her old friend's are concerned about her sudden changes, and Ray, a sexy, young landscaper Lenora covered for the magazine is looking for more than a purely professional relationship.
As her life starts to come together, the things Lenora holds dear begin to fall apart. Has her world really changed for the better, or does fortune come with a heavy price?
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
About the author
Connie Briscoe
14 books393 followersCONNIE BRISCOE has been a full-time published author for more than ten years. Born with a hearing impairment, Connie never allowed that to stop her from pursuing her dreams…writing. Since she left the world of editing to become a writer, Connie has hit the New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Washington Post, Boston Globe, Boston Herald, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
May 25, 2011
If the main character had any redeeming qualities, I may have rated this higher. She has to be one of the dumbest and predictable women I've ever read about. Just wasn't very realistic.
June 18, 2011
Lenora has a decidedly imperfect life where she can't seem to make ends meet or make progress to many of her goals. As noted on the jacket and other descriptions, Lenora wins the lottery and seemingly all her dreams can now come true. Ms. Briscoe explores the elements of human nature and what truly brings happiness. It is a quick read (I read it in a day) and entirely realistic.
To be honest, I really struggled with this rating. I love that Ms. Briscoe didn't rush right into Lenora winning the lottery, but takes the time to establish a "before" that allows the reader to gain a real understanding of Lenora and her life. She also takes the time to develop the characters so you really feel like you know all of them. I also enjoyed that it was well-written. My struggle came down to Lenora. I really didn't like her. I didn't like her before she won the lottery and I didn't like her after. I didn't think she was that bright. While I understood that the author wanted to explore certain specific aspects of human nature, I found myself frustrated again and again with Lenora and her inability to use common sense or listen to anyone. I also wished that Ms. Briscoe would have explored Gerald a little bit more in the "after" phase. I wanted some answers but I don't think that was the point. I think the reader is allowed to make their own assumptions about some of the characters.
Overall, I felt like this was a good book because it really made me think. I think this would be a great book club choice because there is tons to talk about. While, I wasn't in love with Lenora, I was captivated by her story. I would definitely read many more from Connie Briscoe.
To be honest, I really struggled with this rating. I love that Ms. Briscoe didn't rush right into Lenora winning the lottery, but takes the time to establish a "before" that allows the reader to gain a real understanding of Lenora and her life. She also takes the time to develop the characters so you really feel like you know all of them. I also enjoyed that it was well-written. My struggle came down to Lenora. I really didn't like her. I didn't like her before she won the lottery and I didn't like her after. I didn't think she was that bright. While I understood that the author wanted to explore certain specific aspects of human nature, I found myself frustrated again and again with Lenora and her inability to use common sense or listen to anyone. I also wished that Ms. Briscoe would have explored Gerald a little bit more in the "after" phase. I wanted some answers but I don't think that was the point. I think the reader is allowed to make their own assumptions about some of the characters.
Overall, I felt like this was a good book because it really made me think. I think this would be a great book club choice because there is tons to talk about. While, I wasn't in love with Lenora, I was captivated by her story. I would definitely read many more from Connie Briscoe.
July 14, 2011
Oh. My. Word. I wanted to reach into the book, snatch that woman up by her throat and slap her around. And I’m not a violent person. But Lenora Stone like to have driven me to drink. And I don’t drink. Yes, her crazy was that bad.
Without giving the book away, let’s just say that Lenora did everything wrong that you could possibly do when you’ve won the lottery. Furthermore, she was the least sympathetic character I’ve read about in a long time. And, honestly, I think that’s why I became absorbed in the story. I kept hoping and wishing that Lenora would show some signs of growth, development, maturity, wisdom, something… But, um, no, she didn’t.
I also felt like the writing on this book wasn’t as tight as it usually is with a Connie Briscoe book. Lenora was incredibly frustrating as a character and, as a person, I would have cut her loose as a friend. And the other characters in the story were just there. They didn’t do anything to add or subtract to the story, they really seemed to serve as emotional punching bags for Lenora.
I think if you’re looking for a quick read, this is the book. If you’re looking for something with a little more depth, pass on this one.
Without giving the book away, let’s just say that Lenora did everything wrong that you could possibly do when you’ve won the lottery. Furthermore, she was the least sympathetic character I’ve read about in a long time. And, honestly, I think that’s why I became absorbed in the story. I kept hoping and wishing that Lenora would show some signs of growth, development, maturity, wisdom, something… But, um, no, she didn’t.
I also felt like the writing on this book wasn’t as tight as it usually is with a Connie Briscoe book. Lenora was incredibly frustrating as a character and, as a person, I would have cut her loose as a friend. And the other characters in the story were just there. They didn’t do anything to add or subtract to the story, they really seemed to serve as emotional punching bags for Lenora.
I think if you’re looking for a quick read, this is the book. If you’re looking for something with a little more depth, pass on this one.
February 1, 2012
I found myself conflicted about this book. It's pretty clear that Lenore is not a heroic figure, and I don't think that Ms. Briscoe made many excuses for her, but I never got the sense that anybody in this book saw anybody else clearly. I couldn't decide whether this was a comment on the reality of relationships, or maybe just the result of Ms. Briscoe's characterizations. People did not seem consistent, and it felt like most of the people in this book were as much a mystery to me at the end as they were in the beginning. I left with the nagging sense that no amount of money would have been enough for Lenore, and that her story wasn't done. Although I didn't love this book, I'd definitely read a sequel, to see if the lingering problems I had with this book could be resolved.
July 27, 2011
Grab this book for an afternoon read by the pool. This book has summer written all over it. It is light, not to thought provoking and a touch bit fluffy. Fluff is one of my favorite things but this book may overdo it just a tad, because it was heavy on predictability.
Lenora has a crappy life and it keeps getting crappier. The problem with her character is that there is no way you can have any sympathy for her. She digs her own holes and apparently she likes them pretty deep.
She also likes really horrible men. It doesn't take long for you to hate Gerald in this book. In fact most of the time I found myself screaming at her to dump his sorry butt. And Ray wasn't any better. Lenora is truly a character that gets what she deserves.
It was hard to believe that in the course of this book she didn't do one intelligent thing, and yet she was 37 years old and supposedly good at her job. How she got that far along without having any common sense baffled me, so I kept turning the pages hoping to see some signs of grey matter. But alas there were none forthcoming. Lenora was dumb. And because of that everything went wrong for her including winning 5 million in the Maryland lottery.
This book only took me a few hours to read, and though it wasn't the best thing I've read, it was fun. It let me think for those few hours that someone who could have had it all, f-cked up so badly that she had nothing...and then my life looked a lot better! Sure there are lots of deep thought proking books out there I could have read, but this one improved my outlook on my own life!
Lenora has a crappy life and it keeps getting crappier. The problem with her character is that there is no way you can have any sympathy for her. She digs her own holes and apparently she likes them pretty deep.
She also likes really horrible men. It doesn't take long for you to hate Gerald in this book. In fact most of the time I found myself screaming at her to dump his sorry butt. And Ray wasn't any better. Lenora is truly a character that gets what she deserves.
It was hard to believe that in the course of this book she didn't do one intelligent thing, and yet she was 37 years old and supposedly good at her job. How she got that far along without having any common sense baffled me, so I kept turning the pages hoping to see some signs of grey matter. But alas there were none forthcoming. Lenora was dumb. And because of that everything went wrong for her including winning 5 million in the Maryland lottery.
This book only took me a few hours to read, and though it wasn't the best thing I've read, it was fun. It let me think for those few hours that someone who could have had it all, f-cked up so badly that she had nothing...and then my life looked a lot better! Sure there are lots of deep thought proking books out there I could have read, but this one improved my outlook on my own life!
May 28, 2011
Fast read. Full review to be posted on www.precisionreviews.blogspot.com
Money Can't Buy Love starts off very interesting. Thirty-eight year old Lenora Stone was recently dumped by her fiance, deserted by her best friends, had her cashmere silver BMW repossessed, and foreclosed on her million dollar dream house. Clearly she is down on her luck and depressed. We see her on the verge of giving up with the first line. Whoa! What happened to this misfortunate main character? Well, she won $5 million in the Maryland lottery almost one year ago. She's been down on luck ever since. And so begins her recollection of the past year.
This book is the true cliche of money can't buy love or happiness. Connie Briscoe has a way of telling a predictable story, but keeping me interested and flipping the e-pages. I kept reading to see what Lenora would do next, if the money would change her, or if Gerald was really ready to commit. The characters are well-developed; although I wish the ending would have been more detailed. I wouldn't have minded another 25 pages or so.
If you're a Connie Briscoe fan, try Money Can't Buy Love. You may be annoyed with Lenora, but will enjoy the story.
Money Can't Buy Love starts off very interesting. Thirty-eight year old Lenora Stone was recently dumped by her fiance, deserted by her best friends, had her cashmere silver BMW repossessed, and foreclosed on her million dollar dream house. Clearly she is down on her luck and depressed. We see her on the verge of giving up with the first line. Whoa! What happened to this misfortunate main character? Well, she won $5 million in the Maryland lottery almost one year ago. She's been down on luck ever since. And so begins her recollection of the past year.
This book is the true cliche of money can't buy love or happiness. Connie Briscoe has a way of telling a predictable story, but keeping me interested and flipping the e-pages. I kept reading to see what Lenora would do next, if the money would change her, or if Gerald was really ready to commit. The characters are well-developed; although I wish the ending would have been more detailed. I wouldn't have minded another 25 pages or so.
If you're a Connie Briscoe fan, try Money Can't Buy Love. You may be annoyed with Lenora, but will enjoy the story.
March 1, 2012
This was a good book and would make a great movie, Tyler Perry needs to check this out asap. It took me a few months to read this book, it was so long but it was very detailed. But as I read this book I felt I was taking the journey with each of the characters. I would recommend this book very highly. Hope they make a part 2.
February 25, 2015
I feel like I just read a very mediocre story by a writer who could do much better. Incredibly downbeat considering there was no great tragedy. Unpleasant person wins lottery, remains unpleasant, The End. I'll try another book by this author in a couple of months.
March 23, 2021
Let me tell you. This is a book about woman who SEEMS to know better refusing to do better at every turn. And it doesn’t carry. The story is at war with itself. Because the exposition would have you believe that Lenora is relatively insightful and knows herself. So it just doesn’t track that she NEVER listens to her instincts once. It just doesn’t seem realistic that this 37-year old woman has had the tenacity to work her way up to being a magazine photographer and doesn’t have a portfolio? Or any sense. Her actions would have you believe she can barely cross the street by herself. Lol. While her thoughts show her as smart, and relatively mature. It’s madness. Why all this trouble to have her think things that show maturity if she never acts on them?
And her going crazy after her lottery win would have played a lot better if she wasn’t so infuriatingly childish before it even happened. I feel like she would have still made all those dumb decisions broke. The last line of the book said she was a little wiser. If that was her character arc, it didn’t show. Still taking Ray’s calls. And still lying. There was no character growth whatsoever. Ugh. I’m disappointed.
And her going crazy after her lottery win would have played a lot better if she wasn’t so infuriatingly childish before it even happened. I feel like she would have still made all those dumb decisions broke. The last line of the book said she was a little wiser. If that was her character arc, it didn’t show. Still taking Ray’s calls. And still lying. There was no character growth whatsoever. Ugh. I’m disappointed.
January 4, 2021
At first reading it I thought I knew exactly where it was headed so it was hard to keep my focus and continue with it. But I always have to read to the end even if it's the most predictable book out there. Surprisingly it took a little bit of a different turn than I thought. I LOVE the book club questions included at the end. Story was not my favorite but still an interesting read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2019
It's been a while since I've read Ms. Briscoe's books, and if memory serves me correctly
they were very good reads. When I found this book hidden in my bookshelf I thought "Ok, I'll
escape into this good book." I found this to be just an OK read.
they were very good reads. When I found this book hidden in my bookshelf I thought "Ok, I'll
escape into this good book." I found this to be just an OK read.
October 11, 2024
Excellent Read!!
Yep, that’s life in the dating scene in DC. Fiction has more truth than dating in real life in DC. I really enjoyed the book. Lenora eyes were wide open with eyes shut closed. Living in the fast lane.
Yep, that’s life in the dating scene in DC. Fiction has more truth than dating in real life in DC. I really enjoyed the book. Lenora eyes were wide open with eyes shut closed. Living in the fast lane.
May 4, 2017
A little different from what I normally read, but I did enjoy this book. About a woman who win's the lottery. And how she handles it.
February 11, 2018
Our book club is reading this book for Feburary reading, can't hardly wait to hear what other members have to say!
March 17, 2012
Lenora Stone is having a tough time of it. She’s overweight, behind in her bills, and she’s been dating a man for three years whom she just can’t get to the altar.
And though she’s got a great job as a photographer for a popular Baltimore lifestyle magazine, she can’t get along with her boss -- the gorgeous and filthy-mouthed Dawna Delaney.
If only she had enough money to quit.
If only her life were different.
If only she could hit the state lottery.
Then she does – to the tune of $5 million.
She’s so shocked it actually takes her week before she finally cashes in the ticket, but just hours afterward she buys her dream car, a cashmere silver BMW 750Li. It is her first purchase, but it wouldn’t be her last. Because Lenora is certain that now that she’s Maryland’s newest millionaire, she can buy anything – including happiness. And possibly even love.
Money Can’t Buy Love is the brainchild of Connie Briscoe, author of seven novels including the New York Times bestselling books Sisters and Lovers (1994) and Sisters and Husbands (2009).
Known for her skill developing realistic characters, Briscoe has outdone herself in her depiction of Lenora. The 38-year-old woman is so realistic she’s sickening. In fact, it was sometimes difficult reading Money Can’t Buy Love because some of the mistakes Lenora makes dealing with life after suddenly becoming rich are the same mistakes we would make – even though we know better.
Lenora makes a pact with herself; she is not going to let money change her. But as she looks around there seems to be definite changes in everyone else.
Like her college buddy, Alise, who was the one with the money, having married a dentist shortly after graduating. But now all of a sudden Alise seems a little distant – after Lenora boasts about buying a 750 class BMW when Alise never went beyond the 500 series.
Lenora’s boss – whom she describes as “Wilhelmina Slater and Cruella de Vil wrapped into one terrifying being” – is suddenly nice to her, even using the word “please” when summoning her to the management office.
A hoity-toity women’s group that had turned her down for membership the year before is now swiftly reconsidering her application.
And her long-time boyfriend finally turns over a new leaf. No more late nights at the office, now he spends every evening with Lenora. No more running an hour late for dinner dates, now Gerald arrives before she does. And the commitment-phobic Gerald finally pops the question. Would this happened – could this have happened – if she didn’t suddenly have millions in the bank?
But most importantly, Raymond Shearer has taken a sudden interest in her.
He’s a young hot landscaper who Lenora was assigned to shoot for the magazine. Although he’s rude to her at their initial meeting, the follow-up shoot goes more smoothly, and Lenora finds herself inexplicably attracted to the man who is about ten years her junior. Though she sneaks one his pictures home to fantasize over, she knows there can be nothing between them. Thirty pounds overweight, and decade older . . . why would a man like Ray, who has everything going for him want to go out with someone like her, she reasons.
But, then after winning the lottery a new set of reasoning comes into play. Maybe the money will pique his interest in her. And once he gets to know her, well, maybe there could be something more.
Maybe. Just maybe.
Hell, what’s the use of having money if you can’t use it to make yourself happy? Right?
Ah, the best laid plans of mice and men.
Money Can’t Buy You Love is an excellent summer read – it starts out a little slow, but you soon find it’s a book that you simply can’t put it down. You want to feel superior to poor Lenora, but the truth is as you come to the book’s end you’ll probably realize that her actions are no more than those you might have taken if you were in her situation.
But then again, maybe you would be smarter than Lenora, and resist temptation.
Maybe. Just maybe.
And though she’s got a great job as a photographer for a popular Baltimore lifestyle magazine, she can’t get along with her boss -- the gorgeous and filthy-mouthed Dawna Delaney.
If only she had enough money to quit.
If only her life were different.
If only she could hit the state lottery.
Then she does – to the tune of $5 million.
She’s so shocked it actually takes her week before she finally cashes in the ticket, but just hours afterward she buys her dream car, a cashmere silver BMW 750Li. It is her first purchase, but it wouldn’t be her last. Because Lenora is certain that now that she’s Maryland’s newest millionaire, she can buy anything – including happiness. And possibly even love.
Money Can’t Buy Love is the brainchild of Connie Briscoe, author of seven novels including the New York Times bestselling books Sisters and Lovers (1994) and Sisters and Husbands (2009).
Known for her skill developing realistic characters, Briscoe has outdone herself in her depiction of Lenora. The 38-year-old woman is so realistic she’s sickening. In fact, it was sometimes difficult reading Money Can’t Buy Love because some of the mistakes Lenora makes dealing with life after suddenly becoming rich are the same mistakes we would make – even though we know better.
Lenora makes a pact with herself; she is not going to let money change her. But as she looks around there seems to be definite changes in everyone else.
Like her college buddy, Alise, who was the one with the money, having married a dentist shortly after graduating. But now all of a sudden Alise seems a little distant – after Lenora boasts about buying a 750 class BMW when Alise never went beyond the 500 series.
Lenora’s boss – whom she describes as “Wilhelmina Slater and Cruella de Vil wrapped into one terrifying being” – is suddenly nice to her, even using the word “please” when summoning her to the management office.
A hoity-toity women’s group that had turned her down for membership the year before is now swiftly reconsidering her application.
And her long-time boyfriend finally turns over a new leaf. No more late nights at the office, now he spends every evening with Lenora. No more running an hour late for dinner dates, now Gerald arrives before she does. And the commitment-phobic Gerald finally pops the question. Would this happened – could this have happened – if she didn’t suddenly have millions in the bank?
But most importantly, Raymond Shearer has taken a sudden interest in her.
He’s a young hot landscaper who Lenora was assigned to shoot for the magazine. Although he’s rude to her at their initial meeting, the follow-up shoot goes more smoothly, and Lenora finds herself inexplicably attracted to the man who is about ten years her junior. Though she sneaks one his pictures home to fantasize over, she knows there can be nothing between them. Thirty pounds overweight, and decade older . . . why would a man like Ray, who has everything going for him want to go out with someone like her, she reasons.
But, then after winning the lottery a new set of reasoning comes into play. Maybe the money will pique his interest in her. And once he gets to know her, well, maybe there could be something more.
Maybe. Just maybe.
Hell, what’s the use of having money if you can’t use it to make yourself happy? Right?
Ah, the best laid plans of mice and men.
Money Can’t Buy You Love is an excellent summer read – it starts out a little slow, but you soon find it’s a book that you simply can’t put it down. You want to feel superior to poor Lenora, but the truth is as you come to the book’s end you’ll probably realize that her actions are no more than those you might have taken if you were in her situation.
But then again, maybe you would be smarter than Lenora, and resist temptation.
Maybe. Just maybe.
March 7, 2017
Quite intriguing and will be writing a Book Review on my Facebook page at The Power of Reading with Joi.
August 20, 2011
Money Can’t Buy Love by Connie Briscoe is the story of 37 year-old Lenora Stone. She’s living a humdrum life, barely making ends meet, when she hits the lottery. The book opens with Lenora poor and destitute after squandering her winnings. A reporter knocks on her door and she agrees to share her story. We travel back in time a year or so and the story begins.
I must say that I have read every book Connie Briscoe has published and this by far is the biggest disappointment. Although I believe Money Can’t Buy Love will find its niche amongst diehard lazy afternoon chick-lit lovers, it will not receive the acclaim of Briscoe’s earlier works. The storyline is there, she just never really captured me with it. Lenora was the most annoying character I have read in a while. She was very predictable with every decision ending with her fixation on being in a three year relationship with her boyfriend Gerald.
Before I go any further, I must acknowledge that I read an advance uncorrected proof, so perhaps there were significant changes to the actual book prior to mass release. With that said, I never really felt Briscoe gave the reader what they were anticipating from the first few pages. We never truly experience what caused Lenora to end up in the state of financial disaster that she spoke of in the opening. Yes, she bought a house, yes, she bought a car, but come on there was so much more that could have been told. Then there was Gerald, for the better part of the book we were led to believe he was a lying, cheating, snake, we were even baited with Robin the alleged co-worker (do partners in a firm have co-workers) and as quickly as she was introduced we never heard from her again. The relationship with Ray was simply unbelievable; and I would have liked more on her relationships with Monica and Alise—as well as what happened with The Girlfriends club since it was so important for her to be a member.
There was just so much that disappointed me about the book, but the biggest was its lack of development. When you know an author is capable of so much more it is just hard to accept anything less than their very best. This novel really read like Ms. Briscoe was attempting to cater to a new base of readers who are not really concerned with content, but just want a quick read full of drama. If this is the case, I would suggest she go back to those of us who expect quality, well-developed novels that take us on a journey and allow us to connect with the characters and have a vested interest in their outcome. Otherwise, she may begin to lose her true base that has supported her for over a decade.
My final rating for Money Can’t Buy Love is a generous 3 stars.
Much Love,
Tracy
Tracy L. Darity is the author of He Loves Me He Loves Me Not! and Love…Like Snow In Florida on a Hot Summer Day. Her third novel, The Red Bear Society is scheduled for fall 2011 release. Fpr more information visit www.TracyLDarity.com.
I must say that I have read every book Connie Briscoe has published and this by far is the biggest disappointment. Although I believe Money Can’t Buy Love will find its niche amongst diehard lazy afternoon chick-lit lovers, it will not receive the acclaim of Briscoe’s earlier works. The storyline is there, she just never really captured me with it. Lenora was the most annoying character I have read in a while. She was very predictable with every decision ending with her fixation on being in a three year relationship with her boyfriend Gerald.
Before I go any further, I must acknowledge that I read an advance uncorrected proof, so perhaps there were significant changes to the actual book prior to mass release. With that said, I never really felt Briscoe gave the reader what they were anticipating from the first few pages. We never truly experience what caused Lenora to end up in the state of financial disaster that she spoke of in the opening. Yes, she bought a house, yes, she bought a car, but come on there was so much more that could have been told. Then there was Gerald, for the better part of the book we were led to believe he was a lying, cheating, snake, we were even baited with Robin the alleged co-worker (do partners in a firm have co-workers) and as quickly as she was introduced we never heard from her again. The relationship with Ray was simply unbelievable; and I would have liked more on her relationships with Monica and Alise—as well as what happened with The Girlfriends club since it was so important for her to be a member.
There was just so much that disappointed me about the book, but the biggest was its lack of development. When you know an author is capable of so much more it is just hard to accept anything less than their very best. This novel really read like Ms. Briscoe was attempting to cater to a new base of readers who are not really concerned with content, but just want a quick read full of drama. If this is the case, I would suggest she go back to those of us who expect quality, well-developed novels that take us on a journey and allow us to connect with the characters and have a vested interest in their outcome. Otherwise, she may begin to lose her true base that has supported her for over a decade.
My final rating for Money Can’t Buy Love is a generous 3 stars.
Much Love,
Tracy
Tracy L. Darity is the author of He Loves Me He Loves Me Not! and Love…Like Snow In Florida on a Hot Summer Day. Her third novel, The Red Bear Society is scheduled for fall 2011 release. Fpr more information visit www.TracyLDarity.com.
August 16, 2021
It was slow moving and unrealistic in some parts.
April 27, 2011
Lenora is a 37 year old who has a boyfriend named Gerald. She really wants to get married, but he keeps putting the subject off. They have been together for 3 years, and she wonders if he will ever be ready. He is trying to get his business off the ground and wants to get their finances in order before getting married. I didn't like Gerald at all. He made comments about Lenora's weight (I have had to deal with this problem myself, and it doesn't help matters at all...just makes me feel worse), and he was always so busy. He seemed like he never had time for her. On top of all that, she doesn't like her boss and is having trouble paying her bills.
She buys a lottery ticket and kind of forgets about it. She ends up finally finding it a few days later and has the surprise of her life! She wins the lottery. All her problems are solved right? Well, her life will never be the same, that's for sure.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was really easy to follow, and the characters sound like real people. I got a little annoyed with Lenora when she waits so long to bring her ticket in and with some of the other things she does. I kind of had an idea of what was going to happen, but I didn't know exactly how things would turn out in the end. I was surprised at her conversation with Ray at the end. I'm glad she said what she did. It would have been nice to know what happened next for her though! Will there be another book to follow up? Also, I still wonder about Gerald. Was he really that busy with work? Even though Lenora made some dumb decisions and she was annoying at times, I wouldn't have changed anything about this story. I highly recommend it!
She buys a lottery ticket and kind of forgets about it. She ends up finally finding it a few days later and has the surprise of her life! She wins the lottery. All her problems are solved right? Well, her life will never be the same, that's for sure.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was really easy to follow, and the characters sound like real people. I got a little annoyed with Lenora when she waits so long to bring her ticket in and with some of the other things she does. I kind of had an idea of what was going to happen, but I didn't know exactly how things would turn out in the end. I was surprised at her conversation with Ray at the end. I'm glad she said what she did. It would have been nice to know what happened next for her though! Will there be another book to follow up? Also, I still wonder about Gerald. Was he really that busy with work? Even though Lenora made some dumb decisions and she was annoying at times, I wouldn't have changed anything about this story. I highly recommend it!
May 23, 2011
Lenora Stone is a woman in her late thirties who lives in a condo she can barely afford, has bills she can barely pay and emotional eating certainly is not helping her weight issue. She's a photographer for a city magazine, but she cannot stand the woman she works for. And she's been dating a man for three years, longing for the day when he'll propose marriage. Will winning the jackpot in the Maryland lottery make her life better? Will it change the people around her? Will it change her?
As I read the prologue, I became eager to move on with the story to find out exactly what Lenora did with her lottery winnings. She seemed so level-headed when she got the news, so I was surprised at all of the bad choices she made; the way she kept making decisions without thinking things through. This woman kept me shaking my head with disappointment often; especially when she was on the phone with the reporter. Eventually, she did learn that although millions of dollars can buy every material possession she could possibly want, money can't buy love. Here's the thing, though: It didn't seem like Lenora was seeking love. It seemed she had love and lust confused.
Money Can't Buy Love is mostly about Lenora's lust for one man, while claiming to love another. But it also teaches what not to do if you come into lots of money. The way the story grabbed me in the beginning, I expected to give it a higher rating - and I was disappointed that I couldn't - but the author lost me after a while.
As I read the prologue, I became eager to move on with the story to find out exactly what Lenora did with her lottery winnings. She seemed so level-headed when she got the news, so I was surprised at all of the bad choices she made; the way she kept making decisions without thinking things through. This woman kept me shaking my head with disappointment often; especially when she was on the phone with the reporter. Eventually, she did learn that although millions of dollars can buy every material possession she could possibly want, money can't buy love. Here's the thing, though: It didn't seem like Lenora was seeking love. It seemed she had love and lust confused.
Money Can't Buy Love is mostly about Lenora's lust for one man, while claiming to love another. But it also teaches what not to do if you come into lots of money. The way the story grabbed me in the beginning, I expected to give it a higher rating - and I was disappointed that I couldn't - but the author lost me after a while.
July 10, 2011
Date: 7/10/11
Title: Money Can’t Buy Love
Author: Connie Briscoe
ISBN 10: 0446534846
ISBN 13: 978-0446534840
Pages: 289
Publisher: Gran Central Publishing
Cover: Hardcover
Reviewer: Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant– Literary Wonders!
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Money Can’t Buy Love by bestselling author Connie Briscoe is the story of Lenora Stone. Lenora is drowning in debt and desperately trying to hang on to her boyfriend of three years—who really shows no interest in her. Even though he has cheated on her before, she can’t seem to put a finger on why he appears to be so distant.
In addition to money and relationship problems, Lenora, a photographer, despises her evil boss. For entertainment purposes, Lenora humors herself and purchases a lottery ticket. She was sure she wouldn’t win, until she does.
Lenora’s life begins to change. The funny thing about it is, with her newfound fortune, the people in Lenora’s life begin to change, including her attention-lacking boyfriend. Things begin to spiral out of hand and she soon finds out that Money Can’t Buy Love.
I’ve enjoyed many of Ms. Briscoe’s novels; however, this one did not move me as much as past novels by this author have. If it weren’t for the “lottery” factor, I’d have to say this novel read more like a YA novel.
Fortunately, Connie Briscoe has written other great stories and I look forward to reading her next novel.
Title: Money Can’t Buy Love
Author: Connie Briscoe
ISBN 10: 0446534846
ISBN 13: 978-0446534840
Pages: 289
Publisher: Gran Central Publishing
Cover: Hardcover
Reviewer: Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant– Literary Wonders!
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Money Can’t Buy Love by bestselling author Connie Briscoe is the story of Lenora Stone. Lenora is drowning in debt and desperately trying to hang on to her boyfriend of three years—who really shows no interest in her. Even though he has cheated on her before, she can’t seem to put a finger on why he appears to be so distant.
In addition to money and relationship problems, Lenora, a photographer, despises her evil boss. For entertainment purposes, Lenora humors herself and purchases a lottery ticket. She was sure she wouldn’t win, until she does.
Lenora’s life begins to change. The funny thing about it is, with her newfound fortune, the people in Lenora’s life begin to change, including her attention-lacking boyfriend. Things begin to spiral out of hand and she soon finds out that Money Can’t Buy Love.
I’ve enjoyed many of Ms. Briscoe’s novels; however, this one did not move me as much as past novels by this author have. If it weren’t for the “lottery” factor, I’d have to say this novel read more like a YA novel.
Fortunately, Connie Briscoe has written other great stories and I look forward to reading her next novel.
August 14, 2011
The Price of Greed
We’ve all, at some point or another, fantasized about what we would do if we won, inherited or had a substantial amount of money. For me, I’m not greedy, I’d pay my tithes, God first; buy a modest home; set up college funds for my children; and help my immediate family, friends and my community. Sounds simple enough, right? But for Lenora Stone, it isn’t so easy.
After months of dodging creditors, dealing with a boss she absolutely hates and dreaming of joining the ranks of Girlfriends, Lenora wins the Maryland lottery and life as she knows it is over. Before she can bask in her winnings, she can’t stomach the thought of what this money may do to her life. After confiding in a few of her closet friends, her boyfriend, parents, and a client, Lenora is finally ready to claim her winnings.
As she upgrades her car, home and loses a few pounds, she is still on the fence about her job, her friends and even Gerald, her boyfriend. When Ray, the sexy, landscaper, starts giving her the time of day, Lenora can’t help but appreciate all that he brings to the table. Is she willing to risk what she and Gerald have had for three years?
MONEY CAN’T BUY LOVE by Connie Briscoe was just all right. While predictable, it’s interesting, but I felt so much of the story was skimmed over that readers would’ve benefited from.
Reviewed by: Crystal
We’ve all, at some point or another, fantasized about what we would do if we won, inherited or had a substantial amount of money. For me, I’m not greedy, I’d pay my tithes, God first; buy a modest home; set up college funds for my children; and help my immediate family, friends and my community. Sounds simple enough, right? But for Lenora Stone, it isn’t so easy.
After months of dodging creditors, dealing with a boss she absolutely hates and dreaming of joining the ranks of Girlfriends, Lenora wins the Maryland lottery and life as she knows it is over. Before she can bask in her winnings, she can’t stomach the thought of what this money may do to her life. After confiding in a few of her closet friends, her boyfriend, parents, and a client, Lenora is finally ready to claim her winnings.
As she upgrades her car, home and loses a few pounds, she is still on the fence about her job, her friends and even Gerald, her boyfriend. When Ray, the sexy, landscaper, starts giving her the time of day, Lenora can’t help but appreciate all that he brings to the table. Is she willing to risk what she and Gerald have had for three years?
MONEY CAN’T BUY LOVE by Connie Briscoe was just all right. While predictable, it’s interesting, but I felt so much of the story was skimmed over that readers would’ve benefited from.
Reviewed by: Crystal
December 26, 2011
drey’s thoughts:
Connie Briscoe’s Money Can’t Buy Love is a cautionary tale–of what not to do if you happen to win the lottery… Case in point: Lenora Stone. Lenora has bills up the wazoo, a commitment-phobic boyfriend, and a boss we’d all love to hate. But then she wins the lottery, and becomes lost in the glee of spending it all.
She was briefly anxious about winning all that money, and worrying about how she’ll manage it. But that went flying out the window with her first purchase, and she doesn’t slow down. She ignores her friends’ advice, cheats on her boyfriend, and generally displays a definite lack of good judgement…
The saving grace here? Lenora’s also someone any of us could know in real life (though I know I don’t know anyone who’s won the lottery!). Sure, she doesn’t do what I’d rather she did, but she’s just an insecure woman who let money get the better of her. She’s still a talented, smart, good person, and you’ll want her to get her head straight before she loses it all.
What would you do if you won a five-million-dollar lottery? My first stop would be to an accountant and financial planner. *grin* Then again, there’s no chance of winning if I don’t ever buy tickets!
drey’s rating: Pick it up!
Connie Briscoe’s Money Can’t Buy Love is a cautionary tale–of what not to do if you happen to win the lottery… Case in point: Lenora Stone. Lenora has bills up the wazoo, a commitment-phobic boyfriend, and a boss we’d all love to hate. But then she wins the lottery, and becomes lost in the glee of spending it all.
She was briefly anxious about winning all that money, and worrying about how she’ll manage it. But that went flying out the window with her first purchase, and she doesn’t slow down. She ignores her friends’ advice, cheats on her boyfriend, and generally displays a definite lack of good judgement…
The saving grace here? Lenora’s also someone any of us could know in real life (though I know I don’t know anyone who’s won the lottery!). Sure, she doesn’t do what I’d rather she did, but she’s just an insecure woman who let money get the better of her. She’s still a talented, smart, good person, and you’ll want her to get her head straight before she loses it all.
What would you do if you won a five-million-dollar lottery? My first stop would be to an accountant and financial planner. *grin* Then again, there’s no chance of winning if I don’t ever buy tickets!
drey’s rating: Pick it up!
June 18, 2011
I've been thinking about this book for several days now, and I'm starting to think I'm missing something about it.
It isn't badly written in any general sense. The words flow well, the characters behave consistently, their voices fit with their actions.
But even with that said, I'm missing why I'd want to read this book, other than the description sounding good. Honestly, I wouldn't have finished it if it wasn't for this tour.
On the one hand, what was missing for me in this book was the fun. I just didn't want to spend any more time with the main character who made one bad decision after another, and not even in an entertaining sort of way.
On the other hand, I didn't feel that her mistakes were giving me any insight into myself or the world around me.
Unfortunately, it never really came together for me.
It isn't badly written in any general sense. The words flow well, the characters behave consistently, their voices fit with their actions.
But even with that said, I'm missing why I'd want to read this book, other than the description sounding good. Honestly, I wouldn't have finished it if it wasn't for this tour.
On the one hand, what was missing for me in this book was the fun. I just didn't want to spend any more time with the main character who made one bad decision after another, and not even in an entertaining sort of way.
On the other hand, I didn't feel that her mistakes were giving me any insight into myself or the world around me.
Unfortunately, it never really came together for me.
July 16, 2011
I finished this book and really enjoyed it. I like Connie Briscoe a lot and was happy to find her new book at the bookstore. This book is about Lenora Stone, she is a photographer for a magazine called The Baltimore Scene. She is financially over extended, loves her job but her boss, not so much. She is in love with a guy she has dated for 3 years and she is ready to get married, past ready actually!! In her mind she thinks all of her issues/problems could be solved if she won the lottery - don't we all! I think Lenora makes some bad choices throughout this book which had me screaming and shaking my head at her. I gave this book 4 stars, it is a little predictable, but a good read.
February 8, 2017
Very easy, quick read and thoroughly enjoyable. I love this author's style of writing and am in the process of searching out and reading all of her books.
May 26, 2011
I liked it at the outset because I wanted to know how she handled the lottery. I knew from the beginning that it wasn't a happily ever after story, but didn't expect the ending to be so abrupt.
Connie Briscoe did well in telling the story, but Lenora isn't a very sympathetic character to cheer for even when she won the lottery. She failed to make good decisions even before she won the lottery.
Connie Briscoe did well in telling the story, but Lenora isn't a very sympathetic character to cheer for even when she won the lottery. She failed to make good decisions even before she won the lottery.
August 28, 2011
Sadly this wasn't one of her best...we needed at least 25-30 more pages to flesh out the story...Like was Gerald cheating with Robin, and what happened after Lenora lost the $$$. Where'd she move to? Did her so called friends ever come back around or were they jealious? Did she find another job? Way too many lose ends and this isn't how Ms Brisco rites...For a Gr8t book on winning the lotery and it's aftermath, ...Read 1 in a million much better, fleshed out story....
July 13, 2011
A fast-paced read with a heroine who was both relatable and sympathetic, even as you want to scream at her, "What are you DOING?" I enjoyed this book very much, felt as if I knew Lenora Stone personally. It's written in a zippy style, and I can't remember the last time I read a book so fast (but I READ it; no skimming).
February 2, 2012
This is basically a story about a foolish woman (Lenora) who apparently needs to learn basic truths about money and men the hard way. I was very frustrated with Lenora throughout the book. It held my attention -- I definitely wouldn't call it boring -- but I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone I know.
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