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Just My Luck
MP3 CD Format Genna Collins works a dead end job, loves her family, her girlfriend, and her friends. When she wins the biggest Euromillions jackpot on record everything changes . . . and not always for the best.
When Abi Kitson fell in love she always knew it would go unrequited. The woman of her dreams was so close yet seemingly untouchable for so many reasons. Reasons like--they are best friends, or the big age gap, or the 'other' woman, nevermind Abi's own baggage.
And even when those reasons crumble it seems luck just isn't on her side.
It's a learning curve for both of them. But what if money really can't buy you everything you want? What if the answers aren't hidden in a big, fat bank balance? What if happiness is right in front of them? They just have to reach out . . .
Contains mature themes.
When Abi Kitson fell in love she always knew it would go unrequited. The woman of her dreams was so close yet seemingly untouchable for so many reasons. Reasons like--they are best friends, or the big age gap, or the 'other' woman, nevermind Abi's own baggage.
And even when those reasons crumble it seems luck just isn't on her side.
It's a learning curve for both of them. But what if money really can't buy you everything you want? What if the answers aren't hidden in a big, fat bank balance? What if happiness is right in front of them? They just have to reach out . . .
Contains mature themes.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published September 1, 2016
12 people are currently reading
880 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Bramhall
30 books298 followersAndrea Bramhall wrote her first novel at the age of six and three-quarters. It was seven pages long and held together with a pink ribbon. Her Gran still has it in the attic. Since then she has progressed a little bit and now has a number of published works held together with glue, not ribbons, an Alice B. Lavender certificate, and a Lambda Literary award cluttering up her book shelves.
She studied music and all things arty at Manchester Metropolitan University, graduating in 2002 with a BA in contemporary arts. She is certain it will prove useful someday… maybe.
When she isn’t busy running a campsite and hostel on the North Norfolk Coast, Bramhall can be found hunched over her laptop scribbling down the stories that won’t let her sleep. She can also be found reading, walking the dogs up mountains while taking a few thousand photos, scuba diving while taking a few thousand photos, swimming, kayaking, playing the saxophone, or cycling.
She studied music and all things arty at Manchester Metropolitan University, graduating in 2002 with a BA in contemporary arts. She is certain it will prove useful someday… maybe.
When she isn’t busy running a campsite and hostel on the North Norfolk Coast, Bramhall can be found hunched over her laptop scribbling down the stories that won’t let her sleep. She can also be found reading, walking the dogs up mountains while taking a few thousand photos, scuba diving while taking a few thousand photos, swimming, kayaking, playing the saxophone, or cycling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
February 22, 2017
4.7 stars
I thought this was fantastic. I'll tell you what I was looking for when I picked this out. I wanted something funny, that wasn't too dramatic but not necessarily fluff, either...and it definitely needed two likable leads that *hopefully* ::blowing on the dice and rolling it:: wouldn't be insta-love. And *yes* this hit that perfect sweet spot! I actually started this as a new book to read on my exercise bike and ended up needing to finish it before the night was over...so I basically read it in one sitting.
Genna is a character having a great heart, a backbone, and plenty of sarcasm/wit. Abi is fourteen years Genna's senior, a single mother of a young girl with Down Syndrome, and she's just as smart and witty. Both are smitten for each other but both feel it's inappropriate to act on the feelings due to real obstacles, not throwaway ones that sometimes get inserted to force conflicts in a story. In other words, I could see their issues playing out in real life. Genna and Abi's chemistry is electric and it's fun to watch them together.
There are a few things that make this read fresh and unconventional. The author made Genna more plump and ordinary than we're used to in this genre. Rosie, the young girl with Down Syndrome, is also portrayed in a really humanistic way. As a mother of two special needs kids myself it was really refreshing to see this and also get Abi's real take on having a daughter with Downs, the good and the bad. Genna and Abi are also *already* in love with each other and have had a close relationship for years so there's a really strong foundation in place for the intimacy connection to finally occur. And, when it does, it's hot and really well done. Abi is a bisexual or sexually fluid character...
And, because the story is written from both Genna and Abi's perspectives as if they're talking to the reader, it provides more intimacy and humor in a way.
As for the humor, my handle is "lov2laf" but truthfully very few books actually get me to laugh out loud...but this one did numerous times. I loved it. I'm a connoisseur of British comedy so it hit the bullseye on my sense of humor. By the way, if you don't know what a chav is, YouTube Catherine Tate's "Am I bothered" character before reading this. It may make it funnier to you.
Just My Luck's entire large cast of family and friends was great, too.
I enjoyed this read immensely. Definitely recommend.
*And, thanks to Lex Kent for having the humor bookshelf where I found this. :)
I thought this was fantastic. I'll tell you what I was looking for when I picked this out. I wanted something funny, that wasn't too dramatic but not necessarily fluff, either...and it definitely needed two likable leads that *hopefully* ::blowing on the dice and rolling it:: wouldn't be insta-love. And *yes* this hit that perfect sweet spot! I actually started this as a new book to read on my exercise bike and ended up needing to finish it before the night was over...so I basically read it in one sitting.
Genna is a character having a great heart, a backbone, and plenty of sarcasm/wit. Abi is fourteen years Genna's senior, a single mother of a young girl with Down Syndrome, and she's just as smart and witty. Both are smitten for each other but both feel it's inappropriate to act on the feelings due to real obstacles, not throwaway ones that sometimes get inserted to force conflicts in a story. In other words, I could see their issues playing out in real life. Genna and Abi's chemistry is electric and it's fun to watch them together.
There are a few things that make this read fresh and unconventional. The author made Genna more plump and ordinary than we're used to in this genre. Rosie, the young girl with Down Syndrome, is also portrayed in a really humanistic way. As a mother of two special needs kids myself it was really refreshing to see this and also get Abi's real take on having a daughter with Downs, the good and the bad. Genna and Abi are also *already* in love with each other and have had a close relationship for years so there's a really strong foundation in place for the intimacy connection to finally occur. And, when it does, it's hot and really well done. Abi is a bisexual or sexually fluid character...
And, because the story is written from both Genna and Abi's perspectives as if they're talking to the reader, it provides more intimacy and humor in a way.
As for the humor, my handle is "lov2laf" but truthfully very few books actually get me to laugh out loud...but this one did numerous times. I loved it. I'm a connoisseur of British comedy so it hit the bullseye on my sense of humor. By the way, if you don't know what a chav is, YouTube Catherine Tate's "Am I bothered" character before reading this. It may make it funnier to you.
Just My Luck's entire large cast of family and friends was great, too.
I enjoyed this read immensely. Definitely recommend.
*And, thanks to Lex Kent for having the humor bookshelf where I found this. :)
April 12, 2019
Dear Gertrude
I’ve been with someone for three years and I still don't feel it. I don't think I feel as excited as I should, or as happy as I should, and I can't help but wonder if perhaps I should break it off because the feeling isn't there and I am completely in love with someone else all the while. Oh and my gf is acting all distant, weird and working all the time. How can I deal with this issue?
Sincerely, not feeling it
Dear Not Feeling It
First off, I'm not getting paid enough for this shit. Before you find your gf discovering God with someone else in your bed, in their birthday suits instead of their Sunday best and she gets all the blame while you have been cheating on her emotionally and everyone that knows you, award you with a habit and start calling you Mother Superior Saint, break.it.off.
Sincerely, what have I done to deserve this.
I find the situation ⬆️ too many times in HET Romance, quite often in Lesfic too so kudos to Ms.Dutton in More Than Friends for being decent.
I love the hs but after being their sounding board for a few chapters regarding their feelings towards each other, I begin skimming the romance and the sex scenes, even when there are some serious nipples plays.
I do recommend it as I love the money, family, friendship, elements in the story. Genna and Abi are amazing individuals, their connection is quite unique and interesting too but because of the reasons above, I just couldn't jump in the bandwagon. You need to meet Rosie, Genna's mum and Claire, they are simply the best and the providers of the belly laughs.
I'm so done being Gertrude.
I’ve been with someone for three years and I still don't feel it. I don't think I feel as excited as I should, or as happy as I should, and I can't help but wonder if perhaps I should break it off because the feeling isn't there and I am completely in love with someone else all the while. Oh and my gf is acting all distant, weird and working all the time. How can I deal with this issue?
Sincerely, not feeling it
Dear Not Feeling It
First off, I'm not getting paid enough for this shit. Before you find your gf discovering God with someone else in your bed, in their birthday suits instead of their Sunday best and she gets all the blame while you have been cheating on her emotionally and everyone that knows you, award you with a habit and start calling you Mother Superior Saint, break.it.off.
Sincerely, what have I done to deserve this.
I find the situation ⬆️ too many times in HET Romance, quite often in Lesfic too so kudos to Ms.Dutton in More Than Friends for being decent.
I love the hs but after being their sounding board for a few chapters regarding their feelings towards each other, I begin skimming the romance and the sex scenes, even when there are some serious nipples plays.
I do recommend it as I love the money, family, friendship, elements in the story. Genna and Abi are amazing individuals, their connection is quite unique and interesting too but because of the reasons above, I just couldn't jump in the bandwagon. You need to meet Rosie, Genna's mum and Claire, they are simply the best and the providers of the belly laughs.
I'm so done being Gertrude.
September 4, 2016
I just read Collide-O-Scope, last month, so I was excited to read another book by Bramhall. And while this is nothing like Collide-O-Scope, I liked it just as much, if not more. The best way to describe this book would be a romantic comedy. I did not realize that Bramhall wrote comedy, but shes good at it. I laughed out loud more than once, especially at "the fat farm".
The whole story line, of this book, is great. It's about Genna, who doesn't have a lot of luck in life. She's in a job with an awful boss. Her father left her family when she was just a little kid. She's not in love with her girlfriend, things are not looking good. That is, until she wins a record setting lotto jackpot. Can money buy her happiness, or will things get worse before they can get better?
While I really enjoyed this book, I do have to mention the writing style takes a little bit to get use to. When you are in a characters head-space, they actually talk to you. Once you get a few chapters under your belt, you hardly even notice this difference and the story flows much easier.
The characters are well written and very likeable. You get behind Genna immediately and you like Abi enough to understand why Gena loves her. Abi's little girl, is a well written character, and really adorable. Even the secondary characters, were pretty well fleshed out.
The romance was great. It was believable, and you felt the attraction. The sex scenes, were good and steamy too.
This really was a good read. You will laugh and maybe even cry, and best of all, you will enjoy reading it. I can easily recommend this book to romance fans.
An ARC was given to me from NetGalley and Ylva Publishing, for a honest review.
The whole story line, of this book, is great. It's about Genna, who doesn't have a lot of luck in life. She's in a job with an awful boss. Her father left her family when she was just a little kid. She's not in love with her girlfriend, things are not looking good. That is, until she wins a record setting lotto jackpot. Can money buy her happiness, or will things get worse before they can get better?
While I really enjoyed this book, I do have to mention the writing style takes a little bit to get use to. When you are in a characters head-space, they actually talk to you. Once you get a few chapters under your belt, you hardly even notice this difference and the story flows much easier.
The characters are well written and very likeable. You get behind Genna immediately and you like Abi enough to understand why Gena loves her. Abi's little girl, is a well written character, and really adorable. Even the secondary characters, were pretty well fleshed out.
The romance was great. It was believable, and you felt the attraction. The sex scenes, were good and steamy too.
This really was a good read. You will laugh and maybe even cry, and best of all, you will enjoy reading it. I can easily recommend this book to romance fans.
An ARC was given to me from NetGalley and Ylva Publishing, for a honest review.
September 13, 2016
I was happy to be given the opportunity to read this new release by an author who keeps moving up my must read list. The last two books I read by this author, Clean Slate and Collide-O-Scope were excellent reads.I like the way Bramhall takes chances and stretches her writing skills by going outside the boxes I try to place her in. Just when I think I have another mystery writer to look forward to Bramhall gives us her take on a rom-com. Her version of romantic comedy is humour with heart. It’s a winning combo.
I'll never be a fan of first person POV but in Just My Luck it works. Genna and Abi allow us into their daily lives and thoughts so we can share their mutual (unknown to them) attraction. As bad as I felt for Genna in the opening scenes, I was also drawn to Abi and her mother love for her daughter Rosie. These were two women I wanted to get to know and two women I knew were meant for each other.
I loved the drama on the big day when Genna gets to tell her family and friends they will benefit from her win. Haven't we all dreamed of what we would do if we won a lottery? I got a kick out of all the laugh out loud moments during Genna and Claire's stint at the fat farm. Pure entertainment.
Waiting for the inevitable conversation which brings Genna and Abi together was drawn out a bit longer than I prefer especially considering how quickly the inevitable misunderstandings bump occurs. That said, by this point in the story the reader is so fully involved and hoping for Genna to find happiness at last that the scene and the ones following are raw and powerful.
A good read if you don’t mind precocious kids getting lots of page time. I loved the humour and the strong character development throughout. Looking forward to whatever Andrea Bramhall writes in the future.
ARC received from publisher with thanks.
December 21, 2017
Just My Luck by Andrea Bramhall
In the past couple of months, I have been voraciously reading Andrea Bramhall’s books. I read Ladyfish a few years back and liked it but it didn’t rock my world. Nightingale, Clean Slate and Collide-O-Scope now those are total world rockers. Needless to say, I am hooked on her stories now. So when Ylva sent me her newest book Just My Luck, I was super excited for whatever world Bramhall would take me to and immerse me in.
So what did I think you ask? Well, I never would have expected a romantic comedy. You heard me, a ROMANTIC COMEDY from Ms. Bramhall! Whattt! I am here to tell you this is one good story. Just My Luck is full of gregarious, zany characters who you just cannot help but love.
Our main character is Genna Collins. Genna is a twenty-four-year-old logistics worker who has a heart of gold. Genna takes time out of her week you teach reading to dyslexic teens and adults. She also helps raise her niece, Rosie, who has Down’s Syndrome. She offers assistance and unconditional support to both the child and her mother, Abi. Rosie’s dad is nothing more than a drunken loser, so Genna has stepped into the role as a second parent to Rosie. Total nice gal here! Genna, has a girlfriend of a few year’s but her heart belongs to another. Guess who, Rosie’s drop dead gorgeous mother, that’s who. Genna muddles on with her not-so-fulfilling relationship because she believes that Abi is out of her league and 100% in the friend zone.
Abi is also completely head over heels in love with Genna, but fear stops her from ever letting her true feelings loose. She believes her age, fourteen years Genna’s senior, is too great an obstacle to overcome. Genna’s friendship means more to her than taking a risk on love. Oh the drama that will ensue!
While Bramhall’s other novels have serious plots, murder, kidnapping ... this book is just more fun. These characters talk to you, the reader, and it took me a few chapters to get into it, once I did I was hooked on them. I loved being in their headspace, feeling their struggles right along with them. Genna is a doll, and it was refreshing to read a character who had issues that were like an average person. She is a little too pudgy in her mind, so self-conscious, but absolutely sexy curvaceousness to Abi. This book is all about good fun with great characters. The best part is you will laugh and giggle at Genna and her antics repeatedly. My only complaint, I wish the ending would have lasted another chapter or two.
In the past couple of months, I have been voraciously reading Andrea Bramhall’s books. I read Ladyfish a few years back and liked it but it didn’t rock my world. Nightingale, Clean Slate and Collide-O-Scope now those are total world rockers. Needless to say, I am hooked on her stories now. So when Ylva sent me her newest book Just My Luck, I was super excited for whatever world Bramhall would take me to and immerse me in.
So what did I think you ask? Well, I never would have expected a romantic comedy. You heard me, a ROMANTIC COMEDY from Ms. Bramhall! Whattt! I am here to tell you this is one good story. Just My Luck is full of gregarious, zany characters who you just cannot help but love.
Our main character is Genna Collins. Genna is a twenty-four-year-old logistics worker who has a heart of gold. Genna takes time out of her week you teach reading to dyslexic teens and adults. She also helps raise her niece, Rosie, who has Down’s Syndrome. She offers assistance and unconditional support to both the child and her mother, Abi. Rosie’s dad is nothing more than a drunken loser, so Genna has stepped into the role as a second parent to Rosie. Total nice gal here! Genna, has a girlfriend of a few year’s but her heart belongs to another. Guess who, Rosie’s drop dead gorgeous mother, that’s who. Genna muddles on with her not-so-fulfilling relationship because she believes that Abi is out of her league and 100% in the friend zone.
Abi is also completely head over heels in love with Genna, but fear stops her from ever letting her true feelings loose. She believes her age, fourteen years Genna’s senior, is too great an obstacle to overcome. Genna’s friendship means more to her than taking a risk on love. Oh the drama that will ensue!
While Bramhall’s other novels have serious plots, murder, kidnapping ... this book is just more fun. These characters talk to you, the reader, and it took me a few chapters to get into it, once I did I was hooked on them. I loved being in their headspace, feeling their struggles right along with them. Genna is a doll, and it was refreshing to read a character who had issues that were like an average person. She is a little too pudgy in her mind, so self-conscious, but absolutely sexy curvaceousness to Abi. This book is all about good fun with great characters. The best part is you will laugh and giggle at Genna and her antics repeatedly. My only complaint, I wish the ending would have lasted another chapter or two.
March 24, 2018
Brilliant! I've always wondered what I'd do if I won the lottery. When Genna wins the lottery her world changes in the space of a few hours. The ramifications are crazy, entertaining, poignant and at times, hysterical. Genna is a great character. She's gentle, kind and values people for who they are. She's also been in love with her 'aunt' for eight years but will never tell her because she's straight and the mother of her favourite cousin. Genna's best friend, Claire, is a scream and had me laughing out loud at her antics.
This is a wonderful read.
This is a wonderful read.
August 29, 2017
Good
I really enjoyed this read, plenty of angst and realism that is really English in a way that isn't sugarcoated. A real honest romance with plenty of ups and downs, definitely worth a read.
I really enjoyed this read, plenty of angst and realism that is really English in a way that isn't sugarcoated. A real honest romance with plenty of ups and downs, definitely worth a read.
October 24, 2019
*I received this book from Ylva Publishing for an honest review*
I was in kind of a battle with this book. The opening almost caused me to run screaming in the opposite direction, what with the way everyone was talking directly to the reader, and stuff. But I'd loved everything I'd read by this author, and I'd wanted to read this book for a while so . . . I reluctantly continued.
Over time either the things that annoyed me lessened (well, specifically the things from the opening section), or I just got used to it, as the book continued/progressed. There were other things that annoyed me here and there, but there were also some super funny moments of joy.
For the most part I liked the main characters (the two with POV's - the office worker (Logistics officer, or whatever her title was) - Genna, and the sex worker (heh, I make a funny) Abi (she made a few extra bit of money by being a phone sex operator)), and the important side characters (like Genna's mother, and Rosie - Abi's daughter). Never particularly liked Claire, Genna's BFF. And never liked Ruth (Genna's ex-girlfriend), though I wasn't supposed to like her.
The story was interesting enough, the the back and forth depressing thoughts the two had were tiring. I wanted things to progress already, get past this stage of 'I love her but she doesn't love me' that both were hiding in - mentally. Then they got past that stage. And . . . I kinda got bored. Then relatively rapidly frustrated by the conflict points that developed. Bah, that's me. I'm sure others wouldn't feel the same way.
Well, long and short, my head hurts now from all the antics of the book, and I'm happy to have completed it. I'd probably give this book a rating somewhere around . . . hmms . . . 3.3 to 3.33487. Which is something of a come down from the prior two books I'd read by this author - both very solid 5 star works (and probably slightly higher than 5 stars). On the other hand, there's a slight chance I had moved this author to a set of higher standards to meet. So maybe my rating might have been higher otherwise. Then again, I did start off by noting that if not for having loved this author's work in the past, I am not sure I'd have continued after that opening section. And so . . ..
August 24 2016
I was in kind of a battle with this book. The opening almost caused me to run screaming in the opposite direction, what with the way everyone was talking directly to the reader, and stuff. But I'd loved everything I'd read by this author, and I'd wanted to read this book for a while so . . . I reluctantly continued.
Over time either the things that annoyed me lessened (well, specifically the things from the opening section), or I just got used to it, as the book continued/progressed. There were other things that annoyed me here and there, but there were also some super funny moments of joy.
For the most part I liked the main characters (the two with POV's - the office worker (Logistics officer, or whatever her title was) - Genna, and the sex worker (heh, I make a funny) Abi (she made a few extra bit of money by being a phone sex operator)), and the important side characters (like Genna's mother, and Rosie - Abi's daughter). Never particularly liked Claire, Genna's BFF. And never liked Ruth (Genna's ex-girlfriend), though I wasn't supposed to like her.
The story was interesting enough, the the back and forth depressing thoughts the two had were tiring. I wanted things to progress already, get past this stage of 'I love her but she doesn't love me' that both were hiding in - mentally. Then they got past that stage. And . . . I kinda got bored. Then relatively rapidly frustrated by the conflict points that developed. Bah, that's me. I'm sure others wouldn't feel the same way.
Well, long and short, my head hurts now from all the antics of the book, and I'm happy to have completed it. I'd probably give this book a rating somewhere around . . . hmms . . . 3.3 to 3.33487. Which is something of a come down from the prior two books I'd read by this author - both very solid 5 star works (and probably slightly higher than 5 stars). On the other hand, there's a slight chance I had moved this author to a set of higher standards to meet. So maybe my rating might have been higher otherwise. Then again, I did start off by noting that if not for having loved this author's work in the past, I am not sure I'd have continued after that opening section. And so . . ..
August 24 2016
September 8, 2016
Detailed score: 3.0
Clearly I'm in the minority here but this book really didn't do it for me.
Mainly, I think, because the 3 main characters felt like caricatures (let alone the supporting characters). Lacking in depth and just didn't ring true. Genna 's 'my dad abandoned me so I've got isshews ' was also heavy handily telegraphed throughout the book. Plus there were whole chunks of lengthy location descriptions that I started skipping. Over completely
Once our main love interests fiiiiinally come together it picks a bit but it was too late for me by then.
This is one of those works that, if I was eating it only enjoyment alone, I'd give it a 2 but all things considered, it doesn't deserve a rating that low.
Overall: not my cuppa but a professionally written and edited work (per usual ylva standards)
Clearly I'm in the minority here but this book really didn't do it for me.
Mainly, I think, because the 3 main characters felt like caricatures (let alone the supporting characters). Lacking in depth and just didn't ring true. Genna 's 'my dad abandoned me so I've got isshews ' was also heavy handily telegraphed throughout the book. Plus there were whole chunks of lengthy location descriptions that I started skipping. Over completely
Once our main love interests fiiiiinally come together it picks a bit but it was too late for me by then.
This is one of those works that, if I was eating it only enjoyment alone, I'd give it a 2 but all things considered, it doesn't deserve a rating that low.
Overall: not my cuppa but a professionally written and edited work (per usual ylva standards)
February 20, 2017
I'm a fan of Ms Bramall since "Clean Slate." That one was so dramatic and filled with tension wondering if this amazing couple could see their way past all the challenges and get back to the love they had. I picked "Just My Luck" up expecting something similar. I was so wrong, but it doesn't matter cuz even though this one isn't a tear jerker with drama oozing from every page, this one gives us a happy and quirky Rom-com. The contrast is perfect and shows exactly how talented Ms Bramhall is. Lots of LOL moments. Great banter. Loved this.
Net Galley ARC received for an honest review.
Net Galley ARC received for an honest review.
December 7, 2017
4.5 stars. Laughed out loud countless times, it's a top notch comedy mixed with serious topics like infidelity, insecurity, downs syndrome, family drama, etc. It's a good mix too, I was engaged from start to finish. Abi's character could've used more development but otherwise I liked the leading ladies and the supporting cast. Best friend Claire is hilarious.
The sex scenes were hot and their attraction believable though romance takes a backseat for about half of the book until most of the family drama is solved.
What makes it stand out between other lesfic books is humor. Robin Alexander is usually my go to author for some laughs but Bramhall's british humor just gets to me like Alexander never could. Props for that.
Overall a really enjoyable read.
The sex scenes were hot and their attraction believable though romance takes a backseat for about half of the book until most of the family drama is solved.
What makes it stand out between other lesfic books is humor. Robin Alexander is usually my go to author for some laughs but Bramhall's british humor just gets to me like Alexander never could. Props for that.
Overall a really enjoyable read.
January 21, 2019
Solid 3.5 for me. This book was fun, well written, lots of witty banter back and forth that had me laughing out loud many times. The story certainly jumps around, from the lottery win, the big reveal with her family, a fat farm (I didn't feel this really fit), and a cruise (cruises have always been one of my worst nightmares, and this one just solidified why!). Genna's family is very disjointed and many of them are rather awful. I had a soft spot for her, the author did an excellent job building her character and explaining why her self-esteem was so damaged.
Steam factor: 4/5, there's some great intimate scenes between the two, even though you gotta wait for them. :)
Super sick for the last few days peeps, haven't been this laid out in yeeeaaars. Hopefully I'll be able to get through a couple books in between the coughing, sneezing, wheezing, buckley's and naps. Blah.
Steam factor: 4/5, there's some great intimate scenes between the two, even though you gotta wait for them. :)
Super sick for the last few days peeps, haven't been this laid out in yeeeaaars. Hopefully I'll be able to get through a couple books in between the coughing, sneezing, wheezing, buckley's and naps. Blah.
December 20, 2017
Very entertaining, well written, good feels and laugh-out-loud funny. Why not five-stars? There were too many unlikely plot points. Maybe that's just me being under-the-weather and grumpy. I will definitely look forward to reading more of Bramhall's books.
May 7, 2018
Nice Story
Likable MC, they are not perfect and I love that, the story has funny moments and sad moments all well balanced.
Nice approach on the subject of Down Syndrome, the relationship of Genna with the kid is very sweet.
And I actually enjoy the two points of view of the story ( It is told from Abi and Genna perspective)
Overall a nice read.
Likable MC, they are not perfect and I love that, the story has funny moments and sad moments all well balanced.
Nice approach on the subject of Down Syndrome, the relationship of Genna with the kid is very sweet.
And I actually enjoy the two points of view of the story ( It is told from Abi and Genna perspective)
Overall a nice read.
October 23, 2016
Love love love it!
Winning the lottery, your world will never be the same again. It will change several lives forever. Do you still have real friends and family who truly loves you, not only because of your bank account? Having millions in the bank generates financial freedom but it can also be the source of the pain in your life. Abi and Genna have to figure out if their baggage will keep them apart, if their baggage will be forever the obstacle that jeopardize having true happiness. They have to explore their deepest thoughts and desires and act on them instead they spiral around each other, being drawn together as moths to a flame. So much could have been accomplished if they both stopped assuming everything. When they finally do, something threatens to destroy their change of happiness. I loved getting inside their heads and see it through their eyes. I've fallen head over heels in love with Rosie. She is a blessing for everyone. I enjoyed her letters, her questions, her comments. I enjoyed everything about her. She is a real gem. This book will make you laugh (a lot), make you cry, make you feel for the characters and it has several hot scenes. You will be pleasantly surprised how this story was told. Thank you Andrea Bramhall for this amazing book!
Winning the lottery, your world will never be the same again. It will change several lives forever. Do you still have real friends and family who truly loves you, not only because of your bank account? Having millions in the bank generates financial freedom but it can also be the source of the pain in your life. Abi and Genna have to figure out if their baggage will keep them apart, if their baggage will be forever the obstacle that jeopardize having true happiness. They have to explore their deepest thoughts and desires and act on them instead they spiral around each other, being drawn together as moths to a flame. So much could have been accomplished if they both stopped assuming everything. When they finally do, something threatens to destroy their change of happiness. I loved getting inside their heads and see it through their eyes. I've fallen head over heels in love with Rosie. She is a blessing for everyone. I enjoyed her letters, her questions, her comments. I enjoyed everything about her. She is a real gem. This book will make you laugh (a lot), make you cry, make you feel for the characters and it has several hot scenes. You will be pleasantly surprised how this story was told. Thank you Andrea Bramhall for this amazing book!
February 3, 2020
Just My Luck is really Genna’s book and we see her grow and change, reaching out for the things she needs and deserves, even standing up for herself for what might be the first time in her life. I love how honest and true she is, both to herself and with others, and she’s so good and sweet with Rosie. It’s also lovely to see her confidence build under Abi’s attention when they’re together, so Genna can truly accept that she’s attractive to Abi.
We also get to see things from Abi’s perspective, including her insecurities in the face of her attraction to Genna. It’s an aspect that’s often missing from age gap romances, so I was glad to see it addressed. I also appreciated that the author showed some of the difficulties of single parenting a child with special needs. It was delicately handled without turning Abi into a hero or Rosie into inspiration porn, which is a relief.
Full review here: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/just-...
We also get to see things from Abi’s perspective, including her insecurities in the face of her attraction to Genna. It’s an aspect that’s often missing from age gap romances, so I was glad to see it addressed. I also appreciated that the author showed some of the difficulties of single parenting a child with special needs. It was delicately handled without turning Abi into a hero or Rosie into inspiration porn, which is a relief.
Full review here: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/just-...
August 30, 2016
*Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
This book is a real treat, in the sea of romanticized, fixed to perfection, overly gorgeous characters. These two seem like a real, next-door people, and I couldn't love it more because of it. This is the first book I've read written by Andrea Bramhall, and if the other ones are nearly as good as this one, I must've missed quite a lot when it comes to les-fic.
First, this book incredibly witty, filled with humor so well-written, that once it puts a smile on your face, you'll have problems stopping it. Also, I love that the book has two narrators; both Abi and Genna give their point of view and that is a big plus for me. I found myself in love with Rosie, I think she's quite adorable and brings another level of fondness in the book.
I really, really liked this one. 4.5 stars, but very close to 5.
This book is a real treat, in the sea of romanticized, fixed to perfection, overly gorgeous characters. These two seem like a real, next-door people, and I couldn't love it more because of it. This is the first book I've read written by Andrea Bramhall, and if the other ones are nearly as good as this one, I must've missed quite a lot when it comes to les-fic.
First, this book incredibly witty, filled with humor so well-written, that once it puts a smile on your face, you'll have problems stopping it. Also, I love that the book has two narrators; both Abi and Genna give their point of view and that is a big plus for me. I found myself in love with Rosie, I think she's quite adorable and brings another level of fondness in the book.
I really, really liked this one. 4.5 stars, but very close to 5.
October 1, 2016
3.5/4
Anybody who has read Andrea Bramhall’s books already knows she has a wide ranging and somewhat unusual imagination. From light traditional adventure romances to fairly dark thrillers and murder mystery, her works so far have crossed many lines. Always with a lesbian angle, they have each mixed up several genres and been hard to categorise.
This latest is another example of a cross-genre tale, and even more odd-ball than the others. It’s a lesbian romance, it’s a comedy, and at the same time there is a very British down to earth pathos mixed in.
Genna Colllins has a dead end life, job and relationship. A loving mum and an absentee father, even her BFF has withdrawn because she doesn’t approve of Genna’s girlfriend. Winning the biggest euromillions jackpot is about to change all that, in a whole range of ways.
Underlying all of this Genna has been in love with her non-related 'aunt' for years, which introduces Abi and her adorable Down’s daughter Rosie, literally the light of Genna’s life. Unbeknownst to Genna, her love is secretly returned.. and so the romantic opportunity is set
The style is unusual, with both main characters getting first person POV, and talking directly too the reader in very much a “Reader, I married him” style. Bramhall manages this very well, but it does take some getting used to. There is also a lot of internal monologue, sometimes rather rambling, in which we get to see the characters, but I am not always sure of its role in the story arc.
The plot is very much the British comedy; how to spring on your council-flat family you have won £156million, including a fatherly lawyer with hidden camera and NDA’s to prevent publicity. How your nasty ex-girlfriend might bitterly regret her actions. Ridiculous trips to the ‘fat farm’, stranded cruise liners and through it all a wicked sense of humour and timing.
The pathos is real as well. The family dynamics are harsh, the history realistic and the hurt palpable. There were laugh out loud moments, and occasions where the past pain bring poignant realism to what is otherwise virtually farcical.
Overall an entertaining and unusual read. I enjoyed it, but it's not my favourite by Ms Bramhall. I personally thought the ending was rushed, or perhaps forced is a better description, another chapter or two and a little less panic would have left a better feeling. But as usual Andrea Bramhall brings something different to the table, with her excellent writing style and vivid imagination, and that is always a good thing.
Anybody who has read Andrea Bramhall’s books already knows she has a wide ranging and somewhat unusual imagination. From light traditional adventure romances to fairly dark thrillers and murder mystery, her works so far have crossed many lines. Always with a lesbian angle, they have each mixed up several genres and been hard to categorise.
This latest is another example of a cross-genre tale, and even more odd-ball than the others. It’s a lesbian romance, it’s a comedy, and at the same time there is a very British down to earth pathos mixed in.
Genna Colllins has a dead end life, job and relationship. A loving mum and an absentee father, even her BFF has withdrawn because she doesn’t approve of Genna’s girlfriend. Winning the biggest euromillions jackpot is about to change all that, in a whole range of ways.
Underlying all of this Genna has been in love with her non-related 'aunt' for years, which introduces Abi and her adorable Down’s daughter Rosie, literally the light of Genna’s life. Unbeknownst to Genna, her love is secretly returned.. and so the romantic opportunity is set
The style is unusual, with both main characters getting first person POV, and talking directly too the reader in very much a “Reader, I married him” style. Bramhall manages this very well, but it does take some getting used to. There is also a lot of internal monologue, sometimes rather rambling, in which we get to see the characters, but I am not always sure of its role in the story arc.
The plot is very much the British comedy; how to spring on your council-flat family you have won £156million, including a fatherly lawyer with hidden camera and NDA’s to prevent publicity. How your nasty ex-girlfriend might bitterly regret her actions. Ridiculous trips to the ‘fat farm’, stranded cruise liners and through it all a wicked sense of humour and timing.
The pathos is real as well. The family dynamics are harsh, the history realistic and the hurt palpable. There were laugh out loud moments, and occasions where the past pain bring poignant realism to what is otherwise virtually farcical.
Overall an entertaining and unusual read. I enjoyed it, but it's not my favourite by Ms Bramhall. I personally thought the ending was rushed, or perhaps forced is a better description, another chapter or two and a little less panic would have left a better feeling. But as usual Andrea Bramhall brings something different to the table, with her excellent writing style and vivid imagination, and that is always a good thing.
September 16, 2016
This book is pretty different from what I've read from Andrea Bramhall, Nightingale is my fave from her. I know a lot of her books are really heart racing but I know she tried to throw in something like that here.
This is pretty angsty especially Genna's POV, that's why I like Abi's POV better.
Genna's self esteem is pretty low, well, I can't blame her considering her Dad left them since she's two and she grew up thinking she is someone who's not worthy to be loved.
I think that's why she stayed in a relationship even though she already know from the start that she's not going to be happy and she's in love with someone else. Cause she's scared to be alone.
Everything changed from her life the moment she won the lottery.
I think Genna is a Saint! Like really! Giving money to the side of her relatives that treats her bad. Wow! My blood is boiling especially to her grandma on her father's side.
Abi on the other hand is a single mom. She got an interesting part time job. She's very protective of her daughter and to all the people she loves and I also can't blame her to be confused and scared at one point considering all the baggage that she got. I like her character.
She's also in love with someone else.. go figure!
This book is annoyingly funny.
But honestly, I only enjoyed the second half of the book that's where all the excitement starts.
This is pretty angsty especially Genna's POV, that's why I like Abi's POV better.
Genna's self esteem is pretty low, well, I can't blame her considering her Dad left them since she's two and she grew up thinking she is someone who's not worthy to be loved.
I think that's why she stayed in a relationship even though she already know from the start that she's not going to be happy and she's in love with someone else. Cause she's scared to be alone.
Everything changed from her life the moment she won the lottery.
I think Genna is a Saint! Like really! Giving money to the side of her relatives that treats her bad. Wow! My blood is boiling especially to her grandma on her father's side.
Abi on the other hand is a single mom. She got an interesting part time job. She's very protective of her daughter and to all the people she loves and I also can't blame her to be confused and scared at one point considering all the baggage that she got. I like her character.
She's also in love with someone else.. go figure!
This book is annoyingly funny.
But honestly, I only enjoyed the second half of the book that's where all the excitement starts.
September 3, 2016
** I was given a copy from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.**
It's an unusual, yet fun book. Fun because it's lighthearted and playful for most part and unusual because of its protagonist. Genna is not your usual f/f protagonist. She is a bit paranoid, has little self-confidence and a somewhat low self-esteem. Now, don't get me wrong, she is still a very likable character with a great heart and sense of humor, but she is just a lot more 'normal' than most of the Mary Sues usually used as main protagonists for stories like this one. This was quite a refreshing choice, actually.
The supporting characters are also interesting. When it comes to the romance, props to Miss Bramhall for creating such a tender relationship dynamic between Genna, Abi and Rosie. I love books where the physical attraction naturally flourishes from a well established emotional connection. The subtlety of the small gestures, the attention and the diligent consideration can be so much more meaningful to portray than the 'love-at-first-sight' routine that are usually the go-to mode to establish the romantic scenario in these books.
Here, however, Miss Bramhall went a step further and added a delicate and touching detail: Abi has a daughter called Rosie and Rosie has Down Syndrome. And even if the limitations caused by her genetic disorder are rightfully portrayed, the fact that she is also an adorable child is equally portrayed. Not only that, but Abi is a doting and protective mother and that's actually one of the many reasons why Genna is in love with her. In fact, Genna's own love for Rosie is also part of why they all seem to work together so well. It's a very touching relationship dynamic all around.
But this novel is not just about romance. In fact, the romance part of it only truly unfold later on the book. For me at least, this story is mostly about relationships. And how the dynamics of these relationships can be affected after something incredibly unusual happens to one of them. The odds of winning the lottery are about 1 in 120 millions, so it should be considered an insane stroke of luck but the fact remains that even when you have the best intentions at heart, too much money will also bring its own variety of complications.
One of the great moments of this book for me was when Genna went to spend some time with Claire to what they call a 'fat farm'. I myself also spent about 2 weeks in one during my late teen years, and I can definitely agree that the potential for comic relief for anyone under those same circumstances is absolutely boundless. I myself, strangely managed to have an insane amount of fun there for incredibly weird reasons, while also being truly miserable because of my dietary limitations.
Now, for some of the things that I didn't enjoyed too much in this novel: sometimes felt that the narrative was all over the place. Pages and pages were dedicated to quite frankly uninteresting aspects or moments of the protagonist life. The 'lawyer with the hidden camera' chapter is one of those moments. I get the humorous potential there, but the pay-off for the set up just didn't happened in my opinion.
Also, as I mentioned before, I really did enjoyed Genna as a character. And that was quite important because the book is written mostly through her perspective. But when she narrated, there was a tendency towards an exaggerated stream of consciousness and inner monologue. And in Genna's case, although it really worked for most parts, sometimes I found myself lost and a bit bored with where her mind seemed to be taking her (and myself). You see, a professor I had once told me that if a novel was a meal, the action and dialogue should be the meat and potatoes, while the interior monologue should be the salt used to flavor the dish. And salt is very important and all, but you must make sure you have the right amount or you'll risk messing up your meal.
And to wrapped it up my review, here is a question: what the heck happened in the end of this book? It's almost like the writer noticed she only had a few pages left to wrap the story up and pressed 'fast forward' to speed up and cram as many dramatic elements she could come up with. People start acting out of character... Abi panicked, Genna panicked, and then, all of a sudden I felt like I was reading the book version of Speed 2: Cruise Control. What the heck? It felt unnecessary and rushed in. It also messed up with the pace of the story. I really didn't get it.
But, all and all, I still enjoyed reading this story.
3.5 stars from me.
It's an unusual, yet fun book. Fun because it's lighthearted and playful for most part and unusual because of its protagonist. Genna is not your usual f/f protagonist. She is a bit paranoid, has little self-confidence and a somewhat low self-esteem. Now, don't get me wrong, she is still a very likable character with a great heart and sense of humor, but she is just a lot more 'normal' than most of the Mary Sues usually used as main protagonists for stories like this one. This was quite a refreshing choice, actually.
The supporting characters are also interesting. When it comes to the romance, props to Miss Bramhall for creating such a tender relationship dynamic between Genna, Abi and Rosie. I love books where the physical attraction naturally flourishes from a well established emotional connection. The subtlety of the small gestures, the attention and the diligent consideration can be so much more meaningful to portray than the 'love-at-first-sight' routine that are usually the go-to mode to establish the romantic scenario in these books.
Here, however, Miss Bramhall went a step further and added a delicate and touching detail: Abi has a daughter called Rosie and Rosie has Down Syndrome. And even if the limitations caused by her genetic disorder are rightfully portrayed, the fact that she is also an adorable child is equally portrayed. Not only that, but Abi is a doting and protective mother and that's actually one of the many reasons why Genna is in love with her. In fact, Genna's own love for Rosie is also part of why they all seem to work together so well. It's a very touching relationship dynamic all around.
But this novel is not just about romance. In fact, the romance part of it only truly unfold later on the book. For me at least, this story is mostly about relationships. And how the dynamics of these relationships can be affected after something incredibly unusual happens to one of them. The odds of winning the lottery are about 1 in 120 millions, so it should be considered an insane stroke of luck but the fact remains that even when you have the best intentions at heart, too much money will also bring its own variety of complications.
One of the great moments of this book for me was when Genna went to spend some time with Claire to what they call a 'fat farm'. I myself also spent about 2 weeks in one during my late teen years, and I can definitely agree that the potential for comic relief for anyone under those same circumstances is absolutely boundless. I myself, strangely managed to have an insane amount of fun there for incredibly weird reasons, while also being truly miserable because of my dietary limitations.
Now, for some of the things that I didn't enjoyed too much in this novel: sometimes felt that the narrative was all over the place. Pages and pages were dedicated to quite frankly uninteresting aspects or moments of the protagonist life. The 'lawyer with the hidden camera' chapter is one of those moments. I get the humorous potential there, but the pay-off for the set up just didn't happened in my opinion.
Also, as I mentioned before, I really did enjoyed Genna as a character. And that was quite important because the book is written mostly through her perspective. But when she narrated, there was a tendency towards an exaggerated stream of consciousness and inner monologue. And in Genna's case, although it really worked for most parts, sometimes I found myself lost and a bit bored with where her mind seemed to be taking her (and myself). You see, a professor I had once told me that if a novel was a meal, the action and dialogue should be the meat and potatoes, while the interior monologue should be the salt used to flavor the dish. And salt is very important and all, but you must make sure you have the right amount or you'll risk messing up your meal.
And to wrapped it up my review, here is a question: what the heck happened in the end of this book? It's almost like the writer noticed she only had a few pages left to wrap the story up and pressed 'fast forward' to speed up and cram as many dramatic elements she could come up with. People start acting out of character... Abi panicked, Genna panicked, and then, all of a sudden I felt like I was reading the book version of Speed 2: Cruise Control. What the heck? It felt unnecessary and rushed in. It also messed up with the pace of the story. I really didn't get it.
But, all and all, I still enjoyed reading this story.
3.5 stars from me.
August 23, 2020
Genna, 24, (short for Genesis, her dad was a Phil Collins fan) wins 156 Million Pounds in the British Lottery. She's a good person with a lot of empathy but also lacks self confidence and can be spineless. She wants to help all her family and friends. Even before she came into money she was helping folks, like the young man at her job learning to read, and her young 6 year old cousin with down syndrome, Rosie.
Rosie's mother, Abi, has a huge crush on Genna despite being 14 years older, and knowing her since she was 16. She only became aware of her attraction for her 3 years ago, when Genna hooked up with a girlfriend.
Secretly, Genna has too been in love with Abi for years. The relationship with her girlfriend is non-existent and they break up the same day at the lottery win, when Genna finds her in their bed with another woman, and finds out there was more where that came from. However this makes it a kind of loop-hole situation where Genna can be the good guy, despite never really having been invested in that relationship, because of her attraction to Abi. That didn't sit well with me.
The two tip-toe around their feelings despite it being obvious. Because of the perceived ickyness of them having known eachother for ages, the age gap, Abi being perceived as straight, and almost being family (not really, since the connection is that Genna's uncle is Abi's daughters father, so she technically isn't related, Rosie the daughter is just Genna's cousin.)
They are great friends and support to one another and don't want to ruin the friendship, especially because of Rosie, who adores Genna and vice versa with Genna stepping up to fill in as 'spare mum' on outings, appointments and such in the family dynamic.
I really did enjoy the couple together, especially once they finally confessed their emotions, and thought they were so sizzling and sweet together.
But there's a situation toward the end, where Abi completely freaks out about the relationship and it's effect on Rosie, and people being homophobic towards them and her daughter. She gets downright nasty towards Genna, doing that whole "I'm pushing you away to help us both" thing, but she gets quite heated and mean about it, and it actually made me really hate Abi.
She ended up seeming so immature about something she supposedly fantasized about for 3 years.
She has spent years as this woman's best friend, and that friendship incorporating her daughter and Genna being an active 'spare mum' and she only just now discovers homophobia??? Like really?
So it made it feel very manufactured, but also incredibly shallow of Abi, and honestly she couldn't be redeemed after that, for me.
Also, their sex went a little weird and wild in the bedroom, which I was not expecting and it made Abi the more dominating one, and Genna seem so very bottomed in every which way, and that didn't sit well with me in their overall dynamic of the relationship, once all the stuff that happened did. So it all left me feeling icky and uneasy, despite the damn good start. Shame!
Rosie's mother, Abi, has a huge crush on Genna despite being 14 years older, and knowing her since she was 16. She only became aware of her attraction for her 3 years ago, when Genna hooked up with a girlfriend.
Secretly, Genna has too been in love with Abi for years. The relationship with her girlfriend is non-existent and they break up the same day at the lottery win, when Genna finds her in their bed with another woman, and finds out there was more where that came from. However this makes it a kind of loop-hole situation where Genna can be the good guy, despite never really having been invested in that relationship, because of her attraction to Abi. That didn't sit well with me.
The two tip-toe around their feelings despite it being obvious. Because of the perceived ickyness of them having known eachother for ages, the age gap, Abi being perceived as straight, and almost being family (not really, since the connection is that Genna's uncle is Abi's daughters father, so she technically isn't related, Rosie the daughter is just Genna's cousin.)
They are great friends and support to one another and don't want to ruin the friendship, especially because of Rosie, who adores Genna and vice versa with Genna stepping up to fill in as 'spare mum' on outings, appointments and such in the family dynamic.
I really did enjoy the couple together, especially once they finally confessed their emotions, and thought they were so sizzling and sweet together.
But there's a situation toward the end, where Abi completely freaks out about the relationship and it's effect on Rosie, and people being homophobic towards them and her daughter. She gets downright nasty towards Genna, doing that whole "I'm pushing you away to help us both" thing, but she gets quite heated and mean about it, and it actually made me really hate Abi.
She ended up seeming so immature about something she supposedly fantasized about for 3 years.
She has spent years as this woman's best friend, and that friendship incorporating her daughter and Genna being an active 'spare mum' and she only just now discovers homophobia??? Like really?
So it made it feel very manufactured, but also incredibly shallow of Abi, and honestly she couldn't be redeemed after that, for me.
Also, their sex went a little weird and wild in the bedroom, which I was not expecting and it made Abi the more dominating one, and Genna seem so very bottomed in every which way, and that didn't sit well with me in their overall dynamic of the relationship, once all the stuff that happened did. So it all left me feeling icky and uneasy, despite the damn good start. Shame!
September 8, 2016
Genna works a job she doesn't really love, has a girlfriend she rarely sees and a fairly large extended family. What happens when she wins the lotto? Abi has found the woman of her dreams but for a number of reasons she can't have her. She spends her time caring for her daughter(Rosie) who has downs syndrome and works and not so nice job to have enough money to pay the bills.
This book was different to what I've read by Andrea Bramhall before. I know some people don't really like when the character speaks directly to the reader, it really doesn't bother me once I can connect with the characters. We see this story from both Genna and Abi's POV which gives us an insight into both of their feelings and struggles.
I laughed quite a lot while reading this book which I love. Genna isn't your usual character, she isn't stick thin, is self conscious and has pretty low self esteem. This becomes clear in some of her monologues throughout the book.
The relationships between all of the characters were something that caught my attention, how would your relationship with family members change if you won an incredible amount of money? We see the good side and the not so good side. I loved the dynamic of Genna, Abi and Rosies relationship. Rosie is so adorable, it is evident both Genna and Abi love her immensely and I think that makes their connection even stronger.
One of the few things I didn't really like was the rushed feeling at the end of the book. I felt there were decisions made by some of the characters that were out of character. Things got a little crazy.
That being said I would recommend this book, I enjoyed Genna's character, don't we all wonder what would happen if we won the lotto? and the development of the relationship is developed from an already strong friendship bond.
ARC received from Ylva for an honest review.
This book was different to what I've read by Andrea Bramhall before. I know some people don't really like when the character speaks directly to the reader, it really doesn't bother me once I can connect with the characters. We see this story from both Genna and Abi's POV which gives us an insight into both of their feelings and struggles.
I laughed quite a lot while reading this book which I love. Genna isn't your usual character, she isn't stick thin, is self conscious and has pretty low self esteem. This becomes clear in some of her monologues throughout the book.
The relationships between all of the characters were something that caught my attention, how would your relationship with family members change if you won an incredible amount of money? We see the good side and the not so good side. I loved the dynamic of Genna, Abi and Rosies relationship. Rosie is so adorable, it is evident both Genna and Abi love her immensely and I think that makes their connection even stronger.
One of the few things I didn't really like was the rushed feeling at the end of the book. I felt there were decisions made by some of the characters that were out of character. Things got a little crazy.
That being said I would recommend this book, I enjoyed Genna's character, don't we all wonder what would happen if we won the lotto? and the development of the relationship is developed from an already strong friendship bond.
ARC received from Ylva for an honest review.
September 30, 2016
Nothing makes me enjoy a book more than a laugh out loud moment. "Just my Luck" has many of these moments. It is a thoughtful and humorous novel which follows two best friends. Luck touches one of the best friends and their lives will forever change. This is a delightful read.
October 4, 2024
2 ★ This was not for me. At all. I grinned and bared it. It wasn’t my kind of humour and oof I’m gonna sound so horrible when I say this but… I think the author was trying way too hard to be funny. It just distracted from the plot and took way too many U-turns for my liking.
February 15, 2017
*ARC provided by the publisher for an honest review*
I absolutely love this book! At first I was afraid that I would hate it because if I am completely honest, I am a major snob when it comes to British humour. I cannot handle lame attempts at the best type of humour in the world, as far as I am concerned. It is also very difficult to utilize British colloquialisms correctly and I can honestly say that I have ended up hating books and movies that can't seem to get it right, as I said I am a major Brit snob (sorry).
Andrea Bramhall nailed it, and by it I mean everything! If you are looking for bellyache laughter keep looking because you obviously haven't had the pleasure of dry British humour. I am going to say love a lot in this review so bear with me. I love Genny and while reading this story I believe that I managed to find my spirit animal, even if she is fictional and not an animal...but how else do you describe someone who sounds exactly like you do when you have those internal conversations with yourself,( don't pull that face I am not crazy, you do it too).
My next love affair is with Rosie; sweet, innocent, honest little Rosie who is the light that everyone needs in their lives. She might have Downs syndrome but she doesn't let that stop her and she doesn't let anything stop her from speaking her mind (the literary and real world would be so much better if we all operated the way she does).
I liked Abi, unfortunately she didn't reach the level of love for me but that doesn't mean she wasn't amazing in her own right,she just annoyed me with her need to use Rosie as a reason not to be with Genny because Genny is f#ck!ng amazing (excuse the language).
Now there is no such thing as a book that is 100% perfect and the one flaw in this one is the constant miscommunication and self inflicted heartache on the part of both main characters, but it wasn't enough for me to give it anything less than 5stars.
Oh, and I LOVED the storyline!
I absolutely love this book! At first I was afraid that I would hate it because if I am completely honest, I am a major snob when it comes to British humour. I cannot handle lame attempts at the best type of humour in the world, as far as I am concerned. It is also very difficult to utilize British colloquialisms correctly and I can honestly say that I have ended up hating books and movies that can't seem to get it right, as I said I am a major Brit snob (sorry).
Andrea Bramhall nailed it, and by it I mean everything! If you are looking for bellyache laughter keep looking because you obviously haven't had the pleasure of dry British humour. I am going to say love a lot in this review so bear with me. I love Genny and while reading this story I believe that I managed to find my spirit animal, even if she is fictional and not an animal...but how else do you describe someone who sounds exactly like you do when you have those internal conversations with yourself,( don't pull that face I am not crazy, you do it too).
My next love affair is with Rosie; sweet, innocent, honest little Rosie who is the light that everyone needs in their lives. She might have Downs syndrome but she doesn't let that stop her and she doesn't let anything stop her from speaking her mind (the literary and real world would be so much better if we all operated the way she does).
I liked Abi, unfortunately she didn't reach the level of love for me but that doesn't mean she wasn't amazing in her own right,she just annoyed me with her need to use Rosie as a reason not to be with Genny because Genny is f#ck!ng amazing (excuse the language).
Now there is no such thing as a book that is 100% perfect and the one flaw in this one is the constant miscommunication and self inflicted heartache on the part of both main characters, but it wasn't enough for me to give it anything less than 5stars.
Oh, and I LOVED the storyline!
May 13, 2017
I was asked to review this book by a publisher with a promise of an honest rating.
At first I honestly must say I was not sure. But as I got more into it my perception changed. The story is told by the two main characters of the book. It is extremely well written and the author has a decidedly wicked sense of humor. You start with just a smile but with each turn of the page your smile gets wider and then you find yourself laughing out loud. I think it is more to do with that you can relate to it. It is an excellent book, and very well written. If at the beginning you think hmmmm? continue your perseverance will be rewarded.
At first I honestly must say I was not sure. But as I got more into it my perception changed. The story is told by the two main characters of the book. It is extremely well written and the author has a decidedly wicked sense of humor. You start with just a smile but with each turn of the page your smile gets wider and then you find yourself laughing out loud. I think it is more to do with that you can relate to it. It is an excellent book, and very well written. If at the beginning you think hmmmm? continue your perseverance will be rewarded.
March 10, 2018
Is it me or was this awfully ableist? And nothing had anything to do with anything else. The main character could have not won the lottery and the romance would have been exactly the same. Her other best friend (the one who disappeared from her life for some apparently easily forgiveable reason, not the one she's in love with) is utterly pointless and her storyline superfluous. Her deadbeat family is unbearably one-dimensional and that storyline is entirely disconnected from all the rest. To name only a few.
July 15, 2017
Great fun read!! I really liked the two characters in Abi and Genna. My fav in being Rosie she was so sweet!
September 25, 2016
ARC received from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I actually loved this book. It made my weekend...
My synopsis
Genna is not enjoying her life. She hates her job, her relationship with her girlfriend is in a downward spiral and she's actually is head over heals in love with her best friend, who can never love her back… That is until she wins the Euromillions and her life is turned upside down from the moment she checks her lottery ticket.
Abi is in love with her best friend, Genna but she can never return her love because she is already in a relationship. Genna is extremely close to Abi’s young daughter Rosie and that makes her love even stronger.
When they finally have no more obstacles between them can love win over everything else?
My Review
This book was great. It was uplifting and really hooked me from chapter one. The book is written in a way that the characters spoke directly to the reader, which actually worked really well and added some humor that gave the book more of a RomCom edge. The Brit Humour had me chuckling away... I love a good sarcastic comment.
I loved Genna and her self-image issues that made her seem more human. The love she has for Abi is undeniable and very sweet. I thought for the first few chapter of the book that Abi was very shy and sweet until we find out what her part-time job is… I wont spoiled it for future readers but it kind of made her more likeable and real... and also a massive turn on.
The sex scenes were very sexy and incredibly raw. The conversation post the first sexual encounter was what made the characters seem more invested in each others needs and gave way to a seriously kinky conversation.
Great book 4.5 Stars
I actually loved this book. It made my weekend...
My synopsis
Genna is not enjoying her life. She hates her job, her relationship with her girlfriend is in a downward spiral and she's actually is head over heals in love with her best friend, who can never love her back… That is until she wins the Euromillions and her life is turned upside down from the moment she checks her lottery ticket.
Abi is in love with her best friend, Genna but she can never return her love because she is already in a relationship. Genna is extremely close to Abi’s young daughter Rosie and that makes her love even stronger.
When they finally have no more obstacles between them can love win over everything else?
My Review
This book was great. It was uplifting and really hooked me from chapter one. The book is written in a way that the characters spoke directly to the reader, which actually worked really well and added some humor that gave the book more of a RomCom edge. The Brit Humour had me chuckling away... I love a good sarcastic comment.
I loved Genna and her self-image issues that made her seem more human. The love she has for Abi is undeniable and very sweet. I thought for the first few chapter of the book that Abi was very shy and sweet until we find out what her part-time job is… I wont spoiled it for future readers but it kind of made her more likeable and real... and also a massive turn on.
The sex scenes were very sexy and incredibly raw. The conversation post the first sexual encounter was what made the characters seem more invested in each others needs and gave way to a seriously kinky conversation.
Great book 4.5 Stars
January 2, 2022
3/10
last book of the year and im disappointed??
ehh
its actually 1:17am on january 1st here but i forgot to log the 170th book of the 2021 challange (the last one)
so
happy new years?
///
I didn't like any of the characters and the ones I wanted to like (MCs) were too immature. I also wasn't a fan of the writing - it felt too chaotic - it's almost like a tween wrote it on wattpad.
This is the first book by the author I've read (I had 7 of her books in my tbr) and I'm not really sure if I'm going to read any more.*
* maybe it sounds a bit harash but my new year resolution is just not wasting my time on things i probably won't like
last book of the year and im disappointed??
ehh
its actually 1:17am on january 1st here but i forgot to log the 170th book of the 2021 challange (the last one)
so
happy new years?
///
I didn't like any of the characters and the ones I wanted to like (MCs) were too immature. I also wasn't a fan of the writing - it felt too chaotic - it's almost like a tween wrote it on wattpad.
This is the first book by the author I've read (I had 7 of her books in my tbr) and I'm not really sure if I'm going to read any more.*
* maybe it sounds a bit harash but my new year resolution is just not wasting my time on things i probably won't like
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