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Seven Years of Bad Luck
When twenty-six year old Kathleen Cooper realizes that she forfeited her dreams and aspirations of becoming a lawyer after a brash decision to run off and marry the insanely charming Aidan Cooper, she decides to regain what she lost over the course of their seven-year relationship and start fresh.
With a renewed sense of hope and determination, she moves to a different city, lands a new job, and meets the handsome Benjamin Chase in a serendipitous way.
But even with all of these changes and hopes of gaining a new life, Kathleen is still not happy with the person she sees in the mirror staring back at her. She is an insomniac. She generally has bad luck in just about everything she attempts. She’s clumsy, and even if Prince Charming fell into her lap, she would likely push him in the opposite direction, for fear of getting hurt or worse, hurting someone else. This time she can’t blame any of these things on her bad luck or her destructive marriage. This time, it’s not her heart that’s in danger. This time, she has much more to lose and everything to gain.
Will she realize her mistakes in time to repair the damage? Will she be able to reverse her shattered self-image and discover true happiness? Will she ever find her way back to the person she was before seven years of bad luck?
With a renewed sense of hope and determination, she moves to a different city, lands a new job, and meets the handsome Benjamin Chase in a serendipitous way.
But even with all of these changes and hopes of gaining a new life, Kathleen is still not happy with the person she sees in the mirror staring back at her. She is an insomniac. She generally has bad luck in just about everything she attempts. She’s clumsy, and even if Prince Charming fell into her lap, she would likely push him in the opposite direction, for fear of getting hurt or worse, hurting someone else. This time she can’t blame any of these things on her bad luck or her destructive marriage. This time, it’s not her heart that’s in danger. This time, she has much more to lose and everything to gain.
Will she realize her mistakes in time to repair the damage? Will she be able to reverse her shattered self-image and discover true happiness? Will she ever find her way back to the person she was before seven years of bad luck?
260 pages, ebook
First published January 19, 2013
13 people are currently reading
1225 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Mac
18 books1,816 followersAuthor, J.L. Mac is the USA Today Bestselling Author of the Wrecked series and several other titles. Beginning with her debut novel in January 2013, J.L. Mac has self-published nine novels to date. When J.L. was five years old, she came home from school and told her mother that she was ready to quit just as soon as her kindergarten year was complete. When her mother asked why she wanted to quit school when she had only just begun, J.L. simply told her mother that she could now read and write and that was all she needed. Though she did not quit school, she turned out to be right. Having successfully written and published nine novels in seven years, J.L. has become a household name in the Indie community with multiple bestsellers, audio editions and foreign editions of numerous titles. J.L. Mac lives in El Paso, Texas with her husband and four children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
December 27, 2012
I think it's fantastic but my opinion is as biased as they come. ;) -JL Mac
January 12, 2013
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of J.L. Mac’s debut novel Seven Years of Bad Luck. I could not put this novel down nor could I stop thinking about it! I was sneaking around reading it every chance I got! I was sad to finished reading this fabulous novel. Congrats J.L. Mac on creating such a captivating story your first time out :-)
Seven Years of Bad Luck is Kathleen (Kat) Cooper’s story. Kathleen has been lost for so many years she’s not even sure who she is anymore. Something in her finally awakens and she desperately wants to find the woman that she once was! Will the emotional scars she has ever heal or will they hold her back from finding happiness. Kat and her best friend Cheyenne decide to start a new life together and so the journey begins. I found J.L. Mac to be a very descriptive writer, so much so that she had my heart aching while I was getting acquainted with Kathleen, I was moved to the point tears (no UGLY tears were spilled folks!!).
Ms. Mac has created some absolutely fabulous characters. I found Kathleen to be very lovable, I felt connected to her right from the beginning. I wanted to see her find what she was looking for, I wanted her to find happiness… she deserves some happiness! Kat’s best friend Cheyenne also deserves to find some happiness. Cheyenne is the kind of best friend who has always got your back but won’t hesitate to call you out on your crap! Aidan, what can I say about Aidan except he is a gigantic ass, an ass that you will love to hate and boy did I hate him! Then there’s Tucker, I felt robbed that we only got a teaser of who Tucker is…ladies here is your HOT tatted up shmexy man! Finally there is Ben ~wipes drool from chin~ Ben is charming and successful, he won’t take no for an answer, he will go to great lengths to get what he wants. I just can’t bring myself to tell you anymore about Ben without dropping spoilers but what I will say is that Ben has made it to my Top Ten Book Boyfriend list! I dare you not to fall for this AMAZINGLY SEXY man!
For me, Seven Years Of Bad Luck was a brilliant read that took me on an amazing journey. I fell in love, had my heart-broken and had fun with a best friend… what more could you ask for right?!? I laughed and I cried, my heart ached to the point that I shed tears but thankfully, I was not left with a book hangover! My pulse raced at the incredibly HOT sexy scenes, and my heart skipped a few beats when Ms. Mac threw in an unexpected twist but, through it all my heart was filled with love! Looking for a sexy hot fabulous love story… Look no further, you will not want to miss out on Seven Years Of Bad Luck by J.L. Mac.
N. 4/5
Seven Years of Bad Luck is Kathleen (Kat) Cooper’s story. Kathleen has been lost for so many years she’s not even sure who she is anymore. Something in her finally awakens and she desperately wants to find the woman that she once was! Will the emotional scars she has ever heal or will they hold her back from finding happiness. Kat and her best friend Cheyenne decide to start a new life together and so the journey begins. I found J.L. Mac to be a very descriptive writer, so much so that she had my heart aching while I was getting acquainted with Kathleen, I was moved to the point tears (no UGLY tears were spilled folks!!).
Ms. Mac has created some absolutely fabulous characters. I found Kathleen to be very lovable, I felt connected to her right from the beginning. I wanted to see her find what she was looking for, I wanted her to find happiness… she deserves some happiness! Kat’s best friend Cheyenne also deserves to find some happiness. Cheyenne is the kind of best friend who has always got your back but won’t hesitate to call you out on your crap! Aidan, what can I say about Aidan except he is a gigantic ass, an ass that you will love to hate and boy did I hate him! Then there’s Tucker, I felt robbed that we only got a teaser of who Tucker is…ladies here is your HOT tatted up shmexy man! Finally there is Ben ~wipes drool from chin~ Ben is charming and successful, he won’t take no for an answer, he will go to great lengths to get what he wants. I just can’t bring myself to tell you anymore about Ben without dropping spoilers but what I will say is that Ben has made it to my Top Ten Book Boyfriend list! I dare you not to fall for this AMAZINGLY SEXY man!
For me, Seven Years Of Bad Luck was a brilliant read that took me on an amazing journey. I fell in love, had my heart-broken and had fun with a best friend… what more could you ask for right?!? I laughed and I cried, my heart ached to the point that I shed tears but thankfully, I was not left with a book hangover! My pulse raced at the incredibly HOT sexy scenes, and my heart skipped a few beats when Ms. Mac threw in an unexpected twist but, through it all my heart was filled with love! Looking for a sexy hot fabulous love story… Look no further, you will not want to miss out on Seven Years Of Bad Luck by J.L. Mac.
N. 4/5
March 21, 2014
DNF 50%
Had to give it up after 50%. The writing tended to babble in quite a lot of places and the female protagonist turned from someone quite likable into someone immature and bitchy, which was in contrast to who she was supposedly portraying. Some of the story was just too 'out there' and unbelievable at times.
The beginning was promising - when you overlooked the babbling anecdotes - and I liked the concept of how Kat met Ben, but after that, it became too cliche to hold my interest.
Had to give it up after 50%. The writing tended to babble in quite a lot of places and the female protagonist turned from someone quite likable into someone immature and bitchy, which was in contrast to who she was supposedly portraying. Some of the story was just too 'out there' and unbelievable at times.
The beginning was promising - when you overlooked the babbling anecdotes - and I liked the concept of how Kat met Ben, but after that, it became too cliche to hold my interest.
January 20, 2013
"Seven Years of Bad Luck," is a journey that sets you on a course of disdain and uncertainty. The characters are chasing after what everyone wants: love, commitment, and fulfillment. What course is one supposed to really follow? Does fate always play into one's life? With life not always on the same path as the one we've laid for ourselves, how shattered do you let your life become before you realize it is time to start all over?
Kathleen Cooper, aka Kat, certainly can tell you life has slapped her in the face a few too many times. She has been lead to believe that heartache is all that will consume her. Kat married Aidan, the love of her life. They have been married for seven years,within those seven years, she'd had the most excruciating moments to date. The man who once brought her happiness was now mentally and emotionally engulfing her in pain. See, Aidan is a man of many things: he has the appeal and desire of women, he is suave, and knows how to make women swoon. But Kat is not foolish and she sees the masks that Aidan wears, only he is her biggest downfall. She is weak to him; intimately and physically. She is in dire need of breaking free from this man, but how is this possible when you're life is consumed in a cycle you've become so accustomed to?
Kat has finally had enough of Aidan's betrayals, and decides to take matters into her own hands, and walk away. Alongside her Best-Friend Cheyenne, who after being kicked down plenty times as well, Kat is ready to venture forth towards a pursuit of happiness. Cheyenne and Kat decide their lives be best rebuilt in a new city. Starting from the ground up, these women find a place to live, job hunt, and begin to see through the haze of ugly. But before Kat can continue in her repairing journey of soul searching, she must tie up loose ends with Aidan.
With a brief stop at a bookstore Kat is met in an unfriendly way by the devilishly handsome Ben. He has the ego the size of Alaska, but he knows how to stop a woman in her tracks. Kat was taken back immediately by this beautiful yet brazen man. Inwardly she is reeling from that chance encounter, outwardly she is annoyed. She can't get him out of her mind but needs to so she can finally sweep Aidan out of her life, for good. Now she must make that brave last step with Aidan, divorce.
After the divorce proceedings, Kat needs to get back to reality and must get herself a job. Ben is the last thing on Kats mind after a few failed interviews, and is caught off guard when she realizes it is Ben who will be interviewing her. Ben does what he knows best, he charms Kat. He offers Kat the position, and without any other choice she accepts. She is still a little thrown, but knows Ben is affecting her ways a man hasn't in close to a year. What is it about a hot man in a suit?
Ben wants to pursue a relationship outside of work, and Kat agrees with some hesitations. Kat has insecurities with this; coworkers and clientele can see this as damaging. Ben is the man all women want, he is a gentleman, he is sexy, and he is very sweet. Ben knows how to please a woman, and that is exactly what he has in mind for Kat. Pleasure, lust, and a great time. He is willing to do just about anything to get that woman to be his, only he knows she has some inner demons working against them. How can he make her see that she is worthy of him and his heart?
These two have a very deep connection, something that Kat wasn't hoping to have so soon, considering Aidan ruined her for all men. This "thing" that they are sharing, is growing and it's continually scaring Kat. She is willing to work with him and date him, but not willing to take a bigger step. Why can't Kat just let her walls come down and let Ben in fully? Overcoming the fear of jumping in with both feet is hard especially when you have so much self doubt. Will Kat ever be able to pull herself out of her old shell? Can she determine if Ben is her soul-mate? Ben can only push so far, but will he be too easy to give up? Does he feel there is a future between these two? Will work interfere with this romance?
Being as this is J.L. Mac's debut novel, it is was brilliant. It was full of so many unexpected twists and turns. We see a woman who is so lost, wounded, looking for a new start, and possibly finding a new love, and J.L. Mac writes her like a Phoenix rising out of the ashes. Her words are piercing, gut wrenching, and tear gushers. I was blown away at everything that played out in this book, and how well thought out it was. J.L. Mac is an author to keep an eye on, she will continue to astonish us readers with her brilliance and stunning words. I recommend this book to anyone looking to walk a mile in Kat's shoes. I give this book 5 stars, it was absolutely wonderful. Thank you J.L. for writing such an awe-inspiring book!
Kathleen Cooper, aka Kat, certainly can tell you life has slapped her in the face a few too many times. She has been lead to believe that heartache is all that will consume her. Kat married Aidan, the love of her life. They have been married for seven years,within those seven years, she'd had the most excruciating moments to date. The man who once brought her happiness was now mentally and emotionally engulfing her in pain. See, Aidan is a man of many things: he has the appeal and desire of women, he is suave, and knows how to make women swoon. But Kat is not foolish and she sees the masks that Aidan wears, only he is her biggest downfall. She is weak to him; intimately and physically. She is in dire need of breaking free from this man, but how is this possible when you're life is consumed in a cycle you've become so accustomed to?
Kat has finally had enough of Aidan's betrayals, and decides to take matters into her own hands, and walk away. Alongside her Best-Friend Cheyenne, who after being kicked down plenty times as well, Kat is ready to venture forth towards a pursuit of happiness. Cheyenne and Kat decide their lives be best rebuilt in a new city. Starting from the ground up, these women find a place to live, job hunt, and begin to see through the haze of ugly. But before Kat can continue in her repairing journey of soul searching, she must tie up loose ends with Aidan.
With a brief stop at a bookstore Kat is met in an unfriendly way by the devilishly handsome Ben. He has the ego the size of Alaska, but he knows how to stop a woman in her tracks. Kat was taken back immediately by this beautiful yet brazen man. Inwardly she is reeling from that chance encounter, outwardly she is annoyed. She can't get him out of her mind but needs to so she can finally sweep Aidan out of her life, for good. Now she must make that brave last step with Aidan, divorce.
After the divorce proceedings, Kat needs to get back to reality and must get herself a job. Ben is the last thing on Kats mind after a few failed interviews, and is caught off guard when she realizes it is Ben who will be interviewing her. Ben does what he knows best, he charms Kat. He offers Kat the position, and without any other choice she accepts. She is still a little thrown, but knows Ben is affecting her ways a man hasn't in close to a year. What is it about a hot man in a suit?
Ben wants to pursue a relationship outside of work, and Kat agrees with some hesitations. Kat has insecurities with this; coworkers and clientele can see this as damaging. Ben is the man all women want, he is a gentleman, he is sexy, and he is very sweet. Ben knows how to please a woman, and that is exactly what he has in mind for Kat. Pleasure, lust, and a great time. He is willing to do just about anything to get that woman to be his, only he knows she has some inner demons working against them. How can he make her see that she is worthy of him and his heart?
These two have a very deep connection, something that Kat wasn't hoping to have so soon, considering Aidan ruined her for all men. This "thing" that they are sharing, is growing and it's continually scaring Kat. She is willing to work with him and date him, but not willing to take a bigger step. Why can't Kat just let her walls come down and let Ben in fully? Overcoming the fear of jumping in with both feet is hard especially when you have so much self doubt. Will Kat ever be able to pull herself out of her old shell? Can she determine if Ben is her soul-mate? Ben can only push so far, but will he be too easy to give up? Does he feel there is a future between these two? Will work interfere with this romance?
Being as this is J.L. Mac's debut novel, it is was brilliant. It was full of so many unexpected twists and turns. We see a woman who is so lost, wounded, looking for a new start, and possibly finding a new love, and J.L. Mac writes her like a Phoenix rising out of the ashes. Her words are piercing, gut wrenching, and tear gushers. I was blown away at everything that played out in this book, and how well thought out it was. J.L. Mac is an author to keep an eye on, she will continue to astonish us readers with her brilliance and stunning words. I recommend this book to anyone looking to walk a mile in Kat's shoes. I give this book 5 stars, it was absolutely wonderful. Thank you J.L. for writing such an awe-inspiring book!
January 24, 2013
SPOILER WARNING
***DO NOT READ THIS IF YOU HAVEN'T READ SEVEN YEARS OF BAD LUCK***
Whoa Baby! J.L. Mac hit it out of the park with her first book!
She can definitely pack in a powerful emotional punch in her writing. I was crying within the first few chapters, laughing throughout, crying again later, and on the edge of my seat a bit too!
In SYBL, Katherine, the heroine, has lost herself through seven years of staying in a horrible marriage that seemed wrong right from the start. Her husband Aidan was a serial cheater and always out of town on her birthday! I mean come on really, what kind of asshole does that? Aidan apparently. I was disgusted with his behavior and how he would act like everything was okay when he would come home and more irritated with Kat for putting up with his bullshit. I think we finally see a glimpse of goodness in Aidan after their loss in the hospital. *tear* Even so, it was too late for him. I cheered when Kat put on her big girl panties and walked out on her slimy husband!!!
"I realized that I am just as shattered as our marriage and I can't stand you for doing what you've done and I can't stand the sight of me for sticking around and letting it happen. I'm done."
Enter Hottie Mc.Hotterson Benjamin Chase!!!
Kat and her best friend Cheyenne move to Dallas and become roommates. While Kat is on her way to the airport she stops in at a bookstore to look for Chey a birthday gift. I love how Ben and Kat meet! He seems like such an ass at first but there is still something playful about him and she is definitely attracted to him!
"Ugh! Shit! Do I have extra panties readily available in my bag? I may need them thanks to Mr. Sex on legs. "
When Kat is in the airport after returning from El Paso, she clumsily trips and falls and hits her head pretty hard on the floor. And, who should be there to rescue her? None other than our gorgeous hero Benjamin Chase. *Swoon* I love how Kat tries to act tough around Ben but she can't help being affected by him.
I don't want to give too much away but he ends up rescuing her a few times and you just fall in love/lust with him more and more each time.
Oh!!! And, Holy Jesus Buckets, can J.L. Mac write a love scene! If the writing thing doesn't work out...wait who are we kidding, it will because she is awesome, okay so if J.L. Mac needs a side job, she could totally teach men how to please a woman!!! Bhahaha
Okay, seriously now, back to the review...
Kat has a few interviews lined up to be a paralegal and who is her third interview with? That's right!! Ben!!! He, of course, gives her the job right away and shows her around the office. Later on in the story, Kat walks in on a phone conversation that Ben is having about a man named John Murray. He is a bad, evil, man that she is warned to stay away from. Against her better judgement, she does some digging and finds herself caught up in a very bad situation. This whole bit had me on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen.
Towards the end of the book, I was so heartbroken to see that Kat just couldn't let go of her past and how it affected her and Ben's relationship. I thought Chey and Tucker's way of bringing them back together was freaking fantastic!!! Oh, and then ending!!!! Yay for HEA's!!!!
"I fell to pieces beneath him and was put back together all at the same time. I was his. I was whole."
Bravo J.L. Mac!!! Looking forward to much more from you.
Look for J.L.Mac's next book Wreck Me coming soon!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2013
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Seven Years of Bad Luck started off very promising. You meet 26 year-old Kat who is home alone while her husband Aidan is on a “business trip”. While Aidan is away, Kat come to the conclusion she wants a divorce from her husband who has had more affairs than she can count. She finally has courage to leave him and tells him pretty much the moment he walks through the door. I didn’t know the character of Kat very well yet but I was proud she finally had the balls to kick Aidan to the curb.
Kat moves to Dallas to start a new life, single. Her best friend Cheyenne comes with her and two are both trying to start fresh as divorcees. Kat meets a HOT domineering man in a bookstore named Ben. The two meet a few more times in strange ways and I was starting to think that Ben was a stalker or had something up his sleeve. I really wasn’t sure of him at first. Kat and Ben begin a very intense relationship very quickly. Ben is a very domineering man, not Christian Grey domineering but Ben is bossy towards Kat. I usually do not like men telling me where to sleep or sit or eat but I found it very sexy with Ben, especially in the bedroom. The book has some erotic scenes but I would not file this book under erotica.
As quickly as their relationship comes together it quickly falls apart. There is a bit of a crime/mystery in the book but I honestly found that part of the book confusing and boring. I understand there has to be some drama involved in the book but I think the author could have kept the drama on Aidan and him trying to win Kat back when she is dating Ben now. I found the men in the story to be more interesting and I was starting to really like Aidan by the end of the book.
The ending was sweet but predictable. I really loved the two male characters Ben and Aidan (more towards the end). I also really liked the flash back scenes between Aidan and Kat. I felt so sorry for Kat but also for Aidan, the two married so young and both had issues they had to overcome. I think the flashback scenes were my favorite parts of the book. Over all it was good book that was well written. It leaves off on a cliff hanger and I am curious what will happen next.
I give Seven Years of Bad Luck 3 Stars.
Seven Years of Bad Luck started off very promising. You meet 26 year-old Kat who is home alone while her husband Aidan is on a “business trip”. While Aidan is away, Kat come to the conclusion she wants a divorce from her husband who has had more affairs than she can count. She finally has courage to leave him and tells him pretty much the moment he walks through the door. I didn’t know the character of Kat very well yet but I was proud she finally had the balls to kick Aidan to the curb.
Kat moves to Dallas to start a new life, single. Her best friend Cheyenne comes with her and two are both trying to start fresh as divorcees. Kat meets a HOT domineering man in a bookstore named Ben. The two meet a few more times in strange ways and I was starting to think that Ben was a stalker or had something up his sleeve. I really wasn’t sure of him at first. Kat and Ben begin a very intense relationship very quickly. Ben is a very domineering man, not Christian Grey domineering but Ben is bossy towards Kat. I usually do not like men telling me where to sleep or sit or eat but I found it very sexy with Ben, especially in the bedroom. The book has some erotic scenes but I would not file this book under erotica.
As quickly as their relationship comes together it quickly falls apart. There is a bit of a crime/mystery in the book but I honestly found that part of the book confusing and boring. I understand there has to be some drama involved in the book but I think the author could have kept the drama on Aidan and him trying to win Kat back when she is dating Ben now. I found the men in the story to be more interesting and I was starting to really like Aidan by the end of the book.
The ending was sweet but predictable. I really loved the two male characters Ben and Aidan (more towards the end). I also really liked the flash back scenes between Aidan and Kat. I felt so sorry for Kat but also for Aidan, the two married so young and both had issues they had to overcome. I think the flashback scenes were my favorite parts of the book. Over all it was good book that was well written. It leaves off on a cliff hanger and I am curious what will happen next.
I give Seven Years of Bad Luck 3 Stars.
July 20, 2014
We start of with Kat, who is married to cheating d-bag, but Kat has had enough. Just as she is set to leave him and give her a piece of her mind - he slowly starts to seduce her. I loved that she got hers then....
...she leaves.
When Kat starts fresh she is bound and determined to find that feisty woman she once was. After 7 years of marriage she and her best friend Cheyenne are in a new city and making a go of it. Kat then meets her book thief, a hot asshole who has her mind racing. But she can't seem to escape Ben - he is everywhere.
Kat finds herself struggling to walk as she exits the airport and clumsy as ever finds herself sprawled on the floor then in Ben's arms.
Ben is drawn to Kat and in the process of forcing her to seek medical attention he becomes a bit demanding. But Kat is left swooning each time - unfulfilled. Then suddenly she comes across Ben once again - *not going to spoil that moment....for you though.... let's just say their next encounter is hot.
The romance between Kat and Ben have the makings for some fireworks and some alpha-male brought on drama, but there is a twist that is thrown into the mix that was unexpected. It changed the story's direction for a bit, but it all fit - but then Kat is forced to face her feelings and her past. Is she willing to give up her past so that she can have a future?
The epilogue leaves a burning question of whether or not there will be more to this story.... but other than that last sentence the story is tied up in a nice bow by the end. It was romantic, sexy and very sweet. It was a feel good romance with enough hotness from Mr. Ben Chase to ensure you were not on a sugar overload. And the fact that he was bossy & demanding just made him a bit hotter. Definitely a beautiful addition to my collection of book boyfriends.
...she leaves.
When Kat starts fresh she is bound and determined to find that feisty woman she once was. After 7 years of marriage she and her best friend Cheyenne are in a new city and making a go of it. Kat then meets her book thief, a hot asshole who has her mind racing. But she can't seem to escape Ben - he is everywhere.
Kat finds herself struggling to walk as she exits the airport and clumsy as ever finds herself sprawled on the floor then in Ben's arms.
Ben is drawn to Kat and in the process of forcing her to seek medical attention he becomes a bit demanding. But Kat is left swooning each time - unfulfilled. Then suddenly she comes across Ben once again - *not going to spoil that moment....for you though.... let's just say their next encounter is hot.
The romance between Kat and Ben have the makings for some fireworks and some alpha-male brought on drama, but there is a twist that is thrown into the mix that was unexpected. It changed the story's direction for a bit, but it all fit - but then Kat is forced to face her feelings and her past. Is she willing to give up her past so that she can have a future?
The epilogue leaves a burning question of whether or not there will be more to this story.... but other than that last sentence the story is tied up in a nice bow by the end. It was romantic, sexy and very sweet. It was a feel good romance with enough hotness from Mr. Ben Chase to ensure you were not on a sugar overload. And the fact that he was bossy & demanding just made him a bit hotter. Definitely a beautiful addition to my collection of book boyfriends.
February 26, 2013
Love the premise of the book. A*dore the hero, Benjamin. Love the hero/heroine together. The rest just was *off* for me. I can only surmise it was editing that was the culprit.
Some things were explained ad nauseam while others that perhaps *ought* to have been, weren't. To begin the book with a self-professed intelligent, empowered woman who stays with her repeatedly-been-caught-cheating husband for seven years ... s.e.v.e.n ... with little explanation other than he's hot, began the slippery slope. She wasn't abused, mentally or otherwise. She gave up her dreams and goals for this idiot. So certainly when Katherine breaks free to get back her mojo, I stood and cheered. There's a mystery that comes in near the end as an afterthought, meanders around a bit leaving me confounded. Then Katherine's cheating ex is reintroduced and he's welcomed back with open arms. W ... T ... F ....
There is a satisfying HEA albeit with a cliffhanger caveat. If I do invest in book 2, it'll be Benjamin Chase who can take credit.
Some things were explained ad nauseam while others that perhaps *ought* to have been, weren't. To begin the book with a self-professed intelligent, empowered woman who stays with her repeatedly-been-caught-cheating husband for seven years ... s.e.v.e.n ... with little explanation other than he's hot, began the slippery slope. She wasn't abused, mentally or otherwise. She gave up her dreams and goals for this idiot. So certainly when Katherine breaks free to get back her mojo, I stood and cheered. There's a mystery that comes in near the end as an afterthought, meanders around a bit leaving me confounded. Then Katherine's cheating ex is reintroduced and he's welcomed back with open arms. W ... T ... F ....
There is a satisfying HEA albeit with a cliffhanger caveat. If I do invest in book 2, it'll be Benjamin Chase who can take credit.
January 21, 2013
I had the pleasure to beta read this book for the lovely J.L. Mac; however my review is as unbiased as I can make it. Seven Years of Bad Luck is an extraordinary book and deserves more than a five star rating in my opinion. From the very beginning I was drawn in from the authors captivating way of painting each and every scene. I instantly fell in love with Kat and the heroine she was portrayed as. SYBL showcases real live struggles by hundreds of women whom have dealt with bad marriages. Kat was one of the lucky select few who manage to get out and begin a new, single life. That is until her bad luck lands her one hell of a sexy boyfriend, Ben. I was swooning during their first encounter in the book store to the last page. SYBL is a suspenseful and seductive read with an epic ending. So if you are reading this review to determine if it is worth your $3.99 purchase, trust me honey it is so worth.
July 19, 2015
I have to admit that this one started out a little slow for me, but I am so glad I kept at it until the end. Once Aidan was gone, the book really picked up. From the book store to the end, the chemistry between Kat and Ben had a hold on me. Just when Kat least expected it, Ben was there. I love the fact that Ben knew that Kat was wounded inside and still wanted her even when she wouldn't share with him what had happened. I love how Kat went all Nancy Drew when her boss specifically told her to not get involved. I also really love the fact that they both had friends who cared enough to intervene.
Needless to say, the sex was fan your face hot, hot, hot! This was my first experience with J.L. Mac but definitely not my last!
Needless to say, the sex was fan your face hot, hot, hot! This was my first experience with J.L. Mac but definitely not my last!
May 4, 2017
I hate giving a negative review, so I'm going to make this short.
Biggest frustration was entirely too much internal dialogue. The flow was choppy, the story was disjointed, and the conversations were stilted. I felt no connection to ANY of the characters. Something could have been here because the story started out OK, but I found myself easily distracted and nothing along the way really held my attention. Everything about the plot, writing and characters screamed mediocre. And above all, the "mystery/suspense" angle of the story felt forced and out of place.
When I got to the end, all I could think was
Biggest frustration was entirely too much internal dialogue. The flow was choppy, the story was disjointed, and the conversations were stilted. I felt no connection to ANY of the characters. Something could have been here because the story started out OK, but I found myself easily distracted and nothing along the way really held my attention. Everything about the plot, writing and characters screamed mediocre. And above all, the "mystery/suspense" angle of the story felt forced and out of place.
When I got to the end, all I could think was
January 30, 2013
3.5 Stars
Eh...this one was just okay for me. I was never really able to form much of a connection with any of the characters or the story. A lot of it was pretty far fetched.
I am also not a big fan of internal dialogue--more times then not I find it to be cheesy. There wasn't a lot in the beginning but around 20% in to the book it started. At that point I just skimmed over all of the internal dialogue...and a large portion of the remainder of the book.
I also noticed quite a few grammatical errors. Normally this is not an issue for me because I tend to skim read but several times I had to re-read parts due to words missing.
Eh...this one was just okay for me. I was never really able to form much of a connection with any of the characters or the story. A lot of it was pretty far fetched.
I am also not a big fan of internal dialogue--more times then not I find it to be cheesy. There wasn't a lot in the beginning but around 20% in to the book it started. At that point I just skimmed over all of the internal dialogue...and a large portion of the remainder of the book.
I also noticed quite a few grammatical errors. Normally this is not an issue for me because I tend to skim read but several times I had to re-read parts due to words missing.
February 11, 2013
What a great book! It has a bit of everything! Love, Loss, Trust, suspense, heartache. You can't help cheering for Kat and then you want to yell at her to see the bigger picture. Ben, yes he is strong and forceful and gets what he wants, but he has his side and you are also cheering for him to get the girl. The only thing I wished for were to be thoughts of Ben's feeling as Kat and him were apart. We know that he was hurt and feeling just like Kat when she came to his house under the pretence that he was hurt. Now what, will it be a second novel???
August 26, 2016
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Wow. Talk about a debut! Ms. J.L. Mac did an incredible job!
Seven Years of Bad Luck had every single thing a good New Adult book needs; romance, drama, comedy, angst, heartbreak, action…and lots and lots of sex. J.L. can write one hell of a steamy scene!
This had everything I look for in a book. It was such a great, powerful story of a women not finding herself for the first time like we most often see, but instead finding herself again. She knew the mistakes she made, learned from them, and eventually was able to move on and grow. And she was feisty and had a backbone, two things I love in a leading lady. Kathleen was a wonderful character!
Then enter Mr. Benjamin Chase…Oh sweet baby Jesus, he was wonderful! He was that perfect combination of a dominant alpha and a sensitive soul. He brought out the best in Kathleen…he even smacked her ass a few times. Who doesn’t love a good ass smack every now and then? No one. That’s who.
Would I recommend this book to our readers? Absolutely.
Which readers? All of them.
J.L. Mac is bound to write many more great novels, hopefully starting with a sequel to this amazing book. You’ve really outdone yourself, J.L. You should be very, very proud.
Wow. Talk about a debut! Ms. J.L. Mac did an incredible job!
Seven Years of Bad Luck had every single thing a good New Adult book needs; romance, drama, comedy, angst, heartbreak, action…and lots and lots of sex. J.L. can write one hell of a steamy scene!
This had everything I look for in a book. It was such a great, powerful story of a women not finding herself for the first time like we most often see, but instead finding herself again. She knew the mistakes she made, learned from them, and eventually was able to move on and grow. And she was feisty and had a backbone, two things I love in a leading lady. Kathleen was a wonderful character!
Then enter Mr. Benjamin Chase…Oh sweet baby Jesus, he was wonderful! He was that perfect combination of a dominant alpha and a sensitive soul. He brought out the best in Kathleen…he even smacked her ass a few times. Who doesn’t love a good ass smack every now and then? No one. That’s who.
Would I recommend this book to our readers? Absolutely.
Which readers? All of them.
J.L. Mac is bound to write many more great novels, hopefully starting with a sequel to this amazing book. You’ve really outdone yourself, J.L. You should be very, very proud.
February 20, 2014
Holy fuckin shit woman- You just gave me a new book boyfriend.... Thank you for giving me this amazing change to review ur book a I have enjoyed every moment and could not put it away.... During this book I have experienced so many wmotions which some are happiness, sadness, shock, nosey and the most experienced was awe......
Kathleen Cooper decides after 7 miserable years its time to end her marriage to Aiden Cooper. After discussing her thoughts and decisions with Chey her best friend, all is set in motion. What Kathleen doesnt know is that her life is about to change. For better or worse???? Well you will have to read and find out....
Goldenboy Benjamin Chase is a successful lawyer and one extremely hot guy. He has everything he needs or so he thinks until he meets the beautiful Kathleen Cooper.... And everything changes
Well I think thats enoufh shared for all the browsing eyes.... Make sure to get your copy otherwise I can guarantee you are missing out on so much. If i could this boom would get a 10/5 rating thats how freakin amazing it is.
Kathleen Cooper decides after 7 miserable years its time to end her marriage to Aiden Cooper. After discussing her thoughts and decisions with Chey her best friend, all is set in motion. What Kathleen doesnt know is that her life is about to change. For better or worse???? Well you will have to read and find out....
Goldenboy Benjamin Chase is a successful lawyer and one extremely hot guy. He has everything he needs or so he thinks until he meets the beautiful Kathleen Cooper.... And everything changes
Well I think thats enoufh shared for all the browsing eyes.... Make sure to get your copy otherwise I can guarantee you are missing out on so much. If i could this boom would get a 10/5 rating thats how freakin amazing it is.
January 29, 2013
A great read, loved the characters, the plot at times I was finding it hard to keep up..just thought a lot happened in a short space of time and in places it felt a bit rushed...loved the connection between Ben and Kathleen, their time apart was as frustrating as hell...she had finally got a backbone and then walked away at the most innocuous PDA...I was MAD!! Their chemistry was sizzling and was glad they got their HEA or have they???? With that ending I am not so sure....I presume this is a TBC????? I hope so!!
February 11, 2013
What a great book. Angst, lust, love, mystery, comedy all rolled up in one. Kat and her best friend both who are young and divorced are ready to move on and start life over after years of "bad Luck". I could not put the book down once I started. I loved the fact that it was not just a romance novel but a little suspense involved. Kat at first appears to be weak staying with a man who continues to have affairs but she ends up being pretty tough conquering all her fears, the bad guys and finding true love. I can't wait to read more from J.L. Mac.
January 23, 2013
So great to see a strong female lead again!!!! It seems like so many books are focusing on women who want to be controlled at all times! Don't get me wrong, I love me some Alpha males but It's so refreshing to read a book about a man who supports his woman & seeing their relationship grow!!!
December 30, 2012
Amazing. Kept my attention from chapter one on, I couldn't put it down. Ben and Kat share so much electricity. It made me giggle, cry and smile... sometimes all in one chapter. I give it 5 stars!
January 4, 2013
This book is J.L. Mac’s debut novel.
I want to starf off talking about the characters – I love that Kat had a BFF like Cheyenne and that they have both survived and stuck with each other through some rough times in their lives – everyone needs a BFF to lean on through the thick and thin. Kat’s journey to try to find herself again and a HEA was certainly not an easy road. It was interesting to see how she was choosing to overcome her past and try to get things back together again. Kat’s husband, Aidan of seven years – well I cannot say that he won me over, even though apparently he had quite the hold over Kat and she had an amazing weakness to his appearance. However, by the end of the book, he was able to redeem himself for me somewhat. Now, that leaves my favorite character of this book….Ben! Ladies, you may have a new book boyfriend……with his wavy brown hair, golden skin, blue-green eyes, with a tall and muscular frame….even though Ben was meant to come off obviously as arrogant and pretty much a jerk at first meeting….I had the feeling that was all a part of his game…..you will have to read the book to find out what won me over about Ben though…….there is definitely some major chemistry between Kat and Ben…..One thing is for sure, J.L. certainly can write one heck of a steamy scene J
The beginning of the book was a little slow for me as I kept waiting for something big to happen….but when Ben came into the picture it picked up on some steam for me (literally – LOL). The second half of the book has so many unexpected twists and turns that I did not necessarily see coming. I can’t say that I was not a little confused at times though as things happened very quickly and I feel some things were kind of left hanging a bit or feeling like I missed something ….which now after reading it seemed to be intentional as the ending definitely left it open for a second book to come.
I originally thought this book was going to be more about Kat picking up the pieces of a failed marriage and her trying to put the pieces back together again, but like I said there were a lot of twist and turns that I did not see coming which definitely gave the book more action and put a different twist on the story.
I want to starf off talking about the characters – I love that Kat had a BFF like Cheyenne and that they have both survived and stuck with each other through some rough times in their lives – everyone needs a BFF to lean on through the thick and thin. Kat’s journey to try to find herself again and a HEA was certainly not an easy road. It was interesting to see how she was choosing to overcome her past and try to get things back together again. Kat’s husband, Aidan of seven years – well I cannot say that he won me over, even though apparently he had quite the hold over Kat and she had an amazing weakness to his appearance. However, by the end of the book, he was able to redeem himself for me somewhat. Now, that leaves my favorite character of this book….Ben! Ladies, you may have a new book boyfriend……with his wavy brown hair, golden skin, blue-green eyes, with a tall and muscular frame….even though Ben was meant to come off obviously as arrogant and pretty much a jerk at first meeting….I had the feeling that was all a part of his game…..you will have to read the book to find out what won me over about Ben though…….there is definitely some major chemistry between Kat and Ben…..One thing is for sure, J.L. certainly can write one heck of a steamy scene J
The beginning of the book was a little slow for me as I kept waiting for something big to happen….but when Ben came into the picture it picked up on some steam for me (literally – LOL). The second half of the book has so many unexpected twists and turns that I did not necessarily see coming. I can’t say that I was not a little confused at times though as things happened very quickly and I feel some things were kind of left hanging a bit or feeling like I missed something ….which now after reading it seemed to be intentional as the ending definitely left it open for a second book to come.
I originally thought this book was going to be more about Kat picking up the pieces of a failed marriage and her trying to put the pieces back together again, but like I said there were a lot of twist and turns that I did not see coming which definitely gave the book more action and put a different twist on the story.
February 23, 2013
A good read but with at times grammatical errors that did not detract from the experience. The beginning is really good but I found my interest waning half the way through because of repeated thoughts from Kat (the main female character)interfered with my enjoyment. The story of a wronged female in a marriage that left her aspirations for a career placed on the back burner was interesting. A jerk of a husband learns too late what he is giving up in a wife but relinquishes his hold for now. At times Kat is a wounded soul and at other times she is strong and focused which is why I felt irritated with the story when she waffles too much. When she serendipitously meets her soul mate things starts to look up for her but then the waffling begins again. Whats with her finding the love of her life but can't say the three words?? There are good parts in this book especially the friendship of Cheyenne and when Kat gets her act together. Kat's family seems an after thought and were not fully introduced especially in one scene when they arrive after a traumatic event. I hope the author takes note of her reviews for future books in this series and improves because I for one would like to know more about these people. A good first attempt and one author I will look for in the future.
March 12, 2013
*This review was done by Kim a Guest Reviewer for Sugar and Spice Book Reviews and is also listed under her goodreads account*
ANOTHER 5 STAR BOOK!!! You absolutely rock J.L. Mac.
This is my second book that I have read from J.L. Mac. When I chose to review this book, I was totally unaware I had read one of her books already. Well believe me no disappointment. Your writing is so amazing and realistic. The banter is so right on it makes you feel as though you are part of the conversation. OH my freaking goodness there is so much about this book that is AMAZING. You made sure you covered every feeling possible (love, hate, revenge, violence, lust, etc...etc....).
Like all my reviews, I am not going to give a description of the story or any spoilers because that is not what my reviews are about. I want people to know through my reviews how I felt about the book and its story line. Both books I have read from J.L. Mac are SO WORTH every penny spent. She has an amazing ability to bring the reader into the story and feeling every part of it.
J.L. Mac continue the AMAZING work....Not sure if there will be another book in this story....but the ending leads to the possibility...so I hope there will be one.
ANOTHER 5 STAR BOOK!!! You absolutely rock J.L. Mac.
This is my second book that I have read from J.L. Mac. When I chose to review this book, I was totally unaware I had read one of her books already. Well believe me no disappointment. Your writing is so amazing and realistic. The banter is so right on it makes you feel as though you are part of the conversation. OH my freaking goodness there is so much about this book that is AMAZING. You made sure you covered every feeling possible (love, hate, revenge, violence, lust, etc...etc....).
Like all my reviews, I am not going to give a description of the story or any spoilers because that is not what my reviews are about. I want people to know through my reviews how I felt about the book and its story line. Both books I have read from J.L. Mac are SO WORTH every penny spent. She has an amazing ability to bring the reader into the story and feeling every part of it.
J.L. Mac continue the AMAZING work....Not sure if there will be another book in this story....but the ending leads to the possibility...so I hope there will be one.
February 24, 2013
Im afraid that I did not love Kat in this book. I felt that most of her inner monologue was one minute self defacing and sad, then she would become a complete shallow narcissist. At first I felt bad for her and wanted to hope for her. But as the book droned on I felt that I didn't care what happend to her at all. All of her so called "heartbreaking" mistakes seemed just like life.
I felt I was being forced to feel bad for someone who really didn't need to have my sympathy. Then I was supposed to be thrilled that she got her happy ending because she had been through SO MUCH. The BIG drama of this story was unecessary and didn't have a real reason to even involve Kat.
In the end I was less than excited by this book. It was just alright. Pointless characters having pointless plotlines. Not the worst book ever but not the best either. I found myself skipping alot to get to more relevant story lines.
I felt I was being forced to feel bad for someone who really didn't need to have my sympathy. Then I was supposed to be thrilled that she got her happy ending because she had been through SO MUCH. The BIG drama of this story was unecessary and didn't have a real reason to even involve Kat.
In the end I was less than excited by this book. It was just alright. Pointless characters having pointless plotlines. Not the worst book ever but not the best either. I found myself skipping alot to get to more relevant story lines.
February 21, 2013
First I'd like to say thank you to JL Mac I won a copy of this book from her Facebook page thank goodness cause this was one amazing story.
This is a story about Katherine (Kat) who's decides one day after she breaks her husbands favorite coffee cup, after seven long years of marriage she's had enough. She moves in with her best friend chey and moves to a new city and starts a whole new life for her self what she didn't count on was running into Ben on her way to finalize her divorce. It's was one story I can honestly say I had no idea what was coming next the twist and turns make u want to hug your kindle or throw it. Its a fantastic read well written and very refreshing. Loved this book
Check out her Facebook pages she's always posting great songs and contest check out her new book as well wreck me
This is a story about Katherine (Kat) who's decides one day after she breaks her husbands favorite coffee cup, after seven long years of marriage she's had enough. She moves in with her best friend chey and moves to a new city and starts a whole new life for her self what she didn't count on was running into Ben on her way to finalize her divorce. It's was one story I can honestly say I had no idea what was coming next the twist and turns make u want to hug your kindle or throw it. Its a fantastic read well written and very refreshing. Loved this book
Check out her Facebook pages she's always posting great songs and contest check out her new book as well wreck me
February 21, 2014
I did receive this book as an ARC for an honest review. I do live all of her books. I must say I could not put this book down. I did stay up all night reading it.
Benjamin Chase is my new book boyfriend. I love everything about him. Kathleen went through he'll with her first husband and lost herself in the process. This book was about finding herself again and finding a great guy in the process. She did go through ups and downs with her relationship with Benjamin but in the end it did work out!
I can't wait for the next book to see what happens with the crazy lady Janis and why she is the crazy person that she is.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in a really good book.
Benjamin Chase is my new book boyfriend. I love everything about him. Kathleen went through he'll with her first husband and lost herself in the process. This book was about finding herself again and finding a great guy in the process. She did go through ups and downs with her relationship with Benjamin but in the end it did work out!
I can't wait for the next book to see what happens with the crazy lady Janis and why she is the crazy person that she is.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in a really good book.
January 26, 2013
I liked the over all story there were a few parts that I paged through as I wanted to get to the heart of the matter. The story with Ben and Kat is very sweet. He seems to be a dominate man w/o major dominance in the bedroom. They are both brilliant people and it shows in their work. Women often have hang ups that we need to get over and Kat has her own issues she feels she has to hang onto w/o letting go. If she would let go she'd see she was involved w/ the man of her dreams. Through trials and tribulations they may find themselves apart or together. You'll have to read to find out! :-)
January 31, 2013
Well, I just finished it and I have to say that this book was fantastic! It was funny, sexy, and an extremely exciting book! I loved Kat, my favorite books are from the first person pov, and Kat was just an awesome, hilariously funny, kick ass character. Ben? Oh dear Lord baby Jesus! I want Ben! Ben is my new book boyfriend! He is hot, smoking hot, with a fine ass dirty mouth, lol. He is demanding, authoritative, and he pushes, hard and fast ; ) This was a great read, there is a cliffhanger, however it doesn't leave you aching and frantic at the end, it just leaves you wanting more. Can't wait for the next book! Now I must go and devour the Internet for information on book 2!
February 26, 2014
I think I experienced every emotion in my arsenal while reading Seven Years of Bad Luck. Kat and Chey were a great comic relief. I loved Kat and Ben had sparks flying from the start.
I at about 60%, I literally felt like I was reading a whole different book. I really enjoyed the whole book but the transition to the second half was so sudden. I liked the first half, the second half blew me away.
I at about 60%, I literally felt like I was reading a whole different book. I really enjoyed the whole book but the transition to the second half was so sudden. I liked the first half, the second half blew me away.
February 24, 2013
Yep. Just as I thought, I was not disappointed. This was a GREAT book...until the last page. I found myself reading slower the farther along I got in the book. Can't wait for the next book!!! This has me laughing out loud, tears creeping down my cheek a few times and rooting for the good for these characters. Loving the fact that I tried this author! Take the chance with this book.
February 17, 2013
Well what can I say about seven years of bad luck it is a wonderful book to read I read it in one day I couldn't put it down and I was nearly late for work. Everyone should read it can't wait for the next book
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