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A Cup of #3

A Cup of Fate

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Theo Watson wasn’t just the one who got away—he was the one I shoved away. He wanted more than our no-strings hookups, but I don’t believe in love or happily-ever-afters. When I told him that, we ended for good.

Or so I thought.

Now, with my life in shambles, I need Theo more than ever. He’s the best bartender in the city, and the only one who can help me win a high-stakes cocktail competition. The cash prize could save me— but spending every day with Theo? That might destroy me all over again.

The man I hurt hasn’t forgiven me, but the spark between us refuses to die. The more time I spend around Theo, the harder it is to avoid the truth I’ve been running from all along.

Why does adulting have to be so hard?

394 pages, ebook

First published March 28, 2024

9 people are currently reading
110 people want to read

About the author

Alexis Gorgun

6 books60 followers
Alexis Gorgun writes swoon-worthy stories full of sass and spice.

Every book features a bold, sassy heroine who will captivate and inspire you, and the infuriatingly stubborn man who can't help but fall for her. Brace yourself for moments so intense, you'll want to throw your book across the room—before racing back to pick it up.

Prepare for unforgettable chemistry, heartfelt moments, and an ending that will leave you smiling long after the final page.

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5 stars
42 (44%)
4 stars
35 (37%)
3 stars
14 (14%)
2 stars
3 (3%)
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0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for Kathryn.
659 reviews9 followers
March 27, 2024
I received an advanced copy, and this is my honest review.
If I could give more stars, I would. This is definitely a top read for the year, and I've already read a few goodies. Alexis has a way to draw you in, keep you hooked, and dish out a contemporary tale that even a die-hard dark romance reader can not get enough of. This isn't my first book of hers, but she is hands down my favorite contemporary author. Her characters are relatable and loveable. You will find yourself cheering them on and itching for more. And as soon as Foo Foo was introduced, I found myself dying with laughter and looking for more. That cat needs it own novel! Hands down, read this book, you will not be disappointed!
Profile Image for Iris Van Der Meulen.
56 reviews1 follower
April 2, 2024
This book,
This book is everything I have ever dreamed of. It kidnapped my soul there was no way out. I even dreamed about it at some point it makes me want to make new cocktails about my life. I dont even know how but I want it. When I wasnt reading the book I was constantly thinking about it.
The character development was once again through the roof. Alexis her writing will always have my heart.
She is such an amazing soul.
Her writing makes me feel so much better. Cant wait for her other books.
A cup of wonderlust was amazing but this book topped it all.
Definitely recommend
7 reviews
March 28, 2024
I just finished this book and can say this book was amazing.
I was lucky to get an ARC and finished it within a few days. The book follows Ruby who has a traumatic past and can’t trust easily. Her relationship with Theo is heart warming, they both grow together and it’s so lovely to see. I love their relationship, from being fwb to finally wanting to be together. The main plot is centred around a cocktail competition which made things so interesting! I could literally feel their passion for making cocktails dripping off the pages. The open-door spiced made it even better. Just a great book overall like the others in the series ♥️
Highly recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sara  || Bookish Boulevard Reviews.
22 reviews
March 25, 2024
“You’re a Kitsuné, and don’t you forget it.”


SUMMARY  

Ruby, our FMC is working hard to make ends meet so to help her, Emma her sister signs her up for the Cocktail competition the thing is she does not know how to make a decent cocktail so in comes our MMC, Theo Watson, who owns a cocktail bar and is a very good mixologist. But the thing is, he and Ruby had an occasional hookup kind of thingy, but he wanted more and she did not, so they ended on a sour term. Now, she needs his help so she has to ask him and see where that takes them.

TROPES  

 ⯌Best friend’s brother

 ⯌Slow burn 

 ⯌Second chance

 ⯌No 3rd act breakup

 ⯌ Frenemies to lover

 ⯌HEA

REVIEW

THE BOOK

This is the book that I read in one sitting. I was like; you know what? I will just read another chapter and then go study, but that never happens. This is the first book I read by the author and I loved it. I am so curious about the other couples that I will definitely read their book next. And I loved the competition dynamic, and it was such a good read.

So now to our main couple, Ruby and Theo, they were so good together. There was chemistry and their character development was on track as the book continues.

And Ruby is so badass taking care of two teenagers by herself is difficult and she nailed it. I loved the relationship between her sister, Ian, and Ruby. Theo is just a perfect person. I liked that he is like very down to earth and so understanding.

THE WRITING STYLE

I love dual POV and it is so perfectly done. This was so well-researched and detailed, I liked that. I don’t know much about cocktails, but you made it very exciting. The story was very clear, with no plot holes or anything.

CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER  

1. A Cup of Zodiac
2.A Cup of Wanderlust: A Forced Proximity, Vacation, Romantic Comedy (A Cup of Book 2)
3.A Cup of Fate: A Second Chance Romantic Comedy

FAVOURITE QUOTES  

“More like you’re reading it for the winged bad boys and their huge. Or the hot women who can hold their own in battle.”


~ACOTAR reference 

“To me, love can be passionate and intense, but also fleeting and temporary. It’s a weapon used to manipulate. But what I want is devotion—commitment, selflessness, deep and undying loyalty. That’s what he sings about, and I realize I never had that with Brock. I’ve never had that with anyone”


~AHHHHHHHHHH This quote has my heart

“Not when sex will not change anything between us. Not when I want more than she’s able to give, and I have to find a way to make peace with that. ”


~Poor theo 😭

“My experience with love is toxic with a capital T.”


~My moto from now on lol

” No one has ever fought for my wants, my desires. Not like he is doing now.”


~CRIIIIIIIIIIIII

I received an ARC of this book at no cost from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Patty .
1,360 reviews7 followers
March 27, 2024
This is the second installment in the Cup of Series and my second book by Alexis Gorgun. It was absolutely fun and highly entertaining. I loved the concept of the plot line and how it centers around self love and self esteem issues. The characters are wonderful. Each one has a big personality. Full of so much life and light.

Ruby is sassy, strong for everyone, except her own self. She struggles with self love and this book is a testament to her journey of self discovery and love. Theo is smart, loyal and totally in love with Ruby. Has been for many years, but now they are not speaking and he must move on. Only Ruby has other plans.

This book is a great big adventure. We get to tag along and visit wonderful places and experience so many traditions and culture. Tokyo was amazing and I loved all the little tid bits and descriptions. Not only is this an adventure but a lesson in loving one self. I struggle with this from time to time and found that the book was very inspiring and relatable. A wonderful story through and through.

I am so glad that I came across Alexis Gorgun. Her books are wonderful reads, full of inspiration and happiness. Her characters have much depth and are extremely well developed. Her story plots are adventurous and full of fun and laughs. I recommend any of her books, especially this one.

Overall this book is a page turner full of inspiration, comedy, sass and most importantly....love. It is well written with beautiful looks into other places around the world that will have readers full of wonder. I highly suggest her books to anyone who is not afraid of a little cry, especially when the whole book will instill wonder and happiness. Feel good stories.
153 reviews3 followers
March 30, 2024
This story really gripped me on a personal level. I could easily related to the main girl Ruby, maybe bot on evrything she been through, but I could the emotions she felt.

She was scared to let go, to be herself or to love anyone (even herself) she had been dealt a lot of bad cards that she couldn't see all the good in her life. Put up walls to everyone and feeling umworthy of anything more than the mess she became.

Thanks to her lovely friends and family and her one true love, she finally found the person she was trully meant to be. She opened her heart to real love and ended up with so much more than she ever thought possible. People believed in her, she just had to believe in herself too.

The moral of the story is to never give up on yourself, your dreams or eveb finding true love. Anything is possible if you just only believe and allow yourself to break from the chains that hold you back.

Its ok to feel scared, its ok to care for others, but its also ok to care for yourself and let yourself go. Explore, dream and throw yourself out there. We are the ones who have the power to make anything possible. So use that power wisely.

I loved every minute of this story, made me feel so many emotions and helped me learn to love myself again. To realise I put too much on myswlf and don't give myself enough credit for the good I do and the things I have achieved in my life. Because I have only ever really focused on the negatives in my life, instead of all the positives.

So thank you author for writing this book, that really made me reavulate myself. 🥰
Profile Image for Clarissa.
460 reviews20 followers
March 29, 2024
This was my first book by Alexis Gorgun but it won't be my last. She had such a straight forward writing style that I was able to relate to the characters and immediately find myself rooting for their success. Ruby in particular was such a complex character that was someone you can easily see yourself in because she's struggling through figuring out what she wants to do with the rest of her life while also putting her own wants and needs on the back burner in favor of putting her resources into the people that she loves. She's just stubborn enough to lose the love of her life without even letting herself admit that it's happening but boy oh boy was it fun to read her story. Theo is everything you ever wished for in a partner and then some. I loved that the book starts off with the two at odds with each other because he wanted more and she put the brakes on their secret relationship. He is adult enough to recognize what he needs and ask for it and then to protect himself, he's strong enough to endure heartache for the greater good. There were so many great elements here from their rekindling friendship to relationship, the travel, the friendships, and the deep love all around.

Highly recommend!!

-- forced proximity
-- friends to lovers
-- second chances
-- travel
-- broken heart
243 reviews4 followers
April 1, 2024
A cup of fate is a fun and light-hearted second chance romance. Ruby's sister has signed her up of a mixology contest, the winner gets a huge prize and their own bar. Only problem is Ruby's only experience with cocktails is drinking them. Theo is a childhood best friend who she had a fling with but it did not end well since Ruby is scared of commitment. Theo owns a bar and is willing to help Ruby learn all there is to know about mixology. The two are sweet together, but also hilarious. I love their chemistry and banter. Some themes in the book are not as light such as parental neglect and previous abuse by a boyfriend (all of which is off page). These aspects add to the complexity of the characters but do not take away from the comedy. I love the "A Cup of" series as each couple are brilliant and so different. This can be read alone though there is some mingling of character from previous books and references to events from those books. However it does not take away from the story. I recommend this book for romance readers especially those who like a little spice mixed in to their romantic comedy.
Profile Image for Menthie.
671 reviews4 followers
March 23, 2024
A Cup of Zodiac
By Alexis Gorgun


ONG THIS AUTHOR .... unbelievable.
Incredible.

Let me tell you about this book without spoiling too much


1. Ruby is our resiliant FMC, who raised her sister because her parents suck. She refuses to take any help from anyone because she doesn't want to owe them or rely on them. She is so strong.

2. Theo is a love struck go getter. Like when he sets his sights on something, he achieves it. But he is having a hard time because he is at odds with his muse.

3. The spice is icy, frigid, and creamy.
Who knew popsicle play could be so friggin erotic?

The character development was amazing.
The internal conflicts & personal growth happen organically & it doesn't feel forced.
The chemistry between the MCs is devine. It's strong & real. The relationship is based on a solid foundation, the rough times where only hurdles for them to overcome & strengthen their bond.

Overall, this story was so FUN !!!

@alexisgorgunauthor is so amazing as an author. Her vision is clear & concise.
Her writing is fun, emotional, sexy, and addicting.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
6,625 reviews238 followers
March 28, 2024
I have not read the other two books in this series but that is ok as this book can be read as a stand-alone book. This book did have the right amount of balance between humor and romance. Ruby and Theo went from enemies to lovers with their second chance romance.

I liked that Theo coached Ruby and did not overwhelm her by pushing her to do better than the other competitors. He just helped to bring out her inspiration that she had all along within herself. The trip they took to Tokyo really was an eye opener for Ruby. You could tell as the competition progressed and she was able to tell stories with her drinks. Maximillian may be the harshest judge in the competition, but he grew on me, and I liked him. He did give good advice even if his delivery was not the best.

Theo and Ruby shared some steamy scenes together when they finally gave into their feelings for each other again.

I will be checking out more books by this author.
Profile Image for Lisa Albright.
1,801 reviews69 followers
April 7, 2024
This is such a fun second chance romance with a cocktail mixing contest that mimics the format of Dancing With the Stars. Theo is so patient and encouraging with Ruby and you can feel the genuine love they share due to growing up as friends. I also liked Ruby's nuturing relationships with Emmy and Ian and her desire to give them a home. Ruby's determination to succeed is admirable and I loved her attitude that begrudgingly wins her the respect of her harshest critic. It's always nice to run into characters from previous books and I enjoyed the close friendship they share as couples. This is the 3rd book in the Cup Of series and while it can be read as a standalone, I found it more enjoyable knowing the secondary characters/couples backstories that are also great reads.

I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,063 reviews
March 30, 2024
A Cup of Fate is a great second chance, rom-com story! What you get.......
♡Best Friend's Brother
♡Secret Relationship
♡Second Chance Romance
♡Frenemies to Lovers
♡Halloween-Themed Bar
♡Slow Burn
♡Found Family
♡Rom-Com
♡Sassy Fury Friend 🐈‍⬛🐈‍⬛
♡Some Spice
♡Great Chemistry
♡Great Banter
♡🚫3rd act breakup

Reading about the struggles Ruby has gone through in life and how she locks her heart away from everyone is heartbreaking. She gets signed up for a cocktail competition. Asks Theo to help train her on mixology. He agrees, and their frenemies to lovers chemistry starts to grow. The growth with the characters is amazing, and I loved the banter between everyone! This was a great series, and I loved reading about all our favorite characters!
Profile Image for Victoria Fine.
Author 2 books7 followers
March 30, 2024
I’m giving this 3.5 stars ONLY because there was some unexpected back door play that is not my cup of tea. This book was so cute and fast paced! A perfect little romance. Ex-lovers cross paths again when one of them enters a mixology competition and needs help from the reigning bartender in all of Portland. The tension was there from the very beginning and there was a lot of depth to the characters. I found Ruby and her past trauma to be extremely relatable, which only made me root for her even more. I won’t share any spoilers, but I think the way the author ended the book was actually more perfect than I could have imagined. I really enjoyed it — highly recommend it, especially if you like back door play.
Profile Image for Natalie (Novels__&__Needles).
625 reviews33 followers
March 29, 2024
Received as an ARC in return for my honest review.

🍸 Frenemies to lovers
🍸 Second chance
🍸 Best friend’s brother
🍸 Slow burn
🍸 Rom com
🍸 No third act breakup 🙌🏻

This is the third book in the cup series, I hadn’t read the others going into this and did so with a little trepidation in case it was all completely lost on me. Thankfully that wasn’t the case and I was very much able to follow along with the story and surrounding characters.

I flew through this book like nobody’s business, the writing style was really nicely done and a refreshing take on the age old romance com story. I’ll definitely be going back to read the other two books in this series.
Profile Image for Amy.
1,495 reviews35 followers
March 24, 2024
“Choose the path of most resistance to find your fate.”

A Cup Of Fate was a fun, second chance by a new to me author. Theo and Ruby were a delight and I loved watching them both confront their own fears. Their relationship had always been hidden in the shadows, but watching them admit to the truth of their own feelings to themselves and to their friends was so beautifully heartwarming. I found both characters to be well-developed and likeable and this second chance romance was a fast read that’s filled with humor, heat, and heart.
Profile Image for Mel.
68 reviews2 followers
April 3, 2024
She’s done it again. I absolutely adore following this series and all of the characters in it. I never thought I could love a dynamic more than Bree/Hayden but Ruby/Theo are topping it. The depth in her character was beautiful and I loved the build up to be honest. It’s nice to have the HEA but also great to have a bit of conflict without a third act. Foofoo might be the best book pet I’ve read about in recent months lol. Too much. This Theo thought giving such good daddy vibes. Oof. I can’t wait to see what other Cup Alexis decides to fill in the future. Jules? Mmm let’s see.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sarah.
2,071 reviews
April 8, 2024
This was a fun one.
I really liked Ruby. She has had a rough life, raising her little sister when their parents abandoned them. Then taking in her sister's best friend. Then paying for her sister to go to college. Then she gets an opportunity to enter a mixology competition...but she's also trying a second chance with Theo.

Theo and his family have helped Ruby as much as they could and gave her a bit of a semblance of a normal childhood when they were in the same city. I thought he and his brothers were a riot.

Fun book and I can't wait to read the previous books.
Profile Image for Ella Larkin.
8 reviews2 followers
March 23, 2024
I found that the story was hard to get into at first. But towards the halfway point I got into in. I’ve never read a second chance romance before so this was interesting. I’m happy this story was my first introduction to the trope. It was easy to follow and the plot was simple and d executed well. Over all I like it and would read again further down the line. The series as a whole is a good series and each book has a different adventure
Profile Image for Mick Loves Books.
539 reviews78 followers
March 27, 2024
I am loving this series. Each new book becomes my favorite. I loved how strong Ruby’s character was. She’s no pushover and a hard worker. Theo is perfect. We all want a Theo, who wants to be there for us but also knows when to step back and trust us. I adore them together. It was also so nice catch up with the characters from the first two books. I so want to be in their friend group. This is a must read for all.
Profile Image for Emily.
34 reviews
March 28, 2024
I LOVE IT! The beauty of the story breaks my heart and makes it whole again. I cried. Alexis Gorgun knows how to deal with hard topics and how to make things right in the world. Each of the books in this series kept getting better and to culminate with ACOF needs to be award winning.

Ruby and Theo deserve each other in all the best ways. I love the ending with Ruby doing things all her own way.

Alexis you are amazing!!!
Profile Image for Crystal Boyer.
274 reviews9 followers
April 8, 2024
Ruby, a sassy barista, enters a cocktail competition for the cash prize. She enlists her old fling, Theo, to train her. Their chemistry sizzles, and unexpected feelings resurface. “A Cup of Fate” is a delightful rom-com with humor, banter, and second chances. Together, Ruby and Theo create a magnetic duo. Whether they’re shaking martinis or stirring up old emotions, Ruby and Theo keep us hooked until the last drop.

Note: “A Cup of Fate” is part of the ‘Cup of’ series by Alexis Gorgun.
11 reviews
March 30, 2024
A Cup of Fate is a delightful romcom that was a refreshing and an entertaining read which balances romance, comedy and meaningful themes. I love the banter between the characters and the second chance romance trope. But most of all, I love the black cat, FooFoo. They were the perfect comedic and sassy companion that cat owners will relate to. I can’t wait to read more of Alexis’s books.
4 reviews
April 8, 2024
The "A Cup of" series is great fun to read and Cup of Fate is the best one yet. Having characters that were introduced already, particulary in the first book of the series, allowed for a more in-depth story. The book was a compelling read -- I eagerly followed each twist and turn as I cheered for the characters. Spoiler alert --- the scenes set in Tokyo were particularly vibrant and engaging.
Profile Image for Jessica young.
98 reviews
May 15, 2024
Omg loved this book I connected so much with ruby if you want to have all the feels happy sad crying mess at times this is the book for you this book is amazing another amazing read from Alexis gorgun thank you I truly love this whole series this deserve more then 5 stars but since that’s the highest I can rate I will go with it absolutely loved it and recommend this whole series
4 reviews
April 4, 2024
It took me a little bit to get into the book. But once I did, I couldn’t put it down. I got this as an advanced copy. The only thing I wish I had known going into this book is that it was the third book. But even without reading the other two books, I was able to follow along easily.
7 reviews
April 15, 2024
Holy shit!!! Wat een goed boek. Toen ik eenmaal begon met lezen kon ik niet meer stoppen. Vandaag begonnen en geëindigd. Zo mooi verhaal over Ruby en Theo. Hou der van dat je steeds in beide hun perspectief kon kijken.
Profile Image for Amanda.
67 reviews1 follower
April 22, 2024
I have never read this author before and I really enjoyed her writing style. I basically read this book in one setting. I could not put it down. The characters had such great banter and chemistry. Must Read!
Profile Image for WaterLillyBooks.
192 reviews5 followers
March 24, 2024
I received an ARC for my free and honest review

I loved the story of Ruby and Theo. The story’s pacing was great and I loved the push and pull between these two. Such a great series
137 reviews2 followers
April 11, 2024
Spicy, best friend's brother, talks about mental health and healing childhood traumas, controlling ex, friends to lovers, found family
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews

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