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The Whittingtons #2
The Gamble
My husband devours me with every glance.
Kisses me like he’s starved and I’m his only sustenance.
And when he holds me in his arms, the whole world fades away.
There’s just one problem.
It’s all pretend because he won me in a card game.
Let me rewind.
I’m no shrinking violet and I’m no one’s idea of a pushover,
But when a gorgeous stranger goes to this much trouble to get my attention,
I’m also secretly flattered.
I storm his office with the plan. I’ll tell him exactly what I think of his game…
Then find myself leaving it on unsteady legs, and wearing his engagement ring.
Raif needs a wife for one year and I need the money he pledges.
But there’s no such thing as easy cash with a man as calculated as he is charming.
As seductive as he is possessive.
The more time we spend together, the more I begin to wonder which of us is bluffing.
But he has a secret—the deck is stacked.
Too bad I'm already all in.
The Gamble is a deliciously steamy and swoony, banter-filled standalone romance featuring a marriage of convenience between a heroine who could start an argument in an empty room and a smexy (he falls first & hardest) billionaire. It includes fun, family, fire, and that all important happily ever after!
Kisses me like he’s starved and I’m his only sustenance.
And when he holds me in his arms, the whole world fades away.
There’s just one problem.
It’s all pretend because he won me in a card game.
Let me rewind.
I’m no shrinking violet and I’m no one’s idea of a pushover,
But when a gorgeous stranger goes to this much trouble to get my attention,
I’m also secretly flattered.
I storm his office with the plan. I’ll tell him exactly what I think of his game…
Then find myself leaving it on unsteady legs, and wearing his engagement ring.
Raif needs a wife for one year and I need the money he pledges.
But there’s no such thing as easy cash with a man as calculated as he is charming.
As seductive as he is possessive.
The more time we spend together, the more I begin to wonder which of us is bluffing.
But he has a secret—the deck is stacked.
Too bad I'm already all in.
The Gamble is a deliciously steamy and swoony, banter-filled standalone romance featuring a marriage of convenience between a heroine who could start an argument in an empty room and a smexy (he falls first & hardest) billionaire. It includes fun, family, fire, and that all important happily ever after!
490 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 14, 2024
2501 people are currently reading
2112 people want to read
About the author
Donna Alam
44 books2,119 followersDonna Alam is a #7 Amazon Kindle store and USA Today bestseller. A writer of love stories with heart, humour, and heat, she aspires to sprinkle a little joy into the lives of her readers. When not bashing away at her keyboard, she can often be found hiding from her responsibilities with a book in her hand and a mop of a dog at her feet.
Hear all the news by joining her newsletter below or pop in and say hello in her private reader group, Donna Alam's Lambs.
Lambs - https://bit.ly/DALambs
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Hear all the news by joining her newsletter below or pop in and say hello in her private reader group, Donna Alam's Lambs.
Lambs - https://bit.ly/DALambs
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
May 29, 2024
I skimmed this after about 50% because it was so...umm rambling? I can't think of a better word at this point.
If you like a lot (and I mean a lot) of banter with very little stakes or plot movement than you will love this book. It hooks you in the first few pages and the steamy desk scene, keeps the fast pace going with more salty banter during the "marriage ceremony" but after the couple returns to England it slooooowwws to a crawl.
It's like a video game where the side quests take up so much of your energy you just start skipping around to get to the end.
My last thing is about the banter itself. As I'm not British I only felt some of the vibes as certain phrases and words didn't hit them same for me. It's not that I couldn't understand the point the character was making I just don't think the funny or sassy beat hit the same.
Examples, the characters calls some woman googling her man from a park a "yummy mummy". No clue what that means.
The character is hungry so she says ".. so hungry my bum could eat the mattress". Again, not sure what we are trying to say here. I can she's hungry but that's just a weird phrase.
If you like a lot (and I mean a lot) of banter with very little stakes or plot movement than you will love this book. It hooks you in the first few pages and the steamy desk scene, keeps the fast pace going with more salty banter during the "marriage ceremony" but after the couple returns to England it slooooowwws to a crawl.
It's like a video game where the side quests take up so much of your energy you just start skipping around to get to the end.
My last thing is about the banter itself. As I'm not British I only felt some of the vibes as certain phrases and words didn't hit them same for me. It's not that I couldn't understand the point the character was making I just don't think the funny or sassy beat hit the same.
Examples, the characters calls some woman googling her man from a park a "yummy mummy". No clue what that means.
The character is hungry so she says ".. so hungry my bum could eat the mattress". Again, not sure what we are trying to say here. I can she's hungry but that's just a weird phrase.
May 17, 2024
This story was the most unexpected combination of slow burn and spicy. I adored watching Lavender and Raif’s battle to get the upper hand in their “relationship”. There’s so much snappy banter and pure snarkiness, I wanted to declare Lavender my spirit animal for those traits alone. It was kind of incredible seeing these very guarded hearts open up and learn to trust one another. It was also loads of fun being back in the bosom of the Whittington clan again, and seeing all their over-the-top-ness and how fiercely they love and care for one another. I may have only just finished reading this book, but I already want to immerse myself back in the author’s world to do it all over again.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
June 19, 2024
mid. not mad. I hate when books try to reference super current things like the mob wife aesthetic ???? uh what. plot was exactly as expected. spicy scenes okay. the beginning was enticing but slowed towards mid / end overall average imho
May 19, 2024
What a fabulous read
The rapport from the start for the two main characters and repartee between them made this a fabulous read. There were laugh out loud moments, that added to the brilliance of this story - the backstories set the scene for the decisions made by Lavender and Raif, Daisy was a real treat, and the other characters - young and old - all added to the hilarity, the seriousness, the family and the LOVE that featured in this story. Donna Alam writes a damn fine tale. Can’t wait for the next one.
The rapport from the start for the two main characters and repartee between them made this a fabulous read. There were laugh out loud moments, that added to the brilliance of this story - the backstories set the scene for the decisions made by Lavender and Raif, Daisy was a real treat, and the other characters - young and old - all added to the hilarity, the seriousness, the family and the LOVE that featured in this story. Donna Alam writes a damn fine tale. Can’t wait for the next one.
June 5, 2024
DNF @ 5%
FMC and MMC start getting hot and heavy like 20 pages in right after she finds out he won her in a poker game. The amount of times ‘oh!’ in italics was used in a few short pages drove me to stop reading.
FMC and MMC start getting hot and heavy like 20 pages in right after she finds out he won her in a poker game. The amount of times ‘oh!’ in italics was used in a few short pages drove me to stop reading.
June 1, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up. First book by this author and it was a very pleasant surprise. Enjoyed the slow burn and the witty banter.
Read
July 12, 2024DNF after 48%. The plot pace is way too slow. I don’t care anymore.
November 26, 2024
This book took awhile to fully capture my attention. The whole premise of the book and the convenient marriage didn't really gel with me, and I found myself a bit weary waiting for more details as the book went on.
That being said, the book turned out not to be as bad I thought initially, providing me with some entertainment and laughter in the latter half.
While I'm not sure I would describe myself as overly eager to read any other of the stories in the series, I think I still will.
That being said, the book turned out not to be as bad I thought initially, providing me with some entertainment and laughter in the latter half.
While I'm not sure I would describe myself as overly eager to read any other of the stories in the series, I think I still will.
Read
September 11, 2024September 11, 2024
DNF @16%
Nope. I’m done with this book. I’m not wasting my time and energy.
The book was super problematic to begin with. First, Lavender lets a guys she just met give her oral while having feelings for another man. Some love. The same man (Raif) blackmails her into marrying him. I was already feeling weird that they’d had intimate contact before the marriage contract but I decided to give this book a chance.
Things got worse. Let me tell- no, let me show you:
“The fact is, a wedding—”
“Civil ceremony.”
“—requires consummation.”
“Says who?” She screws her nose up in disbelief.
“The law. More specifically, The Matrimonial Causes Act of 1973,”—I’m kind of glad Lachlan insisted on this discussion—“which states the inability or refusal to consummate a marriage is grounds for annulment. And that’s a risk I won’t take.”
“As I said, that’s not a risk I’m willing to take. I don’t need this marriage to look legitimate. I need it to be legitimate.”
“It’s not like I’m expecting her to fuck me and not be into it. Because she was into it. The things she said, the noises she made that, hours later, still make me hard.”
- So coercing her is okay because she had that kind of reaction?
“I want double,” she demands as her head comes up quick. “Double your original offer.”
- 🤢
“One million for the arrangement. Two with a wedding night. Sleep in my bed every night, and I’ll double it.”
And:
“You can’t…” Something flickered on her face, but it was gone before I could make sense of it. “Pressure me. Say stuff that you think might make me give in.”
- ………. Like blackmailing her? Threatening to ruin her business, her reputation, her family’s reputation? That’s not pressuring her?
“Yeah, it is. Besides, you don’t have enough money for a second time.”
- 🤮🤮
- Is this supposed to be ✨empowering✨?
Finally,
“I should be counting the ways I’m going to fuck her and how much each fuck will cost, not getting annoyed over faceless men.”
I don’t care that these two will eventually have a happily ever after. The way the relationship started gives me the ick. Like I said, it already started off on a weird note but then reading all this? Hard no.
It’s bad enough that he’s blackmailing her into marrying him, but to then to force—yes, force —a consummation? No matter how’s it dressed up (she negotiated, they’re both attracted to each other, etc), it left me feeling like there was a layer of ick all over me. Sure, she gets to decide when and where the consummation happens but the fact of the matter is, she HAS to pick a time. Even if she doesn’t want to, she HAS to. And she’s getting paid extra to have sex with him.
If she wants to completely back out, guess what? He’ll destroy her life.
Now tell me, is that choice? Is that true consent? And he was 100% trying to take advantage because he has a $1.2 million car. He was going to pay her $1 million after one year of marriage while also trying to sneak in the sex clause.
Take away the “romance”. Take away the lust and pretty, rose-coloured glasses and what’re we left with? An older man who targeted a vulnerable young woman, and is now exploiting her.
Remember, this was all in the first 16%.
DNF @16%
Nope. I’m done with this book. I’m not wasting my time and energy.
The book was super problematic to begin with. First, Lavender lets a guys she just met give her oral while having feelings for another man. Some love. The same man (Raif) blackmails her into marrying him. I was already feeling weird that they’d had intimate contact before the marriage contract but I decided to give this book a chance.
Things got worse. Let me tell- no, let me show you:
“The fact is, a wedding—”
“Civil ceremony.”
“—requires consummation.”
“Says who?” She screws her nose up in disbelief.
“The law. More specifically, The Matrimonial Causes Act of 1973,”—I’m kind of glad Lachlan insisted on this discussion—“which states the inability or refusal to consummate a marriage is grounds for annulment. And that’s a risk I won’t take.”
“As I said, that’s not a risk I’m willing to take. I don’t need this marriage to look legitimate. I need it to be legitimate.”
“It’s not like I’m expecting her to fuck me and not be into it. Because she was into it. The things she said, the noises she made that, hours later, still make me hard.”
- So coercing her is okay because she had that kind of reaction?
“I want double,” she demands as her head comes up quick. “Double your original offer.”
- 🤢
“One million for the arrangement. Two with a wedding night. Sleep in my bed every night, and I’ll double it.”
And:
“You can’t…” Something flickered on her face, but it was gone before I could make sense of it. “Pressure me. Say stuff that you think might make me give in.”
- ………. Like blackmailing her? Threatening to ruin her business, her reputation, her family’s reputation? That’s not pressuring her?
“Yeah, it is. Besides, you don’t have enough money for a second time.”
- 🤮🤮
- Is this supposed to be ✨empowering✨?
Finally,
“I should be counting the ways I’m going to fuck her and how much each fuck will cost, not getting annoyed over faceless men.”
I don’t care that these two will eventually have a happily ever after. The way the relationship started gives me the ick. Like I said, it already started off on a weird note but then reading all this? Hard no.
It’s bad enough that he’s blackmailing her into marrying him, but to then to force—yes, force —a consummation? No matter how’s it dressed up (she negotiated, they’re both attracted to each other, etc), it left me feeling like there was a layer of ick all over me. Sure, she gets to decide when and where the consummation happens but the fact of the matter is, she HAS to pick a time. Even if she doesn’t want to, she HAS to. And she’s getting paid extra to have sex with him.
If she wants to completely back out, guess what? He’ll destroy her life.
Now tell me, is that choice? Is that true consent? And he was 100% trying to take advantage because he has a $1.2 million car. He was going to pay her $1 million after one year of marriage while also trying to sneak in the sex clause.
Take away the “romance”. Take away the lust and pretty, rose-coloured glasses and what’re we left with? An older man who targeted a vulnerable young woman, and is now exploiting her.
Remember, this was all in the first 16%.
January 5, 2025
My first read of 2025 and I absolutely loved it.
I don’t have much to say about this book other than having your so called best friend / guy who you think you’re in love with bet you in a game of poker and lose is fucking crazy. Having it end in an arranged marriage and you gaining 5 million + a car in the end is WILD 🤪
I absolutely loved Lavender and Raifs relationship from the very beginning. The way he captured her and broke down her walls. The way she finally opened up and let someone in after that traumatic encounter with her ex. Just everything about them was so good. The plot, their chemistry, the hot scenes, the whole Daisy storyline was so good. The way they made such a cute and perfect little family. I was so happy for Lavender. Absolutely loved this book!
♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️
“What if I wanted to call you my wife because you are my wife. Because I want you to be my wife - because you want to be my wife. For real.” ——— “Maybe I want you to be my husband.” ——— “Let’s stop pretending we both don’t feel this.” ——— “Are you proposing?” ——— “The truth is, I like you more than I planned for. I like your feistiness and your mouth. Your kindness and your wit. How you are with Daisy. How you are with me. I’d be a fucking fool to believe any of my feelings are pretend. If you want me on my knees, I’ll do it and do it right. I want you, Lavender. I’m all in.”
“You’re mine. Not hers. And I love you.” ——— I love you, Lavender. I love you so hard it hurts. We’re living our happy ending. All in princess.”
“If love is maddening, I don’t ever need sanity again.”
“That was quite a risk you took tonight.” ——— “Some might say a gamble, but all’s fair in love and cards, princess.”
I don’t have much to say about this book other than having your so called best friend / guy who you think you’re in love with bet you in a game of poker and lose is fucking crazy. Having it end in an arranged marriage and you gaining 5 million + a car in the end is WILD 🤪
I absolutely loved Lavender and Raifs relationship from the very beginning. The way he captured her and broke down her walls. The way she finally opened up and let someone in after that traumatic encounter with her ex. Just everything about them was so good. The plot, their chemistry, the hot scenes, the whole Daisy storyline was so good. The way they made such a cute and perfect little family. I was so happy for Lavender. Absolutely loved this book!
♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️♥️♠️
“What if I wanted to call you my wife because you are my wife. Because I want you to be my wife - because you want to be my wife. For real.” ——— “Maybe I want you to be my husband.” ——— “Let’s stop pretending we both don’t feel this.” ——— “Are you proposing?” ——— “The truth is, I like you more than I planned for. I like your feistiness and your mouth. Your kindness and your wit. How you are with Daisy. How you are with me. I’d be a fucking fool to believe any of my feelings are pretend. If you want me on my knees, I’ll do it and do it right. I want you, Lavender. I’m all in.”
“You’re mine. Not hers. And I love you.” ——— I love you, Lavender. I love you so hard it hurts. We’re living our happy ending. All in princess.”
“If love is maddening, I don’t ever need sanity again.”
“That was quite a risk you took tonight.” ——— “Some might say a gamble, but all’s fair in love and cards, princess.”
May 31, 2024
I instantly loved Lavender! From the moment she found out what Tod had done, she put on her armor and went to battle, and I was loving it! Raif was more enigmatic, but no less likable or enjoyable!
The moment they come together is pure fire! Every. Single. Time! And I was absolutely basking in their verbal sparring! They both gave as good as they got. They had amazing chemistry together, and when they turned up the steam…it was hotter than hades!!
There were a couple of layers to Raif’s reasoning as to why he did what he did to secure Lavender’s hand in marriage, but only one of them had the power to come back and bite him.
I honestly loved just about every moment in this book, even the tough ones when difficult situations were revealed. There was the first truly intimate scene that did leave me a bit perplexed. Why did he choose that particular position when it was their first time? Even Lavender questioned it in her mind, but I don’t feel like there was really an answer.
Overall, this book was fantastic! The characters were great, the storyline kept me interested the whole time, and I didn’t want it to end!
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Bad Boy Update and am voluntarily leaving an honest opinion.
The moment they come together is pure fire! Every. Single. Time! And I was absolutely basking in their verbal sparring! They both gave as good as they got. They had amazing chemistry together, and when they turned up the steam…it was hotter than hades!!
There were a couple of layers to Raif’s reasoning as to why he did what he did to secure Lavender’s hand in marriage, but only one of them had the power to come back and bite him.
I honestly loved just about every moment in this book, even the tough ones when difficult situations were revealed. There was the first truly intimate scene that did leave me a bit perplexed. Why did he choose that particular position when it was their first time? Even Lavender questioned it in her mind, but I don’t feel like there was really an answer.
Overall, this book was fantastic! The characters were great, the storyline kept me interested the whole time, and I didn’t want it to end!
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Bad Boy Update and am voluntarily leaving an honest opinion.
June 3, 2024
2.5 stars
What I Liked:
Lavender's sense of humor and wittiness carried this book for the most part. Raif was your classic, tall, dark and handsome, mysterious, bad boy, self-made (kinda?) billionaire. I loved the side characters and the banter with the siblings. The storyline was good, but
What I Didn't Like:
Lavender can be reaalllly immature at times. Annoyingly so. I felt as if it was more of a character flaw that she needed to work on throughout the story. But that wasn't the case. Or maybe it was because I didn't read the epilouge.
Raif's sporadic scenes of beating people up was... I didn't get it.
This book needed a good edit or two before being published. There were typos, missing punctuation, and incorrect dialogue tags. Honestly, I'm not even that picky if it happens a few times, not the case in this book. I felt like I was reading the second draft rather than the final edit. I also skimmed large portions of unnecessary text (IMO!), especially intimate scenes. I was just not into them, but that could just be a mood thing.
I did enjoy the book, I think. So, 2.5 stars.
What I Liked:
Lavender's sense of humor and wittiness carried this book for the most part. Raif was your classic, tall, dark and handsome, mysterious, bad boy, self-made (kinda?) billionaire. I loved the side characters and the banter with the siblings. The storyline was good, but
What I Didn't Like:
Lavender can be reaalllly immature at times. Annoyingly so. I felt as if it was more of a character flaw that she needed to work on throughout the story. But that wasn't the case. Or maybe it was because I didn't read the epilouge.
Raif's sporadic scenes of beating people up was... I didn't get it.
This book needed a good edit or two before being published. There were typos, missing punctuation, and incorrect dialogue tags. Honestly, I'm not even that picky if it happens a few times, not the case in this book. I felt like I was reading the second draft rather than the final edit. I also skimmed large portions of unnecessary text (IMO!), especially intimate scenes. I was just not into them, but that could just be a mood thing.
I did enjoy the book, I think. So, 2.5 stars.
May 23, 2024
This book is about Lavender Whittington one of the Whittington kids from The Interview. It’s a marriage of convenience, sort of enemies to lovers situation.
Lavender is the middle sister who in the past has been a little out of control after her father died. This book explains the trauma. She’s currently the owner of an art gallery financed by Whit her older brother.
She goes to a party with her friend Tod. There Tod “loses” her in a card game to Raif. There’s instant chemistry when they come together. But Raif has secrets when proposes a marriage of convenience.
The book moves quickly from there. Of course there’s a moment where lies are unveiled and Lavender and Raif separate before coming back together. Really enjoyed getting to know Lavender and reading about the Whittington family again. Read this from Kindle Unlimited.
Lavender is the middle sister who in the past has been a little out of control after her father died. This book explains the trauma. She’s currently the owner of an art gallery financed by Whit her older brother.
She goes to a party with her friend Tod. There Tod “loses” her in a card game to Raif. There’s instant chemistry when they come together. But Raif has secrets when proposes a marriage of convenience.
The book moves quickly from there. Of course there’s a moment where lies are unveiled and Lavender and Raif separate before coming back together. Really enjoyed getting to know Lavender and reading about the Whittington family again. Read this from Kindle Unlimited.
July 29, 2024
Good overall
I can't exactly give it four stars, it's good fluff. The spice was yummy yay, it was predictable, the climax came and went I was clear what the drama would be.
It felt very fairytale like and I was ok with it. The part I hate was the author giving a bonus in order to get us to sign up, fyi I tried and never got the bonus but it's like manipulative come on! You hint at HEA and yet in order to see them later if they get pregnant etc we have to jump through hoops.
Leaves me with no respect for the author. She gives him a gift at the end he never opens ok so we can guess it's a positive pregnancy test but rather than just giving us the peace of mind....games.
So dropped it to three stars.
I hate being left bitter at the end taints the experience...that's what an epilogue is for.
I can't exactly give it four stars, it's good fluff. The spice was yummy yay, it was predictable, the climax came and went I was clear what the drama would be.
It felt very fairytale like and I was ok with it. The part I hate was the author giving a bonus in order to get us to sign up, fyi I tried and never got the bonus but it's like manipulative come on! You hint at HEA and yet in order to see them later if they get pregnant etc we have to jump through hoops.
Leaves me with no respect for the author. She gives him a gift at the end he never opens ok so we can guess it's a positive pregnancy test but rather than just giving us the peace of mind....games.
So dropped it to three stars.
I hate being left bitter at the end taints the experience...that's what an epilogue is for.
May 31, 2024
Rating: 3.4
I love the plethora of inside jokes between the couple, specifically when they were interacting with others. I think it emphasize the intimacy with one another and the progression of their relationship. I would’ve loved the book more if there wasn’t a third act breakup. The breakup didn’t even make sense. If homegirl wanted to be mad at something she should’ve been mad that he blackmailed her in the first place not some petty revenge that was obvious from the freaking beginning. I really enjoyed the book but the break up was so annoying.
Breakdown:
Meetcute - 3/5
Build Up - 3.5/5
Climax/Conflict - 2.5/5
Resolution - 2/5
Ending/Epilogue - 3/5
Honorable Mentions:
Humor (+0.1), Dialogue (+0.2), Writing Style (+0.2)
I love the plethora of inside jokes between the couple, specifically when they were interacting with others. I think it emphasize the intimacy with one another and the progression of their relationship. I would’ve loved the book more if there wasn’t a third act breakup. The breakup didn’t even make sense. If homegirl wanted to be mad at something she should’ve been mad that he blackmailed her in the first place not some petty revenge that was obvious from the freaking beginning. I really enjoyed the book but the break up was so annoying.
Breakdown:
Meetcute - 3/5
Build Up - 3.5/5
Climax/Conflict - 2.5/5
Resolution - 2/5
Ending/Epilogue - 3/5
Honorable Mentions:
Humor (+0.1), Dialogue (+0.2), Writing Style (+0.2)
August 5, 2024
Another winner for me from this author!
Raif Deveraux has a questionable reputation but there's no denying that he does things with purpose. I loved how much he wanted to do right by his niece, Daisy - even using extreme measures. Lavender Whittington is the most misunderstood member of her large family. Her sassy and sarcastic exterior hides a vulnerable, loving heart. Both Raif and Lavender carried hidden scars but the love that sprung up between them thrilled me. The sexual tension between them was hot, the trust that built up between them was heartmelting, and I adored the connection that grew between Lavender and Daisy. This was a such a fab, amusing and steamy read! Loved it!
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/review/RHR43GC...
Raif Deveraux has a questionable reputation but there's no denying that he does things with purpose. I loved how much he wanted to do right by his niece, Daisy - even using extreme measures. Lavender Whittington is the most misunderstood member of her large family. Her sassy and sarcastic exterior hides a vulnerable, loving heart. Both Raif and Lavender carried hidden scars but the love that sprung up between them thrilled me. The sexual tension between them was hot, the trust that built up between them was heartmelting, and I adored the connection that grew between Lavender and Daisy. This was a such a fab, amusing and steamy read! Loved it!
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/review/RHR43GC...
April 5, 2025
Forced marriage trope
This author is the queen of dirty talk and phenomenal steamy scenes, with a particularly great job of the scenes being very "female-focused". But this book was much more than just steamy- it has a well-developed plot with believable intricacies and emotional development, as well as development of relationships beyond just the love interest. Trigger warning for sexual assault & allusions to child neglect/possible psychological abuse? Even that is handled delicately and as appropriate for the story/plot. The primary love interest does NOT do toxic things (beyond the initial blackmail/bribe for marriage, but we soon find out it was for noble reasons!). Another truly enjoyable book, and definitely will be reading more!
This author is the queen of dirty talk and phenomenal steamy scenes, with a particularly great job of the scenes being very "female-focused". But this book was much more than just steamy- it has a well-developed plot with believable intricacies and emotional development, as well as development of relationships beyond just the love interest. Trigger warning for sexual assault & allusions to child neglect/possible psychological abuse? Even that is handled delicately and as appropriate for the story/plot. The primary love interest does NOT do toxic things (beyond the initial blackmail/bribe for marriage, but we soon find out it was for noble reasons!). Another truly enjoyable book, and definitely will be reading more!
May 23, 2024
Take a gamble on this book -
I love this book. It’s a lovely twist on a regency romance with the whole ‘won in a poker game’ thing. Lavender, the MFC, is wonderful. I particularly like that she was prickly, defensive and ascerbic and didn’t change through the entire book. This notion that love will turn someone into an entirely new being is ridiculous. Raif falls in love with all of Lavender, the good and the bad. As for Raif, how can you not love his morally grey manipulations and watch it all get the better of him. Donna Alam excels at writing believable characters that you root for as well as writing in a beautiful descriptive style. Highly recommend.
I love this book. It’s a lovely twist on a regency romance with the whole ‘won in a poker game’ thing. Lavender, the MFC, is wonderful. I particularly like that she was prickly, defensive and ascerbic and didn’t change through the entire book. This notion that love will turn someone into an entirely new being is ridiculous. Raif falls in love with all of Lavender, the good and the bad. As for Raif, how can you not love his morally grey manipulations and watch it all get the better of him. Donna Alam excels at writing believable characters that you root for as well as writing in a beautiful descriptive style. Highly recommend.
June 11, 2024
Lavender owns and runs her own art gallery and one night when she is out with a friend everything changes for her. Her friend bets her in a game and loses her to Raif. Sparks fly between her and Raif, but nothing is going to be easy. Raif wants to get to know her and maybe see where that may go. There are some complications that pop up during this time. Can she overlook some things Raif does to be with him?
This is a great story that will captivate you from beginning to end. This is a well written and very entertaining story. Its a book that any book lover would enjoy.
I voluntary read and reviewed this for Bad Boy Update.
This is a great story that will captivate you from beginning to end. This is a well written and very entertaining story. Its a book that any book lover would enjoy.
I voluntary read and reviewed this for Bad Boy Update.
August 27, 2024
Notes for me to remember
Billionaire (maybe mafia a bit, defo a bit dodgy)
Girl, that thinks is a disaster, also thinks her family sort of hates her and thinks of her the worst
Arranged marriage
Yeah this was fun, gave me all the feels too. The plot twist or third act break up was a little thin for me, because she knew from the top that there was something else going on between her brother and her new husband and yet it came as a surprise at the end?
One think, we don't call it soccer, Donna, you know this, what is this? You use "cheeky nandos" but call it soccer?? I'm mad....mad!
Ok bai 👉👈
Billionaire (maybe mafia a bit, defo a bit dodgy)
Girl, that thinks is a disaster, also thinks her family sort of hates her and thinks of her the worst
Arranged marriage
Yeah this was fun, gave me all the feels too. The plot twist or third act break up was a little thin for me, because she knew from the top that there was something else going on between her brother and her new husband and yet it came as a surprise at the end?
One think, we don't call it soccer, Donna, you know this, what is this? You use "cheeky nandos" but call it soccer?? I'm mad....mad!
Ok bai 👉👈
May 20, 2024
This was an unexpected treat of a read. The two main characters have great rapport even with the situation they find themselves in and Lavender's "make the best of it" attitude is refreshing. As the story unfolds you see how they slowly build trust and open up to one another. Really good secondary characters and great banter keep you reading to the last page. There is a lovely world created with the Whittington's that makes you want to go back and read more. Enjoy!
I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.
May 28, 2024
Donna Alan is one author that is on my must read list, no matter what it is, and The Gamble did not disappoint.
Lavender was such a fun and quirky FMC and the way she was able to spar back and forth with Raif was great. The banter between these two was great, my only qualm with the book is that sometimes it was a little hard to follow on who was saying what. Otherwise this book was great, the right amount of spice to plot ratio.
Tropes:
Forced proximity
Marriage of convenience
Single dad
Definitely read the TW before starting as it does cover a topic which may not be for everyone.
Lavender was such a fun and quirky FMC and the way she was able to spar back and forth with Raif was great. The banter between these two was great, my only qualm with the book is that sometimes it was a little hard to follow on who was saying what. Otherwise this book was great, the right amount of spice to plot ratio.
Tropes:
Forced proximity
Marriage of convenience
Single dad
Definitely read the TW before starting as it does cover a topic which may not be for everyone.
May 30, 2024
I love Donna Alam's books and this is no exception! Raif never leaves anything to chance, and so Lavender becomes the debt that must be paid. I love the chemistry they have, and the banter makes it that much better. It just gets better as the back story comes to light. Lavender quickly finds out that nothing is exactly what is seems, both good and bad, and the more time she spends with Raif the more she is intrigued by him. I love the twists and turns, the drama, the sweetness and the steam!
I received this ARC from Bad Boy Updates.
I received this ARC from Bad Boy Updates.
June 1, 2024
Donna Alam is gifted
It’s not easy to like/love difficult people. It’s nearly impossible to WRITE a character that is difficult AND likeable ! Ms. Alam is amazing at character development! More importantly, she excels at letting her characters ‘push’ the story through their interactions. No mind-numbing inner-dialogue to spell it out, as if a reader is dimwitted. Lavender is a masterpiece of character complexity She and Raif ‘get’ each other. When sadly, others only see their sharp edges. Well done DA
It’s not easy to like/love difficult people. It’s nearly impossible to WRITE a character that is difficult AND likeable ! Ms. Alam is amazing at character development! More importantly, she excels at letting her characters ‘push’ the story through their interactions. No mind-numbing inner-dialogue to spell it out, as if a reader is dimwitted. Lavender is a masterpiece of character complexity She and Raif ‘get’ each other. When sadly, others only see their sharp edges. Well done DA
June 1, 2024
He Never Has To Surrende
Patriarchial Parable.
So sad.
She had to accept the belief that he believes he can fall in love with someone while dehumanising and blackmailing them.
Where's the other half the fucking book?
When does he surrender control?
Snore.
Can't relate to people with mo backbone and can be bought with cars and love bombs.
Snore.
"Love".
Shallow control.
Some people have no will but to will others impose on them.
Would have been nice to see her recover from his lies and force him to be better.
Patriarchial Parable.
So sad.
She had to accept the belief that he believes he can fall in love with someone while dehumanising and blackmailing them.
Where's the other half the fucking book?
When does he surrender control?
Snore.
Can't relate to people with mo backbone and can be bought with cars and love bombs.
Snore.
"Love".
Shallow control.
Some people have no will but to will others impose on them.
Would have been nice to see her recover from his lies and force him to be better.
June 2, 2024
Raif and Lavender
This fake marriage romance between an older, rather morally dubious rich man and the feisty but emotionally damaged younger girl was total escapism and an easy read. I liked that Raif declared his feelings first, but was exasperated by Lavender running away at the angst moment. Why can't couples just talk things through? I know we have to go through the trough in the story arc, but their relationship had developed nicely up to that point. I realised there were a couple of related titles I hadn't read first too. An enjoyable read though.
This fake marriage romance between an older, rather morally dubious rich man and the feisty but emotionally damaged younger girl was total escapism and an easy read. I liked that Raif declared his feelings first, but was exasperated by Lavender running away at the angst moment. Why can't couples just talk things through? I know we have to go through the trough in the story arc, but their relationship had developed nicely up to that point. I realised there were a couple of related titles I hadn't read first too. An enjoyable read though.
June 12, 2024
Things were good until the end. If you know me you know my crazy little obsession with grovelling.
I’d say 3.5 stars until the grand reveal.
I want to see the hurt, the angst, the pride being buried, the tears, the realisation that everything you have built might have been for nada. I was so looking forward for that, and let me say, Lavender is such a dramatic person, I really expected something big. There was none of it. 0 grovel. No feelings. My expectations were crushed.
2 stars it is.
I’d say 3.5 stars until the grand reveal.
I want to see the hurt, the angst, the pride being buried, the tears, the realisation that everything you have built might have been for nada. I was so looking forward for that, and let me say, Lavender is such a dramatic person, I really expected something big. There was none of it. 0 grovel. No feelings. My expectations were crushed.
2 stars it is.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2024
I really enjoyed this book, Donna writes a fabulous romance.
Lavender and Raif are the stars of the show with their fake marriage.
Raif is a handsome businessman involved in some dodgy dealings. Lavender is an art gallery owner who puts on a good show but has some horrific demons in her past that have left some mental scars.
Raif soon realises that all he wants to do is protect her and that their romance is no longer fake but the real deal. We see them go on a journey together, and I was with them every step of the way to their happy ever after.
Lavender and Raif are the stars of the show with their fake marriage.
Raif is a handsome businessman involved in some dodgy dealings. Lavender is an art gallery owner who puts on a good show but has some horrific demons in her past that have left some mental scars.
Raif soon realises that all he wants to do is protect her and that their romance is no longer fake but the real deal. We see them go on a journey together, and I was with them every step of the way to their happy ever after.
August 11, 2024
This was my second Donna Alam book and I'm happy to have stumbled upon her work. I don't want to belabor my main point, which is: HOLY FECKING HELL THE SPICY SCENES ARE AMAZING!!! I mean, Alam doesn't waste any time jumping into this story of Tod gambling away his "friend" Lavender to Raif for marriage. Yes please, may I have some more???
But truly, Raif and Lavender have a fun little love story that is wrapped up in all the sex/sensual tension a reader needs to fall madly in love with these characters. Alam writes the FMC and MMC to fall in love with one another over the period of the "debt to marry" and the sweetness that Lavender is written with is just precious, especially when it comes to Raif's daughter, Daisy. That said, and in consideration of my comments about the spiciness of this little book, Alam also handled the topic of rape with sensitivity and grace. She added to the narrative as Lavender's former boyfriend and rapist shows up to continue his taunting of Lavender in the hopes of blackmailing her for more money. When Raif sees what is happening, the hero comes to life and saves the day (why do I find that insulting yet a turn on?). What I also appreciated in Alam's approach to navigating Lavender's survivorship is how the consummation of Lavender's marriage to Raif was written as Lavender's choice of the timing and setting. She held the power to consummate, emboldening her to arrest victimhood for her survivorship and conquering her own sexuality. This was empowering.
And if you're not one to read epilogues, I want to encourage you to abandon the practice and READ THIS EPILOGUE. Alam brought the laughter with Gus talking about how to make babies. Imma just leave this little nugget right here with the hope that you read the epilogue of this book ... READ ALL OF THE EPILOGUES!!!
But truly, Raif and Lavender have a fun little love story that is wrapped up in all the sex/sensual tension a reader needs to fall madly in love with these characters. Alam writes the FMC and MMC to fall in love with one another over the period of the "debt to marry" and the sweetness that Lavender is written with is just precious, especially when it comes to Raif's daughter, Daisy. That said, and in consideration of my comments about the spiciness of this little book, Alam also handled the topic of rape with sensitivity and grace. She added to the narrative as Lavender's former boyfriend and rapist shows up to continue his taunting of Lavender in the hopes of blackmailing her for more money. When Raif sees what is happening, the hero comes to life and saves the day (why do I find that insulting yet a turn on?). What I also appreciated in Alam's approach to navigating Lavender's survivorship is how the consummation of Lavender's marriage to Raif was written as Lavender's choice of the timing and setting. She held the power to consummate, emboldening her to arrest victimhood for her survivorship and conquering her own sexuality. This was empowering.
And if you're not one to read epilogues, I want to encourage you to abandon the practice and READ THIS EPILOGUE. Alam brought the laughter with Gus talking about how to make babies. Imma just leave this little nugget right here with the hope that you read the epilogue of this book ... READ ALL OF THE EPILOGUES!!!
April 26, 2025
I don't normally write out my thoughts, but here I am. Let me start by saying that I love Donna's books. The plot is always well developed, interesting, and different. The spice is exquisite. This would easily be 4+ stars for me, but having gone right from The Interview (Whit & Mimi's story) into this one. I found there to be some discrepancies in background details (birth order, career & kid's names to point out a few). These details are not detrimental to the story, but they did nag at me, which is the reason this is only 3 stars for me.
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