What do you think?
Rate this book
Loveless & Dunn #1
Bet the House
Willamena Dunn is having a lousy week. Not only is her baby sister about to marry into the family of Dunn-Right Preservation’s biggest professional rival, but the historic bungalow of her dreams has just been bought by the most infuriating (not to mention exceedingly handsome and notoriously wicked) man to ever hammer a nail in Magnolia Bay, Knox Loveless.
But when Knox offers her a wager she can’t refuse, a bet with the coveted bungalow as its prize, Willa is sure her bad luck might finally be turning around—until Knox surprises her with a passionate kiss, and suddenly all bets are off.
Could this be just another one of Knox Loveless’ games, or will two rivals finally surrender to a long-simmering attraction and declare a truce once and for all?
But when Knox offers her a wager she can’t refuse, a bet with the coveted bungalow as its prize, Willa is sure her bad luck might finally be turning around—until Knox surprises her with a passionate kiss, and suddenly all bets are off.
Could this be just another one of Knox Loveless’ games, or will two rivals finally surrender to a long-simmering attraction and declare a truce once and for all?
151 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 10, 2014
23 people are currently reading
422 people want to read
About the author
Erika Marks
18 books219 followersHello, fellow reader! I am the NAL author of women's fiction set by the sea. My fifth novel, THE LAST TREASURE, follows the love triangle between three treasure hunters searching for a mysterious shipwreck on the Outer Banks, and comes ashore on August 2, 2016. I love meeting with book clubs via Skype--so stop by my website to learn how we can set up a chat!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
May 16, 2014
In Bet The House by Erika Marks, Willa's rival Knox has snatched up the historical home that she's always wanted. Willa and Knox have always been in competition with each other...his family owns Loveless Brothers Construction, and hers family runs Dunn-Right Preservation to keep the historical homes in Magnolia Bay from losing their history. To top it all off, her little sister is marrying Knox's brother - something that does not make Willa happy.
With the wedding approaching, Willa and Knox make their biggest bet yet. They literally bet the house. But will there be a winner? Or will the two of them finally move past the superficial rivallry and acknowledge the intense passion simmering under the surface?
Erika gives us a great story with opposites attracting in Bet The House. Willa is more negative to Knox's positive, but at the same time they are very similar. Both of them have strong values, are loyal, and don't back down from a bet. Willa was a bit annoying with her negativity, but is it all a cover? Her and Knox have known each other forever it seems, and I feel a bit more background about the two of them would have helped with understanding who they are today. I felt that the characters could have been developed a bit more, taking the reader a bit deeper into them. Willa does keep Knox on his toes, and the rivalry is amusing at times. Knox is just as intense as Willa, but at the same time comes across as a lot more laid back and positive about life. It was fun to watch these two start to acknowledge their feelings for one another. Willa and Knox are both fiesty, and neither wants to lose. But what are they really betting on?
There is no love lost between them, but a lot can be gained if they can put aside their differences and focus on what works!
Bet The House is a fast paced novella with a couple of fun main characters. I really enjoyed all the family interaction in Bet The House, it really helped round out the story. I look forward to seeing more of them all!
Romance readers looking for a quick romantic novella will enjoy Bet The House.
With the wedding approaching, Willa and Knox make their biggest bet yet. They literally bet the house. But will there be a winner? Or will the two of them finally move past the superficial rivallry and acknowledge the intense passion simmering under the surface?
Erika gives us a great story with opposites attracting in Bet The House. Willa is more negative to Knox's positive, but at the same time they are very similar. Both of them have strong values, are loyal, and don't back down from a bet. Willa was a bit annoying with her negativity, but is it all a cover? Her and Knox have known each other forever it seems, and I feel a bit more background about the two of them would have helped with understanding who they are today. I felt that the characters could have been developed a bit more, taking the reader a bit deeper into them. Willa does keep Knox on his toes, and the rivalry is amusing at times. Knox is just as intense as Willa, but at the same time comes across as a lot more laid back and positive about life. It was fun to watch these two start to acknowledge their feelings for one another. Willa and Knox are both fiesty, and neither wants to lose. But what are they really betting on?
There is no love lost between them, but a lot can be gained if they can put aside their differences and focus on what works!
Bet The House is a fast paced novella with a couple of fun main characters. I really enjoyed all the family interaction in Bet The House, it really helped round out the story. I look forward to seeing more of them all!
Romance readers looking for a quick romantic novella will enjoy Bet The House.
June 26, 2014
Great story with great characters. This was the first I read by Erika Marks but it will not be the last!
June 25, 2015
3.5 Stars
Content: a little language, one totally unnecessary short sex scene/encounter between secondary characters
Content: a little language, one totally unnecessary short sex scene/encounter between secondary characters
July 24, 2014
Bet the House was an annoying read for me. I really didn't like Willa and found her to be incredibly self centered and selfish and she just was kind of terrible. I think it was supposed to be whimsical, but I hated her. Pretty much the entire book I was just like what is wrong with this girl? Is she seriously going to be this horrible to everyone the entire book?
Willa works for her parents preservation company. She is really serious about preserving historic landmarks in town and absolutely hates the Loveless' and their construction company. I mean her parents have battled in business before so of course she has to hate all of them. Unfortunately for Willa her sister Peaches is marrying into the Loveless family. How could she?!? Willa is not at all supportive of her sister and her marriage. She really is pretty horrible to her sister and is a nightmare to be around. I don't know how her sisters put up with it.
Knox is a Loveless, and he just purchased the little historic bungalow that Willa has always wanted. Knox and Willa go way back and they have always had this competitive relationship. They are always daring each other to do things and Willa is pretty sure she hates him (even if he is super attractive). They hate each other right? So when Knox makes a bet with her, winner gets the house, she readily agrees. So what she has to keep trying to shove some guy her sister doesn't even like at her. So what she is using her sister for a piece of property. The bet was Knox and Willa each pick out a date for the sister to the wedding and whoever picks the person she goes with wins. It is obvious the sister really liked the guy Knox picked, but Willa is determined to win and keeps trying to shove some other guy on her. Why not ruin a good thing when she could potentially win a house she wants? Who cares about the sister? I know it is probably supposed to be humorous, but it annoyed me.
Willa just annoyed me. Knox seemed like a good enough guy, but Willa is still stuck being a 2 year old. Yes Knox bets her and riles her up all the time, but he also seems like he is an adult having fun. Willa, on the other hand, comes off like a small child throwing hissy fits if she doesn't get her way. I didn't like her at all and don't know why anyone could stand to be around her. She is so high and mighty and whatever she wants is right, whatever anyone else wants is wrong. It was just too much for me. Yes everything worked out in the end, but I couldn't get over how terrible Willa was the entire rest of the book. Definitely not the book for me, though I would read another of the authors books to see how I enjoy it.
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland
Willa works for her parents preservation company. She is really serious about preserving historic landmarks in town and absolutely hates the Loveless' and their construction company. I mean her parents have battled in business before so of course she has to hate all of them. Unfortunately for Willa her sister Peaches is marrying into the Loveless family. How could she?!? Willa is not at all supportive of her sister and her marriage. She really is pretty horrible to her sister and is a nightmare to be around. I don't know how her sisters put up with it.
Knox is a Loveless, and he just purchased the little historic bungalow that Willa has always wanted. Knox and Willa go way back and they have always had this competitive relationship. They are always daring each other to do things and Willa is pretty sure she hates him (even if he is super attractive). They hate each other right? So when Knox makes a bet with her, winner gets the house, she readily agrees. So what she has to keep trying to shove some guy her sister doesn't even like at her. So what she is using her sister for a piece of property. The bet was Knox and Willa each pick out a date for the sister to the wedding and whoever picks the person she goes with wins. It is obvious the sister really liked the guy Knox picked, but Willa is determined to win and keeps trying to shove some other guy on her. Why not ruin a good thing when she could potentially win a house she wants? Who cares about the sister? I know it is probably supposed to be humorous, but it annoyed me.
Willa just annoyed me. Knox seemed like a good enough guy, but Willa is still stuck being a 2 year old. Yes Knox bets her and riles her up all the time, but he also seems like he is an adult having fun. Willa, on the other hand, comes off like a small child throwing hissy fits if she doesn't get her way. I didn't like her at all and don't know why anyone could stand to be around her. She is so high and mighty and whatever she wants is right, whatever anyone else wants is wrong. It was just too much for me. Yes everything worked out in the end, but I couldn't get over how terrible Willa was the entire rest of the book. Definitely not the book for me, though I would read another of the authors books to see how I enjoy it.
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland
May 13, 2014
BET THE HOUSE by Erika Marks
This is the story of Willamena Dunn and Knox Loveless.
Willamena Dunn is having a lousy week. Not only is her baby sister about to marry into the family of Dunn-Right Preservation’s biggest professional rival, but the historic bungalow of her dreams has just been bought by the most infuriating (not to mention exceedingly handsome and notoriously wicked) man to ever hammer a nail in Magnolia Bay, Knox Loveless. But when Knox offers her a wager she can’t refuse, a bet with the coveted bungalow as its prize, Willa is sure her bad luck might finally be turning around—until Knox surprises her with a passionate kiss, and suddenly all bets are off. Could this be just another one of Knox Loveless’ games, or will two rivals finally surrender to a long-simmering attraction and declare a truce once and for all?
Willamina Dunn and Knox Loveless have known each other since childhood.
Knox Loveless has just outbid Willa on her dream house. An old historic beauty that she has been looking at since she was a teenager. Knox knows how much she wants the house and they decide to make a bet using one of Willa's sisters. Which ever one can get Connie a date for the wedding gets the house. How far will they go?
will Willamena or Knox win the bet of the historic bungalow?
BET THE HOUSE by Erika Marks is a wonderful well written 4 stars book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Erika.
this book is in the Mother's Day bundle.
Mother's Day Romance Bundle by Erika Marks and 11 other authors.
Titles included:
Tempt Me, Cowboy by Megan Crane
Promise Me, Cowboy by C.J. Carmichael
The Sweetest Thing by Lilian Darcy
Christmas at Copper Mountain by Jane Porter
Home for Christmas by Melissa McClone
A Cowboy for Christmas by Katherine Garbera
What a Bride Wants by Kelly Hunter
Second Chance Bride by Trish Morey
Bet the House by Erika Marks
Sweet Home Carolina by Kim Boykin
A Mother's Day by Kaira Rouda
Sight Seeing by Jane Porter
This is the story of Willamena Dunn and Knox Loveless.
Willamena Dunn is having a lousy week. Not only is her baby sister about to marry into the family of Dunn-Right Preservation’s biggest professional rival, but the historic bungalow of her dreams has just been bought by the most infuriating (not to mention exceedingly handsome and notoriously wicked) man to ever hammer a nail in Magnolia Bay, Knox Loveless. But when Knox offers her a wager she can’t refuse, a bet with the coveted bungalow as its prize, Willa is sure her bad luck might finally be turning around—until Knox surprises her with a passionate kiss, and suddenly all bets are off. Could this be just another one of Knox Loveless’ games, or will two rivals finally surrender to a long-simmering attraction and declare a truce once and for all?
Willamina Dunn and Knox Loveless have known each other since childhood.
Knox Loveless has just outbid Willa on her dream house. An old historic beauty that she has been looking at since she was a teenager. Knox knows how much she wants the house and they decide to make a bet using one of Willa's sisters. Which ever one can get Connie a date for the wedding gets the house. How far will they go?
will Willamena or Knox win the bet of the historic bungalow?
BET THE HOUSE by Erika Marks is a wonderful well written 4 stars book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Erika.
this book is in the Mother's Day bundle.
Mother's Day Romance Bundle by Erika Marks and 11 other authors.
Titles included:
Tempt Me, Cowboy by Megan Crane
Promise Me, Cowboy by C.J. Carmichael
The Sweetest Thing by Lilian Darcy
Christmas at Copper Mountain by Jane Porter
Home for Christmas by Melissa McClone
A Cowboy for Christmas by Katherine Garbera
What a Bride Wants by Kelly Hunter
Second Chance Bride by Trish Morey
Bet the House by Erika Marks
Sweet Home Carolina by Kim Boykin
A Mother's Day by Kaira Rouda
Sight Seeing by Jane Porter
May 13, 2014
Willa Dunn has grown up knowing at least one thing for sure: the Loveless Brothers are EVIL. Their construction company has always been at odds with her family's historical preservation business. Now, not only has her baby sister has turned traitor and agreed to marry the oldest Loveless Brother, the middle brother just out-bid her on her dream house.
Knox Loveless can't fully fathom why he lets Wilhelmina Dunn get under his skin, it's just been that way since a teenage bet changed their relationship all of those years ago. It's none of her business why he joined the Historical Society Board, or that building "McMansions" with no character irritates him. When he discovers that Willa's dream house is for sale, and that she might be out bid, he steps in and buys it himself. Now, Knox is once again public enemy number one. Can another bet change their relationship again?
Willa is often described in the book as being passionate or high-strung. That is actually a spot on description. I loved how the author doesn't leave out the ugly bits of a passionate personality. Passionate people do tend to be self-centered and make a habit of walking over people to achieve their goals. Being passionate is not a terrible thing, but people like that do need someone in their life (a friend, family member, or partner) to ground then and keep them from alienating people.
All of the characters in this book have massive flaws that the author uses to benefit the story. The "drama queen" sister isn't chastised, but accepted; the blustering father isn't turned into a villain, just a typical big personality; the "other guy" is actually likable, despite committing a huge social gaffe.
Overall, I really liked this book. The way that for every situation, both sides of the story were told with equal weight, appealed on many levels. Plus, the resolution was actually very satisfying and didn't feel forced or rushed.
Knox Loveless can't fully fathom why he lets Wilhelmina Dunn get under his skin, it's just been that way since a teenage bet changed their relationship all of those years ago. It's none of her business why he joined the Historical Society Board, or that building "McMansions" with no character irritates him. When he discovers that Willa's dream house is for sale, and that she might be out bid, he steps in and buys it himself. Now, Knox is once again public enemy number one. Can another bet change their relationship again?
Willa is often described in the book as being passionate or high-strung. That is actually a spot on description. I loved how the author doesn't leave out the ugly bits of a passionate personality. Passionate people do tend to be self-centered and make a habit of walking over people to achieve their goals. Being passionate is not a terrible thing, but people like that do need someone in their life (a friend, family member, or partner) to ground then and keep them from alienating people.
All of the characters in this book have massive flaws that the author uses to benefit the story. The "drama queen" sister isn't chastised, but accepted; the blustering father isn't turned into a villain, just a typical big personality; the "other guy" is actually likable, despite committing a huge social gaffe.
Overall, I really liked this book. The way that for every situation, both sides of the story were told with equal weight, appealed on many levels. Plus, the resolution was actually very satisfying and didn't feel forced or rushed.
December 25, 2022
Sweet, predictable, and ultimately left me wanting - 2.5 stars
I'm not a huge fan of overly sweet love stories, but I did like these main characters for the most part. I wished I got more of them. Singularly and together, their banter was fun, but it was always so fleeting. Then the complete change of direction to bring them together was odd. It came across like I'dmissed something, or even skipped a few chapters. I mean it was predictable, so yes, I expected it, but there was no development to reach that point. I also found the connection between the hero and heroine wasn't really explored. I'm okay if an author doesn't include graphic sex scenes, but I really wanted to see more chemistry played out and I'd like something more than a couple kisses. Even discounting physical intimacy, I felt cheated. We finally start to see the buried feelings between the two, and the story abruptly ends. How do you close the curtain just as the couple decides to get together? The reader never gets to see them as a true couple, there's no closure, no deepening of those feelings, we're just to assume "and they lived happily ever after." That left me pretty disappointed, and changed my rating from 3 stars. In the end, this felt like a prequel to the real story, but the next book in the series is an entirely different couple. So although I'm not a fan of syrupy sweet and stories, that's not what bothered me and earned the low rating. I read a full book of build up for nothing basically, I wanted to see them together, read their sassy conversations, and see them grow as a couple, but I was slighted.
I'm not a huge fan of overly sweet love stories, but I did like these main characters for the most part. I wished I got more of them. Singularly and together, their banter was fun, but it was always so fleeting. Then the complete change of direction to bring them together was odd. It came across like I'dmissed something, or even skipped a few chapters. I mean it was predictable, so yes, I expected it, but there was no development to reach that point. I also found the connection between the hero and heroine wasn't really explored. I'm okay if an author doesn't include graphic sex scenes, but I really wanted to see more chemistry played out and I'd like something more than a couple kisses. Even discounting physical intimacy, I felt cheated. We finally start to see the buried feelings between the two, and the story abruptly ends. How do you close the curtain just as the couple decides to get together? The reader never gets to see them as a true couple, there's no closure, no deepening of those feelings, we're just to assume "and they lived happily ever after." That left me pretty disappointed, and changed my rating from 3 stars. In the end, this felt like a prequel to the real story, but the next book in the series is an entirely different couple. So although I'm not a fan of syrupy sweet and stories, that's not what bothered me and earned the low rating. I read a full book of build up for nothing basically, I wanted to see them together, read their sassy conversations, and see them grow as a couple, but I was slighted.
May 13, 2014
Willamena Dunn and Knox Loveless have a history of feuding and wagers dating back to childhood. Willa's family runs Dunn-Right Preservation, and the Loveless family's construction company is responsible for those horrible McMansions. Willa can't understand or condone her baby sister's upcoming marriage to Knox's older brother, but things get worse for her when Knox outbids her for the historic cottage she has always dreamed of owning. When Knox offers a wager, with the cottage as prize, Willa can't say no, even if it means hurting her older sister.
Willa and Knox have a history, and it is fun watching them finally understand what everyone has always seen: all their bickering is hiding that they were meant to be together.
The characters and location are well written, and pull the reader in. I love Magnolia Bay, and watching Knox and Willa find each other was extremely entertaining.
Bet the House by Erika Marks was a fun read. It was a novella that did not feel like one, but on the other hand, I didn't want to see it end.
Willa and Knox have a history, and it is fun watching them finally understand what everyone has always seen: all their bickering is hiding that they were meant to be together.
The characters and location are well written, and pull the reader in. I love Magnolia Bay, and watching Knox and Willa find each other was extremely entertaining.
Bet the House by Erika Marks was a fun read. It was a novella that did not feel like one, but on the other hand, I didn't want to see it end.
May 14, 2014
4.5 stars! I loved this story of rivals turning into lovers. Willamena Dunn and Knox Loveless have been butting heads since they were teens. Now that Will and Knox work for dueling preservation companies things haven't gotten any better. Tensions are especially high on Willa's side since her youngest sister is about to marry into the Loveless family. It doesn't help matters when Willa agrees to a bet.
The tension between Knox and Willa was palpable. It and their shenanigans kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. Erika Marks is a wonderful story teller. I loved her descriptions of the low country as well as how tight she made the Dunn family.
There were a number of scenes that I really liked. Unfortunately I can only hint at them without giving anything away. I can't wait to read more Magnolia Bay and the Dunn family as well as the Knox family.
The tension between Knox and Willa was palpable. It and their shenanigans kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. Erika Marks is a wonderful story teller. I loved her descriptions of the low country as well as how tight she made the Dunn family.
There were a number of scenes that I really liked. Unfortunately I can only hint at them without giving anything away. I can't wait to read more Magnolia Bay and the Dunn family as well as the Knox family.
May 14, 2014
Willa Dunn is always prickly when Knox Loveless is around. It has always been that way. Now her sister, Peach, is marrying his brother, Brady. This is too much to bear. To top things off he bought the historic home she has always coveted. He can't do that! Sparks fly whenever these two are near. Is the cause attraction or anger? Bet the House is our introduction to Magnolia Bay, South Carolina. Erika Marks has a wonderful touch developing her characters. Willa and Knox are perfect. Their attraction is so intense that the reader feels the heat. The banter is lively and the romance is hot. Neither will back down. All the characters are memorable with their charm and friendliness. The story is fast paced and well plotted. I wanted to sit in the shade and watch their antics. Bet The House will lighten your heart and makes you smile. I can't wait for more action in Magnolia Bay.
May 14, 2014
This one is a heart melter! Willa and Knox have been adversaries of sorts since forever-always making silly bets with each other and dares. Fun teenage things until adulthood and the seemingly ultimate wager for Willa-on a house she has always wanted to own but that Knox had out bid her on. The bet? Find a date for Willa's sister to their other sister, Peachy's wedding, just weeks away. No problem, thinks Willa. Ha!
Knox knows he feels something for Willa but isn't sure what it is. Strange but sometimes it's outright jealousy of any other guy. Now he's looking for a date for Willa's sister and looking for a date for himself and all the while, looking, just looking, at Willa. Throw this all together will Peachy and all her wedding commotion, and you have a cute, fun, romantic, crazy little story that you'll love. Plus, it will melt your heart!
Knox knows he feels something for Willa but isn't sure what it is. Strange but sometimes it's outright jealousy of any other guy. Now he's looking for a date for Willa's sister and looking for a date for himself and all the while, looking, just looking, at Willa. Throw this all together will Peachy and all her wedding commotion, and you have a cute, fun, romantic, crazy little story that you'll love. Plus, it will melt your heart!
May 30, 2014
This the first book by the Southern Born Books, and it was a delight to read. I know that I am going to enjoy all the books by SBB. I love all the quirks that are unique to the South and I love to read books that flavor the story without making it stereotypical.
This is Willa and Knox's story, but we do get a taste that there will definitely be more stories in the future from some of the characters mentioned in this story. I enjoyed the bantering back and forth between the two families and the family feuds that had been going on for a couple of generations. Willa and Knox had been betting and daring each other for many years and when Knox out bid Willa on the bungalow she had always wanted, they bet one last time with the bungalow being the prize. Or is there an even great prize at stake.......
I enjoyed Marks's story telling and I look forward to reading future books by her.
This is Willa and Knox's story, but we do get a taste that there will definitely be more stories in the future from some of the characters mentioned in this story. I enjoyed the bantering back and forth between the two families and the family feuds that had been going on for a couple of generations. Willa and Knox had been betting and daring each other for many years and when Knox out bid Willa on the bungalow she had always wanted, they bet one last time with the bungalow being the prize. Or is there an even great prize at stake.......
I enjoyed Marks's story telling and I look forward to reading future books by her.
March 18, 2015
This is the story of Willamena Dunn & Knox Loveless. They are rivals who have a long & simmering chemistry to each other.
Willa is not having the best week of her life. Her baby sister is about to marry into her rival's family. The historic house that she has always dreamed about has just been bought by none other than Knox. Willa is very distraught about both of these situations.
Knox offers her a bet that if she wins, will give her the house of her dreams. If she loses, then it's all lost; her pride & the bungalow.
Willa is hoping that her unlucky streak is about to be broken. Knox is going to surprise her with a kiss and some luck of his own doing.
Easy, cute & enjoyable. Only wish it were a bit longer..
Willa is not having the best week of her life. Her baby sister is about to marry into her rival's family. The historic house that she has always dreamed about has just been bought by none other than Knox. Willa is very distraught about both of these situations.
Knox offers her a bet that if she wins, will give her the house of her dreams. If she loses, then it's all lost; her pride & the bungalow.
Willa is hoping that her unlucky streak is about to be broken. Knox is going to surprise her with a kiss and some luck of his own doing.
Easy, cute & enjoyable. Only wish it were a bit longer..
May 17, 2014
**I was given a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion**
Willa, aka Meen by Knox, finds out her dream house was bought by Knox and she is furious. He, of all people should know how much the house means to her. She wants it, and he offers her a friendly wager--the winner gets THE HOUSE! Game On! As the two tangle to **win** the house, their lives are intertwined over and over, and neither expects to find love with one another. Finally realizing there might be love instead of animosity between them and their families, losing a bet means winning at love! One of my favorite scenes is when Knox sees her in a bridesmaid dress and realizes she's not the little kid from his past, but a grownup, beautiful woman. I hope you'll enjoy this story as much as I did!
Willa, aka Meen by Knox, finds out her dream house was bought by Knox and she is furious. He, of all people should know how much the house means to her. She wants it, and he offers her a friendly wager--the winner gets THE HOUSE! Game On! As the two tangle to **win** the house, their lives are intertwined over and over, and neither expects to find love with one another. Finally realizing there might be love instead of animosity between them and their families, losing a bet means winning at love! One of my favorite scenes is when Knox sees her in a bridesmaid dress and realizes she's not the little kid from his past, but a grownup, beautiful woman. I hope you'll enjoy this story as much as I did!
May 19, 2014
The Dunn and Loveless families have a lifelong business rivalry. Willa is simmering over the fact that her very own sister, Peach, has "turned traitor" and is marrying into the enemy family. But sometimes love comes from the most unlikely places and as Peach's upcoming nuptials get closer, Willa finds herself drawn more and more to Knox Loveless, the brother of the groom. They've been making bets with each other since they were kids and even though she always finds herself on the losing end, when Knox makes a bet with stakes so high that she just can't resist, she decides that one last wager can't hurt anything. What she doesn't count on is a soul-scorching kiss that changes everything... I loved this introduction to the Magnolia Bay series and can't wait to see what happens next!
November 13, 2014
This was a really fun story. Willa Dunn and Knox Loveless made a great pair. I really enjoyed how they were at odds (in competition) with each other through the whole book. Also having to see Willa and her mother take the high road considering Willa's little sister was marrying Knox's oldest brother, and the families had been at odds for years. Willa's family wanting to preserve the historic aspects of their town, and Knox's family being the "big, bad, developers".
I really liked how the conflict played out. And how both Knox and Willa learned a few things about each other as the story progressed. I found myself cheering them on and hoping for a happy ending for everyone.
I really liked how the conflict played out. And how both Knox and Willa learned a few things about each other as the story progressed. I found myself cheering them on and hoping for a happy ending for everyone.
May 13, 2014
Bet the House is the first book in the new series Magnolia Bay. It can be read as a standalone. Willa and Knox have grown up together and have always been rivals. Their families have stayed apart until Willa and Knox's siblings decide to marry. Can the families put their bad feelings aside at least for the wedding?
Willa and Knox have both set their eyes on an old house and make a bet over it. Who will win? They are drawn to one another but Willa tries desperately to deny any feelings for Knox. Can she resist his southern charm?
I enjoyed the beautiful setting and can't wait to read more about what happens in Magnolia Bay.
Willa and Knox have both set their eyes on an old house and make a bet over it. Who will win? They are drawn to one another but Willa tries desperately to deny any feelings for Knox. Can she resist his southern charm?
I enjoyed the beautiful setting and can't wait to read more about what happens in Magnolia Bay.
May 13, 2014
Willa and Knox have been rivals since childhood. Their families have conflicting business, causing the families to be distant. That is until Willa's youngest sister becomes engaged to Knox's brother. The families need to get along for the sake of the happy couple, that includes Willa and Knox. When Knox out bids Willa, on an old house she has always wanted to restore, they make a bet...winner gets the house. Sparks fly when they are near each other. Can rivalry make room for love? I loved the story of Willa and Knox. I look forward to more in this series. I also want to read past works of this author. Great read!
May 14, 2014
Bet The House
a Magnolia Bay Romance
by Erika Marks
Welcome to Magnolia Bay.
Willamena Dunn is on a mission. Someone has bought the historical house she has always wanted to own and she is shocked when she finds out it is non other than Knox Loveless who she had a crush on when she was growing up. Willa and Knox have a long history of rivalry, professionaly or on a personal level.
Can Willa bury the hatchet since her sister is marrying Knox's brother or will she continue the grudge she has against him?
Get this book to find the answer to the question and you will not be disappointed.
I hope to read more about Magnolia Bay and the Dunn sisters and the Loveless brothers.
a Magnolia Bay Romance
by Erika Marks
Welcome to Magnolia Bay.
Willamena Dunn is on a mission. Someone has bought the historical house she has always wanted to own and she is shocked when she finds out it is non other than Knox Loveless who she had a crush on when she was growing up. Willa and Knox have a long history of rivalry, professionaly or on a personal level.
Can Willa bury the hatchet since her sister is marrying Knox's brother or will she continue the grudge she has against him?
Get this book to find the answer to the question and you will not be disappointed.
I hope to read more about Magnolia Bay and the Dunn sisters and the Loveless brothers.
June 14, 2014
Willa and Knox have been placing bets with each other since they were teenagers. However, Knox just bet with the biggest prize, the bungalow that Willa wanted for herself! The bet, to find a date for Willa's sister Connie to Peach's upcoming wedding. Can Willa find her a date first or will she have to lose out on the bungalow she has wanted the most?
This was a cute story. I do wish it had been a bit longer though. It seemed like there needed to be a bit more of the Willa and Knox story. It was a fun read and I would recommend it. As this was my first Erika Marks book, I am interested to read more from her.
This was a cute story. I do wish it had been a bit longer though. It seemed like there needed to be a bit more of the Willa and Knox story. It was a fun read and I would recommend it. As this was my first Erika Marks book, I am interested to read more from her.
May 26, 2020
With all the good reviews, I wanted to love this book but Willa is such an angry, selfish person that I couldn't. She's a 29 year old woman who acts like a child because her sister is marrying a guy whose family she's doesn't really like. Grow up. And let's talk about the sister - what crazy parents name their child after a fruit? And what grown woman doesn't change her name from Peach - heck the author even mentioned in the wedding announcement that her middle name was Marisol so lot's a better options to go by other than Peach. All the Dunn sisters had something about them that I found stupid/annoying. OK story but not great.
August 27, 2016
This was such a fun read. Willa's sister Peach is marrying into the enemy's family and that means that Willa and Knox (the brother of the groom) are going to be running into each other a lot. Knox has gone and bought the house that Willa has wanted since she was fourteen years old. When Willa finds out he is the new owner she blows a gasket.
I don’t want to tell much more, but this is a fun fast paced story and I plan on reading it again. It was short but It is that good.
I bought this book in the Mother's Day Bundle set.
May 13, 2014
Bet The House is one of those books that just clicks right away. For a novella it packs in a surprising amount of depth without feeling crowded. I think that is because Willa and Knox have known each other and, without being aware of it, loved each other for years, so time is not wasted while they get over those awkward setting the scene and getting to know you moments. This book is well written with nicely structured dialogue that flows effortlessly. The characters are likeable and believable and the book has been a pleasure to read.
I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
May 13, 2014
I enjoyed reading this book. I thought Willa was a pain in the butt and whined a lot. Knox Loveless, could not imagine having that last name or getting married and taking it. Anyways, Knox has had a crush on Willa for a long time, though neither of them want to admit it. They have to spend time together because Willa's sister Peach is marrying Knox's brother Brady. The bets, snarky banter back and forth was nice but I would have liked to have seen/felt more of a connection between the two. They had a surface relationship.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 20, 2014
Willa and Knox wrapped theirselves around my heart. From the childhood attraction they denied to the adults they are now. How many times do we have blinders on for what is right in front of us? Knox was there watching out for Willa from the first time he dared her to go into the house as children until he bought the same house and hurt her feelings as adults. Their childish behavior will captivate you and keep you going with their families feuding to their relationship woes.
Would recommend for a nice, enjoyable read where the characters dynamics keep you going to the very end.
Would recommend for a nice, enjoyable read where the characters dynamics keep you going to the very end.
May 16, 2014
Willa Dunn has a love of historical preservation. Knox Loveless is from a family of builders specializing in brand new McMansions. They share a passion for riling each other up and Knox buying Willa's dream bungalow has sent her over the edge. Although her b&b sister marrying a Loveless boy might have helped!
Making bets and driving each other crazy is an ongoing theme to this story. I really loved the characters and hope to see their stories continued. Knox and Willa really deserved each other!
Making bets and driving each other crazy is an ongoing theme to this story. I really loved the characters and hope to see their stories continued. Knox and Willa really deserved each other!
May 13, 2014
A fun story with characters you will love.
Between her sister Peach's wedding and the upcoming home tour, Willa Dunn has her hands full. Added to the mix, Knox Loveless has just outbid Willa on her dream house. An old historic beauty that she has been looking at since she was a teenager. Knox knows how much she wants the house and they decide to make a bet using one of Willa's sisters. Which ever one can get Connie a date for the wedding gets the house. How far will they go?
Between her sister Peach's wedding and the upcoming home tour, Willa Dunn has her hands full. Added to the mix, Knox Loveless has just outbid Willa on her dream house. An old historic beauty that she has been looking at since she was a teenager. Knox knows how much she wants the house and they decide to make a bet using one of Willa's sisters. Which ever one can get Connie a date for the wedding gets the house. How far will they go?
August 5, 2016
Willa and Knox have been sparring since they were kids. Their already testy relationship gets worse when Knox outbids Willa for a cottage she has dreamed of woing her entire life. He then goes and does something she has never been able to resist, he makes her a bet, and the house is the prize. A bet Willa is miserable she took, and more miserable when she doesn't win. But win she does, in more ways than one.
May 15, 2014
This is the first book by this author that I have read but it will not be the last. This book was great. If flowed very well and the plot of the long time rivals was great. I think this was a great story to show how you don't really know someone until you actually spend time with them and get to know them. I highly recommend this story. The characters were fun and feisty and it kept your attention from the beginning.
May 13, 2014
A nice story but Willa and Knox spend way too much of the book fighting each other. The ending was very abrupt…it was hard to imagine that they would change their minds that quickly. I guess I wanted more of the happily ever after and less of the fights before. The historical preservation aspect was great.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews