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Betting on Romance #1
Luck of the Draw
If only life had a refresh button...
Kate Mitchell never planned to be a 31 year-old widowed single mom, but when her soon-to-be-EX husband up and dies, her dreams of finishing college and starting over are thrown in the air like a game of 52-card-pick-up. When she’s given a leave of absence from work and told to “quit or recommit,” Kate retreats to idyllic Sugar Falls, New Hampshire, to figure out whether she can discover her passion and pay the bills. Cue the fresh air, summer sunshine and one sexy local contractor.
Tall, dark, and handy…
Volunteer fireman and all-around hunky guy in a toolbelt, Jim Pearson, has sworn off complicated women with messy baggage. They cling to his nice-guy stability and skills with a power saw just long enough to straighten out their lives and move on… but then he meets the cute single mom staying at Grams’ lake house for the summer.
While a sizzling attraction draws them together, Jim's distrust of complicated women and Kate's incredibly complicated life threaten to pull them apart. But forces beyond their control — match-making grandmothers, the lazy backdrop of summer, and their own reckoning with the past — conspire to make them risk it all... and bet on love.
Kate Mitchell never planned to be a 31 year-old widowed single mom, but when her soon-to-be-EX husband up and dies, her dreams of finishing college and starting over are thrown in the air like a game of 52-card-pick-up. When she’s given a leave of absence from work and told to “quit or recommit,” Kate retreats to idyllic Sugar Falls, New Hampshire, to figure out whether she can discover her passion and pay the bills. Cue the fresh air, summer sunshine and one sexy local contractor.
Tall, dark, and handy…
Volunteer fireman and all-around hunky guy in a toolbelt, Jim Pearson, has sworn off complicated women with messy baggage. They cling to his nice-guy stability and skills with a power saw just long enough to straighten out their lives and move on… but then he meets the cute single mom staying at Grams’ lake house for the summer.
While a sizzling attraction draws them together, Jim's distrust of complicated women and Kate's incredibly complicated life threaten to pull them apart. But forces beyond their control — match-making grandmothers, the lazy backdrop of summer, and their own reckoning with the past — conspire to make them risk it all... and bet on love.
297 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 9, 2014
959 people are currently reading
1313 people want to read
About the author
Cheri Allan
6 books41 followersCheri Allan writes kissing books about love and other shenanigans from her charming fixer-upper in rural New Hampshire. She is often distracted by social media, reality television, and a menagerie of cats and dogs. If you find her whizzing down the slopes at the nearby mountain with her family or inadvertently killing perennials in her garden, bring her coffee. She will gratefully provide the conversation and chocolate.
Books in her ‘Betting on Romance’ series have been nominated for both the Carolyn Readers Choice Award and the Golden Quill. Cheri Allan romance: because life is short, love is funny, and laughter is everything
Cheri loves to connect with readers! You can visit her website and blog at www.cheriallan.com.
Books in her ‘Betting on Romance’ series have been nominated for both the Carolyn Readers Choice Award and the Golden Quill. Cheri Allan romance: because life is short, love is funny, and laughter is everything
Cheri loves to connect with readers! You can visit her website and blog at www.cheriallan.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
February 26, 2017
R -
Language: swearing (a couple of F-bombs, lots of deity),
Violence: no violence
Sex: yes.
What a disappointment. A lot of times, Amazon gets me under "recommended for you based on what you read" or whatever. Not this time. Well, actually, yes this time until I got about 40% in. Then, the heroine that I thought was one way, did a 180 and flip-flopped for the rest of the book. Totally unsatisfying - I couldn't identify with the heroine at all, the Hero just seemed to go along to get along, the story meandered, and I was wondering what the heck was going on with several of the secondary characters. Could use a good editing to tighten up the story. PASS.
Language: swearing (a couple of F-bombs, lots of deity),
Violence: no violence
Sex: yes.
What a disappointment. A lot of times, Amazon gets me under "recommended for you based on what you read" or whatever. Not this time. Well, actually, yes this time until I got about 40% in. Then, the heroine that I thought was one way, did a 180 and flip-flopped for the rest of the book. Totally unsatisfying - I couldn't identify with the heroine at all, the Hero just seemed to go along to get along, the story meandered, and I was wondering what the heck was going on with several of the secondary characters. Could use a good editing to tighten up the story. PASS.
November 26, 2014
What a thoroughly lovely 'feel good' book! Life is never plain sailing and it really is the 'Luck of the Draw' which, as is the title, is the essence of this book in a nutshell.
The characters are wonderfully flawed, yet loveable and very believable, the story modern, but with a twist of the traditional.
Family values, fun and frivolities, tinged with sadness and misdemeanours.
I got wrapped up in the lies and the intrigue masking the honesty and hankered after the happy ending!
A light-hearted, sassy and enjoyable read. I look forward to discovering more of what Cheri Allan has to offer.
The characters are wonderfully flawed, yet loveable and very believable, the story modern, but with a twist of the traditional.
Family values, fun and frivolities, tinged with sadness and misdemeanours.
I got wrapped up in the lies and the intrigue masking the honesty and hankered after the happy ending!
A light-hearted, sassy and enjoyable read. I look forward to discovering more of what Cheri Allan has to offer.
March 24, 2015
Kate was separated and soon to be divorced so she was trying figure out what to do with her life when her ex-husband died. Nana invited her to stay at a friend's cottage in Sugar Falls, New Hampshire for the summer so Kate packed up her 3 year old son and off they went. Nana and her friends are busy bodies and matchmakers at heart so Nana thought her granddaughter, Kate, would be a good match for Jim, the grandson of one of her friends. The friend whose cottage Kate was staying in.
Kate knew of the matchmaking grannies so when Jim came to her door, she thought it was for a date, but he was really there to make some repairs. Very embarrassing but funny.
Luck of the Draw is a well written, humorous tale. I liked the way the author made it feel okay that Kate was not upset by her husband's passing. Since they had been separated for quite some time, Kate did not feel the loss. I loved the attraction between Jim and Kate and that they fought it. Even though the Grandmas were meddlesome, they really thought they were helping. This book showed the importance of family and how they could be depended when one of them needed help.
The characters were well developed and very likable. Jim is a very handsome, capable man who does not want to get involved with a woman, especially not one with a child. He fights it when he starts to have feelings for Kate. Kate is a very smart and friendly woman who gets along well with the Grandmas and others in the little town. She never hesitates to lend a hand whenever she can. Kate doesn't want a relationship and is concerned about her attraction to Jim. Nana and her friends are priceless! I loved them.
All in all, this was a sweet romance that I really enjoyed.
Kate knew of the matchmaking grannies so when Jim came to her door, she thought it was for a date, but he was really there to make some repairs. Very embarrassing but funny.
Luck of the Draw is a well written, humorous tale. I liked the way the author made it feel okay that Kate was not upset by her husband's passing. Since they had been separated for quite some time, Kate did not feel the loss. I loved the attraction between Jim and Kate and that they fought it. Even though the Grandmas were meddlesome, they really thought they were helping. This book showed the importance of family and how they could be depended when one of them needed help.
The characters were well developed and very likable. Jim is a very handsome, capable man who does not want to get involved with a woman, especially not one with a child. He fights it when he starts to have feelings for Kate. Kate is a very smart and friendly woman who gets along well with the Grandmas and others in the little town. She never hesitates to lend a hand whenever she can. Kate doesn't want a relationship and is concerned about her attraction to Jim. Nana and her friends are priceless! I loved them.
All in all, this was a sweet romance that I really enjoyed.
August 19, 2014
Kate's husband that she was separated from has died. She is wondering what to do with her life after that blow. She gets an offer to stay at a cabin in Sugar Falls.
Jim Pearson shows up at the cottage and she thinks he is there for a date. But really he is there to fix the toilet! The interaction between these two is funny and passionate.
While in Sugar Falls she makes friends with the entire Pearson family. The girls all spend time together. Kate is a great organizer and she helps the family out with multiple events.
Kate is not sure she is ready for a relationship but is drawn to Jim. Jim is not ready for a woman with baggage. They both have items from their past relationships that make them leery of being together. Jim does not want to get close to her son as what happens if things don't work out you hurt the kid too.
So friends it is or maybe not...... What happens when you fall in love but the other person just likes you? Should you run or stick around and fight for that person?
Jim is funny and sweet even when he is not trying to be. Kate feels unworthy of Jim. All the side characters are great and draw you into the story even more!!
Can't wait for the next book in this series.
Jim Pearson shows up at the cottage and she thinks he is there for a date. But really he is there to fix the toilet! The interaction between these two is funny and passionate.
While in Sugar Falls she makes friends with the entire Pearson family. The girls all spend time together. Kate is a great organizer and she helps the family out with multiple events.
Kate is not sure she is ready for a relationship but is drawn to Jim. Jim is not ready for a woman with baggage. They both have items from their past relationships that make them leery of being together. Jim does not want to get close to her son as what happens if things don't work out you hurt the kid too.
So friends it is or maybe not...... What happens when you fall in love but the other person just likes you? Should you run or stick around and fight for that person?
Jim is funny and sweet even when he is not trying to be. Kate feels unworthy of Jim. All the side characters are great and draw you into the story even more!!
Can't wait for the next book in this series.
August 19, 2014
Kate's husband that she was separated from has died. She is wondering what to do with her life after that blow. She gets an offer to stay at a cabin in Sugar Falls.
Jim Pearson shows up at the cottage and she thinks he is there for a date. But really he is there to fix the toilet! The interaction between these two is funny and passionate.
While in Sugar Falls she makes friends with the entire Pearson family. The girls all spend time together. Kate is a great organizer and she helps the family out with multiple events.
Kate is not sure she is ready for a relationship but is drawn to Jim. Jim is not ready for a woman with baggage. They both have items from their past relationships that make them leery of being together. Jim does not want to get close to her son as what happens if things don't work out you hurt the kid too.
So friends it is or maybe not...... What happens when you fall in love but the other person just likes you? Should you run or stick around and fight for that person?
Jim is funny and sweet even when he is not trying to be. Kate feels unworthy of Jim. All the side characters are great and draw you into the story even more!!
Can't wait for the next book in this series.
Jim Pearson shows up at the cottage and she thinks he is there for a date. But really he is there to fix the toilet! The interaction between these two is funny and passionate.
While in Sugar Falls she makes friends with the entire Pearson family. The girls all spend time together. Kate is a great organizer and she helps the family out with multiple events.
Kate is not sure she is ready for a relationship but is drawn to Jim. Jim is not ready for a woman with baggage. They both have items from their past relationships that make them leery of being together. Jim does not want to get close to her son as what happens if things don't work out you hurt the kid too.
So friends it is or maybe not...... What happens when you fall in love but the other person just likes you? Should you run or stick around and fight for that person?
Jim is funny and sweet even when he is not trying to be. Kate feels unworthy of Jim. All the side characters are great and draw you into the story even more!!
Can't wait for the next book in this series.
August 17, 2014
Kate had plans to put her life back on track. Then her soon-to-be-ex husband dies. With everything falling apart around her, she and her three-year-old son escape to a lakeside cottage for the summer—to plan what to do next and to find her passion.
Jim can’t deny he’s attracted to Kate, but he just ended one complicated relationship and doesn’t want to get involved with another.
Luck of the draw is a heartwarming and funny journey of two people who discover that passion isn’t planned and complications are handled easier when two hearts join forces.
I loved the family interactions. The matchmaking, card-playing, wild-in-their-youth grandmothers are a hoot. The connection between Kate and Jim is real. I laughed at the situations and dialogue. I got misty-eyed at the heartbreak and the turning points for both Kate and Jim. I get this same type emotional reaction when I read a Kristan Higgins book. I’ll be reading the next book in the series.
Jim can’t deny he’s attracted to Kate, but he just ended one complicated relationship and doesn’t want to get involved with another.
Luck of the draw is a heartwarming and funny journey of two people who discover that passion isn’t planned and complications are handled easier when two hearts join forces.
I loved the family interactions. The matchmaking, card-playing, wild-in-their-youth grandmothers are a hoot. The connection between Kate and Jim is real. I laughed at the situations and dialogue. I got misty-eyed at the heartbreak and the turning points for both Kate and Jim. I get this same type emotional reaction when I read a Kristan Higgins book. I’ll be reading the next book in the series.
October 22, 2014
What a pleasant surprise this book was. I can't say how much I loved this book. It was so well written. The grandmothers are strong, feisty and hilarious. Loved them. The characters in the book were so well developed.
March 16, 2015
interesting story
This story kept me reading. I could not put the book down. The grandma"s play cards with family photos. When the game is over they us the cards to see who will be together. Then watch to see what happens with some meddling on the side.
This story kept me reading. I could not put the book down. The grandma"s play cards with family photos. When the game is over they us the cards to see who will be together. Then watch to see what happens with some meddling on the side.
August 12, 2014
this was a lovely story. cheri allan draws realistic and heartwarming characters. I highly recommend this book to all who like second chance romances. it was a lovely read
September 21, 2014
Witty, intelligent writing with believable characters in a charming setting. An impressive debut novel - I'm eager to see what's next from this promising new author.
August 15, 2014
Luck of the Draw is a wonderful story about self-discovery, finding your passion in life, and an unexpected second chance romance.
In the first book of the Betting On Romance series, author Cheri Allan weaves a sweet romantic tale about two people who are trying to figure out their lives, and are having a hard time when it comes to finding true love.
When Kate Mitchell's soon to be ex-husband dies leaving her a widowed single mother, her life is turned upside down, and she is left trying to figure out how to pick up the pieces and go forward in her life. She leaves Connecticut for the small idyllic town of Sugar Falls, New Hampshire to clear her head and come up with a new direction for her life.
Volunteer Fireman and hunky handyman Jim Pearson has a way with using tools, but when it comes to romance, he's sworn off complicated women and their messy baggage. That is until he meets Kate, who is staying at his Gram's lake house for the summer.
This was such a fun romantic story to read, I couldn't help but get drawn into Kate and Jim's story. I loved the attraction and connection that Kate and Jim shared, it was fun following them as they struggled to find common ground, and let their romance blossom with the well-intentioned matchmaking by their fun loving meddling grandmothers. I also loved following Kate's journey of self-discovery as she learned to embrace the changes in her life and find passion to move forward. The author uses a nice mixture or humor and romance to weave a sassy tale that is thoroughly entertaining.
With a quirky and cast of characters who are realistic and fun loving; humorous dialogue and interactions; a richly descriptive lake town setting; and a satisfying romantic storyline that easily draws the reader into the story, Luck of the Draw is a wonderful first book in a new series that I am eager to read.
Luck of the Draw is a heartwarming story of self-discovery, finding the passions in life, and a pleasantly unexpected luck of the draw at getting a second chance at romance.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Goddess Fish Promotions.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
In the first book of the Betting On Romance series, author Cheri Allan weaves a sweet romantic tale about two people who are trying to figure out their lives, and are having a hard time when it comes to finding true love.
When Kate Mitchell's soon to be ex-husband dies leaving her a widowed single mother, her life is turned upside down, and she is left trying to figure out how to pick up the pieces and go forward in her life. She leaves Connecticut for the small idyllic town of Sugar Falls, New Hampshire to clear her head and come up with a new direction for her life.
Volunteer Fireman and hunky handyman Jim Pearson has a way with using tools, but when it comes to romance, he's sworn off complicated women and their messy baggage. That is until he meets Kate, who is staying at his Gram's lake house for the summer.
This was such a fun romantic story to read, I couldn't help but get drawn into Kate and Jim's story. I loved the attraction and connection that Kate and Jim shared, it was fun following them as they struggled to find common ground, and let their romance blossom with the well-intentioned matchmaking by their fun loving meddling grandmothers. I also loved following Kate's journey of self-discovery as she learned to embrace the changes in her life and find passion to move forward. The author uses a nice mixture or humor and romance to weave a sassy tale that is thoroughly entertaining.
With a quirky and cast of characters who are realistic and fun loving; humorous dialogue and interactions; a richly descriptive lake town setting; and a satisfying romantic storyline that easily draws the reader into the story, Luck of the Draw is a wonderful first book in a new series that I am eager to read.
Luck of the Draw is a heartwarming story of self-discovery, finding the passions in life, and a pleasantly unexpected luck of the draw at getting a second chance at romance.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Goddess Fish Promotions.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
August 12, 2014
Luck of the Draw by Cheri Allan is as beautifully written novel about a women who is on a journey to find herself after the sudden passing of her soon to be ex-husband. After having her son so young and finding herself trapped in a loveless marriage, Kate Mitchell vowed never to feel like that again. To find herself she left Connecticut to a small town in New Hampshire to find herself and to "find her passion". She never thought that passion would be in a small town man such as Jim Pearson.
I absolutely enjoyed reading Luck of the Draw as it was a sweet, romantic novel that made you feel good as you read it. Allan did a great job with the feel of the story as it was just so easy to read and enjoy. There was never a dull moment in the book and the connection between Jim and Kate was so well written, it made the book a great read. Allen used comedy to allow the readers to have a good laugh every now and then which made it a great light read.
I always love a good a book that also has a subtle message or that allows you to walk away with something after your finished. I felt that Luck of the Draw was all about following your dreams and "finding your passion" and never letting yourself feel as if you lost your way. Allan did a great job in writing the story about Kate and how she had felt like she lost her way and her passion, but wrote this beautiful story about how she started to find it again. Luck of the Draw will give you that hope that you can too find your passion and find your way.
I definitely would recommend this novel to anyone who wanted a nice read that will leave you feeling fulfilled and hopeful along with taking away a lesson to use in your own life. 4 Stars!
I absolutely enjoyed reading Luck of the Draw as it was a sweet, romantic novel that made you feel good as you read it. Allan did a great job with the feel of the story as it was just so easy to read and enjoy. There was never a dull moment in the book and the connection between Jim and Kate was so well written, it made the book a great read. Allen used comedy to allow the readers to have a good laugh every now and then which made it a great light read.
I always love a good a book that also has a subtle message or that allows you to walk away with something after your finished. I felt that Luck of the Draw was all about following your dreams and "finding your passion" and never letting yourself feel as if you lost your way. Allan did a great job in writing the story about Kate and how she had felt like she lost her way and her passion, but wrote this beautiful story about how she started to find it again. Luck of the Draw will give you that hope that you can too find your passion and find your way.
I definitely would recommend this novel to anyone who wanted a nice read that will leave you feeling fulfilled and hopeful along with taking away a lesson to use in your own life. 4 Stars!
August 19, 2014
5 STARS!
I really liked this book. It was sweet, emotional, heartwarming, and funny read with a dash of sexiness. This book is about one woman who is finding herself and her passion again and finding love again when she least expects it.. This book was beautifully written and had some touching moments. I loved how everything in life that is meant to be will fall together and that was our hero and heroine's story. Never count out love because it will get you when you least expect it.
This is Kate and Jim's story. Kate is having a rough time. Her soon to be ex-husband died. When she is basically pushed into going and spending the summer with her three year old son in Sugar Falls, she decides to go with it and go. What she doesn't expect is the sparks and chemistry she feels with local Jim Pearson or the connection she will make with his family and the town. Jim has been burned in the past and doesn't want a woman, much less one with so many problems. But Jim can't help but feel drawn to Kate. What happens when two people who are looking for love find exactly that? Will that take the risk on love or run away from their second chance at happiness?
I loved ALL of the characters in this book. This book starts out with a bang and we get the pleasure of our first interaction with Nana. She was an absolute hoot. I loved the meddling grandmas. I also liked Kate. I felt for her in the beginning and I grew to really like her as I read about her discovering herself again. This book made me laugh and get teary eyed so it hit all the right spots.
I recommend this book.
This is my first book by this author and it won't be my last.
Book Tour---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2014...
I really liked this book. It was sweet, emotional, heartwarming, and funny read with a dash of sexiness. This book is about one woman who is finding herself and her passion again and finding love again when she least expects it.. This book was beautifully written and had some touching moments. I loved how everything in life that is meant to be will fall together and that was our hero and heroine's story. Never count out love because it will get you when you least expect it.
This is Kate and Jim's story. Kate is having a rough time. Her soon to be ex-husband died. When she is basically pushed into going and spending the summer with her three year old son in Sugar Falls, she decides to go with it and go. What she doesn't expect is the sparks and chemistry she feels with local Jim Pearson or the connection she will make with his family and the town. Jim has been burned in the past and doesn't want a woman, much less one with so many problems. But Jim can't help but feel drawn to Kate. What happens when two people who are looking for love find exactly that? Will that take the risk on love or run away from their second chance at happiness?
I loved ALL of the characters in this book. This book starts out with a bang and we get the pleasure of our first interaction with Nana. She was an absolute hoot. I loved the meddling grandmas. I also liked Kate. I felt for her in the beginning and I grew to really like her as I read about her discovering herself again. This book made me laugh and get teary eyed so it hit all the right spots.
I recommend this book.
This is my first book by this author and it won't be my last.
Book Tour---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2014...
August 27, 2014
Loved this story. It was charming and fun with the right mix of humor and relatable issues. Great story and great writing.
November 1, 2014
Good
this romance book is so full of happiness for so many people.the way love works .the people who have to find there way find happiness.
this romance book is so full of happiness for so many people.the way love works .the people who have to find there way find happiness.
March 19, 2015
Luck of the draw
Very entertaining and has a great story line.
Will read more from this author and would like to see the same town setting again.
Very entertaining and has a great story line.
Will read more from this author and would like to see the same town setting again.
June 24, 2018
Luck of the Draw, by Cheri Allan.
This is the story of two people who have been disappointed in love, and families whose attitudes are far from traditional.
Jim Pearson and Kate Mitchell are two well meaning individuals who have each had failed relationships. In Kate's case her husband was temperamental and unstable, and the couple are on the verge of separation when he is killed in an automobile crash. For Jim, he loved a woman who was simply not capable of loving him back. Both have reasons to distrust love as the basis for any lasting relationship.
Yet their families can see the sparks the pair strike when together, and try constantly to bring them into a long term relationship. Both of them resist with everything they believe, but in the end their affection for one another pulls them together.
This might seen like a hokey storyline, but author Cheri Allan handles it deftly, with both humour and pathos. The untraditional nature of the protagonists' families is the ground on which the love affair plays out, and though Kate feels she has lost everything and is totally unsure of the way forward, her family members eventually help to bring her to the realization that, at 31, she has a lot to live for.
Complicating the love affair are children--Kate's little boy Liam, and an unborn child she is pregnant with. I can't say more about this in a review, but the way in which her family handles these complications goes a long way towards bringing the couple into a meaningful relationship.
I enjoyed this book, though it took me longer to read than usual. I sometimes felt that the difficulties the couple was having with their "friendly" relationship was a little overdone. But the way author Cheri Allan handled it left me satisfied with the result, if a little exhausted at the end of the read. A good romance with some interesting self-analysis by the pair. Certainly a book full of humour and good feeling about moving forward in difficult situations.
This is the story of two people who have been disappointed in love, and families whose attitudes are far from traditional.
Jim Pearson and Kate Mitchell are two well meaning individuals who have each had failed relationships. In Kate's case her husband was temperamental and unstable, and the couple are on the verge of separation when he is killed in an automobile crash. For Jim, he loved a woman who was simply not capable of loving him back. Both have reasons to distrust love as the basis for any lasting relationship.
Yet their families can see the sparks the pair strike when together, and try constantly to bring them into a long term relationship. Both of them resist with everything they believe, but in the end their affection for one another pulls them together.
This might seen like a hokey storyline, but author Cheri Allan handles it deftly, with both humour and pathos. The untraditional nature of the protagonists' families is the ground on which the love affair plays out, and though Kate feels she has lost everything and is totally unsure of the way forward, her family members eventually help to bring her to the realization that, at 31, she has a lot to live for.
Complicating the love affair are children--Kate's little boy Liam, and an unborn child she is pregnant with. I can't say more about this in a review, but the way in which her family handles these complications goes a long way towards bringing the couple into a meaningful relationship.
I enjoyed this book, though it took me longer to read than usual. I sometimes felt that the difficulties the couple was having with their "friendly" relationship was a little overdone. But the way author Cheri Allan handled it left me satisfied with the result, if a little exhausted at the end of the read. A good romance with some interesting self-analysis by the pair. Certainly a book full of humour and good feeling about moving forward in difficult situations.
November 6, 2023
REVIEW: LUCK OF THE DRAW BY CHERI ALLAN
Readers, I met this amazing author back in October, and let me tell you she is the sweetest, most humble human on the planet. She was on a panel that discussed how they write and where the inspiration comes from - and she also read a passage that had all in the room tearing up, and some openingly crying - it was that touching and that poignant.
I had to stop by her table at the signing to purchase the book she was reading from and found out that it was part of a series — so of course I had to purchase the series.. and oh man am I happy I did…..
Luck of the Draw is the first in Cheri’s series A Betting on Romance novel…
This follows Kate and Jim’s relationship and also introduces the reader to some great characters.
Kate is a single mom of a 3 year old, her husband passed away in a car accident, and if that wasn’t enough, they were in the process of separating and divorce. It follows how Kate deals with that aspect of her life, of how she copes and ultimately finds friendship and love again.
Jim was left at the altar and is bitter - but finds a soft spot for Kate….
Follow them through trials and tribulations and eventually love. I loved the old ladies in this book, they really will make you laugh at their antics, and their matchmaking - their superstitions and a bit of mystical interference (well they think so, you be the judge)…. Think your grandma playing poker with photos of family instead of money… it cracked me up.
I loved this book and look forward to the next in the series.
❤️
JJ
Readers, I met this amazing author back in October, and let me tell you she is the sweetest, most humble human on the planet. She was on a panel that discussed how they write and where the inspiration comes from - and she also read a passage that had all in the room tearing up, and some openingly crying - it was that touching and that poignant.
I had to stop by her table at the signing to purchase the book she was reading from and found out that it was part of a series — so of course I had to purchase the series.. and oh man am I happy I did…..
Luck of the Draw is the first in Cheri’s series A Betting on Romance novel…
This follows Kate and Jim’s relationship and also introduces the reader to some great characters.
Kate is a single mom of a 3 year old, her husband passed away in a car accident, and if that wasn’t enough, they were in the process of separating and divorce. It follows how Kate deals with that aspect of her life, of how she copes and ultimately finds friendship and love again.
Jim was left at the altar and is bitter - but finds a soft spot for Kate….
Follow them through trials and tribulations and eventually love. I loved the old ladies in this book, they really will make you laugh at their antics, and their matchmaking - their superstitions and a bit of mystical interference (well they think so, you be the judge)…. Think your grandma playing poker with photos of family instead of money… it cracked me up.
I loved this book and look forward to the next in the series.
❤️
JJ
June 20, 2020
A widow, a carpenter, poker-playing grandmothers, and a four-year-old boy all come together in this contemporary romance.
Kate Mitchell is a widow, isn't she? Or maybe not. She was separated from her husband when he suddenly died. Now her life is out of control, and she takes the summer off to find herself, or as her boss Nancy says, "find her passion." But can she, or will she?
All that she can see is all the messes she has made of her life, and she only makes more when she meets the handyman-carpenter Jim Pearson. He doesn't want complicated and a woman, newly widowed with a child is definitely a complication.
Still, romance is afoot for many of the couples in the story, and meddling by friends and family brings the pair together again and again. Still, will either admit to feelings beyond that of being in lust? Or if not, can they be friends?
A few WTT including several hair tucks, a few typos (wrong words or misspelled words), but not many. Overall, a decent romance although some of the cutesy dialogue by Liam was a bit annoying. This was the first of a series, and the first that this reader read this author, but willing to read more.
Kate Mitchell is a widow, isn't she? Or maybe not. She was separated from her husband when he suddenly died. Now her life is out of control, and she takes the summer off to find herself, or as her boss Nancy says, "find her passion." But can she, or will she?
All that she can see is all the messes she has made of her life, and she only makes more when she meets the handyman-carpenter Jim Pearson. He doesn't want complicated and a woman, newly widowed with a child is definitely a complication.
Still, romance is afoot for many of the couples in the story, and meddling by friends and family brings the pair together again and again. Still, will either admit to feelings beyond that of being in lust? Or if not, can they be friends?
A few WTT including several hair tucks, a few typos (wrong words or misspelled words), but not many. Overall, a decent romance although some of the cutesy dialogue by Liam was a bit annoying. This was the first of a series, and the first that this reader read this author, but willing to read more.
July 23, 2020
This was new to me author that I met in person last Oct and got to spend some time getting to know. This book is just as funny and hard to walk away from as Cheri is. I only regret it took me so long to find time to start reading it. Once I did I could not put it down and can not wait to read the other three in this series not to mention the rest of her books.
There was a lot of heart and feelings put into this story that made you care about the characters and you became invested in how it was going to end.
Def one of my top three must-read authors after reading this book.
There was a lot of heart and feelings put into this story that made you care about the characters and you became invested in how it was going to end.
Def one of my top three must-read authors after reading this book.
August 24, 2019
I met the author at a local Indie Romance Writers event and found her entertaining and informative so I thought I’d try one of her books. This is the story of Kate and Jim, both of whom have had rocky romantic relationships. However, Kate is really a mess and this book is fun and appealing as she tries to figure herself out in Sugar Falls NH with an interesting group of relatives and friends. This is an enjoyable light read.
November 1, 2021
Oh, this just the quaintess tale, I have read, for a long time.
Kate is advised, one cold wet night that her estranged husband had been killed in a single vehicle accident.
Although she had been in divorcing him, this was something that swept her legs from under her. All her ideas for anew future somehow have been squashed.
What happens next is what makes this a superlative tale. I urge you to read the author's rendition of this story, it is an enjoyable read.
Kate is advised, one cold wet night that her estranged husband had been killed in a single vehicle accident.
Although she had been in divorcing him, this was something that swept her legs from under her. All her ideas for anew future somehow have been squashed.
What happens next is what makes this a superlative tale. I urge you to read the author's rendition of this story, it is an enjoyable read.
May 30, 2024
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she was getting divorced, had sex with her husband one last time before he ran his car into a tree and died.
she was put on leave from her job at school for the summer
went to the lake with her 3 yr old son
her parents were not supportive of her
she liked the neighbor and he liked her
she thought she was preg by her husband but turned out she was preg by the neighbor
they got married and he adopted her son
she was getting divorced, had sex with her husband one last time before he ran his car into a tree and died.
she was put on leave from her job at school for the summer
went to the lake with her 3 yr old son
her parents were not supportive of her
she liked the neighbor and he liked her
she thought she was preg by her husband but turned out she was preg by the neighbor
they got married and he adopted her son
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2018
Luck of the Draw (A Betting on Romance Novel Bpok 1)
The love story of Jim and Kate. Have losing her husband, Kate take a trip to Sugar Fall to spend the summer with her nanny. He meet Jim at a family picnic. Kaye and Jim are fighting what they feel. Her grandmother and the other grandmothers of Sugar Fall are try to put them together. Will they win or lost at love? OK story.
The love story of Jim and Kate. Have losing her husband, Kate take a trip to Sugar Fall to spend the summer with her nanny. He meet Jim at a family picnic. Kaye and Jim are fighting what they feel. Her grandmother and the other grandmothers of Sugar Fall are try to put them together. Will they win or lost at love? OK story.
June 21, 2018
Life is messy!
Yes, life is messy but it's wonderful also - if you let it. I think this story is about someone who thought too much and couldn't get out of her own way. The same as a lot of us; me included. This was a very touching story. The point it made for me??? Let go and let God.
Yes, life is messy but it's wonderful also - if you let it. I think this story is about someone who thought too much and couldn't get out of her own way. The same as a lot of us; me included. This was a very touching story. The point it made for me??? Let go and let God.
August 17, 2018
Beautiful. Heartwarming. Lovely.
One of the best love stories I have read in a very long time. I laughed, cried, and smiled the whole way through. I fell in love with Kate, Jim, and of course little Liam...hoping the path of self discovery would end happily. I won't tell you if it does or not. Read the story and find out first hand. It's worth the time.
One of the best love stories I have read in a very long time. I laughed, cried, and smiled the whole way through. I fell in love with Kate, Jim, and of course little Liam...hoping the path of self discovery would end happily. I won't tell you if it does or not. Read the story and find out first hand. It's worth the time.
July 20, 2019
You make your own luck!
I love Him and Kate. Their story is so timely. Love throws you challenges and you either make the most of them or find your own path. You will love the town and it's quirky cast of characters. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. Thank you Ms. Allan for a wonderful new series for me to enjoy!
I love Him and Kate. Their story is so timely. Love throws you challenges and you either make the most of them or find your own path. You will love the town and it's quirky cast of characters. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. Thank you Ms. Allan for a wonderful new series for me to enjoy!
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October 19, 2020STUPID BOOK...
You introduce her pregnancy early on in the book(I forgot which chapter), but then don't mention it again until chapter 19? Why did you make her to be such an insecure, indecisive airhead?? A lot of it just didn't make sense...I was unable to sleep which is the ONLY reason I kept reading...smh
You introduce her pregnancy early on in the book(I forgot which chapter), but then don't mention it again until chapter 19? Why did you make her to be such an insecure, indecisive airhead?? A lot of it just didn't make sense...I was unable to sleep which is the ONLY reason I kept reading...smh
August 12, 2023
While there were some plot points I didn't like, like the main characters taking way too long to get together, it wasn't bad overall. Having been on my TBR list for years, it was nice to finally read this, and it was worth the wait. I don't expect it to be one I reach for on a regular basis, but it is a good one for a light/relaxing read on a summer's day.
June 13, 2025
This e-book has been in My Digital Library since September 2, 2016.
The scene where a group of grandmothers play cards using photos of their grandchildren to ante up and make predictions was a different way to introduce the characters, and the reader will want to see how the author works this story.
I added a star to recommend it to other readers.
The scene where a group of grandmothers play cards using photos of their grandchildren to ante up and make predictions was a different way to introduce the characters, and the reader will want to see how the author works this story.
I added a star to recommend it to other readers.
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