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Lopez Brothers #1
Rolling in the Deep
In this raw, moving novel for readers of Jill Shalvis, Molly O’Keefe, and Karina Halle, two kindred spirits share a winning lottery ticket—and discover what it really means to get lucky.
Holly Ward is stretched to the breaking point, raising her young son alone and working long hours for minimum wage at a local superstore. Sure, she’s noticed the new guy with the easy grin and warm brown eyes, but she’s learned the hard way that relationships aren’t worth the pain. Still, when he invites her to split a lottery ticket, she figures a little innocent fun couldn’t hurt. The last thing she expects is to score big, which is exactly what happens . . . in more ways than one.
From the moment he meets Holly, Ray Lopez is drawn to her quiet dignity and openhearted beauty. And when they hit the jackpot together, he’s thrilled that the single mom can give her kid a better life. The only problem is the chaos surrounding lawyers and reporters swarming, friends and family angling to get their cut. In all the chaos, Ray discovers an oasis of calm and passion in Holly. But with the stakes higher than ever, winning her trust could cost him everything.
Holly Ward is stretched to the breaking point, raising her young son alone and working long hours for minimum wage at a local superstore. Sure, she’s noticed the new guy with the easy grin and warm brown eyes, but she’s learned the hard way that relationships aren’t worth the pain. Still, when he invites her to split a lottery ticket, she figures a little innocent fun couldn’t hurt. The last thing she expects is to score big, which is exactly what happens . . . in more ways than one.
From the moment he meets Holly, Ray Lopez is drawn to her quiet dignity and openhearted beauty. And when they hit the jackpot together, he’s thrilled that the single mom can give her kid a better life. The only problem is the chaos surrounding lawyers and reporters swarming, friends and family angling to get their cut. In all the chaos, Ray discovers an oasis of calm and passion in Holly. But with the stakes higher than ever, winning her trust could cost him everything.
166 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2015
6 people are currently reading
306 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Rogers Maher
11 books58 followersRebecca Rogers Maher writes gritty, realistic stories that push the boundaries of contemporary romance. Publishers Weekly describes her writing as “gripping and touching,” Library Journal calls it “gut-wrenching,” and USA TODAY declares it “very well-done romance…so satisfying.”
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November 10, 2015
4 Overwhelmed Stars * * * *
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IT IS LIVE!
I am going to start by saying this was a total surprise for me. The blurb caught my eye and NetGalley deemed me fit to read it. I had no history with the writer and only took with me the understanding this was a novella, meaning to me, things would either move quickly, awkwardly or maybe... they would fit just right. I can't say if my mindset colored the way I took this in or not...for others maybe the results would be different...but for me...it worked.
The premise is something all of us at one time or another have thought about...winning the lottery and then contemplating what we would do if it happened. What was thrown into this mix was the idea of two people who had a brief work acquaintance for two months. The work was at a "Walmart" type of store and each are carrying an emotional load.
Holly Ward is a woman who is strong in many ways... yet has this acquired insecurity in others...I say acquired due to the relentless conditioning and treatment she received from her ex. She met him when she was at her most vulnerable; her mother had died and she was out in the world alone now. She never thought of herself as a "looker"... never competed for attention and only wanted to go to college and make something of herself... her mother's dream and hers. Brett swept in and overwhelmed her with care, attention and made her feel cherished; treated her to all the things her working mother was not able to give... dinners out, movies, shows, flowers...and then they were together...
But things started to change little by little... the mean comments, the way he would look to put her down at every opportunity and separate her from her friends... and then she was tied to him...for her son Drew was born. She worked to give him the family he deserved...but this Brett had other plans...
Holly finally, with the encouragement of her friend Beth, saw she needed to save herself and her son Drew from this toxic environment. She saved and scrimped and finally divorced his cheating, mentally abusive ass. Brett was stunned she would leave him...and made it his goal to continue to do damage any way he could to Holly.
Oh, Brett landed on his feet... married a lovely, well to do woman Emma and they have been together for a few years now. Brett now gets to lord over Holly how they are able to send Drew to the best private schools and takes him on all kinds of vacations Holly could never give her son. The only saving grace is Emma. She truly is lovely and cares deeply for Drew. Brett does love his son but he never lets a moment with Holly go by without putting her down in some manner.
Yet, with all of that... there is a inner strength when it comes to survival and care for her son. Drew has been fortunate to have this mother who teaches him grace and joy in the little things. He has learned from her to see the beauty in nature and wonder of it it all. He has manners and a curious mind. He also is very aware of his situation with the difference between what he receives at his dad's house and mom's... and in his child heart...he makes sure his mom knows he is hers forever.
Holly juggles her low salary to the very last penny, plans it all out for the week and supports her son as best she can. Working at Cogmans is not what she planned, however, she does it with a personal pride and work ethic as if she was working at a more prestigious venue. It is this way of who she is and it makes her special. Her true love is gardening; she gives of herself to a group of like minded people in the community on her days off... planting, nurturing and enjoying these times with them and her son.
Ray is lost. He is a man trying to live up to a dream his mother had for him. Growing up with his older brother and mother, he learned of caring and family. His father died when he was 3 and had only memories from how devoted his mother was to him after his death. She never looked to remarry... talked of how when the right one comes along... it will smack you up the side of your head and possibly rip your heart out of your chest. She worked at a diner as well as other jobs to take care of her boys. As Ray grew up, the diner became not only where she worked but also where he did his homework after school. The owner took Ray under his wing and started him as soon as he could hold a knife steady...in the kitchen, learning to see how things came together... developing tastes and an eye for presentation. Ray loved the diner, loved the community and the regulars...His mother wanted more for him... pushed him and made him promise to do more with his life. His Brother Tony had been the ambitious one... starting his own restaurant... Ray was behind...and then his mother had a heart attack and was gone.
Ray is raw...and determined to keep his promise to his mother... he will go to Culinary school like she wanted... become something. The requirement to apply is working 6 months for an upscale restaurant... never mind all the years at the diner. So here Ray is in Poughkeepsie, NY faraway from his home in Queens. He is working two jobs; Delmonicos and Cogmans with Holly.
Holly...she was the only person he met in the months here who actually talked to him as a person... who looked him in the eye as if he mattered. It was strange for him; in Queens everyone knew him, treated him as a person and he felt real. Here in this new town... he has no connections; at Cogmans you are interchangeable as the blue vest you wear... at the Delmonicos... as a fella on the line... anyone could step in and no one would think of it...But when Holly would say hello, how are you doing today...he remembered he was a person... he was singularly Ray...and it meant something.
Holly was not looking for any complications; dating or looking for some type of life outside of her son was not her for her. Brett made things so hard...just making sure she had everything budgeted was her weekly goal. She had no time for romance...but she could see and appreciate a fine looking man. That didn't cost anything....and Ray was handsome and seemed to take a moment to always say hello or have a cheerful comment for her.
It is in the break room both of these two souls connect...a friendly hello, a comment and then in the candy aisle a conversation with fun, banter and a bit of flirt...teasing about luxuries, and how they are too busy to go at this moment, etc... Then Ray offers to do the lottery with her...partners..Holly looks at him like he is nuts. She has no business throwing away the dollar...but something in how Ray was joking with her, playing and making her feel real...a woman... she gives him the dollar.
Ray wants to have Holly watch the lottery with him...she declines, she is feeling some things about Ray she needs to get a handle on. She promises she will watch. They are both in their own homes when the drawing takes place...
And we know what happens....
This novella takes us on a couple of journeys at the same time... the relationship of Holly and Ray, the result of the lottery with the media, work and family and all of the good and not so good which can happen.
Think about it...if it was you... and all of a sudden you were not left alone...hounded and then compound that with a budding flirtatious friendship. Then have that man actually be caring, watchful and understanding without saying anything... so different from what you were use to from your ex. These two people connect on a level intensified by them being the only ones they can share how they are feeling. They also have a foundation from before... it all comes together and when they give into how they feel about each other... it was something to experience...
Their time together was a very special erotic coupling...for me, the raw intensity and how Ray was...it was something.
This was a novella which had parallel layers, working to create a story we would want to see to the end. It addressed loss and what it can do to us, how we survive it and grow.
It showed a mother working tirelessly to give her son not just the necessities of life; food, shelter and care...to instill in him always the empathy of understanding others...of being open and seeing the joys of the little things in life. To be able to separate things from people and see the reward in doing so.
And it gave us Ray; a sensitive man adjusting to the loss and irony of his life...and going for what he truly wanted...a life with the woman he loved.
For me, this novella worked... Big Time. I will not forget Rebecca Rogers Maher.
A gifted copy was provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Roll over to your favorite book venue
IT IS LIVE!
I am going to start by saying this was a total surprise for me. The blurb caught my eye and NetGalley deemed me fit to read it. I had no history with the writer and only took with me the understanding this was a novella, meaning to me, things would either move quickly, awkwardly or maybe... they would fit just right. I can't say if my mindset colored the way I took this in or not...for others maybe the results would be different...but for me...it worked.
The premise is something all of us at one time or another have thought about...winning the lottery and then contemplating what we would do if it happened. What was thrown into this mix was the idea of two people who had a brief work acquaintance for two months. The work was at a "Walmart" type of store and each are carrying an emotional load.
Holly Ward is a woman who is strong in many ways... yet has this acquired insecurity in others...I say acquired due to the relentless conditioning and treatment she received from her ex. She met him when she was at her most vulnerable; her mother had died and she was out in the world alone now. She never thought of herself as a "looker"... never competed for attention and only wanted to go to college and make something of herself... her mother's dream and hers. Brett swept in and overwhelmed her with care, attention and made her feel cherished; treated her to all the things her working mother was not able to give... dinners out, movies, shows, flowers...and then they were together...
But things started to change little by little... the mean comments, the way he would look to put her down at every opportunity and separate her from her friends... and then she was tied to him...for her son Drew was born. She worked to give him the family he deserved...but this Brett had other plans...
Holly finally, with the encouragement of her friend Beth, saw she needed to save herself and her son Drew from this toxic environment. She saved and scrimped and finally divorced his cheating, mentally abusive ass. Brett was stunned she would leave him...and made it his goal to continue to do damage any way he could to Holly.
Oh, Brett landed on his feet... married a lovely, well to do woman Emma and they have been together for a few years now. Brett now gets to lord over Holly how they are able to send Drew to the best private schools and takes him on all kinds of vacations Holly could never give her son. The only saving grace is Emma. She truly is lovely and cares deeply for Drew. Brett does love his son but he never lets a moment with Holly go by without putting her down in some manner.
Yet, with all of that... there is a inner strength when it comes to survival and care for her son. Drew has been fortunate to have this mother who teaches him grace and joy in the little things. He has learned from her to see the beauty in nature and wonder of it it all. He has manners and a curious mind. He also is very aware of his situation with the difference between what he receives at his dad's house and mom's... and in his child heart...he makes sure his mom knows he is hers forever.
Holly juggles her low salary to the very last penny, plans it all out for the week and supports her son as best she can. Working at Cogmans is not what she planned, however, she does it with a personal pride and work ethic as if she was working at a more prestigious venue. It is this way of who she is and it makes her special. Her true love is gardening; she gives of herself to a group of like minded people in the community on her days off... planting, nurturing and enjoying these times with them and her son.
Ray is lost. He is a man trying to live up to a dream his mother had for him. Growing up with his older brother and mother, he learned of caring and family. His father died when he was 3 and had only memories from how devoted his mother was to him after his death. She never looked to remarry... talked of how when the right one comes along... it will smack you up the side of your head and possibly rip your heart out of your chest. She worked at a diner as well as other jobs to take care of her boys. As Ray grew up, the diner became not only where she worked but also where he did his homework after school. The owner took Ray under his wing and started him as soon as he could hold a knife steady...in the kitchen, learning to see how things came together... developing tastes and an eye for presentation. Ray loved the diner, loved the community and the regulars...His mother wanted more for him... pushed him and made him promise to do more with his life. His Brother Tony had been the ambitious one... starting his own restaurant... Ray was behind...and then his mother had a heart attack and was gone.
Ray is raw...and determined to keep his promise to his mother... he will go to Culinary school like she wanted... become something. The requirement to apply is working 6 months for an upscale restaurant... never mind all the years at the diner. So here Ray is in Poughkeepsie, NY faraway from his home in Queens. He is working two jobs; Delmonicos and Cogmans with Holly.
Holly...she was the only person he met in the months here who actually talked to him as a person... who looked him in the eye as if he mattered. It was strange for him; in Queens everyone knew him, treated him as a person and he felt real. Here in this new town... he has no connections; at Cogmans you are interchangeable as the blue vest you wear... at the Delmonicos... as a fella on the line... anyone could step in and no one would think of it...But when Holly would say hello, how are you doing today...he remembered he was a person... he was singularly Ray...and it meant something.
Holly was not looking for any complications; dating or looking for some type of life outside of her son was not her for her. Brett made things so hard...just making sure she had everything budgeted was her weekly goal. She had no time for romance...but she could see and appreciate a fine looking man. That didn't cost anything....and Ray was handsome and seemed to take a moment to always say hello or have a cheerful comment for her.
It is in the break room both of these two souls connect...a friendly hello, a comment and then in the candy aisle a conversation with fun, banter and a bit of flirt...teasing about luxuries, and how they are too busy to go at this moment, etc... Then Ray offers to do the lottery with her...partners..Holly looks at him like he is nuts. She has no business throwing away the dollar...but something in how Ray was joking with her, playing and making her feel real...a woman... she gives him the dollar.
Ray wants to have Holly watch the lottery with him...she declines, she is feeling some things about Ray she needs to get a handle on. She promises she will watch. They are both in their own homes when the drawing takes place...
And we know what happens....
This novella takes us on a couple of journeys at the same time... the relationship of Holly and Ray, the result of the lottery with the media, work and family and all of the good and not so good which can happen.
Think about it...if it was you... and all of a sudden you were not left alone...hounded and then compound that with a budding flirtatious friendship. Then have that man actually be caring, watchful and understanding without saying anything... so different from what you were use to from your ex. These two people connect on a level intensified by them being the only ones they can share how they are feeling. They also have a foundation from before... it all comes together and when they give into how they feel about each other... it was something to experience...
Their time together was a very special erotic coupling...for me, the raw intensity and how Ray was...it was something.
This was a novella which had parallel layers, working to create a story we would want to see to the end. It addressed loss and what it can do to us, how we survive it and grow.
It showed a mother working tirelessly to give her son not just the necessities of life; food, shelter and care...to instill in him always the empathy of understanding others...of being open and seeing the joys of the little things in life. To be able to separate things from people and see the reward in doing so.
And it gave us Ray; a sensitive man adjusting to the loss and irony of his life...and going for what he truly wanted...a life with the woman he loved.
For me, this novella worked... Big Time. I will not forget Rebecca Rogers Maher.
A gifted copy was provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
December 20, 2015
Holly Ward is a divorced, single mother of an eight-year old boy and she's struggling to make ends meet. She works at a superstore and meets newcomer Ray Lopez. It's obvious he's attracted to her and when he invites her to kick in a dollar to buy a Powerball ticket, she thinks, "Why not?" What happens next is surreal.
What I really enjoyed about this story is the realistic exploration of the crazy emotional turmoil that lottery winners experience after their lives literally change overnight. There were so many aspects of that situation I'd never considered, which I found provocative and compelling. Of the two characters, I found Ray to be the most authentic as suddenly he was forced to seek purpose to a life in which he previously was going through the motions.
Holly's ex-husband was not only emotionally abusive during their marriage but continued through their shared custody arrangement post divorce. While much of her behavior was consistent with that of an abused woman, I found it impossible to connect with her as she was so bland. There was little about her that I could latch onto to root for and that made the romance lackluster. It was difficult to understand what anyone, let alone Ray, found interesting about Holly. She loved her son but not enough to fight for him?
This was an interesting story that I would have enjoyed more if Holly had been crafted with more dimensions. But, the challenges presented regarding the lottery made this a more than worthwhile reading experience. It made me question whether I'd really want that kind of chaos in my life, despite the financial boon. Now that surprised me! 3.5 stars
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
What I really enjoyed about this story is the realistic exploration of the crazy emotional turmoil that lottery winners experience after their lives literally change overnight. There were so many aspects of that situation I'd never considered, which I found provocative and compelling. Of the two characters, I found Ray to be the most authentic as suddenly he was forced to seek purpose to a life in which he previously was going through the motions.
Holly's ex-husband was not only emotionally abusive during their marriage but continued through their shared custody arrangement post divorce. While much of her behavior was consistent with that of an abused woman, I found it impossible to connect with her as she was so bland. There was little about her that I could latch onto to root for and that made the romance lackluster. It was difficult to understand what anyone, let alone Ray, found interesting about Holly. She loved her son but not enough to fight for him?
This was an interesting story that I would have enjoyed more if Holly had been crafted with more dimensions. But, the challenges presented regarding the lottery made this a more than worthwhile reading experience. It made me question whether I'd really want that kind of chaos in my life, despite the financial boon. Now that surprised me! 3.5 stars
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
December 18, 2015
4 Deluge of emotions STARS
I'd never heard of this author before but the book was brought to my attention by the publisher via Netgalley as she was compared to other authors that I like. This is what I call an unexpected gem. The blurb intrigued me and I went in with no expectations and came out of it all the more enriched.
For me, this was a very deep and moving tale. Holly Ward is a single mother of Drew, an 8 year boy, who is her life. Holly's life is hard as she struggles to make ends meet and tries her hardest to give Drew all of the important things in life although she wishes she could give him more. Holly suffered under the thumb of a verbally abusive and manipulative ex-husband, Brett, Drew's father. Holly left him, realizing she couldn't live that way and while Brett has remarried and supposedly moved on, this man is a constant thorn in her side and takes great pleasure in tearing her down. Despite all of this, Holly is truly a strong woman with a good heart who has had her worth and sense of self shaken and has lost her confidence along the way. She’s a damn good mother but questions it because of her ex's nasty words.
“I’m so fucking tired of being afraid. Of being tentative, of holding myself back.”
Then there's Ray Lopez, Holly's co-worker at Cogman's, a low cost superstore. Holly has noticed Ray but tries to keep her distant as she doesn't want another man and needs no more trouble. Ray notices Holly instantly but also reads her so well and knows he needs to be cautious with. He's also lost and grappling with the recent loss of his mother.
Holly and Ray have a lot in common – two decent people trying to make a living, do good. Ray was raised by a single mother and recognizes Holly's plight to make ends meet and the love and dedication to her son.
I really enjoyed the premise on which their relationship unfolds as they buy a lottery ticket together and win. Becoming obscenely rich and as good as it sounds, think about what that does to your life? While drawn to each other, they're also shoved into the media spotlight and all of it is so overwhelming. And on top of it all, both of them believe, although Holly more so, that their good fortune will not last.
Ray was such a sweet, raw and real man and his connection with Holly was moving.
I loved the growth and arc of Holly as she transformed and came into her true self. I only wish we had more of it. More of Holly and Ray.
However, this was only a novella and so I knew it would be short but damn, it was sweet!
*ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
I'd never heard of this author before but the book was brought to my attention by the publisher via Netgalley as she was compared to other authors that I like. This is what I call an unexpected gem. The blurb intrigued me and I went in with no expectations and came out of it all the more enriched.
For me, this was a very deep and moving tale. Holly Ward is a single mother of Drew, an 8 year boy, who is her life. Holly's life is hard as she struggles to make ends meet and tries her hardest to give Drew all of the important things in life although she wishes she could give him more. Holly suffered under the thumb of a verbally abusive and manipulative ex-husband, Brett, Drew's father. Holly left him, realizing she couldn't live that way and while Brett has remarried and supposedly moved on, this man is a constant thorn in her side and takes great pleasure in tearing her down. Despite all of this, Holly is truly a strong woman with a good heart who has had her worth and sense of self shaken and has lost her confidence along the way. She’s a damn good mother but questions it because of her ex's nasty words.
“I’m so fucking tired of being afraid. Of being tentative, of holding myself back.”
Then there's Ray Lopez, Holly's co-worker at Cogman's, a low cost superstore. Holly has noticed Ray but tries to keep her distant as she doesn't want another man and needs no more trouble. Ray notices Holly instantly but also reads her so well and knows he needs to be cautious with. He's also lost and grappling with the recent loss of his mother.
Holly and Ray have a lot in common – two decent people trying to make a living, do good. Ray was raised by a single mother and recognizes Holly's plight to make ends meet and the love and dedication to her son.
I really enjoyed the premise on which their relationship unfolds as they buy a lottery ticket together and win. Becoming obscenely rich and as good as it sounds, think about what that does to your life? While drawn to each other, they're also shoved into the media spotlight and all of it is so overwhelming. And on top of it all, both of them believe, although Holly more so, that their good fortune will not last.
Ray was such a sweet, raw and real man and his connection with Holly was moving.
I loved the growth and arc of Holly as she transformed and came into her true self. I only wish we had more of it. More of Holly and Ray.
However, this was only a novella and so I knew it would be short but damn, it was sweet!
*ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
January 29, 2016
3.5 Stars
Review to come...
Review to come...
January 3, 2016
4 surprising stars
What a great read! Novellas can sometimes be hit and miss just because their length doesn’t always allow for good character development or an engaging story, but Rebecca Rogers Maher has done a great job with this one. I loved it and I was captivated from start to finish.
Holly and Ray are two people who have struggled their entire lives but who dream of something more. Holly is a single mother who was treated badly by her ex and hasn’t recovered her confidence, and Ray has recently lost his mother and is working hard to live up to the dreams she had for him. Co-workers at a discount store, they are attracted to each other but both are a little shy and haven’t acted on it, then one day they decide to split a lottery ticket and wouldn’t you know, they end up winning the whole thing.
Winning the lottery is something that I’m sure everybody has dreamed about at one time or another, and I really like the way the author handled this one. Of course they’re thrilled, and looking forward to spending the shit out of their $80million+ winnings, but with the excitement comes a sense of doubt and unworthiness and “why me?”. Holly and Ray are both feeling a little lost, and when the media picks up their stories, people start asking for handouts and lawyers become involved, their lives start to become complicated and they turn to each other.
This is a short read but the author manages to inject quite a bit of UST into the story, and I loved watching things develop between Holly and Ray. The shift from ‘friends who are attracted’ to more is really well done, and I love that together they are able to find peace in the chaos that is surrounding them. Their coming together is natural and easy, and their connection is intense, crazy passionate, and full of real emotion.
But they both have some figuring out to do before they can truly embrace their future and the character development is really impressive for such a short book. I love Holly and Ray. They are both genuinely ‘good’ people who haven’t had the easiest lives, and they deserve to be happy. Holly seemed a bit of a victim at times, but it’s a part of her journey as she finds her strength again, and I love that she was able to do that. And Ray is an absolute sweetheart! He’s not an alpha jerk (though he gets a bit alpha in the bedroom which is very nice!), he’s a nice guy who is just as scared as Holly in entering into something together, and I love that he’s able to be vulnerable with her. They are so great together, and their love story is absolutely beautiful.
It’s got quite a lot of depth, and I was surprised at the emotion in the story, but there’s also a lot of lightness. The story is written in dual POV, and the monologues are really funny and then there’s Holly’s ‘say it like it is’ best friend, Beth, and Ray’s brother, Tony who are fantastic side characters and both of them had me laughing out loud more than once. I am so excited that they are going to get their own story, and can’t wait for Just Give Me a ReasonJ.
I wasn’t sure what to expect going into this book, but I loved it! It’s sweet, emotional, funny, sexy and beautifully romantic, and I’m really looking forward to reading more of this author’s work.
4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
What a great read! Novellas can sometimes be hit and miss just because their length doesn’t always allow for good character development or an engaging story, but Rebecca Rogers Maher has done a great job with this one. I loved it and I was captivated from start to finish.
Holly and Ray are two people who have struggled their entire lives but who dream of something more. Holly is a single mother who was treated badly by her ex and hasn’t recovered her confidence, and Ray has recently lost his mother and is working hard to live up to the dreams she had for him. Co-workers at a discount store, they are attracted to each other but both are a little shy and haven’t acted on it, then one day they decide to split a lottery ticket and wouldn’t you know, they end up winning the whole thing.
Winning the lottery is something that I’m sure everybody has dreamed about at one time or another, and I really like the way the author handled this one. Of course they’re thrilled, and looking forward to spending the shit out of their $80million+ winnings, but with the excitement comes a sense of doubt and unworthiness and “why me?”. Holly and Ray are both feeling a little lost, and when the media picks up their stories, people start asking for handouts and lawyers become involved, their lives start to become complicated and they turn to each other.
This is a short read but the author manages to inject quite a bit of UST into the story, and I loved watching things develop between Holly and Ray. The shift from ‘friends who are attracted’ to more is really well done, and I love that together they are able to find peace in the chaos that is surrounding them. Their coming together is natural and easy, and their connection is intense, crazy passionate, and full of real emotion.
“This feels real … It feels so fucking real.”
But they both have some figuring out to do before they can truly embrace their future and the character development is really impressive for such a short book. I love Holly and Ray. They are both genuinely ‘good’ people who haven’t had the easiest lives, and they deserve to be happy. Holly seemed a bit of a victim at times, but it’s a part of her journey as she finds her strength again, and I love that she was able to do that. And Ray is an absolute sweetheart! He’s not an alpha jerk (though he gets a bit alpha in the bedroom which is very nice!), he’s a nice guy who is just as scared as Holly in entering into something together, and I love that he’s able to be vulnerable with her. They are so great together, and their love story is absolutely beautiful.
It’s got quite a lot of depth, and I was surprised at the emotion in the story, but there’s also a lot of lightness. The story is written in dual POV, and the monologues are really funny and then there’s Holly’s ‘say it like it is’ best friend, Beth, and Ray’s brother, Tony who are fantastic side characters and both of them had me laughing out loud more than once. I am so excited that they are going to get their own story, and can’t wait for Just Give Me a ReasonJ.
“You shouldn’t have slept with her so soon.”
… “It was kind of an accident.”
Tony turns to eyeball me. “She tripped and fell on your dick? Hate when that happens.”
I wasn’t sure what to expect going into this book, but I loved it! It’s sweet, emotional, funny, sexy and beautifully romantic, and I’m really looking forward to reading more of this author’s work.
4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2016
4 - "We had this moment, though, didn't we?" Stars!
This book was almost a five star read, Rebecca Rogers Maher is a new author to me, and to say I was impressed with the writing style, story-line and character development in this one would be a slight understatement. After seeing a few mixed reviews for Rolling in the Deep I started reading with no expectations, and found myself quickly gripped by the budding relationship between Ray and Holly, which played out around a life changing lottery win.
"Hope hurts most of all."
The pair of them both from pretty unremarkable backgrounds, and working in the local supermarket trying to make ends meet, split a ticket on the off-chance that lady luck is shining on them, and as you can guess, their numbers come in. I loved that the author didn't then just go on a mad shopping spree with them and their money, but actually looked at the impact that sort of win would have on the rest of the people in their lives. I liked that the extreme circumstances pushed them to deal with their feelings for each other, and you really got the impression of something special building between them. Both of them are grieving a loss in their own ways, and although wholly different their coming together offers the support that enables them to start accepting that loss, and start looking to their futures.
"This feels real."
As I said in my first paragraph this book was edging towards the five star mark for me, but one thing really stuck and irritated just a little too much for me, and that was Holly's acquiescence towards her ex-husband. A guy that it is quickly established early on that she divorced for being a general douche, that got his jollies from making her feel inadequate and taking pot-shots at her in general to undermine her self-confidence, and make himself feel big.
"Are you really going to just lie down and take it?"
This then went one step to far when she allowed him to them take her child away from her without even batting an eye-lid. If it had been me I wouldn't have just cowered like a kitten, but would have fought like a tiger for my cub. The situation was rectified pretty quickly, I just wish it had been dealt with straight away.
Another real positive from this book was the secondary characters in Beth; Holly's best friend and Tony; Ray's recently divorced brother. Having done a little Goodreads stalking I am really happy too see that Tony and Beth are due to have their story told in early 2016, in Just Give Me a Reason. If you are looking for something a little different in the romance genre, I think Rolling in the Deep fits the bill really well.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
This book was almost a five star read, Rebecca Rogers Maher is a new author to me, and to say I was impressed with the writing style, story-line and character development in this one would be a slight understatement. After seeing a few mixed reviews for Rolling in the Deep I started reading with no expectations, and found myself quickly gripped by the budding relationship between Ray and Holly, which played out around a life changing lottery win.
"Hope hurts most of all."
The pair of them both from pretty unremarkable backgrounds, and working in the local supermarket trying to make ends meet, split a ticket on the off-chance that lady luck is shining on them, and as you can guess, their numbers come in. I loved that the author didn't then just go on a mad shopping spree with them and their money, but actually looked at the impact that sort of win would have on the rest of the people in their lives. I liked that the extreme circumstances pushed them to deal with their feelings for each other, and you really got the impression of something special building between them. Both of them are grieving a loss in their own ways, and although wholly different their coming together offers the support that enables them to start accepting that loss, and start looking to their futures.
"This feels real."
As I said in my first paragraph this book was edging towards the five star mark for me, but one thing really stuck and irritated just a little too much for me, and that was Holly's acquiescence towards her ex-husband. A guy that it is quickly established early on that she divorced for being a general douche, that got his jollies from making her feel inadequate and taking pot-shots at her in general to undermine her self-confidence, and make himself feel big.
"Are you really going to just lie down and take it?"
This then went one step to far when she allowed him to them take her child away from her without even batting an eye-lid. If it had been me I wouldn't have just cowered like a kitten, but would have fought like a tiger for my cub. The situation was rectified pretty quickly, I just wish it had been dealt with straight away.
Another real positive from this book was the secondary characters in Beth; Holly's best friend and Tony; Ray's recently divorced brother. Having done a little Goodreads stalking I am really happy too see that Tony and Beth are due to have their story told in early 2016, in Just Give Me a Reason. If you are looking for something a little different in the romance genre, I think Rolling in the Deep fits the bill really well.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
November 8, 2015
4.5 stars
Holly is a hard working single mom. She devotes her life to her son and hasn't had much time for herself. Dating, men and relationships are the furthest thing from her mind. She notices her co-worker Ray, how could she not with his handsome good looks, beautiful brown eyes and sweet personality, but she is overwhelmed with the long hours she works and just trying to get by. When Ray suggests they go in together on a lottery ticket, Holly is hesitant but agrees. When they hit the jackpot, neither of them are prepared for how much their life changes.
I really loved this book! Ray is the sweetest guy! This was so much more than a story about two co-workers winning the lottery. Holly's life is complicated. Her ex is a controlling jerk and she had the strength to leave him but he still has control over her. Ray is dealing with the recent loss of his mom and trying to fulfill the promise he made to her before she died. I enjoyed the amount of steamy scenes in this book, especially for how short this story was. My only complaint is that I wish there would've been some Ray and Drew scenes (Holly's son.) I hope that maybe this author will turn this into a series - I would love to read Ray's brothers story!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
Holly is a hard working single mom. She devotes her life to her son and hasn't had much time for herself. Dating, men and relationships are the furthest thing from her mind. She notices her co-worker Ray, how could she not with his handsome good looks, beautiful brown eyes and sweet personality, but she is overwhelmed with the long hours she works and just trying to get by. When Ray suggests they go in together on a lottery ticket, Holly is hesitant but agrees. When they hit the jackpot, neither of them are prepared for how much their life changes.
I really loved this book! Ray is the sweetest guy! This was so much more than a story about two co-workers winning the lottery. Holly's life is complicated. Her ex is a controlling jerk and she had the strength to leave him but he still has control over her. Ray is dealing with the recent loss of his mom and trying to fulfill the promise he made to her before she died. I enjoyed the amount of steamy scenes in this book, especially for how short this story was. My only complaint is that I wish there would've been some Ray and Drew scenes (Holly's son.) I hope that maybe this author will turn this into a series - I would love to read Ray's brothers story!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
November 3, 2015
A sweet tale of love and luck.
What would you do if you actually won the lottery?
Holly Ward feels like she’s pushing a rock up a hill. She works for minimum wage which she stretches to support her son. She sees no harm in accepting the offer to take a small risk and buy a lottery ticket with the charming and attractive new guy isn’t a big deal. Because it’s fun to fantasize. Because normal people don’t win huge amounts of money, right?
Ray López has found every excuse he can think of to talk to Holly. He was captivated by her from the moment he met her and can’t believe their good fortune when they actually win big. He’s hopeful that he can share more than just the money with her, but their luck runs out the minute their made the targets of news media and people wanting to get a piece of their money. Will they fight to have it all or will they believe no one is that lucky?
I loved the idea of this book. Even though I saw a picture similar to it a really long time ago, this premise was different from it and from most of the contemporary romances I’ve recently read. Who doesn’t dream of being economically free? Of having enough money to help their loved ones as well as others? Because that’s what these two very good and endearing characters do. They don’t just think about themselves, they’re generous people in every aspect of their lives even their time spent volunteering.
Holly and Ray are two very loveable characters, especially Ray. He’s really sweet, caring and thoughtful. A great match for the goodhearted Holly. I did have some trouble with both their characters though.
Holly is giving to an extreme. She he ex-husband’s doormat. Thinking he husband’s economical security can do more for their son, she just rolls over and lets him bully her and take whatever he deems convenient in regards to their son.
Ray is a kindhearted, funny and sweet man who is working hard to make his deceased mother’s wish come true. But he’s too doubtful, too passive and too was easily swayed to not fight for what he wanted, when what he clearly wanted was Holly.
A great part of the story revolves around getting to know the characters and how after they win the lottery it flips their worlds on its axis. They struggle to accept their good fortune. They feel guilty and unworthy of having such good luck when there are millions of people suffering in the world. It’s seems to them pretty unbelievable that on top of winning big, they also find each other and could fall in love. But they don’t just find each other, they find themselves along the way.
I really enjoyed the book’s prose, it was very well written. I only wish it was more evenly paced. While we unhurriedly got to know Holly and Ray and their connection deepened after their winnings, the ending seemed to come too fast.
Pacing and characters flaws notwithstanding, this is a good book that made me smile and introduced me to a writer I’ll happily look out for in the future.
Rolling in the deep is a standalone, contemporary romance. It’s told from both points of view with a happy ending.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
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Holly Ward feels like she’s pushing a rock up a hill. She works for minimum wage which she stretches to support her son. She sees no harm in accepting the offer to take a small risk and buy a lottery ticket with the charming and attractive new guy isn’t a big deal. Because it’s fun to fantasize. Because normal people don’t win huge amounts of money, right?
“The anticipation, the sense of promise. The Feeling that anything could happen.”
Ray López has found every excuse he can think of to talk to Holly. He was captivated by her from the moment he met her and can’t believe their good fortune when they actually win big. He’s hopeful that he can share more than just the money with her, but their luck runs out the minute their made the targets of news media and people wanting to get a piece of their money. Will they fight to have it all or will they believe no one is that lucky?
“That’s how I draw you in… with my rakish charm and unerring man-logic. Right here in the candy aisle I lay my trap.”
I loved the idea of this book. Even though I saw a picture similar to it a really long time ago, this premise was different from it and from most of the contemporary romances I’ve recently read. Who doesn’t dream of being economically free? Of having enough money to help their loved ones as well as others? Because that’s what these two very good and endearing characters do. They don’t just think about themselves, they’re generous people in every aspect of their lives even their time spent volunteering.
Holly and Ray are two very loveable characters, especially Ray. He’s really sweet, caring and thoughtful. A great match for the goodhearted Holly. I did have some trouble with both their characters though.
Holly is giving to an extreme. She he ex-husband’s doormat. Thinking he husband’s economical security can do more for their son, she just rolls over and lets him bully her and take whatever he deems convenient in regards to their son.
Ray is a kindhearted, funny and sweet man who is working hard to make his deceased mother’s wish come true. But he’s too doubtful, too passive and too was easily swayed to not fight for what he wanted, when what he clearly wanted was Holly.
“I kiss her... And, oh Christ, she tastes good.
Like bright, warm light. Like honey. And suddenly everything feels absolutely fixed in place. Stilled, and right. Like I’m not spinning anymore. Like I can stand to be where I am.”
A great part of the story revolves around getting to know the characters and how after they win the lottery it flips their worlds on its axis. They struggle to accept their good fortune. They feel guilty and unworthy of having such good luck when there are millions of people suffering in the world. It’s seems to them pretty unbelievable that on top of winning big, they also find each other and could fall in love. But they don’t just find each other, they find themselves along the way.
I really enjoyed the book’s prose, it was very well written. I only wish it was more evenly paced. While we unhurriedly got to know Holly and Ray and their connection deepened after their winnings, the ending seemed to come too fast.
Pacing and characters flaws notwithstanding, this is a good book that made me smile and introduced me to a writer I’ll happily look out for in the future.
Rolling in the deep is a standalone, contemporary romance. It’s told from both points of view with a happy ending.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
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October 29, 2015DNF
October 27, 2015
ARC provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
2.5 Stars
Who hasn't dreamed of just buying one ticket and winning the lottery? For those of us not in the millionaire's club, it's normal to think about what we would do if we won.
Ray and Holly are co-workers at Corman's, a one-stop superstore. Ray convinces Holly to give him a dollar to which he will add another dollar and buy a Powerball ticket. If they win anything, they will split it evenly. Holly doesn't put too much stock into it until she sits down to watch the lottery announcement because she promised Ray she would. All the numbers matched. She immediately runs to the bathroom and throws up. Instantaneously becoming a multi-millionaire was apparently too much to handle.
Going in to the story, everything feels more relaxed, but after they win, they struggle with not deserving the money and trying to overcome their pasts. As someone who really got into the whole New Adult theme, I thought I would enjoy this book more than I did. In the beginning the characters were more themselves, even if they were living paycheck to paycheck. It seems as if they lost that realness after the win, even before they received the money.
I couldn't understand why Holly was still allowing her ex to control her life after being divorced for five years. It would have been different if she was actually still in love with him, but she's not and she left him because of his actions. It just didn't seem very realistic for a mother to allow her son to be taken without a fight. That whole situation just irked me.
It doesn't take long to read this story, so if you think it's something that you would like, and you always have to find out for yourself, then go ahead and give it a shot.
2.5 Stars
Who hasn't dreamed of just buying one ticket and winning the lottery? For those of us not in the millionaire's club, it's normal to think about what we would do if we won.
Ray and Holly are co-workers at Corman's, a one-stop superstore. Ray convinces Holly to give him a dollar to which he will add another dollar and buy a Powerball ticket. If they win anything, they will split it evenly. Holly doesn't put too much stock into it until she sits down to watch the lottery announcement because she promised Ray she would. All the numbers matched. She immediately runs to the bathroom and throws up. Instantaneously becoming a multi-millionaire was apparently too much to handle.
Going in to the story, everything feels more relaxed, but after they win, they struggle with not deserving the money and trying to overcome their pasts. As someone who really got into the whole New Adult theme, I thought I would enjoy this book more than I did. In the beginning the characters were more themselves, even if they were living paycheck to paycheck. It seems as if they lost that realness after the win, even before they received the money.
I couldn't understand why Holly was still allowing her ex to control her life after being divorced for five years. It would have been different if she was actually still in love with him, but she's not and she left him because of his actions. It just didn't seem very realistic for a mother to allow her son to be taken without a fight. That whole situation just irked me.
It doesn't take long to read this story, so if you think it's something that you would like, and you always have to find out for yourself, then go ahead and give it a shot.
December 29, 2015
This book had great potential. I mean, a romance happening between two normal people that went halves on a powerball ticket and won. What's not to love? Well, there was the fact that Holly is so scared of her butthead ex husband that she second guesses every single thing she does and says. She's definitely a Debbie Downer. And bless her heart, she's so depressing, she rubs off on Ray.
Please, don't let my view of this book discourage you from reading it. There are quite a few wonderful reviews for it. This just didn't work for me. I'll gladly try something else by this author at a later date.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
Please, don't let my view of this book discourage you from reading it. There are quite a few wonderful reviews for it. This just didn't work for me. I'll gladly try something else by this author at a later date.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
November 2, 2015
Ok. So from the blurb we know the deal: Holly and Ray go in on a lottery ticket together..and they win – BIG. This is change your entire life money, and it definitely does, but not necessarily in all the ways that they expected.
Holly’s life is about her son: he’s her everything, and she wishes that she do more for him. Holly’s ex is an asshole, but he’s an asshole who married a wealthy and incredibly kind woman. So they do more for her son that Holly could ever wish to do…until now. Of course, winning the lottery won’t change a lot: including her ex’s motivation to hurt her in any way he can.
Ray is just a genuine and sweet guy. He could have easily ran away with the winning ticket, leaving Holly in the lurch, but he’s not like that. The connection he and Holly feel is immediate and intense. They’ve thankfully known each other for two months prior to actually hooking up, or this would have been instalove on STEROIDS. Not that I mind that. The sex is hot and intense and deeper than I expected (ok jeez. It’s also more emotional).
I was actually pretty into this book until the ending made me wonder how we got from here to there. It was just so quick. The writing is easy and the story was enjoyably instalovey and totally made me smile. There was actual character development throughout the book which was why I was so surprised to feel like I was being rushed out the door of a restaurant a few minutes after closing time when I reached the end.
But I LIKED IT. On the whole, this is a sweet and quick HEA that gives you what you want with very little fuss. 3.5 stars!
[I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review]
This review looks prettier on my blog: http://obsessedwithmyshelf.com/2015/1...
Holly’s life is about her son: he’s her everything, and she wishes that she do more for him. Holly’s ex is an asshole, but he’s an asshole who married a wealthy and incredibly kind woman. So they do more for her son that Holly could ever wish to do…until now. Of course, winning the lottery won’t change a lot: including her ex’s motivation to hurt her in any way he can.
Ray is just a genuine and sweet guy. He could have easily ran away with the winning ticket, leaving Holly in the lurch, but he’s not like that. The connection he and Holly feel is immediate and intense. They’ve thankfully known each other for two months prior to actually hooking up, or this would have been instalove on STEROIDS. Not that I mind that. The sex is hot and intense and deeper than I expected (ok jeez. It’s also more emotional).
I was actually pretty into this book until the ending made me wonder how we got from here to there. It was just so quick. The writing is easy and the story was enjoyably instalovey and totally made me smile. There was actual character development throughout the book which was why I was so surprised to feel like I was being rushed out the door of a restaurant a few minutes after closing time when I reached the end.
But I LIKED IT. On the whole, this is a sweet and quick HEA that gives you what you want with very little fuss. 3.5 stars!
[I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review]
This review looks prettier on my blog: http://obsessedwithmyshelf.com/2015/1...
November 4, 2015
What an interesting read. It was far different from what I was expecting after reading the blurb. While Holly and Ray do win the lotto...and win big! The story is so much more. Holly has been living her life taking whatever crumbs the universe wants to give her. The only important thing she has in her life is her young son and she will do whatever it takes to keep him safe and happy. After living with the verbal abuse her now ex husband hands out, her self esteem is at an all time low. The freshness and light Ray brings to her life seems to good to be true. Can she believe in what he's offering and let him bring her out of the darkness?
I really enjoyed this one and would definitely recommend it.
I really enjoyed this one and would definitely recommend it.
November 10, 2015
Rolling in the Deep makes me think of that fabulous song by Adele, but this time it's the title of a book that I found rather fabulous...
Holly Ward works in a dead end job at a big box store in upstate New York where, as a single mom to Drew, she barely makes ends meet on her meager salary and child support. She left her cheating ex-husband after only three years when it became obvious that he had only married her because she'd been vulnerable and timid and he thought her easy to control. And now, even though he's remarried to a woman who's rich and successful and incredibly nice to Holly and Drew, her ex, Brett, is still angry that she finally found the gumption to leave him. So he takes every opportunity to belittle and humiliate Holly whenever they see each other.
The new guy at work, Ray Lopez, flirts gently with her when they find themselves working together in the store, even though Holly can't believe he'd be interested in her. He's attractive, charming, from Queens and he moved upstate to get away from the city and pursue a career as a chef, a promise he made to his mother before she passed away. His brother has a successful career and two little girls and Ray is still feeling like he's not sure what to do with his life.
Something about Holly's gentleness draws Ray and he takes every chance he can to spend time with her at work. On an impulse, he teasingly convinces her to go halves with him on a $2 Powerball lottery ticket when the prize reaches $200 million. She's never ever gambled before and can't believe the lottery isn't some sort of scam, but, hey, it's only $1, right? So Ray buys the ticket and tells her what time and channel she can watch the drawing and, yes, they hold the winning ticket. And after taxes, they each will get $80 million.
Neither Ray nor Holly, like most of us, can comprehend having that much money and there's not a moment to absorb the shock and elation as they deal with lawyers, the Lottery Commission and the press. And, of course, Holly's ex, who immediately tries to make her look like an unfit mother and take her son away after an overzealous photographer takes pictures of Ray leaving her apartment and Drew at his school.
Most of the book deals with the aftermath of the win, how their lives are affected individually and jointly. It's a life changing amount of money and they can help anyone, do anything, go anywhere, be anything they want. Both Ray and Holly have a hard time coming to terms with feeling deserving of the windfall, but deciding what they want out of life is the hard part, with or without that much money, and deciding if they really want each other.
I liked the way the characters were developed, how Holly finally started to feel some self-worth and stand up for herself and how Ray allows himself to question the promises he made to his mother and how he can honor her memory. The last few chapters wrapped things up a little quickly for me, but all in all, an unusual and intriguing contemporary read that worked for me!
Holly Ward works in a dead end job at a big box store in upstate New York where, as a single mom to Drew, she barely makes ends meet on her meager salary and child support. She left her cheating ex-husband after only three years when it became obvious that he had only married her because she'd been vulnerable and timid and he thought her easy to control. And now, even though he's remarried to a woman who's rich and successful and incredibly nice to Holly and Drew, her ex, Brett, is still angry that she finally found the gumption to leave him. So he takes every opportunity to belittle and humiliate Holly whenever they see each other.
The new guy at work, Ray Lopez, flirts gently with her when they find themselves working together in the store, even though Holly can't believe he'd be interested in her. He's attractive, charming, from Queens and he moved upstate to get away from the city and pursue a career as a chef, a promise he made to his mother before she passed away. His brother has a successful career and two little girls and Ray is still feeling like he's not sure what to do with his life.
Something about Holly's gentleness draws Ray and he takes every chance he can to spend time with her at work. On an impulse, he teasingly convinces her to go halves with him on a $2 Powerball lottery ticket when the prize reaches $200 million. She's never ever gambled before and can't believe the lottery isn't some sort of scam, but, hey, it's only $1, right? So Ray buys the ticket and tells her what time and channel she can watch the drawing and, yes, they hold the winning ticket. And after taxes, they each will get $80 million.
Neither Ray nor Holly, like most of us, can comprehend having that much money and there's not a moment to absorb the shock and elation as they deal with lawyers, the Lottery Commission and the press. And, of course, Holly's ex, who immediately tries to make her look like an unfit mother and take her son away after an overzealous photographer takes pictures of Ray leaving her apartment and Drew at his school.
Most of the book deals with the aftermath of the win, how their lives are affected individually and jointly. It's a life changing amount of money and they can help anyone, do anything, go anywhere, be anything they want. Both Ray and Holly have a hard time coming to terms with feeling deserving of the windfall, but deciding what they want out of life is the hard part, with or without that much money, and deciding if they really want each other.
I liked the way the characters were developed, how Holly finally started to feel some self-worth and stand up for herself and how Ray allows himself to question the promises he made to his mother and how he can honor her memory. The last few chapters wrapped things up a little quickly for me, but all in all, an unusual and intriguing contemporary read that worked for me!
January 15, 2016
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is a sweet story that many of us will recognise having dreamt of having happened to us. Just what would you do if you suddenly won the lottery. But added to the mix is the fact that you jointly won it with a person from work ... and you both might like each other ... but is that due to the win? how does everyone else react, especially the press, and the unpleasant ex-husband... I really enjoyed the amount of thought and disbelief that both of them show about the win and what they should do - almost as if they had never bothered to have the dream. Holly is lucky to have a good friend in Beth, and to finally wake up to herself. Ray has a strong brother to help him - and given the name of the book, he will have a story too.
This is an easy read, and will make you think ... just how easy would that transition be? (I reckon I'd do better - should anyone have a win they wish to share!)
This is a sweet story that many of us will recognise having dreamt of having happened to us. Just what would you do if you suddenly won the lottery. But added to the mix is the fact that you jointly won it with a person from work ... and you both might like each other ... but is that due to the win? how does everyone else react, especially the press, and the unpleasant ex-husband... I really enjoyed the amount of thought and disbelief that both of them show about the win and what they should do - almost as if they had never bothered to have the dream. Holly is lucky to have a good friend in Beth, and to finally wake up to herself. Ray has a strong brother to help him - and given the name of the book, he will have a story too.
This is an easy read, and will make you think ... just how easy would that transition be? (I reckon I'd do better - should anyone have a win they wish to share!)
November 10, 2015
****Received an Arc from Netgalley****
*****3.5 stars****
This is a sweet heartwarming story that is set in a town in upstate New York. Holly is a divorced mother of one son, and who focuses on her job and providing for her son. Holly hasn't been in any serious relationships since her divorce.
The story centers around Holly struggling to give her son the things he needs because her very bitter ex-husband has a rich wife, and they give her son a lot.
In enters Ray, a guy who has dreams of being a chef, and has moved away from the big city in hopes of following his own dreams.
Ray and Holly work at the local supermarket and one day Ray talks Holly into buying a mega millions lottery ticket together, and promises to split the money if they win.
Eventually, they hit the lottery jackpot and their lives are suddenly changed,and the one thing they have is each other.
This a light hearted story that I really enjoyed. Rolling Deep is not that long so you can easy enjoy this book in one day. If you like a light hearted, feelgood love story I would recommend this book.
*****3.5 stars****
This is a sweet heartwarming story that is set in a town in upstate New York. Holly is a divorced mother of one son, and who focuses on her job and providing for her son. Holly hasn't been in any serious relationships since her divorce.
The story centers around Holly struggling to give her son the things he needs because her very bitter ex-husband has a rich wife, and they give her son a lot.
In enters Ray, a guy who has dreams of being a chef, and has moved away from the big city in hopes of following his own dreams.
Ray and Holly work at the local supermarket and one day Ray talks Holly into buying a mega millions lottery ticket together, and promises to split the money if they win.
Eventually, they hit the lottery jackpot and their lives are suddenly changed,and the one thing they have is each other.
This a light hearted story that I really enjoyed. Rolling Deep is not that long so you can easy enjoy this book in one day. If you like a light hearted, feelgood love story I would recommend this book.
May 14, 2016
Rogers Maher's Rolling In the Deep held my interest thematically. I was quite fascinated with the way in which two people cope with a sudden financial windfall. So much of the novel rightly described their coming to terms with the randomness of it all and the cosmic injustice of being the recipients of millions of dollars without rhyme or reason. Holly and Ray are likable characters, with straitened but steady lives. Their response to winning the Powerball is spot on. What didn't work is their relationship: physical comfort and attraction, yes; the emotional stuff, the romance, not so much. I also didn't particularly enjoy the alternating first person POVs. It's a device much used in NA romance and one I don't enjoy. That's a personal preference, however, and doesn't deter from the competent writing. If you'd like to read a more extensive review, please follow the link:
https://missbatesreadsromance.com/201...
Please note that I received an e-ARC from the publisher, via Netgalley
https://missbatesreadsromance.com/201...
Please note that I received an e-ARC from the publisher, via Netgalley
November 9, 2015
I received a copy of the ePub from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rolling in the Deep by Rebecca Rogers Maher is a feel good contemporary romance. It is truly a story that will instantly capture the reader’s heart.
Holly Ward is a divorced mom that is struggling to stay afloat. She is devoted to her son Drew. Working at a big box store in her small town she purchases a lottery ticket with a co-worker. She and Ray become lottery winners—multimillionaires.
This quick paced novella explores their lives before, during and after the unexpected win. The chemistry between Holly and Ray feels natural. The story is told via Holly and Ray’s point of view—this gives great insight into each characters personalities revealing their fears, feelings and desires. What would happen if…? Rebecca Rogers Maher cleverly shows the reader what happens when the unexpected occurs.
Rolling in the Deep is a refreshing well-written novella. It will not disappoint.
Rolling in the Deep by Rebecca Rogers Maher is a feel good contemporary romance. It is truly a story that will instantly capture the reader’s heart.
Holly Ward is a divorced mom that is struggling to stay afloat. She is devoted to her son Drew. Working at a big box store in her small town she purchases a lottery ticket with a co-worker. She and Ray become lottery winners—multimillionaires.
This quick paced novella explores their lives before, during and after the unexpected win. The chemistry between Holly and Ray feels natural. The story is told via Holly and Ray’s point of view—this gives great insight into each characters personalities revealing their fears, feelings and desires. What would happen if…? Rebecca Rogers Maher cleverly shows the reader what happens when the unexpected occurs.
Rolling in the Deep is a refreshing well-written novella. It will not disappoint.
October 27, 2015
I started out loving this book. But I found later it felt rushed and not completed. The concept of this story was truly beautiful and Ray was an amazing man. Holly though she let that Jerk Brett run all over her. I mean what Ray did was a phenomenal gift and he always put her needs first but Holly just couldn't move forward. Emma the new wife I thought was really a great person I loved the relationship between them but again Holly never thought she was good enough. By the end well I honestly was sad because I feel like it was very rushed and could have been longer or leave me with a cliffhanger cause these characters deserved more time to tell their story. But overall the story was sweet and a quick read for me. I received this as an arc from the publisher and netgally for an honest review. Reviewing for Night and Day book blog http://ndbbr2014.com Stephanie Powell
November 11, 2015
Every once in awhile I come across a book that just takes my breath away with its beauty and leaves me with a sigh and a smile as I close on the final page. This is one of those books.
A sweet little novel that moved me in every way, with just the right amount of angst to keep me turning pages, some delicious sizzle and awesome connection, and two people, Ray and Holly, who I cared about and whose story I loved.
This might be a tale of two people who win the lottery, but it really has nothing to do with money. It's all about the love two people find that changes lives and hearts and it was a beautiful and very emotionally moving thing to watch.
This one definitely left me with that sigh and smile and it's going on the keeper shelf under Splendid Perfection.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a chance to read the arc of this book.
A sweet little novel that moved me in every way, with just the right amount of angst to keep me turning pages, some delicious sizzle and awesome connection, and two people, Ray and Holly, who I cared about and whose story I loved.
This might be a tale of two people who win the lottery, but it really has nothing to do with money. It's all about the love two people find that changes lives and hearts and it was a beautiful and very emotionally moving thing to watch.
This one definitely left me with that sigh and smile and it's going on the keeper shelf under Splendid Perfection.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a chance to read the arc of this book.
October 27, 2015
Received from netgalley for a honest review. I'm having a hard time review this book. At one point I really enjoyed Holly & Ray's chemistry. I enjoy the rags to riches and how they feel about the sudden change in their life's but I feel the story could have been so much more. In the end, a quick read with lots of potential.
December 4, 2015
Rolling in the Deep was a sweet surprise. I went in not expecting anything because this is my first time reading Maher, but I ended up liking the story and characters a lot.
I loved that neither were perfect and had a lot of issues in their individual lives. Holly was a divorced, single mother working hard to provide for her son and prove to her ex that she was capable of taking care of her son and herself. It was tough for her, especially since her ex-husband was a jerk who basically continued to verbally abuse her even after their divorce. He married a fortunate woman and rubbed it in Holly's face because they could take her son on fancy trips and give him expensive things. Holly felt bad that she couldn't do the same for her son, but I liked how he was happy with what his mother did provide him: love. Holly's son was perfectly fine in their tiny apartment and with the simple things they had. Even if Holly didn't get lucky and win the lotto, her son would still remain happy with just what they had.
Ray was such a sweetheart to Holly. I loved that his character was diverse too. Ray was trying to keep a promise to his deceased mother and make her proud, while trying to figure out just what his next step in life should be. I felt like him and Holly were perfect for each other because they motivated and encouraged each other when both characters would feel less than enough on their own. Ray treated Holly with the love and respect that she deserved and never got from her ex. He made her feel like she should be treasured, and he showed her that she was a great woman when she doubted herself. I wish Holly could have seen those things on her own and be stronger whenever she faced her ex, but thankfully, she had Ray and her friend to shake her out of the pity party and brought out the tougher side of Holly.
I loved the romance aspect just as much as I loved the other relationships the characters had outside of each other. Ray and his brother had a wonderful bond, and Holly and her best friend were great portrayals of how friends should be. It was good for the two to have people like them in their lives, they helped them see the bigger picture and not feel so guilty about winning the lotto in spite of thinking they weren't more deserving than other people who tried. I liked how Ray took care of his brother and treated him and his daughters to nice things after winning, and I liked Holly's friendship didn't change because of her sudden wealth.
There are other nice things about the story that made me like it that much. The fact that these two flawed characters found happiness with each other as well as being given the opportunity to live better lives tops the list of what makes this book interesting. The writing was also wonderful, clear and to the point, and it contributed to how fast-paced the story was for me. The only issue I had was with Holly not being strong enough throughout and waiting so long to finally take a stand against that douchebag ex of hers. But overall, great plot with intriguing characters. I recommend!
I loved that neither were perfect and had a lot of issues in their individual lives. Holly was a divorced, single mother working hard to provide for her son and prove to her ex that she was capable of taking care of her son and herself. It was tough for her, especially since her ex-husband was a jerk who basically continued to verbally abuse her even after their divorce. He married a fortunate woman and rubbed it in Holly's face because they could take her son on fancy trips and give him expensive things. Holly felt bad that she couldn't do the same for her son, but I liked how he was happy with what his mother did provide him: love. Holly's son was perfectly fine in their tiny apartment and with the simple things they had. Even if Holly didn't get lucky and win the lotto, her son would still remain happy with just what they had.
Ray was such a sweetheart to Holly. I loved that his character was diverse too. Ray was trying to keep a promise to his deceased mother and make her proud, while trying to figure out just what his next step in life should be. I felt like him and Holly were perfect for each other because they motivated and encouraged each other when both characters would feel less than enough on their own. Ray treated Holly with the love and respect that she deserved and never got from her ex. He made her feel like she should be treasured, and he showed her that she was a great woman when she doubted herself. I wish Holly could have seen those things on her own and be stronger whenever she faced her ex, but thankfully, she had Ray and her friend to shake her out of the pity party and brought out the tougher side of Holly.
I loved the romance aspect just as much as I loved the other relationships the characters had outside of each other. Ray and his brother had a wonderful bond, and Holly and her best friend were great portrayals of how friends should be. It was good for the two to have people like them in their lives, they helped them see the bigger picture and not feel so guilty about winning the lotto in spite of thinking they weren't more deserving than other people who tried. I liked how Ray took care of his brother and treated him and his daughters to nice things after winning, and I liked Holly's friendship didn't change because of her sudden wealth.
There are other nice things about the story that made me like it that much. The fact that these two flawed characters found happiness with each other as well as being given the opportunity to live better lives tops the list of what makes this book interesting. The writing was also wonderful, clear and to the point, and it contributed to how fast-paced the story was for me. The only issue I had was with Holly not being strong enough throughout and waiting so long to finally take a stand against that douchebag ex of hers. But overall, great plot with intriguing characters. I recommend!
November 16, 2015
Reviewed by Kim
Rebecca Rogers Maher is different than most authors I have read. Her characters aren’t squeaky clean, slightly tormented people. Her characters are real and tortured and tormented in ways few will understand. I love that about her writing. I’ve read enough of her books to know I have to prepare myself to be mentally and emotionally spent after I’ve finished reading her books.
Rolling in the Deep isn't as deep and gut wrenching as I expected. For Rebecca, it was probably one of her lighter reads. But don't get me wrong, the characters are still tortured and tormented souls.
Ray Lopez is trying to deal with the death of his mother. Her dying wish was for him to go to culinary school. In order to do that, he moves from his home and family to upstate New York. He’s a really good guy, trying to live his life and make good on a promise.
Holly Ward is a divorced single mother, raising an eight-year-old son. Her ex-husband is and was verbally and emotionally abusive. When she finally found the courage and strength to leave, his attacks worsened. He eventually married a woman who allowed him to move up in class status and money. That was something he took great pleasure in rubbing in Holly’s face.
Holly and Ray meet when he starts working for Cogmans, which is like a warehouse membership store. Holly is the first person at the store to truly be nice to Ray and his infatuation for her grows. Ray convinces Holly to go 50/50 on purchasing one lottery ticket. The two joke about all the money they could win and what they could do, never dreaming they would actually win. When the unbelievable happens, the two are thrust into the limelight and a life they have no idea how to navigate.
Rolling in the Deep is told in first person from the point of view of both Holly and Ray. It’s a touching story of what happens when the amazingly unimaginable happens, from winning a multimillion dollar lottery to finding love. Holly has been beaten down by life and circumstances and lacks self confidence, but she manages to find the strength and determination to claim her life back and no longer allow herself to be a victim. Together, Ray and Holly learn to deal with their individual losses and find the friendship and love they truly deserve.
Throughout all the ups and downs and life changes Holly and Ray have endured, they each have one person on their side to support them. For Holly, it’s her best friend Beth. For Ray, it’s his older brother Tony. I’m excited these two will have the potential to have their own happy ending in Just Give Me a Reason.
**Received a copy from Loveswept in exchange for an honest unbiased opinion.**
Rebecca Rogers Maher is different than most authors I have read. Her characters aren’t squeaky clean, slightly tormented people. Her characters are real and tortured and tormented in ways few will understand. I love that about her writing. I’ve read enough of her books to know I have to prepare myself to be mentally and emotionally spent after I’ve finished reading her books.
Rolling in the Deep isn't as deep and gut wrenching as I expected. For Rebecca, it was probably one of her lighter reads. But don't get me wrong, the characters are still tortured and tormented souls.
Ray Lopez is trying to deal with the death of his mother. Her dying wish was for him to go to culinary school. In order to do that, he moves from his home and family to upstate New York. He’s a really good guy, trying to live his life and make good on a promise.
Holly Ward is a divorced single mother, raising an eight-year-old son. Her ex-husband is and was verbally and emotionally abusive. When she finally found the courage and strength to leave, his attacks worsened. He eventually married a woman who allowed him to move up in class status and money. That was something he took great pleasure in rubbing in Holly’s face.
Holly and Ray meet when he starts working for Cogmans, which is like a warehouse membership store. Holly is the first person at the store to truly be nice to Ray and his infatuation for her grows. Ray convinces Holly to go 50/50 on purchasing one lottery ticket. The two joke about all the money they could win and what they could do, never dreaming they would actually win. When the unbelievable happens, the two are thrust into the limelight and a life they have no idea how to navigate.
Rolling in the Deep is told in first person from the point of view of both Holly and Ray. It’s a touching story of what happens when the amazingly unimaginable happens, from winning a multimillion dollar lottery to finding love. Holly has been beaten down by life and circumstances and lacks self confidence, but she manages to find the strength and determination to claim her life back and no longer allow herself to be a victim. Together, Ray and Holly learn to deal with their individual losses and find the friendship and love they truly deserve.
Throughout all the ups and downs and life changes Holly and Ray have endured, they each have one person on their side to support them. For Holly, it’s her best friend Beth. For Ray, it’s his older brother Tony. I’m excited these two will have the potential to have their own happy ending in Just Give Me a Reason.
**Received a copy from Loveswept in exchange for an honest unbiased opinion.**
November 8, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Loveswept in exchange for an honest review.
Rolling in the Deep is a standalone contemporary romance novel from author Rebecca Rogers Maher and poses the question: What would you do if you won the lottery and became a millionaire? Both Holly Ward and Ray Lopez work in a supermarket and having more money would definitely help both of them out. When they win the lottery using a ticket they split, things don't go necessarily as they would have expected. Holly is still stuck with an ex-husband who treats her like crap and who uses their son Drew to manipulate her and while the money she wins may offer a way to buy better things for her and Drew, her connection to Ray is what leads her ex-husband to think she's too busy with her fellow lottery winner to take care of Drew. On the other hand, Ray is a good guy who is lost and would rather have Holly than all that money.
The story itself is an interesting one and it highlights something that most of us already know: money can't buy you happiness. Yes, money can certainly help make life more comfortable and better but we've got a saying in my country that basically says more money equates more problems. The splitting of the winnings brings to mind the 1994 movie It Could Happen to You, which was inspired by an actual incident but without the romantic overtones and while I thought the romance between Holly and Ray was pretty good, it was drawn-out and then ended rather abruptly, leaving me feeling wanting. My main issue with Holly is that she continued to allow her ex-husband to treat her terribly even though she left him for that same reason. Rolling in the Deep was okay but lacked story development in the latter part. It gets three stars. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Loveswept in exchange for an honest review.
Rolling in the Deep is a standalone contemporary romance novel from author Rebecca Rogers Maher and poses the question: What would you do if you won the lottery and became a millionaire? Both Holly Ward and Ray Lopez work in a supermarket and having more money would definitely help both of them out. When they win the lottery using a ticket they split, things don't go necessarily as they would have expected. Holly is still stuck with an ex-husband who treats her like crap and who uses their son Drew to manipulate her and while the money she wins may offer a way to buy better things for her and Drew, her connection to Ray is what leads her ex-husband to think she's too busy with her fellow lottery winner to take care of Drew. On the other hand, Ray is a good guy who is lost and would rather have Holly than all that money.
The story itself is an interesting one and it highlights something that most of us already know: money can't buy you happiness. Yes, money can certainly help make life more comfortable and better but we've got a saying in my country that basically says more money equates more problems. The splitting of the winnings brings to mind the 1994 movie It Could Happen to You, which was inspired by an actual incident but without the romantic overtones and while I thought the romance between Holly and Ray was pretty good, it was drawn-out and then ended rather abruptly, leaving me feeling wanting. My main issue with Holly is that she continued to allow her ex-husband to treat her terribly even though she left him for that same reason. Rolling in the Deep was okay but lacked story development in the latter part. It gets three stars. ♥
December 4, 2015
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
*****MIGHT CONTAIN A FEW MILD SPOILERS!!!!*****
This is the first book that I've read by Maher, and while I thought some of it was a bit predictable, it was ultimately a very quick and great read!
Holly is a single mother who tries to do everything she can for her son, but is constantly stretched too thin. She has a wretched ex-husband who can't stand that she finally left his verbally abusive butt and will do anything he can to maintain some modicum of control over her. The sad part is that she's been beaten down by him for so long that she still lets him and it adds to her own feelings of being inadequate.
Ray is trying to get over the recent loss of his mother and working to keep a promise he made to her before she died to do something more with his life than work in a diner. He falls hard for Holly as soon as he meets her, but he knows he needs to tread lightly to gain her trust.
Then, they will the lottery. BIG time. And their worlds are turned upside down overnight. While reading, I thought they'd get straight into the "lovey" section of the story right after the win, but I was pleasantly surprised that Maher chose to slowly build up the tension and not have Holly drop her guard immediately.
I really liked their story and I felt the author did a great job in building not only their characters out fully, but also the secondary characters. The story and characters had some depth and I enjoyed the ride. This is a solid 4 stars for me and I'll be checking out other stories by Maher in the near future!
*****MIGHT CONTAIN A FEW MILD SPOILERS!!!!*****
This is the first book that I've read by Maher, and while I thought some of it was a bit predictable, it was ultimately a very quick and great read!
Holly is a single mother who tries to do everything she can for her son, but is constantly stretched too thin. She has a wretched ex-husband who can't stand that she finally left his verbally abusive butt and will do anything he can to maintain some modicum of control over her. The sad part is that she's been beaten down by him for so long that she still lets him and it adds to her own feelings of being inadequate.
Ray is trying to get over the recent loss of his mother and working to keep a promise he made to her before she died to do something more with his life than work in a diner. He falls hard for Holly as soon as he meets her, but he knows he needs to tread lightly to gain her trust.
Then, they will the lottery. BIG time. And their worlds are turned upside down overnight. While reading, I thought they'd get straight into the "lovey" section of the story right after the win, but I was pleasantly surprised that Maher chose to slowly build up the tension and not have Holly drop her guard immediately.
I really liked their story and I felt the author did a great job in building not only their characters out fully, but also the secondary characters. The story and characters had some depth and I enjoyed the ride. This is a solid 4 stars for me and I'll be checking out other stories by Maher in the near future!
December 8, 2015
What an unexpectedly thought provoking book Rolling In The Deep has been! Author Rebecca Rogers Maher has posed an interesting "what if" with this story of two very ordinary people and the not always pleasant ways in which a massive lottery win affects their lives.
Ray and Holly are both battlers. Holly's grown up in Poughkeepsie and is divorced with a young son, Drew, whom she adores. She has been working at Cogmans for a while and is struggling to make ends meet. She also volunteers at a community garden, a project she truly loves.
Ray has moved from Queens to Poughkeepsie to attend culinary school, a dream his mother has had for him for a long time. Before he starts there though, he needs restaurant experience and he's also working at Cogmans to make a little extra cash. He's liked Holly since first seeing her but is scared of asking her out. Eventually though, he suggests they go halves in a lottery ticket.
When they find they have the only winning ticket Ray and Holly face unexpected and unwanted upheaval in their lives as they are thrown into the glare of publicity. This book presented all manner of twists and turns as Ray and Holly slowly grew to love each other. I really enjoyed reading it and will be on the lookout for more from this author. Recommended!
Ray and Holly are both battlers. Holly's grown up in Poughkeepsie and is divorced with a young son, Drew, whom she adores. She has been working at Cogmans for a while and is struggling to make ends meet. She also volunteers at a community garden, a project she truly loves.
Ray has moved from Queens to Poughkeepsie to attend culinary school, a dream his mother has had for him for a long time. Before he starts there though, he needs restaurant experience and he's also working at Cogmans to make a little extra cash. He's liked Holly since first seeing her but is scared of asking her out. Eventually though, he suggests they go halves in a lottery ticket.
When they find they have the only winning ticket Ray and Holly face unexpected and unwanted upheaval in their lives as they are thrown into the glare of publicity. This book presented all manner of twists and turns as Ray and Holly slowly grew to love each other. I really enjoyed reading it and will be on the lookout for more from this author. Recommended!
December 18, 2015
It was an interesting story. What would you do if you won the lottery? This gal did not play the lottery and she barely knew the fellow who took her dollar and said he'd split with her if they won. They both worked for a super store (like Walmart). They both worked hard and barely got by. The side note is that she has an ex husband who is abusive mentally to her. So they struggle anyway and learn some things along the way. Some are good things too, BTW.
January 11, 2016
ARC provided by NetGalley
I enjoyed this book, I was just annoyed with Holly cause she couldn't make up her mind about what she wanted.
I know it must have been overwhelming, but here was someone that wanted to help you and you just kept pushing him away
I loved Ray he was so sweet and all he wanted was just to take care of Holly
Definitely a good read for a Sunday Afternoon!
I enjoyed this book, I was just annoyed with Holly cause she couldn't make up her mind about what she wanted.
I know it must have been overwhelming, but here was someone that wanted to help you and you just kept pushing him away
I loved Ray he was so sweet and all he wanted was just to take care of Holly
Definitely a good read for a Sunday Afternoon!
December 21, 2018
DNF at 33%
Too much drama with Holly's ex-husband, Brett. I got to the part where Holly and Ray find out the won the lottery and Brett has been getting on my nerves and now it's getting worse. I can deal with Holly's son but not with her ass-of-an-ex-husband.
Too much drama with Holly's ex-husband, Brett. I got to the part where Holly and Ray find out the won the lottery and Brett has been getting on my nerves and now it's getting worse. I can deal with Holly's son but not with her ass-of-an-ex-husband.
February 8, 2016
This starts off fun - h/h who work at a superstore win the lottery - they were falling for each other right before they win.
But the heroine gets on my nerves after a while. Fell a little flat towards the end
Review coming
But the heroine gets on my nerves after a while. Fell a little flat towards the end
Review coming
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