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Risk and Reward
Grass isn't always greener...
DIVORCE.
I never dreamed this would become my reality.
But it is.
After feeling neglected and alone for far too long, I end it,
Blindsiding my husband in the process.
He's hurt, torn, and confused,
Never expecting me to leave.
His pain tears at my heart, begs me to stay.
And I almost do.
Almost.
Moving on isn't as easy as it seems.
The memories tap at my conscience,
Reminding me of what I'm missing,
What I used to have.
But, I walked away,
From the man I promised forever,
Possibly making the worst mistake of my life.
I've let go, given myself a promise of a new life, new hope.
But does the other side have more risk than reward?
DIVORCE.
I never dreamed this would become my reality.
But it is.
After feeling neglected and alone for far too long, I end it,
Blindsiding my husband in the process.
He's hurt, torn, and confused,
Never expecting me to leave.
His pain tears at my heart, begs me to stay.
And I almost do.
Almost.
Moving on isn't as easy as it seems.
The memories tap at my conscience,
Reminding me of what I'm missing,
What I used to have.
But, I walked away,
From the man I promised forever,
Possibly making the worst mistake of my life.
I've let go, given myself a promise of a new life, new hope.
But does the other side have more risk than reward?
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Published January 1, 2017
19 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
June 15, 2017
I was excited to read this I've read book 1 and I liked that book but sadly I was very disappointed in this one.
Husband who is the hero doesn't even fight for her when she asked him for a divorce.
She's the one who has to ask for forgiveness and for another chance.
So what's was the point of asking him for a divorce when he neglected her a** for quite some time? And she was going back to him? I mean he didn't fight for her.
He did NOTHING..
She dated a guy who became her stalker while she was still very much legally married do I think is cheating? Yes I do.
And here I'm thinking is the hero dating too?
I didn't get his POV so I don't know what's going on his head.
Husband who is the hero doesn't even fight for her when she asked him for a divorce.
She's the one who has to ask for forgiveness and for another chance.
So what's was the point of asking him for a divorce when he neglected her a** for quite some time? And she was going back to him? I mean he didn't fight for her.
He did NOTHING..
She dated a guy who became her stalker while she was still very much legally married do I think is cheating? Yes I do.
And here I'm thinking is the hero dating too?
I didn't get his POV so I don't know what's going on his head.
August 7, 2017
Wife bored because husband is too busy in his work. So she decides to divorce him. He does nothing to win her back. He is just dumb. Honestly this is not at all my type. I hate such dull guys.
March 7, 2017
Reviewed on behalf of KU Book Reviews
RATING: BUY IT
I’m a piece of debris lost at sea with no direction as I bounce around with each wave that passes by.
It's been a rough week, y'all. I've been adrift, lost in this book slump that's had me opening and closing books like I'm going for some kind of world record, and it's messing with my head.
That is, until I opened this book.
This book is Risk and Reward by Rachael Duncan. It's a captivating and heartbreaking look at a marriage that's crumbled from neglect, and the pain and regret and doubt that follows. There's a lot of truth in this book, painful though it might be at times, and for me, it was all too real. I recognized in this book my insecurities, my worries, my stresses, and it made reading it hard in some ways.
But utterly wonderful in others.
Ms. Duncan did a fantastic job of capturing a snapshot of imperfect life, and she added to it suspense and drama, which keep me on the proverbial edge of my seat, my heart pumping and my senses tingling. My whole self invested in the outcome.
And what an outcome it was. I couldn't have asked for an ending that soothed my soul better. There is not much more I can say without spoilers, and I'm not going there, so just… trust me.
Trust me when I say that this book is one you should be one-clicking. It's smart, sexy, fast-paced and unique. A different take on romance—a view of life after the blush of love begins fade—and one that had the power to pull me out of a funk and into the world of Charlotte + her future, her fears, her choices and her regrets.
If you've not read Ms. Duncan, this is a great place to start. Although these characters first appear in Calculated Risk (which is itself a wonderful book), it is a complete standalone and a fab introduction to an author whose books just speak to me—from the blurbs to the covers to all the words in between—even when I'm adrift.
I’ve been lying to myself every day, but there’s one truth I can finally admit to myself.
I miss him.
RATING: BUY IT
I’m a piece of debris lost at sea with no direction as I bounce around with each wave that passes by.
It's been a rough week, y'all. I've been adrift, lost in this book slump that's had me opening and closing books like I'm going for some kind of world record, and it's messing with my head.
That is, until I opened this book.
This book is Risk and Reward by Rachael Duncan. It's a captivating and heartbreaking look at a marriage that's crumbled from neglect, and the pain and regret and doubt that follows. There's a lot of truth in this book, painful though it might be at times, and for me, it was all too real. I recognized in this book my insecurities, my worries, my stresses, and it made reading it hard in some ways.
But utterly wonderful in others.
Ms. Duncan did a fantastic job of capturing a snapshot of imperfect life, and she added to it suspense and drama, which keep me on the proverbial edge of my seat, my heart pumping and my senses tingling. My whole self invested in the outcome.
And what an outcome it was. I couldn't have asked for an ending that soothed my soul better. There is not much more I can say without spoilers, and I'm not going there, so just… trust me.
Trust me when I say that this book is one you should be one-clicking. It's smart, sexy, fast-paced and unique. A different take on romance—a view of life after the blush of love begins fade—and one that had the power to pull me out of a funk and into the world of Charlotte + her future, her fears, her choices and her regrets.
If you've not read Ms. Duncan, this is a great place to start. Although these characters first appear in Calculated Risk (which is itself a wonderful book), it is a complete standalone and a fab introduction to an author whose books just speak to me—from the blurbs to the covers to all the words in between—even when I'm adrift.
I’ve been lying to myself every day, but there’s one truth I can finally admit to myself.
I miss him.
March 3, 2017
Risk and Reward is a standalone novel. If you read Rachael's book Calculated Risk then you might remember Charlotte and her husband Nate. I actually didn't read that book (I somehow missed it) but after reading this book it makes me want to read it. Well...this isn't about Marcus and Lydia. It's about Charlotte and Nate's marriage and impending divorce...
Charlotte isn't happy. Over the last few years her marriage has shifted from feeling loved and wanted to lonely and ignored. She loves Nate but she can't do this anymore. And when she says she wants a divorce, Nate is shocked. He didn't see that coming. He knew he traveled a lot for work but he didn't notice that his wife wasn't getting what she needed. Affection. Attention. When it hits him he doesn't want her to leave but it's too late. Charlotte needs to discover herself again. She needs a fresh start. She has one year until she can file for divorce. One year to figure out what she really wants. She takes the risk...
It's not easy for Charlotte to walk away. She moves out. She finds a job. She is feeling independent. But she is also confused. She doesn't know what to do next. She falls into her life but still feels like something is missing. She has her friends to help support her during this time. She has also found a new friendship with someone she works with. She goes back and forth between feeling like she made the right decision in leaving Nate and feeling like she didn't fight enough to stay. She took the risk but what are the rewards?
I thought this story was different. It wasn't about instalove. It was about self-discovery, balance, love, friendship and taking risks. I was cheering for Charlotte and at times I was screaming at her. Not going lie, I liked the first half but I didn't love it. But, during second half started to fall.
Overall...it's a very enjoyable read that made me laugh, cringe, and tear up. It has a unique storyline with some great characters. I love this group of friends and am excited about the next book. I think that one with be full of cockiness and sass.
Quotes:
“Do all your friends give you goose bumps?”
“Ah, I forgot; I was your chef.”
His expression turns hard. “No, you were my world.”
“I don’t know why you’re still in denial. You two definitely have a thing going on.”
“If this thing involves me kicking him in the balls, then yes, we do.”
Charlotte isn't happy. Over the last few years her marriage has shifted from feeling loved and wanted to lonely and ignored. She loves Nate but she can't do this anymore. And when she says she wants a divorce, Nate is shocked. He didn't see that coming. He knew he traveled a lot for work but he didn't notice that his wife wasn't getting what she needed. Affection. Attention. When it hits him he doesn't want her to leave but it's too late. Charlotte needs to discover herself again. She needs a fresh start. She has one year until she can file for divorce. One year to figure out what she really wants. She takes the risk...
It's not easy for Charlotte to walk away. She moves out. She finds a job. She is feeling independent. But she is also confused. She doesn't know what to do next. She falls into her life but still feels like something is missing. She has her friends to help support her during this time. She has also found a new friendship with someone she works with. She goes back and forth between feeling like she made the right decision in leaving Nate and feeling like she didn't fight enough to stay. She took the risk but what are the rewards?
I thought this story was different. It wasn't about instalove. It was about self-discovery, balance, love, friendship and taking risks. I was cheering for Charlotte and at times I was screaming at her. Not going lie, I liked the first half but I didn't love it. But, during second half started to fall.
Overall...it's a very enjoyable read that made me laugh, cringe, and tear up. It has a unique storyline with some great characters. I love this group of friends and am excited about the next book. I think that one with be full of cockiness and sass.
Quotes:
“Do all your friends give you goose bumps?”
“Ah, I forgot; I was your chef.”
His expression turns hard. “No, you were my world.”
“I don’t know why you’re still in denial. You two definitely have a thing going on.”
“If this thing involves me kicking him in the balls, then yes, we do.”
March 16, 2017
4.5 stars - this damn book broke me, holy cow...not an easy read but well worth your time and tears.
Go to Scandalicious Book Reviews to see my full review:
http://bit.ly/2nJKWqy
Go to Scandalicious Book Reviews to see my full review:
http://bit.ly/2nJKWqy
February 22, 2017
I felt so much for Charlotte. She broke my heart right from the start. I felt so bad for her and the life she and her husband Nate had. One where it was all one sided. I wanted to yell at Nate when he ignored her to play on his phone! She asked for a divorce and then she left. I was shocked that she'd just leave without anything else to say to her husband.
We see Char trying to adjust to the single life. Enter Ethan. Yea I didn't like him from the start. Car sales man vibe (sorry there are shady ones out there!). But we see how Char isn't feeling Ethan (thank god)
Nate and Char run into each other and I just want to yell at Nate once again! But this time in a good way. I think my kindle heard "are you serious" a few times.
So much happens with Char, Nate, and Ethan. You get sucked into the story and need to find out what the hell is happening! Grab this book!
We see Char trying to adjust to the single life. Enter Ethan. Yea I didn't like him from the start. Car sales man vibe (sorry there are shady ones out there!). But we see how Char isn't feeling Ethan (thank god)
Nate and Char run into each other and I just want to yell at Nate once again! But this time in a good way. I think my kindle heard "are you serious" a few times.
So much happens with Char, Nate, and Ethan. You get sucked into the story and need to find out what the hell is happening! Grab this book!
March 5, 2017
Risk and Reward by Rachael Duncan is the story of Charlotte and her husband Nate. This is the second book in Risk series and can be read as a standalone. It's a beautiful, heartwarming story that is well written. This is a story so many of us woman can relate with, marriage, love, the happily ever after. But what happens when one person in the relationship is unhappy, what do you do, how do you handle the situation? Sometimes the "grass isn't always greener on the other side."
Charlotte and Nate have been married for seven years, she's not happy she feels Nate pays more attention to his job then her and feels neglected. Charlotte makes the most painful decision of her life and walks away from her marriage, seeking a divorce knowing full well that she and Nate still truly love one another. But sometimes is love enough or do you need more in your relationship? Like all relationships we have our ups and downs, Charlotte has hit rock bottom and feels the only right thing to do is end her marriage.
Nate is totally blindsided by Charlotte's revelation he didn't think anything was wrong with their marriage. He's a hard working man, provides for her and gives her everything she has ever needed, except for the one thing that Charlotte desperately wants from her husband......attention. Poor Nate is besides himself left utterly alone and desperate to get his wife back at all cost. He will do whatever has to be done to get the love of his life back. Is time on Nate's side or is it to late for him? Will Charlotte and Nate reunite or is the end for them both? Charlotte is taking the biggest risk of her life, walking away from Nate and her marriage but what are the rewards? Read this for yourself and experience what a touching story at second chance love it is. Nate and Charlotte's journey isn't going to be easy they are going to hit some rough patches and a certain someone will come into their lives and try to wreck havoc. How will they each handle what is thrown at them?
Charlotte and Nate have been married for seven years, she's not happy she feels Nate pays more attention to his job then her and feels neglected. Charlotte makes the most painful decision of her life and walks away from her marriage, seeking a divorce knowing full well that she and Nate still truly love one another. But sometimes is love enough or do you need more in your relationship? Like all relationships we have our ups and downs, Charlotte has hit rock bottom and feels the only right thing to do is end her marriage.
Nate is totally blindsided by Charlotte's revelation he didn't think anything was wrong with their marriage. He's a hard working man, provides for her and gives her everything she has ever needed, except for the one thing that Charlotte desperately wants from her husband......attention. Poor Nate is besides himself left utterly alone and desperate to get his wife back at all cost. He will do whatever has to be done to get the love of his life back. Is time on Nate's side or is it to late for him? Will Charlotte and Nate reunite or is the end for them both? Charlotte is taking the biggest risk of her life, walking away from Nate and her marriage but what are the rewards? Read this for yourself and experience what a touching story at second chance love it is. Nate and Charlotte's journey isn't going to be easy they are going to hit some rough patches and a certain someone will come into their lives and try to wreck havoc. How will they each handle what is thrown at them?
March 7, 2017
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
*Bookaholic Confessions*
I read Risk and Reward in one day. I loved it. Rachael tackles the hard topic of divorce and the effects that it has on both parties. While the story is in Charlotte’s view, we see what her decision does to Nate. This book also tells us what we put our significant others through. While not meaning to, many of us take advantage of what our partner in life is giving us. The comfort, companionship…..it’s always there so we don’t necessarily go the extra mile like we do at the beginning of a relationship. The “I Love Yous” become a regular thing and don’t have the excitement and it doesn’t cause the same flutters like they used to.
Rachael really dives in to what both characters did to cause their marriage to break up. Unfortunately, Charlotte doesn’t realize what she didn’t do to help their case until it was possibly too late. She was so determined to move on, I mean kudos to her, but her anger clouded where she could have gone wrong too.
To see my full review, click here
*Bookaholic Confessions*
I read Risk and Reward in one day. I loved it. Rachael tackles the hard topic of divorce and the effects that it has on both parties. While the story is in Charlotte’s view, we see what her decision does to Nate. This book also tells us what we put our significant others through. While not meaning to, many of us take advantage of what our partner in life is giving us. The comfort, companionship…..it’s always there so we don’t necessarily go the extra mile like we do at the beginning of a relationship. The “I Love Yous” become a regular thing and don’t have the excitement and it doesn’t cause the same flutters like they used to.
Rachael really dives in to what both characters did to cause their marriage to break up. Unfortunately, Charlotte doesn’t realize what she didn’t do to help their case until it was possibly too late. She was so determined to move on, I mean kudos to her, but her anger clouded where she could have gone wrong too.
To see my full review, click here
February 27, 2017
Rachael Duncan writes the hard, yet beautiful truth of marriage in her most recent release Risk and Reward. Risk and Reward is the second book in her Risk Series and can be read as a standalone. However, Calculated Risk involves the exact same set of friends so if you are like me and don’t want to miss a love story, then one click both! They are well worth they buy.
Duncan’s Risk and Reward is set around Charlotte and her husband Nate’s marriage. While their love originated on a happily ever after, the years of marriage have been hard on them. Separated by work, a childless marriage and living through the day to day actions of being married, Charlotte decides life does look greener on the other side, until it doesn’t any longer.
I identified so much with Charlotte in this novel. Having been married for over 15 years, I understood exactly where Charlotte was coming from and felt like Duncan did a great job at showing the truths to a marriage where there is love, yet also unhappiness. I loved seeing Charlotte grow stronger with each day pushing herself to new experiences, yet also being reflective in her own truths and faults. I found her character really complex and interesting to read.
Risk and Reward was definitely a book I could easily suggest for a reader friend to pick up. It contains such a heartfelt love story that I am sure any reader would love to own. Pick up your copy now.
Duncan’s Risk and Reward is set around Charlotte and her husband Nate’s marriage. While their love originated on a happily ever after, the years of marriage have been hard on them. Separated by work, a childless marriage and living through the day to day actions of being married, Charlotte decides life does look greener on the other side, until it doesn’t any longer.
I identified so much with Charlotte in this novel. Having been married for over 15 years, I understood exactly where Charlotte was coming from and felt like Duncan did a great job at showing the truths to a marriage where there is love, yet also unhappiness. I loved seeing Charlotte grow stronger with each day pushing herself to new experiences, yet also being reflective in her own truths and faults. I found her character really complex and interesting to read.
Risk and Reward was definitely a book I could easily suggest for a reader friend to pick up. It contains such a heartfelt love story that I am sure any reader would love to own. Pick up your copy now.
March 8, 2017
I received this for an honest review!!
What a book OMG!! This is Charlotte and Nate's story.. This story had my heart on edge through the whole book!
I found myself devouring this whole book in one setting. I just loved every minute of it..
It is such a beautiful story!! LOVED IT LOVED IT~~~
What a book OMG!! This is Charlotte and Nate's story.. This story had my heart on edge through the whole book!
I found myself devouring this whole book in one setting. I just loved every minute of it..
It is such a beautiful story!! LOVED IT LOVED IT~~~
February 28, 2017
I finished this book in 3.5 hours
March 4, 2017
Risk and Reward is the first book by Rachael Duncan that I've read and one I won't soon forget. The story is about a marriage in trouble, and a situation that is always certain to raise my blood pressure. So I went into this read with trepidation. I expected to feel the pang of sympathy for this couple and Duncan managed meet all my expectations.
From beginning to end, I was filled with a heavy heart and much anxiety. While I understood the state of Charlotte and Nates' marriage, the distance and apathy, Charlotte's approach to the situation is just a bit short sighted and I found myself frustrated with her. But it's exactly as I would expect. Marriages fall apart due to lesser issues. In the case of the Stewart's, career priorities contribute to their slow disintegration. We are brought into to the story as Charlotte makes a major decision without much discussion with Nate. We then follow Charlotte as she explores life sans Nate; with a job and new home. But it's not easy to forget one's first love, to compare to him. and so Charlotte begins questioning her new path and wondering if she really gave it the chance she should have.
Duncan does a wonderful job with plot devices, placing a suitor into her life giving Charlotte some motivation to stretch and reflect. The story is told entirely from Charlotte's viewpoint and also through flashbacks that recall good times and the connection that she and Nate have. I struggled with how Charlotte treats Nate because as we get to know him, their past, he proves to be a true sweetheart and I felt great heartache for them. Duncan also introduces a bit of suspense to the story that prompting Charlotte to learns to trust her instincts.
Risk and Reward was a one sitting read. It's fast paced as Charlotte moves through this new phase of her life and I just couldn't allow myself to put the story down when Charlotte was in such distress. I'm so happy to have finally read a Rachael Duncan story. 5 Stars and recommendation.
From beginning to end, I was filled with a heavy heart and much anxiety. While I understood the state of Charlotte and Nates' marriage, the distance and apathy, Charlotte's approach to the situation is just a bit short sighted and I found myself frustrated with her. But it's exactly as I would expect. Marriages fall apart due to lesser issues. In the case of the Stewart's, career priorities contribute to their slow disintegration. We are brought into to the story as Charlotte makes a major decision without much discussion with Nate. We then follow Charlotte as she explores life sans Nate; with a job and new home. But it's not easy to forget one's first love, to compare to him. and so Charlotte begins questioning her new path and wondering if she really gave it the chance she should have.
Duncan does a wonderful job with plot devices, placing a suitor into her life giving Charlotte some motivation to stretch and reflect. The story is told entirely from Charlotte's viewpoint and also through flashbacks that recall good times and the connection that she and Nate have. I struggled with how Charlotte treats Nate because as we get to know him, their past, he proves to be a true sweetheart and I felt great heartache for them. Duncan also introduces a bit of suspense to the story that prompting Charlotte to learns to trust her instincts.
Risk and Reward was a one sitting read. It's fast paced as Charlotte moves through this new phase of her life and I just couldn't allow myself to put the story down when Charlotte was in such distress. I'm so happy to have finally read a Rachael Duncan story. 5 Stars and recommendation.
March 4, 2017
Favorite Quotes:
Well, you’re kind of a man-eater. I was wondering if you’d found another guy to sink your claws into since you ditched the last one… Don’t act offended. You know you go through men faster than I change my underwear.
Picking at my nails to avoid their unrelenting stares, I feel like an animal in a zoo exhibit right now.
She’s one of those women that must have a pact with the devil. There’s just no other explanation for how amazing she looks.
He told me I remind him of his big toe because he’s going to bang me on every piece of furniture in his house.
I like watching you sleep… Yep. With your hair scattered everywhere, mouth hanging open, and drool coming out it, you’re the definition of beauty.
My Review:
Risk and Reward is my third Rachael Duncan experience, which if you are unfamiliar with her work, is like eating cheesecake, it’s an extremely pleasurable and addicting treat that disappears all too quickly yet leaves only happiness in its wake. I was conflicted throughout the initial chapters of the book as to whether Charlotte was being hasty or making good choices. Ms. Duncan weaves an excellent tale and lured me in quickly and held my attention and heart throughout. Her plot was relatable, intriguing, and well constructed. Written in first person POV, the story was well-paced, entertaining, cleverly amusing, sensual, and extremely engaging. I adored Nate, although - not at first. I did not have a full appreciation of married Nate due to his benign neglect, but I adored the sweetness of dating Nate and the care and attentiveness of the new and improved Nate. He was perfection. I enjoyed these interesting and appealing characters and look forward to next one in the series.
Well, you’re kind of a man-eater. I was wondering if you’d found another guy to sink your claws into since you ditched the last one… Don’t act offended. You know you go through men faster than I change my underwear.
Picking at my nails to avoid their unrelenting stares, I feel like an animal in a zoo exhibit right now.
She’s one of those women that must have a pact with the devil. There’s just no other explanation for how amazing she looks.
He told me I remind him of his big toe because he’s going to bang me on every piece of furniture in his house.
I like watching you sleep… Yep. With your hair scattered everywhere, mouth hanging open, and drool coming out it, you’re the definition of beauty.
My Review:
Risk and Reward is my third Rachael Duncan experience, which if you are unfamiliar with her work, is like eating cheesecake, it’s an extremely pleasurable and addicting treat that disappears all too quickly yet leaves only happiness in its wake. I was conflicted throughout the initial chapters of the book as to whether Charlotte was being hasty or making good choices. Ms. Duncan weaves an excellent tale and lured me in quickly and held my attention and heart throughout. Her plot was relatable, intriguing, and well constructed. Written in first person POV, the story was well-paced, entertaining, cleverly amusing, sensual, and extremely engaging. I adored Nate, although - not at first. I did not have a full appreciation of married Nate due to his benign neglect, but I adored the sweetness of dating Nate and the care and attentiveness of the new and improved Nate. He was perfection. I enjoyed these interesting and appealing characters and look forward to next one in the series.
April 18, 2017
The first thing I asked after I finished Calculated Risk was if Charlotte's story was going to be told, and I was so excited to get an early peek.
Their relationship struggles were very real, relatable. Charlotte and Nathan's journey had me going through all the feels from heartbreak, anger, frustration, and obviously swooning. But, perhaps, what kept me turning the pages is what Rachael Duncan does best—suspense and unpredictability.
I love a story that keeps me guessing until the end, and as hers always are, this one was no different. It never fails that I think I've got it figured out only to be surprised later.
If you haven't read Calculated Risk, I recommend starting there, and then diving into this one. You won't be disappointed.
Their relationship struggles were very real, relatable. Charlotte and Nathan's journey had me going through all the feels from heartbreak, anger, frustration, and obviously swooning. But, perhaps, what kept me turning the pages is what Rachael Duncan does best—suspense and unpredictability.
I love a story that keeps me guessing until the end, and as hers always are, this one was no different. It never fails that I think I've got it figured out only to be surprised later.
If you haven't read Calculated Risk, I recommend starting there, and then diving into this one. You won't be disappointed.
March 7, 2017
Beth's Review
WOW, what a book is really all I can say. I knew going into this one I was going to enjoy the story but I have to say this one just WOW'd me right from the start. For the past few months I have been in a real book slump. Everything that I have been picking up to read have been just 3 and 4 star reads. I am not saying those books were bad, they just weren’t doing it for me and I just needed that 5 star book that would totally suck me and engage me in the story. So when I noticed yesterday that this ARC had just landed on my kindle after just finishing up another “just okay” book I decided to jump into this one. This one was not going to be the typical “Boy meets Girl and they fall in love romance” story. I knew going in that this was going to be a story filled with lots of emotion, feelings of love but also feelings of hurt and betrayal. I also knew that with this author writing it, it was going to be real and it was going to take me on one hell of a roller coaster.
This story is told completely from Charlotte's POV and it is so well written. When starting a new book I always tend to really struggle getting into it. It normally takes me at least 4-5 chapters before I get engaged in a story and connected with the characters. That was not the case at all with this book. It was so well written that I was immediately engaged in their story right from page one and I couldn't put it down. It was so good that I ended up staying awake way too late reading and paid for that the next day at work but was so worth it. I truly can`t remember that last time I pretty much read a book in almost one sitting and had it not been so late and had work the next day, it would have been read in one sitting. This book is a spin-off of Calculated risk where we did get introduced to Charlotte and Nate. I was looking forward to this book but I must say, the storyline and the writing of their story just sucked me in immediately and kept me engaged the entire book.
Charlotte fell in love seven years ago after a chance meeting. They were once very happily married but that`s not the case anymore. Nate, who was once a caring thoughtful person, travels for work a lot leaving Charlotte alone, and is no longer the person he once was. On top of them slowing growing apart and being less attentive to each other, they have struggled over the years with trying to start a family. Charlotte will always love Nate but she finally hits a point that she has had enough of being unhappy and has decided she wants a divorce and later moves out. But due to state laws, they have to be separated for one year before they can file for divorce. As time passes Charlotte finds herself struggling to move on, comparing a new friend she meets to Nate and constantly remembering all those good times they shared. She soon begins to wonder has she made the biggest mistake of her life
I loved both Charlotte and Nate's characters and absolutely loved the dynamic the author built between them. I also very much enjoyed the storyline of this one and how it played out. I really loved how we got to see bits and pieces of their past, when things were better and they were happily married. I am normally not a fan of flashbacks but I must say the author did a great job of writing these into the story and just giving the right amount flashback. We didn`t get to see much of Nate in the first half of the book but through the flashbacks we got to see what kind of person he once was and see that he wasn`t always the inattentive person he has now become. All throughout the story, even in the lowest moments of their marriage, you truly could feel their connection and the love they shared. This was not a marriage that ended because the fault or actions of one person, this was a marriage that broke down because they let life get in the way and began to live separate lives.
Nate was such a loving, caring and thoughtful man but as time passed he let life get in the way and he started to forget what was most important. We all do it and he just needed a reminder of who he once was and who they once were together. It was the same for Charlotte, she too let life get in the way, but also couldn`t see that she was part of the cause of her unhappiness. It took taking a step away from things to truly see that but now the question is for her is it too late to truly fix it.
Overall this was a really phenomenal story that was so beautifully written. It was filled with so much emotion that took me on a roller coaster, having me in tears or at least choked up at several times in the story. I also must add that I didn't see the dramatic suspenseful side of the story coming but really enjoyed it, truly kept me on the edge of my seat towards the end. I can`t believe it was just only a year ago that I picked up my very first Rachael Duncan book and must say now that I have read 4 of her books, especially after this book, she has become a one click author for me. I have yet to read a book from her that I didn't enjoy. Now almost 2 months into 2017, I have finally read my first 5 star book and pretty sure this one will remain a top read for me this year.
WOW, what a book is really all I can say. I knew going into this one I was going to enjoy the story but I have to say this one just WOW'd me right from the start. For the past few months I have been in a real book slump. Everything that I have been picking up to read have been just 3 and 4 star reads. I am not saying those books were bad, they just weren’t doing it for me and I just needed that 5 star book that would totally suck me and engage me in the story. So when I noticed yesterday that this ARC had just landed on my kindle after just finishing up another “just okay” book I decided to jump into this one. This one was not going to be the typical “Boy meets Girl and they fall in love romance” story. I knew going in that this was going to be a story filled with lots of emotion, feelings of love but also feelings of hurt and betrayal. I also knew that with this author writing it, it was going to be real and it was going to take me on one hell of a roller coaster.
This story is told completely from Charlotte's POV and it is so well written. When starting a new book I always tend to really struggle getting into it. It normally takes me at least 4-5 chapters before I get engaged in a story and connected with the characters. That was not the case at all with this book. It was so well written that I was immediately engaged in their story right from page one and I couldn't put it down. It was so good that I ended up staying awake way too late reading and paid for that the next day at work but was so worth it. I truly can`t remember that last time I pretty much read a book in almost one sitting and had it not been so late and had work the next day, it would have been read in one sitting. This book is a spin-off of Calculated risk where we did get introduced to Charlotte and Nate. I was looking forward to this book but I must say, the storyline and the writing of their story just sucked me in immediately and kept me engaged the entire book.
Charlotte fell in love seven years ago after a chance meeting. They were once very happily married but that`s not the case anymore. Nate, who was once a caring thoughtful person, travels for work a lot leaving Charlotte alone, and is no longer the person he once was. On top of them slowing growing apart and being less attentive to each other, they have struggled over the years with trying to start a family. Charlotte will always love Nate but she finally hits a point that she has had enough of being unhappy and has decided she wants a divorce and later moves out. But due to state laws, they have to be separated for one year before they can file for divorce. As time passes Charlotte finds herself struggling to move on, comparing a new friend she meets to Nate and constantly remembering all those good times they shared. She soon begins to wonder has she made the biggest mistake of her life
I loved both Charlotte and Nate's characters and absolutely loved the dynamic the author built between them. I also very much enjoyed the storyline of this one and how it played out. I really loved how we got to see bits and pieces of their past, when things were better and they were happily married. I am normally not a fan of flashbacks but I must say the author did a great job of writing these into the story and just giving the right amount flashback. We didn`t get to see much of Nate in the first half of the book but through the flashbacks we got to see what kind of person he once was and see that he wasn`t always the inattentive person he has now become. All throughout the story, even in the lowest moments of their marriage, you truly could feel their connection and the love they shared. This was not a marriage that ended because the fault or actions of one person, this was a marriage that broke down because they let life get in the way and began to live separate lives.
Nate was such a loving, caring and thoughtful man but as time passed he let life get in the way and he started to forget what was most important. We all do it and he just needed a reminder of who he once was and who they once were together. It was the same for Charlotte, she too let life get in the way, but also couldn`t see that she was part of the cause of her unhappiness. It took taking a step away from things to truly see that but now the question is for her is it too late to truly fix it.
Overall this was a really phenomenal story that was so beautifully written. It was filled with so much emotion that took me on a roller coaster, having me in tears or at least choked up at several times in the story. I also must add that I didn't see the dramatic suspenseful side of the story coming but really enjoyed it, truly kept me on the edge of my seat towards the end. I can`t believe it was just only a year ago that I picked up my very first Rachael Duncan book and must say now that I have read 4 of her books, especially after this book, she has become a one click author for me. I have yet to read a book from her that I didn't enjoy. Now almost 2 months into 2017, I have finally read my first 5 star book and pretty sure this one will remain a top read for me this year.
March 7, 2017
This is the first book that I have read by Rachael.I absolutely loved this book.It was very well written,had amazing character chemistry and holy cow did it have suspense.There were times in this book that you would have never guessed that was going to happen. I absolutely fell in love with Charlotte .Things were not going well in her marriage she was unhappy and wanted things to change.She decided to leave and not fight her marriage.Charlotte moves into her own apartment and tries living life.She meets Ethan someone she works with and lives by.She tries to maintain a friendship with him, but he wants so much more. That is where her life changes in a blink of an eye.I loved Charlotte because through it all she stays strong and realizes what actually makes her happy.Amazing well written story line.Excellent pace and excellent flow. I loved how things worked out in the end. I highly recommend this book. I cant wait to read more by Rachael.
March 7, 2017
What a great read! Risk and Reward by Rachael Duncan is one of those books that pulls me in hook, line, and sinker from the beginning and didn’t let me go until the end. The story of Charlotte and Nate is an emotional experience that is so realistic and depicts what many couples go through in their marriage. It isn’t a seven-year itch; it is more of an evaluation. There is love hidden deep in their hearts, but so many changes happen day-to-day that the love is buried and sadness and regret are always in the way.
Risk and Reward is Charlotte’s story and told entirely from her point of view. Charlotte is lost because Nate’s time is dedicated to his job. Charlotte feels second to everything else. She tries to talk to Nate about her feelings and needs but has a hard time getting his attention. It is so frustrating, and she is at the point that she can’t take it anymore and asks for a divorce. Charlotte is so unhappy and realizes that it is time for a change.
I like the way this story is told. For me, it is like sitting with your best friend as she spills out her heart and wonders what went wrong. I could feel Charlotte’s pain as she talks about how unhappy and unwanted she is. I could see myself encouraging my friend as she steps out on her own alone. I could also see myself giving her a shoulder when needed. She is making so so many changes, and self-examination is necessary to get her to her happy place.
Some of the self-examination is done through flashbacks. The flashbacks are used to get a glimpse at Charlotte and Nate in the good times. When a new man is introduced in the story flashbacks are used to compare what is with what was. The flashback technique is nicely done, and it doesn’t get in the way of the overall story. Like any relationship, everything isn’t always bad there is good hidden with the pain.
Risk and Reward is so captivating that I couldn’t put it down. It is fast paced and held my attention from beginning to end. The need to see what happens next made me consume the book in one day. Some parts are a little predictable, but the predictability doesn’t take away for the reality and enjoyment of the story. Risk and Reward is a standalone novel. However some of the characters are in Rachael Duncan’s Calculated Risk. I will be investigating this and her other books. Ms. Duncan is an excellent storyteller. I recommend Risk and Reward to anyone who enjoys getting lost in a good story.
Risk and Reward is Charlotte’s story and told entirely from her point of view. Charlotte is lost because Nate’s time is dedicated to his job. Charlotte feels second to everything else. She tries to talk to Nate about her feelings and needs but has a hard time getting his attention. It is so frustrating, and she is at the point that she can’t take it anymore and asks for a divorce. Charlotte is so unhappy and realizes that it is time for a change.
I like the way this story is told. For me, it is like sitting with your best friend as she spills out her heart and wonders what went wrong. I could feel Charlotte’s pain as she talks about how unhappy and unwanted she is. I could see myself encouraging my friend as she steps out on her own alone. I could also see myself giving her a shoulder when needed. She is making so so many changes, and self-examination is necessary to get her to her happy place.
Some of the self-examination is done through flashbacks. The flashbacks are used to get a glimpse at Charlotte and Nate in the good times. When a new man is introduced in the story flashbacks are used to compare what is with what was. The flashback technique is nicely done, and it doesn’t get in the way of the overall story. Like any relationship, everything isn’t always bad there is good hidden with the pain.
Risk and Reward is so captivating that I couldn’t put it down. It is fast paced and held my attention from beginning to end. The need to see what happens next made me consume the book in one day. Some parts are a little predictable, but the predictability doesn’t take away for the reality and enjoyment of the story. Risk and Reward is a standalone novel. However some of the characters are in Rachael Duncan’s Calculated Risk. I will be investigating this and her other books. Ms. Duncan is an excellent storyteller. I recommend Risk and Reward to anyone who enjoys getting lost in a good story.
March 7, 2017
*Arc received for an honest review*
I will not lie about this. The beginning of this book relays some very harsh realities about the feelings you go through with a divorce. The struggles you deal with emotionally; guilt, fear, blame. So much. It was really really hard for me to read. Let alone read it and try to stay unattached from the story, try to keep from injecting my personal experience on Nate and Charlotte. But I couldn't. I cried. I related a little too much. And part of me kind of hates Rachael for making me feel like that again. I felt it once, for a long time, hell if I wanna feel it again. But there they were, all those ugly feelings rearing their heads again. So yeah, Rachael, thanks for that. Harrumph.....
Moving on from that is hard. I am finding it so hard to write this review because so much of this is so close to my personal life. Divorce. Trying to date. Lonliness. Refinding your independence. Because I relate so much, I don't know how to write an unbiased review right now. While their ending is far different for mine, I have to applaud Rachael for writing a character, Nate, who is willing to make such an effort to show Charlotte how much she means to him. How she wrote a story that shows you if you step back, blame isn't always where you think it is and if you open up and make yourself vulnerable with the right person, it always works out. If you communicate with the person you love , nothing can stand in your way. And if you relax and let love guide you, your dreams can come true.
Okay...It's not all rainbows and unicorns, she also covers a scarier topic of ..... Stalkers. Safety. Security. And as a single woman, it's scary. It's scary to think about that kind of stuff. There was something about this book, and maybe it hit me harder because it hit so close to home, but it felt so realistic. Each time something happened, I felt nervous, my palms got sweaty, I wanted to go lock my doors.
So here's to you Rachael Duncan... To writing a book that made me cry, made me nervous as a sinner in church, and gave me an ending that almost broke my heart.
I gave this book 4 stars
I will not lie about this. The beginning of this book relays some very harsh realities about the feelings you go through with a divorce. The struggles you deal with emotionally; guilt, fear, blame. So much. It was really really hard for me to read. Let alone read it and try to stay unattached from the story, try to keep from injecting my personal experience on Nate and Charlotte. But I couldn't. I cried. I related a little too much. And part of me kind of hates Rachael for making me feel like that again. I felt it once, for a long time, hell if I wanna feel it again. But there they were, all those ugly feelings rearing their heads again. So yeah, Rachael, thanks for that. Harrumph.....
Moving on from that is hard. I am finding it so hard to write this review because so much of this is so close to my personal life. Divorce. Trying to date. Lonliness. Refinding your independence. Because I relate so much, I don't know how to write an unbiased review right now. While their ending is far different for mine, I have to applaud Rachael for writing a character, Nate, who is willing to make such an effort to show Charlotte how much she means to him. How she wrote a story that shows you if you step back, blame isn't always where you think it is and if you open up and make yourself vulnerable with the right person, it always works out. If you communicate with the person you love , nothing can stand in your way. And if you relax and let love guide you, your dreams can come true.
Okay...It's not all rainbows and unicorns, she also covers a scarier topic of ..... Stalkers. Safety. Security. And as a single woman, it's scary. It's scary to think about that kind of stuff. There was something about this book, and maybe it hit me harder because it hit so close to home, but it felt so realistic. Each time something happened, I felt nervous, my palms got sweaty, I wanted to go lock my doors.
So here's to you Rachael Duncan... To writing a book that made me cry, made me nervous as a sinner in church, and gave me an ending that almost broke my heart.
I gave this book 4 stars
March 6, 2017
**Copy provided by Tour Host, in exchange for an honest review**
☆☆☆☆ 4 STARS ☆☆☆☆
Risk and Rewards is heartbreakingly real. The story of husband and wife going through real life emotions and problems. This story is about Charlotte and Nate’s marriage. Being married for more than 10 years, I completely understand where Charlotte was coming from. Having marriage and loving the person is not enough at times. Sometimes we just go through emotions and do and say that what we are used to. We go through life and do our routine and sometimes we forget to make the one we love know how much we love them. Not only say it, but to show it through our actions. So Charlotte feeling unloved and uncared for was understandable. In marriage sometimes we don’t realize what we are no longer doing, because we are so used to the person we are with. As much as it broke my heart when Charlotte ask for a divorce, it broke my heart more when Nate was blindsided and confused. Risk and Reward was really what love is all about.
Sometimes we have to go through something, before we wake up and realized what we had all along. That sometimes grass isn’t greener on the other side. Both Nate and Charlotte needed a real life event to bring them back to the reason why they really fell in love. I love how real their story is, this will completely pull any reader in that enjoys a heartfelt love story.
☆☆☆☆ 4 STARS ☆☆☆☆
Risk and Rewards is heartbreakingly real. The story of husband and wife going through real life emotions and problems. This story is about Charlotte and Nate’s marriage. Being married for more than 10 years, I completely understand where Charlotte was coming from. Having marriage and loving the person is not enough at times. Sometimes we just go through emotions and do and say that what we are used to. We go through life and do our routine and sometimes we forget to make the one we love know how much we love them. Not only say it, but to show it through our actions. So Charlotte feeling unloved and uncared for was understandable. In marriage sometimes we don’t realize what we are no longer doing, because we are so used to the person we are with. As much as it broke my heart when Charlotte ask for a divorce, it broke my heart more when Nate was blindsided and confused. Risk and Reward was really what love is all about.
Sometimes we have to go through something, before we wake up and realized what we had all along. That sometimes grass isn’t greener on the other side. Both Nate and Charlotte needed a real life event to bring them back to the reason why they really fell in love. I love how real their story is, this will completely pull any reader in that enjoys a heartfelt love story.
March 8, 2017
4.5 Stars
An honest reflection on an all too common occurrence, the realisation that no matter how much you have, how much you desire , how much you can physically claim, the only thing that matters is those you hold dear and the time that you get to spend with them because no matter how you calculate it, time with a loved one is never enough and being deprived of that time or at least feeling as if you are being deprived of that is enough to have us as human beings taking drastic measures to find that purpose, that emotional attachment all over again.
The shine of marriage has begun to lose its lustre and Charlotte is struggling to cope with feelings of isolation, the feelings she has for her husband Nate are no longer enough, she hates the hardships that life has thrown at them and how those have affected the happiness that they once had. Everything she has ever wanted was wrapped up in Nate but he is too wrapped up in everything else to see that she is missing the connection they once had. She craves his attention, his time and just being with him and again he seems oblivious to all of that, so convinced that their relationship had run its course she makes a catastrophic decision…their marriage is over.
As desperate as Charlotte feels, at least she is the one that has made the decision because for Nate her revelation comes like a bolt from the blue and catches him totally off guard.
Time to strike out on her own and to find her own happiness…was that with someone new? Or would Nate come back into her life?
I think the author produced a work that showed a difficult situation that many readers would have been able to empathise with. Sometimes, confronting issues can be difficult and that is especially true when affairs of the heart are involved. The illusion of happiness is often painted with a much clearer palette than reality would ever permit.
The grass may be greener on the other side but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t attention and there won’t be more than a few weeds to pick through along the way!
An honest reflection on an all too common occurrence, the realisation that no matter how much you have, how much you desire , how much you can physically claim, the only thing that matters is those you hold dear and the time that you get to spend with them because no matter how you calculate it, time with a loved one is never enough and being deprived of that time or at least feeling as if you are being deprived of that is enough to have us as human beings taking drastic measures to find that purpose, that emotional attachment all over again.
The shine of marriage has begun to lose its lustre and Charlotte is struggling to cope with feelings of isolation, the feelings she has for her husband Nate are no longer enough, she hates the hardships that life has thrown at them and how those have affected the happiness that they once had. Everything she has ever wanted was wrapped up in Nate but he is too wrapped up in everything else to see that she is missing the connection they once had. She craves his attention, his time and just being with him and again he seems oblivious to all of that, so convinced that their relationship had run its course she makes a catastrophic decision…their marriage is over.
As desperate as Charlotte feels, at least she is the one that has made the decision because for Nate her revelation comes like a bolt from the blue and catches him totally off guard.
Time to strike out on her own and to find her own happiness…was that with someone new? Or would Nate come back into her life?
I think the author produced a work that showed a difficult situation that many readers would have been able to empathise with. Sometimes, confronting issues can be difficult and that is especially true when affairs of the heart are involved. The illusion of happiness is often painted with a much clearer palette than reality would ever permit.
The grass may be greener on the other side but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t attention and there won’t be more than a few weeds to pick through along the way!
March 16, 2017
A beautiful and heartfelt story about how life could be when different choices are made. Charlotte is suffering from some real life issues. Having been through a divorce I really related with all of the feelings and struggles Charlotte goes through. At times I was frustrated with some of her actions; however, the story continued to have a true feel so the frustration subsided as the story evolved. I can't wait for the next story in this collection of standalones about a group of friends.
Provided as an ARC for a voluntary and honest review.
This specific video review: https://youtu.be/dDUD16qJp-A
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel Stephanie Uncensored
https://www.youtube.com/c/stephanieun...
Provided as an ARC for a voluntary and honest review.
This specific video review: https://youtu.be/dDUD16qJp-A
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel Stephanie Uncensored
https://www.youtube.com/c/stephanieun...
February 23, 2017
5 PHENOMENAL Stars
WOW is really all I can say. I knew going into this one I was going to enjoy the story but man this one I have to say WOW'd me right from the start. I have been in a book slump the last bit, everything I am picking up to read has been 3-4 star reads and I just needed that book that would suck me and totally engage me. Yesterday I noticed the ARC of this one land on my kindle and with just finishing up another so so book I decided to jump into this one. This was not the typical Boy meets Girl and they fall in love romance story. This was going to be a story filled with lots of emotion, feelings of love but also feelings of hurt and betrayal. But I just knew, with this author writing it, it was going to be real and it was going to take me on one hell of a roller coaster.
This story is told completely from Charlotte's POV and must say it so well written. I really struggle when starting a new book, it normally takes me at least 4-5 chapters before I get engaged in a story and connected with the characters. But that was not the case at all with this book, I was immediately engage in their story right from page one and I couldn't put it down, truly suffering from lack of sleep today and have pretty much read this one in almost one sitting. We did get introduced to both these characters in Calculated Risk and I was looking forward to his book but I must say, the writing just sucked me in immediately.
I loved both Charlotte and Nate's characters. I absolutely loved the dynamic the author built between them and how the story played out. I really loved how we got to see bits and pieces of their past, in their happier times. I am normally not a fan of flashbacks but I must say the author did a great job of writing these into the story and just giving the right amount flashback. All throughout the story, even in the lowest moments of their marriage, you truly could feel their connection and the love they shared. For the first part of the book we didn't really get to see Nate but we got to what kind of person he was. He was kind and caring and thoughtful. But like in the real world real life gets in the way and we tend to let that change our ways, causing both Charlotte and Nate to slowly grow apart and become two very unhappy people.
Overall this was a really phenomenal beautifully written story. It was filled with so much emotion taking me on a roller coaster, having me in tears or choked up at several times in the story. I also must add that I didn't see the dramatic suspenseful side of the story coming but really enjoyed it, truly kept me on the edge of my seat towards the end. It was just only a year ago that I picked up my very first Rachael Duncan book and must say especially after this book, she has become a one click author for me. I have not read a book from her that I didn't enjoy and now almost 2 months into 2017, I have finally read my first 5 star book and pretty sure this one will remain a top read for me this year.
WOW is really all I can say. I knew going into this one I was going to enjoy the story but man this one I have to say WOW'd me right from the start. I have been in a book slump the last bit, everything I am picking up to read has been 3-4 star reads and I just needed that book that would suck me and totally engage me. Yesterday I noticed the ARC of this one land on my kindle and with just finishing up another so so book I decided to jump into this one. This was not the typical Boy meets Girl and they fall in love romance story. This was going to be a story filled with lots of emotion, feelings of love but also feelings of hurt and betrayal. But I just knew, with this author writing it, it was going to be real and it was going to take me on one hell of a roller coaster.
This story is told completely from Charlotte's POV and must say it so well written. I really struggle when starting a new book, it normally takes me at least 4-5 chapters before I get engaged in a story and connected with the characters. But that was not the case at all with this book, I was immediately engage in their story right from page one and I couldn't put it down, truly suffering from lack of sleep today and have pretty much read this one in almost one sitting. We did get introduced to both these characters in Calculated Risk and I was looking forward to his book but I must say, the writing just sucked me in immediately.
I loved both Charlotte and Nate's characters. I absolutely loved the dynamic the author built between them and how the story played out. I really loved how we got to see bits and pieces of their past, in their happier times. I am normally not a fan of flashbacks but I must say the author did a great job of writing these into the story and just giving the right amount flashback. All throughout the story, even in the lowest moments of their marriage, you truly could feel their connection and the love they shared. For the first part of the book we didn't really get to see Nate but we got to what kind of person he was. He was kind and caring and thoughtful. But like in the real world real life gets in the way and we tend to let that change our ways, causing both Charlotte and Nate to slowly grow apart and become two very unhappy people.
Overall this was a really phenomenal beautifully written story. It was filled with so much emotion taking me on a roller coaster, having me in tears or choked up at several times in the story. I also must add that I didn't see the dramatic suspenseful side of the story coming but really enjoyed it, truly kept me on the edge of my seat towards the end. It was just only a year ago that I picked up my very first Rachael Duncan book and must say especially after this book, she has become a one click author for me. I have not read a book from her that I didn't enjoy and now almost 2 months into 2017, I have finally read my first 5 star book and pretty sure this one will remain a top read for me this year.
March 8, 2017
Phew!! What an intense ending!! Didn't expect the story to take an emotional turn! It started out as what I thought would be a second chance read but was surprised by the turn of events!! Great book!!
March 7, 2017
http://s56.photobucket.com/user/desti...
#### 4.50 ####
This was an emotional journey that will wreck your heart but will mend it as well. All the emotions that surround a divorce end up leaving some in complete chaos. Whether it's the person who's asking for the divorce or the one that is asked, there is no discrimination when your heart is breaking. This is a woman's journey of finding herself and her place in this world.
The guilt of hurting the person you are married to can be excruciating. Charlotte hates the hurt she has caused her husband, Nate. He's a good man, loyal to his job first, but loyal. Feeling she needs more than she feels she's getting, she asks for a divorce. Her journey is painful as she tries to move on. She meets someone from work and begins a friendship. Being honest with her situation, she feels she may have started the moving on process. But when things become uncomfortable with her friend Ethan, she starts analyzing her decisions.
Nate just had his heart ripped from his chest. His wife wants a divorce. She doesn't want to try. What Nate endures as Charlotte moves on, is devastating. With their communication gone, they run into one another on occasion due to mutual friends. Nate's emotions are unraveling more and more. His appearance has a noticeable change to it and he just looks sad.
When someone make threats and follows through, Charlotte and Nate's world will never be the same again. So much guilt both characters carry is overwhelming and true to life. Guilt can push people to do things they would never have thought they would be doing. This story has brought out what is most important in one's life. Love this story.
#### 4.50 ####
This was an emotional journey that will wreck your heart but will mend it as well. All the emotions that surround a divorce end up leaving some in complete chaos. Whether it's the person who's asking for the divorce or the one that is asked, there is no discrimination when your heart is breaking. This is a woman's journey of finding herself and her place in this world.
The guilt of hurting the person you are married to can be excruciating. Charlotte hates the hurt she has caused her husband, Nate. He's a good man, loyal to his job first, but loyal. Feeling she needs more than she feels she's getting, she asks for a divorce. Her journey is painful as she tries to move on. She meets someone from work and begins a friendship. Being honest with her situation, she feels she may have started the moving on process. But when things become uncomfortable with her friend Ethan, she starts analyzing her decisions.
Nate just had his heart ripped from his chest. His wife wants a divorce. She doesn't want to try. What Nate endures as Charlotte moves on, is devastating. With their communication gone, they run into one another on occasion due to mutual friends. Nate's emotions are unraveling more and more. His appearance has a noticeable change to it and he just looks sad.
When someone make threats and follows through, Charlotte and Nate's world will never be the same again. So much guilt both characters carry is overwhelming and true to life. Guilt can push people to do things they would never have thought they would be doing. This story has brought out what is most important in one's life. Love this story.
March 7, 2017
What happens when the happily ever after you thought you would have fails? For Charlotte, life is not what she envisioned and she takes the bold step to leave her husband, Nate. In doing so, she learns a lot about herself and what it is she wants.
Risk and Reward was an engrossing story of finding out what is important in a marriage and in what we make of our lives. The main character, Charlotte, is unhappy with life in general though she focuses on what is wrong between herself and Nate. Ms. Duncan delves into Charlotte's emotions and turmoil by flashbacks to happier times and contrasting them against her present. The author slowly allows Charlotte to see where things when wrong and what things that failed that she herself had to take ownership of. The story is told entirely from Charlotte's point of view so the reader makes the revelations along with her.
An interesting side story is that of Ethan, Charlotte's co-worker. Ethan is determined to have Charlotte for himself though his attentions are ultimately what opens her eyes to what she walked away from and makes her re-evaluate her choices. The only question I had in the story were Charlotte's friends as they seemed to take a stand-down position, never really offering differing opinions. They just agreed with her. I found myself asking why they weren't being more honest with her.
This was an overall good, solid read. True to life in it's situations and resolutions with characters I found myself rooting for.
Risk and Reward was an engrossing story of finding out what is important in a marriage and in what we make of our lives. The main character, Charlotte, is unhappy with life in general though she focuses on what is wrong between herself and Nate. Ms. Duncan delves into Charlotte's emotions and turmoil by flashbacks to happier times and contrasting them against her present. The author slowly allows Charlotte to see where things when wrong and what things that failed that she herself had to take ownership of. The story is told entirely from Charlotte's point of view so the reader makes the revelations along with her.
An interesting side story is that of Ethan, Charlotte's co-worker. Ethan is determined to have Charlotte for himself though his attentions are ultimately what opens her eyes to what she walked away from and makes her re-evaluate her choices. The only question I had in the story were Charlotte's friends as they seemed to take a stand-down position, never really offering differing opinions. They just agreed with her. I found myself asking why they weren't being more honest with her.
This was an overall good, solid read. True to life in it's situations and resolutions with characters I found myself rooting for.
March 8, 2017
When the indie scene is loaded with college age stories and NA books, it was so refreshing to read this book. I was drawn to it from the beginning because it was something new and refreshing. I had never read a Rachael Duncan book before and had not idea that this is part of a series of books. I can honestly say that I am not a HUGE fan of hers and I will be reading the other books in the series as soon as I can. Rachael has a way of writing that you are crying at the tenderness at times, angry because of some situation or another, and laughing out loud the next. That is the recipe for a really great book.
Divorce is not something that can be taken lightly, and Charlotte has put it off for a long time. It is hard to be at home all the time while your husband travels for his job. It is even harder when he comes home and does not pay attention to you. She was at he wits end and needed some space.
Nate was totally taken by surprise and had not idea that she felt that way or that he was even acting that way.
Charlotte moves out and restarts her life. New home, New Life, New Job, New Friends. It is not easy and that is what I liked about this book. Rachael in no way, shape, or form made this situation look easy. We feel for Charlotte along the way and feel everything that she feels. It was fun to get to go along for the ride while she goes on the road of self discovery.
If you like to laugh, cry, get angry, and feel while you are reading this is the book you are looking for. The supporting characters are awesome and I can't wait to get to know them in the other books in the series.
Divorce is not something that can be taken lightly, and Charlotte has put it off for a long time. It is hard to be at home all the time while your husband travels for his job. It is even harder when he comes home and does not pay attention to you. She was at he wits end and needed some space.
Nate was totally taken by surprise and had not idea that she felt that way or that he was even acting that way.
Charlotte moves out and restarts her life. New home, New Life, New Job, New Friends. It is not easy and that is what I liked about this book. Rachael in no way, shape, or form made this situation look easy. We feel for Charlotte along the way and feel everything that she feels. It was fun to get to go along for the ride while she goes on the road of self discovery.
If you like to laugh, cry, get angry, and feel while you are reading this is the book you are looking for. The supporting characters are awesome and I can't wait to get to know them in the other books in the series.
March 4, 2017
As the saying goes, falling in love is easy and staying in love is hard, just as saying “I do” in marriage is easy but saying “I do” forever can have its challenges, especially when one is never present and married to his job instead of his wife. Rachael Duncan takes on this very emotional, heartbreaking situation in Risk and Rewards. After 7 years of marriage, Charlotte makes the most difficult, heart wrenching, soul searching decision of her life and finds herself in a place she never imagined, single. Knowing that they both still love each other and knowing that she just shattered her husband’s heart, she still makes the decision to walk away. Charlotte says goodbye to the love of her life, Nate Townsend, a hard working husband who gave her everything she could ever want, that is except the attention she desperately longs for and deserves… “I close my eyes as I soak up the last bit of affection I’ll receive from the one man I thought I’d spend forever with.” … Is walking away the answer??? When one door closes, does another door open??? Will Charlotte find her true love and believe in a second chance?
Rachael Duncan, I once again applaud you for not only a 5 STAR READ and a flawlessly written story, but for taking on a storyline that so many of us can relate to. Love and marriage is a very beautiful thing but sadly, more times than not, both suffer due to outside life factors. People seem to think that life is greener on the other side, but is it? This, in my opinion, is a real life romance, where love is composed of roses and its thorns. This is a story about friendships, love, soul searching, heartache, loneliness, life shattering events/emotions and happiness. Risk and Rewards, without a doubt, is a MUST READ!!!!
Rachael Duncan, I once again applaud you for not only a 5 STAR READ and a flawlessly written story, but for taking on a storyline that so many of us can relate to. Love and marriage is a very beautiful thing but sadly, more times than not, both suffer due to outside life factors. People seem to think that life is greener on the other side, but is it? This, in my opinion, is a real life romance, where love is composed of roses and its thorns. This is a story about friendships, love, soul searching, heartache, loneliness, life shattering events/emotions and happiness. Risk and Rewards, without a doubt, is a MUST READ!!!!
March 6, 2017
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0
~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
What do you do when your husband's job is more important than you? What do you do when your husband becomes complacent and he doesn't love you like he used too? This is something Charlotte is facing. When she sits at the table and Nate ignores everything she says as he stares at his phone, she has had enough. Divorce, not a word she ever thought she would say. Now they are separated and waiting the year they need to be divorced. Moving on seems easy until the memories of Nate bombard her over and over again. Is this the right thing to do, is the risk worth the reward?
Every book I read by Rachael Duncan just makes me more of a fan. Risk and Reward isn't any different. I loved this story as it has a little for everyone: romance, spice, mystery, drama, humor and love. I love how Charlotte grows through all of this and realizes that being single isn't all it's cracked up to be and she may have made the biggest mistake of her life. Rachael is an amazing author and I couldn't put this book down until I finished. I can't wait to read the next book that she puts out. Definitely a MUST READ!!!
~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
What do you do when your husband's job is more important than you? What do you do when your husband becomes complacent and he doesn't love you like he used too? This is something Charlotte is facing. When she sits at the table and Nate ignores everything she says as he stares at his phone, she has had enough. Divorce, not a word she ever thought she would say. Now they are separated and waiting the year they need to be divorced. Moving on seems easy until the memories of Nate bombard her over and over again. Is this the right thing to do, is the risk worth the reward?
Every book I read by Rachael Duncan just makes me more of a fan. Risk and Reward isn't any different. I loved this story as it has a little for everyone: romance, spice, mystery, drama, humor and love. I love how Charlotte grows through all of this and realizes that being single isn't all it's cracked up to be and she may have made the biggest mistake of her life. Rachael is an amazing author and I couldn't put this book down until I finished. I can't wait to read the next book that she puts out. Definitely a MUST READ!!!
March 4, 2017
Rachel Duncan tackles a hard story line but she did so beautifully. Risk and Reward is the second in a series but can be read as a standalone, which is what I did. I did not realize this was the second in the series, it was written that well.
Risk and Reward is about Charlotte and her husband Nate and their marriage. They were young once and in love, and got married. Like all marriages it has its up and downs but for Charlotte and Nate, they had hit a low. Nate is constantly working and never seems to have the time for Charlotte, even when he is home, he is paying her no attention. Charlotte then decides that enough is enough and asks for divorce. However, according to the law in which they live, they must be separated for a certain number of months first.
Charlotte thought things on the other side were better. Having stayed at home and never doing anything with her degree, Charlotte decides to find job and find herself again. In the process, she meets a friend at work and things take off. As the saying goes though, the grass isn't always greener on the other side.
4 stars
Risk and Reward is about Charlotte and her husband Nate and their marriage. They were young once and in love, and got married. Like all marriages it has its up and downs but for Charlotte and Nate, they had hit a low. Nate is constantly working and never seems to have the time for Charlotte, even when he is home, he is paying her no attention. Charlotte then decides that enough is enough and asks for divorce. However, according to the law in which they live, they must be separated for a certain number of months first.
Charlotte thought things on the other side were better. Having stayed at home and never doing anything with her degree, Charlotte decides to find job and find herself again. In the process, she meets a friend at work and things take off. As the saying goes though, the grass isn't always greener on the other side.
4 stars
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