A Shot Worth Taking

Worth Series #2

by Samantha Gudger

Emma Wrangton knows how to play basketball. She knows when to pass, when to drive, when to shoot. She knows how to read the defense, how to adapt when a game takes an unexpected turn, and how to fearlessly face an opponent and fight for the win. Basketball is what she knows; basketball is what she’s good at. What she doesn’t know is how to trust herself when she’s confronted with life-altering decisions off the basketball court. Is it right to turn her back on the only life she’s ever known to face a future of uncertainty? Should she sacrifice her dream to spare herself and others additional heartache? Is it possible to let go of a lifetime of pain to find healing? Afraid to make the wrong decisions, she discovers shots worth taking aren’t always confined by the boundaries of a basketball court.

Genres: Young Adult, Sports, High School, Family, Contemporary, Romance, Contemporary Romance

330 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 27, 2016

About the author

A former three-sport athlete in high school, Samantha grew up with a ball in one hand and a book in the other. From the moment her first-grade teacher asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up, Samantha knew she wanted to be an author. She writes young adult contemporary sports novels that serve up heart, humor, and a whole lot of hustle.

For more information about her and her books, visit her at www.samanthagudger.com or contact her at author@samanthagudger.com.

Reviews

[Sinead · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll always love romance in my books, but I've reached a point in my life where I believe it isn't (and shouldn't) be the be all and end all in your life. I also love books that explore siblings relationships, friendships, and familial relationship's. So when I realised this book was focusing on Emma's nonexistent relationships with her brothers and father, I was honestly so ready. I believe that would be do much better than any drama that happens between she and Riley (although that happens too).

And I was so happy with what we got!! Yes, there is drama between Emma and Riley, but it is not the main focus of the book. We also discover just how afraid Emma is of moving away to college and becoming completely estranged from her family, and her being proactive in not letting that happen.

I was here for this, and so, so ready. It was so beautifully put together, and realistic, it made me both happy and sad and angry all at once. I'm not going to explain what happens (because read it!!) but I will say it was awesome.

Emma and Riley also begin to learn, Riley especially, that their relationship should not be dependent, that it's good to be able to live without the other or believing they need the other to survive. Of course, they learn this lesson the hard way, but still, the lesson is learned.

I really enjoyed this book, a lot more than the first one honestly. Family bonding does that to me; it always reminds me of the close bond I have with my family.

Read it if you haven't already.

[Kat O'Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hmm, where do I begin with this review.

A Shot Worth Taking starts up immediately right after A Game Worth Watching and it doesn't summarize what took place in the last book so you must read the last book before reading this one.

The writing was a lot better than the first book without the repetition of character that I complained about in my review of A Game Worth Watching.

The book took on a completely different direction than I thought it would. There wasn't much basketball and the major playoffs were extremely short-lived and at the very beginning of the book.


The book went on to more explain Emma's life choices and how she brings her broken family back together but in the meantime loses Riley. I know, you probably think I just gave you a major spoiler but really it's not. It's close to the beginning of the book and I don't want you to go into this book thinking you are on an epic love journey with Riley after finally declaring their love to each other in the first book. I really wanted this book to be all about Riley and Emma and then when Samantha threw in Tyler, I got excited for the possible drama that he would ensue. You won't be disappointed with that story line though.

No, there is not much of a romantic love story in this book. Instead, a love story of family evolves and it's beautiful!

You'll meet Logan



Lance



Lenny



Lucas




This book is truly of a broken family trying to heal and Emma's journey on deciding what she wants her future to look like, not what Riley wants her future to look like.

I really enjoyed it. It was different than anything I've ever read. I just didn't like that it ended in a cliffhanger. I mean you can be happy with that ending, but you must know more!!! I want to know more!

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emma and Riley are getting used to their changed relationship status from being best friends to being in a relationship. Emma is still playing basketball with the guys and a few new people have joined. She has a run in with the new guy Tyler (who soon becomes a friend) who as it turns out is staying at Riley's house after getting into trouble back home.

Emma is still playing basketball and is contemplating going to college but she has so often been told that she is not good enough. Since her Mum left five years ago, Emma's home life hasn't been the best. However Emma is determined to bring her family together again before she goes off to college.

I really enjoyed Emma's interaction with her brothers and how the story's focus was on family (which surprised me because usually all about the romance which took a back seat in this story).

Overall the book was about family coming together after being broken, friendship and love and was a great read.



https://www.auniversaltruth.com/?p=194

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the first book in this series. Second books are hard for me so I didn't read this till years later. I am so glad I did, the second book was just as good. Gudger knows how to write characters to cheer for. I had a hard time believing the whole family could turn around like that, it was a little unbelievable from someone who comes from a messed up home. It was a nice idea and made for a good story.

[TSN ☮ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re-read December 2018

God how I hope Samantha Gudger will write a third book about Em!

I'm blown away! Lost for words! This book is so freaking amazing!!!

I absolutely loved the 1st book, A Game Worth Watching and it went immediately into my favorites list. So naturally a follow up sets up more than normal high expectations. And it exceeded every single one of them! I can't remember the last time I read a book I liked this much! I need a whole new category for this one - like a thousand times favorite! 😊



I wish I could give it so much more than just 5 stars, somewhere between a thousand and a million i think.

And I believe I might have a new personal record in exclamation marks! 😊

[Leigh Ann Atwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tough

I just could not finish this tale - too dark for me. Well written, well cast. Perhaps on another day in a more resiliant mood.

[Craig Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it.

If you liked the first book you will definitely enjoy this one as well. I hope we catch another story of the college years. Some characters should not be forgotten.

[A Look Inside: Reviews and Interviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A Shot Worth Taking" by Samantha Gudger is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of self-discovery, life-altering decisions, and the courage to face uncertainty head-on. This novel beautifully weaves together the world of basketball with the complexities of life, offering readers a heartfelt and relatable story that is sure to resonate long after the final page.

At the center of this compelling narrative is Emma Wrangton, a young woman who excels on the basketball court but finds herself at a crossroads when confronted with choices that extend beyond the game. Gudger's portrayal of Emma is both authentic and relatable, capturing the essence of a character struggling with the weight of pivotal decisions. Emma's journey is a testament to the author's ability to create multidimensional and empathetic characters that readers can connect with on a deep emotional level.

The novel explores themes of trust, self-doubt, and the fear of making the wrong choices in a way that feels genuine and true to life. Emma's internal struggle is portrayed with sensitivity, allowing readers to empathize with her as she grapples with the uncertainty of her future. Gudger skillfully delves into the complexity of human emotions, making Emma's journey one that many can relate to, regardless of their familiarity with basketball.

The metaphorical use of basketball as a backdrop for Emma's personal growth adds depth and richness to the story. Gudger's descriptions of Emma's prowess on the court are vivid and engaging, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the world of basketball. The seamless integration of the sport into Emma's character development is a testament to the author's storytelling prowess.

As Emma faces life-altering decisions, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery and healing. The novel's exploration of sacrifice, pain, and the pursuit of personal happiness is both moving and inspirational. Gudger's prose is evocative and emotionally charged, allowing readers to feel Emma's triumphs and tribulations as if they were their own.

The title, "A Shot Worth Taking," beautifully encapsulates the central theme of the book – the idea that sometimes, the most important shots in life are not taken on a basketball court but in the realm of personal growth and self-fulfillment. This theme is expertly woven into the narrative, leaving readers with a powerful message about the value of embracing change and facing uncertainty with courage.

In conclusion, Samantha Gudger's "A Shot Worth Taking" is a stellar literary achievement that seamlessly blends the world of sports with the complexities of life and self-discovery. It is a story that resonates on a deeply emotional level, leaving readers with a renewed sense of hope and a reminder that sometimes, the most significant shots we take are the ones that lead us to a brighter and more fulfilling future. Gudger's storytelling is both compelling and compassionate, making this book a must-read for anyone seeking a heartfelt and thought-provoking narrative.

[Shay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story. I liked the first one a bit more, but this is still very enjoyable.

This picks up a few weeks after the last book. Emma and Riley are a couple now. The basketball season is over.
This story does not focus on basketball as much as the previous. Basketball is Emma's only way to play in college, so is trying to get recruited. Riley's father helps her with this.
Riley's family also takes in Tyler, a troubled teen of a friend. The three (Emma, Riley and Tyler) have a rocky start, but as time foes on, they become friends.

The biggest plot line in this story is Emma's relationship with her family. As she is applying to colleges, she realizes that she wants to mend the relationship with her father and brothers. She starts out small, by cooking, cleaning and helping with homework. It was great to see them become a family and resolve their issues from the last book.
I was surprised that Emma's father allowed Lance to stay in the house after what he did to her, especially considering he's no longer in school and can earn money for himself. However, I do understand that that is what caused them to mend their relationship; Lance realized how wrong he was and tried to be a better brother.
The only thing that was somewhat ambiguous about the family storyline is the ages of the younger siblings. I get that the older two are a bit older, and we know Lenny is in middle school, but how old is Lucas supposed to be? If the mother left 5 years ago, I imagine him to be around 8. This seems like a very wide range of ages from the youngest to oldest sibling.

I'm glad Emma and Riley solved their issues. I think their problem is something that high schoolers actually deal with, especially when thinking about college and the rest of their lives. I think their way of coming back together worked really well for them. It was also great how they decided on different colleges, and did not completely follow each other. They were trying to stay together, but also doing what was best for themselves.

It was great that Emma remained friends with Ashley and Shiloh even after the season ended.

Another great story!

[SheReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed for YA Books Central

An excellent follow up.

The story:
We meet Emma again when she is still in the early stages of her relationship with Riley, preparing for the basketball playoffs, and doing her best to avoid her family. Most of the book centers on her reconciling with her brothers and eventually her father, trying to understand them, as they realize they may lose her to the college scouts sniffing her way. Her entire life she's been told she isn't good enough by the people she loves most. She even believed it herself. But now is her shot. Can she walk away from her family when they're all still so very broken?

What I loved:
I don't think I've cried that much in a while. And nobody had to die to bring the tears. Emma is one of the saddest characters I've read. I cried every time Lucas screamed at her or when even Riley seemed to give up on her. If it were me, I wouldn't have been as strong as her - or as forgiving. She is incredibly intelligent and kind, willing to overlook years of being ignored and disdained by her family. She loves them fiercely despite their flaws.
I loved seeing each step in her journey to reconciliation, knocking her brothers down one by one. It was amazing to read about.

What was just okay:
Riley wasn't as great a character, but not many are. There were times in this book that I wanted to shake him for lacking any kind of emotional intelligence.

Final Verdict:
A tear inducing story of loving someone at their worst, forgiveness, and courage that can take you anywhere. We could all learn a lot from Emma. It's a pleasure to know her.

[Tineke · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Shot Worth Taking is Samantha Gudger's second novel. I read the first one, A Game Worth Watching some months ago and rather liked it, so I was looking forward to read more of Samantha Gudger's work. A Shot Worth Taking certainly didn't disappoint. I absolutly loved it. It picks up where 'A Game Worth Watching' ended, which means that we get to follow Emma during the last months of her senior high school year. I have to admit that I shed a few tears while reading this book, but mostly I smiled. I liked the romantic elements, but I enjoyed the friendship, family and sports parts even more. Reading A Shot Worth Taking left me feeling contented. I surely wouldn't mind reading more about Emma (even if that means she's got more difficulties ahead) and the other characters. I don't think I can say something negative about this book. The only thing I can come up with, is that I spotted a few errors, but they are negligible in a novel of this lenght and they didn't deter me from enjoying this wonderful YA novel. I can only conclude that this series is worth a shot and I wish I could find more YA fiction like this.

[Pascale’s*ARC,Unwind,Read,Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I didn’t need him. I needed you.”

-“...you were a fighter. You knew what you needed and what you wanted, and you went for it. You had Riley by your side, and together you two could figure out anything. I knew as long as he was your friend, you’d always be looked after by someone...”

What if her family isn’t a shot worth taking? Emma has to decide...

I really liked how Emma grew, developed, and matured throughout the two-book series. Once again, I found myself in tears, angry at how Emma was treated by her family. She is such a strong character, resilient.
I got sucked into the story and I felt as though I became a part of it. I didn’t want it to end, but it came to a very satisfying conclusion. The story gets quite intense.
I feel this book is a great role model for teens and it is so well-written. I’m very impressed with this author and I will continue to seek out her work. Highly recommended. A job extremely well done. A very enthusiastic 5 stars and two thumbs up. 👍🏻

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

There were lots of things I loved about this book. But a few things that just didn’t sit well for me. Years and years of guilt and anger, and they get over it with a dinner?? I didn’t like how Emma took so much blame? Why wld she think she had to fix her brother? He’s older. He’s terrible. Why were we suppose to feel like she was responsible for him?
And I really didn’t like the drama with Riley. It went against his character. He went from promising forever with the crane to asking for space and not talking to her. I wanted their reunion to be more than it was and I wanted a little more commitment from them. I loved Riley through both books so that little wrench in the plot bugged me. But a good message of forgiveness and family. Or taking care of yourself first and being willing to take the first step to happiness.

[Karen zi · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's been a long time since I got angry. Of course, the story is pretty, the characters as well, but ... there's a big one but! I feel teased, because it isn't with a simple and complete turnaround that can be explain the absence of a family and the shortcomings suffered for years. I can't accept the simple explanation given. If in the first book they are traced as hateful, cruel and full of resentment, I don't accept that I am told that it was only a facade, waiting for a gesture to change completely!
I'm angry, angry indeed, because if it wasn't the sequel, it would have been a pleasant read!

[Veronica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book. I like how the characters have to deal with ups and downs and that lofe isn't all sunshines and rainbows. There were stages for most of the characters where I didn't like them, which makes them seem even more real. I really want to hear about what happens with Lance, Logan, Tyler and the younger bous, as well as Ashley and Shiloh and all the bbal guys and gals through the books.

And i just have to say that i ship Lance and Tyler 😝

[Mo · Rating 3 out of 5]

The ending of this book series was abrupt. I expected more than Emma being driven by her father to college. Tyler just leaving was odd considering his situation at home. I really connected with him.
Riley was irritating in this book.
All in all, a decent 2 book series to read. Happy reading!

[Jessica Guerriera · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this second book because I love the way her relationship develops with her family. I hated not knowing anything about Emma's family from the first book so, learning more about them and seeing the way they all interacted it was so heart warming. Great second book!

[Linsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the conclusion to this two book series. Everything wrapped up the way I thought it would. If you like girls high school basketball or sports in general you will love this book. A five star read.

[Deborah · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5