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Whiskey Sisters #1
Blame It on the Bet
Welcome to Mayhem, Minnesota, where the cats wear sweaters, the local priest dispenses dating advice, and you can find your fortune in the bottom of a pie tin. When her family's pub is threatened with foreclosure, Hennessy O'Halloran, along with her three sisters, is determined to raise enough money to keep it out of the hands of the L.A. real-estate developer trying to raze it and replace it with a--god forbid!--multiplex theater. Bryan Truitt always gets what he wants. And what he wants is the sweet corner property on Mayhem's Main Street where O'Halloran's Pub sits. But his "quick business" turns into more than he bargains for when he meets the feisty Hennessy. Next thing he knows, he's betting her he can outlast Mayhem's punishing winter in time to make the pub his--or he'll gift it to her for free. Hennessy knows better than to flirt with the enemy. But suddenly Bryan's not sure which he wants more . . . the property or the woman who owns it.
300 pages, Paperback
Published September 11, 2017
79 people are currently reading
490 people want to read
About the author
L.E. Rico
8 books288 followersLibrarian Note: Also writes under the name Lauren E. Rico.
L.E. Rico didn’t set out to be an author. In fact, she’s made a name for herself as a classical music radio host—doing her best to make the music and the composers relevant by putting them into a modern context. It was just a few years ago that she discovered a passion for writing that blossomed into an entire novel. And then another. And another. And, while she still spends plenty of time on the radio, telling the stories of the great composers, she spends even more time composing her own great stories.
L.E. Rico didn’t set out to be an author. In fact, she’s made a name for herself as a classical music radio host—doing her best to make the music and the composers relevant by putting them into a modern context. It was just a few years ago that she discovered a passion for writing that blossomed into an entire novel. And then another. And another. And, while she still spends plenty of time on the radio, telling the stories of the great composers, she spends even more time composing her own great stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
December 6, 2018
5 - "Wow… Just Wow." Stars!
We travel to Mayhem, Minnesota and get to know the Whiskey Sisters and believe me when I tell you they and the town they come from are unlike any family or place I have read about before, and in such a happy and positive way.
"This is something special you have here…"
Two books, and two novellas make up the sum of this series so far, and I devoured each and every one of them, it’s not often I find an author that can make me laugh, cry and fall in love with a group of fictional characters and the place they live so quickly, but I was enamoured from the start of book one; Blame it on the Bet. I felt like one of the O’Halloran family by the time I had flown through Mischief in Mayhem and now that I have just stayed up way past my bedtime to finish Mistletoe in Mayhem I feel a whole lot of a book hangover because I have nothing else left to read featuring the outstanding cast that the author has put together.
"We can do this… We can keep this pub running."
We start with Hennessey and Bryan in book one with a funny and poignant enemies-to-lovers story-line, and we follow on with Jameson and Scott, with the more tricky ex-brother-in-law to lovers story, notable mention goes to divorcee Jameson’s son Jackson, because through all of the books he is a hugely entertaining and absolutely adorable character, and the glue that brings and holds the family together at some of their darkest points. The novellas that follow along from the books then give us the progressions of these couple’s stories into marriage and starting their families.
"I kind of don’t want to leave… I like this place. I like the people who live here."
This collection of books contains a little bit of everything in regards to reading tropes, the first two although not necessarily Christmas books, are all bought together with the seasonal novellas and have set me up perfectly to spend the rest of this month indulging in one of my favorite times of year, with some seasonal reads to go along with it.
"Want to make a match with me?"
These books encompass everything that is important about the Christmas season, with strong family ties, faith (in yourself and a higher power), forgiveness, caring for your neighbor and helping out those with needs bigger than your own, love, laughter and letting go. They are also a perfect introduction to Lauren’s writing, and I am so glad I said yes to the opportunity to read and review this series.
"I’m here… I’m staying."
With two sisters still unwed, I hope that the author has plans for Walker and Bailey and in the not too distant future, the O’Halloran family have a permanent place in my heart now and I cannot wait to go back and spend more time with them and the residents of Mayhem as soon as possible.
My thanks go to the author for generously providing me with copies of each book in the series, it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review in exchange.
We travel to Mayhem, Minnesota and get to know the Whiskey Sisters and believe me when I tell you they and the town they come from are unlike any family or place I have read about before, and in such a happy and positive way.
"This is something special you have here…"
Two books, and two novellas make up the sum of this series so far, and I devoured each and every one of them, it’s not often I find an author that can make me laugh, cry and fall in love with a group of fictional characters and the place they live so quickly, but I was enamoured from the start of book one; Blame it on the Bet. I felt like one of the O’Halloran family by the time I had flown through Mischief in Mayhem and now that I have just stayed up way past my bedtime to finish Mistletoe in Mayhem I feel a whole lot of a book hangover because I have nothing else left to read featuring the outstanding cast that the author has put together.
"We can do this… We can keep this pub running."
We start with Hennessey and Bryan in book one with a funny and poignant enemies-to-lovers story-line, and we follow on with Jameson and Scott, with the more tricky ex-brother-in-law to lovers story, notable mention goes to divorcee Jameson’s son Jackson, because through all of the books he is a hugely entertaining and absolutely adorable character, and the glue that brings and holds the family together at some of their darkest points. The novellas that follow along from the books then give us the progressions of these couple’s stories into marriage and starting their families.
"I kind of don’t want to leave… I like this place. I like the people who live here."
This collection of books contains a little bit of everything in regards to reading tropes, the first two although not necessarily Christmas books, are all bought together with the seasonal novellas and have set me up perfectly to spend the rest of this month indulging in one of my favorite times of year, with some seasonal reads to go along with it.
"Want to make a match with me?"
These books encompass everything that is important about the Christmas season, with strong family ties, faith (in yourself and a higher power), forgiveness, caring for your neighbor and helping out those with needs bigger than your own, love, laughter and letting go. They are also a perfect introduction to Lauren’s writing, and I am so glad I said yes to the opportunity to read and review this series.
"I’m here… I’m staying."
With two sisters still unwed, I hope that the author has plans for Walker and Bailey and in the not too distant future, the O’Halloran family have a permanent place in my heart now and I cannot wait to go back and spend more time with them and the residents of Mayhem as soon as possible.
My thanks go to the author for generously providing me with copies of each book in the series, it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review in exchange.
September 11, 2017
Rating 4.5/5 *
This is a thoroughly enjoyable contemporary romance packed with turmoil and humour, making it a great read to escape into. Following the death of their father, the O’Halloran sisters discover that their father had taken out a huge loan to keep the family’s Irish Pub running and to fund their education and treats. The young women, all named after alcoholic beverages, are determined to pay back the loan and keep the pub as a family run establishment.
The story is told from alternative view points of the two main characters - Hennessy V. P. O’Halloran and Bryan Truitt. She is a lawyer working in the city but would much rather be running the pub and near her family again. Bryan is a developer who is used to getting his own way. The initial encounters between the two are hilarious as he expects to be able to bamboozle Hennessy into signing over the property to him without any problems. This is just the start of things as he ends up making a bet that he’s not sure whether he really wants to win or not, she’s got him so twisted up emotionally!
The four sisters are amazing diverse characters, each with their own reasons for attitudes and behaviour. The small town community has additional folk who bring the whole thing to life - especially the priest who provides so many laugh out loud moments, starting with his name. I mean, what else could you expect when he’s called Father Romance? Then there’s a pie maker who seems psychic and a lady who knits sweaters for cats . . . . well, you get the idea! With a main character keeping secrets, you'll just have to read it yourself to discover what happens!
This is a brilliant easy read small town romance and I hope there will be other stories featuring the other sisters in the near future!
I requested and was given a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion after choosing to read it.
This is a thoroughly enjoyable contemporary romance packed with turmoil and humour, making it a great read to escape into. Following the death of their father, the O’Halloran sisters discover that their father had taken out a huge loan to keep the family’s Irish Pub running and to fund their education and treats. The young women, all named after alcoholic beverages, are determined to pay back the loan and keep the pub as a family run establishment.
The story is told from alternative view points of the two main characters - Hennessy V. P. O’Halloran and Bryan Truitt. She is a lawyer working in the city but would much rather be running the pub and near her family again. Bryan is a developer who is used to getting his own way. The initial encounters between the two are hilarious as he expects to be able to bamboozle Hennessy into signing over the property to him without any problems. This is just the start of things as he ends up making a bet that he’s not sure whether he really wants to win or not, she’s got him so twisted up emotionally!
The four sisters are amazing diverse characters, each with their own reasons for attitudes and behaviour. The small town community has additional folk who bring the whole thing to life - especially the priest who provides so many laugh out loud moments, starting with his name. I mean, what else could you expect when he’s called Father Romance? Then there’s a pie maker who seems psychic and a lady who knits sweaters for cats . . . . well, you get the idea! With a main character keeping secrets, you'll just have to read it yourself to discover what happens!
This is a brilliant easy read small town romance and I hope there will be other stories featuring the other sisters in the near future!
I requested and was given a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion after choosing to read it.
August 25, 2017
3.5 stars
After their father died, Hennessy O’Halloran and his three sisters are determined to raise enough money to save their family pub from the hand of Bryan Truitt, a real estate developer from Los Angeles whose plan is to build a theater to replace the pub. Bryan comes to Mayhem in order to smooth the deal. Hennessy and Bryan end up entangled in a bet: Bryan will stay in Mayhem until Hennessy raise the money to buy out the loan or until the day before the loan comes due. If Bryan leaves before five weeks, he will pay the loan and deeds it back to O'Halloran family for nothing.
Entangled Bliss line promises sweet, sweet romance (and closed-door sex scenes) and that is one of my particular interests of trying this title from new-to-me author, L.E. Rico. Blame It On The Bet is the first book of Whiskey Sisters series, set in the small town of Mayhem, Minnesota. With dual narratives, I found myself being entertained with both characters as well as the citizens of Mayhem. Oh they are a HOOT!! Especially Father Romance. Yep, that's how they call him. Oh, and Helen -- Bryan's badass assistant. She was totally awesome.
Both Hennessy and Bryan were nice characters. Yep, despite the set-up that should make Bryan the enemy, I found him more of a good guy. He totally didn't have a "villain-y" vibe and he seemed to embrace the quirks of events that happened in Mayhem, like the chilli cook-off or trivia nights. That made it fun to read. There was sweet sparks between Hennessy and Bryan, and I liked how their relationship progressed.
I was a little confused with the girls' names though -- what can I say, I still classify 'girls' name vs. 'boys' name in my head to make it easier to differentiate the two. So names like Hennessy, Jameson, or Walker, totally threw me off a number of times. Also the Bryan's background felt a little forced, like the author needed to introduce a conflict for these two somehow. Or else this was going to be a little too smooth.
In overall, I liked this. I am curious about Jameson and Walker next ... I wonder if Jameson will EVER .
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
After their father died, Hennessy O’Halloran and his three sisters are determined to raise enough money to save their family pub from the hand of Bryan Truitt, a real estate developer from Los Angeles whose plan is to build a theater to replace the pub. Bryan comes to Mayhem in order to smooth the deal. Hennessy and Bryan end up entangled in a bet: Bryan will stay in Mayhem until Hennessy raise the money to buy out the loan or until the day before the loan comes due. If Bryan leaves before five weeks, he will pay the loan and deeds it back to O'Halloran family for nothing.
Entangled Bliss line promises sweet, sweet romance (and closed-door sex scenes) and that is one of my particular interests of trying this title from new-to-me author, L.E. Rico. Blame It On The Bet is the first book of Whiskey Sisters series, set in the small town of Mayhem, Minnesota. With dual narratives, I found myself being entertained with both characters as well as the citizens of Mayhem. Oh they are a HOOT!! Especially Father Romance. Yep, that's how they call him. Oh, and Helen -- Bryan's badass assistant. She was totally awesome.
Both Hennessy and Bryan were nice characters. Yep, despite the set-up that should make Bryan the enemy, I found him more of a good guy. He totally didn't have a "villain-y" vibe and he seemed to embrace the quirks of events that happened in Mayhem, like the chilli cook-off or trivia nights. That made it fun to read. There was sweet sparks between Hennessy and Bryan, and I liked how their relationship progressed.
I was a little confused with the girls' names though -- what can I say, I still classify 'girls' name vs. 'boys' name in my head to make it easier to differentiate the two. So names like Hennessy, Jameson, or Walker, totally threw me off a number of times. Also the Bryan's background felt a little forced, like the author needed to introduce a conflict for these two somehow. Or else this was going to be a little too smooth.
In overall, I liked this. I am curious about Jameson and Walker next ... I wonder if Jameson will EVER .
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
August 25, 2017
Lauren Rico has done it again! I don't know how she does it, but she sucks me right into the story and doesn't let go. I loved this freaking story. I bit of a different twist for her, but I have to tell you the story shines right off the pages.
Welcome to Mayhem Minnesota, home to O'Hallorans Pub, A Little Slice of Heaven, Basilica of St Mary of the Assumption and home to Father Romance and Knitty Kitty.
First of all, the sisters O'Halloran, aka the Whiskey sisters. Right, Hennessy who is an attorney and lives in St Paul. Walker, bartender and mixologist extraordinaire, Jameson married to Win aka the books resident jack hat and Mom to little Jackson. Bailey, the baby soon to graduate highschool.
They've jus lost their beloved Pops a few months earlier and have called Henny home to make heads or tails out of all the paper work and the loans none of them knew he took out. Waiting in the wings to snag the property from beneath them when they default on the loan is Brian Truitt, real estate handler who lives in Cali and hasn't a clue about Minnesota, small town life or what he's up against with the sisters. He's soon to find out.
He decides the go to Mayhem when he doesn't hear back from the girls Dad, he's got no idea the man has passed away. When Hennessy is going over the paperwork and finally puts things together, the bar is deep in debt, Truitt is their now breathing down her neck and the initial dance these two do is pretty comical. The book has so many funny moments, Walker is a fire breathing snark machine, James not so much, but she takes no prisoners either and young Bailey for all her gum chewing and primping is no dummy and adds a lot of color in her own way. Henny is just classic. I loved the witty and snarky banter between her and Bryan. When Brian decides to settle there for the next month, even renting office space, he's got a plan of attack courtesy of his secretary Helen who as he describes her best, looks similar to an orange haired troll doll. But Helen looks after Bryan and keeps him in line. Bryan is settling in to small town life, he's getting comfy with the people, Father Romance and even the sisters. One night as he and Henny were going head to head over something, he makes her a bet, one that she can't and won't back down from. That he'll give her the deed to the pub free and clear, there are other details but you have to read them. The girls need to raise 100k. That's a lot of money in a short period but these girls don't roll over for anyone. And the attraction between Bryan and Henny continues to grow and I love how up front she is with him about it.
I held my breath a couple times, thinking something would happen and then it didn't and damn when I didn't see it coming, it clobbered me over the head. The Knitty Kitty hits the fan and I'm going to leave you dangle right there.
This book is a must read. Lauren is a favorite of mine but even having said that, this book just bowled me over. Funny, snarky and she writes such great characters, real people with real dialogue and real problems. I just love her for that alone. She sets up the perfect story here and you're missing out if you let this one slide by. It's a must read. Absolutely.
Perfection Lauren!!! And what I wouldn't give to see a book about Walker!!!
Welcome to Mayhem Minnesota, home to O'Hallorans Pub, A Little Slice of Heaven, Basilica of St Mary of the Assumption and home to Father Romance and Knitty Kitty.
First of all, the sisters O'Halloran, aka the Whiskey sisters. Right, Hennessy who is an attorney and lives in St Paul. Walker, bartender and mixologist extraordinaire, Jameson married to Win aka the books resident jack hat and Mom to little Jackson. Bailey, the baby soon to graduate highschool.
They've jus lost their beloved Pops a few months earlier and have called Henny home to make heads or tails out of all the paper work and the loans none of them knew he took out. Waiting in the wings to snag the property from beneath them when they default on the loan is Brian Truitt, real estate handler who lives in Cali and hasn't a clue about Minnesota, small town life or what he's up against with the sisters. He's soon to find out.
He decides the go to Mayhem when he doesn't hear back from the girls Dad, he's got no idea the man has passed away. When Hennessy is going over the paperwork and finally puts things together, the bar is deep in debt, Truitt is their now breathing down her neck and the initial dance these two do is pretty comical. The book has so many funny moments, Walker is a fire breathing snark machine, James not so much, but she takes no prisoners either and young Bailey for all her gum chewing and primping is no dummy and adds a lot of color in her own way. Henny is just classic. I loved the witty and snarky banter between her and Bryan. When Brian decides to settle there for the next month, even renting office space, he's got a plan of attack courtesy of his secretary Helen who as he describes her best, looks similar to an orange haired troll doll. But Helen looks after Bryan and keeps him in line. Bryan is settling in to small town life, he's getting comfy with the people, Father Romance and even the sisters. One night as he and Henny were going head to head over something, he makes her a bet, one that she can't and won't back down from. That he'll give her the deed to the pub free and clear, there are other details but you have to read them. The girls need to raise 100k. That's a lot of money in a short period but these girls don't roll over for anyone. And the attraction between Bryan and Henny continues to grow and I love how up front she is with him about it.
I held my breath a couple times, thinking something would happen and then it didn't and damn when I didn't see it coming, it clobbered me over the head. The Knitty Kitty hits the fan and I'm going to leave you dangle right there.
This book is a must read. Lauren is a favorite of mine but even having said that, this book just bowled me over. Funny, snarky and she writes such great characters, real people with real dialogue and real problems. I just love her for that alone. She sets up the perfect story here and you're missing out if you let this one slide by. It's a must read. Absolutely.
Perfection Lauren!!! And what I wouldn't give to see a book about Walker!!!
September 2, 2017
Blame It on the Bet wasn't what I expected, and I think that is why it took me a bit of time to get into the book. The story its self is really good and the book sets-up a town, which is loveable. This is a standalone novel. However, is the first in the series about The Whiskey sisters.
Hennessy O’Halloran moved away from home to pursue her career. Unfortunately, her father has just died, and she has returned to her home town to help her family. Her father wanted to give his daughters everything he could, which led to expensive loans. At the heart of the family is the pub the sisters hold dear, and now they have to fight to save it. Hennessy hadn't realised how much she had given up for her career, and now is getting an insight into what living close to her family could mean.
Bryan Truitt life is his career. He literally sleeps at his desk. When one of his projects isn't turning out the way he would have liked he decides to get hands on and find the source of the problem. What he discovers is a town that is more than he expected, and the key to unlocking his cold heart.
There isn't much humour in this book, and I realised after that I kind of expect at least a bit of sass/wit in my romances reads. In this book, humor isn't needed, and I think it wouldn't benefit the story. Bryan is a complex charter who closed off this heart a long time ago. His job needs him to keep his head in the game. Hennessy has just lost her father and needs to find some money fast. These situations aren't really funny.
As for the bet (the title). It wasn't really a big aspect of this story.
I would say if you are looking for a story with depth over comedy this one is for you.
4 stars out of 5.
*ARC received in exchange for a fair review*
Hennessy O’Halloran moved away from home to pursue her career. Unfortunately, her father has just died, and she has returned to her home town to help her family. Her father wanted to give his daughters everything he could, which led to expensive loans. At the heart of the family is the pub the sisters hold dear, and now they have to fight to save it. Hennessy hadn't realised how much she had given up for her career, and now is getting an insight into what living close to her family could mean.
Bryan Truitt life is his career. He literally sleeps at his desk. When one of his projects isn't turning out the way he would have liked he decides to get hands on and find the source of the problem. What he discovers is a town that is more than he expected, and the key to unlocking his cold heart.
There isn't much humour in this book, and I realised after that I kind of expect at least a bit of sass/wit in my romances reads. In this book, humor isn't needed, and I think it wouldn't benefit the story. Bryan is a complex charter who closed off this heart a long time ago. His job needs him to keep his head in the game. Hennessy has just lost her father and needs to find some money fast. These situations aren't really funny.
As for the bet (the title). It wasn't really a big aspect of this story.
I would say if you are looking for a story with depth over comedy this one is for you.
4 stars out of 5.
*ARC received in exchange for a fair review*
September 2, 2017
Confession time: I was originally drawn to L.E. Rico's Blame it on the Bet because of the cover. It gives that Christmasy, snowy feel without actually witnessing - and more importantly, feeling - the coldness first hand.
The result? Blame it on the Bet was fantastic. Mixing together four dauntless sisters, a memorable small town setting, and most importantly a romance that made my heart SWOON, Blame it on the Beat made my bookish heart so incredibly happy.
Mayhem, Minnesota has quickly shot up to the top of my list of favorite fictional small towns ever! I even go so far as to say that it's reminiscent of another one of my favorites - Stars Hollow, CT. So trust me when I say that there's so much to love about this quaint, close-knit community.
L.E. Rico did a wonderful job of describing and establishing Mayhem. I often felt as if I was right there with Hennessy and Bryan, experiencing the fortune inspiring pie slices, the oddly named cats in sweaters, and the cozy and charming O’Halloran’s Pub. My favorite part of the setting, however, was the wide variety of characters it introduced. For instance, Father Romance was equal parts wise and devious. His "secretive" plots to unite Hennessy and Bryan were not only adorable but also just so well played. I also loved Janet Lahti, the incredibly smart business woman & fortune teller behind The Little Slice of Heaven Pie Shop. Her fortunes were not only spot-on but essential to key parts of the plot. I always enjoyed when Janet and her pies appeared on the page; however, I am super disappointed that she can't predict a fortune for me based on my pie selection.
Now let's get to the two stars of the book: Hennessy & Bryan! Both were not only incredibly relatable but also incredibly lovable. I admired Hennessy's love for and dedication to her family, especially when it meant keeping the place that was so incredibly precious and important to her family's history. I always enjoyed seeing her interactions with her three sisters: Jameson, Walker, and Bailey. For four sisters, the girls couldn't be any more different, and that's part of the reason I came to love each of them. They were so distinctively each their own person, and I applaud L.E. for making that occur - sometimes with a book with that many siblings they start to blend together but thankfully that didn't even come close to occurring here.
Additionally, Hennessy was also fierce & savvy, making her one girl whose bad side you definitely didn't want to get on! More importantly it's part of what made her interactions with Bryan so incredibly enjoyable, because every time he would attempt to one-up her, she would shoot right back him and just as hard - if not harder. Bryan was the typical hero on the path to redemption and true love, and I enjoyed every single minute of him straying further and further away from his playboy millionaire ways and closer and closer to being a small town boy loving a small town girl. Besides his interactions with Hennessy, I also loved his interactions with everyone else in Mayhem. Each one moved in one step closer to being at home; however, his interactions with Jameson's baby were some of the most hilarious moments of the book!
Last but not least: the romance! I don't want to say too much about it because seriously you all need to experience it on your own; however, I will say it was perfect and adorable. Perfect build up and perfect final product!
In all, Blame it on the Bet is a great start to a new series! I can't wait to see which Whiskey Sister gets a book next. Personally, I'm hoping it's Jameson.
Grade: A+
The result? Blame it on the Bet was fantastic. Mixing together four dauntless sisters, a memorable small town setting, and most importantly a romance that made my heart SWOON, Blame it on the Beat made my bookish heart so incredibly happy.
Mayhem, Minnesota has quickly shot up to the top of my list of favorite fictional small towns ever! I even go so far as to say that it's reminiscent of another one of my favorites - Stars Hollow, CT. So trust me when I say that there's so much to love about this quaint, close-knit community.
L.E. Rico did a wonderful job of describing and establishing Mayhem. I often felt as if I was right there with Hennessy and Bryan, experiencing the fortune inspiring pie slices, the oddly named cats in sweaters, and the cozy and charming O’Halloran’s Pub. My favorite part of the setting, however, was the wide variety of characters it introduced. For instance, Father Romance was equal parts wise and devious. His "secretive" plots to unite Hennessy and Bryan were not only adorable but also just so well played. I also loved Janet Lahti, the incredibly smart business woman & fortune teller behind The Little Slice of Heaven Pie Shop. Her fortunes were not only spot-on but essential to key parts of the plot. I always enjoyed when Janet and her pies appeared on the page; however, I am super disappointed that she can't predict a fortune for me based on my pie selection.
Now let's get to the two stars of the book: Hennessy & Bryan! Both were not only incredibly relatable but also incredibly lovable. I admired Hennessy's love for and dedication to her family, especially when it meant keeping the place that was so incredibly precious and important to her family's history. I always enjoyed seeing her interactions with her three sisters: Jameson, Walker, and Bailey. For four sisters, the girls couldn't be any more different, and that's part of the reason I came to love each of them. They were so distinctively each their own person, and I applaud L.E. for making that occur - sometimes with a book with that many siblings they start to blend together but thankfully that didn't even come close to occurring here.
Additionally, Hennessy was also fierce & savvy, making her one girl whose bad side you definitely didn't want to get on! More importantly it's part of what made her interactions with Bryan so incredibly enjoyable, because every time he would attempt to one-up her, she would shoot right back him and just as hard - if not harder. Bryan was the typical hero on the path to redemption and true love, and I enjoyed every single minute of him straying further and further away from his playboy millionaire ways and closer and closer to being a small town boy loving a small town girl. Besides his interactions with Hennessy, I also loved his interactions with everyone else in Mayhem. Each one moved in one step closer to being at home; however, his interactions with Jameson's baby were some of the most hilarious moments of the book!
Last but not least: the romance! I don't want to say too much about it because seriously you all need to experience it on your own; however, I will say it was perfect and adorable. Perfect build up and perfect final product!
In all, Blame it on the Bet is a great start to a new series! I can't wait to see which Whiskey Sister gets a book next. Personally, I'm hoping it's Jameson.
Grade: A+
December 24, 2017
Hennessy and her sisters have been raised at their family's pub in Mayhem, Minnesota. After their father's death they discover he had money problems and if they can't find money fast they're going to lose the pub. Hennessy's father was already selling it to Bryan, a real-estate developer, who's interested in the premises and wants to build a multiplex theater. Bryan thought buying the pub would be simple, but when he discovers he now has to deal with Hennessy and her sisters instead of their father the situation becomes a lot more complicated.
Bryan travels to Mayhem, a town where he's completely out of place, to find out what happened to his quick and easy purchase of the pub. When he meets Hennessy he decides to stay in Mayhem for a while. They even start a bet. Who will end up owning the pub, Hennessy and her sisters or Bryan? Hennessy and Bryan are sworn enemies, but it's quite easy for them to forget this. Will they gain something valuable or will they both lose what is most dear to them?
Blame it on the Bet is a wonderful romantic story filled with snow, delicious drinks and charm. I loved the fierce and proud Hennessy. She has a fantastic strong personality that I admired from the start. She doesn't let Bryan get away with anything and that's something he can definitely use. He has a good heart, but needs a reminder every now and then because he's built so many walls around it. I couldn't wait to find out if they'd get their happily ever after and couldn't turn the pages quickly enough to discover what fate would have in store for them.
L.E. Rico has a great sense of humor and her writing style is warm and welcoming. I immediately loved Hennessy and her sisters. They have a special connection that gives the story some fantastic charisma. I was spellbound by L.E. Rico's vivid descriptions of her main characters and loved the cheerful and temperamentful way she portrays their feelings. The result is an amazing entertaining story. Blame it on the Bet captivated me from beginning to end.
Bryan travels to Mayhem, a town where he's completely out of place, to find out what happened to his quick and easy purchase of the pub. When he meets Hennessy he decides to stay in Mayhem for a while. They even start a bet. Who will end up owning the pub, Hennessy and her sisters or Bryan? Hennessy and Bryan are sworn enemies, but it's quite easy for them to forget this. Will they gain something valuable or will they both lose what is most dear to them?
Blame it on the Bet is a wonderful romantic story filled with snow, delicious drinks and charm. I loved the fierce and proud Hennessy. She has a fantastic strong personality that I admired from the start. She doesn't let Bryan get away with anything and that's something he can definitely use. He has a good heart, but needs a reminder every now and then because he's built so many walls around it. I couldn't wait to find out if they'd get their happily ever after and couldn't turn the pages quickly enough to discover what fate would have in store for them.
L.E. Rico has a great sense of humor and her writing style is warm and welcoming. I immediately loved Hennessy and her sisters. They have a special connection that gives the story some fantastic charisma. I was spellbound by L.E. Rico's vivid descriptions of her main characters and loved the cheerful and temperamentful way she portrays their feelings. The result is an amazing entertaining story. Blame it on the Bet captivated me from beginning to end.
August 22, 2017
This book is book one of the Whiskey Sisters series and it completely stands alone – it *does not* end on a cliffhanger. There is some very mild cursing (no f-bombs), and any sex that happens is off-screen so if those things bother you, you do not have to worry about them with this story.
This was my first book by this author and I was incredibly impressed. L.E. Rico has a really smooth and easy to follow writing style that is infused with the kind of hilarity that I very much enjoy in a book. If you enjoy humor of both the subtle and laugh out loud varieties, you're going to enjoy this one. Even when dealing with things that made me tear up, this author managed to keep things light and hopeful enough that it was never depressing or difficult to read which is a testament to her writing abilities. I also loved how much the Whiskey Sisters loved each other, even though they are totally different women. Hennessy was a great character, and Bryan was the perfect match for her. I didn't know how they were going to work out their problems, but I knew that they would because they were perfect for each other. There is also a moment where we see Bryan at his most vulnerable that made me cry. So perfect. And Father Romance? I wasn't sure how that was going to work but he was fantastic. While he didn't overwhelm the story, he added so much to it that I found myself smiling whenever he was even mentioned.
The 'worst' thing about this book is waiting for the next one to be released because I very much look forward to reading more about the O'Halloran sisters.
If you enjoy a book that runs the gamut of emotions but that leans on heart and humor the most, you should read this book. If you enjoy a book about two people who are competitors of a sort but who find that they're perfect for each other, you should read this book. If you just like romance stories, you should read this book.
I requested and was very generously granted an ARC of this book via the publisher and NetGalley. I wrote this review because I loved the story.
This was my first book by this author and I was incredibly impressed. L.E. Rico has a really smooth and easy to follow writing style that is infused with the kind of hilarity that I very much enjoy in a book. If you enjoy humor of both the subtle and laugh out loud varieties, you're going to enjoy this one. Even when dealing with things that made me tear up, this author managed to keep things light and hopeful enough that it was never depressing or difficult to read which is a testament to her writing abilities. I also loved how much the Whiskey Sisters loved each other, even though they are totally different women. Hennessy was a great character, and Bryan was the perfect match for her. I didn't know how they were going to work out their problems, but I knew that they would because they were perfect for each other. There is also a moment where we see Bryan at his most vulnerable that made me cry. So perfect. And Father Romance? I wasn't sure how that was going to work but he was fantastic. While he didn't overwhelm the story, he added so much to it that I found myself smiling whenever he was even mentioned.
The 'worst' thing about this book is waiting for the next one to be released because I very much look forward to reading more about the O'Halloran sisters.
If you enjoy a book that runs the gamut of emotions but that leans on heart and humor the most, you should read this book. If you enjoy a book about two people who are competitors of a sort but who find that they're perfect for each other, you should read this book. If you just like romance stories, you should read this book.
I requested and was very generously granted an ARC of this book via the publisher and NetGalley. I wrote this review because I loved the story.
September 12, 2017
This "Bliss" book is set in an adorable Irish pub in Minnesota setting with "whiskey sisters" named after various brands of whiskey. This is Hennessy's story, and it is like a not-cheesy Hallmark movie. Having previously read and enjoyed Rico's hot contemporary, "Solo", I was looking forward to this one, especially since I spent 5 years of my life in North Dakota. It didn't disappoint; Rico got the vibe of small-town almost-Canada perfectly from hotdishes to the lethal ice on the sidewalks.
The Story-
Hennessy's father just died and left her and her sisters with a mountain of debt and an Irish pub that he was all set to sell. The buyer, Bryan Truitt, travels to Minnesota to complete the sale. Of course, he is charmed by the small town and its inhabitants.
My Thoughts-
While this may sound like a story you've heard or a movie you've seen (starring Candace Cameron Bure), Rico's smart sense of humor and approach make it feel entirely fresh. She populates the town with an array of secondary characters, and some have a lot more going on than you might figure. I was initially a bit confused by all the characters with the androgynous whiskey names, but I soon got everyone straight and appreciated that she took the time to really flesh out who these people are. It makes me even more excited for future books. As I said above, she got the mid-west charm down to a "t" and made me miss my stand-in home for a few years. The romance is well-developed, especially in the motivations and background of the hero. Since this is a "Bliss" book, the sex happens behind closed doors, but I didn't feel like it detracted from the story. (For the most part...What can I say? I like the door open.)
The Bottom Line-
If you like Hallmark movies, this is so much smarter than those usually are, although it would make an excellent Hallmart Christmas movie. (series!) I can't wait to read Bailey's book eventually because I loved her particular brand of sass, but whichever Whiskey Sister is next, I'm game! 4 stars
The Story-
Hennessy's father just died and left her and her sisters with a mountain of debt and an Irish pub that he was all set to sell. The buyer, Bryan Truitt, travels to Minnesota to complete the sale. Of course, he is charmed by the small town and its inhabitants.
My Thoughts-
While this may sound like a story you've heard or a movie you've seen (starring Candace Cameron Bure), Rico's smart sense of humor and approach make it feel entirely fresh. She populates the town with an array of secondary characters, and some have a lot more going on than you might figure. I was initially a bit confused by all the characters with the androgynous whiskey names, but I soon got everyone straight and appreciated that she took the time to really flesh out who these people are. It makes me even more excited for future books. As I said above, she got the mid-west charm down to a "t" and made me miss my stand-in home for a few years. The romance is well-developed, especially in the motivations and background of the hero. Since this is a "Bliss" book, the sex happens behind closed doors, but I didn't feel like it detracted from the story. (For the most part...What can I say? I like the door open.)
The Bottom Line-
If you like Hallmark movies, this is so much smarter than those usually are, although it would make an excellent Hallmart Christmas movie. (series!) I can't wait to read Bailey's book eventually because I loved her particular brand of sass, but whichever Whiskey Sister is next, I'm game! 4 stars
September 11, 2017
Note: A review galley was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
As opposed to Lauren's previous novels this one is a light romance. It is funny, full of charme and easy to read.
I was in such a reading slump when I picked this up but it instantly got me out of it. I loved getting both perspectives. The character developement in this novel came mostly through the present and not through dealing with the characters past. These two developed through their interacting with each other which in my opinion made it such a light read.
The cats in sweaters and all over the town of Mayhem and it's citizens were so loveable, funny, hilarious.
The balance between the seriousness off loosing a family business, the internal family problems, the dealing with a loss, then sticking together, finding love, was just on point.
Only thing I could complain about was that the wintery theme of this (and yes it is an important part of the story) didn't fit to the summery weather we had when I read this.
Overall 5 out of 5 stars for Blame it on the bet.
Thanks again to Lauren E. Rico and Entangled Publishing for providing me with an e-galley.
As opposed to Lauren's previous novels this one is a light romance. It is funny, full of charme and easy to read.
I was in such a reading slump when I picked this up but it instantly got me out of it. I loved getting both perspectives. The character developement in this novel came mostly through the present and not through dealing with the characters past. These two developed through their interacting with each other which in my opinion made it such a light read.
The cats in sweaters and all over the town of Mayhem and it's citizens were so loveable, funny, hilarious.
The balance between the seriousness off loosing a family business, the internal family problems, the dealing with a loss, then sticking together, finding love, was just on point.
Only thing I could complain about was that the wintery theme of this (and yes it is an important part of the story) didn't fit to the summery weather we had when I read this.
Overall 5 out of 5 stars for Blame it on the bet.
Thanks again to Lauren E. Rico and Entangled Publishing for providing me with an e-galley.
August 20, 2017
3.5
Ahhh the love of small towns. The book opens with a shrewish sister and a total mess of a real estate aficionado. Good old dad died leaving the family pub in some precarious hoops. Nice book.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
Ahhh the love of small towns. The book opens with a shrewish sister and a total mess of a real estate aficionado. Good old dad died leaving the family pub in some precarious hoops. Nice book.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 10, 2019
God help me. I’ve found a new author. L.E. Rico has made me laugh. She’s made me cry. She’s made my heart swell. I will never understand how I missed reading her before now.
In Blame it on the Bet, the four O’Halloran sisters are still reeling from the sudden death of their father. They are shocked to discover their parent’s life’s work, O’Halloran’s Pub, is schedule to be foreclosed on within a matter of months. They are also shocked to discover that their father was contemplating selling the pub to an L.A. based real estate developer. The four sisters realize how much the pub means to each of them and come together to save it.
Bryan Truitt is a driven real estate developer. He’s taken some knocks along the way, but he always gets what he wants. And what he wants is the land O’Halloran’s sits on. Tired of the radio silence from Jack O’Halloran, he decides it's time to pay the man a visit in Mayhem, Minnesota.
Mayhem isn’t anything like Bryan expected. For starters, it’s freaking cold and his Armani trench coat and handmade Italian loafers just don’t cut it. Then there's Hennessy O’Halloran. It turns out Hennessy isn’t a he, but a she, and the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen. Hennessy turns out not to be gullible and naive as Bryan expects her to be, but is in fact a worthy opponent in his quest to get the pub. The two find themselves unexpectedly attracted to each other. In a way to spend more time with Hennessy, Bryan comes up with a bet where the winner ends up with the pub.
With a matchmaking priest named Father Romance, a pie making psychic, a terror of a toddler and friendly people, Bryan discovers the O’Halloran pub isn’t the only thing he wants in Mayhem. But just as Bryan and Hennessy’s relationship seems to be doing well and the possibility of saving the pub is in sight, a secret from the past is revealed that could destroy everything.
Lauren (L.E.) has written wonderful characters who are fun, witty, and provide humor throughout the book. Bryan is the king of putting his foot in his mouth. But that’s what makes him so likeable and loveable. Plus, he truly has a heart of gold. The O’Halloran sisters consisting of Hennessy, Jameson, Walker, and Bailey have each other’s backs throughout everything. I loved watching them truly come together. Looking at the cover, I thought this was a Christmas story, but it isn't. Regardless, Blame it on the Bet is a story of love, friendship, and family. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series. I’m sure in Whiskey Sisters fashion, I will continue to laugh and cry.
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed.**
In Blame it on the Bet, the four O’Halloran sisters are still reeling from the sudden death of their father. They are shocked to discover their parent’s life’s work, O’Halloran’s Pub, is schedule to be foreclosed on within a matter of months. They are also shocked to discover that their father was contemplating selling the pub to an L.A. based real estate developer. The four sisters realize how much the pub means to each of them and come together to save it.
Bryan Truitt is a driven real estate developer. He’s taken some knocks along the way, but he always gets what he wants. And what he wants is the land O’Halloran’s sits on. Tired of the radio silence from Jack O’Halloran, he decides it's time to pay the man a visit in Mayhem, Minnesota.
Mayhem isn’t anything like Bryan expected. For starters, it’s freaking cold and his Armani trench coat and handmade Italian loafers just don’t cut it. Then there's Hennessy O’Halloran. It turns out Hennessy isn’t a he, but a she, and the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen. Hennessy turns out not to be gullible and naive as Bryan expects her to be, but is in fact a worthy opponent in his quest to get the pub. The two find themselves unexpectedly attracted to each other. In a way to spend more time with Hennessy, Bryan comes up with a bet where the winner ends up with the pub.
With a matchmaking priest named Father Romance, a pie making psychic, a terror of a toddler and friendly people, Bryan discovers the O’Halloran pub isn’t the only thing he wants in Mayhem. But just as Bryan and Hennessy’s relationship seems to be doing well and the possibility of saving the pub is in sight, a secret from the past is revealed that could destroy everything.
Lauren (L.E.) has written wonderful characters who are fun, witty, and provide humor throughout the book. Bryan is the king of putting his foot in his mouth. But that’s what makes him so likeable and loveable. Plus, he truly has a heart of gold. The O’Halloran sisters consisting of Hennessy, Jameson, Walker, and Bailey have each other’s backs throughout everything. I loved watching them truly come together. Looking at the cover, I thought this was a Christmas story, but it isn't. Regardless, Blame it on the Bet is a story of love, friendship, and family. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series. I’m sure in Whiskey Sisters fashion, I will continue to laugh and cry.
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed.**
September 7, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. It's full of charm, family, and small town goodness. The Whiskey sisters are all fantastic and I can't wait for the other's stories. Hennessy and Bryan are so cute together and the author did a great job with their story.
After the death of their father the O'Halloran sisters are struggling to keep the family pub open and running. They have enough to deal with without some developer trying to get his hands on their property. Yet that's exactly what Bryan Truitt, Mr. Bigshot LA real estate guy, is trying to do. All his flash and charm might work in LA but in Mayham, MN they do things just a bit differently. With all the barbs and sparks flying between Bryan and Hennessy it isn't long before they have a bet. If Bryan can make it through a long MN winter the pub is his, if he can't he'll give it over to the sisters.
Don't miss the fun as these two battle it out. I highly recommend this one.
After the death of their father the O'Halloran sisters are struggling to keep the family pub open and running. They have enough to deal with without some developer trying to get his hands on their property. Yet that's exactly what Bryan Truitt, Mr. Bigshot LA real estate guy, is trying to do. All his flash and charm might work in LA but in Mayham, MN they do things just a bit differently. With all the barbs and sparks flying between Bryan and Hennessy it isn't long before they have a bet. If Bryan can make it through a long MN winter the pub is his, if he can't he'll give it over to the sisters.
Don't miss the fun as these two battle it out. I highly recommend this one.
September 8, 2017
This is a really fun story with some very interesting messages woven into the action. I loved Hennessy and her sisters. All are named after different types of alcohols since their Father and Mother owned a pub in a small town. They get a very unpleasant surprise when he dies and have to band together if they want the pub to survive. The story is told in first person alternating between the two main characters keeping the action going from two different views. All in all a interesting and fun story. There are still sisters left and I will be looking for their stories.
I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
September 15, 2017
I fell in love almost immediately with Blame It on the Bet, which doesn’t often happen and because of that, I kept expecting to fall out of love, which I didn’t. Even though Bryan’s dialogue sometimes felt a bit formal and I “heard” him with an English accent, I didn’t care.
Blame It on the Bet made me happy. I loved every moment of reading it. And, yes, this is the sound of me gushing because I never expected it.
read more: https://saschadarlington.me/2017/09/0...
Blame It on the Bet made me happy. I loved every moment of reading it. And, yes, this is the sound of me gushing because I never expected it.
read more: https://saschadarlington.me/2017/09/0...
June 8, 2018
I must admit I haven't noticed this author before, but came across the second book in this series whilst browsing, so thought I'd better read the first one beforehand so I got the story straight, and I was glad I did as I think it will definitely set the scene for (hopefully) the rest of the series.
I really enjoyed the whole story about the four sisters, known as the Whiskey Sisters, Hennessy, Jameson, Walker and Bailey (see a trend here?!), trying to keep control of their recently deceased Father's Irish pub in a little town in Minnesota. They didn't realise he'd taken out multiple loans against the property to help them through various things in life - law school/nursing/new baby etc. - and now was on the verge of foreclosing to the bank.
The story was told in alternating chapters between the two main characters (Hennessy, oldest Whiskey sister) and Bryan (developer trying to buy the pub), which did take me a few chapters to get used to but I soon got used to it and liked the two different viewpoints.
Whilst trying to raise enough cash to save the pub the sisters got even closer to each other, and Bryan found out that maybe his life in LA wasn't quite what he wanted, especially if Hennessey wasn't there.
There are some really great small-town characters where everyone is in your business, but in a nice way! I liked it so much I'm going straight onto the next book about the next sister, Jameson (and hopefully she's dumped her useless husband!). Very enjoyable, light-hearted read.
I really enjoyed the whole story about the four sisters, known as the Whiskey Sisters, Hennessy, Jameson, Walker and Bailey (see a trend here?!), trying to keep control of their recently deceased Father's Irish pub in a little town in Minnesota. They didn't realise he'd taken out multiple loans against the property to help them through various things in life - law school/nursing/new baby etc. - and now was on the verge of foreclosing to the bank.
The story was told in alternating chapters between the two main characters (Hennessy, oldest Whiskey sister) and Bryan (developer trying to buy the pub), which did take me a few chapters to get used to but I soon got used to it and liked the two different viewpoints.
Whilst trying to raise enough cash to save the pub the sisters got even closer to each other, and Bryan found out that maybe his life in LA wasn't quite what he wanted, especially if Hennessey wasn't there.
There are some really great small-town characters where everyone is in your business, but in a nice way! I liked it so much I'm going straight onto the next book about the next sister, Jameson (and hopefully she's dumped her useless husband!). Very enjoyable, light-hearted read.
September 4, 2017
Small town romances are my personal elixir! This book left me ravenous for more! Lauren, maybe the next one you could add, I dunno, another 600k words to the end? Yespleasethankyou.
Look at this cover. I mean, look at it. Can it be Christmas already? And let me just say that nothing gets me more excited than a workaholic alpha male who just. won’t. stop. Gimme gimme, am I right? *eyebrow waggle*
Let’s begin.
We are first introduced to Hennessy. She has just found out that her father borrowed against the eqitity of the pub they own, and now (after his death) Hennessy and her three sisters are in serious debt. Hennessy sees her school tuition, her sister’s tuition, money that went into the nursey; damn her father and his pride!
To make things worse, a tall drink of water decides to storm into her life. Can you drown on a glass of water? Yes, my friends. Yes.
One word: Bryan Truitt.
Can you feel that bad juju just emanating off of his name? While reading this book, I felt like I was Hennessy, watching my family pub being stripped away from me by this deliciously sexy, smart, real estate JERK! I mean, he wants to replace the pub with…a theatre? What kind of lousy idea is that?
Obviously a good enough one to completely toss Hennessy into an abyss of despair! Yikes. And she falls in love with this man?
Oh but Bryan is not what he seems.
Staahp. Oh, my heart!
We follow Hennessy on this journey of self-discovery. We simultaneously follow Bryan on his transformation from the Ice King to a sweet vulnerable man ready to love. Hennessy doesn’t really appreciate her family until the death of her father brings her home. Then she is forced to bind with her sisters to save the one thing their family has left – the pub. Is this what home feels like? Abso-freaking-lutely! If only the sisters could be successful.
What are they going to do when the pub gets bought? Because it does get bought. And what is the family going to do when Hennessy leaves the small town to pursue her actual career? Because she does leave.
L.E. Rico is brilliant. Gaawd my hair is tired, too, just reading that!
Blame it on the Bet sent me on a wild emotional ride. There are hints of humor but what attracted me the most was the conflict. Family, obligation, work. I could not put this book down. I tried, believe me. I got very hungry after a while, but no, if those people on Naked and Afraid can go 30 days without food, I can last a day without sustenance to read this book.
Besides, starvation was the least of my worries when I was drowning in the level 5 hurricane projecting off my face.
I survived. Barely. 😭
---
Review originally published at NDPBookReview.com
*FTC Disclaimer: I received a copy of Blame it on the Bet from Lauren Rico in exchange for an honest review. I have in no way been influenced by the author and/or publisher's generosity. You can't fake these stars, baby!
Look at this cover. I mean, look at it. Can it be Christmas already? And let me just say that nothing gets me more excited than a workaholic alpha male who just. won’t. stop. Gimme gimme, am I right? *eyebrow waggle*
Let’s begin.
We are first introduced to Hennessy. She has just found out that her father borrowed against the eqitity of the pub they own, and now (after his death) Hennessy and her three sisters are in serious debt. Hennessy sees her school tuition, her sister’s tuition, money that went into the nursey; damn her father and his pride!
To make things worse, a tall drink of water decides to storm into her life. Can you drown on a glass of water? Yes, my friends. Yes.
One word: Bryan Truitt.
Can you feel that bad juju just emanating off of his name? While reading this book, I felt like I was Hennessy, watching my family pub being stripped away from me by this deliciously sexy, smart, real estate JERK! I mean, he wants to replace the pub with…a theatre? What kind of lousy idea is that?
Obviously a good enough one to completely toss Hennessy into an abyss of despair! Yikes. And she falls in love with this man?
Oh but Bryan is not what he seems.
“Do you love her, Bryan?” I actually gasp at the question. It’s an involuntary response, but an honest one. I can’t say it, so I just nod…
“What…what if she doesn’t want me?” I ask in a voice barely above a whisper.
Staahp. Oh, my heart!
We follow Hennessy on this journey of self-discovery. We simultaneously follow Bryan on his transformation from the Ice King to a sweet vulnerable man ready to love. Hennessy doesn’t really appreciate her family until the death of her father brings her home. Then she is forced to bind with her sisters to save the one thing their family has left – the pub. Is this what home feels like? Abso-freaking-lutely! If only the sisters could be successful.
What are they going to do when the pub gets bought? Because it does get bought. And what is the family going to do when Hennessy leaves the small town to pursue her actual career? Because she does leave.
"My hair is tired. I’m not even exaggerating. I’m so exhausted that there isn’t a single bit of organic material attached to me that isn’t wilting."
L.E. Rico is brilliant. Gaawd my hair is tired, too, just reading that!
Blame it on the Bet sent me on a wild emotional ride. There are hints of humor but what attracted me the most was the conflict. Family, obligation, work. I could not put this book down. I tried, believe me. I got very hungry after a while, but no, if those people on Naked and Afraid can go 30 days without food, I can last a day without sustenance to read this book.
Besides, starvation was the least of my worries when I was drowning in the level 5 hurricane projecting off my face.
I survived. Barely. 😭
---
Review originally published at NDPBookReview.com
*FTC Disclaimer: I received a copy of Blame it on the Bet from Lauren Rico in exchange for an honest review. I have in no way been influenced by the author and/or publisher's generosity. You can't fake these stars, baby!
September 12, 2017
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Dealing with her father’s death was hard enough, now Hennessy is being called back home to deal with paperwork, debts, puzzles and the real threat of a developer’s eye on their family’s pub. So not gonna happen, not if she had anything to say about it. Truth is their father had a lot of debts, loans on the bar and they were coming due fast. He might be sin in a bottle, but Bryan was not getting what her family had worked so hard for with the swipe of a pen on a check. The bet seemed easy enough to win, this city boy would never survive the winter out here in the real world… but maybe she should keep her guard up more firmly. It wasn’t in her plan to fall for the man who was trying to take so much from her family. But, plans change.
I had such fun with Blame It On The Bet. First off – small towns, I absolutely adore the quirkiness, the close knit community and that special feel that is impossible to explain but real in the feel of small town living. Populate that small town with odd characters, quirky cats and watching out for neighbors and friends, then you have me hooked. Hennessy and her sisters are such a mix match of personalities and that makes their family feel all the more realistic. Just having met the siblings I’m captured enough by them that I cannot wait to follow their stories as well.
Bryan and Hennessy are so believable in their roles. It was an adventure watching them move slowly from enemies to possibly more. I believed in their romance, and that feeling plays a huge part in how much I enjoy a book. When I can suspend belief and buy into what the author is telling me, then I’ve entered their world. I fell into Mayhem and I’d love to move in, it’s that type of feel that makes a story feel right for me.
If you love small town romance, then I’d highly recommend Blame It On The Bet and encourage you to follow the series. I know that I will be waiting for the next story to arrive.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Dealing with her father’s death was hard enough, now Hennessy is being called back home to deal with paperwork, debts, puzzles and the real threat of a developer’s eye on their family’s pub. So not gonna happen, not if she had anything to say about it. Truth is their father had a lot of debts, loans on the bar and they were coming due fast. He might be sin in a bottle, but Bryan was not getting what her family had worked so hard for with the swipe of a pen on a check. The bet seemed easy enough to win, this city boy would never survive the winter out here in the real world… but maybe she should keep her guard up more firmly. It wasn’t in her plan to fall for the man who was trying to take so much from her family. But, plans change.
I had such fun with Blame It On The Bet. First off – small towns, I absolutely adore the quirkiness, the close knit community and that special feel that is impossible to explain but real in the feel of small town living. Populate that small town with odd characters, quirky cats and watching out for neighbors and friends, then you have me hooked. Hennessy and her sisters are such a mix match of personalities and that makes their family feel all the more realistic. Just having met the siblings I’m captured enough by them that I cannot wait to follow their stories as well.
Bryan and Hennessy are so believable in their roles. It was an adventure watching them move slowly from enemies to possibly more. I believed in their romance, and that feeling plays a huge part in how much I enjoy a book. When I can suspend belief and buy into what the author is telling me, then I’ve entered their world. I fell into Mayhem and I’d love to move in, it’s that type of feel that makes a story feel right for me.
If you love small town romance, then I’d highly recommend Blame It On The Bet and encourage you to follow the series. I know that I will be waiting for the next story to arrive.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
September 18, 2017
As if losing their father wasn't enough, the four O'Halloran sisters, Hennessy, Walker, Jameson, and Bailey, are facing foreclosure on their dad's pub. Oh come on, they're Irish and you read their names...of course there's a pub involved. LOL To ensure his girls had the education they desired, and his legacy to them, the pub, remained profitable, their dad took out a loan, and it's due...now. Unfortunately, the ladies didn't know about it and Henny's three sisters ask her to come home and help them understand everything. While Henny longed to return home, with sadness was not the way she pictured doing it.
While the O'Hallorans are focused on saving the pub, Bryan, a developer, wants to take over the pub and turn it into a theater. Bryan is uses to getting his way, and of course assumes that will be the case yet again. However, his original plan of just being able to convince them to sign the property over to him does not work. He was in no way prepared for Hennessy the lawyer.
As these two indulge in foreplay, err negotiations, a bet is made. If Bryan can outlast the coming winter, the pub is his. If not, he gifts her the pub, the outstanding loan no longer a problem.
But as Bryan and Henny begin falling for each other, Bryan is no longer sure what he wants more, the pub or Henny.
Are Bryan and Henny's growing feelings real? Or is one of them playing dirty? Will Henny's sisters feel betrayed as they see her and Bryan are falling in love? Is there a way for both Bryan and Henny to win, while continuing their relationship? Or will one of them lose more than they ever thought possible?
One-click now and follow along as two people, both wanting the same thing for different reasons, discover what truly matters.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
While the O'Hallorans are focused on saving the pub, Bryan, a developer, wants to take over the pub and turn it into a theater. Bryan is uses to getting his way, and of course assumes that will be the case yet again. However, his original plan of just being able to convince them to sign the property over to him does not work. He was in no way prepared for Hennessy the lawyer.
As these two indulge in foreplay, err negotiations, a bet is made. If Bryan can outlast the coming winter, the pub is his. If not, he gifts her the pub, the outstanding loan no longer a problem.
But as Bryan and Henny begin falling for each other, Bryan is no longer sure what he wants more, the pub or Henny.
Are Bryan and Henny's growing feelings real? Or is one of them playing dirty? Will Henny's sisters feel betrayed as they see her and Bryan are falling in love? Is there a way for both Bryan and Henny to win, while continuing their relationship? Or will one of them lose more than they ever thought possible?
One-click now and follow along as two people, both wanting the same thing for different reasons, discover what truly matters.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
September 7, 2017
I was really excited about this one since I fell in love with Lauren’s writing when I read my first book of her Solo.
Solo packed a punch and I am so happy that Blame it on the bet is as amazing! Lauren is a fantastic storyteller and I just love the characters she creates. Here we get to know Hennessy and her 3 sisters as they are coping and trying to move on after their father’s death.
I really enjoyed the premise of it being set in a small town, it made it all so much more personal and focused as the sisters and the community play a really good role in the story.
Hennessy and Bryan are totally adorable together and I could not help myself but like them. To be honest, as I was reading I could not help myself but crack up during some really hilarious situations and tear up a little for more emotional ones.
Blame it on the bet hit all the right notes and does that with style. Based on what I see on the cover, I am guessing this is book 1 of a series and since we have 4 sisters then I am assuming we have 3 more stories to cover. I really love that idea a lot cause well, it is a good way to keep tabs on Hennessy and Bryan. Plus, well the sisters are all really unique characters so it will be good to get to know them better.
Can I vote on James’ story to be next?
Oh and btw.. I need to give a special mention to Father Romance. Not often do I give a shoutout to a religious character in a book, but Father Romance is something else and deserves it!
Blame it on the bet is a marvelous easy read, had a hard time putting it down and is so very entertaining. Lauren has done it again by delivering a really exceptional read and a slew of new beloved characters.
I am going to highly recommend it and encourage you to read her other work as well!
Solo packed a punch and I am so happy that Blame it on the bet is as amazing! Lauren is a fantastic storyteller and I just love the characters she creates. Here we get to know Hennessy and her 3 sisters as they are coping and trying to move on after their father’s death.
I really enjoyed the premise of it being set in a small town, it made it all so much more personal and focused as the sisters and the community play a really good role in the story.
Hennessy and Bryan are totally adorable together and I could not help myself but like them. To be honest, as I was reading I could not help myself but crack up during some really hilarious situations and tear up a little for more emotional ones.
Blame it on the bet hit all the right notes and does that with style. Based on what I see on the cover, I am guessing this is book 1 of a series and since we have 4 sisters then I am assuming we have 3 more stories to cover. I really love that idea a lot cause well, it is a good way to keep tabs on Hennessy and Bryan. Plus, well the sisters are all really unique characters so it will be good to get to know them better.
Can I vote on James’ story to be next?
Oh and btw.. I need to give a special mention to Father Romance. Not often do I give a shoutout to a religious character in a book, but Father Romance is something else and deserves it!
Blame it on the bet is a marvelous easy read, had a hard time putting it down and is so very entertaining. Lauren has done it again by delivering a really exceptional read and a slew of new beloved characters.
I am going to highly recommend it and encourage you to read her other work as well!
September 17, 2017
My actual rating for the book is 3.5/5 .
Hennessy Very Special O'Halloran, is a reputed Public Defender at Minnesota. The story begins after her Dad's death. Her parents are a interesting lot who name their 4 daughters after the Whiskey brand names.The pub ran by their parents faces a threat of foreclosure due to defaulted loan payment. Bryan Truitt, a Real estate developer, shows interest in buying the property at 25% above the market rate. He wants to raze down the property and build a multiplex in its place. This doesn't go well with the Whiskey sisters.
When Bryan comes to Mayhem for finalizing the Pub property deal. He madly falls in love with Hennessy and places a Bet , to stick around for some more time. What the bet is and how it changes the lives concerned forms the rest of the story.
The book is an easy and a pleasant read and I have loved the characters. The book gives us a refreshing feel. The characters are interesting with their own peculiarities. I liked the 'The Little Slice of Heaven Pie Shop', which adds little mystic nature to the book. I loved the helpful and considerate nature and the cupid role played by 'Father Romance'. I liked the way the story progressed and narration style of conveying story in the Point of view of Hennessy and Bryan. The little sparks in their relationship are quite a fun to read. Overall I enjoyed this book but I felt something more is needed for this book to fall in my 4 star category. I wish L.E.
Rico all the best for her future writings.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. Thanks to NetGalley, Author and publisher for sending me this book.
Hennessy Very Special O'Halloran, is a reputed Public Defender at Minnesota. The story begins after her Dad's death. Her parents are a interesting lot who name their 4 daughters after the Whiskey brand names.The pub ran by their parents faces a threat of foreclosure due to defaulted loan payment. Bryan Truitt, a Real estate developer, shows interest in buying the property at 25% above the market rate. He wants to raze down the property and build a multiplex in its place. This doesn't go well with the Whiskey sisters.
When Bryan comes to Mayhem for finalizing the Pub property deal. He madly falls in love with Hennessy and places a Bet , to stick around for some more time. What the bet is and how it changes the lives concerned forms the rest of the story.
The book is an easy and a pleasant read and I have loved the characters. The book gives us a refreshing feel. The characters are interesting with their own peculiarities. I liked the 'The Little Slice of Heaven Pie Shop', which adds little mystic nature to the book. I loved the helpful and considerate nature and the cupid role played by 'Father Romance'. I liked the way the story progressed and narration style of conveying story in the Point of view of Hennessy and Bryan. The little sparks in their relationship are quite a fun to read. Overall I enjoyed this book but I felt something more is needed for this book to fall in my 4 star category. I wish L.E.
Rico all the best for her future writings.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. Thanks to NetGalley, Author and publisher for sending me this book.
September 9, 2017
Blame it on the bet by L.E. Rico is the first book in Whisky Sister's series. The series is about four sisters named after Whisky brands. The series takes place in Mayhem where they own a pub. Hennessey is the star of Blame it on the Bet. She is trying to keep the pub from the hands of Bryan Truitt.
Hennessey is an attorney who gets called home for a family emergency to do with the family Pub. She no longer wants to be an attorney so this is just what the doctor ordered. Until she realizes that she has got to figure out a way to come with a hundred grand because her father mortgaged the pub with no one's knowledge. She could easily sell the pub to come up with the money but she would rather run it.
Bryan Truitt is a real estate developer. He wants to purchase the pub to put a cinema complex in it's place. He had a pretty much done deal with Mr. O'Halloran but now he has to convince the man's daughters to sell to him. They have to see reason that this little small town needs a cinema more than it needs an Irish pub right?
The quick banter and opposites attract in Blame it on the bet make this book amazing. It kept me absolutely enchanted and not wanting to put it down. I can not wait to go back to Mayhem and see what the next adventure the Whisky Sisters take us on is gonna be.
Hennessey is an attorney who gets called home for a family emergency to do with the family Pub. She no longer wants to be an attorney so this is just what the doctor ordered. Until she realizes that she has got to figure out a way to come with a hundred grand because her father mortgaged the pub with no one's knowledge. She could easily sell the pub to come up with the money but she would rather run it.
Bryan Truitt is a real estate developer. He wants to purchase the pub to put a cinema complex in it's place. He had a pretty much done deal with Mr. O'Halloran but now he has to convince the man's daughters to sell to him. They have to see reason that this little small town needs a cinema more than it needs an Irish pub right?
The quick banter and opposites attract in Blame it on the bet make this book amazing. It kept me absolutely enchanted and not wanting to put it down. I can not wait to go back to Mayhem and see what the next adventure the Whisky Sisters take us on is gonna be.
September 4, 2017
Blame it on the bet is a great contemporary romance set in Mayhem, Minnesota! This novel takes a little bit to get into but it is definitely worth reading. The whiskey sisters are trying to save their bar from a investor named Bryan. Hennessy (a type of whiskey) is a lawyer that came back to her home town when her father passed away, when the girls went through her dad's files she found out that her father was on the verge of foreclosure.
So when Bryan comes to Mayhem to investigate why the owner wasnt responding and finds that he passed away. Hennessy and Bryan butt heads and end up making a bet so that she can try to the keep the bar.
I do find it a little confusing that each of the girls are named after alcohol and I am not a drinker. This novel is the first in The Whiskey Sisters novels but can be read alone.
This ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgallery for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for my review..
So when Bryan comes to Mayhem to investigate why the owner wasnt responding and finds that he passed away. Hennessy and Bryan butt heads and end up making a bet so that she can try to the keep the bar.
I do find it a little confusing that each of the girls are named after alcohol and I am not a drinker. This novel is the first in The Whiskey Sisters novels but can be read alone.
This ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgallery for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for my review..
September 9, 2017
Thanks to netgalley.com for the ARC of this book.
I loved this book! The story is so heartfelt and the town is unique and has all the charms of a small town. The Whiskey Sisters and the names of the girls was so clever, loved it! We all need a Helen in our lives, she is a force and just perfect for this book. All of the events that take place at the pub are so clever and incorporates the townspeople into this story, it just adds another layer of fun, quirky characters to the mix. Father Romance and polka mass, hysterical! Once a toddler get a word stuck in their heads lookout they will use it all the time, this one happen to be inappropriate and associated with Bryan. Such great writing and phenomenal characters so fun and complex! I really hope there are more books on this series because there are more stories to be told about these Whiskey Sisters!
I loved this book! The story is so heartfelt and the town is unique and has all the charms of a small town. The Whiskey Sisters and the names of the girls was so clever, loved it! We all need a Helen in our lives, she is a force and just perfect for this book. All of the events that take place at the pub are so clever and incorporates the townspeople into this story, it just adds another layer of fun, quirky characters to the mix. Father Romance and polka mass, hysterical! Once a toddler get a word stuck in their heads lookout they will use it all the time, this one happen to be inappropriate and associated with Bryan. Such great writing and phenomenal characters so fun and complex! I really hope there are more books on this series because there are more stories to be told about these Whiskey Sisters!
September 12, 2017
What a fantastic read! This story will put you through the feels - love, grief, sisterly bonding, self healing, determination. I first have to say that I loved how the sisters were named, unique and a little contrary for girls/ladies. I so wish we could have met their parents but this story begins where their father passed away. The sisterly bind grew and strengthened. Such a beautiful and funny part to the story. The connection between Hennessey and Bryan was sweet and magnetic. He had some emotional issues of his own that he was helped by his assistant Helen. She was a fun take no carp woman - loved her. Bryan and Hennessey's journey to love was a definite feel good and he will totally steal your heart with his words
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
April 10, 2019
Blame it on the Bet is the first book I’ve read written by Author L.E. Rico, it is a very clean and wholesome romance. We meet all the sisters in this first book in the series, Hennessey V.S., Jameson, Johnnie Walker Black and Bailey Irish are the Whiskey Sister’s their parents owned an operated O’Hallorans Pub and now the four sisters find out that they are about to lose the Pub in Foreclosure back to the bank. Bryan Truitt wants to buy the Pub to for a company who wants to tear it down and build a movie complex, the girls fight with everything they have to pay the loan back to the bank within the 5 weeks they have. Bryan likes Hennessy and she likes him too, to bad they want opposite things.
This is a laugh out loud wholesome book with Polka Mass at the catholic church, chili cook off’s and good down-home Minnesota hospitality. I lived in Minnesota for about 6 years and I felt that same sense of hospitality while reading this book as when I lived there.
Great read, going to start the next Whiskey Sister book at the end of this week.
This is a laugh out loud wholesome book with Polka Mass at the catholic church, chili cook off’s and good down-home Minnesota hospitality. I lived in Minnesota for about 6 years and I felt that same sense of hospitality while reading this book as when I lived there.
Great read, going to start the next Whiskey Sister book at the end of this week.
September 13, 2017
the town of mayhem, minnesota is the perfect backdrop to blame it on the bet. hennessey o'halloran has come back into town to lay her father to rest, only to discover that the bar that their father built, the bar that formed the cornerstone of her and her sisters' childhood is in the red and has a buyer. the saving grace is that the contract hasn't been signed, but the sisters only have 60 days to pay off the mounds of debt that the bar owes.
when bryan truitt comes into town to figure out what happened to his handshake deal with pops o'halloran. what he discovers is four angry women intent on keeping their family legacy. when bryan makes a bet with hennessey that he can stick it out in mayhem for the duration of their 60 day grace period from the bank, he doesn't expect to be so charmed by the residents of mayhem.
as hennessey spends more time with bryan she comes to realize that he is not the bad guy in this scenario. the bet is actually a pretty fair deal for the pub, and even though she doesn't agree with what he plans to do with the property she can acknowledge that he really does have good intentions for the town.
i enjoyed spending time with the residents of mayhem, and the romance between hennessey and bryan is sweet and, as they open up about their past and family histories, has some surprising depth. as the start of the series, a fair amount of time is spent introducing us to mayhem and the whiskey sisters, and i do look forward to jameson's, walker's and bailey's stories, but sometimes with these small town romances, i feel like i get cheated out of time with the leads.
**blame it on the bet will publish on september 11, 2017. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (bliss) in exchange for my honest review.
when bryan truitt comes into town to figure out what happened to his handshake deal with pops o'halloran. what he discovers is four angry women intent on keeping their family legacy. when bryan makes a bet with hennessey that he can stick it out in mayhem for the duration of their 60 day grace period from the bank, he doesn't expect to be so charmed by the residents of mayhem.
as hennessey spends more time with bryan she comes to realize that he is not the bad guy in this scenario. the bet is actually a pretty fair deal for the pub, and even though she doesn't agree with what he plans to do with the property she can acknowledge that he really does have good intentions for the town.
i enjoyed spending time with the residents of mayhem, and the romance between hennessey and bryan is sweet and, as they open up about their past and family histories, has some surprising depth. as the start of the series, a fair amount of time is spent introducing us to mayhem and the whiskey sisters, and i do look forward to jameson's, walker's and bailey's stories, but sometimes with these small town romances, i feel like i get cheated out of time with the leads.
**blame it on the bet will publish on september 11, 2017. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (bliss) in exchange for my honest review.
September 8, 2017
I wasn't a big fan of Bryan in the beginning. His personality was a little off putting, but the longer he is in Mayhem the better we get to know him. He won me over especially when he interacts with Hennessy's nephew. I really liked the O'Halloran girls. They have such a sense of family and it's importance. They're trying their hardest to hold onto their fathers pub. Can I say it was heartbreaking to watch not knowing if they could keep it. I did love the twist in this one. I really like the quirks of this small town. It was one of my favorite things a bout the book. It's a fun read that will grab you at the heart.
September 12, 2017
I so like to dive into one that promises lots of fun and good lovin such as this one did. What could be more fun when you see cats in sweaters with only being the beginning. You also meet Hennessy and Bryan who will butt heads right away but the fun is why and how it proceeds. Another fun element is the trouble that will come from stubbornness and a bet hence title. There are also other characters such as her sisters that add to the richness of the story. You have such delight see how love will turn two people upside down and around with the ending being our pleasure.
September 17, 2017
This is the first book in this series by this author. This story will suck you in from the first page and keep you hooked till the very last page. This book can be read as a stand alone read. Amazing characters you will fall in love with as you read. This author has a fab writing style which is very smooth, which makes reading this story very effortless. I can't wait to read more from this author n the future.
Highly recommended
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book
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