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Carolina Connections #3
The Lucky One
Luck is no lady… in fact, she can be a downright bitch.
Bailey:
Let’s get one thing straight. I am not your typical girl. Sure, I’ve got all the parts, but I’ve been a stubborn, irreverent tomboy since the womb. Which makes it particularly ironic that my heart is so damn girlie. It falls in love at the drop of a hat and leaves me to deal with the aftermath. But no more! If Jake Beckett thinks spending one night together gives him some claim on me, he’s got another thing coming—even if the mere thought of that night leaves me panting like a damn Labrador. I’m not about to open the door and let Jake in, but that choice may be taken from both our hands.
Jake:
Coming home was supposed to be my shot at redemption. Instead, I’m finding myself chasing after an irresistible blonde whose mercurial behavior could give Jekyll and Hyde a run for their money. I’ve got too much on my plate to get tied up in knots over a girl who wants nothing to do with me. But Bailey Murphy may hold the key to my redemption, and I’m not giving up on either without a fight. “Irish” might play with a poker face, but I’m about to call her bluff … and I hope like hell I’ve got luck on my side.
If you enjoy the lightheartedness of Kristen Proby and the witty sex appeal of Kendall Ryan, you'll love The Lucky One.
Grab your copy of The Lucky One and enjoy all the feels tonight!
This product is a republication of the 2017 version of THE LUCKY ONE. It contains special content and bonus scenes for an enhanced reader experience.
Bailey:
Let’s get one thing straight. I am not your typical girl. Sure, I’ve got all the parts, but I’ve been a stubborn, irreverent tomboy since the womb. Which makes it particularly ironic that my heart is so damn girlie. It falls in love at the drop of a hat and leaves me to deal with the aftermath. But no more! If Jake Beckett thinks spending one night together gives him some claim on me, he’s got another thing coming—even if the mere thought of that night leaves me panting like a damn Labrador. I’m not about to open the door and let Jake in, but that choice may be taken from both our hands.
Jake:
Coming home was supposed to be my shot at redemption. Instead, I’m finding myself chasing after an irresistible blonde whose mercurial behavior could give Jekyll and Hyde a run for their money. I’ve got too much on my plate to get tied up in knots over a girl who wants nothing to do with me. But Bailey Murphy may hold the key to my redemption, and I’m not giving up on either without a fight. “Irish” might play with a poker face, but I’m about to call her bluff … and I hope like hell I’ve got luck on my side.
If you enjoy the lightheartedness of Kristen Proby and the witty sex appeal of Kendall Ryan, you'll love The Lucky One.
Grab your copy of The Lucky One and enjoy all the feels tonight!
This product is a republication of the 2017 version of THE LUCKY ONE. It contains special content and bonus scenes for an enhanced reader experience.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2018
1109 people are currently reading
804 people want to read
About the author
Sylvie Stewart
55 books1,471 followersUSA Today bestselling author Sylvie Stewart loves bad jokes, dirty rom-coms, country music, and baby skunks—preferably all at the same time. Most of her steamy contemporary and romantic comedy novels take place across her favorite state of North Carolina, and her characters never run out of snarky banter or snacks. When her laptop closes, Sylvie is a sucker for hugs from her twin boys and a good laugh with her hot-nerd hubby. If you love smart Southern gals, hot blue-collar guys, and snort-laughing with characters who feel like your best friends, Sylvie's your gal.
Stay up to date on all things Sylvie! https://sylviestewartauthor.com
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LIST OF BOOKS: (Unless otherwise noted, all books can be read as standalones.)
Carolina Connections Series:
Kings of Carolina Duet (need to be read together):
Carolina Kisses Series:
Standalones:
Stay up to date on all things Sylvie! https://sylviestewartauthor.com
Amazon: http://bit.ly/sylviestewartamazon
Facebook: http://bit.ly/sstewartfb
Instagram: http://bit.ly/sstewartig
Twitter: http://bit.ly/sstewarttw
Pinterest: http://bit.ly/sstewartpi
BookBub: http://bit.ly/sstewartbb
Book+Main: http://bit.ly/sstewartbm
Newsletter: bit.ly/SylvieStuff
LIST OF BOOKS: (Unless otherwise noted, all books can be read as standalones.)
Carolina Connections Series:
Kings of Carolina Duet (need to be read together):
Carolina Kisses Series:
Standalones:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
June 13, 2024
This book was a really cute romance novel. It's kind of predictable, but it's a romance novel. You know what's going to happen 😅 no spicy scenes other than some kisses. Good character development. Takes place in NC.
May 25, 2017
The Lucky One by Sylvie Stewart a fantastic five-star read. This is the third book in the Carolina Connections series, and the third book by this author I have read, one after the other, something I never do, three books on the trot by one author is unheard of for me, I like to keep it fresh. I loved this series that hard I couldn’t stop, I am sad now there isn’t a book four released yet!! Sylvie Stewart writes funny and lovable so well (She bets get writing book four soon, please), I laughed so hard I thought I would pee my pants at some parts of the book, possibly more than in the first two. I adored that there are so many lines I could quote from this series, I would be here all day if I put them all in, I couldn’t decide on my favourites. I even went so far as to highlight all my favourites in each book a different colour, so each one has its own colour similar to the covers, I may have gone a little OCD, or crazy stalker in love with the author. (I can’t decide) Each book can be read as a stand-alone, but I know I am loving this series and if it keeps going in the same vein, that love will only grow it’s amazing.
Bailey Murphy is a complex woman, we have met her in the first two books as she is Nates actual little sister and like a little sister to Mark, she has always been a tomboy and given as good as she got with the boys. Without revealing her story, she hasn’t had the best of luck, but maybe now she will get to be the lucky one, the only problem is that they one she wants to get lucky with is the big brother of the guy who is like her big brother.
Jake Beckett is a good guy, he has always seen himself as lucky, we met him in the Spark when he came back to town to help out with the mess his dad got the family into. He’s having a good home coming, and is starting to think about how good his life is going. Until he meets her, Bailey is like whirlwind and will he see the other side. Irish have a reputation for having a good craic, but will one be enough to craic a heart?
Sylvie Stewart writes people who leap of the page and argue back at you, you can’t put this story down when you are done. I can’t wait to find out how Gavin will finally find love, I love that each story has its own story and people but you still get to see what’s going on with the others in the background of this story.
Bailey Murphy is a complex woman, we have met her in the first two books as she is Nates actual little sister and like a little sister to Mark, she has always been a tomboy and given as good as she got with the boys. Without revealing her story, she hasn’t had the best of luck, but maybe now she will get to be the lucky one, the only problem is that they one she wants to get lucky with is the big brother of the guy who is like her big brother.
Jake Beckett is a good guy, he has always seen himself as lucky, we met him in the Spark when he came back to town to help out with the mess his dad got the family into. He’s having a good home coming, and is starting to think about how good his life is going. Until he meets her, Bailey is like whirlwind and will he see the other side. Irish have a reputation for having a good craic, but will one be enough to craic a heart?
Sylvie Stewart writes people who leap of the page and argue back at you, you can’t put this story down when you are done. I can’t wait to find out how Gavin will finally find love, I love that each story has its own story and people but you still get to see what’s going on with the others in the background of this story.
September 5, 2017
This is Bailey and Jake's story. It can be read as stand alone but the characters from previous books do appear. Bailey is weary of relationship and is your average tom boy and Jake is more of mellow person. He doesn't hate relationships but knows that they eventually end. However, for both of them, they can't stop thinking of the other. I was laughing out loud and at times couldn't believe the drama these 2 found themselves in. But I highly enjoyed it. I read the first book in the series but not the second but still enjoyed the third. I will go back and read the second at some point. A great story about 2 people with 2 different outlooks on relationships that are trying to navigate through one.
Voluntarily Reviewed an ARC of this book
Voluntarily Reviewed an ARC of this book
July 2, 2017
*Be sure to check out my blog post for this book, with a limited-time giveaway!
**Also, if you like reviews with spoilers, check out my UnPlugged blog for an additional review!
PG-17 / R
Bailey could be me in another life.
Have you ever read a book where the main character was so similar to you, it's almost freaky? This book was like that for me, and then some. Bailey is similar enough to me, I was able to guess what she'd do before it happened in the book, and I was always right. The author had her character traits and development so on point, it was fantastic.
Needless to say, I connected with this story immediately. Bailey's character pulled me in, and I just had to see what happened between her and Jake. I loved how authentic they were in their relationship, and how realistic they were both portrayed. They each had a past, they each had goals, and they each had issues they had to get over. Not only to be together, but to grow as people, which is always wonderful to watch.
The side characters were awesome as well, and reading about each of their lives would definitely be interesting. They were all well-rounded, and made the whole story feel full of life. I adored the Irish themes, and truly think this would make an amazing movie. It has every rise and dip of emotional tension you need for a great story, with plenty of humor to keep the pace fresh.
The only reason I took off a rose, is because it does have several sex scenes. Normally, I wouldn't even keep reading a book that has those sorts of things, however there was a disclaimer in the description on Goodreads, that I didn't see. Since it was my mistake, and the rest of the book was really, really good, I decided to keep reading, and simply take off a rose for personal preference. Had those scenes not been included (cleaner edition), this would be a solid 5 roses.
I enjoyed this story and these characters more than most of the books I've read so far this year, and would definitely recommend to others.
*I received a complimentary eCopy of this book, from the author via Xpresso Book Tours, to read in exchange for an honest review.
**Also, if you like reviews with spoilers, check out my UnPlugged blog for an additional review!
PG-17 / R
Bailey could be me in another life.
Have you ever read a book where the main character was so similar to you, it's almost freaky? This book was like that for me, and then some. Bailey is similar enough to me, I was able to guess what she'd do before it happened in the book, and I was always right. The author had her character traits and development so on point, it was fantastic.
Needless to say, I connected with this story immediately. Bailey's character pulled me in, and I just had to see what happened between her and Jake. I loved how authentic they were in their relationship, and how realistic they were both portrayed. They each had a past, they each had goals, and they each had issues they had to get over. Not only to be together, but to grow as people, which is always wonderful to watch.
The side characters were awesome as well, and reading about each of their lives would definitely be interesting. They were all well-rounded, and made the whole story feel full of life. I adored the Irish themes, and truly think this would make an amazing movie. It has every rise and dip of emotional tension you need for a great story, with plenty of humor to keep the pace fresh.
The only reason I took off a rose, is because it does have several sex scenes. Normally, I wouldn't even keep reading a book that has those sorts of things, however there was a disclaimer in the description on Goodreads, that I didn't see. Since it was my mistake, and the rest of the book was really, really good, I decided to keep reading, and simply take off a rose for personal preference. Had those scenes not been included (cleaner edition), this would be a solid 5 roses.
I enjoyed this story and these characters more than most of the books I've read so far this year, and would definitely recommend to others.
*I received a complimentary eCopy of this book, from the author via Xpresso Book Tours, to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2017
Bailey Murphy is definitely not your stereotypical girl. She’s from an Irish background and loves her Daddy and give her a beer and football and she is in heaven. The last time she looked she had all the correct anatomical parts but all that girly stuff is not for her. She is sassy and stubborn and definitely a tomboy but under all that is a girl who has been damaged and left insecure by someone she thought had her best interests at heart. Someone that took away her dreams. Someone she has kept hidden from family and friends. Bailey thought she had all her defenses in place, shields up, gates closed, padlocks locked and a wall around her heart that rivaled the great wall of china. But that was before him, one look and one night was all it took. However it was something she did not want or need, right? What she is finally learning is that she is a girl but still not a girly girl!
Jake had just returned home from living away for many years. He has just started his own business and a partnership and he loves his job. He loves his family and friends and is building a life he is proud of. Coming home was a great decision. He considered himself lucky but that was before her, one look and one night was all it took. He doesn’t understand women and this woman more than others.
Will Bailey finally let Jake in? Will Jake give up when all seems lost? Will the two be pulled together in the most unlikely circumstances? Will their lives be changed forever? Will Bailey’s past be too much to handle? Will Bailey finally see herself for what she is? Will Bailey finally decide she is worth being love?
This book is the third one in the series and just like the other two it is a great story. Sylvie Stewart has become a favorite of mine, I find her work rather addictive. She can weave a great story that keeps you wanting more. You will find yourself laughing out loud at the antics and find yourself loving each and everyone of these characters, flawed or not they become family.
Jake had just returned home from living away for many years. He has just started his own business and a partnership and he loves his job. He loves his family and friends and is building a life he is proud of. Coming home was a great decision. He considered himself lucky but that was before her, one look and one night was all it took. He doesn’t understand women and this woman more than others.
Will Bailey finally let Jake in? Will Jake give up when all seems lost? Will the two be pulled together in the most unlikely circumstances? Will their lives be changed forever? Will Bailey’s past be too much to handle? Will Bailey finally see herself for what she is? Will Bailey finally decide she is worth being love?
This book is the third one in the series and just like the other two it is a great story. Sylvie Stewart has become a favorite of mine, I find her work rather addictive. She can weave a great story that keeps you wanting more. You will find yourself laughing out loud at the antics and find yourself loving each and everyone of these characters, flawed or not they become family.
February 22, 2021
(audiobook) Such a sweet and sexy romcom! Here’s the story of Bailey–Nate’s sister–and Jake–Mark’s brother. They meet at Nate and Laney’s wedding, there are sparks, and they spend an amazing night together. And that should be the end of it.
But Jake has come back home to prove his loyalty to his family, and he is to a fault. And not only to his family. On the other hand, Bailey wants nothing to do with love and would like to forget her night with Jake, but he keeps reminding her. I loved how, despite having been intimate together, and after at least some deception–Bailey wasn’t acting like herself–they start afresh. There’s a lot of seduction and flirting and, of course, delicious banter–as only the author knows how to write.
There’s some input from their friends and families, so we get to see all the characters we loved from the previous books, and the whole group is delightful.
This book is sexy too–even sexier than the previous two. Their one night stand was scorching hot! And full of feelings too, proving that this is a swoony and sexy romance.
I was a bit let down by the narration though. It wasn’t exactly bad, but I felt all the hilarious lines fell flat. There wasn’t enough energy nor the right pace. I’d probably recommend reading it instead of listening to it.
Quickie
- Series: Carolina connections #3 (but they can be read as standalone)
- Hashtags: #rom com #one night stand #surprise pregnancy #best friend’s brother #tomboy
- Triggers: N/A
- Main couple: Bailey Murphy & Jake Beckett
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + Bailey is such an interesting character!
- – the subplot with the client’s seduction was cringy and unnecessary
But Jake has come back home to prove his loyalty to his family, and he is to a fault. And not only to his family. On the other hand, Bailey wants nothing to do with love and would like to forget her night with Jake, but he keeps reminding her. I loved how, despite having been intimate together, and after at least some deception–Bailey wasn’t acting like herself–they start afresh. There’s a lot of seduction and flirting and, of course, delicious banter–as only the author knows how to write.
There’s some input from their friends and families, so we get to see all the characters we loved from the previous books, and the whole group is delightful.
This book is sexy too–even sexier than the previous two. Their one night stand was scorching hot! And full of feelings too, proving that this is a swoony and sexy romance.
I was a bit let down by the narration though. It wasn’t exactly bad, but I felt all the hilarious lines fell flat. There wasn’t enough energy nor the right pace. I’d probably recommend reading it instead of listening to it.
Quickie
- Series: Carolina connections #3 (but they can be read as standalone)
- Hashtags: #rom com #one night stand #surprise pregnancy #best friend’s brother #tomboy
- Triggers: N/A
- Main couple: Bailey Murphy & Jake Beckett
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + Bailey is such an interesting character!
- – the subplot with the client’s seduction was cringy and unnecessary
April 11, 2017
Bailey is not your typical girl she more tomboy, so when she´s forced into a bridesmaids dress with stockings and heels for her brothers wedding she feels different. So for one night only she feel she can be someone she not, when a sexy hot guy keeps looking at her she feels things she´s never thought she´d feel, allowing herself to have this one night with this stranger who is her best friends brother feels right. When Jake´s brother told him to come to his friends wedding he never thought he would see the beautiful woman of his dreams, when she looks at him with that look he knows he wants to spend the night with her, when they vanish to her room they never thought there night together would be as good as it was so telling Bailey he would call she doesn´t believe him. When she doesn´t answer his calls Jake decides to take matters into his own hands but what neither of the expect was the surprise that awaits them both. Can Jake convince Bailey that he loves her and not for what she is carrying, will Bailey realize she is good enough to be loved. "I volunteered to read an advanced copy and leave an honest review."
April 24, 2017
The is book 3 in the Romcom series.
This is another ripper read from Sylvie Stewart.
Oh my goodness. These book character are truly entertaining. Our heroine, is a rough and tumble tomboy, and she meets her one true love on the day that her brother ties the knot with his fiancé.
In front of the tiny community their adventures at the wedding become general gossip and entertainment fodder.
Through ups and downs they eventually pave their way to a HEA. Loved it bring on book 4!!!
This was an ARC read for an honest review. Don't worry I never lie (apart from Santa,the tooth fairy & Easter Bunny.) AND I HAVE ALREADY PREPURCHASED MY COPY.
This is another ripper read from Sylvie Stewart.
Oh my goodness. These book character are truly entertaining. Our heroine, is a rough and tumble tomboy, and she meets her one true love on the day that her brother ties the knot with his fiancé.
In front of the tiny community their adventures at the wedding become general gossip and entertainment fodder.
Through ups and downs they eventually pave their way to a HEA. Loved it bring on book 4!!!
This was an ARC read for an honest review. Don't worry I never lie (apart from Santa,the tooth fairy & Easter Bunny.) AND I HAVE ALREADY PREPURCHASED MY COPY.
September 5, 2017
I absolutely loved this book, this is the first in this series I have read and I will definitely be going back and reading the others. It is a stand alone book and let me just say , it had me completely invested in Bailey and Jake's relationship!! It had me laughing, it had me cheering them on, it had me cussing out Bailey's ex boyfriend, this book was just AMAZING!!!!
April 14, 2017
I volunteered to read an advanced copy and leave an honest review.
This is the 3rd book in the Carolina connections series and continues in the same light and funny tone as the first 2.
Bailey is a typical tomboy who avoids all things "girly" until she meets Jake at a wedding. Jake has just moved home and is building a business until he meets Bailey.
This book is laugh out loud funny and shows that sometimes all you have to do is let go of your past, try something (or someone) new and you can have the life you never knew you always wanted... and of course it doesn't hurt to have the luck of the Irish on your side.
I loved this book and cannot wait for the rest of the series!
This is the 3rd book in the Carolina connections series and continues in the same light and funny tone as the first 2.
Bailey is a typical tomboy who avoids all things "girly" until she meets Jake at a wedding. Jake has just moved home and is building a business until he meets Bailey.
This book is laugh out loud funny and shows that sometimes all you have to do is let go of your past, try something (or someone) new and you can have the life you never knew you always wanted... and of course it doesn't hurt to have the luck of the Irish on your side.
I loved this book and cannot wait for the rest of the series!
September 2, 2017
this was another book you wrote and i loved it! its sexy and funny all rolled into one. she has had a bad past with relationships. she meets a guy at a wedding and things just might change. read to find out what happens! thanks!
May 14, 2017
I love Sylvie! I feel like I've related to each of her characters and with this being the third book, there are many to choose from :) I have fallen in love with this series and CANNOT wait for Gavin's book! I feel like Bailey, but I'm not into relationships :p I really enjoyed reading this book and cheering her on for her happy ending. Sylvie gets me and love her humor. Hope she makes this a 12 book series like my ladies Jill Shalvis and Robyn Carr!
April 13, 2017
I volunteered to read an advanced copy and leave an honest review because I couldn't wait for the release date. I love this series!. Not only do I laugh along with the characters but she also managed to surprise me a few times (ex. Right after Bailey meets Jake on her run lol). I can't wait to see what else this series has in store for us. Highly addictive Light HEARTED FUNNY
May 7, 2017
Hilarious! Jake and Bailey are stars! Love them both. This is one real story with flawed, funny, characters and lots of laughs! Favorite!!
April 11, 2017
I asked to volunteer to read an advanced copy and leave an honest review of this book and boy am I glad! I truly love this series and Jake and Bailey were adorable. I laughed aloud multiple times and had a huge grin on my face when I finished.
My only reason for not giving it a five star rating is because I'm not a fan of jumping back and forth between past and present. it's just a personal preference but still was a very enjoyable read!
My only reason for not giving it a five star rating is because I'm not a fan of jumping back and forth between past and present. it's just a personal preference but still was a very enjoyable read!
April 11, 2017
Jake and Bailey met at a wedding. Bailey isn't all that she seems on the outside. Jake gets to figure out and find the true Bailey and help her become who she is. Jake is establishing his life after coming home to family after many years. I asked for a copy of this book to review for my honest opinion. it was a really good story and I recommend you read it
January 26, 2019
My first Sylvia Stewart read... Man! have I been missing out! This lady is all kinds of hilarious 😂 To the point that I was laughing out loud and getting some strange looks from my boyfriend.
After having read a really heavy book earlier this week I knew I needed something up beat and cheerful to get me back in my reading groove. This book was the perfect fit.
Funny? Fuck yes
Sexy? Yup
Hot guy? Jake will be starring in my dreams for sure.
Witty banter? Plenty
Surprises? Heck yes
HEA? Sure is
Even the friends were awesome. I'm totally digging Fiona, I feel like we may have been separated at birth.
I will be reading more of Sylvie's work for sure!
After having read a really heavy book earlier this week I knew I needed something up beat and cheerful to get me back in my reading groove. This book was the perfect fit.
Funny? Fuck yes
Sexy? Yup
Hot guy? Jake will be starring in my dreams for sure.
Witty banter? Plenty
Surprises? Heck yes
HEA? Sure is
Even the friends were awesome. I'm totally digging Fiona, I feel like we may have been separated at birth.
I will be reading more of Sylvie's work for sure!
May 11, 2017
The premise of this romance is one that all romance readers have encountered before. While the basis of it is not particularly original, the writing is witty and hilarious, making it definitely worth the read. It may not have any surprises, but the delivery is a wonderful surprise of its own.
It begins with the typical gorgeous girl who thinks she is unattractive and unworthy of love. It also has the typical gorgeous guy who is obligated to convince her of her delectable sexiness. Of course, the reasoning behind her hang-up is eventually cleared up and then you understand why she thinks so little of herself in comparison to his Adonis-state. There are a lot of stereotypes in this story, such as her girlfriends all calling each other bitch and squealing like little girls, and guys who are macho and cannot show their feelings. Thankfully, Bailey is anti-girly and fights hard to maintain that status. Jake also tries to break the mold by being the guy who is in touch with his feminine side and acknowledges his emotions. They balance out the side characters to a certain degree.
The story is told first-person and it is that fact that makes it so enjoyable. All the entertainment comes from the inner dialogue, some of which is directed right at the reader. If I had not been able to hear what Bailey was thinking I would have viewed her as a girl who likes to make a guy work a little too hard for her attention. No matter what I would have liked Jake. He does work hard to get her attention. It is a refreshing break from so many romances where the guy must "own" her. I love having a male lead who is a down-to-earth guy instead of a pompous showboat who tosses her over his shoulder and takes her back to his cave.
While I enjoyed the main characters immensely, I had some difficulty with one aspect of the writing. The style is wonderful, but there is an overload of cultural and/or social references that went right over my head. I have never encountered a book like this, where I had to google terms, some of which I couldn't locate. Perhaps they were too obscure, but I was supposed to get it right off the bat. Just one example is dead rabbit pregnancy. That reference threw me for a loop and was a shock. There are numerous phrases that are intended to be funny, but when even my auto-correct cannot figure it out, it's simply frustrating. While reading this story I was forced to learn what French bowling is and that apparently it is also referred to as boules, bocci ball, and cornhole. YouTube was the only thing that answered my question there. I also had to look up IPA, because the context was barely there and all I garnered was that it was alcohol. Too many phrases were stated with the expectation that the reader is up on all things cultural and an avid lover of the Urban Dictionary.
This book could have been a hard one for me to read. I'm not easily impressed with romance since they all tend to follow the same formula. This is no exception, but it was consistent with its sense of humor and the characters never strayed. It was strongly written and overall I'm impressed with how well the author made a typical romance truly stand out.
Now, for the rating:
Genre and general reading age - Romance for adults only.
Level of sexuality - It's graphic when it's there. It is surprisingly low considering how they met and the entire beginning of the story, but when it happens there are plenty of juicy details.
Is there graphic language? Of course. No contemporary romance is complete without a good dose of swearing.
Did I cry? Nope.
Did I laugh? Not out loud, but I chuckled inwardly all the way through.
Is this part of a series? The characters are definitely interwoven in other stories. In fact, the end of the book lets readers know to expect the next character's happily-ever-after later in 2017.
Level of character development - Bailey and Jake are well done. Considering they somewhat follow typical romance leads, I was delighted with how well it was handled, making them stand out amongst the rest. The side characters were a boost to the story and did not disappoint.
The actual story itself is nothing new. It is the genius of the writing that makes it stand out. The first part of the book was a little slow, but at the halfway mark it picked up and I couldn't put the book down. It might have taken a while for it to grow on me, but I'm glad I stuck with it. I highly suggest it for all romance readers who want a well-written, hilarious tale of insta-love. I gladly give this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 stars.
It begins with the typical gorgeous girl who thinks she is unattractive and unworthy of love. It also has the typical gorgeous guy who is obligated to convince her of her delectable sexiness. Of course, the reasoning behind her hang-up is eventually cleared up and then you understand why she thinks so little of herself in comparison to his Adonis-state. There are a lot of stereotypes in this story, such as her girlfriends all calling each other bitch and squealing like little girls, and guys who are macho and cannot show their feelings. Thankfully, Bailey is anti-girly and fights hard to maintain that status. Jake also tries to break the mold by being the guy who is in touch with his feminine side and acknowledges his emotions. They balance out the side characters to a certain degree.
The story is told first-person and it is that fact that makes it so enjoyable. All the entertainment comes from the inner dialogue, some of which is directed right at the reader. If I had not been able to hear what Bailey was thinking I would have viewed her as a girl who likes to make a guy work a little too hard for her attention. No matter what I would have liked Jake. He does work hard to get her attention. It is a refreshing break from so many romances where the guy must "own" her. I love having a male lead who is a down-to-earth guy instead of a pompous showboat who tosses her over his shoulder and takes her back to his cave.
While I enjoyed the main characters immensely, I had some difficulty with one aspect of the writing. The style is wonderful, but there is an overload of cultural and/or social references that went right over my head. I have never encountered a book like this, where I had to google terms, some of which I couldn't locate. Perhaps they were too obscure, but I was supposed to get it right off the bat. Just one example is dead rabbit pregnancy. That reference threw me for a loop and was a shock. There are numerous phrases that are intended to be funny, but when even my auto-correct cannot figure it out, it's simply frustrating. While reading this story I was forced to learn what French bowling is and that apparently it is also referred to as boules, bocci ball, and cornhole. YouTube was the only thing that answered my question there. I also had to look up IPA, because the context was barely there and all I garnered was that it was alcohol. Too many phrases were stated with the expectation that the reader is up on all things cultural and an avid lover of the Urban Dictionary.
This book could have been a hard one for me to read. I'm not easily impressed with romance since they all tend to follow the same formula. This is no exception, but it was consistent with its sense of humor and the characters never strayed. It was strongly written and overall I'm impressed with how well the author made a typical romance truly stand out.
Now, for the rating:
Genre and general reading age - Romance for adults only.
Level of sexuality - It's graphic when it's there. It is surprisingly low considering how they met and the entire beginning of the story, but when it happens there are plenty of juicy details.
Is there graphic language? Of course. No contemporary romance is complete without a good dose of swearing.
Did I cry? Nope.
Did I laugh? Not out loud, but I chuckled inwardly all the way through.
Is this part of a series? The characters are definitely interwoven in other stories. In fact, the end of the book lets readers know to expect the next character's happily-ever-after later in 2017.
Level of character development - Bailey and Jake are well done. Considering they somewhat follow typical romance leads, I was delighted with how well it was handled, making them stand out amongst the rest. The side characters were a boost to the story and did not disappoint.
The actual story itself is nothing new. It is the genius of the writing that makes it stand out. The first part of the book was a little slow, but at the halfway mark it picked up and I couldn't put the book down. It might have taken a while for it to grow on me, but I'm glad I stuck with it. I highly suggest it for all romance readers who want a well-written, hilarious tale of insta-love. I gladly give this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 stars.
May 11, 2017
The Lucky One (Carolina Connections Book 3) by Sylvie Stewart is book 3 in the Carolina Connections series. This book can be read as a stand alone but I would recommend reading the previous two books in this series as they are just as enjoyable. This book is a romance comedy story that has a little bit of everything in it, from a little suspense to hot romance. One thing that I enjoy about this author is her ability to create a book that will keep you engaged until the end. This story will also pull at your heart strings and you will enjoy how these characters really connect. These characters will take you on a roller coaster ride of various emotions that will leaving you wanting more from these characters. Find out what happens when your luck runs out, do you stay and fight or do you run and not look back.
Bailey is a young woman who has been working for her family business. She has her own dreams and plans and they certainty don't include any guy or relationship. She is not your typical woman, she is a tomboy. She has run into some bad luck lately. She has just come out of a bad relationship where she trusted him with her heart and also with her professional pursuits. She has put up walls that she has made sure that no one will be able to break down, no one will be able to touch her heart again, until she meets him. Will one night at a wedding change everything for her? Will he make her do the one girlie thing she never thought she would do, fall in love? Is her luck about to change?
Jake feels like he has it all. He has a great career, a supporting family and building a new life back in his hometown. He has everything planned out and he is right on schedule. He does okay with the women that is until he meets her. Will his luck run out? Will he win her heart over? Will he find a way to break through her walls so they can have a future together?
Bailey and Jake's relationship is one of attraction and connection from the beginning of their relationship. He is persistent with her and she just wants to ignore him. When an opportunity arrives that they are through together, you will just need to see for yourself what happens. They are both strong characters that seem to grow throughout the story. Bailey is the type that knows what she wants and how to get it. She has dreams that she wants to full fill but she needs to find the courage to tell her father. He is just persistent when it comes to her. She is not too receptive towards him but will she be able to stay away from him? When he is forced to deal with and forgive himself for his past, what will he do? They take you on a few twists and turns throughout the book that will leave you questioning and then you have a few situations that will leave you in stitches from laughing. These two really are great together and make this story flow until the end. Find out what happens with Baily and Jake as they either finally admit their love to each other or will they walk away from it all?
This is my third story by Sylvie Stewart and it is my favorite of this series. Each one of her stories just keep getting better and better with every installment of this series. I can't wait to see the next book in this series. Sylvie currently lives in North Carolina with her husband and their children. She can't seem to get enough of the great weather and fun adventures. When she is not writing she is hanging out with her husband and children or reading. You will enjoy how this author has created a page turner that will just keep you turning pages until the end. I read this book in one sitting and couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this story as I know you will want to see what happens with them as much as I did.
Bailey is a young woman who has been working for her family business. She has her own dreams and plans and they certainty don't include any guy or relationship. She is not your typical woman, she is a tomboy. She has run into some bad luck lately. She has just come out of a bad relationship where she trusted him with her heart and also with her professional pursuits. She has put up walls that she has made sure that no one will be able to break down, no one will be able to touch her heart again, until she meets him. Will one night at a wedding change everything for her? Will he make her do the one girlie thing she never thought she would do, fall in love? Is her luck about to change?
Jake feels like he has it all. He has a great career, a supporting family and building a new life back in his hometown. He has everything planned out and he is right on schedule. He does okay with the women that is until he meets her. Will his luck run out? Will he win her heart over? Will he find a way to break through her walls so they can have a future together?
Bailey and Jake's relationship is one of attraction and connection from the beginning of their relationship. He is persistent with her and she just wants to ignore him. When an opportunity arrives that they are through together, you will just need to see for yourself what happens. They are both strong characters that seem to grow throughout the story. Bailey is the type that knows what she wants and how to get it. She has dreams that she wants to full fill but she needs to find the courage to tell her father. He is just persistent when it comes to her. She is not too receptive towards him but will she be able to stay away from him? When he is forced to deal with and forgive himself for his past, what will he do? They take you on a few twists and turns throughout the book that will leave you questioning and then you have a few situations that will leave you in stitches from laughing. These two really are great together and make this story flow until the end. Find out what happens with Baily and Jake as they either finally admit their love to each other or will they walk away from it all?
This is my third story by Sylvie Stewart and it is my favorite of this series. Each one of her stories just keep getting better and better with every installment of this series. I can't wait to see the next book in this series. Sylvie currently lives in North Carolina with her husband and their children. She can't seem to get enough of the great weather and fun adventures. When she is not writing she is hanging out with her husband and children or reading. You will enjoy how this author has created a page turner that will just keep you turning pages until the end. I read this book in one sitting and couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this story as I know you will want to see what happens with them as much as I did.
May 11, 2017
“Everything will be alright in the end. If it’s not alright it’s not the end.”
Bailey Murphy is perfectly content being the ‘tomboy’ amongst the girly girls. She isn’t looking for love or a future with the white picket fence in it. She isn’t even where she wants to be professionally. Running and part owning the family business does nothing but bore her. “I on the other hand have not come to terms with my feelings about the company. Perhaps I should rephrase that. I know exactly how I feel about it- I just haven’t told the most significant person about my feelings. I’m generally very good at telling people exactly what I think- sometimes too good. Except when it comes to my dad.” Her secret desire to be an artist takes a priority to a social or love life. That is until her brother’s wedding. That evening changed the entire path she thought she had laid out.
It is at her brother’s wedding that she meets Jake. He is the ‘new’ guy in town and is setting out to start a business in the landscaping industry here at home, He feels guilt for leaving at a young age to search for his dreams, and is now trying to make that up to his mom and brother. Jake isn’t looking for love necessarily, he is usually the type to enter relationships and let them run their course. That all changes when he sees the breathtaking Bailey Murphy in her bridesmaid dress. “Ever since the night of Nate and Laney’s wedding, I’d had the same dream. It always involved the blonde and it never ended how I wanted it to… It had been three weeks since I’d seen Bailey Murphy. Three weeks of unreturned phone calls and texts that had turned me into one of ‘those guys’.”
It isn’t long before the two stumble into each other’s lives again given that they share mutual friends. Her best friend is his brother. Bailey just can’t seem to let go of her self-doubt and fears that are seeded from her previous bad relationships. Jake tries tirelessly to get her to just go on one date with him, This seems to be the direction they are going until a life changing surprise is handed to them. With the new development, it becomes more and more difficult to get to Bailey. “Guys like you don’t look at me, Jake. That night, I was all done up and I was acting the part of a girl a guy like you would look at. You are so far out of my league. I’m playing tee ball and you’re in the majors. Don’t you get it? I’m ‘one of the guys’ Bailey Murphy.”
“Why won’t you let me love you? I’m not going to walk away. I’m not going to hurt you. I’m not any of those other people who made you feel like you don’t deserve to be loved for exactly who you are. I’m not. Please believe me.” Will Jake end up cracking the brick walls around Bailey’s heart? Is there a different future out there for the two of them than they originally thought was meant for them? Will surprises and twists of fate be enough to keep pulling them together long enough to really see what could be between them?
I absolutely adored this book. Sylvie Stewart has the knack for writing a great Rom-Com that will leave you rolling on the floor laughing one moment, and completely torn up and sad for the characters another. This novel is a part of a series. It may be read as a standalone but I wouldn’t recommend that they are read alone or out of order. I truly love the entire gang and they all cross over into each book. That is why I would personally recommend that books one and two are read first. You won’t be disappointed. Sylvie Stewart delivers five plus star reads in each book, this one being no different.
Bailey Murphy is perfectly content being the ‘tomboy’ amongst the girly girls. She isn’t looking for love or a future with the white picket fence in it. She isn’t even where she wants to be professionally. Running and part owning the family business does nothing but bore her. “I on the other hand have not come to terms with my feelings about the company. Perhaps I should rephrase that. I know exactly how I feel about it- I just haven’t told the most significant person about my feelings. I’m generally very good at telling people exactly what I think- sometimes too good. Except when it comes to my dad.” Her secret desire to be an artist takes a priority to a social or love life. That is until her brother’s wedding. That evening changed the entire path she thought she had laid out.
It is at her brother’s wedding that she meets Jake. He is the ‘new’ guy in town and is setting out to start a business in the landscaping industry here at home, He feels guilt for leaving at a young age to search for his dreams, and is now trying to make that up to his mom and brother. Jake isn’t looking for love necessarily, he is usually the type to enter relationships and let them run their course. That all changes when he sees the breathtaking Bailey Murphy in her bridesmaid dress. “Ever since the night of Nate and Laney’s wedding, I’d had the same dream. It always involved the blonde and it never ended how I wanted it to… It had been three weeks since I’d seen Bailey Murphy. Three weeks of unreturned phone calls and texts that had turned me into one of ‘those guys’.”
It isn’t long before the two stumble into each other’s lives again given that they share mutual friends. Her best friend is his brother. Bailey just can’t seem to let go of her self-doubt and fears that are seeded from her previous bad relationships. Jake tries tirelessly to get her to just go on one date with him, This seems to be the direction they are going until a life changing surprise is handed to them. With the new development, it becomes more and more difficult to get to Bailey. “Guys like you don’t look at me, Jake. That night, I was all done up and I was acting the part of a girl a guy like you would look at. You are so far out of my league. I’m playing tee ball and you’re in the majors. Don’t you get it? I’m ‘one of the guys’ Bailey Murphy.”
“Why won’t you let me love you? I’m not going to walk away. I’m not going to hurt you. I’m not any of those other people who made you feel like you don’t deserve to be loved for exactly who you are. I’m not. Please believe me.” Will Jake end up cracking the brick walls around Bailey’s heart? Is there a different future out there for the two of them than they originally thought was meant for them? Will surprises and twists of fate be enough to keep pulling them together long enough to really see what could be between them?
I absolutely adored this book. Sylvie Stewart has the knack for writing a great Rom-Com that will leave you rolling on the floor laughing one moment, and completely torn up and sad for the characters another. This novel is a part of a series. It may be read as a standalone but I wouldn’t recommend that they are read alone or out of order. I truly love the entire gang and they all cross over into each book. That is why I would personally recommend that books one and two are read first. You won’t be disappointed. Sylvie Stewart delivers five plus star reads in each book, this one being no different.
March 27, 2022
Another enjoyable romcom
4 stars
I am currently listening my way through Sylvie Stewart’s Carolina Connections series and having a damn good time doing so. This is the 3rd book in the series and while each book is a standalone, we did meet both Bailey and Jake in the previous books in the series.
The story takes place in real time but we do get some flashbacks to Nate and Laney (from The Fix)’s wedding where Bailey and Jake meet, fall hard in lust, and have an amazing night together that changes everything for them. After that event, Bailey is determined to keep her distance while Jake is determined to prove to her that they could be great together.
I really liked Jake as a hero. He was all-in for Bailey and was pretty much a smitten kitten from the very first but still retained his strong, man’s man-ness! I loved that he was so sure of Bailey and their connection, that he didn’t give up on her, despite not always getting the friendliest of responses from her. But he was never pushy or creepy, which would have obviously been a no-no.
I liked Bailey, too, but I didn’t identify with her all that much. She was a bit of a tomboy who was only just starting to find her girl card. I mean, she hadn’t even seen Dirty Dancing if you can imagine!! I understood her reluctance to get into a relationship with Jake but would have liked her to forget herself on occasion so that they could have had a little more time together-together before everything hit the fan and the dynamics changed.
While I liked the fact that previous characters / couples (and hopefully future characters / couples) had important parts in this story, especially the storyline that involved Anton, it did annoy me that Bailey was crying over him. I want my heroines to be all-in with the hero - especially one so head-over-heels as Jake was for Bailey. I still liked Bailey and Jake as a couple and they definitely did have chemistry together both as friends and sexually.
This book is read by only one narrator - Meg Price. She does a good job of playing all the roles and while I could easily follow different voices speaking to each other within scenes, I admit to that because the book is written from both Bailey and Jake’s viewpoints, I sometimes forgot whose head I was in during certain chapters. I would definitely have preferred a male voice for Jake’s parts.
As I’ve noticed is a delightful trait of Ms Stewart’s, there were some seriously laugh out loud moments in this book. Perhaps not as many as in the first two, but I still snorted on many an occasion. These books - and their characters - are snarky, self-deprecating and hilarious. One of the reasons I’m smitten with this series and can’t get enough.
Another reason is that I’m seriously starting to fall for this big group of friends, siblings, family and colleagues. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series, The Game, and would definitely recommend this book or any of the Carolina Connections series. Sylvie Stewart is a gem of a romcom writer and I’m so happy I came across her as she really brightens my days with her funny and romantic stories. 4 stars.
May 12, 2017
The Lucky One is the third book in the Carolina connections series and revolves around Bailey Murphy, Nate’s sister and Jake Beckett, Mark’s big brother and will the instant attraction be enough to fuel the relationship they both want or will it burn out too soon.
Bailey first meets Jake at the Wedding of her big brother Nate and the instant he walked through the door her lady parts took notice, but unfortunately Bailey is not a typical girlie girl the only reason she in a dress and has make-up on with heels is because her best friends little monster of a girlfriend, as Fiona decided to make Bailey her project. So there stands Bailey in a strapless dress, fancy underwear and stockings and heels, although this feels alien to her she enjoys how the outfit empowers her to be a little more confident and with the help of a couple of glasses of champagne until Jake notices her and decides to have a conversation with her.
As the conversation get more intense Bailey plays the vixen and they end up in a lip lock in front of the whole reception, upon hearing her brother’s shock reaction and Jake’s brother, Mark striding across the floor she decides to drag him into an alcove where the heat is ramped up until it becomes too much and they decide to move it to the hotel room.
Jake did not want to attend this wedding but he could not disappoint his mother as she asked him to take photos of the ceremony as she was catering the reception and needed to be looking after the rest of the staff, but when he walked into the room and saw the blonde bombshell he instantly had a reaction that he needed to get to know this woman. How could she look so stunning and be sitting all alone, he will have to rectify the situation.
The story then goes through the insecurities of Bailey and that she believes Jake will break her heart and she feels that he will realise she is not this girlie girl at the wedding but a tomboy who lounges around in men’s boxers and a t-shirt, but Jake feels she is the most beautiful girl in the world and wants her to understand this. Although his comments frustrate her sometimes the chemistry sizzles and you will Bailey just to give him a chance. Like the other two books by this author I love the writing style and the way it is written in both POV’s even with the funny witty comments of the characters talking to the reader. I believe this book can be read as a stand-alone but to be honest once you have read this one you will be wanting to read the other two books straight away.
Bailey first meets Jake at the Wedding of her big brother Nate and the instant he walked through the door her lady parts took notice, but unfortunately Bailey is not a typical girlie girl the only reason she in a dress and has make-up on with heels is because her best friends little monster of a girlfriend, as Fiona decided to make Bailey her project. So there stands Bailey in a strapless dress, fancy underwear and stockings and heels, although this feels alien to her she enjoys how the outfit empowers her to be a little more confident and with the help of a couple of glasses of champagne until Jake notices her and decides to have a conversation with her.
As the conversation get more intense Bailey plays the vixen and they end up in a lip lock in front of the whole reception, upon hearing her brother’s shock reaction and Jake’s brother, Mark striding across the floor she decides to drag him into an alcove where the heat is ramped up until it becomes too much and they decide to move it to the hotel room.
Jake did not want to attend this wedding but he could not disappoint his mother as she asked him to take photos of the ceremony as she was catering the reception and needed to be looking after the rest of the staff, but when he walked into the room and saw the blonde bombshell he instantly had a reaction that he needed to get to know this woman. How could she look so stunning and be sitting all alone, he will have to rectify the situation.
The story then goes through the insecurities of Bailey and that she believes Jake will break her heart and she feels that he will realise she is not this girlie girl at the wedding but a tomboy who lounges around in men’s boxers and a t-shirt, but Jake feels she is the most beautiful girl in the world and wants her to understand this. Although his comments frustrate her sometimes the chemistry sizzles and you will Bailey just to give him a chance. Like the other two books by this author I love the writing style and the way it is written in both POV’s even with the funny witty comments of the characters talking to the reader. I believe this book can be read as a stand-alone but to be honest once you have read this one you will be wanting to read the other two books straight away.
July 4, 2019
Unjustified heroine behavior
The heroine, Bailey, has a previous artist bf who cheated on her. They only dated for four months. This is apparently enough combined with her Tom boy ways to make her continuously avoid and deny Jake dates. After she already slept with him prior to the book beginning. It just made no sense. And he kept trying and trying and she kept denying and denying. IT WAS FRUSTRATING. If I were him I’d have said screw this! Cause it got to the point she was treating him poorly. There’s low self esteem and then there’s Bailey being dense and TSTL at moments. When they discover their surprise, I’m like how did she not realize the time line should be raising some flags. And she still wasn’t good to him!
What was with the artist angle? We didn’t even get to read of her really showcasing or using her talents in this book. I’d have liked more of that.
And she sounded way to boring to be so creative of an artist. They contradicted one another.
Jake seemed great. Felt bad he got stuck with someone that wouldn’t give him a fair chance until the end of the book.
This is NOT a steamy or hot scenes book. There were glimpses into their first scene like flash back style. And then the current scenes are almost to the end of the book and mediocre. I didn’t find them hot at all.
And OH MY GOSH! The family and friends were so annoying! I wanted to scream. One, Bailey is a more Tom boy (though this was odd considering a Gecko freaked her out.) but really she’s just more of a loner. Then here comes her family and Fiona and Laney just constantly barging in on her situations. Touching her and basically forcing her to talk. And sticking their noses in Baileys business when she did NOT ask for it. Also, just straight up encroaching on someone else’s space. While the author might have intended for them to seem friendly and caring, they really came off as pushy, annoying rude and having NO BOUNDARIES. Cause there’s being caring and then there’s invading someone else’s comfort zone. They didn’t even try easing into her space. They just slammed into her. And the fact she didn’t fight it, where’s was that snippy attitude towards them that she kept giving Jake for him wanting to be around? And you can’t blame her all of a sudden turning into a girl because of the ‘surprise’.
It was overall kinda boring and frustrating. I have no strong enough desire to try the others in this series.
The heroine, Bailey, has a previous artist bf who cheated on her. They only dated for four months. This is apparently enough combined with her Tom boy ways to make her continuously avoid and deny Jake dates. After she already slept with him prior to the book beginning. It just made no sense. And he kept trying and trying and she kept denying and denying. IT WAS FRUSTRATING. If I were him I’d have said screw this! Cause it got to the point she was treating him poorly. There’s low self esteem and then there’s Bailey being dense and TSTL at moments. When they discover their surprise, I’m like how did she not realize the time line should be raising some flags. And she still wasn’t good to him!
What was with the artist angle? We didn’t even get to read of her really showcasing or using her talents in this book. I’d have liked more of that.
And she sounded way to boring to be so creative of an artist. They contradicted one another.
Jake seemed great. Felt bad he got stuck with someone that wouldn’t give him a fair chance until the end of the book.
This is NOT a steamy or hot scenes book. There were glimpses into their first scene like flash back style. And then the current scenes are almost to the end of the book and mediocre. I didn’t find them hot at all.
And OH MY GOSH! The family and friends were so annoying! I wanted to scream. One, Bailey is a more Tom boy (though this was odd considering a Gecko freaked her out.) but really she’s just more of a loner. Then here comes her family and Fiona and Laney just constantly barging in on her situations. Touching her and basically forcing her to talk. And sticking their noses in Baileys business when she did NOT ask for it. Also, just straight up encroaching on someone else’s space. While the author might have intended for them to seem friendly and caring, they really came off as pushy, annoying rude and having NO BOUNDARIES. Cause there’s being caring and then there’s invading someone else’s comfort zone. They didn’t even try easing into her space. They just slammed into her. And the fact she didn’t fight it, where’s was that snippy attitude towards them that she kept giving Jake for him wanting to be around? And you can’t blame her all of a sudden turning into a girl because of the ‘surprise’.
It was overall kinda boring and frustrating. I have no strong enough desire to try the others in this series.
December 14, 2019
Terrific RomCom & Narration🎧 Bailey💘Jake🔥
The Lucky One
A One-Night-Stand Romantic Comedy (Carolina Connections, Book 3)
By: Sylvie Stewart
Narrated by: Meg Price
Series: Carolina Connections, Book 3
I am loving Sylvie Stewart’s “Carolina Connections” series, each novel features different characters that run in the same circle, either family relations, friends and/or co-workers. Each book stands on its own but I highly recommend reading them all and in order, mainly because they are so good but also because of the character connections and knowing their who they are and their history. I love that each book has its own unique story with interesting and original storylines. This third book is Bailey Murphy and Jake Beckett’s story. They met and hooked up at Nate & Laney’s wedding, Bailey is Nate’s sister and was a bridesmaid. Jake is Mark’s brother and recently moved back to be closer to his Mom, he partnered with Fiona’s boss to do landscaping design. First off this book is hilarious, especially when Bailey was watching Rocco. In addition to the laugh out loud moments there were plenty of heartfelt ones. At times I felt Bailey was sort of having an identity crisis, with how she saw herself, working to keep her father happy and not doing what she rather be doing because someone crushed her dreams and broke her heart while at it. Jake and Bailey’s one night stand was a memorable one, Jake can not get it out of his mind and attempts to pursue her but she keeps shutting him down. Their friends encourage him to not give up and her to let him in. I loved how everything plays out, we are taken back in time several times to get glimpses of what happened when they first met as well as Bailey’s back story. There is never a dull moment in this book, there is plenty of drama, angst, some great humor and hot romance. Sylvie Stewart, thank you for another amazing story, all the laughs and the emotional rollercoaster ride.
I listened to the Audible edition, Meg Price is a terrific narrator and voice performer. She brings the characters to life gives each their own voice and personality. Her portrayal of each character was spot on, they sounded as you pictured them. She captured their emotions, as well as the drama and humor of the story, which could be heard in her performance. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen🎧
The Lucky One
A One-Night-Stand Romantic Comedy (Carolina Connections, Book 3)
By: Sylvie Stewart
Narrated by: Meg Price
Series: Carolina Connections, Book 3
I am loving Sylvie Stewart’s “Carolina Connections” series, each novel features different characters that run in the same circle, either family relations, friends and/or co-workers. Each book stands on its own but I highly recommend reading them all and in order, mainly because they are so good but also because of the character connections and knowing their who they are and their history. I love that each book has its own unique story with interesting and original storylines. This third book is Bailey Murphy and Jake Beckett’s story. They met and hooked up at Nate & Laney’s wedding, Bailey is Nate’s sister and was a bridesmaid. Jake is Mark’s brother and recently moved back to be closer to his Mom, he partnered with Fiona’s boss to do landscaping design. First off this book is hilarious, especially when Bailey was watching Rocco. In addition to the laugh out loud moments there were plenty of heartfelt ones. At times I felt Bailey was sort of having an identity crisis, with how she saw herself, working to keep her father happy and not doing what she rather be doing because someone crushed her dreams and broke her heart while at it. Jake and Bailey’s one night stand was a memorable one, Jake can not get it out of his mind and attempts to pursue her but she keeps shutting him down. Their friends encourage him to not give up and her to let him in. I loved how everything plays out, we are taken back in time several times to get glimpses of what happened when they first met as well as Bailey’s back story. There is never a dull moment in this book, there is plenty of drama, angst, some great humor and hot romance. Sylvie Stewart, thank you for another amazing story, all the laughs and the emotional rollercoaster ride.
I listened to the Audible edition, Meg Price is a terrific narrator and voice performer. She brings the characters to life gives each their own voice and personality. Her portrayal of each character was spot on, they sounded as you pictured them. She captured their emotions, as well as the drama and humor of the story, which could be heard in her performance. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen🎧
May 11, 2017
The Lucky One (Carolina Connections Book 3)
By: Sylvie Stewart
5 out of 5 stars
The story The Lucky One (Carolina Connections Book 3) by Sylvie Stewart is a romantic comedy book. The third book in the Carolina Connections series is awesome. It can be read as a standalone, however, I highly suggest reading the books in order. The characters overlap in each book going forward and it is wonderful to catch up on everyone’s lives. This is the story of Bailey and Jake. Bailey is a tomboy. She has been all her life. She doesn’t dress up and prefers pants to a dress. She is coaxed into dressing up for a special occasion and that is when she meets Jake. Bailey’s emotions take over. Now she can’t get him out of her mind or stop him from contacting her. What will Bailey do next? She has built up walls around herself after trusting the wrong person. Will she let Jake in or build up her walls even higher? I believe that Bailey is someone that doesn’t see her true beauty. She feels that she is plain compared to others and also that if she lets anyone in they will only break her heart again. Bailey has amazing friends that rally around her. Will Bailey take their advice about how to proceed with Jake? Will Bailey listen to her heart?
Jake has returned to his hometown and reconnected with his family. They are very important to him. Jake is a guy that goes with the flow regarding relationships. He is okay with a quick hook up or even dating. He is used to his relationships ending at some point. Bailey is different. She is always on is mind and is always thinking of ways to see her again. He gets very creative. Will Jake be successful in his pursuit of Bailey? Can he make her see how special she is and how much he wants a chance to win her heart?
This story had me rolling my eyes and laughing at the same time at some of the situations that happen. This story has no shortage of drama and I was telling myself “That didn’t just happen, did it?” This author has written a book and series that is very addictive. I am hoping for a next book and can’t wait to find out who will be the main characters. This book is told from the POV of both Bailey and Jake. It is a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. This book does include some adult language and also sexual content. It would be for those 18 years of age or older.
By: Sylvie Stewart
5 out of 5 stars
The story The Lucky One (Carolina Connections Book 3) by Sylvie Stewart is a romantic comedy book. The third book in the Carolina Connections series is awesome. It can be read as a standalone, however, I highly suggest reading the books in order. The characters overlap in each book going forward and it is wonderful to catch up on everyone’s lives. This is the story of Bailey and Jake. Bailey is a tomboy. She has been all her life. She doesn’t dress up and prefers pants to a dress. She is coaxed into dressing up for a special occasion and that is when she meets Jake. Bailey’s emotions take over. Now she can’t get him out of her mind or stop him from contacting her. What will Bailey do next? She has built up walls around herself after trusting the wrong person. Will she let Jake in or build up her walls even higher? I believe that Bailey is someone that doesn’t see her true beauty. She feels that she is plain compared to others and also that if she lets anyone in they will only break her heart again. Bailey has amazing friends that rally around her. Will Bailey take their advice about how to proceed with Jake? Will Bailey listen to her heart?
Jake has returned to his hometown and reconnected with his family. They are very important to him. Jake is a guy that goes with the flow regarding relationships. He is okay with a quick hook up or even dating. He is used to his relationships ending at some point. Bailey is different. She is always on is mind and is always thinking of ways to see her again. He gets very creative. Will Jake be successful in his pursuit of Bailey? Can he make her see how special she is and how much he wants a chance to win her heart?
This story had me rolling my eyes and laughing at the same time at some of the situations that happen. This story has no shortage of drama and I was telling myself “That didn’t just happen, did it?” This author has written a book and series that is very addictive. I am hoping for a next book and can’t wait to find out who will be the main characters. This book is told from the POV of both Bailey and Jake. It is a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. This book does include some adult language and also sexual content. It would be for those 18 years of age or older.
May 12, 2017
The Lucky One is Book 3 in Sylvie Stewart's Carolina Connections series. The Fix (Book 1), The Spark (Book 2), and The Lucky One can each be read as standalones with an HEA. Although the book can be read as a standalone, the characters and events from the previous books feature within this one.
The books are written for young adults and contain language and sexual content inappropriate for readers under 18.
The couple at the centre of this romance are Bailey Murphy and Jake Beckett. They meet at Bailey’s brother’s wedding. Bailey doesn’t have a lot of confidence in herself as a young woman having grown up around boys and being known as a ‘tomboy’. In her words; “I am not your typical girl. Sure I’ve got all the parts, but I’ve been a stubborn, irreverent tomboy since the womb, as my Irish father would proudly attest.” Why then, would she want to do the girliest thing in the world and fall head over heels for the sexy Jake Beckett?
Jake is the elder brother of Mark Beckett (he was a main character in Book Two). After years of living away from his family he is back. As a charmer he knows how to attract the ladies and he is not used to being ignored. Imagine his confusion when Bailey steadfastly refuses to go on date with him. Fate has already thrown them together once at the wedding, can it throw them together again but for good this time? Will Bailey refuse to acknowledge her ‘girly’ side? Will Jake eventually give up when he finds her hard work?
I loved this HEA. Sylvie Stewart mixes real life situations, multi-complex personalities and romance with a good dollop of humour in this steady paced story. I also enjoyed finding out how the relationships between the other two couples in the previous books had developed. This story is told in the alternating voices of Bailey and Jake so as a reader you get to ‘hear’ their innermost thoughts. Each character is believable and you warm to them immediately. Quite often I had to laugh out loud and sit there smiling to myself. The sex scenes between Jake and Bailey were written in a way that you got the passion and love/lust between them but there was no crudity or ‘hard porn’ language. If you like funny romantic ‘chick-lit’ you will love these books.
Sylvie Stewart is definitely an author I will look out for and read more of.
The books are written for young adults and contain language and sexual content inappropriate for readers under 18.
The couple at the centre of this romance are Bailey Murphy and Jake Beckett. They meet at Bailey’s brother’s wedding. Bailey doesn’t have a lot of confidence in herself as a young woman having grown up around boys and being known as a ‘tomboy’. In her words; “I am not your typical girl. Sure I’ve got all the parts, but I’ve been a stubborn, irreverent tomboy since the womb, as my Irish father would proudly attest.” Why then, would she want to do the girliest thing in the world and fall head over heels for the sexy Jake Beckett?
Jake is the elder brother of Mark Beckett (he was a main character in Book Two). After years of living away from his family he is back. As a charmer he knows how to attract the ladies and he is not used to being ignored. Imagine his confusion when Bailey steadfastly refuses to go on date with him. Fate has already thrown them together once at the wedding, can it throw them together again but for good this time? Will Bailey refuse to acknowledge her ‘girly’ side? Will Jake eventually give up when he finds her hard work?
I loved this HEA. Sylvie Stewart mixes real life situations, multi-complex personalities and romance with a good dollop of humour in this steady paced story. I also enjoyed finding out how the relationships between the other two couples in the previous books had developed. This story is told in the alternating voices of Bailey and Jake so as a reader you get to ‘hear’ their innermost thoughts. Each character is believable and you warm to them immediately. Quite often I had to laugh out loud and sit there smiling to myself. The sex scenes between Jake and Bailey were written in a way that you got the passion and love/lust between them but there was no crudity or ‘hard porn’ language. If you like funny romantic ‘chick-lit’ you will love these books.
Sylvie Stewart is definitely an author I will look out for and read more of.
May 12, 2017
Title: The Lucky One ( Carolina Connections Book 3)
Author: Sylvie Stewart
Stars: 5
Sylvie Stewart’s The Lucky One is the third book in the Carolina Connection series. It can be read as a standalone. This is a romantic comedy that will keep you smiling and giggling through the whole book. If you want to understand some of the other characters, I'd highly suggest reading the other books in order.
Bailey isn't a girlie girl, she is your typical tomboy and she's been that way all her life. She doesn't dress up, she doesn't gossip, and she doesn't cry like a girl. So when she is dragged into being in a wedding, she cringes at the idea of dressing up and wearing makeup and heels. While at this wedding she sees one of the hottest guys she has ever laid eyes on, Jake. And it seems she has caught his attention also. Bailey thinks it's because she is all glammed up and her real self is hidden. This seems to embolden her when sparks fly between her and Jake. Why not enjoy the “temporary life” of a hot girl getting the hot guy for a night? But can Bailey just have one night and move on? Can she resist being pursued by the hot guy and not get hurt? Will the tomboy fall into some girlie ways?
Jake returns home to reconnect with his family after being away for years. He's also trying to start over with a landscaping business that was successful in Florida. After meeting Bailey at a wedding, she has left an impression on him. He wants to see her, and he tries to find ways to make that happen. Jake realizes that Bailey isn't like any other girl he has ever meet. He notices that she doesn't seem to take his attention well. He just wants to show how great and special she is. Can Jake break down Bailey’s walls? Can he convince her that he isn't like every other hot guy?
I connected with Bailey so much in this book. I felt the struggle she had with her self esteem. I loved how Jake kept proving over and over how much he wanted Bailey, and the creative ways he put forth just to see her. This is a sweet and hot read. I couldn't put it down and kept rooting for this duo. I love books like this, and Slyvie Stewart knocked it out of the park with this one.
Author: Sylvie Stewart
Stars: 5
Sylvie Stewart’s The Lucky One is the third book in the Carolina Connection series. It can be read as a standalone. This is a romantic comedy that will keep you smiling and giggling through the whole book. If you want to understand some of the other characters, I'd highly suggest reading the other books in order.
Bailey isn't a girlie girl, she is your typical tomboy and she's been that way all her life. She doesn't dress up, she doesn't gossip, and she doesn't cry like a girl. So when she is dragged into being in a wedding, she cringes at the idea of dressing up and wearing makeup and heels. While at this wedding she sees one of the hottest guys she has ever laid eyes on, Jake. And it seems she has caught his attention also. Bailey thinks it's because she is all glammed up and her real self is hidden. This seems to embolden her when sparks fly between her and Jake. Why not enjoy the “temporary life” of a hot girl getting the hot guy for a night? But can Bailey just have one night and move on? Can she resist being pursued by the hot guy and not get hurt? Will the tomboy fall into some girlie ways?
Jake returns home to reconnect with his family after being away for years. He's also trying to start over with a landscaping business that was successful in Florida. After meeting Bailey at a wedding, she has left an impression on him. He wants to see her, and he tries to find ways to make that happen. Jake realizes that Bailey isn't like any other girl he has ever meet. He notices that she doesn't seem to take his attention well. He just wants to show how great and special she is. Can Jake break down Bailey’s walls? Can he convince her that he isn't like every other hot guy?
I connected with Bailey so much in this book. I felt the struggle she had with her self esteem. I loved how Jake kept proving over and over how much he wanted Bailey, and the creative ways he put forth just to see her. This is a sweet and hot read. I couldn't put it down and kept rooting for this duo. I love books like this, and Slyvie Stewart knocked it out of the park with this one.
March 6, 2022
Another Fabulous read by Sylvie Stewart.
The Lucky One is Bailey and Jake's story.
They had a one night stand at a wedding,were Bailey totally transformed into a bombshell instead of her usual tomboy look.Jake was besotted the moment he saw her and with her added confidence for the night Bailey has the courage to sleep with Jake.
But when reality hits afterwards and Bailey is her normal self she believes that it was all just attraction and not real,because she was all dressed up and not her usual tomboy self Jake had hooked up with an illusion.So she ignores his text and gets on with her life which included taking care of her nephew for a few days.
Jake will not give up and shows up at the house were she is staying and from there he keeps showing up ,seeing her in her everyday persona and not the glamourous girl he slept with...and to her amazement he keeps coming back,even though she doesn't look like the bombshell she was at the wedding.Jake still persues her....and then something happens that will possibly keep Jake in her life for a very long time,and how will he cope with that.
I Love Jake he was so persistant and never gave up on Bailey even when she told him she wasn't good enough for him.I Loved the way he loved her regardless.
I had a connection with Bailey and the way she felt about herself,she never felt good enough,she was always pleasing everyone,and never persued her dreams because she didn't want to disappoint her father.Always knowing her "PLACE" and staying there,it was as if no-one expected her to have dreams or be in love etc.She was like one of the boys....But I think Jake changed that he made her feel things she hadn't felt before,he made her feel beautiful even when she was in just shorts and a T-shirt with no makeup.She was gorgeous to him.
I really loved reading this book,it made me laugh,and swoon in equal measure because Jake and Bailey were made for one another.
Sylvie Stewart is becoming one of my favourite authors to read and listen too and reading The Lucky One just proves how Amazing she is.
A phenomenal story that I couldn't put down,Loved it.
I highly recommend it.
5 Stars.
The Lucky One is Bailey and Jake's story.
They had a one night stand at a wedding,were Bailey totally transformed into a bombshell instead of her usual tomboy look.Jake was besotted the moment he saw her and with her added confidence for the night Bailey has the courage to sleep with Jake.
But when reality hits afterwards and Bailey is her normal self she believes that it was all just attraction and not real,because she was all dressed up and not her usual tomboy self Jake had hooked up with an illusion.So she ignores his text and gets on with her life which included taking care of her nephew for a few days.
Jake will not give up and shows up at the house were she is staying and from there he keeps showing up ,seeing her in her everyday persona and not the glamourous girl he slept with...and to her amazement he keeps coming back,even though she doesn't look like the bombshell she was at the wedding.Jake still persues her....and then something happens that will possibly keep Jake in her life for a very long time,and how will he cope with that.
I Love Jake he was so persistant and never gave up on Bailey even when she told him she wasn't good enough for him.I Loved the way he loved her regardless.
I had a connection with Bailey and the way she felt about herself,she never felt good enough,she was always pleasing everyone,and never persued her dreams because she didn't want to disappoint her father.Always knowing her "PLACE" and staying there,it was as if no-one expected her to have dreams or be in love etc.She was like one of the boys....But I think Jake changed that he made her feel things she hadn't felt before,he made her feel beautiful even when she was in just shorts and a T-shirt with no makeup.She was gorgeous to him.
I really loved reading this book,it made me laugh,and swoon in equal measure because Jake and Bailey were made for one another.
Sylvie Stewart is becoming one of my favourite authors to read and listen too and reading The Lucky One just proves how Amazing she is.
A phenomenal story that I couldn't put down,Loved it.
I highly recommend it.
5 Stars.
May 11, 2017
The Lucky One (Carolina Connections Book 3) by Sylvie Stewart
This is a romantic comedy that can be read as a standalone.
5 amazing stars
Bailey, a self proclaimed tomboy, a daddy's girl, stubborn, and feisty. Works at her family's construction company and her Irish daddy wants her and her brother to take it over someday and carry on the legacy. She has other dreams for her future and thought she was on her way to realizing those dreams till she gave her heart and trust to the wrong guy and now has no confidence. Her new motto “Love is for suckers. Sex on the other hand is not” she would never give her heart or trust again. she put up the great wall and nothing and nobody was bringing it down.
Jake, just recently moved back to his hometown to be close to his Mom and his brother. He has a successful career in landscape design and does alright with the ladies if he does say so himself :)
He's definitely not against commitments, marriage and kids if and when he finds the right one.
These two meet at Baileys brothers wedding. What happens after this is hilarious, sweet, maddening, emotional, and did I say hilarious? She drives him crazy, and not always in a good way. He is messing with her reputation of being rough and tough and to make matters worse, she’s afraid that she may be doing the unthinkable and becoming girlie, she's even wore a dress twice now UGH!! Can Jake break down that wall?? Or will she end up with another broken heart?
I don't even know where to begin on my thoughts of this book...I laughed out loud so many times. Sylvie Stewarts way of writing had me wrapped from word one and I hated when this book ended. I did not read the first two in this series, but plan to as soon as possible. I loved the relationships in this book between friends and family. Just awesome!!
I now have another favorite author to add to my “buy every book” list. Thank you Miss Stewart for a fun, refreshing, emotional, and brilliant read. Seriously..Read this book. You won't be sorry!!
This is a romantic comedy that can be read as a standalone.
5 amazing stars
Bailey, a self proclaimed tomboy, a daddy's girl, stubborn, and feisty. Works at her family's construction company and her Irish daddy wants her and her brother to take it over someday and carry on the legacy. She has other dreams for her future and thought she was on her way to realizing those dreams till she gave her heart and trust to the wrong guy and now has no confidence. Her new motto “Love is for suckers. Sex on the other hand is not” she would never give her heart or trust again. she put up the great wall and nothing and nobody was bringing it down.
Jake, just recently moved back to his hometown to be close to his Mom and his brother. He has a successful career in landscape design and does alright with the ladies if he does say so himself :)
He's definitely not against commitments, marriage and kids if and when he finds the right one.
These two meet at Baileys brothers wedding. What happens after this is hilarious, sweet, maddening, emotional, and did I say hilarious? She drives him crazy, and not always in a good way. He is messing with her reputation of being rough and tough and to make matters worse, she’s afraid that she may be doing the unthinkable and becoming girlie, she's even wore a dress twice now UGH!! Can Jake break down that wall?? Or will she end up with another broken heart?
I don't even know where to begin on my thoughts of this book...I laughed out loud so many times. Sylvie Stewarts way of writing had me wrapped from word one and I hated when this book ended. I did not read the first two in this series, but plan to as soon as possible. I loved the relationships in this book between friends and family. Just awesome!!
I now have another favorite author to add to my “buy every book” list. Thank you Miss Stewart for a fun, refreshing, emotional, and brilliant read. Seriously..Read this book. You won't be sorry!!
May 11, 2017
The Lucky One (The Carolina Connections #3) by Sylvie Stewart
5 out of 5 stars
This is the third book in the Carolina Connection series Ms. Stewart has out did herself. This story was well written the character where amazing a quirky and I love how they fed off of each other with their sparing. The characters where well developed and the story line was exceptionally well thought out. We also get to see a few of my favorite characters from the first two books in this series.
Bailey is not your typical girl. Sure she’s got all the girl parts, but she is a stubborn, irreverent tomboy since the womb, as her Irish father would proudly attest. Despite her Irish blood, she’s had a bit of bad luck here and there recently she trusted the wrong guy and got derailed in her professional pursuits. But she bounced back. With her walls firmly in place, she thought nothing, or no one, could touch her again. Until he did. And he just might make this tomboy do the most girly thing in the world and fall head over heels in love.
Jake is a pretty lucky guy. He has a phenomenal family, a career that he loves, and he’s building a brand-new life back in his hometown. Everything’s been going according to plan. That was, until his luck ran out and met the girl I call “Irish.”
Baily and Jake met up at a mutual friend’s wedding and they enjoyed themselves a little too much. Now Jake is in hot pursuit of Bailey but she is giving him a run for his money. Bailey has her walls up and she runs hot and cold so how can Jake make her see she is it for him.
Will Bailey let Jake in? Will Jake break through her walls? Can they have a happily ever after?
I really enjoyed this light-hearted fast read with strong characters, a humorous storyline that put a smile on my face and made me laugh. I highly recommend The Lucky One you can read this book as a standalone or as the series. I can’t wait to read Gavin’ story in this delightful series.
By
Tracy Manderson
5 out of 5 stars
This is the third book in the Carolina Connection series Ms. Stewart has out did herself. This story was well written the character where amazing a quirky and I love how they fed off of each other with their sparing. The characters where well developed and the story line was exceptionally well thought out. We also get to see a few of my favorite characters from the first two books in this series.
Bailey is not your typical girl. Sure she’s got all the girl parts, but she is a stubborn, irreverent tomboy since the womb, as her Irish father would proudly attest. Despite her Irish blood, she’s had a bit of bad luck here and there recently she trusted the wrong guy and got derailed in her professional pursuits. But she bounced back. With her walls firmly in place, she thought nothing, or no one, could touch her again. Until he did. And he just might make this tomboy do the most girly thing in the world and fall head over heels in love.
Jake is a pretty lucky guy. He has a phenomenal family, a career that he loves, and he’s building a brand-new life back in his hometown. Everything’s been going according to plan. That was, until his luck ran out and met the girl I call “Irish.”
Baily and Jake met up at a mutual friend’s wedding and they enjoyed themselves a little too much. Now Jake is in hot pursuit of Bailey but she is giving him a run for his money. Bailey has her walls up and she runs hot and cold so how can Jake make her see she is it for him.
Will Bailey let Jake in? Will Jake break through her walls? Can they have a happily ever after?
I really enjoyed this light-hearted fast read with strong characters, a humorous storyline that put a smile on my face and made me laugh. I highly recommend The Lucky One you can read this book as a standalone or as the series. I can’t wait to read Gavin’ story in this delightful series.
By
Tracy Manderson
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