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Stay Lucky #1
Stay Lucky
A second chance to build the family of their dreams.Dr. Grant Anderson never expected a second chance with Leo Garner. Leo’s current significant other is a movie star, and who can compete with that? But when Leo’s kidney problems resurface and his relationship sours over the care of his adopted daughter, he returns home to North Carolina to start over from scratch. Does he want a do-over with Grant too?The heat between Leo and Grant is explosive and undeniable, and their affection reignites as well. Can their fresh start survive Leo’s health scares, his daughter’s anxieties, a return of the jerk ex, and both their insecurities? And can they make a new family for themselves?This book is over 60,000 words of sweet, sexy romance with a happy ending you’ll love!
241 pages, Paperback
First published February 28, 2018
209 people are currently reading
346 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
January 27, 2020
*2.5 stars*
To be honest, I really didn't even want to review this one because I love Leta Blake, but Stay Lucky way, way too similar to Will & Patrick Wake Up Married.
I'm a fan-girl of the Wake Up Married serial, and I adore Leta Blake, so it was a no brainer to pick up this book, but man was it hard for me to get through.
First of all, the time jumps were a killer. I never like time jumps, and the constant back and forth with each chapter were not my bag.
Also, I didn't get why Leo didn't grovel or explain why he left Grant all of those years ago. It felt like a prequel or something was missing, because I didn't forgive Leo! I wanted him to have to really make it up to Grant, and it sort of was swept under the rug.
But my most persistent issue? How have NONE of the other reviewers talked about how closely this mirrors the characters from the Wake Up Married books??
I mean... in both books we get arrogant doctors (surgeons!!) who are obsessed with food/sweets and are good with kids. They are matched with corn-fed, small-town guys who have chronic health issues (diabetes vs heart and kidney failure), long-term exes who are on the asexuality spectrum, a relative who is careless and they have to pick up the slack (mother vs sister), and who are sexually inexperienced but into kinky stuff. I was literally subbing Leo and Grant for Will and Patrick the whole time I was reading. It actually became hard to concentrate on the story.
Yeah, not the reading experience I was hoping for, and not because Leta isn't insanely talented, just that it was too close to a series I hold near and dear to my heart.
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To be honest, I really didn't even want to review this one because I love Leta Blake, but Stay Lucky way, way too similar to Will & Patrick Wake Up Married.
I'm a fan-girl of the Wake Up Married serial, and I adore Leta Blake, so it was a no brainer to pick up this book, but man was it hard for me to get through.
First of all, the time jumps were a killer. I never like time jumps, and the constant back and forth with each chapter were not my bag.
Also, I didn't get why Leo didn't grovel or explain why he left Grant all of those years ago. It felt like a prequel or something was missing, because I didn't forgive Leo! I wanted him to have to really make it up to Grant, and it sort of was swept under the rug.
But my most persistent issue? How have NONE of the other reviewers talked about how closely this mirrors the characters from the Wake Up Married books??
I mean... in both books we get arrogant doctors (surgeons!!) who are obsessed with food/sweets and are good with kids. They are matched with corn-fed, small-town guys who have chronic health issues (diabetes vs heart and kidney failure), long-term exes who are on the asexuality spectrum, a relative who is careless and they have to pick up the slack (mother vs sister), and who are sexually inexperienced but into kinky stuff. I was literally subbing Leo and Grant for Will and Patrick the whole time I was reading. It actually became hard to concentrate on the story.
Yeah, not the reading experience I was hoping for, and not because Leta isn't insanely talented, just that it was too close to a series I hold near and dear to my heart.
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February 6, 2020
Okay, so nobody told me that was a remake of Will & Patrick Wake Up Married plus one precocious child.
I wanted to love this but I'm afraid I couldn't find any love for Grant, just as I struggled to like Patrick.
I often like a bit of rough, gruff, even abrasiveness in my guys.
I don't mind cocky, arrogant and confident men.
But asshole doesn't do it for me.
Much as I tried, I couldn't find the spark or pull that everyone around Grant had.
Nope.
I think he's a big fat jerk.
Even big fat jerks need love but that doesn't mean I have to enjoy reading about it.
Darn, Blake almost always works for me. *sad face*
*2.5 not-so-lucky-for-me stars*
...rounding up for the cute kid...
I wanted to love this but I'm afraid I couldn't find any love for Grant, just as I struggled to like Patrick.
I often like a bit of rough, gruff, even abrasiveness in my guys.
I don't mind cocky, arrogant and confident men.
But asshole doesn't do it for me.
Much as I tried, I couldn't find the spark or pull that everyone around Grant had.
Nope.
I think he's a big fat jerk.
Even big fat jerks need love but that doesn't mean I have to enjoy reading about it.
Darn, Blake almost always works for me. *sad face*
*2.5 not-so-lucky-for-me stars*
...rounding up for the cute kid...
March 30, 2022
single dads is one of my favorite tropes, but i’ve had a hard time finding books i actually enjoy telling their stories. this one, though? a total winner for me.
full rtc~
full rtc~
July 14, 2019
*3,5 stars*
Another early one by Leta Blake, writing under the pen name of Halsey Harlow.
This was enjoyable all in all, but I would have liked to see some of the major issues (like Leo leaving Grant for Curtis) dealt in more detail. I also wasn’t sure why Grant’s friend is making him feel guilty for resenting that fact. I think he’s quite to entitled to his feelings!
However, the fun romance, the hot sex and the cleverness of Lucky (Leo’s adopted daughter) kept me entertained. A nice, quick holiday read.
Another early one by Leta Blake, writing under the pen name of Halsey Harlow.
This was enjoyable all in all, but I would have liked to see some of the major issues (like Leo leaving Grant for Curtis) dealt in more detail. I also wasn’t sure why Grant’s friend is making him feel guilty for resenting that fact. I think he’s quite to entitled to his feelings!
However, the fun romance, the hot sex and the cleverness of Lucky (Leo’s adopted daughter) kept me entertained. A nice, quick holiday read.
January 22, 2020
The truth is, I did not expect to like this book. I am wishy washy about second chance romances most of the time, throw in a kid and a celebrity ex and well, I just didn't have high hopes. So, imagine my surprise when I ended up liking this a whole lot, maybe even loving it just a little.
It was so different than I expected and that worked in its favor. I loved Grant. I don’t even care that he was a dick, I loved him. I wanted this “second chance” to happen even if I don’t think it should be defined that way. I like to think of it more as a “right time” romance. And it was the right time.
I’d probably have given this the full five star treatment if not for two things. The first being that throughout the read I felt like I had missed something. A prequal, another book, something. I felt like I should know some of the characters and that maybe they already had their story told. It felt that way through the entire read and it bugged me. And second, the editing. It is like there wasn’t any and this was the third publishing/re-publishing of this book. By the third time this has been put out to the masses, it should be squeaky clean and there were so many errors throughout the entire book I wanted to scream.
But the rest of it, yeah, it was a great read and it made me extremely happy.
**This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.**
It was so different than I expected and that worked in its favor. I loved Grant. I don’t even care that he was a dick, I loved him. I wanted this “second chance” to happen even if I don’t think it should be defined that way. I like to think of it more as a “right time” romance. And it was the right time.
I’d probably have given this the full five star treatment if not for two things. The first being that throughout the read I felt like I had missed something. A prequal, another book, something. I felt like I should know some of the characters and that maybe they already had their story told. It felt that way through the entire read and it bugged me. And second, the editing. It is like there wasn’t any and this was the third publishing/re-publishing of this book. By the third time this has been put out to the masses, it should be squeaky clean and there were so many errors throughout the entire book I wanted to scream.
But the rest of it, yeah, it was a great read and it made me extremely happy.
**This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.**
February 26, 2020
I haven't read a lot of books by Leta Blake, and I haven't read Will and Patrick which seems, based on other folks' reviews, to be similar to this book, so my review is based only on what I read in this here book.
I thought it was adorable and cute and supersweet and fluffy. It's a feel-good romance book, the kind you fly through while curled up in your favorite chair, with the occasional giggle, the frequent awwww, and the happily ever after the characters deserve.
Sure, there's a bit of angst, and grumpy Grant's snark isn't for the faint of heart, but I loved seeing Grant's massive walls crumble, as he opens his heart first to a little girl whose fearless spirit impresses him, and then to his once-and-again love interest. I loved reading about Leo who's sick and in dire need of a kidney, who adopted his sister's daughter, and who left his movie star husband when he realized that he might have chosen wrong these many years ago.
Sure, you have to suspend disbelief a bit because the medical stuff doesn't seem entirely realistic, and some things are possibly a little bit on the unethical side, but they're done out of love and compassion, and grumpy Grant's need to be in charge and in control of things he might not be able to control after all.
I had a great time reading this, and I think you will too.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. **
I thought it was adorable and cute and supersweet and fluffy. It's a feel-good romance book, the kind you fly through while curled up in your favorite chair, with the occasional giggle, the frequent awwww, and the happily ever after the characters deserve.
Sure, there's a bit of angst, and grumpy Grant's snark isn't for the faint of heart, but I loved seeing Grant's massive walls crumble, as he opens his heart first to a little girl whose fearless spirit impresses him, and then to his once-and-again love interest. I loved reading about Leo who's sick and in dire need of a kidney, who adopted his sister's daughter, and who left his movie star husband when he realized that he might have chosen wrong these many years ago.
Sure, you have to suspend disbelief a bit because the medical stuff doesn't seem entirely realistic, and some things are possibly a little bit on the unethical side, but they're done out of love and compassion, and grumpy Grant's need to be in charge and in control of things he might not be able to control after all.
I had a great time reading this, and I think you will too.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. **
January 24, 2020
I initially requested this book because I liked the premise and was in the mood for a second chance novel. This book lived up to certain expectations but for the most part left me wanting.
In living to my expectations:
*The story delivered one interesting MC(Grant)who was refreshingly honest (sometimes to a fault but no one ever said he was perfect).
*The story had pretty good dialogue which I appreciated.
In the “leaving me wanting” department:
* I wish it had a more linear structure (the back & forth time jumps didn’t work so well in my opinion)
* I wish it was better paced and didn’t drag on for so long. I don’t know if this was as a result of the aforementioned structure or not but by the 48 percentile I was about done.
*I wish we had gotten Leo’s POV and didn’t have to find out his thoughts as bystanders. As it turns out, I didn’t connect with him. We were told he was a good guy who brightened the room with his smile but I didn’t really care for him honestly.
*Lucky was a unique child for sure, but I didn’t feel her impact in the whole story. The story would’ve been okay without her inclusion
* Finally my biggest issue: For a second chance novel(or I assumed it was from the blurb), that aspect of the story fell flat on its face.
I don’t know if it was because of Leo’s medical complications but the abandonment of Grant by Leo was only addressed deep into the second part of the book. And even then, it was after our MCs had started dating again without any proper discussion, apologies or acknowledgement of the issue.
I don’t know about you guys but if you leave me for your ex and want to get back with me in ANY way, shape or form, you should be well prepared for a dissection of the issue and some grovelling of Epic proportions!! I did not appreciate that this was all more or less brushed under the rug.
All these contributed to my rating which was a shame because this had the potential to be so much more.
**This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review **
In living to my expectations:
*The story delivered one interesting MC(Grant)who was refreshingly honest (sometimes to a fault but no one ever said he was perfect).
*The story had pretty good dialogue which I appreciated.
In the “leaving me wanting” department:
* I wish it had a more linear structure (the back & forth time jumps didn’t work so well in my opinion)
* I wish it was better paced and didn’t drag on for so long. I don’t know if this was as a result of the aforementioned structure or not but by the 48 percentile I was about done.
*I wish we had gotten Leo’s POV and didn’t have to find out his thoughts as bystanders. As it turns out, I didn’t connect with him. We were told he was a good guy who brightened the room with his smile but I didn’t really care for him honestly.
*Lucky was a unique child for sure, but I didn’t feel her impact in the whole story. The story would’ve been okay without her inclusion
* Finally my biggest issue: For a second chance novel(or I assumed it was from the blurb), that aspect of the story fell flat on its face.
I don’t know if it was because of Leo’s medical complications but the abandonment of Grant by Leo was only addressed deep into the second part of the book. And even then, it was after our MCs had started dating again without any proper discussion, apologies or acknowledgement of the issue.
I don’t know about you guys but if you leave me for your ex and want to get back with me in ANY way, shape or form, you should be well prepared for a dissection of the issue and some grovelling of Epic proportions!! I did not appreciate that this was all more or less brushed under the rug.
All these contributed to my rating which was a shame because this had the potential to be so much more.
**This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review **
February 9, 2021
Una Leta molto più romantica di quello a cui siamo abituati, una storia dolce, di quelle che ti rimettono in linea col mondo.
September 19, 2021
OK, on page three a wrong name is used, but I kept going and I was rewarded. It was the only mistake I noticed as I read this intense romance.
We have a web of characters. There is Leo, his adopted daughter, Lucky, 5, Sister Hannah, his ex, Curtis the movie star, and friend, Grant, a grumpy doctor and love interest, plus other family and more.
Leo is struggling with a new heart and kidney problems, and he's back home to raise Lucky on his family farm. He has a quiet strength, rising above his pain.
Grant is a friend since childhood, who had his heart broken when Leo left, he's crabby and afraid to try again. He appears aloof, but his heart is huge.
Now, the new kidney is found in a relative, then it's lost and found again, Grant and Leo get together, Lucky is adjusting, the men deal with their stories, what happened and what is to come.
* It is told in time segments, but we easily follow along.
The men move slow in their sexy times, because Leo is burdened with past mental abuse in that arena. When they do move forward, their sex is super hot and passion filled.
Your heart will warm, tears may form, a deep love is the most important issue, plus the melding of a new family, and all of it is in our grasp.
This is Leta Blake, formerly Halsey Harlow, and I've loved her other books. We always get full characters, unique banter, intense emotions and an HEA.
ENJOY !
=====
We have a web of characters. There is Leo, his adopted daughter, Lucky, 5, Sister Hannah, his ex, Curtis the movie star, and friend, Grant, a grumpy doctor and love interest, plus other family and more.
Leo is struggling with a new heart and kidney problems, and he's back home to raise Lucky on his family farm. He has a quiet strength, rising above his pain.
Grant is a friend since childhood, who had his heart broken when Leo left, he's crabby and afraid to try again. He appears aloof, but his heart is huge.
Now, the new kidney is found in a relative, then it's lost and found again, Grant and Leo get together, Lucky is adjusting, the men deal with their stories, what happened and what is to come.
* It is told in time segments, but we easily follow along.
The men move slow in their sexy times, because Leo is burdened with past mental abuse in that arena. When they do move forward, their sex is super hot and passion filled.
Your heart will warm, tears may form, a deep love is the most important issue, plus the melding of a new family, and all of it is in our grasp.
This is Leta Blake, formerly Halsey Harlow, and I've loved her other books. We always get full characters, unique banter, intense emotions and an HEA.
ENJOY !
=====
July 15, 2022
I love single dad romance. I love books that make me cry. I love books that make me laugh. I love grumpy but still lovable men. Stay Lucky is all of this and more.*
I generally prefer stories chronologically, and did struggle at times with the back and forth of months ago to current day - ultimately I enjoyed it quite a bit. This is told entirely from Grant’s perspective and I was worried that would make it harder to connect with Leo, but it didn’t. Grant’s laconic nature meant Leo shared quite a bit. I enjoyed Grant and Leo together as a couple.
Grant’s interactions with and internal musings about Lucky were all that I adore about single dad romance. Grant truly fell in love with both Leo and Lucky. He was also a great fit for her inquisitive nature and “bullshit free zone” stance. Having a kid very similar to Lucky, I can attest that she’s very realistic despite being bright, inquisitive, and intellectually mature beyond her years.
Ultimately, the angst in this story comes from Leo’s need for a kidney transplant and a little ex drama. Relationship-wise, this is low angst and I love that about it. Emotional, funny, delightful, and sexy read.
* If you’ve read Blake’s Will & Patrick Wake up married - Patrick and Grant are quite similar, so I wouldn’t recommend reading them back-to-back. But it’s been over a year so I got to enjoy that personality all over again.
I generally prefer stories chronologically, and did struggle at times with the back and forth of months ago to current day - ultimately I enjoyed it quite a bit. This is told entirely from Grant’s perspective and I was worried that would make it harder to connect with Leo, but it didn’t. Grant’s laconic nature meant Leo shared quite a bit. I enjoyed Grant and Leo together as a couple.
Grant’s interactions with and internal musings about Lucky were all that I adore about single dad romance. Grant truly fell in love with both Leo and Lucky. He was also a great fit for her inquisitive nature and “bullshit free zone” stance. Having a kid very similar to Lucky, I can attest that she’s very realistic despite being bright, inquisitive, and intellectually mature beyond her years.
Ultimately, the angst in this story comes from Leo’s need for a kidney transplant and a little ex drama. Relationship-wise, this is low angst and I love that about it. Emotional, funny, delightful, and sexy read.
* If you’ve read Blake’s Will & Patrick Wake up married - Patrick and Grant are quite similar, so I wouldn’t recommend reading them back-to-back. But it’s been over a year so I got to enjoy that personality all over again.
March 2, 2023
Re-read March 1, 2023
Still love it.
Still love it.
January 22, 2020
This story started slow for me. I got messed up by the out of order flashbacks until I got further in and was able to "anchor" the time in my own mind. I also wondered why anyone would be attracted to Dr. Grant Anderson, who, in his own words, was “…brusque. Rude. Insulting. Demanding. A perfectionist.” But by the end, I was Team Grant. I totally turned around and loved it. Apparently, I have a soft spot for crusty surgeons who only fall in love once and when they do, their insides turn to ooey-gooey love mush. :D
Six years ago, Leo left town with his ex-boyfriend who promised him the world. Curtis had just gotten a lead role in what promised to be a smash hit and came back to take Leo with him. Turning away from his new love interest, Grant Anderson, he puts his eggs in what turns out to be the wrong basket. Now back in town, he’d like to get to know Grant better, but he has his daughter in tow and he has a major health issue he needs to deal with first.
Grant wants no part of reconnecting with someone who deserted him, but when he starts to see Leo around the hospital where he’s on staff as a surgeon, he learns what is going on medically, and it’s not good. More worrying, he gets to know Leo’s daughter, teaches her chess, and befriending the precocious five-year-old who has to wait while her dad gets dialysis. He’s finding a soft spot in his heart for her—and for Leo. Oh, oh, the great stone-faced Dr. Grant is headed for a downfall.
I love the way the author built Grant’s character and the way the past was woven through the story in flashback sequences, so we get to know the real men—both Grant and Leo, and we get to bite our nails during Leo’s surgery, hang out with Lucky, the little girl, as she comes to love Grant, and watch Grant have his emotional meltdown. There’s room for Leo’s ex in this story too and plenty of opportunities to fall in love with all the characters.
What struck me about a third of the way through, as I kept thinking this guy reminds me of someone, in that Grant is very much like Patrick in the Will & Patrick Wake Up Married series. And Leo, like Will, has a medical condition that the hard-shelled surgeon can’t fix. Very similar, and the author mentions this was written originally as part of a short story collection so I suspect Will and Patrick grew from these characters. I would have liked to have known that going into it but in any case, I fell in love by the end of the story and so did Leo and Grant. Tissues are highly recommended—both for tears of sorrow and tears of joy. A must read for those who enjoy opposites attract MM romance and, of course, Will & Patrick Wake Up Married.
Six years ago, Leo left town with his ex-boyfriend who promised him the world. Curtis had just gotten a lead role in what promised to be a smash hit and came back to take Leo with him. Turning away from his new love interest, Grant Anderson, he puts his eggs in what turns out to be the wrong basket. Now back in town, he’d like to get to know Grant better, but he has his daughter in tow and he has a major health issue he needs to deal with first.
Grant wants no part of reconnecting with someone who deserted him, but when he starts to see Leo around the hospital where he’s on staff as a surgeon, he learns what is going on medically, and it’s not good. More worrying, he gets to know Leo’s daughter, teaches her chess, and befriending the precocious five-year-old who has to wait while her dad gets dialysis. He’s finding a soft spot in his heart for her—and for Leo. Oh, oh, the great stone-faced Dr. Grant is headed for a downfall.
I love the way the author built Grant’s character and the way the past was woven through the story in flashback sequences, so we get to know the real men—both Grant and Leo, and we get to bite our nails during Leo’s surgery, hang out with Lucky, the little girl, as she comes to love Grant, and watch Grant have his emotional meltdown. There’s room for Leo’s ex in this story too and plenty of opportunities to fall in love with all the characters.
What struck me about a third of the way through, as I kept thinking this guy reminds me of someone, in that Grant is very much like Patrick in the Will & Patrick Wake Up Married series. And Leo, like Will, has a medical condition that the hard-shelled surgeon can’t fix. Very similar, and the author mentions this was written originally as part of a short story collection so I suspect Will and Patrick grew from these characters. I would have liked to have known that going into it but in any case, I fell in love by the end of the story and so did Leo and Grant. Tissues are highly recommended—both for tears of sorrow and tears of joy. A must read for those who enjoy opposites attract MM romance and, of course, Will & Patrick Wake Up Married.
January 23, 2020
**I received this book for Free from IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 glowing stars
At first I was a little confused and I wondered if I had missed a book or a prequel somewhere. The story kind of starts in the middle and then has flashbacks mixed-in with the present until they converge near the end. I also felt like I should have known more about Grant's friends Alec and his husband...where they maybe in another book somewhere?
Grant got on my nerves at first with his bluntness, grouchiness and overall jerky asshole routine. Surprisingly, he grew very quickly on me...like a fungus. His love of eating and inappropriate comments had me giggling and rolling my eyes. We eventually learn that he's terrified of getting his heart broken again and feeling so vulnerable (like when he was a kid).
Leo also had me scratching my head in the beginning. I had so many questions about him and Curtis and what actually happened between Leo and Grant. It's all made clear eventually and my love for these guys swelled and blossomed.
Most of the story revolves around Leo's health problems and his need for a new kidney. He must also wrangled his 5-year old daughter Lucky so this adds in some angst and drama. But what stands-out the most for me is the deep-rooted love that slowly develops between Grant and Leo. The sex is scorching hot but still very heartfelt and tender...with some love taps thrown in for good measure. Highly recommend.
4.5 glowing stars
At first I was a little confused and I wondered if I had missed a book or a prequel somewhere. The story kind of starts in the middle and then has flashbacks mixed-in with the present until they converge near the end. I also felt like I should have known more about Grant's friends Alec and his husband...where they maybe in another book somewhere?
Grant got on my nerves at first with his bluntness, grouchiness and overall jerky asshole routine. Surprisingly, he grew very quickly on me...like a fungus. His love of eating and inappropriate comments had me giggling and rolling my eyes. We eventually learn that he's terrified of getting his heart broken again and feeling so vulnerable (like when he was a kid).
Leo also had me scratching my head in the beginning. I had so many questions about him and Curtis and what actually happened between Leo and Grant. It's all made clear eventually and my love for these guys swelled and blossomed.
Most of the story revolves around Leo's health problems and his need for a new kidney. He must also wrangled his 5-year old daughter Lucky so this adds in some angst and drama. But what stands-out the most for me is the deep-rooted love that slowly develops between Grant and Leo. The sex is scorching hot but still very heartfelt and tender...with some love taps thrown in for good measure. Highly recommend.
maybe
September 24, 2018Freebie at amazon.com right now: https://smile.amazon.com/Stay-Lucky-H...
February 11, 2022
This was just ok. Nothing standout about it but absolutely a decent read. It might help that I haven't read the series everyone compare this one to.
October 3, 2019
WOW, WOW, WOW! I'm in love!
This story is full of angst, an emotional roll-a-coaster of a ride and very, very sweet all rolled up into one, my favourite kind of story! It has one MC that isn't very likeable at first, I'd go so far as to say a lot of people will hate him. He's brash, rude and thinks awfully highly of himself but boy, did I ever love him!!!!!
I honestly don't really know what to say or how to describe how this book made me feel. I have no words that are adequate or that can do it justice. All I do know is I absolutely loved it and am heart broken that I reached "The End". Thankfully for me or maybe not so thankfully because I will ultimately reach "The End" again but there is a book of short stories Stay Sexy: 6 short stories from the Stay Lucky universe involving Leo and Grant that I've already started reading. This one promises to be one hell of a sexy read!
I hope this book doesn't get overlooked and I hope readers get out of it what I did. I'm fully aware we all like/love different things and that I'm gushing but it has been a very long time that a story made me feel the way this one did. I so very rarely re-read stories but this one made me what to turn back to the beginning as soon as I hit the end. I will definitely be looking to read more from this author.
TAGS
--new to me/first time reading this author --an amazingly beautiful love story -- angst -- past abuse -- sweet -- characters I wish I knew -- new book bffs -- one sexy doctor -- one crappy ex -- one precocious but very sweet little girl -- first time -- hurt, comfort/illness -- second chance -- light on sex but steamy -- made me laugh -- made me feel anxious -- made me cry -- time jumps -- loved the MCs... Grant & Leo -- sigh worthy -- not ready to let go -- highly recommend
This story is full of angst, an emotional roll-a-coaster of a ride and very, very sweet all rolled up into one, my favourite kind of story! It has one MC that isn't very likeable at first, I'd go so far as to say a lot of people will hate him. He's brash, rude and thinks awfully highly of himself but boy, did I ever love him!!!!!
I honestly don't really know what to say or how to describe how this book made me feel. I have no words that are adequate or that can do it justice. All I do know is I absolutely loved it and am heart broken that I reached "The End". Thankfully for me or maybe not so thankfully because I will ultimately reach "The End" again but there is a book of short stories Stay Sexy: 6 short stories from the Stay Lucky universe involving Leo and Grant that I've already started reading. This one promises to be one hell of a sexy read!
I hope this book doesn't get overlooked and I hope readers get out of it what I did. I'm fully aware we all like/love different things and that I'm gushing but it has been a very long time that a story made me feel the way this one did. I so very rarely re-read stories but this one made me what to turn back to the beginning as soon as I hit the end. I will definitely be looking to read more from this author.
TAGS
--new to me/first time reading this author --an amazingly beautiful love story -- angst -- past abuse -- sweet -- characters I wish I knew -- new book bffs -- one sexy doctor -- one crappy ex -- one precocious but very sweet little girl -- first time -- hurt, comfort/illness -- second chance -- light on sex but steamy -- made me laugh -- made me feel anxious -- made me cry -- time jumps -- loved the MCs... Grant & Leo -- sigh worthy -- not ready to let go -- highly recommend
January 31, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Stay Lucky is a re-release by Leta Blake, who originally published this under the pen name Halsey Harlow. It’s a reunion story between two men who were clearly made for one another. Grant is the more defined of the two characters and his gruffness is charming. He’s blunt and rude and, of course, it’s all a mask for the wounded man beneath. I love this type of character and given his history, Grant is surprisingly functional. Leo is a little harder to read. He’s a sweet guy whose had a helluva rough time, but he left the beginnings of something real with Grant for a pie in the sky romance. But I don’t feel like we know much more about him. He’s defined by his illness and, as a result, is nearly minimized. It would have been nice to see more character development beyond his health problems. I did appreciate that Leo was honest about his sexual hurdles and that he and Grant were worked together to overcome them. There was no pressure from Grant and this aspect of their relationship felt natural.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Stay Lucky is a re-release by Leta Blake, who originally published this under the pen name Halsey Harlow. It’s a reunion story between two men who were clearly made for one another. Grant is the more defined of the two characters and his gruffness is charming. He’s blunt and rude and, of course, it’s all a mask for the wounded man beneath. I love this type of character and given his history, Grant is surprisingly functional. Leo is a little harder to read. He’s a sweet guy whose had a helluva rough time, but he left the beginnings of something real with Grant for a pie in the sky romance. But I don’t feel like we know much more about him. He’s defined by his illness and, as a result, is nearly minimized. It would have been nice to see more character development beyond his health problems. I did appreciate that Leo was honest about his sexual hurdles and that he and Grant were worked together to overcome them. There was no pressure from Grant and this aspect of their relationship felt natural.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
January 14, 2020
More than bacon
At the beginning of this book, I wasn’t a Grant fan; however, the more I read about him, the more he and his bluntness grew on me (kinda like his appetite). I realized his outward personality hid someone who cares a lot. It was a combo of his interactions with Lucky and his honesty with Leo that won me over.
Speaking of, Lucky may be the most fascinating and intuitive child ever. I adore her. I really love all things Leo, especially his sneakiness and his personality. He’s so wholesome and sweet with amazing inner strength. There were a few times he frustrated me because of his thought processes but really I just wanted to hug him all the time.
“I like you better than bacon.” If that’s not a statement expressing the depth of their love, I don’t know what is. A wonderful second-chance romance that will make you smile, laugh, cry and fall in love.
At the beginning of this book, I wasn’t a Grant fan; however, the more I read about him, the more he and his bluntness grew on me (kinda like his appetite). I realized his outward personality hid someone who cares a lot. It was a combo of his interactions with Lucky and his honesty with Leo that won me over.
Speaking of, Lucky may be the most fascinating and intuitive child ever. I adore her. I really love all things Leo, especially his sneakiness and his personality. He’s so wholesome and sweet with amazing inner strength. There were a few times he frustrated me because of his thought processes but really I just wanted to hug him all the time.
“I like you better than bacon.” If that’s not a statement expressing the depth of their love, I don’t know what is. A wonderful second-chance romance that will make you smile, laugh, cry and fall in love.
July 15, 2021
I sometimes wonder what goes through my head. Knowing that I generally like everything Leta Blake writes, I got this book before it was promoted from the Halsey pen name to Leta's.... three years ago? And for some odd idea that I might not like it, procrastinated reading it since.
Unsurprisingly for everyone, I do like it. It's really cute. Leo and Grant do resemble Will and Patrick in personality, and the fact that Leo is also not entirely healthy, though the plot differs plenty from both books that it doesn't feel repetitive or predictable. It's one of those sweet contemporary romances that feel like a well worn blanket, soft and cute and well known while still being a delightful experience.
Unsurprisingly for everyone, I do like it. It's really cute. Leo and Grant do resemble Will and Patrick in personality, and the fact that Leo is also not entirely healthy, though the plot differs plenty from both books that it doesn't feel repetitive or predictable. It's one of those sweet contemporary romances that feel like a well worn blanket, soft and cute and well known while still being a delightful experience.
August 2, 2020
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed reading Stay Lucky. It started out slow for me, and I almost put it aside, but I'm glad I didn't. It got better as the chapters went on. It's well written... normally I am really annoyed by time jumps, but in this case they were expertly crafted and inserted at the right times. The jumps built tension and interest. A solid five stars for me.
January 28, 2020
When Grant's ex, Leo, comes back into his life, he isn't sure he wants him there. After all, the man left him for a movie star! Now suddenly he's back?!
While this story ultimately ended up being sweet and Lucky is adorable, I found myself skimming a lot, especially in the middle where the pace lagged quite a bit. I really liked Grant, but Leo did nothing for me aside from feeling sorry for him because of his health issues. I wondered why Leo's leaving Grant wasn't really made much of because if it had been myself who'd been left, I'd have demanded at the very least, an explanation, then some serious ass kissing and groveling at my feet!
ARC via LesCourt ARC Team for an honest review.
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August 6, 2024
Nice second-chance romance between a grumpy doctor and the guy who dumped him for his ex, an up-and-coming movie actor, who comes back home a single father to a very precocious five-year-old daughter, and because he's seriously ill and needs family support.
I liked the story, although I felt it was odd that Grant never confronted Leo to ask why he broke up with him; he does find out, but not directly (he overhears a conversation between Leo and a couple of friends). For the most part, though, they communicate well, and their second chance is nicely done.
Darcy Stark's narration is excellent, as always. It felt like he took a chapter or two to really get a handle on the voices for the two leads, but he does a great job with the humour and the emotion in the story, and his portrayal of five-year-old Lucky is very good - she sounds suitably young, but not twee.
I liked the story, although I felt it was odd that Grant never confronted Leo to ask why he broke up with him; he does find out, but not directly (he overhears a conversation between Leo and a couple of friends). For the most part, though, they communicate well, and their second chance is nicely done.
Darcy Stark's narration is excellent, as always. It felt like he took a chapter or two to really get a handle on the voices for the two leads, but he does a great job with the humour and the emotion in the story, and his portrayal of five-year-old Lucky is very good - she sounds suitably young, but not twee.
January 28, 2020
I have mixed emotions about this one. I normally really enjoy second chance romances but this one fell short for me -- I felt there needed to be more between the MCS. A better discussion, groveling, something. But, I did enjoy the characters as individuals so that made everything I wasn't a fan a little more bearable.
I was not a big fan of the timeline jumps in the story but if you don't mind that and you're a fan of second chance romances involving a single dad and a lovely hea then this one is for you.
3 stars
I was not a big fan of the timeline jumps in the story but if you don't mind that and you're a fan of second chance romances involving a single dad and a lovely hea then this one is for you.
3 stars
December 15, 2018
Organ transplant as plot driver.
This is told from teh POV of a crabby surgeon whom I really like. The story also chronicals the development of the relationship between the MC and the other MC’s adopted eponymous daughter. I liked her too, although I suspect she is nothing like a normal 5 year old, which is probably a good thing. But she’s not cutesy either, thank god.
This is told from teh POV of a crabby surgeon whom I really like. The story also chronicals the development of the relationship between the MC and the other MC’s adopted eponymous daughter. I liked her too, although I suspect she is nothing like a normal 5 year old, which is probably a good thing. But she’s not cutesy either, thank god.
January 7, 2025
3 stars
So this was a pretty sedate, sweet romance. I could have done without the time jumps/flashbacks as they didn't really add anything to the story, but made me question at times when the story was taking place.
So this was a pretty sedate, sweet romance. I could have done without the time jumps/flashbacks as they didn't really add anything to the story, but made me question at times when the story was taking place.
January 12, 2020
Stay Lucky by Leta Blake is a wonderful Second Chance, Single Dad, contemporary m/m romance that drew me right in with its adorable character of Lucky... and Leo and Grant are great too. The story has drama, humor and romance.... it had me rooting for the two main characters to figure it out and get their Happily Ever After.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
January 31, 2020
As other reviewers have pointed out, this book shares a lot of overlap with the Will & Patrick Wake Up Married series and I'd recommend just reading that. The cranky surgeon, the fragile health, the love of food, are all major parts of W&P but I think are all done better in the series.
And this is definitely a personal thing but I don't really find this book very romantic since the reality of Leo's health is very grim. We know early on in the book that Leo needs a kidney transplant because of damage to his kidneys suffered after a heart transplant. Life expectancy after a heart transplant is not great so Leo and Grant aren't going to get much time together even if the kidney transplant which is a major plot point in Stay Lucky does happen. If you can ignore the fact that the HEA in this book is probably only going to last a couple of years before Leo dies, then enjoy. I couldn't ignore that part so this didn't work for me.
I might have to read a small town sheriff book just to reset my equilibrium after this.
And this is definitely a personal thing but I don't really find this book very romantic since the reality of Leo's health is very grim. We know early on in the book that Leo needs a kidney transplant because of damage to his kidneys suffered after a heart transplant. Life expectancy after a heart transplant is not great so Leo and Grant aren't going to get much time together even if the kidney transplant which is a major plot point in Stay Lucky does happen. If you can ignore the fact that the HEA in this book is probably only going to last a couple of years before Leo dies, then enjoy. I couldn't ignore that part so this didn't work for me.
I might have to read a small town sheriff book just to reset my equilibrium after this.
May 16, 2018
*´¨✫)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨)✯ ¸.•*¨)
✮ (¸.•´✶ (¸.•`❤️"So much more than bacon.❤️~Leo
Leo had been the one, until he wasn't anymore. Now the man was back, post breakup with his movie star husband and fighting life all around. But Grant could not forget what had transpired and he was having a hard time fighting his attraction to Leo.
When their time proved that they were indeed good together, grant gave up fighting and went with the flow. But Leo's health issues made it difficult to hold on for dear life. In the end, was it worth fighting for or just a wish for luck?
For me, I admired the author's storytelling. As a medical professional, and a Dialysis nurse, I felt somewhat ready for this storyline. I felt as if I were conversing with my clients on dos and don'ts just like Dr. Grant. Yes, I would have liked to have Leo's POV, but sometimes stories fair better sometimes getting another's thoughts.
Conflict, pain and suffering, a precocious five year old and the fight for his life. Leo was staying lucky and he had the right man on his side to do it. For all his remarks, Grant became my hero.
¸.•´¸.•*´¨)✯ ¸.•*¨)
✮ (¸.•´✶ (¸.•`❤️"So much more than bacon.❤️~Leo
Leo had been the one, until he wasn't anymore. Now the man was back, post breakup with his movie star husband and fighting life all around. But Grant could not forget what had transpired and he was having a hard time fighting his attraction to Leo.
When their time proved that they were indeed good together, grant gave up fighting and went with the flow. But Leo's health issues made it difficult to hold on for dear life. In the end, was it worth fighting for or just a wish for luck?
For me, I admired the author's storytelling. As a medical professional, and a Dialysis nurse, I felt somewhat ready for this storyline. I felt as if I were conversing with my clients on dos and don'ts just like Dr. Grant. Yes, I would have liked to have Leo's POV, but sometimes stories fair better sometimes getting another's thoughts.
Conflict, pain and suffering, a precocious five year old and the fight for his life. Leo was staying lucky and he had the right man on his side to do it. For all his remarks, Grant became my hero.
March 27, 2018
Nice Plot
I really enjoyed Grant’s dark personality paired with Leo’s caring self. Grant reminds me of Severus Snape if he decided to date. He was so pessimistic and dragged kicking and screaming into a relationship with Leo and I loved it. Lucky was just as dark and it was awesome. I hope Curtis and Jim get their own story.
I really enjoyed Grant’s dark personality paired with Leo’s caring self. Grant reminds me of Severus Snape if he decided to date. He was so pessimistic and dragged kicking and screaming into a relationship with Leo and I loved it. Lucky was just as dark and it was awesome. I hope Curtis and Jim get their own story.
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