Lucky

by Kris Bryant

Winning the lottery is the best thing that’s ever happened to Serena Evans. Gone are the days of living paycheck to paycheck. On her own and fully funded, Serena’s excited to open Pet Posh Inn. She can’t imagine a more fulfilling dream than caring for and being surrounded by animals.

Gabrielle Barnes can’t understand why anyone would dump millions of dollars into a pet daycare, but if she wants to prove herself worthy of a partner position at Arnest & Max Architecture, she’s going to have paste on a smile while designing the ridiculous waste of space.

Serena’s kindness and big heart draw Gabrielle in, but her stubbornness drives a wedge between them. As the design builds, so does their attraction.

Was Serena’s luck really about money, or is she about to get lucky in love?

Cover Artist: Deb B
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
Tags: Enemies to Lovers Romance, Financial gap/Class disparity

Genres: Romance, Lesbian, LGBT, Lesbian Romance, Slow Burn, Audiobook, Contemporary

259 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 1, 2020

About the author

Podcast with Tara Scott at queerlyrecommended.com

Multi-award winning author Kris Bryant was born in Tacoma, WA but has lived all over the world and now considers Kansas City her home. She received her B.A. in English from the University of Missouri and spends a lot of her time buried in books. She enjoys hiking, photography, spending time with her family, and her dog, Molly (who gets more attention than she does on Facebook).

Her first novel, Jolt, was a Lambda Literary Finalist. Forget Me Not was selected by the American Library Association's 2018 Over the Rainbow book list and was a Golden Crown Finalist for Contemporary Romance. Breakthrough won a 2019 Goldie for Contemporary Romance. Listen won a 2020 Goldie for Contemporary Romance. Temptation won a 2021 Goldie for Contemporary Romance. Not Guilty written under Bryant's pen name - Brit Ryder - won a 2022 Goldie for Erotica. Kris can be reached at krisbryantbooks@gmail or ww.krisbryant.net, @krisbryant14.

Jolt - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Whirlwind Romance - ebook, paperback
Just Say Yes (Novella in the wedding series) - ebook only
Taste - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Forget Me Not - ebook, paperback
Shameless (written as Brit Ryder) - ebook, audiobook
Girl Next Door Anthology - "Dog Day of Summer" - ebook, paperback
Touch - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Breakthrough - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Against All Odds - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Travel Anthology (short by Brit Ryder) - ebook, paperback
Listen - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Falling - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Tinsel - ebook, audiobook
Temptation - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Lucky - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Home - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Scent - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Not Guilty writing as Brit Ryder - ebook, paperback (audiobook in the works)
Always - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Forever - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Stranded Hearts (with Amanda Radley & Emily Smith) - ebook, paperback
Serendipity - ebook, paperback, audiobook

Reviews

[Diane (IF U'RE PRIVATE, PLEASE SKIP ME!!!) Wallace · Rating 4 out of 5]

'ARC provided by both NetGalley and The Publisher in exchange for a honest review'

**'Within the first pages of a story readers can judge the relative skill of the writer simply by noting how they handle exposition..And characters should be individualised, but functional..'

3.5stars!
I had a difficult time in trying to decide how impartial my opinion should be after finishing this book. I did feel a little deflated because after reading Ms.Bryant's previous book (Temptation) which was so well written that my anticipation was one of anxiousness towards this book. Also expectations might play a role in how others respond to 'LUCKY' because of it's extraordinary premise.
Even though the blurb is just two and a half paragraphs, it does chronicle the most important context of what this storyline is really about with a little extra. For instance, the generosity and support from all their (both leading characters) close friends and families -- also their tense filled moments and many encounters.
Despite the slower paced in this third person storytelling, 'LUCKY' can be read as a compassionate story where both main characters constantly consider not only their own well-being but also the thoughts and feelings of others. Then in a different scenario, 'LUCKY' seems like a cross between intriguing and a tenable story that I do believe deserves to be read by her many reading fans.

[Lex Kent · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 Stars. How can you not get excited when a new Bryant book is out?! I’ve been looking forward to this read for a while. For one its Bryant, who is easily on my list of favorite lesfic authors, and secondly was the great premise. Winning the lottery, who doesn’t dream about that coming true? I do have to be honest that this book started slow for me but once Bryant really hit her groove, the rest of the book felt good.

This book is Bryant’s first try writing in third person. While I think she was very successful in it and it seemed like it came pretty natural to her, I could not help being a little bummed anyway. I’m all for authors trying new things and taking chances but to have my two favorite first person authors, Bryant and EJ Noyes, both write in third for the first time ever this month, was like NO! I love a good first person story and Bryant and Noyes are the masters at it so it was a little painful not to have a new first story by either of them in the same time period. Again, Bryant seemed very capable of writing in third to me, I just hope she won’t abandon first since we need all the great first person authors we can get.

This is a slow-burn romance with average to low angst. What was interesting here was when Bryant had the two characters meet, it really wasn’t “OMG she’s the one!” Instead it was just two new people meeting for the first time. The attraction really became present as the characters spent time together and slowly built a connection. I liked this way of doing it. It felt realistic, more real life since not everyone falls in love at first sight. Also, for me it made the ending of a possible HEA feel like a bigger payoff. Yes the angst near the end was a little forced for my tastes but by the end of the book I had a big goofy grin on my face so it was successful in my book.

I mentioned this already but my biggest issue with the book was just getting into the story. Usually, Bryant has this pretty big hook that gets you immediately interested in the book. For instance getting lost in Alaska or a plane crash, something that really sucks you into the story but this book didn’t really have that. We do get to the lottery part, but after the character won we fast-forward the timeline a bit so we lose some of the excitement of winning. There was also an issue with one of the main’s mothers. We hear a big argument had happened, but we didn’t get to see it. That family conflict is something that shapes the main character to who she is as a person and I wanted to see it play out. While I had no problems reading the book, I just wasn’t hooked. I didn’t really notice when everything changed, but I was so happy it did. Eventually the book clicks and just feels more classic Bryant. By the end of the book I was a happy camper, it just took me a minute to get there.

I also have to give a quick shout-out to secondary characters. Bryant is really good about writing best friends and friends of friends. She’s very good at making them whole characters that are meaningful. Her secondary characters always enhance the story which is so important. For fans of Falling, Piper and Shaylie both appear in this book. Actually, Piper has a decent size roll in this book and we get a good update on them as a couple. I love when authors give some love to past characters.

While this did take an unusual amount of time for me to settle into this Bryant book, I was definitely happy in the end. I had a smile on my face and that’s a big thing for me especially during these times. If you are a Bryant fan or a slow-burn romance I think you will enjoy this too.

An ARC was given to me for a honest review.

[Jude Silberfeld-Grimaud · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s funny how some things I always notice in books while others don’t really register. I’ve read quite a few books by Kris Bryant and never paid attention to the fact they were all written in first person. I probably never would have realised this one was different if other reviewers hadn’t pointed it out or if the author hadn’t mentioned it in the acknowledgements, crediting Melissa Brayden for pushing her. Lucky is such a smooth read, it never felt like Kris Bryant was challenging herself. So yeah, Ms Bryant, not only can you say you did it, you can also say you did it remarkably well.

Serena Evans’s life so far has been really tough. She grew up with an alcoholic mother, had to forget about higher studies so she could be there for her half-sister and is still reeling from breaking up with her toxic girlfriend. On a whim, she buys a lottery ticket with the money she would usually spend on a Diet Coke and promptly forgets about it. Then wins an insane amount of money.

Gabrielle Barnes is in the running to become the new partner at the Denver architect firm she’s worked for for a decade. The pet hotel project she’s been assigned in Vail is her chance to prove herself. She won’t let anything get in the way of her dream, neither her dog phobia nor the phenomenal chemistry with her sweet and sexy client. Until said chemistry turns into irresistible attraction.

I’m going to keep this review short: this book is delightful. I don’t have much else to write about it. It’s a pretty straightforward story told very efficiently, evoking pretty straightforward feelings. It’s well-written as are all Kris Bryant’s books. The characters – both main and secondary, including the furry ones – are wonderful (I loved coming across Piper and Shaylie from Falling), there’s just the right amount of angst and the sexy scenes are really hot. It’s Kris Bryant, you guys, no surprise there.

So be kind to yourself, buy this book, get a cold drink or a mug of tea depending on the weather where you are and let yourself enjoy the warm, tender and fluffy bubble you’ll be surrounded by in no time.

I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Agirlcandream · Rating 4 out of 5]

Serena Evans would not consider herself a lucky woman. She works in a bookstore and does her best to support her younger sister Faith, a high school senior about to head off to university. A spur of the moment decision to buy a lottery ticket changes Serena’s life forever. Her dream of building a Pet Posh Inn for visitors to her hometown of Vail, Colorado brings her to the Denver office of Arnest and Max where she meets architect Gabrielle Barnes.

Gabrielle is battling the glass ceiling of partnership in her firm. She has one more chance to prove she is worthy of the position she has worked hard to achieve. Building a daycare centre seems like a fun and easy opportunity to impress the partners at her firm. What she didn’t expect were the constant design changes requested by her attractive client.

Lucky is a slow burn coupled with a long distance romance. There is attraction between Serena and Gabrielle but both come with a fair bit of baggage that makes each wary of taking their attraction to the next level. I liked the contrast between Serena’s difficult relationship with her mom and Gabrielle’s warm and welcoming family. I would have loved exploring events from Serena’s past in more detail and felt this was a lost opportunity. Gabrielle’s workaholic personality paired with her dog phobia make her as wary of Serena as Serena is wary of trusting someone with her dreams and her heart. I liked how both had friends new and old to lean on for advice. I’m not a big fan of characters from other books intruding on the book I’m reading but the addition of Piper and Shaylie from Falling as some of those new friends for Serena was a nice touch.

Good first attempt at writing in third person for Bryant. I do think romance novels are more suited to first person point of view but it was nice to see what motivated/held back each woman from realizing they could overcome their differences and trust issues and fall in love.

Nicely done.

ARC received with thanks from publisher via NetGalley for review.

[JulesGP · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes you’re just looking for a good time read where an author gives you two hot mc’s, some sizzling sex, and a few aww look at the adorable puppy moments. Lucky is one of those books.

Kris Bryant delivers again with her always smooth writing, letting everyone who’s ever dreamed the dream of hitting it big live vicariously through Serena. But just like with other books by this author, there are extra layers to characters and the storyline. Serena comes from a tough childhood and lives paycheck to paycheck until the breakout moment. The money understandably changes everything for her and it’s fun to watch her relish in the freedom that money can buy. But underneath, there’s also a world of hurt that she’s learned to cover up.

She decides to build and run a posh pet hotel in Vail and hires a firm of architects to design it. Gabrielle is the talented architect assigned to the project. Of course, sparks fly and the two are heavily jonesing for one another. There is some angst but again, this one’s a feel good story so no worries. Just keep reading and fantasizing about the what if’s. 4.5 stars.

Read ARC courtesy of Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Serena has had a rough life. She had to practically raise her little sister, Faith, because her mother was busy being an alcoholic. A spur of the moment decision to buy a lottery ticket and her luck changes instantly. As the newest lottery winner in Vail, Colorado, she decides to open a pet hotel for rich vacationers the town attracts.

Gabrielle is an architect on the fast track to making partner. Her life has been filled with family, love, a great friend group, and wealth. She is put up against a peer for the partner position and now she must knock her next project out of the park to ensure she secures the job. Why did that next project have to be a animal daycare of all things?

I really enjoyed this story. There were a lot of fun things and situations happening. Hiking, waterfalls, quaint coffee shops, fancy restaurants, rich estates, backyard bbqs, etc. It was fun to not have the same backdrop for every interaction that happens in so many books that I read. I felt like I wanted to be in Vail, Colorado with them.

I wasn't so sure about Serena and Gabrielle at first. They seemed a little bit too opposite for each other. Gabrielle's reaction toward animals alone seemed like a neon sign flashing 'STOP.' But as the story progressed, I could see the chemistry and the mutual want to grow and compromise in order to pursue things further.

I love the 80% drama, and this delivered. There was a reveal that I wasn't expecting which elevated this book up a notch. It is so fun to get surprised in a story when you are not expecting it. And while I wasn't a big fan of how the conflict resolved so easily, I have to admit that it seemed appropriate for the character.

I recommend this to people who like to read romance, winning the lottery, difficult families, opposites attract, animals, and spin class hookups.

I received an ARC from the publisher for an honest review.

[Corporate Slave · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've always been a big fan of Kris Bryant and with my Covid Reader's Block, I knew she wouldn't fail me!

Serena has had a tough life, that suddenly is about to change with her impulsive decision to buy a lottery ticket, that makes her instantly extremely rich! Gabrielle on the other hand is a workaholic trying to prove herself as a partner in her architect firm, and the project she works on is Serena's dream project..

Kris Bryant really knows how to develop very likable characters, and this book is no different! Serena and Gabrielle are 2 wonderful characters, they have a very strong connection, and 2 very different family dynamics that I really liked. Serena's family is the complete opposite of Gabrielle's. With Bryant, the supporting characters (including pets and their INCREDIBLY SMART NAMES) make a big difference to the overall story, so the dynamics between the parents added a lot to the plot. For bonus points, you also Come across Piper and Shaylie from FALLING :)

This is a book that I recommend reading on the beach, or on a pool because it is so smooth, so entertaining and full of wonderful characters and you will sit there getting all kinds of smiles and warm from inside :)

A very solid 4 Stars!

"I received and ARC for an honest review."

[Luce · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four Stars for this pleasant, easy reading romance by Kris Bryant. The two main characters are Serena Evans and Gabrielle Barnes. Serena has had a difficult life but through it all, she has remained a caring, generous, and kind person. Since she was a teenager, Serena has cared for her younger half-sister, Faith because their Mother was addicted to alcohol and drugs. She lives paycheck to paycheck working at a bookstore, having given up on her dream to be a veterinarian. The day before payday, she used her last four dollars on a hot dog and on a whim, a lottery ticket. The pot is 42 million dollars.

Gabrielle is a workaholic and talented architect who is in line for partnership at her firm. All she has to do is impress her bosses on her next project to beat out another architect, who has the advantage of being male. Not being a pet person (she especially has an aversion to dogs), she is less than thrilled that she has been assigned to design a pet daycare (Pet Posh Inn) for the latest lottery winner – yes, you guessed it – Serena. This is definitely a slow burn romance. Bryant excels as she navigates the two becoming friends and eventually more.

I really liked the supportive group of friends they each have and eventually share. Serena’s BFF, Chloe who would regularly drop off leftovers at Serena’s before her windfall and lending moral support especially when Serena had to deal with her mother. Gabrielle has a larger support group, including her family and her circle of friends. Her BFF is Rosie and also in her circle is Piper and Shaylie, from Bryant’s book, Falling. You get an update on the couple. I haven’t read Falling yet, but I wouldn’t call it a spoiler. If anything, it makes me want to read more about the couple. Piper befriends Serena, who seeks Piper out for advice.

I really enjoyed this romance. As to be expected there are a few bumps in the road for the couple, but have no fear, they do get an HEA. That’s not a spoiler? A spoiler would reveal that they don’t get an HEA.

An advanced reading copy was sent to me by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley for my honest review.

[Gaby LezReviewBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kris Bryant is one of my favourite lesfic authors who has written many beautiful novels, all in first-person point of view. This is her first attempt at writing in third person and, even though this isn’t my favourite book, I think she did a very good job.

Serena Evans got dealt a bad hand in life until she won the lottery, now, with 40 million dollars to spend, she decides to build a pet daycare facility for the rich and famous. Gabrielle Barnes is the architect in charge of the project. Even though she cannot empathise with Serena’s vision, she needs this project to finish smoothly in order to get the coveted partner position. Initially, both women clash around the building concept but eventually, they realise that they might not hate each other after all…

I have to admit that the premise of this novel didn’t appeal to me that much. However, I normally read anything that this author writes and I was curious to see how she managed the point of view change. There’s nothing wrong with either first or third povs and it’s ok if an author prefers to write exclusively in first person but I’m glad that Ms. Bryant chose to write out of her comfort zone and was able to pull this off. I think it will open up the scope of stories that she could tell in the future and her readers are going to be grateful for it.

Ms. Bryant writes great chemistry between her characters and even better sex scenes. Having said that, I wasn’t too invested in the main characters in this novel, nor I found their chemistry intense as in other of Ms. Bryant’s books. Even though I can relate to Gabrielle because, apart from sharing the name, I can identify with one of her issues, that was the extent of my empathy with the characters. I found that they lacked depth compared to other characters in Ms. Bryant’s novels. I get that this is a light read but also was her previous book ‘Temptation’ and the characters were much more complex.

Anyway, if you are a fan of the lesbian enemies to lovers trope and are looking for a light read, this might appeal to you. 4 stars.

ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com

[Les Rêveur · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic and in a time such as now, it was the escape I sorely needed. I only wish I could have hung around in Serena and Gabrielle’s world a little longer.

I’m not sure if it’s actually the case but this book felt longer than others by Kris Bryant and honestly, I was so ready for that. She’s such a phenomenal writer (and one of my favourites) that she could write War and Peace and I’d be excited.

Lucky is written in the third person narrative which is quite the departure from script for Kris Bryant who writes typically in the first person. In my opinion, she’s one of only a few authors who I can read in the first person and thoroughly enjoy. However, the writing in this book was so tight and insightful that I’d almost only want Kris Bryant to write this way in the future. She nailed the emotion, tension and above all else – attraction, and we needed the third person to understand it all. Beautifully done, Ms Bryant!

I’ve never read a first chapter that captures not only my attention, but set the tone so astutely for a novel! You really enter this book feeling Serena’s anguish and struggle due to her financial situation. So when Serena won the lottery, I burst into tears, knowing how deserving she was and ready for the story to make her dreams come true…

I adored Serena, and she was, without a doubt my favourite character. I really felt a part of her more than anyone else throughout the story and shared in her emotions and reactions. She took me on the most significant journey. Whereas I was crushing on Gabrielle pretty hard from the get-go… what is it with me and crushing on fiction characters in books? *queue my wife’s eye roll*

I think it should be left a mystery until you read the book but look out for a character from a previous novel! I squealed so loud when I realised it and then reread their book.

Y’all know how much I love a good epilogue right? Well, let me tell you this book has a fantastic last chapter and epilogue! In fact, I would have forgiven Kris Bryant for not writing an epilogue because the previous chapter was so good. HOWEVER, the epilogue that does come is incredible and so very delicious! Major swooning for Gabrielle afterwards!

Wowser!!! The connection emotionally and sexually between Gabrielle and Serena was intense and so very sexy! There is much sexiness to enjoy in this book… trust me!

Wonderful book that honestly should be at the top of your reading list for June. Go grab yourself a copy now… you can thank me later!!! Enjoy!

[AnnMaree Of Oz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Perfectly fine book. I did enjoy the story, but I did feel a slight spark missing and I don't really know why. Maybe it's just me?

I found I enjoyed the side characters more like Rosie and Anne. It was great to catch up with Shalie and Piper from Bryant's novel 'Falling'.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

There was no way I was going to miss reading Lucky by Kris Bryant. To begin with, I know that any novel written by Ms. Bryant is going to be good. She is a great author after all. The blurb also sounded really interesting, and made me want to read the story. However, nothing can beat the face of that gorgeous dog on the cover of the book. I admit it. I’m a sucker for a cute puppy face.

Lucky is a very well written contemporary romance. The story is told in third person, which is a not the usual POV that the author uses, but she did a great job with this style. The term “lucky” actually stands for a number of elements in the story. The main character, Serena Evans, is lucky because she wins the lottery and is now able to fully fund and run Pet Posh Inn. She has always wanted to work with and around animals, and now she can with her own business. Lucky also applies to her new rescued pet, a sweet dog named LB (Lucky Baxter). Of course Lucky may also apply to Serena’s love life after she meets Gabrielle Barnes, the architect hired to create the building for Pet Posh Inn.

This book has everything you need for a sweet romance. The main characters are beautiful and easy to fall in love with, even with their little quirks and flaws. The settings (Vail and Denver, Colorado) are perfect for the story, and the romance itself is satisfying, with just enough angst to make the book interesting. There is also LB and all the other animals you will meet in the tale. This is the perfect novel to read on a warm, lazy summer day, and I recommend it to all romance lovers.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.

[Ameliah Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serena is a down on her luck woman who had hopes and dreams but since has all but raised her sister and put her through school, putting her dreams on hold. One day quite unlike herself she buys a lotto ticket then forgets about it until she is doing laundry days later only to find it and discover she has won. Suddenly her whole world opens up and she decides on a plan… Gabrielle is an architect who is desperately trying to make partner at her firm. She has been given a pet daycare to design. She can’t understand why someone is willing to sink tons of money into such a thing but who is she to question… When the two of these women meet things get interesting quickly. Will Gabrielle be able to envision Serena’s desires or will everything be left on the drawing board?

This is such a sweet and wonderful story. I really enjoy the way Ms Bryant writes. Her style is more relaxed and easy to read, it’s great if you need to put the novel down for a bit, even if you really, really don’t want to. Spoiler alert, I wasn’t able to put it down!! I loved all the characters in this story! The leads were complex and so different but that works for them. The secondary characters… I wish I had such wonderful friends! I loved how there was such a sense of family in this book. All the friends got along well and they accepted the other set and love interests into the fold naturally and seamlessly. I adored how Serena and Gabrielle had such chemistry from the start but had such turmoil over the project they were working on. The angst in the book was good although I would have liked to see more of Gabrielle overcoming her fears. The romance was so lovely. I got the mushy awwws while watching them get to know each other, the nervous blushes, the eye glances, the tentative hand holding and hugs…Huge happy sighs!! This tale is just another of Ms Bryant’s brilliant stories and not to be missed!

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

How much luck does one need to win the lottery, find the perfect dog and fall in love. Ask Kris Bryant because she has written a lovely romance about finding all three of those things. Serena Evans has had a tough life so far. Her mother wasn't there for her growing up and she was forced to take care of her younger sister. All of her money goes to live. She takes her last bit of money until payday, buys a hot dog and a lottery ticket. A few days later, she is the winner of a 42 million jackpot. She can finally breathe. When she decides to build a posh doggy day care she mets Gabrielle Barnes who will design her project. Gabrielle is focused, driven, attractive and doesn't have time for a relationship because she is a workaholic. The only problem in this whole setup is that Gabrielle is afraid of dogs.

Lucky is sort of a follow up to Falling as the mains from the story are in this one. It was good to see those characters in this story. I have read a few of Bryant's romances and this one is a solid as the others that I have read. The story line is interesting, the mains are likable and have chemistry. Not only that but the story is well told and well written. When it comes to the sex scenes steamy and just the right amount. The angst that some live for is here, but not dragged out. It was appropriate. As I read, I sort of figured out what the angst would involve but I was kept guess and how. I thought Lucky for sure was a solidly written romance.

4.25 stars

This arc was provided by the publisher for an honest review.

[KarenC · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kris Bryant did an incredible job on her first foray into third person. In my opinion, Kris, EJ Noyes, and Harper Bliss are the masters of first person present tense, and I do believe "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". That said, the writing felt just as smooth and natural as if she had been doing it her whole career. And how brave to step outside a comfort zone.

There are so many things I loved about this book. Susan X Meagher has already written a much-beloved lottery story in Almost Heaven, which skews more to how the poor family relations react to the winning. Lucky focuses on Serena's vision to improve her life by opening up a "doggie daycare for the rich and famous", and she worries about every little detail being perfect.

Serena and Gabrielle both come to the story with plenty of baggage. They meet when Gabrielle is assigned as the architect on The Pet Posh Inn. A childhood incident leaves her with a fear of dogs that almost hinders her ability to properly design the space. Serena grew up with an absent mother and felt charged with raising her ten-years-younger sister, sacrificing her own education and personal goals.

Each main character has her own amazing set of friends, a hallmark of a Kris Bryant book, that completely shine without detracting from Serena and Gabrielle. Fans of last year's Falling will appreciate Piper's reprisal in Lucky.

The relationship building is slow and deliberate, making the eventual payoff worth the wait. And yes, we readers are rewarded with the emotionally-charged, super hot sex we've come to expect in every Kris Bryant story. The angst comes in later than expected, but is completely believable based on earlier events in the story and not from manufactured miscommunication. The final chapter and epilogue are perfectly satisfying and may even bring a tear.

My least favorite part of a Kris Bryant book? Waiting till the next one is released.

[MJSam · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoy Kris Bryant‘s books, and I was looking forward to this because it she first attempt at third person. I liked it, but there were parts that didn’t gel for me, so it’s not on my favourites list.

This features MC Serena, a down on her luck, ‘I have childhood issues’ woman who strikes it lucky by winning the lottery. This allows her to build her life’s dream of a pet daycare/kennel business in Vail. Enter Gabrielle, an architect who is trying to make partner.

Gabrielle doesn’t like dogs (or any pets really) for reasons that are revealed later, this is a bit of a stumbling block when designing a space for animals. She and Serena hit it off anyway, and get to designing the space. The two spend a lot of time together by virtue of the long design/build process, so this is a slow burn romance.

We’re also introduced to a fairly large cast of supporting characters, I loved both Serena’s BFFs, Chloe and Jackie and Gabrielle’s BFF Rosie. Fans of Falling will be pleased to see Piper and Shalie as well, Piper features quite a bit and we get to see where they’re at, which is nice.

Gabrielle has a large group of friends that instantly adopt Serena, and I enjoyed watching her interact with them, especially Piper. I did think a little too much time was spent on Serena’s ‘mommy issues’ considering the storyline essential goes nowhere.

I liked how the romance unfolded and watching the two grow as a result, both together and individually. But there’s an event that happens shortly after they start dating that almost had me putting the book down, it featured something I hate, and it made me uncomfortable. It then becomes a pivotal point at the end, and that’s where the book sort of derailed for me. 1) because I agreed with Serena, and 2) because the time jumps that followed seems a little long and unrealistic given the project they were working on. The resolution also seemed a little too quick and pat.

Overall, I thought this was an ok read, but Jolt and Listenare still my favourites. 3 stars.

[Vee Stone · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really sad when I finished this one...I definitely wanted more...

It took me a bit to settle into the story at first. I’ve been reading a lot of 1st person pov lately and at one moment I had to go back and figure out who’s point of view I was seeing. Not a bad thing but that usually doesn’t happen to me. Maybe I had an off day...anyways...there were a lot of extra characters that were friends with Gabrielle and Serena which was definitely confusing for me to keep track of.

As for the story...I enjoyed it. What I look for in a story is romance, love and growth. There was a lot of personal growth with both main characters and the love between them blossomed at a slow rate that was very enjoyable to watch.

This one will be added to my reread list and I’m looking forward to reading more from Kris Bryant!

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable read with some (low) angst between 2 femme MCs

High 3s ⭐️

[Heinerway · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this story very bland. I missed a little punch, a little umph, a few more edges. The main characters were wonderful. Their friends were wonderful. Their families were wonderful. Well, with the exception of Serena's mother, that we were told (not shown) that was an ex-alcoholic selfish bitch. Even the dogs were wonderful!!!
Anyway, the book was very well written, as usual. Kris Bryant is a great writer. She's one of my favorite authors.

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Serena Evans, in a thirty-year old, who works in bookstore and just scrapes by each month. She has been helping pay for her sister, Faith, to attend culinary school. Their mother has been unreliable throughout the years due to alcoholism and relationship issues. One day on a lunch break from the bookstore, Serena buys a hot dog and a lottery ticket at the local convenience store with her last four dollars. She miraculously wins the Colorado state lottery for $42 million dollars (half that for lump sum) She considers for a while want to do with her lottery winnings and how to spend her time after she quits her job at the bookstore. She rescues a sweet dog, L.B. (Lucky Baxter) from the pound. Then Serena decides to build a exclusive pet daycare center in Vail, where she lives. A lot of rich people vacation in Vail who would like to bring their pets along. The pets could be pampered while their owners are out on the slopes or hiking. Serena decides this would be a lucrative business and she loves animals. She hires an architectural firm to help her get started on her dream.

Gabrielle is the lead architect assigned to the project. She is vying for a partner position at Arnest & Max Architecture. She has been told that her next project, Pet Posh Inn, will be the deciding factor if she is to become a partner or not. Gabrielle doesn't reveal to her firm or to Serena that she is afraid of dogs due to an incident that happened in childhood.

The story details how their attraction builds during the design phase of the project. I liked both characters in this story as well as the secondary characters. Piper and Shaylie from "Falling" are a part of the story as a couple of Gabrielle's friends in Denver.

Positives about the book include character chemistry, the dogs, the setting in Colorado, and the slow-burn evolution to love. 4 stars.

I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[hubsie · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's always a nice surprise to see some lesfic in my local library so I grabbed this one when it popped up, even though historically I haven't been the largest fan of this author. Though I do remember quite liking "Listen," sadly successive others have fell flat for me. This was no exception.

I just felt it was overall kind of "meh." The plot didn't grab me, and not just because I'm not much of a dog person. I didn't fully feel the spark between the two MCs, and was reduced to many eye rolls with the scenes including the large lesbian-only friend base (I shalt never understandeth why authors do that). Some of these secondary characters were so intrusive that I wanted to shake them, and their perfect lives with perfect children and perfect advice had me skimming through their dialogue. Though the poor relationship between Serena and her alcoholic mother is referred to many times, details and involvement in this story was left out, and I felt this was a missed opportunity in Serena's character development. If her mother was more involved and we could have had more memories or snippets of what happened, that relationship, as well as the one with her sister Faith whom she basically raised, would have added so much depth to the story. It appears that Serena makes a helluva lot of assumptions about how her mother will react to her lottery win, due to her history with substance use, but we readers aren't given the opportunity to see any possible growth or forgiveness in that relationship. Bummer.

Angst factor was basically non-existent, no drama, some ok sex.
Sorry to be a negative poophead but this one just didn't do it for me. 2.5/5.

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another stellar Kris Bryant book. Kris knows how to deliver. Her books always hook me with in the first few chapters and then I can’t put it down until I’ve read the whole thing.
She has a way of making you fall in love with not only her MCs, but their friends and families as well. Her characters also often deal with relatable flaws, obstacles, and/or weaknesses. She has the ability to creates believable and intense chemistry between her characters. Her intimacy scenes are always hot and steamy. I’d doesn’t matter if is something quick between new acquaintances or that first time with someone special. It’s all delicious.
This is the authors first time writing in third person and I say it was a smashing success. It’s safe to say, no matter how she writes them, first or third, it’s going to be a win for me.
Also, if you’ve read Falling, here is your chance for some more Shaylie and Piper. I’m very tempted to go and give it another read next.


*SPOILERS BELOW*
I found Serena absolutely adorable. I love her character growth throughout the book. Winning the lottery definitely changed her for the better. She didn’t become loud and obnoxious with her new found wealth, but rather she became more self confident and was able to better acknowledge her own self worth. She made wise and practical choices on what to do with her money and how she would share with her family. I loved her dream of the Pet Posh Inn. I would totally work there. I hated watching her insecurities pop up but rooted for her to over come them.
Gabrielle is hottie. I couldn’t get enough of her competitive nature, confidence, and her dynamite bod. She also grows in the book. Two of my favorites, was the realization that Serena and her friends meant more to her then the job she’s always put first, and her taking the steps and overcoming her fear of dogs.
I think the two of them are perfect together and I love their friends/family/support system. I want to be friends with them all.
Shout out to all the awesome animals in the book. The awesome pups L.B., Muppet, and Dozer or cat Kittypurrs!
P.S. I really enjoyed the Dani character in this book. *wink wink* I wouldn’t mind reading her story. 🤓

[Aleana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.

Serena loves all animals but didn’t have best life growing up she basically had to be a parent to her sister Faith who a senior in high school because her mother is a alcoholic. She works at a bookstore when on spur of the moment bought a lottery ticket and won she finally able to open up a Posh Pet Inn that she always wanted.

Gabrielle enjoys working for ten years at Denver architect firm now she running to become partner there and to prove she right for it more then her colleague they have six months to prove it but when assigned to Pet Posh Inn she have to overcome her fears of dogs because a accident happen when she was young.

This was a delightful read the secondary characters were great how they were supporting. It was so cool to see Shaylie and Piper from Falling make a appearance.

[Aamina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ms. Bryant is undoubtedly very talented in how she brings about the chemistry between the MCs. Sadly that's about the only thing I enjoyed in this book. For me, the setting was absolutely perfect. When I read the blurb months back I was itching to get my hands on this book but the story fell short. Yes the protags were very very into each other.. and they were great MCs! Really fleshed out characters. They journey to their happy ending though ..🤦🏽‍♀️
Minor things that didn't add up came up frequently making me equally frustrated and cringey. Those minor stuff plus the nonsense that was the fallout and how it could've been better dealt with was the final nail.

I did love all the supporting characters though. Except for the greedy mom that is. Though fleshing out that drama would have worked better instead. And the furry guys were an absolute delight.

[Isha · Rating 2 out of 5]

In my opinion, one of the MCs loved her dog more than her lover which left a sour taste in my mouth and also successfully contributed to a one-sided love story. Hell NO! 😖
But the audiobook narrator was fantastic and I was able to get through it because of her.

[Elaine Mulligan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not exaggerating, by chapter 21 I had loved every moment of this book. Every character, every plot line. Wow the author touched all my buttons. Terrific dialogue, secondary characters were so three dimensional I want them to have their own book, in fact some of them do (Piper and Shay from the novel Falling)! Gabrielle with her mom, Serena with her sister and mom, Gabrielle's best friends, Serena's best friends. The author even touched my trigger: male domination of the work place grrrrrr. Everything was very realistic.

[Nope Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not today, Satan

[Best Lesfic Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a straightforward, unpretentious, heartwarming romance.

Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...

[Kristy Drexel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to admit it was definitely different reading a 3rd person book coming from an author that is top notch when it comes to first person, now i may be biased because she is one of my fav and i will always read anything she puts out. But I am always honest when it comes to my reviews because words don't come to me very easily and it takes me time to get them down.
 
Now to the good stuff Kris Bryant is one of the best when it comes to Romance books because she writes from the heart and it comes out in the pages of her books. This book was no different.She helped me slip into the pages of this book with ease. This was a slow burn romance that ticked  all the boxes for me. And I totally get excited when authors slip in characters from their past books and we get to see what is going on with them. i don't want to give it away but if you're reading or have read this one your gonna be as excited as i was.
 
 When Serena wins the lottery she is overwhelmed with the possibilities she has before her, Right who wouldn't want to be her.... When she decides to build The Pet Posh Inn she meets Gabrielle who is the architect that will be designing Serena's dream. As the two get to know each other by spending more and more time together their relationship starts to bloom into what we all look forward to when we read a Bryant book the HEA. Even though it took time for them to get there I feel that it was genuine because it wasn't rushed, As I  like to say it had time to marinate. I believe that Kris Bryant fans will be as happy with this book as I was, the only downfall is we have to wait for her to put out the next one.....

[Meghan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. Being the first time writing in 3rd person was phenomenal. I loved that Serena was down to earth and humble even after winning the lottery. Gabrielle being a workaholic and having fleeting one night stands meant it was interesting to see how she reacted to meeting Serena and her crazy idea. They were both flawed, but true love won in the end. I couldn't put this book down. I've read all this authors books and this is def one of my favs.