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The Worth #3
A Última Conquista
Book Three in the Worth contemporary romance series.
Alison is way too smart to be this dumb about a guy.
Alison Jukuri is the smart one. But it hasn't seemed to help her much in her relationships with men. And now she's on the verge of making one, big stupid move.
Again.
Petey Ryan has spent his life hitting and being hit as a defenseman in the NHL. But now he's about to go up against his biggest foe of all ... tiny Alison Jukuri.
A woman with whom he shares a long-held secret.
The third book in a contemporary romance series which takes place in Michigan's Copper Country.
Alison is way too smart to be this dumb about a guy.
Alison Jukuri is the smart one. But it hasn't seemed to help her much in her relationships with men. And now she's on the verge of making one, big stupid move.
Again.
Petey Ryan has spent his life hitting and being hit as a defenseman in the NHL. But now he's about to go up against his biggest foe of all ... tiny Alison Jukuri.
A woman with whom he shares a long-held secret.
The third book in a contemporary romance series which takes place in Michigan's Copper Country.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 21, 2012
94 people are currently reading
755 people want to read
About the author
Mara Jacobs
29 books375 followersMara Jacobs is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Worth series.
After graduating from Michigan State University with a degree in advertising, Mara spent several years working at daily newspapers in advertising sales and production. This certainly prepared her for the world of deadlines!
She writes mysteries with romance, thrillers with romance, and romances with…well, you get it.
Forever a Yooper (someone who hails from Michigan's glorious Upper Peninsula), Mara now splits her time between the U.P. and Las Vegas.
You can find out more about Mara’s books at
www.marajacobs.com
Mara loves to hear from readers. Contact her at mara@marajacobs.com
After graduating from Michigan State University with a degree in advertising, Mara spent several years working at daily newspapers in advertising sales and production. This certainly prepared her for the world of deadlines!
She writes mysteries with romance, thrillers with romance, and romances with…well, you get it.
Forever a Yooper (someone who hails from Michigan's glorious Upper Peninsula), Mara now splits her time between the U.P. and Las Vegas.
You can find out more about Mara’s books at
www.marajacobs.com
Mara loves to hear from readers. Contact her at mara@marajacobs.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
January 7, 2020
I wanted to finish this series because I loved the first two books a few years ago. I am glad I picked it back up but this wasn’t my favorite. I found the characters to be a little meh for me.
I like that it was a second chance kind of love but that really is where it ends for me.
The narration was just ok, I don’t know it was all very ok.
I like that it was a second chance kind of love but that really is where it ends for me.
The narration was just ok, I don’t know it was all very ok.
September 16, 2013
I really like the story of Allison and Petey. Two people who have a history I didn't see coming in the story line find the love for each other again 18 years later.
This wasn't a cheezy run in either- they're friends, so it just seems natural that after Petey has an accident that he needs a quiet place to recover it's to stay with a friend. Who better than sassy Allison.
I liked reading about her struggle with her decisions made 18 years ago, it helped explain why she was so hard and calloused towards everyone- especially Petey.
Now I'm anxious to read "Worth the Effort", once I start a series its a little hard to stop :)
This wasn't a cheezy run in either- they're friends, so it just seems natural that after Petey has an accident that he needs a quiet place to recover it's to stay with a friend. Who better than sassy Allison.
I liked reading about her struggle with her decisions made 18 years ago, it helped explain why she was so hard and calloused towards everyone- especially Petey.
Now I'm anxious to read "Worth the Effort", once I start a series its a little hard to stop :)
January 21, 2013
This was the hottest book in the series, cos Petey was the hottest dude lf the series. He was huge and hunky and hot for Allison. Loved how their old story got entwined with the current one, liked how she tried to analyze herself and come out losing, too funny. The interactions with the parents, with the sisters, it was a great final book of the series
April 30, 2014
This one gets 4 stars because it was PETEY'S BOOK! I have loved him from the first time he wandered into Book 1 of the series and I SO wanted him to have his HEA. I felt like the ending was a little bit rushed, but still .. PETEY!!
May 17, 2018
Love, love Petey, but wanted to shake Allison often. Still enjoyed the book. Happy reading 📖!
September 2, 2019
A pleasant explore of familiar characters. Well written and easy to follow. I enjoyed a bunch of the minor characters as well. a good light read
November 20, 2013
Worth the Fall, the third book in The Worth series, was just as good as book one. I had already wanted to read Petey's story, but after starting the story really surprised me. I'm sorry to say I can only give a rough summary or risk giving away key information for the plot. I feel it will be better read knowing only the bare bones.
Summary:
Alison Jakuri was always known as "the smart one" to those in her small town. It grated on her because, yes, she was book smart and definitely earned her Mensa membership, but none of that has helped in her personal relationships with men. Every relationship has been a bit boring if she had to tell the truth. The men she chooses to date and take to her bed are perfect for her, on paper, but not so much after only a few months and really never in bed. Now that her two best friends, Lizzie and Katie, have found their men and are starting families, she's thought about it much more. Her parents, being older when she was conceived, are beginning to do more and more poorly in the health department and it's put a ticking clock on her life. Being so smart isn't helping with that emotional roller coaster, either, nor is it stopping her from thinking about making an even bigger stupid move, for the second time. Petey Ryan has spend the last eighteen years being hit hard as an enforcer for the Red Wings. He can take a hit and be all the more motivated and stronger for it, until he comes up against the tiny whirlwind that is Alison. But him and Alison share a long-held, painful secret that initiated their friendship with a healthy dose of hurled insults. Deep down, both Petey's and Alison still feel that unbelievable passion and longing for each other. Petey has tried for an opening over the years, but Alison is always quick to shut it down, whether due to their history or the feelings she's carried since then, she doesn't know. The day of Katie's wedding will change a lot between them. Petey will be home for good soon and he wants a real chance with Alison, but will Alison be able to let Petey behind the walls she's built to keep herself safe? When Petey is hurt in an accident, Alison is tasked to take him in due to mobility restrictions; the very last thing she wants if only because of the increased temptation. But being laid up in no way stops Petey from setting his plan in motion and getting as close to Alison as he can. It also brings up difficult feelings from the past that only intensify as time goes on. It will take a lot of trust and communication, as well as a coming to terms with perceived mistakes to see this couple making a future together.
I really liked Alison in books one and two, but honestly wasn't sure I was going to be able to read her in her own. I love a snarky, confident heroine anytime, but sometimes Alison could take it too far. I didn't like that she thought she was better than Petey because of her elevated IQ or because he chose to play sports for a living, and that's the way she spoke sometimes. In the end, I understood where her mind was at, the struggle she had, and was able to sympathize, but the connection wasn't as strong as I would have liked. Petey, by far, is my most favorite character in the books. I loved him in books one and two, and he only got better with his story. To be so solid at a young age when he went through so much is a lot more than others can say. He was sweet, thoughtful, hot, and really looked out for all the girls. I was so heartbroken for him over his career decisions and how that must make him feel, and yet he carried on as if the life he knew wasn't ending. Miscommunication was a major part of this romance, so it was fun reading how our characters dug down internally to self-analyze then finally talked it out together. Supporting cast was just as awesome, as usual, and I had no complaints. I do sort of wish we had a bit more future detail for Petey and Alison in the epilogue, but it was still satisfactory. Hope the fourth book is just as great! <3
Summary:
Alison Jakuri was always known as "the smart one" to those in her small town. It grated on her because, yes, she was book smart and definitely earned her Mensa membership, but none of that has helped in her personal relationships with men. Every relationship has been a bit boring if she had to tell the truth. The men she chooses to date and take to her bed are perfect for her, on paper, but not so much after only a few months and really never in bed. Now that her two best friends, Lizzie and Katie, have found their men and are starting families, she's thought about it much more. Her parents, being older when she was conceived, are beginning to do more and more poorly in the health department and it's put a ticking clock on her life. Being so smart isn't helping with that emotional roller coaster, either, nor is it stopping her from thinking about making an even bigger stupid move, for the second time. Petey Ryan has spend the last eighteen years being hit hard as an enforcer for the Red Wings. He can take a hit and be all the more motivated and stronger for it, until he comes up against the tiny whirlwind that is Alison. But him and Alison share a long-held, painful secret that initiated their friendship with a healthy dose of hurled insults. Deep down, both Petey's and Alison still feel that unbelievable passion and longing for each other. Petey has tried for an opening over the years, but Alison is always quick to shut it down, whether due to their history or the feelings she's carried since then, she doesn't know. The day of Katie's wedding will change a lot between them. Petey will be home for good soon and he wants a real chance with Alison, but will Alison be able to let Petey behind the walls she's built to keep herself safe? When Petey is hurt in an accident, Alison is tasked to take him in due to mobility restrictions; the very last thing she wants if only because of the increased temptation. But being laid up in no way stops Petey from setting his plan in motion and getting as close to Alison as he can. It also brings up difficult feelings from the past that only intensify as time goes on. It will take a lot of trust and communication, as well as a coming to terms with perceived mistakes to see this couple making a future together.
I really liked Alison in books one and two, but honestly wasn't sure I was going to be able to read her in her own. I love a snarky, confident heroine anytime, but sometimes Alison could take it too far. I didn't like that she thought she was better than Petey because of her elevated IQ or because he chose to play sports for a living, and that's the way she spoke sometimes. In the end, I understood where her mind was at, the struggle she had, and was able to sympathize, but the connection wasn't as strong as I would have liked. Petey, by far, is my most favorite character in the books. I loved him in books one and two, and he only got better with his story. To be so solid at a young age when he went through so much is a lot more than others can say. He was sweet, thoughtful, hot, and really looked out for all the girls. I was so heartbroken for him over his career decisions and how that must make him feel, and yet he carried on as if the life he knew wasn't ending. Miscommunication was a major part of this romance, so it was fun reading how our characters dug down internally to self-analyze then finally talked it out together. Supporting cast was just as awesome, as usual, and I had no complaints. I do sort of wish we had a bit more future detail for Petey and Alison in the epilogue, but it was still satisfactory. Hope the fourth book is just as great! <3
January 26, 2014
Mara Jacob's writing is getting better and better as I read further into this series. That is so good to see. I have read other authors that I gave a second and third chance only to have to finally stop because, although I enjoyed the storylines, the writing was painful. It's wonderful to see an author grow.
***Spoilers***
I liked the way the relationship between Petey and his father was shown. I know so many people who had dads like that, and now that I have teenagers myself I see a lot of parents like that. It was realistic, but every time I thought I would hate Petey's dad Ms. Jacobs redeemed him. I liked that she did that.
What was a bit of a disappointment was the way the pregnancy was handled. It's not that I can blame the author; every tv show, movie and book seems to deal with unwanted pregnancy in the same way. It's a shame. Just once I'd like to see that scenario go in another direction for the realism and so other women know they are not alone.
The feelings Alison had were very realistic though, so that part was dealt with very nicely.
I'm looking forward to reading more of this series and will be reading other books by this author.
***Spoilers***
I liked the way the relationship between Petey and his father was shown. I know so many people who had dads like that, and now that I have teenagers myself I see a lot of parents like that. It was realistic, but every time I thought I would hate Petey's dad Ms. Jacobs redeemed him. I liked that she did that.
What was a bit of a disappointment was the way the pregnancy was handled. It's not that I can blame the author; every tv show, movie and book seems to deal with unwanted pregnancy in the same way. It's a shame. Just once I'd like to see that scenario go in another direction for the realism and so other women know they are not alone.
The feelings Alison had were very realistic though, so that part was dealt with very nicely.
I'm looking forward to reading more of this series and will be reading other books by this author.
March 20, 2013
I love Al's character. Was very sad to hear about her and Pete's past and that they never told anyone!! Wow that much baggage for so many years!!! The book was fine it felt a little rushed at the end and didn't seem to be the total happy ending like the other girls got but hey it happens. I enjoyed this one better than Katie and Dario's story of repeating their thoughts but not actually talking to each other or voicing them. Super glad that I read this series. Not sure if I want to continue though. The excerpt at the end I just didn't get at all and don't remember if that person was ever really mentioned. Overall nice read.
July 18, 2013
This is the 3rd in the "Worth" series. This one might have been my favorite of the three. The author seemed to be a beginner writer on the first book in the trilogy but seemed to hit a stride by the 3rd book. I thought she could have expanded a little bit on the story line and the history between the 2 main characters, but the story wrapped up the series well. Easy Breezy summer read that I recommend.
January 31, 2013
Loved this book - read it in one day as really wanted to know what happened. You really felt for both of them as it gave a history of their relationship - looking forward to book 4
September 20, 2015
Nice and sweet story
March 10, 2018
This is the next book in the The Worth series by Mara Jacobs. I like all of the characters in the book and can't wait to read the next book and see which of the characters it will be about. They are fast and east contemporary romances.
March 4, 2019
Definitely worth it
I believe this one is the best of the three. The first and second books are a must read, to really appreciate this one. Great, “real-life” story line, keeps you interested to the very end.
I believe this one is the best of the three. The first and second books are a must read, to really appreciate this one. Great, “real-life” story line, keeps you interested to the very end.
July 22, 2019
Second chance romance.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
No cheating.
Secondary characters for future books in series and updates of previous characters in series.
HEA.
Abrupt end, I think they will appear in another couples book.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
No cheating.
Secondary characters for future books in series and updates of previous characters in series.
HEA.
Abrupt end, I think they will appear in another couples book.
August 1, 2019
Alison Jukuri was the smart one. Petey Ryan was the dumb jock hockey player who made the big time playing for the Red Wings. They had a history going back 18 years that they never addressed or resolved until Petey's hockey career is over.
November 14, 2022
So glad to finally get to Alison and Petey. We’ve followed their separate sagas for two books now without knowing their combined history. Pealing back the layers and getting to know this unlikely pairing was entertaining and delicious. Catching up with some old friends along the way … priceless.
quit-reading
October 30, 2024I got 14 chapters in and realized, I don't like anyone in the book. I don't really care what happens to them, and I wasn't interested in reading dozens upon dozens of pages of them having sex. just wasn't doing ANYTHING for me.
October 27, 2017
Too short, much shorter than the 2 first books in the series.
May 19, 2018
Another GREAT Story
I enjoyed this story from Mara Jacobs. Ready for the next one!! So far, so good with the fourth book in the series.
I enjoyed this story from Mara Jacobs. Ready for the next one!! So far, so good with the fourth book in the series.
August 22, 2019
I read this years ago in the box set of books 1-3
I remember enjoying it but that's all I remember
I remember enjoying it but that's all I remember
July 19, 2020
Adorable contemporary romance!
September 27, 2020
Really good read, I am enjoying the series.
October 12, 2021
Another beautiful story with compelling characters and a thoughtful as well as engaging premise. A second chance romance. More steamy than the previous two, I think.
July 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Enjoyable and worth picking up!
January 25, 2013
Allison Jukuri is the "smart one".
She has a successful career but lately she has been overwhelmed with her family. Both parents have dementia, and taking care of both is taking its toll on her.
Her romantic relationships have never been satisfying except her first one.
Petey Ryan is a famous NHL player. He has been close to the three girls for years. But Lizzie and Katie don't know much about his relationship with Allison. Now, that Petey has decided to retire and is hurt, spending time with Allison may be what the doctor ordered.
Miscommunication has been the reason for so much pain and desolation for so long. But, once they start opening up to each other a future together can be accomplished.
I love that we can see the other characters coming back. We see how their relationships are blooming. Some funny parts too, like when Dario has to help Petey in the shower.
Of the first three this is the one with more serious undertone.
I want to read the fourth book now.
4/5 Fangs
cross posted at my blog http://mrsleifs.blogspot.com
She has a successful career but lately she has been overwhelmed with her family. Both parents have dementia, and taking care of both is taking its toll on her.
Her romantic relationships have never been satisfying except her first one.
Petey Ryan is a famous NHL player. He has been close to the three girls for years. But Lizzie and Katie don't know much about his relationship with Allison. Now, that Petey has decided to retire and is hurt, spending time with Allison may be what the doctor ordered.
Miscommunication has been the reason for so much pain and desolation for so long. But, once they start opening up to each other a future together can be accomplished.
I love that we can see the other characters coming back. We see how their relationships are blooming. Some funny parts too, like when Dario has to help Petey in the shower.
Of the first three this is the one with more serious undertone.
I want to read the fourth book now.
4/5 Fangs
cross posted at my blog http://mrsleifs.blogspot.com
July 8, 2014
The third in the Worth series deals with Alison and Petey, two characters from the previous two books who had an acrimonious relationship, friends but with barbs and fighting. Through this story we explore their history and find out they have been in love for 18 years but due to shared tragedy and miscommunication they have instead spent those years fighting each other. Of course like others in the Worth series Mara Jacobs has built a story with may layers and although 18 years seems wasted, both characters have grown and through this story we see its actually perfect timing. I also really enjoyed a story with the 2 leads in their late 30s, haven't been married with no kids as so many stories in this age bracket are not about those that have not followed the marriage and kids route.
January 21, 2016
Worth the Fall is #3 in a series I started a few years ago. I had gotten the first story for free, Worth the Weight, and enjoyed it. Luckily, the first trilogy in the series was on sale and I quickly snagged it thanks to a handy gift card from Christmas. Since the main characters in this book were high-spirited, foul-mouthed and funny, I was really surprised at how deep this author delved in this story. Although these characters are middle-class Mid-Westerners, the issues they have are relatable to everyone. I don't want to give it away but the story I got was definitely not the one I expected. And that's a good thing. If you want a cosy, sexy read on an off day, this is it.
November 25, 2016
I like Alison and Petey's story the best so far. Keep getting glimpses into what happened between them when they were just teenagers. When it finally comes out what happened, I wasn't expecting it to go quite the way that it did. During the present, Alison is constantly at odds with Petey because of what happened in the past. He keeps trying to show her that he has always cared for her but she just kept shutting him down. When she finally discovers how he really feels about her, she realizes what her feelings towards him have always been. I wish the ending could have been better because their story just seems to end
Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews