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Bunco: A Comedy About The Drama Of Friendship
We all have “those” friends. Maybe you’ve known them since childhood, or met in college, or while waiting for a child’s practice to end. Maybe you found yourself living on the same street. There’s no single path to friendship. Relationships don’t follow a script and neither do the lives of smart, funny, complicated suburban women.
Jill, Anne, Mary, and Rachel met years ago through a neighborhood group that regularly got together to play a dice game called bunco. Although players have come and gone, they continue to use bunco as an excuse to abandon their day-to-day responsibilities and enjoy food, drinks, and the company of their best friends.
When new neighbors move in under the cover of night, the foursome sees an opportunity to expand their bunco circle. But within hours, suspicions run rampant as the odd behaviors of the newest residents are interpreted differently. Are they quirky, or kinky? Diabolical, or misunderstood? Time after time, as the truth sheds light on some secrets, more emerge. Each woman finds herself shocked by the friends she thought she knew.
Through the friendly banter, intimate confessions, and tongue-twisting insults, you may see yourself or your friends in these characters. Wipe away tears of laughter and loss as you join the four metaphorical rounds of bunco, and feel part of the conversation. Whether engaging in playful exploits, providing unconditional support, making uncomfortable sacrifices, or winding up in handcuffs again, these ladies are those rarest of friends who become true family. Of course, families don’t follow a script either, unless it is a plot-twisting, slightly off-color comedy about the drama of friendship. And bunco, sort of.
Jill, Anne, Mary, and Rachel met years ago through a neighborhood group that regularly got together to play a dice game called bunco. Although players have come and gone, they continue to use bunco as an excuse to abandon their day-to-day responsibilities and enjoy food, drinks, and the company of their best friends.
When new neighbors move in under the cover of night, the foursome sees an opportunity to expand their bunco circle. But within hours, suspicions run rampant as the odd behaviors of the newest residents are interpreted differently. Are they quirky, or kinky? Diabolical, or misunderstood? Time after time, as the truth sheds light on some secrets, more emerge. Each woman finds herself shocked by the friends she thought she knew.
Through the friendly banter, intimate confessions, and tongue-twisting insults, you may see yourself or your friends in these characters. Wipe away tears of laughter and loss as you join the four metaphorical rounds of bunco, and feel part of the conversation. Whether engaging in playful exploits, providing unconditional support, making uncomfortable sacrifices, or winding up in handcuffs again, these ladies are those rarest of friends who become true family. Of course, families don’t follow a script either, unless it is a plot-twisting, slightly off-color comedy about the drama of friendship. And bunco, sort of.
618 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 15, 2020
243 people are currently reading
556 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
September 29, 2020
I was approached and asked if I would be interested in reading the digital copy of this book and giving my honest opinion. I know absolutely nothing about Bunco but I said sure...she said it was a comedy so why not? How bad could it be? When it came in the mail...I'm not gonna lie, I was shocked by two things...one, how ginormous it was and two, that it was written like a screenplay. I honestly was so not into either of those things and wondered if I could do it justice. But I eventually started it and I have to tell you, I laughed out loud on page 8. Not only is that some sort of record, I think, but I never STOPPED laughing. This was the funniest book I have ever read and I hope it either keeps going as a series or that it is made into a tv show. Well, on HBO or something. :) I feel like these women are part of a modern day Golden Girls before they were Golden...and if they cussed a lot. I mean, A LOT. I can cuss like a sailor but Rachel could teach me a thing or two...I love love LOVED this book.
July 4, 2024
This is another book club pick. It's a screenplay - not a novel. It was funny at times and had an interesting plot. However, with a screenplay, you don't get the same reading experience. It's all dialogue and stage direction. With screenplays, the actors bring the story to life. They show the emotions and characterizations on screen. In a novel, the author has to layer all that in, creating complex emotional characters. Reading a screenplay lacks all that good stuff. I'm guessing the author tried to sell this screenplay and couldn't, so she decided to publish it as is instead of converting it to a novel (which would have been a ton of work).
October 11, 2020
A story about four suburban women on the same cul de sac who get together regularly to play Bunco; but they haven’t actually played in years and mainly just eat, drink, and talk. Like book clubs! Rachel is by far the most outrageous but she’s got a heart of gold deep, deep, deep down. Jill is the super sweet, former Miss Carolina stepford wife. Anne and Mary are just normal suburban moms. They all have their own issues and also find themselves in bizarre and often hysterical situations. The four of them are great friends despite many fights. The situations they endure together are sometimes heart-breaking and sometimes hilarious.
When I agreed to read this book in exchange for a review, I has no idea it was written like a screen play. I groaned inwardly and regretted accepting. Now that I’ve read it I can only say thank you to the publisher!! It does take a minute to get accustomed to this style but once Rachel had me laughing out loud, I was hooked. This book is funny!! That said, if you are sensitive to coarse language, it might not be for you. But if you like Bridesmaids or Fleabag then check this out.
When I agreed to read this book in exchange for a review, I has no idea it was written like a screen play. I groaned inwardly and regretted accepting. Now that I’ve read it I can only say thank you to the publisher!! It does take a minute to get accustomed to this style but once Rachel had me laughing out loud, I was hooked. This book is funny!! That said, if you are sensitive to coarse language, it might not be for you. But if you like Bridesmaids or Fleabag then check this out.
November 8, 2020
This book was funny. And I don’t mean ladylike giggle behind the hand – I mean full belly laugh and snorting tea. There were so many great lines that I wish I had said! I was in a serious bunco group for years (meaning we actually played the game) but I kinda wish I had been in one more like this one. This was an open and honest approach to the lives of the characters.
If you are offended easily and can only handle items that are 100% politically correct, then I would skip this book. However if you are a friend of mine – you’re going to love the off-color humor and irreverent comments. Snarky at a professional level!
A lot has been made about the format being more screenplay but I enjoyed that. It led to a quick delivery and the characters’ personalities. I was sorry to see the last page.
If you are offended easily and can only handle items that are 100% politically correct, then I would skip this book. However if you are a friend of mine – you’re going to love the off-color humor and irreverent comments. Snarky at a professional level!
A lot has been made about the format being more screenplay but I enjoyed that. It led to a quick delivery and the characters’ personalities. I was sorry to see the last page.
November 28, 2020
Thanks to the author and publisher for this ARC!
From the first page to the last, Bunco had me teary-eyed with hysterical laughter. I’ve never played Bunco, and I’m not familiar with the game, but you don’t have to be to enjoy this book. Jill, Anne, Mary, and Rachel are four best friends who regularly go through their ups and downs but still remain close friends. They have uniquely entertaining personalities, which harmonise really well and help the dialogue flow.
The book is written in the form of a screenplay, which takes a couple of chapters to get used to, but doesn’t take away from the reading experience. It reminds me a Desperate Housewives mixed with Golden Girls, plenty of mess, plenty of drama, and plenty of humour. As a result, the pace is fast and easy to get lost in.
While friendship is the highlight, the wild and uproarious scandals the women get themselves into is what makes the book fun to read. Tied up with heartfelt loyalty between friends, Bunco is a fun and easy read to brighten your week.
For more book reviews and posts, check out my blog or follow along on Instagram 📚✨
From the first page to the last, Bunco had me teary-eyed with hysterical laughter. I’ve never played Bunco, and I’m not familiar with the game, but you don’t have to be to enjoy this book. Jill, Anne, Mary, and Rachel are four best friends who regularly go through their ups and downs but still remain close friends. They have uniquely entertaining personalities, which harmonise really well and help the dialogue flow.
The book is written in the form of a screenplay, which takes a couple of chapters to get used to, but doesn’t take away from the reading experience. It reminds me a Desperate Housewives mixed with Golden Girls, plenty of mess, plenty of drama, and plenty of humour. As a result, the pace is fast and easy to get lost in.
While friendship is the highlight, the wild and uproarious scandals the women get themselves into is what makes the book fun to read. Tied up with heartfelt loyalty between friends, Bunco is a fun and easy read to brighten your week.
For more book reviews and posts, check out my blog or follow along on Instagram 📚✨
November 22, 2020
I received a beautiful autographed copy of this book and am so glad that I did!
This is such an amazing book ! I was literally laughing out loud most of the time, and although it was quite funny, it also had some fairly serious moments and dealt with some serious issues.
Rachel, Anne, Jill and Mary meet regularly to play Bunco - kind of like those bookclubs where no one really talks about the book - no one ever plays Bunco. 😆 but they do drink a lot of wine and eat a lot of food, and cause a lot of trouble.
My favourite character was Rachel - and that was a surprise to me considering the shape that Rachel is in at the beginning of this book ! But all four ladies, although not perfect, were great and I loved the friendship they shared. With all its ups and downs, and all of their imperfections, they stick ( mostly) together.
I was slightly worried about the format - it is written as a script or play - but really I didn’t need to be ! This book is hard to put down once you pick it up and I actually loved that it was written as a script!
4.5 🌟
This is such an amazing book ! I was literally laughing out loud most of the time, and although it was quite funny, it also had some fairly serious moments and dealt with some serious issues.
Rachel, Anne, Jill and Mary meet regularly to play Bunco - kind of like those bookclubs where no one really talks about the book - no one ever plays Bunco. 😆 but they do drink a lot of wine and eat a lot of food, and cause a lot of trouble.
My favourite character was Rachel - and that was a surprise to me considering the shape that Rachel is in at the beginning of this book ! But all four ladies, although not perfect, were great and I loved the friendship they shared. With all its ups and downs, and all of their imperfections, they stick ( mostly) together.
I was slightly worried about the format - it is written as a script or play - but really I didn’t need to be ! This book is hard to put down once you pick it up and I actually loved that it was written as a script!
4.5 🌟
November 22, 2020
One of the best books I've read this year! 6 stars out of 5!
Jill, Anne, Rachel and Mary are four friends and suburban mums. They have known each other for years and meet regularly to play bunco (which is just an excuse to drink and talk).
When I started reading, I saw that it is written in the form of a script, and this put me off a little, but just for the first 2 or 3 pages. After that, I was so engrossed in the story of the four friends I didn't mind. Actually, I think this format is perfect for this book, as there is so much dialogue going on. This way, you can focus on the interactions between them.
This book is perfect for fans of the show Desperate Housewives, but I think this book is even better!
** I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own. **
Jill, Anne, Rachel and Mary are four friends and suburban mums. They have known each other for years and meet regularly to play bunco (which is just an excuse to drink and talk).
When I started reading, I saw that it is written in the form of a script, and this put me off a little, but just for the first 2 or 3 pages. After that, I was so engrossed in the story of the four friends I didn't mind. Actually, I think this format is perfect for this book, as there is so much dialogue going on. This way, you can focus on the interactions between them.
This book is perfect for fans of the show Desperate Housewives, but I think this book is even better!
** I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own. **
March 24, 2025
When I found this in a local thrift store I knew I needed to read it! The screen-write style of the story was such an interesting concept more authors should dabble in. It brings a fresh way of storytelling to readers such as myself who enjoy a break in the monotony. The realism and depth of emotional connection with each character was beyond words.
If I had read this in college I would have made this my entire identity— every essay, short story, or random conversation would have alluded to this story. Each part/rounds were intricately written to contain an individual plot and main character/focal character, while also growing from the previous round(s).
* Btw this book is MASSIVE!! Like college textbook big! {10” x 8” x 1.5”}
* “Let’s form a bunco group, they said. It’ll be fun, they said.” -Anne (Round 1, 91)
* Round 1: Meeting the Players
* What a genius and refreshing way to tell a story. I was a bit nervous with the narrative style and screen-play formatting, but it’s a perfect mix that allows readers to experience the stories without excess so they can fill in the rest.
* Round 2: Establishing the Rules
* This section involved my nearly weeping and then rejoicing for this group of friends every other page. I love the elaborate realism that allows for the comedy to sweep in yet not completely overwhelm the emotional plot.
* Round 3: Understanding the Game
* This plot gave the air of a latter regarding the dynamic of balance in friend groups and that people are not two-dimensional but deeply individual and riddled with decisions that shape their morals/values which are ingrained in their deepest beings… yet it read as unfinished/rushed with too much anger and cut-off scenes to be emotionally touching or comedic. Overall, my least favorite.
* Round 4: Advancing to the Head Table
* This section was astonishingly impactful and fulfilling. We finally get to see the full scope of each character and understand their morals/values. I wanted to slap John every time he appeared and attach him to a pulley to let him hang with vultures as his only companions— a truly disgusting creature. The chaotic 1st half and the emotional 2nd was a swelling orchestra; the comedy and relationships the operetta solos.
The only part that kind of disrupted this pattern of storytelling and world-building was the jump from Round 1 to Round 2. If anything, they should have been swapped with some inner detailing changes to allow for this. Because Round 1 was all about meeting the character and learning about their dynamics with one another, the subplot about the witness protection character should have been put in Round 2 so we’re not then going into Round 2 with the expectation of seeing the character(s) again later on, as the title indicates.
If I had read this in college I would have made this my entire identity— every essay, short story, or random conversation would have alluded to this story. Each part/rounds were intricately written to contain an individual plot and main character/focal character, while also growing from the previous round(s).
* Btw this book is MASSIVE!! Like college textbook big! {10” x 8” x 1.5”}
* “Let’s form a bunco group, they said. It’ll be fun, they said.” -Anne (Round 1, 91)
* Round 1: Meeting the Players
* What a genius and refreshing way to tell a story. I was a bit nervous with the narrative style and screen-play formatting, but it’s a perfect mix that allows readers to experience the stories without excess so they can fill in the rest.
* Round 2: Establishing the Rules
* This section involved my nearly weeping and then rejoicing for this group of friends every other page. I love the elaborate realism that allows for the comedy to sweep in yet not completely overwhelm the emotional plot.
* Round 3: Understanding the Game
* This plot gave the air of a latter regarding the dynamic of balance in friend groups and that people are not two-dimensional but deeply individual and riddled with decisions that shape their morals/values which are ingrained in their deepest beings… yet it read as unfinished/rushed with too much anger and cut-off scenes to be emotionally touching or comedic. Overall, my least favorite.
* Round 4: Advancing to the Head Table
* This section was astonishingly impactful and fulfilling. We finally get to see the full scope of each character and understand their morals/values. I wanted to slap John every time he appeared and attach him to a pulley to let him hang with vultures as his only companions— a truly disgusting creature. The chaotic 1st half and the emotional 2nd was a swelling orchestra; the comedy and relationships the operetta solos.
The only part that kind of disrupted this pattern of storytelling and world-building was the jump from Round 1 to Round 2. If anything, they should have been swapped with some inner detailing changes to allow for this. Because Round 1 was all about meeting the character and learning about their dynamics with one another, the subplot about the witness protection character should have been put in Round 2 so we’re not then going into Round 2 with the expectation of seeing the character(s) again later on, as the title indicates.
November 6, 2020
Bunco is the story of four women who are like The Real Housewives of Cincinnati meets Bridesmaids. Anne, Mary Jill and Rachel are the sassiest, most dedicated group of friends you'll ever meet. They meet regularly for a game night that is just really an excuse to get away from their husbands and children to get drunk and spill all the neighborhood tea. Along the way they are amateur detectives who ferret out one another's secrets and those of everyone they come in contact with. They prop each other up and take each other down with some of the wittiest banter I've ever seen on the page.
This book will make you shake your head at the crazy scrapes they get themselves into, you will laugh out loud and swell with pride with the loyalty they display for one another.
Written in the style of a screen play it is just perfect for adaptation to the screen and a quick, easy read just ready to brighten your 2020.
Thanks so much to the author and Book Publicity Services for a copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book will make you shake your head at the crazy scrapes they get themselves into, you will laugh out loud and swell with pride with the loyalty they display for one another.
Written in the style of a screen play it is just perfect for adaptation to the screen and a quick, easy read just ready to brighten your 2020.
Thanks so much to the author and Book Publicity Services for a copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 26, 2020
What a wild ride! My neighbors and I are such bores in comparison, frankly, I'm disappointed that they aren't Rachel, Mary, Anne and Jill. This book felt like a modern day Ya Ya Sisterhood. The friendships were hilarious, painful and beautiful. There was wonderful character development that drew you into the lives of each woman. It was intelligently written as a script that helped you envision each scene perfectly. I felt like I was there as I was reading. If you're looking for your next page-turner filled with adventure, laugh out loud zingers and a few tears, look no further. Who's ready for "bunco" night?
September 18, 2020
I really enjoyed this book!
I didn’t really know what to expect but once I got into it I really liked it. It was written in the style of a screen play, which took a little while to adjust to but then I found it fast paced and fun!
The book gave me desperate housewives vibes, which I loved! There was so much drama and so many things happening but it never felt too scripted or overdone. The characters were so well crafted and they were very complex characters. I loved the focus on friendship and how they stuck together through the ups and downs.
I didn’t really know what to expect but once I got into it I really liked it. It was written in the style of a screen play, which took a little while to adjust to but then I found it fast paced and fun!
The book gave me desperate housewives vibes, which I loved! There was so much drama and so many things happening but it never felt too scripted or overdone. The characters were so well crafted and they were very complex characters. I loved the focus on friendship and how they stuck together through the ups and downs.
October 19, 2020
Bunco is about four women who never actually play Bunco...but they are there for each other no matter what life throws at them. Their stories were both hilarious and heartbreaking.
Rating: 🍷🍷🍷🍷
Four fabulous wine glasses!
This was such a fun read! The screenplay format took some getting used to, but once I did I was hooked. I couldn’t put it down! There were parts that had me laughing so hard I was in tears!!!
Thank you to Book Publicity Services for reaching out & sending me a copy to review. I’m so glad I said yes!
If you’re looking for the perfect weekend read...this is it! 🍷
Rating: 🍷🍷🍷🍷
Four fabulous wine glasses!
This was such a fun read! The screenplay format took some getting used to, but once I did I was hooked. I couldn’t put it down! There were parts that had me laughing so hard I was in tears!!!
Thank you to Book Publicity Services for reaching out & sending me a copy to review. I’m so glad I said yes!
If you’re looking for the perfect weekend read...this is it! 🍷
November 18, 2020
(3.6)
I have a confession to make.
When I first received my copy of Bunco: A Comedy About the Drama of Friendship, I was turned off by the textbook size and unusual format. As a lover of lyrical descriptive fiction, I was wary of reading and reviewing a book written in a screenplay-like format. Despite my first impressions, the author won me over with her storytelling through character dialog.
“We all have ‘those’ friends. Maybe you’ve known them since childhood, or met in college, or while waiting for a child’s practice to end. Maybe you found yourself living on the same street. There’s no single path to friendship. Relationships don’t follow a script and neither do the lives of smart, funny, complicated suburban women.”
Four neighborhood friends, Jill, Anne, Mary and Rachel regularly meet for “Bunco Night” where absent from their kids, they let down their hair, the wine flows, and you never know what unfiltered comment will come out of one of their mouths next. Solely dependent on dialog, Bunco, invites its readers to those laughable, shocking and sometimes emotional conversations between friends. Written in three parts, Bunco is about the friends that stay when sh*t hits the fan, and boy do the sh*t and fists go flying in this story.
What I liked:
The “meat” of this story was very good! It had love, loss, scandal, drunken debauchery, and slapstick scenes of misbehavior that only happen between very close friends.
What I didn’t like:
The format was limiting and left me wanting more. Even though the “meat” of the story was great, it was missing all of its connective “side dishes” like subtle nuances that help complete a story.
A big thank you, to the author Robin Delnoce and Kelsey at @Bookpublicityservices for sending me a copy of Bunco in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating: 3.6 Stars
I have a confession to make.
When I first received my copy of Bunco: A Comedy About the Drama of Friendship, I was turned off by the textbook size and unusual format. As a lover of lyrical descriptive fiction, I was wary of reading and reviewing a book written in a screenplay-like format. Despite my first impressions, the author won me over with her storytelling through character dialog.
“We all have ‘those’ friends. Maybe you’ve known them since childhood, or met in college, or while waiting for a child’s practice to end. Maybe you found yourself living on the same street. There’s no single path to friendship. Relationships don’t follow a script and neither do the lives of smart, funny, complicated suburban women.”
Four neighborhood friends, Jill, Anne, Mary and Rachel regularly meet for “Bunco Night” where absent from their kids, they let down their hair, the wine flows, and you never know what unfiltered comment will come out of one of their mouths next. Solely dependent on dialog, Bunco, invites its readers to those laughable, shocking and sometimes emotional conversations between friends. Written in three parts, Bunco is about the friends that stay when sh*t hits the fan, and boy do the sh*t and fists go flying in this story.
What I liked:
The “meat” of this story was very good! It had love, loss, scandal, drunken debauchery, and slapstick scenes of misbehavior that only happen between very close friends.
What I didn’t like:
The format was limiting and left me wanting more. Even though the “meat” of the story was great, it was missing all of its connective “side dishes” like subtle nuances that help complete a story.
A big thank you, to the author Robin Delnoce and Kelsey at @Bookpublicityservices for sending me a copy of Bunco in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating: 3.6 Stars
November 28, 2020
I was approached about reading Bunco and giving an honest review afterwards, and like some of the other reviews I’ve read, I was shocked by its formatting when it came in the mail. I was intrigued, though, because growing up my mother had a group of friends who’d play Bunco once a month. They’d take turns hosting, spend the day cooking food for everyone, and play Bunco for hours. Let me just say that if my mother’s Bunco games were anything like this group’s.....I missed out. 😂 This was seriously SO funny right from the very beginning all the way through the end. The relationships are so fun and honestly I want to be best friends with Rachel. A fun, easy, and entertaining read!!
November 20, 2020
Everyone needs an escape during COVID and I found mine in Bunko! While I was gifted a complimentary copy, I was skeptical at first as the book is huge and it’s written in a script format. Still, it didn’t take long to fall under the spell of beautiful Jill, raunchy Rachel, athletic Anne and Crazy mom Mary — fast friends who fight and laugh and cry. Friends who meet for Bunko but never play. The book follows them through several “rules” (sections) which include but are not limited to adultery, gunshots, handcuffs, hospitals, evil in-laws, parenthood and yes, drinking! I laughed out loud at MANY parts. It’s a unique and fun book - check it out or buy it!!
October 29, 2020
Bunco by Robin Delnoce had me literally laughing out loud! I was cracking up all throughout the book🤣 This is the absolute perfect book for a fun loving group of girlfriends to read together!
Even though the book is titled Bunco, Rachel, Anne, Jill and Mary don’t actually play the game anymore. In fact, they haven’t played for many years but they still use it as an excuse to get together, eat, drink and have a much needed girl’s night with each other. They are there for each other in good times and bad and the levity and humor throughout is so entertaining!
The book is written in the form of a screenplay and it did take me a few pages to really be able to get past the format and fully dive right in to the story. Once I was able to fully adapt, it was smooth sailing from then on. This is seriously such a fun book to read that you guys HAVE to give it a try!
Thank you so much to @bookpublicityservices
for gifting us this copy of Bunco. I will definitely be recommending this to our book club!
Even though the book is titled Bunco, Rachel, Anne, Jill and Mary don’t actually play the game anymore. In fact, they haven’t played for many years but they still use it as an excuse to get together, eat, drink and have a much needed girl’s night with each other. They are there for each other in good times and bad and the levity and humor throughout is so entertaining!
The book is written in the form of a screenplay and it did take me a few pages to really be able to get past the format and fully dive right in to the story. Once I was able to fully adapt, it was smooth sailing from then on. This is seriously such a fun book to read that you guys HAVE to give it a try!
Thank you so much to @bookpublicityservices
for gifting us this copy of Bunco. I will definitely be recommending this to our book club!
November 2, 2020
I was asked to provide an honest review of this book. Two big first impression points: First, you guys, it’s huge! The type is big which I appreciate but it was an awkward size to carry around - and you all know I love myself a “purse book.” Second, it reads as a screenplay or a script. I thought I would hate that a lot more than I did! Ill let you in on a secret, I sometimes find myself skimming books and focusing only on the dialogue so this made it easy!
Overall, a funny story of a group of women with al different personalities and interests. I think the characters were introduced a little too quickly in the beginning so I had a hard time keeping track, but overall the variety in the characters was great! On the other side of the same coin, I didn’t necessarily buy the friendship between the women and sort of felt that they all played a bit into stereotypes without much development beyond surface level. A cute read of you do not mind the screenplay format!!
Overall, a funny story of a group of women with al different personalities and interests. I think the characters were introduced a little too quickly in the beginning so I had a hard time keeping track, but overall the variety in the characters was great! On the other side of the same coin, I didn’t necessarily buy the friendship between the women and sort of felt that they all played a bit into stereotypes without much development beyond surface level. A cute read of you do not mind the screenplay format!!
April 13, 2021
Disclaimer: I was asked to write a review and sent this book at no cost to me.
At first, I wasn’t sure how I felt about this book. I was a little apprehensive being that I really know nothing about how the game of bunco works. Plus this book is written in a script format and I was worried it was going to be a little difficult to follow. The book was very rough at the beginning. It was not at all what I was expecting, (because I do know ladies who play bunco and they do tend to be of the more seasoned age group), so I hadn’t really expected having that many discussions about sex with so much swearing and drunkenness. But as I read further into the book and became more acquainted with the characters and their unique personalities and flaws, it really became an enjoyable story. The characters give off a very Desperate Housewives meets Sex and the City meets Army Wives vibe. Lots of bits of drama that can never stay too serious for too long, so laughter quickly follows. Definitely not in my normal wheelhouse for a book, but it was a fun ride.
At first, I wasn’t sure how I felt about this book. I was a little apprehensive being that I really know nothing about how the game of bunco works. Plus this book is written in a script format and I was worried it was going to be a little difficult to follow. The book was very rough at the beginning. It was not at all what I was expecting, (because I do know ladies who play bunco and they do tend to be of the more seasoned age group), so I hadn’t really expected having that many discussions about sex with so much swearing and drunkenness. But as I read further into the book and became more acquainted with the characters and their unique personalities and flaws, it really became an enjoyable story. The characters give off a very Desperate Housewives meets Sex and the City meets Army Wives vibe. Lots of bits of drama that can never stay too serious for too long, so laughter quickly follows. Definitely not in my normal wheelhouse for a book, but it was a fun ride.
September 24, 2020
When the book arrived in the mail I was pretty surprised by how big it was and its unusual format but it turned out to be one of the most fun books I've ever read.
It is written in a playwright format which makes it a quick read and the best part about it is how fast-paced it was.
"Normal" books tend to sometimes drag or get lost in details; this book is straight to the point with mainly dialogue and fun banter.
I was immediately drawn into the amazing friendship among the four main characters and the unexpected adventures and surprises they've been through.
All the characters are so well-developed and complex, the more you read the more you learn about them, it really made me feel as if I'm part of the group.
This book shows us the power of friendship is truly amazing through ups and downs, laughs and tears, and everything in between.
It is written in a playwright format which makes it a quick read and the best part about it is how fast-paced it was.
"Normal" books tend to sometimes drag or get lost in details; this book is straight to the point with mainly dialogue and fun banter.
I was immediately drawn into the amazing friendship among the four main characters and the unexpected adventures and surprises they've been through.
All the characters are so well-developed and complex, the more you read the more you learn about them, it really made me feel as if I'm part of the group.
This book shows us the power of friendship is truly amazing through ups and downs, laughs and tears, and everything in between.
October 31, 2020
I received a copy from Book Publicity Services and I have to say when it arrived in the mail I was intimidated. It's about the size of my old textbooks and then saw it's written like a screenplay -- I was wary. But once I started, I couldn't put it down and was laughing throughout. The script format helps keep the book moving quickly, and the characters and their antics will keep you entertained.
I loved the bond of the friendships throughout the book, and saw bits of myself and my own group of friends in each of the characters. They each face their own problems and stand by one another through the ups and downs. Their escapades were a bit wild and the characters occasionally dramatic, but I enjoyed following their adventures and I could see this playing out as a TV show.
Overall if you want to laugh and be reminded of the importance of strong female friendships, I recommend picking up a copy of Bunco! They never actually played the game, so no need to know it to go into this one ;)
I loved the bond of the friendships throughout the book, and saw bits of myself and my own group of friends in each of the characters. They each face their own problems and stand by one another through the ups and downs. Their escapades were a bit wild and the characters occasionally dramatic, but I enjoyed following their adventures and I could see this playing out as a TV show.
Overall if you want to laugh and be reminded of the importance of strong female friendships, I recommend picking up a copy of Bunco! They never actually played the game, so no need to know it to go into this one ;)
September 11, 2020
I'm ready for more rounds of Bunco! What a fun read - I hated to see it end, and hope there will be a sequel!
I've been in the same bunco group for over 30 years, and although we've never experienced anything akin to the wildest adventures of Anne, Mary, Jill and Rachel, we have definitely shared tears, laughs, highs, lows, successes, disappointments, gains and devastating losses. We've loved, laughed, and supported, each other all along, and occasionally driven each other crazy.
The characters in the book are very relatable, and very well-developed. The outstanding pacing of the book enhances the character development, as each chapter reveals another layer to each character. The pacing also gives you a chance to catch your breath between laughs - and tears! Don't be scared off by the length, it is written in script style and each page reads quickly.
The game of bunco is incidental to the book, you needn't know a thing about the game This is a tribute to female friendships, and how we help each other get through life. It is an outstanding debut work for Robin Delnoce.
I've been in the same bunco group for over 30 years, and although we've never experienced anything akin to the wildest adventures of Anne, Mary, Jill and Rachel, we have definitely shared tears, laughs, highs, lows, successes, disappointments, gains and devastating losses. We've loved, laughed, and supported, each other all along, and occasionally driven each other crazy.
The characters in the book are very relatable, and very well-developed. The outstanding pacing of the book enhances the character development, as each chapter reveals another layer to each character. The pacing also gives you a chance to catch your breath between laughs - and tears! Don't be scared off by the length, it is written in script style and each page reads quickly.
The game of bunco is incidental to the book, you needn't know a thing about the game This is a tribute to female friendships, and how we help each other get through life. It is an outstanding debut work for Robin Delnoce.
November 23, 2020
This is a story about four suburban women who live in the same cup-de-sac and meet regularly for “bunco” where they actually just get together to eat and drink. The book has so many twists and turns and there’s never a dull moment. The four women stick together despite numerous fights.
I did not realize this was written like a screenplay, and at first it bothered me a little. As I kept reading, the writing grew on me, and I was able to finish the book fairly quickly. There are some parts that are a bit crude, but still filled with humor. If you don’t like when things aren’t 100% politically correct, then skip this book. If you liked Bridesmaids or Bad Moms, you’ll find this book entertaining.
I did not realize this was written like a screenplay, and at first it bothered me a little. As I kept reading, the writing grew on me, and I was able to finish the book fairly quickly. There are some parts that are a bit crude, but still filled with humor. If you don’t like when things aren’t 100% politically correct, then skip this book. If you liked Bridesmaids or Bad Moms, you’ll find this book entertaining.
January 1, 2021
Book #94 read in 2020
OᐯᗴᖇᐯIᗴᗯ: Jill, Anne, Mary, and Rachel have a neighborhood Bunco group that is more than just the game. There are fun antics, hijinks, drama. and friendship in all the adventures.
ᗰY TᕼOᑌᘜᕼTᔕ: This was such a fun read. Written in script format, each part was its own short story/adventure. The women were fun and frustrating all at the same time. I found myself laughing aloud and trying to guess who was going to do what next. The little bit of mystery that went with each story gave it an edge. It also helped me to fondly remember the Bunco club I had with my with my coworkers, called Bunco Babes, where we created many fun memories, even if we never managed to play the game.
ᖇᗩTIᑎᘜ: ★★★★
Thank you to Book Publicity Services for the digital copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
OᐯᗴᖇᐯIᗴᗯ: Jill, Anne, Mary, and Rachel have a neighborhood Bunco group that is more than just the game. There are fun antics, hijinks, drama. and friendship in all the adventures.
ᗰY TᕼOᑌᘜᕼTᔕ: This was such a fun read. Written in script format, each part was its own short story/adventure. The women were fun and frustrating all at the same time. I found myself laughing aloud and trying to guess who was going to do what next. The little bit of mystery that went with each story gave it an edge. It also helped me to fondly remember the Bunco club I had with my with my coworkers, called Bunco Babes, where we created many fun memories, even if we never managed to play the game.
ᖇᗩTIᑎᘜ: ★★★★
Thank you to Book Publicity Services for the digital copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 24, 2020
I enjoyed so much about this book and learned a few things about Bunco, a game that requires a circle of friends and a roll of the dice. The format of the book was fresh and different, the fun, witty, and quirky banter between friends is engaging and entertaining. Its a nice departure from predictable, formulaic genres- perfect for anyone looking for a change of pace from their usual reads. The characters are well developed and you feel immersed in their world. A great escape I look forward to reading more from this author.
May 2, 2021
This story about Anne, Mary, Rachel, and Jill hooked me from the first line. It was written in such a way that the characters and their lives just popped off the pages. There was laughter and then there was laughing so hard I was crying. You will know which scene that I'm referring to.
Kudos to the author for writing this story in an unique manner. I loved it. I felt like I was a part of the Bunco club. When each character went through the highs and lows of life, I swear I was right there with them.
I will recommend this story and shout the praises of the author from the rooftop.
Kudos to the author for writing this story in an unique manner. I loved it. I felt like I was a part of the Bunco club. When each character went through the highs and lows of life, I swear I was right there with them.
I will recommend this story and shout the praises of the author from the rooftop.
October 5, 2020
A great romp!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a review. We should all be lucky enough to have friends like these 4 characters who live in the same neighborhood and meet for Bunco (they haven’t played in years) every 2 weeks. They support each other, they fight with each other, and they have their friend’s backs. I laughed out loud many times and teared up a few times too. The entire book is just a great romp! If you liked the TV shows Desperate Housewives, Golden Girls, and Will and Grace this book is for you. The conversations are a riot.
What I didn’t like is that the book is written like a screenplay - I found myself distracted by the stage directions and choppiness of the style.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a review. We should all be lucky enough to have friends like these 4 characters who live in the same neighborhood and meet for Bunco (they haven’t played in years) every 2 weeks. They support each other, they fight with each other, and they have their friend’s backs. I laughed out loud many times and teared up a few times too. The entire book is just a great romp! If you liked the TV shows Desperate Housewives, Golden Girls, and Will and Grace this book is for you. The conversations are a riot.
What I didn’t like is that the book is written like a screenplay - I found myself distracted by the stage directions and choppiness of the style.
December 22, 2020
I have nothing bad to say about this book. I really enjoyed it! I was apprehensive about reading a drama, as I’ve never read this style of book before, but it was fantastic. Really funny. Makes me wish I had a group of friends like this! I also really enjoyed the different rounds, it was never boring.
October 15, 2020
I was asked to read “Bunco” in exchange for an honest review. This book is hilarious! The dialogue is smart, quick, & witty. Although I really enjoyed the script format, it took a little bit to get acquainted with who was who. Rachel is by far my favorite character — she had the most depth & showed the most growth while remaining true to herself. Overall, this is a really entertaining read.
December 10, 2020
Thank you Book Publicity Services for the gifted copy of ‘Bunco” by Robin Delnoce. Officially out now!
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Women's Fiction/468 pages (textbook style, but scripted)
…
Have you ever heard of a game called Bunco? Well I hadn’t, but if I can have a fun ladies night sans Bunco with these group of friends - I am in! Jill, Anne, Mary, and Rachel all live in the same neighborhood and having been “playing” Bunco for years, instead they drink, eat, gossip, and get into some wild adventures.
I enjoyed the screenplay format so much. When I was younger I used to script my own books and movies (somehow never published LOL) in this format. I do feel like scripted dialogue can take away from all inner dialogue and back stories of the characters. This doesn’t bother me, but some readers might be more critical of this.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book, but each part told a great new adventure. I definitely laughed out loud more than I anticipated. Partly do to the wild things that came out of Rachel’s mouth. She was probably my favorite character although I related to each one. Overall, this was a great book about friendships - the lows and highs through each friends life and how they help each other through them.
Check it out if you’re a fan of:
Bad Moms
‘Desperate Housewives’
Any ‘Real Housewives of ____’ (any)
Sex and the City (minus the City)
Bridesmaids
—
Women's Fiction/468 pages (textbook style, but scripted)
…
Have you ever heard of a game called Bunco? Well I hadn’t, but if I can have a fun ladies night sans Bunco with these group of friends - I am in! Jill, Anne, Mary, and Rachel all live in the same neighborhood and having been “playing” Bunco for years, instead they drink, eat, gossip, and get into some wild adventures.
I enjoyed the screenplay format so much. When I was younger I used to script my own books and movies (somehow never published LOL) in this format. I do feel like scripted dialogue can take away from all inner dialogue and back stories of the characters. This doesn’t bother me, but some readers might be more critical of this.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book, but each part told a great new adventure. I definitely laughed out loud more than I anticipated. Partly do to the wild things that came out of Rachel’s mouth. She was probably my favorite character although I related to each one. Overall, this was a great book about friendships - the lows and highs through each friends life and how they help each other through them.
Check it out if you’re a fan of:
Bad Moms
‘Desperate Housewives’
Any ‘Real Housewives of ____’ (any)
Sex and the City (minus the City)
Bridesmaids
January 30, 2022
I really needed this read. I actually laughed out loud a lot in the read. So much sarcasim and comey. The craziness of friendship that we can all name our own friends to these characters. It also had very sad moments of real life, but loved the showing of how important friends are. That they keep you glued together. So glad I picked up this book.
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