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Once upon a bet
All I ever wanted was the perfect happily ever after.
All he ever wanted was to ruin my freaking life.
Okay, that’s a smidge dramatic, but hear me out.
My new neighbor might as well plant an “unavailable” sign in his front yard.
He’s got biceps made for pulling swooning maidens out of danger, eyes built for melting glaciers (and panties), and a smile that makes my knees want to buckle.
But he’s grumpy, stubborn, divorced with two kids, and he’s only in town for three months.
It’s pretty obvious I need to stay far, far away.
But then he kisses me.
First, I see stars. Then I see babies with steely blue eyes and chiseled jawlines. I see white-picket fences and just maybe that happily ever after I always dreamed of.
He says the best he can do is three months of casual fun. No feelings. No attachments. Then he’ll move on, and so should I.
Remember that part about ruining my life? Yeah, I didn’t even get to that yet.
That all started with a bet.
All he ever wanted was to ruin my freaking life.
Okay, that’s a smidge dramatic, but hear me out.
My new neighbor might as well plant an “unavailable” sign in his front yard.
He’s got biceps made for pulling swooning maidens out of danger, eyes built for melting glaciers (and panties), and a smile that makes my knees want to buckle.
But he’s grumpy, stubborn, divorced with two kids, and he’s only in town for three months.
It’s pretty obvious I need to stay far, far away.
But then he kisses me.
First, I see stars. Then I see babies with steely blue eyes and chiseled jawlines. I see white-picket fences and just maybe that happily ever after I always dreamed of.
He says the best he can do is three months of casual fun. No feelings. No attachments. Then he’ll move on, and so should I.
Remember that part about ruining my life? Yeah, I didn’t even get to that yet.
That all started with a bet.
ebook
First published March 10, 2022
1329 people are currently reading
1432 people want to read
About the author
Penelope Bloom
69 books2,627 followersUSA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon Charts Bestselling author Penelope Bloom is taking her first flight into romantasy—and yes, there are dragons. After years of contemporary romance, she's temporarily trading meet-cutes for magical academies and coffee shops for castles that reek of blood. She promises the banter is just as sharp, but now it comes with deadly consequences.
Fun fact: “Penelope Bloom” started as a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the family dog, Penelope—never meant to be anything serious. But then the books took off, and the name stuck. Behind the scenes, Penelope Bloom is actually a husband-and-wife team. He handles the writing; she edits, helps with brainstorming, and runs the reader-facing side of things (like social media and messages). So if you’ve chatted with “Penelope” online, you’ve likely been talking to her—with the author chiming in whenever needed. Together, they’ve built the voice readers know and love.
Fun fact: “Penelope Bloom” started as a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the family dog, Penelope—never meant to be anything serious. But then the books took off, and the name stuck. Behind the scenes, Penelope Bloom is actually a husband-and-wife team. He handles the writing; she edits, helps with brainstorming, and runs the reader-facing side of things (like social media and messages). So if you’ve chatted with “Penelope” online, you’ve likely been talking to her—with the author chiming in whenever needed. Together, they’ve built the voice readers know and love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 280 reviews
March 12, 2022
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Contemporary Romance
Story: 3.5/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
Dark Level: 0/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: No
Violence: No
Male: Sexy
Series: Book 4
Pages: loc. 3627
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited:
STORY:
WHAT I LIKED:
I am so digging the grumpiness of Greyson. It actually looks sexy on him, especially when dealing with Harper in the beginning of the story. This was an age gap, and sometimes age gaps are a hit or miss for me, but I like the way it was done with Greyson 36 and Harper 23. I love the interaction between both throughout and yes, If Harper didn’t strangle Greyson for his behavior at times, I was going to do it myself.
WHAT WAS SO SO:
I really didn’t have that many issues. It was a nice read.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY
I enjoyed the sex scenes. The sex definitely got better as their secret rendezvous heated up.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
Secondary characters were a big part enjoying this story. Molly and Billy, Greyson’s kids, a.d.o.r.a.b.l.e.
Zack, Greyson’s brother, he sounds yummy. Lin and Farrah are Harper’s best friends. I liked them and hope there is something in the works for either the brother or best friends.
OVERALL:
Was I entertained? Yes.
Did I like the story? Yes
Would I read the other books in the series? Yes, If there were more.
TRIGGERS:
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
Style: Contemporary Romance
Story: 3.5/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
Dark Level: 0/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: No
Violence: No
Male: Sexy
Series: Book 4
Pages: loc. 3627
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited:
STORY:
WHAT I LIKED:
I am so digging the grumpiness of Greyson. It actually looks sexy on him, especially when dealing with Harper in the beginning of the story. This was an age gap, and sometimes age gaps are a hit or miss for me, but I like the way it was done with Greyson 36 and Harper 23. I love the interaction between both throughout and yes, If Harper didn’t strangle Greyson for his behavior at times, I was going to do it myself.
WHAT WAS SO SO:
I really didn’t have that many issues. It was a nice read.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY
I enjoyed the sex scenes. The sex definitely got better as their secret rendezvous heated up.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
Secondary characters were a big part enjoying this story. Molly and Billy, Greyson’s kids, a.d.o.r.a.b.l.e.
Zack, Greyson’s brother, he sounds yummy. Lin and Farrah are Harper’s best friends. I liked them and hope there is something in the works for either the brother or best friends.
OVERALL:
Was I entertained? Yes.
Did I like the story? Yes
Would I read the other books in the series? Yes, If there were more.
TRIGGERS:
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
March 15, 2022
Penelope Bloom cooks up another good one!!
Nothing says love at first sight like a purse full of pennies to the cheek!
Spunky 23 yo Harper first runs into 36 yo sexy as hell Greyson while unwittingly assaulting him in a bad prank gone wrong. There are sparks from the moment their eyes meet...and they're not from the concussion.
This was such a cute story. Greyson was grumpy and broody but such a wonderful loving and playful dad. Harper was genuine, kind, and willing to take a leap for her Once a Upon a Time fairytale to come true.
Greyson and Harper felt that what they had was something special but there was a time limit hanging over their heads. They had so many obstacles standing in their way, the angst was real. This was definitely a lovely hard fought and hard won love story. I really liked this story and the break-out stars especially for me were Greyson's two precocious and energetic kids, Billy and Molly. They were so funny and sweet they melted my heart and were the sprinkles on top of an already great story.
Even though this is an ARC review, I will always shoot you straight. I received an advanced copy of this book from Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
Nothing says love at first sight like a purse full of pennies to the cheek!
Spunky 23 yo Harper first runs into 36 yo sexy as hell Greyson while unwittingly assaulting him in a bad prank gone wrong. There are sparks from the moment their eyes meet...and they're not from the concussion.
This was such a cute story. Greyson was grumpy and broody but such a wonderful loving and playful dad. Harper was genuine, kind, and willing to take a leap for her Once a Upon a Time fairytale to come true.
Greyson and Harper felt that what they had was something special but there was a time limit hanging over their heads. They had so many obstacles standing in their way, the angst was real. This was definitely a lovely hard fought and hard won love story. I really liked this story and the break-out stars especially for me were Greyson's two precocious and energetic kids, Billy and Molly. They were so funny and sweet they melted my heart and were the sprinkles on top of an already great story.
Even though this is an ARC review, I will always shoot you straight. I received an advanced copy of this book from Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2022
I’m not generally a major fan of age-gap romances but occasionally one comes along that catches my attention and gets a one-click. I think I got caught up in the “Once Upon a Time” theme. I do like me some fairytale endings – and Greyson and Harper were meant for one of those “and they lived happily-ever-after” endings.
Laugh out loud moments are easy to come by in this appealing 13-year-age-gap romance between Greyson, a single dad with two adorable and lovable kiddos. Billy, nine years old and his sister, Molly who’s six, tend to create a little devilishness and lots of hoopla. They also love playing matchmaker.
The unexpected and complicated relationship with a younger woman throws Greyson off balance. Harper is a chef without a job. Greyson is on hiatus from his city job to return home to help with his ailing grandfather's inn. As hard as he fights his attraction, he needs Harper's help if he’s going to get the inn back into shape and making an income in the charming smalltown of Fairhope, Colorado. Harper offers more than just delicious and award-winning delights from the kitchen. I wasn’t always happy with the way Greyson treated her – sometimes it came across as him using her selfishly in more than one way.
The dual first person POVs alternate between Greyson and Harper. So excited to get the story from both sides, too. Along with snappy dialogue, there’s a delicious and entertaining secondary cast of characters who up the ante for the fun and games in this story.
The author hints of more to come from Fairhope. Too many interesting characters were left hanging for me not to be think that there may be future stories added.
Nothing new – the trope is readily available on the market, but still delightfully fun, entertaining and gets a thumbs-up. And, I ended up liking Greyson in the role of Prince Charming much better in the end.
April 7, 2022
DNF @ 44%
oh god. This was insufferable. These two had no appeal whatsoever separately and no chemistry together. I was bored out of my mind, even their internal dialogs were annoying. They had talked what?, two times and then were suddenly so consumed with thoughts of one another? Yeah, I didn't feel that instalove at all.
oh god. This was insufferable. These two had no appeal whatsoever separately and no chemistry together. I was bored out of my mind, even their internal dialogs were annoying. They had talked what?, two times and then were suddenly so consumed with thoughts of one another? Yeah, I didn't feel that instalove at all.
July 4, 2022
Can you love a book and still be miffed at the hero? That's what I felt while reading the story of 23 year old chef Harper, and 36 year old divorced dad Greyson.
Greyson is back in his small Colorado hometown for only 3 months to right his grandfather's failing hotel. Grayson has a high profile job in D.C. working for a company that fixes failing hotel chains, so this is right in his wheelhouse. He brings his 2 elementary school aged children along with him for the visit. His marriage might have failed, but he's determined to be a good dad.
He meets heroine Harper in the most unusual way (no spoiler) and the attraction between the two just smolders. His kids seem to gravitate towards her which brings them into constant contact a lot. There's definitely some special attraction brewing, but Grayson thinks 23 is too young for him. And he also thinks he's only going to be in town for 3 months, and young Harper doesn't seem the casual type of girl...or is she? Harper is looking for her big break as a chef, and Greyson's plans for the hotel include opening a restaurant. Would Grayson be willing to throw caution to the wind and hire Harper as the chef while also starting a secret affair with the tempting Harper? Can he have his cake and eat it too, without falling for her of course?
Hmm, you can guess how this plays out. Harper and Grey are super hot together, but even with Grey's repeated reminders that this can't go anywhere, Harper can't help how she feels. And Grey feels the same way, even if he stubbornly refuses to admit it. This guy drove me crazy how he kept giving Harper mixed signals and disappointing her just when she thought they might have a future. Why was he so afraid to let himself love? Why did he resist what he really wanted? What would it take for him to come to his senses when everyone in his orbit (his brother, his kids, even his ex wife) wanted him to be happy with the person who made him happy? These are the questions I asked myself while reading.
Even though Grey frustrated me at times, there was lot to love about this book. I love a good small town romance filled with colorful characters (Harper's two best friends and Grey's brother should all have books). I love a couple with smoking' sexual chemistry. And if the story can make me cry a bit (yes, I did), then its a winner for me. So what if Grey was a stubborn a** at times, rooting for Harper to get her HEA more than made up for it!
5 stars
Greyson is back in his small Colorado hometown for only 3 months to right his grandfather's failing hotel. Grayson has a high profile job in D.C. working for a company that fixes failing hotel chains, so this is right in his wheelhouse. He brings his 2 elementary school aged children along with him for the visit. His marriage might have failed, but he's determined to be a good dad.
He meets heroine Harper in the most unusual way (no spoiler) and the attraction between the two just smolders. His kids seem to gravitate towards her which brings them into constant contact a lot. There's definitely some special attraction brewing, but Grayson thinks 23 is too young for him. And he also thinks he's only going to be in town for 3 months, and young Harper doesn't seem the casual type of girl...or is she? Harper is looking for her big break as a chef, and Greyson's plans for the hotel include opening a restaurant. Would Grayson be willing to throw caution to the wind and hire Harper as the chef while also starting a secret affair with the tempting Harper? Can he have his cake and eat it too, without falling for her of course?
Hmm, you can guess how this plays out. Harper and Grey are super hot together, but even with Grey's repeated reminders that this can't go anywhere, Harper can't help how she feels. And Grey feels the same way, even if he stubbornly refuses to admit it. This guy drove me crazy how he kept giving Harper mixed signals and disappointing her just when she thought they might have a future. Why was he so afraid to let himself love? Why did he resist what he really wanted? What would it take for him to come to his senses when everyone in his orbit (his brother, his kids, even his ex wife) wanted him to be happy with the person who made him happy? These are the questions I asked myself while reading.
Even though Grey frustrated me at times, there was lot to love about this book. I love a good small town romance filled with colorful characters (Harper's two best friends and Grey's brother should all have books). I love a couple with smoking' sexual chemistry. And if the story can make me cry a bit (yes, I did), then its a winner for me. So what if Grey was a stubborn a** at times, rooting for Harper to get her HEA more than made up for it!
5 stars
April 10, 2022
4 stars.
This was cute and had some good funny moments.
I thought the back and forth between these two was a bit much, especially when Greyson started letting it change how he acted with his kids coming over, but I still had a good time.
The steamy scenes were a bit too rushed for my personal taste, but, there was plenty of them so it sort of evened out a bit by the end.
I don’t know.
Their meet-cute was really kind of adorable, and the stunts with the kids in her apartment were hilarious. I had a fun time throughout the book with the bits of humor and the tension.
I just think the ending was a tiny bit anticlimactic and I think Harper should’ve made him prove himself a bit more.
Plus, her friends, especially Lin, were kind of bitchy and I didn’t like some of the things they said or did.
It was good.
Just not my favorite, I guess.
This was cute and had some good funny moments.
I thought the back and forth between these two was a bit much, especially when Greyson started letting it change how he acted with his kids coming over, but I still had a good time.
The steamy scenes were a bit too rushed for my personal taste, but, there was plenty of them so it sort of evened out a bit by the end.
I don’t know.
Their meet-cute was really kind of adorable, and the stunts with the kids in her apartment were hilarious. I had a fun time throughout the book with the bits of humor and the tension.
I just think the ending was a tiny bit anticlimactic and I think Harper should’ve made him prove himself a bit more.
Plus, her friends, especially Lin, were kind of bitchy and I didn’t like some of the things they said or did.
It was good.
Just not my favorite, I guess.
April 5, 2022
Meh. Kinda Underwhelming
Harper is a small town chef looking to catch a break and open her own restaurant. Greyson is a single father just in town for 3 months and isn't looking for complications. That all changes when he gets whacked in the face with a purse....now he just has to balance his kids, work, and his uncomfortable feelings....
This book....was so boring. The bet that so called "ruined" Harper's life was lame. The dance between these two and the jerking back and forth was just lack luster and uninspired. This book is classified as a grump romance, but I wouldn't really say that Greyson is all that grumpy at all. Closed off? Yes. Grumpy...meh. The kids were super cute and I thought all of those interactions were adorable, but I expected the kids to be a little more involved in the story. I just didn't think the story overall was super well developed and it was very similar to a ton of other books I've read.
Harper is a small town chef looking to catch a break and open her own restaurant. Greyson is a single father just in town for 3 months and isn't looking for complications. That all changes when he gets whacked in the face with a purse....now he just has to balance his kids, work, and his uncomfortable feelings....
This book....was so boring. The bet that so called "ruined" Harper's life was lame. The dance between these two and the jerking back and forth was just lack luster and uninspired. This book is classified as a grump romance, but I wouldn't really say that Greyson is all that grumpy at all. Closed off? Yes. Grumpy...meh. The kids were super cute and I thought all of those interactions were adorable, but I expected the kids to be a little more involved in the story. I just didn't think the story overall was super well developed and it was very similar to a ton of other books I've read.
March 11, 2022
Small Town romance with a bite of spice and not just in the food that Harper makes. This is her chance to show the world what she's got and if she is lucky someone will give her a shot with her own restaurant and stay in her home town. When Grayson agreed to help his grandfather with the Inn, it was a 3month stint, nothing more. That is until the girl knocked him for a loop. A story full of attraction, doubts and drama that pull you into this great story.. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 29, 2022
Hilariously good time
This book had me laughing out loud! Grayson's kids stole the show but coming in a very close second was Harper and Grayson's love story. 😍 I loved all of the characters and can't wait for more! Speaking of more...I really wished the epilogue was longer. I wanted more Grayson and Harper. 🥺
This book had me laughing out loud! Grayson's kids stole the show but coming in a very close second was Harper and Grayson's love story. 😍 I loved all of the characters and can't wait for more! Speaking of more...I really wished the epilogue was longer. I wanted more Grayson and Harper. 🥺
May 26, 2022
I read another book by this author a while ago and didn't care that much for it.
The writing was good (if I remember correctly) but the story just didn't do it for me, so I've been kind of avoiding this author.
However, this one was on a recommended list after finishing another book and I figured I'd just try it and see.
I will say I was cracking up, because it was funny. But I got annoyed with the whole, "I want you but I can't have you because I'm not looking for anything serious and blah blah blah."
That and I hated the H.
I guess I should leave a disclaimer that I read to about 50%ish and then got fed up and skipped a few chapters because it was all becoming a bit redundant. Saw that it hadn't changed in the few chapters I'd skipped, so I skipped some more. Got to the meat of it, didn't like it and said "eff it" and dnf'd.
Greyson is just recently divorced and decided to take his kids to his hometown for a three month visit. After getting there, he's shopping with his kids and they decide to prank him by yelling "You're not my daddy," and trying to escape him. Harper steps in to defend the kids only to quickly realize that it was all a joke.
From there, it's a series of run ins and hilariously embarrassing moments (for the h) until they both give in to the chemistry between them and explore a physical relationship; both with the understanding that it will only last the three months until Greyson goes back to D.C.
Of course, it's never that simple and things get complicated, feelings are had, and people get hurt.
Anyways.
This started out funny, which is why I read for as long as I did. Greyson's kids were hilarious. If they were my own kids, I'd probably lock myself in a closet, curl into the fetal position and pray for them to hurry up and turn eighteen so I could run away, never to be found again. But reading about them, I laughed my ass off.
However, the funny could only carry the book so far. When the kids weren't up to their antics, it was the same stuff over and over; Harper does something embarrassing, has to face Greyson, she swoons over his pretty, they have an intense moment, and then both decide that it's too much trouble until finally giving in to their lust. At least, that's how it went for as long as I actively read before skipping, skimming, and ultimately quitting this.
Anyways. This just wasn't for me, I suppose.
But I'm picky with what I read, I'm learning. So, take my review and opinions with a grain of salt.
The writing was good (if I remember correctly) but the story just didn't do it for me, so I've been kind of avoiding this author.
However, this one was on a recommended list after finishing another book and I figured I'd just try it and see.
I will say I was cracking up, because it was funny. But I got annoyed with the whole, "I want you but I can't have you because I'm not looking for anything serious and blah blah blah."
That and I hated the H.
I guess I should leave a disclaimer that I read to about 50%ish and then got fed up and skipped a few chapters because it was all becoming a bit redundant. Saw that it hadn't changed in the few chapters I'd skipped, so I skipped some more. Got to the meat of it, didn't like it and said "eff it" and dnf'd.
Greyson is just recently divorced and decided to take his kids to his hometown for a three month visit. After getting there, he's shopping with his kids and they decide to prank him by yelling "You're not my daddy," and trying to escape him. Harper steps in to defend the kids only to quickly realize that it was all a joke.
From there, it's a series of run ins and hilariously embarrassing moments (for the h) until they both give in to the chemistry between them and explore a physical relationship; both with the understanding that it will only last the three months until Greyson goes back to D.C.
Of course, it's never that simple and things get complicated, feelings are had, and people get hurt.
Anyways.
This started out funny, which is why I read for as long as I did. Greyson's kids were hilarious. If they were my own kids, I'd probably lock myself in a closet, curl into the fetal position and pray for them to hurry up and turn eighteen so I could run away, never to be found again. But reading about them, I laughed my ass off.
However, the funny could only carry the book so far. When the kids weren't up to their antics, it was the same stuff over and over; Harper does something embarrassing, has to face Greyson, she swoons over his pretty, they have an intense moment, and then both decide that it's too much trouble until finally giving in to their lust. At least, that's how it went for as long as I actively read before skipping, skimming, and ultimately quitting this.
Anyways. This just wasn't for me, I suppose.
But I'm picky with what I read, I'm learning. So, take my review and opinions with a grain of salt.
May 23, 2022
4⭐️
For a quick enjoyable single dad romance it was a good read. Will recommend if you want a story with romance, comedy, cute kids and a grumpy dad who doesn’t know how to deal with his feelings then makes it his business to grovel his way to forgiveness. I didn’t think this was a rom-com but some scenes with the kids in the first part of the book had me in stitches.
POV: Dual, 1st person.
SERIES or STANDALONE: Standalone.
TROPES: M/F adult, single dad, small town, grumpy/sunshine, rom-com, age gap (h is 23, H is 36), work colleagues romance.
SIZE: 296 (last page) Kindle pages.
PLOT: 📚📚📚📚📚/5
ROMANCE: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️/5
SPICE/STEAM: 🌶🌶.5/5
TRIGGERS: N/A
MY STORY SUMMARY:
Harper meets Greyson when he arrives in town with his two kids with the hopes of saving his Grandpa’s Inn.
⛔️ My bookshelves can contain spoilers.
For a quick enjoyable single dad romance it was a good read. Will recommend if you want a story with romance, comedy, cute kids and a grumpy dad who doesn’t know how to deal with his feelings then makes it his business to grovel his way to forgiveness. I didn’t think this was a rom-com but some scenes with the kids in the first part of the book had me in stitches.
POV: Dual, 1st person.
SERIES or STANDALONE: Standalone.
TROPES: M/F adult, single dad, small town, grumpy/sunshine, rom-com, age gap (h is 23, H is 36), work colleagues romance.
SIZE: 296 (last page) Kindle pages.
PLOT: 📚📚📚📚📚/5
ROMANCE: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️/5
SPICE/STEAM: 🌶🌶.5/5
TRIGGERS: N/A
MY STORY SUMMARY:
Harper meets Greyson when he arrives in town with his two kids with the hopes of saving his Grandpa’s Inn.
⛔️ My bookshelves can contain spoilers.
March 12, 2022
Okay, it’s official. Me, the word-nerd, doesn’t have sufficient vocabulary to explain just how much I freaking loved this book. At its heart, it's a grumpy / sunshine love story. But that completely glosses over the complexities of both Greyson and Harper. Grayson has enough family drama and emotional baggage to sink an ocean liner. It’s taught him to protect himself in ways that don't support healthy relationships. Harper's still young and hopeful, and hasn't been jaded by the worst the world can throw at her - yet. The sparks between this pair sizzled from every page. So much so, I'm a little surprised my reader didn't catch on fire from all the chemistry between them. His children were just the most adorable, precocious imps. They were a source of comedy gold that kept me in stitches throughout the book, and the author mined them for every lol-able nugget. I see the potential for a lot more stories set in this world and my fingers are already itching to get a hold of them if and when they come out in the future.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
March 15, 2022
I have enjoyed this author’s books since she started and this is one,of my top reads of hers. I love single dad romances and this is at the top of my list. There are so many laugh out loud moments. This is a small town, single dad, age gap romance. It will keep you in stitches. I love the banter and the sweet moments as well.. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2022
This was just okay for me. I picked this up because I thought the premise sounded cute and I needed a fun, easy read for this summer. And, while it probably could be considered those things, I just didn't connect as I'd hoped with the characters and the story. What really was annoying was there was too much back and forth between Greyson and Harper. Their relationship started off okay but by the end I was glad they'd found their HEA and I could move on. The middle was just too tedious for me.
Reading Challenge 2022
Month: August Letter O/P
Reading Challenge 2022
Month: August Letter O/P
September 12, 2022
Once Upon A Bet
This is an excellent book. Great complex characters. I loved Harper. She is sassy, gutsy and just downright fantastic. Greyson and his kids are a package deal worth fighting for even though Grey constantly tries to ruin the good thing he’s got going!
This is an excellent book. Great complex characters. I loved Harper. She is sassy, gutsy and just downright fantastic. Greyson and his kids are a package deal worth fighting for even though Grey constantly tries to ruin the good thing he’s got going!
March 15, 2022
This was a good read. Greyson is in town helping his family out. He meets Harper and is attracted to her. However, he doesn't want anything serious because he's only in town for three months. Of course by the end he wants more. Thankfully it all works out and they get their happy ending.
June 19, 2022
Greyson & Harper ♥️
July 19, 2022
ehh, this was okay
August 12, 2022
2.5 stars. This was just meh to me. Pretty boring. I didn’t feel the connection between Harper and Greyson. I liked her, but he was a disappointment to me. The premise was cute, but the execution just didn’t work for me.
Want to read
August 24, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/24/2022)! 🎁
September 15, 2022
Meh. My first Penelope Bloom book and it was meh. Loved the heroine but not the hero. He was a bit of an a$$hole. I almost didn't finish the book but felt I needed to push through it.
June 20, 2022
Simple, easy read.
July 3, 2022
Dull & Predictable
The back and forth of will he or won’t he was a tiresome read. The plot was too predictable and slow in its execution.
The back and forth of will he or won’t he was a tiresome read. The plot was too predictable and slow in its execution.
March 13, 2022
Harper Wants The Fairy Tale Ending She Has Always Dreamed Of, But Greyson Doesn’t Believe In Love & Happy Endings! He Just Wants To Win A Bet & Get Out Of Town. This Small Town, Single Dad, Age-Gap Romance Will Have You In Stitches. Fans Of Melanie Harlow’s Ignite Will Enjoy This Book!
This new book is a standalone, but the cast of characters could easily lead to a series that takes place in the small Colorado town of Fairhope. Fairhope may be small, but it doesn’t lack in events. It hosts an endless assortment of events throughout the years that gets the locals out and about.
Greyson Ashford, thirty-six, is returning home to Fairhope, Colorado to help out his ailing grandfather. He had left the small town after high school, earned an MBA, and made a home for himself in D.C. Greyson believes love is an illusion, but he had been happy to find a comfortable existence with Katie, his ex-wife. They had both changed over time, however, and with that, their tolerance for one another waned. He is left with his career and his two rambunctious children, whom he loves. He gets the kids on the weekends and looks forward to every minute with them.
Greyson works for Stay Inn, a chain with hundreds of hotels. His branch acquires failing hotels to add to his company’s portfolio. It is a corporate setting, but the field is not new to him. His grandfather has operated the Ashford Inn for the last sixty years. The old building is full of history and character, and the memories attached to it make it feel like home. With his grandfather’s aging and recent health setbacks, Greyson has been granted a three-month emergency family leave to return to Fairhope and attend to the Ashford Inn while his grandfather recuperates. Fortunately, Katie has a soft spot for his grandfather and was willing to work with him on taking the kids along.
Billy and Molly keep Greyson busy – too busy to even think about dating. His nine and six-year-old keep him on his toes. Billy is a carbon copy of himself – a real charmer with a lot of crazy ideas and excess energy. Molly hopes to become a unicorn and eagerly agrees to her older brother’s schemes.
Greyson is the oldest of three boys. Zack, thirty, stayed in Fairhope and runs an animal rehab center. He is an outdoor version of Greyson and is very popular with the local women. He remains a bachelor, though, because none can complete with his devotion to his work. Zack loves to make bets with Greyson, and Greyson can never say ‘no.’ Their youngest brother Patrick is the only one that followed in their father’s footsteps – and the only one their father is proud of. They were raised in privilege by a father more concerned with appearances and his own selfish interests than in his sons’ happiness. There is also a baby sister who ran away from home last year. Hailey, roughly eighteen, is estranged from the family. It is a little unclear when the parents moved away, but Greyson had gone to high school in Fairhope.
Harper Halladay (also referenced as Halloday and Halloway in the ARC copy), twenty-three, has always wished for a once upon a time fairy tale story with a happily ever after. She has a big heart and loves kids. She returned home to Fairhope just two months ago after spending two years in France studying culinary arts. She has since become a local celebrity and darling in her sleepy town. She loves her hometown, but if she doesn’t find work soon, she might be forced to move away. Her mom runs a bagel shop in town, and her mother’s success helped Harper put together her own business plan. If she can just impress the right person at the Night of Lights celebration, she could find herself a potential investor and open her own restaurant.
When she crosses paths with a very grouchy and broody father, she doesn’t expect to be so attracted to him. He is definitely too old for her – and she does not have a daddy complex – so it catches her by surprise when they are suddenly flirting with one another. It doesn’t help matters that his kids have them practically walking down the aisle together.
When Greyson gets to Fairhope, he is startled by the Inn’s lack of customers. He soon gets mired into turning the business around for his grandfather, which happens to be his specialty. Adding a restaurant to the lobby seems to be the answer, but hiring the adorable young woman across the street to run it isn’t a good idea. She is entirely too young and too tempting, even if she would be perfect for the job.
Greyson and Harper soon begin a casual no-strings relationship with the knowledge that he is returning to D.C. in a few months. There is no hope of anything permanent between the two, which leads to a rocky relationship. Greyson is afraid of happiness, choosing to embrace his grumpy side instead since his marriage with Katie fell apart. Harper may be patient and forgiving, but a man such as Greyson is almost impossible to embrace. He is shockingly brutal with his words and not terribly worthy of her forgiveness, but the couple eventually finds a sweet happy ending.
Wow! Let me start by saying that Billy and Molly are a riot. I didn’t just laugh – I laughed hard at a few spots. Greyson is growly but charming, a strange combination, but it works.
Fans of Melanie Harlow’s Ignite will enjoy this book that has many similarities. In both stories, the single dad has two children and is divorced with shared custody. In Ignite, the girls are eight and five. Here, the boy is nine and the girl is six. In both books, the adorable trouble-making kids play matchmakers to varying degrees. The children in both also show up uninvited at a neighbor’s home. Both fathers swear a lot and vow never to be like their fathers. Both are refusing to date since their separation and are not in touch with their emotions. They are emotionally unavailable. They each have an ex-wife that is moving on and ready to settle down again. Both dads fall for a younger woman. In Ignite, the dad is thirty-four and the young woman is twenty-two. Here, the dad is thirty-six and the woman is twenty-three – so the age gaps are twelve and thirteen years. In both cases, the young woman’s mother owns a bakery (one specializes in cupcakes, the other in bagels), and both women have a cat. They each fall in love too easily and are trying to take a step back from men. Both stories begin with a scene that humiliates the young woman in her apartment – in front of the uninvited father and his children. Both stories involve a bet, and both have a number of laugh-out-loud moments.
What makes these books different is two points. First, Greyson is only in town for three months. Additionally, Greyson and Harper spend much of their time fighting rather than enjoying the benefits of their casual agreement.
As mentioned above, this looks to be the beginning of a new series, and there are a number of characters introduced here that might have their own stories told down the line. As of yet, there is nothing to indicate what might follow.
There remain two bachelor Ashford brothers. Zack, thirty, goes from relationship to relationship, breaking hearts around town. He prioritizes animals more than his girlfriends, so it always comes to an end. We know he has one employee, Crystal, and that she drives him crazy. Someone as into animals as him might just capture his heart for good, so Crystal could be his perfect match. Patrick, twenty-eight, is an attorney in New York; returning home might lead to a story similar to Greyson’s. The Ashfords also have a little sister, Hailey, eighteen, as well as cousins – Griff and Jay – nearby.
Kenny Mathers is a hometown boy that went on to international fame as a rock star and happens to have a history with Lin and Harper, who both hated him since elementary school. Lin, in particular, despises him, and during a visit to town, he implies he will be returning for her. Tristan Meadows, his drummer, is also a hometown boy who could have a story to tell.
Harper’s besties, Lin and Farrah, are introduced here. While it looks like Lin could get a story soon with Kenny, Farrah is yet up for grabs. Their new friend and coworker, Gabby, is a possible match, too. Kenny’s little sister gets mentioned here as well.
If I were to guess, Tristan and Hailey will be matched up (he is her type and not related to her). Kenny and Lin are an obvious match. So are Patrick and Crystal. Patrick, Griff, and Jay could be matched with Farrah, Gabby, and Kenny’s sister. If I were to venture a guess, I would say that Patrick would be matched with Farrah. It will be interesting to see how it all turns out!
Harper wants the fairy tale ending she has always dreamed of, but Greyson doesn’t believe in love and happy endings. He just wants to win a bet and get out of town. This small town, single dad, age-gap romance will have you in stitches. There are fourteen laugh-out-loud moments by my count. Fans of Melanie Harlow’s Ignite will enjoy this book that has many similarities. This book is nicely written. It starts out great with lots of laughs. I found it dragging by the end, but it was a good read. The plot is fairly simple. There are a number of good characters. Greyson’s character was developed more than Harper’s just because so much of the story revolved around his family. The story is told in first person. The POV alternates between Greyson and Harper. I rate this book four stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This new book is a standalone, but the cast of characters could easily lead to a series that takes place in the small Colorado town of Fairhope. Fairhope may be small, but it doesn’t lack in events. It hosts an endless assortment of events throughout the years that gets the locals out and about.
Greyson Ashford, thirty-six, is returning home to Fairhope, Colorado to help out his ailing grandfather. He had left the small town after high school, earned an MBA, and made a home for himself in D.C. Greyson believes love is an illusion, but he had been happy to find a comfortable existence with Katie, his ex-wife. They had both changed over time, however, and with that, their tolerance for one another waned. He is left with his career and his two rambunctious children, whom he loves. He gets the kids on the weekends and looks forward to every minute with them.
Greyson works for Stay Inn, a chain with hundreds of hotels. His branch acquires failing hotels to add to his company’s portfolio. It is a corporate setting, but the field is not new to him. His grandfather has operated the Ashford Inn for the last sixty years. The old building is full of history and character, and the memories attached to it make it feel like home. With his grandfather’s aging and recent health setbacks, Greyson has been granted a three-month emergency family leave to return to Fairhope and attend to the Ashford Inn while his grandfather recuperates. Fortunately, Katie has a soft spot for his grandfather and was willing to work with him on taking the kids along.
Billy and Molly keep Greyson busy – too busy to even think about dating. His nine and six-year-old keep him on his toes. Billy is a carbon copy of himself – a real charmer with a lot of crazy ideas and excess energy. Molly hopes to become a unicorn and eagerly agrees to her older brother’s schemes.
Greyson is the oldest of three boys. Zack, thirty, stayed in Fairhope and runs an animal rehab center. He is an outdoor version of Greyson and is very popular with the local women. He remains a bachelor, though, because none can complete with his devotion to his work. Zack loves to make bets with Greyson, and Greyson can never say ‘no.’ Their youngest brother Patrick is the only one that followed in their father’s footsteps – and the only one their father is proud of. They were raised in privilege by a father more concerned with appearances and his own selfish interests than in his sons’ happiness. There is also a baby sister who ran away from home last year. Hailey, roughly eighteen, is estranged from the family. It is a little unclear when the parents moved away, but Greyson had gone to high school in Fairhope.
Harper Halladay (also referenced as Halloday and Halloway in the ARC copy), twenty-three, has always wished for a once upon a time fairy tale story with a happily ever after. She has a big heart and loves kids. She returned home to Fairhope just two months ago after spending two years in France studying culinary arts. She has since become a local celebrity and darling in her sleepy town. She loves her hometown, but if she doesn’t find work soon, she might be forced to move away. Her mom runs a bagel shop in town, and her mother’s success helped Harper put together her own business plan. If she can just impress the right person at the Night of Lights celebration, she could find herself a potential investor and open her own restaurant.
When she crosses paths with a very grouchy and broody father, she doesn’t expect to be so attracted to him. He is definitely too old for her – and she does not have a daddy complex – so it catches her by surprise when they are suddenly flirting with one another. It doesn’t help matters that his kids have them practically walking down the aisle together.
When Greyson gets to Fairhope, he is startled by the Inn’s lack of customers. He soon gets mired into turning the business around for his grandfather, which happens to be his specialty. Adding a restaurant to the lobby seems to be the answer, but hiring the adorable young woman across the street to run it isn’t a good idea. She is entirely too young and too tempting, even if she would be perfect for the job.
Greyson and Harper soon begin a casual no-strings relationship with the knowledge that he is returning to D.C. in a few months. There is no hope of anything permanent between the two, which leads to a rocky relationship. Greyson is afraid of happiness, choosing to embrace his grumpy side instead since his marriage with Katie fell apart. Harper may be patient and forgiving, but a man such as Greyson is almost impossible to embrace. He is shockingly brutal with his words and not terribly worthy of her forgiveness, but the couple eventually finds a sweet happy ending.
Wow! Let me start by saying that Billy and Molly are a riot. I didn’t just laugh – I laughed hard at a few spots. Greyson is growly but charming, a strange combination, but it works.
Fans of Melanie Harlow’s Ignite will enjoy this book that has many similarities. In both stories, the single dad has two children and is divorced with shared custody. In Ignite, the girls are eight and five. Here, the boy is nine and the girl is six. In both books, the adorable trouble-making kids play matchmakers to varying degrees. The children in both also show up uninvited at a neighbor’s home. Both fathers swear a lot and vow never to be like their fathers. Both are refusing to date since their separation and are not in touch with their emotions. They are emotionally unavailable. They each have an ex-wife that is moving on and ready to settle down again. Both dads fall for a younger woman. In Ignite, the dad is thirty-four and the young woman is twenty-two. Here, the dad is thirty-six and the woman is twenty-three – so the age gaps are twelve and thirteen years. In both cases, the young woman’s mother owns a bakery (one specializes in cupcakes, the other in bagels), and both women have a cat. They each fall in love too easily and are trying to take a step back from men. Both stories begin with a scene that humiliates the young woman in her apartment – in front of the uninvited father and his children. Both stories involve a bet, and both have a number of laugh-out-loud moments.
What makes these books different is two points. First, Greyson is only in town for three months. Additionally, Greyson and Harper spend much of their time fighting rather than enjoying the benefits of their casual agreement.
As mentioned above, this looks to be the beginning of a new series, and there are a number of characters introduced here that might have their own stories told down the line. As of yet, there is nothing to indicate what might follow.
There remain two bachelor Ashford brothers. Zack, thirty, goes from relationship to relationship, breaking hearts around town. He prioritizes animals more than his girlfriends, so it always comes to an end. We know he has one employee, Crystal, and that she drives him crazy. Someone as into animals as him might just capture his heart for good, so Crystal could be his perfect match. Patrick, twenty-eight, is an attorney in New York; returning home might lead to a story similar to Greyson’s. The Ashfords also have a little sister, Hailey, eighteen, as well as cousins – Griff and Jay – nearby.
Kenny Mathers is a hometown boy that went on to international fame as a rock star and happens to have a history with Lin and Harper, who both hated him since elementary school. Lin, in particular, despises him, and during a visit to town, he implies he will be returning for her. Tristan Meadows, his drummer, is also a hometown boy who could have a story to tell.
Harper’s besties, Lin and Farrah, are introduced here. While it looks like Lin could get a story soon with Kenny, Farrah is yet up for grabs. Their new friend and coworker, Gabby, is a possible match, too. Kenny’s little sister gets mentioned here as well.
If I were to guess, Tristan and Hailey will be matched up (he is her type and not related to her). Kenny and Lin are an obvious match. So are Patrick and Crystal. Patrick, Griff, and Jay could be matched with Farrah, Gabby, and Kenny’s sister. If I were to venture a guess, I would say that Patrick would be matched with Farrah. It will be interesting to see how it all turns out!
Harper wants the fairy tale ending she has always dreamed of, but Greyson doesn’t believe in love and happy endings. He just wants to win a bet and get out of town. This small town, single dad, age-gap romance will have you in stitches. There are fourteen laugh-out-loud moments by my count. Fans of Melanie Harlow’s Ignite will enjoy this book that has many similarities. This book is nicely written. It starts out great with lots of laughs. I found it dragging by the end, but it was a good read. The plot is fairly simple. There are a number of good characters. Greyson’s character was developed more than Harper’s just because so much of the story revolved around his family. The story is told in first person. The POV alternates between Greyson and Harper. I rate this book four stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 25, 2022
Frustrating
This book really embodied ‘insanity is doing the same thing over and over expecting different results.’
Obviously they get together in the end, but they just kept having the same fight.
It didn’t really feel like an age gap when both main characters acted like teenagers the whole time.
*Spoilers*
Harper would agree to causal and then be so sad he wasn’t falling in love with her all within 5 minutes, and repeated this cycle what felt like the entire book.
Greyson literally kidnaps his children…
By the end I was just rooting against them.
This book really embodied ‘insanity is doing the same thing over and over expecting different results.’
Obviously they get together in the end, but they just kept having the same fight.
It didn’t really feel like an age gap when both main characters acted like teenagers the whole time.
*Spoilers*
Harper would agree to causal and then be so sad he wasn’t falling in love with her all within 5 minutes, and repeated this cycle what felt like the entire book.
Greyson literally kidnaps his children…
By the end I was just rooting against them.
July 21, 2022
Not much here
Honestly, I only read this book because of the cover model. I’ve read a couple other books with him on the cover and they were good. With that said, this book is just not that interesting. Must of the book, I flipped through pages just to get to actual dialog.
I couldn’t even really understand what the “bet” was even after he told her about it. I think this book should be a lot shorter since the characters were not really developed or their storyline very deep. This isn’t a book must read in my opinion.
Honestly, I only read this book because of the cover model. I’ve read a couple other books with him on the cover and they were good. With that said, this book is just not that interesting. Must of the book, I flipped through pages just to get to actual dialog.
I couldn’t even really understand what the “bet” was even after he told her about it. I think this book should be a lot shorter since the characters were not really developed or their storyline very deep. This isn’t a book must read in my opinion.
September 11, 2022
I am voluntarily reviewing an advanced reader copy of this book.
Harper is back in her hometown after two years of studying in France learning all could about becoming the best chef she could be, but she is having a hard time finding a job and knows that if she doesn’t find something soon, she may have to leave her beloved town and find work. But the Night of Light celebration is nearly upon her, and she is hoping to find someone who will give her chance to show exactly what she can do. That is the night that she meets Greyson and his two children whom she loves pretty much straight away, Greyson is also offering her the chance she has been looking for when he hires her for the restaurant he is currently updating for his grandfather at the Ashford Inn. She is unbelievably attracted to him but when he thinks she is too young, especially when he tells her that he doesn’t believe in love and all he could ever offer her would be three months before he would be leaving. Harper has always dreamed of a HEA and what he is offering is no fairytale ending, is harper heading for heartache or has she found her Prince?
Greyson left his hometown straight out of high school and has built an enviable career within the hotel industry; he is responsible for swooping in on failing hotels and giving them a new chance at life. There is only one thing that he cares more about than his career and that would be his two children, he and his ex-wife have been sharing custody, but he is disillusioned by love and any relationships he has are of a very temporary period. However, when Harper enters his orbit, he finds that he can’t get her out of his head and how much his children have already fallen for her. He is only going to be in town for three months whilst he helps his grandfather make the Ashford Inn back to be where it should be, he can’t deny that she will be a perfect for the new restaurant he is planning for the hotel. But she is only twenty three and too young for him. Will Greyson give in to the feelings that he can’t suppress when she is around or is this prince about to ride off into the sunset alone and not look back?
This was a fantastic read that had so many seriously funny moments and I recommend this book highly and this book is one to read if you need a pick me up. 4.5* Read
Harper is back in her hometown after two years of studying in France learning all could about becoming the best chef she could be, but she is having a hard time finding a job and knows that if she doesn’t find something soon, she may have to leave her beloved town and find work. But the Night of Light celebration is nearly upon her, and she is hoping to find someone who will give her chance to show exactly what she can do. That is the night that she meets Greyson and his two children whom she loves pretty much straight away, Greyson is also offering her the chance she has been looking for when he hires her for the restaurant he is currently updating for his grandfather at the Ashford Inn. She is unbelievably attracted to him but when he thinks she is too young, especially when he tells her that he doesn’t believe in love and all he could ever offer her would be three months before he would be leaving. Harper has always dreamed of a HEA and what he is offering is no fairytale ending, is harper heading for heartache or has she found her Prince?
Greyson left his hometown straight out of high school and has built an enviable career within the hotel industry; he is responsible for swooping in on failing hotels and giving them a new chance at life. There is only one thing that he cares more about than his career and that would be his two children, he and his ex-wife have been sharing custody, but he is disillusioned by love and any relationships he has are of a very temporary period. However, when Harper enters his orbit, he finds that he can’t get her out of his head and how much his children have already fallen for her. He is only going to be in town for three months whilst he helps his grandfather make the Ashford Inn back to be where it should be, he can’t deny that she will be a perfect for the new restaurant he is planning for the hotel. But she is only twenty three and too young for him. Will Greyson give in to the feelings that he can’t suppress when she is around or is this prince about to ride off into the sunset alone and not look back?
This was a fantastic read that had so many seriously funny moments and I recommend this book highly and this book is one to read if you need a pick me up. 4.5* Read
March 17, 2022
Harper has finished culinary school and working in France, so now she's back home and hoping to open her own restaurant. Now she just needs to find someone who wants to invest in her dream. Greyson comes to town to help his grandfather take care of his inn. He has three months to do what needs to be done so he doesn't have time for a relationship. They meet on his first day in town and they just can't stay away from each other.
Harper is a good character. She has a dream and she's willing to work to make it happen. She doesn't put up with Greyson's crap but she does listen to him when he tries to explain his issues. The author gives Harper a lot of elements that make her interesting, like the people in town consider her kind of a celebrity. Greyson is a 36-year-old, divorced father of two young children. He is determined to stay single and focus on his kids and job. His part of the story is about realizing that sometimes you have to change gears and do something you never thought you'd do. His story arc is pretty satisfying. There are lots of interesting side characters and the storyline of a future story is set up.
I had a real issue with Greyson's kids being set loose without supervision. To be specific, the inn is under construction and he lets the kids go play without supervision for two hours while he helps Harper cook. The author made a point of talking about the tools being out in the inn. That's just one example but it was a constant issue for me. I couldn't decide how I felt about the relationship between Grayson and his ex-wife. Most of the time they seem like adults that managed to stay friendly after their divorce but a couple of times, it seemed like Greyson kind of dislikes her.
This is a contemporary, small-town love story. This story includes a divorced dad, stepparents, a sick grandfather, and a funky small-town setting. There is no bad guy in the story. I will definitely read more from this series.. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Harper is a good character. She has a dream and she's willing to work to make it happen. She doesn't put up with Greyson's crap but she does listen to him when he tries to explain his issues. The author gives Harper a lot of elements that make her interesting, like the people in town consider her kind of a celebrity. Greyson is a 36-year-old, divorced father of two young children. He is determined to stay single and focus on his kids and job. His part of the story is about realizing that sometimes you have to change gears and do something you never thought you'd do. His story arc is pretty satisfying. There are lots of interesting side characters and the storyline of a future story is set up.
I had a real issue with Greyson's kids being set loose without supervision. To be specific, the inn is under construction and he lets the kids go play without supervision for two hours while he helps Harper cook. The author made a point of talking about the tools being out in the inn. That's just one example but it was a constant issue for me. I couldn't decide how I felt about the relationship between Grayson and his ex-wife. Most of the time they seem like adults that managed to stay friendly after their divorce but a couple of times, it seemed like Greyson kind of dislikes her.
This is a contemporary, small-town love story. This story includes a divorced dad, stepparents, a sick grandfather, and a funky small-town setting. There is no bad guy in the story. I will definitely read more from this series.. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 4, 2022
A particularly good book with wonderful secondary characters which I hope means that this will become a series featuring those same characters getting their own happily-ever-afters! The two main characters, Greyson and Harper, were very well portrayed and were true to what one would expect them to be IRL...at first. I loved Harper. Her character portrayal was initially spot-on as somewhat immature with her head ruled by her heart and imagination and did not come across as someone that could be trusted to make rational decisions but boy(!), did she get to showcase her ability to grow up and develop a maturity level that no longer emphasized the thirteen year age gap between her and Greyson. Great character development!
Unfortunately, Greyson was not as well depicted and while he initially had the maturity one would expect a thirty-six-year-old to exhibit, his character devolved rather than evolved. He began to make decisions based on a certain appendage and would blame Harper for his own lack of self-control and would become somewhat cruel in how he handled the situation. To me, he was the one that needed to grow up to become worthy of Harper and all that love she was wanting to wrap around him and his two kids. There was a HEA for them but I felt that he should have groveled a whole lot more and display that he had changed rather than just stating it.
The two kids, Billy and Molly were scene stealers every time they were interacting with other characters in the book and I even liked the ex-wife and her new husband. No lying or backstabbing manipulation was shown at all which was a refreshing change!
All in all, this was a great book that I enjoyed immensely, and I am hoping there will be more featuring the two other brothers and the sister as well as the other characters that were introduced. There is so much potential for more books in there!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Unfortunately, Greyson was not as well depicted and while he initially had the maturity one would expect a thirty-six-year-old to exhibit, his character devolved rather than evolved. He began to make decisions based on a certain appendage and would blame Harper for his own lack of self-control and would become somewhat cruel in how he handled the situation. To me, he was the one that needed to grow up to become worthy of Harper and all that love she was wanting to wrap around him and his two kids. There was a HEA for them but I felt that he should have groveled a whole lot more and display that he had changed rather than just stating it.
The two kids, Billy and Molly were scene stealers every time they were interacting with other characters in the book and I even liked the ex-wife and her new husband. No lying or backstabbing manipulation was shown at all which was a refreshing change!
All in all, this was a great book that I enjoyed immensely, and I am hoping there will be more featuring the two other brothers and the sister as well as the other characters that were introduced. There is so much potential for more books in there!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 17, 2022
Once Upon a Bet is a new romance from Ms. Bloom with a sunshine, younger heroine who can’t help but fall for her grumpy hero. Greyson is only back in his hometown for three months when he meets Harper. There’s instant chemistry between them, but he pushes her away. Lines continue to blur as he becomes her boss, add in the complications of a bet, and her heart bursting with love for Greyson and his kids, is this just the beginning of a disaster, or their once upon a time?
Oh, I liked this book! There was definitely some drama thrown in with the spice, add in this beautiful optimism from Harper and Greyson’s continuous pushing away, yet only wanting more, and it was a recipe for me flipping pages with my heart wanting to cry and swoon! Harper and Greyson had this amazing chemistry right from their first meeting, and I knew right away that I wouldn’t want to put this book down. Harper was pure sunshine and grit. She was a bit of a dreamer, with an ideal situation constantly in mind, but I loved that she wasn’t afraid of the hard work that went into chasing her dreams. Even when that dream included a grumpy single dad. Greyson was one who needed to be in control, and hated when his life seemed to be spiraling away from him. His job and his kids are his life, but can he make room for the woman who haunts his dreams? You can’t help but cheer for them, especially when they come together and pages practically light on fire. And you can’t help but cheer for their HEA, even when hearts are broken. I really liked this book! I loved the pace, the events, the heartbreak, and especially the love!
Oh, I liked this book! There was definitely some drama thrown in with the spice, add in this beautiful optimism from Harper and Greyson’s continuous pushing away, yet only wanting more, and it was a recipe for me flipping pages with my heart wanting to cry and swoon! Harper and Greyson had this amazing chemistry right from their first meeting, and I knew right away that I wouldn’t want to put this book down. Harper was pure sunshine and grit. She was a bit of a dreamer, with an ideal situation constantly in mind, but I loved that she wasn’t afraid of the hard work that went into chasing her dreams. Even when that dream included a grumpy single dad. Greyson was one who needed to be in control, and hated when his life seemed to be spiraling away from him. His job and his kids are his life, but can he make room for the woman who haunts his dreams? You can’t help but cheer for them, especially when they come together and pages practically light on fire. And you can’t help but cheer for their HEA, even when hearts are broken. I really liked this book! I loved the pace, the events, the heartbreak, and especially the love!
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