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Winslow Brothers #1
The Bet
When it comes to life’s fun and games, always know:
The rules.
What’s at stake.
When to quit.
Wise words from…well…my fortune cookie. But wise words, nonetheless.
I just wish the Fortune Cookie People had considered how hard the whole “knowing when to quit” would be to carry out when a woman like me is gambling with her feelings.
Heart-palpitating, vageen-tingling, butterflies-in-my-belly feelings for a noncommittal, hot-as-sin player by the name of Jude Winslow.
After a crazy night where we were both pretending to be someone else, I’ve found myself immersed in the fun of the fling.
The thrill.
The irresistible charm.
The pleasure of being with a man like him.
Problem is, I’m positive he’s the exact opposite of husband material, and that is a serious issue for someone who is fixated on finding her happily ever after.
I know the rules and I know the stakes, oh wise Fortune Cookie.
Now I’d just like to know how close to self-destruction I have to get before I find the will to quit Jude Winslow.
Goodness knows, when your heart is on the line, you can’t ante up your bet with an IOU.
The rules.
What’s at stake.
When to quit.
Wise words from…well…my fortune cookie. But wise words, nonetheless.
I just wish the Fortune Cookie People had considered how hard the whole “knowing when to quit” would be to carry out when a woman like me is gambling with her feelings.
Heart-palpitating, vageen-tingling, butterflies-in-my-belly feelings for a noncommittal, hot-as-sin player by the name of Jude Winslow.
After a crazy night where we were both pretending to be someone else, I’ve found myself immersed in the fun of the fling.
The thrill.
The irresistible charm.
The pleasure of being with a man like him.
Problem is, I’m positive he’s the exact opposite of husband material, and that is a serious issue for someone who is fixated on finding her happily ever after.
I know the rules and I know the stakes, oh wise Fortune Cookie.
Now I’d just like to know how close to self-destruction I have to get before I find the will to quit Jude Winslow.
Goodness knows, when your heart is on the line, you can’t ante up your bet with an IOU.
386 pages, Paperback
First published July 17, 2021
About the author
Max Monroe
66 books8,476 followersMany moons ago, a dynamic duo of romance authors teamed up under the pseudonym Max Monroe, and, well, the rest is history...
Max Monroe is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of more than thirty contemporary romance titles. Favorite writing partners and long time friends, Max and Monroe strive to live and write all the fun, sexy swoon so often missing from their Facebook newsfeed. Sarcastic by nature, their two writing souls feel like they’ve found their other half. This is their most favorite adventure thus far.
Max Monroe is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of more than thirty contemporary romance titles. Favorite writing partners and long time friends, Max and Monroe strive to live and write all the fun, sexy swoon so often missing from their Facebook newsfeed. Sarcastic by nature, their two writing souls feel like they’ve found their other half. This is their most favorite adventure thus far.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,137 reviews
July 19, 2021
80% of the book is the MCs hooking up and the hero leaving before the h wakes up, then he confronts his feelings after making the h feel like shit, and they get together. The end.
They had a very superficial relationship, they talked about everything while saying nothing.
Not even the interactions with their respective families managed to save the book.
It was smuttier than other of their books, but I was better off reading Katee Roberts or Nikki Sloane.
They had a very superficial relationship, they talked about everything while saying nothing.
Not even the interactions with their respective families managed to save the book.
It was smuttier than other of their books, but I was better off reading Katee Roberts or Nikki Sloane.
September 22, 2024
2024 reread: 3.5 stars
If I had to hear Jude think/say that he just wants to have fun one more time…….. 🤬
I’ll add my 2024 thoughts below my 2021 review
2021 review
This is my first book by Max Monroe and I absolutely loved it.
The book starts off by showing us Jude’s perspective. He manages many businesses and he happens to be at a club where Sophie’s holding her twin sister’s bachelorette party. Jude‘s colleague bets him that he doesn’t know how to be an exotic dancer, and Jude takes the bet. First stop, dancing for Sophie‘s twin sister, except that her sister forces Sophie to exchange their outfits so that Sophie is the bachelorette instead (her twin is too awkward and embarrassed to go through with it- she’s more of an introvert). Jude dances for Sophie so well that he gets her to…Ahem… explode even though he barely touched her 😉 and it was 🔥. Their chemistry’s is INTENSE🥵. They have this spark that’s undeniable for either of them, even if he thinks she’s about to get married.
Days pass and they can’t stop thinking about each other. Sophie goes on a dating app date and Jude happens to go to that same restaurant. Her date isn’t going well and then Jude mistakenly congratulates her and her date for getting married. Her date runs away and Sophie is forced to tell Jude the truth; her real name is Sophie and she exchanged places with her twin sister. Eventually she finds out what he really does but not before… enjoying each other’s company… in a private manner 🥵🔥😅.
This books PACKS A PUNCH in the 🔥🔥 department. Jeeezus Christ- it is STEAMY!!! The connection between Jude and Sophie is not only instant, but it is explosive! And Jude is always willing to service Sophie 👏🏻that’s right Jude- you satisfy your woman 💅😈😉. From the quick and random places- to very public ones- you get yours 👏🏻. I also appreciated his OBSESSION with ripping/stealing Sophie’s undies lol.
Jude is a commitment-phobe and Sophie has some issues that she seeks counseling for- which means that there will be challenges in the relationship that they’ll need to overcome.
I looooved this book! It was a nice break for me (I’ve been reading some dark books) and I didn’t want their journey to end. I also ADORED the EPILOGUE!!! Sooo SWOONY 🥰❤️. Gahhhhh!!! The side characters were just as entertaining as the MCs. I can tell that we are going to get books on all of Jude’s siblings. I can’t wait to continue reading more from these authors!
2024 reread
I still enjoyed a lot of things, but man… there was so much 🥵 that I was definitely missing them getting to know each other more 😒. I wish we had seen more of it 😐
I also wish we would’ve seen them be more of a couple sooner, but because of his commitment issues ( 🙄), they’re not together until the end
Oh… and I’m also not a fan of the FMC proposing 😬 but that’s just a preference so 🤷🏻♀️
I still liked a lot, but I wanted more
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/real owd*
-mental health issues
-when the H and h “break up”, the H is clubbing and there are women around, but none interest him and he ends up leaving
-mild omd: the date goes on a date that the H interrupts (when he thinks the h is her twin sister and the OM is her husband 😅). Also, later on, there’s a man hitting on the h, but before the H can intervene, the h tells the man she’s out on parole 🤣
-the H and h go to an underground smex club and are about to indulge in their exhibitionist tendencies, but the H becomes possessive and backs out
-no virgins/the H seems to be way more experienced than the h (no real info on the last time the h was with someone. It’s been weeks for the H, since before he met the h)
-condoms/then none/both clean/she’s on birth control
-HEA/epilogue/6 months later
If I had to hear Jude think/say that he just wants to have fun one more time…….. 🤬
I’ll add my 2024 thoughts below my 2021 review
2021 review
This is my first book by Max Monroe and I absolutely loved it.
The book starts off by showing us Jude’s perspective. He manages many businesses and he happens to be at a club where Sophie’s holding her twin sister’s bachelorette party. Jude‘s colleague bets him that he doesn’t know how to be an exotic dancer, and Jude takes the bet. First stop, dancing for Sophie‘s twin sister, except that her sister forces Sophie to exchange their outfits so that Sophie is the bachelorette instead (her twin is too awkward and embarrassed to go through with it- she’s more of an introvert). Jude dances for Sophie so well that he gets her to…Ahem… explode even though he barely touched her 😉 and it was 🔥. Their chemistry’s is INTENSE🥵. They have this spark that’s undeniable for either of them, even if he thinks she’s about to get married.
Days pass and they can’t stop thinking about each other. Sophie goes on a dating app date and Jude happens to go to that same restaurant. Her date isn’t going well and then Jude mistakenly congratulates her and her date for getting married. Her date runs away and Sophie is forced to tell Jude the truth; her real name is Sophie and she exchanged places with her twin sister. Eventually she finds out what he really does but not before… enjoying each other’s company… in a private manner 🥵🔥😅.
This books PACKS A PUNCH in the 🔥🔥 department. Jeeezus Christ- it is STEAMY!!! The connection between Jude and Sophie is not only instant, but it is explosive! And Jude is always willing to service Sophie 👏🏻that’s right Jude- you satisfy your woman 💅😈😉. From the quick and random places- to very public ones- you get yours 👏🏻. I also appreciated his OBSESSION with ripping/stealing Sophie’s undies lol.
Jude is a commitment-phobe and Sophie has some issues that she seeks counseling for- which means that there will be challenges in the relationship that they’ll need to overcome.
I looooved this book! It was a nice break for me (I’ve been reading some dark books) and I didn’t want their journey to end. I also ADORED the EPILOGUE!!! Sooo SWOONY 🥰❤️. Gahhhhh!!! The side characters were just as entertaining as the MCs. I can tell that we are going to get books on all of Jude’s siblings. I can’t wait to continue reading more from these authors!
2024 reread
I still enjoyed a lot of things, but man… there was so much 🥵 that I was definitely missing them getting to know each other more 😒. I wish we had seen more of it 😐
I also wish we would’ve seen them be more of a couple sooner, but because of his commitment issues ( 🙄), they’re not together until the end
Oh… and I’m also not a fan of the FMC proposing 😬 but that’s just a preference so 🤷🏻♀️
I still liked a lot, but I wanted more
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/real owd*
-mental health issues
-when the H and h “break up”, the H is clubbing and there are women around, but none interest him and he ends up leaving
-mild omd: the date goes on a date that the H interrupts (when he thinks the h is her twin sister and the OM is her husband 😅). Also, later on, there’s a man hitting on the h, but before the H can intervene, the h tells the man she’s out on parole 🤣
-the H and h go to an underground smex club and are about to indulge in their exhibitionist tendencies, but the H becomes possessive and backs out
-no virgins/the H seems to be way more experienced than the h (no real info on the last time the h was with someone. It’s been weeks for the H, since before he met the h)
-condoms/then none/both clean/she’s on birth control
-HEA/epilogue/6 months later
December 29, 2022
Not sure I liked these characters!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙🤎🖤
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍
Character development: 😠😘🤓😉
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The Hero: Jude - he owns a club promotions company in New York, where he promotes and staffs some of the hottest clubs in the city. He is trying to get a multi-year contract with the ultra popular club Crave in Manhattan. He is chatting with one of the exotic male dancers that works for the club when they make a bet that Jude couldn’t bring in as many tips as the dancer. So he takes the guy’s shift with a private bachelorette party.
The heroine: Sophie - she is an event and wedding planner and she planned the bachelorette party of her identical twin and they are at Crave, the fourth and last club for the night. Her twin Belle who is an introvert, has an anxiety attack and says she doesn’t want the proverbial stripper to rub himself all over her, so they switch places since Sophie is an extrovert and doesn’t mind being the center of attention.
The Story: Jude is a player with the women and keeps the women in his life to the sidelines, he is a bit of a one and done kind of guy and always makes sure the women know the score. Sophie is attracted to him from the start. Jude is so attracted to the bride-to-be, he wants to take her home for the night and can’t stop thinking about her after the dance is over so he goes out into the club and that is when he notices the bride and maid of honor are twins, though he doesn’t feel the same pull to the maid of honor as he does to the bride.
The book is told in dual points of view via dual narration and was narrated by Tanya Eby and Nelson Hobbs. Nelson has a great voice and is pleasant to listen to, though I am not too fond of Tanya Eby who sounds a bit old and she has a weird cadence or maybe it is strange pauses or something. Though her voice isn’t annoying enough for me to stop listening.
Though I wasn’t quite sure I liked these two main characters. Sophie relies a bit too much on her psychologist and Jude is just out to have a good time. He thinks about Sophie more than he usually thinks about women, but he was so calculating. He doesn’t want to chase her because if he makes all the moves she might get romantic feelings and he leaves while she is sleeping after they hook up. Though this is honest, and he makes no bones about the fact that he just wants fun, I like a guy to actually get a bit obsessed with the female main character.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙🤎🖤
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍
Character development: 😠😘🤓😉
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The Hero: Jude - he owns a club promotions company in New York, where he promotes and staffs some of the hottest clubs in the city. He is trying to get a multi-year contract with the ultra popular club Crave in Manhattan. He is chatting with one of the exotic male dancers that works for the club when they make a bet that Jude couldn’t bring in as many tips as the dancer. So he takes the guy’s shift with a private bachelorette party.
The heroine: Sophie - she is an event and wedding planner and she planned the bachelorette party of her identical twin and they are at Crave, the fourth and last club for the night. Her twin Belle who is an introvert, has an anxiety attack and says she doesn’t want the proverbial stripper to rub himself all over her, so they switch places since Sophie is an extrovert and doesn’t mind being the center of attention.
The Story: Jude is a player with the women and keeps the women in his life to the sidelines, he is a bit of a one and done kind of guy and always makes sure the women know the score. Sophie is attracted to him from the start. Jude is so attracted to the bride-to-be, he wants to take her home for the night and can’t stop thinking about her after the dance is over so he goes out into the club and that is when he notices the bride and maid of honor are twins, though he doesn’t feel the same pull to the maid of honor as he does to the bride.
The book is told in dual points of view via dual narration and was narrated by Tanya Eby and Nelson Hobbs. Nelson has a great voice and is pleasant to listen to, though I am not too fond of Tanya Eby who sounds a bit old and she has a weird cadence or maybe it is strange pauses or something. Though her voice isn’t annoying enough for me to stop listening.
Though I wasn’t quite sure I liked these two main characters. Sophie relies a bit too much on her psychologist and Jude is just out to have a good time. He thinks about Sophie more than he usually thinks about women, but he was so calculating. He doesn’t want to chase her because if he makes all the moves she might get romantic feelings and he leaves while she is sleeping after they hook up. Though this is honest, and he makes no bones about the fact that he just wants fun, I like a guy to actually get a bit obsessed with the female main character.
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July 15, 2021
Sophie + Jude.
We all remember Jude from previous books. (If you haven't read any Max Monroe books yet - don't worry, this is a standalone Rom-Com, but you should definitely read ALL THEIR BOOKS ASAP!)
Jude is a club promoter and he lives a very happy serial hook-up single guy life in New York City. No serious relationship dare come near him.
Sophie is the complete opposite. The event-wedding-planner is über focused on finding her happily ever after.
Jude should so not be the right guy for her - especially after the way they met - pretending to be people they're not in real life ...
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN! 🤣
══════════════════
Adorable!
Jude is just so hilarious and sweet! All the brothers are amazing - can't wait to read all the stories!!
This was such an adorable opposites attract rom-com. So funny, sparky, sexxy ... just really sweet and beautiful. I loved reading this!
I just love this family and Lexi - the niece is just too cute - especially when she's with her uncles! LOL!
And of course we get our Thatch cameos - I think it should be a law that every future book will get a Thatch cameo! 💜
Great start to this new Winslow series!
Can't wait for Flynn's book - he's the mysterious silent brother!
And still I'm asking myself: How are none of Max Monroe's books streaming their behinds off on Netflix yet? The world is a weird and sad place!!
A few tiny things. First... this confused me a bit. The title. The Bet. Ok... we get that one bet at the beginning - that's how Sophie and Jude meet. But then we get nothing betty anymore. I thought that was going to be their thing. But there's only a tiny little bet at the end. I wished there would've been a few more bet scenearios in the story!
And then .. I know that's just me... but I don't find the hugely announced hilariousness of the story... funny. Did my humor die after reading a billion books or even just dozens of Max Monroe books? I just don't think this was über funny?! There were funny moments ... but nothing where I would spit out my drink or anything. :( But again - that's just me - going in expecting too much. But also - they tell you in the beginning to expect something extremely hilarious. :(
Then ... the cover. While a really cute/hot guy. I just can't stand the hand on/at the face thing. Just like the Max Monroe Cowboy book - that was even worse!
But still - I loved reading this and I will keep on reading alll the MM books for ever and ever!
THE BET was another amazingly funny and adorable and sexy Max Monroe Rom-Com! Run to your nearest amazon for your own Jude - he'll be sold out in no time!
💜
💜
July 19, 2021
I feel like I'm just broken at this point, but I just couldn't connect with the characters in the book. I do admit to shedding a few tears towards the end (pregnancy emotions are no joke people) but as a whole I just didn't see the hype of this book? All I kept hearing was how hilarious this was, and how steamy the sex scenes were, but despite the few chuckles i had (mainly from Jude's niece) I didn't laugh all that much, and the sex scenes were very repetitive. Maybe it was the fact that Jude was so adamant on them just being "fun" And then his intense switch, but this was just an ok read for me.
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions.**
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions.**
July 16, 2021
This book is all about orgasms. New York and Vegas orgasms and maybe one or two a mile high in between.
Jude and Sophie are a 10+ in the steam department.
It all begins with the dedication. Yup you read that right. If you have never read Max Monroe dedications and author's notes you should.
The Girl Scouts you ask. I cannot tell or divulge but I want to be in the Secret Club.
They meet when Jude takes a bet that he can be a one time stripper and earn more tips than the hottest stripper in one of the clubs he promotes. A 69 pose, air thrust, and a sweet puff of air is all it takes for that first big O. He doesn't even touch her.
If that's what happens for the first one just imagine what happens when they actually touch. Sparks, fireworks, explosions, all of it.
Ah Jude, blonde, blue eyed, suit wearing Jude. He is like a delicious mixture of Klein, Thatch, and Wes. He's got the sweet, romantic side like Klein, he can be broody like Wes, and he's got the dirty sexual mind of Thatch. So basically, he's perfect.
His only problem, commitment. A good time girl. That's all he's ever needed.
Hers, not giving anyone a chance. She only wants the fairytale she has made up in her mind.
Well, this good time girl may just be his everything and her fairytale may have just started with a spontaneous orgasm, some secret meet ups, foreplay like never before, forearms that make her swoon, badges, rollercoasters, Texas hold 'em, a sex club, and a rooftop full of dreams.
The road has bumps but is a glorious ride with all the Max Monroe one liners you need to add some brevity to their sexiest book yet.
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Jude and Sophie are a 10+ in the steam department.
It all begins with the dedication. Yup you read that right. If you have never read Max Monroe dedications and author's notes you should.
"To the Girl Scouts: We're sorry. To orgasms: Holy moly, you showed up for this book. Not even Savannah Cummings (IYKYK) knows what to do with this many of you."
The Girl Scouts you ask. I cannot tell or divulge but I want to be in the Secret Club.
They meet when Jude takes a bet that he can be a one time stripper and earn more tips than the hottest stripper in one of the clubs he promotes. A 69 pose, air thrust, and a sweet puff of air is all it takes for that first big O. He doesn't even touch her.
If that's what happens for the first one just imagine what happens when they actually touch. Sparks, fireworks, explosions, all of it.
"Buckle up, gorgeous, because I'm going to make sure you have a good fucking time."
Ah Jude, blonde, blue eyed, suit wearing Jude. He is like a delicious mixture of Klein, Thatch, and Wes. He's got the sweet, romantic side like Klein, he can be broody like Wes, and he's got the dirty sexual mind of Thatch. So basically, he's perfect.
His only problem, commitment. A good time girl. That's all he's ever needed.
Hers, not giving anyone a chance. She only wants the fairytale she has made up in her mind.
Well, this good time girl may just be his everything and her fairytale may have just started with a spontaneous orgasm, some secret meet ups, foreplay like never before, forearms that make her swoon, badges, rollercoasters, Texas hold 'em, a sex club, and a rooftop full of dreams.
"This doesn't feel like just sex anymore. It feels like something entirely different. It feels like more."
The road has bumps but is a glorious ride with all the Max Monroe one liners you need to add some brevity to their sexiest book yet.
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Read
July 17, 2021Grab a fan. And fresh underwear.
THE BET is LIVE NOW + FREE in KINDLE UNLIMITED!!!!
ONE-CLICK HERE (FREE in KU!):
mybook.to/TheBetEbook
✔️Hot, rich player meets happily-ever-after-focused woman
✔️Friends-with-benefits
👄Sexy fling
👄Opposites Attract
✔️Hot & Hilarious Romantic Comedy Standalone
This book is all the sexy and hilarious rom com things you need in your life!
A perfect summer read!
Happy Reading!
XOXO,
Max & Monroe
THE BET is LIVE NOW + FREE in KINDLE UNLIMITED!!!!
ONE-CLICK HERE (FREE in KU!):
mybook.to/TheBetEbook
✔️Hot, rich player meets happily-ever-after-focused woman
✔️Friends-with-benefits
👄Sexy fling
👄Opposites Attract
✔️Hot & Hilarious Romantic Comedy Standalone
This book is all the sexy and hilarious rom com things you need in your life!
A perfect summer read!
Happy Reading!
XOXO,
Max & Monroe
November 26, 2022
As far as any book with the no strings attached trope goes, this one was one of the best I’ve read. It started as a one night stand but when Sophie wakes up alone with no traces of Jude to be seen, she’s not having any of it. Once she tracks him down, they start a “just for fun” relationship.
I really liked this couple. You could feel their connection right away and their conversations never felt force or boring. Even though there was a lot of the same thing happening in this book where they meet up, hook up, and repeat, I was never bored. Whether they were doing something extra spicy, or there was a new development in the relationship, there was always something going on. I also liked how even though there are a few mentions of ow, once Sophie was in the picture, she was all he saw. I’m a sucker for a guy obsessed, especially when they don’t realize it themselves.
Even though Jude is a huge player and is always in the club scene, he was very respectful. There weren’t any toxic moments between either of them and I really appreciate that. This was just a fun, spicy, and safe read. This is my first book from this author but it won’t be the last!
I really liked this couple. You could feel their connection right away and their conversations never felt force or boring. Even though there was a lot of the same thing happening in this book where they meet up, hook up, and repeat, I was never bored. Whether they were doing something extra spicy, or there was a new development in the relationship, there was always something going on. I also liked how even though there are a few mentions of ow, once Sophie was in the picture, she was all he saw. I’m a sucker for a guy obsessed, especially when they don’t realize it themselves.
Even though Jude is a huge player and is always in the club scene, he was very respectful. There weren’t any toxic moments between either of them and I really appreciate that. This was just a fun, spicy, and safe read. This is my first book from this author but it won’t be the last!
September 15, 2021
4.25 Stars!
I’m always going to love a Max Monroe book. This duo is always a hit with me. This book wasn’t anything life changing but it was an entertaining book for someone that likes a good RomCom.
I almost did not remember Jude from the book with Wes & Winnie but as I kept reading it all started coming back to me.
Jude is a club promoter in New York City and he is a serial playboy just out for fun, which he makes clear from the beginning.
Sophie is an event planner and the owner of her own company. She is in therapy to try and relax her feelings on dating. She tends to NOT put herself out there unless a guy ticks all the boxes, which has resulted in no dates at all.
I loved these 2 characters “meet cute”. It was equally funny and sexy!!
I completely forgot how great Winnie’s daughter Lexi is and the relationship that she has with all of her uncles is super great!! The whole Winslow family are hilarious. I cannot wait for the stories for all these Winslow boys.
I’m always going to love a Max Monroe book. This duo is always a hit with me. This book wasn’t anything life changing but it was an entertaining book for someone that likes a good RomCom.
I almost did not remember Jude from the book with Wes & Winnie but as I kept reading it all started coming back to me.
Jude is a club promoter in New York City and he is a serial playboy just out for fun, which he makes clear from the beginning.
Sophie is an event planner and the owner of her own company. She is in therapy to try and relax her feelings on dating. She tends to NOT put herself out there unless a guy ticks all the boxes, which has resulted in no dates at all.
I loved these 2 characters “meet cute”. It was equally funny and sexy!!
I completely forgot how great Winnie’s daughter Lexi is and the relationship that she has with all of her uncles is super great!! The whole Winslow family are hilarious. I cannot wait for the stories for all these Winslow boys.
January 31, 2022
(Winslow Brothers, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Pact (Winslow Brothers, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Secret (Winslow Brothers, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
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July 19, 2021
Hated the hero
I don't know about you, but a 36-year-old, commitment-phobic playboy who makes women doubt their self worth, doesn't stick around long enough to leave a phone number, never promises exclusivity, and has zero interest in developing an emotional connection... is not appealing to me. That's the biggest problem with this otherwise scorching hot romance. It's a return to vintage MM, with a focus on steam, chemistry and no over the top comedy - which I love. But I hated this hero, from start to finish.
Fair warning: this book is smoking HOT, and nothing like the lighthearted rom coms MM has been putting out recently. If you're a newer fan, it might be shockingly different for you. I've been around since the St. Luke's series, so I knew that MM was capable of some serious steam - and this goes there. We're talking public acts, voyeurism, and a near-constant physical connection. An emotional connection, though? Pretty much non-existent. I found the exchange of "I love you's" to be laughable.
Still with me? Then let's talk about the story. Essentially, this follows Jude, a guy who never wants a relationship. He's completely satisfied with being the good time guy, and doesn't see that changing - ever. But when a bet introduces Jude to Sophie, he's immediately put off-balance. Sophie is fascinating to Jude in a way that no one has ever been, and the attraction that sparks between them is all-consuming. It's not long before they're falling into bed together, but Jude has no desire for more than that. As a woman who wants a relationship, Sophie has to decide if she's willing to put aside her long-term goals for the chance to have this once-in-a-lifetime fling with Jude.
There's a lot that I DID like - I loved that Sophie and Jude are in most scenes together, and the focus is entirely on their evolving relationship. It doesn't get sidetracked with funny retirees or humor for the sake of humor. The overall tone is light, just not AS light as MM's recent books. And the steam is front and center throughout. I loved the zap of connection between them, and probably would've liked this a whole lot more if a few of the steamy scenes (one in particular) were omitted in favor of actually growing the relationship. Unfortunately, without that, I just couldn't like Jude - and I couldn't respect Sophie for allowing him to make her feel used. The exploration of that subject is an interesting one, but it really didn't need to drag on as long as it did. This is an intriguing series starter and I'm curious where the other books will lead, but the brothers are ALL commitment-phobic, so I'll be tempering my expectations.
I don't know about you, but a 36-year-old, commitment-phobic playboy who makes women doubt their self worth, doesn't stick around long enough to leave a phone number, never promises exclusivity, and has zero interest in developing an emotional connection... is not appealing to me. That's the biggest problem with this otherwise scorching hot romance. It's a return to vintage MM, with a focus on steam, chemistry and no over the top comedy - which I love. But I hated this hero, from start to finish.
Fair warning: this book is smoking HOT, and nothing like the lighthearted rom coms MM has been putting out recently. If you're a newer fan, it might be shockingly different for you. I've been around since the St. Luke's series, so I knew that MM was capable of some serious steam - and this goes there. We're talking public acts, voyeurism, and a near-constant physical connection. An emotional connection, though? Pretty much non-existent. I found the exchange of "I love you's" to be laughable.
Still with me? Then let's talk about the story. Essentially, this follows Jude, a guy who never wants a relationship. He's completely satisfied with being the good time guy, and doesn't see that changing - ever. But when a bet introduces Jude to Sophie, he's immediately put off-balance. Sophie is fascinating to Jude in a way that no one has ever been, and the attraction that sparks between them is all-consuming. It's not long before they're falling into bed together, but Jude has no desire for more than that. As a woman who wants a relationship, Sophie has to decide if she's willing to put aside her long-term goals for the chance to have this once-in-a-lifetime fling with Jude.
There's a lot that I DID like - I loved that Sophie and Jude are in most scenes together, and the focus is entirely on their evolving relationship. It doesn't get sidetracked with funny retirees or humor for the sake of humor. The overall tone is light, just not AS light as MM's recent books. And the steam is front and center throughout. I loved the zap of connection between them, and probably would've liked this a whole lot more if a few of the steamy scenes (one in particular) were omitted in favor of actually growing the relationship. Unfortunately, without that, I just couldn't like Jude - and I couldn't respect Sophie for allowing him to make her feel used. The exploration of that subject is an interesting one, but it really didn't need to drag on as long as it did. This is an intriguing series starter and I'm curious where the other books will lead, but the brothers are ALL commitment-phobic, so I'll be tempering my expectations.
July 20, 2021
I don't normally do reviews for DNFcases. But what 15% I have read compelled me to mention. This was a palette cleanser which turned to be an Icky_Disaster (ID™)
The male MC was cocky, immature and frankly short on gray cells. He is a pro for casual relationship.
I don't have a problem with that. In fact, many of my previous reads have that.
I have a problem with his attitude. His thoughts. A huge problem . 🙄Personally,I would recommend Brain_Bleach_Therapy (BBT™) afterreading going through this.
Just look at some quotes from the chapters I have read.
This was written at pretty much the start. He was absolutely NOT a funny guy. He was not even fun. His attitude and all that wagers and shit just made him appear even more immature (frankly teenagerish) to me. And I am allergic to that. So NOT sorry!
Even if he was. Mentioning this out aloud makes for good humor. Thinking this in your mind as a fact generates copious amounts of eyerolls.🙄🙄🙄
Toy?! Seriouslytoy? I simply do not comprehend why would you use this word. Especially in the thought process of the male MC whom you want us impressed with. All he manages is sounding more and more like a teenager and even then a really stupid one. 🙄
Reading men's thoughts going from toying with women to declaring undying love is not sexy. Not at all fun. And DEFINITELY Not even the teeny tiniest bit romantic. Grow common sense por favor! Would lend you the seeds.🙄🙄
What it is : Eyeroll stimulant, Exasperation Extreme, Want_to_hit_MC_in_the_head motivator.
And I don't even want to touch the last misogynist phrase especially after recognising him as the Nominee of the Most_Exasperating_Stupid_Ever 🙄
This is a guy who doesn't even respect his sister's family. Or her happiness. If this isn't the pristine example of immaturity then I don't know what is. Even teenagers who scoff at love and stuff respect a couple's relationship who are genuinely happy with each other.
This guy calls her sisters' relationship basically a whatever. Highlights he either lacks the intelligence to comment or lacks the eloquence to frame simple sentences.
Disgracing something simply because you don't like it or don't understand it is the act of a teenager.🙄🙄
Lastly would like to add, the guy Jude lacked a personality. All he did was talk about his so called qualities (without any action proving it) and think about sex. And you have him down crossed to the t's.🙄
I remember reading Max Monroe's books before and don't remember it being so badly written.
Even the blurb wasn't that interesting. I picked it more because of the author's name. Turned out to be a major mistake.
The male MC was cocky, immature and frankly short on gray cells. He is a pro for casual relationship.
I don't have a problem with that. In fact, many of my previous reads have that.
I have a problem with his attitude. His thoughts. A huge problem . 🙄Personally,I would recommend Brain_Bleach_Therapy (BBT™) after
Just look at some quotes from the chapters I have read.
"I could join in on the amusement—I mean, I am the funniest and funnest sibling of all—but the entrance doors of Club Craze are so close, and indoor warmth sounds like my current idea of a good time"
This was written at pretty much the start. He was absolutely NOT a funny guy. He was not even fun. His attitude and all that wagers and shit just made him appear even more immature (frankly teenagerish) to me. And I am allergic to that. So NOT sorry!
Even if he was. Mentioning this out aloud makes for good humor. Thinking this in your mind as a fact generates copious amounts of eyerolls.🙄🙄🙄
"I might be the type to toy with my women every once in a while, but at the end of the day, there’s nothing sexier than a woman with a brain."
Toy?! Seriouslytoy? I simply do not comprehend why would you use this word. Especially in the thought process of the male MC whom you want us impressed with. All he manages is sounding more and more like a teenager and even then a really stupid one. 🙄
Reading men's thoughts going from toying with women to declaring undying love is not sexy. Not at all fun. And DEFINITELY Not even the teeny tiniest bit romantic. Grow common sense por favor! Would lend you the seeds.🙄🙄
What it is : Eyeroll stimulant, Exasperation Extreme, Want_to_hit_MC_in_the_head motivator.
And I don't even want to touch the last misogynist phrase especially after recognising him as the Nominee of the Most_Exasperating_Stupid_Ever 🙄
"After this much time with the four of us as single bachelors, I can’t imagine our baby sister expects anything else. Still, I know she’s found her supposed happily ever after or whatever with Wes Lancaster, so there’s a certain amount of desire to spread the joy that runs through every woman’s veins."
This is a guy who doesn't even respect his sister's family. Or her happiness. If this isn't the pristine example of immaturity then I don't know what is. Even teenagers who scoff at love and stuff respect a couple's relationship who are genuinely happy with each other.
This guy calls her sisters' relationship basically a whatever. Highlights he either lacks the intelligence to comment or lacks the eloquence to frame simple sentences.
Disgracing something simply because you don't like it or don't understand it is the act of a teenager.🙄🙄
Lastly would like to add, the guy Jude lacked a personality. All he did was talk about his so called qualities (without any action proving it) and think about sex. And you have him down crossed to the t's.🙄
I remember reading Max Monroe's books before and don't remember it being so badly written.
Even the blurb wasn't that interesting. I picked it more because of the author's name. Turned out to be a major mistake.
July 13, 2021
The Bet is a stand-alone Rom Com by the fabulous writing duo Max Monroe. Wes Lancaster, owner of the NY Mavericks pro-football team, was the hero in Scoring the Billionaire which is included in the Broody Billionaire Collection of three books. He married Winnie, and her four sexy single brothers–Jude, Remy, Ty, and Flynn, each get bitten by the love bug in this new Winslow Brothers series which is off to a great start.
Jude is our super hot, smart, smooth and swoony, as well as daring bachelor who can’t refuse a challenge. Lots of laugh-out-loud moments when he pretends to be an exotic dancer and meets Sophie who is celebrating her twin sister’s impending marriage with their friends at a nightclub.
There were insta-sparks and insta-lust and I could feel their electric attraction for one another on every page. I have read all of Max Monroe’s books, and The Bet is the absolute steamiest. These two lit the pages on fire and couldn’t keep their hands off each other. Jude is all alpha, demanding, but also very considerate and sweet, and what started out as just a fun, no-feelings allowed fling, grew to be so much more. I loved how in-tune they were with each other–body and soul, how they challenged each other, and how they genuinely enjoyed being with each other. Jude vowed never to commit, but after he gets to know Sophie intimately, can he let her go?
Sophie is dealing with emotional struggles not related to the mixed signals she feels from Jude, and I admire her independence, how she seeks professional help, and how she can stand on her own two feet, with or without a man.
Both owned their own businesses–she was an event planner, and Jude helped market and promote nightclubs and restaurants, and I enjoyed how comfortable they were in each other's worlds. He was very business savvy, knew all of the hot spots in NYC, and planned the most erotic dates! He had "no shame" as my grandmother would say and teased and flirted with her mercilessly. I couldn’t help but fan myself during several chapters.
There are lots of funny as well as emotional interactions with their friends and family, who were all very close and supportive. Jude and Sophie are fortunate to have such strong bonds with their siblings, and there was a considerable amount of teasing and witty dialogue which I have come to expect from these authors. Easter eggs are dropped in the form of recurring characters from previous books which made the story even more enjoyable for me!
Loved the ending especially as these two make a decision about their future and it doesn’t go as expected. Lots of surprises in The Bet which will keep you fully engaged, turning page after page, to find out what happens next.
Please note: There is a FREE prequel, Gotta Have Fate, which introduces readers to the family and explains why the Winslow brothers are so hesitant to fall in love. Bring on the mysterious Flynn who is next!
Jude is our super hot, smart, smooth and swoony, as well as daring bachelor who can’t refuse a challenge. Lots of laugh-out-loud moments when he pretends to be an exotic dancer and meets Sophie who is celebrating her twin sister’s impending marriage with their friends at a nightclub.
There were insta-sparks and insta-lust and I could feel their electric attraction for one another on every page. I have read all of Max Monroe’s books, and The Bet is the absolute steamiest. These two lit the pages on fire and couldn’t keep their hands off each other. Jude is all alpha, demanding, but also very considerate and sweet, and what started out as just a fun, no-feelings allowed fling, grew to be so much more. I loved how in-tune they were with each other–body and soul, how they challenged each other, and how they genuinely enjoyed being with each other. Jude vowed never to commit, but after he gets to know Sophie intimately, can he let her go?
Sophie is dealing with emotional struggles not related to the mixed signals she feels from Jude, and I admire her independence, how she seeks professional help, and how she can stand on her own two feet, with or without a man.
Both owned their own businesses–she was an event planner, and Jude helped market and promote nightclubs and restaurants, and I enjoyed how comfortable they were in each other's worlds. He was very business savvy, knew all of the hot spots in NYC, and planned the most erotic dates! He had "no shame" as my grandmother would say and teased and flirted with her mercilessly. I couldn’t help but fan myself during several chapters.
There are lots of funny as well as emotional interactions with their friends and family, who were all very close and supportive. Jude and Sophie are fortunate to have such strong bonds with their siblings, and there was a considerable amount of teasing and witty dialogue which I have come to expect from these authors. Easter eggs are dropped in the form of recurring characters from previous books which made the story even more enjoyable for me!
Loved the ending especially as these two make a decision about their future and it doesn’t go as expected. Lots of surprises in The Bet which will keep you fully engaged, turning page after page, to find out what happens next.
Please note: There is a FREE prequel, Gotta Have Fate, which introduces readers to the family and explains why the Winslow brothers are so hesitant to fall in love. Bring on the mysterious Flynn who is next!
August 1, 2022
3✨
I usually love playboy rom coms. This one missed a little.
Here’s the plot in a quote by Sophie, the fmc.
Everything just got so out of control. And at first, I didn’t know what you’d think about me sleeping with the dancer from your bachelorette party, but then, he didn’t end up even being a dancer, and before I knew it, I was meeting up with him for hot sex in public places and he was stealing my panties and I was a Girl Scout in Vegas, earning orgasm badges!
It was funny, lighthearted, and sexy, but sometimes ultra cringey.
The 3rd act breakup wasn’t anything special. Playboy freaked out and ran (are we surprised?).
Loved the mental health rep though. One of the best psychologist portrayals I’ve read in a rom com.
I usually love playboy rom coms. This one missed a little.
Here’s the plot in a quote by Sophie, the fmc.
Everything just got so out of control. And at first, I didn’t know what you’d think about me sleeping with the dancer from your bachelorette party, but then, he didn’t end up even being a dancer, and before I knew it, I was meeting up with him for hot sex in public places and he was stealing my panties and I was a Girl Scout in Vegas, earning orgasm badges!
It was funny, lighthearted, and sexy, but sometimes ultra cringey.
The 3rd act breakup wasn’t anything special. Playboy freaked out and ran (are we surprised?).
Loved the mental health rep though. One of the best psychologist portrayals I’ve read in a rom com.
July 13, 2021
Everyone needs a successful stud like Jude Winslow in their life! The Bet was a HOT, hilarious, and quite sinful romance that hooked me start to finish. I'm simply saying it was everything I could want and more from my favorite author duo!
This is a stand alone romance, however we've met Jude in a few previous novellas. The hype is real! Jude Winslow is sex on a stick; Sophie Sage needs a little walk on the wild side. When these two characters first meet, the sparks ignite! What was supposed to be a fun harmless fling, turns into something much more tempting. In fact, Jude and Sophie's undeniable chemistry becomes explosive which makes it even harder for the two to ignore. Jude has some insecurities from his past that makes him hesitant to take a risk. Add his nosy family and several characters we know and love (yes, there is a Thatch sighting!) and you've got another amusing and highly entertaining winner.
This book made me laugh out loud, but also made my heart swoon! Jude and Sophie's story was the perfect start to the Winslow Brothers series from my favorite romcom queens! I also may have a new appreciation and intrigue for Girl Scout badges...Ha! I am so excited for the rest of the Winslow brothers' adventures to find their own HEAs.
This is a stand alone romance, however we've met Jude in a few previous novellas. The hype is real! Jude Winslow is sex on a stick; Sophie Sage needs a little walk on the wild side. When these two characters first meet, the sparks ignite! What was supposed to be a fun harmless fling, turns into something much more tempting. In fact, Jude and Sophie's undeniable chemistry becomes explosive which makes it even harder for the two to ignore. Jude has some insecurities from his past that makes him hesitant to take a risk. Add his nosy family and several characters we know and love (yes, there is a Thatch sighting!) and you've got another amusing and highly entertaining winner.
This book made me laugh out loud, but also made my heart swoon! Jude and Sophie's story was the perfect start to the Winslow Brothers series from my favorite romcom queens! I also may have a new appreciation and intrigue for Girl Scout badges...Ha! I am so excited for the rest of the Winslow brothers' adventures to find their own HEAs.
June 16, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️ three stars -
This is a tough one… I really struggled with the rating for this, but decided to land at three stars.
What are my reasons? It’s good, it annoyed the heck out of me in parts, it has a solid ending where I felt the romance, but it definitely feels like a tale from a two person author duo; and most definitely reads like a story that two completely different people wrote…..
I picked this book up because the premise intrigued me - good time party guy meets reserved career gal. The beginning of the story started off interestingly enough, and I was ready to settle in and be entertained, and that mostly did happened.
Truth be told, and in full-on whisper confession mode, I was a club rat back in the day, and I was amused by the story line, which takes place at the club scene in NYC. I was annoyed by a few inconsistencies with reality, but no one that’s not a former, aging club rat would even notice - haha.
That being said, minus the glaring liberties with club life at a hot “It Club”, I did enjoy this part of the tale, and I especially enjoyed it because I absolutely know (or knew) guys like Jude, our hero, and could absolutely picture him; right down to the strong, spicy cologne, the sly calculating grin, and the metrosexual hot guy dark clothing - a Manhattan staple ha. It was fun to relive some of those memories for me, from the outside looking back, and when he wasn’t a huge annoying d$*k, I mostly looked past it, cause players gotta play.
Mostly though, I was completely flummoxed as to why a supposedly intelligent woman never saw through his total bs - his tired lines and well-crafted playbook. She not only overlooks his player vibe, but she goes with it and gives him pass after pass to walk all over her. This beginning part of the book was not fun to read. It’s like the tales of the desperate and dateless, and it’s sad to watch her throw herself at this obvious ladies man. Why she continues to sleep with him when one night stands upset her, is just stupid. He doesn’t even give her a thought, and the reader is left shouting at their kindle, “get some self respect gf!”.
This almost made it to a dnf, but I persevered as I decided to skip over Jude’s convos with his siblings (super boring and pointless), and cut to scenes where the H and h were actually interacting outside of the bedroom. There weren’t many of these scenes, so that kept it a quicker read.
The main reason this book earns a three star rating (instead of two the first half definitely deserves) is due to the fact that the book changes during and after the Vegas scene; at about the 55% mark. I’m convinced that the other writer (different from whomever wrote the beginning) stepped in and finished this.
It all comes together much more romantically during and after the Vegas setting, and I actually started to enjoy the story more as the romance it’s intended to be, and mostly enjoyed the latter half of the book.
I definitely enjoyed how the book wrapped up, and I felt that Jude became a different H at the end, and actually manned up and fought for our h, which I’m always a sucker for.
Overall, not my favorite romance, would not read again, but the ending was cute. I got a tiny patter with the big romantic gesture, but nothing too crazy, as I was not crazy about the H for most of this.
Loved the epilogue, and it’s always nice when the player finally meets his lady - not all of them do, so when loves strikes the least likely, you’ve always got to cheer.
Three solid stars, and three cheers for all the line jumping, player spotting, champagne guzzling, restroom bonding sisters out there ✌️
This is a tough one… I really struggled with the rating for this, but decided to land at three stars.
What are my reasons? It’s good, it annoyed the heck out of me in parts, it has a solid ending where I felt the romance, but it definitely feels like a tale from a two person author duo; and most definitely reads like a story that two completely different people wrote…..
I picked this book up because the premise intrigued me - good time party guy meets reserved career gal. The beginning of the story started off interestingly enough, and I was ready to settle in and be entertained, and that mostly did happened.
Truth be told, and in full-on whisper confession mode, I was a club rat back in the day, and I was amused by the story line, which takes place at the club scene in NYC. I was annoyed by a few inconsistencies with reality, but no one that’s not a former, aging club rat would even notice - haha.
That being said, minus the glaring liberties with club life at a hot “It Club”, I did enjoy this part of the tale, and I especially enjoyed it because I absolutely know (or knew) guys like Jude, our hero, and could absolutely picture him; right down to the strong, spicy cologne, the sly calculating grin, and the metrosexual hot guy dark clothing - a Manhattan staple ha. It was fun to relive some of those memories for me, from the outside looking back, and when he wasn’t a huge annoying d$*k, I mostly looked past it, cause players gotta play.
Mostly though, I was completely flummoxed as to why a supposedly intelligent woman never saw through his total bs - his tired lines and well-crafted playbook. She not only overlooks his player vibe, but she goes with it and gives him pass after pass to walk all over her. This beginning part of the book was not fun to read. It’s like the tales of the desperate and dateless, and it’s sad to watch her throw herself at this obvious ladies man. Why she continues to sleep with him when one night stands upset her, is just stupid. He doesn’t even give her a thought, and the reader is left shouting at their kindle, “get some self respect gf!”.
This almost made it to a dnf, but I persevered as I decided to skip over Jude’s convos with his siblings (super boring and pointless), and cut to scenes where the H and h were actually interacting outside of the bedroom. There weren’t many of these scenes, so that kept it a quicker read.
The main reason this book earns a three star rating (instead of two the first half definitely deserves) is due to the fact that the book changes during and after the Vegas scene; at about the 55% mark. I’m convinced that the other writer (different from whomever wrote the beginning) stepped in and finished this.
It all comes together much more romantically during and after the Vegas setting, and I actually started to enjoy the story more as the romance it’s intended to be, and mostly enjoyed the latter half of the book.
I definitely enjoyed how the book wrapped up, and I felt that Jude became a different H at the end, and actually manned up and fought for our h, which I’m always a sucker for.
Overall, not my favorite romance, would not read again, but the ending was cute. I got a tiny patter with the big romantic gesture, but nothing too crazy, as I was not crazy about the H for most of this.
Loved the epilogue, and it’s always nice when the player finally meets his lady - not all of them do, so when loves strikes the least likely, you’ve always got to cheer.
Three solid stars, and three cheers for all the line jumping, player spotting, champagne guzzling, restroom bonding sisters out there ✌️
March 6, 2023
This is a DNF for me at 27% which I hate to do. But I couldn’t with this book any longer.
Firstly, where is the humour that’s promised from the beginning?? Because I went through 14 chapters without the hint of a chuckle or a scoff. (And before you ask, yes I do have a sense of humour, there’s plenty books that have made me snort out loud and per my pants with funnies. But not this one.)
Secondly, the chemistry??? Nada. They go to a bar after he interrupted her date. He kissed her neck. The next thing you know it’s four hours later and they’re about to get jiggy with it back at her place. I WANT TO KNOW ABOUT THE DATE!!! Where’s the slow burn? The chemistry? The sexual freaking tension??
And then DO NOT get me started about those fecking annoying breaks/gaps after every sentence. It’s so annoying it makes me want to pluck my eyes out with a fork. It seems like a new craze with books, but for me if feels like lazy writing. Feel your paragraphs people!!! Write it properly for the love of god!!!
So that’s it, that’s the review. I couldn’t tell you anything about Jude and what’s her face because there’s not much to tell, even after the 14 chapters, I knew next to nothing. Just that Jude’s a hit and run kinda guy and what’s her face is ….. yea I’ve got nothing.
Firstly, where is the humour that’s promised from the beginning?? Because I went through 14 chapters without the hint of a chuckle or a scoff. (And before you ask, yes I do have a sense of humour, there’s plenty books that have made me snort out loud and per my pants with funnies. But not this one.)
Secondly, the chemistry??? Nada. They go to a bar after he interrupted her date. He kissed her neck. The next thing you know it’s four hours later and they’re about to get jiggy with it back at her place. I WANT TO KNOW ABOUT THE DATE!!! Where’s the slow burn? The chemistry? The sexual freaking tension??
And then DO NOT get me started about those fecking annoying breaks/gaps after every sentence. It’s so annoying it makes me want to pluck my eyes out with a fork. It seems like a new craze with books, but for me if feels like lazy writing. Feel your paragraphs people!!! Write it properly for the love of god!!!
So that’s it, that’s the review. I couldn’t tell you anything about Jude and what’s her face because there’s not much to tell, even after the 14 chapters, I knew next to nothing. Just that Jude’s a hit and run kinda guy and what’s her face is ….. yea I’ve got nothing.
April 23, 2023
My first Max Monroe!!!
Thank god everyone has audiobooks because I can finally explore more authors ❤️
I very much enjoyed this book! I will say there were so many moments I literally wanted to shake Jude or slap him in the face but I feel like he redeemed himself at the end!
I loved their meet cute so much: twins swap during a bachelorette party & a guy was bet he couldn’t make as much money as the dancer of a club so he becomes the bach dancer!
The chemistry between Jude & Sophie was hot & I loved how strong of a character she was!
Spice: 🌶🌶
Tropes:
friends with benefits
Sexy fling
opposites attract
RomCom
Thank god everyone has audiobooks because I can finally explore more authors ❤️
I very much enjoyed this book! I will say there were so many moments I literally wanted to shake Jude or slap him in the face but I feel like he redeemed himself at the end!
I loved their meet cute so much: twins swap during a bachelorette party & a guy was bet he couldn’t make as much money as the dancer of a club so he becomes the bach dancer!
The chemistry between Jude & Sophie was hot & I loved how strong of a character she was!
Spice: 🌶🌶
Tropes:
friends with benefits
Sexy fling
opposites attract
RomCom
August 19, 2022
Good Start
3.5 Stars / 3 Steam Fans
Okay in the beginning, Jude and Sophie really had me in the story with them. However, the dated chapters and the third act breakup didn't give what I was hoping for. I did laugh and swoon a bit but I was hoping for more.
Video review available in Week 20: May 15 – May 21, 2022, total weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk Patreon.
For other bookish content, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
3.5 Stars / 3 Steam Fans
Okay in the beginning, Jude and Sophie really had me in the story with them. However, the dated chapters and the third act breakup didn't give what I was hoping for. I did laugh and swoon a bit but I was hoping for more.
Video review available in Week 20: May 15 – May 21, 2022, total weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk Patreon.
For other bookish content, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
October 4, 2023
Having trouble with this one
- the heroine is judgemental
- the heroine is judgemental
October 20, 2023
I was DNF at 20% because I already wanted the FMC to die. Then I read that there was a lot of sex so I decided to keep going. I should have just quit at 20%. First, a quick recap.
Sophie (event planner, stupid twat) plans her twin sister’s bachelorette party and they go to a strip club. When they get there, Sophie’s sister decides she’s too nervous to get a lap dance so they change clothes and Sophie pretends to be the bride.
Jude Winslow (club owner, commitment issues) makes a bet with one of the dancers at the club he owns that he can do a better performance than the dancer. He sees Sophie and has all sorts of inappropriate feelings for a woman that’s about to get married. After the strip show, they dance and flirt and then go their separate ways. Neither can stop thinking about the other.
Then the event happens that made me want to quit. I put that info under spoiler.
In the end, yes they had a lot of sex. Do we get to enjoy it? No. It’s all, “he thrusts into me and I moan…… I wake up when I feel the bed shift.” We don’t get the in-between part or the finish! It’s a total rip off. For me, it wasn’t worth reading.
Every single bit of it was BORING. There is a whole lot of texting. Texting between Jude and his friends/family. Texting with her. Texting, texting, texting. There’s a lot of time spent with family and friends. There’s only a few parts where Jude and Sophie have quality time together, and I just didn’t feel it at all. Jude is boring. Sophie is boring. I didn’t connect with either one of them or their relationship.
It’s not a RomCom because it’s not romance and it’s not a comedy.
This is where I should have stopped:
Why is the heifer mad at him?? She’s the idiot that didn’t stop this mess before it got to that point. And she hated the date she was on anyway!! Then she’s yelling at him for not knowing she was her twin after already admitting she had tricked him the first time they met. WTF. Wish she had been run over by a taxi or something.
Sophie (event planner, stupid twat) plans her twin sister’s bachelorette party and they go to a strip club. When they get there, Sophie’s sister decides she’s too nervous to get a lap dance so they change clothes and Sophie pretends to be the bride.
Jude Winslow (club owner, commitment issues) makes a bet with one of the dancers at the club he owns that he can do a better performance than the dancer. He sees Sophie and has all sorts of inappropriate feelings for a woman that’s about to get married. After the strip show, they dance and flirt and then go their separate ways. Neither can stop thinking about the other.
Then the event happens that made me want to quit. I put that info under spoiler.
In the end, yes they had a lot of sex. Do we get to enjoy it? No. It’s all, “he thrusts into me and I moan…… I wake up when I feel the bed shift.” We don’t get the in-between part or the finish! It’s a total rip off. For me, it wasn’t worth reading.
Every single bit of it was BORING. There is a whole lot of texting. Texting between Jude and his friends/family. Texting with her. Texting, texting, texting. There’s a lot of time spent with family and friends. There’s only a few parts where Jude and Sophie have quality time together, and I just didn’t feel it at all. Jude is boring. Sophie is boring. I didn’t connect with either one of them or their relationship.
It’s not a RomCom because it’s not romance and it’s not a comedy.
This is where I should have stopped:
Why is the heifer mad at him?? She’s the idiot that didn’t stop this mess before it got to that point. And she hated the date she was on anyway!! Then she’s yelling at him for not knowing she was her twin after already admitting she had tricked him the first time they met. WTF. Wish she had been run over by a taxi or something.
July 23, 2021
4.5 SMOOCHES!
Holy hot stuff, Max Monroe, what did I just read?! As a purveyor of Max Monroe’s romantic comedies, I know reading their books is going to be a real good time. Between fanning myself, swooning and howling with laughter, this author duo never fails to thoroughly entertain me. Their books are always high on the heat, but The Bet, the first book in their new Winslow Brothers series, is their hottest yet. Buckle up, romance readers, because you’re in for a wild time with this one.
An opposites-attract romcom featuring the devastatingly handsome commitment-phobe nightclub promoter, Jude, and event/wedding planner Sophie, who’s searching for the fairytale version for her own happily-ever-after. These two were fire and gasoline from the start. The problem was that Jude was only looking for a good time, not a long time, and Sophie wasn’t looking to just play, she was looking to play for keeps. Jude had quite the alpha-hole side to him, and there were certainly some parts where I wondered why she didn’t just smack him upside his head. A bit of a heart-wrencher, there was a touch more angst and emotion in this story than readers typically experience from this author.
The Bet was fun and flirty and five-fluffing-alarm fiery hot. Witty banter and sizzling chemistry fuel the build-up of Jude and Sophie’s relationship, and I devoured this unputdownable story in a day! The Bet by Max Monroe gets 4.5 smooches from me!
~Danielle Palumbo
Holy hot stuff, Max Monroe, what did I just read?! As a purveyor of Max Monroe’s romantic comedies, I know reading their books is going to be a real good time. Between fanning myself, swooning and howling with laughter, this author duo never fails to thoroughly entertain me. Their books are always high on the heat, but The Bet, the first book in their new Winslow Brothers series, is their hottest yet. Buckle up, romance readers, because you’re in for a wild time with this one.
An opposites-attract romcom featuring the devastatingly handsome commitment-phobe nightclub promoter, Jude, and event/wedding planner Sophie, who’s searching for the fairytale version for her own happily-ever-after. These two were fire and gasoline from the start. The problem was that Jude was only looking for a good time, not a long time, and Sophie wasn’t looking to just play, she was looking to play for keeps. Jude had quite the alpha-hole side to him, and there were certainly some parts where I wondered why she didn’t just smack him upside his head. A bit of a heart-wrencher, there was a touch more angst and emotion in this story than readers typically experience from this author.
The Bet was fun and flirty and five-fluffing-alarm fiery hot. Witty banter and sizzling chemistry fuel the build-up of Jude and Sophie’s relationship, and I devoured this unputdownable story in a day! The Bet by Max Monroe gets 4.5 smooches from me!
~Danielle Palumbo
June 9, 2023
4,5✨ book 1
“there will come a bet. one that will change the course of your life. one that will mold the shape of you as a man. be careful, though, child. it won’t be a period of easy choices. but if you handle it right, it could lead to a great deal of happiness for you.”
*changing the rating cause i think this book deserves 4,5 instead of 4
“the bet” starts with sophie, our main character, who pretends to be her twin sister turning herself into a bride-to-be on a bachelorette party! that’s when she meets jude, a business guy who pretends to be a stripper dancer to the same party. the chemistry is huge since page 1 but to know what happened between them you have to read it :)
this is my first time reading something from max monroe and i have to say…. really really liked the writing!
this was a rom com and although i didn’t laugh like others books from this genre, this was nice and brought me smiles.
now… i have to say: this book is h o t 🔥🔥 and that’s on the blurb. like i said, their chemistry was crazy and was beautiful to see the characters opening themselves to each other.
one thing that bothered me: sophie ran after jude the entire book minus the end. i wish i could see him grove a little bit more to get her, but the last chapter + the epilogue was amazing! 🤗
i would definitely recommend this book
“there will come a bet. one that will change the course of your life. one that will mold the shape of you as a man. be careful, though, child. it won’t be a period of easy choices. but if you handle it right, it could lead to a great deal of happiness for you.”
*changing the rating cause i think this book deserves 4,5 instead of 4
“the bet” starts with sophie, our main character, who pretends to be her twin sister turning herself into a bride-to-be on a bachelorette party! that’s when she meets jude, a business guy who pretends to be a stripper dancer to the same party. the chemistry is huge since page 1 but to know what happened between them you have to read it :)
this is my first time reading something from max monroe and i have to say…. really really liked the writing!
this was a rom com and although i didn’t laugh like others books from this genre, this was nice and brought me smiles.
now… i have to say: this book is h o t 🔥🔥 and that’s on the blurb. like i said, their chemistry was crazy and was beautiful to see the characters opening themselves to each other.
one thing that bothered me: sophie ran after jude the entire book minus the end. i wish i could see him grove a little bit more to get her, but the last chapter + the epilogue was amazing! 🤗
i would definitely recommend this book
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July 17, 2021
Jude loves living in the moment, he likes to have fun, no strings attached. He lives the bachelor lifestyle. Sophie is a planner; I mean she even plans events for a living. She is full of sass and is focused, maybe too focused at times at finding her happily ever after.
Holy steam! This book is HOT. Jude and Sophie are steaming up the pages from the start. The physical chemistry between these two is off the charts, but their chemistry is much deeper than the physical side of things, there is something deeper between them. I loved Jude and Sophie’s relationship from the start and as the story continued I fell more in love with the two of them.
I loved the entire Winslow family and I can’t wait to get to know more about each of the brothers in the future books! Their family dynamic is fun and full of great sibling banter.
If you’re looking for a steam filled, laugh out loud rom com this is one to check out!
Holy steam! This book is HOT. Jude and Sophie are steaming up the pages from the start. The physical chemistry between these two is off the charts, but their chemistry is much deeper than the physical side of things, there is something deeper between them. I loved Jude and Sophie’s relationship from the start and as the story continued I fell more in love with the two of them.
I loved the entire Winslow family and I can’t wait to get to know more about each of the brothers in the future books! Their family dynamic is fun and full of great sibling banter.
If you’re looking for a steam filled, laugh out loud rom com this is one to check out!
July 17, 2021
This book is up there as one of the best Max Monroe books EVER! The ladies are writing GOLD this year, I tell you. Gold!
Jude Winslow is the ultimate player - never getting serious, never offering more than he's willing to offer. All fun, all the time.
Sophie is closed off from the world, from her family and needs to stop obsessing over what she doesn't have and open herself up to possibilities. With a little push from her therapist, she starts saying "yes" to what Jude offers and her eyes open wide to what she's missed out on for years.
Feelings form and heels dig in and before either of them know it everything implodes and - man, oh man - the angst is REAL!
I adored both characters and laughed so hard I cried. My heart ached and my soul cried alongside them but I smiled and loved right alongside them too. The ultimate in romantic comedies. Bravo, Max and Monroe, bravo!
Jude Winslow is the ultimate player - never getting serious, never offering more than he's willing to offer. All fun, all the time.
Sophie is closed off from the world, from her family and needs to stop obsessing over what she doesn't have and open herself up to possibilities. With a little push from her therapist, she starts saying "yes" to what Jude offers and her eyes open wide to what she's missed out on for years.
Feelings form and heels dig in and before either of them know it everything implodes and - man, oh man - the angst is REAL!
I adored both characters and laughed so hard I cried. My heart ached and my soul cried alongside them but I smiled and loved right alongside them too. The ultimate in romantic comedies. Bravo, Max and Monroe, bravo!
April 7, 2022
4/5 ⭐️s
The way this book made me happy AND horny…This writing duo had me giggling and smiling one minute, then *squirming* the next. It was a nice break from reading dark romances!
I really liked Jude and Sophie’s progression throughout the book. That initial attraction was there, so they acted on it. And despite Jude’s insistence it was casual and fun only, I never felt like this relationship was spinning its wheels. And I loved how this was a romcom with spice! Not just one or two moments - these two couldn’t keep their hands off each other! It was a fun twist to a genre I love.
The Winslows were such amazing side characters too! They’re funny and loving, and I’m eager to read each brother’s story. Here’s hoping for me laughter and spice in the next one!
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶
The way this book made me happy AND horny…This writing duo had me giggling and smiling one minute, then *squirming* the next. It was a nice break from reading dark romances!
I really liked Jude and Sophie’s progression throughout the book. That initial attraction was there, so they acted on it. And despite Jude’s insistence it was casual and fun only, I never felt like this relationship was spinning its wheels. And I loved how this was a romcom with spice! Not just one or two moments - these two couldn’t keep their hands off each other! It was a fun twist to a genre I love.
The Winslows were such amazing side characters too! They’re funny and loving, and I’m eager to read each brother’s story. Here’s hoping for me laughter and spice in the next one!
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶
January 19, 2024
This was okay! I just don't really care for the commitment phobic fuck boy these days. 🤷♀️
Audio Book was on Audible Plus and was a good listen.
3.5 stars
3 on the spice scale
Audio Book was on Audible Plus and was a good listen.
3.5 stars
3 on the spice scale
July 18, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The past. The future. For some reason, they don’t exist when he’s around. With him, it’s only the here and now.”
What You’ll Find:
✔️Romantic Comedy
✔️Playboy Hero
✔️Opposites Attract
✔️Steamy AF
✔️Dual POV
First off. Picking up this book, just to read the authors note, would be totally worth it. I don’t think I’ve ever read one like it. So charming and funny. And gives a proper warning... because The Bet is hella STEAMY.
“If dessert is anything but an orgasm, I don’t want it.”
This couple meets when both are pretending to be someone else, and end up in a friends with benefits fling. Because Jude is a player, looking for no attachments. And Sophie is looking for her HEA. But can they both get what they are looking for?
Judes words ‘Wanna Bet?’ set the story tone up perfectly. I just knew this was going to be a fun story. And it was. But with some great feels too. Jude is that playful hero that could charm the pants off anyone. And Sophie, more shy, reserved, dealing with some things unrelated to Jude. But together they are dynamite! I loved watching their relationship transform. They seem to bring the best out in each other.
It was a bit long and a bit young in places for me personally, but nothing that kept me from enjoying the story. I like how the author duo normalized therapy. I enjoyed The Hangover movie references. And I loved all the family connection. Especially enjoying the comradery between brothers. You get a great feel for each of the brothers coming in this series and I can’t wait for their stories. This is my first read by this duo, but won’t be my last! A fun hot read you should check out!
*I received an ARC for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
What You’ll Find:
✔️Romantic Comedy
✔️Playboy Hero
✔️Opposites Attract
✔️Steamy AF
✔️Dual POV
First off. Picking up this book, just to read the authors note, would be totally worth it. I don’t think I’ve ever read one like it. So charming and funny. And gives a proper warning... because The Bet is hella STEAMY.
“If dessert is anything but an orgasm, I don’t want it.”
This couple meets when both are pretending to be someone else, and end up in a friends with benefits fling. Because Jude is a player, looking for no attachments. And Sophie is looking for her HEA. But can they both get what they are looking for?
Judes words ‘Wanna Bet?’ set the story tone up perfectly. I just knew this was going to be a fun story. And it was. But with some great feels too. Jude is that playful hero that could charm the pants off anyone. And Sophie, more shy, reserved, dealing with some things unrelated to Jude. But together they are dynamite! I loved watching their relationship transform. They seem to bring the best out in each other.
It was a bit long and a bit young in places for me personally, but nothing that kept me from enjoying the story. I like how the author duo normalized therapy. I enjoyed The Hangover movie references. And I loved all the family connection. Especially enjoying the comradery between brothers. You get a great feel for each of the brothers coming in this series and I can’t wait for their stories. This is my first read by this duo, but won’t be my last! A fun hot read you should check out!
*I received an ARC for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 8, 2022
3.5 stars
Jude Winslow is a rake. He loves women and women love him. He’s a good time guy whose job is running a highly successful club promotion business. He also has a penchant for making/taking bets. So basically if you met him IRL, I would advise that you stay the hell away from him and his manwhore-ish ways.
Enter Sophie Hollis; an event planner who ends up getting a very risqué lap dance (as part of a bet) from Jude at a nightclub. They become friends with benefits and then duh, they start catching real feelings for each other. They break up because neither of them has the balls to put it all on the line, but then—predictably—are super miserable because you know, THEY ACTUALLY LOVE EACH OTHER.
The End.
So anyway, I read this book and it wasn’t bad at all but nothing really stood out to me tbh. Jude and Sophie have a lot of sex which means this one was really nice and steamy, but apart from that, it lacked real oomph IMO. Even Max Monroe’s signature wit was kinda lost on me. Sophie seemed to be just dick-notized by Jude’s peen, making her a fumbling mess and unable to assert herself for most of the book. Jude is just a fuckboy club promoter who is “scared” of being hurt by love… 🙄
Meh. Take a number, Jude.
Jude Winslow is a rake. He loves women and women love him. He’s a good time guy whose job is running a highly successful club promotion business. He also has a penchant for making/taking bets. So basically if you met him IRL, I would advise that you stay the hell away from him and his manwhore-ish ways.
Enter Sophie Hollis; an event planner who ends up getting a very risqué lap dance (as part of a bet) from Jude at a nightclub. They become friends with benefits and then duh, they start catching real feelings for each other. They break up because neither of them has the balls to put it all on the line, but then—predictably—are super miserable because you know, THEY ACTUALLY LOVE EACH OTHER.
The End.
So anyway, I read this book and it wasn’t bad at all but nothing really stood out to me tbh. Jude and Sophie have a lot of sex which means this one was really nice and steamy, but apart from that, it lacked real oomph IMO. Even Max Monroe’s signature wit was kinda lost on me. Sophie seemed to be just dick-notized by Jude’s peen, making her a fumbling mess and unable to assert herself for most of the book. Jude is just a fuckboy club promoter who is “scared” of being hurt by love… 🙄
Meh. Take a number, Jude.
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October 21, 2022
2.5 stars?
I’ve been listening to this audiobook on and off for nearly a month so that says a lot already. I just found the H douchey and the humor cringy-er than Max Monroe’s normal. The commitment phobic man hoe just wasn’t hitting for me this time, and I found this book a bit boring 🤷🏼♀️
I’ve been listening to this audiobook on and off for nearly a month so that says a lot already. I just found the H douchey and the humor cringy-er than Max Monroe’s normal. The commitment phobic man hoe just wasn’t hitting for me this time, and I found this book a bit boring 🤷🏼♀️
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