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The Wedding Pact #3
The Gambler
Libby St. Clair believes in fate—so much so, she’s willing to pin everything on a curse a fortune teller placed on her and her two best friends when they were kids. The curse, that each of them will marry before thirty, have a disaster of a wedding, and end up with a man other than her original fiancé, has come to fruition for both of her friends, who are now deliriously happy. But Libby’s attempt to quick-start the curse by proposing to her wrong-for-her boyfriend ends in a wild dash from the altar. She’s rescued by her friend Noah, the only person who understands her impulsive decisions--because he’s the same way.
Having spent most of his adulthood fleeing responsibility and commitment, Noah McMillan is finally ready to grow up. Of course, figuring out how is still a work in progress. When he realizes he’s in love with Libby, he flies to Kansas City to put a stop to her wedding. But Libby’s already pulled a runaway bride. Eager to cheer her up and prove that he can be the man she deserves, he takes her on a madcap car trip that will bring them all the way to the City of Sin.
In Vegas, those who risk it all either win big or lose everything, so what will happen if Libby and Noah take a gamble on love?
Having spent most of his adulthood fleeing responsibility and commitment, Noah McMillan is finally ready to grow up. Of course, figuring out how is still a work in progress. When he realizes he’s in love with Libby, he flies to Kansas City to put a stop to her wedding. But Libby’s already pulled a runaway bride. Eager to cheer her up and prove that he can be the man she deserves, he takes her on a madcap car trip that will bring them all the way to the City of Sin.
In Vegas, those who risk it all either win big or lose everything, so what will happen if Libby and Noah take a gamble on love?
345 pages, ebook
First published September 1, 2015
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March 10, 2016
RATING 4.5 STARS
The Gambler is book three in The Wedding Pact series by Denise Grover Swank. The first two books of this series were full of hilarity as Josh and Megan in book one and Blair and Garrett in book two found their forever love. The third friend of this trio, Libby St. Clair, helped her two best friends navigate their way to happiness. Now, it’s just days away from her thirtieth birthday. When Libby and her friends were children, a fortune teller told them that they would each marry by the time they were thirty but not to the man they were planning to marry. While her two friends didn’t believe in the curse, Libby does. Believing in magic is the only thing that has gotten her through life. But now, it’s her wedding day. She’s not in love with Mitch, the man she is supposed to marry. So where is her prince charming?
Noah McMillan, Josh’s brother, has always been the disappointment of the family, living in his brother’s shadow. He met Libby at Josh’s wedding and they immediately hit it off, and became best friends. Over the months their friendship progressed until Libby announced she was engaged. Noah can’t understand why this upsets him so much. Until the day of the wedding. He finally realized that he couldn’t let her marry another man because HE was in love with her. That Libby was the only woman he had ever or would ever love. So he rushes to the church to stop the wedding, only when he pulls into the parking lot, he finds a fleeing Libby, a runaway bride, running from the church in her wedding gown.
Noah decides to take Libby on a road trip. He declares the next day Libby St. Clair day, devoted fully to her happiness. Noah wants time to convince Libby that they are more than just best friends, that she is the perfect woman for him. He will be patient and give Libby the time she needs to recover from her almost wedding and show her that he is the man for her. They embark on a cross country trip seeing hilarious sites along the way and making their way to Las Vegas.
“That’s what best friends are for, right?”
She leaned back and looked into his face.
“Who knew you’d be so good at this best friend thing?”
What Libby doesn’t know is that Noah wasn’t able to secure an important client for he and his brother’s company, again failing to meet his brother’s expectations. But when he realized the client was going to be in Vegas, he plans to secure a meeting there and make one more effort to win the client over. He just has to do this, to be the man he wants to be for Libby, and prove to his brother that he can do it.
The time together with Libby is magical. They are both feeling the electric current between them. While Noah is trying to give Libby all the time she needs to fall for him, Libby is already there, but she is afraid that if she lets him know how she feels, that she could lose him. But Las Vegas has a way of working it’s own magic.
“Soon her breath evened again and he drifted off to sleep too, wondering if this was what contentment felt like. If it was, he knew he wanted it with her.”
Noah and Libby’s time together was so sweet. It was easy to see that they were meant for each other and I loved that they started as best friends. I loved how Noah had grown, the affect that Libby had on him. Both Noah and Libby were dealing with past hurts though. Insecurities that needed to be dealt with before they could forever commit to someone. And of course, their journey had it’s share of hilarity as Gram showed up in Vegas.
“His love for Libby was like a river of peace threading through his troubled soul. She quieted his demons and made him believe he could be a better person. That he had a purpose in the world. And while he wanted fireworks and passion, he now realized he needed both.”
While the first two books in this series were full of craziness, this one had a much sweeter feel to it. Don’t get me wrong, you will laugh plenty. I loved Noah and Libby. I have to admit that I was a little angry with Blair and Megan and their lack of support. But they come through in the end for their friend. As does Noah’s brother, Josh. I really did enjoy this book. I don’t think it’s possible for me to not enjoy anything by Denise Grover Swank. So, if you haven’t started this series yet, I suggest starting at the beginning to get to know this trio of friends one by one and watch and laugh as they all make their way to their true love.
The Gambler is book three in The Wedding Pact series by Denise Grover Swank. The first two books of this series were full of hilarity as Josh and Megan in book one and Blair and Garrett in book two found their forever love. The third friend of this trio, Libby St. Clair, helped her two best friends navigate their way to happiness. Now, it’s just days away from her thirtieth birthday. When Libby and her friends were children, a fortune teller told them that they would each marry by the time they were thirty but not to the man they were planning to marry. While her two friends didn’t believe in the curse, Libby does. Believing in magic is the only thing that has gotten her through life. But now, it’s her wedding day. She’s not in love with Mitch, the man she is supposed to marry. So where is her prince charming?
Noah McMillan, Josh’s brother, has always been the disappointment of the family, living in his brother’s shadow. He met Libby at Josh’s wedding and they immediately hit it off, and became best friends. Over the months their friendship progressed until Libby announced she was engaged. Noah can’t understand why this upsets him so much. Until the day of the wedding. He finally realized that he couldn’t let her marry another man because HE was in love with her. That Libby was the only woman he had ever or would ever love. So he rushes to the church to stop the wedding, only when he pulls into the parking lot, he finds a fleeing Libby, a runaway bride, running from the church in her wedding gown.
Noah decides to take Libby on a road trip. He declares the next day Libby St. Clair day, devoted fully to her happiness. Noah wants time to convince Libby that they are more than just best friends, that she is the perfect woman for him. He will be patient and give Libby the time she needs to recover from her almost wedding and show her that he is the man for her. They embark on a cross country trip seeing hilarious sites along the way and making their way to Las Vegas.
“That’s what best friends are for, right?”
She leaned back and looked into his face.
“Who knew you’d be so good at this best friend thing?”
What Libby doesn’t know is that Noah wasn’t able to secure an important client for he and his brother’s company, again failing to meet his brother’s expectations. But when he realized the client was going to be in Vegas, he plans to secure a meeting there and make one more effort to win the client over. He just has to do this, to be the man he wants to be for Libby, and prove to his brother that he can do it.
The time together with Libby is magical. They are both feeling the electric current between them. While Noah is trying to give Libby all the time she needs to fall for him, Libby is already there, but she is afraid that if she lets him know how she feels, that she could lose him. But Las Vegas has a way of working it’s own magic.
“Soon her breath evened again and he drifted off to sleep too, wondering if this was what contentment felt like. If it was, he knew he wanted it with her.”
Noah and Libby’s time together was so sweet. It was easy to see that they were meant for each other and I loved that they started as best friends. I loved how Noah had grown, the affect that Libby had on him. Both Noah and Libby were dealing with past hurts though. Insecurities that needed to be dealt with before they could forever commit to someone. And of course, their journey had it’s share of hilarity as Gram showed up in Vegas.
“His love for Libby was like a river of peace threading through his troubled soul. She quieted his demons and made him believe he could be a better person. That he had a purpose in the world. And while he wanted fireworks and passion, he now realized he needed both.”
While the first two books in this series were full of craziness, this one had a much sweeter feel to it. Don’t get me wrong, you will laugh plenty. I loved Noah and Libby. I have to admit that I was a little angry with Blair and Megan and their lack of support. But they come through in the end for their friend. As does Noah’s brother, Josh. I really did enjoy this book. I don’t think it’s possible for me to not enjoy anything by Denise Grover Swank. So, if you haven’t started this series yet, I suggest starting at the beginning to get to know this trio of friends one by one and watch and laugh as they all make their way to their true love.
July 6, 2018
Rating: 4.75 stars
Adorable, just adorably amazing. I loved the fun story, the characters, and even the setting. I did feel like everything moved a bit fast, but maybe that's just because Noah and Libby knew each other for a while before the story began. Anywho, this was just a super fun and quirky book. There were a few steamy scenes, so I'd recommend just skipping through them if you're not into that or you're not old enough, like I did. Otherwise, I totally recommend this book, and all the other books in this trilogy!
Reread: April 2017
Reread: July 2018
Aww, adorableness! One of my favorite tropes is friends realizing their love for each other, and this book hits the nail on the head. I’m so glad I decided to reread it!
Adorable, just adorably amazing. I loved the fun story, the characters, and even the setting. I did feel like everything moved a bit fast, but maybe that's just because Noah and Libby knew each other for a while before the story began. Anywho, this was just a super fun and quirky book. There were a few steamy scenes, so I'd recommend just skipping through them if you're not into that or you're not old enough, like I did. Otherwise, I totally recommend this book, and all the other books in this trilogy!
Reread: April 2017
Reread: July 2018
Aww, adorableness! One of my favorite tropes is friends realizing their love for each other, and this book hits the nail on the head. I’m so glad I decided to reread it!
September 1, 2015
Everything is a Gamble - Love most of all!
This is the story of Libby, the ever happy go lucky girl that has always believed in The Pact or Curse which ever way you want to look at it. She knows that the first wedding she plans won't be the one she ends up being married to forever. And it all has to happen before she is thirty, which is only days away. But what she doesn't know is, who is her sole mate that is going to come and stop this first wedding and whisk her away?
Of course, her female best friends still don't believe in the pact or curse, so they have no idea what Lib is up to. Even her male best friend Noah thought she was going to marry Mitch for real. And right up until the vows, so did Libby.
What happens after, is another hilarious read from Denise. She just has the knack of creating characters with depth and emotion. The third chapter had me laughing all the way, I loved bridesmaid Noah! And we get to hear about Megan and Josh, Blair and Garrett again along with the grandmothers - Grams and Nana Ruby, who take on Vegas Baby!
The Gambler is the third and final book in this series The Wedding Pact. I took my time reading this book as I wanted to savour it all. The ending has great closure but it saddens me it has come to a finale, I am still placing bets that Denise may write a standalone book for Megan's brother Kevin - his story needs to be told too. Highly recommend this book even if you haven't read the previous two, but you won't be disappointed in any of these three books.
This is the story of Libby, the ever happy go lucky girl that has always believed in The Pact or Curse which ever way you want to look at it. She knows that the first wedding she plans won't be the one she ends up being married to forever. And it all has to happen before she is thirty, which is only days away. But what she doesn't know is, who is her sole mate that is going to come and stop this first wedding and whisk her away?
Of course, her female best friends still don't believe in the pact or curse, so they have no idea what Lib is up to. Even her male best friend Noah thought she was going to marry Mitch for real. And right up until the vows, so did Libby.
What happens after, is another hilarious read from Denise. She just has the knack of creating characters with depth and emotion. The third chapter had me laughing all the way, I loved bridesmaid Noah! And we get to hear about Megan and Josh, Blair and Garrett again along with the grandmothers - Grams and Nana Ruby, who take on Vegas Baby!
The Gambler is the third and final book in this series The Wedding Pact. I took my time reading this book as I wanted to savour it all. The ending has great closure but it saddens me it has come to a finale, I am still placing bets that Denise may write a standalone book for Megan's brother Kevin - his story needs to be told too. Highly recommend this book even if you haven't read the previous two, but you won't be disappointed in any of these three books.
November 19, 2015
conclusion of the series but each one can be read as a standalone.
this was funny and at times I had a good belly laugh at some of the antics of the "grannies". Glad I read it. It made me smile.
this was funny and at times I had a good belly laugh at some of the antics of the "grannies". Glad I read it. It made me smile.
August 25, 2015
I received an advanced copy of this book and all I can say is I LOVE IT! Best book in the series for sure!
Libby St. Clair is probably the most down to Earth character I've ever read about. Her love for quirky things, her belief in leaving things to fate, her fiery temper, and her unconditional love even when she can't seem to have the strength to love herself. All of these qualities are what makes Libby a character you can identify with.
I think this next portion of The Wedding Pact series hits it right on the head about peoples insecurities with themselves and with others. Relationships are hard work, work that Noah and Libby never really put forth in any previous relationship. Watching Noah and Libby finally come to the realization that they truly love one another, with a little help from Grams and Nana Ruby, filled my heart with so much joy for them. I can hardly wait to see what happens next.
Libby St. Clair is probably the most down to Earth character I've ever read about. Her love for quirky things, her belief in leaving things to fate, her fiery temper, and her unconditional love even when she can't seem to have the strength to love herself. All of these qualities are what makes Libby a character you can identify with.
I think this next portion of The Wedding Pact series hits it right on the head about peoples insecurities with themselves and with others. Relationships are hard work, work that Noah and Libby never really put forth in any previous relationship. Watching Noah and Libby finally come to the realization that they truly love one another, with a little help from Grams and Nana Ruby, filled my heart with so much joy for them. I can hardly wait to see what happens next.
April 2, 2020
I wanted to finish this series since forever.
And it was a great opportunity to do it when I saw it on Audible Escape.
However, I would love it more if I had a chance to read if soon after books one and two when my hype for it was fresh. Now I was left kind of meh...forgot about many things and just kind of wanted to get it over it.
And it was a great opportunity to do it when I saw it on Audible Escape.
However, I would love it more if I had a chance to read if soon after books one and two when my hype for it was fresh. Now I was left kind of meh...forgot about many things and just kind of wanted to get it over it.
August 25, 2015
Words cannot describe how much I loved The Gambler! Getting to know Libby St. Clair and Noah McMillan was a joy. If you thought the story of The Substitute (Wedding Pact #1) was wild, then you better hold on to your hat! Each book of this Wedding Pact series is better than the previous and The Gambler is the PERFECT finale.
I'm admittedly not a huge fan of contemporary romances, but I AM a huge fan of Denise Grover Swank's writing. I'm willing to bet her shopping lists are quite enthralling! ;-) She can weave a wonderful story like no other. I think every possible emotion from joy to sheer angry outrage was covered in the 4-ish hours it took me to devour this novel. One thing is for sure, The Gambler is a perfect marriage of humor and drama, and (IMHO) the best contemporary romance Denise Grover Swank has written to date.
*****FIVE STARS*****
I read an ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review, but have also pre-ordered the novel for myself.
I'm admittedly not a huge fan of contemporary romances, but I AM a huge fan of Denise Grover Swank's writing. I'm willing to bet her shopping lists are quite enthralling! ;-) She can weave a wonderful story like no other. I think every possible emotion from joy to sheer angry outrage was covered in the 4-ish hours it took me to devour this novel. One thing is for sure, The Gambler is a perfect marriage of humor and drama, and (IMHO) the best contemporary romance Denise Grover Swank has written to date.
*****FIVE STARS*****
I read an ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review, but have also pre-ordered the novel for myself.
April 23, 2020
I really enjoyed this. I totally shipped Noah and Libby and I had a fun time reading about all their crazy adventures. One particular scene involving a big wedding dress and a public restroom made me laugh out loud. I did struggle with Libby a bit, though. Since it's been so long since I read the previous books, I can't remember if she was always so frustrating, but she really got on my nerves here. She did a ridiculous and crazy thing, after a history of doing ridiculous and crazy things, and then she got mad when her friends called her out on it. I also wish Swank wouldn't have waited until almost the end of the book to reveal the root of Libby's issues. I think I would have been less frustrated with her if we found out about it earlier. However, the rest of the book was so cute that these things didn't really lessen my enjoyment at all.
August 30, 2015
"The gambler" is an AMAZING book!! Denise has a special way of having her readers fall in love with the characters instantly!!. This third installment of the series was just as hilarious and emotionally packed as the other two books (The Substitute, and The Player).
I fell in love with Libby and her quirkiness from the beginning of the series and I was always rooting for her in her quest to find LOVE. This book is an emotional roller coaster! I went from laughing one minute to crying, and back to laughing at their antics with all of the characters in this book.
If you have not read this series yet, I suggest you do! I promise you will love the characters especially a favorite one of mine, Gram! You must meet Gram!
I fell in love with Libby and her quirkiness from the beginning of the series and I was always rooting for her in her quest to find LOVE. This book is an emotional roller coaster! I went from laughing one minute to crying, and back to laughing at their antics with all of the characters in this book.
If you have not read this series yet, I suggest you do! I promise you will love the characters especially a favorite one of mine, Gram! You must meet Gram!
August 29, 2015
So I love this series, and The Gambler is the best yet. From the very first Chapter I was hooked in to Libby and Noah's story and could barely put the book down until it was finished.
I'm happy to see these two get their happy ending and of course Gram stole the spotlight!
I'm happy to see these two get their happy ending and of course Gram stole the spotlight!
December 27, 2015
Sweet, simple, and satisfying.
A lovely way to wrap up the series.
A lovely way to wrap up the series.
December 21, 2022
3,5
Fajniutkie, bardzo przyjemne.
Fajniutkie, bardzo przyjemne.
September 1, 2015
I received an advanced reader copy.
Libby is about to make the biggest mistake of her life, but her birthday is coming up and surely the curse will save her...or will it?
I've been shipping Libby and Noah since The Substitute. No two characters have ever seemed so destined for eachother, and I have absolutely loved watching their relationship grow throughout the series.
Libby and Noah are equally the titular gambler, and I was engrossed in the novel instantaneously, enjoying their exploits and growing feelings. What could have come off as a very tired and cliché premise was fleshed out in such a way that I found myself, even when I knew what was coming next, really rooting for it to happen.
The series is wrapped up beautifully, and while I understand it was a trilogy, I really think Gram needs her own novel now. She's a supporting character I can really support! there wasn't nearly enough of her wisdom and crazy antics to satisfy me!
Blair and Megan both have their moments, and show what lifelong friends they are. Libby is lucky to have women like them in her life. We should all be so lucky.
Overall, I'm highly satisfied with the conclusion to the series, and with the romance I've been waiting for since book one!
Libby is about to make the biggest mistake of her life, but her birthday is coming up and surely the curse will save her...or will it?
I've been shipping Libby and Noah since The Substitute. No two characters have ever seemed so destined for eachother, and I have absolutely loved watching their relationship grow throughout the series.
Libby and Noah are equally the titular gambler, and I was engrossed in the novel instantaneously, enjoying their exploits and growing feelings. What could have come off as a very tired and cliché premise was fleshed out in such a way that I found myself, even when I knew what was coming next, really rooting for it to happen.
The series is wrapped up beautifully, and while I understand it was a trilogy, I really think Gram needs her own novel now. She's a supporting character I can really support! there wasn't nearly enough of her wisdom and crazy antics to satisfy me!
Blair and Megan both have their moments, and show what lifelong friends they are. Libby is lucky to have women like them in her life. We should all be so lucky.
Overall, I'm highly satisfied with the conclusion to the series, and with the romance I've been waiting for since book one!
September 23, 2015
~~I received this in exchange for my honest opinion~~
This is the best book out of the whole series!! It makes a perfect ending to the trilogy. In this book, it's Libby's turn to get married, but is the one that she is walking down the aisle too, really the one for her? There isn't anything that is there to disrupt the wedding, so this has to be the right guy, Right?!
Man. What a whirlwind book!! I don't know where to even begin with this book, without giving anything away. Lets just say that there is a road trip, a wedding dress, and a Czechoslovakian Egg. Have a piqued your interest yet? No? Well, let me say that Libby is a free spirit, and there isn't anyone that could slow her down, except Noah. But, is it him that she is supposed to marry or is it Mitch?
Denise has written a masterpiece!! This is the best book out of the entire series. I know that I have already said that, but it is the truth! Your blood will start flowing when things pick up, and you will feel the emotion that Denise has put into this book. If you have read the other two, you will need to read this book!!
This is the best book out of the whole series!! It makes a perfect ending to the trilogy. In this book, it's Libby's turn to get married, but is the one that she is walking down the aisle too, really the one for her? There isn't anything that is there to disrupt the wedding, so this has to be the right guy, Right?!
Man. What a whirlwind book!! I don't know where to even begin with this book, without giving anything away. Lets just say that there is a road trip, a wedding dress, and a Czechoslovakian Egg. Have a piqued your interest yet? No? Well, let me say that Libby is a free spirit, and there isn't anyone that could slow her down, except Noah. But, is it him that she is supposed to marry or is it Mitch?
Denise has written a masterpiece!! This is the best book out of the entire series. I know that I have already said that, but it is the truth! Your blood will start flowing when things pick up, and you will feel the emotion that Denise has put into this book. If you have read the other two, you will need to read this book!!
February 22, 2016
Once again I have to say hats off to you Denise Grover Swank! With the Wedding Pact series you have brought to life the essence of friendship between young girls, young girls who can still believe in magic and can carry it with them through out their lives.
In this third installment it is now Libby's turn and she is taking no chances, determined to find her "Happily Ever After" she decides to give the pact and the curse a push and proposes to her current boyfriend but to her horror it seems that the curse has let her down and she is marrying a man she doesn't belong with! Then in steps Noah, Libby's commitment phobic friend and accomplice in hilarity and mischief and together they begin a road trip that leads them to self discovery and each other!
Denise's humor and personality shines through in her writing. She has the ability to wrap you in emotions that tug at your heart and make you laugh out loud. With her sharp whit, bright complex characters and stories that are well written and unique, you always get a fun and fantastic read!
Thank you Denise!
In this third installment it is now Libby's turn and she is taking no chances, determined to find her "Happily Ever After" she decides to give the pact and the curse a push and proposes to her current boyfriend but to her horror it seems that the curse has let her down and she is marrying a man she doesn't belong with! Then in steps Noah, Libby's commitment phobic friend and accomplice in hilarity and mischief and together they begin a road trip that leads them to self discovery and each other!
Denise's humor and personality shines through in her writing. She has the ability to wrap you in emotions that tug at your heart and make you laugh out loud. With her sharp whit, bright complex characters and stories that are well written and unique, you always get a fun and fantastic read!
Thank you Denise!
June 14, 2016
NOAAAAAH! ❤️❤️❤️
Oooooh my goodness! I thought I couldn't love a book in this series more than The Substitute, but here I am, swooning all over the place for the other McMillan brother! I was laughing my ass off the entire time, but there were heartbreaking parts too. Noah McMillan and Libby St. Clair were utterly perfect for one another! Their personalities just meshed and complemented each other so well. Though they have their own insecurities and vulnerabilities, they're so spontaneous and full of life. I shipped their relationship so hard. They started as best friends that developed into something so much more. I get it, it's a huge risk taking it to the next level, especially if you have no idea how the other feels for you. But everything that happened between them just made my heart want to burst with confetti. And that epic road trip! Oh gosh, I just loved this book soooo much. Denise Grover Swank's writing is just purely amazing. It was a spectacular blend of humor, love, friendship, trust, sweetness and sexiness all over. ❤️
Oooooh my goodness! I thought I couldn't love a book in this series more than The Substitute, but here I am, swooning all over the place for the other McMillan brother! I was laughing my ass off the entire time, but there were heartbreaking parts too. Noah McMillan and Libby St. Clair were utterly perfect for one another! Their personalities just meshed and complemented each other so well. Though they have their own insecurities and vulnerabilities, they're so spontaneous and full of life. I shipped their relationship so hard. They started as best friends that developed into something so much more. I get it, it's a huge risk taking it to the next level, especially if you have no idea how the other feels for you. But everything that happened between them just made my heart want to burst with confetti. And that epic road trip! Oh gosh, I just loved this book soooo much. Denise Grover Swank's writing is just purely amazing. It was a spectacular blend of humor, love, friendship, trust, sweetness and sexiness all over. ❤️
June 26, 2016
The Perfect Conclusion to The Wedding Pact Series!
I loved all the books in this series by Denise Grover Swank, but The Gambler was by far my favorite. Who can resist carefree, spirited Libby and hunky Noah?! They fit so well together and I couldn’t help smile at their friendship and romantic chemistry. Their banter was hysterical! And the sexual tension was so thick a chainsaw was needed to cut it! Whew! I needed a fan and a cool drink! Throw in an off-the-wall wedding, a road trip full of odd-ball tourist attractions, two meddling grandmas, a whole bucket load of self discovery and it was the perfect story. I was sad to see the series come to a close, but the outcome was superb! It was a FIVE STAR awesome book!!!
**I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
I loved all the books in this series by Denise Grover Swank, but The Gambler was by far my favorite. Who can resist carefree, spirited Libby and hunky Noah?! They fit so well together and I couldn’t help smile at their friendship and romantic chemistry. Their banter was hysterical! And the sexual tension was so thick a chainsaw was needed to cut it! Whew! I needed a fan and a cool drink! Throw in an off-the-wall wedding, a road trip full of odd-ball tourist attractions, two meddling grandmas, a whole bucket load of self discovery and it was the perfect story. I was sad to see the series come to a close, but the outcome was superb! It was a FIVE STAR awesome book!!!
**I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
August 26, 2015
This third book in The Wedding Pact series is sensational! Denise Grover Swank has completely outdone herself with this story! I fell in love with the three girls in The Substitute and couldn't wait for each additional book in the series to come out! I think The Gambler is the best book in the series. Libby tries to force the curse and suddenly thinks it has backfired and she's not worthy of the kind of love her two best friends, Megan and Blair have. In reality she not only gets love but a best friend for life as well. Don't want to spoil the story so won't give away any more details. This is one you've got to read!!
August 22, 2015
This was the story I have been waiting for. I fell in love with Libby's personality in book 1:The Substitute as she helps Meg realize her true love and couldn't wait to read about how she falls in love. Noah and Libby's story is perfect. Denise is an amazing writer and has done it again. There are so many laughable moments in this you won't want to put it down. And that isn't enough here's a teaser, Gram and Nana Ruby take a trip together. Let your mind go wild with that and then read the book!
September 2, 2015
**I received and ARC of The Gambler by Denise Grover Swank in exchange for an honest review**
WOW!! FULL OF LAUGHS!!! Book 3 in The Wedding Pact Series is the funniest book I have read by Denise. I know she has the Rose Gardner Series but this book had me laughing all the way through. Denise did a wonderful job on The Gambler telling Libby's story. This series is one of the best series I have read by her. It is great to see how she did a book for each of the 3 girls and it so explains them so much better and fun to see how things turn out for all 3. A MUST READ SERIES.
WOW!! FULL OF LAUGHS!!! Book 3 in The Wedding Pact Series is the funniest book I have read by Denise. I know she has the Rose Gardner Series but this book had me laughing all the way through. Denise did a wonderful job on The Gambler telling Libby's story. This series is one of the best series I have read by her. It is great to see how she did a book for each of the 3 girls and it so explains them so much better and fun to see how things turn out for all 3. A MUST READ SERIES.
August 28, 2015
Ahhhhh!!! Where do I begin? This was my absolute favorite out of the trilogy. The writing is just fantastic. Denise does an amazing job of keeping you enthralled. I laughed loudly, teared up a bit, and found myself finding little breaks in the day to go read about Libby and Noah. The humor injected throughout the book is just fantastic. Great storytelling and characters full of depth. Another fantastic read!
August 26, 2015
***Received an advanced copy of this book***
I started reading this book while I was flying back home from LA and I was getting weird looks from people because I kept smirking and laughing out loud. This book is SO FUNNY! I love Gram! Great romantic comedy! Noah and Libby are so similar and so different at the same time. Denise does not disappoint with the Gambler!
I started reading this book while I was flying back home from LA and I was getting weird looks from people because I kept smirking and laughing out loud. This book is SO FUNNY! I love Gram! Great romantic comedy! Noah and Libby are so similar and so different at the same time. Denise does not disappoint with the Gambler!
April 3, 2016
I got this book as an ARC. I loved it! It was the best of the Wedding Pact series. There were scenes that literally made me laugh. This book is definitely a romantic comedy and a thoroughly enjoyable, lighthearted read. The characters are believable and well-developed. I highly recommend this book.
Read
November 4, 2016Dnf at 40% just didn't connect with the characters in this one and it was a little on the slow side
September 6, 2021
Już od pierwszego tomu czekałam na ta historię i kompletnie mnie nie zawiodła! Po przeczytaniu całej trylogii, nie umiem stwierdzić, którą z nich lubię najbardziej i czy to właśnie nie zakończenie i historia najbardziej zwariowanej z trójki przyjaciółek nie jest moją ulubioną, bo chyba to na jej historię czekałam najbardziej!
Skoro Libby jako jedyna wierzyła w istnienie klątwy i walczyła jak lwica o szczęście swoich przyjaciółek, można by się spodziewać, że w jej przypadku wszystko pójdzie jak spłatka, ale właśnie w tej części wszystko koszmarnie się komplikuje, a ja z radością obserwowałam, jak relacja Noah i Libby rozwijała się przez trzy(!) tomy, co jest swego rodzaju anomalią, jeśli chodzi o tą serię.
Z uśmiechem na twarzy czytałam, jak stają się najlepszymi przyjaciółmi i jak bardzo powoli i stopniowo ich relacja wchodzi na kolejne poziomy. Mówcie co chcecie, ale mam cholerną słabość do takich historii i dostarczyła mi ona ogrom radości. Uwielbiałam to, jak znają się nawzajem, jak potrafią odczytywać swoje następne i jaka bardzo w punkt są pomysły na kolejne wyprawy Noaha. No i ubóstwiam tą artystyczną duszę Libby! Może i jest nieco ekscentryczna, ale to właśnie cały jej urok. No i znacie kogoś, kto nazwałby swojego psa Żółw?
To historia, przy której chodziłam cały czas uchachana, uśmiechałam się sama do siebie i parsknąłem śmiechem. To historia, od której nie mogłam się oderwać, ale też nie chciałam jej kończyć i trochę mi przykro, że to już koniec i więcej nie będzie! Ale przede wszystkim to przepiękne zakończenie trylogii i historii moich ukochanych bohaterek!
Skoro Libby jako jedyna wierzyła w istnienie klątwy i walczyła jak lwica o szczęście swoich przyjaciółek, można by się spodziewać, że w jej przypadku wszystko pójdzie jak spłatka, ale właśnie w tej części wszystko koszmarnie się komplikuje, a ja z radością obserwowałam, jak relacja Noah i Libby rozwijała się przez trzy(!) tomy, co jest swego rodzaju anomalią, jeśli chodzi o tą serię.
Z uśmiechem na twarzy czytałam, jak stają się najlepszymi przyjaciółmi i jak bardzo powoli i stopniowo ich relacja wchodzi na kolejne poziomy. Mówcie co chcecie, ale mam cholerną słabość do takich historii i dostarczyła mi ona ogrom radości. Uwielbiałam to, jak znają się nawzajem, jak potrafią odczytywać swoje następne i jaka bardzo w punkt są pomysły na kolejne wyprawy Noaha. No i ubóstwiam tą artystyczną duszę Libby! Może i jest nieco ekscentryczna, ale to właśnie cały jej urok. No i znacie kogoś, kto nazwałby swojego psa Żółw?
To historia, przy której chodziłam cały czas uchachana, uśmiechałam się sama do siebie i parsknąłem śmiechem. To historia, od której nie mogłam się oderwać, ale też nie chciałam jej kończyć i trochę mi przykro, że to już koniec i więcej nie będzie! Ale przede wszystkim to przepiękne zakończenie trylogii i historii moich ukochanych bohaterek!
January 5, 2021
Yay! Libby and Noah’s story!! It was freaking amazing. Loved it!! My second favorite. I still love Josh and Megan’s story the best. But this one is close tie for first.
Libby and Noah are the best of friends. But it came as a surprise to Noah that she would marry Mitch. Rather than not show up to the wedding as he planned, he is late to stop her.
Oh my God...what is she doing? She realizes with sudden clarity in the middle of the vows that she cannot marry Mitch. So that is how she finds herself running away and telling a stranger she will pay them a hundred bucks to just drive. Except the driver turns out to be her very bad best friend Noah who was supposed to be in the wedding. Ohhhh she was gonna kill him, except he she has to escape first.
As a trip to cheer up Libby turns into a lot more, Noah figures out he loves her, but what happens when your ugly past takes away your everything in the blink of an eye......
Oh my. This story was so much fun to read. Not only was it a blast, it was heartfelt. I shed a lot of tears reading this book. I was reading along all happy then bam! My heart was ripped out.
Overall this book is a Hallmark worthy read. It was sweet, romantic, silly and sad. It just goes to show true love is where you least expect it and can overcome any obstacles if you just fight for it.
Libby and Noah are the best of friends. But it came as a surprise to Noah that she would marry Mitch. Rather than not show up to the wedding as he planned, he is late to stop her.
Oh my God...what is she doing? She realizes with sudden clarity in the middle of the vows that she cannot marry Mitch. So that is how she finds herself running away and telling a stranger she will pay them a hundred bucks to just drive. Except the driver turns out to be her very bad best friend Noah who was supposed to be in the wedding. Ohhhh she was gonna kill him, except he she has to escape first.
As a trip to cheer up Libby turns into a lot more, Noah figures out he loves her, but what happens when your ugly past takes away your everything in the blink of an eye......
Oh my. This story was so much fun to read. Not only was it a blast, it was heartfelt. I shed a lot of tears reading this book. I was reading along all happy then bam! My heart was ripped out.
Overall this book is a Hallmark worthy read. It was sweet, romantic, silly and sad. It just goes to show true love is where you least expect it and can overcome any obstacles if you just fight for it.
August 7, 2021
1.5 bardzo schematyczne, nic zaskakującego czy mądrego
May 30, 2018
This is a great contemporary series and I’ll miss it. I wish that there was more
April 6, 2016
Funny, sassy, smart, entertaining and heartwarming. Five words that sum up the joy that is The Gambler by one my all-time favorite authors, Denise Grover Swank. The third and final book of The Wedding Pact series, we learn that story surrounding free-spirited Libby St. Clair and commitment-phobe Noah McMillan. If you have not read book 1 (The Substitute) and book 2 (The Player), you need to in order to avoid any spoilers from the beginning of the series and to learn the story behind the wedding pact and the curse.
Libby is the one who believes the most in the pact that she made with Megan and Blair when they were kids and the curse that was put upon them by a fortune teller soon after. After seeing her friends find their happily- ever-afters, Libby puts a plan in motion to ensure her true love will arrive.
Noah hides behind his lack of responsibility and maturity a genius mind and tender heart. When Noah realizes his love for Libby, he rushes to stop the wedding that should never be. He also needs to step up to the plate and help save the family business.
All this leads to a hilarious and soul-searching road trip for Libby and Noah. Between jaw dropping bathroom breaks, unusual sightseeing spots and the arrival of Gram and Nana Ruby in Vegas, the laughs and tears are overflowing.
What I was looking forward to the most from this book was learning the back stories of Libby and Noah. When you meet them in The Substitute, you know they are characters rich in history and passion. I was thrilled when the book surpassed my expectations.
Denise has a true skill for writing characters that are real in not only their good qualities but also in their flaws. Libby, Noah and all the supporting characters feel believable and relatable. It makes you root for your favorites, celebrate their successes and want to cry at their despair. Denise also makes you want to reach into the book and hurt anyone who stands in the way of love and happiness.
I am a huge critic of how a series ends and a lot of times I am left disappointed and unfulfilled. The ending of The Gambler is one of the best I have ever read. It brings the main characters of the three books together in a way that satisfies even this critical reader.
The Gambler has become an instant favorite and The Wedding Pact series is one I will read and recommend over and over again.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Libby is the one who believes the most in the pact that she made with Megan and Blair when they were kids and the curse that was put upon them by a fortune teller soon after. After seeing her friends find their happily- ever-afters, Libby puts a plan in motion to ensure her true love will arrive.
Noah hides behind his lack of responsibility and maturity a genius mind and tender heart. When Noah realizes his love for Libby, he rushes to stop the wedding that should never be. He also needs to step up to the plate and help save the family business.
All this leads to a hilarious and soul-searching road trip for Libby and Noah. Between jaw dropping bathroom breaks, unusual sightseeing spots and the arrival of Gram and Nana Ruby in Vegas, the laughs and tears are overflowing.
What I was looking forward to the most from this book was learning the back stories of Libby and Noah. When you meet them in The Substitute, you know they are characters rich in history and passion. I was thrilled when the book surpassed my expectations.
Denise has a true skill for writing characters that are real in not only their good qualities but also in their flaws. Libby, Noah and all the supporting characters feel believable and relatable. It makes you root for your favorites, celebrate their successes and want to cry at their despair. Denise also makes you want to reach into the book and hurt anyone who stands in the way of love and happiness.
I am a huge critic of how a series ends and a lot of times I am left disappointed and unfulfilled. The ending of The Gambler is one of the best I have ever read. It brings the main characters of the three books together in a way that satisfies even this critical reader.
The Gambler has become an instant favorite and The Wedding Pact series is one I will read and recommend over and over again.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
September 1, 2015
Taking a gamble on love or a curse set in place by a fortune teller when the 3 friends were 9?
Libby St Clair proposes to Mitch as her 30th birthday approaches after the curse placed on her and her two best friends by a fortune teller which appears to have come true for Megan and Blair with their weddings. Although she knows Mitch isn't the one for her, time is running out to meet and marry 'the one' but as the wedding fast approaches everything is going wrong as her best friend Noah changes his mind at the last minute about coming to the wedding.
All changes at the altar as it dawns on Libby that the curse isn't going to come true and a he will end up actually marrying the wrong person which wouldn't be fair on Mitch so she apologises and runs out, jumping straight into the nearest car, asking to be taken away as fast as possible. As into turns out, when she looks up at the driver, Noah has arrived to stop the wedding after realising how he truly feels about her so he agrees to whisking her away.
I suspect I may have already said too much, so without risking giving away anymore of the superbly written story, what I will say is that this is possibly the best one of the trilogy. I read it in less than 24 hours, forgoing sleep as it arrived at 1.40am so I read until 4.30 then dozed off but was back awake and reading just after 6. This is one of those rare books that completely suck you in. I almost had a panic attack when I noticed I was 95% through as although I needed to know the ending, I didn't want it to end!
Several times during the book I laughed out loud, much to the amusement of my husband, there are some hilarious moments in this, usually involving Gram or Nana Ruby who I adore.
I really hope there will be a follow up, maybe with all 3 friends as I have to see how it all turns out for the future.
Well done Denise, you've outdone yourself with this absolutely AMAZING book, I only wish I could give it 10 stars.
I was lucky enough to win an advanced release copy of The Gambler in return for my honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this amazing story.
Libby St Clair proposes to Mitch as her 30th birthday approaches after the curse placed on her and her two best friends by a fortune teller which appears to have come true for Megan and Blair with their weddings. Although she knows Mitch isn't the one for her, time is running out to meet and marry 'the one' but as the wedding fast approaches everything is going wrong as her best friend Noah changes his mind at the last minute about coming to the wedding.
All changes at the altar as it dawns on Libby that the curse isn't going to come true and a he will end up actually marrying the wrong person which wouldn't be fair on Mitch so she apologises and runs out, jumping straight into the nearest car, asking to be taken away as fast as possible. As into turns out, when she looks up at the driver, Noah has arrived to stop the wedding after realising how he truly feels about her so he agrees to whisking her away.
I suspect I may have already said too much, so without risking giving away anymore of the superbly written story, what I will say is that this is possibly the best one of the trilogy. I read it in less than 24 hours, forgoing sleep as it arrived at 1.40am so I read until 4.30 then dozed off but was back awake and reading just after 6. This is one of those rare books that completely suck you in. I almost had a panic attack when I noticed I was 95% through as although I needed to know the ending, I didn't want it to end!
Several times during the book I laughed out loud, much to the amusement of my husband, there are some hilarious moments in this, usually involving Gram or Nana Ruby who I adore.
I really hope there will be a follow up, maybe with all 3 friends as I have to see how it all turns out for the future.
Well done Denise, you've outdone yourself with this absolutely AMAZING book, I only wish I could give it 10 stars.
I was lucky enough to win an advanced release copy of The Gambler in return for my honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this amazing story.
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