Gambling on a Secret

by Sara Walter Ellwood

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

HONESTLY this was a FABULOUS read. Gambling on a Secret is a gripping, entertaining and an absolutely delightful romantic read which is set in the town of Colton located in Texas. Sarah Walter Ellwood has scored with this book. This has been one of my favourite reads for 2013. The story held my interest from the beginning. I had a real hard time putting it down. I was so disappointed when it ended. I deliberately took my time reading it so I could savour every minute. I was pulled into the story from the very first page and just could not let go.

The characters were amazing. I just loved how the author portrayed them.
Charli has been through a lot. She is a recovering drug addict and alcoholic who was able to turn her life around. I loved her determination and her will to survive. She refused to allow her past to define her. Dylan is a war veteran who had also lost a lot. His wife left him and he lost his entire team in Afghanistan. He sought to console himself in the bottle thereby becoming a drunk and the laughing stock of the town. Charli needed help on her ranch and that help came in the form of Dylan. She was a bit skeptical at first about hiring him because of his reputation but after conducting her own research she decided to take a gamble which ultimately paid off.

From the moment those two met sparks flew but because of the pain both had gone through in the past they were afraid to reveal their feelings for each other. Then there was Leon, Dylan’s uncle whom also appeared to be vying for Charli’s feelings. It was clear that he had an ulterior motive and Dylan did not trust him.

I loved how the romance between Charli and Dylan developed. It was not an easy road for them. They fought to make their love survive. It was definitely no fairy tale romance.

There were a few twists and turns and some unexpected surprises. It really pulled at my heart strings. There was also some laugh out loud moments. The descriptions were vivid and life like. The story flowed beautifully from beginning to end and it does not leave the reader hanging. I am so looking forward for the next book in the series.

Without a doubt this was an enjoyable read for me and Sarah Walter Ellwood have joined my list of must read authors. This book comes highly recommended.