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5+ stars for Gamble of Hearts by Virginia Barlow #historicalromance #romance #bookreview



Title: Gamble of Hearts

Author: Virginia Barlow

Genre: Historical Romance


Book Blurb:


When a powerful duke arrives to collect his winnings from her brother, Lady Amora Hargrove discovers she is one of them. Following her brother's arrest, she becomes the duke's ward and falls for him hard and fast. Problem is, the duke has a violent hatred for gamblers, and she possesses a natural ability. Something he can never discover, or she will lose him forever.


The Duke of Ravencroft exacts revenge for his nephew's death and gains a ward. Irresistibly drawn to the villain's sister, he must play and gamble with their hearts or lose everything.


My Review:


In the game of life, you need to gamble on love to win it all. Virginia Barlow’s new release is a romantic triumph and one I thoroughly enjoyed. With intricate world-building and emotional narration, you’ll be whisked away on an unforgettable journey to love.


Let’s start with the characters. I connected with Lady Amora and her plight right away. With an abusive brother and his penchant for cruelty, my heart broke for her. The road to redemption is difficult for Amora yet her spirit never wavers. She’s such a brave woman and I rooted for her to find her bliss. Her bliss being a handsome, protective duke.


The descriptive narration and world-building work together to create a historical romance I couldn’t put down. Every detail is poignantly described. Each layer of the story builds on the next creating a world easy to become a part of.


The romance is expertly written and brilliantly executed. I’ve come to expect no less from Virginia Barlow. Her attention to detail makes for an intoxicating read. She writes for the romance reader, and I’m thrilled.


If you’re looking for a historical romance you won’t be able to stop reading, pick up Gamble of Hearts. Trust me, you’ll love it.


My Rating: 5+ stars


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Author Biography:


I have always loved reading romance novels. I used to sneak them from my mom’s room as a young girl and read them while she was gone. As I grew older, my reading and tastes expanded to sci-fi, dystopian, paranormal, and fantasy.


I considered becoming an author in my late twenties but as a busy mother with toddlers, I didn’t have the time. Later, in my fifties, I decided to give it a try and have enjoyed every word of it since. I recently signed my thirteenth contract and am doing my happy dance as I type this. My husband of forty-one years is my greatest support as are all my kids. Most of them are grown and carving out lives for themselves. They are the beat of my heart and with every grandchild, the rhythm gets stronger. I enjoy every moment of my life.


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Reviewed by: Nancy

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