Winner Takes All

What do the following have in common... Horses, racing, a handsome hero, a beautiful lady and an attraction that will not be denied? Why, a captivating story by Anna Harrington, writer extraordinaire! They had met when he worked for her father as the stable master and had fallen in love. But he'd made the decision to leave since it would never work out between them. She was a Viscount's daughter after all and he... Jackson had gone out on his own to make a name for himself as a horse trainer, but had not established himself to be sustainable yet. So his entry in the Derby was critical that he win. Francesca was determined herself to avoid being married to a man her father picked out. If she could prove herself and the colt she had bred by winning the Derby, she would be able to choose her path. The only problem was that she and Jack ran into each other and those feelings wrapped around them again. So much was at stake and not just with the race as these two need a win to determine their future, with the winner taking all... Perfect.

This was a really enjoyable novella length read. Jack and Francesca provide readers with plenty of feels as they struggle to overcome the many obstacles that stand in their way of a HEA. The story is very well written and fast paced. Each of the characters was likable and as a couple they were easy to root for. There is a lot of sweetness to this story but also feelings of angst and poignancy and also of course some drama. All this occurs against the backdrop of horses and horse racing. Quite delightful! This is my independent, impartial review.

This a terrific story with an exciting plot, including an interesting (and a bit sad) backstory. Jack is a horse trainer and Francesca wants to prove she has the talent to breed race horses. They each want, or need, to win the Epsom Derby; he to save his farm and she to win her independence. Neither knows why the race is so important to the other. Jack and Frankie know each other. In fact, you might call them star-crossed lovers. As the result of an accident, Jack trains both horses for the Derby, and he and Frankie spend a lot of time together. Sparks fly and the chemistry between these two sizzles. Is this their second chance for happiness? The race is on. Will pride and heartaches take the race or will love win the day? It’s a hold-your-breath finish and an awesome surprise at the end. I recommend this one. Don’t miss it. I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary.