Joy's Willful Wager

Seven Unsuitable Sisters #4

by Maeve Greyson

Wit, wagers, and one irresistible rogue—will she fold or raise for love?

Lady Joy Abarough may be the fifth daughter and sixth child in a house brimming with sisters, but she’s always been first when it comes to games of chance. Witty, daring, and ever ready to test her luck, Joy thrives on wagers—until one fateful bet changes everything. A harmless dare lands her locked in a room with Sir Jansen Winterstone, a man as charming as he is dangerous. When she loses to him at Piquet, he proposes a different form of payment—a single, scandalous kiss.

Never one to back down from a challenge, Joy accepts. After all, it’s just a kiss. But when her friends come to her rescue, she begins to wonder… did she escape just in time, or is her fate already sealed?

One reckless gamble. One stolen kiss. One man determined to win at any cost. Joy may have played the odds—but has she finally wagered her heart?

Tropes/Themes You'll One BedGambling that first kissUnrequited loveFriends to loversBlackmailCompromising situationRead in Kindle Unlimited!

Seven Unsuitable Sisters
Book 1 - Blessing’s Baron
Book 2 - Fortuity’s Arrangement
Book 3 - Grace’s Saving
Book 4 - Joy’s Willful Wager
Book 5 - Felicity’s Eloquent Earl
Book 6 - A Less Than Merry Marquess
Book 7 - Serendipity’s Suitor
Book 8 - The Making of a Duke

256 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 21, 2025

About the author

Maeve Greyson is a USA TODAY bestselling author, Amazon Top 100 bestseller, Amazon All Star, multiple RONE Award winner, and a multiple HOLT Medallion Finalist.

Her mantra is this: No one has the power to shatter your dreams unless you give it to them.

She and her husband of over forty-five years traveled around the world while in the U.S. Air Force. Now they're settled in rural Kentucky where Maeve writes about her courageous heroes and the fearless women who tame them. Sometimes her stories are historical romances, time travel romances, or escapist romantasies, but the one thing they always have in common is a satisfying happily ever after. When she’s not plotting the perfect snare, she can be found herding cats, grandchildren, and her husband—not necessarily in that order.

To learn more about Maeve visit: https://linktr.ee/maevegreyson

Reviews

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Joy Abarough may be the fifth daughter and sixth child in a house brimming with sisters, but she’s always been first when it comes to games of chance. Joy thrives on wagers—until one fateful bet changes everything. A harmless dare lands her locked in a room with Sir Jansen Winterstone, a man as charming as he is dangerous. When she loses to him at Piquet, the payment is a single, scandalous kiss.
The fourth book in this series featuring the Abarough siblings & Chance only being able to receive his full inheritance when his sisters have married for love. Joy is the gambling sister but meets her match in Jansen. I really liked Jansen who had fallen hard & fast for his angel. I liked Joy but found her rather immature. I did enjoy their journey to a HEA, there was the mystery as to who was blackmailing the founders of the gambling club & I was surprised as to who it was. A well written interesting romance
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Petula · Rating 5 out of 5]

The sister who is the heroine of this historical romance is definitely going to have more than her share of problems.
Our hero made up his mind who he was going to marry long before he gets the chance to act on it.
If you haven't read the previous books in the series, you will have missed learning the characters involved, but not enough to spoil this one. Each sibling will get their own book, and they all have very different personalities. The ending of this one certainly surprised me.
Good fun.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joy Abarough is the fifth daughter in line to marry. Sir Jansen Winterstone fell in love with Joy the moment he saw her. Unfortunately he had to leave her to fight for England in Greece. Worried the whole time he was gone she would marry someone else, the arrogant war hero is hot in pursuit of the lady once he returns. Joy isn't sure she wants him to court her, then marry. With the help of his sister, hers, a blackmailer and his kisses, he won't give up until he marries his angel. Never a dull moment with the Abarough family and the brother who can't wait to marry off all his sisters.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Netgalley.

[Jenna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I voluntarily read and reviewed this advanced copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I've been really enjoying the Seven Unsuitable Sisters series as I get to know the various Abarough siblings. I've found little things to like about each daughter, but Joy was a verified brat. As a prickly pear myself, I tried to give her some leeway. I finally put it together that she was only 19(!) and thrown into a relationship with a man who was more than 15 years older than her. Jansen was not the problem. He was an angel who had heart eyes for her even before they officially started courting. He was willing to do anything for her and was determined to put his ring on his finger. Their relationship was my favorite part of the book, which was unfortunately piled under a ridiculous thievery plot.



The book opened up with a silly game of truth or dare where Joy had to kiss her friend's brother. It was a fun wager where the money went to a charity and she ended up with a peck from a handsome man. She didn't know he was already planning on making her his future bride. Things lead to another and they eventually become engaged. There's also a huge subplot regarding missing money and blackmail that eclipsed the whole romance. What's the point entitling this as Willful Wager when it is only relevant for a few chapters? The criminal elements dominated 3/4 of the novel and were hardly mentioned in the synopsis. I was annoyed by Joy's bratty behavior and the thieves stealing prime romantic scenes. Jansen more than made up for my annoyance, even if he said "angel" nearly 100 times. At least it wasn't the insipid moniker I loathe from my tip of me head to me toes: babe. Ick.



While Joy's Willful Wager may have been my least favorite book so far, I'm certainly looking forward to future romances of her sisters. I'm especially keen for the curvaceous sister who's a devil in the kitchens. I also know the oldest and youngest daughter will need strong heroes to keep them in line. Although Joy frustrated me at times, her romance with Jansen was incredibly sweet to read. I would have definitely taken on her wager, but leave those sticky fingers outta my romance!

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joy’s Willful Wager by Maeve Greyson is an age-disparity romance although that is not the brunt of the plot. Lady Joy Abarough is the fourth of the seven sisters who might be looking for a husband. Her brother was now the head of the family and bent on seeing his sisters married as his father’s will had stipulated that he would get his inheritance in increments, each part to be disbursed as each girl got married...for love. Joy really had not desire to be married. She had a life and projects of her own and she didn’t want that interrupted. But, her good friend, Aurelia, wanted Joy for her older brother. To that end she set up a situation wherein they would kiss and she was sure that would do the trick. And really, it did, but not before plenty of other things got in the way.

This two are perfect despite the fact that Jansen is thirty-nine and Joy is twenty-one. In fact, age is really never mentioned. Joy gave in after sharing her secrets with Jansen, and not only was he not shocked, but he offered his assistance. She was worried about her brother finding out and what his reaction might be. Also, she wanted him to meet all her married sisters (he had already met the ones still living at home) before they could marry. Once again, we are disabused of the notion that these folks were all buttoned up and highly moral. What a great story. Good characters. An interesting plot. Heart-wrenching, really. Terrific read!

I was invited to read Joy’s Willful Wager by Dragonblade. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #MaeveGreyson#JoysWillfulWager

[Pat Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say this is one very different story of historical romance. Joy loves gambling, but uses her talent for it to help charitable organizations. Jansen is the brother of Joy’s best friend and has been in love with Joy for ages. This is a he falls first story with Joy fighting off his advances because she is not ready to marry. The trouble she gets into only gets worse when blackmailed. This story had a lot of twists in it, as the reader tries to discover the villain who is SO WELL hidden, my head spun when revealed. I did find that Joy’s capitulation to Jansen seemed rushed, but her independent spirit kept Jansen on his toes. He has trouble of his own, being a war veteran. It was very interesting how the author dealt with it and how his issues were resolved. The HEA was VERY different, one I have never seen-very poignant and causes tears. Well written, with characters I am already in love with and can’t wait for the next sister/brother story.

I received this story for free and these are my own views.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun, lighthearted read!  Lady Joy Abarough is an absolute delight. As the middle daughter in a house full of sisters, she’s learned how to stand out, and she does it by being bold, clever, and completely unafraid to take risks. I loved her confidence and her playful attitude toward life (and gambling). She’s the kind of heroine who leans into trouble with a smile.
Sir Jansen Winterstone is every bit the charming rogue you hope for—smooth, dangerous, and clearly enjoying the game as much as Joy does. Their banter sparkles, and the tension during that infamous wager had me grinning the whole time. A single kiss has never felt so loaded with possibility.
The story moves quickly, keeps things fun, and doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s full of playful energy, gentle suspense, and just enough scandal to keep things interesting. 
If you enjoy Regency romance with strong heroines, witty dialogue, and a dash of daring, this one is well worth the read.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review. 

[dessie*₊⊹ · Rating 2 out of 5]

There’s some moral superiority that runs in all the sisters in this series that grows old. Especially coming from the gambling obsessed lead in this one.
The female leads feel very young in this series, and Joy’s no different. Which makes Jansen’s plotting combined with her age and her ending circumstances all the more….unsettling. I’m not really prudish or picky about signs of the times in historical romance. (I mean- I read and enjoy Kleypas.) But Joy’s situation in the beginning was very unpleasant. The bickering with her friends and her cattiness made her just seem so young. Jansen was so much older, pushy, and borderline deluded. Their romance didn’t leave me with a good feeling.
Not my favorite to be sure, but I guess I’m locked in with the sisters at this point. I really want the eldest and the duke’s stories right about now. 1.5 stars.

[Tiffany P · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was an original plot, and I enjoyed the change. The main couple, Joy and Jansen, were funny and lovable. Their witty banter added humor and entertainment from the very beginning. The love and romance was instant. The hero fell first and wasn’t afraid to express his feelings. The heroine was afraid of all she felt so it took longer to admit. A common enemy brought them together. The story was full of family, slight steam, forced proximity due to storms, secrets, gambling hells, overcoming nightmares from war, a surprising plot twist, near death experiences, and a HEA. I would have liked a lighter ending with more information further into the future with more children.

I received an advanced copy of this book from Net Galley and am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Faint heart never won fair lady,” in this lighthearted romance, as Joy evades the ever persistent Sir Jansen. I loved Jansen from the start and wondered how he managed to keep his sense of humor around Joy. Although I could understand Joy's frustration with her brother and his quest to marry off his sisters in order to gain his own inheritance, there were times I was rather taken aback by Joy's harsh words. Fortunately, Jansen was made of sterner stuff and his very persistence eventually penetrates Joy's guarded heart, bringing the novel to a happy conclusion. I received a copy of this novel as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and volutnary review.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Joy has set up a female only "book club" that meets over a bookstore once a week. Unbeknownst to the men, her brother included, it is a gambling club with the profits going to the homeless. Jansen is besotted, ad nauseam, with Joy and is thrilled to meet her alone to play cards at a ball. He has decided that she will be his wife but knows he must go slowly to convince her. I thought Jansen's fawning to be a bit much. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.

[Charmaine Fernando · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yet another lovely story from Maeve Greyson. This time it is Lady Joy Aborough’s turn. She is the sister who uses her gambling skills to win for charity. Sir Jansen Winterstone is the brother of Joy’s best friend and has been in love with Joy for many years and wants to marry her and settle down. He understands Joy so well and is a perfect match for him.

A thoroughly enjoyable story that was a fun read. I received an ARC from the publishers and NetGalley and submit my honest review voluntarily.

[Masala LaVita · Rating 2 out of 5]

Joy's Willful Wager by Maeve Greyson marks my first foray into this author and series. The premise—a charitable truth-or-dare kiss sparking an engagement—starts charmingly, with Jensen’s sweet devotion (despite overusing “angel”) providing some appeal. However, Joy’s bratty demeanor grated, and the heavy mystery subplot involving blackmail and missing money overshadows the romance almost entirely, sidelining the promised wagers. As a standalone, it felt unbalanced; prior books might have added needed context. Disappointing overall.

Thanks to NetGalley for ARC, all opinions are my own.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read!

As with all Maeve’s books, I did not want it to end. Jansen is the perfect match for Joy, he gets her head strong personality and accepts her! They do not make men like him anymore. Character development is excellent and they are your friends you’ve known forever. I was glad Joy’s siblings were included, nice catching up. Looking forward to more, from my favorite author 😊

[Layne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Sister Down

How would you like to be the brother of seven sisters with your inheritance depending on each of them falling in love and getting married?? That's the situation Chance is in and Joy is one more sister down and more to go. Marvel Grey son has woven a story full of laughter, mystery and best of all, love! This one is so good.

[Mindy B (reader_of_the_lost_arcs) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like the idea of the brother not inheriting the title until all of his sisters make love matches. This time it's Joy. At first I wasn't sure I liked the age gap with Jansen being almost 40. But he won me over. A lot of the rest of the family featured and a cat named Nimbus steals the show. A great family!
Thank you to Dragonblade for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.

[Mahnoor Lasania · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been reading the series since the release of the first book. Just like all the other books, I thoroughly enjoyed this one too. It was an original plot, and I enjoyed the change. Joy and Jansen were fun and lovable, and I absolutely loved their witty banter. The love was instant. I loved that Jansen fell first and wasn’t afraid to express his feelings.

[Chia · Rating 4 out of 5]

A charming historical romance filled with wit, independence, and slow-burn attraction. Maeve Greyson’s heroine shines with personality, and the romantic tension unfolds with delightful elegance. Joy was THE FMC and I believe only Jansen could be her counterpart. A rewarding read for historical romance lovers.
I can't wait for the next stories!

Thanks for the ARC, NetGalley!

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

A different plot makes this an interesting read. I felt the characters were developed well. Some events in the story were slightly difficult to believe. Joy is a strong female lead. Jansen is very supportive, but also a strong willed character.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

She's a gambler, he's loved her forever.... Book four of a fantastic series. Each book brings a family of characters to life in an entertaining and enjoyable plot. Always well written and with depth. Recommend reading the entire series.

[Rebekah Carulli Hanson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awesome!

I have fallen in love with the seven unsuitable sisters of this series! They all fought so hard to remain single but love found them. Seven remarkable men for seven strong women makes for a heartwarming and beautiful series.

[Alison · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read several books in the Seven Unsuitable Sisters series and this was my least favorite. Jensen, the male protagonist was too saccharine and Joy, the female protagonist, I found annoying. I like this storyline, but this couple left me feeling meh.

[Aj · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful read, a romance filled with wit, wagers, and an irresistible rogue. A wager for the heart where Joy and Jansen find their perfect gamble in love.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good but I didn’t get the motivation behind the blackmail plot and I wish we had more proof of the attachment MMC had for FMC before the events of the book