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Raffle Ticket
A literary mystery with a paranormal twist, Raffle Ticket is Daniel Kelley’s latest irresistible mindbender. Four winners of a small-town raffle are each granted the opportunity to choose one day already lived… and live it again. A deceptively simple prize, as is quickly comprehended, for even minor changes to the past could enact a series of kaleidoscopic reverberations in the present.
Raffle Ticket enters the hearts and minds of its quartet of protagonists while also exploring the bucolic town of Fielding. Mysteries abound and conundrums arise as those about to revisit the past find themselves facing both moral and practical dilemmas. Julie Darling, town librarian and descendant of a once-prominent local family, pines for her long-dead husband while considering a daring plan to remedy past regrets. For Lenny Marsh, it’s a chance to redo the night he made a mistake with devastating consequences. And father-and-son winners Lee Forrester Sr. and Jr. end up selecting the same date, the day that a beloved wife and mother either killed herself or was murdered. Needless to say, little occurs predictably in this fluid trip down the rabbit hole outside of the one thing all discover in tandem: they will not be returning to the present without undergoing a transformation, the pivotal question being to what degree.
In the words of book reviewer Carol Custer, this 73,000-word novel is “the best thing Kelley’s ever written. Raffle Ticket has just the right amount of paranormal to feel believable (for the reader to WISH it were real) without being too far out. True to the markings of a great read, I was IN the story!”
Enjoy!
Raffle Ticket enters the hearts and minds of its quartet of protagonists while also exploring the bucolic town of Fielding. Mysteries abound and conundrums arise as those about to revisit the past find themselves facing both moral and practical dilemmas. Julie Darling, town librarian and descendant of a once-prominent local family, pines for her long-dead husband while considering a daring plan to remedy past regrets. For Lenny Marsh, it’s a chance to redo the night he made a mistake with devastating consequences. And father-and-son winners Lee Forrester Sr. and Jr. end up selecting the same date, the day that a beloved wife and mother either killed herself or was murdered. Needless to say, little occurs predictably in this fluid trip down the rabbit hole outside of the one thing all discover in tandem: they will not be returning to the present without undergoing a transformation, the pivotal question being to what degree.
In the words of book reviewer Carol Custer, this 73,000-word novel is “the best thing Kelley’s ever written. Raffle Ticket has just the right amount of paranormal to feel believable (for the reader to WISH it were real) without being too far out. True to the markings of a great read, I was IN the story!”
Enjoy!
229 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 11, 2016
11 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Kelley
355 books18 followersDaniel Kelley is an author and a music arranger. His fifth novel, Raffle Ticket, was published in October 2016. Nearly 700,000 books of Daniel’s compositions and arrangements have sold worldwide, and over 30,000 of his e-books have captivated readers. With lyricist JoEllen Doering, he also composed the music to the classic holiday song, “It's Christmas Time Again”.
Daniel mosaics, bakes constantly, annoys practically everyone with puns, is a massive EDM fan, and loves playing games of any kind, though Hearts is his current fave. In 2016, a mosaic of his won the Best of Show monetary prize at the Los Angeles County Fair. He and his wife Cynthia have three children and too many fish. Adair, Darcy and Adele are the names of the children.
Daniel mosaics, bakes constantly, annoys practically everyone with puns, is a massive EDM fan, and loves playing games of any kind, though Hearts is his current fave. In 2016, a mosaic of his won the Best of Show monetary prize at the Los Angeles County Fair. He and his wife Cynthia have three children and too many fish. Adair, Darcy and Adele are the names of the children.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
November 4, 2016
Have you won any raffle? I have but nothing major like the lotto. How i wish! I have won about three paperbacks through Goodreads giveaways and a lot of E-books from different author giveaways and sites. Anyway, Raffle Ticket is about winners of a raffle draw in the small town of Fielding.
Four winners of the town raffle were offered an additional prize by the strange new raffle draw host. The additional prize, if the winner chooses not to use it, can be given to someone else they know who might need it more. The three winners opted to take the bonus prize. The other one gave it to her best friend. The bonus prize gives each winner a chance to go back to any day in the past they wanted to change. If you were one of the winners, what day would it be?
This book talks about wrongs or regrets and of second chances to change them. I know in real life this does not happen like how it did in the book. But this got me thinking. If I were a winner, would I grab the chance and what day would I choose to go back to and relive and change? I find this very hard to decide on. Yes, I do have things I would have done better but then, if I change anything then there could be some great things that happened to me that I may not have experienced at all. Like the opportunities to travel abroad and to the US through work, the life-long friends I have met who have become closer than siblings, and other adventures I had which have changed my life in more ways than I could count. I admit my current circumstances are not what I really wanted nor what I planned. I wished they were better but I have come to the realization that whatever I have now are all because of my choices. Choices that I have willingly opted to in spite of the after math or effects they will make. Honestly, I have no regrets. I only wished that I could have seen some things coming so I would have been better prepared for them when they hit me emotionally, physically and mentally.
The book may seem like harmless but it had made me rethink my life and the choices I have made. It is introspective. It made me appreciate that at least I still have some degree of choice in my life decisions though some of them may not have been the best at the time but I made them of my own free will. That should at least count for something. I did not expect that this story would make me ball my eyes out. I was just happy and relieved that the characters were able to change the things that have made them miserable and lose sleep each night for the longest time. I am happy when people are happy. I know, it's human nature to also want the happiness that other people have. I also have this idea that if you feel sorry for your self because someone has it better than you, then think again. Would it make you happier if instead of that other person, it was you who were in her place? Maybe. But you never know what that person has to go through to get to that point. If you understand that the person has been maltreated or has been unhappy for the longest time, would you still want to switch shoes with her? We all have different circumstances and one can't have it the same way for each person. This thought at least calms me to not turn green with envy of other people's fortune. I would prefer my love ones to be happy and if possible, I'll take all their suffering if it means a better life for them. Do I sound like a martyr or selfless? I am far from one but I wish and would do anything when it comes to those people I care about. That does not mean that I don't or can't do the things that make me happy. I do and I find ways. I try so hard because I have big dreams and wishes too.
I give this book 4/5 raffle tickets. I just did not foresee that this book packed a powerful effect. It tugged on my heartstrings very tightly and made me look back. What if? This question haunts everyone. But I have learned when to entertain and not dwell on this big million-dollar question mark. If you keep on asking this question and continue to be fixated with the past which you can't change, you will never learn to see the opportunities that the present has to offer. I have learned from past experiences to live in the present. To stop and smell the roses. And it may be too cliche but it makes a lot of sense. Because I have done that, I have learned to live by my choices. But that does not mean that it has been easy. There are really hard days. Days I just want to not wake up, but I realized I have had a good life and have grabbed on the opportunities that came my way. Life happens and I had no reason to feel like the whole world is against me or out to take me down. Though, it does feel exactly like that sometimes.
This is a thought-provoking and enlightening read. It looks unassuming but will hit you smack dub in the gut.
On a lighter note, I think the author is a Game of Thrones fan. I was amused when one of the characters in the book was named Brandon Starks.
Thank you again Daniel Kelley and Library Thing for the ARC.
Four winners of the town raffle were offered an additional prize by the strange new raffle draw host. The additional prize, if the winner chooses not to use it, can be given to someone else they know who might need it more. The three winners opted to take the bonus prize. The other one gave it to her best friend. The bonus prize gives each winner a chance to go back to any day in the past they wanted to change. If you were one of the winners, what day would it be?
This book talks about wrongs or regrets and of second chances to change them. I know in real life this does not happen like how it did in the book. But this got me thinking. If I were a winner, would I grab the chance and what day would I choose to go back to and relive and change? I find this very hard to decide on. Yes, I do have things I would have done better but then, if I change anything then there could be some great things that happened to me that I may not have experienced at all. Like the opportunities to travel abroad and to the US through work, the life-long friends I have met who have become closer than siblings, and other adventures I had which have changed my life in more ways than I could count. I admit my current circumstances are not what I really wanted nor what I planned. I wished they were better but I have come to the realization that whatever I have now are all because of my choices. Choices that I have willingly opted to in spite of the after math or effects they will make. Honestly, I have no regrets. I only wished that I could have seen some things coming so I would have been better prepared for them when they hit me emotionally, physically and mentally.
The book may seem like harmless but it had made me rethink my life and the choices I have made. It is introspective. It made me appreciate that at least I still have some degree of choice in my life decisions though some of them may not have been the best at the time but I made them of my own free will. That should at least count for something. I did not expect that this story would make me ball my eyes out. I was just happy and relieved that the characters were able to change the things that have made them miserable and lose sleep each night for the longest time. I am happy when people are happy. I know, it's human nature to also want the happiness that other people have. I also have this idea that if you feel sorry for your self because someone has it better than you, then think again. Would it make you happier if instead of that other person, it was you who were in her place? Maybe. But you never know what that person has to go through to get to that point. If you understand that the person has been maltreated or has been unhappy for the longest time, would you still want to switch shoes with her? We all have different circumstances and one can't have it the same way for each person. This thought at least calms me to not turn green with envy of other people's fortune. I would prefer my love ones to be happy and if possible, I'll take all their suffering if it means a better life for them. Do I sound like a martyr or selfless? I am far from one but I wish and would do anything when it comes to those people I care about. That does not mean that I don't or can't do the things that make me happy. I do and I find ways. I try so hard because I have big dreams and wishes too.
I give this book 4/5 raffle tickets. I just did not foresee that this book packed a powerful effect. It tugged on my heartstrings very tightly and made me look back. What if? This question haunts everyone. But I have learned when to entertain and not dwell on this big million-dollar question mark. If you keep on asking this question and continue to be fixated with the past which you can't change, you will never learn to see the opportunities that the present has to offer. I have learned from past experiences to live in the present. To stop and smell the roses. And it may be too cliche but it makes a lot of sense. Because I have done that, I have learned to live by my choices. But that does not mean that it has been easy. There are really hard days. Days I just want to not wake up, but I realized I have had a good life and have grabbed on the opportunities that came my way. Life happens and I had no reason to feel like the whole world is against me or out to take me down. Though, it does feel exactly like that sometimes.
This is a thought-provoking and enlightening read. It looks unassuming but will hit you smack dub in the gut.
On a lighter note, I think the author is a Game of Thrones fan. I was amused when one of the characters in the book was named Brandon Starks.
Thank you again Daniel Kelley and Library Thing for the ARC.
November 7, 2016
This book has such a strong premise that I couldn't resist it: winners of a small-town raffle are approached by a man claiming he can send them back in time to re-live a day of their choosing.
Raffle Ticket is hard to define, because it's got a bit of mystery, a bit of small-town drama, and a bit of time-travel fantasy, but none of these elements overtake the story. So it is worth noting that the titular ticket takes a while to show up, but when it does, all the previous development devoted to the characters and town pays off.
Maybe that's the real strength that made me enjoy this novel so much: the characters and location feel fully-formed, so it's a pleasure to take this odd journey with them.
There are a few twists with real emotional weight. The plots wraps up nicely. Oh, and the writing is sharp, with just enough description to not wear out its welcome, especially as the pace picks up. I did notice that characters were constantly touching each other's shoulders, but maybe that's a regional thing.
Anyway, this is a great light read that made me happy. If I could go back in time and prevent myself from reading it, I would say "no thanks, time travel, I'm good." Five stars.
Raffle Ticket is hard to define, because it's got a bit of mystery, a bit of small-town drama, and a bit of time-travel fantasy, but none of these elements overtake the story. So it is worth noting that the titular ticket takes a while to show up, but when it does, all the previous development devoted to the characters and town pays off.
Maybe that's the real strength that made me enjoy this novel so much: the characters and location feel fully-formed, so it's a pleasure to take this odd journey with them.
There are a few twists with real emotional weight. The plots wraps up nicely. Oh, and the writing is sharp, with just enough description to not wear out its welcome, especially as the pace picks up. I did notice that characters were constantly touching each other's shoulders, but maybe that's a regional thing.
Anyway, this is a great light read that made me happy. If I could go back in time and prevent myself from reading it, I would say "no thanks, time travel, I'm good." Five stars.
November 4, 2016
was asked to review this by Librarything.com
Interesting book. Thought provoking just what would you do?
Four winners of the town raffle are offered an additional prize by the weird new raffle draw . The extra prize, if the winner chooses not to use it, can be given to someone else they know who might be in more need. The three winners decided to take the bonus prize. The other one gave it to their best friend. The bonus prize gives each winner a chance to go back to any day in the past they wanted to change.
This book really makes you think about regrets, longing, things you may have done wrong - oh my goodness a moralistic roller coaster.
Wow gosh this made me think and I expect readers too will go through so many emotions and what ifs. Made me think life is short and you get one stab at life.
Remarkable
Interesting book. Thought provoking just what would you do?
Four winners of the town raffle are offered an additional prize by the weird new raffle draw . The extra prize, if the winner chooses not to use it, can be given to someone else they know who might be in more need. The three winners decided to take the bonus prize. The other one gave it to their best friend. The bonus prize gives each winner a chance to go back to any day in the past they wanted to change.
This book really makes you think about regrets, longing, things you may have done wrong - oh my goodness a moralistic roller coaster.
Wow gosh this made me think and I expect readers too will go through so many emotions and what ifs. Made me think life is short and you get one stab at life.
Remarkable
November 5, 2016
This is the authors best novel. I was riveted from beginning to end. The characters are so real and alive that you are instantly consumed by the story and its four main characters. Julie Darling is by far my favorite character. She steals the show along with her story. I have to admit I cried at the end.
It makes you ask the question after reading this novel. If you could choose one day to relive which day would it be? And how would it effect the entire rest of your life. You just don't know. This is a must read! I can't wait to read more from this author.
It makes you ask the question after reading this novel. If you could choose one day to relive which day would it be? And how would it effect the entire rest of your life. You just don't know. This is a must read! I can't wait to read more from this author.
November 11, 2016
It was amazing. I loved this story. A wonderful read.
June 23, 2017
I struggled with the start of this book for some reason but once i got into it i found a really good read.
Four raffle ticket winners relive a day in their pasts. It was more than just a trip back in time for all of them. There is a lot to take out of this book not just a good story line and believable characters but they also find out things about life and living it into the bargain. As a Kindle unlimited book this one deserves a much greater reading public
Four raffle ticket winners relive a day in their pasts. It was more than just a trip back in time for all of them. There is a lot to take out of this book not just a good story line and believable characters but they also find out things about life and living it into the bargain. As a Kindle unlimited book this one deserves a much greater reading public
January 6, 2019
Raffle ticket is a contemporary look at small town life. It showcases the lives of certain people who won prizes at the town fundraiser and how their lives intertwine with each other and other locals. It has a supernatural twist. What if you could go back one day of your life and relive it and perhaps change it. Some of the outcomes are a bit predictable but others I didn't see coming. Fun read.
May 28, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyable
I didn’t know what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised at all the twists and turns. I feel the individuals in their respective story lines came together for a satisfying arc by the end of book. Very well done.
I didn’t know what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised at all the twists and turns. I feel the individuals in their respective story lines came together for a satisfying arc by the end of book. Very well done.
December 28, 2017
What a beautiful story!
December 31, 2018
A Unique Story
This book held my attention from page 1. The ending was a little "off" from the rest of the story. But overall, I enjoyed this read.
This book held my attention from page 1. The ending was a little "off" from the rest of the story. But overall, I enjoyed this read.
February 2, 2022
Cozy mystery
December 11, 2016
Since I finished this book, I have been trying to figure out why most of the reviewers loved it. I did not. Nor do I think this is his best book (I have read all, or nearly all, his books). They plot definitely was different. In addition to winning the raffle money in a small town, the winners also win the opportunity to re-live one day in their lives. They get to choose the day. One thing that made me stop as I read the book was the time-travel aspect. I do not usually read time travel books, but hoped this one would be different.
The author spent a lot of time describing the small town where this occurs and the key persons who are involved in the story. The descriptions were quite good and showed that the town was normal—there were good and bad things that occurred as well as good and bad residents, and everywhere and with everyone, there was history. As is the case with small towns, many of the characters had lived there their entire lives, so the town’s history was well known to and by everyone, with few secrets. By taking the reader through the history of the town as it applied and effected the residents as well as the residents’ own personal histories, the author provided a pretty good picture of who everyone was and what life was like in the town. The paranormal element in the book was a bit outlandish, in my opinion. I think I prefer life grounded in normality. I will not go into more details about the book, since I do not want to spoil the story for any readers.
What did I not like? I got tired of ploughing through the many pages of stories, memories, encounters, etc. among the townsfolk. This all provided a good backdrop/setting for the plot and the events, but I could not get into it. Nevertheless, I have no idea how the book could have been written differently that would have made me like it more. The time travel aspect also did not help me enjoy the book more, as I had hoped it would. In conclusion, the book was okay for me, just not outstanding. I received this book through Library Thing to read and provide a review.
The author spent a lot of time describing the small town where this occurs and the key persons who are involved in the story. The descriptions were quite good and showed that the town was normal—there were good and bad things that occurred as well as good and bad residents, and everywhere and with everyone, there was history. As is the case with small towns, many of the characters had lived there their entire lives, so the town’s history was well known to and by everyone, with few secrets. By taking the reader through the history of the town as it applied and effected the residents as well as the residents’ own personal histories, the author provided a pretty good picture of who everyone was and what life was like in the town. The paranormal element in the book was a bit outlandish, in my opinion. I think I prefer life grounded in normality. I will not go into more details about the book, since I do not want to spoil the story for any readers.
What did I not like? I got tired of ploughing through the many pages of stories, memories, encounters, etc. among the townsfolk. This all provided a good backdrop/setting for the plot and the events, but I could not get into it. Nevertheless, I have no idea how the book could have been written differently that would have made me like it more. The time travel aspect also did not help me enjoy the book more, as I had hoped it would. In conclusion, the book was okay for me, just not outstanding. I received this book through Library Thing to read and provide a review.
December 9, 2016
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. At the beginning I was intrigued, then I slowed a bit because I did not connect to some of the characters, but the book picked up pace and interest as the date came closer for the raffle winners (or designated person) to choose which day in their life to re-do. I liked that most considered the consequences of their revisions, so to speak.
I felt closer to some of the lesser connected characters by the end.
I was quite satisfied that there was no explanation for how this visit to and interaction in the past was possible. Most times in life we do not understand why or how things happen. All that is needed is a small amount of hope and belief and some acceptance.
Thank you to the author and LibraryThing for the book in exchange for my honest review.
I felt closer to some of the lesser connected characters by the end.
I was quite satisfied that there was no explanation for how this visit to and interaction in the past was possible. Most times in life we do not understand why or how things happen. All that is needed is a small amount of hope and belief and some acceptance.
Thank you to the author and LibraryThing for the book in exchange for my honest review.
January 20, 2017
A beautiful tale of hope and redemption with a Sci-Fi twist!
Raffle Ticket begins as a charming Garrison Keillor-like exploration of small-town politics and quirks, but it quickly focuses in on the seemingly random winners of a town raffle that comes with a mysterious and magical bonus prize. What will each of them do with it? What will the consequences be? I really enjoyed following the mystery but even more I enjoyed getting to know this varied and complex group of people. Even the 'villains' have unexpected heart and depth. Mr Kelly writes with craft and compassion and it's a great read for a rainy day!
Raffle Ticket begins as a charming Garrison Keillor-like exploration of small-town politics and quirks, but it quickly focuses in on the seemingly random winners of a town raffle that comes with a mysterious and magical bonus prize. What will each of them do with it? What will the consequences be? I really enjoyed following the mystery but even more I enjoyed getting to know this varied and complex group of people. Even the 'villains' have unexpected heart and depth. Mr Kelly writes with craft and compassion and it's a great read for a rainy day!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews