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The Lucky Ones
They called themselves “the lucky ones.” They were seven children either orphaned or abandoned by their parents and chosen by legendary philanthropist and brain surgeon Dr. Vincent Capello to live in The Dragon, his almost magical beach house on the Oregon Coast. Allison was the youngest of the lucky ones living an idyllic life with her newfound family…until the night she almost died, and was then whisked away from the house and her adopted family forever.
Now, thirteen years later, Allison receives a letter from Roland, Dr. Capello’s oldest son, warning her that their father is ill and in his final days. Allison determines she must go home again and confront the ghosts of her past. She's determined to find out what really happened that fateful night--was it an accident or, as she's always suspected, did one of her beloved family members try to kill her?
But digging into the past can reveal horrific truths, and when Allison pieces together the story of her life, she'll learns the terrible secret at the heart of the family she once loved but never really knew.
A vivid and suspenseful tale of family, grief, love—and the dark secrets that bind everything together—Tiffany Reisz’s latest is enthralling to the final page.
Now, thirteen years later, Allison receives a letter from Roland, Dr. Capello’s oldest son, warning her that their father is ill and in his final days. Allison determines she must go home again and confront the ghosts of her past. She's determined to find out what really happened that fateful night--was it an accident or, as she's always suspected, did one of her beloved family members try to kill her?
But digging into the past can reveal horrific truths, and when Allison pieces together the story of her life, she'll learns the terrible secret at the heart of the family she once loved but never really knew.
A vivid and suspenseful tale of family, grief, love—and the dark secrets that bind everything together—Tiffany Reisz’s latest is enthralling to the final page.
365 pages, Paperback
First published February 13, 2018
About the author
Tiffany Reisz
152 books8,769 followersTiffany Reisz is the USA Today-bestselling author. She lives in Kentucky with her husband and two cats. Find her online at TiffanyReisz.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 579 reviews
March 14, 2018
My reviews can also be seen at: https://deesradreadsandreviews.wordpr...
3.5 Stars
“The Lucky Ones” was my first read from Tiffany Reisz. The blurb was interesting, I love stories filled with secrets and lies!
We meet Allison Lamarque in the present day as she struggling to hold it together. Her lover is breaking up with her….though he prefers thinking they had a “friendly business arrangement”
“So you’re not dumping me, then. You’re firing me.”
As he is leaving, Allison notices a small package addressed to her in the box that he brought with him. It’s postmarked from Oregon. When she sees the name and return address she almost passes out from shock.
Roland Capello
Her brother….Sort of.
When Allison was young her mother passed away and Allison ended up in foster care. Somehow she was one of the “ lucky ones ” taken in by Dr. Vincent Capello, a famous brain surgeon in Oregon. Dr. Capello was known for helping needy children and even adopted some of them. Allison loves her new family. But then something happens and she’s taken from Oregon, and never hears from any of the Capello’s again.
That is…until now. Thirteen years later.
The letter from Roland informs her that Dr. Capello is very ill and doesn’t have long to live. Allison isn’t sure what to do. She has tried hard to forget those days in The Dragon House, but memories of her time there never left her entirely, “it felt like a good dream with a nightmare ending”.
Allison decides to go back to see Dr. Capello and her “siblings”. She is determined to find out what happened that last day before she was sent away. And why is she missing an entire week of memory from that time?
From the moment Allison arrives in Oregon, she wonders if coming back was a mistake. Memories flood in... The house has a dark history of madness, violence, and more going back decades. What is waiting for her in this house filled with secrets and lies?
Is Allison still in danger?
Well… this was certainly a dark and thought-provoking read. As I mentioned, this was my first read from Tiffany Reisz. Although it may not have been exactly what I was expecting, it was definitely a page-turner that I’m glad I had the chance to read. A twisted tale with turns I never anticipated. The storyline was gripping…secrets and lies, forbidden relationships, medical science, ethics and morals, nature vs. nurture, and more. Allison and her “siblings” Roland, Thora, Deacon, Kendra, Oliver, and Anthony had stories that were both intriguing and disturbing.
“The Lucky Ones” was a suspenseful and edgy read. While there were a few parts that made me a bit uncomfortable, overall I found this to be quite an absorbing and unique read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mira for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
3.5 Stars
“The Lucky Ones” was my first read from Tiffany Reisz. The blurb was interesting, I love stories filled with secrets and lies!
We meet Allison Lamarque in the present day as she struggling to hold it together. Her lover is breaking up with her….though he prefers thinking they had a “friendly business arrangement”
“So you’re not dumping me, then. You’re firing me.”
As he is leaving, Allison notices a small package addressed to her in the box that he brought with him. It’s postmarked from Oregon. When she sees the name and return address she almost passes out from shock.
Roland Capello
Her brother….Sort of.
When Allison was young her mother passed away and Allison ended up in foster care. Somehow she was one of the “ lucky ones ” taken in by Dr. Vincent Capello, a famous brain surgeon in Oregon. Dr. Capello was known for helping needy children and even adopted some of them. Allison loves her new family. But then something happens and she’s taken from Oregon, and never hears from any of the Capello’s again.
That is…until now. Thirteen years later.
The letter from Roland informs her that Dr. Capello is very ill and doesn’t have long to live. Allison isn’t sure what to do. She has tried hard to forget those days in The Dragon House, but memories of her time there never left her entirely, “it felt like a good dream with a nightmare ending”.
Allison decides to go back to see Dr. Capello and her “siblings”. She is determined to find out what happened that last day before she was sent away. And why is she missing an entire week of memory from that time?
From the moment Allison arrives in Oregon, she wonders if coming back was a mistake. Memories flood in... The house has a dark history of madness, violence, and more going back decades. What is waiting for her in this house filled with secrets and lies?
Is Allison still in danger?
Well… this was certainly a dark and thought-provoking read. As I mentioned, this was my first read from Tiffany Reisz. Although it may not have been exactly what I was expecting, it was definitely a page-turner that I’m glad I had the chance to read. A twisted tale with turns I never anticipated. The storyline was gripping…secrets and lies, forbidden relationships, medical science, ethics and morals, nature vs. nurture, and more. Allison and her “siblings” Roland, Thora, Deacon, Kendra, Oliver, and Anthony had stories that were both intriguing and disturbing.
“The Lucky Ones” was a suspenseful and edgy read. While there were a few parts that made me a bit uncomfortable, overall I found this to be quite an absorbing and unique read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mira for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
March 3, 2018
The Lucky Ones by Tiffany Reisz is a 2018 Mira publication.
Very unusual, but utterly absorbing-
I’ve long since moved on from super steamy erotica, not that I read it all that often in the first place, but because of that, Tiffany Reisz was never on my radar, until I read her novel, ‘The Bourbon Thief”, which was my introduction to her work, and it totally blew me away. Since then, I’ve been waiting for a non-erotic novel by Reisz, so when I saw this one in the Overdrive library, I immediately placed a hold on it, months before it was due to be released. To add to my eagerness, this book has been labeled as ‘Gothic’, ‘Mystery’, and Romantic Suspense’, three of my very favorite genres.
But, I was completely unprepared for the direction this book took and never could have conceived where Reisz’s vivid imagination would take me.
There were seven children all taken in by famed doctor Vincent Capello, who owned an infamous beach house, with a storied past, he named ‘The Dragon’, located on the Oregon coast. All the children who were fortunate enough to be fostered or adopted by the good doctor were considered ‘The Lucky Ones”.
Allison was one of those lucky children, but a sinister accident in the house prompted her aunt to claim her, so Allison left ‘The Dragon’ and was never officially adopted by Dr. Capello. However, she never forgot her time with him or her special ‘siblings’. Thirteen years later, she finds her life at a crossroads, so when she gets a phone call explaining that Capello is gravely ill, Allison returns to the magical beach house to reunite with her 'brothers and sisters', and to face her murky past.
Well, this book certainly is suspenseful and most definitely has a chilling, atmospheric tone. There are Gothic elements in this story, but they run more towards a ‘Faulkner’s style of Gothic in some ways which could make some readers a little uncomfortable.
However, despite a few blurred lines, the story is constructed very well, and adeptly combines an odd concoction of genres. There is a very unsual love story, grotesqueries, medical experiments, and a high level of suspense, with a healthy dollop of psychological mind games. But, the story also touches on family ties, grief, and the experiences that bond people for a lifetime, for better or worse.
The mystery is compelling, the pacing is nearly pitch perfect, and the characterizations are so well drawn, I found myself immersed in their odd conversations and memories, waiting with bated breath as dark, lurid secrets revealed themselves. Oddly enough, Cooper McQueen, Allison’s former lover, almost steals the show, and despite the fact that he has let Allison down, he still made me smile and his brief appearances helped lighten some of the heavier moments.
This book may not be for everyone. There's some slightly irregular, borderline forbidden relationships that could give some readers pause, but it was, like I said, a pure Gothic tone, so this is not all that strange in this genre, even though I admit, it did make me squirm a little.
This is a dark novel, and is not in any way a traditional romantic suspense or mystery which is partly why I enjoyed this book. It's just so different from what I usually read, so it was more of a challenge. It did push the envelope a little, which also made me sit up and pay closer attention, nudging me out of my comfort zone, which is always a good thing to do on occasion. I had no clue which direction the story would take me and never could have figured out the plot twists in advance, which is another reason why it appealed to me. While I may not want to visit these dark recesses of the mind on an everyday basis, I must say, I am, once again, deeply impressed with this author. I love her writing style and her bold imagination!
4 stars
Very unusual, but utterly absorbing-
I’ve long since moved on from super steamy erotica, not that I read it all that often in the first place, but because of that, Tiffany Reisz was never on my radar, until I read her novel, ‘The Bourbon Thief”, which was my introduction to her work, and it totally blew me away. Since then, I’ve been waiting for a non-erotic novel by Reisz, so when I saw this one in the Overdrive library, I immediately placed a hold on it, months before it was due to be released. To add to my eagerness, this book has been labeled as ‘Gothic’, ‘Mystery’, and Romantic Suspense’, three of my very favorite genres.
But, I was completely unprepared for the direction this book took and never could have conceived where Reisz’s vivid imagination would take me.
There were seven children all taken in by famed doctor Vincent Capello, who owned an infamous beach house, with a storied past, he named ‘The Dragon’, located on the Oregon coast. All the children who were fortunate enough to be fostered or adopted by the good doctor were considered ‘The Lucky Ones”.
Allison was one of those lucky children, but a sinister accident in the house prompted her aunt to claim her, so Allison left ‘The Dragon’ and was never officially adopted by Dr. Capello. However, she never forgot her time with him or her special ‘siblings’. Thirteen years later, she finds her life at a crossroads, so when she gets a phone call explaining that Capello is gravely ill, Allison returns to the magical beach house to reunite with her 'brothers and sisters', and to face her murky past.
Well, this book certainly is suspenseful and most definitely has a chilling, atmospheric tone. There are Gothic elements in this story, but they run more towards a ‘Faulkner’s style of Gothic in some ways which could make some readers a little uncomfortable.
However, despite a few blurred lines, the story is constructed very well, and adeptly combines an odd concoction of genres. There is a very unsual love story, grotesqueries, medical experiments, and a high level of suspense, with a healthy dollop of psychological mind games. But, the story also touches on family ties, grief, and the experiences that bond people for a lifetime, for better or worse.
The mystery is compelling, the pacing is nearly pitch perfect, and the characterizations are so well drawn, I found myself immersed in their odd conversations and memories, waiting with bated breath as dark, lurid secrets revealed themselves. Oddly enough, Cooper McQueen, Allison’s former lover, almost steals the show, and despite the fact that he has let Allison down, he still made me smile and his brief appearances helped lighten some of the heavier moments.
This book may not be for everyone. There's some slightly irregular, borderline forbidden relationships that could give some readers pause, but it was, like I said, a pure Gothic tone, so this is not all that strange in this genre, even though I admit, it did make me squirm a little.
This is a dark novel, and is not in any way a traditional romantic suspense or mystery which is partly why I enjoyed this book. It's just so different from what I usually read, so it was more of a challenge. It did push the envelope a little, which also made me sit up and pay closer attention, nudging me out of my comfort zone, which is always a good thing to do on occasion. I had no clue which direction the story would take me and never could have figured out the plot twists in advance, which is another reason why it appealed to me. While I may not want to visit these dark recesses of the mind on an everyday basis, I must say, I am, once again, deeply impressed with this author. I love her writing style and her bold imagination!
4 stars
February 18, 2018
ARC provided by HarperCollins in exchange for an honest review.
“She'd known nothing but love here, nothing but kindness. But someone must have left a door open a crack and evil had snuck in when no one was looking.”
I really enjoyed this book. Tiffany Reisz is one of my favorite erotic writers of all time. Seriously, The Siren (The Original Sinners #1) was a huge part of my sexual awakening, I swear. I also read The Red by her last year, and really enjoyed. All of her books are so sex positive, and I just love the woman in general. But The Lucky ones is a book unlike anything else she has ever created.
The Lucky Ones is a dark, mystery, thriller that stars a girl trying to discover what truly happened to her thirteen-years-ago. Allison’s mother died when she was very young, so she was put in foster care where she did not have the easiest of times. But one day, a man comes and takes her away and she joins his family. His family consists of a few other fosters kids, three of which he has officially adopted; Roland, Deacon and Thora. And they live in this beautiful home that they call “The Dragon” that is right on the Oregon coast.
“Sometimes you slay a dragon. Sometimes you cut off its head and three more grow in its place.”
Dr. Vincent Capello is a very famous brain surgeon who has saved many kids. His parents also had a sad backstory, so he has devoted his life to saving kids, and giving some of them a safe place to live. Yet, thirteen-years-ago Allison’s distant aunt got a mysterious call from someone claiming that Allison was going to be murdered. Then, Allison was pushed down their stairs, and by doing so she hit her head and cannot remember who pushed her. Allison’s aunt immediately came and got her, and Allison spent the rest of her childhood living with this aunt in a nursing home, but she always was left with a void from missing her adoptive family, but also wondering who had tried to hurt her.
Flash forward thirteen years, and Allison has been sleeping with a very rich, successful, powerful, and much older man for the last six years. The affair started when she was only nineteen-years-old and in return, he has made sure she has lived a very comfortable life. Allison has always wanted more than to be his mistress, but she has always been scared to ask for it. But now the man is cutting it off, and Allison is left feeling alone, just like how she felt when she left her adoptive family all those years ago.
Then she gets a mysterious envelope from her oldest foster brother, Roland, asking her to return home, because their foster father is dying.
“Lie through your teeth. Lie like your life depends on it. Lie like his life depends on it because it does, Allison. It does.”
And Allison goes, and such a twisted and constantly turning tale unfolds, where she slowly pieces together what really happened the night she was forced to leave the only people she has ever considered family. And, again, this is a Tiffany Reisz’s story; it’s dark and borderline taboo, but I truly enjoyed it, and was genuinely surprised with the twists and turns.
“She was in danger in this house, but not from violence— unless it was the violence of her own feelings.”
There is a lot of talk about medical procedures, and mental health conditions, so please use caution when going into this one. And trigger/content warnings: cheating/being unfaithful to a partner, death of a child, physical abuse, suicide, animal abuse, animal death, attempted rape, medical malpractice, and psychosurgery.
Overall, I couldn’t put this down. And I loved being a part of Allison's journey of discovery. I loved the perfect scenery, the forbidden love on a million different accounts and levels, the lyrical and beautiful writing, the unique plot, these morally grey characters, and all the different secrets. This was such a different and enjoyable read for me, and I can’t wait to see what Tiffany Reisz does next.
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The quotes above were taken from an ARC and are subject to change upon publication.
August 3, 2020
3.5 Stars
When I first heard of this book, I was just about to start Loreth Anne White’s In the Waning Light. I clicked on it to change its status to 'currently reading'. My Home page opened instead.
The first review displayed at the top of my Home page was my friend Sophie’s fantastic review of this book. It intrigued me so much that I decided to check the book out. I clicked on the book title. I got this:
Hmm. Whaaat? What does that even mean? Is this some new GR shit or was God trying to tell me something?
Anyhow, I thought this had to be some kind of sign: Either I was about to reach the proverbial end or I was destined to read this book. I chose to believe the latter.
I've never read this author before. I'm not too crazy about BDSM books. But, in theory, this one clicked all of my boxes.
The good news is I haven't reached the end of the road yet. Thank God. And I really enjoyed this book.
The bad news is this is not a romance. At least not in my opinion. Yes, there are some short sex scenes but that's it. No chemistry, no tension, no hotness. I didn't mind. That's how good the story and the writing are.
It's not a horror story either. Well, at least not in the literary sense of the word. The story is horrible though. I mean, it deals with horrible events and describes horrible things. So beware.
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment: 3.5/5
Writing style: 4/5
Storyline: 4/5
Hero(es): 3/5
Heroine: 4/5
Secondary characters: 4/5
Hotness/steam: 2/5
Romance: 2/5
Angst: 3/5
Darkness level: 3.5/5
Humor: 2/5
Depth of the book: 4/5
POV: heroine, 3rd person
Triggers:
When I first heard of this book, I was just about to start Loreth Anne White’s In the Waning Light. I clicked on it to change its status to 'currently reading'. My Home page opened instead.
The first review displayed at the top of my Home page was my friend Sophie’s fantastic review of this book. It intrigued me so much that I decided to check the book out. I clicked on the book title. I got this:
Hmm. Whaaat? What does that even mean? Is this some new GR shit or was God trying to tell me something?
Anyhow, I thought this had to be some kind of sign: Either I was about to reach the proverbial end or I was destined to read this book. I chose to believe the latter.
I've never read this author before. I'm not too crazy about BDSM books. But, in theory, this one clicked all of my boxes.
The good news is I haven't reached the end of the road yet. Thank God. And I really enjoyed this book.
The bad news is this is not a romance. At least not in my opinion. Yes, there are some short sex scenes but that's it. No chemistry, no tension, no hotness. I didn't mind. That's how good the story and the writing are.
It's not a horror story either. Well, at least not in the literary sense of the word. The story is horrible though. I mean, it deals with horrible events and describes horrible things. So beware.
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment: 3.5/5
Writing style: 4/5
Storyline: 4/5
Hero(es): 3/5
Heroine: 4/5
Secondary characters: 4/5
Hotness/steam: 2/5
Romance: 2/5
Angst: 3/5
Darkness level: 3.5/5
Humor: 2/5
Depth of the book: 4/5
POV: heroine, 3rd person
Triggers:
March 13, 2018
Ummm.. I seriously don't even know what I just read? My last read of 2017.. and wow was it a terrible read.
I don't know if I would classify this as a romance or a mystery? This book was nothing that I expected it to be like AT ALL.
Ok.. can we say dysfunctional family?! OH M GEEEE. There were so many things wrong with this book.. I can't even get my thoughts together to write this review.
"They call themselves "the lucky ones"... umm more like dysfunctional ones...
Allison returns home to the Dragon (a magical beach house) on the coast of Oregon where she lived as a foster child being taken care of by Dr. Vincent Capello. Dr. Capello fostered multiple children in his home including Allison, Roland, Deacon, and Thora. Allison was living a happy life with Dr. Vincent Capello as a little girl until the night she was almost killed.
Allison receives a letter from Dr. Capello's oldest son Roland letting her know that Dr. Capello is very ill and doesn't have much time to live. Allison returns home to confront her past and the demons that are lurking in the Dragon.
As time passes, Allison starts to notice strange lies from all of her "family members" including her foster father Dr. Capello. Things aren't exactly adding up when she is trying to confront her past and the horrible truth that actually happened that night she almost died as a little girl.
The novel started off REALLY slow and then it just got weird. REALLY weird. I'm all for unique and weird novels but this just wasn't for me. I kept scratching my head multiple times... as I'm struggling to finish and thinking What the f.... am I reading? This family was extremely dysfunctional and it just wasn't even enjoyable to read. It just left me annoyed... that I spent time on reading this.
It was almost borderline disgusting to me... and just wrong to have a sense of romance to it. I can't recommend this book. I'm not sure if the author was trying to add a hint of psychological to this but if so.. it was done horribly. Overall, 1.75 stars for me on this one.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin for the arc in exchange for an honest review. Publication date is 2/13/18.
Happy New Year :).
I don't know if I would classify this as a romance or a mystery? This book was nothing that I expected it to be like AT ALL.
Ok.. can we say dysfunctional family?! OH M GEEEE. There were so many things wrong with this book.. I can't even get my thoughts together to write this review.
"They call themselves "the lucky ones"... umm more like dysfunctional ones...
Allison returns home to the Dragon (a magical beach house) on the coast of Oregon where she lived as a foster child being taken care of by Dr. Vincent Capello. Dr. Capello fostered multiple children in his home including Allison, Roland, Deacon, and Thora. Allison was living a happy life with Dr. Vincent Capello as a little girl until the night she was almost killed.
Allison receives a letter from Dr. Capello's oldest son Roland letting her know that Dr. Capello is very ill and doesn't have much time to live. Allison returns home to confront her past and the demons that are lurking in the Dragon.
As time passes, Allison starts to notice strange lies from all of her "family members" including her foster father Dr. Capello. Things aren't exactly adding up when she is trying to confront her past and the horrible truth that actually happened that night she almost died as a little girl.
The novel started off REALLY slow and then it just got weird. REALLY weird. I'm all for unique and weird novels but this just wasn't for me. I kept scratching my head multiple times... as I'm struggling to finish and thinking What the f.... am I reading? This family was extremely dysfunctional and it just wasn't even enjoyable to read. It just left me annoyed... that I spent time on reading this.
It was almost borderline disgusting to me... and just wrong to have a sense of romance to it. I can't recommend this book. I'm not sure if the author was trying to add a hint of psychological to this but if so.. it was done horribly. Overall, 1.75 stars for me on this one.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin for the arc in exchange for an honest review. Publication date is 2/13/18.
Happy New Year :).
January 13, 2019
Oh, I loved this book. So many of its themes deeply resonated with me, but I can't note them without spoiling this fascinating plot line...and I wouldn't do that to you. The Lucky Ones is part psychological thriller, part mystery, part [forbidden] romance, part family drama, part atmospheric gothic fiction, part science/medical ethics, and a whole lot of "making you think". Like I said before: Tiffany Reisz is gold and her readers are indeed the lucky ones. Check it out!
My favorite quote:
"But I don't believe in a God that would send a troubled child to hell for one bad decision. I believe in a God who says, 'Suffer the little children to come unto me'. Santa Claus is the guy with the nice and naughty list for children. Not God." ♥
June 2017:
No synopsis...I don't care. I have a release date and one-click button at my disposal. That's all I need. Tiffany Reisz is gold!
My favorite quote:
"But I don't believe in a God that would send a troubled child to hell for one bad decision. I believe in a God who says, 'Suffer the little children to come unto me'. Santa Claus is the guy with the nice and naughty list for children. Not God." ♥
June 2017:
No synopsis...I don't care. I have a release date and one-click button at my disposal. That's all I need. Tiffany Reisz is gold!
September 30, 2018
I picked up this book based on recommendations from Goodreads friends and ended up liking it.
Allison has been living away from her adopted family for thirteen years, she was taken away after falling down the stairs, or did someone pushed her? She can’t recall what happened with certainty.
She hasn’t heard from her former adopted family until now when she received a letter informing her that Dr. Capello, the head of the family, is dying. After the initial shock of the news wear off, Allison decides to visit her former home and dig into the past to uncover what really happened all those years ago.
This is a story about the meaning of family, love, ethics, and loss. There are elements of mystery and psychological suspense. I liked how sensible and logical the main character is, given the circumstances she grew up with, but I found some parts of the novel a bit strange, can’t clarify to avoid going into spoilers.
Overall, I enjoyed it and I’m glad I picked it up. Recommend it to readers of thrillers, mysteries, and contemporary fiction.
Allison has been living away from her adopted family for thirteen years, she was taken away after falling down the stairs, or did someone pushed her? She can’t recall what happened with certainty.
She hasn’t heard from her former adopted family until now when she received a letter informing her that Dr. Capello, the head of the family, is dying. After the initial shock of the news wear off, Allison decides to visit her former home and dig into the past to uncover what really happened all those years ago.
This is a story about the meaning of family, love, ethics, and loss. There are elements of mystery and psychological suspense. I liked how sensible and logical the main character is, given the circumstances she grew up with, but I found some parts of the novel a bit strange, can’t clarify to avoid going into spoilers.
Overall, I enjoyed it and I’m glad I picked it up. Recommend it to readers of thrillers, mysteries, and contemporary fiction.
March 21, 2018
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
3.5 Stars
If you want an actual review, go to Deanna’s immediately because there is going to be nothing informative here and also because she’s the reason I read this in the first place so she deserves all the credit.
I had heard of Tiffany Reisz awhile back when a whole bunch of perverts were reading this really super porny porn and trying to push me into reading it too. My reaction to what was sold to me as a bdsm/erotica/art story????
I’m woman enough to admit it. I steered clear of The Red, but never forgot Tiffany Reisz’s name. When I saw The Lucky Ones wasn’t a fail for Deanna I figured this might be the story for me to try. And boy was it!!!
Let me take you on a trip on the wayback machine when I was just a bitty one. No longer in need of picture books or intimidated by a large page count, a young Kelly went venturing into her mother’s room for library selections which resided on the nightstand. It is there she discovered worlds and characters built by literary geniuses such as Jackie Collins and Danielle Steele! Oh what stories they told – just like her favorite television programs Dallas, Dynasty, Knots Landing, etc. Young Kelly couldn’t wait to tell her mother what a good time she was having . . . .
But Kelly’s mother was like . . . .
Which made young Kelly say . . . .
Until young Kelly’s mother told her it was time for her to get her very own public library card so she could check out more age appropriate stories. And what did young Kelly choose? A little gem called Flowers in the Attic that I guarantee would not stand the test of time and that I read waaaaaaay before Al Gore invented the interwebs so you’ll just have to read Nick’s Review instead to see how it made me feel. Young Kelly’s reaction to that story was very much like . . . . .
And she read the entire V.C. Andrews series over and over and over until they completely fell apart.
The Lucky Ones may not be a great book, but Tiffany Reisz definitely writes well. It was certainly a grown-up version of my childhood fave and even included a bit of mystery that I didn’t figure out halfway through so that was a bonus.
3.5 Stars
If you want an actual review, go to Deanna’s immediately because there is going to be nothing informative here and also because she’s the reason I read this in the first place so she deserves all the credit.
I had heard of Tiffany Reisz awhile back when a whole bunch of perverts were reading this really super porny porn and trying to push me into reading it too. My reaction to what was sold to me as a bdsm/erotica/art story????
I’m woman enough to admit it. I steered clear of The Red, but never forgot Tiffany Reisz’s name. When I saw The Lucky Ones wasn’t a fail for Deanna I figured this might be the story for me to try. And boy was it!!!
Let me take you on a trip on the wayback machine when I was just a bitty one. No longer in need of picture books or intimidated by a large page count, a young Kelly went venturing into her mother’s room for library selections which resided on the nightstand. It is there she discovered worlds and characters built by literary geniuses such as Jackie Collins and Danielle Steele! Oh what stories they told – just like her favorite television programs Dallas, Dynasty, Knots Landing, etc. Young Kelly couldn’t wait to tell her mother what a good time she was having . . . .
But Kelly’s mother was like . . . .
Which made young Kelly say . . . .
Until young Kelly’s mother told her it was time for her to get her very own public library card so she could check out more age appropriate stories. And what did young Kelly choose? A little gem called Flowers in the Attic that I guarantee would not stand the test of time and that I read waaaaaaay before Al Gore invented the interwebs so you’ll just have to read Nick’s Review instead to see how it made me feel. Young Kelly’s reaction to that story was very much like . . . . .
And she read the entire V.C. Andrews series over and over and over until they completely fell apart.
The Lucky Ones may not be a great book, but Tiffany Reisz definitely writes well. It was certainly a grown-up version of my childhood fave and even included a bit of mystery that I didn’t figure out halfway through so that was a bonus.
December 24, 2017
So I started The Lucky Ones by Tiffany Reisz when a terrible book slump took over me. Yes, it’s a sickness. So, I had to put the book down until it was over. Once I picked it back up I couldn’t stop reading it. I just needed to know what happened.
Allison grew up in a foster home in Oregon, a home that looked like a dragon if you looked at it just right. Dr. Capello was a single foster father. He brought in kids who needed him and who didn’t have anyone else. Now, Allison, living in Kentucky, is contacted by her brother to let her know that her father was dying. She hasn’t seen her foster siblings or foster father in 13 years. Thirteen years ago, there had been an accident which forced Allison to leave the home. Allison doesn’t remember what happened before or after the accident. She wonders if it really was just an accident or if someone was behind it.
Allison decides she will go back to Oregon to say good bye to her foster dad and then leave. She reconnects with her foster siblings right away. Allison notices there are a lot of secrets in the home and she’s determined to find out what really happened to her all those years ago.
The Lucky Ones by Tiffany Reisz was a fast paced read. I don’t really think of it as a thriller though, it did have some romance to it. If you like light mysteries I would suggest The Lucky Ones. It comes out February 13th. I’d rate this 4 stars. Thank you to Harper Collins for sending me a copy of The Lucky Ones, I really appreciate it.
February 6, 2018
Genre: General Fiction/Mystery
Type: Standalone
POV: Third Person
Rating:
Allison Lamarque had a wonderful childhood when she was fostered by a philanthropic neurosurgeon Dr. Vincent Capello. For a few years she thrived under his care with several other kids until it was all ripped away from her when she had a near death accident. Thirteen years later, everything was left behind in the past until she received a letter from her long lost foster brother.
Roland Capello used to be her closest ally. As the years passed, neither of them knew each other anymore. He had a secret and he wasn't the only one. While she reacquainted with people who were once her family she realized there were much more that were hidden in plain sight.
Roland was a nice, understanding character. His calm and collected demeanor could ease anyone around him. However, those characteristics were not standout for me. It took a while for me to feel for him but once more of his background was revealed, I can't help but love him.
Allison was a lonely woman. She craved connection but she wasn't demanding or clingy. I like her determination in finding the truth, but I also like how she wasn't pushy.
I really enjoyed the storyline. Before starting I wasn't sure what it's going to be about and I thought it was a little slow in the beginning but the mystery drew me in. What I love the most about this book is the underlying theme of moral dilemma that will induce some deep thoughts.
The Lucky Ones is a story of unraveling secrets and the consequences. It would appeal to fans of mystery with elements of romance.
Note:
I absolutely love Deacon! I love Antonio too. He captured my heart with just one scene.
🔷 ⚜ 🔷 . . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC & Loyda . . . 🔷 ⚜ 🔷
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Standalone
POV: Third Person
Rating:
Allison Lamarque had a wonderful childhood when she was fostered by a philanthropic neurosurgeon Dr. Vincent Capello. For a few years she thrived under his care with several other kids until it was all ripped away from her when she had a near death accident. Thirteen years later, everything was left behind in the past until she received a letter from her long lost foster brother.
Roland Capello used to be her closest ally. As the years passed, neither of them knew each other anymore. He had a secret and he wasn't the only one. While she reacquainted with people who were once her family she realized there were much more that were hidden in plain sight.
“You have a good heart,” he said. “A lot of people don’t. You shouldn’t wish a good heart away.”
Roland was a nice, understanding character. His calm and collected demeanor could ease anyone around him. However, those characteristics were not standout for me. It took a while for me to feel for him but once more of his background was revealed, I can't help but love him.
She was in danger in this house, but not from violence— unless it was the violence of her own feelings.
Allison was a lonely woman. She craved connection but she wasn't demanding or clingy. I like her determination in finding the truth, but I also like how she wasn't pushy.
“Lie through your teeth. Lie like your life depends on it. Lie like his life depends on it because it does, Allison. It does.”
I really enjoyed the storyline. Before starting I wasn't sure what it's going to be about and I thought it was a little slow in the beginning but the mystery drew me in. What I love the most about this book is the underlying theme of moral dilemma that will induce some deep thoughts.
The Lucky Ones is a story of unraveling secrets and the consequences. It would appeal to fans of mystery with elements of romance.
Note:
I absolutely love Deacon! I love Antonio too. He captured my heart with just one scene.
“Pull and twist, twist and pull,” Deacon said. “I’m talking about the glass, by the way.”
🔷 ⚜ 🔷 . . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC & Loyda . . . 🔷 ⚜ 🔷
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
February 12, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
If I wanted to judge people all day I’d either be a priest or get a Facebook account…
Allison looked into his eyes. He didn’t have bedroom eyes, not like McQueen did. Roland had hallway eyes—labyrinthine hallways made of marble and lit by torches resting in iron sconces. She could wander those shadowy hallways forever and never once feel lost.
He buys his Catholic guilt in bulk at Costco…
You know what they say…ours is not to wonder why. Ours is but to drink bourbon and rye.
There aren’t a lot of them around. True psychopaths make up about two percent of the population. In prison it’s more like… fifty percent. In politics, maybe ninety percent.
My Review:
I don’t believe I know enough lofty adjectives or adverbs to fully extol the brilliance and craft of this spellbinding tale. I was consumed, enthralled, engrossed and embedded in this riveting tale from beginning to end. I was intrigued and beguiled by all the characters while also fearful I was going to learn something truly awful about them, which I did, but I still loved them anyway. The story was ingeniously crafted, cunningly paced, and loaded with all manner of itchy and twisty elements that squeezed my heart, set my brain on fire, and put a series of hot rocks in my throat. Tiffany Reisz is an evil genius and a clever wordsmith. I covet her mad skills and am wild with greed to amass and read every single thing she has and will ever write.
If I wanted to judge people all day I’d either be a priest or get a Facebook account…
Allison looked into his eyes. He didn’t have bedroom eyes, not like McQueen did. Roland had hallway eyes—labyrinthine hallways made of marble and lit by torches resting in iron sconces. She could wander those shadowy hallways forever and never once feel lost.
He buys his Catholic guilt in bulk at Costco…
You know what they say…ours is not to wonder why. Ours is but to drink bourbon and rye.
There aren’t a lot of them around. True psychopaths make up about two percent of the population. In prison it’s more like… fifty percent. In politics, maybe ninety percent.
My Review:
I don’t believe I know enough lofty adjectives or adverbs to fully extol the brilliance and craft of this spellbinding tale. I was consumed, enthralled, engrossed and embedded in this riveting tale from beginning to end. I was intrigued and beguiled by all the characters while also fearful I was going to learn something truly awful about them, which I did, but I still loved them anyway. The story was ingeniously crafted, cunningly paced, and loaded with all manner of itchy and twisty elements that squeezed my heart, set my brain on fire, and put a series of hot rocks in my throat. Tiffany Reisz is an evil genius and a clever wordsmith. I covet her mad skills and am wild with greed to amass and read every single thing she has and will ever write.
February 11, 2018
3.5 Stars!
Atmospheric, eerie, and darkly romantic!
The Lucky Ones is a menacing thrill ride that takes you on a journey into the life of the lonely, determined Allison as she unravels all the secrets from her past and confronts all the ghosts that still haunt her.
The prose is tight and edgy. The characters are scarred, secretive, and troubled. And the plot is an intense, suspenseful tale filled with familial drama, chemistry, mental illness, abuse, deception, adultery, forbidden love, and murder.
Overall, The Lucky Ones is a unique, sinister romance that explores the ethical and moral fine line between right and wrong. And even though it isn’t my favourite book from Reisz and may not be everyone’s cup of tea there is no denying she has an incredible imagination and can spin a gritty tale that intrigues, surprises, and shocks like no other.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
Atmospheric, eerie, and darkly romantic!
The Lucky Ones is a menacing thrill ride that takes you on a journey into the life of the lonely, determined Allison as she unravels all the secrets from her past and confronts all the ghosts that still haunt her.
The prose is tight and edgy. The characters are scarred, secretive, and troubled. And the plot is an intense, suspenseful tale filled with familial drama, chemistry, mental illness, abuse, deception, adultery, forbidden love, and murder.
Overall, The Lucky Ones is a unique, sinister romance that explores the ethical and moral fine line between right and wrong. And even though it isn’t my favourite book from Reisz and may not be everyone’s cup of tea there is no denying she has an incredible imagination and can spin a gritty tale that intrigues, surprises, and shocks like no other.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
February 10, 2018
4.5★★★★Stars
Genre:
General Fiction/Mystery
Type: Standalone
POV: Third Person
"She was in danger in this house, but not from violence— unless it was the violence of her own feelings."
Allison Lamarque lost her mother at a very young age. However; her loneliness didn't last long she soon meets Dr. Vincent Capello; a well known brain surgeon who took in kids that needed special care. She will never forget all the happy memories she was able to make while in the care of Dr. Capello.
"She saw it in her mind's eye. There were three kids in the picture - all three in red hoodies. One boy with dark blond hair that fell past his ears, one girl with hair so red it was almost orange and one boy with black hair straight as an arrow."
This book really caught me by surprise; I went in blinded not knowing what to expect and what I found was an incredible story so unique it had me guessing everyone's motive and every single scene. I found myself immerse in the pages and just could not put it down once I started it.
We meet such great characters in this story; Dr Capello had legally adopted three kids around same age as Allison. We meet Roland, Deacon and Thora. She became very close and attached to Roland and their friendship became more to her than she expected. Ever since a bad incident Allison was left with her grandmother and never came back to the lovely home she grew up at. So many years had past that when she got a letter to return she was shocked but yet excited.
"I dreamed you'd come and find me," she said. "Why me?" "Wishful thinking," she said. "You were always my favorite." "Favorite sibling?" "Favorite person. Ever. On earth. I was a little in love with you. And maybe a little in lust..."
So many things happened when Allison returns to the house that stayed only in her memories that had me going out of my mind trying to find out the secrets and the lies. I however did not expected the twisted plot; I had a feeling but I didn't guessed it so It still shocked me because I loved it so much haha. The romantic relationship between Allison and Roland was so sweet I adore him. Deacon and Thora were so cool, specially Deacon's personality had me grinning the entire time he was in a scene my cheeks hurts so much from laughing. Overall; readers looking for a different story full of mystery and suspense about family, secrets and love will find this book appealing.
"She'd known nothing but love here, nothing but kindness. But someone must have left a door open a crack and evil had snuck in when no one was looking."
★This was a F(BR) with War & CC★
Book Info:
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
March 3, 2018
5 gothic stars
Tiffany Reisz is what I would call a solid writer. No holes in her plot, characters constructed carefully, mounting tension, secrets unearthed and astonishing truths. She’s got talent and intelligence. It’s only my second book by Tiffany after The Bourbon Thief but once more I’m swept off my feet.
The Lucky Ones penetrated the fog I was wallowing in for more than a week. She took me out of the reading slump I was in after reading The Silver Cage by Anonymous. Meaning: it was a hell of a read!
But you tell me. What is your reaction when you read these first lines:
Do you think about the mountain of socks you have to wash? About the empty fridge? About the kids you have to chauffeur?
Well I didn’t!
This was it. Sucked into the story. I read compulsively. In two days as I had to work (you know to earn money and buy books, not for food or clothes…). I finished the book at 2 AM today and it’s been a long time since I battled sleep to finish a story.
Allison, really lovely Allison, estranged from her foster family for thirteen years after a dramatic incident she has no memories of will go back to her childhood home when receiving the news that her foster dad Dr Capello is dying.
She has only fond memories of her time in the beach house that looked like a dragon. Welcomed by Dr Capello, an incredibly talented neuro surgeon who made it his mission to foster kids no one wanted and raise them as his own.
Roland was her big brother. Her protector. The one she ran to sleep alongside when the rain was too loud. Her secret crush.
Deacon and Thora the “twins”. All adopted by Dr Capello. Playing all day with her. Brushing her hair under the attentive and loving care of Dr Capello.
More kids went and left.
Only fond memories and perfect family picture.
Only…
Only everything was not as it seems and the story led me into the depth of the human psyche. People can be evil.
Monsters are lurking in the shadows.
The family Allison once loved she did not really know.
Playing God comes at a high price. One several kids had to pay.
Slowly, word after word, page after page, doubts were creeping into my mind. I imagined different scenarios. Who did it?
I talked with my friend Angy about the theory but Boy was I wrong!
This story is riveting. I have no other words.
And don’t start me on the characters and the love/lust story!
First real sex scene and steam got out of my paperback fogging my glasses as I was walking in the snow and nearly fell on a root as I was entranced by the scene. Entranced. By a sex scene. Me. Yes, me! I wouldn’t have believed it two days ago.
I fell in love with Roland. He has the name of a knight and he is a knight. Even if he was not meant to be one.
Deacon is hot and playful like a puppy can be. And Thora is the big sister I dreamt of having as a kid.
Allison was just… perfect. I usually would have despised or pitied her because who likes the mistress? The kept woman? The dirty secret? Not me! Yet Tiffany Reisz made me walk in her shoes, see the world through her eyes, experience her sad childhood until she was taken away by Dr Capello. Allison just wanted a family. Someone by her side. She was lonely. Should I turn my back knowing this? No, absolutely not!
That’s how Tiffany made me team Allison. I followed this charming, fragile and yet strong young lady back to her family, back to terrible truths.
I don’t really know how to end this review. Maybe by telling you that I’m now a true Tiffany Reisz fan and that she made it to my top 10 authors? Or by telling you that if you like masterfully written mystery with a gothic “vibe” and “feel real” characters this is your next buy?
Or…
Just buy it!
Have you read it? Or any other Tiffany's books?
Thanks for reading and happy Saturday!
Sophie
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Join our FB group! : Beware Book Boyfriends Alert
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
Tiffany Reisz is what I would call a solid writer. No holes in her plot, characters constructed carefully, mounting tension, secrets unearthed and astonishing truths. She’s got talent and intelligence. It’s only my second book by Tiffany after The Bourbon Thief but once more I’m swept off my feet.
The Lucky Ones penetrated the fog I was wallowing in for more than a week. She took me out of the reading slump I was in after reading The Silver Cage by Anonymous. Meaning: it was a hell of a read!
But you tell me. What is your reaction when you read these first lines:
“Louisville, Kentucky, 2015
All Allison wanted was for the conversation to be over. That and she hoped the heavy gray clouds would part and the sun would appear. It could go either way today – sun or rain. She stood at the kitchen window, peeling old paint off the sill as she waited for the Kentucky sky to make up its mind. Meanwhile, sitting behind her at the table, her lover, Cooper McQueen, gently ruined her life.”
Do you think about the mountain of socks you have to wash? About the empty fridge? About the kids you have to chauffeur?
Well I didn’t!
This was it. Sucked into the story. I read compulsively. In two days as I had to work (you know to earn money and buy books, not for food or clothes…). I finished the book at 2 AM today and it’s been a long time since I battled sleep to finish a story.
Allison, really lovely Allison, estranged from her foster family for thirteen years after a dramatic incident she has no memories of will go back to her childhood home when receiving the news that her foster dad Dr Capello is dying.
She has only fond memories of her time in the beach house that looked like a dragon. Welcomed by Dr Capello, an incredibly talented neuro surgeon who made it his mission to foster kids no one wanted and raise them as his own.
Roland was her big brother. Her protector. The one she ran to sleep alongside when the rain was too loud. Her secret crush.
Deacon and Thora the “twins”. All adopted by Dr Capello. Playing all day with her. Brushing her hair under the attentive and loving care of Dr Capello.
More kids went and left.
Only fond memories and perfect family picture.
Only…
Only everything was not as it seems and the story led me into the depth of the human psyche. People can be evil.
Monsters are lurking in the shadows.
The family Allison once loved she did not really know.
Playing God comes at a high price. One several kids had to pay.
Slowly, word after word, page after page, doubts were creeping into my mind. I imagined different scenarios. Who did it?
I talked with my friend Angy about the theory but Boy was I wrong!
This story is riveting. I have no other words.
And don’t start me on the characters and the love/lust story!
First real sex scene and steam got out of my paperback fogging my glasses as I was walking in the snow and nearly fell on a root as I was entranced by the scene. Entranced. By a sex scene. Me. Yes, me! I wouldn’t have believed it two days ago.
I fell in love with Roland. He has the name of a knight and he is a knight. Even if he was not meant to be one.
Deacon is hot and playful like a puppy can be. And Thora is the big sister I dreamt of having as a kid.
Allison was just… perfect. I usually would have despised or pitied her because who likes the mistress? The kept woman? The dirty secret? Not me! Yet Tiffany Reisz made me walk in her shoes, see the world through her eyes, experience her sad childhood until she was taken away by Dr Capello. Allison just wanted a family. Someone by her side. She was lonely. Should I turn my back knowing this? No, absolutely not!
That’s how Tiffany made me team Allison. I followed this charming, fragile and yet strong young lady back to her family, back to terrible truths.
I don’t really know how to end this review. Maybe by telling you that I’m now a true Tiffany Reisz fan and that she made it to my top 10 authors? Or by telling you that if you like masterfully written mystery with a gothic “vibe” and “feel real” characters this is your next buy?
Or…
Just buy it!
Have you read it? Or any other Tiffany's books?
Thanks for reading and happy Saturday!
Sophie
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Join our FB group! : Beware Book Boyfriends Alert
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
January 30, 2018
I still don’t 100% know what to say about The Lucky Ones. So many things happened, and I’m still on a bit of a book high from that ending. So I’ll just say this. This story is the perfect mixture of mystery, thriller, and romantic suspense. I didn’t know what to focus on until the very end... and even then I did not see what was coming. All in all a fantastic read that will have you questioning is the risk always worth the reward, and are lies sometimes better than the truth? If you enjoy romantic suspense with perfectly constructed build up, then I would check out The Lucky Ones by Tiffany Reisz on 2/13 when it releases.
https://instagram.com/p/Belw65OAIk-/
^a fan teaser on IG!
https://instagram.com/p/Belw65OAIk-/
^a fan teaser on IG!
December 12, 2018
EXCERPT: Allison gasped, then held a hand over her mouth in shock.
"Allison?" McQueen had been retreating during the conversation, but now he rushed to her. "Honey, what's wrong? You look like you're going to faint."
"It's from my brother," she breathed. "This is from my brother."
McQueen stared at her like she'd grown a second head in the past three seconds.
"Your brother?" he repeated. "I've known you seven years. You never told me you had a brother."
Allison looked at him with tears in her eyes.
"That's because. . . I don't."
ABOUT THIS BOOK: They called themselves “the lucky ones.” They were seven children either orphaned or abandoned by their parents and chosen by legendary philanthropist and brain surgeon Dr. Vincent Capello to live in The Dragon, his almost magical beach house on the Oregon Coast. Allison was the youngest of the lucky ones living an idyllic life with her newfound family…until the night she almost died, and was then whisked away from the house and her adopted family forever.
Now, thirteen years later, Allison receives a letter from Roland, Dr. Capello’s oldest son, warning her that their father is ill and in his final days. Allison determines she must go home again and confront the ghosts of her past. She's determined to find out what really happened that fateful night--was it an accident or, as she's always suspected, did one of her beloved family members try to kill her?
But digging into the past can reveal horrific truths, and when Allison pieces together the story of her life, she'll learns the terrible secret at the heart of the family she once loved but never really knew.
MY THOUGHTS: This book has received very mixed reviews, but I enjoyed it. This is my first book by this author and I will definitely be reading more from her. Reisz has hit a good balance between drama, suspense and romance.
Seven children, from seven different sets of parents, are raised in the home of a respected surgeon, a single parent with no biological children. Unlikely, yes. But putting that aside, this story of a family reuniting to support the man who raised them, who was their father in every sense but biological, of secrets that slowly come to light, lies that are revealed years after they were first told (and some new ones that are told), suspicion, death, grief and love, captivated me. It is tightly woven, unpredictable and enjoyable.
And I liked the cover. .. I find it hard to resist a book with a creepy looking old house on the cover.
😊😊😊😊
THE AUTHOR: Tiffany Reisz is the USA Today-bestselling author of the Romance Writers of America RITA®-winning Original Sinners series from Harlequin's Mira Books.
Born in Owensboro, Kentucky, Tiffany graduated from Centre College with a B.A. in English. She began her writing career while a student at Wilmore, Kentucky's Asbury Theological Seminary. After leaving seminary to focus on her fiction, she wrote The Siren, which has sold more than half a million copies worldwide.
Tiffany also writes mainstream women's suspense fiction, including The Bourbon Thief (winner of the RT Book Reviews Seal of Excellence Award) and the RITA®-nominated The Night Mark.
Her erotic fantasy The Red—self-published under the banner 8th Circle Press—was named an NPR Best Book of the Year and a Goodreads Best Romance of the Month. It also received a coveted starred review from Library Journal.
Tiffany lives in Lexington, Kentucky with her husband, author Andrew Shaffer, and two cats. The cats are not writers.
DISCLOSURE: I listened to the audiobook of The Lucky Ones, written by Tiffany Reisz, narrated by Emily Woo Zeller, and published by Harper Audio, via OverDrive. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system. This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
"Allison?" McQueen had been retreating during the conversation, but now he rushed to her. "Honey, what's wrong? You look like you're going to faint."
"It's from my brother," she breathed. "This is from my brother."
McQueen stared at her like she'd grown a second head in the past three seconds.
"Your brother?" he repeated. "I've known you seven years. You never told me you had a brother."
Allison looked at him with tears in her eyes.
"That's because. . . I don't."
ABOUT THIS BOOK: They called themselves “the lucky ones.” They were seven children either orphaned or abandoned by their parents and chosen by legendary philanthropist and brain surgeon Dr. Vincent Capello to live in The Dragon, his almost magical beach house on the Oregon Coast. Allison was the youngest of the lucky ones living an idyllic life with her newfound family…until the night she almost died, and was then whisked away from the house and her adopted family forever.
Now, thirteen years later, Allison receives a letter from Roland, Dr. Capello’s oldest son, warning her that their father is ill and in his final days. Allison determines she must go home again and confront the ghosts of her past. She's determined to find out what really happened that fateful night--was it an accident or, as she's always suspected, did one of her beloved family members try to kill her?
But digging into the past can reveal horrific truths, and when Allison pieces together the story of her life, she'll learns the terrible secret at the heart of the family she once loved but never really knew.
MY THOUGHTS: This book has received very mixed reviews, but I enjoyed it. This is my first book by this author and I will definitely be reading more from her. Reisz has hit a good balance between drama, suspense and romance.
Seven children, from seven different sets of parents, are raised in the home of a respected surgeon, a single parent with no biological children. Unlikely, yes. But putting that aside, this story of a family reuniting to support the man who raised them, who was their father in every sense but biological, of secrets that slowly come to light, lies that are revealed years after they were first told (and some new ones that are told), suspicion, death, grief and love, captivated me. It is tightly woven, unpredictable and enjoyable.
And I liked the cover. .. I find it hard to resist a book with a creepy looking old house on the cover.
😊😊😊😊
THE AUTHOR: Tiffany Reisz is the USA Today-bestselling author of the Romance Writers of America RITA®-winning Original Sinners series from Harlequin's Mira Books.
Born in Owensboro, Kentucky, Tiffany graduated from Centre College with a B.A. in English. She began her writing career while a student at Wilmore, Kentucky's Asbury Theological Seminary. After leaving seminary to focus on her fiction, she wrote The Siren, which has sold more than half a million copies worldwide.
Tiffany also writes mainstream women's suspense fiction, including The Bourbon Thief (winner of the RT Book Reviews Seal of Excellence Award) and the RITA®-nominated The Night Mark.
Her erotic fantasy The Red—self-published under the banner 8th Circle Press—was named an NPR Best Book of the Year and a Goodreads Best Romance of the Month. It also received a coveted starred review from Library Journal.
Tiffany lives in Lexington, Kentucky with her husband, author Andrew Shaffer, and two cats. The cats are not writers.
DISCLOSURE: I listened to the audiobook of The Lucky Ones, written by Tiffany Reisz, narrated by Emily Woo Zeller, and published by Harper Audio, via OverDrive. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system. This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
February 13, 2018
**ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review**
4.5 stars
"Too many secrets in this house. So many they were starting to feel like...Lies."
The blurb of The Lucky Ones was one that really piqued my interest. I had no idea what to expect, but I was ready for a mysterious ride. I loved how the secrets were revealed piece by piece. The author did such an incredible job in keeping the reader in suspense and guessing throughout the book. I had theories as to what happened to Allison but was proven wrong each time. I love it when a story is unpredictable and when an author can get me to sit on the edge of my seat. I was so hooked to the story that I read the last 40% of the book in one sitting (I was done at 4AM). There was no way I could put the book down to get some sleep.
"She'd known nothing but love here, nothing but kindness. But someone must have left a door open a crack and evil had snuck in when no one was looking."
The seven children either orphaned or abandoned by their parents and chosen by legendary philanthropist and brain surgeon Dr. Vincent Capello to live in The Dragon all had a very shocking past. It sometimes was very difficult for me to contain my tears while I was reading this book. This book was suspenseful, mysterious, sweet, emotional, heartbreaking, and very dark at times. Each and every character was very unique and had a very intriguing past. I was on a very long emotional rollercoaster, and I didn't want to get off it. I do wish there was an epilogue because I am really curious to see how everyone is doing. I also want to mention that the cover is beautiful and fits the story perfectly. I am looking forward to what Tiffany Reisz has in story for us next.
4.5 stars
"Too many secrets in this house. So many they were starting to feel like...Lies."
The blurb of The Lucky Ones was one that really piqued my interest. I had no idea what to expect, but I was ready for a mysterious ride. I loved how the secrets were revealed piece by piece. The author did such an incredible job in keeping the reader in suspense and guessing throughout the book. I had theories as to what happened to Allison but was proven wrong each time. I love it when a story is unpredictable and when an author can get me to sit on the edge of my seat. I was so hooked to the story that I read the last 40% of the book in one sitting (I was done at 4AM). There was no way I could put the book down to get some sleep.
"She'd known nothing but love here, nothing but kindness. But someone must have left a door open a crack and evil had snuck in when no one was looking."
The seven children either orphaned or abandoned by their parents and chosen by legendary philanthropist and brain surgeon Dr. Vincent Capello to live in The Dragon all had a very shocking past. It sometimes was very difficult for me to contain my tears while I was reading this book. This book was suspenseful, mysterious, sweet, emotional, heartbreaking, and very dark at times. Each and every character was very unique and had a very intriguing past. I was on a very long emotional rollercoaster, and I didn't want to get off it. I do wish there was an epilogue because I am really curious to see how everyone is doing. I also want to mention that the cover is beautiful and fits the story perfectly. I am looking forward to what Tiffany Reisz has in story for us next.
February 17, 2018
4 stars <3
What a great story, it surprised me a lot and I enjoy reading it!The Lucky Ones is a fast paced, atmospheric, dark and interesting story!I was intrigued from the first pages!I loved the plot and the setting, the characters were well developed!
“Sometimes you slay a dragon. Sometimes you cut off its head and three more grow in its place.”
This book had it all!A sweet romance, a mystery, great characters and it was atmospheric!Like all her books this is another unique story from Tiffany Reisz!There wasn't a moment I felt bored I didn't know what to expect in each page!If you are looking for a refreshing story with suspense,romance and dark in some ways this is perfect!
What a great story, it surprised me a lot and I enjoy reading it!The Lucky Ones is a fast paced, atmospheric, dark and interesting story!I was intrigued from the first pages!I loved the plot and the setting, the characters were well developed!
“Sometimes you slay a dragon. Sometimes you cut off its head and three more grow in its place.”
This book had it all!A sweet romance, a mystery, great characters and it was atmospheric!Like all her books this is another unique story from Tiffany Reisz!There wasn't a moment I felt bored I didn't know what to expect in each page!If you are looking for a refreshing story with suspense,romance and dark in some ways this is perfect!
February 20, 2018
Allison felt lucky when Dr. Vincent Capello rescued her from the foster home nightmare she was in at the age of seven. Living in a big beautiful home right on the Oregon Coast with a built family of brothers and sisters felt like a dream come true. Until that dream came crashing down when she was pushed, or fell down the stairs and woke up in the hospital. Her elderly aunt came and whisked her away and she hadn’t seen or heard from her “family” for thirteen years until her foster brother, Roland, writes to tell her Dr. Capello is dying. She knows she must go back and find the answers to questions that’ve haunted her for years. Did one of her “family” actually push her down the stairs, and if so, why?
When Allison first comes onto the page, I was so very put out for her after discovering the details of her relationship with Cooper McQueen, a character from The Bourbon Thief. I quite liked him in that book, but here I wanted to strangle the man! At any rate, his appearance is short-lived, and I wasn’t so mad at him by the end. Still…grr!!!
But never mind McQueen, because Roland is the guy you want to sit up and take notice of, anyhow. The minute Roland and Allison reunite after thirteen years it’s like they never separated. They had a fast, and natural connection (if you can call a romance between an ex-foster brother and sister natural, lol); so very electric and passionate.
Deacon and Thora, her other brother and sister fell right back into Allison’s life and she into theirs, and once again it feels like a big happy family, no matter there’s a prevailing sadness over Dr. Capello’s nearing death. But as Allison stays it’s quickly apparent there are a lot of secrets and lies and uncovering them could be very dangerous. And it is dangerous, because Allison can’t let the search for the truth go.
It wasn’t hard to piece together a lot of the mystery right off the bat, but some of it was a surprise and the whole story was captivating even with knowing what was going on. Usually, once I start reading one of Ms. Reisz’s stories I can hardly put it down, and that was certainly the case with The Lucky Ones. There was a lot of moral gray areas here, where you could see both sides of the story, understand why a person would take the actions that they did, but at the same time you couldn’t help but think of the violations those actions incurred, and some of the consequences were truly horrible.
Once again Tiffany Reisz weaves and atmospheric tale of love, betrayal, and mystery with the Oregon Coast and its broody weather there to provide an even more haunting quality to the tale. Loved the setting; it and the house almost felt like secondary characters here. The Lucky Ones is the kind of story that’ll linger in your mind long after you finish the last page.
A copy was kindly provided by Mira via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
When Allison first comes onto the page, I was so very put out for her after discovering the details of her relationship with Cooper McQueen, a character from The Bourbon Thief. I quite liked him in that book, but here I wanted to strangle the man! At any rate, his appearance is short-lived, and I wasn’t so mad at him by the end. Still…grr!!!
But never mind McQueen, because Roland is the guy you want to sit up and take notice of, anyhow. The minute Roland and Allison reunite after thirteen years it’s like they never separated. They had a fast, and natural connection (if you can call a romance between an ex-foster brother and sister natural, lol); so very electric and passionate.
Deacon and Thora, her other brother and sister fell right back into Allison’s life and she into theirs, and once again it feels like a big happy family, no matter there’s a prevailing sadness over Dr. Capello’s nearing death. But as Allison stays it’s quickly apparent there are a lot of secrets and lies and uncovering them could be very dangerous. And it is dangerous, because Allison can’t let the search for the truth go.
It wasn’t hard to piece together a lot of the mystery right off the bat, but some of it was a surprise and the whole story was captivating even with knowing what was going on. Usually, once I start reading one of Ms. Reisz’s stories I can hardly put it down, and that was certainly the case with The Lucky Ones. There was a lot of moral gray areas here, where you could see both sides of the story, understand why a person would take the actions that they did, but at the same time you couldn’t help but think of the violations those actions incurred, and some of the consequences were truly horrible.
Once again Tiffany Reisz weaves and atmospheric tale of love, betrayal, and mystery with the Oregon Coast and its broody weather there to provide an even more haunting quality to the tale. Loved the setting; it and the house almost felt like secondary characters here. The Lucky Ones is the kind of story that’ll linger in your mind long after you finish the last page.
A copy was kindly provided by Mira via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 26, 2020
4 Stars
P.S. Proud mom of two ragdoll cats
P.S. Proud mom of two ragdoll cats
November 8, 2017
I swear, it doesn't matter what Tiffany Reisz writes- be it her BDSM series, The Original Sinners, or Mysterious books like The Night Mark, The Bourbon Thief, or this- The Lucky Ones, everything shines with her for me. The Lucky Ones is tagged in General Fiction (Adult) but rest assured, there's a romance element to it, as well as a hefty dose of Mystery/Suspense. It's got it all.
The book takes place in coastal Oregon. In a house that freakishly looks like a dragon if you look just right. A foster home to many children who needed their foster father, Dr. Capello like nobody else. Only Dr. Capello, or Dad, could tackle this crew. Allison left this home suddenly as a child and never came back, that whole event a blur in her inner psyche. She hasn't looked back on that home, that family, until she gets a letter from her foster brother asking her to come home. Their father, Dr. Capello is dying... So Allison chooses to pick up, face her fears, the unknown to travel back to her childhood home...to them.
This book has an eerie darkness and mystery that, reading it around Halloween, just heightened the feel. Cool, dark, rainy and kind of bleak. A plot shrouded in secrets and lies, I couldn't put it down. Allison faces her past in a home filled with some of her best childhood memories...and mysteries.
With Tiffany Reisz, we also get character comedy relief! It never fails her ability to throw a group of mismatched characters together and add humor and heart, and I'm hooked. Her foster siblings added the sense of heart and family to this otherwise suspenseful novel. Deacon, her foster brother, stole the show for me. Complete lack of filter, she captured that endearing sibling razzing perfectly.
I recommend this book for everyone who loves a good mystery, suspense, with a side of humor and heart. Bravo!
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
February 15, 2018
“Sometimes you slay a dragon. Sometimes you cut off its head and three more grow in its place.”
This book had us up all night reading; we could not put it down. It was compelling, tragic, addictive, thrilling and sensual. Tiffany Reisz truly has a way with words that are uniquely hers. You are never unsure of just who’s book you’re reading when you pick one hers up. It was intense, humorous, sarcastic, devastating and full of heart and soul.
‘Too many secrets in this house. So many they were starting to feel like…Lies.’
When Tiffany Reisz writes a character, by the end of the book you feel as if you know them. You go on a personal journey with them. The depth and complexity of the characters is second to none. The weight of friendship and love in her stories is remarkable; the characters make her stories what they are: wonderful and unique with an individual sense of tragedy and realism. She always touches upon issues that spark numerous debates yet she does so with care, attention and sensitivity.
‘…in those ten seconds, Allison felt completely and utterly and unconditionally loved and accepted and home. Her home. Her family.’
This story is told by twenty-five year old Allison and it begins with a breakup from the –quite frankly- delectable Cooper McQueen the naughty cad. We immediately recognised Allison; she’s a wonderfully typical Tiffany Reisz heroine; what with her sense of humour, her vulnerability, her inner strength and her bright sensibility. Her story begins when she’s handed a letter from her past which sets her on a life changing journey of a much needed but devastating discovery and supressed revelations. Love was snatched away from her at a young age; is a journey back to where it all began going to give her a second chance or will it horrify and haunt her forever?
“I dreamed you’d come and find me,” she said.
“Why me?”
“Wishful thinking,” she said. “You were always my favorite.”
“Favorite sibling?”
“Favorite person. Ever. On earth. I was a little in love with you. And maybe a little in lust…”
Allison has no one to call family; until Dr Capello enters her life when she’s seven years old. Dr Capello; is a man who’s seen as a saviour of children. Not only is he a skilled neurosurgeon; he’s also fostering children who are either ‘problem children’ or have no real place to call home with loved ones. He’s one of life’s game changers for vulnerable children. When he fosters Allison she’s given an instant family through Foster Dad Vincent Capello and his foster children: Roland, Thora, Deacon, Kendra and Oliver. A family that proves to be more than what she initially thought and then she’s suddenly sent away. Secrets, lies and obsessions, the walls of The Dragon house holds them all as Allison discovers when she makes her journey back ‘home’. Do not hesitate, this is one of those books you’ll be thinking about for days after you’ve read the last page.
‘She’d known nothing but love here, nothing but kindness. But someone must have left a door open a crack and evil had snuck in when no one was looking.’
Available to purchase below
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Amazon UK
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April 13, 2018
I felt embarrassed reading this book. I felt embarrassed enjoying this book! Sex IS involved, and it’s not conventional. It’s not actually the act that’s unconventional but the people doing it.
Then there’s the medical stuff – epitomised by a museum of antique devices , including a wooden speculum with leech applicator…weird….
Creepy but compelling.
Then there’s the medical stuff – epitomised by a museum of antique devices , including a wooden speculum with leech applicator…weird….
Creepy but compelling.
February 8, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Allison Lamarque is at a turning point in her adult life. At this pivotal time, she receives a letter from her foster brother after thirteen years have elapsed without any contact. While she has fond memories living with the Capello family, she also has unanswered questions about the circumstances surrounding the night that caused her life to change. Upon deciding to travel back to the Oregon coast to pay her respects to Dr. Vincent Capello, Allison must confront her emotions and many family secrets.
"When distant relatives contact you out of nowhere, it's never good. Never."
Being the eldest, Roland Capello took a chance on contacting Allison after all these years for the sake of his father and siblings. Harboring feelings he has tried to reconcile over time, Allison's visit brings many memories to the surface.
"Never too late to come home," Roland said, and squeezed her hand again."
As Allison is determined to discover what happened the night of her accident, she uncovers information that creates more questions about the family she loved so dearly. Step by step, complications arise causing conflicting feelings about her perceptions and how to handle such destructive secrets.
"He's good at pretending things are okay when they aren't."
From the first page, Allison's story unfolds in such a compelling manner with her situation bringing forth a range of emotion. With strong secondary characters in Dr. Capello, Roland, Deacon and Thora, the dichotomy between truth and lies is further explored leaving each to weigh heavy consequences. The moral dilemma presented is quite interesting and attaching emotion to the motivation really intrigued me, as I understood the plight of each character despite positive or negative results. While the Allison and Roland share a deep romantic connection, the suspense element really drives the story and causes Allison to evaluate how she can move forward with Roland.
In starting this book, I was expecting a solid mystery, and the author certainly delivered on that point, but the plot offers much more with complexity and an intricately weaved plot bringing the characters full circle. As such, Tiffany Reisz pens a masterful and provocative narrative that allows the reader to experience the highs and lows of humanity.
The Lucky Ones is a suspenseful story about the intricacies of family, secrets, grief and sacrifice. I highly recommend!
*An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review.*
*This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey!*
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
February 23, 2020
4.5 Romantic Mystery Stars
I first got to know Tiffany Reisz when I read her series The Original Sinners (books 1-4), which pushed my reading boundaries in the sex department quite a bit. The Lucky Ones is pretty tame by comparison, in the sex depart at least, and if you’ve never tried Tiffany Reisz before it is a good place to see if you like her style. I knew I did so it was just a matter of fitting it into my ever-growing pile of books I want to read.
I was hijacked immediately into caring about Allison. We enter her life just as her lover is leaving her and I couldn’t help feeling for her right away as she is a woman who is loosing a man she cares for but was never really hers and the family who abdicated her years ago is reaching out as the head of it is dying.
Allison lost her parents when she was seven and put into the foster care system. Saved by Dr. Vincent Capello, Allison was brought to his dragon house by the sea to live for years until someone tried to kill her and she went to live with her elderly great aunt instead. It is thirteen years later and she is going back to see the children she loved, in the house that holds secrets and the man she called father.
This is an interesting tale, part love story part mystery as Allison tries to piece together what happened thirteen years ago and reconnects with the first boy she fell in love with as a child. Very interesting to see him now as an adult through the eyes of a grown woman.
I really liked the banter between the grown kids in the book. The way they make fun of one another and how they tease Allison and Roland in their new relationship that smells slightly of Flowers in the Attic.
I loved the fact that the trauma in Allison’s childhood and with the other kids in the house had nothing to do with anything as pedantic as sex. No something truly chilling happened to the kids in the book and I was so surprised by some of the revelations that were made when all the connections were revealed.
Again, Reisz uses some of the theological knowledge to explore both sex and religion in an off to the side kind of way. I enjoyed how both Allison and Roland interacted and accepted each other’s very different life choices without judgement.
Another solid read from an author I forgot I loved. It might just be time to read her entire catalogue. I didn't continue with the Siren Series only because at book 4 it was practically perfect and I didn't want anything to be ruined moving forward so I'll brave a few of her other series before succumbing and finishing it.
I first got to know Tiffany Reisz when I read her series The Original Sinners (books 1-4), which pushed my reading boundaries in the sex department quite a bit. The Lucky Ones is pretty tame by comparison, in the sex depart at least, and if you’ve never tried Tiffany Reisz before it is a good place to see if you like her style. I knew I did so it was just a matter of fitting it into my ever-growing pile of books I want to read.
I was hijacked immediately into caring about Allison. We enter her life just as her lover is leaving her and I couldn’t help feeling for her right away as she is a woman who is loosing a man she cares for but was never really hers and the family who abdicated her years ago is reaching out as the head of it is dying.
“I’m a little sad,” she said. “But don’t worry. Sad’s the weather, not the climate.”
Allison lost her parents when she was seven and put into the foster care system. Saved by Dr. Vincent Capello, Allison was brought to his dragon house by the sea to live for years until someone tried to kill her and she went to live with her elderly great aunt instead. It is thirteen years later and she is going back to see the children she loved, in the house that holds secrets and the man she called father.
“Sometimes you slay a dragon. Sometimes you cut off its head and three more grow in its place.”
This is an interesting tale, part love story part mystery as Allison tries to piece together what happened thirteen years ago and reconnects with the first boy she fell in love with as a child. Very interesting to see him now as an adult through the eyes of a grown woman.
Roland had hallway eyes—labyrinthine hallways made of marble and lit by torches resting in iron sconces. She could wander those shadowy hallways forever and never once feel lost.
I really liked the banter between the grown kids in the book. The way they make fun of one another and how they tease Allison and Roland in their new relationship that smells slightly of Flowers in the Attic.
“What are you reading?” she asked.
“Book I picked up at the library this morning,” he said. “Little ditty called Flowers in the Attic. Ever read it?” He looked up at her and grinned as manically as the Joker. Allison glared at him.
“Ohh...” he said, shuddering. “You give a good death stare. Almost better than Thora’s.”
“Roland is not my brother. I am not his sister. We are not flowers nor are we in the attic,” Allison said.
“True, but No Flowers in the Beach House doesn’t have quite the same ring to it,”
I loved the fact that the trauma in Allison’s childhood and with the other kids in the house had nothing to do with anything as pedantic as sex. No something truly chilling happened to the kids in the book and I was so surprised by some of the revelations that were made when all the connections were revealed.
“She'd known nothing but love here, nothing but kindness. But someone must have left a door open a crack and evil had snuck in when no one was looking.”
Again, Reisz uses some of the theological knowledge to explore both sex and religion in an off to the side kind of way. I enjoyed how both Allison and Roland interacted and accepted each other’s very different life choices without judgement.
Another solid read from an author I forgot I loved. It might just be time to read her entire catalogue. I didn't continue with the Siren Series only because at book 4 it was practically perfect and I didn't want anything to be ruined moving forward so I'll brave a few of her other series before succumbing and finishing it.
February 15, 2018
“Sometimes you slay a dragon. Sometimes you cut off its head and three more grow in its place.”
This book had us up all night reading; we could not put it down. It was compelling, tragic, addictive, thrilling and sensual. Tiffany Reisz truly has a way with words that are uniquely hers. You are never unsure of just who’s book you’re reading when you pick one hers up. It was intense, humorous, sarcastic, devastating and full of heart and soul.
‘Too many secrets in this house. So many they were starting to feel like…Lies.’
When Tiffany Reisz writes a character, by the end of the book you feel as if you know them. You go on a personal journey with them. The depth and complexity of the characters is second to none. The weight of friendship and love in her stories is remarkable; the characters make her stories what they are: wonderful and unique with an individual sense of tragedy and realism. She always touches upon issues that spark numerous debates yet she does so with care, attention and sensitivity.
‘…in those ten seconds, Allison felt completely and utterly and unconditionally loved and accepted and home. Her home. Her family.’
This story is told by twenty-five year old Allison and it begins with a breakup from the –quite frankly- delectable Cooper McQueen the naughty cad!. We immediately recognised Allison; she’s a wonderfully typical Tiffany Reisz heroine; what with her sense of humour, her vulnerability, her inner strength and her bright sensibility. Her story begins when she’s handed a letter from her past which sets her on a life changing journey of a much needed but devastating discovery and supressed revelations. Love was snatched away from her at a young age; is a journey back to where it all began going to give her a second chance or will it horrify and haunt her forever?
“I dreamed you’d come and find me,” she said.
“Why me?”
“Wishful thinking,” she said. “You were always my favorite.”
“Favorite sibling?”
“Favorite person. Ever. On earth. I was a little in love with you. And maybe a little in lust…”
Allison has no one to call family; until Dr Capello enters her life when she’s seven years old. Dr Capello; is a man who’s seen as a saviour of children. Not only is he a skilled neurosurgeon; he’s also fostering children who are either ‘problem children’ or have no real place to call home with loved ones. He’s one of life’s game changers for vulnerable children. When he fosters Allison she’s given an instant family through Foster Dad Vincent Capello and his foster children: Roland, Thora, Deacon, Kendra and Oliver. A family that proves to be more than what she initially thought and then she’s suddenly sent away. Secrets, lies and obsessions, the walls of The Dragon house holds them all as Allison discovers when she makes her journey back ‘home’. Do not hesitate, this is one of those books you’ll be thinking about for days after you’ve read the last page.
‘She’d known nothing but love here, nothing but kindness. But someone must have left a door open a crack and evil had snuck in when no one was looking.’
Available to purchase below
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Come visit and follow us at:
✲ TotallybookedBlog
✲ TB on Facebook
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March 16, 2018
I’m going to be vague as this is a book where the less you know the better the book will be. Trust me.
They said they were the lucky ones.
And maybe they were.
They lived on the coast in the Dragon that lies at the end of the world.
Their past was never mentioned so the future was theirs for the taking.
Before there were lies there were secrets.
The truth hurts but lies hurt more.
Sometimes lies can be the only thing that can save you.
Their saviour was shooting arrows in the dark to save the world from evil.
The ending was not what I expected in to be and yet I really enjoyed it.
Yet our heroine had a mystery to solve who wanted to kill her what is truly going on.
The Mistress & The Monk.
Ms. Reisz has the knack for writing books that are unpredictable and keep you
glued to the book no matter what.
You will feel so many emotions and will be wondering where the characters and the plot will take you.
I recommend this book. Enjoy.
They said they were the lucky ones.
And maybe they were.
They lived on the coast in the Dragon that lies at the end of the world.
Their past was never mentioned so the future was theirs for the taking.
Before there were lies there were secrets.
The truth hurts but lies hurt more.
Sometimes lies can be the only thing that can save you.
Their saviour was shooting arrows in the dark to save the world from evil.
The ending was not what I expected in to be and yet I really enjoyed it.
Yet our heroine had a mystery to solve who wanted to kill her what is truly going on.
The Mistress & The Monk.
Ms. Reisz has the knack for writing books that are unpredictable and keep you
glued to the book no matter what.
You will feel so many emotions and will be wondering where the characters and the plot will take you.
I recommend this book. Enjoy.
February 23, 2018
3.5/5
I want to start by mentioning that this isn’t a traditional mystery/thriller, yes there’s definitely a mystery to be solved but if you’re looking for a book that is intense with lots of heart pounding moments it’s not this one. However, it’s extremely well written and makes for a compelling read but I think future readers should be aware that it fits better under a romantic suspense genre.
There was something dark about this, a gothic feeling both in the mystery of Allison’s past, the romantic elements and the setting. The bulk of it takes place at her childhood foster home in a house on the edge of the sea in Oregon called The Dragon. There was a sinister vibe that the author created with her creepy imagery that I really liked. The romance also had a dangerous edge, it’s borderline taboo one of those that you almost feel naughty just reading about. And of course the mystery itself was intriguing and dark, there was definitely a hint of menace once all was revealed.
There was quite a bit of moral ambiguity surrounding all the pieces of this one, should you make the choices that you know are right or should you go after what feels right? It deals with the gray area, there is no black or white here and gave me much to ponder which is always the sign of a well written book. Recommended for mystery fans that don’t mind romance and borderline creepy relationships.
The Lucky Ones in three words: Wicked, Dark and Gloomy.
I want to start by mentioning that this isn’t a traditional mystery/thriller, yes there’s definitely a mystery to be solved but if you’re looking for a book that is intense with lots of heart pounding moments it’s not this one. However, it’s extremely well written and makes for a compelling read but I think future readers should be aware that it fits better under a romantic suspense genre.
There was something dark about this, a gothic feeling both in the mystery of Allison’s past, the romantic elements and the setting. The bulk of it takes place at her childhood foster home in a house on the edge of the sea in Oregon called The Dragon. There was a sinister vibe that the author created with her creepy imagery that I really liked. The romance also had a dangerous edge, it’s borderline taboo one of those that you almost feel naughty just reading about. And of course the mystery itself was intriguing and dark, there was definitely a hint of menace once all was revealed.
There was quite a bit of moral ambiguity surrounding all the pieces of this one, should you make the choices that you know are right or should you go after what feels right? It deals with the gray area, there is no black or white here and gave me much to ponder which is always the sign of a well written book. Recommended for mystery fans that don’t mind romance and borderline creepy relationships.
The Lucky Ones in three words: Wicked, Dark and Gloomy.
June 14, 2018
Full review now posted
One she was a little girl living in a foster home, Allison was fortunate enough to be picked by Dr. Vincent Capello, a legendary philanthropist/surgeon to go live with him in his beach house on the Oregon Coast with six other children. Allison was living her perfect life, feeling like she finally belonged until an accident happened and threatened her life. So she left and went to live with her old aunt.
Now, Thirteen years later, Allison is no longer the same little girl but somehow the fear of being alone is still a very powerful motivation in her life choices. Breaking up with the man she was secretly sleeping with the last six years of her life is not the only thing she didn’t see coming, receiving a letter from one of the children she used to live with is another and she is shaken by what the letter included.
Now she has no choice but to go back to the place of her childhood not only to see her ill father but also to maybe uncover once and for all what happened that fateful night when her life changed course forever. But digging in the past is a treacherous thing sometimes and some secrets are better left buried.
With The Lucky Ones, it was not about enjoyment or the fact that it was a perfect book with no flaws, I mean I don’t think there’s such thing as a perfect book. truth to be told, I didn’t enjoy myself that much while reading it considering the topics it depicts and some of the revelations twisted me from the inside out. And the book definitely has its flaws that I’ll be talking about in another section of this review. For me, it was about how different and unique the whole experience for me. What I felt with the book was a novelty for me and I totally love those stories that take me totally by surprise.
The Lucky Ones was not like any other book I read in recent years. The story itself was not something totally new or original but how it was executed and how it was written made me feel like I never read this kind of story before. I always appreciate an author who takes something familiar and twist it to create something with its own personality that can stand apart from any book with the same tone.
I am always fond of books that blend many genres together and this what Tiffany Reisz did effortlessly. The story is part mystery, part thriller and part forbidden romance; all these genre are woven perfectly together to give us an intricate story where the author uses all the tools at her disposal to create a solid dark and disturbing tale about family dynamics, dangerous secrets and a past that it’s not exactly as it seems.
Now to be perfectly honest, the twists and turns are not that hard to figure out. In fact, I kind of figured out how the story is going to unfold early on because honestly I couldn’t see any other way for the book to evolve but the fact that I had a feeling where the story is going didn’t ruin the experience at all for me. On contrary, I really wanted to be proven wrong because if what I thought turned out to be true then it’s going to break my heart and really hurt me. So when everything was revealed, I really felt betrayed by everything about it. I’ve never been affected by a twist like the one this book manages to pull off.
Even now, I don’t know what to think, my moral compass has been shaken by this book and I can’t really decide how to feel about all the characters that I grow to love and respect in the book. It turns out, appearances are really misleading and sometimes the truth is more than we can handle and that’s exactly what the book played on. The rug has been pulled from under me and I’m really conflicted about those final chapters that tied all the loose ends but opened up a storm inside my mind.
And since I’m talking about things that made me conflicted, the romance is another thing all together. The romance element in the book is not put there for the sake of just adding a romance to the story, it’s actually an important aspect to the book and it fuels the plot and makes us know the characters even more. But I really didn’t like how fast the main character went from loving one man to loving another in the span of days. That type of love stories does not convince me even though I can feel the intensity of her feelings to her Foster brother coming off the pages.
Yeah you read that right, Allison, our protagonist enters in a relationship with her foster brother. So, the romance is a forbidden one and I’m really uncomfortable with those in particular. I just don’t know how to feel about foster siblings falling in love with each other and maybe the fact that they didn’t see each other for thirteen years is making me less uncomfortable about their love but their relationship is not the only forbidden one in the book and it didn’t really feel that convincing. But the way those scenes written were pure Gold. The author doesn’t skirt around the subject at all and she really addresses how weird it must be to date your foster brother and it gives us also the opinion of an outsider yet she doesn’t judge the relationship itself.
The writing style was really beautiful and emotional. It made the book feel like a journey down memory lane and it added a melancholic nostalgic feeling to the book which something I always love. It was evident from the first page that the book is written by an author who knows how to draw readers in and make them hold on for dear life. I cared and loved and hated and felt trapped and betrayed and manipulated but I felt and that’s what matters.
By now you must feel that this review doesn’t translate to a 5 star rating and you’re probably right. I know that the lucky ones is no perfect book but for me it was unlike anything else and for that alone it deserves to have the highest rating possible.
Immediate thoughts
It's been a long time since I've read such a challenging book. The lucky ones tested my feelings, made me question my moral compass, left me reeling and stole my breath away. Seeing a story in black and white is impossible with a book like this one. What's right and what's wrong, I sincerely don't know.
Thank you for proving me right and breaking my heart in the process.
One she was a little girl living in a foster home, Allison was fortunate enough to be picked by Dr. Vincent Capello, a legendary philanthropist/surgeon to go live with him in his beach house on the Oregon Coast with six other children. Allison was living her perfect life, feeling like she finally belonged until an accident happened and threatened her life. So she left and went to live with her old aunt.
Now, Thirteen years later, Allison is no longer the same little girl but somehow the fear of being alone is still a very powerful motivation in her life choices. Breaking up with the man she was secretly sleeping with the last six years of her life is not the only thing she didn’t see coming, receiving a letter from one of the children she used to live with is another and she is shaken by what the letter included.
Now she has no choice but to go back to the place of her childhood not only to see her ill father but also to maybe uncover once and for all what happened that fateful night when her life changed course forever. But digging in the past is a treacherous thing sometimes and some secrets are better left buried.
When you love someone, you sometimes make choices you don't want to make. You do things to help them that you wish you didn't have to do
With The Lucky Ones, it was not about enjoyment or the fact that it was a perfect book with no flaws, I mean I don’t think there’s such thing as a perfect book. truth to be told, I didn’t enjoy myself that much while reading it considering the topics it depicts and some of the revelations twisted me from the inside out. And the book definitely has its flaws that I’ll be talking about in another section of this review. For me, it was about how different and unique the whole experience for me. What I felt with the book was a novelty for me and I totally love those stories that take me totally by surprise.
The Lucky Ones was not like any other book I read in recent years. The story itself was not something totally new or original but how it was executed and how it was written made me feel like I never read this kind of story before. I always appreciate an author who takes something familiar and twist it to create something with its own personality that can stand apart from any book with the same tone.
Too many secrets in this house.
So many they were starting to feel like...
Lies.
I am always fond of books that blend many genres together and this what Tiffany Reisz did effortlessly. The story is part mystery, part thriller and part forbidden romance; all these genre are woven perfectly together to give us an intricate story where the author uses all the tools at her disposal to create a solid dark and disturbing tale about family dynamics, dangerous secrets and a past that it’s not exactly as it seems.
But they were a family, weren't they? And she'd gotten very good at lying. It didn't even feel like lying anymore. It felt like forgiveness, leaving the past in the past. It felt like mercy. It felt like moving on...And what was one more secret in this house packed to the attic with secrets?
Now to be perfectly honest, the twists and turns are not that hard to figure out. In fact, I kind of figured out how the story is going to unfold early on because honestly I couldn’t see any other way for the book to evolve but the fact that I had a feeling where the story is going didn’t ruin the experience at all for me. On contrary, I really wanted to be proven wrong because if what I thought turned out to be true then it’s going to break my heart and really hurt me. So when everything was revealed, I really felt betrayed by everything about it. I’ve never been affected by a twist like the one this book manages to pull off.
Sometimes you slay a dragon. Sometimes you cut off its head and three more grow in its place
Even now, I don’t know what to think, my moral compass has been shaken by this book and I can’t really decide how to feel about all the characters that I grow to love and respect in the book. It turns out, appearances are really misleading and sometimes the truth is more than we can handle and that’s exactly what the book played on. The rug has been pulled from under me and I’m really conflicted about those final chapters that tied all the loose ends but opened up a storm inside my mind.
And since I’m talking about things that made me conflicted, the romance is another thing all together. The romance element in the book is not put there for the sake of just adding a romance to the story, it’s actually an important aspect to the book and it fuels the plot and makes us know the characters even more. But I really didn’t like how fast the main character went from loving one man to loving another in the span of days. That type of love stories does not convince me even though I can feel the intensity of her feelings to her Foster brother coming off the pages.
Allison took a step forward and Roland, the man, not the boy, caught her up in his arms. She felt the warm flannel of his shirt against her cheek and the hardness of his broad chest against her breasts. She was seven again in his arms, and safe again in his arms, and home again in his arms. And when was the last time she’d felt all three? Here. With him. Thirteen years ago.
Yeah you read that right, Allison, our protagonist enters in a relationship with her foster brother. So, the romance is a forbidden one and I’m really uncomfortable with those in particular. I just don’t know how to feel about foster siblings falling in love with each other and maybe the fact that they didn’t see each other for thirteen years is making me less uncomfortable about their love but their relationship is not the only forbidden one in the book and it didn’t really feel that convincing. But the way those scenes written were pure Gold. The author doesn’t skirt around the subject at all and she really addresses how weird it must be to date your foster brother and it gives us also the opinion of an outsider yet she doesn’t judge the relationship itself.
The writing style was really beautiful and emotional. It made the book feel like a journey down memory lane and it added a melancholic nostalgic feeling to the book which something I always love. It was evident from the first page that the book is written by an author who knows how to draw readers in and make them hold on for dear life. I cared and loved and hated and felt trapped and betrayed and manipulated but I felt and that’s what matters.
By now you must feel that this review doesn’t translate to a 5 star rating and you’re probably right. I know that the lucky ones is no perfect book but for me it was unlike anything else and for that alone it deserves to have the highest rating possible.
*****************************
Immediate thoughts
It's been a long time since I've read such a challenging book. The lucky ones tested my feelings, made me question my moral compass, left me reeling and stole my breath away. Seeing a story in black and white is impossible with a book like this one. What's right and what's wrong, I sincerely don't know.
“The truth hurts sometimes.”
“It does, yeah,” she said. “But so do lies.”
Thank you for proving me right and breaking my heart in the process.
March 12, 2018
Allison was orphaned at age seven and lived in a group home. That is until the renowned brain surgeon Dr. Vincent Capello showed up and took her to live with him and his family in his coastal house in Oregon called "The Dragon". Allison now became part of an exclusive group dubbed "the lucky seven", kids rescued by Dr. Capello from orphanages. Allison enjoyed a good life with his foster brothers and sisters until she suffered an accident in the house that took her away from "The Dragon" permanently. As an adult Allison receives a letter from Roland, Dr. Capello's oldest son, telling her that their dad is dying and he would very much like for her to come. Allison never knew the true nature of her accident but despite any sense of danger she goes back home.
I make it a point to not read any more than a book's blurb before reading it so as to avoid any bias. Had I read a detailed review for 'The Lucky Ones' beforehand, there is a chance I would not have read it at all. A gothic mystery and a dark romance, this novel was nothing like I expected and a deviation from my usual reads. Allison is thrilled to leave her sad past in the group home and start anew with the Capellos in 'The Dragon'. Though no one is actually related, everyone enjoys a filial connection to each other. When Allison suffers an accident, she receives information that more than suggest it was anyhing but that. She is immediately taken away and she stays away until the letter from Roland arrives. The dark and eerie tone and atmosphere suggest a sinister secret lurking in the background and there was difinitely that. While I could not truthfully say I enjoyed this book, the mystery aspect I could have never guessed either. The Capello household is built on secrets and lies but its also the only home these kids have known.
In trying to come up with the best word to describe the narrative, weird is the one that comes the closest. There are situations that are just plain strange and difficult to comprehend. The wry humour was both a relief and a way to establish the atypical bond between all the "siblings". This is a family saga but not in the conventional manner. I am not even sure if dysfuntional is the right description as this narrative took a it up a notch in that department. While I do not regret reading this book, the "aftertaste" it left me with is far from a pleasent one. It was an intriguing read for sure. This is one of the few times I would recommend looking into the book before reading it. All and all, this was an interesting experience.
I make it a point to not read any more than a book's blurb before reading it so as to avoid any bias. Had I read a detailed review for 'The Lucky Ones' beforehand, there is a chance I would not have read it at all. A gothic mystery and a dark romance, this novel was nothing like I expected and a deviation from my usual reads. Allison is thrilled to leave her sad past in the group home and start anew with the Capellos in 'The Dragon'. Though no one is actually related, everyone enjoys a filial connection to each other. When Allison suffers an accident, she receives information that more than suggest it was anyhing but that. She is immediately taken away and she stays away until the letter from Roland arrives. The dark and eerie tone and atmosphere suggest a sinister secret lurking in the background and there was difinitely that. While I could not truthfully say I enjoyed this book, the mystery aspect I could have never guessed either. The Capello household is built on secrets and lies but its also the only home these kids have known.
In trying to come up with the best word to describe the narrative, weird is the one that comes the closest. There are situations that are just plain strange and difficult to comprehend. The wry humour was both a relief and a way to establish the atypical bond between all the "siblings". This is a family saga but not in the conventional manner. I am not even sure if dysfuntional is the right description as this narrative took a it up a notch in that department. While I do not regret reading this book, the "aftertaste" it left me with is far from a pleasent one. It was an intriguing read for sure. This is one of the few times I would recommend looking into the book before reading it. All and all, this was an interesting experience.
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