Take a Chance

This is the first time I have read a Shelley Shepard Gray novel not set in an Amish community. Ms. Gray is such a talented and expressive writer, that she takes to any genre she writes in. I thoroughly enjoyed "Take a Chance", and look forward to "All In", which is the next in this new series. In "Take a Chance", readers are introduced to brothers Kurt and Sam, with Kurt a much older brother and a guardian to Sam; and we also meet Emily, an English teacher and adviser in the school Sam transfers into when the brothers leave their small West Virginia town and move to Ohio for increased educational opportunities for Sam. Ms. Gray's skillful storytelling brings us deep into the characters' lives as we see how Sam, and Kurt, draw on the values they were raised with to protect the women who are special to them. For Sam, its' his new girlfriend Kayla, at school. For Kurt, its' the teacher, Emily. Kurt also starts to embrace meeting other people in their new town and starts to bond with other local men including Emily's brother over poker.
At its' heart, this is a story all about relationship building, and how important such relationships are in every day life. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. I already want to re read!

Hearing Shelly Shepard Grey I automatically think of her as a wholesome author who writes her heart into the best Amish Romances. When I seen she was giving out something different I was intrigued. I didn't know if she could give me the same emotions with this kind of book, but after finishing I am astonished how the woman can raw emotion in anything she writes.

Take A Chance brings out Shelley's best writing she has to offer. Kurt and Emily are to souls who are meant to be! I couldn't but this book down I was captivated by the intense romance coming from each page. This is by far my absolute favorite book from Shelley Shepard Grey! A MUST READ!

Take A Chance reminds me of Susan Wigg's series; both Wiggs and Shelley Shepard Gray have a knack for creating an instant attachment between their readers and the characters whose stories they tell. When seventeen-year-old Sam's test scores astound his guidance counselor, she recommends that he attend school in a different city where he can have the best opportunity to succeed and have a better chance at college scholarships. Realizing this will give his brother an incredible opportunity, thirty-year-old Kurt becomes Sam's legal guardian and they move to Bridgeport. While it seems like a place where golfers and athletes fit in, as opposed to poker-playing landscapers, Kurt meets Sam's English teacher, Emily, and not only does he find a woman who loves him, but also introduces him to others who share similar interests. It's a quaint story with only a bit of drama -- definitely suitable for lovers of Hallmark movies and PG romance novels!

I really enjoyed Take a Chance by Ms. Gray. I liked all of the characters. The hero was a man who became guardian to his little brother and was working hard on making a good life for them both. I also liked the heroine who was a school teacher who seemed to really love what she did. The story was easy to read and flowed well. The secondary romance with Sam and Kayla was sweet as well.

I have been a fan of Gray's Amish and historical books, so when I saw she had this contemporary romance available I wanted to read it. However, I was a bit surprised at the language that was used in the book. This is a clean romance, but I wanted readers who are accustomed to her historical and Amish books to know there are curse words in it. I'm not going to ding any stars off because it's not billed as Christian. This author is talented and I will continue to read her stories. In fact, I'm invested in these characters and want to read the next book in the series.
I just wish she didn't use curse words in the story. It would have been just as good without it.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher via net galley and this is my honest opinion.

I recieved an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This is a new-to-me author. I really enjoyed this story line, and the way it flowed. The characters are well written. I am looking forward to the second book!

After his mom dies, and his dad gets laid off and spirals downward, Kurt moves himself and his 17 year old brother, Sam to Bridgeport, He is trying to help Sam get opportunities he never had because he feels he has it in him. However, when a girl Sam likes is the laughing stock of the school because of a locker room picture taken of her, Sam avenges her. When Kurt goes to the school, he meets Emily, Sam's teacher and advisor. Will this make for an awkward school year for Kurt? Or a budding relationship?

Kurt Holland had moved to Bridgeport, Ohio from West Virginia with his younger brother Sam to make a better life possible for Sam. Sam was very smart but Kurt didn't think he was getting the kind of education in West Virginia that would allow him to get into the best colleges. Kurt had never had the opportunity to go to college and he wanted that for his younger brother. Their mother had passed away and their dad didn't seem to care. Her certainly wasn't supportive of their move. Kurt had dreams of starting a landscaping business in Bridgeport. He had never been encouraged by anyone to make something of himself and he was determined to be successful in this endeavor. When Sam got into trouble at school defending a girl's honor, Kurt met Sam's English teacher, Emily. He thought she was beautiful but never imagined he would be good enough for her.

Emily had a strict no dating policy when it came to her student's parents. But, Kurt, wasn't Sam's parent, he was his brother. She thought that would be ok. She liked the kind of man Kurt was. He was kind, considerate, respectful and crazy good-looking. As she spent more time with him, she saw how good a man he really was. But, she had been hurt before and she had a hard time trusting any man. Would she be able to overcome those feelings in order to have a possible future with Kurt?

This is the first book I have read in this series but I am excited about reading more by this author. I was given a complimentary copy of this book and happily leave my review.

This appears to be a new series and its one I liked a lot and I cannot wait for more. It features three main characters and we actually get in their head with this story.
Kurt, main lead and brother to Sam
Sam, very intelligent, teenager who is in like/lust with Kayla and his brother is Kurt and teacher is
Emily, the other lead and this is her romance with Kurt, she has lived in the small town her entire life and while she cant date a dad at the school, brothers are okay

This was a fun story, it features a poker club that Kurt forms in his new town and its a great premise for the series. That is the Social Club.

There are two romances here Kayle/Sam and Kurt/Emily. I loved reading both and I loved all the characters in the story.

Such a beautiful story about the depths you'll go for your family and yourself. That it's okay to be who you are and don't compromise on your values.

Take a Chance by Shelley Sheppard Gray. Blackstone. Sept 18
Kurt coming to high school for his brother Sam,two months here and still didn’t feel welcome. An incident, which he didn’t start, still gave him a day suspension. Emily didn’t like the results, and wanted to be there for him, he was someone who made teachers glad to him in a class. Things are tense between them, he hovers too much over Sam, but doesn’t want him to miss getting a scholarship for college. Old memories of his, don’t get involved with a girl and have her dump you, by saying you won’t amount to anything. This story was different then other books I have read by her and especially young readers will find a lot of meaningful insight here. Having friends, and doing things together, those that watch out for you and want you to be a success and happy in life. The plot flowed, and easy, enjoyable read.
Given ARC by Net Galley and Blackstone for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.

Loved the plot of this story, and the relationship between brothers Kurt & Sam. The author introduced a lot of additional characters, which suggests this will be a series. I’d definitely ready the next installment.

This is a well told story about how far a big brother will go to help his younger brother. Thank you #NetGalley for the free copy of this book.

I love this author’s books and was delightful when I received this book. I have only read Amish books by Ms. Gray in the past but found the same caliber of writing in this book. Loved the plot and well developed characters. I highly recommend this book.

If "Take a Chance" is any indication of what the entire Bridgeport series is going to be like, it will be well worth your time to read every book. Shelley Shepard Gray portrayed two different love stories in a very innocent, but engaging, way. The brother story line was also endearing. The ending could have had more closure but, overall, it was an enjoyable, quick Summer read.

This was the first time reading from this author and I enjoyed this book a lot. I can't wait till her next book comes out. Emily is a teacher and has a rule about no dating students parents. Enter Kurt, one of her students older brother. He isn't a parent so there shouldn't be a problem? Right? Kurt and his younger brother Sam are more a like than they think. Situations come up that they handle about the same ways...will Emily get hurt my these brothers? The only thing I didn't like was it seemed like the book ended super abrupt and I needed more! I hope that the next book can pick up where it left off and continue to see these characters.

Kurt Holland (age 31) wants a better life for his younger brother, Sam (age 17). Kurt and Sam's father is dealing with depression after losing his wife to cancer and being laid off from his job. Sam scores amazingly high on standardized test scores and longs to attend college on a full-ride scholarship, but Kurt knows Sam's high school isn't equipped to prepare Sam for college. Kurt and Sam move to a new community where Kurt begins his own business and where Sam attends a college-prep high school. Kurt and Sam navigate life and relationships as they become involved in their new community and school. The book is a great read on life and relationships - both romance and friendship-based.

I enjoyed this story of two brothers who uproot their lives to give San, the younger one, a better chance for success in life. It is the story of their relationship as well as the growing relationship between Kurt, the older brother, and Emily, Sam's English teacher and advisor. It is also the story of young love between Sam and Kayla. Through it all, they learn more about themselves, each other, and the need to be true to themselves. A heartwarming story.

This was a beautiful heartwarming story that flowed so nicely. It was a fun and easy read and I really enjoyed it. The characters were so great and likable.

Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC of this book.

This is my first time reading a book written by Shelley Shepard Gray so I wasn't sure what to expect. What I found was an excellent story about characters who felt real and seemed to have real problems and real emotions. The characters and setting are absolutely charming and I especially enjoyed Sam and Kayla's connection. The poker tips were also a nice touch. I will definitely be checking out the next book in the Bridgeport Social Club..

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.

Kurt Holland is a good man. He leaves his home, friends and business in West Virginia to move his younger brother, a senior in high school, to Bridgeport, Ohio, giving Sam a good education as well as space from their difficult father. Emily Springer, meanwhile, is a good woman. Sam Holland’s English teacher, she is a caring and compassionate member of the community, a wonderful friend and a woman worthy of Kurt’s many appealing qualities. Also, Sam Holland is a good kid, an excellent student and not one to stand by while his crush, Kayla Everett (another good kid) is victimized with a little light invasion of privacy. All these good people live in a good, if unmapped, town and it is all very, very good, because sometimes all you want is to be able to cheer for uncomplicatedly nice people who deserve to be happy. And that is exactly what this book gives us all. – Clara Shipman

This review appears in Romantic Intentions Quarterly #2, out July 3

This was my first book by Shelley and I must say I was pleasantly surprised. I was given an advanced copy but it had no bearing on my review. The characters jumped off the page and I enjoyed seeing them develop throughout the book. I really liked that I got to see the lives of more than 2 characters, the side characters added so much to this story. I'm a teacher so I could identify with Emily. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series. This was a great read.

A sweet story set in Bridgeport. We get to know Kurt and Emily as she is about break her #1 rule ... no dating a students’ parent (since he’s an older brother ... does that count?) and Sam and Kayla - two high school students who begin a romance when he moves to town. I loved how we got to see this entire family grow independently as well as a couple in this quaint town of Bridgeport. Kurt and Sam have a lot to learn about their new dynamics while Emily has to learn about opening her heart to trust men again. Kurt starts a poker game in his garage which turns into the “Social Club” and when Emily shows up to crash the “party” I found myself laughing out loud. This was my first book by Gray and it most certainly won’t be my last. I loved the depth of her characters as well as the dynamics of the families. I enjoyed reading this story from all of the characters points of view.

I was gifted an ecopy of this book from NetGalley by Blackstone Publishing for an honest review.

Kurt has moved to Ohio from W. Virginia to give his brother, Sam, a chance to go to college. Sam has an altercation with a classmate, resulting in the school calling Kurt. During the meeting with the principal, Kurt meets Emily, Sam's English teacher. There is an immediate attraction, but...

This was a sweet, touching story about family , relationships and life.
Kurt Holland has left the home he’s known all his life, so his younger brother, Sam, can get a chance at a better school and hopefully, a scholarship to get into college. Kurt wants Sam to have all the opportunities he didn’t . When he is called to the principal’s office of Sam’s school, Kurt meets his English teacher Emily.
Throughout the story we get a chance to see how these characters deal with relationships, obstacles and life in general. As the author tells the reader, “life is a lot like playing poker” . It’s about taking chances because not taking them might hinder us from achiever greatness.
It would have been a 5 star if it had not ended so abruptly. I went back a few pages to see if I had missed something.
A lot of unanswered questions were left up in the air. An epilogue would that tied up all the lose ends should have been written.
I was entrusted this copy by Netgalley . The opinions expressed are solely my own.

I really enjoyed this heart warming story.

I liked the idea that the older brother took over responsibility for his younger brother when their mother died and their father was overwhelmed with grief. It was refreshing to see that the premise of the book wasn't just about taking a chance on love.

Taking a chance on love was an important step for both brothers, but there were other life choices they had to step out in faith on. I won't spoil the discovery for you though.

This book is a nice, comfy kind of read. The kind that gives you the warm fuzzy feeling. The characters are very likable and I found myself willing for them to have their happily ever after.

I didn't care for the ending. I felt like it stopped abruptly. I get that this is going to be a series so there was bound to be a cliffhanger of an ending to entice us to buy the next book, but it didn't feel like this was a cliffhanger ending. It was more an explanation of why the book was called Take A Chance.

I liked the book. I would encourage others to buy it. The ending is but a small part of the book. I hope you choose to pick up a copy, it really is a great heartwarming story.

A new series by Shelley Sheppard Gray that is captivating! She immediately draws you into the characters’ lives leaving you feeling you have known them as your personal friends.

After the death of their mother, and a father who has “checked out” emotionally, adult brother, Kurt, brings his younger brother, Sam, from West Virginia to start a new life in Ohio.

Sam is a highly intelligent student on the path to full scholarships for college, but Kurt feels he will have a better chance to receive these by going to school in a larger area. Sam’s teacher/advisor, Emily, takes a special interest in Sam’s education. She meets Kurt and interest is sparked.

Love of family, friends and relationships launch this series into one I can’t wait to read the remaining books.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing in exchange for my honest review. I highly recommend this book to those who like to read clean, contemporary romance.

Kurt and Sam are new to Bridgeport the idea is too keep there heads down and get Sam into the best college. Emily is leery of almost all men she's had her taste of bad relationship. She sees the potential in Sam to do great things, but can she help Sam and keep her whits about her.

I will start off saying I thought this book was just like Shelley's other books and that its was a christian book and I will say that is not the case. This book does have some curse words as well as some sexual induendos though out the book. Now that being said this book was a very sweet read I really enjoyed the fun characters and how they just seemed to be flawed and broken but will stop at nothing to better their own lives and well as those lives around them. I really enjoyed how Sam and Kay played a big part in this book along with Kurt and Sam. I think in the end I was left wanting more wondering what was next for all of the characters, I understand this is a series so I hope they will appear in the other book. Over all I would recommend this book for anyone over 13. It was a sweet story and well worth the read.

This new series from Shelley Shepard Gray is great. If you like light reading with a great story this is a book for you.

Take a Chance ( Bridgeport Social Club #1 )
By: Shelley Shepard Gray
Take a Chance is book one in Bridgeport Social Club new series. The author is very talented and I have read some of her other books and loved them. I like to call the main character a hero. He is the guardian to his brother. The heroine was a school teacher and loves what she does. I would have to say it does have some curse words in it that I didn’t like and was surprised by them. This book is filled with love , warmth, and belief. I would say that I would read book two in this new series.
I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Interesting romance and family tale. Nice seeing southern gentlemen still opening doors, defending a woman's honor, etc. Left hanging at the end, even though some issues are resolved. It is the beginning of a series, so even though future ones will feature other characters in this story, I am hoping for more references to these first main characters as their lives progress. The poker hints at the beginning of each chapter are entertaining. Not a poker player, but familiar with the concept. I am interested to read more in this series.

As you can see from the cover of the book this is a different genre from Ms. Gray, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Am I fan of her Amish and Historical fiction novels? Absolutely. I can now say that I am definitely a fan of her contemporary romance novels, too!

This is was an easy book for me to get interested in because it’s about the importance of family and friends and how sometimes those relationships can be complicated, especially when an older sibling takes on the responsibility of a younger sibling. Which is why I instantly loved Kurt Holland because he was willing to take a chance by moving from West Virginia to Ohio hoping to provide a better life for his younger brother, Sam.

The message of taking chances is woven throughout the story. By moving, by starting a new business and by making new friends. None of those things are very easy to do, but sometimes you have to be willing to do what you feel is right for your family. It made me think about where we would be and who would be in our lives if we never took a chance and how it’s not always easy, but sometimes necessary.

I loved how respectful Kurt and Sam are to the members of their new community and that they are both gentlemen with their new love interests. They have strong values which is something I appreciate in this book.
It was a pleasure to see that the Bridgeport Social Club was more about building friendships and less about playing poker, not that I have anything against anyone poker because I don’t.

Overall, I thought this was a wonderful beginning to Ms. Grays new series. The storyline was interesting and the characters are easy to like for the simple reason, they are portrayed in a realistic way. They are not perfect, they face issues that most of us face in our lives and yes, they do use colorful language occasionally because they are written as normal human beings. I look forward to reconnecting with Kurt, Sam, Emily and their friends as well as meeting new characters in the second book, All In.

I received an ARC from the publisher through Netgalley. I was under no obligation to write a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

Not your typical Shelley Shepard Gray novel but definitely a 4 star worthy novel that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready for another novel by her. I was captivated from the start and definitely loved every second of this page turner!

Take a Chance is the first book I have read by Shelley Shepard Gray. I really have enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it. This certainly goes into my re read pile. I love the characters and the journey to HEA. The story deals with real life issues and I appreciate how the author deals with them. Thank you NetGalley and publisher letting me read an early copy.

I was excited to see that Shelley Shepard Gray had begun writing contemporary romance books. A longtime fan of hers I was even more excited to receive an advance copy of the book. I mean, who really wants to wait on a book from one of their favorite authors? Anyhow, as soon as I began reading this book I knew I was going to enjoy it. Shelley Shepard Gray was meant to write in this genre.

I'm happy that SSG decided to break into the genre with a story about two brothers trying to start new lives in a new state. The story, about ordinary people just living their lives, was so easy to relate to and easy to read. I liked the supporting cast of characters (for the most part) and can't wait to see what happens in their lives.

One of my favorite parts of the story was the quotes and book excerpts that began each chapter. Although these weren't critical to the story I found them entertaining and a bit of a clue as to what was going to happen in the chapter. I hope this is something that is included in the other books in the series.

This book is a great beginning to a series from one of my favorite authors and I highly recommend it to fans of contemporary fiction/romance. It is a fast, easy read and one I can see myself reading again.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.

With his brother, Sam's agreement, Kurt becomes Sam's guardian and moves them to Ohio from West Virginia to give Sam hope for a better future. Sam is very bright and hopes to be the first person in their family to go to college. Kurt takes a risk and opens a landscaping business. Sam and Kurt are both sweet hardworking men. Things start rough for Sam when he defends Kayla's honor at school but it is the start of a sweet romance. In turn, Kurt falls for Emma, Sam's English teacher. This is a story of relationships between the brothers and building new relationships. All the main characters are taking a chance. I receive a free copy off this book from the publisher through Netgallery. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. I enjoyed reading this book. The poker advice at the beginning of each chapter tying to the characters’ lives is interesting. The romances are sweet and not always smooth. I recommend that you take a chance and read this book.

I really enjoyed this story. It's written from four different POVs but I never found myself confused. The story had a nice easy flow to it and I really liked these characters. Kurt and Sam Holland are brothers that are just looking for a better life. What they find is friends, love, and the opportunity to go after all the good life has to offer. This is a wonderful heartwarming story that I highly recommend.

I could see the title of this book resonating with so many of the characters presented, and it sure applied.
The author shows us that there are so many ways that you have to take a chance, and it isn’t always the right decision.
While I may not agree with all choices that are made we are shown a lot of different characters, both likeable and unfortunately bullies. I did like the manners that these southern boys showed.
This is a story that made me think that part could have come from the local headlines, especially with the coal mines.

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Blackstone, and was not required to give a positive review.

Take a Chance by Shelley Shepard Gray was about Kurt Holland who moved to Bridgeport, Ohio to give his brother Sam a better chance of getting a scholarship to college. Sam is super smart and the school he had been in suggested he get into a better school to enable him to be better prepared for college. Kurt put his savings into a new landscaping business, bought a house, and learned how to fulfill the role as Sam's guardian. When Sam got into trouble at school, Kurt met Emily, which was Sam's English teacher as well as his advisor. He felt something for her from the start but was it advisable to care about your brother's teacher. A sweet clean story about taking a chance on a new experience of life. I received an advance copy of this book for my honest review.

First read by this author.. Story of second chance at life

Kurt moves to Bridgeport with his younger brother to give Sam a better chance at a good education Emily is a teacher at Sam's school and when Sam gets in some trouble Kurt has to come and deal with. He wasn't looking for anything but was smitten with Emily. Emily is getting over a bad relationship so she isnt looking either . But when they can't stay away from each other can they give this an honest try or will circumstances tear them apart

Looking forward to book 2 in this series

This book is quite different from other ones I’ve read by this author. While her prior books looked to the past, focusing on post civil-war days, or to the Amish culture, this book was thoroughly modern. I thought it was odd that there were poker tips at the beginning of each chapter until I realized this whole series will center around the “Bridgeport Social Club” (a.k.a. men’s poker night). While I haven’t played much poker, I have played a lot of cards and I know the kind of camaraderie that is built around the card table. It’ll be fun to see how this plays out in the series.
Kurt and Sam Holland are great characters. They’re new to Ohio and still live by their southern values which include protecting the women in their lives. They are chivalrous even when it gets them in trouble. Whenever I pictured Kurt, I saw and heard Donnie Wahlberg. He’s not going to put up with any nonsense.
This book gives a gentle reminder that sometimes the results don’t matter as much as just getting out there and trying. It’s a book about being content with who you are as well as not letting others try to define or limit who you are. It’s about love and friendship and helping each other through the rough spots of life. I enjoyed it.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and Netgalley for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.

This was a pretty good book. It had lots of components to it. A brother trying to do what's best for his brother. A dad who doesn't think his kid to get ahead too much. The younger brother (Sam) learns his old school (where he got straight A's) had some gaps in it's education and was struggling to keep up in the new school. The older brother (Kurt) starting to date his teacher. Lots of light drama and learning to deal with new circumstances. A good decent book

I have read all of Shelley Shepard Gray's Amish books and all of her western series which are in the Christian category. When I saw Take a Chance the first book in the Bridgeport Social Club series on Netgalley I knew I wanted to read it because of the author. It was not listed in the Christian category and the reason was the book had quite a bit of profanity in it by the main male hero in the story. The heroine did not curse any. Normally I would give this book a four star rating but because of the profanity I will have to ding it and give the rating a 3 star. I was at least happy that the hero did not take God's name in vain or use the F word.

This story involved two love stories. There is recently moved to town landscaper Kurt Holland and school teacher Emily Springer. Also there is the story of Kurt's teen brother Sam and his girlfriend Kayla. I really like Sam and Kayla's story. I love how he stood up for her and protected her when some bullies tooks some pictures of her in the locker room and spread them all over the school. I loved how she was able to cry on his shoulder.

I really enjoyed this story but would have enjoyed it better had it not been for the cussing that was not necessary in this story. Thanks to Netgalley and Blackstone Publishers for allowing me to read the digital copy of this book. The opinions are my own and I was not compensated at all. This book will be released September 18, 2018.

I have been reading Shelley Shepard Gray for years (though not her Amish novels) and so I was super excited to see that she had written a contemporary romance (that was not Amish)! Let’s just say, this book was a bit of a surprise. My thoughts:

What I liked

The characters. I liked Kurt who had so much faith and love for his brother that he would pick up and move for him. Heroes who sacrifice their dreams and desires for others are always a win in my book. Also, Kurt learns to establish male friendships which I think is not something that is necessarily addressed for men past the age of high school. You could begin to see where the series was going with the different men that Kurt knew. I liked Sam, who even though he struggled a bit with the move, recognized and appreciated his brother. I liked Emily who isn’t one to just take stuff. She’s a tough cookie, but in a good way. This was definitely a more character driven novel than plot driven, but the characters were such that you didn’t mind being in their heads. And sometimes it’s nice to read a book about relationship dynamics be it father-son, brother-brother, or teacher-guardian.

The writing. I’ve already alluded to this, but the story, though it’s not complicated, does a lovely job of pulling you in.

The romance. While it wasn’t exactly a forbidden romance, it was a romance that was tinged with possible overtones. You can see Kurt and Emily’s hesitation and reluctance, and that’s what makes it sweeter as they are constantly thrown together. Kurt and Emily worked well together and even though they had their miscommunications and frustrations, those were not the things that drove the book.

What I didn’t like

This is not exactly what I didn’t like, but more like what I didn’t expect. Obviously, I approached Gray’s novel expecting a christian contemporary and while this book was clean and the characters mentioned church…I’m not sure about the christian (at least not mature christians, yes, let’s say that). I’m not knocking the book for this per se, just saying that my expectation was one thing, and what I read was another.

Romantic scale: 8

Overall, I enjoyed this book because Shelley Shepard Gray is a fabulous writer. I’m looking forward to book two.

**I received a copy from Netgalley. My opinion was not affected in anyway.**

I feel a little bad for the reviews this book is getting.  A lot of the negative comments are based on what the readers expected from the book, which is for it to be like the author's previous religious love stories.  They are understandably a bit upset that instead they got a "clean" contemporary romance that included cursing and more amorous moments than her previous books.  I'm there with them that when a book is not what you thought it would be, it will usually lower the enjoyment of it.  And I can even see why they would expect a certain thing if that is what the author always delivered before.  (Who doesn't get a little thrown when a favorite author changes things up significantly?) 

Fortunately for me, I didn't come in with any expectations and I really enjoyed it.  

Gray's writing is very smooth, which made for an easy read, and I found myself engrossed in the characters and everyone's lives.  There are actually 4 POVs for this story - Kurt, Emily, Sam, and his classmate Kay.  They all come across as super realistic and have to deal with some pretty difficult situations. 

Take a Chance is as much about the Holland boys as it is a love story between Kurt and Emily ... and is all the better for it.    I found myself rooting so much for those two as they try to get their footing in a new situation & a new town, finding love and friendship as well as the hope for something better.  Things aren't easy for them but they deal the best they can, giving readers a wonderfully heartwarming tale.  I'm really looking forward to what Gray has in store for us next.

Take a chance that things will work out if you make a major move. Take a chance that sacrificing for your brother will make his dreams come true. Take a chance that you just might have found the right girl even if she's your brother's teacher. Kurt Holland takes a chance and it's a great romantic read.

Kurt is Sam's big brother and guardian. They've moved from West Virginia to Bridgeport, Ohio, a larger town with a great school system so Sam can have a better chance to earn a scholarship to college. Kurt has put all his savings into a landscaping business that's doing pretty good and a comfortable house but they have left all their friends and their dad who is grieving the loss of his wife and his job. Some days are full of struggles and they aren't sure that it was the right move to take a chance at all.

Sam is having difficulties fitting in at his new school but he has a girl he likes and ends up in trouble defending her honor. Kurt goes to school for a conference with his teacher, Emily Springer. He finds that she is passionate about her students and willing to help Sam succeed. Later, he runs into Emily again, and through their mutual attraction and his loneliness they decide to have a casual dinner date at her apartment.

I really like anything Ms. Gray writes. This is a great 5 star read and part of a series called the Bridgeport Social Club. Thanks to Blackstone Publishing for allowing me to read this book through Netgalley.

Take a Chance

Bridgeport Social Club Series - Book 1


By Shelley Shepard Gray

Blackstone Publishing - September 2018

Contemporary Romance



Kurt Holland had known that there was only one chance for his younger brother to have the opportunity to reach his full potential. So he was now Sam's guardian, and they had moved to start new lives. Sam was in a new school with tougher education that hopefully would mean scholarships. Sam had agreed and was well aware that he needed to study hard and not get into trouble. That was why Kurt was shocked to learn that he had gotten into a fight at school.

Emily Springer could sympathize with Sam's reason for getting into a fight, but as his teacher, and with a zero tolerance for fighting in the school, she couldn't condone it. But Sam was a good kid, and with good intentions, so she was willing to give the extra effort with him. When she meets Kurt, she finds herself fascinated with this man who is willing to give up so much for his younger brother. Kurt and Sam have taken a chance by moving to Bridgeport and Emily definitely wants to take a chance with Kurt.

Take a Chance is a sweet romance with engaging characters struggling with everyday issues. Both Kurt and Sam are trying to adjust to their new surroundings. Finding friends and fitting in is always difficult, but their background seems at first so different than their new neighbors. Luckily, the Bridgeport Social Club, aka poker night, is formed bringing in friends new and old. I enjoyed watching them both grow and adjust. Even better was seeing Kurt and Emily's romance blossom. I look forward to the next story in this series.





Kathy Andrico - KathysReviewCorner.com

Take a Chance by Shelley Shepard Gray is a sweet romance. If you are looking for a romance with a wonderful community, this is the book for you. Readers of romance novels like those of Debbie Macomber would love this book. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

I'm so used to reading Amish fiction by Shelley Shepard Gray that Take a Chance was a nice off the path read. For me, this was a quick read, because I needed to know what was going to happen next. I could feel the emotion in Ms. Gray's writing. And the weekly poker nights with the guys sort of reminded me of an Amish quilting bee, but this time the guys were sharing things amongst each other. I'm' looking forward to reading the next book in this series.

This was a very different venue for Shelley Shepard Gray, and I admire her for pulling it off well! Good story with strong characters and a modern, fresh appeal. What I liked about it was the theme of doing more than is expected of you because you are capable of it...you have a right to live up to your own potential without letting others tell you that you can't do it.
I was given a digital copy of the book without expectation of a review, but I give the review gladly and it is my own opinion.

This review was posted on Amazon, Goodreads and Barnes and Noble. Also posted on Facebook. I have trouble accessing links but I wanted you to know that I favorably reviewed this book.

Have you ever took a chance? Well, if yes, you'll definitely understand the characters in New York Times Bestselling Author, Shelley Shepard Gray's Take a Chance, the first book in the Bridgeport Social Club series. Unlike her Amish or historical fiction I'm familiar with, this will be my first contemporary romance from the author. So, you can say I took a chance there too. I'm glad I did.

Take a Chance is about life and the unexpected, and how the characters journey through. A story that asks readers to dig deeper and think about what they would do if they were put in the same situation. Though not inspirational or categorize as Christian Fiction, the author did not deviate from putting a purpose and theme in Take a Chance. From relationships between family to community and aspects of bullying, this is one story that takes a chance, and I think you should too.


For my clean readers, please note there are slight profanity in this book.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.

This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.

This was a great story about Kurt and his brother, Sam, who left their home so that Sam could get a chance at a better life. Kurt meets Emily when Sam runs into trouble at school and they just click from the very start.

I really liked that both Kurt and Sam were such gentlemen and treated their women with respect and had such manners to all.

Lots of drama was involved as Sam and Kayla kept having to deal with the photo that was passed around school which lead Sam to keep getting into trouble. I only wish that Garrett had got punished for his part in this as it seemed like he got away with this.

More drama as old friends and family come to visit and some visits are good and another pretty bad. I hope that in the future books that we continue to hear about Sam and how he is doing and keep updated with Emily and Kurt! I am looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series.

Ok, I have to confess, I received this book back when I went to Book Con! I regret that I waited so long to read this! What was I thinking? I received the digital copy from Netgalley after that and actually read that copy. You can get your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BS53X75/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

This book is a love story with a life lesson hidden along the way. It is something that a guy could also get into. It isn't as cheesy as I like my love stories, but it was a really good read! We begin this with a Tip for Beginning Poker Player's. It then takes us to the Principal's office. Kurt had just gotten guardianship of his brother, Sam. Kurt was at work when he got the call about Sam's fight. Kurt was astonished that this involved Sam. Sam was everything that Kurt was not- friendly, clean-cut, smart and he had their mother's goodness. Sam was defending Kayla Everett, a cheerleader who had her photo taken in the locker room in her bra. Garret had forwarded this photo all over the school. Despite him defending her honor, Sam was punished with a one day school suspension. Once Kurt finds out all the implications of being suspended truly means, he pursues the change of punishment, as he was sticking up for another student and did not throw the first punch. Unfortunately, Sam wants to just take the suspension and move on, Kurt submits. Sam soon learns that the school that he attended in West Virginia where he was top of the class wasn't the best school when he comes to Ohio and needs to get help in some subjects. He ends up getting some tutoring by his counselor, also one of his teachers. His brother ends up being quite the Guardian with little experience. The two end up learning quite a lot from each other and about each other. Kurt wasn’t there for him when Sam was little, it was just their mom that did most of the raising with their dad in the mines all day working. We learn about taking matters into our own hands to handle them, when others won’t, sometimes you just need to handle your business! I thoroughly enjoyed this book! There were so many moments where I stopped and thought- hmm my son is almost a teenage boy, if I were in those shoes, what would I do? Did I also mention that my son’s name is also Sam? Yeah, so this book really made me stop, think and woah baby. I better get my seat-belt changed to a harness for the teen years! I really think I am going to need it! The ending is the hug we all need in this social distancing era.