Review: The 12 Step Program (Book #1) by Kay Springsteen (Goodreads Author), Kim Bowman

Print Length: 210 pages

Publisher: EsKape Press (July 25, 2017)

From Goodreads.com: Lucy Adams is a serial romantic. Or rather, she's made a habit of falling in and out of bad relationships that always start with her finding the man of her dreams and ends with her kicking him to the curb. After her latest breakup, her best friend and neighbor Tom Henson bets her she can't go thirty days without a date. Nothing like a friendly wager to make things interesting. But when the game changes, all bets are off...

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My Rating: 4 stars out of 5

This was a cute, and quick read that would be perfect for a relaxing day at the beach, or poolside. I feel like Lucy is a character that a lot of people can relate to, everyone knows someone like her. Someone who is for whatever reason afraid of settling down for the long-term. I also liked the way the authors used a variation of the "12 Step Program" to introduce the chapters and to help Lucy come to terms with how her life was going and enable her to identify the changes she needed to make. 

The characters are interesting, the bet itself entertaining (especially once "big blue" got involved), and the ending? Well let's just say that this story does end on a cliffhanger, and the ending perfectly sets it up for the story to continue. 

Speaking about the characters, I loved the chemistry between Lucy and Tom. There was an undeniable spark and attraction there, even if they were too blind to realize it at first. I do think some elements of this story could have been handled better, especially when certain truths come to light, but even that did not take away from my enjoyment of this story. 

Overall, I am sure this story will appeal to those who enjoy quick, romantic reads. The only thing that might turn some readers off is the fact that this story DOES end on a cliff-hanger. I would continue with this series, and read more from these authors. 

DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.

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                           The 12 Step Program is available from Amazon.com