Best Book of August 2025: Betting on You
Betting on You by Lynn Painter mini book review and recommendation with NO SPOILERS
Date: 9-29-25 Post Written By: MK Overall Rating: 8.9/10
Book Cover Rating: 5.8/10
(My personal opinion)
Title: Betting on You
Author: Lynn Painter
Pages: 432
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary Romance
Romance Level: 2/3 (no spice, but prominent part of plot)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
First Published: 2023
Goodreads Rating: 4.12/5
Amazon Rating: 4.3/5
Common Sense Media Age Recommendation: 14+
Movie/TV Show?? : No
Book Type: Standard
Hook: Technically Bailey and Charlie met on their long flight solo from Alaska to Omaha. Both of them have divorced parents. Unfortunately, that is where the similarities end. Bailey’s lasting impression of Charlie is that he is an annoying, bothersome person with too much ego. Charlie’s lasting impression of Bailey is that she has very large glasses, is needy, and is way too much of a perfectionist.
Years after this flight, Bailey applies to a new job. Then, she sees someone she recognizes. Charlie. Applying to the exact same job. Somehow, they both not only get the job, but come to the realization that they will be working together for the next few months. Unfortunately, it’s not that easy for them. Bailey is struggling to feel important to both of her individual parents as they navigate new relationships as well. Charlie knows exactly how this feels. On top of that, they both make bets they regret. Bets that might not only break friendships- but hearts as well.
My Review
Lynn Painter certainly does not disappoint! I loved this sweet, young adult romance. Bailey and Wes were super fun, unique characters. They had a GREAT level of growth and decent depth. The few side characters were super fun too! When it comes to the plot itself… this wasn’t one of those books with a great plot and a romance along with it. There was some outside plot, but the vast majority of this novel was teenage romance oriented. In my opinion, I would have loved a bit more plot depth because too much romance drama can be very draining and unnecessary, but to be fair, it could’ve been worse. I’ve read PLENTY of books with even shallower and more overdone drama. This was really my only complaint! Other than that I REALLY enjoyed this book. It was a super easy, engaging read. It felt VERY similar to Better Than the Movies and Nothing Like the Movies in many of these regards. I would definitely recommend it for anyone who enjoys sweet romances to get lost in.
Overall Book Rating: 8.9/10
I would obviously recommend this book
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Lynn Painter loves rom-coms and writing romance novels
She writes books targeted towards tweens, teens, and adults
For more information, view Lynn Painter’s website: lynnpainter.com
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