Play to Win is the story of Miri, who has hit a low point in life. Her husband left eight years ago, she struggles to provide for her mom and herself, and their landlord is the worst. On a whim, she decides to buy a lottery ticket and everything changes. After the initial shock, she realizes that because she is still married, her estranged husband could sue her for the winnings. Her lawyer advises her to make contact and offer him a set amount in exchange for a divorce. But that will require reaching out to the man who left that she may still have feelings for…

Jodie Slaughter writes excellent, steamy, can’t-put-it-down romance! I gulped this book down like candy. Miri is such a great protagonist and I loved how determined and grounded she was. Even when she won the lottery, she prioritized taking care of the people who had always been there for her. Slaughter’s dialogue is hilarious and feels realistic. I loved that Miri is bisexual and that Leo is such an accepting partner. Miri’s mom was also wonderful- forever looking out for her daughter and protecting her. I enjoyed the cameos of Aja and Walker from Bet On It. 

Leo and Miri have scorching chemistry, along with a mess of tangled emotions about who they once were. They grew up together and married young, which made things even worse when Leo left. Leo meanwhile has been missing out on his family in town, including his adorable nephews. Leo and Miri slowly dance around each other, taking steps to work through their shared trauma, before finally rushing towards each other in a satisfying conclusion. I can’t wait to read what Jodie Slaughter writes next! Readers who love complex second-chance romance will devour this book. 

Thank you to Jodie Slaughter, St. Martin’s Griffin, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.