Gamble

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Gamble: One Champion Wins

Thank you to Z Jeffries and StoryOrigin for providing me with a copy for an honest review!

As per the usual style, Z Jeffries drops readers right into the middle of a game. But there is a new twist that barrels towards Harla, and with it launches a new angle for the series. After an explosive conclusion to the opening game, Harla is faced with a tough decision that will change her life. Gamble: One champion Wins, will push Harla and Chase to their limits as they try to navigate the new rules of the game.

Much of the story departs from the thrill of being in the midst of a game. Instead it focuses on the characters. And I loved every minute of it. The main focus is on Harla, as the title alludes to and through her we see Chase's development as well. Harla may be top of her league, but that doesn't mean she isn't faced with challenges in her everyday life. Digging into her family dynamics and what drives her to be so passionate was eye opening. But outside forces are also working against Harla, and it will drive her to the lowest point in her life. As with any good story, the harder a character falls the more rewarding it is to watch them redeem themselves. And Harla's story was the best yet in the Hide & Seek series.

Z Jeffries is a writer who includes a diverse cast of characters and representations. He's written into Chase's story some heavier hitting themes. Chase struggles to realize when a relationship is unhealthy and how it has affected his actions. He also comes to understand the strength it takes to open up to family members about being part of the LGBTQ community. There are a wealth of emotions that Chase and other characters cycle through as they come to terms with aspects of their lives, relationships and who they are as the story progresses. And it is all written in a tactful way to present it to all ages.

The Hide & Seek series gets better and better with each book. And I can't wait to see how the next will develop the story.