This is week two of my new blog feature where I review books I read prior to starting the blog.

Today’s Book: Bet Me by Jennifer Crusie

Publication date: January 1, 2004

Date Read: May 8, 2009

My Rating: 5 Stars

Favorite Quote:

“Your cat just got cat hair on me.” “It’s only fair,” Min said. “Your suit just got expensive suit lint on him.”
― Jennifer Crusie, Bet Me

Goodreads Synopsis:

Minerva Dobbs knows that happily-ever-after is a fairy tale, especially with a man who asked her to dinner to win a bet. Even if he is gorgeous and successful Calvin Morrisey. Cal knows commitment is impossible, especially with a woman as cranky as Min Dobbs. Even if she does wear great shoes and keeps him on his toes. When they say good-bye at the end of their evening, they cut their losses and agree never to see each other again.

But Fate has other plans, and it’s not long before Min and Cal meet again. Soon, they’re dealing with a jealous ex-boyfriend, Krispy Kreme donuts, a determined psychologist, chaos theory, a freakishly intelligent cat, Chicken Marsala, and more risky propositions than either of them ever dreamed of. Including the biggest gamble of all—true love.

My Thoughts:

This was one of the first books I discovered on goodreads. It was number one on a list of contemporary romances. It’s been fourteen years since I read Bet Me, and nearly twenty since it was published. It’s still the book I use as the standard for all other humorous contemporary romances. I was shocked to see how long ago I read it, because so many of the scenes are still so clear to me. This book is so funny, yet the romance is touching. Years later, there are still scenes that melt my heart just thinking about them. I love it when characters show small gestures that make them perfect for each other, like when Cal pulls a spoon out of his jacket for MIn’s ice cream.