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Bet's Christmas Gamble
A Stalker Romantic Suspense (Standalone, No Cliffhanger)
Readers' Favorite 5-Star Award Winner From the 2025 Chanticleer Award Finalist Author of the Evanston Series
She's spent years hiding in plain sight.
Now the man she loves is pulling her into the light…
and straight into a killer's crosshairs.
"A thrilling romance overflowing with suspense and intrigue… a compelling tale of desire, hope, and love."
— Readers' Favorite (5-Star Award Winner)
Betty "Bet" Murphy has loved Garrett Hawthorn since she was seventeen. Now she works at his tech company under a false name, determined to prove herself on her own terms and keep her heart out of reach.
She thought she was invisible.
She was wrong.
Garrett is done waiting. The company gala isn't just a celebration. It's his last chance to tell Bet exactly how he feels.
But someone else has been watching her.
Someone obsessed.
Someone with a very different plan.
When stolen files, surveillance photos, and escalating threats force Garrett to bring Bet into his home, everything changes. Boundaries blur. Desire ignites. Secrets unravel.
And the danger is getting closer.
As it closes in, Bet must risk everything. Her job. Her safety. And the heart she's spent years protecting.
Because some gambles aren't just about love.
They're about survival.
What readers are
"This book has taken my heart hostage. So much more than a romance. The thriller, stalking, and violence are written brilliantly."
— Anny D., 5-star review, Verified Purchase
"The intimacy feels earned, the fear feels real, and the emotional payoff is completely satisfying."
— Mary, 5-star review, Verified Purchase
"Candy is one heck of a character. Her scenes had me turning pages and holding my breath."
— Emma, 5-star review, Verified Purchase
Why readers are obsessed with the Evanston
Stalker Thriller Tension — Subterfuge, deception, and twists you won't see comingFriends to Lovers — A slow-burn love story years in the makingForced Proximity — One house. No escape. Nowhere to hideSmall-Town Montana Stakes — Loyalty, danger, and justice in the rugged WestPerfect for fans Alpha heroes who fall hard • Friends to lovers • Forced proximity • Romantic suspense with heart • “Touch her and die”
Content Stalking, violence, and references to past abuse. Guaranteed HEA.
The shadows are closing in.
This time, there’s nowhere left to hide.
Readers' Favorite 5-Star Award Winner From the 2025 Chanticleer Award Finalist Author of the Evanston Series
She's spent years hiding in plain sight.
Now the man she loves is pulling her into the light…
and straight into a killer's crosshairs.
"A thrilling romance overflowing with suspense and intrigue… a compelling tale of desire, hope, and love."
— Readers' Favorite (5-Star Award Winner)
Betty "Bet" Murphy has loved Garrett Hawthorn since she was seventeen. Now she works at his tech company under a false name, determined to prove herself on her own terms and keep her heart out of reach.
She thought she was invisible.
She was wrong.
Garrett is done waiting. The company gala isn't just a celebration. It's his last chance to tell Bet exactly how he feels.
But someone else has been watching her.
Someone obsessed.
Someone with a very different plan.
When stolen files, surveillance photos, and escalating threats force Garrett to bring Bet into his home, everything changes. Boundaries blur. Desire ignites. Secrets unravel.
And the danger is getting closer.
As it closes in, Bet must risk everything. Her job. Her safety. And the heart she's spent years protecting.
Because some gambles aren't just about love.
They're about survival.
What readers are
"This book has taken my heart hostage. So much more than a romance. The thriller, stalking, and violence are written brilliantly."
— Anny D., 5-star review, Verified Purchase
"The intimacy feels earned, the fear feels real, and the emotional payoff is completely satisfying."
— Mary, 5-star review, Verified Purchase
"Candy is one heck of a character. Her scenes had me turning pages and holding my breath."
— Emma, 5-star review, Verified Purchase
Why readers are obsessed with the Evanston
Stalker Thriller Tension — Subterfuge, deception, and twists you won't see comingFriends to Lovers — A slow-burn love story years in the makingForced Proximity — One house. No escape. Nowhere to hideSmall-Town Montana Stakes — Loyalty, danger, and justice in the rugged WestPerfect for fans Alpha heroes who fall hard • Friends to lovers • Forced proximity • Romantic suspense with heart • “Touch her and die”
Content Stalking, violence, and references to past abuse. Guaranteed HEA.
The shadows are closing in.
This time, there’s nowhere left to hide.
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 17, 2025
2 people are currently reading
973 people want to read
About the author
Ann Dunbar
3 books40 followersAnn Dunbar is a romantic suspense author and a 2025 Chanticleer International Book Awards Finalist (CHATELAINE – Romance & Women’s Fiction) for Áine’s Salvation.
She writes emotionally charged romances where love isn’t always safe, but it is always worth the risk. Her stories explore survival, second chances, and the kind of connection that is fought for and earned.
Set against the rugged beauty of Montana, Ann’s books blend small-town warmth with high-stakes tension, danger, and deeply emotional romance.
Her novels include Starting Over in Montana, Áine’s Salvation, and Bet’s Christmas Gamble, with more stories on the way.
When she’s not immersed in fiction, Ann can usually be found with a cup of coffee nearby, dreaming up new stories of love, resilience, and redemption.
Readers can stay connected through Ann’s newsletter for sneak peeks, giveaways, and behind-the-scenes updates:
https://anndunbarauthor.ec.page/jj1nr
She writes emotionally charged romances where love isn’t always safe, but it is always worth the risk. Her stories explore survival, second chances, and the kind of connection that is fought for and earned.
Set against the rugged beauty of Montana, Ann’s books blend small-town warmth with high-stakes tension, danger, and deeply emotional romance.
Her novels include Starting Over in Montana, Áine’s Salvation, and Bet’s Christmas Gamble, with more stories on the way.
When she’s not immersed in fiction, Ann can usually be found with a cup of coffee nearby, dreaming up new stories of love, resilience, and redemption.
Readers can stay connected through Ann’s newsletter for sneak peeks, giveaways, and behind-the-scenes updates:
https://anndunbarauthor.ec.page/jj1nr
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
November 4, 2025
I had the opportunity to be an ARC reader for Bet’s Christmas Gamble, and I have to say this is Ann Dunbar’s best work yet! This was my first time reading a Christmas romance, and it completely won me over. Bet and Garrett are complex, layered characters, and I connected with them almost immediately. Their chemistry is natural and heartwarming, and I found myself smiling through most of the story. The antagonist added just the right amount of tension (and was just the right amount of unhinged), keeping me guessing about what would happen next. With its blend of romance, suspense, and holiday charm, Bet’s Christmas Gamble is a heartfelt and engaging read that I’ll definitely be revisiting during future holiday seasons!
January 11, 2026
What a fun Christmas read! Not just a sweet one either. Under the strings of twinkling lights and flurries of snow, looms a threat that may just ruin Bet’s chances of love after years of yearning.
This is a standalone with some of the same characters in the Evanston series, my first read in it and I am definitely intrigued to read back and learn about other characters. I love that our heroes are not in their twenties!
Romance and happily ever after's with an undercurrent of danger – lots of Christmas feels, cinnamon spice, candy canes, sparkling dresses, family love and some shockers for heightened emotions! Home cooked comfort all wrapped up in a dazzling, beautiful setting, one can almost smell the hay and feel the cold breeze!
Without giving anything away… Candy is one heck of a character, my absolute favourite, her scenes were exceptional and added exactly what this story needed; with a complexity that'll have you turning pages and holding your breath. The end was bang on.
Grab this book for some cozy vibes, sweet and spicy romance, and hidden threats waiting to be revealed.
This is a standalone with some of the same characters in the Evanston series, my first read in it and I am definitely intrigued to read back and learn about other characters. I love that our heroes are not in their twenties!
Romance and happily ever after's with an undercurrent of danger – lots of Christmas feels, cinnamon spice, candy canes, sparkling dresses, family love and some shockers for heightened emotions! Home cooked comfort all wrapped up in a dazzling, beautiful setting, one can almost smell the hay and feel the cold breeze!
Without giving anything away… Candy is one heck of a character, my absolute favourite, her scenes were exceptional and added exactly what this story needed; with a complexity that'll have you turning pages and holding your breath. The end was bang on.
Grab this book for some cozy vibes, sweet and spicy romance, and hidden threats waiting to be revealed.
March 12, 2026
Ok where do I start with this one two people that have known each other for a very long time when they were kids she thinks he doesn’t k ow that she is working for him but he doesn’t and then of course another childhood friend comes and wants garret as well oh boy the things she does like oh my I was so terrified for garret the love interest is really something it’s amazing it’s romantic and sweet and candy hates it I loved the suspense in this book it kept me reading I didn’t wanna stop even though I had to loved it and waiting for the next
December 27, 2025
What a perfect, entertaining read for over the Christmas period, especially if you like your Christmas romances on the suspenseful, thrilling side.
Bet has been in love with Garret almost all her life. I think she is a character a lot of people will instantly like and relate to. She is hardworking, determined and loyal, however, she second guesses herself and underestimates her own abilities. A lot of this stems from a sad upbringing with her parents, so you can empathise with her feelings. However, she has a terrific group of friends who build her up and see her worth.
Garret also sees Bet for the great woman she is, however he has taken his sweet time wooing her as he believes she needs the time to be ready for something more. Enter trouble. There is no smooth path to love in this story. There is tension and suspense in the form of a deranged stalker and things are going to take a very interesting twists and turns in this story.
All I can say is I loved the ending. But I am not giving anything away, you will have to read it yourself to find out.
Bet has been in love with Garret almost all her life. I think she is a character a lot of people will instantly like and relate to. She is hardworking, determined and loyal, however, she second guesses herself and underestimates her own abilities. A lot of this stems from a sad upbringing with her parents, so you can empathise with her feelings. However, she has a terrific group of friends who build her up and see her worth.
Garret also sees Bet for the great woman she is, however he has taken his sweet time wooing her as he believes she needs the time to be ready for something more. Enter trouble. There is no smooth path to love in this story. There is tension and suspense in the form of a deranged stalker and things are going to take a very interesting twists and turns in this story.
All I can say is I loved the ending. But I am not giving anything away, you will have to read it yourself to find out.
November 28, 2025
Bet and Garrett are amazing in this holiday read. I loved that they both had feelings for I’ve author but never acted on them until Garrett moved her into his house for her own safety. From the feelings we’re able to finally come alive.
This was a great romance with a great story behind it. This us my first read from this author and I absolutely loved it.
This was a great romance with a great story behind it. This us my first read from this author and I absolutely loved it.
January 13, 2026
This was a great story with some of my favorite tropes like friends to lovers and forced proximity. This is an exciting steamy romantic suspense. Bet has always had a "thing" for Garrett. Now she's working at his company and when danger starts lurking around her, he demands that she move into his home. For her safety of course! That's when things start getting really good! This was a great story with some other woman drama that keeps things exciting and suspenseful.
November 29, 2025
I just finished Bet’s Christmas Gamble, and I’m still buzzing from the mix of romance, tension, and that delicious holiday sparkle woven into every chapter. Once again Ann Dunbar nailed a MFC! From the moment I met Bet, I felt her, this woman carrying unspoken feelings and old wounds, trying to stand on her own feet even while her heart keeps drifting back to the same man. Watching her navigate that quiet longing hit me harder than I expected.
Garrett, on the other hand, is the kind of man who makes you want to yell at the page, “Tell her already!” He’s protective without being overbearing, and the way he looks at Bet (even when she keeps trying to stay invisible) is the kind of slow-burn devotion that melts you.
But the story doesn’t just linger in the sweetness. There’s a dark pulse under the surface that kept me constantly alert. The threats, the strange clues, and that growing sense that someone is far too focused on Garrett added a sharp edge to the romance. When circumstances force Bet and Garrett to stay under the same roof, the emotional walls between them finally start cracking, and that’s when the story becomes impossible to put down.
Reading this author feels like watching a Hallmark movie, that vibe between vulnerability and danger. The vivid descriptions that capture your mind and make your imagination fly. The intimacy feels earned, the fear feels real, and the emotional payoff? Completely satisfying. The visual element during the phone chats makes this story more immersive. By the end, I was cheering for Bet to choose herself, choose love, and choose the life she truly deserved.
If you want a holiday story with heat, heart, and a streak of obsession-fueled suspense, this one delivers beautifully.
Garrett, on the other hand, is the kind of man who makes you want to yell at the page, “Tell her already!” He’s protective without being overbearing, and the way he looks at Bet (even when she keeps trying to stay invisible) is the kind of slow-burn devotion that melts you.
But the story doesn’t just linger in the sweetness. There’s a dark pulse under the surface that kept me constantly alert. The threats, the strange clues, and that growing sense that someone is far too focused on Garrett added a sharp edge to the romance. When circumstances force Bet and Garrett to stay under the same roof, the emotional walls between them finally start cracking, and that’s when the story becomes impossible to put down.
Reading this author feels like watching a Hallmark movie, that vibe between vulnerability and danger. The vivid descriptions that capture your mind and make your imagination fly. The intimacy feels earned, the fear feels real, and the emotional payoff? Completely satisfying. The visual element during the phone chats makes this story more immersive. By the end, I was cheering for Bet to choose herself, choose love, and choose the life she truly deserved.
If you want a holiday story with heat, heart, and a streak of obsession-fueled suspense, this one delivers beautifully.
October 20, 2025
Betty/Bet and Garrett has loved each other for years. This Christmas they plan to acknowledge their feelings to each other. Unfortunately, you got a crazy OW who will not let Garrett go and she will do anything to keep him.
The lead couple is lovely. They genuinely like each other and have a wonderful chemistry together. Candy (the OW in her own mind) is just crazy as heck. She is fixated on Garrett and willing to do anything to get him. The author really brings her to life. She definitely makes an impact on the reader.
The storyline pulls you in and you want to keep reading until the very end. This is the first book I have read from this author and it won’t be my last.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The lead couple is lovely. They genuinely like each other and have a wonderful chemistry together. Candy (the OW in her own mind) is just crazy as heck. She is fixated on Garrett and willing to do anything to get him. The author really brings her to life. She definitely makes an impact on the reader.
The storyline pulls you in and you want to keep reading until the very end. This is the first book I have read from this author and it won’t be my last.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 12, 2026
Five stars for Bet's Christmas Gamble
This is a romantic suspense with a cowboy hero. I love that. ❤️
This book centers around the Hawthorne ranch, and the family dynamic is absolutely wonderful.
I also loved the friends to lovers trope, and it was beautifully done.
Garrett Hawthorne and Bet have been childhood friends, and both harbored a secret crush on each other.
Garrett finally decides he wants to make Bet his, so he plans an elaborate company Christmas party, and it's there he hopes to change their relationship from friends to lovers.
But it's not smooth sailing. Outside forces work to break them apart.
This leads me to Candy, the villianess. She works for Garrett and she believes he's hers, and she'll stop at nothing to get him...including getting Bet out of the way at any cost.
Candy was a magnificent character! For me, she was the star of the story.
What an absolutely fantastic book!
I'm a huge fan of Author Ann Dunbar. I'll definitely be picking up the rest of her books.
I highly recommend this book--this series--to all those who love romance novels, especially romantic suspense.
This is a romantic suspense with a cowboy hero. I love that. ❤️
This book centers around the Hawthorne ranch, and the family dynamic is absolutely wonderful.
I also loved the friends to lovers trope, and it was beautifully done.
Garrett Hawthorne and Bet have been childhood friends, and both harbored a secret crush on each other.
Garrett finally decides he wants to make Bet his, so he plans an elaborate company Christmas party, and it's there he hopes to change their relationship from friends to lovers.
But it's not smooth sailing. Outside forces work to break them apart.
This leads me to Candy, the villianess. She works for Garrett and she believes he's hers, and she'll stop at nothing to get him...including getting Bet out of the way at any cost.
Candy was a magnificent character! For me, she was the star of the story.
What an absolutely fantastic book!
I'm a huge fan of Author Ann Dunbar. I'll definitely be picking up the rest of her books.
I highly recommend this book--this series--to all those who love romance novels, especially romantic suspense.
April 24, 2026
🔮A Snow Globe Full of Sparks and Secrets
I walked in nearly blind, expecting nothing more than a charming Christmas romance. And "Inside, the mall feels like stepping into a snow globe" captures exactly how this book wrapped around me. Shimmery, intimate, and utterly spellbinding! Only then it turned into a gorgeously twisted stalker romantic suspense, and I still haven't shaken its tender, magical grip. The multiple first-person POVs are so cinematic, every character breathes right beside you. Save a spot on your shelf any time of the year; this heart-warming beauty was made for rereading!
I walked in nearly blind, expecting nothing more than a charming Christmas romance. And "Inside, the mall feels like stepping into a snow globe" captures exactly how this book wrapped around me. Shimmery, intimate, and utterly spellbinding! Only then it turned into a gorgeously twisted stalker romantic suspense, and I still haven't shaken its tender, magical grip. The multiple first-person POVs are so cinematic, every character breathes right beside you. Save a spot on your shelf any time of the year; this heart-warming beauty was made for rereading!
December 1, 2025
The third book I’ve read by this author, and equally as good as the other two, if not better. The plotting and characters are simply outstanding. Set during a glittering Christmas time in Evanston, it is a beautifully written, heart-stopping romance as Bet and Garrett’s love story unfolds, but with a dangerous villain in the midst things soon take a nasty turn that threatens to destroy the future for the lovers and their families. This was so compelling I didn’t want to put it down!
March 13, 2026
Bet's Christmas Gamble is the third book in the Evanston series. This is a great steamy, exciting, suspenseful romance with great characters. I really enjoyed this romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews