Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite

In Dealer's Choice by Mayo Lucas, Caroline Cooper seeks escape from her mundane life in her antebellum home, even years after the war has ended. When her brother's gambling debt leads him to commit suicide, she impulsively joins professional gambler Jack Transomb on his journey to California, sharing the same cabin with him in the boat. Despite initial reluctance, Caroline is captivated by the colorful world of riverboat gambling. The meeting with a fellow female gambler, Simone Jules, challenges everything she ever thought about independence. Simone advises her to be brave and bold and to take control of her life. Caroline sees her as a sign, and Simone's words move her to embrace the opportunity. Along the way, she meets the enigmatic DeForest “Preacher” Atchison, forming a bond with him that defies explanation. As Caroline learns more about the gambling game, she faces challenges, including accusations of cheating and confrontations with old acquaintances.

Set against the backdrop of 19th-century gambling culture, Dealer's Choice is a tale of love, hardship, and self-discovery as Caroline undertakes a tumultuous journey from privilege to the unpredictable streets of San Francisco. The characters are intriguing and multi-dimensional. The dialogues are well-written, creating drama that makes the narrative engaging. It is interesting to follow Caroline as she transitions from her initial anger and skepticism to curiosity and vulnerability. At the same time, Jack oscillates between charm, assertiveness, and genuine concern for Caroline's well-being—several thematic threads run throughout the story, including trust, deception, and the nature of luck. Caroline's experience of being cheated at cards serves as a metaphor for broader themes of disillusionment and the fragility of trust. The book explores the concept of luck as a fleeting and unreliable force, contrasting it with the necessity of skill and strategy in facing life's challenges. The setting aboard a riverboat gives a unique atmosphere to the narrative, characterized by cramped quarters, limited privacy, and a sense of brevity. This setting enhances the tension and intimacy between the characters, intensifying the emotional stakes of their interactions. Mayo Lucas' novel is a beautiful blend of adventure, romance, and a woman's journey to redefine herself against many odds.