Betting on You

Seventeen-year-old Bailey begins a summer job at a hotel waterpark in her hometown of Omaha, Nebraska, where she unexpectedly crosses paths with Charlie, a boy she once found irritating. Both coming from families affected by divorce, Bailey and Charlie are very different in personality—Bailey is careful and well-behaved, while Charlie is cynical and outspoken. As they work together, their relationship shifts from uneasy acquaintance to friendly banter, especially as they make a playful bet about the romantic lives of their coworkers. Set during a lively summer, the story explores themes of friendship, family dynamics, and young love through Bailey’s point of view. The novel’s warm and relatable portrayal of teenage emotions and the challenges of blended families makes it a charming, wholesome read. The engaging plot, featuring a fake dating scheme and heartfelt moments, offers readers a hopeful look at trust, vulnerability, and the possibility of real connection.