Winner Takes All

January 4, 2021
Kitt (Fearless Men) explores the complications of interracial dating in this steamy but uneventful romance. Multiracial Black woman Jean Travis often struggles to sort out who actually wants to date her versus those who just see her as exotic. But race is the furthest thing from her mind when Patrick Bennett, her white high school crush, wins the lottery and Jean is tasked with presenting him with his prize on behalf of the mayor’s office, her employers. Despite the life-changing circumstances under which the pair reconnect, the second chance romance that follows is remarkably low-key. The only threats to Patrick and Jean’s budding relationship are Jean’s insecurities about interracial dating and some minor complications with Patrick’s newfound wealth. Though Kitt’s mellow story offers plenty of pleasant escapism, readers will likely grow frustrated that Jean seems to exist solely to help Patrick adjust to being a multimillionaire; her own career ambitions and emotional struggles take a backseat to his. Still for fans of breezy romances with plenty of heat, this will be just the right kind of fluff. Agent: Lisa Vance, Aaron M. Priest Literary.

February 1, 2021
A woman is reunited with her high school crush after he wins the lottery. Jean Travis lives a quiet life in Brooklyn, with a satisfying job at the mayor's office. One night, she's asked to manage a press conference for local lottery winners. The winner of the $75 million prize is Patrick Bennett, the boy she tutored in high school. Patrick is a former professional baseball player and currently co-hosts a sports commentary show on ESPN. He immediately recognizes Jean and asks her to attend a party after the press conference. Jean is cautious but can't resist Patrick's charm and sincere interest. Patrick's life is completely upended by the lottery win, and it seems like everyone is looking for a handout. Jean's soothing presence and calm advice help him manage the new challenges he faces. Kitt is a romance legend, with a stately, old-fashioned storytelling style. Jean and Patrick are both decent and dignified people trying to do the right thing and make the world a better place. There is remarkably little drama between the two, just a slow-paced exploration of how having a partner can make life's challenges easier to bear. A late-stage plot development involving Patrick's ex-wife shifts the focus away from his romance with Jean in the last third of the novel. A gentle, soothing, low-conflict romance.

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