M.K. Moore's Preston's Luck, the fifth installment in The Virgin Surrogates series, is a contemporary romance that explores themes of love, personal growth, and the unexpected turns life can take. This novel delves into the lives of Preston Macfadyen and Tori Baldwin, two individuals with seemingly different goals, who find themselves drawn together in a journey that challenges their initial intentions and desires.

At the heart of the story is Preston Macfadyen, a man who has reached a point in his life where he desires the joy and responsibility of fatherhood without the complications of a traditional marriage. His decision to pursue surrogacy is initially driven by a desire to avoid the pitfalls of a relationship with someone who might be more interested in his wealth than in him as a person. However, Preston's character is more than just a wealthy man seeking a child; he is portrayed as someone who is introspective and yearning for something deeper, even if he doesn't fully realize it at first.

Enter Tori Baldwin, a woman determined to escape her past and build a new life for herself and her sister, along with their three best friends. Tori's character is compelling, as she embodies resilience and determination. Her decision to become a surrogate is not just a means to an end but a stepping stone towards a future she envisions for herself and her loved ones. Tori's journey is one of self-discovery, and her interactions with Preston challenge her to reconsider what she truly wants out of life.

The chemistry between Preston and Tori is palpable from their first meeting, and Moore does an excellent job of building their relationship in a way that feels organic and believable. The initial attraction between them evolves into something deeper, as both characters confront their fears and desires. The narrative effectively captures the tension between their individual goals and the undeniable connection they share.

One of the standout themes in Preston's Luck is the idea that life often gives us what we need rather than what we think we want. Both Preston and Tori start with clear objectives—Preston wanting a child without a wife, and Tori seeking a fresh start—but their journey together reveals that their true desires are more complex. This theme is a common thread in many romance novels, but Moore handles it with a deft touch, allowing the characters' growth to unfold naturally.

Character development is a strong suit of this novel. Preston's transformation from a man who is wary of emotional entanglements to someone who embraces love and commitment is portrayed with nuance. Similarly, Tori's evolution from a woman focused solely on survival to someone open to love and partnership is both inspiring and relatable. Moore's ability to create multidimensional characters who resonate with readers is evident throughout the book.

In terms of writing style, Moore's prose is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to become immersed in the story. The dialogue is sharp and often infused with humor, adding a layer of authenticity to the characters' interactions. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with moments of introspection interspersed with scenes of tension and romance, keeping readers invested in the outcome.

Comparatively, Preston's Luck shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romance novels that explore unconventional paths to love, such as The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang or The Hating Game by Sally Thorne. Like these works, Moore's novel challenges traditional notions of romance and highlights the importance of personal growth and self-awareness in relationships.

Overall, Preston's Luck is a compelling addition to The Virgin Surrogates series, offering a fresh take on the romance genre with its unique premise and well-developed characters. M.K. Moore has crafted a story that not only entertains but also prompts readers to reflect on their own desires and the unexpected ways life can fulfill them. For fans of contemporary romance, this novel is a must-read, providing a satisfying blend of heart, humor, and hope.