Dice & Dekes

by Colleen Charles

Get ready for sparks and slapshots in the third installment of the Vegas Venom series, where the ice isn't the only thing that's electric.

Meet Knova Hale, the badass daughter of Cash Hale, whose fierce presence off the ice can intimidate even the toughest suitor. Then there’s Viktor Abbott, the snarky, sarcastically gifted forward, whose talent is only matched by his ability to get under Knova’s skin.

Born as frenemies, their relentless teasing hides a mutual attraction that they’re both hesitant to admit. As their barbs grow sharper, so does their undeniable chemistry. Can these two headstrong hearts navigate the thin ice of love, or will they crash into the boards?

Join us for a game of heated rivalry and hidden desires that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat!

COVER & BLURB COMING SOON!

291 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 2, 2025

About the author

After 26 years in Corporate leadership at a Fortune 500, I discovered people within the organization lacked integrity. I’d always known deep in my soul that I was trying to fit a square peg in to a round hole since I’m the typical creative type. I miss my staff but I don’t miss the corporate world. It’s been said that the Universe will let you know if something isn’t right for you. The first time, it will hit you with a pebble. Then a brick. Then a boulder. Let’s just say that I got flattened. When my fifteen pound toy dog, Nigel, was threatened, I knew it was time to say goodbye.
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:

Reviews

[M Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

(I received an ARC copy of this book.) As Dante says, "Mistaken identity, impulsive marriage, a little fake drama to kick things off. Classic rom-com setup." Knova & Viktor are perfect for each other, even though a hilarious (but embarrassing) incident in 8th grade, caused them to be adversaries for years. The book had enough of the first generation Venom family to be satisfying, but allowed the kids to shine on their own. Can't wait for book 4!

[SassyCM · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not sure how to best put it, except to say, every time I start reading a book in the Venom Next Gen series I always think: These books are my reality tv show.
They are just so over the top and none of the characters take themselves too seriously. I love it.

But then? BAM. Big emotions all around. And suddenly nothing feels ridiculous or over the top. Suddenly you see these quirky characters in a new light because they start to open up and you actually feel a connection.

... Of course then the story takes a turn back towards being a tv drama but to me that is the reason I will definitely keep reading every single book in this series that I can get my hands on. The Venom Next Gen books are just FUN all around.

Ok, not all around. I would have loved to give Knova a good smack upon the head towards the middle of the book. What a frustrating person.

But hey. All is well that ends well, right?

Now stop reading reviews and start reading Dice & Dekes.

[bunny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Viktor and Knova absolutely wrecked me in the best way. Their constant sniping and tension had been building since book one, and finally watching it all explode into something real was so damn satisfying. The drunken marriage twist? Hilarious and weirdly perfect for them. Viktor has always come off like a cocky bastard, but this book peels him back and shows the depth and loyalty he hides under all that swagger. Knova’s PTSD and walls were written with care, and I really appreciated how Viktor didn’t try to bulldoze her, just stood there with her, steady and sure. Their chemistry is unreal, but what hit me hardest was how they saw each other when no one else really did. Add in the glimpses of the OG Venom crew still kicking around, and this story felt like coming home. Easily my favorite in the Next Gen series so far.

[Jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Knova and Viktor fall victim to Dante's publicity stunt gone awry. Knova has spent a long time holding adult Viktor responsible for kid Victor’s actions—actions that only a few people knew the truth about. As she starts learning the truths of who he is, not just her assumptions, their relationship changes. Viktor has been in love with her forever and he is taking this chance. The Venom crew are always good at making me laugh. We are SHEIN Dante being a little more human at times. Viktor is so good with Knova and her past and her PTSD. I really appreciate that Knight really sees him, but they also protect each other’s stories.

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly have always felt bad for Viktor and he won my heart when he was helping play matchmaker for his sister...but it is his own fault he is seen as a playboy since he played it up from adolescence! Viktor and Knova have had frenemy vibes since they were children and now that they have grown up the animosity and tension is at an all time high. Knova would have high walls anyways (she is Cash's kid) but her time in the military has given her PTSD and a whole host of baggage an airline wouldn't even want to touch. I loved how much Viktor tried and that he and Knova got their HEA. This book was a page turner that I couldn't put down!

[Claire RC · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this story from start to finish. Viktor has had a thing for Knights twin sister, Knova, for what appears to be an eternity. After a heavy night of drinking they find themselves married (partly Dante’s fault). It certainly isn’t a match made in heaven but there’s a long road to travel and Viktor and Knova are thrown together after a freak accident. This is a really good story and l thoroughly enjoyed it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cindy Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Viktor and Knova’s story! After a drunken night, they wake up married. It was a big shock to Knova. Viktor’s has been in love with Knova forever, so he was good with it. Viktor’s has his work cut out trying to convince her to stay married to him. They make the perfect couple. Will Viktor’s be able to convince her he was the right man for her? I love seeing the first generation of the Venom along with the 2nd. It was very entertaining! I can’t wait for Chips & Checks! The next book in the Vegas Next Gen series book!

[Didi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always know that I will get a wonderful read when I pick a book by this author. I was delighted with Knova and Viktor’s love journey that was helped by a bit of meddling. Knova’s assumptions about the past and about Viktor slowly morph into a different perspective. Viktor’s determination to convince her of his love and his acceptance of her full self was swoon-worthy. I laughed, I teared up and loved every minute of this story. Can’t wait for the next in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Charmaine Nouwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dice & Dekes:Book 3 of Venom Next Gen ..a hockey romance story of VIktor and Knova..He is a playboy hockey player,with a capital T..She is a pilot ,suffering with PTSD,feisty,smart and gorgeous..The two known each other since they were younger,friends and understand each other..Viktor love Knova since forever but didn't acted on it untill one PR stunt,an accidental married turned real fast..A wonderful,entertaining,heartwarming,sweet,steamy and lovely story..Book 3 of Venom Next Gen.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lisa Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Viktor has been in love with Knova since they were teenagers but she seems to have hated him since. One night after a lot of drinking they end up married. It was a publicity stunt arranged by Dante but they got the wrong twin. He is supposed to have it annulled but realizes Viktor has feelings for his new wife and decides to drag things out.

I loved the banter between these two. You feel for Viktor when you find out what really happened years ago and hopes he wins over the girl.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kari Tidwell (karisbookstodevour) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easily my favorite of the three books in this next gen series! It has all the snarky, straight mean, and hilarious banter, Knova will break your heart and Viktor will will steal it, and every second is fantastic. It has this totally melt you dash of it's always been you, the guys are outrageous and funny as ever, there is all this doubt and fear and defeat, and Knova and Viktor together are like a hurricane, all bluster and storm but right in the middle a calm, a quiet peace, that rocks them both and makes this a standout read.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Next Gen series is full of humor, sass and sarcasm. I love the mix of the OG Venom couples and their grown children.

Knova and Viktor have been circling each other since book 1, so it was fantastic to finally discover what was behind the spicy attitude and snarky banter. Viktor is so much deeper and vulnerable all his bad boy persona and Knova is more vulnerable behind her snarky shield.

So much to enjoy and love in this series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

Viktor and Knova are truly a perfect pair. This couple truly give your heart a workout as their story unfolds. My heart had to endure the sweetest ache as these two struggled to find their way through past mistakes and fear to finally take that chance at a HEA. Be prepared for laughter, tears, sighs, and an almost endless amount of swoon and feels as you fall completely and totally head over heels.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dice & Dekes was another great story in the Venom Hockey series by Colleen Charles. Thanks to Dante's shenanigans, Knova wakes up married to Viktor, her childhood enemy and brother's best friend. Viktor has loved Knova for years but he hurt her when they were teenagers. However, as they spend more time together, truths are revealed and Viktor is determined to use second chance to prove they belong together.

[Renee Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this author and this series, but this book is my favorite story, so far. Colleen Charles is immensely talented and her hockey romances are a perfect balance of love, hockey, and family. Viktor and Knova are exceptionally well written characters. Always fated to be together, but so much of life got in their way. Funny, romantic, and passionate, but also a very poignant story of overcoming trauma, misunderstandings, and finding peace with the one that is meant to be.

[Lisa H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Married in Vegas…

Viktor has a serious thing for Knova, the twin of his best friend. They could have gotten together in high school, but he stood her up at prom. There’s no going back after that, unless, you get blindingly drunk and get married by Elvis as a publicity stunt, when the wrong twin got married. I liked both Knova, who lost her someone and Viktor who’s in love with her. Like, for years. But he keeps messing up.
Recommend.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is part of the next generation of the Vegas Venom hockey series. It can be enjoyed as a stand alone read but has connected characters. The story is about Knova and Viktor. This is such an entertaining hockey romance that is sweet, touching and cute. I so loved the characters and enjoyed the plot tremendously. I especially love how the story develops between the characters. It is nice to get a glimpse of the original Vegas Venom characters too.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 3 in Charles' Venom Next Gen series and a wonderful addition to the series. Well written and captivating from start to finish. This is Viktor and Knova's journey and while it's not smooth sailing it certainly is entertaining. Sweet and heat mix with the best balance in this hockey romance that will steal your heart. I loved it and can't wait for more in Chips & Checks!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jemt0t · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was such a good quick read for me. Viktor’s love for Knova was felt through & through. The accidental marriage worked in Viktor’s favor in trying to convince Knova that he loved her & always has. I loved the peeks into the OG Venom’s lives and love that they’re all still one big happy family. I can’t wait to see how the rest of this series will play out!!

[brenda hurley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was well written and I enjoyed reading it I couldn't put it down. Colleen Charles does it again, I always look forward to reading her books. I can't wait read more. This is the third book in this series. I recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Melinda Swaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another outstanding and wonderful book!!!

Congratulations Ms Charles on another outstanding and wonderful book. I absolutely loved reading Dice & Dekes and couldn’t put it down once I had started. It’s absolutely impossible to put down, read it in one go coz it was that addictive! Such a fantastic book, and I can't wait for more of this amazing series. Happy reading

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to see this was the couple I had been waiting for!! And I wasn't disappointed! I love the depth of both characters and how we get to find out that things weren't actually as they seemed for the pair, especially for his history. And omg the real reason for standing her up on their date when they were younger?! Lol looking forward to the next to "fall"!

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2 stars
An intriguing premise made me want to dive into this book and see what would happen between these characters. I liked the way the author built the relationship. I found myself wanting them to work out - that they belonged together. Nice story.

I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rachel Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read, the story of Viktor and Knova. An accidental marriage leads to them stuck together - while he has her in his life and in his space will it be the chance Viktor needs to convince Knova to give him a chance. I liked how it is told from both points of view.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[TELA666 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Viktor & Knova
I wasn't expecting the emotion that this book contained. Seeing a vulnerable side to Knova was unexpected as previously she seemed very strong. Viktor takes advantage of their accidental marriage to finally win her over & prove the event that tore them apart was a misunderstanding. There are funny scenes to balance the heavier topics.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s all about the next generation. Victor and Knova are always arguing. They accidentally got married while drunk. Should they an annulment or stay married? Love their story. It’s to read about the parents.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dice & Dekes

Awesome storyline line. Childhood frenimies to lovers, sorta.

Dante up to his old tricks, an, ics or screwups, he has net his match with the Knova Hale

Viktor and Knova have a lifelong love hate relationship see what's in the cards for their future you will laugh and cry along the way

[Suze82 · Rating 4 out of 5]

message from the subconscious
On the outside Viktor and Knova seem to be perfectly wrong for each other, but their accidental marriage makes them face the music and listen to the message from their subconscious that they are perfectly right for each other.

[Jenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Golden retriever MMC with black cat FMC always an epic combination. I stumbled upon this series with the first book’s release,and I’m so happy I did. Excited for the next book, and will continue to recommend this series!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful story. I enjoyed the storyline and the characters. Viktor and Knova are good together. I enjoyed the chemistry.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.