Stroke Of Luck: Men Of Nirvana Book One

by Phoenix Collins

An eventful night leads to Lucky needing a favor, and Carter is more than happy to oblige.

Carter Harrington doesn’t believe in love, and why should he? He’s one of Atlanta’s most eligible bachelors and co-owns Nirvana, an ultra-luxurious lounge and nightclub. He’s also President of Harrington Corporation, the country’s largest black-owned real estate development company. Tying himself down to one woman when he could access so many would be foolish. But even with his convictions, Carter knows there’s no denying his intense attraction to Lucky, a dancer at the club.

Lucky Cormier used to be what people would call a hopeless romantic, but a recent breakup has left her single for the first time… ever. While nursing her aching heart, she can’t help but still miss the affection and comfort that being in a relationship provided. Her new misfortune leaves her turning to the last person she ever her billionaire boss.

After witnessing the outcome of her nasty breakup firsthand, Carter proposes an offer Lucky can’t refuse. A no-strings-attached arrangement that could benefit them both, allowing Lucky all the rewards of a relationship without the drama, and him the satisfaction of finally being able to get her out of his system. As they embark on their steamy, friends-with-benefits arrangement, it’s not just their physical connection that deepens.

Will Lucky resist the pull of their intense chemistry, or will she be swept away by the all-consuming passion they share? And what happens when Carter starts to question his own beliefs and realizes that the type of love he’s been avoiding might just be what he needed all along?


Stroke Of Luck is book 1 in the Men of Nirvana series. Each book can be read as a standalone but the series is interconnected. Be on the look-out for book 2 in the series, Rose In Bloom , coming June 2025.

Genres: Spicy, African American Romance

241 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 29, 2024

Reviews

[sometimesrobinreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stoke of Luck was the first book I’ve read by Phoenix Collins and let me tell you, after the first couple chapters I was sat. Initially it seemed like Lucky and Carter couldn’t stand each other which made the angst truly delectable but as I kept reading I realized it mutual pining disguised as dislike.

Carter’s character was very refreshing. It felt like he was going to be a rich asshole but he was everything but. He truly had a heart of gold and was will to go out of his way to make sure Lucky knew he’d take care of her i whatever capacity she’d allow him to.

I really enjoyed Lucky’s character too. She was confident and self assured. She didn’t back down when people tried to play in her face which made her an enjoyable character to read.

I really enjoyed this book and plan to read the author’s other books.

[Melise · Rating 2 out of 5]

2nd book I’ve read by this author and the story telling displayed here was just okay at best. Is there drama is there smut ? Yes to both but something about the writing style didn’t pull me in as a reader. I need more vivid story telling more emotional building. This was very flat. Stripper lady falls I love with boss after being done dirty by her ex, ex becomes crazy. stripper and boss live happily ever after. 😒 I just don’t think I’m the reader for this author in particular

[Selena Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my type of carrying on! You see something you like, have the opportunity and take it.

Carter got his act all the way together for Lucky and she didn’t realize just how deep his feelings were. She got stuck in a 360 deal with their agreement lol. She isn’t ever getting out

[hea booktubes]

DNF 43(?)% I just don’t care and avoided reading. Nothing is wrong with it.

[Jaleesa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I ate this one up!!!!! This is my first read from Phoenix Collins and I had such a good time. Lucky was an FMC that I just wanted to see win and Carter was nothing like the a-hole I thought he was going to be. I needed them to stop playing in my face though because BE FOR REAL. I could actually use some more chapters of them but I’ll hope to see them in Book 2. Speaking of Book 2…..READY!!!

[Shameka Erby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lucinda (Lucky) is working at the strip club run by the Harringtons, trying to make it through school. She doesn't have time for games, or for Carter Harrington and his arrogance. But when a late pickup and an offer of a ride home turns into Carter rescuing her from her boyfriend's anger, she moves in with him, and starts seeing him in a different light.

I enjoyed this so much. Carter was full of himself, but not too full and he wasn't a man who needed to manipulate to get what he wanted, which I loved. He simply gives Lucky what she wants, when she wants it, and he did it so quietly, so calmly, so smoothly. He was waiting for the chance to show her who he really was. I loved that. He was in a position to give and he gave. And he was very honest about his feelings, and also about his feelings changing. Loved that. Lucky was a great character--smart, and self-aware. She was wary of Carter for good reason, but she knew when to let her guard down and it turned into the best thing for the both of them. She was forthright and stood up for herself when it came to her confusion about Carter falling deeper; I was begging her not to go right along with him. Lol. Great story.

[JazzReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ I like this book. My first read by this author. I would read another book by this author.

[Jasmine Cartwright · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick, sweet, and spicy romance. I love that Carter wasn't your arrogant billionaire, and he was passionate! Lucky was a joy and her personality shone through the pages! Loved their story!

[Shanae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stroke of Luck is my first book from Phoenix Collins and it was sooooo good! I really appreciated the storytelling, writing, and character development. The book is engaging with dynamic characters. Lucky is a quick-witted girl making the most out of challenging circumstances, so I found myself rooting for her. Carter is wealthy, generous, attentive, and sexy af - I want my very own Carter right now. I really liked the forced proximity trope in the book and I think Phoenix Collins really hit the mark with the spicy scenes.

"You're a beautiful woman, Lucky Cormier." Carter finally lays back down between my legs with his face right above mine. "But you'll look even more gorgeous when you're screaming my name."

If you like romance novels with a friends with benefits, workplace, forced proximity, or the billionaire romance tropes, then you're going to absolutely love Stroke of Luck.

Final Rating: 4.5/5

Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Content Warnings:
Graphic: Cursing
Moderate: Alcohol, Toxic relationship, Domestic Violence
Minor: Infidelity, Violence, Abandonment, and Stalking

Synopsis: In Stroke of Luck by Phoenix Collins, we meet Lucky and Carter. Life has thrown Lucky a curveball. She moves to Atlanta to attend Georgia Institute of Technology on an athletic scholarship, but an injury results in the loss of her scholarship. Determined to graduate with a degree in Civil Engineering, Lucky begins working as a dancer at Nirvana to pay her way through school. She is also grateful for her boyfriend Donovan, who lets her move in to his apartment AND he pays all the bills. Even though, with their schedules, Lucky and Donovan rarely see one another, and they haven't been intimate in months, and Donovan never wines and dines, Lucky is a hopeless romantic and she believes that everything will turn around once she graduates. Nirvana is the hottest and most exclusive lounge in Atlanta and Carter is part owner. Carter has always been enamored by Lucky, but she's kinda mean and won't give him the time of day. But when Donovan breaks up with Lucky and kicks her out of his apartment, leaving her with no place to go, Carter has a chance to make his true intentions with Lucky known.

Note: Thanks to Phoenix Collins for the ARC.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review
📚 Book Title: by Stroke of Luck: Men of Nirvana Book One
✍🏽Author: Phoenix Collins
Format: eBook = 📱
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 3.5/5
🌶 Spice Level: 🌶 🌶 🌶 = Medium


🕑 Quick Take:
Lucinda “Lucky” Cormier has been awarded a track scholarship to Georgia Tech. However, after sustaining an injury that prevents her from competing, her future dreams of becoming a civil engineer are jeopardized. With the support of her boyfriend at the time and securing a job at Nirvana, she manages to get back on track. However, one night, her boyfriend starts to act out of character. That’s when Carter Harrington comes to her rescue.

💕What I Loved:
I appreciated Lucky’s resilience despite the challenges she faced. She stayed the course and accomplished her goals. When Donovan failed to uphold his promise to Lucky, Carter was there to support her. Although Carter doesn’t label himself as the “relationship type,” he secretly admired Lucky. When the opportunity finally presented itself three years later, he quickly seized it and went all out to ensure Lucky had everything she needed.

Tropes:
- Billionaire romance
- Workplace Romance
- He falls first
- forced proximity

⚠️ Heads Up: (Trigger/Content Warnings)
- Mature Themes (18+)
- Low Key Stalker Ex

💭 Final Thoughts:
Nice short read (approximately 240 pages). I started reading with the plan to read a couple of chapters, and was hooked! I recommend this read to the girlies who enjoy a billionaire romance and resilient FMCs.

I read this via Kindle Unlimited.

#StrokeofLuck #MenofNirvana #PhoenixCollins #indieauthor #bookreview #bookstagram #romancereads #ChrysieZReads

[Coco TheChaoticLibrarian_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stroke of luck
By Phoenix Collin’s

Summary:
Carter and Lucky I just cannot.
Lucky, once a cheerleader on scholarship and headed for a life of success in technology with a man who loves her was living the high life. That dream was quickly derailed by one embarrassing fight with her drunken boyfriend in front of her boss Carter Harrington, that would leave her heart broken and change the trajectory of her life. Assuring her that there is no need for embarrassment Carter makes lucky an offer that she can’t refuse. Lucky the hopeless romantic misses the comfort of a relationship and Carter the most eligible bachelor in town can’t seem to get her out of his head, embark on a spicy friends-with-benefits agreement to help them both cope. But feelings start to get complicated with the more time they spend together. Lucky feels things for Carter that has her questioning if she was ever really loved or was she just a trophy. While Carter who has a long standing belief that love isn’t real begins to have deepening feelings for Lucky making him wonder if love was indeed real with the right person.

The Tea:
YASSSSSSSS Sis 2025 why lawd I can’t handle it. Carter and Lucky have found a piece of my heart. Listen, I thought homegirl was going to go from one bad situation to another. Carter, rich sexy influential in the community bachelor with swagger to match. Immediately sirens blaring in my head. I was thinking that he was going to crush Luckys already bruised spirit. Boy o boy was i wrong! He was nurturing and sweet he took care of her even when she protested. Carter is the definition of “if he wanted to he would. “I mean this man would make sure she had the comforts she was used to simply by remembering things she mentioned in conversation. Encouraged her to embrace her self worth. Smothered her with his time and attention while also allowing her her independence. I’m so glad that Lucky wasn’t an air head and just went blind to this man. My girl kept up her schooling and didn’t let anything stop her. I admire her discipline and dedication. I love their love
Now I need to know what’s up with Primrose and Vic??? But really sis 2025. I mean i guess good things come to those who are patient or whatever the saying is lol!!

[Plus Size Bibliophile · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Where to begin with this one. The angst was angstying. I would consider this a slow burn because we didn't get any... um.... insertion until after 100 pages. But prior to that it was still very alluring and exciting.

Once things popped up they stayed hot. Lucky is super intelligent, her position as a dancer is respected, and I like that she acknowledged that she has to focus on self growth.

Carter was fun to read, very confident, gave off typical Billionaire, let me buy you things and take care of you vibes. But his own personal growth and recognizing his flawed view of love and relationships was a pleasure to watch.

I am ready for the next book, Cater's Zaddy Vic and his situationship with Lucky's best friend has my curiousites going. I want all the tea.

[Lourdes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listen!!! My reader friends who love a billionaire romance …..this is for us!!!!! Lucky is a 21 year old college student just trying to work and pay for college. She works at Club Nirvana which is an elite club for the elite of Atlanta. One day after work Lucky’s life will change in more ways than one. When she seems to be at her lowest a handsome…sexy…FINE… billionaire is going to come to her rescue and both of them will change each other in ways they didn’t know needed changing. Lucky will be loved on in every way imaginable and she deserves every bit of it. This book was one I couldn’t stop reading and I cant wait to discuss with friends when they read this. Great job Phoenix :)

[Gabby · Rating 4 out of 5]

“If you like me on my knees then I choose to live there for as long as you’ll allow” - Carter Harrington 👏🏽👏🏽 Lucky had that man on his knees begging !!
Carter had ONE chance literally and he didnt mess it up. And Lucky didn’t have to ask him for NATHAN, he saw something Lucky needed, he went out and got it, no questions asked. I love a MAN that’s about that action 😮‍💨
Now Lucky was talking herself out of what she deserved because of her past relationship with Donovan. But it’s good when you have friends that will tell you about yourself but also won’t let you sell yourself short and thats what Lucky got out of her friend,Rosie .

[Mrsz_reads13 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book from Phoenix Collins and all I am giving this a slow 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 🤩😍. Lucky and Carter was just what I needed. They had been trying to stay out if eachothers way for years while letting the sexual tension build. When Lucky's boyfriend publicly disrespects her, Carter is there to save her. These two are so 🔥 🥵 together and how Carter is there to support her is very special ❤️. I received a copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.

[Kia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hey Mr Carter

Now Carter knew what he wanted, and it was Lucky. He was willing to wait for the chance to show her that he could be the right one for her. This story goes to show that when you find your one, there is nothing you won't do for them. This is a first from this author, and I can wait to catch up with the rest of the men of Nirvana.

[Kathy Jamerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Say it with your chest!

Carter gets a lesson and love. If you want something, patience is key to acquiring it correctly. But, if you want to keep it, then be honest and say the truth. You are allowed to change your mind and opinion when your heart grows. Just say it with your chest!

[Jessica Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

I got sucked in to this story early on and stayed locked in until the end. I adored Carter. And Lucky could be kinda stubborn at times but I could understand it (usually). There was a good amount of humor and heat and heart; nothing was overdone, in my opinion.

I look forward to reading book two.

[Readingizmytherapy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carter!!!!

This book has all the making of if a man really wants to he will. Carter didn’t believe in relationships that is until he and Lucky. Now here he is willing to explore. He stepped with intention from day one. Although Lucky gave him a hard time im glad she finally woke up and saw his efforts.

[Mandy Edwards · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this a lot. This story had me hooked from the first page. The characters were great, the spice was exactly what I want in a romance novel, and nothing was overdone. This is my first book by this author and I was really impressed with the writing. I will be reading the next book.

[tayara tate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Great start to a good series that Im loving so far. Baby that stroke or luck gottem going crazy lol. I know more is going to happen with these brothers and pops have got to clear some things up too.

[TAYANA THOMAS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

I really enjoyed this one well worth a read , I really loved the story line. I fell in love with Lucky and Carter entanglement turned love bird couple ending. I hope they get married and have babies in book 2 I can’t wait for it to release this summer 🥰

[She Reads What She Wants · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes you just want a book that hits exactly when it needs to, and Stroke of Luck was that read for me!

Lucky (our FMC) doesn’t have it all figured out, but she’s making it work, juggling college, a long-term boyfriend, and a job that keeps her tuition paid. She’s not looking for trouble… but trouble finds her real quick in the form of one Carter Harrington.

Now Carter? Whew. Billionaire bloodline, VIP everything, and all the confidence that money can buy. But Lucky isn’t falling for the charm. She’s focused, unbothered, and not here for the club owner’s antics, until one moment outside the club changes everything.

After that? Whew chile. Their dynamic shifts fast and hard, in the best way. What starts as a tense “thank you” turns into chemistry, drama, tension, penthouse views, and feelings that neither of them can shake. And baby, once Carter sets his sights on Lucky? It’s a wrap. He’s all in.

My homegirls and I read this for our weekly book club and we had a time. Carter gave Lucky the soft life she didn’t even know she needed, and she soaked up every single second. This book had spice, charm, a lil drama, and a lot of heart. Definitely a curl-up-and-giggle kind of read.

[Sharthickums_reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good

This book is a first I have read from thus author but it was really good. I love a take charge type of man and Carter is all that. I love how Lucky had tunnel vision on graduating from college. The two together was amazing. I cnt wait to read book two.

[Shereece Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was SO good. Phoenix did her BIG one with this one. I love Lucky & Carter’s dynamic. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

[Jenae · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good and Carter was peak book bae but imagine my horror when I got to end of the epilogue to find out the next book won’t be out until summer 2025…I’m gonna go cry now thnx 🤣😭

[Amonee Gilliam · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first read from this author and I was not disappointed.

[Khadesia · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ✨️

[Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was just okay. I expected a bit more and I feel like the story fell flat just a tad. A quick and entertaining read nonetheless.

[Maegan · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5