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Vegas Sins #1
Vice
As a Vegas singer and volunteer counselor, Kate Callender has experienced life on both sides of Sin City’s bright lights. The thrill of performing, and gambling’s devastating effect on the addicts’ families.
Liam Doyle is just the kind of man she despises—a handsome, enigmatic businessman with a knack for seducing customers into his casino hotels. Determined to put a lid on his growing influence, she prepares to picket the opening of his newest casino, Vice.
When Liam spots the lone protestor hassling his customers, annoyance wars with instant attraction. And he quickly discovers the leggy redhead not only can’t be bought, she tempts him the way the sound of a roulette wheel lures a gambler.
They are natural enemies, but when a vile attack sparks Liam’s protective instincts, they begin a sexual odyssey that dances on the edge of addiction. Dangerously close to losing control...and losing themselves.
Liam Doyle is just the kind of man she despises—a handsome, enigmatic businessman with a knack for seducing customers into his casino hotels. Determined to put a lid on his growing influence, she prepares to picket the opening of his newest casino, Vice.
When Liam spots the lone protestor hassling his customers, annoyance wars with instant attraction. And he quickly discovers the leggy redhead not only can’t be bought, she tempts him the way the sound of a roulette wheel lures a gambler.
They are natural enemies, but when a vile attack sparks Liam’s protective instincts, they begin a sexual odyssey that dances on the edge of addiction. Dangerously close to losing control...and losing themselves.
226 pages, Paperback
First published September 22, 2015
28 people are currently reading
585 people want to read
About the author
Rosanna Leo
40 books832 followersRosanna Leo writes contemporary and paranormal romance. Her novel A Reluctant Attraction, Handymen 3, is one of Oprah Daily's 50 of 2021's Most Anticipated Romance Novels. Follow her on Bookbub here: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/rosan...
From Toronto, Canada, Rosanna occupies a house in the suburbs with her husband. A mother to two grown sons, she spends much of her time wondering where all her time went. A great lover of felines, she enjoys being chased around the house by her cat, Lucy. When not writing, Rosanna works for her local library, where she is busy laying the groundwork to become a library ghost one day.
Connect with her at www.rosannaleoauthor.wordpress.com.
From Toronto, Canada, Rosanna occupies a house in the suburbs with her husband. A mother to two grown sons, she spends much of her time wondering where all her time went. A great lover of felines, she enjoys being chased around the house by her cat, Lucy. When not writing, Rosanna works for her local library, where she is busy laying the groundwork to become a library ghost one day.
Connect with her at www.rosannaleoauthor.wordpress.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
July 13, 2015
~ Arc provided via Netgalley in exchange for honest review ~
2.5 stars
As you all know- I'm always up for a good enemies-to-lovers romance whether from f/m or m/m genre and that was the main reason I picked this book up. Unfortunately, this ended up not being the right type of a read for me.
Why it didn't work out for me:
~ Insta-love romances and some cheesy content rarely work for me, especially the more books I read. The story must be either pnr romance or really good for me not to be annoyed by it, but this wasn't the case. It took about a week or two for the main couple to develop such strong feelings for each other and do some *pretty unbelievable things* all "in the name of love." Some might find this highly romantic, but for me this is where the story lost its credibility.
~The enemies-to-lovers plot-line felt anticlimatic in my opinion. I wanted sparks, slow-building intensity, passion, a lot of sexy banter, but everything felt so rushed that those things ended up lost somewhere in the story, at least for me.
~ We are all humans and make mistakes every day, but I couldn't not think of Kate's behavior when it comes to her patients and rushed relationship with Liam a bit hypocritical considering her profession.
~ The 2nd half of the book seemed to revolve only around "sex solves everything until it doesn't" plot followed by a fair share of unnecessary drama.
The best plot-line of the story for me were the parts focused on the side-effects of compulsive gambling. Those parts were really touching, emotional and thought-provoking. Kate's dad is a compulsive gambler whose addiction costed her a lot of bad things in her life and made her become volunteer counselor for the near family of gambling addicts later on. My heart was breaking for her while reading about her father's addiction and all the things she went through because of him.
Other than that the story and its characters failed to touch me on some deeper level. In the end I just couldn't connect to it and that's why 2.5 stars.
Read it & decide for yourself!
This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.
2.5 stars
As you all know- I'm always up for a good enemies-to-lovers romance whether from f/m or m/m genre and that was the main reason I picked this book up. Unfortunately, this ended up not being the right type of a read for me.
Why it didn't work out for me:
~ Insta-love romances and some cheesy content rarely work for me, especially the more books I read. The story must be either pnr romance or really good for me not to be annoyed by it, but this wasn't the case. It took about a week or two for the main couple to develop such strong feelings for each other and do some *pretty unbelievable things* all "in the name of love." Some might find this highly romantic, but for me this is where the story lost its credibility.
~The enemies-to-lovers plot-line felt anticlimatic in my opinion. I wanted sparks, slow-building intensity, passion, a lot of sexy banter, but everything felt so rushed that those things ended up lost somewhere in the story, at least for me.
~ We are all humans and make mistakes every day, but I couldn't not think of Kate's behavior when it comes to her patients and rushed relationship with Liam a bit hypocritical considering her profession.
~ The 2nd half of the book seemed to revolve only around "sex solves everything until it doesn't" plot followed by a fair share of unnecessary drama.
The best plot-line of the story for me were the parts focused on the side-effects of compulsive gambling. Those parts were really touching, emotional and thought-provoking. Kate's dad is a compulsive gambler whose addiction costed her a lot of bad things in her life and made her become volunteer counselor for the near family of gambling addicts later on. My heart was breaking for her while reading about her father's addiction and all the things she went through because of him.
Other than that the story and its characters failed to touch me on some deeper level. In the end I just couldn't connect to it and that's why 2.5 stars.
Read it & decide for yourself!
This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.
July 10, 2019
Sensitively handles addiction in the form of gambling by showing both sides of the world. Some violence so warning to skim that if it’s a trigger warning. Lots of emotional trauma brought by both characters to the romance with hot sizzling sex scenes and a satisfactory emotional payoff in the end. A lot of times you don’t get both wrap ups in the story. Here you do. I’ve working in gaming and worked with gaming anon. It’s a realistic portrayal without getting weighed down in the minutia to let the glamorous romance part fly. Recommend.
September 5, 2015
Rosanna Leo steals my heart again---as usual---with her second addition to the contemporary romance genre. This book takes you through a series of heartache, thrill, and even through all the scary bits and emotional strain, it still has that humorous charm that made me fall in love with Leo’s books to begin with!
The story follows two characters who take turns in their own point-of-views—third person—as they each struggle to fight their demons in the dark underworld of Las Vegas. One who is haunted by childhood memories of a father who has still yet to come to his senses; and the other, a man who has been abandoned in all areas of his life who puts all of his effort into building a life for himself to which he can control.
Both characters plucked at my heartstrings until they were all worn out and bent out of shape. I can’t count all the times I grew teary-eyed as I watched these characters learn to trust again and begin to heal.
It all begins when Vegas singer, Kate Callender---who also volunteers as a counselor at a gamblers anon group---finds herself unemployed and fed up with all the bad crap that happens to herself and her friends at New Horizons. Her first victim for a protest against gambling is the new shiny casino, Vice, owned by the man who they feel is ruining the lives of families with each casino he drops down on the strip.
Kate was certainly on a mission that could not be deterred, not even by the devilishly handsome owner of Vice, himself, Liam Doyle, as he stared menacingly down at her with his husky-blue eyes. Though, later, her mission does comes to an abrupt halt when she’s clued in on the soft side of the man who she once thought to be selfish and unrelenting, seeing through his tough façade. Liam is not the man he portray's himself to be.
After battling between her morals and her need to help others---and hilarious bouts between the two of them---they find each other talking one night and agreed to a pact to hit rock bottom together. I absolutely loved this part; I couldn’t stop smiling for the life of me!
Their pact to hit rock bottom together did not come easily, though . . . *smile slowly fades*
A stormy romance brews between the characters. A relationship that’s fraught with sorrow and an unsettling need to replace words with carnal intimacy is born as Liam refuses to say what’s weighing down on his heart. She implores him relentlessly, to help him as he did for her; but it only makes him shut down even more and burries his pain by losing himself inside her. Finally, Kate decides this unhealthy relationship has lasted much longer than it should have. The passion between them was unlike no other, but already fighting with the realization she needs to live by her words and stop feeding her father’s gambling addiction, she needed to stop being the crutch that she felt she was to Liam’s fear of letting go.
This is where the waterworks began for me. The entire last half of the book had me gripping my Kindle with damp hands, unsure of what was to come of this heart-breaking story. If it’s not too much of a semi-spoiler though, for you HEA fans, you will not be disappointed! I was deeply moved by the choices the characters make by the end, and so deeply relieved! I won’t say what I want to say about the very ending because it will give it away no matter how hard I try to make it subtle.
I saw Kate as having a weary soul, she wants to believe in the good of others but her childhood prevents her from being able to trust anyone else but herself.
Liam is one tough cookie, a realtor tycoon, a fierce businessman, but what no one sees, is his true benevolent nature and the heart-wrenching truth that drives him to be successful
OOO! Another character who almost stole the show in my eyes is Wade, Liam’s trusty security guard and best friend. I adored him so hard! Also, the steamy, wild, sex between Kate and Liam will leave you breathless and weak in the knees---so find a comfortable spot to cozy up with this read! Five HUGE stars for this book. I recommend this to EVERYONE! I felt it was written by the authors heart, and it truly is inspiring, so many words of wisdom for anyone whose lives have been affected by gamblers or of any type of addiction in their family.
The story follows two characters who take turns in their own point-of-views—third person—as they each struggle to fight their demons in the dark underworld of Las Vegas. One who is haunted by childhood memories of a father who has still yet to come to his senses; and the other, a man who has been abandoned in all areas of his life who puts all of his effort into building a life for himself to which he can control.
Both characters plucked at my heartstrings until they were all worn out and bent out of shape. I can’t count all the times I grew teary-eyed as I watched these characters learn to trust again and begin to heal.
It all begins when Vegas singer, Kate Callender---who also volunteers as a counselor at a gamblers anon group---finds herself unemployed and fed up with all the bad crap that happens to herself and her friends at New Horizons. Her first victim for a protest against gambling is the new shiny casino, Vice, owned by the man who they feel is ruining the lives of families with each casino he drops down on the strip.
Kate was certainly on a mission that could not be deterred, not even by the devilishly handsome owner of Vice, himself, Liam Doyle, as he stared menacingly down at her with his husky-blue eyes. Though, later, her mission does comes to an abrupt halt when she’s clued in on the soft side of the man who she once thought to be selfish and unrelenting, seeing through his tough façade. Liam is not the man he portray's himself to be.
After battling between her morals and her need to help others---and hilarious bouts between the two of them---they find each other talking one night and agreed to a pact to hit rock bottom together. I absolutely loved this part; I couldn’t stop smiling for the life of me!
Their pact to hit rock bottom together did not come easily, though . . . *smile slowly fades*
A stormy romance brews between the characters. A relationship that’s fraught with sorrow and an unsettling need to replace words with carnal intimacy is born as Liam refuses to say what’s weighing down on his heart. She implores him relentlessly, to help him as he did for her; but it only makes him shut down even more and burries his pain by losing himself inside her. Finally, Kate decides this unhealthy relationship has lasted much longer than it should have. The passion between them was unlike no other, but already fighting with the realization she needs to live by her words and stop feeding her father’s gambling addiction, she needed to stop being the crutch that she felt she was to Liam’s fear of letting go.
This is where the waterworks began for me. The entire last half of the book had me gripping my Kindle with damp hands, unsure of what was to come of this heart-breaking story. If it’s not too much of a semi-spoiler though, for you HEA fans, you will not be disappointed! I was deeply moved by the choices the characters make by the end, and so deeply relieved! I won’t say what I want to say about the very ending because it will give it away no matter how hard I try to make it subtle.
I saw Kate as having a weary soul, she wants to believe in the good of others but her childhood prevents her from being able to trust anyone else but herself.
Liam is one tough cookie, a realtor tycoon, a fierce businessman, but what no one sees, is his true benevolent nature and the heart-wrenching truth that drives him to be successful
OOO! Another character who almost stole the show in my eyes is Wade, Liam’s trusty security guard and best friend. I adored him so hard! Also, the steamy, wild, sex between Kate and Liam will leave you breathless and weak in the knees---so find a comfortable spot to cozy up with this read! Five HUGE stars for this book. I recommend this to EVERYONE! I felt it was written by the authors heart, and it truly is inspiring, so many words of wisdom for anyone whose lives have been affected by gamblers or of any type of addiction in their family.
November 6, 2015
I tried to think of one word to sum up this book, but realised the author has already done it for me: Vice. *sighs*
Kate runs a support group for victims related to gamblers. Having experienced firsthand the strain and devastation it can take on families, she decides to go to war with Vegas' premiere casino owner, Liam Doyle. And that's where the fun begins...
This book was everything and nothing like I expected. The heat factor is sizzling, the hero is swooningly intense and gorgeous, and the heroine is spunky and incredibly relatable. What I didn't expect was how dark this book would be - in a good way. There was an undertone of frantic darkness under the passion that is a perfect metaphor for Vegas itself, and the addictions that fuel the town. I loved how Rosanna Leo didn't smooth all the problems away, but instead made them even more jagged. It adds a ring of truth to the romance that is fantastic.
Liam is a man you want to simultaneously smack and snuggle, a completely 3D character. I loved his interactions with Kate, how funny and passionate they were as a twosome. And WOW was he hot. Henry Cavill HOT. Their sparks fly off the page.
What I also really liked was that the plot didn't turn in the direction I expected. I'm usually pretty good at guessing the twists, so to be surprised is great! And - cue pun - extremely addictive! As well as the darkness, there are moments of such tenderness and real insight so the book is balanced perfectly.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this sexy, dark romance with its compulsive characters. I'd definitely go back for another spin at the wheel....
This is one book not to be missed! Trust me, it'll be the smallest gamble you've ever made.
January 9, 2016
This book book represented a departure for Rosanna Leo from her usual sort of romance which is generally light-hearted at its core despite any temporary forays into darker scenes or subjects. Even when things are dire for her characters, there's generally plenty of humor to be found to keep things from getting too dark. While this book does have some light moments as well as flashes of humor, the overall tone is much darker, grittier, and at times almost downright depressing. And yet, it is exactly this sort of edgy realism that makes this such a great story in my opinion, for the characters here are real, with real problems and failings, and just as in real life there are no easy solutions for them. Love and attraction aren't necessarily magic wands that make everything better, and in fact they can actually be part of the problem at times, a fact that is highlighted well here.
Read my full review at Random Book Musings
Read my full review at Random Book Musings
September 2, 2015
Rosanna Leo once again steps out of her PNR zone to write us a thought provoking, steamy contemporary romance that touches on sensitive topics and leaves us with the HEA we all crave!
Vice is a very different contemporary romance and in some ways it really has 3 main characters. We have our fabulously rich, alpha male, hero with BDSM tendencies Liam. Our rising from the ashes, Gamb-non type group leader with a sassy mouth and submissive tendencies Kate and we have Gambling and addiction the reason behind everything in the story. This gives this CR a very serious twist but does RL leave it at that ...nope she also has Kate be an epileptic and touches on this sensitive topic as well.
The sex in this novel is hawt!, dirty with elements of BDSM but this is not a BDSM love story it just happens to be a kink they both share. I don't want to get into the storyline much as to not to spoil the story but I will point out a couple a things. I really loved how our characters started as antagonists and the sassy mouth Kate had on her in the beginning was wonderful...I loved her.. and loved the conflict I just wish it hadn't been over so soon as it did give the "instalove" feel. I would have loved to see that spicey connection simmer longer and the sexy banter work more of it's way into the story....There was so much chemistry between the two of them the pages needed to smolder a bit longer:) . I also found that Kate got a bit "preachy" with her anti gambling sediments, it got a bit repetitive and I think when learning her story the point was made succinctly. I however did love that after the connection we had our couple confront aspects of themselves and acknowledge the need to grow to find themselves in a successful place. Bravo to RL for the twists that took us through.
This is a very sexy novel with sex being a big constant in the relationship and no one writes hawter and fresher sex scenes than our beloved Rosanna Leo. They were off the scale!! and I love that we find each of these scenes had a reason! Fantastic writing!!
Another great outing for Rosanna Leo wearing her Contemporary Romance writer hat....and it does look lovely darling! I enjoyed Liam and Kate's story immensely and love when writers are courageous enough to touch on difficult topics! 4 star rating from me and a recommendation for a sexy novel with integrity!
*thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me this novel in exchange for an honest review*
Vice is a very different contemporary romance and in some ways it really has 3 main characters. We have our fabulously rich, alpha male, hero with BDSM tendencies Liam. Our rising from the ashes, Gamb-non type group leader with a sassy mouth and submissive tendencies Kate and we have Gambling and addiction the reason behind everything in the story. This gives this CR a very serious twist but does RL leave it at that ...nope she also has Kate be an epileptic and touches on this sensitive topic as well.
The sex in this novel is hawt!, dirty with elements of BDSM but this is not a BDSM love story it just happens to be a kink they both share. I don't want to get into the storyline much as to not to spoil the story but I will point out a couple a things. I really loved how our characters started as antagonists and the sassy mouth Kate had on her in the beginning was wonderful...I loved her.. and loved the conflict I just wish it hadn't been over so soon as it did give the "instalove" feel. I would have loved to see that spicey connection simmer longer and the sexy banter work more of it's way into the story....There was so much chemistry between the two of them the pages needed to smolder a bit longer:) . I also found that Kate got a bit "preachy" with her anti gambling sediments, it got a bit repetitive and I think when learning her story the point was made succinctly. I however did love that after the connection we had our couple confront aspects of themselves and acknowledge the need to grow to find themselves in a successful place. Bravo to RL for the twists that took us through.
This is a very sexy novel with sex being a big constant in the relationship and no one writes hawter and fresher sex scenes than our beloved Rosanna Leo. They were off the scale!! and I love that we find each of these scenes had a reason! Fantastic writing!!
Another great outing for Rosanna Leo wearing her Contemporary Romance writer hat....and it does look lovely darling! I enjoyed Liam and Kate's story immensely and love when writers are courageous enough to touch on difficult topics! 4 star rating from me and a recommendation for a sexy novel with integrity!
*thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me this novel in exchange for an honest review*
September 15, 2017
Rosanna Leo can always be relied upon to give you a story with heart and soul. With Vice though, she goes beyond simple emotion and instead creates an almost visceral connection between the reader and the characters, especially Liam.
Liam is such a broken soul. He has so many ghosts from the past chasing him it’s a wonder he can function at all. Up until the events in this book, he has coped through a combination of repression and transference; but when Kate enters his life and starts knocking down the walls he has built to protect himself, neither of them are prepared for the repercussions of the drastic behavioural changes this vulnerability triggers in both of them. Kate too, has her demons to battle and it is Liam that gives her the courage to confront them once and for all.
This book wasn’t all intense emotion. There were a number of scenes designed to break the tension and most of them involved one of my favourite characters, Wade. Anyone who can be described as “like a cartoon bear who’d had his honey snatched away... it was like he’d hired a professional hitman only to find out he had a soft spot for puppies” has to be worth a few laughs!
This book is about addiction. The majority of the characters are either victims of it, in one form or another, or battling the consequences of caring for someone with an addiction. This book is about redemption. That it’s never too late to turn it all around, but also the acceptance that sometimes the addicted won’t accept they have a problem and have no desire to change; and that sometimes the only option is to walk away. This book is about love. That if it is strong enough it can overcome most obstacles and forge new and unexpected paths.
I would recommend this title to anyone who enjoys character study style books with a dash of action and plenty of steam. I may be a complete sook, but you may need a tissue or two along the way...
*Advanced Reading Copy provided by the author in lieu of an honest review.
Liam is such a broken soul. He has so many ghosts from the past chasing him it’s a wonder he can function at all. Up until the events in this book, he has coped through a combination of repression and transference; but when Kate enters his life and starts knocking down the walls he has built to protect himself, neither of them are prepared for the repercussions of the drastic behavioural changes this vulnerability triggers in both of them. Kate too, has her demons to battle and it is Liam that gives her the courage to confront them once and for all.
This book wasn’t all intense emotion. There were a number of scenes designed to break the tension and most of them involved one of my favourite characters, Wade. Anyone who can be described as “like a cartoon bear who’d had his honey snatched away... it was like he’d hired a professional hitman only to find out he had a soft spot for puppies” has to be worth a few laughs!
This book is about addiction. The majority of the characters are either victims of it, in one form or another, or battling the consequences of caring for someone with an addiction. This book is about redemption. That it’s never too late to turn it all around, but also the acceptance that sometimes the addicted won’t accept they have a problem and have no desire to change; and that sometimes the only option is to walk away. This book is about love. That if it is strong enough it can overcome most obstacles and forge new and unexpected paths.
I would recommend this title to anyone who enjoys character study style books with a dash of action and plenty of steam. I may be a complete sook, but you may need a tissue or two along the way...
*Advanced Reading Copy provided by the author in lieu of an honest review.
August 11, 2015
Rosanna Leo departed from the paranormal genre to pen a contemporary tale to satisfy any reader of romance. Heck, why stop there? Vice would satisfy any reader...period. Hot, humorous at times, and full of angst, Vice quickly rose to one of my Top Ten Reads of 2015. Set in Vegas, it immediately drew my attention. But after learning that Ms. Leo tackles both epilepsy and gambling addictions, I was hooked.
Kate is the sort of heroine you want to root for. She suffers from epilepsy - although her affliction isn't the "meat" of the story. The true conflict is her relationship with her father, an unreformed gambling addict who'd pretty much sell his and Kate's souls if it kept him at the slots. (Boy, do I relate to Kate as I have relatives who've been known to waste a fortune in the casino.)
Liam has made his riches in Vegas casinos. Kate's immediately predisposed to hate him due to his career, but when these two come together sparks explode on the page! I had to lick my fingers quite a few times to cool them off when my Kindle screen threatened to spontaneously combust. (Hats off to the smoking window scene.)
A cool element - one the author herself may not have realized - are the tiny head nods toward her paranormal works. The décor of the Vegas casinos, Greek gods especially, reminded me of why I fell in love with Leo's works in the first place. With Liam, Leo proves that she doesn't need mythological legends to create a hero full of substance and sex appeal. Not to say he isn't built like a Greek god, cause he is. Oh boy, is he ever.
No matter which genre she pens, Rosanna captures my interest from the very first page. To quote Kate from Vice, if you're in the mood for an exciting, sexy read, grab a copy today, "big boy"!
***I received an ARC of Vice in exchange for an honest review.***
Kate is the sort of heroine you want to root for. She suffers from epilepsy - although her affliction isn't the "meat" of the story. The true conflict is her relationship with her father, an unreformed gambling addict who'd pretty much sell his and Kate's souls if it kept him at the slots. (Boy, do I relate to Kate as I have relatives who've been known to waste a fortune in the casino.)
Liam has made his riches in Vegas casinos. Kate's immediately predisposed to hate him due to his career, but when these two come together sparks explode on the page! I had to lick my fingers quite a few times to cool them off when my Kindle screen threatened to spontaneously combust. (Hats off to the smoking window scene.)
A cool element - one the author herself may not have realized - are the tiny head nods toward her paranormal works. The décor of the Vegas casinos, Greek gods especially, reminded me of why I fell in love with Leo's works in the first place. With Liam, Leo proves that she doesn't need mythological legends to create a hero full of substance and sex appeal. Not to say he isn't built like a Greek god, cause he is. Oh boy, is he ever.
No matter which genre she pens, Rosanna captures my interest from the very first page. To quote Kate from Vice, if you're in the mood for an exciting, sexy read, grab a copy today, "big boy"!
***I received an ARC of Vice in exchange for an honest review.***
September 20, 2017
I've enjoyed this author's other books they have been mainly PNR, this book is certainly different but still a great read.
Kate's life has been blighted a father who is addicted to gambling, she now runs a support group to help others suffering the same dilemma.
Liam Doyle, a self-made man, his opening his third casino in Las Vegas. Liam is pretty to look at and good at what he does. He certainly doesn't expect a do-gooder protesting outside his new casino on opening day, especially when she doesn't seem to be giving up!
When these two meet it obvious they both notice each other's physical attributes, it's not long until they enter into a sex gorged relationship.... Liam is very sexually orientated and uses sex as a distraction to opening up. Kate is a strong-minded lady, she can't help but enjoy the steamy hot sex and uses quiet times to get Liam to open up more.
There's more to this relationship than sex but it's hard for them to admit, along with the fact Kate hates gambling and struggles with how she can be with a casino owner. There's also a father who is always after money to pay gambling debts.
I enjoyed learning about the other Liam and how Kate learned to follow her heart.
The author also covers some serious issues in this book, she shows how addiction can affect families even though the addicted may not see the problem.
A great read that I read in one sitting.
Four stars
** I received an arc for an honest review
Kate's life has been blighted a father who is addicted to gambling, she now runs a support group to help others suffering the same dilemma.
Liam Doyle, a self-made man, his opening his third casino in Las Vegas. Liam is pretty to look at and good at what he does. He certainly doesn't expect a do-gooder protesting outside his new casino on opening day, especially when she doesn't seem to be giving up!
When these two meet it obvious they both notice each other's physical attributes, it's not long until they enter into a sex gorged relationship.... Liam is very sexually orientated and uses sex as a distraction to opening up. Kate is a strong-minded lady, she can't help but enjoy the steamy hot sex and uses quiet times to get Liam to open up more.
There's more to this relationship than sex but it's hard for them to admit, along with the fact Kate hates gambling and struggles with how she can be with a casino owner. There's also a father who is always after money to pay gambling debts.
I enjoyed learning about the other Liam and how Kate learned to follow her heart.
The author also covers some serious issues in this book, she shows how addiction can affect families even though the addicted may not see the problem.
A great read that I read in one sitting.
Four stars
** I received an arc for an honest review
October 4, 2015
VICE is an enemies-to-lovers romance, whisking the reader to the bright lights and action in Las Vegas.
Rosanna Leo has penned a delightful read utilizing her brand of witty dialogue, sweetness, sensuality and charming characters, all the while handling the serious issue of gambling addiction, and the consequences it has on the people victimized by this affliction.
The chemistry between the characters pulled me in—especially their banter, keeping it light and fun, and at the same time the sensitive scenes dealing with addiction were extremely well written, allowing the reader to oscillate between being entertained and giving the reader a lot of food for thought.
Kate (the heroine) has suffered the consequences of gambling addiction because of her father’s compulsive and destructive gambling habit. This has propelled her to reach out and help other people who have had to deal with a family member’s addiction by becoming a volunteer counselor in Las Vegas.
Liam (the hero) owns successful hotels in Las Vegas and is opening Vice, a new casino. The set up for enemies is ripe, as the two collide with their opposing goals and motivation.
VICE is a well layered, emotionally packed, well-paced book, sweet and sexy, fun book.
Rosanna Leo has penned a delightful read utilizing her brand of witty dialogue, sweetness, sensuality and charming characters, all the while handling the serious issue of gambling addiction, and the consequences it has on the people victimized by this affliction.
The chemistry between the characters pulled me in—especially their banter, keeping it light and fun, and at the same time the sensitive scenes dealing with addiction were extremely well written, allowing the reader to oscillate between being entertained and giving the reader a lot of food for thought.
Kate (the heroine) has suffered the consequences of gambling addiction because of her father’s compulsive and destructive gambling habit. This has propelled her to reach out and help other people who have had to deal with a family member’s addiction by becoming a volunteer counselor in Las Vegas.
Liam (the hero) owns successful hotels in Las Vegas and is opening Vice, a new casino. The set up for enemies is ripe, as the two collide with their opposing goals and motivation.
VICE is a well layered, emotionally packed, well-paced book, sweet and sexy, fun book.
March 10, 2016
I read VICE in two days because it was a page-turner. It had the perfect amount of tension and spot-on pacing.
What I love most about VICE is that it's a story of addictions. Not only does Kate struggle with her father's gambling addiction, she latches on to Liam and creates an addiction of her own (while he gets addicted to her as well). It was a struggle to read how she tries to stop enabling her father but then just gets in deep with her own vice. There were times when Kate was telling herself to run from Liam and I really wanted her to do the same. While Liam has a tortured past, he felt more controlling and scary to me than like a sexy hero. Luckily, without giving away spoilers, both of them eventually get their act together, in a realistic way too- without it being too easy. I was very happy with both of their character arcs and how the book ended.
My favourite line: "They enabled each other. Their love was like a Vegas casino, bright and lively on the outside, but cloaked in darkness, heedless of time and responsibility." Not only is the imagery here perfect, but this line came at exactly the right time.
What I love most about VICE is that it's a story of addictions. Not only does Kate struggle with her father's gambling addiction, she latches on to Liam and creates an addiction of her own (while he gets addicted to her as well). It was a struggle to read how she tries to stop enabling her father but then just gets in deep with her own vice. There were times when Kate was telling herself to run from Liam and I really wanted her to do the same. While Liam has a tortured past, he felt more controlling and scary to me than like a sexy hero. Luckily, without giving away spoilers, both of them eventually get their act together, in a realistic way too- without it being too easy. I was very happy with both of their character arcs and how the book ended.
My favourite line: "They enabled each other. Their love was like a Vegas casino, bright and lively on the outside, but cloaked in darkness, heedless of time and responsibility." Not only is the imagery here perfect, but this line came at exactly the right time.
August 14, 2015
First off I want to say that I received this book from the author as an ARC for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book and I would not consider this to be a run of the mill rich dominant guy, young submissive female scenario. While both characters do fall in with those attributes the story itself did not follow along as some similar story-lines I have read in the past.
First off Kate Callendar is a young woman who runs a support group for people who have had to deal with gamblers in their lives. Not the gamblers themselves but the family members who are also affected by the addiction. She has experienced the ramification of this addiction first hand in the form of her father (who is a douchbag by the way).
In an effort to help some of her support club members she decides to institute a boycott of Liam Doyle's new casino Vice, which is just having a grand opening. Obviously Liam is none too pleased to have this lone woman picketing outside his establishment as it opens for business. While trying to get her to stop the two actually come to respect each other and of course the chemistry between the two heats up and soon they are doing it like rabbits...and I do mean like rabbits...dear lord, I was getting tired just reading about all the sex they were having. Which is so freaking HAWT! The man is an animal...in a good way.
Here is where I really liked the way Ms. Leo wrote their sex scenes...because while I am usually at the front of the line saying there is never too much sex in a book...in this one there is a reason for ALL the sex. It got to the point where I was thinking to myself, shouldn't these two be talking more and getting to know each other, instead of constantly jumping in the sack. Well, gambling isn't the only addiction, right? Liam deflects by using sex, so every time Kate tries to get too close he sweeps her off to bed and distracts her with mind numbing sex. At some point Kate realizes that this is a problem for both of them and realizes that this is as unhealthy as any other addiction and is smart enough to step back and give them the space they need to realize if their relationship is going to work it has to be built on something besides great sex.
Well Done!
I really enjoyed this book and I would not consider this to be a run of the mill rich dominant guy, young submissive female scenario. While both characters do fall in with those attributes the story itself did not follow along as some similar story-lines I have read in the past.
First off Kate Callendar is a young woman who runs a support group for people who have had to deal with gamblers in their lives. Not the gamblers themselves but the family members who are also affected by the addiction. She has experienced the ramification of this addiction first hand in the form of her father (who is a douchbag by the way).
In an effort to help some of her support club members she decides to institute a boycott of Liam Doyle's new casino Vice, which is just having a grand opening. Obviously Liam is none too pleased to have this lone woman picketing outside his establishment as it opens for business. While trying to get her to stop the two actually come to respect each other and of course the chemistry between the two heats up and soon they are doing it like rabbits...and I do mean like rabbits...dear lord, I was getting tired just reading about all the sex they were having. Which is so freaking HAWT! The man is an animal...in a good way.
Here is where I really liked the way Ms. Leo wrote their sex scenes...because while I am usually at the front of the line saying there is never too much sex in a book...in this one there is a reason for ALL the sex. It got to the point where I was thinking to myself, shouldn't these two be talking more and getting to know each other, instead of constantly jumping in the sack. Well, gambling isn't the only addiction, right? Liam deflects by using sex, so every time Kate tries to get too close he sweeps her off to bed and distracts her with mind numbing sex. At some point Kate realizes that this is a problem for both of them and realizes that this is as unhealthy as any other addiction and is smart enough to step back and give them the space they need to realize if their relationship is going to work it has to be built on something besides great sex.
Well Done!
January 16, 2016
Vice by author Rosanna Leo is a really sweet romance. It made me smile a lot as I read this one. I like how Ms. Leo brings passionate heroines to her books. Kate is truly a passionate woman. She does jingles for commercials and is a volunteer councilor for people recovering from gambling addiction. She is sassy, strong, and very independent. She also has a lot of deep secrets she keeps to herself. She will never give up on a cause she truly believes in.
Liam Doyle is the new Vegas casino golden boy. He is the kind of man that Kate hates. He is self assured, good looking, and successful. He would be perfect if he was not the owner of all of her troubles. Liam has his own set of problems. Yes he is successful but his personal life is a mess. He doesn't even know how much of a mess it really is.
When Liam opens Vice a new casino Kate makes it her one woman mission to picket it. Liam cannot help but be drawn to her sassy feisty nature.
When they get to know each other they find out that they are really good for each other. I loved watching them dance around their feelings. They have a passionate spark, but a cautious nature to their romance. Together they are stronger than they are apart.
This story is for the truly romantic who likes a little humor in their romance too.
Five Twinkling Stars
Liam Doyle is the new Vegas casino golden boy. He is the kind of man that Kate hates. He is self assured, good looking, and successful. He would be perfect if he was not the owner of all of her troubles. Liam has his own set of problems. Yes he is successful but his personal life is a mess. He doesn't even know how much of a mess it really is.
When Liam opens Vice a new casino Kate makes it her one woman mission to picket it. Liam cannot help but be drawn to her sassy feisty nature.
When they get to know each other they find out that they are really good for each other. I loved watching them dance around their feelings. They have a passionate spark, but a cautious nature to their romance. Together they are stronger than they are apart.
This story is for the truly romantic who likes a little humor in their romance too.
Five Twinkling Stars
October 21, 2017
So many dimensions to this read and these characters.
Kate is well aware of the consequences of what happens when a loved one is addicted to gambling. They will destroy the family, take every last penny and won't take responsibility. That's why she helps others in the same situation. With new casino Vice due to open, she is spurred on to take action and draw attention to the downside of gambling. What she doesn't count on is falling for Liam the sexy casino owner. As she falls deeper, she becomes conflicted as what he stands for is against her values.
Liam hugely benefits from his time with Kate. His eyes are opened to the downside of gambling. He is forced to look at his own actions and his decisions. But she very quickly becomes his vice and he falls and falls big.
This was an insightful look at the not so glamorous side of gambling and our susceptibility to vices. Liam and Kate were interesting strong characters who challenged each other in the right way to be better people. As a first read by this author I will be coming back to her again in the future as her storytelling is top notch.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
Kate is well aware of the consequences of what happens when a loved one is addicted to gambling. They will destroy the family, take every last penny and won't take responsibility. That's why she helps others in the same situation. With new casino Vice due to open, she is spurred on to take action and draw attention to the downside of gambling. What she doesn't count on is falling for Liam the sexy casino owner. As she falls deeper, she becomes conflicted as what he stands for is against her values.
Liam hugely benefits from his time with Kate. His eyes are opened to the downside of gambling. He is forced to look at his own actions and his decisions. But she very quickly becomes his vice and he falls and falls big.
This was an insightful look at the not so glamorous side of gambling and our susceptibility to vices. Liam and Kate were interesting strong characters who challenged each other in the right way to be better people. As a first read by this author I will be coming back to her again in the future as her storytelling is top notch.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
June 19, 2015
Loved this book from the very first line! All the characters are well written and inspire feeling, whether that feeling I love for the character or a deep seated need to kick the character in the balls! Yes there are a couple of characters that inspire such violent emotions! Lol!
As for the main characters Kate and Liam, I really enjoyed their journey together, how they helped each other heal in the end after both hitting rock bottom. They were good together and had serious chemistry.
It was a little unhealthy for a while as Liam hid behind it, used to stop Kate asking more questions about his past trauma's but they got past it! I was happy to see how it ended for them and could picture the possible future they could have in my minds eye!
Great book! I'd definitely recommend it! You won't want to put it down!
As for the main characters Kate and Liam, I really enjoyed their journey together, how they helped each other heal in the end after both hitting rock bottom. They were good together and had serious chemistry.
It was a little unhealthy for a while as Liam hid behind it, used to stop Kate asking more questions about his past trauma's but they got past it! I was happy to see how it ended for them and could picture the possible future they could have in my minds eye!
Great book! I'd definitely recommend it! You won't want to put it down!
September 19, 2017
I volunteered to read an ARC of this book for an honest review - This book was emotionall y gripping. The characters were extremely compelling and emotionaly evolving. I loved how the author explored a tough topic of gambling addiction and the devastation it encompasses for all those involved. I especially enjoyed how Liam transferred his fear of loss and rejection to sexual addiction of Kate. When Kate recognized what Liam and herself were doing she had to pull away to save them both. By both of them hitting rock bottom were they able to find themselves and each other. The writing style was smooth and flowed very well. I have to mention the provacative sex scenes that had me fanning myself. An excellent book worth reading!
August 2, 2015
Rosanna Leo weaves a story of two individuals struggling with the pain from their childhood, that refuses to stay in the past. As a therapist, I identify with Kate who tries diligently to support her group members yet recognizes her own issues. Liam has earned great success in his career in spite of abandonment at an early age. The two seem like polar opposites at first glance but, they are drawn to each other magnetically. The passion is overwhelming and often feels tormented, like they only feel alive and safe when they are together. Readers will find themselves rooting for this couple to grow in their relationship against the odds. I was given an advanced copy to review.
October 3, 2015
I've never read a romance novel quite like this one. It was sweet and funny, sexy and charming and it also made me cry a little and vow never to gamble in Vegas. Set in Vegas Vice follows Kate, a singer/activist/counselor who's determined to make a dent in gambling's horrible effects on the family and friends of addicts. Liam is a self-made casino mogul who scribes to the "people can make their own choices" school of thinking. Their attraction to each other is a complication neither of them needs but neither of them can end. I won't give away spoilers but Vice was a great read and I would definitely recommend.
P.s. Isn't Vice just the best name for a casino? Seriously?
P.s. Isn't Vice just the best name for a casino? Seriously?
September 19, 2016
Addiction comes in many forms and with a story set in a decadent Vegas casino called Vice, you’d think this one was all about the gambling. But, it’s much more than that. This is a sexy tale of two people who have managed to overcome adversity and find love in each other’s arms while fighting their own addictions.
Having grown up with a father who was addicted to gambling, a man who showed up only when he needed money, it’s no wonder Kate Callender has made it her personal mission to help others in the same situation. The problem is Kate can’t stop enabling her father’s gambling habit and despite her better judgment, caves to his wicked manipulations time and again. When Kate suddenly finds herself out of work, she decides to use her free time to protest against the guy who just opened a new casino, someone she blames for fostering such temptations, Liam Doyle.
Liam Doyle has spent a lifetime proving his worth by creating a gambling empire, building casino upon casino like a compulsion. But no manner of success has filled the void in his life until the moment he lays eyes on the sassy red head picketing outside Vice. One look and he’s hooked on Kate. Despite her angst and ultimate goal of shutting down the Vice grand opening, he can’t stop looking at her, dreaming about her, or wanting her in his bed, and she quickly becomes his obsession.
There’s so much to say about the characters Rosanna Leo has created. They’re funny, sexy and yes, challenged. Each of them had sad childhoods that left them damaged. Yet, they managed to rise above it all to gain professional success and still couldn’t dump their personal demons. As they wage war in and out of the bedroom, intimate details of their own lives emerge and they begin to see each other in a different light. Little by little, as haunted memories are shared, they cling to each other for emotional support. Having bared their souls and bodies, what starts out as a simple attraction soon turns into sexy obsession, another addition—this time to each other.
The emotional antics of these characters unfold between the sheets with steamy scenes and sexy encounters they use to escape the real issues that plague them. While the sex is romping good fun, one can’t help but cross their fingers and cheer for them to work out their problems, trust in each other and find a deeper connection.
Watching Kate and Liam’s lives develop on the page will leave the reader addicted to this story.
Having grown up with a father who was addicted to gambling, a man who showed up only when he needed money, it’s no wonder Kate Callender has made it her personal mission to help others in the same situation. The problem is Kate can’t stop enabling her father’s gambling habit and despite her better judgment, caves to his wicked manipulations time and again. When Kate suddenly finds herself out of work, she decides to use her free time to protest against the guy who just opened a new casino, someone she blames for fostering such temptations, Liam Doyle.
Liam Doyle has spent a lifetime proving his worth by creating a gambling empire, building casino upon casino like a compulsion. But no manner of success has filled the void in his life until the moment he lays eyes on the sassy red head picketing outside Vice. One look and he’s hooked on Kate. Despite her angst and ultimate goal of shutting down the Vice grand opening, he can’t stop looking at her, dreaming about her, or wanting her in his bed, and she quickly becomes his obsession.
There’s so much to say about the characters Rosanna Leo has created. They’re funny, sexy and yes, challenged. Each of them had sad childhoods that left them damaged. Yet, they managed to rise above it all to gain professional success and still couldn’t dump their personal demons. As they wage war in and out of the bedroom, intimate details of their own lives emerge and they begin to see each other in a different light. Little by little, as haunted memories are shared, they cling to each other for emotional support. Having bared their souls and bodies, what starts out as a simple attraction soon turns into sexy obsession, another addition—this time to each other.
The emotional antics of these characters unfold between the sheets with steamy scenes and sexy encounters they use to escape the real issues that plague them. While the sex is romping good fun, one can’t help but cross their fingers and cheer for them to work out their problems, trust in each other and find a deeper connection.
Watching Kate and Liam’s lives develop on the page will leave the reader addicted to this story.
December 23, 2015
“He needed her. She needed him. Like this. Hard. Often. Victims to an unnerving Passion.”
4.5 VICE STARS
Vice by Author Rosanna Leo is a heart warming story of Kate Callender and Liam Doyle. The story is based on a fact, "There is always two sides to a coin and sometimes its too early to pass a judgement." The story has good humour and is intensely passionate with flaming hot attraction between Kate & Liam. Its highly addictive and will leave you wanting more.
Kate Callender is a part time singer along with a volunteer at the new horizons group, which helps families of gambling addicts. Been burned by her father time and again who is also a gambling addict, she is empathetic towards the innocent victims of gambling. Liam Doyle is a Young Casino Czar. He is the sensation at the strip and there is a lot more than meets the eye to him. Liam notices Kate, when she starts protesting at the opening of his newest casino VICE. The spark in her excites him, making him intensely inquisitive about her. But Kate is adamant on hating him, until one day she witness a personal moment, where Liam is no more a cold hearted devil.
The attraction between them is bizarre and its growing leaps and bounds. When a tragedy hits Kate, Liam protects her and she had no other choice but to move to Vice with him. The outside world seems to blur and they live in their own bubble. Kate realises that Liam has more to him than he leads on, but everytime she tries to know more he dodges her by luring her into bed with him. Both had been burned in the past and they were trying to find solace in each other.
“She made him soar. She made him despair. She made him dare to love.”
Everything was perfect yet it felt wrong. The addiction they had for each other felt overwhelming.
Will Kate forget her apprehensions ?
Was their affair doomed from the start ?
Read their story to know more ➜ http://amzn.to/1QFHh9n
March 6, 2016
I really enjoy reading contemporary romances that enlighten AND entertain . I also enjoy seeing a talented romance author take on a trope and give it a new twist. Vice, by Rosanna Leo, is a hot enemies-to-lovers romance that has some dark twists and turns. Of course, being a book by Rosanna, it is full of lots of passion and sizzling under-the-covers…well, pretty much anywhere, including a piano bench in a casino bar named, appropriately Decadence…action.
I appreciated learning more about how gambling can become an addiction, tearing families apart and ruining lives. And about the people, like Kate, who work to right those wrongs and heal those wounds. But what Vice really brings home is that anything can become an addiction, including sex…and love.
My favorite quote:
Their love was like a Vegas casino, bright and lively on the outside, but cloaked in darkness, heedless of time and responsibility. They’d reveled in each other, forgetting the outside world, rather than learning how to function in it.
And that is the heart of this story. Two damaged people looking for something that is more than just another addiction...and flirting with disaster when they forget those bright lights are artificial.
Maybe they were each other’s vice, after all.
And rather that lush amorous dialogue and purple prose, for me the most romantic line in the whole book was when Liam, finally understanding the dangerous game they had been playing in the artificial world of his casino, says to Kate:
“I really want to start over and see if we can work our way back to the insane monkey sex.”
I was glad to see Liam and Kate turn their backs on Vegas, but I would love to see what these two get up to in New York!
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review.
I appreciated learning more about how gambling can become an addiction, tearing families apart and ruining lives. And about the people, like Kate, who work to right those wrongs and heal those wounds. But what Vice really brings home is that anything can become an addiction, including sex…and love.
My favorite quote:
Their love was like a Vegas casino, bright and lively on the outside, but cloaked in darkness, heedless of time and responsibility. They’d reveled in each other, forgetting the outside world, rather than learning how to function in it.
And that is the heart of this story. Two damaged people looking for something that is more than just another addiction...and flirting with disaster when they forget those bright lights are artificial.
Maybe they were each other’s vice, after all.
And rather that lush amorous dialogue and purple prose, for me the most romantic line in the whole book was when Liam, finally understanding the dangerous game they had been playing in the artificial world of his casino, says to Kate:
“I really want to start over and see if we can work our way back to the insane monkey sex.”
I was glad to see Liam and Kate turn their backs on Vegas, but I would love to see what these two get up to in New York!
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review.
October 1, 2017
I'm such a cover lover and this cover I love Vice would be my first story I read by Rosanna Leo and I plan on it not being my last . The author really describes the pain and the struggles the characters go through or from experiences they have been faced with . I really liked Kate as a heroine even though she does frustrate me a time or two but over all liked her , she runs a support group for those effected by gambling from her own experiences she tries to build the people up can also be one hell of a spit fire . Liam is a great hero love the fact that we get an incite into his past the only thing I wish we got was a goodbye face to face with someone he holds close to his heart I would have felt more closure for that relationship . They really did make a great couple being so opposite yet similar at the same time and we get to see them develop through out the story and the sex scenes are really hot and well paced . I can't wait to read whats to come for Rosanna Leo .
****************************************
hero=9 heroine=9 secondary characters=9 Chemistry=8 steam=8
romance=7 humor=3 darkness level=4 action=3 mystery=3
enjoyment=10 angst=3 story line=10 Story ending=8
character development=10 pacing=8 Plot=8
cover=10 stars=4 author=8
would I recommend this book=yes
would I re read this book=yes
would I read future books by this author=yes
****************************************
hero=9 heroine=9 secondary characters=9 Chemistry=8 steam=8
romance=7 humor=3 darkness level=4 action=3 mystery=3
enjoyment=10 angst=3 story line=10 Story ending=8
character development=10 pacing=8 Plot=8
cover=10 stars=4 author=8
would I recommend this book=yes
would I re read this book=yes
would I read future books by this author=yes
September 22, 2015
I loved everything about this book! From the first sentence straight through to the last word – Rosanna Leo's writing had me completely hooked.
Both Kate and Liam have issues – issues that make their growing attraction for each other a lot more complicated. At first Kate sees Liam as nothing more than a man with no conscience, but then she gets a glimpse of the man behind the suits and all the public appearances. Soon she learns that there is more to Liam than just money, casino’s and being the root of an addiction that has threatened to ruin her life.
To Liam Kate is nothing more than a pain in his ass. But then he finds himself being intrigued by her, drawn to her in ways that just adds a lot more complications to his already very complicated life. And what is a good love story without complications right?
Vice delves deep into the devastating effects of gambling addiction, and tells the story of two people’s struggle to find love. The chemistry between these two makes for a wildly sexy read and it leaves you incapable of putting it down. Vice is the perfect story of two very imperfect people who want nothing more than their own happily ever after. Will they be able to beat the odds and find their HEA with each other?
Both Kate and Liam have issues – issues that make their growing attraction for each other a lot more complicated. At first Kate sees Liam as nothing more than a man with no conscience, but then she gets a glimpse of the man behind the suits and all the public appearances. Soon she learns that there is more to Liam than just money, casino’s and being the root of an addiction that has threatened to ruin her life.
To Liam Kate is nothing more than a pain in his ass. But then he finds himself being intrigued by her, drawn to her in ways that just adds a lot more complications to his already very complicated life. And what is a good love story without complications right?
Vice delves deep into the devastating effects of gambling addiction, and tells the story of two people’s struggle to find love. The chemistry between these two makes for a wildly sexy read and it leaves you incapable of putting it down. Vice is the perfect story of two very imperfect people who want nothing more than their own happily ever after. Will they be able to beat the odds and find their HEA with each other?
September 21, 2015
Ah it's been a while since I've read a good enemies to lovers story and I forgot how much I love the sexual tension it creates. It's also sort of a forbidden romance which made it even more HOT! Although the witty banter and the sexy encounters are the main selling point of the book for me, I found it refreshing that there's also some real depth to the story and that we get to explore some of the past demons haunting both Liam and Kate. There were a few times a couple of words that usually gross me out like suckled or lapped were used but they were pretty easy to overlook in the grand scheme of things, especially since in my head Liam Doyle looks like Henry Cavill LOL! I found it intriguing that Liam and Kate were sort of each others vice for a while but ultimately helped each other to heal. It really is a great story and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey. This was the first book I've read by Rosanna Leo and I'm pleased to say that I look forward to reading many more. I highly recommend Vice to fans of sexy enemy to lovers novels with a deeper story.
** I received this ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review. **
** I received this ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review. **
September 30, 2015
In Vice, Rosanna Leo’s latest contemporary romance, two imperfect, seemingly mismatched, souls are brought together. Kate Callendar is a support group facilitator for the loved ones of compulsive gamblers and Liam Doyle is making his mark as the hottest developer to hit the Vegas strip in years. When Kate begins a one woman crusade against gambling at the grand opening of Vice, Liam’s latest casino, the adversaries are brought face-to-face. But a heated attraction underlies their mutual frustration, and the two are drawn to one another. Tormented by the pleasure she finds in the arms of a man who should be her enemy, Kate challenges Liam to consider his failings even as she struggles to find her own “rock bottom.”
Ms. Leo tells their story with compassion and grace, allowing a realistic glimpse into the complicated, sometimes contradictory, emotions involved in relationships compromised by addiction. Vice is a heartfelt tale for thoughtful readers who like a bit of introspection with their sexy.
Ms. Leo tells their story with compassion and grace, allowing a realistic glimpse into the complicated, sometimes contradictory, emotions involved in relationships compromised by addiction. Vice is a heartfelt tale for thoughtful readers who like a bit of introspection with their sexy.
March 19, 2017
This a Contempary read by Rosanna Leo . This is a standalone story . This story involves Kate our heroine and Liam our hero .
This story is set in Vegas .
Kate is on a mission . She wants to shut down or make a dent in Liam new casino called Vice . She remembers is how her father took every penny from her mom when she was growing up just for one more chance , one more roll . Her father gambling destroyed their home life and something happened to her mom . She sets out I front of Vice on the sidewalk so she is not breaking any laws with a picket . Yep it's only her . And she's talking to the customers making sure they know what is on her mind . Liam notices her and sends his security after her . Security after a while likes her
Liam open up casinos ( Vice ) is one of a few because he needed to prove something . Something that is affecting him to this day
This story is set in Vegas .
Kate is on a mission . She wants to shut down or make a dent in Liam new casino called Vice . She remembers is how her father took every penny from her mom when she was growing up just for one more chance , one more roll . Her father gambling destroyed their home life and something happened to her mom . She sets out I front of Vice on the sidewalk so she is not breaking any laws with a picket . Yep it's only her . And she's talking to the customers making sure they know what is on her mind . Liam notices her and sends his security after her . Security after a while likes her
Liam open up casinos ( Vice ) is one of a few because he needed to prove something . Something that is affecting him to this day
September 30, 2017
I loved this book. This is my first Rosanna book but it damn well won't be my last. I devoured this book. Kate and Liam are a couple with some very intense chemistry. If they ignore the past and not deal with the problems going on now they would be the golden couple. But we all know the past and the future has a way of coming to bite you in the ass.
This is such an intense love story and I can't say enough about how much I loved it.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy for my honest review.
This is such an intense love story and I can't say enough about how much I loved it.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy for my honest review.
October 15, 2017
Vice is book 1 in the Vegas Sins Series by Rosanna Leo and has a lot of the right characteristics of a really good contemporary romance novel. The main themes that standout for me are insta-love, gambling, addictions and an atypical enemies to lovers romance.
The main characters are very endearing and quite lovable. Kate Callander has spent her whole life fighting a gambling addiction, one that is not hers. She has lost so much already and gives back by helping to run a gambling support group for families who have been affected. She is a crusader. Full of spunk, she tries to have an upbeat and positive attitude even though her own life is in turmoil. She is always so quick to try and help out others with their problems she neglects herself. The opening of a new casino has her pushing through to perform a one women protest and try to upset the casino developers plans.
Never in her wildest dreams did she think she would be coming face to face with the self-made casino tycoon, or that her protest would attract his attention.
Liam Doyle is proud of all that he has accomplished. The opening of his new casino should be an occasion that he is looking forward to but he cannot seem to muster the enthusiasm. That is until he spots the lone protester in front of his casino. A fiery red-head, who will not bend to his security no matter how hard they push. Liam is intrigued to say the least, he must meet her. What he is not expecting is the attitude she throws his way. Kate is not intimidated by his success or money. In fact it all disgusts her.
On opposite sides of the fence, these two find a sort of kindred relationship. The sexual chemistry is off the charts and these two take advantage frequently. The only problem is love cannot grow from sex alone and Kate is desperate to learn more about Liam, hoping to grow their relationship into something more. Whereas Liam is trying to distract Kate with the physical to avoid the emotional, he does not want to dredge up his ugly past so that he can keep Kate a little longer.
This story is very well developed and as they say the devil is in the details and Rosanna left out none. I think this allows you to be able to connect better with the characters. This was my debut read from Rosanna and I look forward to reading more of her work.
I was provided and advanced readers copy to this book.
The main characters are very endearing and quite lovable. Kate Callander has spent her whole life fighting a gambling addiction, one that is not hers. She has lost so much already and gives back by helping to run a gambling support group for families who have been affected. She is a crusader. Full of spunk, she tries to have an upbeat and positive attitude even though her own life is in turmoil. She is always so quick to try and help out others with their problems she neglects herself. The opening of a new casino has her pushing through to perform a one women protest and try to upset the casino developers plans.
Never in her wildest dreams did she think she would be coming face to face with the self-made casino tycoon, or that her protest would attract his attention.
Liam Doyle is proud of all that he has accomplished. The opening of his new casino should be an occasion that he is looking forward to but he cannot seem to muster the enthusiasm. That is until he spots the lone protester in front of his casino. A fiery red-head, who will not bend to his security no matter how hard they push. Liam is intrigued to say the least, he must meet her. What he is not expecting is the attitude she throws his way. Kate is not intimidated by his success or money. In fact it all disgusts her.
On opposite sides of the fence, these two find a sort of kindred relationship. The sexual chemistry is off the charts and these two take advantage frequently. The only problem is love cannot grow from sex alone and Kate is desperate to learn more about Liam, hoping to grow their relationship into something more. Whereas Liam is trying to distract Kate with the physical to avoid the emotional, he does not want to dredge up his ugly past so that he can keep Kate a little longer.
This story is very well developed and as they say the devil is in the details and Rosanna left out none. I think this allows you to be able to connect better with the characters. This was my debut read from Rosanna and I look forward to reading more of her work.
I was provided and advanced readers copy to this book.
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January 2, 2021This steamy read was hot, sweet, and insightful. While I loved the main story with Liam and Kate, the underlining one about addiction gave the book depth. The way Vice delved into both sides of the casinos and gambling was fantastic. It showed not only the lights and glimmer but also those broken by addiction.
This was my first time reading Leo. It won't be my last.
This was my first time reading Leo. It won't be my last.
October 24, 2017
Liam Doyle has many gambling casinos in Vegas. His state of the arc Vice is having is grand opening but Liam just isn't enthusiastic about it. He seemed in a rut until a little fiesty protestor stormed into his world.
Kate has just lost her job singing jingles. Now that she has spare time, she decided to protest in front of one of the biggest casino franchises owned by Liam Doyle. After all, she is the director of New Horizons, a support group for gamblers loved ones.
When two lonely souls worlds collide, they learn they have to come to terms with their own addictions. Control and supporting a gambler.
Vice is written with such compassion. I really loved this book! I can't wait for the next installment. I would definitely recommend this book
Kate has just lost her job singing jingles. Now that she has spare time, she decided to protest in front of one of the biggest casino franchises owned by Liam Doyle. After all, she is the director of New Horizons, a support group for gamblers loved ones.
When two lonely souls worlds collide, they learn they have to come to terms with their own addictions. Control and supporting a gambler.
Vice is written with such compassion. I really loved this book! I can't wait for the next installment. I would definitely recommend this book
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