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What Happens in Vegas #10
Calling Her Bluff
He wasn’t the score she was looking for...
Romance author Kamaria Wilson came to Las Vegas with nothing to lose. A one-night stand with a delicious man is just the distraction she needs...until one night with him doesn’t feel like enough. Panicked, she skips out on the morning-after encore and hides out at the poker tables.
After his hot one-night stand goes MIA, security specialist Jack Aldirisi is sure he’ll never see her again. But when he’s called in to the casino for an unexpected special assignment, Lady Luck smiles down on Jack. For the rest of the weekend, he’ll be by his missing woman’s side.
She insists their powerful connection is nothing more than sex. He begs to differ. And this time, he’s calling her bluff.
106 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 16, 2015
21 people are currently reading
267 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
October 28, 2015
*ACR copy in exchange for an honest review*
★★★★ 3.5 Vegas stars !★★★★
This book in a sentence:A two hour ROM-COM converted into an 85 page novella
"The plain old truth is my name is Kamaria Wilson....and I'm a gambling addict.
Authoress Kamaria Wilson hasn't played a hand in 3 years.Confident that she now has her addiction in control she decides to test herself by having her next book signing in one of the largest casino capital in the world..Las Vegas.
Calling her Bluff is an absolutely adorable read revolving around a recovering gambling addict and the security detail sicked on her,by her agent,to ensure that she's kept away from the Casio tables until the end of her book-signing convention...Who ALSO just happens to be her amazing one-night stand.
My thoughts on the plot & characters: The 'I-want-more-after-a-one-night-stand' is defiantly a plot used,one to many times.But I liked the little quirk Kia Danielle gave her main character.I really felt like the heroine's addiction added a bit of originality to the otherwise over done plot.
Kamaria & Jack are both very lovable character.I enjoyed reading their love story just as much as I would enjoy an old Rom-Com marathon,on a random Friday night.
Fine Verdict:Sweet one-time read.Fun but nothing memorable.
★★★★ 3.5 Vegas stars !★★★★
This book in a sentence:A two hour ROM-COM converted into an 85 page novella
"The plain old truth is my name is Kamaria Wilson....and I'm a gambling addict.
Authoress Kamaria Wilson hasn't played a hand in 3 years.Confident that she now has her addiction in control she decides to test herself by having her next book signing in one of the largest casino capital in the world..Las Vegas.
Calling her Bluff is an absolutely adorable read revolving around a recovering gambling addict and the security detail sicked on her,by her agent,to ensure that she's kept away from the Casio tables until the end of her book-signing convention...Who ALSO just happens to be her amazing one-night stand.
My thoughts on the plot & characters: The 'I-want-more-after-a-one-night-stand' is defiantly a plot used,one to many times.But I liked the little quirk Kia Danielle gave her main character.I really felt like the heroine's addiction added a bit of originality to the otherwise over done plot.
Kamaria & Jack are both very lovable character.I enjoyed reading their love story just as much as I would enjoy an old Rom-Com marathon,on a random Friday night.
Fine Verdict:Sweet one-time read.Fun but nothing memorable.
October 31, 2015
3.5 Being Strong When It Matters Stars * * *1/2
Addictions... we all have them...It is just a matter of whether they become disruptive to your life. For anyone who poo-poos that idea, they need to only think of whether they could stop reading that wanted book forever or never taste cheesecake or ice cream again or anything else that calls out to you... Because all of us have the ability to want things and justify the excuse we make while reaching for them... It is just a matter of how we are wired as to which addiction hits us and how strong...
This novella uses gambling as the centerpiece for her main characters. We have a romance novelist who has been away from the poker tables for 1223 days or about 3 years. She has become a successful author and one of the major Romance Conventions is taking place at her nemesis, Las Vegas. In her mind, she feels this is the test she needs... a way to prove to herself she can withstand any temptations put in front of her. She also feels a huge obligation to her fans to be at this event.
We are at one of the few local bars in Vegas that does not have any slots or poker tables on the premises. Kamaria searched and found a local place to go and just cut loose. She is there to drink a bit, relax a lot and not think...not think about cards or the noise of machines jangling or the purr of decks being shuffled. Her phone rings, jarring her out of her thoughts and her agent blasts in her ear. She wants to know where she is... and immediately jumps to the wrong conclusion... no, Kamaria says I am not at the tables, no I am not in the casino... leave me be...
Her agent tells her to sit for she has exciting news...she hit the New York Times Best Seller List...the holy grail. This can be life changing and every Romance, hell, every type of author knows it. The agent congratulates her and tells her in so many words to drink up, cut loose and find a fella to enjoy... it is well deserved.
Little does the agent know, Kamaria, already had eyes on such a prospect. He was huge, 6'5" and handsome enough to model book covers... in fact, if she squinted her eyes a bit he looked just like the model for her last book....And boy was he built...
Kamaria was well into her second shot and was aiming for more when the built by the gods fella came over to her and asked if she was ok...it seems she had been looking at the blank screen of her phone, mumbling over and over What the fuck...She explained to the handsome guy she just found out she had wonderful news and was going to celebrate... did he want to join her for more than a drink....OMG did that really come out of my mouth she thought...
Handsome guy looked at this vision he saw and very kindly thought ... this is woman who I would like to get to know.. Her skin silky, her deep brown eyes captivating and the mouth, oh those lips...With a body and and sass too, yeah I would like to get to know her...Both of them then talked a bit, shared they were not one night stand people...but the attraction was too strong for both to pass up... we know they didn't either...
Kamaria made an early escape back to the hotel, reconnects with her agent and then goes to her room. There she regroups and thinks of all the things she has gone through...how her nana loved romance books and had her read them to her once she couldn't do it herself...how she wanted to honor her nana by writing romance as a tribute to her now that she was gone.
She gets a bit caught up with all these feelings and decides to test her strength...She hadn't been with anyone for years because she didn't want to trade one addition for another...afraid she had done that with her experience from last night. She wasn't sure of the feelings she had for Jack... it felt like more...but this was Vegas and who knew what you felt when there...
Our guy wakes disappointed in Kamaria not being in his bed. She was more than a one night stand... she had this essence about her and he just felt more... Jack was woken by his part time boss/full time Marine buddy to come to the Casino to assist with a "special project"...The only project he was interested in was hunting down Kamaria.
At the Casino, Jack walks into a meeting of the agent badgering Ben, Head of Security. She wants someone on Kamaria 24/7 to make sure she doesn't slip back into her gambling ways. Naturally Jake is the man Ben wants to do the job...and both have no idea it is Kamaria until they see her at the tables through the security cameras.
This story's focus on fighting addiction with the surrounding romance angle was interesting...there were a few concepts explored. What makes a person able to fight the addiction and how do they go about it...Also the need to forgive themselves and feel they are worthy of good in their lives. Both of these characters had the experience of gambling addiction in their lives; she personally and he through his father. The father did not succeed; Kamaria seems to be fighting and even with a slip... back on track.
There, of course, was chemistry between them and their banter, made up contracts and memories of their times together were swoon worthy...These two were a match.
The setting of a Romance Convention was fun and hopefully not too true with women pinching our guy's butt mercilessly.
A fast romance novella with more than just the romance.
A gifted copy was provided by Entangled Publishing, LLC via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Addictions... we all have them...It is just a matter of whether they become disruptive to your life. For anyone who poo-poos that idea, they need to only think of whether they could stop reading that wanted book forever or never taste cheesecake or ice cream again or anything else that calls out to you... Because all of us have the ability to want things and justify the excuse we make while reaching for them... It is just a matter of how we are wired as to which addiction hits us and how strong...
This novella uses gambling as the centerpiece for her main characters. We have a romance novelist who has been away from the poker tables for 1223 days or about 3 years. She has become a successful author and one of the major Romance Conventions is taking place at her nemesis, Las Vegas. In her mind, she feels this is the test she needs... a way to prove to herself she can withstand any temptations put in front of her. She also feels a huge obligation to her fans to be at this event.
We are at one of the few local bars in Vegas that does not have any slots or poker tables on the premises. Kamaria searched and found a local place to go and just cut loose. She is there to drink a bit, relax a lot and not think...not think about cards or the noise of machines jangling or the purr of decks being shuffled. Her phone rings, jarring her out of her thoughts and her agent blasts in her ear. She wants to know where she is... and immediately jumps to the wrong conclusion... no, Kamaria says I am not at the tables, no I am not in the casino... leave me be...
Her agent tells her to sit for she has exciting news...she hit the New York Times Best Seller List...the holy grail. This can be life changing and every Romance, hell, every type of author knows it. The agent congratulates her and tells her in so many words to drink up, cut loose and find a fella to enjoy... it is well deserved.
Little does the agent know, Kamaria, already had eyes on such a prospect. He was huge, 6'5" and handsome enough to model book covers... in fact, if she squinted her eyes a bit he looked just like the model for her last book....And boy was he built...
Kamaria was well into her second shot and was aiming for more when the built by the gods fella came over to her and asked if she was ok...it seems she had been looking at the blank screen of her phone, mumbling over and over What the fuck...She explained to the handsome guy she just found out she had wonderful news and was going to celebrate... did he want to join her for more than a drink....OMG did that really come out of my mouth she thought...
Handsome guy looked at this vision he saw and very kindly thought ... this is woman who I would like to get to know.. Her skin silky, her deep brown eyes captivating and the mouth, oh those lips...With a body and and sass too, yeah I would like to get to know her...Both of them then talked a bit, shared they were not one night stand people...but the attraction was too strong for both to pass up... we know they didn't either...
Kamaria made an early escape back to the hotel, reconnects with her agent and then goes to her room. There she regroups and thinks of all the things she has gone through...how her nana loved romance books and had her read them to her once she couldn't do it herself...how she wanted to honor her nana by writing romance as a tribute to her now that she was gone.
She gets a bit caught up with all these feelings and decides to test her strength...She hadn't been with anyone for years because she didn't want to trade one addition for another...afraid she had done that with her experience from last night. She wasn't sure of the feelings she had for Jack... it felt like more...but this was Vegas and who knew what you felt when there...
Our guy wakes disappointed in Kamaria not being in his bed. She was more than a one night stand... she had this essence about her and he just felt more... Jack was woken by his part time boss/full time Marine buddy to come to the Casino to assist with a "special project"...The only project he was interested in was hunting down Kamaria.
At the Casino, Jack walks into a meeting of the agent badgering Ben, Head of Security. She wants someone on Kamaria 24/7 to make sure she doesn't slip back into her gambling ways. Naturally Jake is the man Ben wants to do the job...and both have no idea it is Kamaria until they see her at the tables through the security cameras.
This story's focus on fighting addiction with the surrounding romance angle was interesting...there were a few concepts explored. What makes a person able to fight the addiction and how do they go about it...Also the need to forgive themselves and feel they are worthy of good in their lives. Both of these characters had the experience of gambling addiction in their lives; she personally and he through his father. The father did not succeed; Kamaria seems to be fighting and even with a slip... back on track.
There, of course, was chemistry between them and their banter, made up contracts and memories of their times together were swoon worthy...These two were a match.
The setting of a Romance Convention was fun and hopefully not too true with women pinching our guy's butt mercilessly.
A fast romance novella with more than just the romance.
A gifted copy was provided by Entangled Publishing, LLC via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
November 16, 2015
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
BASICS
Love triangle?
Cheating?
HEA?
OW/OM drama?
Any Descriptive Sex w/OW/OM/Ex?
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? Maybe, but not for now.
Rating: -4 stars
Reviewed on Amazon.
Review
I'm glad I got the chance to read this refreshing story. I have to admit that I wasn't completelly sure, if this one was the type of book that I would want to read but after the first two chapters it simply grew on me. Also, I'm so happy that despite the statement on the book cover 'a what happens in Vegas story' the saying 'What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.' doesn't apply here.
Kamaria and Jack's journey starts with Kamaria and her agent Chastity, who also happens to be her cousin, being in Las Vegas for a novel convention. While staying there, Kamaria finds herself at some more quiet bar where she is slowly getting drunk. After receiving great news of her joining New York Times bestselling author list, she goes into shock and who else comes to rescue than the sexy stranger she's been ogling, since first arriving at the bar. What neither of them know is that after their hot one-night stand, that won't be the last time they see each other.
I adore Jack, he is perfect for Kamaria. He knows who he wants and will do everything to get her, that includes being patient, supportive and sometimes being the bad guy.
As for Kamaria, I love how the author exposed her desire and her fear to give into it. It makes the story more believable and that allows the reader to connect even more with the character and her situation. Also, it was great to see Jack get a second chance to help someone he loves .
"So what did we win?"
"Forever, if we play our cards right."
The only reason I gave it 4 stars is that the writing was at times too stiff and wasn't as smooth as it could have been. Since it's such a short story, the events are a bit fast paced and because of that the scenes at times lack description.
All in all is Calling Her Bluff a wonderful read.
Safety-gang:.
BASICS
Love triangle?
Cheating?
HEA?
OW/OM drama?
Any Descriptive Sex w/OW/OM/Ex?
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? Maybe, but not for now.
Rating: -4 stars
Reviewed on Amazon.
Review
I'm glad I got the chance to read this refreshing story. I have to admit that I wasn't completelly sure, if this one was the type of book that I would want to read but after the first two chapters it simply grew on me. Also, I'm so happy that despite the statement on the book cover 'a what happens in Vegas story' the saying 'What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.' doesn't apply here.
Kamaria and Jack's journey starts with Kamaria and her agent Chastity, who also happens to be her cousin, being in Las Vegas for a novel convention. While staying there, Kamaria finds herself at some more quiet bar where she is slowly getting drunk. After receiving great news of her joining New York Times bestselling author list, she goes into shock and who else comes to rescue than the sexy stranger she's been ogling, since first arriving at the bar. What neither of them know is that after their hot one-night stand, that won't be the last time they see each other.
I adore Jack, he is perfect for Kamaria. He knows who he wants and will do everything to get her, that includes being patient, supportive and sometimes being the bad guy.
As for Kamaria, I love how the author exposed her desire and her fear to give into it. It makes the story more believable and that allows the reader to connect even more with the character and her situation. Also, it was great to see Jack get a second chance to help someone he loves .
"So what did we win?"
"Forever, if we play our cards right."
The only reason I gave it 4 stars is that the writing was at times too stiff and wasn't as smooth as it could have been. Since it's such a short story, the events are a bit fast paced and because of that the scenes at times lack description.
All in all is Calling Her Bluff a wonderful read.
Safety-gang:.
October 25, 2015
ARC received for review
Sweet little romance with a little angst and hot bedroom times. I almost put it down because they hooked up in the first chapter, and she went home with him and we don't get to know what happened. It finished off good, but just a little quick.
Sweet little romance with a little angst and hot bedroom times. I almost put it down because they hooked up in the first chapter, and she went home with him and we don't get to know what happened. It finished off good, but just a little quick.
November 21, 2015
DNR.
Didn't like Kamaria.
Also, even though it was a novella, it felt rushed and incomplete
Didn't like Kamaria.
Also, even though it was a novella, it felt rushed and incomplete
November 1, 2015
I love a great "It Happened in Vegas" story and this one promised to be a fun read. After all, with a romance writer who hit the big time as your main character, you know its going to be good.
The story starts out with plenty of promise for a great book. A smoking hot guy and a hook up. But for some reason, we don't get to read about that. However, it must have been great as the characters seem to have fallen for each other and when they are thrown together again because of her convention, you hope good things will be happening.
The story line is imaginative and you see glimpses of greatness in this book. However, the story was not completely developed for you to see, feel, and understand the attraction between the two. Jack is a sweetheart and Kamaria is vulnerable yet strong at the same time. If this was a full length book instead of a novella, I think I would have bought in to the story much more.
I enjoyed the read but I think the author has some more to tell in this book. I just wanted more depth to the story.
The story starts out with plenty of promise for a great book. A smoking hot guy and a hook up. But for some reason, we don't get to read about that. However, it must have been great as the characters seem to have fallen for each other and when they are thrown together again because of her convention, you hope good things will be happening.
The story line is imaginative and you see glimpses of greatness in this book. However, the story was not completely developed for you to see, feel, and understand the attraction between the two. Jack is a sweetheart and Kamaria is vulnerable yet strong at the same time. If this was a full length book instead of a novella, I think I would have bought in to the story much more.
I enjoyed the read but I think the author has some more to tell in this book. I just wanted more depth to the story.
May 7, 2016
Calling her Bluff by Kaia Danielle will have you on the edge of your seat from the beginning to end. Kamaria Wilson, New York Times Best Selling Author, came to Vegas to prove that she was strong and capable of being in sin city without giving in to her demons. To celebrate, a one night stand is just what she needed to ease her itch. Enter – tall, dark, sexy azz Jack. Being with him revealed feelings Kamaria did not want to acknowledge and Jack would not let her run from.
Calling Her Bluff was edgy, funny and sexy. I enjoyed it so much, I bought two other books in the What Happens in Vegas Story. This was the first story I have read by Kaia Danielle and it will not be the last.
By Cilla, the BookManiac
Calling Her Bluff was edgy, funny and sexy. I enjoyed it so much, I bought two other books in the What Happens in Vegas Story. This was the first story I have read by Kaia Danielle and it will not be the last.
By Cilla, the BookManiac
December 17, 2015
I received this from Netgalley/ Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review. This another addition to the what happens in Vegas novella series. This book is about an author who has an gambling addiction but she decides to go to Las Vegas for a romance book convention. Kamaria has a problem but Jack just might be a cure. Jack is a yummy security guy who wants to save Kamaria from gambling. Yet, he believes the worst of her and breaks her heart. I did enjoy the story a lot though but I may have cried... Enjoy!!
October 27, 2015
Jack sure is sure of himself, “you would’ve what?” he muttered. “Not had the best orgasm of your life? Save it, honey.” Jack can be the sweetest guy, “I heard the door shut. I thought you were in your room. My bad.” Jack swallowed. She watched his Adam’s apple bob up and down. But he didn’t look away. “You look great when you’re naked.” I really liked this book it was entertaining.
October 28, 2015
Cute addition to the series. Kamaria has a major problem and is in the worst possible place to succumb. Jack meets her and sparks fly. After a one night stand, they run into eachother in a professional capacity. What they started the night before has potential and they have enough to make a go of it. Enjoyed it.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2015
The book started off quite promising, but it didn't really deliver in the chapters after the first. It was okay, but not more than okay.
April 16, 2018
This novella had a super creative premise, that immediately had me hooked. My only issue is with how rushed the story seems. Emotions aren't really part of the discussion here, in my opinion it's lust. I would have loved a deeper conversation between Kamaira and Jack about how they were feeling about each other without sexual foreplay having a role in it.
June 28, 2020
This is sexy times novella set in LV in a romance writing heroine at a romance convention in a casino, and she is a gambling addict. The hero is romance novel hero perfect and mistaken for a book cover model. He seems a little too perfect to me but there was just enough angst to keep it going. Quick read, enjoyable romance.
December 31, 2020
It’s a good premise, and the characters are pleasant, if a bit unrealistic. The problem is that’s all there is. Nothing much happens. The book is well edited and proofed, and Ms. Danielle can write a good sentence, but I want more of a story. If you are just looking for descriptions of attraction and sex, I recommend it. If you want something more, I think you’ll be disappointed.
March 12, 2023
A romance convention and a security guard make this one gamble on love you don't want to miss. It's for mature readers with a bit of spice and will take you on a fast trip to Vegas!
I received an advance reader copy for a fair and honest review.
I received an advance reader copy for a fair and honest review.
August 7, 2023
3.5 stars
This is a fun, entertaining, short read. Jack and Kamaria are interesting, entertaining characters. I enjoyed the romance that we got but wished that the story had been longer. I wanted more of these characters and their story.
This is a fun, entertaining, short read. Jack and Kamaria are interesting, entertaining characters. I enjoyed the romance that we got but wished that the story had been longer. I wanted more of these characters and their story.
March 2, 2018
I really loved the voice and characters, but there were a couple places where consent issues jarred me from the narrative.
December 31, 2015
Kamaria is not your typical romance novalist, she has a gambling addiction. She finds out while she’s away at a book convention in Las Vegas that her book hit the best seller list, the temptation to gamble becomes unbearable, but her agent told her to let her hair down and find a man to celebrate with. Meanwhile, Kamaria notices a gorgeous hunk of a man sitting 3 bar stools away who would be the perfect distraction.
She tries her best to flirt – even though it isn’t in her nature to flirt. At first, he isn’t really going for her flirting, it is only after a few drinks that they land up sleeping together (even though we only find this out while Kamaria is talking to her agent.
Jack is a sweet and kind hunk of a man, who is instantly smitten with Kamaria, he tries his best over the whole weekend to convince her that they should be more than just a one night stand. He knows that Kamaria is trying to deny her feelings for him, but this doesn’t put him off trying.
The story line of the male wanting to help the female is a little over done in the romance category, however I did enjoy the story because of the added twist of the gambling addiction.
I am unsure what I thought about Kamaria and Jack, for the most part, I did like them, they had a near enough instant connection that didn’t feel cliche or fake. I just wish that Kamaria wouldn’t have been so stubborn and admitted her feelings for jack! – But that’s just a personal opinion.
There wasn’t that many sexual scenes, so I do class this as more of a romance noval, but I didn’t mind that with this book, because the story more than made up for the lack of nookie.
I think I would have gave this book four stars rather than three, but there just seemed to be something lacking for me, plus I wish that it was a full length book ~ this one was only about 100 pages, but I did enjoy this book, and I am really happy with the way it ended.
For full review - https://lovebookreviewsblog.wordpress...
June 28, 2016
Calling Her Bluff, by Kaia Danielle is a novella in the What Happens in Vegas series. It is always fascinating to read a romance novel about a romance novelist. Kamaria Wilson is a compulsive gambler that begins writing romance novels in honor of her late grandmother. She decides to test her resolve of being three years gambling free by attending a romance writers’ convention in Las Vegas. Without even adding in a spoiler you can tell what happens!
To celebrate her writing success, she finds an out of the way bar that doesn’t have any gambling; no slots, no cards, no nothing. At the bar she meets ex-military man Jack Aldirisi. While he may be the perfect gentleman, they still end up having what is perceived on her part to be a one-night stand. This was the first part of the book that gave me pause.
The story jumps from her buying him a drink, to her doing the walk of shame into the hotel lobby. While there are minor hints at what happened that evening throughout the remainder of this short work, this is a part that I feel is crucial to the story. The description of the one-night stand might have given the reader a better understanding of the connection between Jack and Kamaria. The fact that he supposedly looks like the hero of her last book, while it becomes important to the story, is not explored enough in relation to Kamaria’s needs.
The other pivotal character in this story is Chastity, Kamaria’s agent. Her actions not only provide comic relief; they are what keeps this story going. Without her antics I might not have finished this short work. She makes the writers autograph session exciting by having the huge poster of the cover of Kamari as latest book, with a model that looks deliciously like Jack. That one scene in the book was priceless. Overall I felt the book was choppy and lacked a smooth transition from scene to scene. It showed promise, but didn’t wow me like I hoped.
-Reviewed by Selina This review was originally posted on Romance Novels in Color
March 26, 2016
Calling Her Bluff, by Kaia Danielle is a novella in the What Happens in Vegas series. It is always fascinating to read a romance novel about a romance novelist. Kamaria Wilson is a compulsive gambler that begins writing romance novels in honor of her late grandmother. She decides to test her resolve of being three years gambling free by attending a romance writers’ convention in Las Vegas. Without even adding in a spoiler you can tell what happens!
To celebrate her writing success, she finds an out of the way bar that doesn’t have any gambling; no slots, no cards, no nothing. At the bar she meets ex-military man Jack Aldirisi. While he may be the perfect gentleman, they still end up having what is perceived on her part to be a one-night stand. This was the first part of the book that gave me pause.
The story jumps from her buying him a drink, to her doing the walk of shame into the hotel lobby. While there are minor hints at what happened that evening throughout the remainder of this short work, this is a part that I feel is crucial to the story. The description of the one-night stand might have given the reader a better understanding of the connection between Jack and Kamaria. The fact that he supposedly looks like the hero of her last book, while it becomes important to the story, is not explored enough in relation to Kamaria’s needs.
The other pivotal character in this story is Chastity, Kamaria’s agent. Her actions not only provide comic relief; they are what keeps this story going. Without her antics I might not have finished this short work. She makes the writers autograph session exciting by having the huge poster of the cover of Kamari as latest book, with a model that looks deliciously like Jack. That one scene in the book was priceless. Overall I felt the book was choppy and lacked a smooth transition from scene to scene. It showed promise, but didn’t wow me like I hoped.
- See more at: http://romancenovelsincolor.com/2016/...
To celebrate her writing success, she finds an out of the way bar that doesn’t have any gambling; no slots, no cards, no nothing. At the bar she meets ex-military man Jack Aldirisi. While he may be the perfect gentleman, they still end up having what is perceived on her part to be a one-night stand. This was the first part of the book that gave me pause.
The story jumps from her buying him a drink, to her doing the walk of shame into the hotel lobby. While there are minor hints at what happened that evening throughout the remainder of this short work, this is a part that I feel is crucial to the story. The description of the one-night stand might have given the reader a better understanding of the connection between Jack and Kamaria. The fact that he supposedly looks like the hero of her last book, while it becomes important to the story, is not explored enough in relation to Kamaria’s needs.
The other pivotal character in this story is Chastity, Kamaria’s agent. Her actions not only provide comic relief; they are what keeps this story going. Without her antics I might not have finished this short work. She makes the writers autograph session exciting by having the huge poster of the cover of Kamari as latest book, with a model that looks deliciously like Jack. That one scene in the book was priceless. Overall I felt the book was choppy and lacked a smooth transition from scene to scene. It showed promise, but didn’t wow me like I hoped.
- See more at: http://romancenovelsincolor.com/2016/...
November 9, 2015
When Kamaria meets Jack at a bar in Vegas, her one night stand with him is a way to let off steam after finding out her latest book just made the New York bestseller's list without resorting to her gambling addiction that she's successfully stayed away from for 3 years. But the next day it turns out he's been assigned as her 'babysitter' for her stay at the Masquerade hotel for the romance convention she's attending, intended by her agent to help keep her on the straight and narrow. Jack's past includes an addicted father so finding out the woman he wants to spend more time with has similar problems means he should stay far away. But that's easier said than done.
This was a solid addition to the What Happens in Vegas series (different authors and characters, but linked by the romance convention). I thought it was an interesting take to have a woman with a gambling addiction (one she's been successfully fighting) and plunk her in the middle of Vegas, the worst place for a woman like her. But if you're going to have an epiphany about your addiction, it's the best place to do it. I liked Kamaria's character as a strong woman with faults. Jack also comes across as a nice, decent guy, doing his job as a pseudo bodyguard for Kamaria at the convention. It doesn't hurt that he looks like a cover model! The sexy scenes don't really start until mid-way through the story (their first night together happens but behind the scenes), but when they do, they definitely have chemistry together. By the end of the convention Kamaria knows what she has to do, and while it takes Jack a little longer, he realizes that he's not willing to let things end so quickly. It's a quick read with a happy ending. 3 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
This was a solid addition to the What Happens in Vegas series (different authors and characters, but linked by the romance convention). I thought it was an interesting take to have a woman with a gambling addiction (one she's been successfully fighting) and plunk her in the middle of Vegas, the worst place for a woman like her. But if you're going to have an epiphany about your addiction, it's the best place to do it. I liked Kamaria's character as a strong woman with faults. Jack also comes across as a nice, decent guy, doing his job as a pseudo bodyguard for Kamaria at the convention. It doesn't hurt that he looks like a cover model! The sexy scenes don't really start until mid-way through the story (their first night together happens but behind the scenes), but when they do, they definitely have chemistry together. By the end of the convention Kamaria knows what she has to do, and while it takes Jack a little longer, he realizes that he's not willing to let things end so quickly. It's a quick read with a happy ending. 3 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
November 17, 2015
Oh I loved the premise of this book. It had a lot of hope and potential going for it. Kamaria Wilson has a problem and she is in the world’s worst place, trying to fight it. Kamaria is an romance author and there is a convention that she is attending. She just needs to make it til she can hightail it back out of Vegas but she doesn’t know if she can do it because Vegas is the place that can make her break the streak she has been on…then she sees this handsome man and thinks maybe a one night stand can help her stand sane or well..maybe you get my drift..can take her mind off the problem until she can get out of Vegas…but that one problem, well develops into a another problem by the name of security specialist Jack Aldirisi. One night could possibly turn into more or will Kam derail the relationship?
I liked the premise of the story but at times the novella seemed sort of off almost formal in talk and it was short—I just needed more for this novella in order to get Kam’s background story and Jack;s story too. They do make a good couple and what I did read in the beginning makes me like the start, the middle not so much but the ending sounds good.
My rating: 3.9 stars
***A gifted copy was provided by the publisher for my honest review****
I liked the premise of the story but at times the novella seemed sort of off almost formal in talk and it was short—I just needed more for this novella in order to get Kam’s background story and Jack;s story too. They do make a good couple and what I did read in the beginning makes me like the start, the middle not so much but the ending sounds good.
My rating: 3.9 stars
***A gifted copy was provided by the publisher for my honest review****
August 25, 2017
I received a free copy of this novella from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
What happens when a romance writer with a gambling problem agrees to speak at a convention in Vegas? Nothing good!
Kamaria has been sober for 1223 days but the lure of the tables in Vegas is very strong. She spends hours online looking for a bar with absolutely no gambling but needs to break loose - what could be better than the big hottie at the end of the bar? Maybe a one-night stand would slake her need to play the tables?
This is a novella about a woman fighting temptation and the Vegas security man who wants to help. There's also an interfering agent with no volume control and steamy encounters. But Kamaria worries that her gambling problems make her a bad risk in the long-term - can Jack persuade her otherwise?
I liked this novella, Jack and Kamaria were likeable characters and the story progresses well. I found the agent annoying, but I guess she was supposed to be.
Overall, this was a fun, short story, low on the angst but it also felt like it was missing some depth.
What happens when a romance writer with a gambling problem agrees to speak at a convention in Vegas? Nothing good!
Kamaria has been sober for 1223 days but the lure of the tables in Vegas is very strong. She spends hours online looking for a bar with absolutely no gambling but needs to break loose - what could be better than the big hottie at the end of the bar? Maybe a one-night stand would slake her need to play the tables?
This is a novella about a woman fighting temptation and the Vegas security man who wants to help. There's also an interfering agent with no volume control and steamy encounters. But Kamaria worries that her gambling problems make her a bad risk in the long-term - can Jack persuade her otherwise?
I liked this novella, Jack and Kamaria were likeable characters and the story progresses well. I found the agent annoying, but I guess she was supposed to be.
Overall, this was a fun, short story, low on the angst but it also felt like it was missing some depth.
October 30, 2015
Sizzlin' Sweet! That's how I would to describe this story. Kamaria and Jack are super sweet together even though that have some troubles throughout. I laughed a lot (especially during the Jack look-alike scene).
I cried towards the end. That speech gave me epic feels!
The reason I did not give this story full marks is because for most of the story, there was a lot of flip-flopping personality. Jack seemed to flip-flop between confidence and unease. An example would be how he said he knew she liked him, but his thought process came off as unsure in parts.
Overall, it was a good read and I would recommend it to anyone in the mood for a short, sweet read.
*ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
November 13, 2015
This is not my first one in the Vegas story line but this is the first one that was alittle strange in a good way. Boy she must really like her fans to put herself through this test since Kamaria is a gambling addict or was that is. Being a romance writer going to a book signing her agent sister lets her know she is also a best seller so a night turns into something more with her running away from it. Jack disappointed but now must see about a job where a book signing going in finds he is to stay with her the rest of the weekend thanks to temptation. Thing being on his side since she is the one with her also realizing some things they both are in for one interesting time with something else to take her mind off it by way of searing it with something a whole lot better. He did warn her though what kind of guy he was but anyways this is a hot quick read with a bit of humor thanks to crazy book ladies and some butt pinching. Not your average way of things either in a read hence why I said strange. This is one time though where they will both get a good pay off.
November 17, 2015
Kamaria Wilson is a romance writer with a problem she's a gambler and is currently in Las Vegas for a convention. Trying to keep herself from giving into temptation she goes to a bar away from casinos and gamblers. Deciding she needs a distraction she picks up a stranger for the night not knowing that one night will definitely not be enough. Jack Aldirisi shows up for a security assignment the day after his mysterious lady disappears on him and is surprised when his assignment turns out to be his one night stand. His job is to keep her off the casino floor and out of trouble. However neither expected the sparks to keep flying as their one stand turned into something more. They struggle with her gambling addiction and try to find a way to make a life together. This book will have you laughing out loud at some parts. I loved this story and would recommend this to anyone that loves to lose themselves in a great love story.
January 28, 2016
"Calling Her Bluff" by Kaia Danielle is a great quick read (novella). This is Kamania Wilson and Jack Aldirisi's story.
Kamania is a romance author that is in Las Vegas for a convention to meet with her readers. Kaia and Jack meet in a bar and end up having a one night stand. The next morning she panics and leaves without talking to him. She goes to the casino in her hotel and hides out at a poker table.
Well, the problems start. Kamania has a gambling addiction and she is hiding out at the poker tables. Not good! Kamania's agent, Chastity, is watching out for her. Chastity involves security at their hotel to help her keep Kamania out of the casino. Well, the security specialist that is assigned to her is Jack her one night stand!
I enjoyed the book. You all enjoy the characters. FYI, contains mature content.
I have received a copy of this book from NetGalley/Entangled Publishing, for an honest review.
https://booksnuggle.wordpress.com
Kamania is a romance author that is in Las Vegas for a convention to meet with her readers. Kaia and Jack meet in a bar and end up having a one night stand. The next morning she panics and leaves without talking to him. She goes to the casino in her hotel and hides out at a poker table.
Well, the problems start. Kamania has a gambling addiction and she is hiding out at the poker tables. Not good! Kamania's agent, Chastity, is watching out for her. Chastity involves security at their hotel to help her keep Kamania out of the casino. Well, the security specialist that is assigned to her is Jack her one night stand!
I enjoyed the book. You all enjoy the characters. FYI, contains mature content.
I have received a copy of this book from NetGalley/Entangled Publishing, for an honest review.
https://booksnuggle.wordpress.com
November 16, 2015
I'm going to make this short and sweet just like the book. I usually don't read novellas unless they are from an ongoing series and I have had time to get invested with the characters, but this sounded like a fun read. And that is exactly what it was.
I put my kids down for a nap, and my nose in a book for a well executed short read. I was done by the time they got up. Kaia was able to get me hooked on the characters, and where their story would go. I really liked that Kamaria was a confident, no bullshit kinda girl, but lived with an inner demon she was struggling to overcome. And Jack, her sexy bodyguard, didn't mind distracting her from those demons either.
So, if you're looking for a quick afternoon getaway Calling Her Bluff is just right!
I put my kids down for a nap, and my nose in a book for a well executed short read. I was done by the time they got up. Kaia was able to get me hooked on the characters, and where their story would go. I really liked that Kamaria was a confident, no bullshit kinda girl, but lived with an inner demon she was struggling to overcome. And Jack, her sexy bodyguard, didn't mind distracting her from those demons either.
So, if you're looking for a quick afternoon getaway Calling Her Bluff is just right!
November 24, 2015
This was a fun read, I love the concept of a gambling addictions, it's a nice little twist on the author/convention theme, which I've read a few of lately. I felt like this was a little short and maybe a little rushed, I would have liked more details throughout the story, especially that first hook up between Kamaria and Jack. I feel like the reader gets cheated a little since we aren't provided the details and it comes back into play when they meet again.
I loved Jack, his character is everything a hero should be made up of. He knew what he wanted, or rather who and he went for it. There was chemistry between Kamaria and Jack and there was also humor in parts. Overall, an enjoyable short read, but I would have liked to see the story be a little more developed.
I loved Jack, his character is everything a hero should be made up of. He knew what he wanted, or rather who and he went for it. There was chemistry between Kamaria and Jack and there was also humor in parts. Overall, an enjoyable short read, but I would have liked to see the story be a little more developed.
December 8, 2015
Originally posted on my blog Live Laugh & Love Books
Novellas are great for a nice short break, when you don’t have time to sit and read an entire novel! This one didn’t disappoint either.
Kamaria is a confident woman that has an inner demon she must get over, and Jack is the perfect man to help her do just that! The chemistry was perfect and let’s not forget those steamy scenes! YUM!
So yeah, I recommend this book and like I said it’s the perfect book for a short little getaway!
*I received a complimentary copy of the book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
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