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Disrupted Magic #2
Blood Gamble
If there is one city that Scarlett Bernard hates, it’s Las Vegas. But when the cardinal vampire of Los Angeles convinces her to go investigate a new vampire-themed stage show, Scarlett quickly finds herself shoulder-deep in sequins, slot machines, and Old World intrigue.
The show’s creators are vampire celebrities Arthur and Lucy Holmwood, who once inspired characters from the original Dracula. Now, however, they have no qualms about announcing their true status to the human world, endangering the secrecy of the Old World and Scarlett’s mission to keep it hidden.
But before she can begin untangling the Holmwoods’ motives, Scarlett also discovers that their new production has attracted more than just fans: Las Vegas’s many vampires are suddenly disappearing, and rumors are flying that actual vampire hunters may have followed Arthur and Lucy to town.
Now, without her allies, her bargest, or her frequent partner Jesse Cruz, Scarlett must navigate a new underworld of secrets and murders in a city where nothing is ever as it seems. And the stakes have never been higher.
The show’s creators are vampire celebrities Arthur and Lucy Holmwood, who once inspired characters from the original Dracula. Now, however, they have no qualms about announcing their true status to the human world, endangering the secrecy of the Old World and Scarlett’s mission to keep it hidden.
But before she can begin untangling the Holmwoods’ motives, Scarlett also discovers that their new production has attracted more than just fans: Las Vegas’s many vampires are suddenly disappearing, and rumors are flying that actual vampire hunters may have followed Arthur and Lucy to town.
Now, without her allies, her bargest, or her frequent partner Jesse Cruz, Scarlett must navigate a new underworld of secrets and murders in a city where nothing is ever as it seems. And the stakes have never been higher.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2017
780 people are currently reading
879 people want to read
About the author
Melissa F. Olson
42 books1,739 followersMelissa F. Olson is a writer and film professor. Her work includes the comic ARCHAIC, the feminist horror novel The Other Frankenstein, and more than 20 urban fantasy novels and novellas, including the Scarlett Bernard series and the Boundary Magic novels. Her journalism and academic work has been published in The International Journal of Comic Art, the compilation Images of the Modern Vampire, Tor.com, and the Everyone's Gone to the Movies series.
Melissa has been a writing teacher, English professor, and TEDx presenter, but she now divides her time between writing and conventions, where she speaks about issues related to genre, feminism, writing, and parenting. Read more about her life and work at MFOlson.com.
Melissa has been a writing teacher, English professor, and TEDx presenter, but she now divides her time between writing and conventions, where she speaks about issues related to genre, feminism, writing, and parenting. Read more about her life and work at MFOlson.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
February 23, 2019
Blood Gamble by Melissa F Olson and narrated by Amy McFadden is a terrific fantasy book in a series I am hooked on! Vampires, werewolves, witches and Nulls which are rare but are people that cause magic from the other supernatural beings to be cancelled out when the Null is around. Scarlet is tricked into going to Vegas and spying on a pair of showman Vamps. While there she meets a friend who is a Null too. She also pokes around into the disappearance of almost 40 missing vampires. This causes the wrong kind of attention! Great wit, suspense, lots of emotions, and an ending I never expected! Wow! Loved it! Can't wait for the next book now!
The narrator is always so professional and a perfectionist! Wonderful job!
The narrator is always so professional and a perfectionist! Wonderful job!
June 25, 2017
I loved the first book in this series but was terribly disappointed in this. All of the growth and maturity Scarlett gained in the last book up and disappeared in a flash about halfway through. She has the shittiest taste in men. Does she have something against mature responsible men? Why does she keep going for these douchebags when it’s clear it’ll never work in the long run?
This took place in Las Vegas. It had a different vibe since none of the regular side characters were around frequently. Frankly the new characters in Vegas weren’t interesting except for Wyatt. Jameson the null from New York was around. I didn’t care about him one way or the other, but as the book went on I liked him less and less.
The mystery was okay. I strongly suspected one of the main people involved. The whole thing was more complex than I originally thought. It didn’t grip me though. I will read the next one but I am not looking forward to it. The drama from this will greatly affect the rest of the series. It was bad enough to have to suffer through it in this. Now there’s no chance of it ending soon.
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This took place in Las Vegas. It had a different vibe since none of the regular side characters were around frequently. Frankly the new characters in Vegas weren’t interesting except for Wyatt. Jameson the null from New York was around. I didn’t care about him one way or the other, but as the book went on I liked him less and less.
The mystery was okay. I strongly suspected one of the main people involved. The whole thing was more complex than I originally thought. It didn’t grip me though. I will read the next one but I am not looking forward to it. The drama from this will greatly affect the rest of the series. It was bad enough to have to suffer through it in this. Now there’s no chance of it ending soon.
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 22, 2021
Amazing second book love Scarlett's world and her cool dog shadow this series just has so much all link by Scarlett's Null powers just walking around undoing everyone's mojo love it.
January 14, 2018
I started this series at book 3, Shadow Hunt as an ARC review requested by the publisher. After finishing Shadow Hunt I instantly went back and purchased book 1, Midnight Curse, and book 2, Blood Gamble because I knew Olson's writing is something that would be added to must read shelf.
The Disrupted Magic series did NOT disappoint. Blood Gamble continues Scarlett's story but is told from both Scarlett's and Jesse's perspectives, although mostly Scarlett's. I do know what happens next because, like I said above, I read book 3 first but I'm loving this series even with the advanced foresight. To all those urban fantasy fans out there, I recommend you check out the Disrupted Magic series!
The Disrupted Magic series did NOT disappoint. Blood Gamble continues Scarlett's story but is told from both Scarlett's and Jesse's perspectives, although mostly Scarlett's. I do know what happens next because, like I said above, I read book 3 first but I'm loving this series even with the advanced foresight. To all those urban fantasy fans out there, I recommend you check out the Disrupted Magic series!
July 23, 2017
Another instalment in the chaotic life that Scarlet lives. Scarlet may be human but she's also a powerful null meaning that her life is anything but ordinary. Still she's somehow accepted who and what she is and has even trained hard to protect herself and those she cares for and that is unfortunately her weak spot. Scarlet is adamant that she's not going to Las Vegas no matter what Dashiel decrees but who said vampires play fair? Dashiel might not be warm and fluffy but as the cardinal vampire of Los Angeles he understands weakness and to get what he wants will exploit any that Scarlet has and it just so happens that her family are easily manipulated. Scarlet never wanted to check ou the new vampire show and she certainly hadn't planned on being part of a belated bachelorette weekend but needs must when the devil drives !
I think Scarlet is a character you actually really like or just don't! She can come across as quite abrasive but thinking back she has really grown up as this series has developed. The fact that she's a null is used to great effect here and I particularly liked the way the author pays homage to the original Dracula legend but in her own inimitable style . Yet this story did unfortunately seem to go off at a tangent with the introduction of Skinners which completely changed the focus of the storyline. No spoilers but Scarlets about to confront a little piece of her past with repercussions that will ripple through to the next book. Still it would be boring if things always stayed the same so kudos to the author for such a bold move. Mystery, romance and betrayal all wrapped around vampires, werewolves and witches make this series stand out and I happily recommend it.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are my honest and I believe fair opinion
I think Scarlet is a character you actually really like or just don't! She can come across as quite abrasive but thinking back she has really grown up as this series has developed. The fact that she's a null is used to great effect here and I particularly liked the way the author pays homage to the original Dracula legend but in her own inimitable style . Yet this story did unfortunately seem to go off at a tangent with the introduction of Skinners which completely changed the focus of the storyline. No spoilers but Scarlets about to confront a little piece of her past with repercussions that will ripple through to the next book. Still it would be boring if things always stayed the same so kudos to the author for such a bold move. Mystery, romance and betrayal all wrapped around vampires, werewolves and witches make this series stand out and I happily recommend it.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are my honest and I believe fair opinion
March 9, 2018
Spectacular
KU
This was amazing, and debatebly, the best Scarlett Bernard book yet. There is plenty of the same essential characters with some fresh characters added, which really enhanced the flavour of the novel as a whole. One of my favourite things about this book is it’s constant element of surprise.
I had plenty of sniffles and together with the complex plotline this was an amazing read. A wonderful dose of fast paced kicking and screaming and a fine element of Scarlett’s special kind of humour with totally inappropriate snark and insults. I can’t think of a better action mystery novel I’ve read in ages.
For the uninitiated Scarlett Bernard reader, you probably really require a good background on her story as an individual, however, you could maybe get away with the first book for this series arc.
KU
This was amazing, and debatebly, the best Scarlett Bernard book yet. There is plenty of the same essential characters with some fresh characters added, which really enhanced the flavour of the novel as a whole. One of my favourite things about this book is it’s constant element of surprise.
I had plenty of sniffles and together with the complex plotline this was an amazing read. A wonderful dose of fast paced kicking and screaming and a fine element of Scarlett’s special kind of humour with totally inappropriate snark and insults. I can’t think of a better action mystery novel I’ve read in ages.
For the uninitiated Scarlett Bernard reader, you probably really require a good background on her story as an individual, however, you could maybe get away with the first book for this series arc.
August 9, 2017
More reviews at TheBibliophage.com
Like Midnight Curse, Melissa F. Olson’s Blood Gamble is a “popcorn book.” It’s fun in a paranormal sort of way. Our heroine, Scarlett Bernard, is a flawed but lovable character. And the action has good pacing and innovative twists.
But … you knew there was a “but” coming next, right? It’s still just a 3-star read for me. But to me, three stars is a decent if not wildly memorable book. I have no complaints about that.
In Blood Gamble, Scarlett goes to Vegas to check out a new show, partly as a freelance gig and partly on behalf of her city’s cardinal vampire, Dashiell. And boy, does he manipulate her in the process. That’s no bueno in Scarlett’s mind (and mine too). Powerful vampires are such annoying baddies. However, the relationship between Scarlett and Dashiell is much more gray than black and white in Olson’s mythos, which adds depth to the story. As much as Scarlett is evolving as the story progresses, so is the way Dashiell relates to her.
In the process of telling this story, Olson fills us in on various parts of Scarlett’s backstory. We learn more about her relationships with family, and with her friend Jameson, who’s also a null. As much as I missed her handsome sidekick Jesse Cruz, I like the new dimensions to Scarlett’s character.
Scarlett honestly doesn’t think she’s a hero or that she acts in heroic ways. Ironic for the heroine, right? And not an atypical conflict for this kind of book, which Olson tells well. I couldn’t help but smile when Jesse tells her she’s a hero and Scarlett reacts with, “The only heroes I’d ever met were scary badasses, like Lex. And I felt about as scary as the average Yorkshire terrier. The teacup kind.”
Terriers notwithstanding, our heroine saves the day—or the night since this is a vampire book. I enjoyed a chance to escape into Scarlett’s stressful world of evil versus good. It makes my life feel a lot less stressful, and I needed that this week.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers 47North for the opportunity to read the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review. The quote above may be different in the final version of the book.
Like Midnight Curse, Melissa F. Olson’s Blood Gamble is a “popcorn book.” It’s fun in a paranormal sort of way. Our heroine, Scarlett Bernard, is a flawed but lovable character. And the action has good pacing and innovative twists.
But … you knew there was a “but” coming next, right? It’s still just a 3-star read for me. But to me, three stars is a decent if not wildly memorable book. I have no complaints about that.
In Blood Gamble, Scarlett goes to Vegas to check out a new show, partly as a freelance gig and partly on behalf of her city’s cardinal vampire, Dashiell. And boy, does he manipulate her in the process. That’s no bueno in Scarlett’s mind (and mine too). Powerful vampires are such annoying baddies. However, the relationship between Scarlett and Dashiell is much more gray than black and white in Olson’s mythos, which adds depth to the story. As much as Scarlett is evolving as the story progresses, so is the way Dashiell relates to her.
In the process of telling this story, Olson fills us in on various parts of Scarlett’s backstory. We learn more about her relationships with family, and with her friend Jameson, who’s also a null. As much as I missed her handsome sidekick Jesse Cruz, I like the new dimensions to Scarlett’s character.
Scarlett honestly doesn’t think she’s a hero or that she acts in heroic ways. Ironic for the heroine, right? And not an atypical conflict for this kind of book, which Olson tells well. I couldn’t help but smile when Jesse tells her she’s a hero and Scarlett reacts with, “The only heroes I’d ever met were scary badasses, like Lex. And I felt about as scary as the average Yorkshire terrier. The teacup kind.”
Terriers notwithstanding, our heroine saves the day—or the night since this is a vampire book. I enjoyed a chance to escape into Scarlett’s stressful world of evil versus good. It makes my life feel a lot less stressful, and I needed that this week.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers 47North for the opportunity to read the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review. The quote above may be different in the final version of the book.
July 17, 2017
3.5 stars
When Dashiell, the vampire cardinal of Los Angeles hears about vampires having blatant show-off stage show in Las Vegas, he "convinces" Scarlett Bernard to do a little spying. Then Scarlett learns that vampires seem to be missing after attending the show and there might be hunters in Las Vegas killing them...
Honestly, I wasn't a lot happy with Scarlett in this book -- which is a bit disappointing because the previous one, Midnight Curse, rocked my socks off. I felt that she was acting slightly brashier; although maybe it was because Scarlett was manipulated to go a city she hated.
The case itself was okay but it wasn't gripping as the previous book (that involved Molly!). Since this was set in Las Vegas, it didn't exactly involved any of the L.A. characters that I care about. Sure, I liked Wyatt, a Las Vegas vampire who asked Scarlett's help, but the rest of the secondary characters didn't stand out for me. OH, but Scarlett met Sashi here, the healing witch who is also Lex Luther's friend from Boundary Magic series. I like it when characters are doing cross-over.
What let me down the most was the sudden development with Jameson, a null she once met in New York (I think it was back in Trail of Dead, second book of the first trilogy). While I don't particularly read this series for the romance but I can't help guessing Scarlett's possible love interest. For a while I think it will be Jesse since he has been there since the beginning, plus he has his own POV in this series. But I'm fine if Scarlett ends up with someone else.
But Jameson?! He is a blip on my radar, so the romance comes out of nowhere! It also a bit distracting from the main case of missing (and possible murdered) vampires. On top of that, I could see how this was used by Olson to introduce a HUGE plot in the end that would influence the rest of the series greatly (or at least the next Scarlett book) and I am still a bit ambivalent about it. On one hand, if is NOT the type of drama I like, feels like a 'cheap shot'. On the other hand, I can't help to think HOW it will play out. I'm quite invested in finding out...
PS: I missed Jesse terribly in this book. And Shadow too.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
PSS:
When Dashiell, the vampire cardinal of Los Angeles hears about vampires having blatant show-off stage show in Las Vegas, he "convinces" Scarlett Bernard to do a little spying. Then Scarlett learns that vampires seem to be missing after attending the show and there might be hunters in Las Vegas killing them...
Honestly, I wasn't a lot happy with Scarlett in this book -- which is a bit disappointing because the previous one, Midnight Curse, rocked my socks off. I felt that she was acting slightly brashier; although maybe it was because Scarlett was manipulated to go a city she hated.
The case itself was okay but it wasn't gripping as the previous book (that involved Molly!). Since this was set in Las Vegas, it didn't exactly involved any of the L.A. characters that I care about. Sure, I liked Wyatt, a Las Vegas vampire who asked Scarlett's help, but the rest of the secondary characters didn't stand out for me. OH, but Scarlett met Sashi here, the healing witch who is also Lex Luther's friend from Boundary Magic series. I like it when characters are doing cross-over.
What let me down the most was the sudden development with Jameson, a null she once met in New York (I think it was back in Trail of Dead, second book of the first trilogy). While I don't particularly read this series for the romance but I can't help guessing Scarlett's possible love interest. For a while I think it will be Jesse since he has been there since the beginning, plus he has his own POV in this series. But I'm fine if Scarlett ends up with someone else.
But Jameson?! He is a blip on my radar, so the romance comes out of nowhere! It also a bit distracting from the main case of missing (and possible murdered) vampires. On top of that, I could see how this was used by Olson to introduce a HUGE plot in the end that would influence the rest of the series greatly (or at least the next Scarlett book) and I am still a bit ambivalent about it. On one hand, if is NOT the type of drama I like, feels like a 'cheap shot'. On the other hand, I can't help to think HOW it will play out. I'm quite invested in finding out...
PS: I missed Jesse terribly in this book. And Shadow too.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
PSS:
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2024
It's been awhile since I read the first book but I really enjoyed this second book in the series. For this one Scarlett travels to Las Vegas on the premise of her sister in law's bridal shower but she is really there to scope out a vampire show. Vampires are going missing and she goes to find out if a new show with two famous vampires is somehow behind the disappearances. This book was filled with lots of action. The ending was also a great cliffhanger. I look forward to reading the next book.
July 30, 2017
In which we are confirmed in the belief that Scarlett will never get to have the nice things. For values of things = a romantic relationship.
Also in which an author's note added even more emotional punch to a twist-in-the-tail that I never saw coming, and in fact would doubt anyone could have foreseen.
And while I didn't love this (for the first point), I'm also wondering after the note if in some barely imaginable future, Scarlett's life will contain a solid, permanent relationship? Because it is absolutely fair that her repeated smack-downs have always left her stronger, more open to attachments, and so it's far from pointless suffering.
That twist though... Shadow Hunt cannot come soon enough. Wait -- Shadow - if Olson messes with Scarlett by hurting Shadow --nope. Even she isn't cruel enough to hurt the best barghest ever. Right?
Also in which an author's note added even more emotional punch to a twist-in-the-tail that I never saw coming, and in fact would doubt anyone could have foreseen.
And while I didn't love this (for the first point), I'm also wondering after the note if in some barely imaginable future, Scarlett's life will contain a solid, permanent relationship? Because it is absolutely fair that her repeated smack-downs have always left her stronger, more open to attachments, and so it's far from pointless suffering.
That twist though... Shadow Hunt cannot come soon enough. Wait -- Shadow - if Olson messes with Scarlett by hurting Shadow --nope. Even she isn't cruel enough to hurt the best barghest ever. Right?
July 21, 2017
*Source* NetGalley
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*Full Review Pending*
As this is actually the FIFTH installment in Scarlett's series, things really, really take a holy shite turn once you reach the last page. As the author states, she has seen this particular issue coming since the first book in the series. One could say that Olson jumps the shark on the ending. Especially after her character explicitly said one thing, and that thing apparently is BULLSHARK. I enjoyed this story nonetheless. I do care for Scarlett. I do care how she fares. I do care that she gets knocked down and manages to stagger back to her feet somehow. The sixth installment, called Shadow Hunt, should be a very interesting story indeed.
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*Full Review Pending*
As this is actually the FIFTH installment in Scarlett's series, things really, really take a holy shite turn once you reach the last page. As the author states, she has seen this particular issue coming since the first book in the series. One could say that Olson jumps the shark on the ending. Especially after her character explicitly said one thing, and that thing apparently is BULLSHARK. I enjoyed this story nonetheless. I do care for Scarlett. I do care how she fares. I do care that she gets knocked down and manages to stagger back to her feet somehow. The sixth installment, called Shadow Hunt, should be a very interesting story indeed.
July 15, 2018
My favorite of the series so far
I contemplated skipping this book because it was set somewhere other than where it normally is and had a whole new cast of characters. I'm glad I didn't though. It turned out to be my favorite of the series. There was so much more depth and emotion in this book. I can't wait to read the next one.
I contemplated skipping this book because it was set somewhere other than where it normally is and had a whole new cast of characters. I'm glad I didn't though. It turned out to be my favorite of the series. There was so much more depth and emotion in this book. I can't wait to read the next one.
December 3, 2020
$0.99 Kindle sale, Dec. 3, 2020
July 23, 2017
Another instalment in the chaotic life that Scarlet lives. Scarlet may be human but she's also a powerful null meaning that her life is anything but ordinary. Still she's somehow accepted who and what she is and has even trained hard to protect herself and those she cares for and that is unfortunately her weak spot. Scarlet is adamant that she's not going to Las Vegas no matter what Dashiel decrees but who said vampires play fair? Dashiel might not be warm and fluffy but as the cardinal vampire of Los Angeles he understands weakness and to get what he wants will exploit any that Scarlet has and it just so happens that her family are easily manipulated. Scarlet never wanted to check ou the new vampire show and she certainly hadn't planned on being part of a belated bachelorette weekend but needs must when the devil drives !
I think Scarlet is a character you actually really like or just don't! She can come across as quite abrasive but thinking back she has really grown up as this series has developed. The fact that she's a null is used to great effect here and I particularly liked the way the author pays homage to the original Dracula legend but in her own inimitable style . Yet this story did unfortunately seem to go off at a tangent with the introduction of Skinners which completely changed the focus of the storyline. No spoilers but Scarlets about to confront a little piece of her past with repercussions that will ripple through to the next book. Still it would be boring if things always stayed the same so kudos to the author for such a bold move. Mystery, romance and betrayal all wrapped around vampires, werewolves and witches make this series stand out and I happily recommend it.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are my honest and I believe fair opinion
I think Scarlet is a character you actually really like or just don't! She can come across as quite abrasive but thinking back she has really grown up as this series has developed. The fact that she's a null is used to great effect here and I particularly liked the way the author pays homage to the original Dracula legend but in her own inimitable style . Yet this story did unfortunately seem to go off at a tangent with the introduction of Skinners which completely changed the focus of the storyline. No spoilers but Scarlets about to confront a little piece of her past with repercussions that will ripple through to the next book. Still it would be boring if things always stayed the same so kudos to the author for such a bold move. Mystery, romance and betrayal all wrapped around vampires, werewolves and witches make this series stand out and I happily recommend it.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are my honest and I believe fair opinion
September 11, 2018
Dashiell convinces Scarlett to travel to Las Vegas to view a show created by the original vampires from the Dracula story, to determine if it is exposing the Old World - which it definitely is. While she is there, she learns that a bunch of vampires have gone missing and takes a side job to find out what happened to one of them. There are rumors of "skinners" (Old World assassins) being in town, but there is little evidence. She also knows her friend, Jameson, a null from NYC, is somehow wrapped up in the mystery because people are trying to kill him. She has to figure everything out and keep her human friends (there for a bachelorette party as part of her cover) safe.
I love Scarlett's character. She is snarky and beautifully sarcastic and there are times when I think her inner dialogue comes directly from my own mind. I didn't think I would enjoy this book as much since some of my favorite characters were missing (Jesse, Shadow, and Molly stay behind in LA), but it gave Scarlett a chance to stand on her own and make new friends. The cliffhanger ending has me reaching for the next book immediately.
I love Scarlett's character. She is snarky and beautifully sarcastic and there are times when I think her inner dialogue comes directly from my own mind. I didn't think I would enjoy this book as much since some of my favorite characters were missing (Jesse, Shadow, and Molly stay behind in LA), but it gave Scarlett a chance to stand on her own and make new friends. The cliffhanger ending has me reaching for the next book immediately.
November 15, 2018
Borrowed via Unlimited
If it's not a massively patronising thing to say, I'm really impressed with this series. I love urban fantasy but usually I like a bit more creature variety. Olsen's writing just really works for me though and I've got really fond of Scarlett and a few other characters. Clearly I started in the wrong place and should have begun with the first trilogy but I'm going to go back and read that when I've finished this trilogy. Especially after that ending! Omg normally a trope that makes me roll my eyes and I did see it coming but it so worked here. I even enjoyed the cheeky references to Dracula. Really living this series. Highly recommend.
If it's not a massively patronising thing to say, I'm really impressed with this series. I love urban fantasy but usually I like a bit more creature variety. Olsen's writing just really works for me though and I've got really fond of Scarlett and a few other characters. Clearly I started in the wrong place and should have begun with the first trilogy but I'm going to go back and read that when I've finished this trilogy. Especially after that ending! Omg normally a trope that makes me roll my eyes and I did see it coming but it so worked here. I even enjoyed the cheeky references to Dracula. Really living this series. Highly recommend.
August 7, 2017
Scarlet Bernard travels to Las Vegas to investigate a vampire couple who are getting close to letting the cat out of the bag about vampires. While there she discovers that vampires have been going missing.
I never quite got Scarlet Bernard and the LA vampires. I didn't connect with the characters and the stories left me feeling unsatisfied. I think I walked away from the series after book 2. But I've been giving it another try with the Disrupted Magic series which also features Scarlet Bernard and for the most part it's hooked me.
Blood Gamble is a great book. All the way up to the ending. The ending is honestly a bit of a mess. There were so many places this story could have gone, unfortunately in the end it didn't go anywhere I haven't been before.
Many thanks to 47North for providing me with this ARC
I never quite got Scarlet Bernard and the LA vampires. I didn't connect with the characters and the stories left me feeling unsatisfied. I think I walked away from the series after book 2. But I've been giving it another try with the Disrupted Magic series which also features Scarlet Bernard and for the most part it's hooked me.
Blood Gamble is a great book. All the way up to the ending. The ending is honestly a bit of a mess. There were so many places this story could have gone, unfortunately in the end it didn't go anywhere I haven't been before.
Many thanks to 47North for providing me with this ARC
September 29, 2017
I freaking love these books. Olson is not kind to her characters, they go through some sh*t, but they grow for it. I enjoy all the characters, the story races along, and I don't have to "set it down" half way through. I really enjoy the whole thing. So, this is one series I want to read as soon as the book comes out. If you like paranormal / urban fantasy, these are a great addition to the genre.
Anyway, don't start with this one, read them all in order...and the two series intertwine a tiny bit, especially now that we are on the second story arc. So read them ALL!
Anyway, don't start with this one, read them all in order...and the two series intertwine a tiny bit, especially now that we are on the second story arc. So read them ALL!
July 28, 2017
eARC kindly provided via NetGalley.
Holy fuck that ending!
Holy fuck. Well now we know what happens when two nulls get together. 😲 mind blown
Holy fuck that ending!
Holy fuck. Well now we know what happens when two nulls get together. 😲 mind blown
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2018
The book is a 4 but I have a policy of always knocking off a point for cliffhangers. Tacky, the author should have more faith you'd like to keep reading her work.
April 22, 2022
"Blood Gable" is a fabulous installment in the Disrupted Magic series. There are lots of twists, turns and surprises in this little gem. Scarlett has been asked by Dashiell to take on a personal case for him. He wants her to go to Las Vegas to take in a Vegas show being put on by vampires. He wants to know if this show will expose Old World secrets. Additionally, he is aware that a friend of Scarlett's another null named Jameson is working for the vamps. Scarlett hates Las Vegas and she is savvy enough to know that if she shows up on another Cardinal vampire's territory there will be hell to pay.
After Scarlett refuses Dashiell, he and his wife Beatrice develop a plan whereby they pay for a belated bridal shower for non other than Scarlett's sister-in-law. Juliet is excited about it and Scarlett is beyond furious that Dashiell would expose her family to danger. After he provides the ladies with a security professional who works for Haynes by the name of Cliff, the ladies are on their way.
After the ladies take in the vampire show, Scarlett is convinced there is a major problem for the Old Worlders. Additionally, she has been approached by a cowboy vamp, Wyatt, regarding helping him locate his missing mate. Wyatt is aware that his mate is most likely dead and he is willing to pay Scarlett an insane amount of money to help him discover who killed her. This money could be the very solution to paying the overwhelming hospital costs that have plagued Scarlett's brother and Juliet. However, Wyatt also wants Scarlett to do something she is morally opposed to.
When Scarlett hooks up with Jameson, he doesn't look like he did when they were younger. He has filled out nicely and there is a little spark of attraction. It also doesn't help that Scarlett is still trying to get over her break up with Eli. So rebound sex might just be on the agenda.
As Scarlett and her gang attempt to figure out what is going on as well as try to attend some of the dreadful activities for the bridal party, she soon realizes that you might think you know people when in fact you really don't. However, as Maya Angelou said, "When people show you who they are the first time, believe them." This might be a little difficult for Scarlett since she always wants to save as many people as she can.
I really enjoyed this installment. I also enjoyed the cliffhanger ending. I read a couple of reviews where people were bothered by the ending buy it makes total sense to me. I am anxious to read the next installment. It promises to be a good one!!!!
After Scarlett refuses Dashiell, he and his wife Beatrice develop a plan whereby they pay for a belated bridal shower for non other than Scarlett's sister-in-law. Juliet is excited about it and Scarlett is beyond furious that Dashiell would expose her family to danger. After he provides the ladies with a security professional who works for Haynes by the name of Cliff, the ladies are on their way.
After the ladies take in the vampire show, Scarlett is convinced there is a major problem for the Old Worlders. Additionally, she has been approached by a cowboy vamp, Wyatt, regarding helping him locate his missing mate. Wyatt is aware that his mate is most likely dead and he is willing to pay Scarlett an insane amount of money to help him discover who killed her. This money could be the very solution to paying the overwhelming hospital costs that have plagued Scarlett's brother and Juliet. However, Wyatt also wants Scarlett to do something she is morally opposed to.
When Scarlett hooks up with Jameson, he doesn't look like he did when they were younger. He has filled out nicely and there is a little spark of attraction. It also doesn't help that Scarlett is still trying to get over her break up with Eli. So rebound sex might just be on the agenda.
As Scarlett and her gang attempt to figure out what is going on as well as try to attend some of the dreadful activities for the bridal party, she soon realizes that you might think you know people when in fact you really don't. However, as Maya Angelou said, "When people show you who they are the first time, believe them." This might be a little difficult for Scarlett since she always wants to save as many people as she can.
I really enjoyed this installment. I also enjoyed the cliffhanger ending. I read a couple of reviews where people were bothered by the ending buy it makes total sense to me. I am anxious to read the next installment. It promises to be a good one!!!!
December 19, 2017
The Melissa Olson books are always a good time. Quick reads, but highly entertaining. There is plenty of action, a good bit of humor, and always an air of mystery. The protagonists are compelling and well-drawn. Another solid book from a solid author
August 10, 2018
3-1/2 ***
Love the narrator.
Love the narrator.
October 20, 2017
Blood Gamble will make you laugh (a lot), cry, and bring you to the edge of your seat with a startled gasp, at the end. I loved Scarlett’s Vegas adventure. As always all books with snarky, female leads are my favorite books!! Ms. Olson the reference to Dracula was a nice touch.
October 17, 2017
I'm pretty much done with this series. I've never understood the choices Scarlett makes in her love life – in the last series, she never even seemed to particularly like Eli beyond basic friendship (and sometimes not even that), while the build with Jesse was excellent, but yet she ended up with Eli? I was so excited that she and Eli were over in this new series, hoping that finally the way would be paved for her and Jesse. But this Jameson thing came completely out of nowhere, and I strongly disliked the character and how manipulative he was - Jameson was a bad dude, no matter how hard the author tried to make us sympathize with him. I also felt like a lot of backstory was missing - I only vaguely remembered who he even was, and even that was a struggle. Heck, I even felt like I was missing things within the book - when/how did their relationship even turn romantic? What just happened? I was so confused and turned off of the whole book.
Like others have said, Scarlett also seems to have gotten less mature and more unlikable. Her judgment is somehow no better than it was at the beginning of the first series, despite all she’s been through, with the possible exception of being a bit more respectful to Dashiell. (Also, there’s a backstory I’d love to read!) And in this book, she was much less tempered by the more likable characters surrounding her.
I thought the overall Vegas plot also left a lot to be desired. It had some really interesting potential, but it just fizzled - the ending of that whole arc was just anti-climactic and kind of a letdown. And why are they even called Skinners? I was expecting something so much more sinister.
I did adore seeing Sashi, and would love to see more of her. I'd also like to see more of Lex. But I don’t think I particularly care to continue the Scarlett Bernard arc.
Like others have said, Scarlett also seems to have gotten less mature and more unlikable. Her judgment is somehow no better than it was at the beginning of the first series, despite all she’s been through, with the possible exception of being a bit more respectful to Dashiell. (Also, there’s a backstory I’d love to read!) And in this book, she was much less tempered by the more likable characters surrounding her.
I thought the overall Vegas plot also left a lot to be desired. It had some really interesting potential, but it just fizzled - the ending of that whole arc was just anti-climactic and kind of a letdown. And why are they even called Skinners? I was expecting something so much more sinister.
I did adore seeing Sashi, and would love to see more of her. I'd also like to see more of Lex. But I don’t think I particularly care to continue the Scarlett Bernard arc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2020
4+ stars. This series is SO much stronger than Scarlet's first. I enjoyed this trip to Vegas.
July 17, 2017
Scarlett does not want to go to Las Vegas. No, not even if there are two vampires putting on a show that may reveal the old world. No not even if Dashiel is paying her a huge sum of money. She’s not going
But Vampires don’t take no for an answer and with Dashiel manipulating her sister-in-law into going she has to try and protect them. But there she encounters something far more deadly than Dashiel expected… she could come home, but who but Scarlett will stop the death toll rising?
I would describe the world building of this book as solid and balanced and… disciplined. That seems like an odd word - but so many books have an anything-goes-magical-world and then decide ALL THE THINGS must be included so you can’t even go to the local shops without tripping over 2 leprechauns, bumping into a kitsune and dodging a Wendigo.
This book is excellently focused on the three major supernaturals - vampires, werewolves and witches, while clearly having a world with more out there but not allowing those swamp the book - instead we have nice additions without losing the focus
And I like how he implications of Scarlett, a null, fits into that - from alleviating the werewolf curse which is such a relief at times, to vampires being disturbed by actually feeling cold/hunger etc. I like the nuance of it.
What did surprise me about this book is the ending. There are elements I didn’t like - but I will say the whole thing completely surprised me - the twists and turns are completely beyond what I expected. Honestly, the ending and what happened with the characters was definitely not anything I expected as I read along. Throughout the book the plot goes in ways I never expected - the culprits were completely not what I expected. The way Scarlett finds the answers, balancing her friends, the threats and getting to the bottom of things is also a really original unexpected direction.
The plot does have moments where I think Scarlett seems to make some pretty huge leaps at times - like the whole Skinners storyline seemed to come from nowhere. Like we went from not even knowing Skinners existed and then suddenly decided they were a major threat without any real indication that they were present.but suddenly everyone focused on them
That aside the twists really make this plot. There’s action which is really well done, but not a lot mainly focusing on the investigation since Scarlett has a very unique power which isn’t necessarily a combat monster but definitely dangerous, following leads and balancing just how much Scarlett actually wants to be involved in this dangerous investigation.
I like Scarlett’s own development - she has that nice balance between her being duly concerned with her safety and the people she cares for alongside her compassion. I actually kind of like how Dashiel pretty much twists her arm to make her go - yes it’s coercive but we’re not talking a love interest here and, let’s be clear, the Cardinal Vampire of Los Angeles is going to be a ruthless user of people because, hey, master vampires, I don’t expect fluffy fluffy niceness. And Scarlett pretty much recognises this and doesn’t expect more. But I do like that she isn’t going to put herself at risk just because Dashiel says so. I like a compassionate protagonist but being a complete martyr is an overdone trope; especially female protagonists who are often not allowed to seek their own advancement.. Compassion moves her, as does threat and money - and it’s ok for a protagonist to be somewhat self interested. Of course that then falls apart because she’s only gathering a huge amount of money to help pay off her brother’s son’s massive medical bills
Read More
But Vampires don’t take no for an answer and with Dashiel manipulating her sister-in-law into going she has to try and protect them. But there she encounters something far more deadly than Dashiel expected… she could come home, but who but Scarlett will stop the death toll rising?
I would describe the world building of this book as solid and balanced and… disciplined. That seems like an odd word - but so many books have an anything-goes-magical-world and then decide ALL THE THINGS must be included so you can’t even go to the local shops without tripping over 2 leprechauns, bumping into a kitsune and dodging a Wendigo.
This book is excellently focused on the three major supernaturals - vampires, werewolves and witches, while clearly having a world with more out there but not allowing those swamp the book - instead we have nice additions without losing the focus
And I like how he implications of Scarlett, a null, fits into that - from alleviating the werewolf curse which is such a relief at times, to vampires being disturbed by actually feeling cold/hunger etc. I like the nuance of it.
What did surprise me about this book is the ending. There are elements I didn’t like - but I will say the whole thing completely surprised me - the twists and turns are completely beyond what I expected. Honestly, the ending and what happened with the characters was definitely not anything I expected as I read along. Throughout the book the plot goes in ways I never expected - the culprits were completely not what I expected. The way Scarlett finds the answers, balancing her friends, the threats and getting to the bottom of things is also a really original unexpected direction.
The plot does have moments where I think Scarlett seems to make some pretty huge leaps at times - like the whole Skinners storyline seemed to come from nowhere. Like we went from not even knowing Skinners existed and then suddenly decided they were a major threat without any real indication that they were present.but suddenly everyone focused on them
That aside the twists really make this plot. There’s action which is really well done, but not a lot mainly focusing on the investigation since Scarlett has a very unique power which isn’t necessarily a combat monster but definitely dangerous, following leads and balancing just how much Scarlett actually wants to be involved in this dangerous investigation.
I like Scarlett’s own development - she has that nice balance between her being duly concerned with her safety and the people she cares for alongside her compassion. I actually kind of like how Dashiel pretty much twists her arm to make her go - yes it’s coercive but we’re not talking a love interest here and, let’s be clear, the Cardinal Vampire of Los Angeles is going to be a ruthless user of people because, hey, master vampires, I don’t expect fluffy fluffy niceness. And Scarlett pretty much recognises this and doesn’t expect more. But I do like that she isn’t going to put herself at risk just because Dashiel says so. I like a compassionate protagonist but being a complete martyr is an overdone trope; especially female protagonists who are often not allowed to seek their own advancement.. Compassion moves her, as does threat and money - and it’s ok for a protagonist to be somewhat self interested. Of course that then falls apart because she’s only gathering a huge amount of money to help pay off her brother’s son’s massive medical bills
Read More
July 4, 2017
In this adventure, Scarlett is pressured to go to Las Vegas to investigate a new stage show that seems to be outing vampires and their abilities. Her cover is a girls' weekend with her new sister-in-law and the other women of the bridal party. Scarlett isn't at all in favor of putting her sister-in-law and the other women in danger. Now she not only has to investigate but keep the humans safe too.
When she arrives in Las Vegas she finds that the show is being set up by two vampires - Arthur and Lucy Holmwood - who have been vampires since the days Dracula was written. They are vampire celebrities. Along with Arthur and Lucy is Jameson Thomas, a null that Scarlett met when Dashiell sent her to New York to see how other cities work. Jameson was under the control of the Master vampire of New York and had been his since he was twelve.
Jameson and Scarlett began a relationship but Scarlett's life was such a mess that she couldn't pursue the relationship. Now Jameson in in Las Vegas and their relationship grows despite his constant urging that she forget the investigation and leave town. This isn't a bad idea since skinners - people who hunt and kill Old World people - have come to town and are killing vampires.
Soon, Scarlett learns that a number of vampires have gone missing and she meets Wyatt whose partner Ellen is one of the missing. Wyatt's goal is to kill those who killed her and then have Scarlett help him die.
This story is filled with action as Scarlett investigates the disappearances of the vampires and has run-ins with the skinners too. There is romance and intrigue, love and betrayals, and lots of growth opportunities for Scarlett who is changing and coming into her own more with each book.
Fans of urban fantasy and Scarlett won't want to miss this episode and will be hoping for more.
When she arrives in Las Vegas she finds that the show is being set up by two vampires - Arthur and Lucy Holmwood - who have been vampires since the days Dracula was written. They are vampire celebrities. Along with Arthur and Lucy is Jameson Thomas, a null that Scarlett met when Dashiell sent her to New York to see how other cities work. Jameson was under the control of the Master vampire of New York and had been his since he was twelve.
Jameson and Scarlett began a relationship but Scarlett's life was such a mess that she couldn't pursue the relationship. Now Jameson in in Las Vegas and their relationship grows despite his constant urging that she forget the investigation and leave town. This isn't a bad idea since skinners - people who hunt and kill Old World people - have come to town and are killing vampires.
Soon, Scarlett learns that a number of vampires have gone missing and she meets Wyatt whose partner Ellen is one of the missing. Wyatt's goal is to kill those who killed her and then have Scarlett help him die.
This story is filled with action as Scarlett investigates the disappearances of the vampires and has run-ins with the skinners too. There is romance and intrigue, love and betrayals, and lots of growth opportunities for Scarlett who is changing and coming into her own more with each book.
Fans of urban fantasy and Scarlett won't want to miss this episode and will be hoping for more.
October 24, 2020
From my reading progress notes (audio):
20.0% ""Null" Scarlett is leaving her hound behind to check out a vampire show in Las Vegas. Again, we are meeting people with a history that is unknown to me :(
Other than that good story telling and I even got used to the bitchy narrator voice ;)"
70.0% "Wow - I do like action, but these people sure survive a lot of attacks, even if they are supernatural. And I could sooooo do without the awkward romance!"
99.0% "*hm* there is more chemistry between the human cop and Scarlett than between her and the guy she ended up in bed with. Oh well. The series should never have had any romance in it to begin with.
The Vegas thing was a bit weird. Vampires doing this to their own kind? Oh please ...
3 stars. Grudgingly."
20.0% ""Null" Scarlett is leaving her hound behind to check out a vampire show in Las Vegas. Again, we are meeting people with a history that is unknown to me :(
Other than that good story telling and I even got used to the bitchy narrator voice ;)"
70.0% "Wow - I do like action, but these people sure survive a lot of attacks, even if they are supernatural. And I could sooooo do without the awkward romance!"
99.0% "*hm* there is more chemistry between the human cop and Scarlett than between her and the guy she ended up in bed with. Oh well. The series should never have had any romance in it to begin with.
The Vegas thing was a bit weird. Vampires doing this to their own kind? Oh please ...
3 stars. Grudgingly."
August 3, 2021
Scarlet absolutely loathes Las Vegas, but when Lucy and Arthur Holmwood from the OG Dracula show up and Dashiel suspects that there're here to cause trouble, he asks her to investigate.
But our dear little Scar says no.
Dashiel can't have that right? so he tricks her into going. So leaving behind her trusted bargest, Shadow and partner Jesse Cruz she wades into the uncertain waters of vampy showmanship of Vegas. There she tumbles into the mysterious disappearance of 40 vampires and a fellow Null-Jameson. As the story progresses, she attracts all sorts of wrong attention mainly from the Skinners who I thought were a distraction from the main storyline but anyways the book certainly ends with a wicked cliffhanger.
But our dear little Scar says no.
Dashiel can't have that right? so he tricks her into going. So leaving behind her trusted bargest, Shadow and partner Jesse Cruz she wades into the uncertain waters of vampy showmanship of Vegas. There she tumbles into the mysterious disappearance of 40 vampires and a fellow Null-Jameson. As the story progresses, she attracts all sorts of wrong attention mainly from the Skinners who I thought were a distraction from the main storyline but anyways the book certainly ends with a wicked cliffhanger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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