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As You Wish
Can a djinn and a magic slot machine bring two geeks together?
Riley McGregor is a geek trapped in a Good Ole Boy body and as owner of a microbrewery, smart chicks never look at him twice.
Rejected by a geek who wanted to “trade up,” Mirjam Linna would rather immerse herself in work than be the girlfriend-of-the-moment. Stranded in a Vegas hotel, she makes a wish—a night of hot sex with the man of her dreams. It's granted. She agrees to dinner, but afterward, she’ll say thanks, but no thanks, and see what’s on the SyFy channel. But when they meet, they're surprised to find they had a shared connection in their past. Sparks fly as these two learn to be in the moment, be themselves and find love.
Fans of Star Trek, Star Wars, Monty Python, Firefly and Marvin the Martian will enjoy this romantic comedy.
Riley McGregor is a geek trapped in a Good Ole Boy body and as owner of a microbrewery, smart chicks never look at him twice.
Rejected by a geek who wanted to “trade up,” Mirjam Linna would rather immerse herself in work than be the girlfriend-of-the-moment. Stranded in a Vegas hotel, she makes a wish—a night of hot sex with the man of her dreams. It's granted. She agrees to dinner, but afterward, she’ll say thanks, but no thanks, and see what’s on the SyFy channel. But when they meet, they're surprised to find they had a shared connection in their past. Sparks fly as these two learn to be in the moment, be themselves and find love.
Fans of Star Trek, Star Wars, Monty Python, Firefly and Marvin the Martian will enjoy this romantic comedy.
50 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 19, 2012
71 people are currently reading
267 people want to read
About the author
Angela Quarles
17 books524 followersAn avid reader herself, Angela Quarles writes books she'd like to read--laugh-out-loud, smart romances that suck you into her worlds and won't let you go until you reach The End.
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She is a RWA RITA® award-winning and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, time travel, and steampunk romance. Library Journal named her steampunk, Steam Me Up, Rawley, Best Self-Published Romance of 2015 and Must Love Chainmail won the 2016 RITA® Award in the paranormal category, the first indie to win in that category. Angela loves history, folklore, and family history and combined it with her active imagination to write stories of romance and adventure.
~Newsletter: http://bit.ly/1sde3Qi
~Facebook: http://on.fb.me/VMFT3L
~Twitter: http://bit.ly/Se5gQ0
~Website: http://bit.ly/VMFK00
~Blog: http://bit.ly/WkQbXG
~Amazon: http://bit.ly/AngelaQuarles
~BookBub:: http://bit.ly/2xVWYFe
She is a RWA RITA® award-winning and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, time travel, and steampunk romance. Library Journal named her steampunk, Steam Me Up, Rawley, Best Self-Published Romance of 2015 and Must Love Chainmail won the 2016 RITA® Award in the paranormal category, the first indie to win in that category. Angela loves history, folklore, and family history and combined it with her active imagination to write stories of romance and adventure.
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January 5, 2013
Quick, sexy, fun read. Love the geeky hero and heroine and all the fun pop culture shout-outs. There was A LOT of sex for such a short book--maybe a bit too much for me--but there was also a real sweetness to their connection which I really liked.
Can't go wrong w/ microbeers and Star Wars metaphors. :^)
Grade: B
Can't go wrong w/ microbeers and Star Wars metaphors. :^)
Grade: B
May 20, 2017
4 stars
December 22, 2017
4.5-5 stars
This was a great short story. I really liked both Riley and Mirjam and loved the way they get together. This is the first story I've read by this author and I liked it (obviously) well enough that I will be trying more of her work.
Mirjam is a software developer that lives in Michigan. Mirjam went to Duke University for Political Science and Russian so I'm not sure how she ended up as a software developer but she's in Las Vegas for a work related convention when this story begins. Since her Ex is a geek, the geeky convention that's going on at her hotel is bringing back some bad memories of her Ex.
Riley is the co-owner of a microbrewery in Virginia that he runs with a friend. Riley grew up in Michigan and he knew Mirjam (not well) but he and his family moved away after his sophomore year and he never went back.
So there's a bit of mystical in this story in the way that Mirjam's wish is granted and Riley and Mirjam get paired up for a blind date but the supernatural aspects are mostly low key. Nonetheless, Mirjam and Riley both get convinced to go one a blind date...which ends up being with each other. There's a definite connection and both Mirjam and Riley quickly want more than just one night together. With a little courage and honesty, they realize that they're both on the same page and they commit to working on a relationship together.
I really enjoyed this story a lot. Both Mirjam and Riley were very likable characters and I was rooting for them. I also liked that they both were a bit on the geeky side and I enjoyed all the geek references. Overall, this was a great little romance that leaves you with a hopeful feeling at the end so I'd recommend this story. :)
This was a great short story. I really liked both Riley and Mirjam and loved the way they get together. This is the first story I've read by this author and I liked it (obviously) well enough that I will be trying more of her work.
Mirjam is a software developer that lives in Michigan. Mirjam went to Duke University for Political Science and Russian so I'm not sure how she ended up as a software developer but she's in Las Vegas for a work related convention when this story begins. Since her Ex is a geek, the geeky convention that's going on at her hotel is bringing back some bad memories of her Ex.
Riley is the co-owner of a microbrewery in Virginia that he runs with a friend. Riley grew up in Michigan and he knew Mirjam (not well) but he and his family moved away after his sophomore year and he never went back.
So there's a bit of mystical in this story in the way that Mirjam's wish is granted and Riley and Mirjam get paired up for a blind date but the supernatural aspects are mostly low key. Nonetheless, Mirjam and Riley both get convinced to go one a blind date...which ends up being with each other. There's a definite connection and both Mirjam and Riley quickly want more than just one night together. With a little courage and honesty, they realize that they're both on the same page and they commit to working on a relationship together.
I really enjoyed this story a lot. Both Mirjam and Riley were very likable characters and I was rooting for them. I also liked that they both were a bit on the geeky side and I enjoyed all the geek references. Overall, this was a great little romance that leaves you with a hopeful feeling at the end so I'd recommend this story. :)
May 31, 2019
At the beginning it was, let's say, so-so. But somewhere around 40% of the story, it was just sex, almost nothing more.
January 13, 2013
I would have loved Beer and Groping in Las Vegas for the title alone, but Angela Quarles gave me so much more to love it for. Like an laser of romantic geekiness, Mirjam and Riley's story ricocheted off my funny bone and punched a hole through my heart. It sounds painful, but I promise you, it wasn't.
Mirjam's confidence took a hit when her last relationship ended...five years ago. Now she's a workaholic, too busy to bother with another relationship that might wound her heart. Riley is a geek trapped in a hot bod. He can't get a smart woman to give him a second glance. Mirjam makes a wish to a djinn posing as a bartender, and ends up crossing paths with Riley, who has more in common with her than merely inner geekiness. Lusty sparks fly. All night long. But when morning comes, can Mirjam and Riley admit there's more to their encounter than physical compatibility?
Packed with geek on geek lusty tenderness and more geeky references than this part-time/wannabe geek could accurately count, Beer and Groping in Las Vegas gave me a night of hilarious, magical, sweet entertainment that I can easily give 5 stars.
Mirjam's confidence took a hit when her last relationship ended...five years ago. Now she's a workaholic, too busy to bother with another relationship that might wound her heart. Riley is a geek trapped in a hot bod. He can't get a smart woman to give him a second glance. Mirjam makes a wish to a djinn posing as a bartender, and ends up crossing paths with Riley, who has more in common with her than merely inner geekiness. Lusty sparks fly. All night long. But when morning comes, can Mirjam and Riley admit there's more to their encounter than physical compatibility?
Packed with geek on geek lusty tenderness and more geeky references than this part-time/wannabe geek could accurately count, Beer and Groping in Las Vegas gave me a night of hilarious, magical, sweet entertainment that I can easily give 5 stars.
January 18, 2013
Hey guys, read this one yesterday and loved it! I'm a Star Trek geek at heart so the scifi references made the laugh. The sex is really hot, the couple super sweet I just wish the book wasn't so short! I want more!!
I talk about it in my Virtual Coffee Date on the blog today, check it out:
http://www.scandaliciousbookreviews.c...
I talk about it in my Virtual Coffee Date on the blog today, check it out:
http://www.scandaliciousbookreviews.c...
January 6, 2013
A djinn makes a wonderful connection between Mirjam and Riley. Just one night to let loose and relax between two workaholics. I always knew geeky could be sexy and hot. I just wished there was more groping as per the title. This was a great quick romantic read.
January 7, 2013
This was a fun quick read involving a quirky romance that was set up by a djinn. Short stories and novellas can make me leery of wanting to give them a try because not everyone who writes one understands just how to achieve a good balance of plot, pacing and character development to fit into the page count they have. Fortunately, this author did a great job so I ended up with an enjoyable reading experience that had me reading with a smile on my face and an 'ah' of satisfaction coming from my lips by the end.
Basically, the story is about two people that have gotten very caught up in their work and checked out of life because they have been burned once too often by their chances at romance. Both of them feel that there is no one out there who can understand and accept them for who they are. By coincidence, they both end up in Vegas for work related conferences right in the middle of a geeky favorite characters convention giving them a chance to let their inner geekiness show. Riley and Mirjam are brought together on a blind date with the help of a magical slot machine and a mysterious character in pink called Jenn or Jim. The blind date reveals that they might just have a shot at their wildest dreams if they will just take a chance and grasp for it with both hands.
Riley and Mirjam (Finnish and pronounced something like Meer-yam) apart are staid workaholics who are busy hiding behind barriers to protect their hearts, but I loved how the plot took them from that to caring and passionate hot lovers who want nothing more at the end of the night, but for it all to continue. That Riley was something, he had my toes curling with pleasure whether it was his turn to tell the story or Mirjam's. I loved how the tight Mirjam took a step of faith and let herself go with Riley.
So, I can heartily recommend this one to those who enjoy a quirky magical contemporary Happy For Now with promise of the future romance with not a lot of time to read.
Basically, the story is about two people that have gotten very caught up in their work and checked out of life because they have been burned once too often by their chances at romance. Both of them feel that there is no one out there who can understand and accept them for who they are. By coincidence, they both end up in Vegas for work related conferences right in the middle of a geeky favorite characters convention giving them a chance to let their inner geekiness show. Riley and Mirjam are brought together on a blind date with the help of a magical slot machine and a mysterious character in pink called Jenn or Jim. The blind date reveals that they might just have a shot at their wildest dreams if they will just take a chance and grasp for it with both hands.
Riley and Mirjam (Finnish and pronounced something like Meer-yam) apart are staid workaholics who are busy hiding behind barriers to protect their hearts, but I loved how the plot took them from that to caring and passionate hot lovers who want nothing more at the end of the night, but for it all to continue. That Riley was something, he had my toes curling with pleasure whether it was his turn to tell the story or Mirjam's. I loved how the tight Mirjam took a step of faith and let herself go with Riley.
So, I can heartily recommend this one to those who enjoy a quirky magical contemporary Happy For Now with promise of the future romance with not a lot of time to read.
December 19, 2012
My Review:
This is a wonderful little book. It reads really quickly so it's great for when you need a quick romance fix. The book is about Riley and Mirjam, two attractive people who are really geeks at different conventions in Las Vegas. Mirjam is a computer programmer. Riley owns a beer brewery. They knew each other in high school and were fascinated, but never got the chance to act on anything before Riley moved away before their junior year. They've never been in contact since and in fact, live in totally different parts of the country.
For me, this book worked because the two main characters have that connection from high school. They aren't complete strangers. They are also both at a point in their lives where they've achieved some success, but need something more than work. They just don't realize that something more is a relationship.
I really liked the Jenn/Jim aspect of the story. This character is the djinn and responsible for the magic of the main characters' meeting. It added a great magical aspect to the story and can I just say?? I'd love Jenn to come and grant me a wish or two. Seriously, the pampering Mirjam received...totally jealous!
It really is just truly a fun read. It's written really well. It's short, but the author gives you snippets about these characters so you feel like you really know them and can connect to them. Probably my only one real complaint is the title of the story....it makes the book sound much more crass than it is. Truly, this is really just a really romantic little read. And yes, it's hot too, but it's not a down and dirty kind of smexy which is how the title makes it sound.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This is a wonderful little book. It reads really quickly so it's great for when you need a quick romance fix. The book is about Riley and Mirjam, two attractive people who are really geeks at different conventions in Las Vegas. Mirjam is a computer programmer. Riley owns a beer brewery. They knew each other in high school and were fascinated, but never got the chance to act on anything before Riley moved away before their junior year. They've never been in contact since and in fact, live in totally different parts of the country.
For me, this book worked because the two main characters have that connection from high school. They aren't complete strangers. They are also both at a point in their lives where they've achieved some success, but need something more than work. They just don't realize that something more is a relationship.
I really liked the Jenn/Jim aspect of the story. This character is the djinn and responsible for the magic of the main characters' meeting. It added a great magical aspect to the story and can I just say?? I'd love Jenn to come and grant me a wish or two. Seriously, the pampering Mirjam received...totally jealous!
It really is just truly a fun read. It's written really well. It's short, but the author gives you snippets about these characters so you feel like you really know them and can connect to them. Probably my only one real complaint is the title of the story....it makes the book sound much more crass than it is. Truly, this is really just a really romantic little read. And yes, it's hot too, but it's not a down and dirty kind of smexy which is how the title makes it sound.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
April 4, 2013
Reviewed for Read Your Writes Book Reviews
www.readyourwrites.blogspot.com
Mirjam Linna is a tired,overworked, co-owner of a software development company. She’s stranded in Las Vegas for an additional night because a blizzard has canceled her flight back home. While sitting in the bar of her hotel, her bartender strikes up a conversation with her, which in turn results in Mirjam pulling the arm of a slot machine, resulting in her doing something she normally wouldn’t do.
Riley McGregor is the owner of a microbrewery in Virginia. He’s in town for a conference himself, arriving a day earlier, since it’s his first time being in Vegas. Riley is immediately drawn to a slot machine that surprisingly still has credits in it. Pulling the lever, bells start ringing, signaling that he’s won. However instead of coins coming out, Riley receives an envelope with his name on it.
Mirjam and Riley are set up on a blind date by a djinn, which is sort of like a genie, but can be seen in human form. Without giving away the rest of the story, Mirjam and Riley have each had their fair share of problems with relationships. They agree to have a nice dinner with each ending things there. But sometimes your inner hopes and dreams, which may or may not be spoken aloud have the ability to be heard and fulfilled by powers greater than ourselves.
While initially I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book, I found it to be a very enjoyable read. Once Mirjam and Riley relaxed a little, they each become very likeable characters. I did however find the epilogue to be a huge let down.
Rating: 3.5
Source: Author
www.readyourwrites.blogspot.com
Mirjam Linna is a tired,overworked, co-owner of a software development company. She’s stranded in Las Vegas for an additional night because a blizzard has canceled her flight back home. While sitting in the bar of her hotel, her bartender strikes up a conversation with her, which in turn results in Mirjam pulling the arm of a slot machine, resulting in her doing something she normally wouldn’t do.
Riley McGregor is the owner of a microbrewery in Virginia. He’s in town for a conference himself, arriving a day earlier, since it’s his first time being in Vegas. Riley is immediately drawn to a slot machine that surprisingly still has credits in it. Pulling the lever, bells start ringing, signaling that he’s won. However instead of coins coming out, Riley receives an envelope with his name on it.
Mirjam and Riley are set up on a blind date by a djinn, which is sort of like a genie, but can be seen in human form. Without giving away the rest of the story, Mirjam and Riley have each had their fair share of problems with relationships. They agree to have a nice dinner with each ending things there. But sometimes your inner hopes and dreams, which may or may not be spoken aloud have the ability to be heard and fulfilled by powers greater than ourselves.
While initially I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book, I found it to be a very enjoyable read. Once Mirjam and Riley relaxed a little, they each become very likeable characters. I did however find the epilogue to be a huge let down.
Rating: 3.5
Source: Author
December 14, 2012
I received this novel from the author for an honest review of the novella.
OMG I was so excited to read this novella because I am such a Sci-Fi NERD!!!! Firefly, Stargate, Stargate Atlantis, Battlestar Gallactica, etc......... When I saw the list of Sci-Fi movies, I knew I was gonna love this book. Shiney! Captain Tightpants is my favorite cancelled TV space captain of alllll time!
Ok so this book is sooo fun. It is a quick 46 page ecopy book but it is filled with sarcasm, wit, sexiness and a lot of humor. It is basically a story of 2 people who are set up my a "mysterious" person to meet the person of their dreams. I loved the "pre-date" gaming that Mirjam has to have done per Jenn the girl who organized the date. All she wants to do it eat ddinner and then ditch the guy for a Sci-Fi movie marathon in her hotel room!! But they finally meet up, they realize they know each other from high school. Both people remember being attracted to the other BUT thinking that other wouldnt ever be interested in them. Riley moved away and always thought of Mirjam and she wondered what became of him also.
The sexual tension in the story is great. I was laughing in the begining and then saying "Hawt" towards the middle. When they finally *cough cough* well you know, it was gooood reading. I loved this book and was so glad that Angela sent it to be read. I cant wait to read more of her stories. I will say IF you are not a Sci-Fi fan you MAY be lost on some of the references but you could still read the novel.
June 12, 2013
Pink haired bartenders, a slot machine, and sealing wax manage to reunite these two driven, work obsessed people for a chance at love.
Mirjam is wrapping up a conference, and trying to determine just what went wrong with her app functions. All work and no play, she has one night left in Vegas, and the bartender with pink hair has demanded she take a chance on a slot machine. Out pops an envelope, sealed with wax and providing her with details for her blind date.
Riley had a similar experience, and similar envelope: with a location to meet his blind date. Separated during the summer after grade 1o, Riley had been working his way to asking Mirjam on a date, only to never see her again.
This was such a cute set-up for an instant attraction story, layered with clever conversation, some clever geeky inserts and a steamy night of passion make this a quick, short and satisfying read. More importantly, the characters were built solidly, with distinctive voices and qualities that made them feel real, and their connection believable. Angela Quarles has created a clever little story with a unique matchmaker that will make you smile.
I received an eBook from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Mirjam is wrapping up a conference, and trying to determine just what went wrong with her app functions. All work and no play, she has one night left in Vegas, and the bartender with pink hair has demanded she take a chance on a slot machine. Out pops an envelope, sealed with wax and providing her with details for her blind date.
Riley had a similar experience, and similar envelope: with a location to meet his blind date. Separated during the summer after grade 1o, Riley had been working his way to asking Mirjam on a date, only to never see her again.
This was such a cute set-up for an instant attraction story, layered with clever conversation, some clever geeky inserts and a steamy night of passion make this a quick, short and satisfying read. More importantly, the characters were built solidly, with distinctive voices and qualities that made them feel real, and their connection believable. Angela Quarles has created a clever little story with a unique matchmaker that will make you smile.
I received an eBook from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
December 15, 2012
Phew! I'm just now coming out of the stupor this hilariously nerdy romance plunged me into. I flew through it (its only 40-some pages) charmed by the quirky characters and witty writing. The story has a nice, paranormal set-up, but it takes place very much in the real, albeit peculiar worlds of scifi conventions and Las Vegas. The setting added just enough whimsy for me to escape into the whirlwind romance between Mirjam and Riley. I was hooked. After their steamy date, I couldn't help but want it to be more than a one-night-stand.
What I liked about the book was its light-heartedness. I'm not a regular romance reader, so I don't have much to compare it to, but Quarles's writing style isn't overly self-serious. She keeps the story moving with both humor and hotness! Angela Quarles did not disappoint. I can't wait to read what she writes next!
What I liked about the book was its light-heartedness. I'm not a regular romance reader, so I don't have much to compare it to, but Quarles's writing style isn't overly self-serious. She keeps the story moving with both humor and hotness! Angela Quarles did not disappoint. I can't wait to read what she writes next!
February 10, 2013
I'm a quirky girl, so when I come upon a quirky author who writes delightfully charming and quirky stories, there is dancing involved. The premise of Beer and Groping is unique, the characters are adorkable, and the geek-culture references sprinkled throughout make my fangirlish heart go all swoony.
'She glommed onto him like white plastic on a Stormtrooper, shamelessly pressing against his body, groping and kissing.' - How can you go wrong when Stormtroopers are referenced during a makeout session? And to top it off, Mr. Sulu witnesses them sucking face. I loved the descriptors throughout, like 'Sex on a Stick'. I want some of that. And the beer bottles in the smut scene? Hottest. Ever. You can’t help but smile your way through this story.
Thanks to their magical djinn, Riley and Mirjam discover romance with an earth-shattering kaboom! Loved it!
'She glommed onto him like white plastic on a Stormtrooper, shamelessly pressing against his body, groping and kissing.' - How can you go wrong when Stormtroopers are referenced during a makeout session? And to top it off, Mr. Sulu witnesses them sucking face. I loved the descriptors throughout, like 'Sex on a Stick'. I want some of that. And the beer bottles in the smut scene? Hottest. Ever. You can’t help but smile your way through this story.
Thanks to their magical djinn, Riley and Mirjam discover romance with an earth-shattering kaboom! Loved it!
November 8, 2015
While I'm not a fan of contemporary romance, or really novellas, I chose to read this book because I love the author's other books (Must love Breeches, Must Love Chainmail, and Steam Me Up, Rawley). And I'm very glad I read this book. The pacing is very fast and you don't delve too deeply into the character backgrounds (alas, the curse of the novella!), but there is more than enough to get a sense of who the hero and heroine are and what makes them tick. I really like their conversation and the way they ease into things. It isn't like they jump immediatly into the sack and you're all "wait, what just happened?" They actueally talk first. And, I loved all of the Easter egg type references to pop culture.
My only gripe...Jim/Jen went to all the trouble of setting everything up, new clothes, spa stuff, etc...but left Riley to pay for dinner? What's up with that?
My only gripe...Jim/Jen went to all the trouble of setting everything up, new clothes, spa stuff, etc...but left Riley to pay for dinner? What's up with that?
February 18, 2013
The author built a spectacular, character-centric, story about discovering love {with a little help from a djinn}. This was a sexy, fun, and geeky novella-length read about how a relationship can develop overnight. The author created characters with realistic fears and insecurities – and the impact of having someone love you…for you.
Have you ever read a blurb so intriguing that you disregarded the fact it’s not within your customary genres? That is exactly what happened when I read about Riley and Mirjam. I HIGHLY recommend this read – both the blurb and cover grabbed my attention {the title not so much}.
Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge the author for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.
Have you ever read a blurb so intriguing that you disregarded the fact it’s not within your customary genres? That is exactly what happened when I read about Riley and Mirjam. I HIGHLY recommend this read – both the blurb and cover grabbed my attention {the title not so much}.
Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge the author for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.
January 7, 2013
This is a hot little novella that will have you both laughing and breathing a bit heavily from one page to the next. The premise is delightfully different (a couple with a slight history get paired up in Las Vegas thanks to a colorful djinn) and the dialogue is peppered with fun, nerdy references that make the characters real people I'd actually like to know. And I love the way the author debunks the ridiculously prevailing myth that smart people aren't sexy. The brain is the most sensual part of the human body after all, you know!
December 31, 2012
BEER AND GROPING IN LAS VEGAS, the debut novel by author Angela Quarles, is a delightful story of two people who find each again and fall in love with the help of a mysterious slot machine and a pink-haired matchmaker. The writing is quick and snappy and the story keeps you turning pages until the end. My only complaint is it was too short. I wanted it to go on and on… If your looking for a sharp, funny, sweet story that also gives a nod to some of your favorite geek indulgences, BEER AND GROUPING IN LAS VEGAS is the book for you.
August 12, 2015
Oh sure, I sat down and wrote a review and Goodreads ate it. What's up with that! Sadly, that means the rewritten review will have to be short and sweet. I don't have time for anything else right now.
I loved this book. It's a quick, slice-of-life book that made me laugh. It features two extremely likeable characters who share an unexpected past. A very wise Jinn. Some hot sex. Fluid writing. And lots and lots of references to some fantastic shows.
I loved this book. It's a quick, slice-of-life book that made me laugh. It features two extremely likeable characters who share an unexpected past. A very wise Jinn. Some hot sex. Fluid writing. And lots and lots of references to some fantastic shows.
December 28, 2012
Sweet, sexy, and hott! Realistic and specific sensory details, an original plot. Only once before have I ever read a story where I felt that the main characters were really meant to be together and were, to be cliche, star-crossed lovers. I love this couple; they were perfect for one another! I left the book wanting more. I hope we can either see more from this cute couple or from the mysterious djinn. :)
December 4, 2012
This was a completely adorable, geek-tastic read from fellow Mobilian Angela Quarles. Quirky and well-crafted, Quarles obviously knows the ins and outs of geekdom and puts a refreshing, intelligent twist on romance. Definitely looking forward to more from this strong debut writer.
January 7, 2013
A fun, steamy story with just enough geekiness thrown in to make it interesting. You don't need to be a geek to enjoy this story but catching all of Quarles' references is an enjoyable part of the book, too. It's not very long so check it out sometime when you're looking for a quick read.
December 21, 2012
This is the first time publishing from a hot new up-and-coming author. It's a short story so I'll keep this simple: Firefly, DragonCon, and gettin' it on... what's not to love!
December 31, 2012
Such a fun read -- Riley was an adorable hero, and it was a delightful mix of magic, and geekish pleasures, and sexy romance.
December 27, 2012
Super cute, super fast read with hot, geeky smexing. Lots of fun with nerdy references from Monty Python to Firefly and all points in between. Great debut!
December 17, 2012
If you appreciate a sexy, funny story of love between geeks, you'll love it. All that, and djinns in Vegas, too.
February 11, 2013
A fun read! Loved the pop culture references throughout. Riley was adorkable!
September 3, 2013
Originally published as a trio review at Book Lovers Inc.
Our Thoughts:
Cass: (Pre-Read Impressions) They DARE invoke Firefly?! Ballsy. Taking Firefly’s name in vain can lead to hordes of angry Browncoats. The devastation would be unspeakable.
Marlene: Unfortunately, most of us geeks know that Syfy doesn’t broadcast much real Sci-Fi any more. Which should have clued me in that this wasn’t going to be quite what I thought it was.
Jackie: I was afraid that my lack of recent exposure to anything scifi, particularly all things Firefly, would leave me at a disadvantage but I think this would have been better categorized as "pop culturally aware" as opposed to geekish/ scifi content. Monty Python and Marvin the Martian are not hardcore scifi, right girls?
Cass: Seriously. I call bullshit on her Geek Cred. Saying this is for “fans” is like saying the Kate Daniels is for goths. You know, because Julie is going through a goth phase. As evidenced by a couple casual references to her room.
Marlene: Based on the description in Goodreads, I was expecting geek romance. What I got was a lot more like something that should have been published through Decadent Publishing’s 1Night Stand series, with a lesser djinn standing in for Madame Eve. Emphasis on lesser.
Jackie: Call me crazy, but I was thinking it might resemble Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson...then again, if it did I wouldn't know cause I haven't read it yet, but I thought this might have given me a taste at least. I'm almost positive there aren't any genies/djinn in Thompson's stuff, although he may have hallucinated them over the years. If that's what the author was going for at all, it was subtle and clever.
Cass: I didn’t get any Geek from this story. Or nerd. Or comprehension of the English language.
The author opens with a reference to all the “trademarks” used in her book. What kind of lunatic would encourage someone to trademark fandom? You want fans to be obsessed with your copyrighted material so they spend all their money on it. Not restrict their ability to do so.
What kind of author wouldn’t be intimately familiar with copyright and how it works? She’s either a moron, or using the list as an affectation of Geekdom. Somebody is in serious need of Geek Therapy:
Marlene: Instead of “talk dirty to me” the subtitle of this one should have been “talk nerdy to me”, except wait, that title is already taken! A lot of geeky in-jokes substitute for foreplay. And I’ll never think of Marvin the Martian quite the same way again.
Jackie: I'm sure I missed a bunch of the references, but I did get the one about the red shirts and the away mission. *Jackie pats herself on the back*
Cass: I was just so wrapped up in all the intrigue surrounding the bed sheets. Clearly a crucial aspect of a 40 page short.
How do you expect me to believe these two had amazing sex if you don’t specify whether or not the sheets were organic 1500 thread count Egyptian cotton? Might as well have just stuck with missionary position. These kinds of issues can make or break the masturbatory potential of your sex scenes. People can only take their suspension of disbelief so far. Vegas genie? No problem. Sexytimes on generic sheets? Blasphemy!
Marlene: Underneath a story that provides endless possibilities for snarky humor, there is a lot of geeky inside snarky humor. There’s also a bit of wish-fulfillment, which is where the djinn rather improbably steps in, rather like the naughtier cousin of the guardian angel in It’s a Wonderful Life.
Cass: Wish fulfillment? Have you broken open the WorldCon libations a bit early?
This whole scenario is creepy as fuck. As soon as Mirjam found out her “bartender” wasn’t actually an employee of the casino, she should have been screaming “What the fuck did that psycho put in my drink?!” and running to get a medical exam. Not mindlessly obeying the instructions of a complete stranger who knew everything about her (down to her bra size), broke into her hotel room, and ordered her to strip after dragging her out of the very safe public area she was standing in.
Riley had it right when he opened with “How the fuck…”. Because that is the only acceptable response to this kind of situation.
I propose a title change to “Roofies and Stalking in Las Vegas.”
Mirjam’s willingness to just roll with this increasingly bizarre, and totally unsafe, series of instructions puts her in the TSTL category. I’m stunned she didn’t compare herself to Sookie Stackhouse. They have similar senses of self-preservation. (i.e. none).
Jackie: No, I wouldn't be following any instructions that popped out of a slot machine unless I had someone to watch my back but it is fiction, so we are supposed to suspend reality for a bit anyway. Readers should just be aware of the whole "don't try this at home" rule.
Marlene: The second-chance at love angle is supposed to help the readers get over the very fast “insta-love” aspects of the story. Insta-lust is totally believable, insta-love, not so much. These are two workaholics who have both been going through a seriously long dry-spell, so insta-lust, absolutely.
Cass: I’ll give credit where credit is due. They had safe sex. And there was unambiguous consent. Even if they didn’t consider the very real possibility that their sex-shack was set up with spy holes and hidden cameras in addition to the candles and fancy sheets. Hope you enjoy your futures as online porn stars! Not everything that happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.
Jackie: I'm not sure that they were both on the same page when it came to the whole 'high school residual feelings' thing but it did speed up the story appropriately for a short. It took me a while after finishing to figure how Marvin ended up where he did, but at least Riley was consistent in his enthusiasm for "the one that got away."
Verdict:
Marlene: I picked this up hoping for more of a sci-fi-con-romance type story (based on the description) in anticipation of WorldCon. In that sense, it was disappointing. The story is an erotic romance where it just-so-happens that the participants are both geeks. Their geekiness is what they have in common.
On the other hand, it was a moderately fun and occasionally hot story to read over my lunch, providing that one is willing to suspend some disbelief about going along with the djinn and the slot machine. But I wouldn’t call it romance as much as light PWP (that’s porn-without-plot). I will say that having the acid test for whether or not someone is a potentially geeky enough long-term partner be their reaction to one’s Serenity tattoo made a weird kind of sense (says the woman with both TARDIS and Star Trek earrings)
However, the title is awful and doesn’t describe the book very well. It makes it sound like an orgy at a frat party. Or worse.
I give Beer and Groping in Las Vegas by Angela Quarles 3 pink stars
Cass: I slammed my computer shut in disgust and walked away at least four times. Because what.the.fuck.
I give Roofies and Stalking in Las Vegas 1/2 star. The half star I contemplated adding for the unambiguous consent was taken away by the sheer absurdity that so-called geeks would be in the same hotel as a big Con and not even contemplate going.
Jackie: I kind of agree with Marlene about the title but from another viewpoint: when the beer bottle showed up on the balcony, I thought things were going to go to a weird place for a minute. Thankfully, they didn't. I enjoyed this quick read and feel it offers a bit of steamy fun with a smidge of hope for us geeks out there still looking love. I give Beer and Groping in Las Vegas 3 thrusts...I mean stars! (Seriously, though, I'm pretty sure their first time was that quick, no?)
Our Thoughts:
Cass: (Pre-Read Impressions) They DARE invoke Firefly?! Ballsy. Taking Firefly’s name in vain can lead to hordes of angry Browncoats. The devastation would be unspeakable.
Marlene: Unfortunately, most of us geeks know that Syfy doesn’t broadcast much real Sci-Fi any more. Which should have clued me in that this wasn’t going to be quite what I thought it was.
Jackie: I was afraid that my lack of recent exposure to anything scifi, particularly all things Firefly, would leave me at a disadvantage but I think this would have been better categorized as "pop culturally aware" as opposed to geekish/ scifi content. Monty Python and Marvin the Martian are not hardcore scifi, right girls?
Cass: Seriously. I call bullshit on her Geek Cred. Saying this is for “fans” is like saying the Kate Daniels is for goths. You know, because Julie is going through a goth phase. As evidenced by a couple casual references to her room.
Marlene: Based on the description in Goodreads, I was expecting geek romance. What I got was a lot more like something that should have been published through Decadent Publishing’s 1Night Stand series, with a lesser djinn standing in for Madame Eve. Emphasis on lesser.
Jackie: Call me crazy, but I was thinking it might resemble Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson...then again, if it did I wouldn't know cause I haven't read it yet, but I thought this might have given me a taste at least. I'm almost positive there aren't any genies/djinn in Thompson's stuff, although he may have hallucinated them over the years. If that's what the author was going for at all, it was subtle and clever.
Cass: I didn’t get any Geek from this story. Or nerd. Or comprehension of the English language.
The author opens with a reference to all the “trademarks” used in her book. What kind of lunatic would encourage someone to trademark fandom? You want fans to be obsessed with your copyrighted material so they spend all their money on it. Not restrict their ability to do so.
What kind of author wouldn’t be intimately familiar with copyright and how it works? She’s either a moron, or using the list as an affectation of Geekdom. Somebody is in serious need of Geek Therapy:
Marlene: Instead of “talk dirty to me” the subtitle of this one should have been “talk nerdy to me”, except wait, that title is already taken! A lot of geeky in-jokes substitute for foreplay. And I’ll never think of Marvin the Martian quite the same way again.
Jackie: I'm sure I missed a bunch of the references, but I did get the one about the red shirts and the away mission. *Jackie pats herself on the back*
Cass: I was just so wrapped up in all the intrigue surrounding the bed sheets. Clearly a crucial aspect of a 40 page short.
How do you expect me to believe these two had amazing sex if you don’t specify whether or not the sheets were organic 1500 thread count Egyptian cotton? Might as well have just stuck with missionary position. These kinds of issues can make or break the masturbatory potential of your sex scenes. People can only take their suspension of disbelief so far. Vegas genie? No problem. Sexytimes on generic sheets? Blasphemy!
Marlene: Underneath a story that provides endless possibilities for snarky humor, there is a lot of geeky inside snarky humor. There’s also a bit of wish-fulfillment, which is where the djinn rather improbably steps in, rather like the naughtier cousin of the guardian angel in It’s a Wonderful Life.
Cass: Wish fulfillment? Have you broken open the WorldCon libations a bit early?
This whole scenario is creepy as fuck. As soon as Mirjam found out her “bartender” wasn’t actually an employee of the casino, she should have been screaming “What the fuck did that psycho put in my drink?!” and running to get a medical exam. Not mindlessly obeying the instructions of a complete stranger who knew everything about her (down to her bra size), broke into her hotel room, and ordered her to strip after dragging her out of the very safe public area she was standing in.
Riley had it right when he opened with “How the fuck…”. Because that is the only acceptable response to this kind of situation.
I propose a title change to “Roofies and Stalking in Las Vegas.”
Mirjam’s willingness to just roll with this increasingly bizarre, and totally unsafe, series of instructions puts her in the TSTL category. I’m stunned she didn’t compare herself to Sookie Stackhouse. They have similar senses of self-preservation. (i.e. none).
Jackie: No, I wouldn't be following any instructions that popped out of a slot machine unless I had someone to watch my back but it is fiction, so we are supposed to suspend reality for a bit anyway. Readers should just be aware of the whole "don't try this at home" rule.
Marlene: The second-chance at love angle is supposed to help the readers get over the very fast “insta-love” aspects of the story. Insta-lust is totally believable, insta-love, not so much. These are two workaholics who have both been going through a seriously long dry-spell, so insta-lust, absolutely.
Cass: I’ll give credit where credit is due. They had safe sex. And there was unambiguous consent. Even if they didn’t consider the very real possibility that their sex-shack was set up with spy holes and hidden cameras in addition to the candles and fancy sheets. Hope you enjoy your futures as online porn stars! Not everything that happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.
Jackie: I'm not sure that they were both on the same page when it came to the whole 'high school residual feelings' thing but it did speed up the story appropriately for a short. It took me a while after finishing to figure how Marvin ended up where he did, but at least Riley was consistent in his enthusiasm for "the one that got away."
Verdict:
Marlene: I picked this up hoping for more of a sci-fi-con-romance type story (based on the description) in anticipation of WorldCon. In that sense, it was disappointing. The story is an erotic romance where it just-so-happens that the participants are both geeks. Their geekiness is what they have in common.
On the other hand, it was a moderately fun and occasionally hot story to read over my lunch, providing that one is willing to suspend some disbelief about going along with the djinn and the slot machine. But I wouldn’t call it romance as much as light PWP (that’s porn-without-plot). I will say that having the acid test for whether or not someone is a potentially geeky enough long-term partner be their reaction to one’s Serenity tattoo made a weird kind of sense (says the woman with both TARDIS and Star Trek earrings)
However, the title is awful and doesn’t describe the book very well. It makes it sound like an orgy at a frat party. Or worse.
I give Beer and Groping in Las Vegas by Angela Quarles 3 pink stars
Cass: I slammed my computer shut in disgust and walked away at least four times. Because what.the.fuck.
I give Roofies and Stalking in Las Vegas 1/2 star. The half star I contemplated adding for the unambiguous consent was taken away by the sheer absurdity that so-called geeks would be in the same hotel as a big Con and not even contemplate going.
Jackie: I kind of agree with Marlene about the title but from another viewpoint: when the beer bottle showed up on the balcony, I thought things were going to go to a weird place for a minute. Thankfully, they didn't. I enjoyed this quick read and feel it offers a bit of steamy fun with a smidge of hope for us geeks out there still looking love. I give Beer and Groping in Las Vegas 3 thrusts...I mean stars! (Seriously, though, I'm pretty sure their first time was that quick, no?)
February 7, 2023
I absolutely loved the geeky references that appeared in this quick read. Even more so when it was Star Trek relate. I also enjoyed the way these two found their way to each other. That magical element was intriguing. Who knew that a wish made in Vegas would end up this way.
That being said, I do wish there had been a better balance between the story and the steam. However the entire book is 55 pages, so there isn't really a lot of options available. Also the scenes after Mirjam received the envelope, until the time Riley received his envelope could have been done away with. That time would have been better spent building a connection between the characters, or seeing more of their date. (in my opinion)
At the end of the day, the geeky references were what drew me in, and really the story itself was just okay. Nothing really memorable, except maybe those Marvin the Martian boxers.
That being said, I do wish there had been a better balance between the story and the steam. However the entire book is 55 pages, so there isn't really a lot of options available. Also the scenes after Mirjam received the envelope, until the time Riley received his envelope could have been done away with. That time would have been better spent building a connection between the characters, or seeing more of their date. (in my opinion)
At the end of the day, the geeky references were what drew me in, and really the story itself was just okay. Nothing really memorable, except maybe those Marvin the Martian boxers.
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