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Nocturne Falls Universe

A Dragon Gambles For His Girl

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Ariah Callahan was raised on tales of dragons and magic and a wonderful hidden realm. The fairytales ended when her father became estranged from her beloved uncle, and cold, hard reality set in. Surviving day to day as her father spirals into addiction and depression is all she can do. When the unthinkable happens, her uncle becomes her only hope.

Alazar Brandvold has made easygoing an art. He’s worked hard to ensure no one in the enchanted town of Nocturne Falls sees the tortured, serious soul inside the shameless gambler who is as quick with a laugh as he is to place a bet— which he invariably loses. The Firestorm dragon gets the wakeup call of his life when his Keeper comes out of hiding and shows him a treasure worth more than all the gold in his hoard.

And his race’s ancient enemy is hunting her.

He will have to risk everything in the ultimate gamble not only to claim Ariah as his lifemate, but to convince her that fairytales are real and that the damsel can save the dragon.

308 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 26, 2017

41 people are currently reading
248 people want to read

About the author

Kira Nyte

36 books73 followers
Born and raised a Jersey girl with easy access to NYC, I was never short on ideas for stories. I started writing when I was 11, and my passion for creating worlds exploded from that point on. Romance writing came later, since kissing gave you cooties at 11, but when it did, I embraced it. Since then, all of my heroes and heroines find their happily ever after, even if it takes a good fight, or ten, to get there.

I currently live in Central Florida with my husband, our four children, and two parakeets. I work part-time as a PCU nurse when I’m not writing or traveling between sports and other activities.

I love to hear from readers! Contact me at kiranyteauthor@gmail.com

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5 stars
174 (57%)
4 stars
78 (26%)
3 stars
41 (13%)
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5 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for Tiffany PSquared.
504 reviews82 followers
August 7, 2018
Another good installment for the Nocturne Falls Universe. Ariah escapes a dangerous and confusing situation at home into the safety of Nocturne Falls, GA, and her uncle's home. But she realizes immediately that there is more to this small southern town than just an unnatural obsession with celebrating Halloween every day of the year.

Her uncle seems to have secrets that Ariah can't figure out, but she knows they involve her and her misfit father. Equally important, Ariah can't figure out her intensely magnetic attraction to another of the town's citizens, Alazar, and how he's connected to what her uncle knows about her past and her future.

Kira Nyte weaves new and familiar Nocturne Falls characters into this fantasy story of dragons, witches, and other paranormals where the"new girl in town" is in a fight for her life that she isn't even aware of. The writing is light and engaging - a perfect summer read. If you're already familiar with the NFU, then you'll feel right at home with this book. If not, no need to read through them all to enjoy this standalone story.
Profile Image for Kristine .
1,802 reviews12 followers
September 21, 2017
This is the second book by this author set in the Nocturne Falls Universe, it connects to the previous book but can be read as a stand-alone. After finishing the author's previous book in this series, I anxious to read more from this author, I was not disappointed. The story had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what was going to happen next. I would love to read more about these dragons.

I received a copy of this manuscript from the publisher, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
Profile Image for Miranda Beazley.
668 reviews6 followers
October 8, 2017
When her dad goes crazy and threatens her with a gun Ariah runs to her estranged Uncle and his horrid wife. Except that when she arrives she has been changed by her life and she no longer believes in the fairy stories of dragons, fairy tale lands and of course life long love. Alazar is the happy go lucky gambler, he likes to party and he likes to gamble and he looses, a lot. Until Ariah walks into his life and everything instantly changes.

Ariah had a hard life and this is portrayed strongly in this story, she has the beaten down mindset of someone who has had to live paycheck to paycheck. Her outlook and determination are amazing, as is Alazars determination to show Ariah she is safe from the moment he met her. Their story revolves around a lot of deep emotional pain and suffering, and not just from Ariahs side. The writing is amazing and I felt an understanding of their pain, the relief they find when they meet and the determination that things aren't what they seem at first.
Profile Image for Madison Warner Fairbanks.
3,404 reviews496 followers
September 20, 2017
A Dragon Gambles for his Girl by Kira Nyte

From the Nocturne Falls kindle world by Kristen Painter.
The second by this author, connected to the first in this specific sub story line. Can be read without reading the first. On the darker side of the series.
Arian, the heroine, has had a hard life. Trying to now reconcile to a fantasy is, in her eyes, too good to be true. Is security the same as love? Can it lead to love?
Danger follows the Keepers and family by a long time enemy.
A conclusion but also introduces a new character for future potential.

Excerpt:
“Alazar exhaled the anxiety that had mounted with each second during the conversation between Ariah and Pandora. He had nothing to hide from her, but not even the fact they were lifemates could guarantee Ariah would accept him and stay with him. Eons ago, the bond between lifemates was seen as a sure and secure relationship. Times had changed, though, and now the choice was left up to the woman instead of the dragon.
He’d grovel if he had to. He’d dance around in a tutu if Ariah asked him to. He’d eat a bowl of—gulp—kale if it would earn her trust and her heart.
Alazar glanced down at Ariah. “Do you like kale?”
Ariah snorted, a hand flying up to her face. The gold shimmered in her eyes once more. “Excuse me?”
Alazar shifted on his feet and shrugged. “Kale. Do you like it?"
She giggled behind that hand, a sound so musical and airy that Alazar wanted to bottle it up and listen to it whenever they were apart. “That’s the poorest pick-up line I’ve heard.”
“You’ve already been picked up. So?”
“You’re serious?”
“I’m preparing myself.”
Ariah blinked before tilting her head and narrowing her eyes on him. “For what? A bunny war?” When he didn’t answer, she shook her head. “No. I don’t like kale. Then again, I’ve never had it cooked in a decent manner.”
Alazar’s relief swelled. He wouldn’t have to worry about facing the repulsive greens.”
Excerpt From: Nyte, Kira. “A Dragon Gambles for His Girl.” Sugar Skull Books
Profile Image for Eden.
2,221 reviews
November 19, 2019
2019 bk 368. I read this immediately after Alethea Kontis Nocturne Falls Universe. I had read a short story by Kira Nyte earlier and had liked it, but after Kontis... Kira Nyte's story might have been best served as separate from the Nocturne Falls Universe - they con't quite have the feel of Karen Painter's books and most of the scenarios had little to do with the doings of the Nocturne Falls community. I liked most of the characters, but they didn't have the depth that I've seen in Painter's novels. So - I'd read them again to refresh my memory as to why I felt a little disgruntled and see if I saw improvements - but only if I had read all of Karen Painter's novels first.
Profile Image for Lisa.
899 reviews12 followers
October 8, 2017
This was a nice addition to the series. It’s the second book but can be read as a stand alone. I love anything to do with dragons. There’s a lot in the story that holds your attention, also some danger. The fact that the heroine is use to living paycheck to paycheck, makes it all the more real as you’re reading.
Profile Image for Kari.
889 reviews84 followers
January 5, 2024
It was ok, especially the setting in Nocturne Falls, I love that town. It reminded me of the first book in the series which I read a long time ago. I liked both Ariah and Alazar even though the insta-love was extreme. I believe it's the way dragon lifemates act when they find their partners. Alazar's friends Kaylae and Zareh were quite cute, they are the MCs of the other book. Uncle Mark was also a great character.
Profile Image for Lara.
80 reviews
October 12, 2017
Great addition to a great series!

I love this world and I loved this book! Dragons are one of my favorite paranormal creatures and this book was a great dragon book. Bonus: it's clean! Enjoy it 🤣
Profile Image for Ann Brookens.
242 reviews1 follower
September 19, 2017
This is Nyte's second book set in Nocturne Falls and continues the arc set in the first one. I was concerned about a story line that encompassed a group aiming for the genocide of the main character's race but although there was a LOT of action towards the end of the book, all is well by the close. Altogether, it was such an exciting and satisfying read that I tore through the last few chapters!
Profile Image for Myriam.
645 reviews26 followers
October 9, 2017
This is the second book in Nocturne Falls Universe by this author and it features Alazar, a dragon a compulsive gambler we met in the previous book A Dragon Speaks Her Name about Alazar's best friend Zareh and dragon keeper Kaylae. As some larger aspects of the story were not finished in the previous book, there were certain expectations heavily weighing on this book.
The main female character is Ariah, and she experiences similar traumatic events involving her father as Kaylae did in the previous book. However, this book was much better, the writing was impeccable, the characters well developed, the world well describes, and all of the unresolved overlaying aspects of the story well explained. Alazar is a wonderful character, as is Ariah. Most of the things are not what they seem, and the final resolution is quite explosive.
We finally meet the main villains and all of the history is explained and the first story makes much more sense now. Zareh is prominently featured in this story, and we also get to meet two more dragons Syn and Cade, the leader. There is a lot of confrontation happening is this book and the action kept me breathless and glued to the seat. I did not expect to like this books so much but it turned out to be one of my favourites. There is a hint that there might be more stories and I could not welcome them more.
Nocturne Falls universe contains 25 books at the moment. Original Nocturne Falls series contains eight books and four short stories, as well as four books of the Jayne Frost spin off series. All of the series are great entertaining light read and I highly recommend them.
Profile Image for Laura.
2,557 reviews
September 26, 2017
This is a great book; this book was written by Kira Nyte. This book is part of the Nocturne Falls Kindle World which is written by Kristen Painter. I was so happy that these new books by new authors were asked to write a story in the town. Nocturne Falls is a town that celebrates Halloween every day of the year and also a place that paranormal’s can live and not have to hide what they really are. Ariah Callahan was raised on tales of dragons and magic and a wonderful hidden realm. The fairytales ended when her father became estranged from her beloved uncle, and cold, hard reality set in. Surviving day to day as her father spirals into addiction and depression is all she can do. When the unthinkable happens, her uncle becomes her only hope. Alazar Brandvold has made easygoing an art. He’s worked hard to ensure no one in the enchanted town of Nocturne Falls sees the tortured, serious soul inside the shameless gambler who is as quick with a laugh as he is to place a bet— which he invariably loses. The Firestorm dragon gets the wakeup call of his life when his Keeper comes out of hiding and shows him a treasure worth more than all the gold in his hoard. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night. If you are looking for a great book, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
Profile Image for Mullen Natalie.
289 reviews3 followers
September 19, 2024
Between 2 and 3 stars.
This book had a better writing style. Almost thought it was a different author that wrote it.
For my taste there is just to much talk that is dragging and dragging, boring and uninteresting. I started jumping over some pages of their Conversations after half of the book.

Nyte has the tendency to try to keep a mystery about what is going on with the characters. And it is just annoying and no fun to keep reading. That was not so bad in this book, that is why I made it to the end. Like I said I jumped over the conversations a lot those 2 had, was only getting on my nerve when they did not stayed on point.

I so far can say, my opinion, her books just do not fit the Nucturne Falls story at all. Sadly I got me a hand full of books of Nucturnes Falls Universe and some are from her. Most I did not even finished. This is the first one I can give stars, so far.

The world build of the Hallow just is not there at all..so why even mention and use a world like that in the first place?
Profile Image for Heidi .
184 reviews
October 5, 2017
I've truly enjoyed Kira Nyte's Nocturne Falls books. Her stories weave seamlessly into Kristen Painter's world and enhance the rich tapestry of the supernatural universe that has been created in Nocturne Falls.
The love story is unrushed and fitting for the backstory created for the race of supernaturals portrayed in the book. Unexpected twists and turns helped bring the story to a fulfilling resolution. I hope to see stories for others mentioned in the book, either in the Nocturne Falls universe of books; or outside storyline by the author.
This story is standalone; however I do suggest that you read A Dragon Speaks her Name and Kristen Painter's Nocturne Falls books prior to reading this as you may miss who some of the characters are, and some of the situations that are discussed as side notes.
Profile Image for Niken Widyastuti.
380 reviews1 follower
October 7, 2017
A nice story of dragon shifter and his keeper. The keeper was a life mate of a dragon, and a dragon usually had a keeper only for him. Alazar was one of those almost extinct dragon, and Ariah was his keeper, a keeper who didn’t believe in fairy tale anymore. But as a keeper, she was targeted by the dragon’s clan enemy. So Alazar had two main tasks, kept her safe and convinced her to be his mate.

A very enjoyable read, related to Kira’s first book yet completely stand alone. I liked this kind of book; action and romance, but still light enough to be read at the end of the day.

I was provided a complementary copy by the author / publisher, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.
Profile Image for Desiree.
722 reviews5 followers
February 13, 2025
Again, I feel like a monster for saying shitty things about someone else's creation and imagination. The author was very imaginative and had a captivating writing style but...
For me this was a no.

This book was just too weak on character depth and threadbare on relationships. Everything was very 1 dimensional.
Huge things happen, and everyone is sooo blasé about it all!!
Book was nothing more than an insta-love with an interesting backdrop.
This book had zero depth.
The interactions seemed cheap, ridiculous, and lame.

Did it have some good moments, yes, did it have an interesting plot, yes. Was it a "real" book, no. It was a cheap paranormal romance novel with no substance.
Profile Image for Hsu Lee.
1,743 reviews9 followers
September 27, 2017
ARC - I voluntarily offered to review this book with no obligations and my opinions are honest!
Ariah only knew sorrow.
She didn't think that she will ever feel hope again.
When her father is arrested, she is sent to live w/ her uncle.
Alazar was not sure if he will ever have a lifemate.
When Ariah shows up, Alazar now has a new purpose in his life.
He found his lifemate
When danger comes knocking, Alazar will even give his life to protect Ariah.
Will Alazar save Ariah?
Don't worry Alazar is not alone!
He lives in Nocturne Falls after all.
Profile Image for David  Vise.
95 reviews6 followers
September 27, 2017
I love Dragons...and this tale by Kira Nyte featuring Dragon Alazar Brandvold and Keeper Ariah Callahan with strong supporting characters and interesting mythology is a nice addition to the ever growing Nocturne Falls Universe and follows on nicely from her first venture into this world with 'A Dragon Speaks Her Name'.
My one gripe - and hence four star rating - is things only really get going about 2/3 way through when the Baroqueth finally make their move, when I would have favoured more action and sooner! :)
Profile Image for Dana Whyte.
199 reviews8 followers
October 3, 2017
I really , really enjoy these characters. I would totally read an entire series featuring the Firestorm Dragons! This story features Alazar BFF to Zarah who was featured in the 1st dragon book and Ariah his future dragon keeper. Ariah is in trouble and turns to her uncle who lives in Nocture Falls. Uncle Mark use to tell her fantastic fairy tales of dragons and far way lands, but unfortunately reality for Ariah is a lot more harsh. I hope that Ms Nyte keeps telling us fantastic stories of Dragons and the Hallow. Can't wait for the next fairytale!
Profile Image for Gwessie Tee.
451 reviews13 followers
November 23, 2017
Omg loved this story very much, glad we got to see and learn more also about them, spectacular read most definitely can't wait to read more.

This is a fantastic story in every way possible and definitely in keeping with NFU as are all the other NFU books, we have it all romance yes some naughtiness but in balance with the rest of the story and more magic I could so not put this down and was itching for more even after reading it, brilliant so hope we have more Dragon stories in the NFU I'm so Addicted lol.

Thank you Kira.
Profile Image for Christine.
Author 2 books32 followers
October 3, 2017
A Dragon Gambles For His Girl by Kira Nyte is a story in The Nocturne Falls Universe, created by Kristen Painter.

Alazar is a member of the almost extinct species of Fire Dragons, and Ariah is a Keeper in waiting. But Ariah's life has not been easy; can she believe in the fairy tales her Uncle used to tell her?

This is a well-thought out and touching story, and a wonderful addition to the Nocturne Falls Universe. I absolutely recommend this story.
Profile Image for Rebecca Field.
24 reviews
October 10, 2017
I really enjoy each addition to the Nocturne Falls Universe. I greatly enjoyed this second book by this author. She grabs you from the first page with action and once she has you, she takes you into the lives of the Fire Storm Dragon Clan. But she remains true to the world she is writing in and we see old friends from previous books too.

This is a talented new author and someone to watch out for.
Profile Image for Denise Snider.
114 reviews1 follower
December 23, 2017
This is the 2nd installment of the Nocturne Falls series by this author, however, it can be read as a stand alone. The story consists of Ariah and Alazar. Ariah has had a hard life growing up and comes back to Nocturne Falls to her uncle after her father goes crazy. It's at this time she finds out her actual heritage and meets Alazar, a dragon shifter, who is her lifemate. The story is a bit slow at times, but tends to redeem itself toward the end.
Profile Image for Gabby.
2,524 reviews26 followers
May 6, 2022
Sweet if headlong tumble to love.

Fun if a little predictable. Yet at the same time I love the take on the gambling and his wish to support her and in his own way by not pressuring her makes it all the sweeter. Trust is a thing that is hard and to have her trust so early shows either she is desperate for someone to share her path with or she really feels safe with him. I love the extension on these dragons but it doesn’t overshadow what Ace and Alazar have.
1,579 reviews11 followers
September 20, 2017
Loved this story, so happy for Alazar getting his happy ever after and I loved Ariah and her uncle Mark and father Mike. I really liked meeting Syn, another Firestorm Dragon and I wonder if we'll see more of him and Cade, maybe meet the other 4 unknown (to us) Firestorm Dragons.
Profile Image for Amanda.
149 reviews
September 24, 2017
On the darker side for the bud books. Not bad by any means just definitely heavier. Deals with pain and secrets of a hard life and the struggle of trying to believe anything good can come after all the hurt. I liked it the dragons are fun and open an interesting world of possibilities.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
813 reviews15 followers
September 30, 2017
Really liked this story! It is a great addition to the nocturne falls universe series. Alazar is a Firestorm Dragon who finds his Lifemate Ariah. Plenty of emotion in this book very well written hope to read more books on the Firestone Dragons !
122 reviews
July 13, 2024
a dragon and a keeper

A dragon who has lost his Keeper. A woman who has been living lost. And a magical melding. Oh, not to forget the evil witch and her cohorts, who wish the dragons and keepers no good at all.
Profile Image for JB.
2,179 reviews8 followers
September 25, 2017
Another successful book in the Nocturne Falls universe. Good book, drags a little in the middle, but the beginning and ending are both action packed and exciting. Enjoy!
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