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Vegas Kings #1
Jack
JACK
Rejection. That’s what I get for trying to save a girl who obviously doesn’t want saving.
Paying off her father’s debt so she can stop taking off her clothes for other people? That was a no brainer. Obviously, I hoped she’d fall victim to my irresistible charm. My selflessness.
But no.
I’ve offended her independent spirit, and instead of falling for me, she’s doing everything she can to avoid me. I should forget all about Ellie Masters, but I’m a sucker for her sassy smile and that fiery, luscious mouth.
I’m more than willing to take a gamble on this girl, but she’s made it clear I’m going to need more than luck to win her heart.
ELLIE
My momma raised me to believe that I don’t need a man. Except, apparently, I do.
And now that I owe a debt to a billionaire, I feel sick to my stomach.
It’s not like I’ll ever be able to pay him back.
The man is richer than God, and hotter than the Devil. When he’s next to me, I just about melt.
The last thing I want is to fall for a man like that.
The problem is, I think I already have…
Rejection. That’s what I get for trying to save a girl who obviously doesn’t want saving.
Paying off her father’s debt so she can stop taking off her clothes for other people? That was a no brainer. Obviously, I hoped she’d fall victim to my irresistible charm. My selflessness.
But no.
I’ve offended her independent spirit, and instead of falling for me, she’s doing everything she can to avoid me. I should forget all about Ellie Masters, but I’m a sucker for her sassy smile and that fiery, luscious mouth.
I’m more than willing to take a gamble on this girl, but she’s made it clear I’m going to need more than luck to win her heart.
ELLIE
My momma raised me to believe that I don’t need a man. Except, apparently, I do.
And now that I owe a debt to a billionaire, I feel sick to my stomach.
It’s not like I’ll ever be able to pay him back.
The man is richer than God, and hotter than the Devil. When he’s next to me, I just about melt.
The last thing I want is to fall for a man like that.
The problem is, I think I already have…
206 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2021
89 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
November 13, 2022
Jack is a billionaire vanilla romance. The plot is min dram, min twist. Just straight forward retelling of Cinderella fairy tale.
It is still enjoyable. The writing is choppy and recycled from other books. At least Miss James made it work so the overall experience is OK.
3 stars
It is still enjoyable. The writing is choppy and recycled from other books. At least Miss James made it work so the overall experience is OK.
3 stars
May 3, 2021
This was just okay.
I almost DNFed this, but pushed through hoping it would get better. I really didn't like Ellie she came across as an uptight ungrateful harpy. I didn't understand why Jack liked her at all, except that I was told by the author he liked her for some reason. She acted like she had these deep seated rejection issues but per the story she had a great childhood and happy family. Her behavior did relax as we got deeper into the novel, though her insecurities never did.
This story was kinda boring, there was really just no umph. Even in the steamy bits, there really wasn't any steam. It was annoying that Jack's sister, Ellie's best friend Bea, and her mom all seemed to always be able to know and intuit exactly how Ellie felt and what was on her mind. It was like the author couldn't find a way to organically make it happen conversationally. It was also aggravating/distracting that there was this incessant label dropping. I know that this is about a group of millionaires but everything was Armani this, Versace that, with Chanel and Rolex thrown in. I found it so juvenile.
This is the first book I've read by this author duo, so maybe it's just a one off. Others might like this better than I did. I'm not really interested in the rest of the series.
Even though this is an ARC review, I will always shoot you straight. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I almost DNFed this, but pushed through hoping it would get better. I really didn't like Ellie she came across as an uptight ungrateful harpy. I didn't understand why Jack liked her at all, except that I was told by the author he liked her for some reason. She acted like she had these deep seated rejection issues but per the story she had a great childhood and happy family. Her behavior did relax as we got deeper into the novel, though her insecurities never did.
This story was kinda boring, there was really just no umph. Even in the steamy bits, there really wasn't any steam. It was annoying that Jack's sister, Ellie's best friend Bea, and her mom all seemed to always be able to know and intuit exactly how Ellie felt and what was on her mind. It was like the author couldn't find a way to organically make it happen conversationally. It was also aggravating/distracting that there was this incessant label dropping. I know that this is about a group of millionaires but everything was Armani this, Versace that, with Chanel and Rolex thrown in. I found it so juvenile.
This is the first book I've read by this author duo, so maybe it's just a one off. Others might like this better than I did. I'm not really interested in the rest of the series.
Even though this is an ARC review, I will always shoot you straight. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 27, 2021
Ellie just lost her father thanks to suicide and next her mother and her find out he has a huge gambling debts with the wrong people.
Ellie decides to do something about it by getting a job. Doing that she meets Jack before she runs out because she can't do it anyway.
Jack can't forget about her and tracks her down. He even pays off the loan shark, but Ellie is not amused by that. She wants to pay him back. While working in his casino sparks between them continue to fly. Luckily Jack doesn't give up on her, because she is different.
Great read about friendship, love and more.
Ellie decides to do something about it by getting a job. Doing that she meets Jack before she runs out because she can't do it anyway.
Jack can't forget about her and tracks her down. He even pays off the loan shark, but Ellie is not amused by that. She wants to pay him back. While working in his casino sparks between them continue to fly. Luckily Jack doesn't give up on her, because she is different.
Great read about friendship, love and more.
April 30, 2021
I loved this! At first, I had a hard time connecting with Ellie. Mainly because of how she views things when other people come to her rescue. I feel like she's being unreasonable and stubborn. But Jack is so patient, so they were able to work it out. They definitely grew on me. This is a sweet and sexy read. I can't wait to read more of the series.
June 12, 2021
“I’m worried about how bad the situation is. Losing Dad was hard enough, and since it was suicide, the insurance company refuses to pay out. We’re barely keeping ourselves floating as it is. More debts are the last thing we need.”
This was my first time reading a book by McKenna James. I liked it but I didn’t love it, unfortunately.
After reading the burb I had high hopes for this book, but they all fell short.
“It was a morning I’ll never forget. I was late getting ready for college, like always. I remember walking into the kitchen and seeing a fresh pot of coffee brewing, dishes in the sink, the TV playing the morning news in the background. It was just like any other day. I could even hear Dad’s car humming in the garage, like it did every morning before he went to work. Only that day, the humming didn’t stop.”
The book starts with the funeral of our heroine, Ellie, father.
After sinking himself in debt, he decides to take his own life and leave his wife an daughter to deal with the aftermath of it.
Unfortunately for them the aftermath isn’t just debt... it’s a little worst then that.
“There are other ways to make money.”
“Only a rich person would say that with such ignorance,” she replies, her lips twitching.
Burn.”
Ellie is heroine in this book.
After all that happened to her family, it was good to see that she was worried about her mother well-being and that she wanted to help fix things.
Still the image I got from her was that she was a spoiled, self-centered brat. Specially when interacting with Jack.
“You’re telling me you’re not the least bit attracted to me?”
“I think you’re way more in love with yourself than I could ever be,”
Jack is our hero. I actually liked his character a lot.
He had a good work ethic, had a loyalty and relationship with his friends and sister that were lovable and he was a kind person, specially to the ones he cared about.
“it’s not like that with Ellie. Trust me. She was pissed at me for paying off the debt. Stormed into my office and yelled at me kind of pissed. Can you believe that?”
“Are you serious?” King asks. “Pissed off about the cash?”
“She’s independent.”
“Or stupid,” Ace says.”
I honestly have no idea how old Ellie is but she really came out like a spoiled high school girl that throws a fit at everything that doesn’t go according to her plan.
She was a real ass to Jack, Every Single Time he helped her. And her lack of self confidence was kinda annoying.
“If she’s the first person you think of when you wake up and the last before you go to sleep, then she’s your soul mate. Don’t let that go.”
I also wasn’t a huge fan of the writing style.
The book felt boring at times... and honestly it seemed like it ended mid way. They were just starting to date when the book ended. We get a HFN ending, but not a HEA.
I have no idea if we’ll have more information about their future in the next books, but still...
This was my first time reading a book by McKenna James. I liked it but I didn’t love it, unfortunately.
After reading the burb I had high hopes for this book, but they all fell short.
“It was a morning I’ll never forget. I was late getting ready for college, like always. I remember walking into the kitchen and seeing a fresh pot of coffee brewing, dishes in the sink, the TV playing the morning news in the background. It was just like any other day. I could even hear Dad’s car humming in the garage, like it did every morning before he went to work. Only that day, the humming didn’t stop.”
The book starts with the funeral of our heroine, Ellie, father.
After sinking himself in debt, he decides to take his own life and leave his wife an daughter to deal with the aftermath of it.
Unfortunately for them the aftermath isn’t just debt... it’s a little worst then that.
“There are other ways to make money.”
“Only a rich person would say that with such ignorance,” she replies, her lips twitching.
Burn.”
Ellie is heroine in this book.
After all that happened to her family, it was good to see that she was worried about her mother well-being and that she wanted to help fix things.
Still the image I got from her was that she was a spoiled, self-centered brat. Specially when interacting with Jack.
“You’re telling me you’re not the least bit attracted to me?”
“I think you’re way more in love with yourself than I could ever be,”
Jack is our hero. I actually liked his character a lot.
He had a good work ethic, had a loyalty and relationship with his friends and sister that were lovable and he was a kind person, specially to the ones he cared about.
“it’s not like that with Ellie. Trust me. She was pissed at me for paying off the debt. Stormed into my office and yelled at me kind of pissed. Can you believe that?”
“Are you serious?” King asks. “Pissed off about the cash?”
“She’s independent.”
“Or stupid,” Ace says.”
I honestly have no idea how old Ellie is but she really came out like a spoiled high school girl that throws a fit at everything that doesn’t go according to her plan.
She was a real ass to Jack, Every Single Time he helped her. And her lack of self confidence was kinda annoying.
“If she’s the first person you think of when you wake up and the last before you go to sleep, then she’s your soul mate. Don’t let that go.”
I also wasn’t a huge fan of the writing style.
The book felt boring at times... and honestly it seemed like it ended mid way. They were just starting to date when the book ended. We get a HFN ending, but not a HEA.
I have no idea if we’ll have more information about their future in the next books, but still...
April 30, 2021
This is my first book by this author so I didn’t really know what to expect but the blurb had me intrigued so why not?
It was a gamble that paid off ten fold. What an incredible story!! Jack is everything I love to read about in my romance novels. Super alpha and used to getting his own way but when Ellie pushes back and tells him the dreaded word no - it just makes him fight even harder. The banter and the backwards and forwards was exceptional to read. It has only ended up by making me antsy to get my hands on the next book. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
It was a gamble that paid off ten fold. What an incredible story!! Jack is everything I love to read about in my romance novels. Super alpha and used to getting his own way but when Ellie pushes back and tells him the dreaded word no - it just makes him fight even harder. The banter and the backwards and forwards was exceptional to read. It has only ended up by making me antsy to get my hands on the next book. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
May 10, 2021
Nice beginning to a new series
Jack is the first book in the Vegas Kings series and this one kicks it off a series about four male friends who are known as the Vegas Kings. They are wealthy, influential, handsome and sexy. This story is about Ellie and Jack. The story was nicely written with a good story-line and very likeable characters.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Jack is the first book in the Vegas Kings series and this one kicks it off a series about four male friends who are known as the Vegas Kings. They are wealthy, influential, handsome and sexy. This story is about Ellie and Jack. The story was nicely written with a good story-line and very likeable characters.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
May 1, 2021
Universal
Jack isn't used to women, anyone, telling him no, turning him down. When Ellie seems intent on avoiding him, not throwing herself at him the way women usually do, it only makes him like her more. So now the chase is on. Will Ellie give in to the attraction they both feel?
Ellie needs money to pay off her father's gambling debts. But is dancing at Jack's friend's bachelor party really the answer? When Jack comes to her rescue, she owes him now. She may deny it, but there is a serious spark between them. Should she trust the hot billionaire who seems so intent on having her in his life? Or is she merely a pawn in a game he's playing with the other "kings"?
Jack is sweet and swoony and beyond patient with Ellie. Their story is fun, hot, and definitely has me waiting for the other kings' stories now.
ARC via Elle Woods PR for an honest review.
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May 1, 2021
I wasn't sure how this would play out. Ellie was such a completely different world than Jack. Her situation was almost beyond her limits, yet she was willing to do some uncomfortable things to try and right the problems. Jack was a bit selfish and definitely arrogant, but he followed his heart when he met Ellie. I enjoyed the story and look forward to the next in the series.
I received a copy of this story through Elle Wood Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
I received a copy of this story through Elle Wood Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
April 30, 2021
4.5 Stars for Jack (Vegas Kings #1)
McKenna James is a new author to me but after reading this book, I’m certainly going to check out other works by this talented author. Jack has left me excited for the rest of the Vegas Kings Series.
Jack Stapleton is one of the kings of Vegas, he is a typical playboy but as we all know when playboys meet the right woman they can be brought to their knees, could Ellie be that woman.
Ellie has just lost her father, he was a gambler and owed some Vegas big shots a lot of money so is Jack the answer to all of Ellie’s problems and how will she react when she finds out he owns a hotel and casino and plays poker with his four friends for fun and money. A chance meeting is about to change Jack and Ellie’s life forever......
I fell hard and fast for Jack, I loved watching him chase Ellie and doing everything in his peers to prove his feelings for her, I loved the four friends know as the Vegas Kings and I’m excited for all their stories. The attraction is instant, the chemistry is sizzling and the banter is witty but it was Jack and his unrelenting pursuit if Ellie that took this book to another level. This book ticked all my boxes and I highly recommend this gem of a read.
McKenna James is a new author to me but after reading this book, I’m certainly going to check out other works by this talented author. Jack has left me excited for the rest of the Vegas Kings Series.
Jack Stapleton is one of the kings of Vegas, he is a typical playboy but as we all know when playboys meet the right woman they can be brought to their knees, could Ellie be that woman.
Ellie has just lost her father, he was a gambler and owed some Vegas big shots a lot of money so is Jack the answer to all of Ellie’s problems and how will she react when she finds out he owns a hotel and casino and plays poker with his four friends for fun and money. A chance meeting is about to change Jack and Ellie’s life forever......
I fell hard and fast for Jack, I loved watching him chase Ellie and doing everything in his peers to prove his feelings for her, I loved the four friends know as the Vegas Kings and I’m excited for all their stories. The attraction is instant, the chemistry is sizzling and the banter is witty but it was Jack and his unrelenting pursuit if Ellie that took this book to another level. This book ticked all my boxes and I highly recommend this gem of a read.
May 2, 2021
Jack is the first book in the Vegas Kings series & was an awesome start. I loved how both sweet & sexy Jack was while Ellie was an entertaining ball of fire.
Loved the supporting cast (friends & Jack's sister) and am looking forward to reading their stories.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Loved the supporting cast (friends & Jack's sister) and am looking forward to reading their stories.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
May 7, 2021
Jack has a lot to prove, well just to his dead father! Nothing was ever good enough for him, and now two years later on the anniversary of his father’s death, Jack has to wonder what it’s all been about!
Thank goodness he has a bachelor party for his best friend to take his mind off his musings.....
Ellie is so not cut out to be stripper! But how is she going to help her mother pay back the thousands her father ran up in gambling debts?!
And to add insult to injury, a really hot guy tried to offer her a job!
I liked Jack, he seemed lonely and ready to settle down. He also thought he had things to prove! Owning the prestigious casino, Jack has nothing to prove.
I liked how he kept persevering with Ellie, how he never really got cross with her.
I wasn’t sure about Ellie. She just had such a chip on her shoulder, but the more you get to know her, the more you realise she’s scared of the huge debt her father left, she’s worried about her mother, and she’s attracted to Jack, but scared of getting hurt!
Jack offers her a job in the casino to help pay off her fathers debt.
And slowly he gains her trust, it’s not easy, she has such high walls up, Jack isn’t sure they will ever get further than a kiss!!
Friends of both Jack and Ellie were great.
Bea was hilarious, but with a heart of gold.
Ace is a bit of a dick! Thinking he’s gods gift to women!
Asher is the one getting married (so it was his bachelor party)
And Jack’s sister is a feisty one, but always there for her brother.
First book in a new series.
It’s also the first time I’ve read this author.
And I’m hoping to see the rest of the Vegas Kings get their stories.
Would I call this an enemies to lovers? Not sure. But they definitely weren’t friends to start with......
Working has given Ellie more confidence, knowing she’s paying the debt back makes her happy.
Being with Jack is everything she’s ever wanted.
But an overheard conversation puts their new relationship in jeopardy!!
Can Jack really be ready for just one lady?
And can Ellie truly trust the King of Vegas?
🦋
Thank goodness he has a bachelor party for his best friend to take his mind off his musings.....
Ellie is so not cut out to be stripper! But how is she going to help her mother pay back the thousands her father ran up in gambling debts?!
And to add insult to injury, a really hot guy tried to offer her a job!
I liked Jack, he seemed lonely and ready to settle down. He also thought he had things to prove! Owning the prestigious casino, Jack has nothing to prove.
I liked how he kept persevering with Ellie, how he never really got cross with her.
I wasn’t sure about Ellie. She just had such a chip on her shoulder, but the more you get to know her, the more you realise she’s scared of the huge debt her father left, she’s worried about her mother, and she’s attracted to Jack, but scared of getting hurt!
Jack offers her a job in the casino to help pay off her fathers debt.
And slowly he gains her trust, it’s not easy, she has such high walls up, Jack isn’t sure they will ever get further than a kiss!!
Friends of both Jack and Ellie were great.
Bea was hilarious, but with a heart of gold.
Ace is a bit of a dick! Thinking he’s gods gift to women!
Asher is the one getting married (so it was his bachelor party)
And Jack’s sister is a feisty one, but always there for her brother.
First book in a new series.
It’s also the first time I’ve read this author.
And I’m hoping to see the rest of the Vegas Kings get their stories.
Would I call this an enemies to lovers? Not sure. But they definitely weren’t friends to start with......
Working has given Ellie more confidence, knowing she’s paying the debt back makes her happy.
Being with Jack is everything she’s ever wanted.
But an overheard conversation puts their new relationship in jeopardy!!
Can Jack really be ready for just one lady?
And can Ellie truly trust the King of Vegas?
🦋
May 1, 2021
It's evident the moment they meet that Ellie Masters is a woman in need of saving, a woman living a life she didn't necessarily sign up for... and he wants to be the one to save her. He can see the pain and indecision in her eyes, but she isn't really receptive to being helped by a stranger. She's been hired to do a job that she is not fully prepared to do, but feels that she really has no other choice. Her father left her with a mountain of debt and any day now the men he owes are bound to come searching for her.
Jack sees her struggling, and something inside him says help her... so he does, thinking it might be the best way to win her attention. But all it does is send her farther in the other direction...
Between the pages of this wonderfully penned romance you will meet a woman down on her luck, and the handsome and mildly frustrating man who steps in to save her. Ellie was raised to never depend on a man for anything, mainly because they always disappoint you when you need them the most. She has always done everything for herself, worked hard to pave her own way and accepting money from a stranger to pay her father's debts is just something she is not okay with it. It's actually quite offensive, making her feel like she can't take care of herself. The man is completely infuriating, and far more tempting than she cares to admit!
Watching these two come together was not only entertaining, but good for my heart too. They had many ups and downs, but they found compromise, and of course love... and that trumps just about any problem. This was quite an impressive first read for me, the words were engaging and emotive, the story line creative, and the characters perfectly crafted. Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Jack sees her struggling, and something inside him says help her... so he does, thinking it might be the best way to win her attention. But all it does is send her farther in the other direction...
Between the pages of this wonderfully penned romance you will meet a woman down on her luck, and the handsome and mildly frustrating man who steps in to save her. Ellie was raised to never depend on a man for anything, mainly because they always disappoint you when you need them the most. She has always done everything for herself, worked hard to pave her own way and accepting money from a stranger to pay her father's debts is just something she is not okay with it. It's actually quite offensive, making her feel like she can't take care of herself. The man is completely infuriating, and far more tempting than she cares to admit!
Watching these two come together was not only entertaining, but good for my heart too. They had many ups and downs, but they found compromise, and of course love... and that trumps just about any problem. This was quite an impressive first read for me, the words were engaging and emotive, the story line creative, and the characters perfectly crafted. Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
April 25, 2021
So I have never read this author before but it sounded like a very romantic story and so I couldn't wait to check it out. This is a brand new series by the author and I loved this book so much that I cannot wait for the next one. Its very much an insta lust romance but also has an at work romance angle and also a very light mafia storyline.
First about this series, it feraures what is known as the Kings of Las Vegas. Its about 4 friends who play poker in Vegas and two own their own hotel and the other two, play high stakes poker. This is Jack's story, he is a very wealthy man who runs a major Vegas hotel and he also loves to play poker. One of his best friends is getting married and he is tasked with a bachelor party.
We also meet Ellie and her mom. Her father has just died and he was a heavy gambler and he owes some big shots in Vegas a lot of money and the two women fear for their lives if they cannot get the money. The desperation that Ellie and her mom feel is what introduces Jack to Ellie and once he meets her, he falls very hard.
This book featured awesome characters and a really fun and hot relationship between Jack and Ellie. I loved how strong and independent Ellie was and she really wants to save herself instead of being handed money she does not earn.
Jack was such a romantic. I loved how he chases Ellie to try and convince her to give him a chance with her. This book is not super realistic but I absolutely loved all the characters and this plot.
I received a free ARC copy of this book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
First about this series, it feraures what is known as the Kings of Las Vegas. Its about 4 friends who play poker in Vegas and two own their own hotel and the other two, play high stakes poker. This is Jack's story, he is a very wealthy man who runs a major Vegas hotel and he also loves to play poker. One of his best friends is getting married and he is tasked with a bachelor party.
We also meet Ellie and her mom. Her father has just died and he was a heavy gambler and he owes some big shots in Vegas a lot of money and the two women fear for their lives if they cannot get the money. The desperation that Ellie and her mom feel is what introduces Jack to Ellie and once he meets her, he falls very hard.
This book featured awesome characters and a really fun and hot relationship between Jack and Ellie. I loved how strong and independent Ellie was and she really wants to save herself instead of being handed money she does not earn.
Jack was such a romantic. I loved how he chases Ellie to try and convince her to give him a chance with her. This book is not super realistic but I absolutely loved all the characters and this plot.
I received a free ARC copy of this book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 2, 2021
This was my first book by McKenna James and I enjoyed it. The banter and chemistry between Jack and Ellie just made you want to read more and more. I also enjoyed the tight knit friendship of the group.Their ability to calm each other out and get advice.
“If she’s the first person you think of when you wake up and the last before you go to sleep, then she’s your soul mate.”
I hope that we will get glimpses of them in the next book in King, the next book in the Vegas Kings series.
Blurb:
Rejection. That’s what I get for trying to save a girl who obviously doesn’t want saving. Paying off her father’s debt so she can stop taking off her clothes for other people? That was a no brainer. Obviously, I hoped she’d fall victim to my irresistible charm. My selflessness.But no.I’ve offended her independent spirit, and instead of falling for me, she’s doing everything she can to avoid me. I should forget all about Ellie Masters, but I’m a sucker for her sassy smile and that fiery, luscious mouth.I’m more than willing to take a gamble on this girl, but she’s made it clear I’m going to need more than luck to win her heart.
ELLIE
My momma raised me to believe that I don’t need a man. Except, apparently, I do.And now that I owe a debt to a billionaire, I feel sick to my stomach.It’s not like I’ll ever be able to pay him back.The man is richer than God, and hotter than the Devil. When he’s next to me, I just about melt.The last thing I want is to fall for a man like that.The problem is, I think I already have…
“If she’s the first person you think of when you wake up and the last before you go to sleep, then she’s your soul mate.”
I hope that we will get glimpses of them in the next book in King, the next book in the Vegas Kings series.
Blurb:
Rejection. That’s what I get for trying to save a girl who obviously doesn’t want saving. Paying off her father’s debt so she can stop taking off her clothes for other people? That was a no brainer. Obviously, I hoped she’d fall victim to my irresistible charm. My selflessness.But no.I’ve offended her independent spirit, and instead of falling for me, she’s doing everything she can to avoid me. I should forget all about Ellie Masters, but I’m a sucker for her sassy smile and that fiery, luscious mouth.I’m more than willing to take a gamble on this girl, but she’s made it clear I’m going to need more than luck to win her heart.
ELLIE
My momma raised me to believe that I don’t need a man. Except, apparently, I do.And now that I owe a debt to a billionaire, I feel sick to my stomach.It’s not like I’ll ever be able to pay him back.The man is richer than God, and hotter than the Devil. When he’s next to me, I just about melt.The last thing I want is to fall for a man like that.The problem is, I think I already have…
May 5, 2021
The addition starts with the book cover….yeah…yeah…yeah don’t judge a book by its cover they say ….well we all do it and this one here it is the scratch to your itch or better yet the filling to your oreos! Speaking of filling…..wait, that’s for later. Within the first chapters you get the panoramic view of whom you’re dealing with!
By the time you’ve figured out who is who and how deep hate can run, you’re already hooked, and you may as well give up the fight and prepare yourself for an all-nighter!
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
(Believe me when I say you won’t put it down until the last page is read…you will find yourself getting upset cause someone called, texted or bothered you while reading this one, you will find yourself up at ungodly hours just to finish it knowing you have to be at work early (like 3am early) the very next day) YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!
Ellie’s father got himself into so much debt and then killed himself leaving all that debt to fall on Ellie and her mom. They are doing everything they can to come up with the money so she decides to try her hand at stripping but can’t go through with it. On her way to her first assignment, she meets sexy as all get out billionaire Jack and the chemistry is off the charts. He pays the debt owed to the debtors all for the headstrong, stubborn, yet sweet and sassy but he wants her and will do what it takes to get her, but will he get her, can he get her to see that he really cares and all he wants is happiness? Be warned you will laugh at the two of them they are funny and a hot mess.
By the time you’ve figured out who is who and how deep hate can run, you’re already hooked, and you may as well give up the fight and prepare yourself for an all-nighter!
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
(Believe me when I say you won’t put it down until the last page is read…you will find yourself getting upset cause someone called, texted or bothered you while reading this one, you will find yourself up at ungodly hours just to finish it knowing you have to be at work early (like 3am early) the very next day) YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!
Ellie’s father got himself into so much debt and then killed himself leaving all that debt to fall on Ellie and her mom. They are doing everything they can to come up with the money so she decides to try her hand at stripping but can’t go through with it. On her way to her first assignment, she meets sexy as all get out billionaire Jack and the chemistry is off the charts. He pays the debt owed to the debtors all for the headstrong, stubborn, yet sweet and sassy but he wants her and will do what it takes to get her, but will he get her, can he get her to see that he really cares and all he wants is happiness? Be warned you will laugh at the two of them they are funny and a hot mess.
May 2, 2021
Ellie and her mom inherit a bunch of debt from her dad when he kills himself, so Ellie makes the drastic move to try to strip to make extra money. On the way to the private party she chickens out in the elevator, but bristles when an enigmatic stranger acts like he wants to help her.
Once Jack meets Ellie, he is immediately obsessed with the tried-to-be-a-stripper he meets in an elevator. He’ll try anything to help her out, even if she’s being bullheaded about it.
The story was a cute insta-lust. Jack was really every woman’s dream man. Likable, fully engrossed in his woman, protective, and nurturing. Likewise Ellie was protective of her mom and super independent - almost too independent - to the point it was walking the fine line of being annoying. Most of the story was spent with Jack pursuing Ellie and Ellie trying to ward him off. Jack considers Ellie a breath of fresh air - especially for a man that has his butt kissed on the daily. I really liked Jack and I love independent women, but it was just a bit too much. The overall storyline was good and well written, it moved quickly, and kept my attention to the end. I’ll definitely give the author another go!
Trope: Insta-lust
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Angst: 😰😰/5
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥/5
Triggers: none
Once Jack meets Ellie, he is immediately obsessed with the tried-to-be-a-stripper he meets in an elevator. He’ll try anything to help her out, even if she’s being bullheaded about it.
The story was a cute insta-lust. Jack was really every woman’s dream man. Likable, fully engrossed in his woman, protective, and nurturing. Likewise Ellie was protective of her mom and super independent - almost too independent - to the point it was walking the fine line of being annoying. Most of the story was spent with Jack pursuing Ellie and Ellie trying to ward him off. Jack considers Ellie a breath of fresh air - especially for a man that has his butt kissed on the daily. I really liked Jack and I love independent women, but it was just a bit too much. The overall storyline was good and well written, it moved quickly, and kept my attention to the end. I’ll definitely give the author another go!
Trope: Insta-lust
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Angst: 😰😰/5
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥/5
Triggers: none
May 7, 2021
3.5⭐️
Jack along with his friends Asher, King and Ace are the Kings of Las Vegas.
Jack owns a casino hotel and has more money than God.
Ellie just has lost her father. He has committed suicide after not being able to cope with all of his gambling debts, debts that now fall on Ellie and her mother and that they will not able to pay.
Bea, Ellie’s best friend, offers Ellie a job as a dancer and in the elevator just as she is heading to her job, she runs into Jack.
Jack seeing her so nervous tries to help her so when they arrive at the apartment and Jack’s friends asks her if she is one of the strippers, Jack tells them that she is his new assistant.
Ellie leaves without a job and no money, but Jack, who can’t get her out of his head, manages to find her and asks her to go out with him, something that Ellie won’t give him easily.
Jack finds out about Ellie’s money problems and pays off her debt and she offers to work for him to pay him back.
And the more time they spend together, the harder it’s for them to be apart until they end up sleeping together and falling in love.
It’s beautiful and funny story with zero drama.
Jack along with his friends Asher, King and Ace are the Kings of Las Vegas.
Jack owns a casino hotel and has more money than God.
Ellie just has lost her father. He has committed suicide after not being able to cope with all of his gambling debts, debts that now fall on Ellie and her mother and that they will not able to pay.
Bea, Ellie’s best friend, offers Ellie a job as a dancer and in the elevator just as she is heading to her job, she runs into Jack.
Jack seeing her so nervous tries to help her so when they arrive at the apartment and Jack’s friends asks her if she is one of the strippers, Jack tells them that she is his new assistant.
Ellie leaves without a job and no money, but Jack, who can’t get her out of his head, manages to find her and asks her to go out with him, something that Ellie won’t give him easily.
Jack finds out about Ellie’s money problems and pays off her debt and she offers to work for him to pay him back.
And the more time they spend together, the harder it’s for them to be apart until they end up sleeping together and falling in love.
It’s beautiful and funny story with zero drama.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2021
Great start to a new series. The author has given us a well written, romantic read that will melt any heart. These type characters are what make Romances my genre of choice. The Vegas Kings are 4 rich, successful men who have been friends since they were kids. As the title says, this is Jack’s story. He is a hotel tycoon who is sexy, rich, a little wild but secretly wishes to settle with the right woman. He just needs to find her. Ellie is independent, sassy and headstrong to say the least. They both know what, but getting it isn’t going to be easy. The synopsis above pretty much gives you the gist of what’s to come, so I won’t rehash it here, but it is what drew this reader to the book. What it doesn’t say is how heartwarming and engrossing the book is and how much it left this reader looking forward to what happens with the next with the Vegas Kings.
I highly recommend grabbing it up and starting the series from the get go, as in this reader's opinion, the series is going to be an outstanding one.
2 Thumbs up and 5 Stars!!!
I highly recommend grabbing it up and starting the series from the get go, as in this reader's opinion, the series is going to be an outstanding one.
2 Thumbs up and 5 Stars!!!
April 30, 2021
You'll love Ellie and Jack's story. This is part of the Kings of Las Vegas Series. Four best friends since childhood who play poker together in Vegas. Jack is a billionaire hotel owner and a champion poker player. After Ellie's father committed suicide she is haunted by loan sharks for his gambling debts. She's a strong, independent woman determined to pay them off one way or the other. She is upset when she finds out about the bet and that Jack has paid off her father's debt. He is smitten with her and is determined to win her over. She keeps giving him the cold shoulder. I loved Jack and it was so much fun watching his chase Ellie. She was a little arrogant and unrealistic at times but they made a great couple. This book was an amazing book that was well written and hard to put down. I received a free ARC copy of this book from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2021
Jack and Ellie's Story . . .
Jack Stapleton and his friends pretty much rule Las Vegas. The four friends have tons of money, and Jack can have any woman he wants. But apparently not Ellie.
Ellie and her mom end up with a ton of debt owed by Ellie’s father who was a horrible gambler. He killed himself which made the debt theirs. In desperation, Ellie decides to try to strip to make extra money, but she can’t bring herself to do it. Jack, who is organizing the bachelor party for one of his friends who is getting married, meets Ellie in the elevator and is immediately obsessed with her. He tries to offer help, but she stubbornly rebuffs him.
I didn’t like Ellie’s character as much. I think she was supposed to be exhibiting the strong and independent woman she wants to be. But it came off somewhat childish. Jack was a good guy and relentlessly pursues Ellie to get a chance with her. Grab your copy and see if he can convince her to trust him with her heart.
Jack Stapleton and his friends pretty much rule Las Vegas. The four friends have tons of money, and Jack can have any woman he wants. But apparently not Ellie.
Ellie and her mom end up with a ton of debt owed by Ellie’s father who was a horrible gambler. He killed himself which made the debt theirs. In desperation, Ellie decides to try to strip to make extra money, but she can’t bring herself to do it. Jack, who is organizing the bachelor party for one of his friends who is getting married, meets Ellie in the elevator and is immediately obsessed with her. He tries to offer help, but she stubbornly rebuffs him.
I didn’t like Ellie’s character as much. I think she was supposed to be exhibiting the strong and independent woman she wants to be. But it came off somewhat childish. Jack was a good guy and relentlessly pursues Ellie to get a chance with her. Grab your copy and see if he can convince her to trust him with her heart.
June 29, 2022
3.5 stars
If my dad committed suicide and left me and my mom with $200,000 in debt to a vicious loan shark, then I met a millionaire who paid the debt off without wanting anything in return I think I'd be thankful. Not angry or rude or demand that I'll pay it off when I don't even have a job. Ellie's actions and attitude were frustrating. Jack was nice but also frustrating. If he liked her, then why not make a move instead of waiting.
I enjoyed Jack's friends and sister and Ellie's friend more than Ellie. Eventually, she came around and her attitude changed making her more likeable. Several times things happened in the story then things continued as though those things hadn't happened. It was almost like the author wrote them then forgot she had already written them.
Overall, the story was good and I liked the other characters enough that I plan to get the next one in the series. I just feel like the story could have been better.
If my dad committed suicide and left me and my mom with $200,000 in debt to a vicious loan shark, then I met a millionaire who paid the debt off without wanting anything in return I think I'd be thankful. Not angry or rude or demand that I'll pay it off when I don't even have a job. Ellie's actions and attitude were frustrating. Jack was nice but also frustrating. If he liked her, then why not make a move instead of waiting.
I enjoyed Jack's friends and sister and Ellie's friend more than Ellie. Eventually, she came around and her attitude changed making her more likeable. Several times things happened in the story then things continued as though those things hadn't happened. It was almost like the author wrote them then forgot she had already written them.
Overall, the story was good and I liked the other characters enough that I plan to get the next one in the series. I just feel like the story could have been better.
April 30, 2021
This is the 1st in a new series as well as being the 1st time I have read any of this authors work, but I will certainly be looking out for her in the future. Jack is a wealthy playboy, who is the owner of a hotel in Vegas, and he loves to play poker. When one of Jack’s best friends is getting married, he is tasked with arranging the bachelor party. Ellie’s dad has recently passed away, and he loved to gamble with the result being that Ellie and her mom live in fear for their lives as some tough guys are after their money. When Jack and Ellie meet there is an instant attraction between them, and he is determined to get her to take a chance on a relationship with him. This is a well written story which is fun, entertaining, steamy, and romantic. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
May 1, 2021
This was the first story that I have read by Mckenna James but it definitely won't be my last. This story was so good. I enjoyed the two main characters, their chemistry, and the troubles and emotions they went through during their journey. I really appreciated how Jack, the rich supposed playboy fell for the normal, slightly shy Ellie. He had to work so hard to get her to give him a chance, even though their chemistry was explosive from almost the beginning. I also really liked reading about the secondary characters and can't wait to hear about their stories. I plowed through this story until the very end and now I am eagerly anticipating the release of the next story. I would definitely recommend this book to any readers who love romances. I recieved an advanced review copy of this story and am leaving a voluntary honest review.
May 1, 2021
In order to protect both her and her mother Ellie needs to payoff a debt that isn’t her own. Desperate times call for desperate measures and she needs a lot of money fast so she agrees to dance at a bachelor party which brings Jack into her life.
Jack is a wealthy hotel owner who is accustomed to getting what he wants when he wants. When he meets Ellie not only is he intrigued by her but she raises protective instincts in him that he doesn’t know he had. He is determined to give her the help she needs but wasn’t prepared for the resistance she would throw his way.
Ellie is determined to fight her own battles and isn’t looking for a White Knight. Although she doesn’t make it easy Jack knows that she is special and will do whatever is necessary to prove that his feelings are true and that they belong together.
Jack is a wealthy hotel owner who is accustomed to getting what he wants when he wants. When he meets Ellie not only is he intrigued by her but she raises protective instincts in him that he doesn’t know he had. He is determined to give her the help she needs but wasn’t prepared for the resistance she would throw his way.
Ellie is determined to fight her own battles and isn’t looking for a White Knight. Although she doesn’t make it easy Jack knows that she is special and will do whatever is necessary to prove that his feelings are true and that they belong together.
September 26, 2023
This one is a he falls first troupe. Jack and his 3 friends are known as Vegas Royalty, as the Vegas Kings. they have money, reputation at getting and doing what they want.
At the bachelor party for their friend Asher Jacks meets Ellie in an elevator, who looks scared out of her mind and read to bolt. When they arrive at the party and she freezes up he decides to rescue her. that was his first mistake.
Ellie gets booked for a dancing only gig at a bachelor party. she can do this right? this is the first time she’s ever done anything like this but faced with the debt her recently deceased father has left her and her mother, she feels she has to do this.
When Jacks rescues her, it sets her off. She’s the strong independent female that doesn’t need a man to save her. At least that’s what she thinks.
Good amount of chemistry between these too. The narrator did good too. 3.5 stars. i would like to list to the rest of series.
At the bachelor party for their friend Asher Jacks meets Ellie in an elevator, who looks scared out of her mind and read to bolt. When they arrive at the party and she freezes up he decides to rescue her. that was his first mistake.
Ellie gets booked for a dancing only gig at a bachelor party. she can do this right? this is the first time she’s ever done anything like this but faced with the debt her recently deceased father has left her and her mother, she feels she has to do this.
When Jacks rescues her, it sets her off. She’s the strong independent female that doesn’t need a man to save her. At least that’s what she thinks.
Good amount of chemistry between these too. The narrator did good too. 3.5 stars. i would like to list to the rest of series.
April 29, 2021
Let me tell you about Jack Stapleton. This H is the highest quality book boyfriend material. Devilishly handsome, filthy rich and determined to win over a Ellie despite her frequent objections, of which she has many. He didn’t let it deter him though. Once he realized she was the one for him he went all in.
Ellie was a lot of talk but she was I to Jack even though she tried to tell herself she wasn’t. She even tried to be mad at him for not just helping her, but literally saving her life. That’s a heroine in some serious denial.
Lucky for Ellie, Jack is a man used to getting what he wants and he wants her.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ellie was a lot of talk but she was I to Jack even though she tried to tell herself she wasn’t. She even tried to be mad at him for not just helping her, but literally saving her life. That’s a heroine in some serious denial.
Lucky for Ellie, Jack is a man used to getting what he wants and he wants her.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 7, 2021
As the wedding day of one of his oldest friends draws closer, Jack finds himself wishing even more for a woman at his side. One whom he loves, and who loves him. When he least expects it, Ellie Masters walks into his life.
Ellie is possibly at the lowest point in her life. But, unaccustomed to random acts of kindness, she initially spurns Jack's advances and his intentions to help. But since he doesn't seem to give up, she finds herself falling under his spell.
This book is a pretty low-key read, and is very light on drama. Jack's attempts to woo Ellie are sweet and swoon-worthy. Ellie is shy, but not a complete pushover. I look forward to the other Vegas Kings' stories, as well as more from McKenna James.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
Ellie is possibly at the lowest point in her life. But, unaccustomed to random acts of kindness, she initially spurns Jack's advances and his intentions to help. But since he doesn't seem to give up, she finds herself falling under his spell.
This book is a pretty low-key read, and is very light on drama. Jack's attempts to woo Ellie are sweet and swoon-worthy. Ellie is shy, but not a complete pushover. I look forward to the other Vegas Kings' stories, as well as more from McKenna James.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
May 7, 2021
Jack is the first book in the new Vegas Kings series, James is a new to me author and had all the feels.
Ellie has been through hell and now adding her fathers’ past worries to her list is not something she planned. Meeting Jack wasn’t planned and it did not go smoothly that’s for sure, especially considering the circumstances. Jack didn’t hide his status but he didn’t advertise it either and I that gives him the means to be Mr Fix it then he just might.
I personally enjoyed this story, Jack and Ellie had personality and chemistry from the beginning; the minor characters were on point and I cant wait to read their stories.
Star Ratings; Plot: 4/5 Characters: 4/5 Heat: 4/5 Writing Style: 4/5 Overall: 4/5
Ellie has been through hell and now adding her fathers’ past worries to her list is not something she planned. Meeting Jack wasn’t planned and it did not go smoothly that’s for sure, especially considering the circumstances. Jack didn’t hide his status but he didn’t advertise it either and I that gives him the means to be Mr Fix it then he just might.
I personally enjoyed this story, Jack and Ellie had personality and chemistry from the beginning; the minor characters were on point and I cant wait to read their stories.
Star Ratings; Plot: 4/5 Characters: 4/5 Heat: 4/5 Writing Style: 4/5 Overall: 4/5
May 1, 2021
Fantastic beginning to the series! Jack is so charming! I adore his protective side when dealing with Ellie. She's independent and determined to earn her way instead of accepting the handouts, you can respect that. The storyline was well thought out and really entertaining! All of the characters (not only the main characters) were well-developed, lovable and suit each another throughout the story. The passion and chemistry between Jack and Ellie was steamy and palpable! This is a new author to me, but I think I've found a new favorite! I look forward to reading more of her work and the rest of this series!
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