A Very Vegas St. Patrick's Day

Very Holiday #3

by Kayley Loring, Connor Crais

You might think the problem would be waking up in Vegas, hungover,
next to a beautiful woman who’s wearing your boxer briefs
and finding out ya married her in the middle of an epic drunken night of festivities.
But you’d be wrong.
I, Nolan Cassidy, international charmer and maker of mischief have fallen head over heels for Cora Delaney.
I want to be married to the lass.
So you might think the problem would be that she wants an annulment.
But again you’d be wrong—stop getting it so wrong.
I, Nolan Cassidy, with my devil tongue and Irish accent, will no doubt change her mind.
Does the problem lie in that she has a son who doesn't like me and is as clever and crafty as I?
Or that I’ve only got one month—until St. Patrick’s Day—to prove to my one true love
that I can be a good husband and father?
C’mere and I’ll tell ya…
None of that is the problem.
I’m a problem.
My boxing days may be behind me
but the fight never left me.
When I see something I want, I get it.
And nothing is going to stand in my way.
Not my new wife’s hesitation nor her son’s doubts.
So buckle up, strap in.
Because I’m no longer in the business of wanting.
I’m in the business of having.
Which is gonna make for one wild Paddy’s Day.

Genres: Romance, Holiday, Contemporary Romance, Audiobook, Contemporary, Rom Com, Romantic Comedy

314 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 17, 2022

About the author

Amazon Top 25 and USA Today bestselling author Kayley Loring spent many years as a screenwriter (under a different name) in Los Angeles before moving to the Pacific Northwest to live out her childhood dream of being a Disney heroine who talks and sings to woodland creatures. When not trying to keep animals alive, she’s writing steamy romantic comedy novels, obviously. She’s breathing cleaner air, writing dirtier words, and staring at her computer screen until her eyeballs dry out instead of prancing around Southern California in miniskirts and going to the hair salon. Still waiting for the woodland creatures to clean her house, though.

Read or listen to Kayley’s books when you want humor, heat, and heart. You’ll enjoy top-notch banter, strong heroines, lovable characters you’d want to know in real life and you’ll swoon over perfectly imperfect book boyfriends. All Kayley Loring books are steamy open door romance. Be sure to check out her next-level audiobooks!

Learn more at www.kayleyloring.com
Come join Kayley in her Facebook reader group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/kayle...
Follow Kayley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayleyloring/
Listen to Kayley talk to the wildly talented narrators who narrate her audiobooks on the Multiple Eargasms with Kayley Loring podcast!

Reviews

[Leticia (jerseygirlsbookshelf) · Rating 5 out of 5]

"May the most you wish for be the least you get."
Ladies and gentlemen, come closer, and gather around for the epic swoonfest that is Nolan fecking Cassidy!
Kayley and Connor have put together a very sweet, incredibly epic romantic story about fate, the luck of the Irish, and how some mistakes are not supposed to be fixed, because they were never mistakes to begin with. This story will have you laughing, rolling your eyes, getting emotional, and will ultimately sweep you off your feet.

"He does. He's got me. (...) I look out at the view, safe in his big strong arms, but it still feels like I'm falling."
Like I said, Nolan is incredible. It's the Irish charm, and the Irish accent, and a lot of Irish steam, but there's a lot more about him than just that. It's like you can't help but like him. All of him. And look, he may not be looking for a forever kind of love, but he's capable of loving so completely it will floor you. And make you feel so very single. Absolutely worth it!

"You've already stolen my heart, Cora. And I don't ever want that fucker back."
I love Cora. Like all my favorite heroines, she's not weak. She's her own woman, in charge of her wants and needs, and she's doing the best she can to take care of her 10-year-old son. She has doubts and insecurities like real-life women do. She questions herself a lot, like we all do, especially as a single mom, and she makes some bad decisions. It really made me happy to see her happy.

"I wanted a taste of what forever would feel like with you."
Cora and Nolan first meet at an airport bar. There's some flirting between them. He's never felt this way before, like he just needs to know her, and he misses his flight because of it. She's had her share of flings, but none like this, like she can't get enough of this man. And neither of them was ready to be swept up into each other over five glorious days of incredible sex, undeniable chemistry, and... something more.
Also... strawberries are now my favorite fruit.

"I've been here in New York. Seeing you everywhere but never actually running into you."
When it's over, they're supposed to go their separate ways. It was supposed to be fun, and then they'd be left with wonderful memories of their time together.
But are memories enough?
They're really and truly not.

"Because all of tonight's mistakes can be fixed tomorrow. Right?"
When fate throws them a curveball, and they meet again in Vegas, they get married. A Vegas wedding, just for the sake of it, and then they'd get an annulment in the morning. But when morning comes, it doesn't feel like something done on a whim. It feels right. And Nolan is not willing to let Cora go. Not without a fight.

"I never should have let you go."
"I never should have left you."
Nolan may have made his way into Cora's heart, but he needs to win over her son as well. Believe me when I say it's not going to be easy, and he has his work cut out for him. And Cora needs to see that she might not have been looking for him, but he is the best thing that has ever happened to her.

All the movie and pop culture references were spot-on as usual. The fact that each chapter starts with an Irish blessing captured my heart. Anyone who knows me will tell you how much that means to me.

"When the roaring flames of your love have burned down to embers, may you find that you've married your best friend."
This is a heartfelt book. And a heartwarming one. It's sweet, and oh-so-steamy. It has the wow factor I'm used to seeing, and loving, in a Kayley Loring book, with a pinch and a dash of something extra that definitely comes from Connor.
I knew they would definitely tread on my heart, if not my dreams, with this book.
And they did.
And it was absolutely worth it.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Now I will definitely have to listen to this one...

Oh my Lordy! I can imagine a sexy Irish accent crooning in my ear, but I really think a professional...an Irishman would be so much better.

I really enjoyed reading this story and again, I admit to having a wee bit of a fangirl thing for Kayley Loring. Her stories are funny, heartfelt and very engaging. The characters are wonderful and I always feel like I know them intimately by the end. I'm always sad when they're over.

Another fantastic Very Holiday, and I can't wait for more.

[Dali · Rating 4 out of 5]

▪️A Very Vegas St. Patrick’s Day is book 3 of the Very Holiday series by Kayley Loring & Connor Crais. Several POV with a happy ending.

Genre: Rom-Com.
Tropes:
➵insta-love
➵single parent
➵Irish hero

After a wonderful and sexy weeklong fling in Chicago, Cora and Nolan part ways knowing they’d never see each other again. Nolan regrets letting Cora go and when fate intervenes having them cross paths in Las Vegas, he’s not about to waste the chance to fight for her. But can a quickie marriage will be enough for forever?

Oh wow! I’ll start by saying that I love epigraphs and this book has wonderful quotes by a noted Irish person at the beginning of each chapter.

Then there’s Nolan Cassidy who is absolutely swoon worthy. He’s charming, fun and sexy. Even though he wasn’t looking for love, once realizing he’s fallen, he’s determined to show Cora just how much he loves her.

Cora is a strong woman and great single mother. I loved how she mentally referred to her son as her little turd. LOL! But I wasn’t on board with her stubbornness and as a parent myself, one particular line of thinking didn’t click with me. Eventually though, she realizes that some mistakes are not really mistakes at all.

I had such a wonderful time with them during their fling in Chicago, their crazy time in Las Vegas and along their journey towards forever. Besides having incredible chemistry, they’re fun and witty. They had me laughing, fanning myself, swooning and highlighting like crazy! Def a #highlightitis kind of book.

I haven’t read the other books in the series and never felt lost. Great job in making this a complete standalone. But the writing is so great that I’ve already added the other 2 books to my TBR.

By the numbers quick review:
★ Hero: 👤👤👤👤👤
★ Heroine: 👤👤👤
★ Plot: 📚📚📚📚
★ LOL moments: 📚📚📚📚📚
★ Romance: 💕💕💕💕
★ Sexiness: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
★ Overall Rating: 4.3

Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3GMBcDT

★ I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Wildfire Marketing. The excerpts are from that copy.
★ Check out all my book edits over at Instagram

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Even if the acknowledgments didn’t mention that this book was rushed, I could tell you this book was rushed. The story itself is fun and interesting. I would have Nolan as my book boyfriend in a heartbeat. That Irish man is a lady killer for sure!

But I had some issues and confusion with the structure of the writing and the story. There are often no transitions between days and/or locations. One time they are out to dinner, then next he is ordering room service. I wasn’t sure if they left dinner or if it was the next day. There is a random chapter from a character in a previous book that only serves to confuse the storyline because it is a made up script. Another time I thought they were in NYC and they ended up being in Las Vegas. And then there is a whole “caper” part at the end that is so convoluted with so many characters from other books. Then, that actual event is “told” to us rather than shown to us which adds a layer of confusion about what is actually happening.

I know this makes it seem like I didn’t like the book… but I DID! The story was fun and I loved how Nolan was a breath of fresh air into the dynamic of Cora and her son Ashton. I especially enjoyed the initial rivalry between Nolan and Ashton! Ashton was a little fire cracker!! But then when he finally broke down and told why he was leary of Nolan was a little heartbreaking.

This is a cute story, with little angst and a lot of spice. I would encourage you to read the other stories in the series first, so you will be better prepared when previous characters come back.

I received an advance copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing and these are my honest opinions.

[❤️Court - Villains Do It Better❤️ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Stars

Just okay. Only a few actually funny parts and the romance was just eh. The only parts I actually liked were the ones between Ashton and Nolan, otherwise I was a bit bored. Heroine was also super annoying and she should have been the one to chase after the hero in the end.


Safety:

No cheating

No ow/om drama

Only with each other after meeting

No virgins (both are experienced but little details of their pasts)

[Jenny - TotallybookedBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Sweet, Cora…For the rest of yer life, macushla, you will never be able to eat a strawberry popsicle without thinking of me.”

We loved this book, and know like Cora, we’ll never be able to look at a strawberry popsicle the same way ever again! Nolan Cassidy has ruined us!! That man with his Irish wit, good looks, charm, and wicked ways, certainly steamed up our Kindles! Woah was this book HOT, as well as funny, romantic, and all-around good fun! We’d go so far as to say it was rom-com perfection!

“I can’t see you as anything other than my wife, Mrs. Cassidy. I have spread my dreams beneath your feet, and you have trampled all over them.”

Only an Irishman could get away with saying a line like that out loud.

Kayley Loring is one funny lady! How she manages to keep tickling our funny bones after so many books is a credit to her hilarious personality, her comedic timing, her incredible writing talent, and the way she so seamlessly brings her characters to life.

‘There once was a man named Nolan
Whose heart a lass had stolen
They said their goodbyes
Without nary a cry
But now he’s stuck pissin’ and moanin’

A Very Vegas St. Patrick’s Day is the third book in the Very Holiday Series (A Very Bossy Christmas) and A Very Friendly Valentine’s Day) and it’s a book we’ve been desperate for since meeting Nolan in previous books. Nolan was the sexy sharp-tongued, scallywag Irish cousin with an air of mystery and carefree ways, who didn’t seem like the type to fall in love but fall he did. HARD and FAST! Wow, how we LOVE him!!!

“Fate brought you to me. It’s my desire and my duty to never let you go.”

And boy did he meet his match when he met Cora Delaney in a hotel in Vegas – their chemistry was off the charts, which resulted in a night of hot sex in a Vegas hotel. How then did they end up married? And how did their paths cross again? Well, you’ll have to dive in to find out, and once you do, you’ll be blessed with a smile on your face and a giggle in your heart.

‘I was not mentally prepared for this deep Irish impact, but man alive, was my body ready for it.’

If Nolan thought he’d met his match with Cora, he was in for one hell of a shock when he meets Cora’s 10-year-old son Ashton – this young man with his sharp tongue, devious streak, and stubbornness proved himself as more than a match for Nolan. Their banter was so much fun, as well as sweet and emotional as both go head-to-head for Cora’s heart.

‘I’m old enough to have watched Jordan. In Space Jam.
This poor young lad is stuck with Lebron’s entirely inferior Space Jam.
But he has somehow schooled a master of the con.’

Having the gang all back in the Very Holiday Series was an absolute hoot! More of this please, Kayley Loring! Individually they are too bloody funny – together they’re a riot! The little hints at what is to come in this series are making us giddy with excitement! We cannot wait for more!!! We want to hang out with them, down a few ales whilst hoeing into Cora’s chicken parmi!

This is one fabulous series! Do yourselves a favour and add these books to your TBR’s NOW!

AVAILABLE NOW!!!
Ebook
Paperback
Audio

Come and say hi, at:

✲ TotallyBookedBlog
✲ TBB on Facebook
✲ TBB on Instagram
✲ TBB on Twitter
✲ TBB on Pinterest

[Lori R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved, loved, loved!! Another excellent addition to the series! I read this close to St. Patrick’s Day, so it was the perfect choice!

The hero was introduced in the other books in this series. He was a partier and he was trouble and always involved in shenanigans galore. I couldn’t wait for his story. Who would be the lucky gal to make him change his ways and bring him to his knees?

Sweet, beautiful Cora. She was the perfect match for Nolan. She was in the right place at exactly the right time to run into Nolan. She’s sassy and fun and could hold her own when it came to bantering. But she also couldn’t resist his charming ways…nor his strawberries.

They agreed to a fling. No last names. No contact info exchanged. Leave it up to fate to determine whether they were meant to be together or not.

I couldn’t have loved this story more. Nolan was delightfully swoony and deliciously naughty. It’s no wonder Cora gave in so easily when it came to him. The love and kindness and understanding he showed her and her son, Ashton, was so beautiful and heartwarming, I just wanted to hug everyone. And I loved how Cora’s son sometimes stole the show. Watching Nolan and him together was quite entertaining and fun and then eventually sweet and emotional.

This well-written RomCom is full of so much humor and tons of heart. The other two books don’t have to be read in order to enjoy this one. But I’m sure you’ll want to once this one is done.

The narrators of the audiobook were pure perfection.

[Jeeves Reads Romance · Rating 3 out of 5]

Listen, I'm practically a Loring fangirl at this point, but this was SO clearly rushed that there were a lot of things that just didn't work for me. It needed some more time in the oven, without a doubt. It felt like there were pieces missing, and scenes I wanted to see that were just not there. It goes from zero to sixty in the steam department, but I never felt like the emotional connection caught up. We certainly didn't see it. Even the duet narration audiobook couldn't hold my interest... and that's really sad, because there's some fan-worthy steam and plenty of unique humor. Ultimately, I didn't enjoy this at all, but I see the foundation of a great rom com underneath the surface.

The story follows Cora and Nolan, two strangers who meet while they're out of town. What starts as some flirting and a one night stand turns into a days-long fling that leaves them both with lingering feelings when they part ways. When they run into each other again, Cora and Nolan find themselves getting married... but Cora is sure that they need to leave their connection behind. She's a single mom whose real life is nothing like the carefree encounters she's had with Nolan, and surely the sexy Irishman won't like the reality. Nolan convinces her to give their marriage a chance, but he's going to have his work cut out for him if he intends to keep his wife.

On the plus side, the humor was so fun and playful - these two definitely have chemistry, and I loved seeing Nolan's sweeter side. Loring is so great at writing comedy, and the addition of Crais has added a richer element to her books. They just needed some more time to get this one right. I felt really disconnected from the characters the whole way through; it seemed like we were being told about the connection between them, but it didn't come across the page beyond the physical. I actually started tuning out the audiobook somewhere along the way - I just didn't love them as a couple. Cora is also so against letting Nolan into her life that it was difficult to root for her. I'm a huge fan of Loring's work, but this didn't work for me on several levels.

Audio note: I love duet narration, and Connor Crais voicing this sexy Irishman was a lot of fun. There's a playful vibe, and the duet-style narration is great for infusing chemistry into every situation. This is a fling to more romance with a LOT of (dirty) heat at the start, so I don't recommend it for the office. The runtime makes it easy to finish in less than a day, and the light, humor-filled story makes it an easy read. I will note that, just like the book itself, the audio felt a little thrown together. Crais' voice is quieter than Cartwright's in several scenes, and I was often unsure how to adjust my volume accordingly. Duet narration is my favorite, but the quality control on this was not up to par. Still a solid way to experience the book though, and I do recommend the audio overall.

[Laura · Rating 1 out of 5]

***ARC Provided by the Author***

1.5 Stars

I am really struggling with what to say in this review. Really struggling.

This is not the first title I have read by this duo and I was really looking forward to it. I thought it sounded fun, and the previous one was a really enjoyable read, so I went into this one with high hopes.

I liked Nolan. A lot. He's sweet, and he's caring, and he is bending over backwards, in his very Irish way, to make things work with the woman he loves and the family he wants. I thought Ashton was a bit of a jerk, but he's 10.

Cora, however, is one of the most ridiculous heroines I have ever met. She is silly, and she is stubborn to the point where it no longer even feels like anything other than an exaggeration, and she is so convinced she is right that she literally doesn't care how others feel about her decisions, and refuses to even hear them when they tell her they disagree. I know this is a pet peeve of mine, and it's very possible other readers won't be annoyed by this, but it's my review and I really was.

If I wasn't within about 30 minutes of finishing this one (at least according to my Kindle) when she made a decision that was clear Nolan didn't want, because he literally told her so, and she did it anyway (thinking that he would understand and see it her way, of course, because she is that ridiculous), I would have given up on the book and read Gone With the Wind again, as at least Scarlett got her plantation when Rhett walked away...Cora got, nothing really. And it didn't make sense, especially this close to the end of the book when I should start to see it working out for the couple. I just didn't.

All I could think was that Nolan deserves better and an annulment of their marriage would be the best thing that ever happened to him. I get it, a single mother gets accustomed to doing things on her own...but if you tell the man you have married that you want him to get along with your son, and then feel he is out of line by doing so...I am out. Challenges are one thing. Impossible challenges a character can't meet for sake of tension between the characters...it just felt forced.

The son was not in any danger, wasn't injured, wasn't left alone...nothing. Her reactions to everything are complete overreactions, and the authors know this as her friends all tell her so, but the readers are forced to go along for the ride...for the plot, I think. Well, it only made this reader like Cora even less than I already did. Which is impressive.

And, don't get me started on her ridiculous belief that she needs to let her 10 year old son make the decisions for her life and her relationships. I get it, parents take their kids into consideration...but not to the extent of saying "If he doesn't like you, we are over" and thinking it's barely anything when the son acts as a saboteur of one of their meetings. Ridiculous. No one gives that kind of power to a child. A say? A vote? An opinion? Sure. But full control? Nope. Not buying it.

And I think that was the issue I had throughout this one...I just didn't buy it.

Honestly, I started to feel less like Cora was a person and more like she was the plot contrivance introduced to make the relationship have struggles and challenges. The issue is, it went WAY too far and by the end, I wasn't looking for Nolan to make a grand gesture, I was hoping he would walk away and save himself.

I do not recommend this title.

[Kitty Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was fucking amazing! Possibly my favorite book so far of 2022. And amazing narration!


2nd read... 2023: I do still love this story and won't detract stars obviously because it's a great story with great writing, I guess I want to make a political commentary of something I find very troubling.

In my second listen I realized some stuff that we often find as "romantic" in pop culture which is really a product of misogyny. Like when Nolan demands that she stay married to him even though they got married in a drunken night in Vegas after only knowing each other a few days. And they've been married a month. She wants an annulment and to take things slow. This is VERY reasonable. Most men put their best foot forth in the first few months of dating. Who you see in those first few months is NOT the man, or there's a very good chance it's not.

It's entirely reasonable to want to slow things down to vet someone properly rather than to tie yourself forever, mix your finances, create all sorts of entanglements that are harder to undo later.

I found Nolan Likable and charming but a LOT of really awful men are likable and charming. Obviously since this is a romance Nolan actually IS "as advertised" but because you can't ever KNOW a man is "as advertised" until there has been enough time for the mask to slip, this kind of messaging for young women gives the impression that if a guy is pushing you into fast commitment or locking off your options to date other men (for comparison), it's a form of isolation and triangulation. And women need to not go along with that.

The other thing I found really troubling is... in the few bad reviews for this book (and really, just because I have a political issue with the messaging does NOT mean I think it's a bad book. I mean MY book are SERIOUSLY problematic in a million ways, so... not throwing stones while living in a glass house here. But I think the difference with my books is... it is CLEAR my guys are criminals. They are outside the social structure, violating the law, and no normal person goes "Oh yeah, this would be totally okay in real life."

A book like this though, the messaging is a bit more insidious because we all think it's "so romantic"... the few negative reviews complained about the HEROINE... saying Nolan deserved better than her. JUST BECAUSE SHE WANTED TO SET SOME BOUNDARIES and take things slow!!

That we have so many. "PickMe" women out there siding with the man's penis wants over a woman's safety and happiness needs is a serious problem for me. From a societal perspective.

SHE is not the problem here. HE is the one trying to force her into staying married because he can't honor her boundaries to take things slow.

And I'm not sure what exactly the answer to this is, because especially in RomComs there are SO many problematic tropes that reinforce male control over women and women are always the bad guy for having standards and boundaries.

I still love the book because it's fun and well written, I just think it's sending a bad message about women's right to personal boundaries. And again, I say that with FULL Knowledge that my books are also VERY problematic.

Just because I justify it with "Well, but we all know this is immoral and wrong, so it's like YOU or Dexter" doesn't mean it's not still reinforcing male rule over women.

Thank you for coming to my TED talk.

[Sam I AMNreader · Rating 3 out of 5]

when I enter into a Kayley Loring, I'm starting to realize I'm going to get a certain formula. It works great when that is what I'm looking for, so this was quite fun to read. In this book, Cora and Nolan meet in an airport, have a travel 5-night stand and I'm all for the bubble world, so this was a really enjoyable fling to read. Loring seems to have her men chase and her women the reluctant, which again-not always what I want but when you want to read it, but this worked for me.

It was a quick hit of the good stuff-sex, a romantic and loving hero, a devilish child-this heavily centers around the romance at the expense of everything else, but with my patience that was fine. I had a lot of fun reading this, generally, although there were some shifts in scene that were choppy transitions (not sure if that's b/c of the co-authored, or...), and the characterization wasn't super tight. But it was fun. And that's good enough for me.

[Just A Girl With Spirit · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kayley & Connor = Romcom gold!

When I tell you this book, this audio was perfection—listen!! I’ve been reading some heavy emotional stuff lately and this was just what the Dr. Ordered! Nolan & Cora, god help me!! Insane fire those two are!! I squealed when I got to see my man, Declan. He forever owns this heart, but Nolan comes super close. I love that this was a single mom with a 10 year old trope, and I love that the authors gave us his pov. Chefs kiss x1,000! I would love to see these stories on TV. You’ve got your laughs, the Irish sexiness and the accents, the freaking steam and the love baby!!! Kayley & Connor are fire in their writing. Love their chemistry, their dynamic and good gravy the words!! Connor & MacKenzie, as always perfection upon perfection. Thank you for blessing us audio lovers with your talent!!

[KeelyReadsRomance · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was so happy to hear Nolan was getting his book! He’s got so much attitude and he’s so funny. I enjoyed this story with a hilarious Vegas wedding, an unsure bride, and HEA. Nolan is such swoony perfection! Cora was a little wishy washy and kept using her son as an excuse to push Nolan away no matter how perfect he was. She finally pulled her head out of her ass though. Honestly, I thought Nolan deserved better.

Also the timeline was wonky and hard to follow. Several others messaged me saying the same thing.

I read an arc of this in exchange for an honest review.

[Jen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a mixed bag for me, which I hate because I typically love this author and wish I could say this was a home run. I try to be honest and fair in my reviews though, so...

I'll start with the positive. Despite some issues, this was entertaining. The wit and humor were exactly what I expect when I pick up a Kayley Loring book. Nolan was a surprise! He was sweet and thoughtful, and totally swoon-worthy. He was all in and dedicated to being a good husband and father. Also, I really appreciated the writing of Cora's son, Ashton. So often kids in books are these impossibly perfect little people, but Ashton was a bit of a manipulative brat - and I mean that in a good way. I am glad they spent a little time on him and his relationship with Nolan and why he was behaving as he did.

Loring implied in her note that this book was rushed, and, unfortunately, it was VERY obvious. I get it - this was a holiday book and you can't really push the release date out a couple of months to give yourselves time to get it right - but this one needed that time. It read like a first draft to me, like the foundation of a good story is there but no one did a read through to make sure it flowed and made sense. Timelines were wonky (moved from one day to the next - I think - with zero transition, I wasn't always sure what town we were in, etc.), I felt like I skipped/missed entire scenes or chapters, there was a chapter from a previous character that frankly made zero sense, and I felt virtually no true connection between the characters. Chemistry yes, but a real foundation to build a relationship on, no. Insta-love isn't my favorite to start with, but as long as there's build up in the story that SHOWS (not tells) me the characters have a solid connection, I can deal. That was lacking here for me.

Ultimately, this gets credit for some laugh out loud antics and for having a good foundation, but the execution fell short.

[Michele McMullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, my heavenly shamrocks get ready to swoon over the handsome and charming Nolan.
This is a chance meeting that is filled with romance, intense attraction, witty sexually charged banter and chemistry.
Cassidy is a single mom and when she is in Vegas for work, she loves to blow off a little steam. A tall, handsome, charming man is about to sweep her off her feet and oh did I mention he is British. Be still my heart.
Nolan is a retired boxer who has now become a fight coordinator. In Vegas for work and he is taken down by knockout he never saw coming. Cassidy and Nolan agree to one night that ends up turning into the weekend now no last names. They exchange numbers but Cassidy blocks it. Her son is her focus, and she does not have time for love. Fate is a fickle thing, and they soon find themselves face to face. Can Nolan bring back the Vegas weekend magic and show her that he can woo her for the long haul!!?? What a wonderful cast of characters, crazy family and a feel-good romance!
~~Michele McMullen ~~

[Kate R · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Very Vegas St. Patricks Day is the third book in the Very Holiday series. The last two were about Nolan’s cousins. It is not necessary to read those other books beforehand. This book sets it up as an accidental drunken marriage in Vegas between Nolan and Cora, and then it works backwards to their first encounter and where it went from there. This made a lot more sense to me than just having them randomly get married to each other. These two had a past.

Nolan was charming as can be with his Irish accent and sayings. The banter between these two was flirty and steamy. Cora was very set in her ways and very devoted to her son. The portrayal of her 10-year-old son was on point! I have usually read books with a single parent, that a man/woman comes in their lives and immediately bonds with the child. This is not the case here at all. It is quite refreshing to read a book that could accurately portray a young mischievous child. He was ridiculous but provided a lot of comedy relief in here.

Overall, it was funny, entertaining, charming and flirty and I would recommend it.

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Ꮗ€♫◗☿ ❤️ ilikebooksbest.com ❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Married by Midnight, Sober by Morning



The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚💜💙❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌍
Character development: 😋🙂🤨🤣🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Duet Narration

🛡️ Audiobook Review: A Very Vegas St. Patricks Day (Very Holiday, #3)

Author: Kayley Loring & Connor Crais
Genre: Holiday Romance, Married in Vegas
Narrators: Connor Crais, Mackenzie Cartwright

🦸🏻‍♂️ The Hero: Nolan

Nolan, one of the infamous Irish cousins of Declan and Eddie, has always been the life of the party — the kind of man you’d expect to raise a pint, not a family. In earlier books, he was painted as a carefree, hard-drinking reveler, more suited to bachelor antics than commitment. Yet beneath the bravado lies a man with grit: once a fighter, now a boxing promoter, Nolan carries both the swagger of the ring and the restless energy of someone searching for more. His chance encounter with a captivating New Yorker on a flight to Chicago sparks a shift. Suddenly, the man who seemed least likely to settle down finds himself tangled in something far more enduring than a fling.

🦸🏼‍♀️ The Heroine: Cora

Cora is a woman who knows what she wants — and what she doesn’t. A single mother to Ashton, she’s fiercely protective of her son and determined to find a partner who embodies stability and reliability. Nolan, with his wild streak and unpredictable charm, seems like the opposite of her checklist. Yet when their paths cross in Chicago, Cora allows herself one night of indulgence, a reprieve from responsibility. What begins as a fling quickly stretches into a week of laughter, chemistry, and unexpected connection. Cora’s pragmatism collides with Nolan’s persistence, forcing her to reconsider whether the man she dismissed as unsuitable might actually be the one who fits best.

📃 Plot Pulse

What starts as a one-night stand evolves into a week-long whirlwind of fun, banter, and undeniable attraction. Cora, true to her rules, blocks Nolan’s number when their time ends — a clean break, no strings attached. But Nolan, haunted by the spark they shared, can’t let go. Fate intervenes in Las Vegas, where a night of drinks and impulsive decisions leads to a marriage neither of them saw coming. From there, the story shifts into a delicious exploration of forced proximity, second chances, and the messy, exhilarating process of blending lives.

💘 What Hit Home

• The “married in Vegas” trope is executed with charm and heart. Watching two characters navigate the fallout of a spontaneous wedding creates both humor and tenderness.
• Cora’s insistence on finding a stable father figure for Ashton adds emotional weight. Nolan’s journey from unlikely candidate to perfect partner underscores the theme that love often defies expectations.

🧐 What Fell Flat

• Ashton’s mischievous streak initially paints him as more of an obstacle than a lovable child. While his resistance adds tension, it risks alienating readers who prefer children in romance stories to be endearing rather than combative.

🎧 Narration Notes

The narration elevates this installment beyond its predecessors. Connor Crais and Mackenzie Cartwright deliver a full duet performance that breathes life into every exchange. Connor’s deep, resonant voice, layered with an authentic Irish accent, grounds Nolan’s character in charm and credibility. Mackenzie’s emotive delivery captures Cora’s strength, vulnerability, and wit with nuance. Together, they create a listening experience that feels cinematic — a true step up from the already strong narration of earlier books.

📝 Final Takeaway

This audiobook blends humor, heart, and heat into a story that proves love can bloom in the most unexpected places — even under neon lights in Vegas. Nolan and Cora’s journey from fling to forever is messy, impulsive, and deeply satisfying, reminding us that sometimes the best relationships are the ones we never planned.

---

Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub

[Gitte TotallyBookedBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Sweet, Cora…For the rest of yer life, macushla, you will never be able to eat a strawberry popsicle without thinking of me.”

We loved this book, and know like Cora, we’ll never be able to look at a strawberry popsicle the same way ever again! Nolan Cassidy has ruined us!! That man with his Irish wit, good looks, charm, and wicked ways, certainly steamed up our Kindles! Woah was this book HOT, as well as funny, romantic, and all-around good fun! We’d go so far as to say it was rom-com perfection!

“I can’t see you as anything other than my wife, Mrs. Cassidy. I have spread my dreams beneath your feet, and you have trampled all over them.”

Only an Irishman could get away with saying a line like that out loud.

Kayley Loring is one funny lady! How she manages to keep tickling our funny bones after so many books is a credit to her hilarious personality, her comedic timing, her incredible writing talent, and the way she so seamlessly brings her characters to life.

‘There once was a man named Nolan
Whose heart a lass had stolen
They said their goodbyes
Without nary a cry
But now he’s stuck pissin’ and moanin’

A Very Vegas St. Patrick’s Day is the third book in the Very Holiday Series (A Very Bossy Christmas & A Very Friendly Valentine’s Day) and it’s a book we’ve been desperate for since meeting Nolan in previous books. Nolan was the sexy sharp-tongued, scallywag Irish cousin with an air of mystery and carefree ways, who didn’t seem like the type to fall in love but fall he did. HARD and FAST! Wow, how we LOVE him!!!

“Fate brought you to me. It’s my desire and my duty to never let you go.”

And boy did he meet his match when he met Cora Delaney in a hotel in Vegas – their chemistry was off the charts, which resulted in a night of hot sex in a Vegas hotel. How then did they end up married? And how did their paths cross again? Well, you’ll have to dive in to find out, and once you do, you’ll be blessed with a smile on your face and a giggle in your heart.

‘I was not mentally prepared for this deep Irish impact, but man alive, was my body ready for it.’

If Nolan thought he’d met his match with Cora, he was in for one hell of a shock when he meets Cora’s 10-year-old son Ashton – this young man with his sharp tongue, devious streak, and stubbornness proved himself as more than a match for Nolan. Their banter was so much fun, as well as sweet and emotional as both go head-to-head for Cora’s heart.

‘I’m old enough to have watched Jordan. In Space Jam.
This poor young lad is stuck with Lebron’s entirely inferior Space Jam.
But he has somehow schooled a master of the con.’

Having the gang all back in the Very Holiday Series was an absolute hoot! More of this please, Kayley Loring! Individually they are too bloody funny – together they’re a riot! The little hints at what is to come in this series are making us giddy with excitement! We cannot wait for more!!! We want to hang out with them, down a few ales whilst hoeing into Cora’s chicken parmi!

This is one fabulous series! Do yourselves a favour and add these books to your TBR’s NOW!

Ebook
Paperback
Audio

[Cat H · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.4 stars.
This was hilarious, and ridiculous, and sexy and exactly what I needed to lift my mood after reading a series that made me feel super angsty.

It was fun and fast paced, like basically every other Kayley Loring book I’ve ever read, and I loved it.

The beginning was hilarious right off the bat. I’m not joking when I say I laughed 3 sentences in. And then continued to chuckle and giggle and then have to set the book down because my laughing was causing my cheeks to make my eyes squint too much to see the words.

The ending especially had me falling out.
The little heist/spy shit that Nolan pulled together to keep her was absolutely the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever read and having it told by a 10 year old was just the icing on the cake. Perfection.

I’m just really glad I picked this up. It was exactly what I was looking for in this moment and it delivered the funnies perfectly.

[Kate · Rating 2 out of 5]

Boring and painfully insta-lovey. I do realize that most romance stories work on accelerated timeline, but this was just too ridiculous and in the end, I just didn't buy into it.

The conflict at the end was ridiculous as well. By that I mean, what should've been a legit relationship concern and source of angst, and more importantly, a plot point around which the author could've built the whole relationship in a very real way - was instead blown out of proportion, ridiculed and used as source of kiddie pool shallow drama. To quickly summarize - MCs get married in Vegas after knowing each other for like 5 days in total (but it was 5 MAGICAL days!), they decide to try to make it work, heroine has a 10-year-old son and has been a single mother this whole time, the relationship's future weighs heavily on how the kid will react to the hero and if hero turns out to be a good parent material...

I think they try for weeks or something, timeline is a bit murky tbh, but it's not LONG, you know, and when Nolan (MMC) does some questionable things without consulting Cara, you know, the kid's MOTHER, and she flips out, her reaction is written as over-reaction???!!! I swear, author has all the side characters telling her how amazing Nolan is and how she's making a huge mistake wanting to get the marriage annulled and try slowing the relationship down....And I just found that so completely unrealistic, like...I'm sorry, that woman has valid concerns about how this man she knows for WEEKS will fare as a father and how to co-parent with him after 10 years of being a sole responsible person for another human being and all these people are all up in her business telling her she's unreasonable for that??? What a shit weirdo behaviour, I can't. AND of course the book ends with a grand gesture/scheme to change her mind about the annulment and it was all just too much, I'm sorry not sorry, this book was not it.

[RuHa75 · Rating 5 out of 5]

***ARC Review***

Release Date: Feb 17th, 2022

Thanks a million, Kayley & Connor for this Advance Reader Copy of A VERY VEGAS ST. PATRICK´S DAY, which is yet another fantastic co-lab and a fecking grand time!

Nolan once met a lass called Cora,
Who had the sexiest aura.
He believed love was fate,
As they met at a gate,
And soon showed her the ways he´d adore her.

Cora Delany is a single independent mum who didn’t think her hot Irish meet-cute would turn into something much more permanent, like becoming her husband, after a fun carefree night out in Vegas. Nolan Cassidy, on the other hand, believes he met the love of his life and is not ready to let her go so easily, so he agrees when Cora tells him he has time to convince her until St. Paddy´s day that they are meant for each other, which also means convincing Cora´s 10-year-old son Ashton that he´s now part of the family. Easy task? We shall see ;-P

Nolan & Cora´s story is a fun-filled romantic all the feels joyride with the right balance of sugar and spice. It´s full of shenanigans, a memorable meet-cute, a cunning yet adorable 10-year-old, the occasional eye-rolling, very entertaining dialogues, a pinch of fate, the right dose of luck and all the things Irish.

This story had me smile, grin, laugh and adore all the fun, sweet, swoony moments as well as appreciate the sizzling chemistry between #Nora. That chemistry was certainly not lacking steam either as Nolan seduces the pants of Cora with his dreamy big blues, charming hot Irishness and some juicy sexy times, ahem #strawberrycawk

Kayley & Connor´s writing flows so effortlessly and I couldn’t stop reading. I believe it is also the effect of their combined minds that makes this book such an entertaining read. I am already looking forward to listening to the book again in audio as Connor is also narrating the book together with Mackenzie Cartwright. Reading through the lines I could already hear the voices in my head, especially the Irish brogue. I mean, who does not love an Irish accent?

I really loved the Irish blessings at the beginning of each chapter, they are a nice touch and just add to the Irish charm and vibe throughout the book. 5 lucky clovers from me!

[Monica (The Accidental Romance Blogger) Barbosa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you, Kayley and Connor, for the advanced copy.

Nolan is at O'Hare to catch his flight back to Dublin. He decides to stop for a quick drink and Fate intervenes: he sees this gorgeous woman, with a book on Irish proverbs in her hands, having a drink too. She's just arrived there on a business trip. Nolan sits down and throws all the Irish charm known to man at her. It works. He misses his flight and they share five incredible days of amazing sex... and unbelievable connection.

In true "Serendipity" style, they don't exchange last names, as this is just a fling... and Cora blocks his number! 

But Nolan is Irish and Fate is on his side and they meet again in Vegas. Vegas+Booze+Great Sex = monumentall crazy ideas and they decide to get married for a day and get it all annulled the next day. But when morning comes, Nolan knows he found the woman of his dreams and is not willing to give up on her. But Cora has a little secret - a 10-year-old boy who is not going to be happy sharing his mom with this guy. Will Nolan's charm help him get Ashton, the little spitfire, to accept him?

I absofeckinlutely LOVED this book!!! I was hoping for his story since we met him raising hell with the Cannavale brothers. We get him in his full Irish glory. Cora is also a fun heroine and Ashton is a hoot! 

The book is told in dual POV mostly, but we get three treats in the chapters with the POVs of Piper (I LOVE HER!), Ashton and Imogen. 

If you are a fan of the Irish, you will be in heaven. Also, film buffs will rejoice in the numerous movie references.

Do yourself a favor and get strawberries before you start reading. You've been warned. ;)

This is another homer for #crasyloring! Nolan might have knocked Dylan off his pedestal as my all-time favorite! GASP!

Now, I am waiting with bated breath for Mackenzie and Connor in the audiobook. I am RESPECTUFULLY waiting for Connor to switch into narrator mode and ... chapter 3... Oooof, I can't breathe. Again, I say this with the utmost respect... kinda. Irish brogue, man... Sweet. Baby. Jay.Zoos.
 
LOVED LOVED LOVED this one!

[Andi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is from my favorite of Kayley’s series and I’m so glad she brought Connor along for the ride. Bossy Christmas is my favorite, but this is a close second.

This is the third book in the Very Holiday Series and also the second book that Kayley and Connor have co-written and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It can be read as a stand alone, but the male MC has appeared in the previous books, and some of the characters I those also appear in this, so it may be helpful to read those for more back story.

I love Connor as a narrator and along with Decker, which released last month, I’m really enjoying him and Kayley as a writing team. I feel like his perspective adds a bit of je ne sais quois (I really don’t know what to call it, but I like it) to Kayley’s already funny/sexy/sweet style of romance. I also implore you to listen to the audiobook. This series, especially, really is made for listening to, if only to hear the accents. You won’t be sorry you did.

I’ve been impatiently waiting for Nolan’s story since it was teased in Eddie’s book, A Very Friendly Valentine’s Day. This book is super funny, super sexy, and really started off with a bang (😏). What starts as just a fling evolves into something more. Nolan didn’t used to want more, but now that he’s been with Cora, he does. Cora is guarded, having a son, so he leaves it up to fate (he is Irish you know).

Something I really enjoyed, that I don’t see a lot in single parent romance, is the initial dislike from Ashton (Cora’s son) to Nolan and to see the relationship grow. It’s also super funny and then super sweet. It’s really hard to resist Nolan, all-around.

There’s a chapter that feels like a nod to Ocean’s 11 or maybe another Vegas movie. I enjoyed it, but if you haven’t seen those movies, it might feel a bit out of place.

Thank you to Wildfire Marketing for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

4.5 Stars

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my 2nd listen, and it was even more enjoyable.

I loved this story so much!!

[Alicia (theromanticbibliotheca) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tony Curtis one said, “If you know how to live in Vegas you can have the best time.”

Nolan and Cora prove that to be how true in “A Very Vegas St. Patrick’s Day” by writing duo Kayley Loring and Conner Crais - and it’s also book 3 in the “Very Holiday” series.

It’s a story that starts out as a one-night stand, but it continues with elements of fate, second chances, and single parenthood. Nolan is the Irish cousin we met in the previous two books and he stumbles upon Cora, a single mother, at an airport bar in Chicago. They flirt, click, “seal the deal”, and then they go their separate ways - only to stumble upon each other again in Vegas where they continue said flirtation and connection but only this time they get hitched.

Instead of getting an annulment, they agree to give each other a chance for a month, giving St. Patrick’s Day their deadline. Nolan charms his way into Cora’s world and everyone is accepting of him, except for Cora’s 10 yr old bratty son, Ashton. This smart ass steals the show and it’s humorous to see him and Nolan get to know each other. What is also a challenge for Nolan is convincing Cora that they are truly meant for each other…that they are better together than apart…that anywhere in the world with her is home to him. How does she not see that?

Nolan won my heart - but Cora did not. I honestly did not enjoy Cora and her constant questioning; she put everything aside and stuck to her original stance - disregarding every….single…thing Nolan said/did to prove his love and devotion to her. I didn’t root for her and I honestly didn’t think she deserved to be chased after.

Though I found some parts disconnected, rushed, and over the top, I did enjoy the book and can honestly say that Nolan is a dreamboat with a dirty Irish mouth and you’d want to add him to your book boyfriend list for sure. ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Thanks to @wildfiremarketingsolutions for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Evie Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nolan Cassidy has the luck of the Irish. He's used to fighting and charming his way into getting what he wants, but when his accidental wife, Cora Delany wants to immediately annul their drunk marriage, he's determined to change her mind and persuade her to give their marriage, and him a go. But if convincing Cora to trust him is hard enough, Nolan's about to meet the most formidable opponent of his entire career - her ten year old son.

In my eyes, Kayley Loring can do no wrong. She's a brilliant and funny writer and legend of a human being who understands the importance of a good fart joke. As well as the novels she writes herself, she's started a collaboration with voice artist and new writer, Connor Crais. Their first book, Decker - Changing the Play was fabulous, and A Very Vegas St Patrick's Day continues to delight. It is impossible to tell who has written what. The writing is seamless, the characterisation spot on, and the story brings back some of my all time favourite characters from one of my all time favourite books - A Very Bossy Christmas.

Another skill Loring and Crais have is that they understand how to write kids, and some of the best humour in this book came from the unexpected moments where the children did the absolute opposite of what I expected. A Very Vegas St Patrick's Day is a fantastic romcom and the Oceans Eleven style finale was hilarious and masterful. If you like your comedy light, steamy, and with a dollop of Irish charm then you'll adore this fabulous book!

[Samantha Turbyfill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can we just talk about how we all squealed in delight on finding out that this was NOLAN's story. The rough rowdy bad influence Irish cousin! YESSSSS!

Then you start reading and PIPER's BACK! My day is made. She may be my favorite teenager stars in a romcom character ever.

OK back to Nolan and Cora. This chance meeting that turns into a once in a lifetime whirl wind few days of insane crazy chemistry and sexiness, and they go their own ways. And I'm reading this like WTH Kayley. They were perfect together and they both felt it! But Cora has a pretty big secret at home that she did not disclose and he's 10 and you'll die over him.

Nolan gets some advice and decides that if he wants Cora he has to make it happen. OK here is where I am going to say that we all love our single dad stories so do not be a jerk to CORA. I've been a single mom and you do have this I have to split my life into mom mode and the other person who I was before. Cora battles that through this story and you want to shake her as she is getting ready to lose her HEA.

BUT you just hang on while we rally the troops! Everyone that you love from this series is going to help save this HEA and its just so damn cute. I just loved it! Are we going to pester Kayley for Billy to find love now?

[Fanofbookfire · Rating 3 out of 5]

I LOVE book 1 & 2 in this Series and I couldn't wait for Nolan's story! I would give a 3.5 to this one. I didn't love this one like I did the other two. Cora made me angry a lot! Nolan was literally perfect! Cora couldn't get her head out of her a$$ to save her life. Every time I thought I was going to be mad at the book, it sucked me back in, but I really didn't like Cora. I LOVED Maddy and Birdie from the other two books .... I get why Cora needed to think things through - but she just came off so arrogant; EVERYONE except her was wrong - just annoying. I don't regret paying for the audible version what-so-ever ... Connor Crais could read the phone book in his regular voice ...... reading a sex scene in his Irish Voice - **fans myself** Should you read it?? Flip a coin, leave it up to fate 😉Happy St. Patty's Day! ☘️🇮🇪☘️ this book does make me want to give Vegas another visit, on St. Pat’s sounds fun!!

[MrsK · Rating 1 out of 5]

A Very Bossy Christmas is my absolute favourite book so I am more than disappointed that I hated this.

No chemistry, no connection. Straight to a (perceived) ONS without any build up to it, the book just cut from them first meeting and saying 3 sentences to each other then next scene, they’re mid sh&g. More than happy to read a steamy book but need to get the feels too……..

The whole thing felt rushed and didn’t flow - jumped around and had continuity errors.

Didn’t care much for Cora and I need to be rooting for my heroine to get her HEA but as I couldn’t stand her, couldn’t give a stuff what happened to her.

I wanted so much better for Nolan, what a shame this is his story.

[Jenn Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nolan fecking Cassidy I adore you!!

Listening to the audiobook narrated by Connor Crais and Mackenzie Cartwright was such a delicious treat! I loved every single moment. They sexy dialogue, the sweet and tender emotions, and the laugh out loud ones were perfect! And let’s not forget Connor’s Irish brogue!! Utterly delicious, swoony, sweet.

This one is not to be missed!