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Bad Luck Club: Spicy Version #0
Bringing Down the House
Can two anti-heroes save the day…and each other?
Nicole
People think I’m crazy…especially my ex-boyfriends. I prefer the term misunderstood. Still, there’s no denying I have a stunning ability to make bad decisions…like seducing the lead actor of the theater company where I just accepted a job.
An HR job.
In my defense, Damien Mitchell is the most gorgeous man alive, and worse, he’s interesting. Besides, I’m ninety percent sure my new boss up to something shady. Why should I behave if she won’t? I fully intend to find out what she’s doing, but in the meantime I’m reeled in by Damien’s charm, his secrets, and also his problems. Because he isn’t just a fantastic actor at a crappy theater, and—
Well, it’s his secret. But I’m going to help him with it and with saving the theater. Whether he wants me to or not.
***
Damien
I’m the only child of two rich narcissists. I’m used to being alone. I like it.
But Nicole’s not the kind of woman who can be kept at a distance. Worse, I don’t want to stay away. She sets my blood on fire and pisses me off…and makes me feel alive in a way I’d only experienced onstage.
I tell her my secrets. I show her my scars. I let her in.
We’re both screwed up, so there’s every chance we’ll destroy each other, but she’s not the only one who’s prone to bad decisions.
A full-length standalone prequel to the Bad Luck Club series!
Nicole
People think I’m crazy…especially my ex-boyfriends. I prefer the term misunderstood. Still, there’s no denying I have a stunning ability to make bad decisions…like seducing the lead actor of the theater company where I just accepted a job.
An HR job.
In my defense, Damien Mitchell is the most gorgeous man alive, and worse, he’s interesting. Besides, I’m ninety percent sure my new boss up to something shady. Why should I behave if she won’t? I fully intend to find out what she’s doing, but in the meantime I’m reeled in by Damien’s charm, his secrets, and also his problems. Because he isn’t just a fantastic actor at a crappy theater, and—
Well, it’s his secret. But I’m going to help him with it and with saving the theater. Whether he wants me to or not.
***
Damien
I’m the only child of two rich narcissists. I’m used to being alone. I like it.
But Nicole’s not the kind of woman who can be kept at a distance. Worse, I don’t want to stay away. She sets my blood on fire and pisses me off…and makes me feel alive in a way I’d only experienced onstage.
I tell her my secrets. I show her my scars. I let her in.
We’re both screwed up, so there’s every chance we’ll destroy each other, but she’s not the only one who’s prone to bad decisions.
A full-length standalone prequel to the Bad Luck Club series!
368 pages, ebook
Published March 10, 2022
319 people are currently reading
335 people want to read
About the author
Angela Casella
47 books771 followersANGELA CASELLA lives in Asheville, North Carolina with her husband, her daughter, and their ill-behaved corgi in an extremely small bungalow. She spends her days writing and pretending to market. She writes solo romcoms and also has three co-written series with Denise Grover Swank.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
March 1, 2022
So, I will admit that I wasn’t very excited about this book originally. Damien, and especially Nicole, have appeared in the Bad Luck Club series before, and frankly, I wasn’t a big fan. Nicole was funny but weird and annoying, and Damien played such small parts that we didn’t get much insight into his personality. But let me express how much my point of view has changed! I’m thoroughly obsessed with this couple, this story, and A.R. Casella’s writing. Let me start with the writing. This is A.R. Casella’s first solo novel. (She wrote the Asheville Brewing series and the Bad Luck Club series with Denise Grover Swank). I’m incredibly impressed with her ability to do a dual POV and to actually pin the voices of the characters so well. Sometimes with a dual POV, it’s hard to remember who is speaking at any given time. In this case, there was no question. Damien and Nicole, though perfect for each other, have very different voices, and they came across distinctly. As for this couple, A.R. Casella brought a depth to Nicole that took me aback. I definitely looked at her like a Loki, (as she refers to herself in this book), but not as well-loved. She was more of an annoying trickster that made me groan when she would speak. Being inside her head, however, endeared her to me indelibly. And she is hilarious! I mean, I know she was part of the comic relief in prior novels, but she is SO MUCH funnier than I ever knew. And Damien is HOT, and complicated, (and did I mention sexy?), and deep, and ideal for Nicole. It takes a certain person to put up with someone like Nicole, and he fits the bill perfectly. But let’s not forget the fun side characters – Gary! What a guy. And it was so fun to see some of our beloved couples like Dee and Dylan. I also loved the steam in this book. It’s a perfect balance of not being too spicy for those pearl clutchers out there, but still giving the rest of us plenty of fun, sexy times to read about. I am so excited for more Nicole and Damien in the Fairy Godmother Agency series, launching soon. I’ve already pre-ordered A Borrowed Boyfriend, and I’m positive it will be just as good as Bringing Down the House.
March 3, 2022
4 star review of Bringing Down The House by A.R. Casella
Having met both of these characters in The Bad Luck Club series I was happy to read this prequel. Nicole is an outrageous character and I was intrigued to learn what has turned her into the woman she is.
Damien and Nicole have not had it easy in their lives and I felt for them. These two as a couple are well matched and I enjoyed the journey they took together; two broken souls who find happiness.
Nicole is funny, in fact she cracked me up on a number of occasions. I really liked Damian who is a complex man who has secrets. It was also great to see some familiar faces make an appearance.
Bringing Down The House was witty, spicy and had me laughing out loud. An entertaining read that I enjoyed.
Having met both of these characters in The Bad Luck Club series I was happy to read this prequel. Nicole is an outrageous character and I was intrigued to learn what has turned her into the woman she is.
Damien and Nicole have not had it easy in their lives and I felt for them. These two as a couple are well matched and I enjoyed the journey they took together; two broken souls who find happiness.
Nicole is funny, in fact she cracked me up on a number of occasions. I really liked Damian who is a complex man who has secrets. It was also great to see some familiar faces make an appearance.
Bringing Down The House was witty, spicy and had me laughing out loud. An entertaining read that I enjoyed.
September 5, 2025
Finally done. The plot and story line might have come together nicely in the end but it was like pulling teeth to get there! Incoherent and disjointed writing; very much a chore. I'll be keeping this book around only so I won't accidentally get any more books by this offer. Sheesh!
February 28, 2022
Two halves do make a whole
I've always loved Nicole in the Bad Luck Club books. Her brand of crazy appealed immensely to me, and if she sometimes made me cringe with her bluntness, I've always found her refreshing and with a good heart. We knew about Damien, then, but it's different from really getting to know him and his story.
And this is exactly what we are getting in Burning Down the House. Not only Damien's story, but also Nicole's, the story of two broken people and a love that shows that two halves really do make a whole.
Add to that not one, but two mysteries to unravel, an array of great side characters (especially Gary and Gertie), and characters the habitués of both series (Asheville Brewing and Bad Luck Club) know, and we're in for a massive treat, full of love, laughs, and more love!
However, if you haven't read either series, it doesn't matter. The first you can read whenever you fancy it, and the second can perfectly be read after this book, since it is, really, a prequel of the Bad Luck Club series. And it all comes with loads of love, loads of fun, lots of emotion, and Dottie Hendrickson.
I've always loved Nicole in the Bad Luck Club books. Her brand of crazy appealed immensely to me, and if she sometimes made me cringe with her bluntness, I've always found her refreshing and with a good heart. We knew about Damien, then, but it's different from really getting to know him and his story.
And this is exactly what we are getting in Burning Down the House. Not only Damien's story, but also Nicole's, the story of two broken people and a love that shows that two halves really do make a whole.
Add to that not one, but two mysteries to unravel, an array of great side characters (especially Gary and Gertie), and characters the habitués of both series (Asheville Brewing and Bad Luck Club) know, and we're in for a massive treat, full of love, laughs, and more love!
However, if you haven't read either series, it doesn't matter. The first you can read whenever you fancy it, and the second can perfectly be read after this book, since it is, really, a prequel of the Bad Luck Club series. And it all comes with loads of love, loads of fun, lots of emotion, and Dottie Hendrickson.
October 14, 2022
It was so great to get Nicole's backstory. I mean we knew that she was a little cray-cray. And we knew that she and Damien get it on like rabbits everywhere they go. So this book was more of the same, but for once, I wasn't strongly disliking Nicole for her antics.
Damien was a surprise. In previous books, he was made out to be this weird stage actor that likes to change the script and give monologues. He wasn't painted in the most respectful light. But in this book, we see that he gets a thrill out of that. It's something he likes to do to express himself and he's not a starving actor like we thought. Instead, he's a P.I. and apparently has really rich snobby parents that are the villains of the story.
It was nice seeing both of these characters let go of the shields they had in place and open themselves to love.
I loved the way Nicole, Damien, and Gary worked together. They were a merry band of misfits that somehow managed to do great things, even if they had to be a little shady in their approach.
Damien was a surprise. In previous books, he was made out to be this weird stage actor that likes to change the script and give monologues. He wasn't painted in the most respectful light. But in this book, we see that he gets a thrill out of that. It's something he likes to do to express himself and he's not a starving actor like we thought. Instead, he's a P.I. and apparently has really rich snobby parents that are the villains of the story.
It was nice seeing both of these characters let go of the shields they had in place and open themselves to love.
I loved the way Nicole, Damien, and Gary worked together. They were a merry band of misfits that somehow managed to do great things, even if they had to be a little shady in their approach.
September 16, 2022
I have been waiting for Nicole's story ever since she was first introduced with the Bad Luck Club, and this exceeded all expectations. Beneath her abrasive take-no-bs exterior, she has so many deep layers that she never let anyone see. I loved that we were able to get a closer look at what makes Nicole be Nicole.... Makes her do what she does. It all seems like chaos, but she almost always has pure intentions behind her schemes, trying to help out those in her life. Damien allows Nicole to be herself, and even revels in the chaos with her.... Some may even say he instigates at times. They are a perfect pair, and I can't wait to know more about their escapades together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 26, 2022
I admit I was wary of an entire Nicole book. Her chaotic energy works well as a secondary character but I worried it would be too much for an entire read. I fully admit I was wrong! Nicole and Damien are absolutely INCREDIBLE!!! And even more perfect for each other than I ever realized, from the PI work to the costumes to the emotional baggage.
The entire novel was beautifully done. Their backgrounds, their families and those relationships, their development, their LOVE, their passion. I could go on and on! And once again we’re introduced to amazing secondary characters that you can’t help but love (and hate) and you hope to see in the future.
The entire novel was beautifully done. Their backgrounds, their families and those relationships, their development, their LOVE, their passion. I could go on and on! And once again we’re introduced to amazing secondary characters that you can’t help but love (and hate) and you hope to see in the future.
March 25, 2022
This one was ok for me, mostly because a little bit of Nicole goes a long way. In the previous books I liked how she prodded others to do better in their lives, but a full on book with her at the center was a bit much for me. I did like learning more about Damien and love how he and Nicole put Damien's father in his place. I also liked how Nicole's mother ended in a much better place than she started.
March 4, 2022
I will admit, reading the other Bad Luck Club/Asheville Brewing books I wasn't excited about Nicole's story. I was SOO wrong. It's brilliant. Definitely in my top 3 for the series. Well done!
March 8, 2022
I felt this book had a little bit of everything. It was fun, funny, mysterious, had endearing relationships and a perfect love connection. Did it all work for me? Not really.
My favourite moments in the book were in the conversations between the main characters. They work very well together and are truly suited for one another. I enjoyed their shared view of the world and both their quirky personalities, not to mention their scheming ways.
Gary and Gertie as side characters are truly wonderful!! LOVED them.
I also want to say that I have read and enjoyed all the other books in these series immensely but this one fell a little short for me. To be honest, I personally never connected with the Nicole character from the other books because she is (self-admittedly) rude and snarky.
The funny thing is that Nicole wouldn't care if I said I hated her. And that's her charm :). I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My favourite moments in the book were in the conversations between the main characters. They work very well together and are truly suited for one another. I enjoyed their shared view of the world and both their quirky personalities, not to mention their scheming ways.
Gary and Gertie as side characters are truly wonderful!! LOVED them.
I also want to say that I have read and enjoyed all the other books in these series immensely but this one fell a little short for me. To be honest, I personally never connected with the Nicole character from the other books because she is (self-admittedly) rude and snarky.
The funny thing is that Nicole wouldn't care if I said I hated her. And that's her charm :). I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 6, 2023
I’ve been a fan of authors Denise Grover-Swank and Angela Casella since I discovered their Ashville Brewing series which begat their Bad Luck Club series which begat a couple more series. I thought I’d been doing a fairly good job of keeping up with the authors but apparently I missed this book released almost a year ago in March of 2022. It wasn’t until I discovered A Brooding Body Guard that I became aware one author, Casella, had begun a new series featuring Bringing Down the House (not the rom.-com. featuring Steve Martin and Queen Latifa) protagonists Nicole Ricci (not Paris’s Bestie) and Damien Mitchell. Although this book is billed as part of the Bad Luck Club series I see it more as the inaugural book in Casella’s Fairy godmother series. Perhaps its even a prequel since it goes back to Nicole’s time as a member of the Bad Luck Club.
The development of the Nicole character has been a fascinating evolution. She began as a minor character as one of the original members of the Bad Luck Club. In those books Nicole was a quirky, snarky somewhat anti-social, abrasive young woman whose inability to trust men in particular drove her to join the Bad Luck Club. Seemingly with each new book Nicole became a more prominent character never quite rising to the level of main female protagonist. As I recall even her marriage to Damien was a secondary story line in another character’s romantic story. But as newer spinoff series began Nicole’s and then Damien’s roles picked up steam as they used their sleuthing talents to help out other couples to the point that now they have their own series, The Fairy godmother’s Agency. But even in this series while they are important, they are not the main characters. It is only in Bringing Down the House do the pair get a book focused on their love story. It takes us back to Nicole’s time in the Bad Luck Club where she along with Harry are the only two remaining members of the original group. In this story be briefly meet Blue and Lee whose story served as the link between the Asheville Brewing and Bud Luck Club series. It’s also at the beginning of this story that Nicole takes a job as the HR director of a small barely hanging on live theater in Ashville where she meets Damien its marquee actor. In the handsome Damien Nicole finds a soulmate who loves her not in spite of her quirky often abrasive personality but because of it. Their relationship begins as many in contemporary romances do as a physical thing. Immediately upon meeting Damien Nicole experiences insta-lust and decides even though it's against the theater’s HR policy and Cal her Bad Luck mentor’s advice, to seduce him. Things don’t go exactly as she had planned but eventually she and Damien do have sex. Because Nicole may have trust issues but she has no sexual inhibitions even with someone she doesn’t totally trust, a lot of sex with role playing, spanking and mild bondage included. Damien’s day job is a P.I. and as luck would have it he is being paid by the wife of one of Nicole’s former co-workers at her old job to follow him because she suspects he’s cheating on her. As it turns out Nicole who has become sort of a self-appointed, anti-cheating vigilante because of all the men who had cheated on both her and her mother, is also tailing the same guy because she too suspects he’s cheating and wants to expose him to his wife. This brings Damien and Nicole together outside of their work in the theater. Damien offers to teach Nicole the ropes of private investigating. Although in fairness to Nicole who is incredibly smart and inventive if unorthodox and unafraid to bend the rules, she’s probably already on equal footing with Damien in her investigative skills. But it does allow them to spend more time together and become lovers. Despite Nicole’s trust issues she eventually begins to feel more than lust for Damien and he for her. They work together to solve the mystery of the suspected cheater, the theater’s owner’s sketchy behavior and solve Damien’s issues with his wealthy and unscrupulous parents, who use their control over his ability to visit with his beloved grandmother to blackmail him to do their bidding.
This was a fun, sexy book with a bit of suspense. We get to know Nicole in a deeper way than we had in the previous stories she’s appeared in. Nicole with her snarky, abrasive personality may not be for everybody but if she likes you she’ll do anything for you. Give her a reason to dislike you and it won’t end well for you.
The development of the Nicole character has been a fascinating evolution. She began as a minor character as one of the original members of the Bad Luck Club. In those books Nicole was a quirky, snarky somewhat anti-social, abrasive young woman whose inability to trust men in particular drove her to join the Bad Luck Club. Seemingly with each new book Nicole became a more prominent character never quite rising to the level of main female protagonist. As I recall even her marriage to Damien was a secondary story line in another character’s romantic story. But as newer spinoff series began Nicole’s and then Damien’s roles picked up steam as they used their sleuthing talents to help out other couples to the point that now they have their own series, The Fairy godmother’s Agency. But even in this series while they are important, they are not the main characters. It is only in Bringing Down the House do the pair get a book focused on their love story. It takes us back to Nicole’s time in the Bad Luck Club where she along with Harry are the only two remaining members of the original group. In this story be briefly meet Blue and Lee whose story served as the link between the Asheville Brewing and Bud Luck Club series. It’s also at the beginning of this story that Nicole takes a job as the HR director of a small barely hanging on live theater in Ashville where she meets Damien its marquee actor. In the handsome Damien Nicole finds a soulmate who loves her not in spite of her quirky often abrasive personality but because of it. Their relationship begins as many in contemporary romances do as a physical thing. Immediately upon meeting Damien Nicole experiences insta-lust and decides even though it's against the theater’s HR policy and Cal her Bad Luck mentor’s advice, to seduce him. Things don’t go exactly as she had planned but eventually she and Damien do have sex. Because Nicole may have trust issues but she has no sexual inhibitions even with someone she doesn’t totally trust, a lot of sex with role playing, spanking and mild bondage included. Damien’s day job is a P.I. and as luck would have it he is being paid by the wife of one of Nicole’s former co-workers at her old job to follow him because she suspects he’s cheating on her. As it turns out Nicole who has become sort of a self-appointed, anti-cheating vigilante because of all the men who had cheated on both her and her mother, is also tailing the same guy because she too suspects he’s cheating and wants to expose him to his wife. This brings Damien and Nicole together outside of their work in the theater. Damien offers to teach Nicole the ropes of private investigating. Although in fairness to Nicole who is incredibly smart and inventive if unorthodox and unafraid to bend the rules, she’s probably already on equal footing with Damien in her investigative skills. But it does allow them to spend more time together and become lovers. Despite Nicole’s trust issues she eventually begins to feel more than lust for Damien and he for her. They work together to solve the mystery of the suspected cheater, the theater’s owner’s sketchy behavior and solve Damien’s issues with his wealthy and unscrupulous parents, who use their control over his ability to visit with his beloved grandmother to blackmail him to do their bidding.
This was a fun, sexy book with a bit of suspense. We get to know Nicole in a deeper way than we had in the previous stories she’s appeared in. Nicole with her snarky, abrasive personality may not be for everybody but if she likes you she’ll do anything for you. Give her a reason to dislike you and it won’t end well for you.
March 9, 2022
When I started reading Bringing Down the House I didn't think I was going to like it because the main characters, Damien and Nicole are billed as being anti-heroes. But after reading the book I don't think they're anti-heroes so much as two people who thrive in a bit of chaos and might even enjoy creating it at time. They also are just done with being fake people to make others comfortable or so they like them, they'd rather be themselves and be disliked.I also really liked the comedy in this book, like all of AR Casella's books, in particular the Bad Luck Club books are just so funny. And even though Bringing Down the House has an element of suspense, in the end the suspenseful element ends up being kinda comedic. I will say I did get a little confused because this book happened before the other Bad Luck Club books and I didn't realize it until Cal was introduce and was single and I was like... what? Didn't he have his own book? It was then I realized this was a prequel.
When Nicole met Dee and the Bad Luck Club she realized something about herself, she was done being a boring version of herself to please others. So she stopped caring what others thought about her, dressing how they'd like and she's done pulling her punches, she tells it like it is. She's hated her job for a while now, so when she gets to opportunity to work at a local theater in HR she jumps on it. Right after she gets her new job she meets Damien, he's handsome, interesting, a bit chaotic and emotionally unavailable just like her. Unfortunately after going to his apartment she finds women's clothes and she doesn't like cheaters. But soon after she starts her job she finds out that Damien is one of the main actors at the theater and she's going to have to work with him. After getting to know Damien she learns 1.) he's not in a relationship (his ex left stuff at his place) and 2.) he's a PI and she finds she likes spending time with him, helping with his cases.
Damien never wants to get married because of his parents, two rich narcissistic people that should have never had children. He's done everything in his life just to be as unlike his parents as he could, he refuses to take over the family business, has worked as a bartender, is a PI and acts on the side. If Damien had his way he'd never see his parents, but they have something on him... His beloved grandmother is in their care and there is nothing he can do about it if he doesn't jump through all of their hoops. So meeting Nicole was never part of his plan, but when she's around she causes chaos and he can't help but love the results. When Nicole starts helping him with some investigations they stumble upon a mystery with the theater and together they're going to figure out what's going on... All the while getting closer and closer to one another...
When Nicole met Dee and the Bad Luck Club she realized something about herself, she was done being a boring version of herself to please others. So she stopped caring what others thought about her, dressing how they'd like and she's done pulling her punches, she tells it like it is. She's hated her job for a while now, so when she gets to opportunity to work at a local theater in HR she jumps on it. Right after she gets her new job she meets Damien, he's handsome, interesting, a bit chaotic and emotionally unavailable just like her. Unfortunately after going to his apartment she finds women's clothes and she doesn't like cheaters. But soon after she starts her job she finds out that Damien is one of the main actors at the theater and she's going to have to work with him. After getting to know Damien she learns 1.) he's not in a relationship (his ex left stuff at his place) and 2.) he's a PI and she finds she likes spending time with him, helping with his cases.
Damien never wants to get married because of his parents, two rich narcissistic people that should have never had children. He's done everything in his life just to be as unlike his parents as he could, he refuses to take over the family business, has worked as a bartender, is a PI and acts on the side. If Damien had his way he'd never see his parents, but they have something on him... His beloved grandmother is in their care and there is nothing he can do about it if he doesn't jump through all of their hoops. So meeting Nicole was never part of his plan, but when she's around she causes chaos and he can't help but love the results. When Nicole starts helping him with some investigations they stumble upon a mystery with the theater and together they're going to figure out what's going on... All the while getting closer and closer to one another...
May 7, 2022
Bringing Down The House is the full length standalone prequel to the Bad Luck Club series by A.R. Casella and Denise Grover Swank. This is A.R. Casella writing on her own and it is a very entertaining and well written first solo novel. She has chosen a couple we have met in the previous books Nicole Ricci and Damien Mitchell. This can be read as a standalone but I am sure you will enjoy it and want to catch up with the other characters of the Bad Luck Club Series afterwards. I found it a witty and steamy tale of two broken people finding love and happiness while solving mysteries connected to them both.
Pink haired Nicole has been funny but also a mysterious secondary character who always seemed a little weird. She was a member of the Bad Luck Club and although graduated, she still gets involved with the club as loves to help out in her own unique way. Damien only appeared occasionally so we didn’t know much about him. Now A.R. Casella has given us how they met and became the couple they now are.
Nicole is hilarious with her blunt, no-nonsense attitude. Now we find out the reasons why she
is so stubborn and a bit crazy. She is very clever and absorbs information, very observant and reads people well. She finds it hard to apologise and doesn’t backdown because she feels it makes her vulnerable so I liked how we do get to side the softer side of her.
Damien is an extremely handsome actor who is cocky and unpredictable. He is actually quite a complex guy who has secrets and likes to keep his life private. He regularly surprises her and is great at answering her back. How he puts up with her I don’t know, the guy needs a medal.
They actually fit each other so well, they have great chemistry and brilliant banter. They both have parental and trust issues but bounce off each other so well and understand what the other has been through. She finds him mesmerising, sarcastic and unusual but as they get to know each other she finds their relationship difficult because she emotions makes her uncomfortable. The role playing really brought the fun to the steamy scenes and kept that side of the story interesting; I loved Dread Pirate Roberts. Not only do we get the romance story but also a couple of mysteries to solve and their stakeouts cracked me up. Damien’s best friend Gary was so amusing and a fantastic straight man. The conversations between him and Damien showed such a dry sense of humour. Then he was equally as funny with Nicole. Gertie was entertaining and it was lovey seeing Cal and Dottie again. It is going to be interesting getting more of this couple in the new Fairy Godmother Agency series. This was so much fun and I really enjoyed reading it.
Pink haired Nicole has been funny but also a mysterious secondary character who always seemed a little weird. She was a member of the Bad Luck Club and although graduated, she still gets involved with the club as loves to help out in her own unique way. Damien only appeared occasionally so we didn’t know much about him. Now A.R. Casella has given us how they met and became the couple they now are.
Nicole is hilarious with her blunt, no-nonsense attitude. Now we find out the reasons why she
is so stubborn and a bit crazy. She is very clever and absorbs information, very observant and reads people well. She finds it hard to apologise and doesn’t backdown because she feels it makes her vulnerable so I liked how we do get to side the softer side of her.
Damien is an extremely handsome actor who is cocky and unpredictable. He is actually quite a complex guy who has secrets and likes to keep his life private. He regularly surprises her and is great at answering her back. How he puts up with her I don’t know, the guy needs a medal.
They actually fit each other so well, they have great chemistry and brilliant banter. They both have parental and trust issues but bounce off each other so well and understand what the other has been through. She finds him mesmerising, sarcastic and unusual but as they get to know each other she finds their relationship difficult because she emotions makes her uncomfortable. The role playing really brought the fun to the steamy scenes and kept that side of the story interesting; I loved Dread Pirate Roberts. Not only do we get the romance story but also a couple of mysteries to solve and their stakeouts cracked me up. Damien’s best friend Gary was so amusing and a fantastic straight man. The conversations between him and Damien showed such a dry sense of humour. Then he was equally as funny with Nicole. Gertie was entertaining and it was lovey seeing Cal and Dottie again. It is going to be interesting getting more of this couple in the new Fairy Godmother Agency series. This was so much fun and I really enjoyed reading it.
March 7, 2022
Author A.R. Casella returns to the Bad Luck Club with a full-length prequel featuring everyone's favorite pink-haired, out-there Asheville citizen.
Nicole has a hard time letting people in. After being burned by one too many people she's put her trust in, Nicole knows to be suspicious of everyone. But when those suspicions lead her to Damien - star actor at the local theater and secret P.I. - Nicole gets more than she could ever want as passions combust and truths come out. What started as an amateur sleuthing job might just turn the Bad Luck Club and the denizens of Asheville on their heads.
While reading the other Bad Luck Club books, Nicole was always hit or miss for me. I often thought her personality was just way too much and I had a hard time relating to her. So, I was excited to finally get her story; I knew I would either hate her or finally understand her by the end. Luckily, it was the latter for me. I came out of Nicole and Damien's story appreciating who Nicole is and what she had been through before we see her in the later Bad Luck Club books.
I always felt like Damien was a tall, dark, and mysterious character when around the other books' main characters. However, Damien really opened up in this novel (as he should, since we finally get his point of view on both Nicole and the happenings around town). As it turns out, Damien is not at all the type of character I thought he was when he was just a secondary character.
Both Nicole and Damien have had less than happy-go-lucky lives, and I thought Casella did a fantastic job at making both Damien and Nicole stronger because of those set-backs and life-altering challenges. There was a lot more to their stories than I originally anticipated, but Casella wove their stories together so well while also keeping everything in check for what happens later in the series. As we see throughout the Bad Luck Club series, Nicole only continues to grow as a character but everything she becomes starts in this book.
While definitely not a book you absolutely have to read prior to the rest of the Bad Luck Club series, I do recommend giving this one a go particularly if you've read the other books and you aren't sure how you feel about Nicole. She is out there, she is wild, but she has such a fierce heart and we finally get to see it in Bringing Down the House.
A huge thank you to A.R. Casella and the team at Social Butterfly PR for providing a review copy of Bringing Down the House.
Nicole has a hard time letting people in. After being burned by one too many people she's put her trust in, Nicole knows to be suspicious of everyone. But when those suspicions lead her to Damien - star actor at the local theater and secret P.I. - Nicole gets more than she could ever want as passions combust and truths come out. What started as an amateur sleuthing job might just turn the Bad Luck Club and the denizens of Asheville on their heads.
While reading the other Bad Luck Club books, Nicole was always hit or miss for me. I often thought her personality was just way too much and I had a hard time relating to her. So, I was excited to finally get her story; I knew I would either hate her or finally understand her by the end. Luckily, it was the latter for me. I came out of Nicole and Damien's story appreciating who Nicole is and what she had been through before we see her in the later Bad Luck Club books.
I always felt like Damien was a tall, dark, and mysterious character when around the other books' main characters. However, Damien really opened up in this novel (as he should, since we finally get his point of view on both Nicole and the happenings around town). As it turns out, Damien is not at all the type of character I thought he was when he was just a secondary character.
Both Nicole and Damien have had less than happy-go-lucky lives, and I thought Casella did a fantastic job at making both Damien and Nicole stronger because of those set-backs and life-altering challenges. There was a lot more to their stories than I originally anticipated, but Casella wove their stories together so well while also keeping everything in check for what happens later in the series. As we see throughout the Bad Luck Club series, Nicole only continues to grow as a character but everything she becomes starts in this book.
While definitely not a book you absolutely have to read prior to the rest of the Bad Luck Club series, I do recommend giving this one a go particularly if you've read the other books and you aren't sure how you feel about Nicole. She is out there, she is wild, but she has such a fierce heart and we finally get to see it in Bringing Down the House.
A huge thank you to A.R. Casella and the team at Social Butterfly PR for providing a review copy of Bringing Down the House.
March 12, 2022
What a treat! If you've read the previous Bad Luck Club books, you'll have been introduced to Nicole's shenanigans. This prequel tells the story of how she met her love, Damien.
Nicole is... intense, for lack of a better word. She also has some very strict principles when it comes to relationships, both romantic and other. Suffice it to say, most men in her life have let her down, and as a result she's made it her personal mission to expose cheaters. Her latest project is a co-worker she's been following around due to his recent suspicious behavior.
When she lands a new job at the local theater, she meets Damien, the theater's lead actor, who is known for going off-script a lot. He's annoyingly beautiful, but Nicole is wary of him because of his good looks. They have amazing chemistry from the moment they meet, but Nicole's trust issues cause them to blow up almost instantly.
Damien has been made to feel like a disappointment to his parents all his life. He has also been duped by people using him for his name and perceived wealth. So he's hesitant to share this part of his life when he meets Nicole.
So basically, both our main characters have trust issues due to things that have happened to them in the past. Without setting out to do so, though, they get under each other's skin.
I enjoyed seeing Nicole's personal growth. She'll always be selective in who she chooses to let in, but she learns to trust more and open up to those important to her.
Damien finds an ally in Nicole, supporting him in carving out his own life instead of succumbing to his parents' wishes.
They get up to plenty of shenanigans, which will have you laughing out loud!
Nicole is... intense, for lack of a better word. She also has some very strict principles when it comes to relationships, both romantic and other. Suffice it to say, most men in her life have let her down, and as a result she's made it her personal mission to expose cheaters. Her latest project is a co-worker she's been following around due to his recent suspicious behavior.
When she lands a new job at the local theater, she meets Damien, the theater's lead actor, who is known for going off-script a lot. He's annoyingly beautiful, but Nicole is wary of him because of his good looks. They have amazing chemistry from the moment they meet, but Nicole's trust issues cause them to blow up almost instantly.
Damien has been made to feel like a disappointment to his parents all his life. He has also been duped by people using him for his name and perceived wealth. So he's hesitant to share this part of his life when he meets Nicole.
So basically, both our main characters have trust issues due to things that have happened to them in the past. Without setting out to do so, though, they get under each other's skin.
I enjoyed seeing Nicole's personal growth. She'll always be selective in who she chooses to let in, but she learns to trust more and open up to those important to her.
Damien finds an ally in Nicole, supporting him in carving out his own life instead of succumbing to his parents' wishes.
They get up to plenty of shenanigans, which will have you laughing out loud!
March 12, 2022
5/5⭐️ 5/5🌶
Bringing Down the House is not your average romcom! A.R. Casella proves there really is someone out there for everyone. If you’ve read Jingle Bell Hell, then you’re somewhat familiar with Nicole’s brash, get s**t done her way or, well her way personality. Nicole has had 24 years of poor relationship role models. In his 33 years, Damien hasn’t found a woman he can trust. She’s a self-proclaimed agent of chaos, he’s the bad boy actor/P.I. She’s obsessed with role-playing Grease, he has a passion for playing roles and pushing boundaries. Anti-heroes or misunderstood do-gooders? Nicole is a hot mess a-hole and Damien is just smokin’ hot!
I love the refreshing approach A.R. & Denise have taken with the Bad Luck Club series. HEAs for the scorned love cynics. In Bringing Down the House, A.R. Casella takes one of the club’s most jaded, scorned members and delivers a hilarious, suspenseful romcom with bite! Nicole & Damien have fantastic character arcs, and hot damn they get down ‘n’ dirty! Their chemistry is explosive from the moment they meet and it sizzles throughout the book! It’s a grumpy/grumpy romance with the perfect balance of snark and sweet! Damien is the hot AF Alphahole (with a sweet side) we all need.
If you’re a fan of anti-heroes having their day, love smartasses & steam, with a side of just desserts, Bringing Down the House is your next read! It’s hilarious, full of witty banter, a fun romp, with lots of heat!
Bringing Down the House is not your average romcom! A.R. Casella proves there really is someone out there for everyone. If you’ve read Jingle Bell Hell, then you’re somewhat familiar with Nicole’s brash, get s**t done her way or, well her way personality. Nicole has had 24 years of poor relationship role models. In his 33 years, Damien hasn’t found a woman he can trust. She’s a self-proclaimed agent of chaos, he’s the bad boy actor/P.I. She’s obsessed with role-playing Grease, he has a passion for playing roles and pushing boundaries. Anti-heroes or misunderstood do-gooders? Nicole is a hot mess a-hole and Damien is just smokin’ hot!
I love the refreshing approach A.R. & Denise have taken with the Bad Luck Club series. HEAs for the scorned love cynics. In Bringing Down the House, A.R. Casella takes one of the club’s most jaded, scorned members and delivers a hilarious, suspenseful romcom with bite! Nicole & Damien have fantastic character arcs, and hot damn they get down ‘n’ dirty! Their chemistry is explosive from the moment they meet and it sizzles throughout the book! It’s a grumpy/grumpy romance with the perfect balance of snark and sweet! Damien is the hot AF Alphahole (with a sweet side) we all need.
If you’re a fan of anti-heroes having their day, love smartasses & steam, with a side of just desserts, Bringing Down the House is your next read! It’s hilarious, full of witty banter, a fun romp, with lots of heat!
March 20, 2022
Chaos and love- a perfect combination
You have got to love Nicole and Damien. There is something so fun and freeing about the quirky, chaotic, irreverent fierceness that is Nicole. I am so glad that we get to see her back story and how she ended up with Damien. They have been a presence in the other books in this series so this is a prequel. Nicole works in HR at a toy company and on the advice of her Bad Luck Club sponsor she gets a different HR job at a local theater. Her behavior is always unexpected and unconventional and she rabidly hates cheaters. Damien is the only child of rich parents but eschews their lifestyle and chooses to work at the theater and as a PI. From their first meeting at the theater, Nicole and Damien are explosive together. Their individual crazy fits perfectly together. On their way to their HEA, they’ll learn how to let go of their pasts and decide who they want to be, especially Nicole. It is hilarious but also beautiful to watch their growth and missteps as Nicole and Damien follow the mystery of Bob and Leaf while trying to save Damien’s grandmother. There is a lot of past stuff and hurdles that they both have to unpack on the way and this is portrayed perfectly with witty dialogue, characters with depth, and an engaging storyline. The story has plenty of hilarity, steamy scenes, sweet moments, family dysfunction, drama, mystery, weirdness, swoons, and small town nosy goodness.
You have got to love Nicole and Damien. There is something so fun and freeing about the quirky, chaotic, irreverent fierceness that is Nicole. I am so glad that we get to see her back story and how she ended up with Damien. They have been a presence in the other books in this series so this is a prequel. Nicole works in HR at a toy company and on the advice of her Bad Luck Club sponsor she gets a different HR job at a local theater. Her behavior is always unexpected and unconventional and she rabidly hates cheaters. Damien is the only child of rich parents but eschews their lifestyle and chooses to work at the theater and as a PI. From their first meeting at the theater, Nicole and Damien are explosive together. Their individual crazy fits perfectly together. On their way to their HEA, they’ll learn how to let go of their pasts and decide who they want to be, especially Nicole. It is hilarious but also beautiful to watch their growth and missteps as Nicole and Damien follow the mystery of Bob and Leaf while trying to save Damien’s grandmother. There is a lot of past stuff and hurdles that they both have to unpack on the way and this is portrayed perfectly with witty dialogue, characters with depth, and an engaging storyline. The story has plenty of hilarity, steamy scenes, sweet moments, family dysfunction, drama, mystery, weirdness, swoons, and small town nosy goodness.
March 18, 2023
I read this book because it’s the backstory of some reoccurring characters in The Fairy Godmother Agency series the author writes next. Damien is told by his parents that they had a surrogate for him, because he is of mixed race and his parents are both white. But his father spends most of his time telling him what a disappointment he is. Mr Mitchell expects his son to be part of the family’s multimillion dollar furniture business. But Damien goes his own way, being an actor in a fourth rate theater and a P. I., taking down cheating husbands. The only reason he has anything to do with his parents is because they are practically holding his beloved grandmother hostage and only let him see her when he comes to their fundraisers and plays nice for the cameras.
Nicole is sick of men who cheat and she quits her job in the HR department of a toy company so she can follow a coworker that she thinks is cheating. She gets hired as the HR director in the theater where Damien works. She gets the shock of her life when she discovers that Damien is also tailing her former coworker. The more they work together, the closer they become. But circumstances are becoming a lot more complicated, and his family and his ex girlfriend are determined to tear them apart.
The only reason why I didn’t give this 5 stars was because of the author’s overuse of acronyms FUBAR and YOLO.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to everyone. I will be reading the rest of The Fairy Godmother Agency series.
Nicole is sick of men who cheat and she quits her job in the HR department of a toy company so she can follow a coworker that she thinks is cheating. She gets hired as the HR director in the theater where Damien works. She gets the shock of her life when she discovers that Damien is also tailing her former coworker. The more they work together, the closer they become. But circumstances are becoming a lot more complicated, and his family and his ex girlfriend are determined to tear them apart.
The only reason why I didn’t give this 5 stars was because of the author’s overuse of acronyms FUBAR and YOLO.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to everyone. I will be reading the rest of The Fairy Godmother Agency series.
April 27, 2024
Oh sooo good!!
I read this when it was released, but it didn't hit me the same way it did when I re-read it again (after The Love Fixers), so I deleted my review, and am leaving a new one.
I sincerely recommend reading this BEFORE you read the Love Fixers, as that book will be infinitely more enjoyable, if you know Nicole and Damien's origin.
Nicole is an easy to connect with character, a little lost, a little chaotic, and a whole lot of impulsive energy - who has no problem inserting herself into situations that maybe dangerous. Her sense of self is very appealing, and I enjoyed following her as she punished the cheaters and righted the wrongs (as she saw them). She certainly meets her match when Damien steps into her orbit.
Damien has all the characteristics we want in our book boyfriends, and he's strong enough to corral Nicole's energy into a manageable force that makes his personal life significantly easier. Their steamy chemistry and sizzling role-play scenes were super fun. I enjoyed the resolution to the "who done it" mystery and how that all turned out.
The tie-ins to other stories and character links are interesting, and I recommend reading all the Bad Luck Club books, as well as the Fairy Godmother series, to full enjoy the world of these characters. I am thrilled to be well versed in them, and cannot WAIT for the next new release from this talented author.
I read this when it was released, but it didn't hit me the same way it did when I re-read it again (after The Love Fixers), so I deleted my review, and am leaving a new one.
I sincerely recommend reading this BEFORE you read the Love Fixers, as that book will be infinitely more enjoyable, if you know Nicole and Damien's origin.
Nicole is an easy to connect with character, a little lost, a little chaotic, and a whole lot of impulsive energy - who has no problem inserting herself into situations that maybe dangerous. Her sense of self is very appealing, and I enjoyed following her as she punished the cheaters and righted the wrongs (as she saw them). She certainly meets her match when Damien steps into her orbit.
Damien has all the characteristics we want in our book boyfriends, and he's strong enough to corral Nicole's energy into a manageable force that makes his personal life significantly easier. Their steamy chemistry and sizzling role-play scenes were super fun. I enjoyed the resolution to the "who done it" mystery and how that all turned out.
The tie-ins to other stories and character links are interesting, and I recommend reading all the Bad Luck Club books, as well as the Fairy Godmother series, to full enjoy the world of these characters. I am thrilled to be well versed in them, and cannot WAIT for the next new release from this talented author.
March 7, 2022
All reviews posted at Tales of Love, Life, and Murder
To be honest, I wasn’t sure I wanted to read this book. Nicole has had a relatively small role in the series but she’s had a huge impact on the characters in the other books. She’s basically the driving force behind the other stories. She’s one of my favorite characters in any series ever but she’s also mysterious, a bit loony and almost larger than life. I worried that Nicole’s book couldn’t possibly do her justice but it’s so good and just made me love her more. Plus we know almost nothing about Damien except that he’s a private investigator and must be crazy too because he’s married to Nicole. But this book gives us his story and it’s a doozy.
Their story is crazy, hot and yet so very sweet, I loved everything about it. This is book five in the series but also a prequel, which is fairly unique and another reason I was worried it might not live up to my expectations. But I couldn’t have been more wrong, it’s everything I wanted and more.
March 7, 2022
This is a book I didn’t know I needed. If you’ve read the Ashville Brewery or Bad Luck Club Series, you’ve already met Nicole. She is a sassy, brash, over-the-top, unpredictable woman that always delivers for the shock factor, providing some great laughs. I didn’t think I’d like an entire book dedicated to her, but I am glad to say was I wrong. Getting to be in her head and learn her backstory and what makes her tick has given me a new perspective and appreciation of her. We’ve gotten glimpses of Damien in the series, but I absolutely loved getting to know him and having his POV. He is sexy as hell, with some major family issues, but also a strong man that just wants to live life on his terms. And Nicole helps him do that. This book shows that they are a perfect match. They have sizzling chemistry, making this book a little steamier than the others, but it fits them.
We get to see Dee, Dylan, Cal, Dottie, and various previous characters, which I always enjoy. I loved watching her friendship with Gary, Damien’s best friend, grow and evolve. The banter between them is golden.
Don’t miss this book, get it now!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
We get to see Dee, Dylan, Cal, Dottie, and various previous characters, which I always enjoy. I loved watching her friendship with Gary, Damien’s best friend, grow and evolve. The banter between them is golden.
Don’t miss this book, get it now!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 7, 2022
The cover for this book is absolutely fitting, because Nicole and Damien are on fire! I think they've easily taken the spot for my favorite characters in this series. These two compliment each other so well and it's so easy to see that they are meant for each other. I'm so glad that A.R. Casella decided to turn this into a full blown book instead of releasing it chapter by chapter in her newsletter. The wait was so worth it!
If you've read the other books in this series you know that Nicole is rude, brash, and unapologetically herself. We've also seen brief glimpses of Damien before, but now we finally get to find out who he really is. The chemistry between these 2 is seriously off the charts. Fair warning that this book is STEAMY! So if that's not your thing you may be better off skipping this one, but I definitely don't recommend doing that. I was so excited to see that heat level in this book and I hope that A.R. continues with this level of heat in future books. This book also has a bit of a mystery element to it which I loved.
5/5 would definitely recommend this book. It will make you laugh and it will keep you on your toes. I'd also recommend grabbing some pretzel goldfish as a book snack. ;)
If you've read the other books in this series you know that Nicole is rude, brash, and unapologetically herself. We've also seen brief glimpses of Damien before, but now we finally get to find out who he really is. The chemistry between these 2 is seriously off the charts. Fair warning that this book is STEAMY! So if that's not your thing you may be better off skipping this one, but I definitely don't recommend doing that. I was so excited to see that heat level in this book and I hope that A.R. continues with this level of heat in future books. This book also has a bit of a mystery element to it which I loved.
5/5 would definitely recommend this book. It will make you laugh and it will keep you on your toes. I'd also recommend grabbing some pretzel goldfish as a book snack. ;)
March 12, 2022
Unconventional, wacky & wonderful
Time line wise, Bringing Down the House takes place after Dee’s novella ‘Luck of the Draw‘ and before Cal’s book ‘Love at First Hate’. Publication wise, it comes a couple books after that, so if you’ve read the series up to now then this reads a little like a prequel. If new to the series, I would go ahead and read after ‘Luck of the Draw’.
I wasn't entirely sure what to expect from Nicole’s book. She appears in all the Bad Luck Club books and is always a bit of a wild card. True to form, she was still a wild card but seeing things happen from her pov made me really appreciate her. Nicole is unconventional, wacky and wonderful and once she lets you in, she fiercely protects her own.
Meeting Damien is a real treat. He’s mentioned in previous books, but you’ve never really saw much of him until now. I loved how he completed Nicole and truly seemed to be her other half from the moment they meet.
In keeping with the crazy persona of both these characters, the storyline is fast paced, has a hint of mystery and full of steam! Basically, there is never a dull moment. Many side characters from the other Bad Luck Club books make an appearance along with the addition of new memorable characters, namely Gary and Gertie. Overall, great read!
Time line wise, Bringing Down the House takes place after Dee’s novella ‘Luck of the Draw‘ and before Cal’s book ‘Love at First Hate’. Publication wise, it comes a couple books after that, so if you’ve read the series up to now then this reads a little like a prequel. If new to the series, I would go ahead and read after ‘Luck of the Draw’.
I wasn't entirely sure what to expect from Nicole’s book. She appears in all the Bad Luck Club books and is always a bit of a wild card. True to form, she was still a wild card but seeing things happen from her pov made me really appreciate her. Nicole is unconventional, wacky and wonderful and once she lets you in, she fiercely protects her own.
Meeting Damien is a real treat. He’s mentioned in previous books, but you’ve never really saw much of him until now. I loved how he completed Nicole and truly seemed to be her other half from the moment they meet.
In keeping with the crazy persona of both these characters, the storyline is fast paced, has a hint of mystery and full of steam! Basically, there is never a dull moment. Many side characters from the other Bad Luck Club books make an appearance along with the addition of new memorable characters, namely Gary and Gertie. Overall, great read!
March 1, 2022
I’m sorry, but to me this book did not live up to the standard of the other books in the series.
I read the first chapters of this book in the author’s newsletters earlier, and I really liked them and was excited to hear that it would be a book. But now when I’ve read the entire book in one go I’m not so crazy about it.
For example, I’m not averse to sex scenes per se, but somehow the ones here were a little too much for me (like, oh no, not again, really, just get it over with…) It seemed a little too… well, I suppose it’s supposed to fit the characters though.
I like both Nicole & Damien, they are complex characters with bad experiences, but somehow I think both characters could have gotten a little more substance, both in backstory and in the storyline. Damiens story especially felt thin.
I might seem harsh here, but really, this author have written several really good books so I expected more. Then again I’m sure there will be others who love this book too. We’re all different and like different things.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I read the first chapters of this book in the author’s newsletters earlier, and I really liked them and was excited to hear that it would be a book. But now when I’ve read the entire book in one go I’m not so crazy about it.
For example, I’m not averse to sex scenes per se, but somehow the ones here were a little too much for me (like, oh no, not again, really, just get it over with…) It seemed a little too… well, I suppose it’s supposed to fit the characters though.
I like both Nicole & Damien, they are complex characters with bad experiences, but somehow I think both characters could have gotten a little more substance, both in backstory and in the storyline. Damiens story especially felt thin.
I might seem harsh here, but really, this author have written several really good books so I expected more. Then again I’m sure there will be others who love this book too. We’re all different and like different things.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 7, 2022
This is the first book I’ve read by AR Casella and the first book in the Bad Luck series. …it did not disappoint and was very entertaining. I have the other books on my kindle…now I need to go read them so I can learn about the other characters.
These two characters are a hoot…instant attraction meet awkward workplace situation. Nicole and Damien are funny, have great banter and are a hot couple.
Nicole has a lot of energy, is a curious person, has serious trust issues and is a member of the BLC.
Damien is determined to live his life how he chooses and not by the way his family tries to dictate him. He has a lot of baggage and trust issues.
The supporting cast is equally as entertaining…the hair cutting scene had me laughing out loud…even tho I shouldn’t have. Gertie is spunky and fantastic…reminded me a lot of my grandma.
The twists and turns will keep you on the edge of your seat and the major twist at the end…is a shocker. I really enjoyed this book at cannot wait to read the others.
Congratulations A.R. on this fantastic book.
I received a complimentary copy and I am leaving my honest review.
These two characters are a hoot…instant attraction meet awkward workplace situation. Nicole and Damien are funny, have great banter and are a hot couple.
Nicole has a lot of energy, is a curious person, has serious trust issues and is a member of the BLC.
Damien is determined to live his life how he chooses and not by the way his family tries to dictate him. He has a lot of baggage and trust issues.
The supporting cast is equally as entertaining…the hair cutting scene had me laughing out loud…even tho I shouldn’t have. Gertie is spunky and fantastic…reminded me a lot of my grandma.
The twists and turns will keep you on the edge of your seat and the major twist at the end…is a shocker. I really enjoyed this book at cannot wait to read the others.
Congratulations A.R. on this fantastic book.
I received a complimentary copy and I am leaving my honest review.
March 8, 2022
Damien and Nicole are hot characters and their story has the right amount of spice and humor. I was introduced to AR Cesella with the first ARC that I read in this series. Now, from what I have read, I love her writing. From the first time Nicole was introduced in the book I read before, I wasn’t really sure about her. She inserted herself in kind of an annoying way. Saying that, I absolutly love Nicole in this book. I like that we now get to learn more about her. She needs to earn your trust, she doesn’t trust easily. Making bad choices is her go to and then thinking later.
“Maybe I’m playing with fire, but I’ve always liked matches.”
Damien makes bad decisions in his own way. He loves the theatre and is always wanting to chane it up and cause mischief.
“Oh, I’ve been paying attention Nicole,” He says. “You’re the sexiest misanthrope I’ve ever met.
I loved the interactions between Nicole and Damien in this book and especially love that Nicole got a more in depth character arc. I’m going to continue devouring A.R. Casella’s books since I love her writing so much. I highly recommened reading the Bad Luck Club, you won’t be disappointed!
“Maybe I’m playing with fire, but I’ve always liked matches.”
Damien makes bad decisions in his own way. He loves the theatre and is always wanting to chane it up and cause mischief.
“Oh, I’ve been paying attention Nicole,” He says. “You’re the sexiest misanthrope I’ve ever met.
I loved the interactions between Nicole and Damien in this book and especially love that Nicole got a more in depth character arc. I’m going to continue devouring A.R. Casella’s books since I love her writing so much. I highly recommened reading the Bad Luck Club, you won’t be disappointed!
March 11, 2022
In this prequel to the other Bad Luck Club books we get the backstory of Nicole and Damian. They are both a little bit "psychotic," in Nicole's words, and together are chaos incarnate in the best way possible. Nicole is a shining side character in the Bad Luck Club series, and getting to read a book all about her was fantastic. She shows up, she does some unhinged things for the good of everyone, and she moves on to her next mission. I couldn't decide whether to laugh or cheer whenever she was focusing on her next target.
Thankfully, as a source of my entertainment, she has plenty of people to target in this book. Once she meets Damian and they discover their lists of "targets" has quite a bit of overlap, it's game over for everyone else. These two click in the way only kindred spirits and destined soulmates can. From having the same hobbies (acting, spying, collecting wigs) to their fierce dedication to their friends (though Nicole would never admit it), Damian and Nicole are the perfect match. Rather than blundering through getting together, then, they accept how well they fit and move on to other things. That isn't to say they don't stumble a few times along the way, but there is no roadblock these two cannot absolutely blow apart together.
Purely entertaining, sweet yet spicy, chaos and fun. This is definitely an installment of the Bad Luck Club you need to read.
Thankfully, as a source of my entertainment, she has plenty of people to target in this book. Once she meets Damian and they discover their lists of "targets" has quite a bit of overlap, it's game over for everyone else. These two click in the way only kindred spirits and destined soulmates can. From having the same hobbies (acting, spying, collecting wigs) to their fierce dedication to their friends (though Nicole would never admit it), Damian and Nicole are the perfect match. Rather than blundering through getting together, then, they accept how well they fit and move on to other things. That isn't to say they don't stumble a few times along the way, but there is no roadblock these two cannot absolutely blow apart together.
Purely entertaining, sweet yet spicy, chaos and fun. This is definitely an installment of the Bad Luck Club you need to read.
March 2, 2022
So I really thought I was safe in declaring Matchmaking Mischief as my favorite book of the Bad Luck Club series since we'd gotten snippets of Bringing Down the House in DGS/ARC's newsletters. I was wrong - this book got super steamy and Damien and Nicole went from the comic relief to beloved characters. Nicole's been in the series for awhile and has always been snarky/funny/scary, but this book shows her gooey core as she learns to trust Damien. She really does want to help people who need it, but she goes about it in a less sensitive way than you'd expect which of course makes for some great banter! I absolutely adored the relationship between Damien and his grandmother Gertie and would love to see more of her. I also really liked both Gary and Nicole's mother (please, please, PLEASE give them stories!) - especially the banter between Gary and Nicole. I'm sad to see the series come to an end, but am looking forward to the two new series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 7, 2022
Nicole is definitely one of a kind. Readers met her in the earlier Bad Luck Club books, but this prequel lets us know her on a whole new level. And wow! Nicole is what some might call crazy, but I would definitely describe her as astute and wily. While Damien makes appearances in the previous books, we don’t really know much about him. This story gives us his POV and he’s the perfect book boyfriend-but don’t tell Nicole I said so!
The chemistry between Nicole and Damien is off the charts. This is a super spicy installment-with much more heat than any of the other books in the series. To be honest, this was just a little steamier than I normally enjoy-but I love everything about Nicole and Damien so it didn’t lessen my enjoyment. For a book that had an abundance of sexy scenes-this book is also surprisingly deep. Both Nicole and Damien live life on their own terms and struggle to trust others.
As readers have come to expect from the Bad Luck Club, the secondary characters are also fantastic, especially Gary, and of course Dottie.
I definitely recommend this engaging rom-com!!
The chemistry between Nicole and Damien is off the charts. This is a super spicy installment-with much more heat than any of the other books in the series. To be honest, this was just a little steamier than I normally enjoy-but I love everything about Nicole and Damien so it didn’t lessen my enjoyment. For a book that had an abundance of sexy scenes-this book is also surprisingly deep. Both Nicole and Damien live life on their own terms and struggle to trust others.
As readers have come to expect from the Bad Luck Club, the secondary characters are also fantastic, especially Gary, and of course Dottie.
I definitely recommend this engaging rom-com!!
March 6, 2022
You knew Nicole was a firecracker from the minute you met her in the other books of the Bad Luck Club series and this is the prequel with her story. Nicole has trouble trusting people especially men because of her past but with the help of the Bad Luck Club things are slowly improving and meeting Damien Mitchell definitely changes things. Damien is everything Nicole knows she should stay away from but she is drawn to him like a moth to a flame and equally Damien is drawn to Nicole. Nicole and Damien both are pulled to each other and know they are better together not because they need each other but because of each other. Neither try to change the other, they accept them for who they are and they support each other.
This is a fun series to read and Nicole’s story just adds to it. If you love quirky characters, sleuthing and steamy chemistry this book and this series are for you!
Thank you @arcasellaauthor and @socialbutterfly_pr for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback
This is a fun series to read and Nicole’s story just adds to it. If you love quirky characters, sleuthing and steamy chemistry this book and this series are for you!
Thank you @arcasellaauthor and @socialbutterfly_pr for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback
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