Blood gamble by Melissa F Olsen.
Old world chronology #8, disrupted magic #2.
If there is one city that Scarlett Bernard hates, it’s Las Vegas. But when the cardinal vampire of Los Angeles convinces her to go investigate a new vampire-themed stage show, Scarlett quickly finds herself shoulder-deep in sequins, slot machines, and Old World intrigue.
I did enjoy this book. Great story and characters. I liked Scarlet and Jameson. Surprisingly good. Can't wait for next book. 4*.

Okay so I did not realize this was a second book in a series when I read it, but I still felt as if I saw the picture of the story as a whole. I think the fantasy and paranormal elements were well done and even though they’re done so many times in YA, I was interested in the tropes this book presented. The main character fell a little flat for me though.

What a fascinating book. I was impressed by the storyline and the characters were all well written and complex. Where there are complex storylines combined with intriguing characters the reader experience is magnified tremendously. To have a book that is well written as well as entertaining is a delight. Reading is about escaping your world and entering another one. The word building was phenomenal in this book. Here I forgot about my own life and was immersed in the world created by the author. I would recommend this book.

What a great 2nd book in this continuation of Scarlett's story. Scarlett finds herself forced to a town she really doesn't like, Las Vegas. There she encounters vampires who inspired characters in Dracula. What are these vampires up to in Las Vegas? That's the Million Dollar question and time is running out for Scarlett to find the answers. Vampires are vanishing and it seems to be related to these two vampires and their stage show. Will Scarlett be able to solve the mystery before more deaths occur? I'm not telling, you have to pick up a copy and read it yourself.

If there is one city that Scarlett Bernard hates, it’s Las Vegas. But when the cardinal vampire of Los Angeles convinces her to go investigate a new vampire-themed stage show, Scarlett quickly finds herself shoulder-deep in sequins, slot machines, and Old World intrigue.
This was another great story by an author that I am really enjoyed. I actually somehow read book 3 in this series before this one, but it didn’t deter my enjoyment. I really like Scarlett and can’t wait to read more of her adventures.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book

I loved this book by Melissa F. Olson. As I do all of her books. Her characters and world building are wonderful. I cannot wait for the next one

Was not really what i expected. It didn't grab me and i found myself struggling to finish.

I read two of the Boundary books a year and a half ago and didn't remember them at all, I also missed the first book in this series, but had no problem starting with Blood Gamble. I really enjoyed Blood Gamble and the interesting twist Olson applies to the standard Dracula mythology with Arthur and Lucy.

Another reviewer referred to Blood Gamble as a UF "popcorn series" and I agree. While the story does touch on a lot of mature themes they don't drag down the mood much. I accepted the premise and enjoyed the ride. I feel some of the criticisms weren't valid though I do agree Scarlett is a tad rash, but given her life as a teen (again I didn't read book 1), her current professional and private life as well as her youth it is believable.

I also enjoyed the large cast of supporting characters. Would like more time with all of them, but felt they got enough page time to make me feel some connection to them. The weakest for me were Dashiell and Jesse, perhaps they got much more time in other books, but they didn't do much for me in this one.

I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

ARC/Urban Fantasy: I want to apologize to NetGalley for taking so long reading this book. I've read several of Olson's books, but this one could not keep my interest. I am going through a depression phase right now and unless I'm reading something spectacular, my mind wonders off. Also noted that Scarlet is in a rut at the beginning of the book.

On a scale of Olson's books, I would can only rate this one as average. Yes, the author takes her to Las Vegas, and yes Scarlet is sleuthing in another vampires territory, but I felt the series getting old in this book. I am hoping the ending will bring fresh plotlines to the series. I have bought the two books to the Nightshade series. I like the world Olson has created and their heroines. I am planning on reading more Scarlett as I think she is around a turning point. What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

Blood Gamble is the second book in the Disrupted Magic series by Melissa F. Olson, which is an offshoot of the Scarlett Bernard series. I highly recommend reading all of the two series in order, but to be honest I love the author so I recommend reading all of her books period.

If there is one city that Scarlett Bernard hates, it’s Las Vegas. But when the cardinal vampire of Los Angeles convinces her to go investigate a new vampire-themed stage show, Scarlett quickly finds herself shoulder-deep in sequins, slot machines, and Old World intrigue. The show’s creators are vampire celebrities Arthur and Lucy Holmwood, who once inspired characters from the original Dracula. Now, however, they have no qualms about announcing their true status to the human world, endangering the secrecy of the Old World and Scarlett’s mission to keep it hidden. But before she can begin untangling the Holmwoods’ motives, Scarlett also discovers that their new production has attracted more than just fans: Las Vegas’s many vampires are suddenly disappearing, and rumors are flying that actual vampire hunters may have followed Arthur and Lucy to town. Now, without her allies, her bargest, or her frequent partner Jesse Cruz, Scarlett must navigate a new underworld of secrets and murders in a city where nothing is ever as it seems. And the stakes have never been higher.

Blood Gamble is a fast and furious addition to Scarlett's story. She is facing huge odds, yet again, and deals with crisis on physical and emotional fronts. Again, I loved her journey of personal and work related discovery, and her drive to protect those around her even if they might not need her protection. I think her drive for information and the conflicts and betrayals that thread through the story kept me turning pages and eager to see how her reunion with another Null goes, and how the story of Lucy and Arthur will play out. I loved the addition of the fact Scarlett is in a city she hates, and that she is trying to guard the secret of her real job while doing it and keeping her family and friends safe. So much is going on that I think the reader can see what is coming easier than Scarlett, only because we are a step back, but oh what a ride. I enjoyed every agonizing or life and death moment. Oh, and the changing dynamics with Dashnell, and how Jesse gives Scarlett and the readers perspective on the whole thing- so good. I found the final twist to be one I had been holding my breath for, and oddly anticipating. I am eager to see where the series takes us next.

Blood Gamble is another great urban fantasy, and I was left stunned at the end. I cannot wait for what ever comes next. Seriously, I need the next book now.

Loved Olson's first book in series and this one is an a suitable follow-up. I imagine the series will keep going for ahwhile as Scarlett has a lot to work out.

I have really enjoyed this series and the way Scarlett has evolved. The characters and story line are well-developed. In Las Vegas, Vampires are going missing and Scarlett is sent to find out what is happening. Things are not always as they seem with the Holmwood's new show.Vampires are disappearing after attending the show. Also, while investigating, she finds out that vampire hunters have come to Vegas. She must navigate the nightlife while not getting herself killed in the process. I recommend this book and series to everyone. I give Blood Gamble (Disrupted Magic) 5/5 stars.

Always enjoy the adventures of Scarlett Bernard. This latest novel takes Scarlett out of familiar surroundings to Las Vegas, a city she hates. The initial assignment is completed when another, job presents itself, along with a figure from her past. As events spiral out of control, Scarlett must rely on new associates against foes with a startling agenda. Melissa Olson is masterful at weaving characters from two of her series in this book, as well as others. Definitely looking forward to what she does next!

i didn't realise that this was part of an ongoing series and this was actually book 2 but there have been many Scarlett Barnard books before this spilt off, however i love love love it, you dont need to read the others beforehand and i am going to back read the other books. this has everything i need in a book; strong female lead character, few hunky men characters and paranomal goings on, and what a twist at the end!

Amazingly good world building and character development

When vampire celebrities start performing a show in Las Vegas that puts the entire old world at risk Dashiell sends Scarlett to investigate.

What she discovers is two vampire factions at war and vampires disappearing without a trace. Someone is using the weakness of the Las Vegas vampires to hide their own sinister agenda and Scarlett with the help of a very old cowboy are the only ones who can stop them.  

I struggled a little with the Scarlett Bernard books.  They were good, well written urban fantasy but for one reason or another I just didn't connect with Scarlett in those books and it's hard to enjoy a book when the main character leaves you feeling nothing. So when I picked up Midnight Curse I wasn't expecting much –– and I loved it.  

I'm not sure why but I'm loving Scarlett in this series.  Blood Gamble is another solid entry in the series.  It's not perfect, I skipped through all the romance and I think the ending felt a little rushed but there are some truly spectacular urban fantasy moments in this book. 

The grieving vampire cowboy –– Best. Character. Ever.

I am such a sucker for books like this: well-written urban fantasies that juggle werewolves and vampires and humans. Melissa F. Olson does a good job with this one.

If you are to stay alive in the fanged arena, you need special skills. Scarlett Bernard is a "null", a being in whose presence, supernaturals lose their powers. But only when they are within Scarlett's "aura", a radius that can be expanded or narrowed. Scarlett's skill is a useful one and she works part-time for the chief vampire of Los Angeles. She also cleans houses.

Las Vegas is a vastly different place from LA, and it isn't one that Scarlett enjoys, yet she agrees to go on a reconnaissance visit when stories arise about vampires disappearing after attending a stage show put on by two ancient and famed vampires. Bloodshed ensues, but also passion, as Scarlett reconnects with another null who has left Manhattan and is now part of the show entourage.

I wish that Ms Olson had kept the epilogue for her blog, but otherwise this book is worth taking a risk on.

I received a review copy of "Blood Gamble: Disrupted Magic, Book 2" by Melissa F. Olson (47North) through NetGalley.com. Although it is Book 2 in the series, it can stand alone.

Scarlet saves the day again, but was the cost of it worth it? I love the both the characters and the world that the Disrupted Magic world is set in.

So much happens in BLOOD GAMBLE. I shouldn't have been shocked at the way that Scarlet found herself being sent to Vegas, but I still was. Las Vegas was interesting, but none of Scarlet's usual allies were with her. I enjoyed meeting new friends, but I missed having some of the oldies along for the ride.

I really enjoy how Olson continues to connect her various series together. I do wish we would get more of Lex besides the small appearance from book one and the phone call from BLOOD GAMBLE though. She is such a great character and I miss her adventures.

BLOOD GAMBLE was fast paced and full of action. The storyline introduced some new aspects into the world. The ending **eyes popping out of my head** "Say WHAT???" What a bomb to throw in at the last minute. There is no way that I won't pick up a copy of book 3 with that ending.

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Like Midnight Curse, Melissa F. Olson’s Blood Gamble is a “popcorn book.” It’s fun in a paranormal sort of way. Our heroine, Scarlett Bernard, is a flawed but lovable character. And the action has good pacing and innovative twists.
But … you knew there was a “but” coming next, right? It’s still just a 3-star read for me. But to me, three stars is a decent if not wildly memorable book. I have no complaints about that.

In Blood Gamble, Scarlett goes to Vegas to check out a new show, partly as a freelance gig and partly on behalf of her city’s cardinal vampire, Dashiell. And boy, does he manipulate her in the process. That’s no bueno in Scarlett’s mind (and mine too). Powerful vampires are such annoying baddies. However, the relationship between Scarlett and Dashiell is much more gray than black and white in Olson’s mythos, which adds depth to the story. As much as Scarlett is evolving as the story progresses, so is the way Dashiell relates to her.

In the process of telling this story, Olson fills us in on various parts of Scarlett’s backstory. We learn more about her relationships with family, and with her friend Jameson, who’s also a null. As much as I missed her handsome sidekick Jesse Cruz, I like the new dimensions to Scarlett’s character.

Scarlett honestly doesn’t think she’s a hero or that she acts in heroic ways. Ironic for the heroine, right? And not an atypical conflict for this kind of book, which Olson tells well. I couldn’t help but smile when Jesse tells her she’s a hero and Scarlett reacts with, “The only heroes I’d ever met were scary badasses, like Lex. And I felt about as scary as the average Yorkshire terrier. The teacup kind.”

Terriers notwithstanding, our heroine saves the day—or the night since this is a vampire book. I enjoyed a chance to escape into Scarlett’s stressful world of evil versus good. It makes my life feel a lot less stressful, and I needed that this week.

Thanks to NetGalley and publishers 47North for the opportunity to read the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review. The quote above may be different in the final version of the book.

I have a really hard time deciding whether I love or hate Scarlett. She’s definitely made herself difficult to love, but that might be what draws me to her.

In this latest installment, we join back up with Scarlett, still trying to find her footing in a world that treats her as something between a freak and a monster. They either love or hate what she can do and there really is no in between. Through a really weird set of events, Scarlett is somehow forced to take a girl’s weekend in Vegas to see a vampire-run vampire show on the strip. Coming off the heels of the origins of a Dracula tale, it looks like we’re going to see this thing out to its conclusion. Now we get to meet up with the real Arthur and Lucy from the story? Weird.

Of course, nothing ever goes smoothly for Scarlett and here we see her confronted with familiar faces and making all sorts of tough choices. While ultimately, we end up with a doozy of a cliffhanger and some new characters thrown into the mix, the way we get there never stops being baffling. Scarlett is starting to accumulate Dresden-levels of injuries and, jeez, just let her take a normal vacation for once! There was a very minimal amount of the usual players, so this was almost exclusively a Scarlett tale. We could really use a visit with her support system, especially after the trauma she endured in this one.