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Dare Valley Meets Paris #1
The Billionaire's Gamble
Self-made billionaire inventor and infamous bad boy Evan Michaels has lost the biggest gamble of his life in a poker game. For one month, he must live and work like a "normal" person in the small town of Dare Valley and give up his playboy ways. When Evan meets Margie Lancaster, his landlord and new boss, he's not so sure he can make it a month.
**Not a Standalone Contemporary Romance. This is a four-part mini-series with cliffhangers!**
**Not a Standalone Contemporary Romance. This is a four-part mini-series with cliffhangers!**
86 pages, ebook
First published August 5, 2015
1059 people are currently reading
763 people want to read
About the author
Ava Miles
101 books1,143 followersMillions of readers have discovered International Bestselling Author Ava Miles and her powerful fiction and non-fiction books about love, happiness, and transformation. Her novels have received praise and accolades from USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly, and People Magazine in addition to being chosen as Best Books of the Year and Top Editor’s picks. Translated into multiple languages, Ava’s strongest praise comes directly from her readers, who call her books and characters unforgettable.
Ava is a former chef, worked as a long-time conflict expert rebuilding warzones to foster peaceful and prosperous communities, and has helped people live their best life as a life coach, energy healer, and self-help expert. She is never happier than when she’s formulating skin care and wellness products, gardening, or creating a new work of art. Hanging with her friends and loved ones is pretty great too.
After years of residing in the States, she decided to follow her dream of living in Europe. She recently finished a magical stint in Ireland where she was inspired to write her acclaimed Unexpected Prince Charming series. Now, she’s splitting her time between Paris and Provence, learning to speak French, immersing herself in cooking à la provençal, and planning more page-turning novels for readers to binge.
Ava is a former chef, worked as a long-time conflict expert rebuilding warzones to foster peaceful and prosperous communities, and has helped people live their best life as a life coach, energy healer, and self-help expert. She is never happier than when she’s formulating skin care and wellness products, gardening, or creating a new work of art. Hanging with her friends and loved ones is pretty great too.
After years of residing in the States, she decided to follow her dream of living in Europe. She recently finished a magical stint in Ireland where she was inspired to write her acclaimed Unexpected Prince Charming series. Now, she’s splitting her time between Paris and Provence, learning to speak French, immersing herself in cooking à la provençal, and planning more page-turning novels for readers to binge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
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August 7, 2015
The Billionaire’s Gamble by Ava Miles is book one in a four part mini-series called Dare Valley Meets Paris. This book was generously provided to me for an honest review by the author.
Evan Michaels is a self-made billionaire. He lives in Paris and has grown accustomed to living a life most only might dream of. He has a reputation for being quite the playboy. He’s playing poker with Rhett Butler and Jane Wilcox in a private tournament and accepts a side bet from Jane. If he loses, he must go to Dare Valley, Colorado, and live for one month as a normal person. And, he must remain celibate for the entire month. Of course, Evan loses the hand. So he’s off to Dare Valley.
Margie Lancaster runs an inn out of a beautiful Victorian home in Dare Valley. She has accepted Evan as a tenant for the month he will be there. She has no idea who Evan really is. She thinks he is a struggling artist trying to get his vibe back. Margie is about to realize her own dream. She is preparing to open her own bakery which will be called Hot Cross Buns. Her specialty will be the most delicious cinnamon rolls in Dare Valley.
As soon as Margie and Evan meet, the attraction is felt by both of them. But during the month Evan is there, they manage to keep their relationship on a friendly level. During that month, they form a strong bond. Before Margie opens her bakery, she is going to go to Paris for a few weeks to study with a famous French chef. So she hopes that during this time, she and Evan can take their relationship to a different level. But Margie has a strong dislike for rich people. What will happen when she finds out who Evan really is? Will she forgive him for keeping his true identity a secret?
This is a very short and sweet story. It contains lots and lots of scrumptious descriptions of ooey gooey cinnamon rolls, and other very tantalizing treats. I swear I could smell the cinnamon. I strongly feel the need to bake now. It was also fun to get to briefly visit with some of my favorite Dare Valley residents from the Dare Valley series. I look forward to book two, The Billionaire’s Secret, which will continue on with Margie and Evan after they are both in Paris.
September 29, 2015
This is another one of those serial series books that annoys me. Sometimes, if the story is good enough, I will overlook the crazy annoying-ness of this format, but in this case... No.
The characters were bland, the story was blah, and I ended up glad it was a serial story just for the simple fact that it was short.
I am in no way interested enough in this story to buy and whole 'nother book. It was ok... But not enough to go to the trouble of getting the next one.
The characters were bland, the story was blah, and I ended up glad it was a serial story just for the simple fact that it was short.
I am in no way interested enough in this story to buy and whole 'nother book. It was ok... But not enough to go to the trouble of getting the next one.
March 20, 2016
"The Billionaire's Gamble" was not one of my favorite reads from Ava Miles and I found myself surprised. I have read books from both the Dare Valley and Dare River series and loved them> I was very disappointed when I didn't feel the same about "The Billionaire's Gamble."
I felt Ms. Miles was trying too hard to add yet another branch to the Dare Valley and Dare River Series. The story was too short. To me, it seem that Ms. Miles tried to fit a much longer story into 6 short chapters. I felt very cheated at the end of open ended storyline.
It's my opinion that Margie and Evan's story could and should have been a stand-alone story within the Dare Valley Series. Ms. Miles could have then taken us further into their relationship and the ties to Dare Valley and connections to the characters in that series.
I don't think I'll be moving onto the 2nd book "The Billionaire's Secret."
I felt Ms. Miles was trying too hard to add yet another branch to the Dare Valley and Dare River Series. The story was too short. To me, it seem that Ms. Miles tried to fit a much longer story into 6 short chapters. I felt very cheated at the end of open ended storyline.
It's my opinion that Margie and Evan's story could and should have been a stand-alone story within the Dare Valley Series. Ms. Miles could have then taken us further into their relationship and the ties to Dare Valley and connections to the characters in that series.
I don't think I'll be moving onto the 2nd book "The Billionaire's Secret."
September 1, 2023
When I read this I didn’t know it was a cliffhanger. I would not have read it if I had known. I also thought that the story itself was bland. I would not recommend this book.
June 13, 2016
Cliffhanger. AGH!
August 14, 2015
Invoking True Romance: Contemporary Successfully Meets 19th Century Magazine Installment Genre
Ava Miles does it again with her latest series about Paris billionaire Evan Michaels and Dare Valley baker entrepreneur Margie Lancaster. We first met Margie as manager at Jill Hale’s coffee shop, Don’t Soy With Me. The Billionaire’s Gamble is based on Evan’s lost bet with Jane Wilcox and Rhett Butler Blaylock who are professional gamblers and residents of Dare Valley.
Will Evan be able to reawaken his inventing muse by spending time as a “regular civilian” in small town Dare Valley? Will he follow through with every part of the restrictions set by Jane and Rhett, or will he succumb to his “Pocket Venus,” his landlord Margie’s charms?
Will Margie be able to resist Evan’s charms despite her own promise to avoid all artists and creative geniuses ( especially those with addiction problems) like her ex? Will she discover the truth of Evan’s identity before he’s ready to share it with her? Will Margie be successful in opening her own bakery, Hot Cross Buns?
Chemistry is difficult to deny, especially between these two who both have something they’re keeping to themselves. Margie and Evan share more than the spark of physical attraction, though, because they both love to create: she’s got a passion for baking and restoring old houses, and he’s got a passion for innovating gadgets and technology, plus they’re both self-made entrepreneurs.
Novellas are a wonderful way to capture a snapshot of part of a much bigger tale, and Ava Miles draws upon more of her writing talents with her nod to the 19th century magazine installment genre. Each installment keeps the reader wondering what will happen next, waiting all too eagerly for another piece of the puzzle to materialize and make us whole.
Whether you’re interested in baking, owning your own business (be it small or corporation), inventing gadgets, fantasy novels, traveling, great works of art and/or painting, you’ll enjoy this series immensely. If you’re the type who “binge watches” series, then read all 4 at the same time, though!
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own. I loved this book!!!
Ava Miles does it again with her latest series about Paris billionaire Evan Michaels and Dare Valley baker entrepreneur Margie Lancaster. We first met Margie as manager at Jill Hale’s coffee shop, Don’t Soy With Me. The Billionaire’s Gamble is based on Evan’s lost bet with Jane Wilcox and Rhett Butler Blaylock who are professional gamblers and residents of Dare Valley.
Will Evan be able to reawaken his inventing muse by spending time as a “regular civilian” in small town Dare Valley? Will he follow through with every part of the restrictions set by Jane and Rhett, or will he succumb to his “Pocket Venus,” his landlord Margie’s charms?
Will Margie be able to resist Evan’s charms despite her own promise to avoid all artists and creative geniuses ( especially those with addiction problems) like her ex? Will she discover the truth of Evan’s identity before he’s ready to share it with her? Will Margie be successful in opening her own bakery, Hot Cross Buns?
Chemistry is difficult to deny, especially between these two who both have something they’re keeping to themselves. Margie and Evan share more than the spark of physical attraction, though, because they both love to create: she’s got a passion for baking and restoring old houses, and he’s got a passion for innovating gadgets and technology, plus they’re both self-made entrepreneurs.
Novellas are a wonderful way to capture a snapshot of part of a much bigger tale, and Ava Miles draws upon more of her writing talents with her nod to the 19th century magazine installment genre. Each installment keeps the reader wondering what will happen next, waiting all too eagerly for another piece of the puzzle to materialize and make us whole.
Whether you’re interested in baking, owning your own business (be it small or corporation), inventing gadgets, fantasy novels, traveling, great works of art and/or painting, you’ll enjoy this series immensely. If you’re the type who “binge watches” series, then read all 4 at the same time, though!
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own. I loved this book!!!
April 6, 2017
Board me to death
This story drug on and on. It was refreshing to read a story that was well edited so I continued to the end. Well the story never picked up and certainly didn't leave me wanting more. I felt it had a wonderful story idea but it wasn't pulled off well. It may get better in the next issue but I don't want to waste money on a story that may be as fulfilling as this one.
This story drug on and on. It was refreshing to read a story that was well edited so I continued to the end. Well the story never picked up and certainly didn't leave me wanting more. I felt it had a wonderful story idea but it wasn't pulled off well. It may get better in the next issue but I don't want to waste money on a story that may be as fulfilling as this one.
February 14, 2018
I normally enjoy this author’s books but found this one disappointing and not as good as her others. The format is one I heartily dislike but I was willing to go with it as I follow this author. However, I won’t be continuing with this series. Cliffhanger type series always make me feel ripped off by the author or publisher or whoever decides the format of a book. I won’t be bothering with the rest of this series.
January 19, 2017
ugh. I don't mind a series of books that have the same characters as long as each book can stand on its own. This novel reads more like a chapter in a larger story.
January 4, 2024
Caution- serial novella with a cliffhanger.
While the writing was simple, well edited, and clean; the characters and plot were basic and heavily trope-laden.
This serial novella was a fairly disappointing story from Ms. Miles, who has the ability to write dazzling and charming well developed and witty full length sweet (and sweetish) romances.
PG. No language, violence, or sex- but there is definite sexual content.
While the writing was simple, well edited, and clean; the characters and plot were basic and heavily trope-laden.
This serial novella was a fairly disappointing story from Ms. Miles, who has the ability to write dazzling and charming well developed and witty full length sweet (and sweetish) romances.
PG. No language, violence, or sex- but there is definite sexual content.
July 27, 2021
The Billionaire's gamble is about Evan Michaels a.k.a. Evan Murray lost to a side bet from a poker game. The bet forces him to live as a normal person in a small town where he meets Margie his new landlord and employer as a painter.
The story is pretty light and cute. But readers should be aware that this is just the 1st part of one book. Evan and Margie's story does not end here. There is no conclusion in this book. Unlike other serial novels where one chapter of thwir life ends in a single book.
That's the downside and I don't know if I appreciate this marketing tactic. Storywise, I can't wait to get the next book and find the ending.
The story is pretty light and cute. But readers should be aware that this is just the 1st part of one book. Evan and Margie's story does not end here. There is no conclusion in this book. Unlike other serial novels where one chapter of thwir life ends in a single book.
That's the downside and I don't know if I appreciate this marketing tactic. Storywise, I can't wait to get the next book and find the ending.
July 5, 2020
Unfortunately, it's a series
I absolutely love Ava Miles' books, each and every one. Period.
The only reason this get a 4 is because I absolutely detest series. They should say episode 1 on them or something. When I buy a book I expect for it to be the entire book not an episode of a book. Naturally, because of my love for Ava Miles', I will love the 'rest of the story' as Paul Harvey used to say.
I absolutely love Ava Miles' books, each and every one. Period.
The only reason this get a 4 is because I absolutely detest series. They should say episode 1 on them or something. When I buy a book I expect for it to be the entire book not an episode of a book. Naturally, because of my love for Ava Miles', I will love the 'rest of the story' as Paul Harvey used to say.
January 17, 2021
I love a good series but not like this I don’t. This book rushed to the characters wanting each other desperately with no build up or tension. Then and for me this is the worse crime, it just finished mid story with a “ want to find out what happened next? Then buy the next book” No!! Finish the story. A series should be standalone books that build up not half a tale! Needless to say I didn’t care enough to read the next one.
August 4, 2017
Shut My Mouth With A Cinnamon Roll!
Who knew a little simplicity for a month could create such havoc? A billionaire loses a bet and spends 30 days in Dare Valley having to find a job and be celibate at the same time. How hard could be? Ha! Great characters, awesome plot! Warning...I had a hard craving for homemade cinnamon rolls while reading!
Who knew a little simplicity for a month could create such havoc? A billionaire loses a bet and spends 30 days in Dare Valley having to find a job and be celibate at the same time. How hard could be? Ha! Great characters, awesome plot! Warning...I had a hard craving for homemade cinnamon rolls while reading!
October 17, 2018
Date Valley 1
Evan is very rich but likes a good gamble. After losing a bet he finds himself out of Paris and in Dare Valley for a month. While there, he meets Margie and they both find an interest in each other.
I found this book very good but I won't be purchasing the rest of the series. I cannot justify spending $9-$12 for a story no more than 320 pages.
Evan is very rich but likes a good gamble. After losing a bet he finds himself out of Paris and in Dare Valley for a month. While there, he meets Margie and they both find an interest in each other.
I found this book very good but I won't be purchasing the rest of the series. I cannot justify spending $9-$12 for a story no more than 320 pages.
September 22, 2018
This is a good start to a series.
I am glad that I read the warning. This, and the other two that follow, end with cliffhangers. I really enjoyed this book. I may or may not buy the next books.
I am glad that I read the warning. This, and the other two that follow, end with cliffhangers. I really enjoyed this book. I may or may not buy the next books.
December 15, 2019
I honestly don't know.
I haven't read the books written previously to this one, and to fully understand the story I feel like I would need to read them first to give my honest opinion.
I haven't read the books written previously to this one, and to fully understand the story I feel like I would need to read them first to give my honest opinion.
April 2, 2022
A billionaire takes a bet.
Evan arrives in Dare Valley to spend one week on the amount of money his first paycheck. Margie is trying to open small bakery. They're both hiding something. He's a billionaire and she comes from family money.
Evan arrives in Dare Valley to spend one week on the amount of money his first paycheck. Margie is trying to open small bakery. They're both hiding something. He's a billionaire and she comes from family money.
September 16, 2022
short book
This was way too short for a book. It is good but wonder why the author didn’t keep going and has a volume 2 to complete the book. If you like short stories, you will love it, but there is a cliffhanger!
This was way too short for a book. It is good but wonder why the author didn’t keep going and has a volume 2 to complete the book. If you like short stories, you will love it, but there is a cliffhanger!
June 13, 2017
Angry
I really enjoyed this story,but man was I mad at the way it ended.Sorry I don't like not finishing up at the end.
I really enjoyed this story,but man was I mad at the way it ended.Sorry I don't like not finishing up at the end.
January 5, 2018
A Winner
Another exceptional effort by Ava. I so enjoy getting lost in her books. On to the next adventure for me.
Another exceptional effort by Ava. I so enjoy getting lost in her books. On to the next adventure for me.
January 31, 2018
Absolutely delightful
This was a sweet romantic detour into another part of that darling town of Dare Valley. Just a absolute pleasure to read
This was a sweet romantic detour into another part of that darling town of Dare Valley. Just a absolute pleasure to read
June 6, 2018
Nice to get the back story on these characters...love the series. :)
October 15, 2018
Enjoyed
Lighthearted romance. Poker game with a side bet. Did he win or lose? Leaving the country he lives in to be a person who is completely different.
Lighthearted romance. Poker game with a side bet. Did he win or lose? Leaving the country he lives in to be a person who is completely different.
December 17, 2018
One of the dumbest things I've read this year.
September 14, 2019
Good read
Good read. You get involved quickly. Like the characters as they relate to the Dare Valley series. Can't wait to begin my next one.
Good read. You get involved quickly. Like the characters as they relate to the Dare Valley series. Can't wait to begin my next one.
September 24, 2019
Enjoyable
I just enjoy Ava's work. Now I feel like I know the characters so I just have to read more about them!
I just enjoy Ava's work. Now I feel like I know the characters so I just have to read more about them!
July 20, 2020
Great book
September 7, 2020
Sweet premise just didn't feel like buying additional books. Didn't have patience to get through the 'she doesn't like rich people' trope.
February 10, 2021
Pretty good
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews