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Vegas #3
Vegas Sunrise
Facing the dispersal of her children to the four corners of the planet, Las Vegas matriarch Fanny Thornton Reed places the management of Babylon, the fabulous family casino, in the hands of unscrupulous schemer Jeff, her late husband's illegitimate son. 100,000 first printing.
377 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 1997
363 people are currently reading
785 people want to read
About the author
Fern Michaels
428 books6,564 followersFern Michaels isn’t a person. I’m not sure she’s an entity either since an entity is something with separate existence. Fern Michaels® is what I DO. Me, Mary Ruth Kuczkir. Growing up in Hastings, Pennsylvania, I was called Ruth. I became Mary when I entered the business world where first names were the order of the day. To this day, family and friends call me Dink, a name my father gave me when I was born because according to him I was ‘a dinky little thing’ weighing in at four and a half pounds. However, I answer to Fern since people are more comfortable with a name they can pronounce.
As they say, the past is prologue. I grew up, got a job, got married, had five kids. When my youngest went off to Kindergarten, my husband told me to get off my ass and get a job. Those were his exact words. I didn’t know how to do anything except be a wife and mother. I was also a voracious reader having cut my teeth on The Bobbsey Twins, Nancy Drew, The Hardy Boys, Cherry Ames and the like. The library was a magical place for me. It still is to this day. Rather than face the outside world with no skills, I decided to write a book. For some reason that didn’t intimidate me. As my husband said at the time, stupid is as stupid does. Guess what, I don’t have that husband any more. Guess what else! I wrote 99 books, most of them New York Times Best Sellers.
Moving right along here . . . Several years ago I left Ballantine Books, parted company with my agent, sold my house in New Jersey that I had lived in all my married life and in 1993 moved to South Carolina. I figured if I was going to go through trauma let it be all at one time. It was a breeze. The kids were all on their own at that point. The dump was a 300 year old plantation house that is listed in the National Registry that I remodeled. Today it is beyond belief as are the gardens and the equally old Angel Oaks that drip Spanish moss. Unfortunately, I could not get my ghost to relocate. This ghost has been documented by previous owners. Mary Margaret as we call her, is “a friendly”. She is also mischievous. It took me two weeks to figure out that she didn’t like my coffee cups. They would slide off the table or counter or else they’d break in the dishwasher. I bought red checkered ones. All are intact as of this writing. She moves pillows from one room to the other and she stops all the clocks in the house at 9:10 in the a.m. at least once a week. When the Azaleas are in bloom, and only then, I find blooms on my night stand. I have this glorious front porch and during the warm months I see my swing moving early in the morning when the air is still and again late in the day. She doesn’t spook the dogs. I always know when she’s around because the five of them line up and look like they’re at a tennis match. As of this writing we’re co-habiting nicely.
Most writers love what they do and I’m no exception. I love it when I get a germ of an idea and get it down on paper. I love breathing life into my characters. I love writing about women who persevere and prevail because that’s what I had to do to get to this point in time. It’s another way of saying it doesn’t matter where you’ve been, what matters is where you’re going and how you get there. The day I finally prevailed was the day I was inducted into the New Jersey Literary Hall of Fame. For me it was an awesome day and there are no words to describe it.
I’ve been telling stories and scribbling for 37 years. I hope I can continue for another 37 years. It wasn’t easy during some of those years. As I said, I had to persevere. My old Polish grandmother said something to me when I was little that I never forgot. She said when God is good to you, you have to give back. For a while I didn’t know how to do that. When I finally figured it out I set up The Fern Michaels® Foundation.
READ FERN MICHAELS' FULL BIOGRAPHY HERE: http://www.fernmichaels.com/biography/
As they say, the past is prologue. I grew up, got a job, got married, had five kids. When my youngest went off to Kindergarten, my husband told me to get off my ass and get a job. Those were his exact words. I didn’t know how to do anything except be a wife and mother. I was also a voracious reader having cut my teeth on The Bobbsey Twins, Nancy Drew, The Hardy Boys, Cherry Ames and the like. The library was a magical place for me. It still is to this day. Rather than face the outside world with no skills, I decided to write a book. For some reason that didn’t intimidate me. As my husband said at the time, stupid is as stupid does. Guess what, I don’t have that husband any more. Guess what else! I wrote 99 books, most of them New York Times Best Sellers.
Moving right along here . . . Several years ago I left Ballantine Books, parted company with my agent, sold my house in New Jersey that I had lived in all my married life and in 1993 moved to South Carolina. I figured if I was going to go through trauma let it be all at one time. It was a breeze. The kids were all on their own at that point. The dump was a 300 year old plantation house that is listed in the National Registry that I remodeled. Today it is beyond belief as are the gardens and the equally old Angel Oaks that drip Spanish moss. Unfortunately, I could not get my ghost to relocate. This ghost has been documented by previous owners. Mary Margaret as we call her, is “a friendly”. She is also mischievous. It took me two weeks to figure out that she didn’t like my coffee cups. They would slide off the table or counter or else they’d break in the dishwasher. I bought red checkered ones. All are intact as of this writing. She moves pillows from one room to the other and she stops all the clocks in the house at 9:10 in the a.m. at least once a week. When the Azaleas are in bloom, and only then, I find blooms on my night stand. I have this glorious front porch and during the warm months I see my swing moving early in the morning when the air is still and again late in the day. She doesn’t spook the dogs. I always know when she’s around because the five of them line up and look like they’re at a tennis match. As of this writing we’re co-habiting nicely.
Most writers love what they do and I’m no exception. I love it when I get a germ of an idea and get it down on paper. I love breathing life into my characters. I love writing about women who persevere and prevail because that’s what I had to do to get to this point in time. It’s another way of saying it doesn’t matter where you’ve been, what matters is where you’re going and how you get there. The day I finally prevailed was the day I was inducted into the New Jersey Literary Hall of Fame. For me it was an awesome day and there are no words to describe it.
I’ve been telling stories and scribbling for 37 years. I hope I can continue for another 37 years. It wasn’t easy during some of those years. As I said, I had to persevere. My old Polish grandmother said something to me when I was little that I never forgot. She said when God is good to you, you have to give back. For a while I didn’t know how to do that. When I finally figured it out I set up The Fern Michaels® Foundation.
READ FERN MICHAELS' FULL BIOGRAPHY HERE: http://www.fernmichaels.com/biography/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
July 2, 2016
What a stupid book.
Enjoyed the Texas series, vegas series wasn't very good, hope the Kentucky series is better (have bought those 3 books already, but think I'll take a break before reading them.
Fanny still just as selfish as ever in the book. Timelines were strange. Sunny and Harry were lost in the snow storm for less than a day, and yet nearly a decade's worth of things happened to everyone else during that partial day.
Absolutely stupid storyline - very disappointed.
Enjoyed the Texas series, vegas series wasn't very good, hope the Kentucky series is better (have bought those 3 books already, but think I'll take a break before reading them.
Fanny still just as selfish as ever in the book. Timelines were strange. Sunny and Harry were lost in the snow storm for less than a day, and yet nearly a decade's worth of things happened to everyone else during that partial day.
Absolutely stupid storyline - very disappointed.
November 2, 2012
This is the third book in a 3 book series. I didn't read the first two and had some trouble with the characters in the beginning. To many, to fast without introduction because they were in the first two books. But, it was worth the confusing start and you can read this story as a stand alone. All in all it was a good read.
November 10, 2017
This entire series was awful but this was by FAR the worst of them. The characters were boring, stupid & completely unrelatable - either pure evil or heart of gold. The inclusion of ghosts in this book made it cringe-worthy. And just when I was happy the trilogy was ending, the author threw in the final insult: reuniting the evil gold digging whore with her ex-husband who didn't love her. Celia plotted from the moment she met Burke to marry him for his money; she essentially raped his twin brother as he "slept like the dead" (unbelievable); was horrible to, insulted, & stole from his family; and then ran off with his child (if it even is truly Burke's child). And the author insults the audience by having Celia chastise Burke for cheating on her and then having them reunite. HORRIBLE book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2018
** Note: To get the full story of characters & there are many. Read the Texas series 1st. Vegas series 2nd & Kentucky series 3rd ** -- Saw this in some reviews after I already read the Vegas Series.**
This was 1st series/ books I have read of Fern Michaels. They were excellent, kept me right there wanting more. Full of family excitement, drama, death, money from casino, long time friends, tragic things happen and the mother always pulls everyone together. . .
Must read in order.
Vegas Series Read book 1 - October 15, 2018 / book 2 - October 16,2018 / book 3 -October 17 , 2018.
This was 1st series/ books I have read of Fern Michaels. They were excellent, kept me right there wanting more. Full of family excitement, drama, death, money from casino, long time friends, tragic things happen and the mother always pulls everyone together. . .
Must read in order.
Vegas Series Read book 1 - October 15, 2018 / book 2 - October 16,2018 / book 3 -October 17 , 2018.
December 16, 2017
This is the third book, in Fern Michaels trilogy, Vegas. I can’t say enough good things about this trilogy, or Fern Michaels. So, I’m just going to say, if you don’t read these books you’re really going to be missing out. Also, before you start this trilogy, read Fern Michaels series, Texas. After the Vegas series is the Kentucky series. It’s important, I think, to read all these books in the right order. The whole story will make a lot more sense if you do.
June 30, 2021
Fern Michaels' Vegas trilogy (Rich / Heat / Sunrise) is a multigenerational saga which centers on four strong women -- Sallie, Fanny, Billie, and Bess -- and the husbands / sons / lovers in their lives (as least half of whom turn out to be real jerks). At the end of Vegas Rich, I wasn't sure I was going to continue the series, but now I'm glad I did; I'm upgrading my opinion from "miserable" to "memorable."
November 20, 2019
A beautiful story
This is the 3rd book about a & her family in Vegas. It’s very good keeps you wanting to read it to the end. The only thing that bothers me some are the long chapters & changing from one group of people to another that pops up in the next paragraph with there own story. You have to figure out who talking next. I would recommend it though as a very good read.
This is the 3rd book about a & her family in Vegas. It’s very good keeps you wanting to read it to the end. The only thing that bothers me some are the long chapters & changing from one group of people to another that pops up in the next paragraph with there own story. You have to figure out who talking next. I would recommend it though as a very good read.
September 28, 2021
This is the third and final chapter of this branch of the family and they just got stranger and stranger ... now we have ghosts and everyone can fly a plane and order custom planes I liked the mobsters helping the family out . I did not like the new husband replanting the mountain with full grown trees???? who does that and the pests and the expense...made no sense at all.
May 21, 2021
I thought the series was Awsome! I did read them in order. Read a lot of other reviews about the books and don’t know why the reviews weren’t good guess I haven’t been reading as long as some people. Look forward to reading the other series.
August 25, 2021
Vegas Sunrise
Wow loved this book in the series about the Thornton’s and their families. Fern Did a marvellous job on each of these books and all so far were a joy to read. This is my review and mine alone. Norma Gorrill
Wow loved this book in the series about the Thornton’s and their families. Fern Did a marvellous job on each of these books and all so far were a joy to read. This is my review and mine alone. Norma Gorrill
March 31, 2022
Vegas Sunrise … rises again
The series has been so wonderful and as this lady book in the series made me sad for it to end. I have enjoyed the entire set from start to finish. So much joy, laughter and yes some tears but happy tears. 😍
The series has been so wonderful and as this lady book in the series made me sad for it to end. I have enjoyed the entire set from start to finish. So much joy, laughter and yes some tears but happy tears. 😍
August 12, 2022
Terrific ending loved itt
I enjoy stories that the same characters appear. Fern Michael does a terrific job of storytelling she keeps me involved even if am sure I know how it will end I want to see if she does what I think should be happening.
I enjoy stories that the same characters appear. Fern Michael does a terrific job of storytelling she keeps me involved even if am sure I know how it will end I want to see if she does what I think should be happening.
February 19, 2023
This one got a bit ridiculous and the end was somewhat anti-climatic. It was like the author got tired of writing and quickly tied up loose ends without giving it a ton of thought or effort. Overall the series was enjoyable but doubtful I will read again and I don’t really have any interest in reading her Texas or Kentucky series if they are like this one.
June 17, 2017
With the turmoil throughout the book, I started to become disenchanted. However that changed. The series is captivating... though I enjoyed the Texas series a bit more than the Vegas series!
December 15, 2017
Wonderful storyline!!
Wonderful story about the this family and how they bond together during good times as well as difficulty. Thoroughly recommend!!
Wonderful story about the this family and how they bond together during good times as well as difficulty. Thoroughly recommend!!
August 15, 2021
Awesome series
I love the series falling these families! They have struggled but still stay together and fight for each other. Ready to read more!
I love the series falling these families! They have struggled but still stay together and fight for each other. Ready to read more!
October 10, 2021
Mountain of new beginnings
Riches and those that have not. The horrible addiction of gambling, thirst and envy of money. Taking what’s not earned and learning to forgive
Riches and those that have not. The horrible addiction of gambling, thirst and envy of money. Taking what’s not earned and learning to forgive
July 13, 2022
areal Mystery
I story about family dynamics and how they survive to remain alive. Sometimes you dislike the treatment of people who truly only want love.
I story about family dynamics and how they survive to remain alive. Sometimes you dislike the treatment of people who truly only want love.
November 9, 2022
Fun ride ahead!
In the Vegas trilogy Was it just a good old-fashioned story. It even had ghosts. And, a happy ending! The end.
In the Vegas trilogy Was it just a good old-fashioned story. It even had ghosts. And, a happy ending! The end.
January 23, 2023
Unreal dollars
Good but dragged a bit and the whole "I have money " I can do anything was a not my mind set.
Good but dragged a bit and the whole "I have money " I can do anything was a not my mind set.
January 4, 2024
okay until …
They ruined the last book with the over usage of Ash’s ghost giving all his advise etc. It was just silly, over the top and completely unnecessary.
They ruined the last book with the over usage of Ash’s ghost giving all his advise etc. It was just silly, over the top and completely unnecessary.
March 29, 2024
I am happy to be finished with the series. I enjoyed the Texas and Kentucky series better
January 27, 2025
The 3rd book in the series a new generation. It was interesting Fern is a good writer, keeps you interested in the story. Lots of Interesting situations.
March 29, 2025
Book - no longer have
October 7, 2025
I rate this series a 4.5. Enjoyed reading very much.
August 27, 2015
First I just want to confirm, I know this is a novel and that means fiction. But for me fiction needs to be a story I can get lost in and it should be believable. The third book in a series can be difficult to keep the momentum gone. I was slightly disappointed with the opening chapter, considering the events of Ash's and Simon's deaths I was surprised that this info was shared with the entire family.
In general I did enjoy this novel but there were times when the author just seemed to want to move things along and I found myself asking "How did that happen?" Or "Did I miss something?" And of course no matter how bad times are there is always enough money to make everything work whether it is Thornton money or that of an outsider.
It would be interesting if the author were to decide to follow the next generation: Simon, Birch, Sunny and Billie. There are some interesting story possibilities there.
In general I did enjoy this novel but there were times when the author just seemed to want to move things along and I found myself asking "How did that happen?" Or "Did I miss something?" And of course no matter how bad times are there is always enough money to make everything work whether it is Thornton money or that of an outsider.
It would be interesting if the author were to decide to follow the next generation: Simon, Birch, Sunny and Billie. There are some interesting story possibilities there.
May 8, 2015
The last book in the trilogy... although I wouldn't object to another book giving us more of Birch and Celia with "their" son. I agree with some reviewers stating that the timelines are off but life is confusing so it may just be too many characters to keep track of. A reference the author makes near the end has the reader wondering exactly what Celia did in the motel room after all. I highly recommend the series. It takes the reader from the beginning of their poor days to the top of the heap with power abound. Celia starts of sweet turns a bit too plotting until an unfortunate event occurs. Other news changes her life and we see the return of the sweetness. Fern Michaels has the talent to bring characters to life. Some we want to smack and others we want to love.
February 14, 2012
ภาคสาม (จบ) ของซีรีส์เวกัส เรื่องราวของลูก ๆ 4 คนของแฟนนี่กับแอช ความเข้มข้นของเนื้อเรื่องถ้าเทียบกับสองภาคที่แล้วก็ถือว่าจืดไปมาก อีกทั้งยังมีความเกินจริงอยู่มากทำให้เรื่องออกจะน้ำเน่าเกินไป (ประมาณว่ามีการพูดจาโต้ตอบกับวิญญาณของแอชและยังมีการช่วยเหลือของวิญญาณที่ทำให้ผ่านสถานการณ์เลวร้ายมาได้) ความผลิกผันของตัวละครบางตัวดูไม่สมจริง สรุปแล้วภาคนี้มันดูห้วน ๆ ด้วน ๆ เหมือนหาบันไดลงไม่เจอยังไงยังงั้น
เอาใจช่วยลุ้นตลอดเลยว่าอยากให้ภาคจบของซีรีส์นี้ดีเหมือนกับ 2 ภาคที่แล้ว แต่เล่มนี้ตัดใจให้ 3 ดาวละกัน
เอาใจช่วยลุ้นตลอดเลยว่าอยากให้ภาคจบของซีรีส์นี้ดีเหมือนกับ 2 ภาคที่แล้ว แต่เล่มนี้ตัดใจให้ 3 ดาวละกัน
August 7, 2015
This is the third book in the Vegas series. It is a good story and well presented. Lots of action and interaction with Thornton family members. The theme is love and family and it is certainly presented clearly.
I like d this book much better than Vegas Heat. This one really kept my interest and attention.
I like d this book much better than Vegas Heat. This one really kept my interest and attention.
December 26, 2012
Loved the book and the whole series. Kept my interest thru out all three books. Great book on family, loyalty, betrayal, trust. Fern Michaels make. The characters seem like real people and so believable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews