What do you think?
Rate this book
What Really Happens in Vegas: True Stories of the People Who Make Vegas, Vegas
What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas—until now. James Patterson shows the real Vegas in a dazzling journey through “lively tales of those who labor and dream in Sin City" (Kirkus).
“Wild and wonderful…The magic of Sin City doesn’t just happen. Patterson and Seal tell its secrets in beautifully presented snippets that often overlap not just surprisingly, but charmingly too.” —Telegraph (UK)
Las Vegas is on Luxury Standard every clock in the airport is a Rolex. No dream is too big, no wish is too small—the VIP hosts in Vegas fulfill guests’ every (legal) desire. Jackpots hit when least expected. The Nevada Gaming Control Board has days to find a man who unknowingly won over $200,000 at the slots. “I love love”: the inventor of the Elvis impersonator wedding and the drive-thru wedding has performed hundreds of marriages—and believes in them all. Glamorous yogis take a helicopter across the desert to the Valley of Fire, where they perform sun salutations to the glory of Las Vegas. A gambling VIP “whale” loses $1 million at the casinos, yet still leaves saying, "Had a great time. I'll be back."
In What Really Happens in Vegas, full of surprises for both newcomers and Las Vegas regulars, James Patterson and Vanity Fair contributing editor Mark Seal transport readers from the thrill of adrenaline-fueled vice to the glitter of A-list celebrity and entertainment.
“Wild and wonderful…The magic of Sin City doesn’t just happen. Patterson and Seal tell its secrets in beautifully presented snippets that often overlap not just surprisingly, but charmingly too.” —Telegraph (UK)
Las Vegas is on Luxury Standard every clock in the airport is a Rolex. No dream is too big, no wish is too small—the VIP hosts in Vegas fulfill guests’ every (legal) desire. Jackpots hit when least expected. The Nevada Gaming Control Board has days to find a man who unknowingly won over $200,000 at the slots. “I love love”: the inventor of the Elvis impersonator wedding and the drive-thru wedding has performed hundreds of marriages—and believes in them all. Glamorous yogis take a helicopter across the desert to the Valley of Fire, where they perform sun salutations to the glory of Las Vegas. A gambling VIP “whale” loses $1 million at the casinos, yet still leaves saying, "Had a great time. I'll be back."
In What Really Happens in Vegas, full of surprises for both newcomers and Las Vegas regulars, James Patterson and Vanity Fair contributing editor Mark Seal transport readers from the thrill of adrenaline-fueled vice to the glitter of A-list celebrity and entertainment.
345 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 4, 2023
About the author
James Patterson
1,065 books346k followersOfficial US Site
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time. He is the creator of unforgettable characters and series, including Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride, and of breathtaking true stories about the Kennedys, John Lennon, and Tiger Woods, as well as our military heroes, police officers, and ER nurses. Patterson has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton and Dolly Parton, and collaborated most recently with Michael Crichton on the blockbuster Eruption. He has told the story of his own life in James Patterson by James Patterson and received an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time. He is the creator of unforgettable characters and series, including Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride, and of breathtaking true stories about the Kennedys, John Lennon, and Tiger Woods, as well as our military heroes, police officers, and ER nurses. Patterson has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton and Dolly Parton, and collaborated most recently with Michael Crichton on the blockbuster Eruption. He has told the story of his own life in James Patterson by James Patterson and received an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
April 4, 2024
Actual title: What Really Happens in Vegas: True Stories of the People Who Make Vegas, Vegas
The title is catchy, but not truly indicative of the content. The tone differs from efforts in a similar vein by Patterson, and unfortunately, isn't quite as engaging as his other non-fiction character sketches.
One of the key differences is that this is more of a story of Las Vegas as a place, and an idea, as opposed to telling the conversational stories of individuals sharing their experiences. It's a behind-the-scenes look at the growth and evolution of Las Vegas with some information on individual persons who made and make Las Vegas. Generally, those persons are well-known and recognizable names associated with all the realms of The City That Never Sleeps.
I did find some of the content interesting and educational, but it became progressively less interesting as I couldn't identify with much of the background as I'm not too familiar with the foreground; I've never been to Las Vegas. It would likely be of more interest to someone who has been to and is familiar with the city, or even someone who lives there and wants to know more about the development of the area and the names behind the capitalistic changes.
I think with the title and Vegas's reputation as a city of indulgence and seduction, readers may expect more gossipy or scandalous tales, but this isn't that.
The title is catchy, but not truly indicative of the content. The tone differs from efforts in a similar vein by Patterson, and unfortunately, isn't quite as engaging as his other non-fiction character sketches.
One of the key differences is that this is more of a story of Las Vegas as a place, and an idea, as opposed to telling the conversational stories of individuals sharing their experiences. It's a behind-the-scenes look at the growth and evolution of Las Vegas with some information on individual persons who made and make Las Vegas. Generally, those persons are well-known and recognizable names associated with all the realms of The City That Never Sleeps.
I did find some of the content interesting and educational, but it became progressively less interesting as I couldn't identify with much of the background as I'm not too familiar with the foreground; I've never been to Las Vegas. It would likely be of more interest to someone who has been to and is familiar with the city, or even someone who lives there and wants to know more about the development of the area and the names behind the capitalistic changes.
I think with the title and Vegas's reputation as a city of indulgence and seduction, readers may expect more gossipy or scandalous tales, but this isn't that.
March 18, 2024
Between "Private, Las Vegas" and "What Happens in Vegas," James Patterson should stop writing about Vegas.
February 4, 2024
Read this to remind myself of all the things that fascinated me about Las Vegas when I began writing THE PRINCESS OF LAS VEGAS three years ago -- and as book tour "prep." Also, the ONLY blurb on my first novel (the single worst first novel ever published, bar none) was. . .James Patterson. Thank you again, James!
February 3, 2024
James Patterson tends to publish one or two non-fiction books each year, and “What Really Happens in Vegas” takes the readers behind the scenes stories that make Las Vegas the ultimate experience that it is for visitors.
It focuses on the movers and shakers who provided incredible visions that made Vegas a mecca for incredible visual experiences. It shares stories behind some of the biggest attractions like the Bellagio’s and Cirque du Soleil’s water shows (although different), as well as the magicians and famous chefs that have created their own successful styles in sin city. It also explores some of the history of Vegas, including establishing the mob museum and the little wedding chapels that include drive through service.
I especially enjoyed the stories of slot machine winners. There was one about tracking down an unknown winner whose slot machine froze up at Treasure Island and so he left. Another one was about an insurance agent leaving Vegas and winning at a slot machine in Harry Reid International Airport when her plane was getting ready to take off. For me, the personal stories were the best ones. And of course, there’s a story of a successful Elvis impersonator because that would be wrong.
The strength of this book was in the research and connection with the working insiders of Las Vegas. It provides interesting background and insight to some of Vegas’s biggest sites, shows, and experiences. I was pleased to read about the story behind the famous “What happens here, stays here” marketing slogan and how it was created and originally received by the public.
Overall, this is quick read, enabling you to focus on the stories that interest you more, while skimming the ones that that you find less of a connection with.
It focuses on the movers and shakers who provided incredible visions that made Vegas a mecca for incredible visual experiences. It shares stories behind some of the biggest attractions like the Bellagio’s and Cirque du Soleil’s water shows (although different), as well as the magicians and famous chefs that have created their own successful styles in sin city. It also explores some of the history of Vegas, including establishing the mob museum and the little wedding chapels that include drive through service.
I especially enjoyed the stories of slot machine winners. There was one about tracking down an unknown winner whose slot machine froze up at Treasure Island and so he left. Another one was about an insurance agent leaving Vegas and winning at a slot machine in Harry Reid International Airport when her plane was getting ready to take off. For me, the personal stories were the best ones. And of course, there’s a story of a successful Elvis impersonator because that would be wrong.
The strength of this book was in the research and connection with the working insiders of Las Vegas. It provides interesting background and insight to some of Vegas’s biggest sites, shows, and experiences. I was pleased to read about the story behind the famous “What happens here, stays here” marketing slogan and how it was created and originally received by the public.
Overall, this is quick read, enabling you to focus on the stories that interest you more, while skimming the ones that that you find less of a connection with.
December 29, 2023
I received an ARC of this audiobook from Netgalley.
I really had to struggle to listen to this book. I have lived in Las Vegas for over 25 years and I can say I learned a lot about things I didn’t know before. Mostly, I learned about the rich, the famous, the happy, the successful, and the political movers and shakers and ultimate decision makers. A better title would be “What really happens in Vegas if you’re a mover and shaker on the Las Vegas Strip”
This book in no way reflects the reality I have had living here. There’s no mention of how horribly the homeless are treated, our rampant violence, or any of the other true realities of living in Las Vegas for the regular person.
There are so many of us that live by “I can’t afford” as in - I can’t afford the parking, the show, the concert, the meal, the glitz or the glamor.
Vegas was great for poor people when the poor were accepted by the establishments with $2.99 steak & eggs, Free attractions like the volcano and white tigers at The Mirage, the pirate show at Treasure Island, the lions at MGM - all of which are gone now.
This city has never embraced the down and out locals. If you can’t afford the goodies - you aren’t welcome.
There’s a whole other behind the scenes life here that has nothing to do with the strip.
These stories and anecdotes are nice and informative, and basically have no impact on the lives of the Las Vegas locals without cash to spare.
December 22, 2023
Ugh. I kept thinking that it would get better. It didn’t.
January 23, 2024
Loved this book. If you love Vegas you will love hearing about the behind the scenes, the stories behind the attractions and The Strip. It was fun and interesting, great in audio
January 18, 2024
A fun, quick read on the people who made Vegas into the glittering entertainment mecca that it is today.
This is divided into a series of vignettes about different aspects of what makes Vegas Vegas, and while some are more interesting than others, the book flows well as a whole and ranges around various facets of its tourism industry in a way that feels fairly all-encompassing.
The chapters on hoteliers, restauranteurs, and the gaming commission are a lot more interesting than those about things like, for example, a local yoga instructor, and it paints a pretty accurate picture of the city, and most specifically the Strip.
I would have preferred that the book diversify a bit away from the Wynns so that the reader gets a greater variety of information on the hotels (which, to me, are the best part of Vegas). I also would have preferred more inside-y, how the sausage gets made kinds of content than personal stories, but in all it’s a solidly entertaining book.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
This is divided into a series of vignettes about different aspects of what makes Vegas Vegas, and while some are more interesting than others, the book flows well as a whole and ranges around various facets of its tourism industry in a way that feels fairly all-encompassing.
The chapters on hoteliers, restauranteurs, and the gaming commission are a lot more interesting than those about things like, for example, a local yoga instructor, and it paints a pretty accurate picture of the city, and most specifically the Strip.
I would have preferred that the book diversify a bit away from the Wynns so that the reader gets a greater variety of information on the hotels (which, to me, are the best part of Vegas). I also would have preferred more inside-y, how the sausage gets made kinds of content than personal stories, but in all it’s a solidly entertaining book.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
December 4, 2023
Thank you to James Patteron, Mark Seal, Hatchett Audio Little Brown and Company, and Netgalley. This is a non-fiction book about what really happens behind the scenes in Las Vegas. Short stories about keeping the city that never sleeps going and magical with so many options other than slot machines. I’ve only been to Vegas as a stopping point through an airport, but I plan on going this next spring. Ive seen the fountains at the Ballagio, but I didn’t realize they needed scuba divers on staff. Did you know that you can do yoga in a helicopter? This book covers how the idea of Vegas came to fruition and gives you several behind the scenes examples that keep it running smoothly.
December 12, 2023
This is NOT a typical Patterson book.
It’s well written by co-author, Mark Seal, a nonfiction writer.
True stories about Las Vegas according to people that have lived there, worked there & visited.
Interesting.
I recommend this book.
It’s well written by co-author, Mark Seal, a nonfiction writer.
True stories about Las Vegas according to people that have lived there, worked there & visited.
Interesting.
I recommend this book.
December 4, 2023
This was an interesting nonfiction book about Vegas. Having never been, I enjoyed learning about the history of the town. The book is written in short chapters; each chapter is a new tale about the history, the people, and the entertainment.
I listened to the audio book and thought the man reading did a good job. He made it easy to listen to.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Audio for letting me listen to this ALC. :)
I listened to the audio book and thought the man reading did a good job. He made it easy to listen to.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Audio for letting me listen to this ALC. :)
December 7, 2023
*****I received this free audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I have recently traveled to Las Vegas so it made this book all the more interesting. It was about the stories that made Vegas what it is. How it evolved. It gives you a peek at the lives of many different people who worked there.
I found this book fascinating! I loved hearing about what I have experienced on my recent vacations as well as add more things on my “next visit” list.
I have recently traveled to Las Vegas so it made this book all the more interesting. It was about the stories that made Vegas what it is. How it evolved. It gives you a peek at the lives of many different people who worked there.
I found this book fascinating! I loved hearing about what I have experienced on my recent vacations as well as add more things on my “next visit” list.
October 18, 2023
I received a free copy of, What really Happens in Vegas, by James Patterson, Mark Seal, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I love Vegas, its so unique. This is is an interesting book on Vegas. I learned so new things about Vegas, and refreshed my memories on other parts. This books talks about casinos, the airport, the stars and more.
January 17, 2024
I felt the book was misleading. I thought it was going to be a lot of stories from people living on the strip, casino workers, taxi drivers, homeless people etc.
It reads like a dry history book about Steve Wynn outside of the few interesting sections. I DNF it after about page 220.
There’s also no sections about to south end casinos like NYNY, Excalibur, Luxor etc.
It reads like a dry history book about Steve Wynn outside of the few interesting sections. I DNF it after about page 220.
There’s also no sections about to south end casinos like NYNY, Excalibur, Luxor etc.
January 3, 2024
Dull writing. Writing style and descriptions were poor. Dragged on and repetivie instead of creating the imagery I think the author aimed for.
Some cute anecdotes, but not enough to create this book.
Some cute anecdotes, but not enough to create this book.
April 24, 2024
I really wanted to love this book but alas, like many gamblers, I placed my bet and lost. There is so much wrong with this book, and I’ll summarize:
1. The title - this is NOT a what really happens account. This is a glossy travelogue that glorifies poor decisions, exalts problematic figures (Goodman, Wynn to name two), and spends almost no time on anything dark. And Vegas has a dark side. If they had called it “Neon Nights: Fun, Fame, and High Rolling in Sin City” it would have fit better.
2. The writing - my gosh it’s like nobody edited this book. There is literally a page that explains the definition of a term…and a very short time later they define the same term in the same way once again. Some chapters do have very interesting fun stories, but there are also quite a few dull chapters that could have been left out.
3. This book was just released…and it’s already dated. There is some factually incorrect content. I know that happens in travel books but it was almost embarrassing how fast it happened here. From describing certain shows as massive hits when they are in reality shutting down, to calling certain establishments the “newest casino on the strip” when there are already multiple newer spots, it’s just weird and poorly researched.
In summary what is frustrating is that there is so much interesting about Vegas that they stayed away from and instead dedicated entire chapters to call girls or doing the Stratosphere bungee jump that are far less interesting or influential to the Strip. The book didn’t seem to know what it wanted to be - history? -humor? -advertisement?, and while there were some really fun portions, sadly it was more of a Chicken Soup for the Gamblers Soul than anything more substantial. A shame really, but maybe my love for Vegas and knowledge of Sin City made me the wrong person for this experience.
1. The title - this is NOT a what really happens account. This is a glossy travelogue that glorifies poor decisions, exalts problematic figures (Goodman, Wynn to name two), and spends almost no time on anything dark. And Vegas has a dark side. If they had called it “Neon Nights: Fun, Fame, and High Rolling in Sin City” it would have fit better.
2. The writing - my gosh it’s like nobody edited this book. There is literally a page that explains the definition of a term…and a very short time later they define the same term in the same way once again. Some chapters do have very interesting fun stories, but there are also quite a few dull chapters that could have been left out.
3. This book was just released…and it’s already dated. There is some factually incorrect content. I know that happens in travel books but it was almost embarrassing how fast it happened here. From describing certain shows as massive hits when they are in reality shutting down, to calling certain establishments the “newest casino on the strip” when there are already multiple newer spots, it’s just weird and poorly researched.
In summary what is frustrating is that there is so much interesting about Vegas that they stayed away from and instead dedicated entire chapters to call girls or doing the Stratosphere bungee jump that are far less interesting or influential to the Strip. The book didn’t seem to know what it wanted to be - history? -humor? -advertisement?, and while there were some really fun portions, sadly it was more of a Chicken Soup for the Gamblers Soul than anything more substantial. A shame really, but maybe my love for Vegas and knowledge of Sin City made me the wrong person for this experience.
March 21, 2024
I found this extremely entertaining and a lot of that was thanks to Phil Morris, the narrator. He performed it rather than just read it and seemed as interested in the material as the authors. Just little vignettes about the history of Vegas and all their marketing strategies plus days in the lives of those who work and visit there. 🎧
March 4, 2024
I had some great expectations that this book would be recounting some wild true stories of experiences people had while visiting Vegas. Mostly what we have here is a 358 page brochure of why we all should be visiting Las Vegas. There was some history of the creating of the casinos, that was mildly interesting. We had some true stories, with some interviews.
The majority of the book is exactly like reading advertisements with just more flowery, compliments and descriptions of what can be seen in Vegas.
I really hope the publishers got a huge kickback from the casinos in Vegas as this was just a large load of advertising for them. I’m picturing casino lobbies handing the book out free.
I was surprised to see that Mark Seal the co-writer of this mess also authored “Leave the Gun, Take the Canole: The Epic Story of the Making of the Godfather” as that was very well written and interesting.
I can’t really recommend this to anyone as it just seemed full of fluff to pad out more pages. A small bit here and there was interesting enough for me to give it 2 stars.
The majority of the book is exactly like reading advertisements with just more flowery, compliments and descriptions of what can be seen in Vegas.
I really hope the publishers got a huge kickback from the casinos in Vegas as this was just a large load of advertising for them. I’m picturing casino lobbies handing the book out free.
I was surprised to see that Mark Seal the co-writer of this mess also authored “Leave the Gun, Take the Canole: The Epic Story of the Making of the Godfather” as that was very well written and interesting.
I can’t really recommend this to anyone as it just seemed full of fluff to pad out more pages. A small bit here and there was interesting enough for me to give it 2 stars.
March 11, 2024
Interesting but not what I thought it would be. Lots of facts and slow reading
January 4, 2024
I lived in the outskirts of Las Vegas when I was 10 to 13 years old (1988-1991). It was an exciting time to live there, as the Mirage and Excalibur opened when I lived there, and you could still get a $1 breakfast.
I loved learning about the inner workings of modern Vegas from this book. The authors interviewed workers, profiled Steve Wynn (who I didn’t know was the visionary of modern Vegas - I just thought he opened a couple casinos), and even featured the ad campaign, “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.”
I really liked the interviews of workers who give you insight to the VIP areas, as I could never see that side myself.
Lots of great info to ingest and an easy, clear read.
I loved learning about the inner workings of modern Vegas from this book. The authors interviewed workers, profiled Steve Wynn (who I didn’t know was the visionary of modern Vegas - I just thought he opened a couple casinos), and even featured the ad campaign, “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.”
I really liked the interviews of workers who give you insight to the VIP areas, as I could never see that side myself.
Lots of great info to ingest and an easy, clear read.
December 25, 2023
*I received the audiobook via NetGalley *
So to start off, I thought this was going to be a fictional story, it’s fine either way. It’s pretty interesting to hear about the history of Las Vegas and some cool fact that I wouldn’t have otherwise known.
I particularly liked hearing about the landmarks and being able to be like “oh I’ve been there”.
The story was pretty good.
Also the narrator did a good job
So to start off, I thought this was going to be a fictional story, it’s fine either way. It’s pretty interesting to hear about the history of Las Vegas and some cool fact that I wouldn’t have otherwise known.
I particularly liked hearing about the landmarks and being able to be like “oh I’ve been there”.
The story was pretty good.
Also the narrator did a good job
January 28, 2024
Unique stories of the real workers of Vegas. Liked some, others not so much. Found myself skimming through the ones I found boring. I love Vegas. Go at least once a year.
April 25, 2024
I would only recommend this book to Vegas-goers. It delves into content with an assumption that you know the landscape and will understand the winks and references splayed throughout.
This being said, as a somebody who is enthralled by the city of Las Vegas, it was a fantastic peek behind the curtain at so many different angles of Las Vegas.
I probably won’t ever be a “whale” that can have cuisine from the greatest restaurants appear in front of them with the snap of a finger. I’ll very likely never be a private chauffeur for royalty and celebrities that has to learn to cater to their every wish. I’ll certainly never be a topless bartender at a gentleman’s club. It is because of these things that reading how Vegas is seen through each of these lenses, following a new person through their story and life each chapter, that shows you all of the individual elements that make Las Vegas magical for so many different people.
This being said, as a somebody who is enthralled by the city of Las Vegas, it was a fantastic peek behind the curtain at so many different angles of Las Vegas.
I probably won’t ever be a “whale” that can have cuisine from the greatest restaurants appear in front of them with the snap of a finger. I’ll very likely never be a private chauffeur for royalty and celebrities that has to learn to cater to their every wish. I’ll certainly never be a topless bartender at a gentleman’s club. It is because of these things that reading how Vegas is seen through each of these lenses, following a new person through their story and life each chapter, that shows you all of the individual elements that make Las Vegas magical for so many different people.
March 14, 2024
It was fine.
March 3, 2024
Really interesting to learn about the history of parts of Vegas.
September 27, 2023
Prolific author James Patterson teams up with Mark Seal for a delightful non-fiction book about all the behind the scenes things necessary to keep the 24 hour city glittering and amazing. Starting with the scuba divers who do daily maintenance at the Bellagio Fountain, the book is structured as a journey: from the airport with 1400 slot machines and its expansive Liquor Library in baggage claim, to the seven high end Rolls Royce chauffeurs who take you to your fantasy destiny. This book tells a lot of incredible tales about old Vegas history and current secrets. It really is like meeting a Vegas old-timer at a bar and staying (plus drinking) for hours while the guy spins all his stories about celebrities and gangsters.
Among other tales, Patterson details the life of a VIP concierge who fulfills the last minute dreams of high rollers; a Midwest patron who hits it big at the at the Wheel of Fortune Machine while at the airport; the characters of the quickie wedding chapels; the day pool girls; the housewives on secret getaways. Each chapter is infused with the spirit of Vegas and it’s an interesting read — possibly a necessary read if you’re on a plane headed to Vegas! 4 stars!
Thank you to Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
Among other tales, Patterson details the life of a VIP concierge who fulfills the last minute dreams of high rollers; a Midwest patron who hits it big at the at the Wheel of Fortune Machine while at the airport; the characters of the quickie wedding chapels; the day pool girls; the housewives on secret getaways. Each chapter is infused with the spirit of Vegas and it’s an interesting read — possibly a necessary read if you’re on a plane headed to Vegas! 4 stars!
Thank you to Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
December 11, 2023
n “What Really Happens in Vegas” by James Patterson and Mark Seal, the authors vividly explore the multifaceted allure of Las Vegas, from its luxurious lifestyle to unexpected jackpot tales. As a frequent Vegas visitor, I resonated with the book’s captivating chapters, delving into the city’s evolution and highlighting the diverse experiences it offers.
The narrative skillfully weaves through stories of famous chefs, the impact of Steve Wynn, VIP treatment for high-rolling gamblers, and intriguing tales like the slot machine mishap to name just a few. I appreciated the book’s engaging style and its ability to uncover the city’s unique history and entertainment scene.
I thoroughly enjoyed the audiobook narrated by Phil Morris. His enthusiasm for the subject enhances the overall experience. The easy flow of each chapter and the wealth of information make it a delightful read for Vegas enthusiasts or those curious about the city. I wholeheartedly recommend this book, especially in audiobook format, for an entertaining and informative journey through the glittering world of Las Vegas.
I received an ARC of this audiobook from the publisher but the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
4.5 stars (rounded up to 5).
The narrative skillfully weaves through stories of famous chefs, the impact of Steve Wynn, VIP treatment for high-rolling gamblers, and intriguing tales like the slot machine mishap to name just a few. I appreciated the book’s engaging style and its ability to uncover the city’s unique history and entertainment scene.
I thoroughly enjoyed the audiobook narrated by Phil Morris. His enthusiasm for the subject enhances the overall experience. The easy flow of each chapter and the wealth of information make it a delightful read for Vegas enthusiasts or those curious about the city. I wholeheartedly recommend this book, especially in audiobook format, for an entertaining and informative journey through the glittering world of Las Vegas.
I received an ARC of this audiobook from the publisher but the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
4.5 stars (rounded up to 5).
January 27, 2024
Under full disclosure, I fact-checked this book and wrote a review for The Spectator. This is a summary: In a sense, the mystery novelist James Patterson is a bit of a Gloria Dea — Las Vegas’ first magician — only in a truly modern and commercial sense. But after about 40 years in the biz, 200 mystery novels and 21 nonfiction books, Patterson’s sleeve tricks are beginning to show. The latest, What Really Happens in Vegas, might be more of an Evel Knieval than a landed stunt, in that Robert Craig (Evel) Knievel sold everyone on it before the big day. And then he crash landed.
What Really Happens in Vegas is more of a near miss than a crash land, however. Co-written (or mostly written) by veteran journalist Mark Seal, who wrote about Steve and Elaine Wynn, the city’s ruling family, is acceptable enough, like a snack at the WH Smith where this book will likely sell its greatest number of copies before a long flight. There is definitely more to Las Vegas than meets the eye — and even What Really Happens in Vegas has surprises — but don’t expect this book to satiate or even tide over. For that was never the book’s intent. Like the Strip’s high rollers, What Really Happens in Vegas aims to make some quick money and then get-out, lest they lose themselves.
What Really Happens in Vegas is more of a near miss than a crash land, however. Co-written (or mostly written) by veteran journalist Mark Seal, who wrote about Steve and Elaine Wynn, the city’s ruling family, is acceptable enough, like a snack at the WH Smith where this book will likely sell its greatest number of copies before a long flight. There is definitely more to Las Vegas than meets the eye — and even What Really Happens in Vegas has surprises — but don’t expect this book to satiate or even tide over. For that was never the book’s intent. Like the Strip’s high rollers, What Really Happens in Vegas aims to make some quick money and then get-out, lest they lose themselves.
January 30, 2024
James Patterson is writing nonfiction in this delightful, fun and must-read book covering all the glitter and glam of Las Vegas and what it takes to keep it that way by those insiders who know and work the magic. Find out who keeps the Bellagio Fountains clean, and so much more, in the City that never sleeps!
Short chapters covering various aspects of Las Vegas' history including the quickie marriage, the strip, the way people could eat well for $5 per day, tours of every imaginable kind, the shows and funny true stories which have happened in Vegas.
Easy read. Recommended for anyone who is travels to Vegas frequently or is going for the first time or simply enjoys the history of the playful 24/7 City.
3.5 STARS
Short chapters covering various aspects of Las Vegas' history including the quickie marriage, the strip, the way people could eat well for $5 per day, tours of every imaginable kind, the shows and funny true stories which have happened in Vegas.
Easy read. Recommended for anyone who is travels to Vegas frequently or is going for the first time or simply enjoys the history of the playful 24/7 City.
3.5 STARS
October 8, 2023
This book gives you a behind-the-scenes look at Vegas. If you have ever wondered how something got its go in Vegas, then you probably want to read this book. I have never been to Vegas but this book makes me want to go and see the things that are talked about in this book. Never thought about all the things that have to be done to keep a city going 24/7. Things just have to do what they are supposed to or the whole city is disrupted and thrown off. Visitors expect things to be ready for them and to go as planned. James Patterson and Mark Seal give you great stories about Vegas that you never think about.
Thanks to NetGalley, the authors and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book and all opinions are my own.
Thanks to NetGalley, the authors and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book and all opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews