He’s a grumpy demon prince. She’s a sunshine magical orphan who’s his fated mate and forbidden. But can he survive rejecting her?
Demon prince Alexei is ruthless in business and deadly in battle. The mafia boss will do anything to protect his family, even consider an arranged marriage with a royal he doesn’t love.
There’s just one problem.
When the grumpy hero rescues a sunshine princess locked away in a tower, he knows she’s his fated mate. She also seems to be a freakin’ forbidden angel. Like the villain he is, Alexei rejects her without saying why.
Despite her tortuous childhood, Jolene is determined to find her real family and win her grumpy prince. Come on—the man has wings! But loving her antihero makes him a target of her human enemies who are out to destroy all supernaturals.
These two opposites attract in all the wicked ways. But when supernatural children in Alexei’s hometown start disappearing, the two must work together, and Jolene will have to reveal that her sunshine-and-sparkles magic isn’t what it seems. Can they find their happily ever after or will their differences and enemies destroy them both?
Luna Joya writes steamy romances that are "wickedly delightful" (Publishers Weekly).
The "delightfully devious" Luna writes "action-packed paranormal romantic thrillers, singing with magical power and humming with sensuality that will leave readers breathless." (InD'Tale Magazine). A survivor of traumatic brain injury with steel body parts, Luna lives in SoCal with her combat veteran husband and their two-pound terror of a rescue pup.
Joelle has lived as a captive to the Order for decades – kept under lock and key and forced to heal enemies under interrogation until her guardians determine when they’ve outlived their purpose. She hates everything she’s ever been forced to do, but she knows she’ll never be able to escape by herself. When her (adopted) brother arranges her rescue by calling on a favor to the demon prince Alexei, she finds herself living a new life where she’s determined to find the rest of her family and discover just who and what she is.
Alexei never expected to find the magical girl he accidentally saved decades ago locked in a tower and kept prisoner by one of his greatest enemies. The untraceable girl has always remained on his mind, and he was determined to find her – until he realized he couldn’t. Saving Joelle and discovering she was his fated mate was not something he was expecting, and he was determined to reject her. He believes he doesn’t deserve the goodness that she represents; he’s a demon prince who runs one of the most powerful mafia families in the world and he’s filled with more darkness than her light can save.
But when Joelle becomes a target for the Order and magical beings are kidnapped or killed, Joelle and Alexei find themselves in an unlikely partnership that will test their limits. Joelle discovers new and unlikely powers and the extent of her connection to the Order when she sacrifices herself to save another. But will that be enough to prevent the pair from finding their happily ever after?
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Written in alternating third-person POV, “Wicked Grace” follows Joelle and Alexei as they discover who and what she is and fight against a human terror agency determined to extinguish all supernatural life.
This book fits into that grumpy-sunshine trope so well. Alexei is the poster child for grumpy, dark antihero who does bad for the right reasons and sometimes regrets the things he’s done. He’s not necessarily a bad dude, but that doesn’t stop him from viewing himself as one. And all he views Joelle as is a ray of sunshine that lights up his darkness – quite literally an angel to his demon. He doesn’t think he’s good enough for her (despite her being his fated mate) and doesn’t deserve to even be around her, and her older brother certainly feels the same way even after Alexei rescues her. She essentially escaped one captor only to be locked away again. But Joelle doesn’t believe she’s an angel or too perfect for Alexei; she’s definitely done her fair share of horrible and unpleasant things to survive her kidnapping by the Order. There’s darkness and light in both of them that really played against each other well.
I really enjoyed the romance between Joelle and Alexei. Yes, the fated mates thing could have played a little role in their almost instantaneous attraction, but it doesn’t rely on that distinction to make the characters get together. Honestly, being fated makes Alexei fight against the romance more than I expected. But the characters were super cute together and their steam was enjoyable to read (though not an absolute necessity for the story). I wanted to hate how frustrating it was to read Alexei fighting against his attraction and love for Joelle given how vocal she was in liking him, but it was hard to. Being in his head, as well as hers, meant readers really understood why he believed he wasn’t right for her and didn’t deserve to even be near her.
The worldbuilding in this was great as well. I didn’t feel like I missed out on anything by starting with this book. I’m not going to lie, but I was worried that I would NEED to read the first two books in the series to understand what was going on. Except the author provides enough information about this complex world and plotline for new readers to grasp it easily. It’s also an interesting take on the demon-witch-angel concept with the infusion of some unique details to this series only.
And the twists in this were so enjoyable. You think you know where the story is going, but you really don’t. I might just have to check out books one and two based on how much I enjoyed this book.
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"Others needed protecting from him, not the other way around." - Alexei
Alexei is a powerful and feared demon hybrid. He knows that if he were to unleash his full magic the world may not remain standing but like everything else in his life discipline and willpower are key. Though even with all that going for him he still feels like a failure in areas of his life. Not to mention he's an unmated crown prince!
That's all about to change when he gets dragged into a rescue mission and finds someone who makes his magic sing! His demon side recognizes this sunshine princess as his, but he cannot act on it. She's an angel and he's a demon! Though when a human organization presses in on his territory and not-mate Alexei may just have to act! Joelle refusing to sit on the sidelines!
"More than anything, I want wings so I can fly away any time I like.” - Joelle
I finally had a chance to read Alexei's story! My grumpy demon hybrid with a sister who reminds me of Harley Quinn! Even though the book says the third book of "The Wicked Series", it can be read as a standalone. There may be some small spoilers pertaining to "Wicked Crown" or just make you want to go back and read that installment! (Goblin Princess Vori's story!)
Joelle's been a prisoner her whole life and refuses to be locked away ever again! Especially when she gets her freedom and family back. Only she wants to find her biological parents and understand who or what she is. Those in the supernatural category cannot place what she is or what the symbols that glow on her skin are from. And Alexei's hot and cold attitude and forcing distance between them isn't helping! Not when he could possibly be her mate and she could be his?!
“Get over yourself, Alexei. You’re not the reason crappy stuff happens. Nor are you the Chosen One to save us.” - Alys (my love!)
Alexei feels as though he's failed the women in his life. The ones he loves the most and views with respect even if his sister tries to accidently blowup his homebase on a daily basis. Working on "perfecting" formulas and measurements. . . With Joelle he knows she is his mate, but he just can't. He's a villain and his darkness will swallow up her light! But when another MC starts getting close to Joelle and shows interest in his not-mate Alexei may just end the world here and now!
I enjoyed the struggle between the two characters, yes this is a slow burn romance with angst! Grumpy "villain" believing he knows what's best, but my man gets put in his place on multiple occasions. I liked how Joelle challenged him along with another MC that basically tested Alexei's resolve. There was a lot of found family moments and realizations that had me smiling. Blood isn't a deciding factor on who's your family and who isn't! The arc revolving around Tai had me tearing up and cheering!
Joelle's been a prisoner of a not-so-kind-human-organization. One that doesn't see supers as anything but monsters and things to toy with and destroy. . . Joelle had to endure torture, manipulation, and more. There aren't any hardcore descriptions but there are some scenes and understandings of situations that may be triggering to some. Blood and violence surrounding "scientific" experiments and research.
Language is prominent throughout the book. Kidnappings take place along with hostage situations. Joelle suffers from mental trauma and has to deal with nightmares, anxiety, and that cruel voice of doubt. Having to work through her tormenters brainwashing and manipulation. I appreciated and respected that Alexei didn't fix all of that for Joelle or fully. Sometimes you really do need family and friends who have your back even if some battles are your own. Not to mention other women that help demonstrate strength and become shoulders to lean on or help you look drop dead gorgeous!
There are different powers, physical attributes, or abilities within the supers of similar races. Some having tails and others not within the demon hybrids. I loved the diversity and the uniqueness of the characters even if some were side characters! I love Eddie and just want to hug my big demon hybrid!
“You’ve been the hero already today, but right now, I’m in need of a villain.” - Joelle
We have close proximity and idiots to lovers, most of that being on Alexei! Dual POVs helping to emphasize this point. Alexei checking all the boxes of touch her and die, "who did this to you", etc. But he's still a stubborn fool who has to learn the hard way. MF action does happen, and we have some fun primal play and a chase scene. Joelle may be a virgin, but she knows what she wants and isn't afraid to verbally joust with Alexei. His wings are a big plus for her, but can you blame her? He also has horns!
HEA for book! Now I really want to read Josh's story ("Flash Point") and other works from Luna! Enjoy the supernatural romance with opposites and don't forget to give the author some stars!
Wicked Grace is a fast-paced, dynamic fantasy romance.
This is the first book I’ve read by the author. Though this is the third in a series, I jumped right in with little difficulty. Despite how complex and robust this fictional world is, I had no problem getting up to speed on the characters and the way that the magic and the politics function. The worldbuilding is a definite strength of the novel. The way that the author throws around casual mentions of things like cannibalistic books just made me feel like I’d been plopped into a reality far more fascinating than my own. This book has artifacts, ancient manuscripts, magical meteors, and–best of all–fated mates.
I absolutely adore this novel. It has something for everyone. There’s a grumpy-sunshine romance plotline at the core, but there’s a lot more to the book. Like I said before, it features very complex and fascinating worldbuilding. There’s also a significant espionage and political intrigue plotline going on, involving the “Order” of humans, the witches, and the demon hybrids.
Joelle has been held captive by the Order for her entire life. She doesn’t know what she is, but she’s been experimented on and used for her ability to heal others. Alexei, the demon hybrid prince, assists in her rescue, and he realizes immediately that she’s his fated mate. But he doesn’t want to claim her–this angel–because he fears he’s not good enough for her. This book has that classic push and pull that I love in grumpy-sunshine romances. They both think their love is unrequited, which sometimes can be frustrating in books, but in this one it’s endearing. Despite being fated mates, misunderstandings keep them apart. Alexei thinks he’s the only one who feels the connection. Joelle thinks that he’s rejecting her, when in fact, he’s trying to protect her from the world he comes from by pushing her away.
The plot has numerous surprising twists–ones that have nice groundwork laid out and don’t come out of left field. The romance is sweet, though the plot can get dark. Some triggers include torture and PTSD.
All in all, this is an amazing, unputdownable book for fans of fantasy with a romance storyline at its heart! *Thank you to the author, the publisher and Psst.../Let's Talk Promotions for the ebook to review* This review appeared first on https://powerlibrarian.wordpress.com/ Book Blog | Instagram | TikTok | Website | Twitter My Reading Challenge POPSUGAR Reading Challenge 2022: This book fulfills the "A favorite prompt from a previous year - an oxymoron in the title" category.
Alexi is a Demon Prince in control of the Los Angeles territory. He is recruited on a mission to rescue a woman held by the Order, a dangerous group of humans set on destroying anything supernatural. As Alexi completes his mission and rescues Joelle, he recognizes the girl he rescued once in his childhood, a girl he believed to be his match. Now, Alexi feels like he must protect Joelle, the supernatural that is not a demon or a witch, but something amazing and good, the opposite of himself. Joelle is determined to find out what she is and find love, but Alexi won't claim her as his mate, even though they can both feel it. Meanwhile, the Order is determined to get their prisoner back while finding new ways to torture supernaturals.
Wicked Grace is the third book in The Wicked series and picks up on the tail end of book two. From Alexi and Joelle's point of view, the demon side of the supernaturals are revealed along with a whole new supernatural entity. As always, the characters are very well developed and immensely interesting. I was entranced by the mystery of what Joelle is, her origins and her powers. I was amazed that Joelle was still kind, forgiving and caring after the years of torture she endured by the Order. Through Alexi, it was interesting to see how the demons kept order and controlled chaos as well as their immense powers that they could hold. I was also excited to check in with Vori from book one and see how she was doing in the Goblin Realm. Alexi and Joelle's relationship kept me in suspense as they went back and forth with their feelings. When they finally sparked, the romance went quickly from sweet to heat. The story was sustained at a fast pace as the Order seemed to be ahead of their plans, the origins of Joelle unraveled and Alexi and Joelle accepted their fate.
One day in Moscow, Alexei, a demon hybrid prince, meets a young girl being picked on by bullies. He saves her and spends a little time with her, before she has to run off. Hearing her name called, Alexie searches for months for Joelle, unable to find her or any trace of her. Years later, while on a rescue mission to save a supernatural from the Order, a human terrorist group, Alexei finds Joelle locked away in one of the Order's dilapidated buildings. Once again, the girl he can't stop thinking about disappears for three months and Alexei can't find her due to her over-controlling adopted dragon brother.
Joelle walks back into Alexei's life during a gala and they realize the spark between them still exists. Alexei knows Joelle is his fated mate, but her healing powers and kindness make him realize he can't bring her into his world and snuff out the light. Joelle is searching for her family and origins, while hiding from Noxx, leader of the Order. Will Alexei continue to deny what the fates have given him or will he embrace the woman he's already falling in love with?
Great story and it kept me on the edge of my seat. It is the third book in the series but can be read as a standalone. I did not read the first two. Highly recommend Wicked Grace!
I received a free copy of this book via City Owl Press and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This particular story in the series is with the hybrid demon prince. Alexei, who meets a young girl years ago that he's never been able to get out of his head. Until 10 years later, he helps rescue her from the Order. Joelle has been a captive of the Order forever, but now that she's free, she still feels trapped as everyone keeps her locked away to be safe. Her adopted brother is just as bad wanting her to stay hidden. But she's intrigued by Alexie and arranges with his sister to attend the party she knows he's at. After the Order tries to trap them again, Alexei takes her with him... but he refuses to believe that she's his fated mate since she's too pure for him and she's not a demon hybrid. Actually, they don't know what she is since she has healing capabilities, and she lights up in runes. But everything gets revealed after she's trapped again, and her powers go boom... literally!
This book was great! I loved not only this book but the entire series so far!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wicked Grace is the first book I’ve read by this author. This story has an incredible, interconnected world building component that definitely makes me want to read the other books. There is conflict between the main character and the war between others and humans is very engaging. They are written to be standalone books, however I do think I would have gotten more out of the book if I had read the previous books. The author does a great job with building the main characters, allowing the reader to get to know each main character, with their supporting friends in the book. I really enjoyed the unique aspects to this world. While there are steamy parts in this book, it’s definitely more about how each character grows and builds towards each other. The connection between the two is undeniable, but each of them has to accept the love as something they deserve for themselves. It’s nice to read a book where the MATE connection doesn’t take over the individuals feelings.
Alexei is a demon hybrid prince running his kingdom in LA when he again meets a woman after a decade of searching for her, his mate. Joelle has been rescued from The Order, a group of humans looking to eliminate all supernaturals, who had held her prisoner for most of her life. Together they have to figure out what her own origins are and why the leader of The Order wants her so bad all while rescuing other supernaturals who have been caught in the power struggle.
I loved this book! I read Wicked Match before and liked it though it felt a little rough around the edges. This book is an amazing addition to that world, I loved the character development and story. Alexei and Joelle were so fun to get to know in their good and bad parts. The spice was a bit vague but enjoyable. I loved the strength and growth from Joelle as she navigates her trauma from being imprisoned and tortured for so long. All around a great book. Can’t wait for more.
Now, I have adored Alexei from the beginning, but I spent most of this book badly wanting to beat some sense into his thick head. Joelle was everything, and the way his grumpy demon behind kept dismissing their connection hurt her and frustrated the daylights out of me. However, I loved how this book gave us different perspectives on some of the previous events and even a “where are they now” look at some of the earlier couples. There are some fascinating revelations about the Order and some of the things that have been going on that have me rather desperately wondering what the heck will happen next. I’m not going to guess where the author is going to take us from here, but I can’t wait to go on that journey once it’s available. I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
This is my favorite book in the series so far! Alexei and Joelle both have a difficult backgrounds and reputations. Their personal history has always stayed with them but currently they are a little lost and lonely in their own lives. When together they have amazing chemistry and I love how much they each feel that bond. The storyline is exciting and thrilling and kept me on the edge of my seat. The way this series weaves each book together is awesome and so well done. It can be read as a standalone but the overarching story is so good I wouldn’t want to miss it. It is also nice seeing different scenes from different viewpoints and characters throughout the books. A really great series that I would recommend for paranormal romance fans! I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
From the first time he was introduced, I was intrigued. I wanted to know more about Alexei. Wicked Grace did not disappoint! There was much more to my demon prince.
The connection between Alexei and Joelle was magnetic. Their chemistry was fire. No matter what either did, they still came together. I could feel the struggle Alexei had. Within the story, there’s a lot of pain and healing with a huge side of vengeance. I was here for all of it. Did I cry? Yes. Did I cry a lot? Also yes.
The final book in The Wicked series was beyond awesome. Everything I wanted and more! I’m always amazed by Luna Joya’s writing. Her ability to take you from ugly crying to fanning yourself over those steamy scenes. It’s gift and she has it. I highly recommend this book and series. I give this 5 stars.
Alexei and Joelle crossed paths as youth, but never saw each other again. That didn't keep them from thinking about each other. When their paths cross again, will they be able to stay in each other's lives? As time has passed, Alexei and Joelle have come into their genetic heritance but what if they are supposed to hate each other? Can they defeat the people responsible for forcing them to try to hate each other?
This book is a fast paced read that was hard to put down. Filled with action, love, and a supernatural theme, you will find yourself rooting for the main characters. At each turn, find yourself hoping the story isn't quite over yet.
Opposites really do attract!! While Alexei and Joelle meet when they were younger, they went their separate ways, but when they meet years later, Alexei realizes Joelle is his fated mate, but she is way too nice, too sunny, too cheerful for him. But their chemistry and working together to solve the mystery of missing children sparks fly between them. The book is well paced, full of sizzle, steam, twists, turns, some drama, and more. Solid Read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received this book as a reviewer copy. This is the first book that I’ve ever read by Luna Joya. I loved the book! It is not your typical paranormal romance, and the characters are not your typical magical/supernatural characters. The book alludes to shifters, and speaks of destined mates, but it doesn’t use any of the typical descriptions, myths or legends that have become so common in so many books in this genre. The main characters are likable, and you are rooting for them to win. I really enjoyed it; and I highly recommend it!
This is a wicked good story. Alexei and Joelle are great together in this incredible and engaging story. Are they truly meant for each other? I say yes, but it takes time for them to accept it. I loved this couple and the way this story ends! I think that this is a wonderful read, and I Loved It!!! No Spoilers!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The third and final book in the Wicked series. Demon prince Alexei and Jolene's story is well written with a very good storyline that kept me turning pages. He tries to reject her but things do not work out that way as they somehow end up always running into each other. I would say keep the tissues handy. the story was well worth reading. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was such a great read and a real page turner for me. Joelle and Alexei did start off as a grumpy/sunshine romance but they eventually figured things out ;) There was action, drama and very steamy romance in this well detailed world and I can't say enough about how engaging this story was. Sadly, it's the last book in this series but that just means I'm very anxious for what's next by this author. Good fun!
Joelle has been a captive all of her life. She is resilient and caring. Alexei is a demon-hybrid prince but is alone. He believes that Joelle is too pure for him. This is a fulfilling story which drama, true love, action, heartwarming scenes and some very hot sexy scenes (with wings). I highly recommend this book. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Such a good and unique story! It gave me so many tropes I love! Especially the fates mates! Loved the slow burn/sexual tension! It’s super easy to follow along with, i read it in a day! Loved! Will be checking out more by the author!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Having enjoyed the first two books in this series I looked forward to reading this third book, it did not disappoint. This fun story features a grumpy demon prince, Alexei and Joelle who is strong even though she had suffered so much for so many years.
This was such a great story. I loved Mr. grumpy Alexei. He is so hard headed with his feeling for Joelle. He tried so hard to reject Joelle but she keeps coming back. Read and find out if Joelle and Alexei find their HEA? Very interesting and enjoyable story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a well-written PNR Fantasy Romance with chemistry, drama, denied feelings, and great world-building. The MCs are defined, have great chemistry, and have issues to overcome. I believe I would have benefited from reading the previous books. I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my honest review,
First off, Luna Joya is an amazing writer! I absolutely love her books. This book surpassed my expectations. The world building is incredible, as was the story line. Alexei and Joelle's attraction and interactions with one another was so very good! I had a very hard time putting this book down once I started it and kept rushing to do whatever was needed so I could continue to read it.
This action packed page turner was incredible. The author had a great imagination. Alys was my favorite and her I dont care attitude. Such a great character. Fabulous read!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Really really enjoy this series. Another brilliant story in the series. Awesome characters, full of wit, charm and amazing supernatural ability. Can’t wait for the next book.
I’m normally not one to dive into the middle of a series. But getting offered the arc of Wicked Grace to have a sneak peak? I’m on board. And fortunately, you don’t feel like something is missing, when you start with this third part of the Wicked series. The grumpy anti-hero Alexei and the sunshine girl Jolene are wonderful characters and you can feel the push and pull between them. And especially when you learn of their shared past, you can’t help but root for those two to get together. But Alexei has a total different point of view. Can Jolene convince him otherwise? Find out for yourself in this wonderful and magical read. Four out of five stars from me and a special thank you to Netgalley for providing the arc.
I have read a few of the books in this series and they weren't bad. This book however, so much potential wasted, maybe I missed a book? The book was unnecessarity drawn out, and the big reveal of Joelle's power was...unbelievable to say the least. I also found the push/pull between Alexei and Joelle annoying at best. The final showdown with Noxx who was the ultimate villain with all kinds of stuff at her disposal was unremarkable.and not worth the hype.
Thank you netgalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for allowing me to read this book. I loved this book it reminded me of the books that first got me into reading! It held my attention the whole time and I couldn’t put it down. The chemistry and tension between Alexei and Joelle was amazing! I love fantasy romances and it was even better with the mystery thrown in. I adored all the characters and will definitely continue with this series!