Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Silver City University #1

Wings of Deception

Rate this book
Freak
Weirdo
Loser

Getting accepted into Silver City University was supposed to change it all for me. I could get away from everyone I knew and be anyone I wanted. And after meeting a hot Fallen angel and partying the night away, things were really starting to look up.

Turns out the universe had other plans for me.

Before I even get a chance to be someone different, I’m forced to drop the Façade and show everyone who I really am. There’s no fitting in when you’re an abomination.

While doing my best to avoid the berating of my classmates and angry glare of the Fallen house leader, I find unexpected support from two Pure angels.

When demon attacks rise throughout the city, I know I’m not safe. Everyone thinks they’re coming for me–the one who’s never fit in. They swear I’m spawned from demons, and now they want me back.

With some help from my new friends, I search for any proof I can find to unravel the truth of what I am and put their accusations to rest.

But I know so little about myself, and I can’t stop wondering …
What if they’re right?

***

Please Note: Wings of Deception is book one in the Silver City University series and ends on a cliffhanger. While there is on page steam, the full group of love interests will build as the series progresses.

Recommended for readers 18+

This Paranormal Romance series includes:

✓ An outcast FMC

✓ Multiple POV

✓ Angels

✓ Academy setting in a different realm

✓ Slow-build group

226 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 17, 2023

417 people are currently reading
1227 people want to read

About the author

Victoria Pauley

11 books88 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
292 (36%)
4 stars
254 (31%)
3 stars
179 (22%)
2 stars
62 (7%)
1 star
17 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
Profile Image for Ines.
1,338 reviews46 followers
August 20, 2023
Is it already done!? Did I really turn over the final page already!? I want to know what's next!
I absolutely devoured this first book in the "Silver City University" series; it has absolutely everything I hoped for to find in this new academy reverse harem series: An fmc who isn't accepted by society, but still has some very supportive parents and a lovely BFF. Three men who fall head over heels for her. Struggles in the whole sharing-their-girl department, and some of the cutest (and funniest) meet-ups I've ever read. This is how I want a story with protective men and a bit of insta-love to go: with great guys, who still have their own things to overcome before they can become a fully fledged harem.

"Wings of Deception" has some fascinating world building, with a lot of questions about the dynamic between Pure and Fallen angels, and what this means for Hayliel's place among them. There is so much more to discover, and even though Hayliel already manages to draw the attention of three great guys, I am already dreaming about a taboo teacher-student affair. There are definitely some interesting options for that, and with the author mentioning a slow build harem I am going to dream up a ton of options in the months to come. Because yeah; I immediately went over to check the release date for book two, and I'll be counting the days till it reaches me...

This book does end in a cliffhanger, but it's so worth it! This is the type of cliffhanger that won't leave my mind and live rentfree in there until I can get my hands on the next book.
Profile Image for Kate McDougall Sackler.
1,741 reviews15 followers
August 8, 2024
Pedestrian RH angel book with characters that feel younger than university age. This time I checked, and I won’t read the next one until the last one is out.
Team challenge-weapon (grey on cover)
Profile Image for Ari Loves All The Books.
385 reviews76 followers
August 15, 2023
Soo. Many. Questions. .. lol but it gets you absolutely hooked! This is a slow building romance, but when I tell you it does not disappoint.. it doesn't disappoint. Not to mention, that cliffhanger?!?!.. can't wait for the second book.
Profile Image for Danielle.
112 reviews8 followers
August 27, 2023
Wow! Angels and demons, what more could you ask for?! The spice in this book had me wishing my husband was an angel with wings named Raphael! The story was amazing, the writing was impeccable. I swear it was so easy to read and get lost in the story, I could visualize every scene and character as if Victoria had included images throughout. And the cliffhanger has me on the edge of my seat impatiently waiting for book 2 already. This is an absolute must read for any romantasy fan! I highly recommend putting this on your TBR asap! Pauley is such a talented writer and I can wait to see what book 2 holds!
Profile Image for Murphy.
725 reviews
August 15, 2023
Heart of pure gold

Lets start off saying that I read this entire book in one sitting and did not want to put it down! I cannot wait for book two!

Hayliel is an angel in a world of Angels. Angels are divided into two groups. Pure and Fallen. The Pure tend to look down on the Fallen. With White wings vs. Black wings...Their world is much like ours when it comes to stereotyping. Then you have Hayliel, "a complete and utter anomaly who doesn't fit into any of the neat little boxes that society makes." Hayliel has grey wings. And no one knows what that means.

When she starts her new beginnings at Silver City University, she's hoping things will be different and other Angels will judge her on her and not on her wings. Only, soon she finds out how wrong she is.

The social pariah of the school, she quickly finds friends with Ezekiel, Theo and Raphael. Maybe a little more than friends, but things get complicated and fast. They don't care about the color of her wings and are pretty obsessed with how utterly caring and pure hearted she is.

Then, the Demon attacks are getting bolder and soon no one is safe. When they target Silver City, all bets are off. Will they be able to keep their new love safe? Will Hayliel have to choose between lovers? When the demons set their sights on the Fallen grey-winged Angel, what will she do? And what exactly does this all mean?


I loved this book! I seriously need the next book asap! I love how many directions the author can take this too! The Assassins Guild...ohhh, this is intriguing. Is this a fated-mate kind of thing? Something big is definitely coming and I cannot wait for her to put all of those little purists in their places! The ending came up way to fast, but it was pure gold! ;-) I am thoroughly looking forward to book two!

*Overall 5/5
*Heat/Tension? 4/5
*Fast Burn...but then fizzles out to slow burn. lol
*Multiple first person POV
*Insta-love
*Ends on mic drop cliffhanger
Profile Image for Hannah.
365 reviews4 followers
January 11, 2024
Everybody kept mentioning a plot twist so I kept reading and reading and yeah I guess a plot was twisted but more of a gentle twist. I thought she was gonna be some sick evil angel but NO!

She’s perfect miss sunshine (one of the love interests literally nicknames her sunshine) and oh did I forget to mention she’s perfect and beautiful because of course she is. Literally no flaws. Except for her wings. Damn the wings!

And somehow these three angels who everybody in the school worship somehow have no problem with her wings. It’s not realistic. Like you’re telling me a society based on the color of wings somehow has the top 3 dogs not giving a hoot? I don’t believe it.

Also the writing probably could’ve been better. And the insta attraction turned me off right away. Raphael gave me the ick. Theo was okay just in the background but Ezekiel! Wow just go for him Hayliel don’t be an idiot.
Except she was an idiot.
Profile Image for Kristens_korner .
428 reviews24 followers
March 30, 2024
I love everything about this book. It's has a unique and not overly complicated storyline that draws you in immediately. The MFC is sassy and punky with a nice, strong sense of confidence, not letting the little stuff get her down, and the harem of hot boys and spice are perfectly on target. I devoured this book in a few hours and can not wait to read the next one!
Profile Image for Aaliyah .
31 reviews
December 16, 2024
2/2.5 fast paced. No connections formed in the relationships much yet, they instantly care. Even though it’s about angels you don’t seem to learn much…
Profile Image for  •Cici• Theory of A Dreamer Book Blog♥.
3,445 reviews155 followers
August 18, 2023
Whenever Ms.Pauley announces a new book I am overjoyed, so when I found out about this new series I could not contain my excitement! Angels & Why Choose?! Yes, please! I'm so in! From the cover to the dedication and map, this story had my heart quickly. I picked this first installment up and to Silver City University I went! I devoured it in one sitting. I loved this first book!

This first book in Hayliel's journey hooked me and didn't let go! New to Silver City University, Hayliel hopes this will be the fresh start she needs. It's there she meets Fallen Angel, Ezekiel, and two Pure Angels, Raphael and Theo, who all shake up her heart. When Hayliel has to face her truths can she embrace herself and deal with judgements from others? With dangerous demons looming, so much is on the line.

Whenever I can relate to not one, but all the main characters featured in a story I know I've found an unforgettable journey and oh was Wings of Deception exactly that!

I saw so much of myself in Hayliel, especially when it came to not fitting in and I wanted to hug her through my kindle. There was such strength and caring to her that I admired. Ezekiel had me blushing, but also had me going through many emotions and I can't wait to get more of him. Raphael was such a sweet and swoonworthy guy. My heart hurt for Theo and I adored how protective he was. All four of these characters had my heart and I feeling every bit!

I loved the sides that Ezekiel, Raphael, and Theo all brought out in Hayliel, and in turn how she did them. The chemistry between Hayliel and her Fallen Angel and two Pure Angels was undeniable and I can't wait to see how everything progresses.

These characters and their story kept me glued to my kindle! From the Angels aspect to SCU to the vivid world building and the characters that have already left their mark, I didn't want to turn away from this book! From the edge of your seat moments to the oh so steamy ones all the way to the real ones that pulled every heartstring, I absolutely loved this first book! Also, those food descriptions made me so hungry! 🤤

We are all going through our own battles which shined through these characters and showed we are not alone which was so beautiful to me.

With Wings of Deception, Ms.Pauley has created such an unputdownable and unique read that soared high! What an epic beginning that packed heart, heat, suspense, feels, and of course, wings.😉 This was such a refreshing take on Angels and exactly what I needed in my life! Another favorite from this author. After that ending, I'll be counting down the days until I can dive into the second installment, Wings of Torment! I need more of this story and it's characters in my life for sure!

If you haven't read this wonderful author's work yet, now is the perfect time to do so! Trust me, this read will have you and your heart flying high with adoration and enjoyment! 💛

Be sure to read the author's note about content.



*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Give Me Books Promotions / the author*
Profile Image for Leslie || original book nerd.
925 reviews42 followers
August 26, 2023
Wings of Deception – Silver City University Series #1 - Review
 
Author: Victoria Pauley
 
Couple: Hayliel with Ezekiel, Raph & Theo
 
Tropes: RH, why choose, tortured FMC, feisty heroine, angels/demons, hidden identity, found family, dark academy romance, PNR, fantasy romance
 
Review: A new fantasy why choose romance that is full of swoon worthy males and fiery females. This multi-POV fantasy romance has all the spice and angst with a dash of save the world vibes. Hayliel is a feisty heroine who is a tad misunderstood and a lot stubborn.
 
This is the first book in the series and we get intense heat and chemistry right off the bat. I loved how Hayliel does not give up and strives to prove herself at SCU. I also immensely enjoyed how she never backed down from the challenges her grey wings gave her. I thought Victoria did a wonderful job with creating the theories and disdain around Hayliel’s wings and hope to see more in the next book. I also loved how she surrounded herself with true friends and mates. While this book has a ton of insta-lust, I appreciated how the relationships between each male differed.
 
Ezekiel is the Fallen house leader and the most morally grey of the 3 males. He was my favorite in this book even though he is more of a hate-to-love-him MMC. I enjoyed his chapters immensely and the conflict he faced with his feelings for Hayliel and his beliefs he was not good enough for her. Raph and Theo were more of a pair in my eyes and I enjoyed them together. I felt like they each grounded the other and were truly platonic soul mates. Raph was more outgoing and loud and Theo was more introverted and smart, however the two were what Hayliel needed to get the extra boost of confidence.
 
This book centers around Hayliel and her grey wings. I enjoyed how Victoria progressed the spice in a way that felt natural. Ezekiel is hot tempered and quick to act so the first act hook up seemed right for him and the other two had a more friends to lovers feel that I loved reading. I enjoyed Raph more than Theo in this book since he was more outgoing but I am excited to see Theo break out in book 2.
 
The ending is a huge cliffhanger and I cannot wait to see how Victoria takes the new changes to Hayliel’s wings. I also want to see her and Ezekiel resolve their differneces.
 
Rating: 4/5, a thrilling beginning to an all new RH series!
Profile Image for alishasbooknook.
197 reviews2 followers
March 10, 2024
Let me just start by saying that this book is absolutely incredible! From the first page I was completely sucked into the story. This book had me on the edge of my seat, flipping pages like a maniac, desperate to uncover the truth. I’m a sucker for fantasy and mythical stuff so a story about angels? HOT ANGELS? Sign. Me. Up.

The writing style is so captivating and immersive. The author has this incredible ability to paint vivid pictures with her words, making it feel like you're right there in the midst of the action. The way she describes the characters and their emotions is just mind-blowing. I found myself laughing, tearing up - which is very rare for me when reading - and even gasping out loud at certain parts. This is truly an absolute MASTERPIECE!!

Speaking of characters, let me tell you, they are so well-crafted and relatable. Each one has their own unique personality and backstory that adds depth and complexity to the overall narrative. I couldn't help but feel a deep connection to them, rooting for their successes and feeling their pain. I love Hayliel is my favourite, I love her so much.

The plot of Wings of Deception is a rollercoaster ride of suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists. It's one of those books that keeps you up way past your bedtime because you just have to know what happens next, I had to find out what happened, which is why I read this in a few hours.

But it's not just a thrilling ride. Wings of Deception also explores some thought-provoking themes. It delves into the complexities of trust, loyalty, and the consequences of deception. It really makes you question the lengths people will go to protect their secrets and the impact it has on those around them. It shows the impact bullying can have and how important it is to trust the people close to you. It's a book that stays with you long after you've turned the final page.

In conclusion, Wings of Deception is an absolute must-read for fans of suspenseful thrillers. Victoria Pauley has crafted a masterful story that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. So grab a copy, buckle up, and get ready for a wild ride! I 1000% recommend, read it now, you won’t regret it, this is going to be a book I’ll remember forever.
Profile Image for Rachel.
2,354 reviews132 followers
August 16, 2023
This was my first Victoria Pauley book but it won't be my last. Wings of Deception was a fantastic read, a paranormal why-choose academy that I enjoyed getting lost in.


I liked Hayliel, she was strong and defiant in the face of those who would bully her for being different. After being mistreated time after time again Hayliel has every reason to be closed off and wallow but she does the opposite, opening up herself to others and enjoying the good where ever she could find it. Hayliel is a protector and her compassion and empath for others are admirable.


This harem is a bit of a mixed bag. Two of the angels are Pure and best friends and the third one is a Fallen, that is if he can get his act together. I liked the guys, Raphael is playful, with a mix of charm and wit. To counter that is his BF Theo. Due to some trauma, Theo is antisocial and has anxiety but he's highly intelligent, loyal, and thoughtful. There were both steamy and sweet moments with them. Then there's Ezekiel, who has this magnetism but turns serious and brooding. He's the one that needs to get his act together. Finally, I feel like a certain professor could also be a candidate but who knows the harem is supposed to grow over time, I'm excited to see who else might show up.


Victoria did an excellent job building the Angelic Realm. There's an elitist class system, the Pure (white wings) are held above everyone while the Fallen (black wings) are treated like second-class citizens. There's no in-between except for Hayliel and that doesn't go well. Of course not everyone is classist, there are exceptions but not enough. Also, the angels have the juiciest backstory that I was shocked to find out about but adds to the allure of the story. Victoria just touched on demons, they are a part of the story but there isn't any concrete information yet but I have a feeling that it's going to be important.


I loved Wings of Deception, the characters and plot were outstanding. It's clear that some important information is being hidden, but what and why? Not to mention the strange demon attacks. The story ended on a very good plot twist, it hooked me, and now I'm so ready for the next book.
Profile Image for Missy .
212 reviews
October 7, 2024
From the first action-packed page, this fast-paced, lore-filled book pulls readers in and keeps that momentum going until its nail biting cliffhanger. Along with its truly captivating world-building, this book has an interesting cast of characters readers can’t help but root for, a sprinkle of high-stakes action that hints at more to come, and—to break up its more angsty moments—a budding multiple POV why-choose romance that involves both fast and slow burn romances. Content warnings are included at the end of this review.

This book does a great job of balancing its main plot with its character development; creating a cohesive story that seamlessly leads readers into each new plotline without feeling jarring or info-dumpy. As the first book in a series, the author is more focused on introducing the characters than having them go through intense character-growth, so though the development isn’t too extensive, the building blocks are there. The multiple POVs help with this, giving readers a closer glimpse of each character’s unique personality, motivations, and shortcomings, as well as offering a deeper look into the lore of the story from their personal perspectives.

With its fast-moving, intricately woven plot and the delicious drama of evolving personal relationships, this book is super entertaining and the perfect gateway into the rest of the series.


CONTENT WARNINGS:
Spoilers ahead.

This book includes: violence ranging from hand-to-hand fighting to descriptions of gruesome battles (on page), bullying done to the FMC ranging from isolation to verbal and physical assault (on page), an attack on a school that includes descriptions of students gravely injured or left for dead (on page), mental abuse from a parent that mostly focuses on favouritism and pitting one child against another (on page), (what I think are) symptoms of PTSD including panic attacks and dissociating once triggered (on page), and a societal hierarchy that puts “pures” above all else (on page).
Profile Image for Caitlin Audet.
480 reviews62 followers
August 16, 2023
What a fantastic read. It's been so long since a paranormal story has caught my eye, but once I read the blurb for Wings of Deception I knew I needed to read this. I absolutely appreciate the chance I got with this advanced copy and I'm already hooked and needing more.

The first of a brand new series, Wings of Deception starts right off with the world building and meeting the main character. Hayliel is basically your average girl just wanting to find her place and get a good education and with the acceptance to SCU she may just get both at once.

I love the refreshing concept of these angels with Pure and Fallen with their different wing color. These creatures are the same but not, with Fallen shown as being lesser, and then having Hayliel somewhere in the middle. That caught my attention instantly and look forward to learning more about all the angels and their histories.

For being shunned all her life, Hayliel does quickly attract the attention of three guys. I love a good reverse harem romance and I don't believe this one will disappoint. Not only does the tension continually build but it's also with two Pures and a Fallen, which naturally means they don't like each other. It will be extra fun when everyone starts hanging out together, especially with wanting the same girl.

Beyond the normal school setting there is also plenty of action towards the end that will have you racing to finish the book. I love how Victoria Pauley paved the way with the introduction of demons and the Guild to keep the suspense going. The ending is definitely intriguing and hopefully it won't be long til Wings of Torment comes out.
Profile Image for Twinkle.butt.reads.
285 reviews16 followers
August 8, 2025
Ok Folks Let me tell y'all about this book...
“Trust no one” might as well be the tagline of Victoria Pauley’s Wings of Deception—a gripping, emotionally charged story that pulls you into a world where loyalty is fleeting, secrets are currency, and every truth has a price. Wings of Deception is a tense, razor-thin line between truth and lies, loyalty and betrayal, love and manipulation. .
At the center is a woman caught in a tangled web of secrets. What begins as a journey for answers quickly turns into a descent into the dark side of human relationships. Every person she trusts holds a piece of the puzzle—and not everyone wants it solved. No one here is black-and-white. Every character is layered, with motives that feel painfully real. Even the “villains” have a story. The emotional stakes are sky-high. When the truth hits, it hurts—in the best, most dramatic way. Pauley’s prose cuts deep. She balances suspense with heart, never sacrificing depth for shock value.
If you enjoy domestic thrillers or emotional dramas where no one is safe from consequences, Wings of Deception delivers. It’s not just a page-turner—it’s a gut punch wrapped in elegant writing. If you’re looking for a story that will leave your heart in knots and your trust issues flaring—this is the one.
Brace yourself—it’s not just the wings that are deceptive. 👀🕊️
Because in Wings of Deception, the only thing flying higher than expectations… is the BS. 🕊️🔥
Wings of Deception is not just about secrets—it’s about what those secrets cost.
Profile Image for Em Yardy.
311 reviews19 followers
August 13, 2023
I received and ARC for my honest review.

This is a reverse harem slow to medium burn, tension, chemistry and spice. The plot and world building was fantastic with the spice added it just right.

Hayliel has always been bullied and ridiculed for being so different. Hayliel is strong, feisty and takes no crap.

“Can you really call it a hunt if the prey is so easy to catch? It looks like I’ve found my next meal fairly easily, and it’s a full course.”

“Dude, I’m not a demon. And even if I were, I’d rather inhale a week-old taco-Tuesday fart than put my mouth anywhere near that guy. Doesn’t mean I won’t use their fear and bullshit to my advantage.”

Raphael, Theo and Ezekiel are automatically drawn to Haylie. Ralph is such a charmer and would burn the world for her, Theo wants to give more but has baggage and trauma from his past that is holding him back but he would still be her protect at all costs, Ezekiel this Angel needs to get his head out of his ass argh he frustrates me but he obviously has some hang up about “pures” and doesn’t trust anyone that’s not a fallen.

I can’t wait for the second book to come out and see how each of their relationships evolve with each other. Does Zeke finally put his own demons to the side? Can Theo overcome his own bagged? Oh and the The cliff hanger!!!! I want more!!!!

Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Darkness: 🖤🖤
POV: Multi
Ending: Cliffhanger
Profile Image for Brandy Seip.
194 reviews1 follower
August 12, 2023
This was SO good!!! Completely took me by surprise, and I can't wait to read book 2! This book is about an angel, Hailiel, with grey wings - not heard of before. She's selected for a scholarship at the best angel university where they have the houses of Power and Knowledge for pure angels with white wings and the house of Fallen - those with black wings. The relationship building between Hailiel, Theo, and Raph is slow. And Zeke, her house leader that she slept with on her first night - well he hates pure angels and instantly hates her bc of Theo and Raph.
My only minor complaints would be the random lines that don't make sense to the scene. For example, a bench on the beach is destroyed during a demon attack and Raph's first thought is how he planned to take Hailiel there for s'mores and to finger bang her on that specific bench. But nevermind the horde of demons literally around him.
My other grip is how Zeke openly hates her, yet both the other guys and her bff just know how in love he is with her....it makes no sense when every interaction is him glaring at her with full distaste. How would the friends just know this??
Outside of a few minor things, this really does have the makings to be an amazing story. I'm still looking forward to book 2 and seeing how the new change affects things and to watch her relationships grow with the 3 guys.
Profile Image for Shelf.indulgence__.
292 reviews21 followers
August 16, 2023
🔥ARC Review🔥

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️.75/5

Tropes:
🪽Paranormal Romance
🩶Why Choose
🪽Angels & Demons
🩶Alternate Realm
🪽Unique Outcast FMC
🩶Multiple POV


Victoria is a new to me Author and she did not disappoint.
I am enamored with this book!

The underlying message is awesome. It has Beautiful and easy to follow world building.

Hayliel is a fallen Angel with unique Grey wings. As White & Black wings are the typical for Pure and Fallen Angels, Hayliel has endured a lot of bullying for being different.
Starting over new at SCU she finds friends that accept her for who she is.
A loyal, caring, and strong Angel who smiles despite all she has endured.
She is an extremely relatable character.

Demon attacks have been becoming more frequent and they could be heading to SCU.

Hayliel has her hands full with mid terms, mean girls and gossip papers, new friends, love interests, trying to research why her wings are a different color, and preparing incase of Demon attacks.

This is a why choose that will build through out the series.
Three very hot and spicyyyy guys 🥵

“Keep it up, and I’ll fuck you right here in the sky so the entire school will hear your screams as you come for me.”

By 13% I was sucked into this world. I couldn’t get enough of it.
I can NOT wait to get ahold of book two 🤩
This book deserves hype. I loved it🔥🪽
Profile Image for Merrit Townsend (always1morebook) .
1,173 reviews50 followers
August 17, 2023
This is book 1 in the Silver City University Series. These books are written in chronological order and are recommended to be read in order.

Tropes:
Why choose
Lovers to enemies
University setting
Mystery

This book Follows Hailiel who is an angel that has grey wings. This is unheard of and she has been bullied all her life but things are looking up for her. She has been given a scholarship to Silver City University where she hopes to find out through her classes where her wing color comes from. While at university, things are happening behind the scene. Demons are coming closer to the university. Everybody is on edge and they don't trust hall. She, herself is not sure who to trust and if she chooses wrong, things go badly. Hailiel just wants to be like everyone else. Can she find the answers to her questions or will everything come crashing down around her.

So much is going on in this book. So many questions that are introduced in the story and I am hoping to find out because that ending....I need to know what happens. I do wish the romantic relationships wold have been fleshed out a bit more. I felt they were a bit rushed and I couldn't form a connection with them. I am hoping that in the next books, we will get a bit more growth. Either way, I enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next one. I give this book 4 stars.
Profile Image for Palistha.
83 reviews3 followers
August 19, 2023
Oh My GOD!

What did I just read? Did I really finish the book already??

Wings of Deception is a fantasy novel, including angels and demons. It is the first book in Silver City University Series. The story is about a girl named Hayliel who is an average Fallen Angel who is different. She joins Silver City University to explore her powers and to find answers about why she is so different. The story progresses as she makes new friends and embarks on an adventure to understand herself.

As soon as I laid my eyes on the blurb, I knew I had to read the book. And I am sooo glad I read it! The book has a good plot, execution, and does not wander from the plot. It is a quick read which had my attention from the very first line. I was so engrossed in the story I finished the book in one sitting. I could not put the book down. I have NOTHING BUT ONLY GOOD THINGS to say about this book! It has been a while since I read a good fantasy book. AND the ENDING! OH MY GOD!

It ends in such a cliffhanger that I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. I am so in love with the author Victoria Pauley and would read any book she writes further.
Profile Image for Shiro Kitana.
454 reviews8 followers
August 12, 2025
Overall, this book was just OK. When I start to think about the relationships in this book, they don’t really excite me. For one, Raphael — I did like that he’s very golden-retriever-esque and very kind, but other than that, I don’t really know much else about him. Besides, his mom favors his other brother.

Theo was nice as well. He’s more of the bookworm type, but you don’t really get to see her bonding as strongly with Theo.

As for Ezekiel, I liked him a lot when she first met him, and it was kind of hard for me to like the other two guys as much as I liked him at first. But then Ezekiel started acting like an idiot, assuming she had moved on with the two Pures, and started acting like an asshole instead of just talking to her — which really, really pissed me off. Even until the end of the book, he’s still acting like an idiot.

The only reason I may end up continuing with this series is because of Hayliel. Her wings weren’t gray — they were just a cover for her actual golden wings — and she has the power to get rid of demons. Since chapter 6, I called that Hayliel was a seraphim because of the color of her wings, and I still think I’m right at the end of the book.
Profile Image for Jess McDaniel.
1,073 reviews68 followers
August 13, 2023
I am so glad I won this arc!! I have ignored everything today (minus feeding the family) to read this. I read it in one day. It sucked me in and had me in a chokehold and I was absolutely blown away by it.

Hayliel has been different all her life, but she doesn't try to let it get her down. She's got to be strong to survive. Even though she is different, she has a BFF that doesn't treat her any different and meets some guys that feel this strong connection with her.

Wings of Deception was refreshing. There's instalove/instant attraction, and no bullying within the harem (which is nice). There is one that is a bit broody (who doesn't love a broody H that will fall hard), but never flat out mean to her.

I loved the angels/demons aspect of this and that it's otherworldly, but has elements that's familiar. I knew there was going to be a cliffhanger as it is the first in the series, but I was a bit shocked as to what it was going to be. With that being said, I cannot freaking wait until book two.
6 reviews
October 3, 2024
AMAZING!!!

Amazing! That’s all I can say. This book had me feeling everything! If you’re hesitant to read it, just do it! Trust me, it is SOOOO worth it!

As someone who’s never read fantasy before, I am beyond happy I chose to dive in with this one, and boy was I not disappointed! Not only was it easy to wrap my head around the world Victoria created, but also every character was compelling and I just wanted to know more about each! I usually have a preference when it comes to why choose, but I couldn’t pick just one with this book!

Ezekiel is perfection, even if sometimes I wanted to squeeze my hands around a certain upper part of his body!

Raphael is a pure sweetness and made me smile throughout the book.

And Theo, our little troubled man with the dark past pulled at my heart strings and made me wish I could reach through the book and give him a hug.

So if you’re a newbie like me debating if you should or shouldn’t, just go for it! You won’t regret it!

Now off to the next in the series and I have no doubt it will be as amazing as this one!
Profile Image for My_Books_In_Nooks.
293 reviews8 followers
August 3, 2025
Book Review of ‘ Wings of Deception’ by Victoria Pauley.

Oehhh I devoured this book!
Angel books are so interestingly cool, and this book belongs in that category!
Hayliel is an outcast because of her wings, being bullied all her life, with only one friend, when she finally finds friends in Silver City University.
From the start you are pulled in, trying to figure out who is good and who is bad.
Ezekiel, Raphael and Theo are the yummy angels in her life at SCU.
Even tho the book says, why choose, this is a reverse harem story, nothing happens between them (just yet), but I guess the following books will have enough 🌶️ between them.
This book does have some 🌶️ one on one scenes.

Storyline read nicely with nice world building, so i really kept flipping the pages and didnt realize I already reached the end of it. And that ending!!🤩🤯
If you like academia stories with angels, reverse harem (coming) great world building, then I would definitely advise you to put this series on your TBR list.
This really is the start of a great series!
A solid 5/5⭐️
#bookreview #bookrecs #bookgram #booktok #instagram #silvercityuniversity #wingsofdeception #victoriapauley @Author Victoria Pauley
Profile Image for Sylvia Pelletier.
458 reviews28 followers
August 13, 2023
Hayliel is a very unique angel. While everyone else has black or white wings, she has Grey. When she first arrives to silver city university she wants to hide her wings from her peers. She just wants to be normal, but of course that doesn't last long. Unfortunately when her peers find out about her odd colored wings they're cruel and call her a demon spawn. But she does find comfort in a select few angels. Theo and Raphael are both drawn to hayliel and have taken it upon themselves to be her friends and protectors. Along with zeke, while cold and aloof, he still cares for hayliel. This was an epic fantasy story and left on a brutal cliffhanger. Excited for book 2 and to learn more about what exactly hayliel truly is.
Profile Image for Victoria Rodriguez-Combel.
102 reviews2 followers
March 13, 2024
Angles and Demons, what more can you ask for. When an outcast angle finds herself a new start, she believes that she can leave behind the bullies. She is different but with her charm connections and unexpected friendships are made. I was obsessed from chapter one! Hayliel is a refreshing character, not only because she stands up to her bullies, but she knows how to keep her head held high. As things start to spice up with her new "friends" something is brewing in the background. She wants answers for why she is different and yet no one has them... There is also a rise in demon activity, and it only seem to start when our new angle started school... This is not a dark romance, but it does contain overcoming personal issue for their past.
115 reviews
November 12, 2025
Interesting story

I had to think about this review for some time and I don’t know why. This story is a different take on the angels and demons and I’m enjoying that. I love that the FMC isn’t letting bullying affect her and actually plays into rumours surrounding her to stop people bullying others. I like her men and the relationships they’re developing with the FMC. But despite all this I felt a disconnect to the story and I can’t work out why that is. It’s worth reading as it is interesting, but for some reason that pull you in and can’t put down feel that I love with books wasn’t there for me. That being said it is a good story and has all the hallmarks of being thoroughly enjoyable.
Profile Image for Erin Pasket.
413 reviews24 followers
August 18, 2023
This was my first read by Victoria and she had me hooked right off the back. This college romance with angels and demons had me wanting more, especially with the epic cliffhanger.

This book was such a quick and easy read. Your invested in the instant friends Hayliel meets and Hayliel’s story too. I loved the multiple dual povs because it gave you perspective on each character and made their connection to Hayliel more powerful.

The ending to this book was one I wasn’t expecting. The cliffhanger has you wanting more right away and gives you a glimpse of how great book two will be. This is a must-read and I can’t recommend it enough.
Profile Image for Mrs A.
1,396 reviews29 followers
August 20, 2023
I was intrigued by the blurb and I’m glad I took a chance on this book as it definitely delivered. The world building is good and sets the scene well. The story flows well and has plenty of action, drama, mystery and romance.

I loved the overarching theme of this book too that being different is ok. Hayliel, she is sassy and resilient despite being shunned most of her life for being different. Theo and Raphael are likeable characters who accept her as she is and completely devoted to her whilst broody Zeke is conflicted about his feelings.

Ends on a cliffhanger and I’m totally invested to see how things pan out on the next book
Profile Image for Kim (KJW Reviews).
293 reviews5 followers
August 20, 2025
Title: Wings of Deception (Silver City University: Book 1)
Author: Victoria Pauley


Review: Undecided about this one, I really like the gist of the story but there were a few holes that didn't make sense, maybe they will in the following books to come. Overall it was lacking, I didn't feel connected to the main characters and there was a lot of internal monologue to digest which kids of side tracked you a bit. I ended up skim reading some paragraphs just to get through it. I did enjoy the connection the FMC had with each guy and hope they all end up together.

Stars: 3.5/5 ★
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️
Recommend: Undecided
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.