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Wrongfully Magicked
They say crime doesn’t pay…they would be wrong.
Being the weakest mage ever born into my prestigious family line has put me at odds with my relatives—torture and death threats tend to make family dinners so awkward. Labeled as a black sheep in the mage community, I’m vilified at every opportunity, and it’s not long before my very existence is considered an inconvenience—one they want to rectify at the earliest opportunity.
Arrested for a crime I didn’t commit, the last thing I expect is to be rescued by a motley crew of the most unlikely men—three beastlings and a mage! While mages might be regarded as egotistical twits, beastlings are often viewed as animals with little control over their baser urges—so it makes absolutely no sense that the longer I’m with the antisocial, slightly psychotic idiots, the more intriguing I find them.
In order to survive, we must hunt down a rogue killer, dodge bounty hunters, and discover the real reason why my family wants me dead—easy-peasy! Unfortunately, rescuing me put the guys at risk. Despite trying to keep my distance from the infuriating, sexy men, the devious hunks somehow stole a piece of my heart. Now, I’ll do anything to protect them, even make a deal with the devil himself…
Meet the Anita—a tortured, bloodthirsty mage with trust issues, Porter—the literal boogeyman who hides in the darkness, Cassius—a surly basilisk who would rather bite you than smile, Darby—a tech wizard who pretends to be more machine than man so he doesn’t have to feel, Soren—a three-headed hellhound who loves playing with fire, and Stryker—an adorably sweet snow leopard stuck in his beastling form.
** This book contains dark themes and violence. You have been warned. Read at your own risk.
Being the weakest mage ever born into my prestigious family line has put me at odds with my relatives—torture and death threats tend to make family dinners so awkward. Labeled as a black sheep in the mage community, I’m vilified at every opportunity, and it’s not long before my very existence is considered an inconvenience—one they want to rectify at the earliest opportunity.
Arrested for a crime I didn’t commit, the last thing I expect is to be rescued by a motley crew of the most unlikely men—three beastlings and a mage! While mages might be regarded as egotistical twits, beastlings are often viewed as animals with little control over their baser urges—so it makes absolutely no sense that the longer I’m with the antisocial, slightly psychotic idiots, the more intriguing I find them.
In order to survive, we must hunt down a rogue killer, dodge bounty hunters, and discover the real reason why my family wants me dead—easy-peasy! Unfortunately, rescuing me put the guys at risk. Despite trying to keep my distance from the infuriating, sexy men, the devious hunks somehow stole a piece of my heart. Now, I’ll do anything to protect them, even make a deal with the devil himself…
Meet the Anita—a tortured, bloodthirsty mage with trust issues, Porter—the literal boogeyman who hides in the darkness, Cassius—a surly basilisk who would rather bite you than smile, Darby—a tech wizard who pretends to be more machine than man so he doesn’t have to feel, Soren—a three-headed hellhound who loves playing with fire, and Stryker—an adorably sweet snow leopard stuck in his beastling form.
** This book contains dark themes and violence. You have been warned. Read at your own risk.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2024
270 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
About the author
Stacey Brutger
46 books1,291 followersStacey Brutger lives in a small town in Minnesota with her husband and an assortment of animals.
When she's not reading (from the towering stack of books she can't resist buying), she enjoys creating stories about exotic worlds and grand adventures...then shoving in her characters to see how they'd survive. She enjoys writing anything paranormal from contemporary to historical.
~~~~~*****~~~~~*****~~~~~*****~~~~~
Where the fanged, furry and spell slingers fight the darkness inside their soul for a chance to claim the one they love.
When she's not reading (from the towering stack of books she can't resist buying), she enjoys creating stories about exotic worlds and grand adventures...then shoving in her characters to see how they'd survive. She enjoys writing anything paranormal from contemporary to historical.
~~~~~*****~~~~~*****~~~~~*****~~~~~
Where the fanged, furry and spell slingers fight the darkness inside their soul for a chance to claim the one they love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
September 29, 2024
FMC succumbs to body betrayal syndrome in less than 24 hours from meeting the guys.
First one, when the men are mean to her she says "They don’t give off man-whore vibes, just confidence that they know what they are doing, and I find it sexy as fuck. I clutch my sheet a little closer to disguise my reaction, but the way Soren inhales deeply, as if catching the scent of my desire, and the way Cassius licks his lips, I know I failed miserably."
Again at 24% when the FMC is being held against her will she says "A hum catches in the back of my throat at his massive size, and I’m not in control of my body when I go up on my toes and press back against him, desperate to feel his cock where I need it most."
She literally says "i'm not in control of my own body."
The men are mean to her, strip her of any ability to make decisions, physically intimidate her and bully her into backing down.
Oh, and the nicknames for the FMC started. Because I dnf'd, we have two: little rabbit and kitten. *rolls eyes*
First one, when the men are mean to her she says "They don’t give off man-whore vibes, just confidence that they know what they are doing, and I find it sexy as fuck. I clutch my sheet a little closer to disguise my reaction, but the way Soren inhales deeply, as if catching the scent of my desire, and the way Cassius licks his lips, I know I failed miserably."
Again at 24% when the FMC is being held against her will she says "A hum catches in the back of my throat at his massive size, and I’m not in control of my body when I go up on my toes and press back against him, desperate to feel his cock where I need it most."
She literally says "i'm not in control of my own body."
The men are mean to her, strip her of any ability to make decisions, physically intimidate her and bully her into backing down.
Oh, and the nicknames for the FMC started. Because I dnf'd, we have two: little rabbit and kitten. *rolls eyes*
June 28, 2024
Pretty Decent
The FMC is not stupid. What impressed me is that she was straight business when she needed to be. As it should be. Plus, she did not make stupid decisions. In addition, I liked the MFC because the FMC personality was well written. Otherwise some of those guys would have been a bit too extra alpha.
What could have improved was the FMC constantly saying she wouldn’t forgive herself if something happened to the guys. You just met them, that ownership came too soon. Especially, since she is supposed to be jaded.
Otherwise, solid start. Thanks for not making her a virgin!
The FMC is not stupid. What impressed me is that she was straight business when she needed to be. As it should be. Plus, she did not make stupid decisions. In addition, I liked the MFC because the FMC personality was well written. Otherwise some of those guys would have been a bit too extra alpha.
What could have improved was the FMC constantly saying she wouldn’t forgive herself if something happened to the guys. You just met them, that ownership came too soon. Especially, since she is supposed to be jaded.
Otherwise, solid start. Thanks for not making her a virgin!
May 27, 2024
***WOW! I WANT MORE***
I loved this book. RH is one of my favourite tropes. I am looking forward to book 2. Is a firebird and phoenix the same?
I loved this book. RH is one of my favourite tropes. I am looking forward to book 2. Is a firebird and phoenix the same?
dnf
June 27, 2024I found myself skimming a fair amount. There's a lot of lustful thinking that I was having to wade through. I was skimming more than I was reading.
Dnf 26%
Dnf 26%
December 1, 2024
This book took me by surprise and in the best of ways possible. Anita was both badass without being arrogant or foolish, and her men were somehow the perfect mix of possessive and respectful. I really enjoyed the dynamic between them all and how Anita held most of the power as the men were afraid of hurting her or her rejecting them. Stryker, especially being so close to feral, warmed my heart with his intense desire to prove his skills to his mate and that he would be a worthy partner if she chose him. It definitely felt more like possessive 'alpha' men absolutely obsessed with their girl, even to the point that they would live a life of solitude if she ever tired of them etc, and not the usual demanding, asshole 'this woman is mine now' vibe (though of course claiming and marking were featured). I also like the variety in her harem (instead of the usual werewolf, vampire, fae etc we got a hell hound, a boogeyman/nightmare, a tech wizard and a basilisk) and how the world was mainly composed of mages, beastlings and the occasional demon. Between Stryker being scared that he wasn't enough for Anita, Cassius being scared to look anyone in the eye or have human touch and Soren's beast riding him to puff out his chest and provide food for his mate, I was thoroughly smitten. The smut was well written, although maybe a little too soon with Stryker considering it was in the first few hours of meeting, and did make things feel a little uneven as Anita bonded with Stryker and Soren, thought Cassius and Porter disliked her, and had very little contact with Darby. Maybe some plot points and finer details were brushed over a little too easily or quickly, but overall it was a compelling read and convinced me to do a deep dive into the author's other works in the meantime. 8/10.
July 7, 2024
5/5 stars
Omg I have so many things to say about this book. It had me absolutely HOOKED, and had me gasping out loud multiple times. I loved it, and I read more than 80% of it today. The MMC’s I am in love with. I also really love Anita. When we finally met Stryker, it was a COMPLETE surprise, but a very welcome one, and everything that came after that scene was welcome too.
I will say that the one huge negative that I have is the epilogue. I felt like the entire book was so well paced and written out, and then here is the epilogue where we are just getting information thrown at us. I didn’t like a lot of what was being thrown at us, and then I also learn that the second book isn’t even out yet. I am just going to pretend that the book ended after the first one, and that the epilogue didn’t happen, and that everyone lived happily ever after.
Omg I have so many things to say about this book. It had me absolutely HOOKED, and had me gasping out loud multiple times. I loved it, and I read more than 80% of it today. The MMC’s I am in love with. I also really love Anita. When we finally met Stryker, it was a COMPLETE surprise, but a very welcome one, and everything that came after that scene was welcome too.
I will say that the one huge negative that I have is the epilogue. I felt like the entire book was so well paced and written out, and then here is the epilogue where we are just getting information thrown at us. I didn’t like a lot of what was being thrown at us, and then I also learn that the second book isn’t even out yet. I am just going to pretend that the book ended after the first one, and that the epilogue didn’t happen, and that everyone lived happily ever after.
May 15, 2024
Anita has pretty much been hiding from her family, who had tortured her and are determined to get her back. Anita is doing a job as a bike messenger, and when she arrives at her latest job, everything blows up, literally. Anita is being framed, but the magic police aren’t interested in her story, but when Porter, Cassius, Darby, and Soren enter the picture, they are immediately drawn to her, and want to help her. We also meet Stryker along the way. I loved all the guys, they aren’t your usual supernatural creatures, and I like that they all had distinct personalities. While this is a series, I feel like it ends with a happy for now type ending, rather than a cliffy. I am excited to see what Anita and her guys get up to and seeing Anita figure out her powers.
June 22, 2024
Fast moving fun entertainment
I loved this book. It is pnr, shifters or beastlings as they are called in this world, magic and evil mages, found heritage, mates, and of course reverse harem. The world is somewhat confusing, corrupt, and never really detailed, but it doesn't really detract from the plot. There is a lot of Insta love due to mate bonds but you just know our heroine deserves love after her awful upbringing. This book details the many events that take place within 2 weeks of her 25th birthday when her true, previously unknown, powers will emerge. The team must defeat her evil family in order to save her life. The ending tantalizes with potential follow ups, but is a satisfying conclusion on its own. Smoothly written and edited.
I loved this book. It is pnr, shifters or beastlings as they are called in this world, magic and evil mages, found heritage, mates, and of course reverse harem. The world is somewhat confusing, corrupt, and never really detailed, but it doesn't really detract from the plot. There is a lot of Insta love due to mate bonds but you just know our heroine deserves love after her awful upbringing. This book details the many events that take place within 2 weeks of her 25th birthday when her true, previously unknown, powers will emerge. The team must defeat her evil family in order to save her life. The ending tantalizes with potential follow ups, but is a satisfying conclusion on its own. Smoothly written and edited.
June 9, 2024
Great!
Wow - this story was engaging from page one. We learn about the FMC and MMCs without excessive exposition and from multiple POVs. The FMC is a survivor without claiming to be a bad*ss and getting in the way. The MMCs enough is a backstory to make them unique but no obvious dropped plotlines - no matter what the FMC would have figured something out but the MMCs add to the story but aren't needed to move it forward. I'm good with just this but look forward to the next book.
There's no nonsensical insta-love but there's a lot of just which makes sense! This book captures in one what a lot of authors can't inv three. A great book if be happy to read again.
Wow - this story was engaging from page one. We learn about the FMC and MMCs without excessive exposition and from multiple POVs. The FMC is a survivor without claiming to be a bad*ss and getting in the way. The MMCs enough is a backstory to make them unique but no obvious dropped plotlines - no matter what the FMC would have figured something out but the MMCs add to the story but aren't needed to move it forward. I'm good with just this but look forward to the next book.
There's no nonsensical insta-love but there's a lot of just which makes sense! This book captures in one what a lot of authors can't inv three. A great book if be happy to read again.
June 1, 2024
good read
I enjoyed this book. Like most of the authors work the characters were well written and developed. Honestly the only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars was because of the ending. The epilogue was really abrupt and felt almost rushed. What happened to Darby letting Anita decide about the serum? Why was that just thrown in as almost an afterthought “oh by the way I had to inject you with something sorry!” And the whole guild thing just came out in the space of two pages. Other than that it was an enjoyable story
I enjoyed this book. Like most of the authors work the characters were well written and developed. Honestly the only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars was because of the ending. The epilogue was really abrupt and felt almost rushed. What happened to Darby letting Anita decide about the serum? Why was that just thrown in as almost an afterthought “oh by the way I had to inject you with something sorry!” And the whole guild thing just came out in the space of two pages. Other than that it was an enjoyable story
May 11, 2024
I had never read Stacey Brutger's work before but having read this, I know I will search out more of what she writes! The characters are unique and loveable and it is easy to differentiate the MMCs (Soren and Stryker especially made me swoon). The FMC is smart, clever, and ultimately a survivor and you find yourself cheering her on throughout the book. The plot is easy to follow and the writing never lags. Oh and it is multiple POV. Truly this book was easy to get lost in and in many ways reminds me of Sarah Hinds writing which is a huge compliment.
November 7, 2024
good
I loved the main characters, we got to read their point of view and fall in love with each of them. I didn’t want to put the book down. I didn’t find their relationships jumped missing steps, they built somewhat naturally. I am so glad she survived demon puberty and she turned into a phoenix. I’m curious as to what the jackal wants with her. That convo jackal had with Darby was confusing. Can’t wait for the next book to come out!
I loved the main characters, we got to read their point of view and fall in love with each of them. I didn’t want to put the book down. I didn’t find their relationships jumped missing steps, they built somewhat naturally. I am so glad she survived demon puberty and she turned into a phoenix. I’m curious as to what the jackal wants with her. That convo jackal had with Darby was confusing. Can’t wait for the next book to come out!
May 7, 2024
Great start to this new series
Another excellent Stacey Brutger series has begun. Anita and her guys are all wonderful characters and I enjoyed all of the action in the story. It made it fast paced and kept me glued to the pages. The ending was better than expected - no crazy cliffhanger but definitely looking forward to the next book.
Another excellent Stacey Brutger series has begun. Anita and her guys are all wonderful characters and I enjoyed all of the action in the story. It made it fast paced and kept me glued to the pages. The ending was better than expected - no crazy cliffhanger but definitely looking forward to the next book.
May 15, 2024
Whar?!?
The book was really great, actually quite different than the typical storylines, then it rather abruptly ends. It says "to be continued" but there is nothing indicating a next book. The FMC didn't even mate with all her "mates"? Honestly, the end was a huge letdown with it unclear if the story will continue...🤔
The book was really great, actually quite different than the typical storylines, then it rather abruptly ends. It says "to be continued" but there is nothing indicating a next book. The FMC didn't even mate with all her "mates"? Honestly, the end was a huge letdown with it unclear if the story will continue...🤔
July 16, 2025
I wanted to love this but the fmc is not nearly damaged enough for the torture that was her upbringing. I did not buy it. Also it seemed completely unnecessary to introduce another mate to the group partway through the book. Dont get me wrong a sexy tiger shifter is great but he doesn't add anything to the story.
May 8, 2024
Excellent series opener
Aww yeah, I f-in- loved this start to a new series, couldn't put it down! Great fmc, interesting world building, and a decently varied bunch of guys (none of whom have stupid names! Miracle). Really looking forward to the next book.
Aww yeah, I f-in- loved this start to a new series, couldn't put it down! Great fmc, interesting world building, and a decently varied bunch of guys (none of whom have stupid names! Miracle). Really looking forward to the next book.
May 17, 2024
This was great!
Loved the world building, and all the different species that made up these characters.
Would have liked more steam, there was very little in this first book. But hopefully in the future..
Hopefully we get more books soon!
Loved the world building, and all the different species that made up these characters.
Would have liked more steam, there was very little in this first book. But hopefully in the future..
Hopefully we get more books soon!
May 26, 2024
4 🌟
Enjoyable plotline with a slow build harem. I think this is the first book I've read by this author but I'll definitely be looking up her other books. Strong fmc and likable mmc. The ending was a little abrupt but at least it wasn't a cliffy!
Enjoyable plotline with a slow build harem. I think this is the first book I've read by this author but I'll definitely be looking up her other books. Strong fmc and likable mmc. The ending was a little abrupt but at least it wasn't a cliffy!
July 7, 2024
Wrongfully Magicked, book one of the Crime Always Pays series, is an ebook I borrowed through Kindle Unlimited (KU). Fun and humorous, I enjoyed this story more than I anticipated. A crazy mix of personalities made this a quick, enjoyable read.
July 9, 2024
fun read
this is a new (to me) author and i really enjoyed her style of writing …. likeable FMC and MMCs …. snark/ fun/ bit of drama / sexy times … will definitely be keeping an eye out for book 2
this is a new (to me) author and i really enjoyed her style of writing …. likeable FMC and MMCs …. snark/ fun/ bit of drama / sexy times … will definitely be keeping an eye out for book 2
July 12, 2024
Beginning of a epic guild
Great genesis story. With a wild firebrand as the nucleus, her mates and friends of misbegotten adventures surround her with their various skills to form a guild of demon hunters. Heck yes I'm in!!! Let me grab my magic endowments and jump in the fray.
Great genesis story. With a wild firebrand as the nucleus, her mates and friends of misbegotten adventures surround her with their various skills to form a guild of demon hunters. Heck yes I'm in!!! Let me grab my magic endowments and jump in the fray.
September 18, 2024
Enjoy the journey ✨️
This is a great read full of likable characters. It covers family issues reminding us that some families are best when they are chosen family. Get comfortable & enjoy.
This is a great read full of likable characters. It covers family issues reminding us that some families are best when they are chosen family. Get comfortable & enjoy.
October 29, 2024
That was soooo good.
I can’t choose a favorite character but my favorite scene was when Anita finally fought back against her family. It was so good. I can’t wait to read the next book.
I can’t choose a favorite character but my favorite scene was when Anita finally fought back against her family. It was so good. I can’t wait to read the next book.
May 25, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was so good. The characters really bring this story to life and I can't wait to read about the adventures they go in throughout the rest of the series.
This book was so good. The characters really bring this story to life and I can't wait to read about the adventures they go in throughout the rest of the series.
July 11, 2024
Hm. I'm just interested how this book got basically all 4 and 5 from reviewers. I felt bored, simply put, took me over a week to read. Maybe this just wasn't for me.
August 31, 2024
DNF
Utter garbage
Utter garbage
April 15, 2025
Good book
I really liked it and hope for a fast next book. While I read her others. It was good paced.
I really liked it and hope for a fast next book. While I read her others. It was good paced.
May 12, 2025
surprisingly good :)
I picked this up on a whim and really enjoyed it.
-hidden destiny
-magical world
-fated mates
I picked this up on a whim and really enjoyed it.
-hidden destiny
-magical world
-fated mates
May 20, 2025
I've liked this authors writing style in the past and that haven't changed.
It's really good, fun, and im sitting on the edge of the seat sometimes.
I want the next book NOW.
It's really good, fun, and im sitting on the edge of the seat sometimes.
I want the next book NOW.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews