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Wilde Contracts #2
Steal the Key
A necromancer, an incubus and a vampire walk into a bar….
My life’s one bad joke after another.
I’m in a race against time to steal a Death Goddess’s key before it falls into the wrong hands. There’s also a good chance the ruthless family I left behind are hot on my heels—and vying for the very same key that I’m planning to destroy.
Saving the world is tricky enough, but doing it while chronically broke is another thing entirely. I don’t have time to worry about paying my rent—even if I am late. Yet again.
And I don’t have time for romance, even if my heart has other ideas. Especially when it comes to a beautiful but distant incubus, and a vampire bodyguard I have no business finding attractive...
Talk about complicated.
But the clock’s ticking. Somehow, I’ve got to steal the key, avoid my family, and figure out my love life before things go to hell in a hand-basket.
Oh, and I need to stay alive. Can't forget that.
All I’ve got are my shaky necromancy powers, an awkward sense of humor in the face of danger, and an empty wallet to assist me.
Piece of cake…right?
Steal the Key is the second contract in a trilogy that contains more death, confusing feelings about vampires, even more pining for an incubus, copious F bombs and a very capable fish named Kevin.
My life’s one bad joke after another.
I’m in a race against time to steal a Death Goddess’s key before it falls into the wrong hands. There’s also a good chance the ruthless family I left behind are hot on my heels—and vying for the very same key that I’m planning to destroy.
Saving the world is tricky enough, but doing it while chronically broke is another thing entirely. I don’t have time to worry about paying my rent—even if I am late. Yet again.
And I don’t have time for romance, even if my heart has other ideas. Especially when it comes to a beautiful but distant incubus, and a vampire bodyguard I have no business finding attractive...
Talk about complicated.
But the clock’s ticking. Somehow, I’ve got to steal the key, avoid my family, and figure out my love life before things go to hell in a hand-basket.
Oh, and I need to stay alive. Can't forget that.
All I’ve got are my shaky necromancy powers, an awkward sense of humor in the face of danger, and an empty wallet to assist me.
Piece of cake…right?
Steal the Key is the second contract in a trilogy that contains more death, confusing feelings about vampires, even more pining for an incubus, copious F bombs and a very capable fish named Kevin.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 12, 2024
About the author
Maz Maddox
35 books705 followersMaz Maddox is the odd lovechild between a unicorn, dinosaur and vampire. The outcome is a human-like figure who inherited aspects of all three. She is a champion of logic and science, adores beauty and whimsy, and has a slight streak of darkness that dances the line of genius and insanity.
Residing in the wild land of cowboy boots and Shiner beer, Maz spends her time with her two dogs and a husband who she adores, and is constantly demanding that science gives her a pocket sized triceratops. The efforts of these demands have yet to be fulfilled.
When she’s not pining over the lack of chihuahua sized ornithischia, she’s a writer who loves crafting adventures tales sprinkled with humor, a hefty helping of romance, and topped with a happy ending.
Residing in the wild land of cowboy boots and Shiner beer, Maz spends her time with her two dogs and a husband who she adores, and is constantly demanding that science gives her a pocket sized triceratops. The efforts of these demands have yet to be fulfilled.
When she’s not pining over the lack of chihuahua sized ornithischia, she’s a writer who loves crafting adventures tales sprinkled with humor, a hefty helping of romance, and topped with a happy ending.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
October 28, 2024
RTC💜 BUT I WILL SAY THIS:
If an author made me ship an asexual incubus and a freaking skull? Then she’s a damned good one!
If an author made me ship an asexual incubus and a freaking skull? Then she’s a damned good one!
October 21, 2024
Okay this was such an improvement on book 1. It really took the bones of all of that promising world building and started to pull it together into something with a surprising amount of heart and adventure.
I can’t help but notice that there has been nearly 2 years between book 1 and 2 and I think you can really see the improvement in Maddox’s writing craft. This is sitting at a solid 4.5 stars for me currently but I think with the right ending to this story it could be bumped up later.
The magic, world building and side characters have continued to be fleshed out in the charming but slightly ridiculous way that seems to be Maddox’s signature. Barnaby and Dex are also such fun additions to the story.
I am such a sucker for a slow burn enemies to lovers dynamic and Zane and Dallas delivered that in spades, especially considering this book was light on spice, but I really enjoyed their snarky banter and them slowly warming up to each other. That being said, for those curious, this is definitely shaping itself up to be a nicely rounded little poly situation rather than a triangle. You can see the promise of the dynamic that is building between Dallas, Zane and Sias and I suspect that there will be some very tasty chemistry to come. I do feel a little bit like Sias’ role in the relationship is relying on the unseen history between he and Dallas but I look forward to seeing how his dynamic with Zane and Dallas develops further in book 3.
All I can say is thank god Book 3 looks like it is planned for Oct 2024 cause I have zero chill about waiting for it after that ending. Thanks you GRR for the opportunity to read this ARC and provide my thoughts and feelings.
I can’t help but notice that there has been nearly 2 years between book 1 and 2 and I think you can really see the improvement in Maddox’s writing craft. This is sitting at a solid 4.5 stars for me currently but I think with the right ending to this story it could be bumped up later.
The magic, world building and side characters have continued to be fleshed out in the charming but slightly ridiculous way that seems to be Maddox’s signature. Barnaby and Dex are also such fun additions to the story.
I am such a sucker for a slow burn enemies to lovers dynamic and Zane and Dallas delivered that in spades, especially considering this book was light on spice, but I really enjoyed their snarky banter and them slowly warming up to each other. That being said, for those curious, this is definitely shaping itself up to be a nicely rounded little poly situation rather than a triangle. You can see the promise of the dynamic that is building between Dallas, Zane and Sias and I suspect that there will be some very tasty chemistry to come. I do feel a little bit like Sias’ role in the relationship is relying on the unseen history between he and Dallas but I look forward to seeing how his dynamic with Zane and Dallas develops further in book 3.
All I can say is thank god Book 3 looks like it is planned for Oct 2024 cause I have zero chill about waiting for it after that ending. Thanks you GRR for the opportunity to read this ARC and provide my thoughts and feelings.
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February 20, 2025Dnf. A shame, because I loved the mystery part - just not the romance.
I’m really sad I didn’t make it through, but I just… can’t. Remember my issues with the m+m+m part? Well for me, it got worse. I love Dallas and his snarky humour, and I LOVE Zane, his vampire bodyguard. And I loved the world building, and the addition of the backstory we were previously missing (Dallas seems to have left some kind of cult who is dedicated to killing vampires).
But I DIDN’T love Sias the incubus, and I didn’t love seeing Dallas with Sias. I get it - sex is a way to “eat”/sustain himself for the incubus daddy. But… uh. I’m just at some scene where Dallas needs a partner to lean on, but Sias already “entertains” a succubus and a jinn, so Dallas joins in because he doesn’t want to be a spoilsport.
It feels so wrong. I want him to go home to Zane. Zane is perfect for him, he’s caring, a bit bossy, and loyal. And very obviously into Dallas.
Even though I hated it earlier when they were in a club and had a bet going on on who can pick up more guys 🙄
Annnyway. I feel like I’m taking ages to listen to the book, because I’m just not interested in the romance part. It’s just not my vibe right now I guess 🤷♀️ Maybe I’ll pick it up again some other time.
Dnf at 38%, no rating.
I’m really sad I didn’t make it through, but I just… can’t. Remember my issues with the m+m+m part? Well for me, it got worse. I love Dallas and his snarky humour, and I LOVE Zane, his vampire bodyguard. And I loved the world building, and the addition of the backstory we were previously missing (Dallas seems to have left some kind of cult who is dedicated to killing vampires).
But I DIDN’T love Sias the incubus, and I didn’t love seeing Dallas with Sias. I get it - sex is a way to “eat”/sustain himself for the incubus daddy. But… uh. I’m just at some scene where Dallas needs a partner to lean on, but Sias already “entertains” a succubus and a jinn, so Dallas joins in because he doesn’t want to be a spoilsport.
It feels so wrong. I want him to go home to Zane. Zane is perfect for him, he’s caring, a bit bossy, and loyal. And very obviously into Dallas.
Even though I hated it earlier when they were in a club and had a bet going on on who can pick up more guys 🙄
Annnyway. I feel like I’m taking ages to listen to the book, because I’m just not interested in the romance part. It’s just not my vibe right now I guess 🤷♀️ Maybe I’ll pick it up again some other time.
Dnf at 38%, no rating.
July 8, 2024
⭐️ 4.5 stars ⭐️
Trying to write a review through tears isn’t easy, let me tell you that. I have a love/hate relationship with cliffhangers, and this one was a doozy. I just want my babies to be happy.
This installment was ten times better than Find The Jinn. The slow burn was simmering and full of tension, the characters gained so much depth and complexity, the action was intriguing and fun. Where book one only left me mildly invested, Steal The Key had me giggling and crying, thinking about it day and night. I need book three immediately.
I’m still unsure whether it’s a throuple situation or a love triangle, but either way I’m not mad about it. Unless Zane isn’t in the picture. I’d choose a broody, red-eyed, cat lover vampire over a daddy vibes incubus any day.
The spice was more of a tease than anything substantial, but ooooh the way it’s building up that tension is scrumptious. I can’t wait for the fire to explode.
The banter between Zane and Dallas was great, and I really love how Maz Maddox filled this crazy wild adventure with so many emotions. Can’t wait for more. Seriously, hurry up. I NEED this HEA.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Mild violence
- Blood play
- Throuple/love triangle (?)
- Cliffhanger
“Always leave room for some fuckery, Zane. Who knows how the night is going to go.”
Trying to write a review through tears isn’t easy, let me tell you that. I have a love/hate relationship with cliffhangers, and this one was a doozy. I just want my babies to be happy.
This installment was ten times better than Find The Jinn. The slow burn was simmering and full of tension, the characters gained so much depth and complexity, the action was intriguing and fun. Where book one only left me mildly invested, Steal The Key had me giggling and crying, thinking about it day and night. I need book three immediately.
“I knew that day I was going to be your vampire.”
I’m still unsure whether it’s a throuple situation or a love triangle, but either way I’m not mad about it. Unless Zane isn’t in the picture. I’d choose a broody, red-eyed, cat lover vampire over a daddy vibes incubus any day.
The spice was more of a tease than anything substantial, but ooooh the way it’s building up that tension is scrumptious. I can’t wait for the fire to explode.
The banter between Zane and Dallas was great, and I really love how Maz Maddox filled this crazy wild adventure with so many emotions. Can’t wait for more. Seriously, hurry up. I NEED this HEA.
“I can always find you. Always.”
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Mild violence
- Blood play
- Throuple/love triangle (?)
- Cliffhanger
November 29, 2024
LOVED THIS ONE LIKE CRAZY! This series is so different from the typical m/m romance though I wouldn’t really call Steal the Key or its predecessor, Find the Jinn, romance anyway.
The world building is incredibly unique and intriguing.
The characters are out there in a wholly Maz way; they’re funny, quirky, weird and wonderful. They’re loveable but, at times, a wee bit unlikeable in the best way, a way that adds depth and nuance to not only their character but the growth they make.
The plots of both books kept me guessing and on the edge of my seat from start to finish.
But what REALLY got me with this one was the final 25%. What Maz does with the relationship/friendship growth between Dallas and Zane and Barnaby and Sias is spectacular. She fucking crushed it! She made my heart all swoony and fuzzy and happy on multiple levels and in different ways, then ripped it, bloody, beating and gory, right out of my chest. It was glorious.
Oh wait! How could I forget to mention Kevin and Twig!? They’re just one more small part of what makes this weird and wonderful dynamic so outstanding.
Of note:
1. If you haven’t started this series, I HIGHLY recommending reading Kill the Messenger, the prequel to Find The Jinn, before starting.
2. The audiobook of Find the Jinn is fantastic. Kirt Graves kills it!
3. Steal the Key ends on a cliffhanger. I didn’t mind that but just so you know, the next book isn’t slated to be published until October 31, 2024.
4. The audiobooks for Steal the Key will also be narrated by Kirt Graves and is planned for release in November 2024.
5 fucking fantastic stars! Love this one to death. TO DEATH 💀💀💀💀💀
Borrowed on KU but will definitely buy on the next Kindle Rewards double or triple points day and will definitely buy the audiobook as well. I’ve already listened to Find the Jinn twice and will for sure listen to it again before listening to Steal the Key which I plan to do the day it’s released.
Edited to add after listening to the audiobook:
As always, Kirt Graves absolutely nails the narration bringing Dallas, Zane, Sias and Barnaby to life in all their snarky, moody, mysterious, wonderful glory. LOVED it to the void and back again!
The world building is incredibly unique and intriguing.
The characters are out there in a wholly Maz way; they’re funny, quirky, weird and wonderful. They’re loveable but, at times, a wee bit unlikeable in the best way, a way that adds depth and nuance to not only their character but the growth they make.
The plots of both books kept me guessing and on the edge of my seat from start to finish.
But what REALLY got me with this one was the final 25%. What Maz does with the relationship/friendship growth between Dallas and Zane and Barnaby and Sias is spectacular. She fucking crushed it! She made my heart all swoony and fuzzy and happy on multiple levels and in different ways, then ripped it, bloody, beating and gory, right out of my chest. It was glorious.
Oh wait! How could I forget to mention Kevin and Twig!? They’re just one more small part of what makes this weird and wonderful dynamic so outstanding.
Of note:
1. If you haven’t started this series, I HIGHLY recommending reading Kill the Messenger, the prequel to Find The Jinn, before starting.
2. The audiobook of Find the Jinn is fantastic. Kirt Graves kills it!
3. Steal the Key ends on a cliffhanger. I didn’t mind that but just so you know, the next book isn’t slated to be published until October 31, 2024.
4. The audiobooks for Steal the Key will also be narrated by Kirt Graves and is planned for release in November 2024.
5 fucking fantastic stars! Love this one to death. TO DEATH 💀💀💀💀💀
Borrowed on KU but will definitely buy on the next Kindle Rewards double or triple points day and will definitely buy the audiobook as well. I’ve already listened to Find the Jinn twice and will for sure listen to it again before listening to Steal the Key which I plan to do the day it’s released.
Edited to add after listening to the audiobook:
As always, Kirt Graves absolutely nails the narration bringing Dallas, Zane, Sias and Barnaby to life in all their snarky, moody, mysterious, wonderful glory. LOVED it to the void and back again!
February 6, 2025
Wow!
So, that was an ending! 😲 can’t wait to get to the next book! This was awesome! Even better than the first book! Wow! Intense! Five full stars!
So, that was an ending! 😲 can’t wait to get to the next book! This was awesome! Even better than the first book! Wow! Intense! Five full stars!
July 18, 2024
I LOVED this!
An improvement on book 1, which was good but this one just had so much MORE of everything goodness. Dallas and his begrudging Thrall, Zane have to find a key for an evil corporate type. We find out so much more about Dallas's history and both Dallas and Zane get much more character development. Gah! My heart! I just wanted to wrap Dallas and his manic chaos goblin self into cotton wool. His backstory tugged at my heart.
His softening toward Zane and their chemistry was 🔥🥵
And Sias? Well, I kind of wanted to b*tch slap him in this one 🤷♀️
This was such a trip and I'm really hoping I don't have to wait forever for that finale!
ARC received for my honest review
An improvement on book 1, which was good but this one just had so much MORE of everything goodness. Dallas and his begrudging Thrall, Zane have to find a key for an evil corporate type. We find out so much more about Dallas's history and both Dallas and Zane get much more character development. Gah! My heart! I just wanted to wrap Dallas and his manic chaos goblin self into cotton wool. His backstory tugged at my heart.
His softening toward Zane and their chemistry was 🔥🥵
And Sias? Well, I kind of wanted to b*tch slap him in this one 🤷♀️
This was such a trip and I'm really hoping I don't have to wait forever for that finale!
ARC received for my honest review
August 3, 2024
I haven’t felt this sucked into a book in a while. There’s a ton of tension. You flip from page to page thinking ‘yeah, no way this gets any better’ and then it somehow fucking does.
Dallas is my spirit animal and I accept all his faults and mistrustful heart. I hope he gets his fucking cake and eats it.
Dallas is my spirit animal and I accept all his faults and mistrustful heart. I hope he gets his fucking cake and eats it.
August 3, 2024
4.5 stars
I think Maz Maddox has outdone herself with "Steal the Key," delivering a sequel that ramps up the charm, snark, and heart-tugging goodness in every conceivable way. From the first page, Maddox grabs you by the proverbial collar and drags you through shadowy alleyways and magical realms, making you question your loyalty to any character who so much as flickers an eyebrow.
The character development here is top-notch—Dallas and Zane evolve beautifully, and my heart couldn't handle the feels. And I had fun reading more about Barnaby.
The romance in Steal the Key is a smouldering, tension-filled tango that keeps you wondering who’s about to steal whose heart—or maybe just steal everything if the mood strikes them. Will they? Won’t they? Why are they staring at each other like that? It’s a dizzying experience, and I loved every moment of it.
If you, like me, have a soft spot for slow-burn enemies-to-lovers dynamics, buckle up. Dallas and Zane’s relationship is a deliciously frustrating dance filled with snarky banter, sideways glances, and just enough chemistry to light up a small city. While the book isn’t exactly a spice rack, their interactions are pure gold and sure to make any romance lover swoon or, let's be real, sweat a little.
As for the potential love triangle, I still can't quite tell if we're heading toward a delightful little poly situation or a tangled mess of romantic intrigue, but honestly, that makes it all the more captivating. Either way, I'm here for it!
I think Maz Maddox has outdone herself with "Steal the Key," delivering a sequel that ramps up the charm, snark, and heart-tugging goodness in every conceivable way. From the first page, Maddox grabs you by the proverbial collar and drags you through shadowy alleyways and magical realms, making you question your loyalty to any character who so much as flickers an eyebrow.
The character development here is top-notch—Dallas and Zane evolve beautifully, and my heart couldn't handle the feels. And I had fun reading more about Barnaby.
The romance in Steal the Key is a smouldering, tension-filled tango that keeps you wondering who’s about to steal whose heart—or maybe just steal everything if the mood strikes them. Will they? Won’t they? Why are they staring at each other like that? It’s a dizzying experience, and I loved every moment of it.
If you, like me, have a soft spot for slow-burn enemies-to-lovers dynamics, buckle up. Dallas and Zane’s relationship is a deliciously frustrating dance filled with snarky banter, sideways glances, and just enough chemistry to light up a small city. While the book isn’t exactly a spice rack, their interactions are pure gold and sure to make any romance lover swoon or, let's be real, sweat a little.
As for the potential love triangle, I still can't quite tell if we're heading toward a delightful little poly situation or a tangled mess of romantic intrigue, but honestly, that makes it all the more captivating. Either way, I'm here for it!
July 17, 2024
Welcome to another wild, hilarious adventure from author Maz Maddox!
Dallas is just as sarcastic and chaotic as book one, and we get to learn more about his past and why he hates vampires so much.
We also get to see his relationships with Sias and Zane develop, which was so fun!
Beware this ends with a cliffhanger that will break your heart!!!! We better get that happy ending in book three! And some well deserved revenge!
This was a fast paced paranormal gay romance novel, book two in a trilogy, and you really need to read book one to understand this one.
Dallas is just as sarcastic and chaotic as book one, and we get to learn more about his past and why he hates vampires so much.
We also get to see his relationships with Sias and Zane develop, which was so fun!
Beware this ends with a cliffhanger that will break your heart!!!! We better get that happy ending in book three! And some well deserved revenge!
This was a fast paced paranormal gay romance novel, book two in a trilogy, and you really need to read book one to understand this one.
October 28, 2024
4.75 stars
So far, this series keeps getting better. I loved this book! Dallas and his chaos is just so much fun to experience. We also get a lot more heart and emotion in this one. We get to learn more about Dallas and his past. We get to see him vulnerable. This series just keeps growing and evolving, and I really enjoy that. The overarching plot is super intriguing and just keeps getting more interesting, in my opinion. Dallas' relationships grow and change in this book. It's almost a turning point for all of them. Both romantic and platonic. We have a blossoming found family of sorts here, and I love it in all its messy dysfunction. This book ends on the cliffiest of cliffhangers, but it's worth it. The story and cast of characters make it worth it. All in all, so good. Definitely recommend it, and I WILL be continuing on with the conclusion of this trilogy ASAP.
So far, this series keeps getting better. I loved this book! Dallas and his chaos is just so much fun to experience. We also get a lot more heart and emotion in this one. We get to learn more about Dallas and his past. We get to see him vulnerable. This series just keeps growing and evolving, and I really enjoy that. The overarching plot is super intriguing and just keeps getting more interesting, in my opinion. Dallas' relationships grow and change in this book. It's almost a turning point for all of them. Both romantic and platonic. We have a blossoming found family of sorts here, and I love it in all its messy dysfunction. This book ends on the cliffiest of cliffhangers, but it's worth it. The story and cast of characters make it worth it. All in all, so good. Definitely recommend it, and I WILL be continuing on with the conclusion of this trilogy ASAP.
July 13, 2024
The 2nd book in the series is a rollercoaster of action, snark, steam and feelings. Dallas, Sia and Zane are everything and seeing their relationship evolve more and more while having to deal with so much was a lot of fun. Such an incredible fun read, though that ending...? I need the next book ASAP meaning Now!
July 3, 2025
This was a wild ride! I’m so glad I waited for book three to be out before tackling it. Dallas is unapologetically himself - until he isn’t. I loved seeing him grow and learning more about his past. I loved seeing the developing relationships he has with not only romantically with Zane and Sias, but platonically with Barnaby too.
August 8, 2024
3.75 stars
November 29, 2024
im devastated…hello…
favorite line:
“Thanks, Barns. You’re my best friend too. After Kevin.”
favorite line:
“Thanks, Barns. You’re my best friend too. After Kevin.”
May 4, 2026
La verdad que este libro ha sido más bien un rollo. El final ha mejorado bastante pero el único personaje que me importa lo más mínimo es Zane. Sias es tristemente un personaje que casi no aparece más que para escenas de cama fallidas y ya al final, not impressed
July 15, 2024
Maz Maddox is a fantastic writer. She is so gifted with her world building, character development, pacing...just everything, really. I love her work, but this trilogy might be my favorite of all.
Definitely read book one first! You'll be totally lost otherwise. There are some explanations and reminders for events of book 1, but it's pretty minimal. If you read book 1 but don't remember it well, read it again before this for the most enjoyment.
Dallas, Zane, and Sias. Gah. I love these guys. They are all fantastic and so very different.
Dallas is the main character and narrator, so everything comes through his eyes. Still, you get glimpses through Maddox's descriptive style that help reveal who Zane and Sias are, though they are still pretty mysterious, especially Sias.
Dallas is an accidental necromancer and he hates it. He also hates that he has a vampire thrall, but doesn't quite hate Zane as much as he wants to convince himself he does. In this story, we get a bit more background as to why Dallas is the way that he is. He is 10 lbs of chaos in a 5 lb bag with twice as much trauma. He needs a keeper in the worst way, and that's where Zane comes in, much to their mutual frustration.
Zane is the vampire thrall. He's been around a long time and has had two previous necromancers tethered to him. Zane gives off total Daddy vibes and does his very best to keep Dallas in check and in one piece, despite Dallas's total disregard for his own safety. In this story, the relationship between them really starts to grow roots and deepen. It's obvious that Zane is developing feelings for Dallas, but Dallas is doing his best not to reciprocate. It's that evolution that makes the cliffhanger ending feel like a kick in the gut.
Sias is a wealthy and powerful incubus and he and Dallas have been lovers for quite a while. Dallas is one of Sias's "favorites." It's worth noting here that Dallas and Sias are not by any means monogamous. They have an understanding, though Dallas has strong feelings for him, which started in book 1. Dallas is a bit of a himbo and Sias is a borderline libertine. He has a lot of partners (he's an incubus afterall), but he does care for them and it's clear he has a soft spot for Dallas. He is very clear upfront about the boundaries of their relationships. He wants Dallas to be happy and satisfied, he also worries about him, but I didn't really get the sense that he feels romantic love for Dallas. This is the only aspect of the story that disappointed me. After the way book 1 ended, I had hoped to see more from the Dallas and Sias dynamic, but nothing really changed between them. We don't really get much emotional reaction from Sias, he has very strong self-control. We get one teeny tiny glimpse that he sees Dallas as more than just a play partner, but I still didn't get the romantic love vibe from Sias. It's really hard to get a feel for how Sias actually feels about Dallas.
The romance is pretty secondary to the main plot and the mystery that Dallas is trying to solve. I would consider this trilogy to be more an urban adventure fantasy with elements of romance. Don't go into this thinking that it's going to be all swoony romance and big feelings. It's much more subtle than that. It is a fun ride though and well worth the read! I cannot wait for book 3 to see how it all comes together.
Definitely read book one first! You'll be totally lost otherwise. There are some explanations and reminders for events of book 1, but it's pretty minimal. If you read book 1 but don't remember it well, read it again before this for the most enjoyment.
Dallas, Zane, and Sias. Gah. I love these guys. They are all fantastic and so very different.
Dallas is the main character and narrator, so everything comes through his eyes. Still, you get glimpses through Maddox's descriptive style that help reveal who Zane and Sias are, though they are still pretty mysterious, especially Sias.
Dallas is an accidental necromancer and he hates it. He also hates that he has a vampire thrall, but doesn't quite hate Zane as much as he wants to convince himself he does. In this story, we get a bit more background as to why Dallas is the way that he is. He is 10 lbs of chaos in a 5 lb bag with twice as much trauma. He needs a keeper in the worst way, and that's where Zane comes in, much to their mutual frustration.
Zane is the vampire thrall. He's been around a long time and has had two previous necromancers tethered to him. Zane gives off total Daddy vibes and does his very best to keep Dallas in check and in one piece, despite Dallas's total disregard for his own safety. In this story, the relationship between them really starts to grow roots and deepen. It's obvious that Zane is developing feelings for Dallas, but Dallas is doing his best not to reciprocate. It's that evolution that makes the cliffhanger ending feel like a kick in the gut.
Sias is a wealthy and powerful incubus and he and Dallas have been lovers for quite a while. Dallas is one of Sias's "favorites." It's worth noting here that Dallas and Sias are not by any means monogamous. They have an understanding, though Dallas has strong feelings for him, which started in book 1. Dallas is a bit of a himbo and Sias is a borderline libertine. He has a lot of partners (he's an incubus afterall), but he does care for them and it's clear he has a soft spot for Dallas. He is very clear upfront about the boundaries of their relationships. He wants Dallas to be happy and satisfied, he also worries about him, but I didn't really get the sense that he feels romantic love for Dallas. This is the only aspect of the story that disappointed me. After the way book 1 ended, I had hoped to see more from the Dallas and Sias dynamic, but nothing really changed between them. We don't really get much emotional reaction from Sias, he has very strong self-control. We get one teeny tiny glimpse that he sees Dallas as more than just a play partner, but I still didn't get the romantic love vibe from Sias. It's really hard to get a feel for how Sias actually feels about Dallas.
The romance is pretty secondary to the main plot and the mystery that Dallas is trying to solve. I would consider this trilogy to be more an urban adventure fantasy with elements of romance. Don't go into this thinking that it's going to be all swoony romance and big feelings. It's much more subtle than that. It is a fun ride though and well worth the read! I cannot wait for book 3 to see how it all comes together.
July 15, 2024
A (for me) very rare 5 stars . I've read Maz's Bullets & Butterflies last year and really enjoyed, particularly the clever humour, and as this one required prior reading, went back and got the first book on KU which is "Find the Jinn" before embarking on this novel, and glad I did.
This is a series with the same characters, not separate stories in the same environment, and as both so far (will post the separate review after this) are consistent in the outrageous humour and full on situations in a really well described paranormal world, absolutely worth following from the start.
Dallas Wilde, a not so human now hunter of necromancer and vampires that are wielding death magic illegally, is tasked in finding the Goddess's key, ably assisted by his Thrall Zane, maybe not so ably by his ironically asexual incubus landlord and erotic antiquities expert Barnaby, and with help from his powerful incubus friend-and-client-with-benefits Sias.
This book reveals more about Dallas's background and his principles (yes he has some!) including his family reappearing unhelpfully, and delves deeper in his love/lust (depending who it is) triangle with Zane and Sias. Also it explains more why the world is now paranormal dominant and brings more of the Goddess's world into his life now he is a recently formed necromancer himself. Many of the characters from the first book appear in this one including the baddies :) and it ends after many adventures to get to find the key and lose it again in a cliff hanger where the baddies look like winning… but there's still another book to go.
Love the series, love the writing style (e.g. "We continued driving… until the sun had finished planting itself under the horizon") and characters, it's all wonderfully bat shit crazy (pun) and the dialog is awesome. Can’t wait for the next one! If only to find out how Kevin the goldfish manages to move to his safe place which is a considerable distance from his tank by himself. And of course the adventures of the new characters Twigg and another necromancer picked up (literally) on the way…
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
This is a series with the same characters, not separate stories in the same environment, and as both so far (will post the separate review after this) are consistent in the outrageous humour and full on situations in a really well described paranormal world, absolutely worth following from the start.
Dallas Wilde, a not so human now hunter of necromancer and vampires that are wielding death magic illegally, is tasked in finding the Goddess's key, ably assisted by his Thrall Zane, maybe not so ably by his ironically asexual incubus landlord and erotic antiquities expert Barnaby, and with help from his powerful incubus friend-and-client-with-benefits Sias.
This book reveals more about Dallas's background and his principles (yes he has some!) including his family reappearing unhelpfully, and delves deeper in his love/lust (depending who it is) triangle with Zane and Sias. Also it explains more why the world is now paranormal dominant and brings more of the Goddess's world into his life now he is a recently formed necromancer himself. Many of the characters from the first book appear in this one including the baddies :) and it ends after many adventures to get to find the key and lose it again in a cliff hanger where the baddies look like winning… but there's still another book to go.
Love the series, love the writing style (e.g. "We continued driving… until the sun had finished planting itself under the horizon") and characters, it's all wonderfully bat shit crazy (pun) and the dialog is awesome. Can’t wait for the next one! If only to find out how Kevin the goldfish manages to move to his safe place which is a considerable distance from his tank by himself. And of course the adventures of the new characters Twigg and another necromancer picked up (literally) on the way…
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
July 12, 2024
4.25/5 OMG! This was an epic rollercoaster in so many ways. We got to see a lot more character arc for Dallas than we got in book 1. He actually confronts some of his past, acknowledges some of his mistakes, and admits some of his feelings. This made him a much more sympathetic character to me compared to book 1, and I liked this book more as a result. (He still doesn’t seem to be super competent, though, lol, but he somehow muddles through.)
I spent most of the book really pissed with Sias, though, for the way he handled a situation with Dallas. (This was one of the only things that I didn’t think Dallas should be apologising for, and he was filled with a whole bunch of guilt. Hard disagree.) By the time we get more details about Sias’s POV, the damage has kind of been done for me as a reader. (I really appreciate in retrospect how he dealt with the other person and wish that we’d know that a lot sooner, but I don’t buy his claim about his source of anger. He was angry well before Dallas’s statement; although I do believe that statement hurt him, all the previous behaviour was unsupportive and very uncool, and I wish that he’d apologised for that, not just dwelled on how Dallas hurt him. I do like that we got closer to them actually admitting they have feelings for one another, though. Lack of communication is a big part of their problem.)
I really liked how Dallas and Zane actually started to figure things out in this book, how Dallas started dealing with some of his emotions and actually used his words on occasion. I thought the Counsel was hilarious, and Barnaby was a ridiculous and entertaining road trip companion. But good heavens, the cliffhanger! The next book is scheduled for October 31 of this year *thank goodness*. Had I realised quite how epic the cliffhanger would be, I would probably have waited to read the trilogy all together. Can’t really say much else without major spoilers, but I’m definitely anxious for the end of the trilogy!
I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.
I spent most of the book really pissed with Sias, though, for the way he handled a situation with Dallas. (This was one of the only things that I didn’t think Dallas should be apologising for, and he was filled with a whole bunch of guilt. Hard disagree.) By the time we get more details about Sias’s POV, the damage has kind of been done for me as a reader. (I really appreciate in retrospect how he dealt with the other person and wish that we’d know that a lot sooner, but I don’t buy his claim about his source of anger. He was angry well before Dallas’s statement; although I do believe that statement hurt him, all the previous behaviour was unsupportive and very uncool, and I wish that he’d apologised for that, not just dwelled on how Dallas hurt him. I do like that we got closer to them actually admitting they have feelings for one another, though. Lack of communication is a big part of their problem.)
I really liked how Dallas and Zane actually started to figure things out in this book, how Dallas started dealing with some of his emotions and actually used his words on occasion. I thought the Counsel was hilarious, and Barnaby was a ridiculous and entertaining road trip companion. But good heavens, the cliffhanger! The next book is scheduled for October 31 of this year *thank goodness*. Had I realised quite how epic the cliffhanger would be, I would probably have waited to read the trilogy all together. Can’t really say much else without major spoilers, but I’m definitely anxious for the end of the trilogy!
I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.
July 15, 2024
**4.5**
(Recommend reading book one first)
This was a slow burner for me - it took a little bit for me to get into the story and what was going on with Dallas, Zane and his crazy ideas, lack of planning and inevitable calamity. Then there is Sias to bring into the mix, Dallas's sometimes hookup but after the events of book one, Dallas finds himself a little bit needier for Sias's attention after the fact.
This time out, starts out on the hunt for some ancient artefacts that were stolen from him, though he did steal them first. Unfortunately, this brings him back into contact with a woman who only has money on her mind, not the wellness aspect that she preaches to her customers. Now he's hunting for the key of the Goddess of Death, not some small feat! He and Zane, who is just as annoying to him as ever (apparently) have to work together to try and find it but make sure it doesn't end up in the wrong hands.
With all of this going on Dallas and Zane seem to go from very unwilling partners as necromancer and Thrall to at least willing business partners in order to work better together and try and stay alive during the craziness that is Dallas's life. In this book, just like the first, I'm not completely okay with how Dallas is towards Zane but, as the story progresses you can read the growth in their relationship and a bond that is growing, whether knowingly or not. It makes things much more interesting, although highly irritating for Dallas, or so he says.
It's a great story that had me entertained throughout but there are some definite low points dotted through the story, including a blast from Dallas's past, and possible angst in Dallas's non-relationship with Sias. There's action, mystery, physical and emotional pain with sarcasm abound to keep the reader invested in the story. It started out as a possible four stars for me but definitely built into a more investing story with a cliff hanger ending that I cannot wait to read more of.
I received an arc and am happily giving a review.
(Recommend reading book one first)
This was a slow burner for me - it took a little bit for me to get into the story and what was going on with Dallas, Zane and his crazy ideas, lack of planning and inevitable calamity. Then there is Sias to bring into the mix, Dallas's sometimes hookup but after the events of book one, Dallas finds himself a little bit needier for Sias's attention after the fact.
This time out, starts out on the hunt for some ancient artefacts that were stolen from him, though he did steal them first. Unfortunately, this brings him back into contact with a woman who only has money on her mind, not the wellness aspect that she preaches to her customers. Now he's hunting for the key of the Goddess of Death, not some small feat! He and Zane, who is just as annoying to him as ever (apparently) have to work together to try and find it but make sure it doesn't end up in the wrong hands.
With all of this going on Dallas and Zane seem to go from very unwilling partners as necromancer and Thrall to at least willing business partners in order to work better together and try and stay alive during the craziness that is Dallas's life. In this book, just like the first, I'm not completely okay with how Dallas is towards Zane but, as the story progresses you can read the growth in their relationship and a bond that is growing, whether knowingly or not. It makes things much more interesting, although highly irritating for Dallas, or so he says.
It's a great story that had me entertained throughout but there are some definite low points dotted through the story, including a blast from Dallas's past, and possible angst in Dallas's non-relationship with Sias. There's action, mystery, physical and emotional pain with sarcasm abound to keep the reader invested in the story. It started out as a possible four stars for me but definitely built into a more investing story with a cliff hanger ending that I cannot wait to read more of.
I received an arc and am happily giving a review.
August 9, 2024
I liked this book but Dallas is truly an acquired taste. It's been a while since I read the first book, so it took a moment to jog my memory on certain things, but I don't quite remember Dallas being so reckless in the 1st book. In this book it's almost like he had a death wish, and Zane, his bonded vampire, described it perfectly when he said Dallas didn't fear death. If Dallas felt a nudge from his instincts that told him something dangerous was behind a closed door, he was 100% opening the door. I actually felt bad for Zane because if Dallas died, he died, so being a bodyguard was a 24/7 job.
Disregarding Dallas's "quirky" nature it was truly an enjoyable read. I liked learning more about Dallas and seeing him finally open up to Zane. I liked seeing Zane guide Dallas in trying to accept his new necromancer powers. Honestly, I'm a fan of throuples, but so far, 95% of me wants Zane and Dallas to be endgame (100% of me believes Zane is too good for Dallas). I think the author is preparing for a throuple with Sias, Dallas's succubus boss with benefits, but he doesn't have enough presence in these books to make me like him. He had 3 brief scenes in this book, and I know it's in his nature to have an assortment of partners, but I want a monogamist throuple, if that makes any sense. So far, the romance is very slow moving, which I don't mind, but there isn't enough groundwork for the possible future throuple and I don't like being teased. Dallas is repeatedly described as this s3xually liberated, mischievous person, but in this book, all you get are a bunch of "almost" scenes. However, even with my half-hearted complaints, I'm glad there wasn't another oragy with randoms, which apparently happened in the 1st book. Can't really remember but it was hinted at in this book.
Also, I liked that though Dallas was frustratingly impulsive and immature, he wasn't a damsel in distress and you actually did see some growth in him. The author did a good job of using foreshadowing and setting up certain events throughout this book, so I'm truly looking forward to the third book. Hopefully, we'll see more romance and maybe the author might show me why Sias and Dallas should also end up together.
Disregarding Dallas's "quirky" nature it was truly an enjoyable read. I liked learning more about Dallas and seeing him finally open up to Zane. I liked seeing Zane guide Dallas in trying to accept his new necromancer powers. Honestly, I'm a fan of throuples, but so far, 95% of me wants Zane and Dallas to be endgame (100% of me believes Zane is too good for Dallas). I think the author is preparing for a throuple with Sias, Dallas's succubus boss with benefits, but he doesn't have enough presence in these books to make me like him. He had 3 brief scenes in this book, and I know it's in his nature to have an assortment of partners, but I want a monogamist throuple, if that makes any sense. So far, the romance is very slow moving, which I don't mind, but there isn't enough groundwork for the possible future throuple and I don't like being teased. Dallas is repeatedly described as this s3xually liberated, mischievous person, but in this book, all you get are a bunch of "almost" scenes. However, even with my half-hearted complaints, I'm glad there wasn't another oragy with randoms, which apparently happened in the 1st book. Can't really remember but it was hinted at in this book.
Also, I liked that though Dallas was frustratingly impulsive and immature, he wasn't a damsel in distress and you actually did see some growth in him. The author did a good job of using foreshadowing and setting up certain events throughout this book, so I'm truly looking forward to the third book. Hopefully, we'll see more romance and maybe the author might show me why Sias and Dallas should also end up together.
July 3, 2024
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Steal the Key by Maz Maddox is the second book in the Wilde Contract series. Dallas Wilde is struggling still to accept his necromancer status and the vampire bodyguard he acquired with his newfound powers. Add in his complicated relationship with an incubus and a gangster selling his items to a possibly wicked influencer and Wilde knows he’s in over his head. Luckily, his vampire bodyguard Zane, is there to guide him both as they explore the possibility that their relationship could be more. With his ever growing crew of paranormal helpers (typically at a cost) Dallas is forced to join in the hunt for a supernatural key that could destroy or save everything.
I am happy to say this book really made me like Dallas Wilde. He has grown so much as a character and you get a look into his past and what has made him the odd man he is today. Dallas is finding that he is looking at his relationship both with lovers and friends in a new light and learning to appreciate what they bring into his life. With this development you get to know other characters in Dallas’s life which just enamored you to the world even more.
This urban fantasy continues to primarily be just that with the subplot of romance becoming more prominent but still not the foremost plot line. I enjoyed character development on all sides with the most focus being on Dallas and Zane.
4 stars for Dallas Wilde taking on a new chaotic adventure.
Steal the Key by Maz Maddox is the second book in the Wilde Contract series. Dallas Wilde is struggling still to accept his necromancer status and the vampire bodyguard he acquired with his newfound powers. Add in his complicated relationship with an incubus and a gangster selling his items to a possibly wicked influencer and Wilde knows he’s in over his head. Luckily, his vampire bodyguard Zane, is there to guide him both as they explore the possibility that their relationship could be more. With his ever growing crew of paranormal helpers (typically at a cost) Dallas is forced to join in the hunt for a supernatural key that could destroy or save everything.
I am happy to say this book really made me like Dallas Wilde. He has grown so much as a character and you get a look into his past and what has made him the odd man he is today. Dallas is finding that he is looking at his relationship both with lovers and friends in a new light and learning to appreciate what they bring into his life. With this development you get to know other characters in Dallas’s life which just enamored you to the world even more.
This urban fantasy continues to primarily be just that with the subplot of romance becoming more prominent but still not the foremost plot line. I enjoyed character development on all sides with the most focus being on Dallas and Zane.
4 stars for Dallas Wilde taking on a new chaotic adventure.
July 19, 2024
I thought the first book in this series was a harbinger of good things to come in the world of Dallas Wilde, and I'm happy to say I was right - "Steal the Key" is a thrilling and "enthralling" (if you've read the book you know) novel, full of action and a surprising amount of emotion.
Dallas is enlisted to steal the key of the Death Goddess and must navigate a series of crazy events and obstacles as he searches for it. He and Zane, his trusty but snarky vampire thrall, realize that they must destroy the key as it would be dangerous in the wrong hands. Of course, the villains of the piece stand in Dallas' way as he attempts to do the right thing according to his somewhat shaky moral compass.
There is some great character work here, as Maddox expands the backstory of Dallas, Zane and Barnaby. Dallas' background in particular, was quite shocking and explained a lot about his self-destructive tendencies. The relationship between Dallas and Zane definitely takes an unexpected turn but is fascinating and Sias also comes into play quite well in this story, with the triangle of Dallas, Zane and Sias edging into some fascinating territory. There are also some new characters introduced- I particularly liked Funus. And the introduction of the Saint's Army was suitably disturbing.
Once again, there's a lot of humor to be found in the story, particularly in the snarky banter between Dallas and Zane, but it's balanced well with a real sense of danger in the plot, along with a lot of imagination. And that ending, well, I wasn't quite prepared for a cliffhanger but Maddox did it anyway. Luckily, it doesn't appear that we'll have to wait too long for the next installment in the series; otherwise, I'd have to train an attack fish to force ("encourage") Maddox to write the next book more quickly.
Dallas is enlisted to steal the key of the Death Goddess and must navigate a series of crazy events and obstacles as he searches for it. He and Zane, his trusty but snarky vampire thrall, realize that they must destroy the key as it would be dangerous in the wrong hands. Of course, the villains of the piece stand in Dallas' way as he attempts to do the right thing according to his somewhat shaky moral compass.
There is some great character work here, as Maddox expands the backstory of Dallas, Zane and Barnaby. Dallas' background in particular, was quite shocking and explained a lot about his self-destructive tendencies. The relationship between Dallas and Zane definitely takes an unexpected turn but is fascinating and Sias also comes into play quite well in this story, with the triangle of Dallas, Zane and Sias edging into some fascinating territory. There are also some new characters introduced- I particularly liked Funus. And the introduction of the Saint's Army was suitably disturbing.
Once again, there's a lot of humor to be found in the story, particularly in the snarky banter between Dallas and Zane, but it's balanced well with a real sense of danger in the plot, along with a lot of imagination. And that ending, well, I wasn't quite prepared for a cliffhanger but Maddox did it anyway. Luckily, it doesn't appear that we'll have to wait too long for the next installment in the series; otherwise, I'd have to train an attack fish to force ("encourage") Maddox to write the next book more quickly.
November 1, 2024
A necromancer, an incubus and a vampire walk into a bar…
Dallas Wilde is starting to think that his life is one bad joke after another. In a race against time to steal a key belonging to a Death Goddess to keep it from falling into the wrong hands, he’s also got to face the possibility that the ruthless family he abandoned are hot on his heels and hunting the same relic he intends to destroy. As if saving the world wasn’t tricky enough, chronically broke Dallas is late on his rent again, trying to get a handle on his shaky necromancy powers, and dealing with complications of the romantic kind thanks to a gorgeous but aloof incubus and an unfairly attractive vampire Thrall. But no matter how much Dallas is juggling in his personal life, the clock is ticking. He’s got to steal the key, avoid his family, and figure out his love life before things go to hell in a handbasket—all whilst staying alive.
The first word that comes to mind is: ouch. Because that was a whole lot of feels. With a focus on hurt/comfort, I spent a lot of time fighting back tears whilst reading this second novel in the Wilde Contracts series, Steal the Key. Especially in the closing chapters. The compelling and emotional plot combines supernatural mystery, romance, action, and a good dose of humour that makes for an addictive read. One of my favourite aspects was the inclusion of plenty of lore for the urban fantasy setting and characters, that was well-woven into the narrative without overbearing exposition. Key side character Barnaby was a highlight in this one, and possibly grew to be my favourite character of the series. As an ancient historian, I totally vibe with him. Another great read from Maz Maddox, I’m looking forward to the finale, Save the Vampire—even though it means I’ll officially have run out of series by Maddox, who has become one of my all time favourite authors this year.
Dallas Wilde is starting to think that his life is one bad joke after another. In a race against time to steal a key belonging to a Death Goddess to keep it from falling into the wrong hands, he’s also got to face the possibility that the ruthless family he abandoned are hot on his heels and hunting the same relic he intends to destroy. As if saving the world wasn’t tricky enough, chronically broke Dallas is late on his rent again, trying to get a handle on his shaky necromancy powers, and dealing with complications of the romantic kind thanks to a gorgeous but aloof incubus and an unfairly attractive vampire Thrall. But no matter how much Dallas is juggling in his personal life, the clock is ticking. He’s got to steal the key, avoid his family, and figure out his love life before things go to hell in a handbasket—all whilst staying alive.
The first word that comes to mind is: ouch. Because that was a whole lot of feels. With a focus on hurt/comfort, I spent a lot of time fighting back tears whilst reading this second novel in the Wilde Contracts series, Steal the Key. Especially in the closing chapters. The compelling and emotional plot combines supernatural mystery, romance, action, and a good dose of humour that makes for an addictive read. One of my favourite aspects was the inclusion of plenty of lore for the urban fantasy setting and characters, that was well-woven into the narrative without overbearing exposition. Key side character Barnaby was a highlight in this one, and possibly grew to be my favourite character of the series. As an ancient historian, I totally vibe with him. Another great read from Maz Maddox, I’m looking forward to the finale, Save the Vampire—even though it means I’ll officially have run out of series by Maddox, who has become one of my all time favourite authors this year.
July 13, 2024
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Stars for best boy Barns, Zane, Kevin and Twig, and OFC all of the very cool necromancy shenanigans...including Funus who I can't NOT love on principle. #nerdswhodigmagic #competencykink #knowledgeisactualpower
Most of this was goofy unseriousness, so i had a fun enough time with this but I didn't really "connect" with it. Sounds lame, I know, especially for something that's supposed to be funny pnr. But keeping it real, I felt like this was missing a certain something...or maybe it was because I wasn't overly fond of Dallas. He's just not my favourite kind emo tbh.
as an aside (and cred to Dallas), my joy came when Kevin SHOWED up...because i did in fact believe, and i was really wondering when Kevin was gonna be the betta we all know him to be, and he did not disappoint. #dallasisagooddaddy #trainingdayeveryday #bebetta
and also omg i loooooooved precious Barnaby, who was my favourite cinnamon roll and I could read him forever because adorable. And because the ending was fkin fire and my gawd Zane has my whole heart, i'm very much excited to read Save The Vampire (Wilde Contracts #3) because it's self explanatory...ummm Zane is the vampire...
...in case, yk, some people.
Stars for best boy Barns, Zane, Kevin and Twig, and OFC all of the very cool necromancy shenanigans...including Funus who I can't NOT love on principle. #nerdswhodigmagic #competencykink #knowledgeisactualpower
Most of this was goofy unseriousness, so i had a fun enough time with this but I didn't really "connect" with it. Sounds lame, I know, especially for something that's supposed to be funny pnr. But keeping it real, I felt like this was missing a certain something...or maybe it was because I wasn't overly fond of Dallas. He's just not my favourite kind emo tbh.
as an aside (and cred to Dallas), my joy came when Kevin SHOWED up...because i did in fact believe, and i was really wondering when Kevin was gonna be the betta we all know him to be, and he did not disappoint. #dallasisagooddaddy #trainingdayeveryday #bebetta
and also omg i loooooooved precious Barnaby, who was my favourite cinnamon roll and I could read him forever because adorable. And because the ending was fkin fire and my gawd Zane has my whole heart, i'm very much excited to read Save The Vampire (Wilde Contracts #3) because it's self explanatory...ummm Zane is the vampire...
...in case, yk, some people.
March 5, 2026
Wow, who'd have thought that the series that involves a somewhat awkwardly coalescing human / incubus / vampire throuple would be... kind of slow burn?
I liked the first book but this really added a lot in terms of character and world-building. The main interesting piece of that has to do with the death goddess, necromancers, and vampires. Like maybe necromancers weren't always the baddies we know now? Maybe the one who brought Zane from the void was a good guy? All very interesting, and I'm glad to see Barnaby using his history expertise for something besides genital art (not that that's bad, but it ends up as a quirk and a punchline rather than expertise). Also glad that Barnaby has a new friend. It was very sweet to hear Zane talking with such passion about his original necromancer (whose name escapes me at the moment).
The less interesting piece is the conniving vitamin heiress (or something?) who is the big bad. Political and big money machinations are less interesting than personal connections. But at least that gives Sias a bigger role to play. I'm liking Sias more, but he still feels like a tier 2 MC even though it's clear he's supposed to be tier 1 on par with Dallas and Zane.
Z: I knew that I was going to be your vampire.
D: I'm going to get my vampire.
I liked the first book but this really added a lot in terms of character and world-building. The main interesting piece of that has to do with the death goddess, necromancers, and vampires. Like maybe necromancers weren't always the baddies we know now? Maybe the one who brought Zane from the void was a good guy? All very interesting, and I'm glad to see Barnaby using his history expertise for something besides genital art (not that that's bad, but it ends up as a quirk and a punchline rather than expertise). Also glad that Barnaby has a new friend. It was very sweet to hear Zane talking with such passion about his original necromancer (whose name escapes me at the moment).
The less interesting piece is the conniving vitamin heiress (or something?) who is the big bad. Political and big money machinations are less interesting than personal connections. But at least that gives Sias a bigger role to play. I'm liking Sias more, but he still feels like a tier 2 MC even though it's clear he's supposed to be tier 1 on par with Dallas and Zane.
Z: I knew that I was going to be your vampire.
D: I'm going to get my vampire.
July 5, 2024
How dare? How very dare? Y’all just ripped my heart out and stomped it into dust. And now I have to wait until October?! Which… I guess is only three months away 😧 but my brain still thinks we’re in January so it feels way longer than that. Plus I’m gonna have to read this one all over again because I’m gonna forget all the important details. I’m gonna go through the feels again 🥺😢😭
Okay, drama aside… 🥺😢😭😡🤬🤯😱😨😰😥😩😫🫢 nooooooooooooo!!!!! whyyyyyyyyyyyyyy??????
Okay, I’m fine. This is fine. We’re fine.
I thought this picked up where Find the Jinn left off and I read that back in Oct of 2022 and couldn’t remember much so I read it again (no hardship there) so I’d be prepared for this book. This does not, in fact, pick up where book one ended. It’s some time later but still probably a good idea to re-read book one so everything is fresh in your memory because foreshadowing and whatnot. This is NOT a stand-alone, just you know, be prepared for some possible feels.
Highly recommend. (Even with the feels)
I received a free copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Okay, drama aside… 🥺😢😭😡🤬🤯😱😨😰😥😩😫🫢 nooooooooooooo!!!!! whyyyyyyyyyyyyyy??????
Okay, I’m fine. This is fine. We’re fine.
I thought this picked up where Find the Jinn left off and I read that back in Oct of 2022 and couldn’t remember much so I read it again (no hardship there) so I’d be prepared for this book. This does not, in fact, pick up where book one ended. It’s some time later but still probably a good idea to re-read book one so everything is fresh in your memory because foreshadowing and whatnot. This is NOT a stand-alone, just you know, be prepared for some possible feels.
Highly recommend. (Even with the feels)
I received a free copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 8, 2024
AHHH THIS BOOK!! I'm going to start by just letting everyone know this book ends on a massive cliffhanger and I am dying in the very best way. The characters in this book are just some of my absolute favorite. Dallas is so prickly and snarky and one of my favorite types, Zane is the hot bad boy vampire of everyone's dreams, and Sias...JK my third favorite character is of course Barnaby because he truly is the fussiest incubus ever and I just adore him (Sias is okay too I guess, but I think he owed Dallas an apology not the other way around). This book will send you on a truly fun adventure, make you fall in love with everyone, and then completely stomp on your heart--and I am HERE FOR IT. You get tragic backstory, wonderful worldbuilding, and of course Kevin the amazing beta (if we don't get more about him soon I will lose it). I just cannot say enough good things about this one and I am dying for book 3!
July 14, 2024
A follow up to the unique first book. Even more Kenny, Zane and all the others that we love.
Things are never simple when you run a fish training business and run yourself ragged in the process, which Dallas gets to feel in his bones.
There is confusing feelings and unlikely friendships, heartache and mystery. I loved every moment of it.
It's quirky, funny and emotional, pulling me along on a journey where I learn more about this world where strangeness is to be expected.
I have been waiting for the second book in the series, and it didn't disappoint, though I do regret I didn't read the first one again before starting this one.
Not much breathing room before getting tossed out in to the deep end, and I had to remember where all the pieces fit.
After waiting so long for book two, book three can't come fast enough. This one brought me out of a long lasting book slump and left me with a hangover that I welcomed.
Things are never simple when you run a fish training business and run yourself ragged in the process, which Dallas gets to feel in his bones.
There is confusing feelings and unlikely friendships, heartache and mystery. I loved every moment of it.
It's quirky, funny and emotional, pulling me along on a journey where I learn more about this world where strangeness is to be expected.
I have been waiting for the second book in the series, and it didn't disappoint, though I do regret I didn't read the first one again before starting this one.
Not much breathing room before getting tossed out in to the deep end, and I had to remember where all the pieces fit.
After waiting so long for book two, book three can't come fast enough. This one brought me out of a long lasting book slump and left me with a hangover that I welcomed.
September 5, 2024
4.5⭐️
Steal the Key is an emotional pressure cooker for King Chaos Gremlin of Bad Choices. In the decade since he ran away from a tragic mistake that devastated his found family, Dallas has been medicating with recklessness in whatever form he can find. His no fucks attitude makes him careless, selfish and dickish, ensuring almost everyone he has regular contact with detests him as much as he detests himself. However, after Sias’s near death, Dallas has to acknowledge his deeper feelings for the incubus as well as deal with the fact that, despite his best efforts, he is bonding with Zane and that Zane cares for him.
Dallas also has to contend with a rogue necromancer turning vamps near the city and rumors they somehow retain their supernatural powers, the extreme hostility from his family, and being blackmailed into finding a key forged by the Goddess of Death that can give the bearer power over death. He has no time to breath and the protection afforded by his devil-may-care attitude has been blown to shit. The emotional hits Dallas takes are brutal, but Maddox does a great job managing the emotion, humor, and action.
While Sias was the main romantic focus in Find the Jinn, Zane is the major presence here. Dallas has finally cracked enough that Zane can make headway into getting Dallas to open up to him and share with Dallas some of who Zane is and the more complex history of necromantic magic. The romantic element of their relationship is pretty fast though Maddox handles this quick development well. Dallas is in a constant state of emotional upheaval, making him vulnerable to his emotions and the offer of care Zane gives. Having to deal allows Dallas to really see Zane as a person and to empathize with him; Dallas's increasing strenghth in his powers also makes that intense connection he was fighting more than just physical chemistry. I will say that the last piece of emotional connection is kind of a speed-run to get Dallas in the emotional place Maddox wants him to be in at the end, but it's so impactful it gets a pass.
The adventure and the progression of Dallas’s magic is great, especially with how high the stakes eventually become. Getting to know Zane is wonderful, and learning more about Dallas's painful past and its repercussions is very engaging. I’m so glad the final book is scheduled to release soon because where the three men end up is powerful; the relationship dynamics and emotions are bound to be complex; and the big bad is a worthy opponent.
Steal the Key is an emotional pressure cooker for King Chaos Gremlin of Bad Choices. In the decade since he ran away from a tragic mistake that devastated his found family, Dallas has been medicating with recklessness in whatever form he can find. His no fucks attitude makes him careless, selfish and dickish, ensuring almost everyone he has regular contact with detests him as much as he detests himself. However, after Sias’s near death, Dallas has to acknowledge his deeper feelings for the incubus as well as deal with the fact that, despite his best efforts, he is bonding with Zane and that Zane cares for him.
Dallas also has to contend with a rogue necromancer turning vamps near the city and rumors they somehow retain their supernatural powers, the extreme hostility from his family, and being blackmailed into finding a key forged by the Goddess of Death that can give the bearer power over death. He has no time to breath and the protection afforded by his devil-may-care attitude has been blown to shit. The emotional hits Dallas takes are brutal, but Maddox does a great job managing the emotion, humor, and action.
While Sias was the main romantic focus in Find the Jinn, Zane is the major presence here. Dallas has finally cracked enough that Zane can make headway into getting Dallas to open up to him and share with Dallas some of who Zane is and the more complex history of necromantic magic. The romantic element of their relationship is pretty fast though Maddox handles this quick development well. Dallas is in a constant state of emotional upheaval, making him vulnerable to his emotions and the offer of care Zane gives. Having to deal allows Dallas to really see Zane as a person and to empathize with him; Dallas's increasing strenghth in his powers also makes that intense connection he was fighting more than just physical chemistry. I will say that the last piece of emotional connection is kind of a speed-run to get Dallas in the emotional place Maddox wants him to be in at the end, but it's so impactful it gets a pass.
The adventure and the progression of Dallas’s magic is great, especially with how high the stakes eventually become. Getting to know Zane is wonderful, and learning more about Dallas's painful past and its repercussions is very engaging. I’m so glad the final book is scheduled to release soon because where the three men end up is powerful; the relationship dynamics and emotions are bound to be complex; and the big bad is a worthy opponent.
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