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Briarwood Academy #1.5
Very Wicked Beginnings
A Prequel Novella
Girls say I’m a walking, talking sex god. Guys call me Hollywood because my life is golden.
It’s not.
But, ESPN did rank me as a four-star recruit, calling me one of the best defensive players since Briarcrest Academy opened its esteemed doors. So yeah, with football and a stellar GPA, my future seemed good.
Then Dovey Beckham shows up in her short skirts and ballet shoes. Driving me insane. Making me want to beg for her attention.
But that wouldn’t happen because Cuba Hudson didn’t beg for anything.
She walked around BA like she owned the place, and most days she looked right through me…the one girl I couldn’t have.
So, of course, I made it my mission to claim her, to put her notch on my bedpost.
Because no girl can resist the Heartbreaker of BA.
Welcome to Briarcrest Academy, where wicked love begins…and ends.
WARNING: This dark and twisty new adult romance contains sexual situations and graphic language.
Girls say I’m a walking, talking sex god. Guys call me Hollywood because my life is golden.
It’s not.
But, ESPN did rank me as a four-star recruit, calling me one of the best defensive players since Briarcrest Academy opened its esteemed doors. So yeah, with football and a stellar GPA, my future seemed good.
Then Dovey Beckham shows up in her short skirts and ballet shoes. Driving me insane. Making me want to beg for her attention.
But that wouldn’t happen because Cuba Hudson didn’t beg for anything.
She walked around BA like she owned the place, and most days she looked right through me…the one girl I couldn’t have.
So, of course, I made it my mission to claim her, to put her notch on my bedpost.
Because no girl can resist the Heartbreaker of BA.
Welcome to Briarcrest Academy, where wicked love begins…and ends.
WARNING: This dark and twisty new adult romance contains sexual situations and graphic language.
68 pages, Paperback
First published May 11, 2014
265 people are currently reading
3886 people want to read
About the author
Ilsa Madden-Mills
39 books16.4k followers#1 Amazon Charts, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and USA Today best-selling author Ilsa Madden-Mills pens angsty new adult and contemporary romances.
A former high school English teacher and librarian, she adores all things Pride and Prejudice, and of course, Mr. Darcy is her ultimate hero.
She's addicted to frothy coffee beverages, cheesy magnets, and any book featuring unicorns and sword-wielding females. Feel free to stalk her online. ☺
★ Sign up for her newsletter and receive insider info about new releases and exclusive giveaways
★ You can stalk her/sign up on the contact page: ilsamaddenmills.com
★ Facebook: Author Ilsa Madden-Mills
★ Join her private reader group on FB: Unicorn Girls
★ Instagram @Ilsamaddenmills
New Book News:
Dear Ava is live!
Not My Romeo is live!
I Promise You drops October 12/20
Not My Match drops January 19/21 (pre-order on Amazon)
A former high school English teacher and librarian, she adores all things Pride and Prejudice, and of course, Mr. Darcy is her ultimate hero.
She's addicted to frothy coffee beverages, cheesy magnets, and any book featuring unicorns and sword-wielding females. Feel free to stalk her online. ☺
★ Sign up for her newsletter and receive insider info about new releases and exclusive giveaways
★ You can stalk her/sign up on the contact page: ilsamaddenmills.com
★ Facebook: Author Ilsa Madden-Mills
★ Join her private reader group on FB: Unicorn Girls
★ Instagram @Ilsamaddenmills
New Book News:
Dear Ava is live!
Not My Romeo is live!
I Promise You drops October 12/20
Not My Match drops January 19/21 (pre-order on Amazon)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 368 reviews
July 29, 2021
The player and the dancer
The heroine: Dovey Beckham - scholarship student at the prestigious Briarwood Academy. None of the wealthy students pay any attention to her, but her best friend is a British Bad Boy name Spider that rarely is with the same woman more than once.
The Hero(es): Cuba Hudson - he is the most talented football player at BA and on track for a football scholarship. What nobody knows is that his mother is sick and it is his fault, or so he thinks. He likes to forget about home through football, working out and girls, and he is a player in every sense of the word.
The story: Cuba notices Dovey one day while at football practice. She is in the dance studio near the football field and he can’t take his eyes off her, but can’t figure out what it is about her that is holding his interest. Especially after finding out she is a scholarship student and seeing her with Spider.
This was a great prequel to the next book in the series, “Very Wicked Things”.
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“Two things about me: I dance and I dance.” –Dovey Beckham
The heroine: Dovey Beckham - scholarship student at the prestigious Briarwood Academy. None of the wealthy students pay any attention to her, but her best friend is a British Bad Boy name Spider that rarely is with the same woman more than once.
“Two things about me: I play football—and girls.” –Cuba Hudson
The Hero(es): Cuba Hudson - he is the most talented football player at BA and on track for a football scholarship. What nobody knows is that his mother is sick and it is his fault, or so he thinks. He likes to forget about home through football, working out and girls, and he is a player in every sense of the word.
The story: Cuba notices Dovey one day while at football practice. She is in the dance studio near the football field and he can’t take his eyes off her, but can’t figure out what it is about her that is holding his interest. Especially after finding out she is a scholarship student and seeing her with Spider.
This was a great prequel to the next book in the series, “Very Wicked Things”.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
May 13, 2014
This was a great little novella in which all proceeds for this month going to a great cause. Perhaps I was just in the perfect mood to meet Cuba and Dovey but I really enjoyed this short story.
Cuba Hudson …
* Big man on campus
* Star quarterback
* Terrific dialogue
* Loves his family
* Just fell head over heels for a ballerina from the wrong side of the tracks
Dovey Bekham…
* Snarky and sweet
* Her best friend, Spider is the bomb
* Not mean but not a pushover
* Finds Cuba to be the hottest thing on campus
I’m super excited to start the next book which is also available.
”The bottom line was she wasn’t like any of the girls here, and my heart told me to stay away. I only wanted to fuck, not get close to someone. And never in a million years did I want to fall in love with anyone, and I sensed – based on my ridiculous dreams – she might make me fall.”
September 1, 2016
REVIEW may contain mature content reader discretion is advised.
4.5 STARS out of 5
Genre: New Adult Romance
Cuba Hudson is famously nicknamed Hollywood by his class mates at Briarcrest Academy. His friends all think that his life is 'perfect' They have no clue. Cuba’s dream is to help people by becoming a doctor; he loves football and is well known for his position on the field. He’s all smiles and a big flirt at school yet it’s all a facade. The real Cuba lives with guilt, regret and pain and it runs deep.
“Everyone says you’re pretty good on the field. That no quarterback is safe.” -Dovey
Very Wicked Beginning:
Cuba is out on the football field when he looks up and spots a girl in a window performing a ballet piece. It’s the day his life takes a turn in a direction he never expected it to take. Cuba finds himself falling for a girl he does not even know. He’s positive that she does not run in his circle of friends. Still, he’s sure that he has most likely seen her before yet never acknowledged her presence.
Dovey Beckham is attending Briarcrest Academy on a scholarship. Unlike the other students Dovey does not have wealthy parents; she does not live in a big fancy house or have tons of money at her disposal. No, Dovey has fought and earned her place as a ballerina at Briarcrest. As a matter of fact Dovey has been fighting her whole life just to survive.
Cuba wants her so he seeks her out only to be shot down. Of course he is not deterred, not in the least because in his mind the pursuit is ON!
My review for Very Wicked Things: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
*Copy kindly provided by author for an honest review*
4.5 STARS out of 5
Genre: New Adult Romance
Cuba Hudson is famously nicknamed Hollywood by his class mates at Briarcrest Academy. His friends all think that his life is 'perfect' They have no clue. Cuba’s dream is to help people by becoming a doctor; he loves football and is well known for his position on the field. He’s all smiles and a big flirt at school yet it’s all a facade. The real Cuba lives with guilt, regret and pain and it runs deep.
“Everyone says you’re pretty good on the field. That no quarterback is safe.” -Dovey
Very Wicked Beginning:
Cuba is out on the football field when he looks up and spots a girl in a window performing a ballet piece. It’s the day his life takes a turn in a direction he never expected it to take. Cuba finds himself falling for a girl he does not even know. He’s positive that she does not run in his circle of friends. Still, he’s sure that he has most likely seen her before yet never acknowledged her presence.
Dovey Beckham is attending Briarcrest Academy on a scholarship. Unlike the other students Dovey does not have wealthy parents; she does not live in a big fancy house or have tons of money at her disposal. No, Dovey has fought and earned her place as a ballerina at Briarcrest. As a matter of fact Dovey has been fighting her whole life just to survive.
Cuba wants her so he seeks her out only to be shot down. Of course he is not deterred, not in the least because in his mind the pursuit is ON!
My review for Very Wicked Things: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
*Copy kindly provided by author for an honest review*
January 4, 2017
THIS BOOK IS NOW FREE!!!
Meet Cuba Hudson:
Girls say I’m a walking, talking sex god. Guys call me Hollywood because my life is golden.
It’s not.
But, ESPN did rank me as a four star recruit, calling me one of the
best defensive players since Briarcrest Academy opened its esteemed doors. So yeah, with football and a stellar GPA, my future seemed good.
Then Dovey Beckham shows up in her short skirts and ballet shoes.
Driving me insane. Making me want to beg for her attention.
But that wouldn’t happen, because Cuba Hudson didn’t beg for anything.
She walked around BA like she owned the place, and most days she looked right through me…the one girl I couldn’t have.
So, of course, I made it my mission to claim her, to put her notch on my bedpost.
Because no girl can resist the Heartbreaker of BA.
But I never planned on destroying her.
I never planned on wrecking the one thing that could save me.
Welcome to Briarcrest Academy, where wicked love begins…and ends.
Meet Cuba Hudson:
Girls say I’m a walking, talking sex god. Guys call me Hollywood because my life is golden.
It’s not.
But, ESPN did rank me as a four star recruit, calling me one of the
best defensive players since Briarcrest Academy opened its esteemed doors. So yeah, with football and a stellar GPA, my future seemed good.
Then Dovey Beckham shows up in her short skirts and ballet shoes.
Driving me insane. Making me want to beg for her attention.
But that wouldn’t happen, because Cuba Hudson didn’t beg for anything.
She walked around BA like she owned the place, and most days she looked right through me…the one girl I couldn’t have.
So, of course, I made it my mission to claim her, to put her notch on my bedpost.
Because no girl can resist the Heartbreaker of BA.
But I never planned on destroying her.
I never planned on wrecking the one thing that could save me.
Welcome to Briarcrest Academy, where wicked love begins…and ends.
September 6, 2018
Nice introduction to Dovey and Cuba.
May 9, 2014
In this surprise novella from the wonderful Ilsa Madden Mills, we get to meet Cuba and Dovey. Well...we get reacquainted with Cuba since we met him in Very Bad Things.
My first thoughts on Cuba were "omg I love him!". And him and Dovey with their cute banter, you just know they belong together.
We deal with Cuba's very depressed mother in this book due to an event that killed his younger sister. I felt like I was able to relate to his mother in some ways. Mental illness is very serious and I'm glad Ilsa brought it to light.
Dovey has only ever wanted to dance. Ever since she was a little girl, she knew she wanted to be a ballerina. There's only one problem, she has no money.
When Cuba and Dovey meet sparks fly. Dovey is very cautious though, after all it's Cuba. The most popular guy at school! Don't miss out on this sweet novella and the tiny glimpse we get of this epic couple!
My first thoughts on Cuba were "omg I love him!". And him and Dovey with their cute banter, you just know they belong together.
We deal with Cuba's very depressed mother in this book due to an event that killed his younger sister. I felt like I was able to relate to his mother in some ways. Mental illness is very serious and I'm glad Ilsa brought it to light.
Dovey has only ever wanted to dance. Ever since she was a little girl, she knew she wanted to be a ballerina. There's only one problem, she has no money.
When Cuba and Dovey meet sparks fly. Dovey is very cautious though, after all it's Cuba. The most popular guy at school! Don't miss out on this sweet novella and the tiny glimpse we get of this epic couple!
May 20, 2014
Very Wicked Beginnings is the prequel novella to Very Wicked Things. It tells the story of how Cuba and Dovey first met and gives you a glimpse into their life and relationship as it begins. And man do I love them!
Cuba Hudson
Cuba Hudson is Briarcrest Academy's idol. He's their star football player, he's gorgeous, built, and has more money than he knows what to do with, and he's also a player. He is nicknamed Hollywood because everyone thinks his life is so golden, but that is just the mask he uses to cover the world of pain and guilt he lives with everyday.
Dovey Beckham
Dovey attends Briarcrest Academy on a scholarship. She lives and breathes ballet. She grew up in the projects with an absentee father and a prostitute for a mother, sometimes going days without food and heat. She doesn't have everything handed to her on a silver platter like most of the students at BA. She has worked hard to earn her position there.
One day during football practice Cuba looked up and saw a beautiful ballerina in the window of the dance studio.
"And like i was addicted to her, my eyes drifted to the building again, one part baffled by the fascination, the other part wanting to get a glimpse of her long legs."
He knew he wanted her but he didn't think he deserved her. But that didn't stop him from making his move.
"The bottom line was she wasn’t like any of the girls here, and my heart told me to stay away. I only wanted to f*ck, not get close to someone. And never in a million years did I want to fall in love with anyone, and I sensed- based on my ridiculous dreams- she might make me fall."
Dovey was unsure of Cuba and couldn't understand his intentions with her. She tried and tried to keep him at bay.
"We aren’t compatible. We come form two different places. You’re rich; I’m not. You like to party; I don’t. You like high heels; I don’t wear them. Good grief, your friends call you Hollywood. Then there’s me. I work my *ss off to get everything I have. So yeah, not feasible."
I fell in love with Dovey and Cuba in this novella and couldn't wait to dig into Very Wicked Things. Ilsa is an incredible author, who grabs your attention from page one and not release you until the book is finished. I loved the dual POV and being able to get inside the heads of both Cuba and Dovey, which gave us some insight to why they do the things they do. This novella was very well written and kept me engaged from start to finish.
5 Wicked Stars
May 8, 2014
"I had a dream about you. A good one,"
Woot! I was so excited to see that there would be a prequel to Very Wicked Things. I was not let down. This was a great way to be introduced to Cuba and Dovey and get a small taste of their story and of the intense drama and attraction that was to come.
We start by meeting Cuba Hudson and learn that he is not boyfriend material. He is popular, athletic, rich, and a player. Though he knows this about himself, it doesn’t stop him from being fascinated by the ballerina in the window!
"Fuck Me. I wanted the girl in the window. But not enough to find her.
Dovey is the girl from the wrong side of town. A scholarship student at Briarcrest Academy and knows that she is out of place there. Keeping to herself and her one close friend, Spider. Dovey does not understand Cuba’s sudden interest and knows it is best to just stay away.
Very Wicked Beginnings was such an amazing novella. I loved the chemistry between these two and even more I loved how the dual POVs gave me the opportunity to see how this story developed from both Cuba and Dovey’s perspective.
"It ain't over till I say it's over"
As I knew it would, Ilsa’s writing grabbed me from the start and never let me go. I devoured this in one sitting and could not wait to start Very Wicked Things. Anyone wanting to read Very Wicked Things should give this novella a chance because it really gives you some great insight into the minds of these two characters.
~miranda
For more about Dovey and Cuba check out my review of Very Wicked Things Here
Woot! I was so excited to see that there would be a prequel to Very Wicked Things. I was not let down. This was a great way to be introduced to Cuba and Dovey and get a small taste of their story and of the intense drama and attraction that was to come.
We start by meeting Cuba Hudson and learn that he is not boyfriend material. He is popular, athletic, rich, and a player. Though he knows this about himself, it doesn’t stop him from being fascinated by the ballerina in the window!
"Fuck Me. I wanted the girl in the window. But not enough to find her.
Dovey is the girl from the wrong side of town. A scholarship student at Briarcrest Academy and knows that she is out of place there. Keeping to herself and her one close friend, Spider. Dovey does not understand Cuba’s sudden interest and knows it is best to just stay away.
Very Wicked Beginnings was such an amazing novella. I loved the chemistry between these two and even more I loved how the dual POVs gave me the opportunity to see how this story developed from both Cuba and Dovey’s perspective.
"It ain't over till I say it's over"
As I knew it would, Ilsa’s writing grabbed me from the start and never let me go. I devoured this in one sitting and could not wait to start Very Wicked Things. Anyone wanting to read Very Wicked Things should give this novella a chance because it really gives you some great insight into the minds of these two characters.
~miranda
For more about Dovey and Cuba check out my review of Very Wicked Things Here
October 2, 2015
I absolutely adored the beginning! I got to see Cuba in a whole new light. He has dreams and aspirations I never thought he'd utter. And he's not the man I assumed he was from VBT! Dovey and Cuba 1st encounters are the best!
Out of my peripheral vision, I caught a flash of pink dashing past the window. She was back.
And like I was addicted to her, my eyes drifted to the building again, one part baffled by the fascination, the other part wanting to get another glimps of her long legs.
I got a pang of dissapotent at not knowing her name, and it surprised me.
There was no doubt, Cuba was the most beautiful guy I'd ever seen. Yeah, yeah, I know beautiful is a weird word for a guy, but when it fits, it just does. With a lethal kind of aura, he positively oozed sex, pulling your gaze into his magnetic vortex.
This story flows so amazingly into VWT!!! Love!!!
July 23, 2016
4.5 VERY WICKED Stars
Review also posted on Keep Calm & Read Romance Book Blog
"...this was just the beginning. A very wicked beginning."
Ilsa Madden-Mills couldn't have given her fans a more perfect surprise present than giving us this prequel novella for Very Wicked Things. It might be a short read but it packs all of the heart wrenching emotions that I have come to love about Ilsa Madden-Mills writing.
"I don't play pranks. We have a connection. I knew it the moment I sat down with you. You want to resist me, that's fine. I like it. It's like foreplay."
VERY WICKED BEGINNINGS tells the story of when our hero, Cuba Hudson, and heroine, Dovey Beckham, first meet in the halls of Briarcrest Academy. While they might have attended the same school for the last few years, it wasn't until his junior year that star defensive end player, Cuba "Hollywood" Hudson, notices ballerina, Dovey Beckham, during ballet practice. Cuba is immediately mesmerized by Dovey's sculpted ballerina body and elegant dance moves. Being one of the biggest womanizers in school, Cuba sets his eyes on adding Dovey's name to the long list of girls he's been with at Briarcrest Academy. But as soon as he sees that Dovey isn't anything like the other girls in his school, Cuba realizes that he might be falling into something more wicked than he had ever planned.
"I blame myself for a lot of things. Loving her wasn't one of them."
VERY WICKED BEGINNINGS will get your taste buds salivating for what's to come in Very Wicked Things. As I said earlier, Ilsa Madden-Mills packs in a lot of heart wrenching emotions in this short novella. Madden-Mills gives is a very clear glimpse of what makes Cuba's past so heart-wrenchingly painful, and why he does what he does to try to mask the pain he hides. Ilsa touches on a very serious and delicate subject in this short story and it will definitely leave you a bit breathless from the hard gut punch she throws at you.
"...there's nothing like being as low as you can get and then getting that spark that tells you it's not over yet, that you still have fight left in you.
This short novella will make your heart bleed for this playboy and have you craving for more of Cuba and Dovey in Very Wicked Things. Not only is VERY WICKED BEGINNINGS a definite must read in this series, but your purchase of the novella will also go towards a very good cause. Make sure you purchase this book the same day as when Very Wicked Things is released. You will love every extra minute you get with Cuba and Dovey.
** ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review
December 14, 2017
A short intro to Dovey and Cuba. Enough to peak my interest. It's actually on the same audiobook as audiobook 2
May 8, 2014
Very Wicked Beginnings by lIsa Madden-Mills
Review by Jen (BestSellers & BestStellars)
Very Wicked Beginnings was such a great prequel novella! It really is a great beginning to /i>Very Wicked Things. We get to see how Cuba and Dovey meet, plus the the start of their relationship, if that’s how you want to label it. I was really happy that lIsa gave us this surprise, because I feel like it sets the stage for what’s to come in Very Wicked Things. I loved reading about Cuba and Dovey and the beginning of their story. There were times I was laughing, and then there were times I wanted to slap Cuba. lIsa really did a great job with this novella.
I loved Dovey. She’s smart, beautiful, and a very talented ballet dancer. She hasn't had the best life either. But she is determined to break out of this horrible life she’s been living and make something of herself and we get to see how that was possible. She’s very focused on school and ballet because she wants to make something of herself. So, when she catches the eye of Briarcrest Academy’s number one player, she knows she needs to keep her distance.
“We aren’t compatible. We come form two different places. You’re rich; I’m not. You like to party; I don’t. You like high heels; I don’t wear them. Good grief, your friends call you Hollywood. Then there’s me. I work my ass off to get everything I have. So yeah, not feasible.”
Then we have Mr. Sexy himself, Cuba Hudson. I liked him when he made appearances in Very Bad Things but now it’s his story and I loved reading it. He’s Briarcrest Academy’s bad boy football player. He’s cocky and he can get any girl he wants.
“Two things about me: I play football- and girls.”
He first sees Dovey during football practice. He watches her dance and from that point on, he’s hooked. There’s just something about her that keeps his attention, and that doesn’t happen to him. He’s used to no-strings attached hook-ups. He knew that she was different from any other girl.
“The bottom line was she wasn’t like any of the girls here, and my heart told me to stay away. I only wanted to fuck, not get close to someone. And never in a million years did I want to fall in love with anyone, and I sensed- based on my ridiculous dreams- she might make me fall.”
I really loved this book. I’m so happy we got this prequel novella because it really sets everything up perfectly to lead right into Very Wicked Things. I loved being able to see all of the background on Cuba and Dovey. I love both of them already and can’t wait to read Very Wicked Things.
The quality of writing was great. The novella was well-written and very enjoyable to read. The story kept me interested and I found myself looking forward to the next page. I could not put it down!
5 Diamonds for this awesome novella!!
Review by Jen (BestSellers & BestStellars)
Very Wicked Beginnings was such a great prequel novella! It really is a great beginning to /i>Very Wicked Things. We get to see how Cuba and Dovey meet, plus the the start of their relationship, if that’s how you want to label it. I was really happy that lIsa gave us this surprise, because I feel like it sets the stage for what’s to come in Very Wicked Things. I loved reading about Cuba and Dovey and the beginning of their story. There were times I was laughing, and then there were times I wanted to slap Cuba. lIsa really did a great job with this novella.
I loved Dovey. She’s smart, beautiful, and a very talented ballet dancer. She hasn't had the best life either. But she is determined to break out of this horrible life she’s been living and make something of herself and we get to see how that was possible. She’s very focused on school and ballet because she wants to make something of herself. So, when she catches the eye of Briarcrest Academy’s number one player, she knows she needs to keep her distance.
“We aren’t compatible. We come form two different places. You’re rich; I’m not. You like to party; I don’t. You like high heels; I don’t wear them. Good grief, your friends call you Hollywood. Then there’s me. I work my ass off to get everything I have. So yeah, not feasible.”
Then we have Mr. Sexy himself, Cuba Hudson. I liked him when he made appearances in Very Bad Things but now it’s his story and I loved reading it. He’s Briarcrest Academy’s bad boy football player. He’s cocky and he can get any girl he wants.
“Two things about me: I play football- and girls.”
He first sees Dovey during football practice. He watches her dance and from that point on, he’s hooked. There’s just something about her that keeps his attention, and that doesn’t happen to him. He’s used to no-strings attached hook-ups. He knew that she was different from any other girl.
“The bottom line was she wasn’t like any of the girls here, and my heart told me to stay away. I only wanted to fuck, not get close to someone. And never in a million years did I want to fall in love with anyone, and I sensed- based on my ridiculous dreams- she might make me fall.”
I really loved this book. I’m so happy we got this prequel novella because it really sets everything up perfectly to lead right into Very Wicked Things. I loved being able to see all of the background on Cuba and Dovey. I love both of them already and can’t wait to read Very Wicked Things.
The quality of writing was great. The novella was well-written and very enjoyable to read. The story kept me interested and I found myself looking forward to the next page. I could not put it down!
5 Diamonds for this awesome novella!!
November 12, 2018
Dovey and Cuba
This is book 1.5. Dovey and cuba. It's an introduction to book 2. He likes her. She likes him. How will he get the girl. Read book 2 to find out
This is book 1.5. Dovey and cuba. It's an introduction to book 2. He likes her. She likes him. How will he get the girl. Read book 2 to find out
May 11, 2014
Very Wicked Beginnings is the prequel novel for Very Wicked Things.
I love that we got to see how Dovey and Cuba meet, and how exactly they got their start. The banter between the two was down-right adorable.
A complete story of opposites attract. The rich, popular, athletic, player and the poor, scholorship, ballerina trying to make something out of herself. Both drawn to each other, even though Dovey faught the attraction.
“We aren’t compatible. We come form two different places. You’re rich; I’m not. You like to party; I don’t. You like high heels; I don’t wear them. Good grief, your friends call you Hollywood. Then there’s me. I work my ass off to get everything I have. So yeah, not feasible.”
We got to witness Cuba's extremely depressed mother. The death of his younger sister and the impact it had was sad. Ilsa did a great job taking on this very serious topic.
All in all Very Wicked Beginnings was sweet and funny, and will have you begging for more of Cuba and Dovey.
I love that we got to see how Dovey and Cuba meet, and how exactly they got their start. The banter between the two was down-right adorable.
A complete story of opposites attract. The rich, popular, athletic, player and the poor, scholorship, ballerina trying to make something out of herself. Both drawn to each other, even though Dovey faught the attraction.
“We aren’t compatible. We come form two different places. You’re rich; I’m not. You like to party; I don’t. You like high heels; I don’t wear them. Good grief, your friends call you Hollywood. Then there’s me. I work my ass off to get everything I have. So yeah, not feasible.”
We got to witness Cuba's extremely depressed mother. The death of his younger sister and the impact it had was sad. Ilsa did a great job taking on this very serious topic.
All in all Very Wicked Beginnings was sweet and funny, and will have you begging for more of Cuba and Dovey.
May 11, 2014
I was surprised when I learned that Very Wicked Things was getting a prequel. I absolutely loved this book!! Very Wicked Beginnings gives you just a taste of how Dovey and Cuba's relationship came to be.
In the beginning we get to meet Cuba who is a living legend at Briarcrest Academy. He is a rich spoiled brat that is super HOT!!
He sees a girl dancing one day at football practice, and becomes enamored with her. He can't get her out of his head, he even dreams about her.
"Me. The guy who could have any girl he wanted was freaking out over some girl from who didn't even register on the who's who of BA."
He is dealing with a sick mother and a father who is never at home. He has had to grow up too fast. We get to learn of his aspirations and dreams.
Then we get to meet Dovey, the poor ballerina girl from the wrong side of town.
She is attending BA on a scholarship, where she meets Cuba. He tries to get her to go out with him, but she refuses.
"Guys like you aren't part of my plan," she said.
Cuba doesn't give up on getting Dovey to go out with him. He comes up with "the perfect plan to make her mine, to get her under me. She'd never know what hit her."
Now on to Very Wicked Things...
In the beginning we get to meet Cuba who is a living legend at Briarcrest Academy. He is a rich spoiled brat that is super HOT!!
He sees a girl dancing one day at football practice, and becomes enamored with her. He can't get her out of his head, he even dreams about her.
"Me. The guy who could have any girl he wanted was freaking out over some girl from who didn't even register on the who's who of BA."
He is dealing with a sick mother and a father who is never at home. He has had to grow up too fast. We get to learn of his aspirations and dreams.
Then we get to meet Dovey, the poor ballerina girl from the wrong side of town.
She is attending BA on a scholarship, where she meets Cuba. He tries to get her to go out with him, but she refuses.
"Guys like you aren't part of my plan," she said.
Cuba doesn't give up on getting Dovey to go out with him. He comes up with "the perfect plan to make her mine, to get her under me. She'd never know what hit her."
Now on to Very Wicked Things...
March 24, 2017
Cuba seems to have it all, but nothing could be further from the truth. Sure he’s popular, rich and has broken more hearts than most, but no one really knows the real him. When he spots Dovey through the dance studio window the heart-breaker is suddenly dreaming of something more. The only problem... he has no idea who the girl is. But once he finds her, he’s going to give chase.
This prequel gives us a small taste of what to expect with Very Wicked Things and a few moments to get to know Cuba a little bit better before we dive right into his story. So what I loved about this one is that nothing is what it seems. You get this idea that Cuba is going to be this man-whore type guy (and sure he still kind of is), but you get to see these little clues that leave you wanting more of him. He’s gonna be damaged. Broken. And it’s going to be so hot!
Dovey left me wanting to know so much more. This gave us such a small taste as to what to expect, and I bit. I want to know her secrets, I want her to get Cuba to open up to her and tell her his. I want these two to fall hopelessly in love.
The author did a fantastic job laying out the foundation for this story. I can’t wait to start Very Wicked Things and get the full story!
This prequel gives us a small taste of what to expect with Very Wicked Things and a few moments to get to know Cuba a little bit better before we dive right into his story. So what I loved about this one is that nothing is what it seems. You get this idea that Cuba is going to be this man-whore type guy (and sure he still kind of is), but you get to see these little clues that leave you wanting more of him. He’s gonna be damaged. Broken. And it’s going to be so hot!
Dovey left me wanting to know so much more. This gave us such a small taste as to what to expect, and I bit. I want to know her secrets, I want her to get Cuba to open up to her and tell her his. I want these two to fall hopelessly in love.
The author did a fantastic job laying out the foundation for this story. I can’t wait to start Very Wicked Things and get the full story!
May 11, 2014
Very Wicked Beginnings is the prequel novella to Very Wicked Things featuring football star
Cuba Hudson
who we first met in Very Bad Things (Book 1 of the Briarcrest Academy series) and ballerina
Dovey Beckham.
It's their junior year at Briarcrest Academy .... a prestigious high school for Dallas' elite. The novella details their first meeting and a bit of the "woo-ing" Cuba does to try to convince her to give him the time of day.
Even though Dovey has been at Briarcrest, it isn't until now that Cuba notices her. She is at ballet practice and her grace and beauty (and fit ballerina body) catch Cuba's eye. Dovey catches him but dismisses the possibilty that THE Cuba "Hollywood" Hudson could be interested in her.
No one ever see the scholarship girl from Ratcliffe.- Dovey
Even though Cuba comes across as the perfect all-American guy, we get glimpses of Cuba's struggles, something happened four years ago that haunts him to this day.
Because no matter who people think you are, no one really knows what's underneath.- Cuba
Dovey has dreams .... dreams that get her out of the Ratcliffe slums ... dreams that don't include getting involved with the boys from her school, especially gorgeous, charming man whore Cuba Hudson. Cuba is determined though, and even though Dovey tries to feign disinterest, Cuba is relentless in his pursuit.
We have a connection. I knew it the moment I sat down with you. You want to resist me, that's fine. I like it. It's like foreplay. - Cuba
For the first time ever, Cuba imagines being in a relationship, not just a one-night stand. But is Dovey ready to give him a chance?
And so begins some very wicked things ...
"WOW! This novella GRABBED a hold of me from the first page. Both Cuba and Dovey are flawed and damaged and I couldn't help but fall in love and want them to have things easier than the hands they've been dealt. Cuba is a sweet talker and I love the banter between him and Dovey .... a novella is NOT enough of these two! Thank goodness their story continues in Very Wicked Things!
May 16, 2014
This is our first introduction to Ilsa Madden-Mills and the Briarcrest Academy series and we really enjoyed it. This novella is a glimpse at the beginnings and background to Cuba and Dovey’s story. The moment Cuba saw Dovey and the consequential attraction that spans much farther than initial lust. This is so much more; this is about two broken young adults who’ve seen too much bad in life, who feels undeserving, have experienced too much emotional pain and have had to grow up way before their time.
“No matter who people think you are, no one really knows what’s underneath.”
Cuba comes from money, but as we all know money doesn’t buy anything but material happiness. It does not buy love or the comfort of loved ones. It does not buy life.
‘I was alive but barely living.’
This young man is everything that is popular, brilliant and attractive judged by social standards yet what he really wants he can’t have. Cuba is suffering in silence, his family life in tatters from the distressing illness of depression. Socially he’s a bit of a cock and the majority of his relationships are superficial.
‘..how could I ask her to be better, when I felt so weak myself.’
All it takes is a glimpse of a ballerina and in that fleeting moment he sees hope and inspiration; beginning a tireless crusade to bring just that into his life.
Dovey’s had a traumatic childhood littered with struggles, violence and deprivation in her line of sight. By the hand of a self-less woman she’s given a chance in life to pursue a passion of dance. Becoming a principal ballerina being the dream. Dovey was quirky, independent and doesn’t suffer fools gladly; a trait no doubt derived from never having experienced parental love, selflessness nor true happiness.
‘Love swallows up all the good parts, but ballet gives it all back.’
This novella was full of emotion and a great introduction. We now look forward to experiencing this relationship unfolding and seeing Cuba and Dovey achieve what they truly desire and deserve as they overcome their obstacles and brokenness.
‘…our lives were slowly unravelling day by day….we were helpless to do anything about it except watch.’
*ARC’s provided by author in exchange for an honest review**
´♥´♥´♥
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May 17, 2014
This is our first introduction to Ilsa Madden-Mills and the Briarcrest Academy series and we really enjoyed it. This novella is a glimpse at the beginnings and background to Cuba and Dovey’s story. The moment Cuba saw Dovey and the consequential attraction that spans much farther than initial lust. This is so much more; this is about two broken young adults who’ve seen too much bad in life, who feels undeserving, have experienced too much emotional pain and have had to grow up way before their time.
“No matter who people think you are, no one really knows what’s underneath.”
Cuba comes from money, but as we all know money doesn’t buy anything but material happiness. It does not buy love or the comfort of loved ones. It does not buy life.
‘I was alive but barely living.’
This young man is everything that is popular, brilliant and attractive judged by social standards yet what he really wants he can’t have. Cuba is suffering in silence, his family life in tatters from the distressing illness of depression. Socially he’s a bit of a cock and the majority of his relationships are superficial.
‘..how could I ask her to be better, when I felt so weak myself.’
All it takes is a glimpse of a ballerina and in that fleeting moment he sees hope and inspiration; beginning a tireless crusade to bring just that into his life.
Dovey’s had a traumatic childhood littered with struggles, violence and deprivation in her line of sight. By the hand of a self-less woman she’s given a chance in life to pursue a passion of dance. Becoming a principal ballerina being the dream. Dovey was quirky, independent and doesn’t suffer fools gladly; a trait no doubt derived from never having experienced parental love, selflessness nor true happiness.
‘Love swallows up all the good parts, but ballet gives it all back.’
This novella was full of emotion and a great introduction. We now look forward to experiencing this relationship unfolding and seeing Cuba and Dovey achieve what they truly desire and deserve as they overcome their obstacles and brokenness.
‘…our lives were slowly unravelling day by day….we were helpless to do anything about it except watch.’
*ARC’s provided by author in exchange for an honest review**
´♥´♥´♥
Check out more reviews at : http://totallybookedblog.com/
Come say hi on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Totall...
Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TotallyBooked1
May 14, 2014
ARC provided by author in exchange of honest review
☆ ☆ ☆☆ 4.5 WICKED BEGINNING STARS ☆ ☆ ☆☆
Very Wicked Beginnings has me wickedly excited for golden boy, “Hollywood” Cuba Hudson of Briarcrest Academy. We were first introduced to Cuba in Very Bad Things and I couldn’t wait to dive into Cuba’s story. In this prequel novella, readers finally see the “real” Cuba Hudson and are introduced to his love interest, Dovey Beckham, a ballerina, who has tiptoed and danced her way into Cuba’s mind.
Cuba Hudson is known as “Hollywood” around his peers. From the outside perspective, he had it all from money, popularity, athletic abilities, and a long line up of girls. But behind the perfect image, lies a man filled with guilt and sadness. His home life is filled with sadness since his mother is battling and struggling with depression.
Dovey Beckham is a ballerina. Her passion is to dance and has been given a scholarship to Briarcrest Academy. Unlike the rest of her peers, she does not come from money. She is the girl from the other side of tracks.
When Cuba spots Dovey for the first time, he is mesmerized by her beauty, elegance and the way she danced. Time stood still and all he saw was the ballerina who captured and helped erased sadness. Be prepared as Ms. Ilsa Madden-Mills gives us a taste of only the start the wicked beginnings of Cuba’s pursuit of Dovey. What will happen when two worlds collide? What secrets will be unraveled?
Ilsa Madden-Mills
Reviews on Behalf of Give Me Books
☆ ☆ ☆☆ 4.5 WICKED BEGINNING STARS ☆ ☆ ☆☆
Very Wicked Beginnings has me wickedly excited for golden boy, “Hollywood” Cuba Hudson of Briarcrest Academy. We were first introduced to Cuba in Very Bad Things and I couldn’t wait to dive into Cuba’s story. In this prequel novella, readers finally see the “real” Cuba Hudson and are introduced to his love interest, Dovey Beckham, a ballerina, who has tiptoed and danced her way into Cuba’s mind.
Cuba Hudson is known as “Hollywood” around his peers. From the outside perspective, he had it all from money, popularity, athletic abilities, and a long line up of girls. But behind the perfect image, lies a man filled with guilt and sadness. His home life is filled with sadness since his mother is battling and struggling with depression.
Dovey Beckham is a ballerina. Her passion is to dance and has been given a scholarship to Briarcrest Academy. Unlike the rest of her peers, she does not come from money. She is the girl from the other side of tracks.
When Cuba spots Dovey for the first time, he is mesmerized by her beauty, elegance and the way she danced. Time stood still and all he saw was the ballerina who captured and helped erased sadness. Be prepared as Ms. Ilsa Madden-Mills gives us a taste of only the start the wicked beginnings of Cuba’s pursuit of Dovey. What will happen when two worlds collide? What secrets will be unraveled?
Ilsa Madden-Mills
Reviews on Behalf of Give Me Books
July 21, 2016
Very Wicked Beginnings is a prequel to Very Wicked Things. It gives us a little background on who Cuba and Dovey are and how their relationship began. Dovey is a smart girl who is from the wrong area. She works hard to prove that she is somebody. There are things that she doesn’t want to share with anyone.
“We aren’t compatible. We come from two different places. You’re rich; I’m not. You like to party; I don’t. You like high heels; I don’t wear them.”
Cuba is the cocky, rich, football star who everyone thinks has the perfect life. He is also good at hiding who he really is. Years of practice has made who he is along with some rough things that would tear a normal guy down.
“Two things about me: I play football- and girls.”
This was a very enjoyable short read which was expected because it is a novella. I love that we were able to get a little more of them and a little introduction in to what was going on in Very Wicked things.
Want to read
September 10, 2017
FREE today on Amazon US (7/21/2014).
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00K...
March 24, 2015
I received an ARC for free in exchange for an honest review.
This is going to be one of those really small reviews because, let's face it, Very Wicked Beginnings is a pretty small novella. I read Very Bad Things a couple of months ago and I absolutely loved it! Nora and Leo's story was beautiful and heartbreaking and disturbing and I don't regret it at all. Cuba Hudson, resident heartbreaker had his own appearance in Very Bad Things, and while I was primarily captivated by Sebastian--Leo's younger brother--in terms of secondary characters, I didn't mind waiting a bit more and getting to know Cuba in the mean time.
Very Wicked Beginnings gives us an introductory look into primarily Cuba's life. Yes, he's the cocky, rich football player, but there are some issues we have yet to truly see concerning his home life. His mother's depressed, his younger sister's dead, and while his father loves him, he's barely around. Dovey, on the other hand, only gets a few chapters for herself, and they're not really enough for us to know what her situation is, apart from what is given in the Very Wicked Things synopsis.
I really liked the ballerina aspect to this story and I'm intrigued as to how Cuba and Dovey's relationship is going to develop. One thing I do know, is that it's going to be steamy and hot and sexy as hell. While I don't necessarily feel like the novella adds anything crucial to the overall story that is to occur in Very Wicked Things, it does gives us a sneak peek into their lives. All in all, it's a really short, easy read that sparks interest for what's to come.
For more reviews, visit my blog at Bittersweet Reads.
This is going to be one of those really small reviews because, let's face it, Very Wicked Beginnings is a pretty small novella. I read Very Bad Things a couple of months ago and I absolutely loved it! Nora and Leo's story was beautiful and heartbreaking and disturbing and I don't regret it at all. Cuba Hudson, resident heartbreaker had his own appearance in Very Bad Things, and while I was primarily captivated by Sebastian--Leo's younger brother--in terms of secondary characters, I didn't mind waiting a bit more and getting to know Cuba in the mean time.
Very Wicked Beginnings gives us an introductory look into primarily Cuba's life. Yes, he's the cocky, rich football player, but there are some issues we have yet to truly see concerning his home life. His mother's depressed, his younger sister's dead, and while his father loves him, he's barely around. Dovey, on the other hand, only gets a few chapters for herself, and they're not really enough for us to know what her situation is, apart from what is given in the Very Wicked Things synopsis.
I really liked the ballerina aspect to this story and I'm intrigued as to how Cuba and Dovey's relationship is going to develop. One thing I do know, is that it's going to be steamy and hot and sexy as hell. While I don't necessarily feel like the novella adds anything crucial to the overall story that is to occur in Very Wicked Things, it does gives us a sneak peek into their lives. All in all, it's a really short, easy read that sparks interest for what's to come.
For more reviews, visit my blog at Bittersweet Reads.
May 7, 2014
***I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Cuba is BA’s ‘hot guy’ with the looks and the football skills to get him any girl he wants. And he wants them for one thing and one thing only. That is until he gets literally blind-sided by a beautiful Russian ballerina. Dovey has ballet and that’s all she need to make her happy, well that’s what she thinks until she meets Cuba. Very Wicked Beginnings is simply that. The beginning of Dovey and Cuba’s journey and is a huge insight into the background of their relationship. I really enjoyed reading this prequel before starting Very Wicked Things. It helps answer some questions when reading Very Wicked Things.
http://whopickedthis.wordpress.com
Cuba is BA’s ‘hot guy’ with the looks and the football skills to get him any girl he wants. And he wants them for one thing and one thing only. That is until he gets literally blind-sided by a beautiful Russian ballerina. Dovey has ballet and that’s all she need to make her happy, well that’s what she thinks until she meets Cuba. Very Wicked Beginnings is simply that. The beginning of Dovey and Cuba’s journey and is a huge insight into the background of their relationship. I really enjoyed reading this prequel before starting Very Wicked Things. It helps answer some questions when reading Very Wicked Things.
http://whopickedthis.wordpress.com
November 27, 2017
I wasn’t sure how to rate this novella at first. As a story I just shrugged my shoulders, I was indifferent to it... but as a long prologue it did what it intended to do. Therefore I’ll be referring to it as a prologue.
Furthermore as a Suicide Prevention story it gave a whole new meaning to Very Wicked Beginnings.
Cuba was introduced in Very Bad Things, but only briefly and superficially. In this Prologue we get to see deeper into his behavior and past, but it’s just the beginning. There is no mention of the other main character from book 1.
Dovey is a dancer, (who is not the same dance girl he was with in book 1). She is sassy, relatable, and best friends with Spider.
Spider is only in this prologue for a moment but he’s what might be my decision maker on reading book 2, Very Wicked Things. I did read Spiders book, before I read this one. I hadn’t know Spider from Ilsa’s other book Spider was in any other story. (Yes the book title is the same as the characters name.)
But it doesn’t look to much like it will effect each other given Dovey isn’t in Spiders book. However the roll he plays as best friends in this book makes me think Dovey and Cuba’s story in book 2 might have a Spider crawling around in it.
I did read this prologue for free when it came in a Ilsa’s newsletter. This great Prologue can be purchased in the boxset too, along with the other stand alone novels in this series. Well besides Spider.
Furthermore as a Suicide Prevention story it gave a whole new meaning to Very Wicked Beginnings.
Cuba was introduced in Very Bad Things, but only briefly and superficially. In this Prologue we get to see deeper into his behavior and past, but it’s just the beginning. There is no mention of the other main character from book 1.
Dovey is a dancer, (who is not the same dance girl he was with in book 1). She is sassy, relatable, and best friends with Spider.
Spider is only in this prologue for a moment but he’s what might be my decision maker on reading book 2, Very Wicked Things. I did read Spiders book, before I read this one. I hadn’t know Spider from Ilsa’s other book Spider was in any other story. (Yes the book title is the same as the characters name.)
But it doesn’t look to much like it will effect each other given Dovey isn’t in Spiders book. However the roll he plays as best friends in this book makes me think Dovey and Cuba’s story in book 2 might have a Spider crawling around in it.
I did read this prologue for free when it came in a Ilsa’s newsletter. This great Prologue can be purchased in the boxset too, along with the other stand alone novels in this series. Well besides Spider.
Read
October 23, 2019Eh, I don't really know what to think. This mainly just served as an introduction to the characters, but I can't really say I'm particularly intrigued in the story. It seems pretty stereotypical and bland so far.
May 12, 2014
4-4.5 ★
Golden Boy Meets Girl from The Wrong Side of Town
These two couldn't have been more different; their goals, their attitude towards life, their upbringing, and choice in holding on to the person they fall for.
Two things about me: I play football - and girls. ~Cuba Hudson
Yup, you've read correctly; that's him. Mr Hollywood, getting what he wants and who he wants. Cuba is the star at his school; girls are drooling over and for him. All they see is Mr I-have-everything but little do they know what's behind the surface. Little do they know that he'd love to change this title and go back in time to make things right -but he can't. His life isn't as perfect as it seems but Cuba is good at keeping people at distance, letting them only see what he wants them to see.
Two things about me: I dance and I dance. ~Dovey Beckham
This girl got dealt a very unfortunate hand early on and she knew what it meant to be hungry, freeze, feel alone and unloved. Dovey had never much, only hope and her strength and her love for ballet. When faith once warm made her life a living hell, literally a guardian angel got sent and took care of her -best thing that could happen to her.
She has her goals and there is no way that boy could have space in her dreams -especially no womanizer like Cuba. But his charm, his persistent made her slowly crumple until she couldn't resist any longer.
....until tragedy struck. One moment changed both courses. One moment changed both their lives, turning it upside down.
But at Briarcrest Academy not everything is as it seems, and Very Wicked Beginnings was just the tip of the iceberg.
This was one great novella and introduction to book 2, Very Wicked Things. This novella was like an appetizer, leaving me hungry for more after I was finished. Oh Cuba, my heart ached for you and I wanted to hug and cuddle your worries and pain away. Dovey, is wanted to literally spoil you rotten because luck was never on your side and no one should experienced what you had early on *sighs.
Ladies, get your finger ready and click this goody - I love this Briarcrest Academy series and could kick my butt for waiting so long to read it.
ARC kindly provided by author
Golden Boy Meets Girl from The Wrong Side of Town
These two couldn't have been more different; their goals, their attitude towards life, their upbringing, and choice in holding on to the person they fall for.
Two things about me: I play football - and girls. ~Cuba Hudson
Yup, you've read correctly; that's him. Mr Hollywood, getting what he wants and who he wants. Cuba is the star at his school; girls are drooling over and for him. All they see is Mr I-have-everything but little do they know what's behind the surface. Little do they know that he'd love to change this title and go back in time to make things right -but he can't. His life isn't as perfect as it seems but Cuba is good at keeping people at distance, letting them only see what he wants them to see.
...until she danced herself into his life...
Two things about me: I dance and I dance. ~Dovey Beckham
This girl got dealt a very unfortunate hand early on and she knew what it meant to be hungry, freeze, feel alone and unloved. Dovey had never much, only hope and her strength and her love for ballet. When faith once warm made her life a living hell, literally a guardian angel got sent and took care of her -best thing that could happen to her.
She has her goals and there is no way that boy could have space in her dreams -especially no womanizer like Cuba. But his charm, his persistent made her slowly crumple until she couldn't resist any longer.
....until tragedy struck. One moment changed both courses. One moment changed both their lives, turning it upside down.
But at Briarcrest Academy not everything is as it seems, and Very Wicked Beginnings was just the tip of the iceberg.
This was one great novella and introduction to book 2, Very Wicked Things. This novella was like an appetizer, leaving me hungry for more after I was finished. Oh Cuba, my heart ached for you and I wanted to hug and cuddle your worries and pain away. Dovey, is wanted to literally spoil you rotten because luck was never on your side and no one should experienced what you had early on *sighs.
Ladies, get your finger ready and click this goody - I love this Briarcrest Academy series and could kick my butt for waiting so long to read it.
ARC kindly provided by author
May 12, 2014
Reviewed by Heather
VWB is a beautifully written novella introducing you to the damaged side of Cuba. We got a little taste of him in VBT and as far as I was concerned it wasn’t a very good taste. I was sure it was impossible to like him and Ilsa had me scurrrrred that I would not be able to connect with him in this book. However, by the time I finished this little novella, Cuba had won me over.
Cuba has a painful past and his present isn’t all sunshine and rainbows either. He is dealing with a ton of guilt in the only way he knows how... by distracting himself with lots of girls. But when he sees Dovey Beckham it is like a shock to his system. For once, he thinks he could want more.
Dovey is a scholarship student at Briarcrest Academy intent on dancing her way out of the projects. Of course she is attracted to the hottest guy at BA, but she too has a lot on her plate and can’t afford to be his latest distraction.
Very Wicked Beginnings leads perfectly into Very Wicked Things. It gives you a little behind the scenes look at how Cuba and Dovey got started and really sets you up for the complicated young man that is Cuba Hudson.
“I didn’t like what I’d become, but here’s the thing, I’d do anything to make the memories get the fuck out of my head.”
VWB is a beautifully written novella introducing you to the damaged side of Cuba. We got a little taste of him in VBT and as far as I was concerned it wasn’t a very good taste. I was sure it was impossible to like him and Ilsa had me scurrrrred that I would not be able to connect with him in this book. However, by the time I finished this little novella, Cuba had won me over.
“Her destruction had all began with me. I lay my head by hers and… shit… I fucking cried, hating myself for the thing I’d done.”
Cuba has a painful past and his present isn’t all sunshine and rainbows either. He is dealing with a ton of guilt in the only way he knows how... by distracting himself with lots of girls. But when he sees Dovey Beckham it is like a shock to his system. For once, he thinks he could want more.
“She was funny, and I liked how she was kinda distrustful of me. Because it meant she was smart too.”
Dovey is a scholarship student at Briarcrest Academy intent on dancing her way out of the projects. Of course she is attracted to the hottest guy at BA, but she too has a lot on her plate and can’t afford to be his latest distraction.
“We have a connection. I knew it the moment I sat down with you. You want to resist me, that’s fine. I like it. It’s like foreplay.”
Very Wicked Beginnings leads perfectly into Very Wicked Things. It gives you a little behind the scenes look at how Cuba and Dovey got started and really sets you up for the complicated young man that is Cuba Hudson.
May 13, 2014
There's always a beginning to every couple's story, and Very Wicked Beginnings is the explanation of how Cuba and Dovey, two people who couldn't be more different in living and social status, end up together. But the novella provides readers with so much more than their first encounters; it provides much needed insights into what makes Cuba and Dovey who they are - what shaped them and ultimately changed them. It's the perfect set-up for the true story of their past and present - Very Wicked Things.
Cuba's actions and personality are all a facade to hide a painful past and tormented present. The guilt he feels over his mother and sister eat away at him on a daily basis and the only way to shut down his brain is to wreak havoc on his mind and body in both constructive and destructive ways. During football practice one day, he spots a beautiful ballerina and can't stop thinking about her, and no matter how much he believes he doesn't deserve any kind of happiness in his life, when he finally crosses paths with her again, he can't help but make her his.
Dovey definitely knows who Cuba is, but she doesn't understand why he wants anything to do with the girl from the wrong side of the tracks, and frankly, she really doesn't want to find out. Dovey has spent her whole life fighting to merely survive while the wealthy students of Briarcrest Academy get everything handed to them. Her one saving grace is ballet; she lives and breathes it, and she'll be damned if she's going to let some hot rich boy fill her head with dreams she knows will never be hers, especially when Dovey is holding secrets that she's not willing to risk anyone finding out about. But if there's anything readers learned about Cuba from Very Bad Things is that whatever Cuba wants, he gets, and now that he's set his sights on Dovey, it's not a matter of if but when he will have her.
Very Wicked Beginnings is essential to understanding not just how Cuba and Dovey's relationship begins but also what baggage both characters have in their lives that cause them to think and act the way that they do. Because Ilsa Madden-Mills gives readers their dual point of views, it's easier to understand why perhaps the heartbreak that they experience throughout Very Wicked Things is inevitable.
Bring on Very Wicked Things!
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
4 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Cuba's actions and personality are all a facade to hide a painful past and tormented present. The guilt he feels over his mother and sister eat away at him on a daily basis and the only way to shut down his brain is to wreak havoc on his mind and body in both constructive and destructive ways. During football practice one day, he spots a beautiful ballerina and can't stop thinking about her, and no matter how much he believes he doesn't deserve any kind of happiness in his life, when he finally crosses paths with her again, he can't help but make her his.
Dovey definitely knows who Cuba is, but she doesn't understand why he wants anything to do with the girl from the wrong side of the tracks, and frankly, she really doesn't want to find out. Dovey has spent her whole life fighting to merely survive while the wealthy students of Briarcrest Academy get everything handed to them. Her one saving grace is ballet; she lives and breathes it, and she'll be damned if she's going to let some hot rich boy fill her head with dreams she knows will never be hers, especially when Dovey is holding secrets that she's not willing to risk anyone finding out about. But if there's anything readers learned about Cuba from Very Bad Things is that whatever Cuba wants, he gets, and now that he's set his sights on Dovey, it's not a matter of if but when he will have her.
Very Wicked Beginnings is essential to understanding not just how Cuba and Dovey's relationship begins but also what baggage both characters have in their lives that cause them to think and act the way that they do. Because Ilsa Madden-Mills gives readers their dual point of views, it's easier to understand why perhaps the heartbreak that they experience throughout Very Wicked Things is inevitable.
Bring on Very Wicked Things!
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
4 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
May 10, 2014
Book provided by the author for honest opinion
In this prequel you will get to meet a little bit of Cuba and Dovey. You will learn about their past, how it doesn’t matter if you have a lot of money or you are poor, the past is something and the life of everyone is something you can’t judge by the image someone is showing just because they want to hide a pain, a past, a mistake.
‘‘Because no matter who people think you are, no one really knows what’s underneath.’’
You will see that Dovey is someone who only thinks about dancing and ballet and when Cuba put his eyes on her he is determinate to date her, because even if he doesn’t believe it, by dancing Dovey stole a piece of his broken heart, just like he, with the time stole a piece of her broken heart, and what either of them were expecting it that even if they are both broken, they were meant to heal each other.
‘‘I blame my self for a lot of thins. Loving her wasn’t one of them’'
But one things is what the heart one and another thing is what your mind tells you what you should do because maybe you a re scared. So there road is going to be full of bumps, ups and downs, heartbreaks and a lot of happy tears. But that’s is love right? never perfect but if its meant to be it will survived.
Will their love survived?
‘‘I didn’t want to mess with that quality about her. Because I would screw her up like I do with everything else.’'
Teasers
In this prequel you will get to meet a little bit of Cuba and Dovey. You will learn about their past, how it doesn’t matter if you have a lot of money or you are poor, the past is something and the life of everyone is something you can’t judge by the image someone is showing just because they want to hide a pain, a past, a mistake.
‘‘Because no matter who people think you are, no one really knows what’s underneath.’’
You will see that Dovey is someone who only thinks about dancing and ballet and when Cuba put his eyes on her he is determinate to date her, because even if he doesn’t believe it, by dancing Dovey stole a piece of his broken heart, just like he, with the time stole a piece of her broken heart, and what either of them were expecting it that even if they are both broken, they were meant to heal each other.
‘‘I blame my self for a lot of thins. Loving her wasn’t one of them’'
But one things is what the heart one and another thing is what your mind tells you what you should do because maybe you a re scared. So there road is going to be full of bumps, ups and downs, heartbreaks and a lot of happy tears. But that’s is love right? never perfect but if its meant to be it will survived.
Will their love survived?
‘‘I didn’t want to mess with that quality about her. Because I would screw her up like I do with everything else.’'
Teasers
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