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The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside #8
Love Me Wicked: Zeke Wicked
A Dark Knight biker, a torturous secret, and a road trip that changes everything. Come along for the emotionally wicked ride in this steamy, pulse-pounding small-town standalone romance. No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a happily ever after that will stay with you long after you read the last page.
Tattooist Aria Bad has mastered the art of hiding in plain sight. Her art is her only safe place. Crowded rooms make her panic. People’s eyes burn too hot. Except his. Zeke Wicked has been the steady presence she’s leaned on since he tutored her through high school. He’s a loyal, protective Dark Knight biker, the kind of man who sees everything and the one man who could unravel her without even trying. Every year he takes her to see her family for the holidays, but this year she’s harboring a secret and needs to go alone.
Years ago, Zeke swore to protect, and never touch, Aria, but that didn’t stop his heart from staking claim to her. Lately she’s been secretive and has been pulling away, and now she’s determined to make their annual trip without him, but his instincts won’t let her go alone. When a storm strands them, boundaries blur and buried feelings rise to the surface, unearthing a passion neither can deny. But as the storm clears, they discover two dangerous truths—one that ties them together and one that threatens to tear them apart.
Tropes: Small-town, found family, biker romance, close proximity, protective hero, savior hero, friends to lovers.
About The Dark Knights at Bayside
Set on the sandy shores of Cape Cod, the Wickeds feature fiercely protective heroes, strong heroines, and unbreakable family bonds. If you think bikers are all the same, you haven’t met the Dark Knights. The Dark Knights are a motorcycle club, not a gang. Their members stick together like family and will stop at nothing to keep their communities safe. These men are wickedly alpha and intensely loyal, but they are not alphaholes.
Be sure to check out Melissa’s other Dark Knights series and stories.
Get more WICKED sexy love stories
A Little Bit Wicked
The Wicked Aftermath
Crazy, Wicked Love
The Wicked Truth
His Wicked Ways
Talk Wicked to Me
Irresistibly Wicked
The Dark Knights at Peaceful Harbor
Tru Blue
Truly, Madly, Whiskey
Driving Whiskey Wild
Wicked Whiskey Love
Mad About Moon
Taming My Whiskey
The Gritty Truth
In for a Penny
Running on Diesel
The Dark Knights at Redemption Ranch
The Trouble with Whiskey
Freeing Sully (Prequel to For the Love of Whiskey)
For the Love of Whiskey
A Taste of Whiskey
Love, Lies, & Whiskey
Find out more about these and many other steamy romance series in Melissa Foster’s Love in Bloom big-family contemporary romance collection featuring characters from all walks of life, from billionaires to blue-collar workers. You’ll love her fun, sexy, and relatable characters, and their real-life issues.
"Melissa Foster is synonymous with sexy, swoony, heartfelt romance!" NYT Bestseller Lauren Blakely
"Melissa Foster writes worlds that draw you in, with strong heroes and brave heroines surrounded by a community that makes you want to crawl right on through the page and live there. - NYT bestseller Julia Kent
"When it comes to contemporary romances with realistic characters, an emotional love story and smokin' hot sex, author Melissa Foster always delivers!"
Tattooist Aria Bad has mastered the art of hiding in plain sight. Her art is her only safe place. Crowded rooms make her panic. People’s eyes burn too hot. Except his. Zeke Wicked has been the steady presence she’s leaned on since he tutored her through high school. He’s a loyal, protective Dark Knight biker, the kind of man who sees everything and the one man who could unravel her without even trying. Every year he takes her to see her family for the holidays, but this year she’s harboring a secret and needs to go alone.
Years ago, Zeke swore to protect, and never touch, Aria, but that didn’t stop his heart from staking claim to her. Lately she’s been secretive and has been pulling away, and now she’s determined to make their annual trip without him, but his instincts won’t let her go alone. When a storm strands them, boundaries blur and buried feelings rise to the surface, unearthing a passion neither can deny. But as the storm clears, they discover two dangerous truths—one that ties them together and one that threatens to tear them apart.
Tropes: Small-town, found family, biker romance, close proximity, protective hero, savior hero, friends to lovers.
About The Dark Knights at Bayside
Set on the sandy shores of Cape Cod, the Wickeds feature fiercely protective heroes, strong heroines, and unbreakable family bonds. If you think bikers are all the same, you haven’t met the Dark Knights. The Dark Knights are a motorcycle club, not a gang. Their members stick together like family and will stop at nothing to keep their communities safe. These men are wickedly alpha and intensely loyal, but they are not alphaholes.
Be sure to check out Melissa’s other Dark Knights series and stories.
Get more WICKED sexy love stories
A Little Bit Wicked
The Wicked Aftermath
Crazy, Wicked Love
The Wicked Truth
His Wicked Ways
Talk Wicked to Me
Irresistibly Wicked
The Dark Knights at Peaceful Harbor
Tru Blue
Truly, Madly, Whiskey
Driving Whiskey Wild
Wicked Whiskey Love
Mad About Moon
Taming My Whiskey
The Gritty Truth
In for a Penny
Running on Diesel
The Dark Knights at Redemption Ranch
The Trouble with Whiskey
Freeing Sully (Prequel to For the Love of Whiskey)
For the Love of Whiskey
A Taste of Whiskey
Love, Lies, & Whiskey
Find out more about these and many other steamy romance series in Melissa Foster’s Love in Bloom big-family contemporary romance collection featuring characters from all walks of life, from billionaires to blue-collar workers. You’ll love her fun, sexy, and relatable characters, and their real-life issues.
"Melissa Foster is synonymous with sexy, swoony, heartfelt romance!" NYT Bestseller Lauren Blakely
"Melissa Foster writes worlds that draw you in, with strong heroes and brave heroines surrounded by a community that makes you want to crawl right on through the page and live there. - NYT bestseller Julia Kent
"When it comes to contemporary romances with realistic characters, an emotional love story and smokin' hot sex, author Melissa Foster always delivers!"
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2026
About the author
Melissa Foster
195 books12k followersNEW YORK TIMES, WALL STREET JOURNAL, and USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR
Never miss a release! Follow Melissa here on Amazon and sign up for her newsletter: https://MelissaFoster.com/Newsletter
Start FIVE of Melissa's series FREE in ebook format here: https://MelissaFoster.com/LIBFREE
FREE Love in Bloom Family Trees: https://MelissaFoster.com/RG
FREE Series Reading Order Checklist: https://MelissaFoster.com/SeriesCheck...
FREE Series Order Checklist by Publication Date (recommended): https://melissafoster.com/SeriesCheck...
Melissa Foster is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than 100 novels. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and women’s fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic, always family oriented, and feature fiercely loyal heroes, smart, sassy heroines, and complex relatable issues.
Melissa also writes sweet romance under the pen name, Addison Cole here: https://addisoncole.com
Melissa loves to hear from readers! Feel free to send her an email or chat with her on social media.
Melissa welcomes the opportunity to chat with book clubs and other reading groups.
"What sets Melissa Foster apart are her compelling characters who you care about... desperately...I dare you to read the first chapter and not be hooked." International bestseller, M.J. Rose
"Melissa Foster is a wonderful connector of readers and books, a friend of authors, and a tireless advocate for women. She is the real deal"--Author Jennie Shortridge
Never miss a release! Follow Melissa here on Amazon and sign up for her newsletter: https://MelissaFoster.com/Newsletter
Start FIVE of Melissa's series FREE in ebook format here: https://MelissaFoster.com/LIBFREE
FREE Love in Bloom Family Trees: https://MelissaFoster.com/RG
FREE Series Reading Order Checklist: https://MelissaFoster.com/SeriesCheck...
FREE Series Order Checklist by Publication Date (recommended): https://melissafoster.com/SeriesCheck...
Melissa Foster is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than 100 novels. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and women’s fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic, always family oriented, and feature fiercely loyal heroes, smart, sassy heroines, and complex relatable issues.
Melissa also writes sweet romance under the pen name, Addison Cole here: https://addisoncole.com
Melissa loves to hear from readers! Feel free to send her an email or chat with her on social media.
Melissa welcomes the opportunity to chat with book clubs and other reading groups.
"What sets Melissa Foster apart are her compelling characters who you care about... desperately...I dare you to read the first chapter and not be hooked." International bestseller, M.J. Rose
"Melissa Foster is a wonderful connector of readers and books, a friend of authors, and a tireless advocate for women. She is the real deal"--Author Jennie Shortridge
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
October 29, 2026
4.5🌟 | 3🌶️
Years of friendship, unspoken feelings, and a protective hero who’s been gone for his best friend all along.
The pining between Zeke and Aria was so worth the wait, and watching them finally figure out what everyone else already knew had me smiling. Their chemistry felt so natural, and those little moments where their friendship started becoming something more were such a treat!
Zeke was such a sweetheart with Aria. He’s always looked out for her, but seeing just how gentle and attentive he is with her made me appreciate him even more. Aria was equally lovely, with her witty, artistic side shining through whenever she felt comfortable around him. I also appreciated how her journey gave the romance more depth, as she worked through her anxiety and faced questions about her past with Zeke by her side.
Getting to spend time with the Wickeds and Bads again was another highlight, especially all the family banter and familiar faces popping up along the way. The emotional moments blended so naturally with the humour, making this a warm, feel-good read with plenty of reasons to smile.
Seeing a friendship this special turn into something more made for a genuinely sweet reading experience.
~~~~
A sincere thank you to Melissa Foster and The Author Agency for the ARC! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
Years of friendship, unspoken feelings, and a protective hero who’s been gone for his best friend all along.
The pining between Zeke and Aria was so worth the wait, and watching them finally figure out what everyone else already knew had me smiling. Their chemistry felt so natural, and those little moments where their friendship started becoming something more were such a treat!
Zeke was such a sweetheart with Aria. He’s always looked out for her, but seeing just how gentle and attentive he is with her made me appreciate him even more. Aria was equally lovely, with her witty, artistic side shining through whenever she felt comfortable around him. I also appreciated how her journey gave the romance more depth, as she worked through her anxiety and faced questions about her past with Zeke by her side.
Getting to spend time with the Wickeds and Bads again was another highlight, especially all the family banter and familiar faces popping up along the way. The emotional moments blended so naturally with the humour, making this a warm, feel-good read with plenty of reasons to smile.
Seeing a friendship this special turn into something more made for a genuinely sweet reading experience.
~~~~
A sincere thank you to Melissa Foster and The Author Agency for the ARC! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
It was an enjoyable read. This is the eighth book in the series, and I recommend starting from the very beginning. Since I didn't begin with the first book, I lack the background on the other characters. However, the backstory of Zeke and Aria is explained perfectly.
The narrative is presented from a third-person point of view, which made it challenging for me to connect with the characters and the story. I often found myself confused about whose perspective we were following and which side we were on.
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
The narrative is presented from a third-person point of view, which made it challenging for me to connect with the characters and the story. I often found myself confused about whose perspective we were following and which side we were on.
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Me Wicked by Melissa Foster
The Wickeds: Dark Knights of Bayside #8
~ Friends, hiking buddies, best friends, and possible soul mates that wanted one another but didn’t act till the time was right ~ There may have been heated looks, longing, and sighs in the past but the story really starts when the stars align when the two are on a road trip ~
What I liked:
* Aria Bad: tattoo artist, surrendered by her mother at birth, in foster care till adopted, anxiety issues, had nightmares as a child, loving childhood with warm caring family but still wondered about her biological mother, always wanted Zeke for more than a friend
* Zeke Wicked: member of Dark Knight MC and lives by their code, trained as a special ed teacher, works with his father’s contracting business, talented artisan, protective, generous, supportive, good friend, enjoys the outdoors, always wanted Aria for more than a friend
* The search for Aria’s birthmother, thinking about people I have known that were adopted and their searches to find their biological parents, the information Aria found out and its impact on her
* The fairy references that showed up – I have always loved fairy tales and the thought that there might BE fairies
* The frog that showed up by the river when Zeke and Aria were out with Junie, Rosie, Leo and their parents decorating a Christmas tree for the animals – the frog’s meaning was wonderful
* The story Jonathan told Aria about nightmares and how to prevent them
* Finding out what BAE meant when Zeke used it in reference to Aria (Before Anything Else)
* Watching the large loving group of family and friends interact and support one another
* Feeling that Zeke & Aria were perfect for and with one another
* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing
* The way the wedding came together at the end of the book
What I didn’t like:
* Thinking about the trauma Aria must have experienced before she was four to have had the nightmares that she did
* Thinking about the losses more than one in the series experienced
* Having to say goodbye to the characters
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review
5 Stars
The Wickeds: Dark Knights of Bayside #8
~ Friends, hiking buddies, best friends, and possible soul mates that wanted one another but didn’t act till the time was right ~ There may have been heated looks, longing, and sighs in the past but the story really starts when the stars align when the two are on a road trip ~
What I liked:
* Aria Bad: tattoo artist, surrendered by her mother at birth, in foster care till adopted, anxiety issues, had nightmares as a child, loving childhood with warm caring family but still wondered about her biological mother, always wanted Zeke for more than a friend
* Zeke Wicked: member of Dark Knight MC and lives by their code, trained as a special ed teacher, works with his father’s contracting business, talented artisan, protective, generous, supportive, good friend, enjoys the outdoors, always wanted Aria for more than a friend
* The search for Aria’s birthmother, thinking about people I have known that were adopted and their searches to find their biological parents, the information Aria found out and its impact on her
* The fairy references that showed up – I have always loved fairy tales and the thought that there might BE fairies
* The frog that showed up by the river when Zeke and Aria were out with Junie, Rosie, Leo and their parents decorating a Christmas tree for the animals – the frog’s meaning was wonderful
* The story Jonathan told Aria about nightmares and how to prevent them
* Finding out what BAE meant when Zeke used it in reference to Aria (Before Anything Else)
* Watching the large loving group of family and friends interact and support one another
* Feeling that Zeke & Aria were perfect for and with one another
* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing
* The way the wedding came together at the end of the book
What I didn’t like:
* Thinking about the trauma Aria must have experienced before she was four to have had the nightmares that she did
* Thinking about the losses more than one in the series experienced
* Having to say goodbye to the characters
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review
5 Stars
October 27, 2026
OMG! Zeke Wicked is perfect for Aria Bad! This is best friends to lovers done in a way that made my heart warm and my cheeks flush. Aria suffers from extreme anxiety, although I don't have personal experience with anxiety, I felt that this was handled with care in this story. Zeke recognized it even when they were teenagers, and has been her rock and protector ever since.
I love how the Wickeds and Bads support one another just because they're family. I love reading about families that can razz each other until the cows come home, but turn serious when something important is discussed. Respect, honor, and accountability aren’t just words to the Wickeds. They are a way of life.
This is a wrap to another series in Melissa Foster's ongoing Love in Bloom world. Where HEAs are guaranteed, shenanigans can be found throughout her books, and every character falls so hard they're not sure how it happened. And we also get updates on previous characters that make me giddy. I can't wait to see what she has in store for her next series!
Thank you Melissa Foster for this eARC. The above is my own and personal opinion.
I love how the Wickeds and Bads support one another just because they're family. I love reading about families that can razz each other until the cows come home, but turn serious when something important is discussed. Respect, honor, and accountability aren’t just words to the Wickeds. They are a way of life.
This is a wrap to another series in Melissa Foster's ongoing Love in Bloom world. Where HEAs are guaranteed, shenanigans can be found throughout her books, and every character falls so hard they're not sure how it happened. And we also get updates on previous characters that make me giddy. I can't wait to see what she has in store for her next series!
Thank you Melissa Foster for this eARC. The above is my own and personal opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I called in sick for this book - sorry not sorry.
After what seemed to be forever, we finally arrive at Zeke and Aria’s story.
Zeke - the overprotective, kindhearted, nature wizard of a man has shown us a side we didn’t know we needed.
Aria, the shy girl with anxiety and general social awkwardness showed us the person she is around Zeke.
We’ve gotten to know a little about these two in their sibling’s books and while we saw a lot of them, we really didn’t know them.
Zeke and Aria were friends - that we always knew. We also spotted glimmers of them showing their feelings for one another, which they constantly denied.
In their book however, we see that the yearning has always been there and that they were just too scared to make the move.
Melissa Foster gave us two characters who were very easy to fall in love with.
Aria despite her anxiety was herself around Zeke and it was easy to see why he fell in love with her. She’s witty, artistic, curious and beautiful. She’s an all round sweetheart. And Zeke, we’ve always known he was a protector, but he was a little over protective of Aria. He’s gentle with her, he listens, takes care of her, allows her to boss him around and knows her weakness for sugar.
My favourite scenes were when she was about to leave for New York, only to see him waiting for her by her Jeep. And the hike they took with Junie, Rosie, Leo, Tank and Leah. Obviously the last chapter and I won’t spoil it - go read the book. The time Aria took control and said “please kiss me”. When Zeke told and showed her his deep dark secret.
This was a feel good read with very real emotional scenes that had me choked up. I loved it from the very start and I can see why we had to wait for them.
I loved all family gatherings and being in the Bad world again seeing Johnny and Jillian and how far they’ve come. As well as Big Daddy Kane and Sable lol, Kane as usual was the big bad brother we’ve always loved. And as always it was great being in the Wicked world as well, there’s always a good time to be had with the Wickeds around.
I loved these two so much I couldn’t help but give them their 5 🦋
After what seemed to be forever, we finally arrive at Zeke and Aria’s story.
Zeke - the overprotective, kindhearted, nature wizard of a man has shown us a side we didn’t know we needed.
Aria, the shy girl with anxiety and general social awkwardness showed us the person she is around Zeke.
We’ve gotten to know a little about these two in their sibling’s books and while we saw a lot of them, we really didn’t know them.
Zeke and Aria were friends - that we always knew. We also spotted glimmers of them showing their feelings for one another, which they constantly denied.
In their book however, we see that the yearning has always been there and that they were just too scared to make the move.
Melissa Foster gave us two characters who were very easy to fall in love with.
Aria despite her anxiety was herself around Zeke and it was easy to see why he fell in love with her. She’s witty, artistic, curious and beautiful. She’s an all round sweetheart. And Zeke, we’ve always known he was a protector, but he was a little over protective of Aria. He’s gentle with her, he listens, takes care of her, allows her to boss him around and knows her weakness for sugar.
My favourite scenes were when she was about to leave for New York, only to see him waiting for her by her Jeep. And the hike they took with Junie, Rosie, Leo, Tank and Leah. Obviously the last chapter and I won’t spoil it - go read the book. The time Aria took control and said “please kiss me”. When Zeke told and showed her his deep dark secret.
This was a feel good read with very real emotional scenes that had me choked up. I loved it from the very start and I can see why we had to wait for them.
I loved all family gatherings and being in the Bad world again seeing Johnny and Jillian and how far they’ve come. As well as Big Daddy Kane and Sable lol, Kane as usual was the big bad brother we’ve always loved. And as always it was great being in the Wicked world as well, there’s always a good time to be had with the Wickeds around.
I loved these two so much I couldn’t help but give them their 5 🦋
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love, love, loved these characters, the connections that the reader can feel and just enough highs and lows to keep the pages turning. In true Melissa Foster fashion the reader is taking on a emotionally charged but oh so swoon worthy love story. Zeke and Aria are true soulmates. This should be a movie!
Review of advance copy received from Author
5+⭐️
Melissa Foster poured her heart and soul out in Love Me Wicked. Zeke and Aria’s journey had me crying, laughing and so in love with them both. This is another unputdownable romance in the Melissa Foster world and should not be missed!!
❤️unputdownable romance
Melissa Foster poured her heart and soul out in Love Me Wicked. Zeke and Aria’s journey had me crying, laughing and so in love with them both. This is another unputdownable romance in the Melissa Foster world and should not be missed!!
❤️unputdownable romance
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my, I have been waiting for Zeke and Aria's story and I was not disappointed. Zeke and Aria have been dancing around each other forever and finally it is their turn. The chemistry they share when they drop their guard is amazing. They prove that together that they are stronger than apart. As always
October 20, 2026
Who knew two people who have known each other for years would take so long to figure out they are in love? 😂 Zeke Wicked and Aria Bad finally get their story in Love Me Wicked, the eighth and final book in Melissa Foster’s The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside series.
Zeke has always been a protector, especially when it comes to Aria. He has supported her through her struggles with anxiety and made sure she knows she can count on him. Somewhere along the way, his feelings grew beyond friendship, but he convinces himself that being her protector is all he can ever be.
Aria is a talented tattoo artist who was adopted and never knew her biological mother’s identity. Now, she’s ready to find answers and plans a trip to New York City before Thanksgiving. There’s one problem: she wants to keep her plans a secret, even from Zeke, her biggest supporter!
Zeke knows something is up and refuses to let her make the trip alone. He may not know what she’s planning, but he intends to make sure she reaches her destination safely, whether she likes his interference or not.
Their road trip comes with unexpected delays, including the classic one-room, one-bed situation! 😂 With their feelings becoming harder to ignore, they must decide whether to risk their friendship for something more. I enjoyed watching them work through their emotions, especially when they both seemed convinced the other didn’t feel the same way. Seriously, everyone else could see what was happening between them!
Beyond the romance, Aria’s journey is about healing, facing difficult emotions, and finding the courage to seek answers. I appreciated how Zeke supported her while learning when to step back and let her find her own way.
One of my favorite parts of the story was the Wicked family’s close bond. Their love and support for one another added warmth to the story and made me smile.
Overall, Love Me Wicked was an enjoyable conclusion to the series. I loved finally getting Zeke and Aria’s story, though I would have liked a little more from their romantic journey.
Melissa Foster delivered a sweet, emotional romance filled with healing, unspoken feelings, and family love. I’m going to miss the Wicked family, although this is not goodbye. Knowing Foster, they will make appearances in other releases. I’m excited to see what comes next!
Zeke and Aria took their time getting there, but they finally found their happily ever after!
Zeke has always been a protector, especially when it comes to Aria. He has supported her through her struggles with anxiety and made sure she knows she can count on him. Somewhere along the way, his feelings grew beyond friendship, but he convinces himself that being her protector is all he can ever be.
Aria is a talented tattoo artist who was adopted and never knew her biological mother’s identity. Now, she’s ready to find answers and plans a trip to New York City before Thanksgiving. There’s one problem: she wants to keep her plans a secret, even from Zeke, her biggest supporter!
Zeke knows something is up and refuses to let her make the trip alone. He may not know what she’s planning, but he intends to make sure she reaches her destination safely, whether she likes his interference or not.
Their road trip comes with unexpected delays, including the classic one-room, one-bed situation! 😂 With their feelings becoming harder to ignore, they must decide whether to risk their friendship for something more. I enjoyed watching them work through their emotions, especially when they both seemed convinced the other didn’t feel the same way. Seriously, everyone else could see what was happening between them!
Beyond the romance, Aria’s journey is about healing, facing difficult emotions, and finding the courage to seek answers. I appreciated how Zeke supported her while learning when to step back and let her find her own way.
One of my favorite parts of the story was the Wicked family’s close bond. Their love and support for one another added warmth to the story and made me smile.
Overall, Love Me Wicked was an enjoyable conclusion to the series. I loved finally getting Zeke and Aria’s story, though I would have liked a little more from their romantic journey.
Melissa Foster delivered a sweet, emotional romance filled with healing, unspoken feelings, and family love. I’m going to miss the Wicked family, although this is not goodbye. Knowing Foster, they will make appearances in other releases. I’m excited to see what comes next!
Zeke and Aria took their time getting there, but they finally found their happily ever after!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thanks, Melissa, for the gifted book.
I have been living in the Love in Bloom world for a few years and Melissa's characters are old friends by now. So, it was only obvious that I was foaming at the mouth for the Bad girl and the Wicked boy to finally realize what we all knew - they belong together!
Aria and Zeke have been friends - BEST friends - forever. And while vehemently denying any romantic notions. They've been through doozies that life has thrown at them and Aria has been 'weird' lately and Zeke is worried. When she takes off on an 'unexpected' road trip, he hops on his bike and goes after her. It has to be something major to make anxiety-ridden Aria to take off on her own without telling anyone, even him, where she's headed.
It's a good thing she has her best, yet overprotective, Dark Knight of a friend with her because the Universe throws some curve balls at her and Zeke is there to catch her when she falls.
Like I said, we all knew these two 'idiots to lovers' were down bad for each other since always, but in their book we finally see their POvs and the yearning oh the yearning!
I absolutely loved how Melissa approached the topic of high anxiety and also the reason for Aria's road trip. And Zeke was just perfection in allowing Aria to feel everything while being her rock.
We catch up with all the Wickeds, especially Tank and his family, and this is always where Melissa shines: family, by blood or by choice. We see some new Wickeds, we have a triple wedding. we catch up with some Bads (I loved Kane in this - he needs to get Sable pregnant stat! LOL)
Yes, I am mentioning many people but you CAN read this as a standalone and get the full story of Zeke and Aria, but here's my advice: pack a bag and go visit these families. You'll be a forever fan like I am.
Representation: FMC deals with high social anxiety. A secondary character - deceased - was in a same sex relationship.
Content notes (including but not limited to): mentions of perceived child abandonment, adoption, loss of parents, grieving, living with high anxiety
I have been living in the Love in Bloom world for a few years and Melissa's characters are old friends by now. So, it was only obvious that I was foaming at the mouth for the Bad girl and the Wicked boy to finally realize what we all knew - they belong together!
Aria and Zeke have been friends - BEST friends - forever. And while vehemently denying any romantic notions. They've been through doozies that life has thrown at them and Aria has been 'weird' lately and Zeke is worried. When she takes off on an 'unexpected' road trip, he hops on his bike and goes after her. It has to be something major to make anxiety-ridden Aria to take off on her own without telling anyone, even him, where she's headed.
It's a good thing she has her best, yet overprotective, Dark Knight of a friend with her because the Universe throws some curve balls at her and Zeke is there to catch her when she falls.
Like I said, we all knew these two 'idiots to lovers' were down bad for each other since always, but in their book we finally see their POvs and the yearning oh the yearning!
I absolutely loved how Melissa approached the topic of high anxiety and also the reason for Aria's road trip. And Zeke was just perfection in allowing Aria to feel everything while being her rock.
We catch up with all the Wickeds, especially Tank and his family, and this is always where Melissa shines: family, by blood or by choice. We see some new Wickeds, we have a triple wedding. we catch up with some Bads (I loved Kane in this - he needs to get Sable pregnant stat! LOL)
Yes, I am mentioning many people but you CAN read this as a standalone and get the full story of Zeke and Aria, but here's my advice: pack a bag and go visit these families. You'll be a forever fan like I am.
Representation: FMC deals with high social anxiety. A secondary character - deceased - was in a same sex relationship.
Content notes (including but not limited to): mentions of perceived child abandonment, adoption, loss of parents, grieving, living with high anxiety
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
💜 Beyond the Synopsis…
Who knew a road trip fuelled by unspoken feelings, a little mystery and two hearts that have been dancing around each other could be this deliciously hot? 🔥
Melissa Foster has once again delivered everything we love about her writing in Love Me Wicked, book 8 in The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside series. Wickedly bad in all the best ways, this story is packed with her signature blend of heartfelt emotion, unbreakable family bonds and sizzling heat that will leave you swooning!
This time, it’s Zeke Wicked and the wonderful tattooist Aria Bad who take centre stage. ❤️
Zeke has always been Aria’s greatest support, the one person who brings her calm in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming. Aria struggles with large crowds, finding her sanctuary in her work and comfort in Zeke’s presence. But while Zeke has always been there for her, he’s been hiding feelings that go far deeper than friendship, never quite finding the courage to act on them.
When Aria sets off on a mysterious road trip without telling anyone, not even Zeke, there is absolutely no way he’s letting her go alone. And what follows is an emotional journey that tests everything between them, bringing those long-buried feelings and undeniable chemistry to the surface.
What I loved most was the way Melissa balanced the sizzling attraction with such a moving, heartfelt storyline. Beneath the heat is a beautiful exploration of trust, vulnerability and finding the courage to open your heart to the person who has always been right there beside you.
Melissa Foster completely bowled me over with this one. She made me feel every emotion, kept me invested in Zeke and Aria’s journey, and reminded me why I adore returning to the Wicked family. Their story is proof that sometimes the greatest love stories begin with the person who already knows you best.
💜 Read it for…
🔥 Friends-to-lovers tension and sizzling chemistry
🖤 A mysterious road trip that changes everything
❤️ A protective hero who has always been her safe place
🥹 Heartfelt emotion, family bonds and a love worth fighting for
WOB65 Verdict: Wickedly hot, beautifully emotional and utterly swoon-worthy! Melissa Foster has delivered another addictive Wicked romance, and Zeke and Aria stole a little piece of my heart. If you love your romance with plenty of heat, a whole lot of heart and a hero who shows up when it matters most, this one deserves a place on your TBR! 💋📚
Who knew a road trip fuelled by unspoken feelings, a little mystery and two hearts that have been dancing around each other could be this deliciously hot? 🔥
Melissa Foster has once again delivered everything we love about her writing in Love Me Wicked, book 8 in The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside series. Wickedly bad in all the best ways, this story is packed with her signature blend of heartfelt emotion, unbreakable family bonds and sizzling heat that will leave you swooning!
This time, it’s Zeke Wicked and the wonderful tattooist Aria Bad who take centre stage. ❤️
Zeke has always been Aria’s greatest support, the one person who brings her calm in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming. Aria struggles with large crowds, finding her sanctuary in her work and comfort in Zeke’s presence. But while Zeke has always been there for her, he’s been hiding feelings that go far deeper than friendship, never quite finding the courage to act on them.
When Aria sets off on a mysterious road trip without telling anyone, not even Zeke, there is absolutely no way he’s letting her go alone. And what follows is an emotional journey that tests everything between them, bringing those long-buried feelings and undeniable chemistry to the surface.
What I loved most was the way Melissa balanced the sizzling attraction with such a moving, heartfelt storyline. Beneath the heat is a beautiful exploration of trust, vulnerability and finding the courage to open your heart to the person who has always been right there beside you.
Melissa Foster completely bowled me over with this one. She made me feel every emotion, kept me invested in Zeke and Aria’s journey, and reminded me why I adore returning to the Wicked family. Their story is proof that sometimes the greatest love stories begin with the person who already knows you best.
💜 Read it for…
🔥 Friends-to-lovers tension and sizzling chemistry
🖤 A mysterious road trip that changes everything
❤️ A protective hero who has always been her safe place
🥹 Heartfelt emotion, family bonds and a love worth fighting for
WOB65 Verdict: Wickedly hot, beautifully emotional and utterly swoon-worthy! Melissa Foster has delivered another addictive Wicked romance, and Zeke and Aria stole a little piece of my heart. If you love your romance with plenty of heat, a whole lot of heart and a hero who shows up when it matters most, this one deserves a place on your TBR! 💋📚
Review of advance copy received from Author
Deeply emotional and heartwarming
LOVE ME WICKED is a deeply emotional, heartwarming story which had me reaching for the tissues on numerous occasions. Don't worry, there are plenty of laugh out loud moments too. This is the story I've been waiting for, and the wait was defintely worth it.
Zeke Wicked and Aria Bad have been best friends for years, but simmering beneath that friendship have been emotions and feelings they've both tried to put aside and often denied. Zeke has always been protective of Aria, who has high anxiety, but lately their friendship has changed, Aria is hiding a secret.
A Thanksgiving road trip will change everything between them. Hidden secrets and feelings are revealed, but also fears and desires. A decision must be made as to whether they can risk their friendship for more.
While the romance between Zeke and Aria is the foundation of this story, it is also about Aria's healing, facing the past, and finding answers to difficult questions. All while Zeke stands beside her giving her much needed support, courage, and love. Zeke and Aria's journey is filled with everything that wmelte my heart, had me constantly laughing, and occasionally fanning myself.
LOVE ME WICKED is sweet, spicy, emotional, and humourous. A story of healig, love, and family. while it is the final story in this series, The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside , I'm sure this amazing family will be seen in future books. Another highly recommended read.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨5 STARS
LOVE ME WICKED is a deeply emotional, heartwarming story which had me reaching for the tissues on numerous occasions. Don't worry, there are plenty of laugh out loud moments too. This is the story I've been waiting for, and the wait was defintely worth it.
Zeke Wicked and Aria Bad have been best friends for years, but simmering beneath that friendship have been emotions and feelings they've both tried to put aside and often denied. Zeke has always been protective of Aria, who has high anxiety, but lately their friendship has changed, Aria is hiding a secret.
A Thanksgiving road trip will change everything between them. Hidden secrets and feelings are revealed, but also fears and desires. A decision must be made as to whether they can risk their friendship for more.
While the romance between Zeke and Aria is the foundation of this story, it is also about Aria's healing, facing the past, and finding answers to difficult questions. All while Zeke stands beside her giving her much needed support, courage, and love. Zeke and Aria's journey is filled with everything that wmelte my heart, had me constantly laughing, and occasionally fanning myself.
LOVE ME WICKED is sweet, spicy, emotional, and humourous. A story of healig, love, and family. while it is the final story in this series, The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside , I'm sure this amazing family will be seen in future books. Another highly recommended read.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨5 STARS
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Me Wicked is a story that brings us a friends to lovers story that will own your heart and soul. Zeke and Aria have a long standing friendship, however it is the deeper feelings that they have for each other that they have both kept buried. However all it takes is being stranded on a road trip together to bring everything bursting to the surface. Theirs is a relationship that was a long time coming but so worth the wait. A highly emotional story that shows us more of Zeke, revealing to us his feelings, fears and secrets. Aria may suffer with anxiety but I loved that her character also showed strength despite this. Zeke has always been her person and with that protectiveness he can sometimes go too far, but he will also listen to what Aria needs and step back. These two together are like a raging inferno with the heat that radiates between them. This is a highly emotional story and one that will have you riding the ups and downs from crying to laughter. The author does not disappoint with taking us by surprise along the way and holding us captive within their world. Another beautiful story that gives you love, friendship and family.
October 28, 2026
This is the 8th book in this amazing series, and this is Zeke and Aria’s story.
Zeke is a loyal and protective biker, while Aria is a tattooist hiding in plain sight, and they have been best friends for a long time. Every year Zeke and Aria embark in a road trip where he takes her to see her family for the holidays, but this year Aria has a secret and wants to go alone, but there is no way Zeke will allow it.
This is a well written easy to read story, with found family, friendships, emotions, secrets, tension, mystery, close proximity, friends / lovers, boundaries, determination, soulmates, humour, witty banter, revelations, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and heartfelt, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Zeke is a loyal and protective biker, while Aria is a tattooist hiding in plain sight, and they have been best friends for a long time. Every year Zeke and Aria embark in a road trip where he takes her to see her family for the holidays, but this year Aria has a secret and wants to go alone, but there is no way Zeke will allow it.
This is a well written easy to read story, with found family, friendships, emotions, secrets, tension, mystery, close proximity, friends / lovers, boundaries, determination, soulmates, humour, witty banter, revelations, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and heartfelt, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
![Profile Image for Amy [Book Addict Reviews].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1572307419i/47676940._UY200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
November 2, 2026
I adore Zeke and Aria so much. These two are best friends, Zeke is protective of Aria and always there for her. They both have feelings that go beyond friendship for each other, but neither has said anything to the other.
I love their friendship and you can see there is a ton of chemistry. When they finally admit their feelings for each other!? The sparks are really flying. I love these two and I love that even though they admit their feelings nothing really changes for them. Everyone around them could see how perfect they are together and were just waiting for them to admit how they feel for each other.
I love the Wicked’s and the Bad’s so this was the perfect mixture of both these families. There is so much love and support between them all and I love how much they rally around Aria.
If you’re looking a friends to lovers, found family romance check this one out.
I love their friendship and you can see there is a ton of chemistry. When they finally admit their feelings for each other!? The sparks are really flying. I love these two and I love that even though they admit their feelings nothing really changes for them. Everyone around them could see how perfect they are together and were just waiting for them to admit how they feel for each other.
I love the Wicked’s and the Bad’s so this was the perfect mixture of both these families. There is so much love and support between them all and I love how much they rally around Aria.
If you’re looking a friends to lovers, found family romance check this one out.
October 11, 2026
J'attendais l'histoire de Zeke Wicked et Aria Bad depuis de nombreux livres : j'avais adoré la rencontrer dans le titre consacré à son frère Johnny (son passé tourmenté m'intriguait : elle a été adoptée, comme sa soeur Harlow (une star de cinéma) par les Bad mais visiblement son passé était si lourd que c'est son ami, Zeke qui la conduisait partout, bien qu'elle ait le permis.
Quant à Zeke, c'est l'un des plus mystérieux et intense de la famille : au fil des tomes, on a appris que cet ex-éducateur social, devenu non seulement un Darknight, comme les membres de sa famille, avait goûts particuliers et pensait être trop intense pour la jeune femme, se contentant donc d'être son ami, ne voulant pas la perdre. On comprenait ainsi que tous deux étaient amoureux l'un de l'autre mais ne faisaient rien, ne voulant pas risquer leur amitié.
Pourtant, quand débute "Love me Wicked" (le 8ème tome de la série), Zeke est préoccupé car il sait qu'Aria lui cache quelque chose depuis des mois et même si elle essaie de le rassurer, il la connaît tellement bien qu'il n'adhère pas à ses propos : or, il découvre qu'elle a décidé de se rendre seule chez son frère pour les fêtes de Thanksgiving alors qu'habituellement, c'est lui qui l'emmène qu'ils la fêtent ensemble... Mais que cache réellement ce voyage? Pourquoi fait-elle autant de mystère? Mais Zeke n'est pas le biker protecteur qu'il est sans raison : il a été élevé dès son plus jeune âge pour protéger les autres et venir en aide à ceux qui, dans un premier temps, ne sont même pas conscients qu'il en ont besoin.. Mais lorsqu'il s'agit de la femme qui compte le plus au monde, il est encore plus hors de question qu'il la laisse affronter ce qu'elle cache seule...
Ce voyage va alors réserver des surprises mais cette proximité forcée pourrait bien changer la donne : à vous d'aller découvrir ce que cache Aria et comment ces deux-là vont se rapprocher et comment ils vont affronter les secrets que tous deux cachent depuis des années: en tour cas, j'attendais ce tome avec impatience et je n'ai pas été déçue. De plus, il permet de découvrir une autre branche des Dark Knights, les cousins de Zeke et que l'on retrouvera l'an prochain avec le tome 1 "Whiskey Salvation: Rebel Whiskey" de la nouvelle série "The Whiskeys and Wickeds: Dark Knights at Salvation Falls" (on découvre de nouvelles familles, liées aux autres que l'on connaît déjà mais je vous en reparlerai et autant vous dire, que là encore, on découvre une fratrie prometteuse ^^.
Chronique complète ici : https://solysbooks.blogspot.com/2026/...
Quant à Zeke, c'est l'un des plus mystérieux et intense de la famille : au fil des tomes, on a appris que cet ex-éducateur social, devenu non seulement un Darknight, comme les membres de sa famille, avait goûts particuliers et pensait être trop intense pour la jeune femme, se contentant donc d'être son ami, ne voulant pas la perdre. On comprenait ainsi que tous deux étaient amoureux l'un de l'autre mais ne faisaient rien, ne voulant pas risquer leur amitié.
Pourtant, quand débute "Love me Wicked" (le 8ème tome de la série), Zeke est préoccupé car il sait qu'Aria lui cache quelque chose depuis des mois et même si elle essaie de le rassurer, il la connaît tellement bien qu'il n'adhère pas à ses propos : or, il découvre qu'elle a décidé de se rendre seule chez son frère pour les fêtes de Thanksgiving alors qu'habituellement, c'est lui qui l'emmène qu'ils la fêtent ensemble... Mais que cache réellement ce voyage? Pourquoi fait-elle autant de mystère? Mais Zeke n'est pas le biker protecteur qu'il est sans raison : il a été élevé dès son plus jeune âge pour protéger les autres et venir en aide à ceux qui, dans un premier temps, ne sont même pas conscients qu'il en ont besoin.. Mais lorsqu'il s'agit de la femme qui compte le plus au monde, il est encore plus hors de question qu'il la laisse affronter ce qu'elle cache seule...
Ce voyage va alors réserver des surprises mais cette proximité forcée pourrait bien changer la donne : à vous d'aller découvrir ce que cache Aria et comment ces deux-là vont se rapprocher et comment ils vont affronter les secrets que tous deux cachent depuis des années: en tour cas, j'attendais ce tome avec impatience et je n'ai pas été déçue. De plus, il permet de découvrir une autre branche des Dark Knights, les cousins de Zeke et que l'on retrouvera l'an prochain avec le tome 1 "Whiskey Salvation: Rebel Whiskey" de la nouvelle série "The Whiskeys and Wickeds: Dark Knights at Salvation Falls" (on découvre de nouvelles familles, liées aux autres que l'on connaît déjà mais je vous en reparlerai et autant vous dire, que là encore, on découvre une fratrie prometteuse ^^.
Chronique complète ici : https://solysbooks.blogspot.com/2026/...
October 28, 2026
Foster weaves her magic every time! With the next book in The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside series, we finally get Zeke's story and it's the ultimate best friends to lovers storyline! His family is well developed throughout the series, but I would have enjoyed a little more depth to his personal past to lay the groundwork of him a touch more. Aria was my favorite! She's lovely and easy to like. The storyline was intriguing and watching them fight their attraction added a fun side to it all. I felt like their story was quick and maybe would have enjoyed seeing them out enjoying life a bit more once they were truly together, but what's not to love when a Wicked and a Bad join forces? I'm looking forward to seeing more of both families!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a gifted ARC of this novel via the author and I am voluntarily writing this review. LOVE ME WICKED is Book 8 in THE WICKEDS: DARK KNIGHTS AT BAYSIDE series by Melissa Foster. Tattooist, Aria Bad, and her best friend, Zeke Wicked, cross the friendship line while on a road trip, ending years of mutual pining. This is a spicy, open door, first person, dual POV, connected standalone, contemporary romance with tropes like Age Gap, Best Friends to Lovers, Anxiety Rep, One Bed, Forbidden Romance, Pierced MMC, Tattoo Artist FMC, Close Proximity, Small Town Romance, MC Romance, and Secret Pining. I really enjoyed reading Aria and Zeke’s romance, which was very sweet and satisfying. Zeke was definitely made for Aria- he was so patient and kind and understood her anxiety and how to help. He was the perfect man to help her to be the best version of Aria she could be. The author did a fantastic job of writing a character with a significant anxiety disorder. Aria and Zeke’s romance seemed inevitable to everyone but themselves. I enjoyed the appearances of other characters whose books I have read and I always love the sense of community that exists in the LOVE IN BLOOM book series I was so happy to see Zeke and Aria get their HEA and recommend this novel for readers who enjoy best friends to lovers MC romance.
October 29, 2026
(Received an ARC, voluntarily reviewing)
I loved Aria and Zeke together. I'm a huge fan of friends to lovers, especially the ones where the friends were secretly in love with each other without the other one knowing. I wish the road trip was longer. I would have loved to see more them traveling together, going from motel to motel, and just driving along. Those were the best parts of the book, in my opinion. Still a cute ending though :)
I loved Aria and Zeke together. I'm a huge fan of friends to lovers, especially the ones where the friends were secretly in love with each other without the other one knowing. I wish the road trip was longer. I would have loved to see more them traveling together, going from motel to motel, and just driving along. Those were the best parts of the book, in my opinion. Still a cute ending though :)
November 2, 2026
Love Me Wicked
This story will make you feel! Touches on mental health issues, addiction and dealing with their demons! The affect of these things on oneself and others is lifelong. This beautiful story about two people attracted to each other, finding love ❤️, and their families are there for them, supporting them. As she learns more about her past, and whom she can and has always been able to lean / and get support from. Absolutely beautiful story.
This story will make you feel! Touches on mental health issues, addiction and dealing with their demons! The affect of these things on oneself and others is lifelong. This beautiful story about two people attracted to each other, finding love ❤️, and their families are there for them, supporting them. As she learns more about her past, and whom she can and has always been able to lean / and get support from. Absolutely beautiful story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Me Wicked by Melissa Foster is OUT TODAY on her website, shop.melissafoster.com , EXCLUSIVELY! It’ll be out October 28th on ALL retailers!
Not only is Zeke and Aria’s love story a great read, it also provides a place to escape where I feel less alone. I couldn’t ask for more.
This is the last book in Melissa’s The Wicked’s: Dark Knights at Bayside. My first book of Melissa’s was an ARC of His Wicked Ways, book 5 in this series. After I absolutely loved that book I went back to the first book of the series and dove right in! After that I went down the Melissa Foster rabbit and she was all I read for months unless I got an ARC. I was a fan before I got my job with her and now one of my most favorite job perks is getting to read her new books early! I devoured Love Me Wicked! Love love LOVED IT! It’s a best friends to lovers romance with a road trip, secret pining, and found family mixed in among other amazing things! Oh and did I mention that Zeke, our protective hero, is pierced?! One of my favorite micro-tropes right there!!! And one last thing, this book has anxiety rep, and it’s done amazingly well. As someone who suffers from anxiety, that gets bad at times, this book made me feel understood and not alone. That’s one of the greatest gifts a book can give, making you feel less alone. The other top book a gift can give the escape from reality, which this book does fantastically. I always love escaping into the Dark Knights world. Not only is Zeke and Aria’s love story a great read, it also provides a place to escape where I feel less alone. I couldn’t ask for more.
Not only is Zeke and Aria’s love story a great read, it also provides a place to escape where I feel less alone. I couldn’t ask for more.
This is the last book in Melissa’s The Wicked’s: Dark Knights at Bayside. My first book of Melissa’s was an ARC of His Wicked Ways, book 5 in this series. After I absolutely loved that book I went back to the first book of the series and dove right in! After that I went down the Melissa Foster rabbit and she was all I read for months unless I got an ARC. I was a fan before I got my job with her and now one of my most favorite job perks is getting to read her new books early! I devoured Love Me Wicked! Love love LOVED IT! It’s a best friends to lovers romance with a road trip, secret pining, and found family mixed in among other amazing things! Oh and did I mention that Zeke, our protective hero, is pierced?! One of my favorite micro-tropes right there!!! And one last thing, this book has anxiety rep, and it’s done amazingly well. As someone who suffers from anxiety, that gets bad at times, this book made me feel understood and not alone. That’s one of the greatest gifts a book can give, making you feel less alone. The other top book a gift can give the escape from reality, which this book does fantastically. I always love escaping into the Dark Knights world. Not only is Zeke and Aria’s love story a great read, it also provides a place to escape where I feel less alone. I couldn’t ask for more.
October 26, 2026
I just love everything about these loud boisterous families so when they get together it’s even more fun.
Zeke and Aria were so cute to watch them going circles around each other. Trying to hide it from there family.
“Darlin’, you’re preaching to the choir. I had normal pretty well figured out until our first kiss. Now I’m winging it.”
Sweet sassy and full of fun!!
Zeke and Aria were so cute to watch them going circles around each other. Trying to hide it from there family.
“Darlin’, you’re preaching to the choir. I had normal pretty well figured out until our first kiss. Now I’m winging it.”
Sweet sassy and full of fun!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Me Wicked is Zeke Wicked and Aria Bad’s heartwarming, emotional and steamy love story. It’s book eight in The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside Series and from the moment I picked this book up I knew there would be no putting down until the final words had been read. I loved everything about this entertaining read.
Zeke and Aria’s relationship was built on friendship, trust and respect. They were friends before they became lovers and they are true soulmates. This couple stole my heart, I loved how Zeke wanted to protect Aria without making her feel weak and I loved the strength Aria showed as she worked through her anxiety and panic attacks.
This is a beautifully written journey with strong characters and a story that’s got layers and depth. This was ride I was happy to tag along on.
Zeke and Aria’s relationship was built on friendship, trust and respect. They were friends before they became lovers and they are true soulmates. This couple stole my heart, I loved how Zeke wanted to protect Aria without making her feel weak and I loved the strength Aria showed as she worked through her anxiety and panic attacks.
This is a beautifully written journey with strong characters and a story that’s got layers and depth. This was ride I was happy to tag along on.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I preordered this book months ago, along with ‘The Trouble with Flings,’ and after reading that book, which I couldn’t get in to, plus it being too drawn out then rushed at the end, I was pleasantly surprised when I read ‘Love Me Wicked,’ that it was easier to follow with fewer pages and less fluff. Overall, I found the Wicked/Whiskey series a bit hit and miss, but Zeke and Aria’s story was better than I expected, just not really my thing.
I’m not really a fan of MC stories so this will likely be my last read for this author. If Melissa writes Reggie’s and Shea’s books, plus the rest of the Steeles, I’ll read them, but it looks like she’s heading in a direction that doesn’t really appeal to me.
I’m not really a fan of MC stories so this will likely be my last read for this author. If Melissa writes Reggie’s and Shea’s books, plus the rest of the Steeles, I’ll read them, but it looks like she’s heading in a direction that doesn’t really appeal to me.
October 30, 2026
This one was not my favorite, for how long we waited for Aria story I felt this just did not deliver. Zeke is the usual sleeps around and she gets to hear all the stories but sure she is the one he loves. 🙄
October 7, 2026
I honestly feel like I’ve been waiting for Melissa Foster to write Zeke and Aria’s story for ages now, and I definitely wasn’t disappointed.
They had this kind of soft, sweet romance that comes when the couple knows each other for a long time, and it was beautifully done.
Zeke was incredibly protective of Aria, but not in a pushy way. He’s one of the people who knows her best, and I loved how supportive he was of her.
Aria was a really gentle, sweet heroine, but she was also incredibly strong as well. Her troubles with anxiety and panic attacks were very relatable, at least for me.
Zeke and Aria’s relationship was built on trust, passion, and mutual respect for each other, and I absolutely loved it. I highly recommend for fans of the best friends to lovers trope!
They had this kind of soft, sweet romance that comes when the couple knows each other for a long time, and it was beautifully done.
Zeke was incredibly protective of Aria, but not in a pushy way. He’s one of the people who knows her best, and I loved how supportive he was of her.
Aria was a really gentle, sweet heroine, but she was also incredibly strong as well. Her troubles with anxiety and panic attacks were very relatable, at least for me.
Zeke and Aria’s relationship was built on trust, passion, and mutual respect for each other, and I absolutely loved it. I highly recommend for fans of the best friends to lovers trope!
October 29, 2026
No intensity, no spice.. It was fine.. Good but very plain..
October 9, 2026
Love Me Wicked
The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside - Book 8
Melissa Foster
ARC Review
Hope. Somehow that was scarier than not having a plan. A plan could be adjusted, reworked, abandoned if it stopped making sense. Hope didn't work that way. Hope kept going until something either crushed it or fulfilled it.
The LAST book in the Wicked at Bayside series!! Eight books of falling in love with this family, watching them fall in love, and seeing them always show up for and support each other. What a ride!! 🥹
This is Zeke and Aria’s book … a LOVE STORY TEN YEARS IN THE MAKING!! 😍🔥 We’ve watched these two circle each other, always be there for one another, and WANT each other for so long!! Best friends really do make the BEST lovers!! 🤭🫣 I am SO glad we finally got their story, and what a sweet way to end this series!!
A little right person, wrong time!! I get it … he was trying to be a gentleman and be there for her, and protect her, BUT COME ON, ZEKE!! Oh, Zeke … I am SO happy you finally got your HEA with your dream girl, Aria!!
And I know I say this with every Melissa book, but the FOUND FAMILY is EVERYTHING!! I just love me some Wickeds and the way they love, protect, and show up for their people. They are the kind of family you just want to be a part of!!
Welcome back to Bayside!! 🥰 I am going to MISS my visits!! It’s always bittersweet saying goodbye to a series you’ve loved, but what a wonderful way to wrap it all up!
Want to get started with the Wickeds? Start with Book 1, A Little Bit Wicked! Trust me, you’re going to fall in love with this family, too!! 🖤🖤
The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside - Book 8
Melissa Foster
ARC Review
Hope. Somehow that was scarier than not having a plan. A plan could be adjusted, reworked, abandoned if it stopped making sense. Hope didn't work that way. Hope kept going until something either crushed it or fulfilled it.
The LAST book in the Wicked at Bayside series!! Eight books of falling in love with this family, watching them fall in love, and seeing them always show up for and support each other. What a ride!! 🥹
This is Zeke and Aria’s book … a LOVE STORY TEN YEARS IN THE MAKING!! 😍🔥 We’ve watched these two circle each other, always be there for one another, and WANT each other for so long!! Best friends really do make the BEST lovers!! 🤭🫣 I am SO glad we finally got their story, and what a sweet way to end this series!!
A little right person, wrong time!! I get it … he was trying to be a gentleman and be there for her, and protect her, BUT COME ON, ZEKE!! Oh, Zeke … I am SO happy you finally got your HEA with your dream girl, Aria!!
And I know I say this with every Melissa book, but the FOUND FAMILY is EVERYTHING!! I just love me some Wickeds and the way they love, protect, and show up for their people. They are the kind of family you just want to be a part of!!
Welcome back to Bayside!! 🥰 I am going to MISS my visits!! It’s always bittersweet saying goodbye to a series you’ve loved, but what a wonderful way to wrap it all up!
Want to get started with the Wickeds? Start with Book 1, A Little Bit Wicked! Trust me, you’re going to fall in love with this family, too!! 🖤🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
LOVE ME WICKED means that when it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be. And this is definitely meant to be! Zeke and Aria’s love story may have started slowly, with them loving each other from afar for so long, but once it catches, the conflagration is unstoppable. As with all the stories in this series, there are tears, laughter, and a family dynamic most of us could only wish for. The poignant moments following the outcome of Aria’s secret linger in their bittersweetness. There are so many moments in this that are easy to cherish (frog at the creek 💗), but I don’t want to give anything away, so suffice it to say this well-crafted, well-developed tale will fill your heart, tug hard on your heartstrings, and keep you enthralled from start to finish. And, oh, what a finish! This alone would be well worth reading, but the whole story is one you’ll treasure long after it’s over.
November 4, 2026
🏍️ Years of Friendship, One Protective Biker, and a Love That Was Always Meant to Be! 🖤❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars | 🌶️🌶️ 2 Chili Peppers
Oh, Zeke Wicked!! 🏍️🖤 A fiercely protective biker who's been quietly loving his best friend for YEARS?! Add in a road trip, a little forced proximity, plenty of unspoken feelings, and the wonderful Wicked and Bad families, and I was absolutely ready for this romance!
Melissa Foster has such a wonderful way of bringing together emotional storylines, swoony romance, and characters who feel like family. And Love Me Wicked was another beautiful reminder of why I enjoy spending time in her Love in Bloom world!
Zeke Wicked and Aria Bad have been best friends since their school days. He's been her steady presence, her protector, and the person she can always count on when life becomes overwhelming.
But what neither of them seems willing to admit is that their feelings have grown into something much deeper than friendship.
And honestly?! EVERYONE ELSE ALREADY KNOWS!! 😂❤️
Zeke is a loyal member of the Dark Knights motorcycle club, a man who takes his promises seriously and would do just about anything for the people he loves.
Years ago, he made a promise to protect Aria, and he's spent much of their friendship keeping his romantic feelings carefully hidden.
But this man?! OH MY GOODNESS! 🥹
The way he understands Aria, recognizes when she's struggling, and knows exactly how to make her feel comfortable was absolutely beautiful.
He's attentive, patient, gentle, and protective without losing that wonderful Wicked family personality.
And the little things he remembers about her?!
Those thoughtful gestures made their relationship feel so genuine.
Aria Bad is a talented tattoo artist with a creative spirit, a witty personality, and a heart that's been carrying some difficult questions for a very long time.
She struggles with social anxiety, especially in crowded or overwhelming situations, but around Zeke, we get to see a completely different side of her.
She's funny, affectionate, playful, and wonderfully herself.
I really appreciated how Melissa Foster handled Aria's anxiety. It wasn't something that simply disappeared because she fell in love. It was a meaningful part of her everyday life, and I loved seeing how Zeke supported her while also allowing her the space to make her own decisions.
And when Aria decides it's time to search for answers about her biological mother, she's determined to make the trip to New York City on her own.
Unfortunately for her, Zeke knows something is going on.
And there's absolutely NO WAY this protective biker is letting his best friend disappear on a mysterious road trip without at least making sure she's safe! 🏍️😂
What follows is an emotional journey filled with unexpected complications, difficult conversations, and feelings that have been waiting far too long to come to the surface.
And can we talk about the forced proximity?!
A road trip, a storm, and a one-room, one-bed situation?!
YES, PLEASE!! 🔥
I absolutely loved watching their friendship gradually become something more.
There was already so much trust and affection between them, but seeing those familiar little moments take on an entirely different meaning was incredibly sweet.
The longing, the nervous anticipation, the realization that the person you've loved for years might actually feel the same way?!
SO GOOD!! 🥹❤️
And Zeke's devotion to Aria was easily one of my favorite parts of this story.
He's always been her safe place, but I especially appreciated that their relationship wasn't simply about him protecting her from everything difficult.
Aria has her own journey to navigate, particularly when it comes to understanding her past and finding the courage to face some painful truths.
Zeke can't make those discoveries for her, but he can stand beside her, listen, and remind her that she doesn't have to face everything alone.
That balance between support and independence made their relationship even more meaningful.
And the chemistry?! 🌶️🔥
After years of friendship and quietly buried feelings, these two certainly had some catching up to do!
I loved that their physical connection developed alongside such a strong emotional foundation. Their romance felt tender, passionate, and completely natural for two people who already knew each other so well.
But what really made this story special was the emotional depth.
Aria's questions about her adoption, her experiences with anxiety, and the difficult discoveries along the way gave this romance so much heart.
There were moments that made me smile, moments that made me emotional, and plenty of times when I just wanted to reach into the book and give these characters a hug. 🥹
And of course, we can't forget the Wickeds and the Bads!
Oh, how I LOVE these families!! ❤️
The teasing, the hilarious conversations, the fierce loyalty, and the way everyone shows up when someone needs them are some of my favorite things about Melissa Foster's interconnected romances.
I loved getting to spend time with familiar characters again, especially seeing the family dynamics and how much love surrounds Zeke and Aria.
The outdoor adventures, sweet family traditions, and little moments of humor brought such wonderful warmth to a story that also explored some heavier emotions.
And knowing this is the eighth and final book in The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside series makes Zeke and Aria's happily ever after feel even more special.
Five stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Love Me Wicked was a beautiful, emotional, and wonderfully swoony friends-to-lovers romance!
Zeke and Aria have spent years being each other's safe place, and watching them finally recognize that their friendship could become the foundation for something even more meaningful was such a rewarding experience.
I loved Zeke's gentle devotion, Aria's courage, their undeniable chemistry, and the incredible family bonds woven throughout their story.
And while I'm going to miss spending time with this particular group of Wickeds, I'm so happy these two finally got the love story they've been waiting for!
Melissa Foster delivered another heartfelt romance filled with laughter, healing, loyalty, and the beautiful reminder that sometimes the person who understands your heart best has been standing beside you all along. 🏍️🖤❤️
Thank you to Melissa Foster and The Author Agency for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars | 🌶️🌶️ 2 Chili Peppers
Oh, Zeke Wicked!! 🏍️🖤 A fiercely protective biker who's been quietly loving his best friend for YEARS?! Add in a road trip, a little forced proximity, plenty of unspoken feelings, and the wonderful Wicked and Bad families, and I was absolutely ready for this romance!
Melissa Foster has such a wonderful way of bringing together emotional storylines, swoony romance, and characters who feel like family. And Love Me Wicked was another beautiful reminder of why I enjoy spending time in her Love in Bloom world!
Zeke Wicked and Aria Bad have been best friends since their school days. He's been her steady presence, her protector, and the person she can always count on when life becomes overwhelming.
But what neither of them seems willing to admit is that their feelings have grown into something much deeper than friendship.
And honestly?! EVERYONE ELSE ALREADY KNOWS!! 😂❤️
Zeke is a loyal member of the Dark Knights motorcycle club, a man who takes his promises seriously and would do just about anything for the people he loves.
Years ago, he made a promise to protect Aria, and he's spent much of their friendship keeping his romantic feelings carefully hidden.
But this man?! OH MY GOODNESS! 🥹
The way he understands Aria, recognizes when she's struggling, and knows exactly how to make her feel comfortable was absolutely beautiful.
He's attentive, patient, gentle, and protective without losing that wonderful Wicked family personality.
And the little things he remembers about her?!
Those thoughtful gestures made their relationship feel so genuine.
Aria Bad is a talented tattoo artist with a creative spirit, a witty personality, and a heart that's been carrying some difficult questions for a very long time.
She struggles with social anxiety, especially in crowded or overwhelming situations, but around Zeke, we get to see a completely different side of her.
She's funny, affectionate, playful, and wonderfully herself.
I really appreciated how Melissa Foster handled Aria's anxiety. It wasn't something that simply disappeared because she fell in love. It was a meaningful part of her everyday life, and I loved seeing how Zeke supported her while also allowing her the space to make her own decisions.
And when Aria decides it's time to search for answers about her biological mother, she's determined to make the trip to New York City on her own.
Unfortunately for her, Zeke knows something is going on.
And there's absolutely NO WAY this protective biker is letting his best friend disappear on a mysterious road trip without at least making sure she's safe! 🏍️😂
What follows is an emotional journey filled with unexpected complications, difficult conversations, and feelings that have been waiting far too long to come to the surface.
And can we talk about the forced proximity?!
A road trip, a storm, and a one-room, one-bed situation?!
YES, PLEASE!! 🔥
I absolutely loved watching their friendship gradually become something more.
There was already so much trust and affection between them, but seeing those familiar little moments take on an entirely different meaning was incredibly sweet.
The longing, the nervous anticipation, the realization that the person you've loved for years might actually feel the same way?!
SO GOOD!! 🥹❤️
And Zeke's devotion to Aria was easily one of my favorite parts of this story.
He's always been her safe place, but I especially appreciated that their relationship wasn't simply about him protecting her from everything difficult.
Aria has her own journey to navigate, particularly when it comes to understanding her past and finding the courage to face some painful truths.
Zeke can't make those discoveries for her, but he can stand beside her, listen, and remind her that she doesn't have to face everything alone.
That balance between support and independence made their relationship even more meaningful.
And the chemistry?! 🌶️🔥
After years of friendship and quietly buried feelings, these two certainly had some catching up to do!
I loved that their physical connection developed alongside such a strong emotional foundation. Their romance felt tender, passionate, and completely natural for two people who already knew each other so well.
But what really made this story special was the emotional depth.
Aria's questions about her adoption, her experiences with anxiety, and the difficult discoveries along the way gave this romance so much heart.
There were moments that made me smile, moments that made me emotional, and plenty of times when I just wanted to reach into the book and give these characters a hug. 🥹
And of course, we can't forget the Wickeds and the Bads!
Oh, how I LOVE these families!! ❤️
The teasing, the hilarious conversations, the fierce loyalty, and the way everyone shows up when someone needs them are some of my favorite things about Melissa Foster's interconnected romances.
I loved getting to spend time with familiar characters again, especially seeing the family dynamics and how much love surrounds Zeke and Aria.
The outdoor adventures, sweet family traditions, and little moments of humor brought such wonderful warmth to a story that also explored some heavier emotions.
And knowing this is the eighth and final book in The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside series makes Zeke and Aria's happily ever after feel even more special.
Five stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Love Me Wicked was a beautiful, emotional, and wonderfully swoony friends-to-lovers romance!
Zeke and Aria have spent years being each other's safe place, and watching them finally recognize that their friendship could become the foundation for something even more meaningful was such a rewarding experience.
I loved Zeke's gentle devotion, Aria's courage, their undeniable chemistry, and the incredible family bonds woven throughout their story.
And while I'm going to miss spending time with this particular group of Wickeds, I'm so happy these two finally got the love story they've been waiting for!
Melissa Foster delivered another heartfelt romance filled with laughter, healing, loyalty, and the beautiful reminder that sometimes the person who understands your heart best has been standing beside you all along. 🏍️🖤❤️
Thank you to Melissa Foster and The Author Agency for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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