Sealed with Deception

by Marlee Cross

Lydia Sanders has always been an outcast. Someone who felt invisible to those around her.

She carried a love for strange things, animals, and the moon. As she arrives to Willow Cove University for her first semester of College, she is hit with a sense of…relief. Something in her gut is telling her she is right where she belongs.

Unknown to her, evil secrets lurk within the grounds and societies roam with only one goal in mind: to eliminate her bloodlines very existence.

A bloodline she knows nothing about.

And how convenient is it that while evil roams, the heirs of her enemy have a bet forming, and it has everything to do with her.


This is BOOK ONE of a Trilogy.
It will leave you on a cliffhanger.

Genres: Why Choose, Paranormal, Dark Romance, Dark Academia, Werewolves, Enemies To Lovers

ebook

Published December 16, 2025

Reviews

[Jamie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hell Yes!!! Get them Lydia!!!

⭐️🐺⭐️🐺⭐️🐺⭐️🐺⭐️🐺

Why Choose
Dark Romantasy
They FA and they are about to FO
Betrayal, Secrets and Lies

Just finished this one and I am now addicted!!!!! This story has some serious layers!!!! This innocent FMC is about to show them all why even the devil is afraid!!!

The guys may have lied to save her but she didn't know that and she is pissed!!!! Also may I say I hope Zane's father gets burned alive very slowly!!! Well not just him but have a serious hatred for that POS currently!!!!

Yall this book is really freaking amazing!!! | have been in a Romantasy kick recently and this scratch that itch so perfectly!!

The devil may have wanted to play but he messed with the wrong witch!!! When will men learn not to piss off a woman and to stop underestimating us? Game on boys!!!

Thank you soooo much Marlee and Luna Literary for allowing me to be apart of such a great ARC!!! Loved this from the prologue even. Truly 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[Aura · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️

This was a quick easy read ! If you’re looking for witches, werewolves, & vampires vibe look no more this one’s for you. This was also giving Vampire Diaries vibes. Did I mention it’s a why choose too? I had a great time reading it. It does start off very slow, I personally thought the FMC was too bold for her giving off “shy or closed off” vibes in the beginning overall it was good. The love interest was very fast paced. Things escalated very quickly towards the end. That cliffhanger tho 🤯 I’ll definitely be continuing with the trilogy. Can’t wait to find out what happens!

🌑Why Choose ( MFM )
🌙Dark Academia
🌑Forbidden Love
🌙Paranormal Romance
🌑Secret Society
🌙Ends on a Cliffhanger

[eloise✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can’t even tell you the amount of times my jaw dropped while reading this!!! That cliffhanger was INSANE!!! Like what do you mean she’s someone they all fear now?!?! Lydia villain arc in book two??? 👀🔥

And I genuinely don’t know how I’m supposed to choose between Zane and Xander 🥹🥹🥹 Also, I definitely think that they’re going to have some serious making up to do in book two.

Thank you so much Marlee and Luna Literary for the ARC copy!!! 💕

[Ash M. · Rating 2 out of 5]

I went into this book genuinely excited, expecting The Vampire Diaries or The Legacies vibes. I honestly thought Lydia would be similar to Hope Mikaelson, which made me even more eager to start. On paper, this book felt like it was made for me — dark academia, paranormal romance, forbidden love, secret societies, and even stalker romance, all of which are some of my favorite tropes.

Unfortunately, I struggled to connect with the characters, especially the male leads, Xaden and Zane. While I was initially interested in their dynamic with Lydia, their behavior felt too hot-and-cold for my liking. I understand that their involvement began as a bet, but the way they treated others often came across as douchey and narcissistic rather than mysterious or compelling. It felt like they pretended to be sweet, revealed their true colors, and then seemed shocked when people reacted negatively. I can usually tolerate “alphahole” characters, but this felt like an extreme version that never quite worked for me.

Lydia Sanders is described as an outcast who has always felt invisible, and while that concept had a lot of potential, it wasn’t explored deeply enough for me to fully connect with her journey. Another major issue for me was how easily Lydia forgave everyone. I understand that she’s new to this world and meant to be naïve, but it made the conflicts feel weightless. Overall, the characters came across as immature and somewhat childish, which made it hard to stay invested. I also wish the story had taken more time establishing life at the academy before diving into relationships. Lydia going on dates with both boys before school even started felt rushed and underdeveloped.

The dialogue and character interactions also reminded me of very young teenagers or preteens, particularly with the overuse of profanity, which pulled me out of the story. Additionally, the pacing felt extremely fast, almost like the story was being summarized instead of fully experienced. Important details seemed skipped, and I think slowing things down could have significantly improved my reading experience.

That said, this review isn’t meant to be hateful or dismissive. Reading is subjective, and while this book wasn’t for me, I can easily see it being someone else’s cup of tea — especially for readers who enjoy fast-paced paranormal romance with dramatic, morally gray characters.

[Your_bookish_fantasy Kerri-louise Whitham · Rating 3 out of 5]

**🅽︎🅾︎ 🆂︎🅿︎🅾︎🅸︎🅻︎🅴︎🆁︎🆂︎**
𝔻𝕖𝕥𝕒𝕚𝕝𝕖𝕕 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨 𝕠𝕗- SEALED WITH DECEPTION by MARLEE CROSS

ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕤-
🗣(out of 5 stars, my rating scale is at the end)
📚 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / 5
🌡️ 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲🌶🌶🌶 / 5 not very explicit or long lasting but frequent
♟️𝗗𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹- >>>⚔️<<<
🎃: 𝐶𝑢𝑡𝑒𝑠𝑦 𝑠𝑡𝑦𝑙𝑒 𝑣𝑖𝑜𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 🌑: 𝑀𝑜𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑦 ⚔️: ᵒᵒᵒʰʰʰ ˢᵗᵃᵇᵇʸ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ••• 💀: 𝑅𝑒𝑎𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 M̶E̶N̶U̶ 😳 -𝑖 𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝑇𝑟𝑖𝑔𝑔𝑒𝑟 𝑊𝑎𝑟𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠!! ☠️: P͟I͟T͟C͟H͟ F͟C͟u͟K͟I͟N͟G͟ B͟L͟A͟C͟K͟!


𝕂𝕖𝕪 𝕀𝕟𝕗𝕠:
•📖 295 𝗣𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀
•𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗶𝗱 𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝘁? 2 sittings in one day
•# MULTI 𝗣𝗢𝗩
•𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲-15 Dec 2025
•𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁 or 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿 driven? CHARACTER
•𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗡𝗮𝗺𝗲 & 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗻𝗼-LADY OF THE MOON TRILOGY, BK 1
•𝗔𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 on 𝗞𝗨? ✅
•𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗲- FAST
•𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲? 🚫
•𝗔𝗻𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻? (Disability, plus size, mental health etc...) 🚫
•𝗠𝗼𝗼𝗱𝘀; 𝑳𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒆𝒅, 𝑺𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒎𝒚, 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒄𝒕𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒔𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒔𝒇𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝑴𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍, 𝑴𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔, 𝑯𝒂𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈.


●𝕋ℝ𝕆ℙ𝔼𝕊
😈𝕊𝕖𝕔𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕤 & 𝔹𝕖𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕪𝕒𝕝𝕤
🪦𝕳𝖔𝖗𝖗𝖔𝖗 𝕰𝖑𝖊𝖒𝖊𝖓𝖙𝖘
🏫𝐶𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑔𝑒/𝐴𝑐𝑎𝑑𝑒𝑚𝑦 𝑠𝑒𝑡𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔
🎲𝕎𝕙𝕪 ℂ𝕙𝕠𝕠𝕤𝕖
😍IᑎՏTᗩ ᒪOᐯᗴ
🤍𝑉𝑖𝑟𝑔𝑖𝑛 𝐹𝑀𝐶
⏳𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐬𝐞𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬
⚰️𝑉𝑎𝑚𝑝𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑠
🧙‍♀️𝔚𝔦𝔱𝔠𝔥𝔢𝔰
🌕𝑊𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑤𝑜𝑙𝑓 𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑓𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑠
👹𝖉𝖊𝖒𝖔𝖓𝖘



🌍 𝕎𝕠𝕣𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕦𝕚𝕝𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘, 𝕨𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕡𝕒𝕔𝕚𝕟𝕘:
Ok so I enjoyed the book, I’d easily recommend it too but it just didn’t hit the spot for me.
The plot was brilliant and fast paced, staying steady all the way through. The world building was good, not too detailed as there definitely could have been more but I’m hoping that it’s being added to in the next book.

The writing style was really easy to read and follow, the author uses young language as the main characters are around 19-20 years old. They are in a gothic style uni, with classes on folklore but we don’t see any others, so there’s nothing to supernatural about the place even though it’s mostly vamps, wolves and witches that attend with just a select handful of humans getting in as food for the above. We don’t get any learning scenes/chapters where they have to study something or were introduced to anything in particular or even just a study session over book in the library. We do get a brief scene in a cafe but the r/s is around campus, the dorms and some select outside locations.

The main plot line is that she is a witch but doesn’t know it, then the romance side comes in next followed lastly by the big bad evil happenings. Speaking of romance, it’s rather poorly written, ok, well, what I mean is- considering this is a why choose and there’s multiple scenes, they’re all over and done with on the same page pretty much. It was very disappointing for me as I was expecting a lot more on this front, I expected a lead up and details on things being drawn out or someone being wound up… but it’s pretty much just- she slides onto him and says a delicious sound then she’s hungry. Yes- that simple and quick, I actually feel very sorry for her considering she was a V and now that’s all she has to remember it by. Even the why choose scene was dull and quickly done with.

Finally there is the big bad evil plot, this was a little predictable but ok, there was some angst and foreboding moments leading up to it but again nothing is drawn out or drawn upon with detail.

🧝‍♂️ ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕤:
I enjoyed the simplicity of the characters, no one was too deep or detailed so it was simple to follow. The boys were cocky- and had strut of the walk- I own this place kind of vibes, the FMC was a naive, stupid, typical DID styled virgìn who questions nothing.

😥 𝕎𝕙𝕪 𝕟𝕠 𝕗𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕤?
It just wasn’t detailed enough for me, the characters were the best part but they were so shallow, the plot was interesting and I enjoyed it but I just and more world building, history and character backgrounds. Plus the spicy scenes were just awful for my taste- if you don’t like explicit spice or long detailed scenes then this will be just what your looking for, far easier to read for anyone who likes spice but is still a little sensitive to some things- perfect for dipping your toe into the why choose genre!

⏳ 𝕎𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕚 𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕠𝕣 𝕣𝕖𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕞𝕖𝕟𝕕?
Yes to both but, only to catch up before reading the next one and I would recommend to the right people- this has a specific audience I feel and I would put it at the top of the list for those types of fans! (New to why choose, new to fantasy or an occasional fantasy reader, and still a little new to explicit spice).

🪧𝔽𝕚𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤:
If you want an easy to read book that is full of paranormal creatures and magic but still a low fantasy- then this is perfect for you! If you’re after a high fantasy rich world with character development and strong subplots with memorable side characters and banter, then perhaps give this series a miss.


𝐹𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑚𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤𝑠 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑠𝑢𝑔𝑔𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑠;

𝕋𝕚𝕜𝕋𝕠𝕜
https://www.tiktok.com/@your_bookish_...

IᑎՏTᗩ
https://www.instagram.com/your_bookis...

 

***********************

𝕄𝕪 ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕊𝕪𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕞𝕤:
⭐️ DNF

⭐️⭐️
I managed to finish it but it was rubbish. I won't keep a physical copy and won't recommend it, but  it's a shame as the plot could have made a good book in another author's hands

⭐️⭐️.5
It was OK. I wish I didn't start this one as it didn't do it for me as I struggled to read it. It had an interesting premise that fell flat but I had to see what happened in the end.

⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don't regret reading it, and I will read the next one, but this one did have a few flaws. [These could be repetitive writing, gaps or plot holes, better character growth or world building, areas needing more detail]
Generally, the book lacked depth and became confusing. The plot resonated with me even though it annoyed me on the whole.

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I'm glad I read it. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to the right people, but I wanted more! Sadly, it's easily forgettable with a few issues I just couldn't overlook/get past.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Good book! I loved it, but... I needed more! I really did enjoy it, but it had a few parts that needed more detail or added history/background or lore. But that's because the story or characters were memorable, and the plot was strong with brilliant twists. I would re-read if I needed to catch up for the next book and would recommend.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Great book! I truly wish the story had been thought about more, or the author had been given more time as this book is so close to brilliance! I will likely read again and will definitely be recommending it to all!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WOW! Absolutely amazing book! Well written with great characters and a plot so memorable that it will stay with me. I will definitely read this again, I will be recommending it and sharing it with the whole world! Also- I NEED A PHYSICAL COPY!

🔥⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥
This is my God level tier. The book must be perfectly memorable. Even after reading 50+ more books, I will remember character names and emotions along with the plot. If there is a special edition, then I need to own it! If there is a conversation on books- I'm talking about this!

 SPICE SCALE:
🌶️– segsual language and a little on-page action

🌶️🌶️– a lot of segsual language and some on-page open door action, may be occurring a couple of times

🌶️🌶️🌶️– a lot of explicit action and dirty talk, occurring frequently with 2/3 lurvers

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ – super graphic and explicit, occurring 4 or more times, can be more grey and taboo themed.

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ – Kinks and Fet!shism, explicit and super graphic. It is likely to be tushy play, toys, playrooms, and more dark / taboo fantasies and realities.

[Confessions of a Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew the cliffy was coming but that doesn't mean I was prepared for it and all I have now are more questions...lol!

Lydia Sanders life changes in the blink of an eye. She is finally getting answers to the questions she has asked herself all her life. She knew she was different but didn't know why. She is one special lady that the underworld is not ready for. She has always been the odd one out but she manages to catch the eyes of Zane and Xander, the sons of the wolf packs Alpha and Beta.

Zane and Xander set out to do their father's bidding but actually end up having feelings for Lydia. Their kind is forbidden to cross bloodlines and they know they are suppose to dislike the witches and yet.....it is the opposite with Lydia. I loved seeing Zane be tender with her and Xander is kind of the fun loving, easy going best friend that rounds out their trio. So many times my heart hurt for them because they want to go against their fathers but cannot actually go against them. I get the strong feeling they will do whatever they can to protect her.

There is so much more about this plot I would love to shout about but I don't give spoilers. I will should for anyone who is a PNR fan to go and read this book but be ready for that cliffy!

As a long time fan of paranormal I looked forward to this one very much. Marlee Cross does a phenomenal job of building the story in book one. She gives all the characters the attention they need for the reader to feel vested in them by the ending. Yup, it is a slow burn but who doesn't love a good slow burn and the story just has to happen this way...period! She even writes in characters you will despise with every fiber of your being the first time they appear on page. I love when an author gets those kinds of emotions/reactions out of me where their characters are concerned. And now all I have to say is I NEED BOOK TWO!!

[Booksbystarlightandshadows · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a relatively quick read beginning with the FMC Lydia being whisked away mid-exorcism to Willow Cove University where she learns not only is she adopted, but her family is part of a paranormal world she had no idea existed. Add in some broody alpha males with their own agendas vying for her attention and the threat of a war bubbling under the surface, Lydia has to adapt quickly to her new world whilst also learning the secrets of her bloodline.

This kept me interested but it was unfortunately a little too surface level to push it to a four star for me. I liked the hook from the prologue and the mystery behind Lydia's lineage but the romance plot felt a bit rushed and I found the MMCs were a bit interchangeable. Soren was more interesting than Zane and Xander for me and I was pretty intrigued by Draven when he came on the scene; I wondered if he may be a potential love interest but that was squashed pretty quickly when he turned out to be gross! I much preferred him than Conan who had one roaring tantrum too many for me to take him seriously as the big bad. I'm intrigued to see if Draven's boss will make an appearance in book two though after that pretty epic cliff hanger!

My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read

[Diana Martins · Rating 5 out of 5]

A force of nature.

We have a dark YA why choose, MFM.

It’s also:
- a PNR with shifters
- a slow burn, but when it gets hot, it’s enough to make the thermometer burst. And the author promises it will get even hotter in the second book — I'm here for that!

Our FMC is a little naïve, with a kind soul. Mostly because she was kept in the dark about what she really is and where she belongs.
Even afterward, the sheer number of secrets and half-truths is enough to make you want to bite your nails — at least that’s what happened to me. Our protagonist has more patience than I do, especially for someone so young, and to me, that’s admirable.
She’s quite funny and has really good instincts. And none of this makes her any less strong.
They are underestimating her, and that will be their mistake. Go, girl!
I REALLY liked her.

The MMCs? OK, it's best to explain it point by point:
- First: What idiots! What they have in looks, they lack in personality. OK, OK, their lives haven’t been easy, despite what others think — but still...
- Second: Very good. They’re improving, gaining points. It seems she manages to bring out the best in them.
- Third: WHAT IDIOTS without a backbone! So much talk, and in the end… this is it?! It seems it was all just smoke and mirrors.

It ends with a “to be continued…”, but what a spectacular ending! It left me saying, “I knew it! I KNEW IT!”

I really need more!

[Natalia Valdes · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW!!!

🐺Dark Academia
✨Why Choose (One FMC + Two MMC)
🐺Paranormal Romance
✨Forbidden Love
🐺Stalker
✨Secret Society
🐺Ends on a Cliffhanger



I just finished this book and I know I’m not going to be able to go to sleep when I just got left with this cliffhanger!!! WHHHYY!! The wait for the next book is going to be torture😩

I livvveeee for a good why choose book and this book gave me EVERYTHING!!

Lydia is going to be THAT witch when her time comes. I know that she’s naturally timid but with a sassy mouth. She is authentically herself. It sucks knowing how her life was growing up but coming home to Willow Cove will do her some healing. But not too much because these werewolves are about to deceive her💔

As for Zane and Xander, I don’t think I would be able to choose either😍 Both of them have good hearts at their core, but the life as the heirs to the Alpha and Beta werewolf pack is not easy. They both want to protect Lydia but go about it the wrong way, and end up hurting her. I hope they find their big boy pants and stand up to their fathers. After that, they got some serious groveling to do.

This book is definitely worth the read! The characters, plot, and spice give you everything and leave you wanting more.

Big thank you to Marlee Cross and Luna Literary for giving me the opportunity to ARC this🫶🏼

P.S I’ll be patiently waiting for the next book😭

[Alicia Z · Rating 5 out of 5]

I made the mistake of starting this book before work this morning, and it completely took over my brain for the rest of the day. The prologue hooked me instantly. I planned to read only a few more chapters before bed, but that went out the window fast because I ended up finishing the entire thing in one sitting.

Lydia grabbed my attention right away. She is only starting to understand who she is and what she’s capable of. There’s this spark in her that’s just beginning to burn, and the cliffhanger hits right when you can feel everything about to shift. We haven’t come close to seeing her full potential yet, and that has me desperate for book two.

Zane and Xander add a perfect mix of tension, intensity, and emotional chaos. Their intentions toward Lydia come from a real place, but the way they go about things is messy in a way that makes their dynamic addictive. The connection forming between the three of them has so much promise, even when they keep making things harder on themselves.

The pacing, the layers, and the twists were so well done that stopping never felt like an option. Every reveal pulled me deeper into Willow Cove, and that final chapter had my jaw on the floor.

This was my first Marlee Cross book, and now I need the sequel immediately because Lydia’s real power hasn’t even begun.

[Angela Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sealed with Deception was so captivating and exactly my vibe 🖤. I love the world , school, and characters she created! I loved all the mystery and dark secrets unraveling throughout the book. It keeps you on your toes and you really don’t know who you can trust. But that cliffhanger 😩. How can you do this to us lol. I need more like now and I know I’m going to devour the second book because there are SO many questions I need answered !

Lydia was so relatable and her inner thoughts throughout the book had me laughing out loud. I really love a FMC who doesn’t realize how badass and powerful she is and then BAM , she realizes her badassery and does the damn thing. Girl power👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻. And I’m here for it. I enjoyed learning about her background and learning about her mother and her bloodline .

Oh Zane and Xander 🥵🥵. I love a territorial, dominant werewolf. The why choose was everything and the shower scene 😈. Thank you for that ! I did love how protective they were, but I did not see the betrayal coming at the end. As much as I love these sexy men , I’m kinda on the fence now. I’m so intrigued to see what happens next and hopefully getting some answers. There’s so much going on but in a good way. I really enjoyed this book and I definitely recommend it. I’m so thankful to be in arc reader💜

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put this book down. The prologue had me hooked.

Lydia’s journey grabbed me immediately. She’s been sheltered, underestimated, and kept in the dark for most of her life, and watching her slowly realize that she’s not weak, not ordinary, and definitely not someone to mess with was incredibly satisfying.

Zane and Xander are pure emotional damage in the best way. Both of them genuinely care about Lydia, yet they’re trapped by loyalty, bloodlines, and fathers who deserve absolutely zero mercy. Their protectiveness is real, their intentions are complicated, and the way everything blows up because of secrets and half-truths had me on the edge of my seat. Tender moments, fun banter, bad decisions, and major grovel potential? Absolutely

The worldbuilding is what really sealed it for me. The dark academia setting, secret societies, and constant feeling that someone is always watching kept the tension high the entire time. I loved how the mystery unfolded in layers. Every reveal just raised more questions, and I never felt like stopping was an option.

And that ending? Chefs kiss. I can't wait for book 2. I need answers immediately.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Why choose Paranormal Romance - yes please!

This is Marlee's fantasy debut, and as she's a lover of Practical Magic, Hocus Pocus, Vampire Diaries, and The Originals (just like me), I knew I had to pick this book up.

I started out feeling unsure at the beginning of the book. It felt overly YA; a little underdeveloped, maybe. But this changed, and I realised it had really picked up before the 10% mark. Shortly after that, I became more and more intrigued, ending up completely hooked. 

Here's a few reasons why:
Multi 1st person POV 🫶
Witches, Werewolves, and Vampires
Magical, gothic inspired university
Why choose romance
Forbidden love
Spice
The Devil's Book
Secrets & betrayals
Cliffhanger

The writing could be tightened up a little in a couple of places. There are a few things that seemed contradictory, and the odd paragraph where the writing standard slipped, but do I want to continue with this series? Hell yes! The story is really picking up, I'm getting a good feel for the characters, I love the gothic inspired location, the dark academia vibes, and the cliffhanger was magnificent! I absolutely need to know what comes next! I can tell it's going to be good 🤩

[Kirstin O’Donnell · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars
🌶️ Spice: 2 / 5

Sealed with Deception was an engaging and intriguing read from start to finish.

The story unfolds with a strong sense of tension and mystery, keeping me invested throughout. The plot is well paced, layered with secrets, and consistently compelling, I never felt bored or tempted to put it down. It’s a solid opening that lays excellent groundwork for what’s to come.

I particularly enjoyed the why choose dynamic, which is handled thoughtfully and adds depth to the relationships rather than feeling rushed. The spice level sits at a 2/5, working well within the story while clearly setting expectations for increased intensity in book two.

My only minor critique was the use of more formal phrasing at times (such as “I am” instead of “I’m”), which occasionally felt slightly unnatural in dialogue. This didn’t detract from the overall story.

Overall, this was a very enjoyable read with a strong plot, engaging dynamics, and a promising series trajectory. I’m genuinely excited to see where book two goes.

[Bree · Rating 4 out of 5]

4🌟
3🌶
⚠️Check your triggers⚠️

Thank you to Marlee Cross and Luna Literary Management for the opportunity to read this intriguing story. 

I loved the witchy, voodoo, mystical vibes of this story! I am very intrigued by the magical & supernatural political systems in this book. It all seems quite complex and intricate. I had Zodiac Academy Meets Charmed in New Orleans vibes for the whole book! 

The dynamics between our MCs had me turning the page needing to know what happened next! The mysteries each of them are uncovering has me dying for book 2! I cannot wait to see where that cliffhanger picks up!

Tropes:
🥀Dark Academia
❤️‍🔥Why Choose (MFM)
🥀Paranormal Romance
❤️‍🔥Forbidden Love
🥀Stalker
❤️‍🔥Secret Society
🥀Ends on a Cliffhanger

Favorite Quotes:
"I never want you to talk that way about yourself ever again. You are deserving of being worshipped in all the ways.”

“my only priority is Lydia’s safety. I don’t care about the pack; I care about her.”

I received an advanced copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The above opinions are my own.

[Caitlin C · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun & quick read for me and I'll definitely be continuing the series! This series has all the makings of my favorite things: werewolves, why-choose, dark academia vibes, a badass female best friend in the making (hopefully).

The characters were all introduced to a good degree and I already have THOUGHTS about most of them haha. I HATE Conan Clawthorne with all of my being and I really hope he gets what is coming to him. Also, Draven is such a creep (tho I know it is intentional) but he gives me such an ICK. I really want to get more from Zane and Xander and connect with them more in the next two books, so I'm excited to see what is in store for us there!

I could definitely see some of the twists coming, but I still very much enjoyed this book and still have plenty of questions that have me invested!

Marlee promises more spice && some ANSWERS in the next book, so obviously I am on board.

[❥LADYT | &#x130e0; ꫂ ၴႅၴ ☕︎ · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
3.5 ⭐️/ 2 🌶️

Tropes
Dark Academia
Why Choose
Paranormal Romance
Forbidden Love
Stalker
Secret Society
Ends on a Cliffhanger

-—————————-—
“You see how beautiful the moon is? But she comes in phases. She doesn’t show you her beauty all at once. She starts out small and then gradually, she gets bigger and bigger. By the time she is full, she is brighter than anything else in the sky. You are the moon, Lydia.”
————————————
This read was really good, the introduction into it was a bit slow but sped up giving a few little answers to some questions. The writing is good and the creativity with it was good as well. It kinda sucks, that as soon as things get going it ends on the CH, it’s not a long book to begin with, so I was kind bummed, but understand there’s going to be more.
I hope to see more character development in the second book, this has very great potential and I look forward to the second book.

Thank you, to Marlee Cross for the ARC opportunity.

[Megan Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Damn that cliffhanger. I need the next one now 😭

I haven’t read a ton of paranormal these days, but I did enjoy this. It makes me want to add more to my immediate TBR… if only one of them could be the next book of this series… 🤷‍♀️. I loved the story and getting to know the characters. I also loved the why choose aspect. Lydia started off as shy and a bit meek but by the end was definitely a force to be reckoned with. I truly hope Zane and Xander are both in the picture in the next book, but I wouldn’t mind another added…Maybe a vampire friend that we don’t know too much about yet??


I will say, I feel like there could have been a lot of detail added to this. The book was on the shorter side and for all that happened, it seemed a bit rushed. I just really want more!

Thank you to the author and Luna Literary for the ARC!!

[Heather H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witches, wolves, and vampires at a magical university surrounded by willows just outside of New Orleans?
Um, SOLD.

Book 1 of this trilogy introduces us to the heirs of the wolf pack and a human girl who is unaware magic exists. Thrown to the wolves (no, literally), she enters her freshman year at Willow Cove a few days after learning she was adopted.

The banter in this story is witty and fun.
The suspense keeps you guessing.
The slow burn, why choose romance definitely has you questioning your sanity.
The history behind the university and the war between the paranormal factions is intriguing.

Don’t skip this one if you’re into:
Pack politics
War between paranormal beings
Gothic University
Hidden identities
Family Secrets
Ancient magic

[Caffeinated.Booktrovert.Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I was living in Willow Cove! I absolutely love willow trees, and the vibes of this town (minus the dangers 👀) are perfect.

Lydia comes to Willow Cove University under the guize that she will learn more about her past, her parents and her people. And while she didn't learn near as much as she wanted to, I am excited for the next book! It ended on such a cliffhanger, Marlee was not joking about that!

Zane and Xander though? I think I would also want them both!

I have some questions... Like that sandwich (iykyk).

this book definitely doesn't give you everything, you'll want to continue the series!

[Whimsical.bookie · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶

This book had me hooked from the start. If you like The Vampire Diaries with a touch of Underworld, this book is for you. The FMC goes through a lot emotionally because of her life experiences, and I really liked her. The MMCs are great characters in this book, and the why choose aspect was definitely hot and spicy! 🫦 I loved the forbidden friendships and relationships. That cliffhanger had me on the edge of my seat, I was not expecting that type of ending. I need the second book! I need to know what happens next! 🤌

Tropes:

Why Choose
Paranormal Romance
Dark Academia
Forbidden Love
Secret Societies
Magic
Witches, Werewolves & Vampires

[Courteney Ferrin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this book. and of course with a new to me author I wasn't sure what I was getting into. Which is fun for me! sometimes we all get wrapped up in tropes, storylines, and what to expect. We lose that sense of going in blind and being surprised.
Which is exactly what I was! I was pleasantly surprised!
I had a hard time connecting with the MMC's at first, but ended up really hooked in the story. As the characters grew, so did my enjoyment of reading about them.
I Love our FMC, even if she is a little Nieve at times.
That cliffhanger was diabolical. I can't wait to see what's next!

[Alexandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a love triangle 🫣 if you love all things supernatural this one’s for you imagine vampire diaries mixed with a why choose aspect… because according to Katherine Pierce it’s okay to love both right!!!! Spicy and fun read with great character development. The MFC Lydia was a badass character that I can’t wait to hear more about, and those boys (Xaden and Zane) are just the epitome of alpha men that plays on the edge of almost too much but they are redeemable. Definitely a good read and that cliff hanger 😩😩 I need to know what happens so I’ll be here waiting

Love me a book with all different aspects of supernatural characters, so keep it coming Marlee

[Katie Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

🐺🌑✨ ARC Review ✨🌑🐺

I 100/10 RECOMMEND !!!

Secrets. Uncertainty. Magic. DECEPTION! Willow Trees👂🏼

Not even gonna lie, this book had me so incredibly enthralled before I even started the first chapter. I am so sad that I have to wait for the second one…

Usually, I prefer more spice; HOWEVER, this was so freaking bad ass that I didn’t need it in order to enjoy the overall story.

The energy was 👩🏼‍🍳💋, the imagery was beautiful and gothic… *sigh* I just need to know more about my friends.

Thank you Luna Literary and Marlee Cross for allowing me to enjoy this magical ride 💜

[Rachel Watkinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review
Sealed with Deception
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

First of the plot...is plotting!!
Second, the men and hot, especially with the side of groveling 😉

Witches, wear wolves, and vampires oh my!
I absolutely love friendships with different species when it's not allowed 😆

That one scene with the dad's...? Sorry, boys, close your eyes 😆😆

This whole book has kept my interest from the first chapter. With the secrets, the deceptions, and side deals, I absolutely LOVE this book!
I need book 2 now, please

[Lauren Curley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This little witchy why choose was a really great start to the 3 book series. Lydia is extremely sheltered and is very naive to the rest of the shifter/paranormal world. She's finally entering this world like it's a crash course. She does attract two Alpha-holes who have to get close for information for the secret society. As this is the first book, the spice is fairly light except she was a virgin for the first full on scene.

I enjoyed this start and looking forward to the next book in the series. That cliffy.. phew. give me more.

[Serenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a ride. Lydia is a character, you just slowly start to love. Although some of her mannerisms I personally found childish, the plot had me hooked!
The MMC's incite some decent spice from FMC.
Although it felt a little rushed (FMC goes from virgin to doing the dirty fast. And says she enjoys losing her virginity.), the actual interactions are easy enough to believe.
Can't wait for book two!!!

Prediction for book two?
Lydia's father was a wolf, I'm thinking one of the Blacks. So she has superiority for the witches and the wolves. But who knows?!

[Brianda Quiroz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is top tier for me. I can not get over it and I want more.
This book has all the tropes I love plus more. I haven't ever been a huge fan of 'Why Choose' but the last couple of books I've read have literally convinced me that this is a trope for me and this book just sealed the deal. Sign me up for more I want them all.

From the moment I read the first line until the very last line I was in love. The character's are so good and their depth is literal perfection.

Thank you to Marlee and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts are my own.

[Julie Simpkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secrets and betrayal abound in this book.


It’s giving Vampire Diaries but with wolves and you don’t have to choose between Damien and Stefan. Including all of the drama.

Witches, werewolves, vampires, and demons oh my.

Lydia has some growing up to do, as do the guys she’s invested in.

There is a lot of questions that need answering and I can’t wait to read about some of those questions in book 2!

[Zyria &#x1fa77; · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ⭐️
[I did receive a copy as an arc and this is my complete honest opinion]

First of all this book could’ve of been much longer and I would’ve ate it up!! The ending was the perfect cliffhanger and it makes me excited for book two. I still have a couple questions that I still need answers to like who is Lydia’s dad, why did Jensen dad need to go find her uncle, and who was that dude in the cabin?? (<< SPOILERS) I highly recommend this why choose paranormal romance book