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Malice
She used to hunt monsters.
Now she’s married to one. Wren thought surviving demons, betrayal, and a forced marriage to Xavier Malus would be the hardest part. She was wrong.
As violence spreads across the city, the fragile peace between humans, vampires, and werewolves begins to fracture. Someone is pulling the strings—and the deeper Wren digs, the more she realizes the real enemy isn’t just monsters… it’s the system that created them.
At the center of it all is Xavier—powerful, ruthless, and the one man she should fear… but can’t stop loving.
When a trap is set that targets her family, Wren is forced into an impossible protect the people she loves, or risk everything to stop a war that could destroy them all.
Because this time, love might not be enough to save her.
Now she’s married to one. Wren thought surviving demons, betrayal, and a forced marriage to Xavier Malus would be the hardest part. She was wrong.
As violence spreads across the city, the fragile peace between humans, vampires, and werewolves begins to fracture. Someone is pulling the strings—and the deeper Wren digs, the more she realizes the real enemy isn’t just monsters… it’s the system that created them.
At the center of it all is Xavier—powerful, ruthless, and the one man she should fear… but can’t stop loving.
When a trap is set that targets her family, Wren is forced into an impossible protect the people she loves, or risk everything to stop a war that could destroy them all.
Because this time, love might not be enough to save her.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2026
About the author
Emily Goodwin
101 books4,012 followersEmily Goodwin is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author of over a dozen of romantic titles. Emily writes the kind of books she likes to read, and is a sucker for a swoon-worthy bad boy and happily ever afters.
She lives in the midwest with her husband and two daughters. When she's not writing, you can find her riding her horses, hiking, reading, or drinking wine with friends.
Emily is represented by Julie Gwinn of the Seymour Agency.
www.emilygoodwinbooks.com
facebook.com/emilygoodwinbooks
emily@emilygoodwinbooks.com
She lives in the midwest with her husband and two daughters. When she's not writing, you can find her riding her horses, hiking, reading, or drinking wine with friends.
Emily is represented by Julie Gwinn of the Seymour Agency.
www.emilygoodwinbooks.com
facebook.com/emilygoodwinbooks
emily@emilygoodwinbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
May 1, 2026
REVIEW OF ADVANCED READER COPY SENT FROM AUTHOR
This finale did not hold back!
Malice leans fully into everything I love! With enemies to lovers, forced marriage, and a morally gray hero you probably shouldn’t root for (but absolutely will). The dynamic is sharp, emotional, and completely addictive.
What really made it stand out for me was the balance between the darkness and the heart. You get all the intense dark energy and high-stakes conflict, but also those found family moments that hit just as hard. It made the story feel bigger than just the romance!
Our main character Wren… is incredible. She is strong and powerful, but at times a little impulsive (who isn’t though). What I love most about her is how real she feels. She doesn’t always have the right answer, or the magical cure. She has flaws and that’s what made me obsessed with her! I also fell in love with her devotion to family. Wren will do anything to save her family. At times it’s not always the right call, but regardless you understand why she chose those paths.
The ending was shocking and yet so fitting! Like a perfect little missing puzzle piece.
If you’ve been following this trilogy, this is a must read conclusion. If you haven’t followed along though and you love dark fantasy romance with messy, powerful characters, you’ll want this on your radar immediately!
This finale did not hold back!
Malice leans fully into everything I love! With enemies to lovers, forced marriage, and a morally gray hero you probably shouldn’t root for (but absolutely will). The dynamic is sharp, emotional, and completely addictive.
What really made it stand out for me was the balance between the darkness and the heart. You get all the intense dark energy and high-stakes conflict, but also those found family moments that hit just as hard. It made the story feel bigger than just the romance!
Our main character Wren… is incredible. She is strong and powerful, but at times a little impulsive (who isn’t though). What I love most about her is how real she feels. She doesn’t always have the right answer, or the magical cure. She has flaws and that’s what made me obsessed with her! I also fell in love with her devotion to family. Wren will do anything to save her family. At times it’s not always the right call, but regardless you understand why she chose those paths.
The ending was shocking and yet so fitting! Like a perfect little missing puzzle piece.
If you’ve been following this trilogy, this is a must read conclusion. If you haven’t followed along though and you love dark fantasy romance with messy, powerful characters, you’ll want this on your radar immediately!
May 1, 2026
Hello, people!
First of all, let me mention that this book is the third and final book in the Malus Vampire Family series.
In this book we see the emotion at its peak, the darkness that wraps around them like a snake that waits for its final bite and removes every trace of life from its prey. And its scenes, so vivid, so intense that they take your breath away, that you are anxious for the continuation, that you want to reach the end to see what will finally happen to the heroes.
The world building is fantastic and all the characters are well developed that it is like seeing their soul, their inner thoughts in front of you.
Her writing has incredible dynamics and passion, it is dynamic, captivating, enjoyable, fast, cinematic, engaging and emotional.
Many thanks to the author and Hambright PR for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
First of all, let me mention that this book is the third and final book in the Malus Vampire Family series.
In this book we see the emotion at its peak, the darkness that wraps around them like a snake that waits for its final bite and removes every trace of life from its prey. And its scenes, so vivid, so intense that they take your breath away, that you are anxious for the continuation, that you want to reach the end to see what will finally happen to the heroes.
The world building is fantastic and all the characters are well developed that it is like seeing their soul, their inner thoughts in front of you.
Her writing has incredible dynamics and passion, it is dynamic, captivating, enjoyable, fast, cinematic, engaging and emotional.
Many thanks to the author and Hambright PR for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
May 14, 2026
Malice had a beautifully dark atmosphere and some incredibly addictive family drama, but for me personally, it leaned much heavier into spice than the deeper psychological or suspense elements I usually prefer.
Emily Goodwin does a great job creating tension-filled relationships and emotionally chaotic dynamics, and the Malus family continues to be entertainingly toxic and messy throughout the story. The pacing kept me engaged, and the gothic aesthetic/vibes were honestly one of the strongest parts of the entire reading experience.
That said, the romance and smut became the dominant focus for me, which kept me from fully connecting with the story on a deeper level.
If you enjoy smut-heavy dark romance with possessive love interests, morally gray characters, and dramatic family dynamics, this will likely work much better for you.
⭐️ 3 stars
Emily Goodwin does a great job creating tension-filled relationships and emotionally chaotic dynamics, and the Malus family continues to be entertainingly toxic and messy throughout the story. The pacing kept me engaged, and the gothic aesthetic/vibes were honestly one of the strongest parts of the entire reading experience.
That said, the romance and smut became the dominant focus for me, which kept me from fully connecting with the story on a deeper level.
If you enjoy smut-heavy dark romance with possessive love interests, morally gray characters, and dramatic family dynamics, this will likely work much better for you.
⭐️ 3 stars
May 5, 2026
✨ ARC REVIEW ✨
Malice (The Malus Vampire Family #3)
By: Emily Goodwin
⚔️ Enemies to Lovers
💍 Forced Marriage
🖤 Morally Gray Hero
🧛♀️ Vampire x Witch
👨👩👦👦 Found Family
☠️ Touch Her and D!e
Wren thought she’d already survived the worst… she was wrong. Chaos is rising, alliances are breaking, and the danger is bigger than ever.
Emily Goodwin did it AGAIN. This series just keeps getting better. Wren is that girl, Xavier is still the standard, and the stakes?? INSANE.
I’m already counting down the days until Unbound because I NEED answers 😭🔥🖤
Malice (The Malus Vampire Family #3)
By: Emily Goodwin
⚔️ Enemies to Lovers
💍 Forced Marriage
🖤 Morally Gray Hero
🧛♀️ Vampire x Witch
👨👩👦👦 Found Family
☠️ Touch Her and D!e
Wren thought she’d already survived the worst… she was wrong. Chaos is rising, alliances are breaking, and the danger is bigger than ever.
Emily Goodwin did it AGAIN. This series just keeps getting better. Wren is that girl, Xavier is still the standard, and the stakes?? INSANE.
I’m already counting down the days until Unbound because I NEED answers 😭🔥🖤
May 9, 2026
Thank HambrightPR and Emily Goodwin for the ARC!
First off this was fast paced and gave a lot more info, the relationship between Wren and Xavier has definitely taken a back seat but I think it was needed with the situations in this book. That ending??? Holy crap! July cannot come soon enough!!
Spice was much calmer in this one about 0.5 spice for me.
❤️❤️❤️
First off this was fast paced and gave a lot more info, the relationship between Wren and Xavier has definitely taken a back seat but I think it was needed with the situations in this book. That ending??? Holy crap! July cannot come soon enough!!
Spice was much calmer in this one about 0.5 spice for me.
❤️❤️❤️
May 14, 2026
Thank you Hambright PR for this ARC opportunity!! This paranormal read has all of my favorites - vampires, strong FMC, and touch her and ☠️ vibes, characters are engaging and definitely would recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I knew Malice was going to be intense, but I didn’t expect it to spiral as fast as it did! Wren gets pulled straight into the truth about the Order’s long-term plan, and in the middle of everything she makes a deal with a demon to save Antonio. From there, everything snowballs. Secrets come out, loyalties shift, and every decision feels like it’s going to make things worse before it gets better.
Wren was incredible in this book for me. She’s a strong character, but she’s also understandably overwhelmed, and I liked that she didn’t suddenly have everything figured out just because the stakes got higher. Her choices are impulsive, but I understood every single one of them, especially when it came to her family. Xavier is still very much controlled, dangerous, and always ten steps ahead. This time there’s a lot more emotion under the surface, and I liked seeing that crack a little when it came to her. Antonio ended up being one of my favorites in this story. He brings this grounded energy even after everything he’s been through, and I really liked how he balanced Wren. Vivian honestly made me uneasy the entire time. The way she moves and makes decisions shows just how manipulative and morally corrupt she became. Everything involving her got a bit darker.
What I really liked about this book is how intense everything felt. There’s no real breathing room for the characters and every answer just leads to another problem. I also loved how everything ties back to Wren instead of feeling random. The demon plotline feels personal and the relationships constantly shift. Trust is tested over and over again, and it's like no one feels completely safe.
I don't want to spoil the ending, but everything clicks into place and it completely changes what I anticipate is coming next. I was stressed the entire time reading this, but I can't recommend it enough! I can't wait for the next one!
Wren was incredible in this book for me. She’s a strong character, but she’s also understandably overwhelmed, and I liked that she didn’t suddenly have everything figured out just because the stakes got higher. Her choices are impulsive, but I understood every single one of them, especially when it came to her family. Xavier is still very much controlled, dangerous, and always ten steps ahead. This time there’s a lot more emotion under the surface, and I liked seeing that crack a little when it came to her. Antonio ended up being one of my favorites in this story. He brings this grounded energy even after everything he’s been through, and I really liked how he balanced Wren. Vivian honestly made me uneasy the entire time. The way she moves and makes decisions shows just how manipulative and morally corrupt she became. Everything involving her got a bit darker.
What I really liked about this book is how intense everything felt. There’s no real breathing room for the characters and every answer just leads to another problem. I also loved how everything ties back to Wren instead of feeling random. The demon plotline feels personal and the relationships constantly shift. Trust is tested over and over again, and it's like no one feels completely safe.
I don't want to spoil the ending, but everything clicks into place and it completely changes what I anticipate is coming next. I was stressed the entire time reading this, but I can't recommend it enough! I can't wait for the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of Advanced Copy received from Author
This book doesn’t just raise the stakes—it sets them on fire and watches the ashes swirl.
Wren’s journey in Malice is a razor-wire tightrope between survival and surrender, and every step feels like it could snap. What started as a forced marriage trope blooms into something far more dangerous and intoxicating. Her relationship with Xavier Malus is the kind of slow-burn that scorches—equal parts devotion and destruction. He’s ruthless, magnetic, and wrapped in shadows, yet somehow becomes the safest place in her war-torn world.
The world-building expands in a way that feels both intricate and explosive. The fragile alliance between humans, vampires, and werewolves is cracking like thin ice, and beneath it lurks a chilling truth: the real villain isn’t just claws and fangs—it’s power, control, and the systems that thrive on both. That layer adds a sharp, thought-provoking edge that elevates the story beyond romance and into something hauntingly relevant.
And the tension? Relentless. Every chapter tightens the coil—betrayals, shifting loyalties, and looming war keep your pulse racing. When the trap is finally sprung, it doesn’t just hit—it devastates. Wren’s impossible choice feels exactly that: impossible. You feel the weight of it.
But what truly lingers is the emotional core. Love here isn’t soft or safe—it’s feral, defiant, and willing to bleed. And the question the book leaves you with lingers like smoke in your lungs: what happens when love isn’t enough?
Dark, addictive, and unapologetically intense—Malice is a storm you don’t want to escape.
This book doesn’t just raise the stakes—it sets them on fire and watches the ashes swirl.
Wren’s journey in Malice is a razor-wire tightrope between survival and surrender, and every step feels like it could snap. What started as a forced marriage trope blooms into something far more dangerous and intoxicating. Her relationship with Xavier Malus is the kind of slow-burn that scorches—equal parts devotion and destruction. He’s ruthless, magnetic, and wrapped in shadows, yet somehow becomes the safest place in her war-torn world.
The world-building expands in a way that feels both intricate and explosive. The fragile alliance between humans, vampires, and werewolves is cracking like thin ice, and beneath it lurks a chilling truth: the real villain isn’t just claws and fangs—it’s power, control, and the systems that thrive on both. That layer adds a sharp, thought-provoking edge that elevates the story beyond romance and into something hauntingly relevant.
And the tension? Relentless. Every chapter tightens the coil—betrayals, shifting loyalties, and looming war keep your pulse racing. When the trap is finally sprung, it doesn’t just hit—it devastates. Wren’s impossible choice feels exactly that: impossible. You feel the weight of it.
But what truly lingers is the emotional core. Love here isn’t soft or safe—it’s feral, defiant, and willing to bleed. And the question the book leaves you with lingers like smoke in your lungs: what happens when love isn’t enough?
Dark, addictive, and unapologetically intense—Malice is a storm you don’t want to escape.
May 8, 2026
Rating: 5/5
I received an ACR for my honest opinion.
This is the final book in Wren and Xavier’s story, and in this installment, Wren is pushed to her limits. She’s forced to face the truth about what’s really happening around her and makes difficult choices to protect the people she loves and considers family. I can’t believe I only started this series not that long ago, and now I’m completely obsessed with it. Honestly, I’m so sad this is the final book. That being said, OMG, what an ending.
In this book, Wren is pulled deeper into the truth surrounding The Order and everything they’ve been planning behind the scenes. In an effort to save her brother Antonio, she makes a deal with a demon, and from that moment on, everything starts to unravel. Secrets are exposed, loyalties shift, and battles break out between the very people Wren once believed were her family.
This book was everything I wanted. The plot was packed with action, drama, emotional moments, shocking truths, and the intense love between Wren and Xavier. I especially loved seeing Wren fully come into herself in this book. She’s stronger, more aware, and understands so much more about the world around her, yet she still remains true to who she is at her core. I know some readers may get frustrated with how quickly she throws herself into situations, but honestly, it fits her character perfectly.
I also loved getting a deeper look at Wren and Xavier’s relationship. Their slow-burn romance absolutely delivers. You can feel how deeply Xavier loves Wren, and I loved the contrast between how ruthless and destructive he can be while still being Wren’s safe place at the same time.
The pacing was strong throughout, balancing action, mystery, and emotional development really well. There were several twists and revelations that kept me guessing, and I loved how the story slowly peeled back layers of truth as it progressed. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, another revelation would completely change things. Beneath all the mystery and danger, the story also explores themes of trust, manipulation, fear, vulnerability, and loyalty, which gave the book even more emotional weight. It’s not just the twists that make this story impactful; it’s how deeply the emotional tension affects the characters and the choices they make.
I can’t wait to read more books from Emily Goodwin.
I want to thank Hambright for the opportunity to review this book.
I received an ACR for my honest opinion.
This is the final book in Wren and Xavier’s story, and in this installment, Wren is pushed to her limits. She’s forced to face the truth about what’s really happening around her and makes difficult choices to protect the people she loves and considers family. I can’t believe I only started this series not that long ago, and now I’m completely obsessed with it. Honestly, I’m so sad this is the final book. That being said, OMG, what an ending.
In this book, Wren is pulled deeper into the truth surrounding The Order and everything they’ve been planning behind the scenes. In an effort to save her brother Antonio, she makes a deal with a demon, and from that moment on, everything starts to unravel. Secrets are exposed, loyalties shift, and battles break out between the very people Wren once believed were her family.
This book was everything I wanted. The plot was packed with action, drama, emotional moments, shocking truths, and the intense love between Wren and Xavier. I especially loved seeing Wren fully come into herself in this book. She’s stronger, more aware, and understands so much more about the world around her, yet she still remains true to who she is at her core. I know some readers may get frustrated with how quickly she throws herself into situations, but honestly, it fits her character perfectly.
I also loved getting a deeper look at Wren and Xavier’s relationship. Their slow-burn romance absolutely delivers. You can feel how deeply Xavier loves Wren, and I loved the contrast between how ruthless and destructive he can be while still being Wren’s safe place at the same time.
The pacing was strong throughout, balancing action, mystery, and emotional development really well. There were several twists and revelations that kept me guessing, and I loved how the story slowly peeled back layers of truth as it progressed. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, another revelation would completely change things. Beneath all the mystery and danger, the story also explores themes of trust, manipulation, fear, vulnerability, and loyalty, which gave the book even more emotional weight. It’s not just the twists that make this story impactful; it’s how deeply the emotional tension affects the characters and the choices they make.
I can’t wait to read more books from Emily Goodwin.
I want to thank Hambright for the opportunity to review this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Blindsided by yet another betrayal by her adoptive parents, Wren is forced to make a deal with a demon or risk losing her brother forever. Now she has 30 days to find a way to set the demon free unless she wants to forfeit her soul, but somehow she needs to do it in a way that doesn’t ensure the complete destruction of the world as she knows it. With members of her former family working with her new family, hunters and vampires combine to try to uncover the secrets of the Order, and the corruption that has been left to fester for too long.
I had the honour of being asked to Beta read this book by the author and I absolutely loved it! Emily Goodwin has an incredible talent for weaving worlds where humans and supernatural beings intersect, without making it feel fantastical. Having the characters be completely immersed into everyday life, fulfilling various societal roles (albeit with certain extra special powers) makes them even more relatable. I appreciated how this book explored the relationship between Wren and her brothers on a deeper level, forging new levels of trust between them, and didn’t even quite hate Ryder in this one (although he needs to realize Wren is way out of his league). The relationship between Xavier and Wren reaches new heights, and the more they learn to trust each other, and their love, the stronger they become, both individually and as a couple. As always, the author blindsided us with a cliffhanger at the end that ensures we will all be ready to grab the next book the moment it comes out.
I had the honour of being asked to Beta read this book by the author and I absolutely loved it! Emily Goodwin has an incredible talent for weaving worlds where humans and supernatural beings intersect, without making it feel fantastical. Having the characters be completely immersed into everyday life, fulfilling various societal roles (albeit with certain extra special powers) makes them even more relatable. I appreciated how this book explored the relationship between Wren and her brothers on a deeper level, forging new levels of trust between them, and didn’t even quite hate Ryder in this one (although he needs to realize Wren is way out of his league). The relationship between Xavier and Wren reaches new heights, and the more they learn to trust each other, and their love, the stronger they become, both individually and as a couple. As always, the author blindsided us with a cliffhanger at the end that ensures we will all be ready to grab the next book the moment it comes out.
May 4, 2026
Malice absolutely lived up to the expectation of being intense, consuming, and impossible to put down.
From the very beginning, the pace is relentless. It’s fast, action-packed, and constantly moving, with so much happening that you barely get a moment to breathe — exactly the kind of chaos that keeps you hooked.
Wren continues to shine as a strong-willed, feisty heroine who refuses to back down, and watching her stand her ground in the middle of everything was incredibly satisfying. And then there’s Xavier… her cold, composed, dangerously captivating vampire husband. That dynamic alone carries so much weight and tension, it’s hard not to be completely obsessed.
What really stood out was how easy it was to grow attached to the characters. There’s real development here — you get to know them, understand them, and watch them evolve, which makes every high and low hit that much harder.
I genuinely thought this would be the final book, but that ending says otherwise. It leaves just enough unanswered, just enough tension lingering, to make it clear there’s more to come — and honestly, I’m not mad about it.
From the very beginning, the pace is relentless. It’s fast, action-packed, and constantly moving, with so much happening that you barely get a moment to breathe — exactly the kind of chaos that keeps you hooked.
Wren continues to shine as a strong-willed, feisty heroine who refuses to back down, and watching her stand her ground in the middle of everything was incredibly satisfying. And then there’s Xavier… her cold, composed, dangerously captivating vampire husband. That dynamic alone carries so much weight and tension, it’s hard not to be completely obsessed.
What really stood out was how easy it was to grow attached to the characters. There’s real development here — you get to know them, understand them, and watch them evolve, which makes every high and low hit that much harder.
I genuinely thought this would be the final book, but that ending says otherwise. It leaves just enough unanswered, just enough tension lingering, to make it clear there’s more to come — and honestly, I’m not mad about it.
May 8, 2026
Okay! You are absolutely going to need to read book 1 and 2 before this one because these books pick right back up and those cliffhangers are brutal! I haven’t read a fantasy series that hooked me this hard in awhile.
Xavier and Wren continue to own my heart. The tension, the danger, the emotions? So good. Wren is still fighting against the demon trying to claim her soul while Xavier would burn the world down to save her. Their connection keeps getting stronger, but so do the secrets surrounding the Order and everything they’ve been hiding.
And can we talk about the mystery? Because I needed answers immediately. What is the Order really doing? Why is Wren the key to all of this? Every time I thought I had things figured out, another twist smacked me in the face.
This series gives everything I love in fantasy romance — action, betrayal, found family, secrets, angst, and a romance that feels intense without taking away from the plot. The ending had me staring at my book like “excuse me?!”, and now I desperately need the next one.
Xavier and Wren continue to own my heart. The tension, the danger, the emotions? So good. Wren is still fighting against the demon trying to claim her soul while Xavier would burn the world down to save her. Their connection keeps getting stronger, but so do the secrets surrounding the Order and everything they’ve been hiding.
And can we talk about the mystery? Because I needed answers immediately. What is the Order really doing? Why is Wren the key to all of this? Every time I thought I had things figured out, another twist smacked me in the face.
This series gives everything I love in fantasy romance — action, betrayal, found family, secrets, angst, and a romance that feels intense without taking away from the plot. The ending had me staring at my book like “excuse me?!”, and now I desperately need the next one.
May 13, 2026
Thank you to Emily Goodwin and Hambright PR for the ARC!
This is book 3 in the Malus family series. If you haven’t read book one and two, you definitely need to do that first.
Rating: 4/5 stars
Malice by Emily Goodwin picks up exactly where book two left off, with no easing back into the story—it expects you to already be ready, and it pays off for readers who are.
Overall, this installment delivers exactly what it sets out to: a continuation of an intense, supernatural romance-driven plot. The presence of both vampires and werewolves adds a strong fantasy layer without being overwhelming the central relationships. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is handled well, with enough tension and progression to keep it engaging rather than repetitive. (Which so much can feel that way in this genre lately)
One of the standout elements is the found family aspect. I loved it.
While it doesn’t necessarily reinvent the genre, it executes its core themes confidently and delivers a satisfying continuation for fans.
This is book 3 in the Malus family series. If you haven’t read book one and two, you definitely need to do that first.
Rating: 4/5 stars
Malice by Emily Goodwin picks up exactly where book two left off, with no easing back into the story—it expects you to already be ready, and it pays off for readers who are.
Overall, this installment delivers exactly what it sets out to: a continuation of an intense, supernatural romance-driven plot. The presence of both vampires and werewolves adds a strong fantasy layer without being overwhelming the central relationships. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is handled well, with enough tension and progression to keep it engaging rather than repetitive. (Which so much can feel that way in this genre lately)
One of the standout elements is the found family aspect. I loved it.
While it doesn’t necessarily reinvent the genre, it executes its core themes confidently and delivers a satisfying continuation for fans.
May 18, 2026
Malice is Wren fully coming into herself and it is everything this series has been building toward. She makes an impossible deal to protect the people she loves most, and from that point forward secrets unravel, loyalties collapse, and everything she thought she could rely on gets turned upside down.
Xavier remains ruthless and dangerous — and completely her safe place — and watching their relationship reach its full emotional depth in this book was deeply satisfying. Emily Goodwin doesn't let the romance overshadow the plot or vice versa; both deliver. The pacing is relentless, the twists are well-earned and genuinely kept me guessing, and the ending landed in a way I was absolutely not prepared for.
If you have been following Wren and Xavier's story from the beginning, this conclusion will not disappoint. A beautifully crafted close to one of my favourite paranormal romance series.
Readers who enjoy: vampire romance, paranormal dark romance, morally gray MMC, slow burn payoff, found family, witch heroine, forced marriage, dark romance series conclusion
Xavier remains ruthless and dangerous — and completely her safe place — and watching their relationship reach its full emotional depth in this book was deeply satisfying. Emily Goodwin doesn't let the romance overshadow the plot or vice versa; both deliver. The pacing is relentless, the twists are well-earned and genuinely kept me guessing, and the ending landed in a way I was absolutely not prepared for.
If you have been following Wren and Xavier's story from the beginning, this conclusion will not disappoint. A beautifully crafted close to one of my favourite paranormal romance series.
Readers who enjoy: vampire romance, paranormal dark romance, morally gray MMC, slow burn payoff, found family, witch heroine, forced marriage, dark romance series conclusion
May 3, 2026
I’m speechless 5 star hands down the best book so far in this series. I could not put it down, the story was so entertaining. So much humour, emotional damage, tension, suspense, action just ahhh I need book 4 like yesterday. Emily Goodwin is such a fantastic writer I’m obsessed. This book carried right on from book 2. Wren makes a deal with a demon and she needs to decide between 2 difficult options, both options have a horrible ending. Mabel is still my favourite she’s just there in the book not much purpose but to have us giggling I just love her. Xavier and Wrens relationship is to die for I am obsessed with him, you look at her wrong and he will rip your eyes right out of your head. We get a sprinkle of a new witch in this book and I can’t wait to see more with her. The ending of this book!!! Major cliffhanger and excuse my Xavier 😱. This is seriously my favourite series so far this year!!
May 8, 2026
What I thought was going to be a thrilling epic conclusion was both thrilling and epic but was not the end! very excited to see that there is going to be a fourth book released to really tie everything up in a bow. While not quite as action packed as book 2 in my opinion, this was a high stakes, dark, but heartfelt addition to the series. All of the characters are beautifully flawed and the emphasis on family and connection truly drives this story. Wren continues to explore not only her relationship with Xavier, but rediscovering her relationship with her brothers and most importantly herself. The complexity of the plot is gripping and leaves you constantly flipping pages. There was so much planning and scheming in this book that I just know it’s all going to boil over into a monumental ending in the next one. More vampire books for me please !
Thank you to Hambright PR for providing me with an advanced copy of Malice!
Thank you to Hambright PR for providing me with an advanced copy of Malice!
May 13, 2026
Thankyou HambrightPR and Emily Goodwin for the ARC 🖤
This picks up right where book two left off and I was instantly hooked again. Emily’s writing is so rich and immersive, the kind where you completely lose yourself in the characters and world she’s created.
Wren was such a strong FMC. Fierce, loyal and so relatable because she doesn’t always think with her head. She makes mistakes, acts on emotion and would do absolutely anything for the people she loves. Family always comes first for her and I loved that about her.
When she makes a deal with a demon to try and save Antonio, everything slowly starts to unravel and the tension just keeps building from there.
And that ending? Perfect. I’ve genuinely loved all three books in this series and I’m so glad I picked them up.
Fun fact, I originally chose to read the first book because of the dedication at the beginning and I have had absolutely no regrets ever since 🖤 I seriously can’t wait for more.
This picks up right where book two left off and I was instantly hooked again. Emily’s writing is so rich and immersive, the kind where you completely lose yourself in the characters and world she’s created.
Wren was such a strong FMC. Fierce, loyal and so relatable because she doesn’t always think with her head. She makes mistakes, acts on emotion and would do absolutely anything for the people she loves. Family always comes first for her and I loved that about her.
When she makes a deal with a demon to try and save Antonio, everything slowly starts to unravel and the tension just keeps building from there.
And that ending? Perfect. I’ve genuinely loved all three books in this series and I’m so glad I picked them up.
Fun fact, I originally chose to read the first book because of the dedication at the beginning and I have had absolutely no regrets ever since 🖤 I seriously can’t wait for more.
May 9, 2026
Malice by Emily Goodwin had less spicy scenes than the previous two books, but honestly, I still could not put it down. The tension, drama, and chemistry between the characters kept me completely hooked from beginning to end.
I loved how dark and emotional this book felt. Wren continues to grow as a character, and Xavier somehow gets even more addictive every book. Their relationship had me frustrated, obsessed, and rooting for them all at the same time.
Even without as much spice, the story never felt boring. There was always something happening, betrayals, secrets, twists, and the pacing kept me turning pages late into the night. The ending definitely left me needing the next book immediately.
If you love paranormal romance with vampires, danger, emotional tension, and a strong slow-burn connection, this series is absolutely worth reading.
I loved how dark and emotional this book felt. Wren continues to grow as a character, and Xavier somehow gets even more addictive every book. Their relationship had me frustrated, obsessed, and rooting for them all at the same time.
Even without as much spice, the story never felt boring. There was always something happening, betrayals, secrets, twists, and the pacing kept me turning pages late into the night. The ending definitely left me needing the next book immediately.
If you love paranormal romance with vampires, danger, emotional tension, and a strong slow-burn connection, this series is absolutely worth reading.
May 17, 2026
Malice felt like a bit of a mixed step for the series. I still care about where the story is going, but this one definitely dragged more than the previous books. The pacing was slower, and at times it felt like the plot was stretching just to fill space instead of pushing things forward.
That said, we do get a lot more insight into Wren’s past, and that part of the book is genuinely important. It adds context that I’m sure will matter going forward, even if it came wrapped in a slower overall story.
I also can’t help feeling like this series really should’ve been a tight trilogy, with this book serving as the wrap up. Instead, it seems like there’s more coming, which I’m cautiously curious about. Even with the pacing issues, I’m still invested enough to keep reading, but this one was the weakest so far.
That said, we do get a lot more insight into Wren’s past, and that part of the book is genuinely important. It adds context that I’m sure will matter going forward, even if it came wrapped in a slower overall story.
I also can’t help feeling like this series really should’ve been a tight trilogy, with this book serving as the wrap up. Instead, it seems like there’s more coming, which I’m cautiously curious about. Even with the pacing issues, I’m still invested enough to keep reading, but this one was the weakest so far.
May 1, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/5
I was hoping this story would wrap up in this book but there was yet another cliffhanger ending. I wanted to love this one more than I did. I didn’t hate it but I also didn’t absolutely love it. I am getting fatigue from reading about the same issue through multiple books.
There was action in this book but there also seemed to be a lot of scenes that just didn’t feel necessary. On top of that, there was a lot of repeating of the same lines within just a few paragraphs.
I am not sure if I will continue on to book 4…
✨ What to Expect ✨
⚔️ Enemies to Lovers
💍 Forced Marriage
🩶 Morally Gray Hero
🧛🏻 Vampire x Witch
🫂 Found Family
💀 Touch Her & D!e
🌶️🌶️/5
I was hoping this story would wrap up in this book but there was yet another cliffhanger ending. I wanted to love this one more than I did. I didn’t hate it but I also didn’t absolutely love it. I am getting fatigue from reading about the same issue through multiple books.
There was action in this book but there also seemed to be a lot of scenes that just didn’t feel necessary. On top of that, there was a lot of repeating of the same lines within just a few paragraphs.
I am not sure if I will continue on to book 4…
✨ What to Expect ✨
⚔️ Enemies to Lovers
💍 Forced Marriage
🩶 Morally Gray Hero
🧛🏻 Vampire x Witch
🫂 Found Family
💀 Touch Her & D!e
May 4, 2026
If there’s one thing Emily won’t give us, it’s peace! Why. Whhyyyyy leave me on the edge of my seat with that cliff hanger. I can’t take it… not again 😩
“You can’t literally burn the world for me” I say, voice tight as my heart swells in my chest “I can. And I will”
Ughhh! Daddy Xavier back at it being the husband we all love and deserve! That man could bite any part of me and I’d come crawling back for more 😂
I’ve loved seeing Wren’s evolution and how she’s becoming more confident/comfortable in who she is since being surrounded by people who love and care for her.
Thank you to Emily and Hambright PR for gifting me a copy of Malice. I can’t wait to get my teeth into book 4
“You can’t literally burn the world for me” I say, voice tight as my heart swells in my chest “I can. And I will”
Ughhh! Daddy Xavier back at it being the husband we all love and deserve! That man could bite any part of me and I’d come crawling back for more 😂
I’ve loved seeing Wren’s evolution and how she’s becoming more confident/comfortable in who she is since being surrounded by people who love and care for her.
Thank you to Emily and Hambright PR for gifting me a copy of Malice. I can’t wait to get my teeth into book 4
May 8, 2026
Book 3 Malus Vampire Family series: Xavier and Wren. This is a vampire x human witch, demon hunter, first person POV, “touch him/her and d!e”, stabby bada$$ FMC, “I would burn the world down for you”, witty banter, supernatural mafia, found family, dark paranormal romance.
This book picks up right from where we left off in the cliffhanger in book two, Unhinged, and man is this whole book action packed! This was definitely more action and plot focused over the romance plot, which made it such a cool read. This read had me at the edge of my seat the whole way through, I cannot wait for book four to come out after this ending! (Books must be read in order for this series)
This book picks up right from where we left off in the cliffhanger in book two, Unhinged, and man is this whole book action packed! This was definitely more action and plot focused over the romance plot, which made it such a cool read. This read had me at the edge of my seat the whole way through, I cannot wait for book four to come out after this ending! (Books must be read in order for this series)
May 4, 2026
The third installment to the Malus Family series will sink its teeth right in. Former monster hunter Wren finally stops fighting the inevitable and fully embraces her arranged marriage to head Vampire Xavier. Where we had some slow-burn chemistry and sharp banter before, the spice is amped up in this book.
The stakes are higher than ever as alliances fracture, deadly secrets unravel, and the romance that’s been simmering reaches a boiling point.
Thank you @authoremilygoodwin and @hambright_pr for this ARC 🖤🖤
The stakes are higher than ever as alliances fracture, deadly secrets unravel, and the romance that’s been simmering reaches a boiling point.
Thank you @authoremilygoodwin and @hambright_pr for this ARC 🖤🖤
May 10, 2026
The journey continues!
This story is more plot driven, but we still get plenty of "Xavier is obsessed with Wren" moments.
One thing Xavier Malus is going to do? Show UP for his wife! That man loves her and he makes sure she knows it.
I really like where this installment has lead us, and I think it even clarified a few questions I had from the first two books as well.
Emily Goodwin left us on QUITE the cliffhanger, so I'm excited to see what she has in store for us for the next book!
Overall: recommend
Spice: open door
This story is more plot driven, but we still get plenty of "Xavier is obsessed with Wren" moments.
One thing Xavier Malus is going to do? Show UP for his wife! That man loves her and he makes sure she knows it.
I really like where this installment has lead us, and I think it even clarified a few questions I had from the first two books as well.
Emily Goodwin left us on QUITE the cliffhanger, so I'm excited to see what she has in store for us for the next book!
Overall: recommend
Spice: open door
May 17, 2026
I am new to this series, but I have to say I read all three books in four days. I could not put it down. Twisted unhinged, and malice were probably some of the best things that have happened to me in a long time. I’ve always been a sucker for a vampire romance and I’m not gonna lie. I’m completely obsessed with Xavier and Wren. I can’t wait for the story to continue. I am literally chopping at a bit for the fourth book. It really goes to show you that family isn’t always blood. It’s who you make it.
May 20, 2026
Malice
This is one of the best series I have read in a long time. Emily Goodwin is a great author that gets to the point quick. I have fallen so in love with this story that I’m so excited there’s going to be a book 4 yet wanting the ending so badly at the same time!!! I have recommended this series to anyone who will listen!!! It’s so good this is the first review on a book I’ve ever written!!! Thank you Emily, for bringing my love for reading back!!! I can’t wait for book 4!!! 🫶🏻🖤🌻
This is one of the best series I have read in a long time. Emily Goodwin is a great author that gets to the point quick. I have fallen so in love with this story that I’m so excited there’s going to be a book 4 yet wanting the ending so badly at the same time!!! I have recommended this series to anyone who will listen!!! It’s so good this is the first review on a book I’ve ever written!!! Thank you Emily, for bringing my love for reading back!!! I can’t wait for book 4!!! 🫶🏻🖤🌻
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thanks @EmilyGoodwin for let me beta read Malice book 3 in the Malus vampire series. This was a continuation in the series where wren continues to find out who she is and trying to the order from their evil doings. As always this was filled with suspense more information and can’t wait for more after that cliffhanger.
May 9, 2026
Arc Read, Book 3 did not disappoint. I thought this would be the last book but I was sorely mistaken. When I read that last page I screamed, and now I need book 4 asap. I didn’t think the series could get better but it did. The spice was still spicy and I loved that our FMC got to grow and learn about herself and also got some besties along the way
May 14, 2026
I loved the first 2 books in this series, but this…. Just wasn’t it for me. The grammar and editing was so awful they kept changing the spelling of the main villain’s name and didn’t notice. It felt like a whole lot of nothing happened until the last 4 pages. None of the characters felt like themselves, or like they had any dimension in this book. It just felt repetitive and boring.
May 6, 2026
Malice is the 3rd book in this series and I was fortunate enough to recieve an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
This book picks up right were book 2 leaves us. We are introduce to new characters and new twists and turns you wont see coming.
Malice is packed with a lot of action, some spice but lots of action and planning.
Not to mention the cliff hanger leaving you turning pages for more!
Now can I have book 4 please! 🙏
This book picks up right were book 2 leaves us. We are introduce to new characters and new twists and turns you wont see coming.
Malice is packed with a lot of action, some spice but lots of action and planning.
Not to mention the cliff hanger leaving you turning pages for more!
Now can I have book 4 please! 🙏
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