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Wicked Lovers #9.5
Pure Wicked
During his decade as an international pop star, Jesse McCall has lived every day in the fast lane. A committed hedonist reveling in amazing highs, globetrotting, and nameless encounters, he refuses to think about his loneliness or empty future. Then tragedy strikes.
Shocked and grieving, he sheds his identity and walks away, searching for peace. Instead, he finds Bristol Reese, a no-nonsense beauty scraping to keep her family’s business afloat while struggling with her own demons. He’s intent on seducing her, but other than a pleasure-filled night, she’s not interested in a player, especially after her boyfriend recently proposed to her sister. In order to claim Bristol, Jesse has to prove he’s not the kind of man he’s always been. But when she learns his identity and his past comes back to haunt him, how will he convince her that he’s a changed man who wants nothing more than to make her his forever?
Shocked and grieving, he sheds his identity and walks away, searching for peace. Instead, he finds Bristol Reese, a no-nonsense beauty scraping to keep her family’s business afloat while struggling with her own demons. He’s intent on seducing her, but other than a pleasure-filled night, she’s not interested in a player, especially after her boyfriend recently proposed to her sister. In order to claim Bristol, Jesse has to prove he’s not the kind of man he’s always been. But when she learns his identity and his past comes back to haunt him, how will he convince her that he’s a changed man who wants nothing more than to make her his forever?
124 pages, Paperback
First published September 8, 2015
108 people are currently reading
2440 people want to read
About the author
Shayla Black
150 books9,997 followersShayla Black is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than 100 contemporary, erotic, paranormal, and historical romances. Her books have sold millions of copies and been published in a dozen languages.
As an only child, Shayla occupied herself by daydreaming, much to the chagrin of her teachers. In college, she found her love for reading and started pursuing a publishing career. Though she graduated with a degree in Marketing/Advertising and embarked on a stint in corporate America, her heart was with her stories and characters, so she left her pantyhose and power suits behind.
Shayla currently lives in North Texas with her wonderfully supportive husband, her daughter, and two spoiled tabbies. In her “free” time, she enjoys reality TV, gaming, and listening to an eclectic blend of music.
Follow me on Facebook: http://shayla.link/FBPage
Join me in my Book Beauties group for weekly LIVE chats: http://shayla.link/FBChat
As an only child, Shayla occupied herself by daydreaming, much to the chagrin of her teachers. In college, she found her love for reading and started pursuing a publishing career. Though she graduated with a degree in Marketing/Advertising and embarked on a stint in corporate America, her heart was with her stories and characters, so she left her pantyhose and power suits behind.
Shayla currently lives in North Texas with her wonderfully supportive husband, her daughter, and two spoiled tabbies. In her “free” time, she enjoys reality TV, gaming, and listening to an eclectic blend of music.
Follow me on Facebook: http://shayla.link/FBPage
Join me in my Book Beauties group for weekly LIVE chats: http://shayla.link/FBChat
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
September 8, 2015
3.5 Stars
It's been a hot second since I first met Jesse as Kimber's famous pop star boyfriend in Decadent so suffice it to say I've forgotten pretty much everything about it. But I had no problems picking this book up and enjoying it from the very beginning, so it very much can be read as a standalone. Pure Wicked is a shortie novella in Shayla's super sexy Wicked Lovers series, which I've been a huge fan of for years. While it may not be very long, it was satisfying for what it was.
It was a short and steamy novella about a pop star falling for a small town girl while hiding out from the press. No BDSM in this one, but it was still wickedly hot. Bristol Reese is attending her sister's engagement party....to her ex boyfriend while trying to ward off her mother's meddling ways when a handsome stranger comes to her rescue to pretend to be her boyfriend. It doesn't take long before acting turns into real life passion and things really heat up between them. Too bad Bristol has no idea that the man in her bed is the very famous pop star she's had a crush on for all these years and all shit could hit the fan when she catches on to his lie by omission.
The story is quick paced and steamy, though I felt the ending was a little TOO quick to resolve so it was highly unrealistic for me. It just wrapped up too nicely and quickly for the amount of time passed. I did, however, still enjoy the romance thoroughly, so I can't complain too much. A perfect steamy read to spend a weekday evening with and a definite must read for any fans of the series.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
It felt good to give in, to surrender. He rewarded her with more pleasure. Sex with him felt like embracing a thunderstorm, riding a wild bronc.
It's been a hot second since I first met Jesse as Kimber's famous pop star boyfriend in Decadent so suffice it to say I've forgotten pretty much everything about it. But I had no problems picking this book up and enjoying it from the very beginning, so it very much can be read as a standalone. Pure Wicked is a shortie novella in Shayla's super sexy Wicked Lovers series, which I've been a huge fan of for years. While it may not be very long, it was satisfying for what it was.
It was a short and steamy novella about a pop star falling for a small town girl while hiding out from the press. No BDSM in this one, but it was still wickedly hot. Bristol Reese is attending her sister's engagement party....to her ex boyfriend while trying to ward off her mother's meddling ways when a handsome stranger comes to her rescue to pretend to be her boyfriend. It doesn't take long before acting turns into real life passion and things really heat up between them. Too bad Bristol has no idea that the man in her bed is the very famous pop star she's had a crush on for all these years and all shit could hit the fan when she catches on to his lie by omission.
The story is quick paced and steamy, though I felt the ending was a little TOO quick to resolve so it was highly unrealistic for me. It just wrapped up too nicely and quickly for the amount of time passed. I did, however, still enjoy the romance thoroughly, so I can't complain too much. A perfect steamy read to spend a weekday evening with and a definite must read for any fans of the series.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
January 8, 2018
Shayla gave us short, dirty, insta-lust, insta-hot-sex, and insta-luv. Jesse was a famous rock star hiding out from the latest scandal to hit his life. Making his way through small towns, he comes across Bristol, who thankfully doesn't recognize him. That could be because he removed every artifice that made up his image. Bristol has recently been hurt by her ex-boyfriend, who is now engaged to her little sister. Jesse saves her from further embarrassment and their relationship blossoms from there. Short and sweet with enough of a tease to have you wanting more. Oh! And there's also a visit with sexy Deke!!
December 26, 2019
Ugh, Rockstar novellas.. sign me up.
Pure Wicked was about Jesse and Reese's love. Now these two were a wild ride. Whether it was Reese dealing with her family and her own ex-boyfriend or it was Reese meeting Jesse and feeling the instant spark. Everything was crazy from start to finish.
Not even low-key, but I absolutely hated Reese's family. God, they all deserved to be bitch slapped by someone (mainly me). It was complete horseshit for them to think Reese should be completely fine with her little sister's engagement.. to her ex-boyfriend. Yikes!
Yeah, so long story short - they were all on my shit list.
Enter Jesse, who is her fake boyfriend for this horrible wedding. They were a really cute couple and I was happy for her to find happiness. Things definitely flew by in this novella and I really wished that it was longer. In the end, I'm intrigued enough to read the rest of the series.. whenever I can.
Pure Wicked was about Jesse and Reese's love. Now these two were a wild ride. Whether it was Reese dealing with her family and her own ex-boyfriend or it was Reese meeting Jesse and feeling the instant spark. Everything was crazy from start to finish.
Not even low-key, but I absolutely hated Reese's family. God, they all deserved to be bitch slapped by someone (mainly me). It was complete horseshit for them to think Reese should be completely fine with her little sister's engagement.. to her ex-boyfriend. Yikes!
Yeah, so long story short - they were all on my shit list.
Enter Jesse, who is her fake boyfriend for this horrible wedding. They were a really cute couple and I was happy for her to find happiness. Things definitely flew by in this novella and I really wished that it was longer. In the end, I'm intrigued enough to read the rest of the series.. whenever I can.
January 30, 2016
3.5 Stars This was a cute short read!
I don't remember to much about Jesse other then he was an asshole to Kimber, I think he cheats on her in an earlier book? He was super sweet in this one though. This was MEGA insta-love, but I stilled liked it.
I wish we wouldn't have had to have the continuous mentions of all the woman he had slept with though, threesomes, fivesomes, politician's daughters, porn stars (seriously gross). It was a bit overkill for such a short book. I mean we get it, he was a slut...geesh!
I love this series though, and I love this author!
I don't remember to much about Jesse other then he was an asshole to Kimber, I think he cheats on her in an earlier book? He was super sweet in this one though. This was MEGA insta-love, but I stilled liked it.
I wish we wouldn't have had to have the continuous mentions of all the woman he had slept with though, threesomes, fivesomes, politician's daughters, porn stars (seriously gross). It was a bit overkill for such a short book. I mean we get it, he was a slut...geesh!
I love this series though, and I love this author!
September 18, 2015
⭐️⭐️⭐️3 STARS⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’ve been assured by a friend that the novellas and pretty much every book in this series can be read as standalones. When I saw the blurb for this one and having enjoyed quite a few books from this author, I knew I had to request and read it. Disheveled rockstar falling for a small town girl? Sign me in, please!
This is only my second time at reading a book in Shayla Black’s Wicked Lovers series and I’ll be upfront and say that my first experience wasn’t a great one.
I know a lot of readers enjoy this series, so my first attempt was probably just a fluke and being a very moody reader, maybe I wasn’t in the right place when I read Belong to Me last year, which is book #5 in this series.
This novella is pretty much all about insta love, a trope that seems to be the trend at the moment, when I’m a real sucker for unrequited love.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed this easy going, playful and hot novella.
If you like Rockstar Romances, then you’ll easily like the hero, Jesse. He lived the wild life and is having a fall out after a tragic event happening to one of his band’s mates. This event acting as a wake up call, he’s backing off from the spotlight until he meets, Reese, small town girl and baker extraordinaire.
Reese is stuck trying to please her family. Her ex-boyfriend hooked up with her little sister, and as unbelievable as it seems, both her mom and the new couple expect from her to be present and supportive of their engagement party dinner. Reese tries to keep her head high but just when she’s about to lose it, Jesse appears miraculously playing the role of her new fake boyfriend.
Their story although light, sweet and steamy felt a bit rushed to me, with an all too predictable and cliché ending.
Don’t let my cynical self stopping you to read this sweet rockstar romance novella, which I’m sure will please a lot of readers of the 1001 Dark Nights.
Arc offered in exchange for an honest review
More reviews and book talk at :
I’ve been assured by a friend that the novellas and pretty much every book in this series can be read as standalones. When I saw the blurb for this one and having enjoyed quite a few books from this author, I knew I had to request and read it. Disheveled rockstar falling for a small town girl? Sign me in, please!
This is only my second time at reading a book in Shayla Black’s Wicked Lovers series and I’ll be upfront and say that my first experience wasn’t a great one.
I know a lot of readers enjoy this series, so my first attempt was probably just a fluke and being a very moody reader, maybe I wasn’t in the right place when I read Belong to Me last year, which is book #5 in this series.
This novella is pretty much all about insta love, a trope that seems to be the trend at the moment, when I’m a real sucker for unrequited love.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed this easy going, playful and hot novella.
If you like Rockstar Romances, then you’ll easily like the hero, Jesse. He lived the wild life and is having a fall out after a tragic event happening to one of his band’s mates. This event acting as a wake up call, he’s backing off from the spotlight until he meets, Reese, small town girl and baker extraordinaire.
Reese is stuck trying to please her family. Her ex-boyfriend hooked up with her little sister, and as unbelievable as it seems, both her mom and the new couple expect from her to be present and supportive of their engagement party dinner. Reese tries to keep her head high but just when she’s about to lose it, Jesse appears miraculously playing the role of her new fake boyfriend.
Their story although light, sweet and steamy felt a bit rushed to me, with an all too predictable and cliché ending.
Don’t let my cynical self stopping you to read this sweet rockstar romance novella, which I’m sure will please a lot of readers of the 1001 Dark Nights.
Arc offered in exchange for an honest review
More reviews and book talk at :
September 7, 2015
PURE WICKED is a novella set in the Wicked Lovers world. I was a big fan of this series when it first came out so I was eager to try this novella in hopes of getting back into the series. This story is all about Jesse McCall and his rockstar ways. Now I’m not a huge fan of rockstar romances because I think they’re all pretty much the same. Unless there’s a twist in there that makes it unique, I probably won’t read it but I made an exception for this one.
Jesse is your typical rockstar hero. He knows his worth and that kind of sits on his shoulders in everything he does. When an underage girl dies in close proximity to him, rumors start to circulate and the only way to avoid all the bad media is for him to hide. Right off the bat, I wasn’t into this scenario. It paints Jesse in which a bad light and I didn’t think he took enough action to try and rectify it.
Then when he meets the heroine, Bristol Reese, he’s almost surprised with the amount of work she needs to do in order to survive. As Bristol tries desperately to keep her family business afloat, Jesse is set on wooing her. These two seem to come from two different worlds and therefore, it was hard for me to really believe in this story. While I liked Bristol’s hardworking ways, I just wasn’t into Jesse’s character much. His character just seemed very one-dimensional and didn’t transcend the rockstar image he’s placed in.
September 8, 2015
Shadow's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 stars
This was a light-hearted addition to Shayla Black's Wicked Lovers series and we get to visit again with Deke and Kimber from Decadent.
This story involves Jesse McCall, the rock legend that Kimber originally thought she loved in Decadent, and Bristol Reese, a small town girl who has been dumped by her boyfriend in favor of her airhead younger sister.
After a tragedy that brings his youthful indiscretions into sharp focus and the public eye, Jesse takes off to lay low until the storm of media attention passes. He overhears Bristol and her best friend mourning the fact Bristol didn't have a boyfriend to flaunt in front of her ex. Jesse steps up and volunteers and a relationship is born.
But can this former drugged up rock star actually settle down with a girl who runs a bakery in a town so small everyone knows everyone else's business.
It was fun watching Jessie grow up and finally realize what is really important. Bristol was great-wounded but able to overcome it. The sex scenes were hot and the entire book a pleasant novella as long as you suspend belief. Let's face it, a rockstar shaving his beard and cutting his hair still isn't going to pass unnoticed-and he's not going to fall immediately in love with the local bakery owner even if he did.
But allowing the artist some poetic license, this was a fun little fantasy read.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
4.5 stars
This was a light-hearted addition to Shayla Black's Wicked Lovers series and we get to visit again with Deke and Kimber from Decadent.
This story involves Jesse McCall, the rock legend that Kimber originally thought she loved in Decadent, and Bristol Reese, a small town girl who has been dumped by her boyfriend in favor of her airhead younger sister.
After a tragedy that brings his youthful indiscretions into sharp focus and the public eye, Jesse takes off to lay low until the storm of media attention passes. He overhears Bristol and her best friend mourning the fact Bristol didn't have a boyfriend to flaunt in front of her ex. Jesse steps up and volunteers and a relationship is born.
But can this former drugged up rock star actually settle down with a girl who runs a bakery in a town so small everyone knows everyone else's business.
It was fun watching Jessie grow up and finally realize what is really important. Bristol was great-wounded but able to overcome it. The sex scenes were hot and the entire book a pleasant novella as long as you suspend belief. Let's face it, a rockstar shaving his beard and cutting his hair still isn't going to pass unnoticed-and he's not going to fall immediately in love with the local bakery owner even if he did.
But allowing the artist some poetic license, this was a fun little fantasy read.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
September 10, 2015
I received an ARC of this book from InkSlinger PR in exchange for an honest review and as part of the book's blog tour promotions.
Insta-love. This is the main thing about the story. The hero is a rockstar who just had a tragic experience and was forced to lie low while waiting for the scandal to die down. The heroine was a businesswoman who was an amazing cook and was by all means a very nice young lady. Her younger sister and ex boyfriend were engaged. This said boyfriend cheated on her with said sister.
When the hero saw the heroine, he just had to help her out. Then they slept together. Then, they admitted to each other that they had a connection they've never had with anyone else. Then they were exchanging "I love yous". Then the hero was proposing. Everything felt like on fast forward. Things happened so fast.
I have to say that I was expecting more from the author because I've read some books from this series, and they were pretty great. I guess the fact that this is only a novella made it a necessity to speed things up. I liked the story in general, but I wasn't such a fan of the insta-love in this story. I understand insta-love. But here, it really wasn't that believable. If you are a fan of the 1001 Dark Nights series, you should check this out because it is a solid addition to this year's existing books. If, like me, you are a fan of Shayla Black, you should check this book out. If it's not for you, just remember that the Wicked Lovers series is still sexy and entertaining all in all.
Insta-love. This is the main thing about the story. The hero is a rockstar who just had a tragic experience and was forced to lie low while waiting for the scandal to die down. The heroine was a businesswoman who was an amazing cook and was by all means a very nice young lady. Her younger sister and ex boyfriend were engaged. This said boyfriend cheated on her with said sister.
When the hero saw the heroine, he just had to help her out. Then they slept together. Then, they admitted to each other that they had a connection they've never had with anyone else. Then they were exchanging "I love yous". Then the hero was proposing. Everything felt like on fast forward. Things happened so fast.
I have to say that I was expecting more from the author because I've read some books from this series, and they were pretty great. I guess the fact that this is only a novella made it a necessity to speed things up. I liked the story in general, but I wasn't such a fan of the insta-love in this story. I understand insta-love. But here, it really wasn't that believable. If you are a fan of the 1001 Dark Nights series, you should check this out because it is a solid addition to this year's existing books. If, like me, you are a fan of Shayla Black, you should check this book out. If it's not for you, just remember that the Wicked Lovers series is still sexy and entertaining all in all.
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February 7, 2017Review will be posted under 1001 Dark Nights: Bundle Seven.
July 21, 2019
A quick read about the redemption of a character previously seen. Remember Jesse the rock star Kimber thought she wanted in Decadent. He's back! Love this series
September 25, 2015
Even though I did skip a few books in the Wicked Lovers series, I personally think I happened to read Pure Wicked right at the perfect time. I very recently finished book 2 in this series, in which Jesse McCall was introduced. Pure Wicked takes place several years after the events of that book, but for Jesse, not much has changed. And, therein lies his biggest problem.
Although he's been sober for the past year, he's still not happy with his rock star life. He's looking for more meaning out of it. And, when a tragedy rocks his world, he decides to disappear on the road for awhile until the heat dies down.
Which is how he finds himself in some podunk midwest town. Jesse is instantly drawn to Bristol Reese, a strong, confident woman who is trying to make her own way in the world, despite it seeming like everyone is out to stop her. Jesse sees so many qualities in her that he admires and wants to see in himself. So, he hides his identity from her for just a little bit of time so he can soak up her goodness and strength before he hits the road again.
There was a lot to like about Pure Wicked. I didn't care for Jesse at all when we met him in Decadent. THIS Jesse, I liked. He's trying so hard to be the man he wants to be. But, when you've been doing the same thing over and over for ten years, it's so hard to just stop. This Jesse, though, is much more determined to push through the hard part and find a way to make himself happy. And I totally respect that.
Bristol is doing much the same thing. She's stuck in her own rut - her small town life where everyone knows everyone and no one takes her seriously. Jesse steps into her life at exactly the right moment, and although she tries to remain level headed about him, it's hard when he is everything she has ever wanted or needed in a man, but could never dream to find in her hometown.
My biggest issue with Pure Wicked is that it's just a smidge unbelievable. First, there's the instalove, which I can sort of forgive. I mean, this is a novella. This couple only has 100 pages to meet and fall in love, whereas the regular couple has 300+ pages to do the same thing. So, that much I can forgive.
Sure - it's every girl's fantasy to have a rich, famous, hot rock star sweep her off her feet and save her from her humdrum life. But, that's what it is - a fantasy. It's a fun one though. So, even though Bristol's and Jesse's story might not ever happen in real life, it is completely enjoyable to imagine that it could. And, their fairytale story, coupled with some ridiculously hot sex, made for a very quick read. This whole series is the awesomesauce. Pure Wicked is just the cinnamon on top.
Although he's been sober for the past year, he's still not happy with his rock star life. He's looking for more meaning out of it. And, when a tragedy rocks his world, he decides to disappear on the road for awhile until the heat dies down.
Which is how he finds himself in some podunk midwest town. Jesse is instantly drawn to Bristol Reese, a strong, confident woman who is trying to make her own way in the world, despite it seeming like everyone is out to stop her. Jesse sees so many qualities in her that he admires and wants to see in himself. So, he hides his identity from her for just a little bit of time so he can soak up her goodness and strength before he hits the road again.
There was a lot to like about Pure Wicked. I didn't care for Jesse at all when we met him in Decadent. THIS Jesse, I liked. He's trying so hard to be the man he wants to be. But, when you've been doing the same thing over and over for ten years, it's so hard to just stop. This Jesse, though, is much more determined to push through the hard part and find a way to make himself happy. And I totally respect that.
Bristol is doing much the same thing. She's stuck in her own rut - her small town life where everyone knows everyone and no one takes her seriously. Jesse steps into her life at exactly the right moment, and although she tries to remain level headed about him, it's hard when he is everything she has ever wanted or needed in a man, but could never dream to find in her hometown.
My biggest issue with Pure Wicked is that it's just a smidge unbelievable. First, there's the instalove, which I can sort of forgive. I mean, this is a novella. This couple only has 100 pages to meet and fall in love, whereas the regular couple has 300+ pages to do the same thing. So, that much I can forgive.
Sure - it's every girl's fantasy to have a rich, famous, hot rock star sweep her off her feet and save her from her humdrum life. But, that's what it is - a fantasy. It's a fun one though. So, even though Bristol's and Jesse's story might not ever happen in real life, it is completely enjoyable to imagine that it could. And, their fairytale story, coupled with some ridiculously hot sex, made for a very quick read. This whole series is the awesomesauce. Pure Wicked is just the cinnamon on top.
September 8, 2015
A delicious and highly addictive tale of two people who never saw each other coming. Good intentions turn absolutely WICKED in Shayla Black's latest Wicked Lovers series. If you want a taste of what this author is capable of making you feel, pick this up immediately. I have no doubt that you will become completely obsessed!
A rock legend...
A small town girl...
Get ready for a WICKED good time!
The story of Jesse McCall, you might remember him from DECADENT, and Bristol Reese, sassy hometown woman who is in need of some assistance, she just doesn't know it yet.
Horrible circumstances have forced Jesse into hiding until the media circus settles down. He overhears Bristol's predicament and steps right up to the plate to help her out. What was supposed to be a quick ruse to her family turns into a one night stand. That one night stand turns into playing house with the beautiful knight in disguised armor. Intense passion ensues. Emotions become tangled and feelings deepen. When Jesse's cover is blown, Bristol finds herself incredibly hurt. Bristol has become special to Jesse and he will do what it takes to earn her trust back. He wants forever. Is it possible to fall so hard in such a short amount of time or is Jesse just using Bristol to help his reputation with the media?
I just ADORED these characters and it was nice to get a few visits from some previous Wicked Lovers characters as well. This little novella had it ALL - humor, quick wit, steamy love scenes, emotional upheaval, I couldn't put it down. I found this read charming, sweet, and sexy. I'm used to Shayla Black's Wicked Lovers series to be more heavily erotic. I'm not complaining either way. Black absolutely KILLS both genres. I only mention it because if you are brand spankin' new to this incredible author, PURE WICKED would be a great read to cut your teeth on. I have no doubt in my mind that you will fall in love with this author's writing, her characters, and the uncanny way she completely sucks you into her stories. I CANNOT and WILL NOT ever get enough!
*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
A rock legend...
A small town girl...
Get ready for a WICKED good time!
The story of Jesse McCall, you might remember him from DECADENT, and Bristol Reese, sassy hometown woman who is in need of some assistance, she just doesn't know it yet.
Horrible circumstances have forced Jesse into hiding until the media circus settles down. He overhears Bristol's predicament and steps right up to the plate to help her out. What was supposed to be a quick ruse to her family turns into a one night stand. That one night stand turns into playing house with the beautiful knight in disguised armor. Intense passion ensues. Emotions become tangled and feelings deepen. When Jesse's cover is blown, Bristol finds herself incredibly hurt. Bristol has become special to Jesse and he will do what it takes to earn her trust back. He wants forever. Is it possible to fall so hard in such a short amount of time or is Jesse just using Bristol to help his reputation with the media?
I just ADORED these characters and it was nice to get a few visits from some previous Wicked Lovers characters as well. This little novella had it ALL - humor, quick wit, steamy love scenes, emotional upheaval, I couldn't put it down. I found this read charming, sweet, and sexy. I'm used to Shayla Black's Wicked Lovers series to be more heavily erotic. I'm not complaining either way. Black absolutely KILLS both genres. I only mention it because if you are brand spankin' new to this incredible author, PURE WICKED would be a great read to cut your teeth on. I have no doubt in my mind that you will fall in love with this author's writing, her characters, and the uncanny way she completely sucks you into her stories. I CANNOT and WILL NOT ever get enough!
*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
September 8, 2015
Pure Wicked is part of author Shayla Black’s Wicked Lovers series as well as novella number thirteen in the 1,001 Dark Nights 2015 lineup and is a delish rocker meets small town girl romance that I devoured. With Ms. Black’s signature heat, this story was a total win!
Looking for a little bit of light in a dark point in his life, the sexy rock star bad-boy Jesse McCall sets off on a road that will lead him to small town U.S.A., and straight into playing knight in not-so-shining armor. When he overhears a conversation involving a very disheartened and beautiful Bristol, he steps in. He wasn’t used to the role of “good guy” but he was determined to make this woman smile and if it helped get her out of a crappy situation with her ex, and get him a safe haven to lay low for a while, it was a win-win. But the bonus would be what he and Bristol find after spending just a few short days together. Could it be love?
This was one of those books that I stopped reading close to the end. No, no. Not because I didn’t like it, but because I knew it was going to end and I didn’t want it to happen! Yes, I am totally one of those people. I loved everything about this story. Jesse is like a lost puppy in need of some love and not a clue where to turn. He is tired of the rock star life and just wants some peace for a little while. Luckily he found Bristol when he did. She needed love as much as he did. Saddled with a jerk of an ex and a pain in the arse family, she really only had her best friend. I just loved her, admired her strong personality, and would choose her as a girl I would love to be friends with.
I loved the way these two met. It was Kismet and totally swoon worthy at that! The fire and heat between them was undeniable but beyond that, Jesse has such a soft heart and I loved the little things her did for Bristol; a woman very used to doing everything for herself. Of course, there are some downs to go with their ups but it only added up to a very happy ending that I just ADORED!
From start to finish, I loved it. This story had me hooked, kept me glued to each sexy sweet page, and finished off with a romantic movie worthy ending. Thank you, Ms. Black, for a fabulous read!
Looking for a little bit of light in a dark point in his life, the sexy rock star bad-boy Jesse McCall sets off on a road that will lead him to small town U.S.A., and straight into playing knight in not-so-shining armor. When he overhears a conversation involving a very disheartened and beautiful Bristol, he steps in. He wasn’t used to the role of “good guy” but he was determined to make this woman smile and if it helped get her out of a crappy situation with her ex, and get him a safe haven to lay low for a while, it was a win-win. But the bonus would be what he and Bristol find after spending just a few short days together. Could it be love?
This was one of those books that I stopped reading close to the end. No, no. Not because I didn’t like it, but because I knew it was going to end and I didn’t want it to happen! Yes, I am totally one of those people. I loved everything about this story. Jesse is like a lost puppy in need of some love and not a clue where to turn. He is tired of the rock star life and just wants some peace for a little while. Luckily he found Bristol when he did. She needed love as much as he did. Saddled with a jerk of an ex and a pain in the arse family, she really only had her best friend. I just loved her, admired her strong personality, and would choose her as a girl I would love to be friends with.
I loved the way these two met. It was Kismet and totally swoon worthy at that! The fire and heat between them was undeniable but beyond that, Jesse has such a soft heart and I loved the little things her did for Bristol; a woman very used to doing everything for herself. Of course, there are some downs to go with their ups but it only added up to a very happy ending that I just ADORED!
From start to finish, I loved it. This story had me hooked, kept me glued to each sexy sweet page, and finished off with a romantic movie worthy ending. Thank you, Ms. Black, for a fabulous read!
September 14, 2015
We have a sexy as sin rock star named Jesse that has came across a situation that puts him in a small town to lay low. In the process, he is beginning to reevaluate his life. By coincidence, he runs into a small town girl, Bristol.
Bristol has no idea who Jesse is or what he does for a living. The power of evasion is definitely there. Something short term ends up being a hard dive of sensual temporary arrangement. When an arrangement is made, love is being fought to be kept off the table. Never thought of as an option, but the more the get to know one another the more they fall.
Neither's life is quiet nor calm. They both have trouble nipping at their heels and there's also a sense of betrayal which is uncovered. Can something temporary possible become more?
I love that personality of the characters. Thoroughly enjoyed the story for the novella that this books is. While Pure Wicked can be read as a standalone. I think it's better as a series as there are characters from the past that makes an appearance, but if the reader isn't caught up in the series, the reader I feel would have no trouble with reading this book, if anything perhaps encourage the reader to add the Wicked Lover's to their TBR. I'm a big fan of Wicked Lovers Series and this novella delivered in every way possible that I would of wanted in a novella without feeling as if the story was rushed or incomplete.
ARC exchanged for honest review.
Bristol has no idea who Jesse is or what he does for a living. The power of evasion is definitely there. Something short term ends up being a hard dive of sensual temporary arrangement. When an arrangement is made, love is being fought to be kept off the table. Never thought of as an option, but the more the get to know one another the more they fall.
Neither's life is quiet nor calm. They both have trouble nipping at their heels and there's also a sense of betrayal which is uncovered. Can something temporary possible become more?
I love that personality of the characters. Thoroughly enjoyed the story for the novella that this books is. While Pure Wicked can be read as a standalone. I think it's better as a series as there are characters from the past that makes an appearance, but if the reader isn't caught up in the series, the reader I feel would have no trouble with reading this book, if anything perhaps encourage the reader to add the Wicked Lover's to their TBR. I'm a big fan of Wicked Lovers Series and this novella delivered in every way possible that I would of wanted in a novella without feeling as if the story was rushed or incomplete.
ARC exchanged for honest review.
September 7, 2015
Jesse McCall and Bristol Reese, international superstar and small town girl, two people who are looking for a change, a way to move forward and find something meaningful – a way out of the mess that is their lives due to bad decisions and other people’s idiocy. They may come from two different worlds, but they’re the balm to allow each other’s current situations to change, and as long as they can both hold on and endure the ride – every wickedly sexy and confusing part of it – they may just have found the meaningful life they’ve needed.
Pure Wicked is a quick read that illustrates how life can change for the better unexpectantly. Bristol and Jesse's relationship moves quickly from one steamy night into a whole lot more, and while I did feel like I had whiplash with how fast everything progressed and then felt a bit teased and unfulfilled at the end, the story perfectly fits the concept and reasons behind the storytelling of the 1001 Dark Nights series, leaving readers and listeners wanting more at the end.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Pure Wicked is a quick read that illustrates how life can change for the better unexpectantly. Bristol and Jesse's relationship moves quickly from one steamy night into a whole lot more, and while I did feel like I had whiplash with how fast everything progressed and then felt a bit teased and unfulfilled at the end, the story perfectly fits the concept and reasons behind the storytelling of the 1001 Dark Nights series, leaving readers and listeners wanting more at the end.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
September 6, 2015
Jesse was first introduced in Shayla Black's Wicked Lovers series in book 2. I didn't care for him then. He was young and overwhelmed by his celebrity status and making bad choices. In Pure Wicked, he has finally grown up and, after a horrible tragedy, is putting those destructive habits behind him. While taking some time away, he meets Bristol, the quintessential nice girl who is trying to recover from her boyfriend's betrayal. Bristol needs an honest man and Jesse needs to convince her that he's the guy for her. These two come together when they need each other the most. What results is a sweet, sexy story. While Pure Wicked is part of a series- and what an awesome series- it can be read as a stand alone. You'll want to go back and read them all if this is your first taste of a Shayla Black story. The woman is amazing! I'd read the book just for the opening line! I'm still chuckling when I think about it. I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2016
Spoiler Ahead This was book 9.5 of the " Wicked Lover's ". International pop star Jesse McCall who met in "Decadent (Wicked Lovers series Book 2)" he is Kimber's former fiancée. When a girl dies in his hotel room and his friend and bandmate committee suicide he decides to lay low. Jesse has changed since we first met him he has been clean and sober for over a year. We he shows up on kimber and Deke's door to get some advice he gets straight answers. Bristol Reese is sitting in a restaurant while her family celebrates her sister's engagement to her ex boyfriend Hayden. Jesse comes to her rescue. This was a good read it was good to see what happened to Jesse. I also felt that it could have been more to the ending. The sex scenes were hot but not BDSM I thought it would be. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading more of this series.
October 9, 2016
Pure Wicked
Jesse McCall and Bristol Reese
5/5 Stars
Pure Wicked is a novella of Wicked Lovers series by Shayla Black and 1001 Dark Nights collection.
Favorite Quotes
"Yeah. This isn't merely some post-orgasm glow. I know the difference. I enjoy being with you. I'd rather be with you than everyone else... Hell, I'm writing a song for you, about you. I haven't done that in years. You amaze me. You inspire me." -Jesse
"I love you, too. And that's what hurts the most. I don't know if you're the love of my life... or my biggest mistake." -Bristol
Jesse McCall and Bristol Reese
5/5 Stars
Pure Wicked is a novella of Wicked Lovers series by Shayla Black and 1001 Dark Nights collection.
Favorite Quotes
"Yeah. This isn't merely some post-orgasm glow. I know the difference. I enjoy being with you. I'd rather be with you than everyone else... Hell, I'm writing a song for you, about you. I haven't done that in years. You amaze me. You inspire me." -Jesse
"I love you, too. And that's what hurts the most. I don't know if you're the love of my life... or my biggest mistake." -Bristol
September 22, 2015
I'm not sure what it was about this one, but it was meh...for me. I think part of that is that I had a hard time believing that a big celebrity not being noticed in a small town. I know they said he changed his appearance, but still. I also had a hard time buying into how fast things went between Jesse and Bristol. The one thing that I did really like was how right from the start Jesse did what he could to have Bristol's back. The drama at the end had me laughing, because really, these people got what they deserved.
November 10, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this novella. I normally enjoy romance with a bit of spice and I have read other stories in this series and this one was a little tamer but the deep connection between the two main characters stayed true to the series over all feeling. The story hooked me right from the beginning and the sincerity of the main character a rock star, Jesse, was truthful and engaging. He has been working on changing for a while and then after a tragedy strikes too close to home he breaks away to find some peace. In his travels he meets a beautiful lady in distress, Bristol, and steps in to assist, not knowing the impact his actions would have on both their lives. Her back story gives us a base as to why she is hesitant to jump into a new relationship but their chemistry negates any and all reservations either of the characters have.
May 13, 2018
This was a cute and sexy quick read. While it was quite unrealistic, with Bristol (a small-town woman) and Jesse (an international rock star) going from just meeting to engaged within the span of a week, I enjoyed the story. The book included a couple of steamy sex scenes. This book is HEA with no cliffhanger, but it ends way too soon. I really would've liked to hear more, particularly everybody's reaction to the engagement. Regardless, the ending spot did make sense. This book can be read as a standalone.
I listened to this book via Audible. I really enjoyed the narration by Christian Fox and would love to listen to more books he has narrated.
I listened to this book via Audible. I really enjoyed the narration by Christian Fox and would love to listen to more books he has narrated.
July 24, 2017
Jesse McCall is a singer and a star. Bristol is a small town girl. This unlikely pairing gave me chills reading. Filled with heartfelt emotions and highly unlikely but oh so romantic events, this book read like my dream come true. Partially debauched singer meets sweet and tart, and honest, unlucky in love girl. They click in this unlikely scenario. Their story is just how I always dreamed my life to be. They got it right. I didn't, but get to live it vicariously through this story. If there were more stars to give in my review, I would give them gladly and willingly. *sigh*
June 25, 2018
As usual Shayla Black delivers us a hot and sexy story.
When life took a turn of event Jesse had to find a place to lay low.
Bristol is in hell, literally sitting at his sisters party with her ex as her sisters fiancee.
Jesse see's Bristol and feels a need to help even though he should be avoiding being in the open.
This is the beginning of a very hot story with great characters and a great ending.
I won't share more than that because it's not nice to give the story away.
Beside this is one sweet story you won't want to miss.
When life took a turn of event Jesse had to find a place to lay low.
Bristol is in hell, literally sitting at his sisters party with her ex as her sisters fiancee.
Jesse see's Bristol and feels a need to help even though he should be avoiding being in the open.
This is the beginning of a very hot story with great characters and a great ending.
I won't share more than that because it's not nice to give the story away.
Beside this is one sweet story you won't want to miss.
August 2, 2020
Jesse McCall is taking a break from touring after his pal Ryan shot and killed himself after a girl he was with overdosed. Jesse was not in the hotel when it happened but is getting flack from it due to Ryan. He goes to a small town and helps a young woman out when he hears she is being treated badly by her family. He acts as her boyfriend and becomes that as he falls in love with her. He realizes she is kind and patient and very different from other women he has met. She has no idea who he is and he wonders how she will react when she finds out.
June 25, 2021
A standalone novella within the Wicked Lovers series, Pure Wicked is very different from the other stories in this series. There are no characters who are reappearing from other novels; the location is completely different as well. Just two people, Jesse and Bristol, who meet; are attracted to each other; fall in love; question the other's motives; and figure out what they want before finding their HEA. There is no danger that befalls them; they just have to determine if what they want from life is to be together. A fast read. Not terribly exciting but their story is romantic.
October 30, 2020
This was enjoyable I really enjoyed getting to know new characters.
It also kind of didn’t fit with the series, I guess we meet Jesse in Decadent but I don’t really remember that. It was still a nice story no BDSM, which isn’t a bad thing.
Bristol is a great character I like that she went along with the story to get her mother off her case.
Over all it was ok, and the narration was FANTASTIC!
It also kind of didn’t fit with the series, I guess we meet Jesse in Decadent but I don’t really remember that. It was still a nice story no BDSM, which isn’t a bad thing.
Bristol is a great character I like that she went along with the story to get her mother off her case.
Over all it was ok, and the narration was FANTASTIC!
June 8, 2021
Oh, my!
What a heart touching, heart-warming, emotional love story. It's like a fairy tale ...
Rock star Jesse meets small town girl Bristol, and they fall in a whirlwind kind of love.
Add in some hot love at first sight vibes, some major drama on the rock star's side, and some small town drama on the girl's side, and you have the perfect Cinderella-meets-Prince Charming romance in your hands that you wish was a full length novel.
What a heart touching, heart-warming, emotional love story. It's like a fairy tale ...
Rock star Jesse meets small town girl Bristol, and they fall in a whirlwind kind of love.
Add in some hot love at first sight vibes, some major drama on the rock star's side, and some small town drama on the girl's side, and you have the perfect Cinderella-meets-Prince Charming romance in your hands that you wish was a full length novel.
August 26, 2019
Because this was a novella, I understand why it was so insta-love so it kind of worked. The pacing was lightweight fast, and i did like the charters so I wish they got their own book. The little bit of drama at the end is what really keep this from being boring. Though, I would still prefer the main books in the series over the novellas.
February 23, 2018
Rock On!!
Loved this Rock Star story about Jesse and Bristol.. It shows that love does happen when you least expect it and slow your crazy life down. It left me craving more from Jesse and Bristol!!
Loved this Rock Star story about Jesse and Bristol.. It shows that love does happen when you least expect it and slow your crazy life down. It left me craving more from Jesse and Bristol!!
July 9, 2020
For a short novella, as each of these stories under the 1001 nights genre are, it was good.
The story focuses on a major rock star who has to take a timeout to try to stay out of sight for a while after an incident. It focuses on Jesse/Jaime finding Bristol and their very instant connection. Was it insta-love? Absolutely, I mean come on - its a novella so there is only limited time for a completed story. But....its done nicely and boy is there a lot of drama packed in to the story. Let me just say that Bristol has one kooky family!
This is a quick easy read. I liked it, but then again, Shayla Black very rarely lets me down.
The story focuses on a major rock star who has to take a timeout to try to stay out of sight for a while after an incident. It focuses on Jesse/Jaime finding Bristol and their very instant connection. Was it insta-love? Absolutely, I mean come on - its a novella so there is only limited time for a completed story. But....its done nicely and boy is there a lot of drama packed in to the story. Let me just say that Bristol has one kooky family!
This is a quick easy read. I liked it, but then again, Shayla Black very rarely lets me down.
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