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Lizzy & Diesel #3
Wicked Charms
Murdered and mummified more than ninety years ago, bootlegger Collier “Peg Leg” Dazzle once found and re-hid a famous pirate’s treasure somewhere along the coast of New England. A vast collection of gold and silver coins and precious gems, the bounty also contains the Stone of Avarice — the very item reluctant treasure seeker, Lizzy Tucker, and her partner, Diesel, have been enlisted to find. While Lizzy would just like to live a quiet, semi-normal life, Diesel is all about the hunt. And this hunt is going to require a genuine treasure map and a ship worthy of sailing the seven seas . . . or at least getting them from Salem Harbor to Maine.
Greed is eternal and insatiable, and Lizzy and Diesel aren’t the only ones searching for the lost pirate’s chest. There are people who have dedicated their entire lives to finding it, and are willing to commit murder or make a deal with the devil, just to hold the fortune in their hands. One of those people may even be Wulf, Diesel’s deceptively charming and enigmatic cousin. Wulf desires the Stone of Avarice. He also desires Lizzy. It’s hard to say how far he’s willing to go to gain either one.
It’s a swashbuckling adventure full of raiders, monkeys, minions, and mayhem. Lizzy and Diesel are going to have to do everything they can to keep their heads above water and hope they are living a charmed life.
Greed is eternal and insatiable, and Lizzy and Diesel aren’t the only ones searching for the lost pirate’s chest. There are people who have dedicated their entire lives to finding it, and are willing to commit murder or make a deal with the devil, just to hold the fortune in their hands. One of those people may even be Wulf, Diesel’s deceptively charming and enigmatic cousin. Wulf desires the Stone of Avarice. He also desires Lizzy. It’s hard to say how far he’s willing to go to gain either one.
It’s a swashbuckling adventure full of raiders, monkeys, minions, and mayhem. Lizzy and Diesel are going to have to do everything they can to keep their heads above water and hope they are living a charmed life.
6 pages, Audiobook
First published June 23, 2015
1612 people are currently reading
9326 people want to read
About the author
Janet Evanovich
333 books41.1k followersJanet Evanovich is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Stephanie Plum series, the Lizzy and Diesel series, twelve romance novels, the Alexandra Barnaby novels and Trouble Maker graphic novel, and How I Write: Secrets of a Bestselling Author, as well as the Fox and O'Hare series with co-author Lee Goldberg.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,972 reviews
June 15, 2015
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
THIS ONE IS GOING TO CONTAIN A LOT OF VULGAR GIFS. AFTER READING 1,473 EVANOVICH BOOKS, THERE’S ONLY SO MUCH LEFT IN THE TANK WHEN IT COMES TO REVIEWS. MY APOLOGIES.
If you’ve read/liked Janet E. books in the past, you should have plenty of fun with the Lizzy & Diesel series as well. The light mystery with a side of sexual tension format is the same as in her others - this one just adds an additional element to the mix . . .
Yep, Lizzy and Diesel are both “Unmentionables” who are sensitive to things that are otherworldly. It’s Diesel’s mission to find the seven Stones of Power before they end up in the wrong hands, and Lizzy just so happens to have a knack for finding missing items - especially magical ones. This time around one of the stones is mixed in with the lost treasure of “Peg Leg” Dazzle . . .
Can Lizzy and Diesel track it down before an evil want-to-be demon . . .
gets his hands on it????
As in all Evanovich books, the humor and supporting cast of characters really help to boost the enjoyment level. This time around you have faithful man servants . . .
aspiring pirates . . .
and, of course, Carl the monkey . . .
(Now with 72% more bird flipping. Win!)
There’s even a shout-out to a certain special someone that will give every loyal fan an “a-ha moment” . . .
Now that Phoef Sutton is on board as co-author, maybe these books will start getting churned out like the Stephanie Plum and Fox & O’Hare series. Which means I’ll never have time to read anything else ; )
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
THIS ONE IS GOING TO CONTAIN A LOT OF VULGAR GIFS. AFTER READING 1,473 EVANOVICH BOOKS, THERE’S ONLY SO MUCH LEFT IN THE TANK WHEN IT COMES TO REVIEWS. MY APOLOGIES.
If you’ve read/liked Janet E. books in the past, you should have plenty of fun with the Lizzy & Diesel series as well. The light mystery with a side of sexual tension format is the same as in her others - this one just adds an additional element to the mix . . .
Yep, Lizzy and Diesel are both “Unmentionables” who are sensitive to things that are otherworldly. It’s Diesel’s mission to find the seven Stones of Power before they end up in the wrong hands, and Lizzy just so happens to have a knack for finding missing items - especially magical ones. This time around one of the stones is mixed in with the lost treasure of “Peg Leg” Dazzle . . .
Can Lizzy and Diesel track it down before an evil want-to-be demon . . .
gets his hands on it????
As in all Evanovich books, the humor and supporting cast of characters really help to boost the enjoyment level. This time around you have faithful man servants . . .
aspiring pirates . . .
and, of course, Carl the monkey . . .
(Now with 72% more bird flipping. Win!)
There’s even a shout-out to a certain special someone that will give every loyal fan an “a-ha moment” . . .
Now that Phoef Sutton is on board as co-author, maybe these books will start getting churned out like the Stephanie Plum and Fox & O’Hare series. Which means I’ll never have time to read anything else ; )
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
June 16, 2015
freaking finally... I was about to start writing Janet crazy mail to get this one out... you know the crazy mail where you cut letters out of magazines and threaten the author?
The above was the threat I delivered to Janet about a year ago, I had just re-read Wicked Appetite and I really needed the next book. So I patiently waited, ok it wasn't really patient. Finally Evanovich delivered.
This book was exactly what I expect from Janet, exactly. I laughed, I cringed and I laughed some more. This book has what Stephanie Plum has lost.
The chemistry between Diesel & Lizzy is heating up, and I found myself screaming do it do it do it, who cares if you loose powers often. Don't worry no spoilers here if that occurred or not, but ladies 33% get to 33%.
I think what made this book so special is the story line was the focus, not blowing up cars, "midgets" or a monkey. It feels like that is the common plot lines of SP now, I felt this story was original and what early Evanovich felt like.
Does Wulf remind anyone else of Tom Hiddleston??? you know Loki? sigh I hate to admit ladies, I think I love me some Wulf.
Once I had a solid few hours to read I did not set this book down. I loved every word of this book... especially the last paragraph.
Ladies and gents the last paragraph is a hook, line and sinker and believe me I will send Janet crazy fan mail if we have to wait another 3 years for the next book.
So please Janet I am pleading... please please please get the next one out. I can't wait.
Thank you Netgalley & Bantam for approving me to read this ARC.
Full review to be posted on The Cubicle Escapee
Disclaimer: I did receive a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, as always the thoughts and opinions are my own.
The above was the threat I delivered to Janet about a year ago, I had just re-read Wicked Appetite and I really needed the next book. So I patiently waited, ok it wasn't really patient. Finally Evanovich delivered.
This book was exactly what I expect from Janet, exactly. I laughed, I cringed and I laughed some more. This book has what Stephanie Plum has lost.
The chemistry between Diesel & Lizzy is heating up, and I found myself screaming do it do it do it, who cares if you loose powers often. Don't worry no spoilers here if that occurred or not, but ladies 33% get to 33%.
I think what made this book so special is the story line was the focus, not blowing up cars, "midgets" or a monkey. It feels like that is the common plot lines of SP now, I felt this story was original and what early Evanovich felt like.
Does Wulf remind anyone else of Tom Hiddleston??? you know Loki? sigh I hate to admit ladies, I think I love me some Wulf.
Once I had a solid few hours to read I did not set this book down. I loved every word of this book... especially the last paragraph.
Ladies and gents the last paragraph is a hook, line and sinker and believe me I will send Janet crazy fan mail if we have to wait another 3 years for the next book.
So please Janet I am pleading... please please please get the next one out. I can't wait.
Thank you Netgalley & Bantam for approving me to read this ARC.
Full review to be posted on The Cubicle Escapee
Disclaimer: I did receive a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, as always the thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 21, 2015
This book tries too hard to be clever. Instead, it's silly. The characters are spoofish.
November 6, 2022
5 Stars for Wicked Charms: Lizzy & Diesel Series, Book 3 (audiobook) by Janet Evanovich and Phoef Sutton read by Lorelei King.
Lizzy and Diesel are such fun characters. It’s always fun to see what kind trouble they are getting into. Particularly when Lorelei King is narrating.
Lizzy and Diesel are such fun characters. It’s always fun to see what kind trouble they are getting into. Particularly when Lorelei King is narrating.
June 15, 2015
ARC provided by the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU NetGalley for selecting me to receive an ARC of this book. It is a privilege and an honor.
My friends all know that I an a rabid Janet Evanovich fan. I have read them all from screw ball romance to Stephanie Plum to Lizzy & Diesel, even the Between Books and Graphics, all of them. As long as she entertains me, I am a fan for life. I am not looking for the meaning of life or the Holy Grail in these books, just something fun and I review her books that way. If it makes me laugh, has a mystery to solve and a hint of romance, I am in heaven. I am such a simple reader to write for. Wicked Charms does a fantastic job of making me laugh, making me fall even more in love with Diesel and giving us a treasure hunt mystery to solve. I am in hog heaven.
For several years Lizzie and Diesel have been on a quest to recover the seven stones SALIGIA stones that the power, if all reunited together, to cause all hell to break loose. Lizzie and Diesel have recovered two of the stones and are now on the hunt for a third, the Avarice (greed) stone.
We have Diesel and Lizzie getting closer, much closer. But, if their take their relationship all the way, one of them will loose their power. Maybe (that is my opinion). They need to find the pieces of a coin, a treasure map and a diary in order to find the stone and a treasure worth over 190 million. Of course there are others after the treasure also. And Wulf is in the hunt too.
As in any Janet Evanovich book, you have a cast of incredible supporting characters. Here we have Glo, a witch in training with Broom and a Magic 8-ball, Josh, a Buccaneer American, Martin Ammon, psycho eccentric billionaire with big delusions of owning the world and lots of others. The plot works, but unfortunately, it fell apart about 2/3's of the way through. It was a fun ride anyway.
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU NetGalley for selecting me to receive an ARC of this book. It is a privilege and an honor.
My friends all know that I an a rabid Janet Evanovich fan. I have read them all from screw ball romance to Stephanie Plum to Lizzy & Diesel, even the Between Books and Graphics, all of them. As long as she entertains me, I am a fan for life. I am not looking for the meaning of life or the Holy Grail in these books, just something fun and I review her books that way. If it makes me laugh, has a mystery to solve and a hint of romance, I am in heaven. I am such a simple reader to write for. Wicked Charms does a fantastic job of making me laugh, making me fall even more in love with Diesel and giving us a treasure hunt mystery to solve. I am in hog heaven.
For several years Lizzie and Diesel have been on a quest to recover the seven stones SALIGIA stones that the power, if all reunited together, to cause all hell to break loose. Lizzie and Diesel have recovered two of the stones and are now on the hunt for a third, the Avarice (greed) stone.
We have Diesel and Lizzie getting closer, much closer. But, if their take their relationship all the way, one of them will loose their power. Maybe (that is my opinion). They need to find the pieces of a coin, a treasure map and a diary in order to find the stone and a treasure worth over 190 million. Of course there are others after the treasure also. And Wulf is in the hunt too.
As in any Janet Evanovich book, you have a cast of incredible supporting characters. Here we have Glo, a witch in training with Broom and a Magic 8-ball, Josh, a Buccaneer American, Martin Ammon, psycho eccentric billionaire with big delusions of owning the world and lots of others. The plot works, but unfortunately, it fell apart about 2/3's of the way through. It was a fun ride anyway.
June 17, 2015
RELEASE DATE: June 23, 2015
RATING: 2 stars… Four hours of my life I’ll never get back…
AUDIENCE: Fans of previous Janet Evanovich novels may enjoy this book
SERIES: Lizzy and Diesel novels
REVIEW: This didn’t hit my funny bone, curiosity bone, or any other bone I was born with. It read quite like a movie script, and throughout the book all I could think was that they are marketing this to become a movie. After reading the blurb at the end about co-author Phoef Sutton and her extensive work as a television writer, it clicked.
The dialogue between Lizzy and Diesel was immature and improbable, the plot was convoluted and could have wrapped up the book by chapter twenty-four. I only finished the book because I was so far in I felt obligated.
This may be a case of writing a book to fulfill a contractual obligation.
That being said, there a tons of Evanovich fans who will happily lap this up. It just wasn’t for me.
*Tremendous thanks to Netgalley and Random House Publishing Group / Ballentine for an ARC.
June 27, 2015
www.melissa413readsalot.blogspot.com
***MILD SPOILERS***
I wasn't as impressed with this book as I was the first two in the series. I did like it as I like the characters and the crazy stuff they get do. It just wasn't as fun for me this time around.
Diesel and Lizzy are looking for the Stone of Avarice which is the third deadly sin stone. This involves finding a pirates treasure which contains pieces of coins that give clues, the stone itself and of course, treasure. Some of the coin pieces are spread out in other places as well.
They have to fight other people in the book, including Diesel's cousin Wulf, to find the stone as all of these people want it too.
I think my favorite character in the book is still Carl the monkey, he seems to understand what your saying and flips you the bird on a regular basis :)
The funniest part in the book to me was when Glo, Lizzy's friend and witch, puts a spell on the bad guy Ammon. But... Glo's spells seem to always backfire and she ends up combining two spells which makes Ammon think he is a dog. When he falls off the couch trying to lick his dog balls is hilarious.
I still liked the book and will continue to read this particular series. I love Stephanie Plum much better though :)
***MILD SPOILERS***
I wasn't as impressed with this book as I was the first two in the series. I did like it as I like the characters and the crazy stuff they get do. It just wasn't as fun for me this time around.
Diesel and Lizzy are looking for the Stone of Avarice which is the third deadly sin stone. This involves finding a pirates treasure which contains pieces of coins that give clues, the stone itself and of course, treasure. Some of the coin pieces are spread out in other places as well.
They have to fight other people in the book, including Diesel's cousin Wulf, to find the stone as all of these people want it too.
I think my favorite character in the book is still Carl the monkey, he seems to understand what your saying and flips you the bird on a regular basis :)
The funniest part in the book to me was when Glo, Lizzy's friend and witch, puts a spell on the bad guy Ammon. But... Glo's spells seem to always backfire and she ends up combining two spells which makes Ammon think he is a dog. When he falls off the couch trying to lick his dog balls is hilarious.
I still liked the book and will continue to read this particular series. I love Stephanie Plum much better though :)
August 3, 2015
Fun read, lots of funny moments, treasure, pirates, a coroner, witches, baked goods, sexual tension, over the top bad guys (and their loyal minions, some paranormal fun, and a rude monkey named Carl.
There are a few books that are just great palate cleansers. You get done with a series of crappy books, finish a book that makes you cry the ugly cry, or don't know what to read....this is your rebound book.
I've not read the first two in the series, but I picked it up pretty quick.
Lizzy is a low maintenance, unflappable baker with a few special abilities caught up in Diesel's world of charm, swagger, & paranormal shenanigans.
I have to say the cast of characters were over the top but just what I needed. The book doesn't take itself too seriously. I loved the adventure, and really, who doesn't love some pirates and treasure. If you're anywhere close to my generation, anything of that ilk brings back fond memories of the Goonies.
The villain is a little bit cray-cray and then goes completely nucking futs after a spell gone awry.
His crazy loyal servant maintains an uber polite but will kill you as he politely "ha-ha's" along.
Diesel has a monkey with attitude that loves to flip people off.
Lizzy's friend Glo believes in a little bit of everything, and is armed with a leaking magic eight ball and a broom that has a personality of it's own.
Everyone's searching for 8 pieces of an old pirate coin and a map in order to find an old treasure and relic. Who will get there first? Will Lizzy and Diesel turn up the heat? Will Carl the monkey ever behave?
Enjoy your book rebound.
Thank you Netgalley for a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
There are a few books that are just great palate cleansers. You get done with a series of crappy books, finish a book that makes you cry the ugly cry, or don't know what to read....this is your rebound book.
I've not read the first two in the series, but I picked it up pretty quick.
Lizzy is a low maintenance, unflappable baker with a few special abilities caught up in Diesel's world of charm, swagger, & paranormal shenanigans.
I have to say the cast of characters were over the top but just what I needed. The book doesn't take itself too seriously. I loved the adventure, and really, who doesn't love some pirates and treasure. If you're anywhere close to my generation, anything of that ilk brings back fond memories of the Goonies.
The villain is a little bit cray-cray and then goes completely nucking futs after a spell gone awry.
His crazy loyal servant maintains an uber polite but will kill you as he politely "ha-ha's" along.
Diesel has a monkey with attitude that loves to flip people off.
Lizzy's friend Glo believes in a little bit of everything, and is armed with a leaking magic eight ball and a broom that has a personality of it's own.
Everyone's searching for 8 pieces of an old pirate coin and a map in order to find an old treasure and relic. Who will get there first? Will Lizzy and Diesel turn up the heat? Will Carl the monkey ever behave?
Enjoy your book rebound.
Thank you Netgalley for a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 5, 2021
I read this soo slow in hopes that a book 4 would come out. I love Janet Evanovich. I love the way her books make me smile and you never know what’s coming around that corner. This is a welcome break from the dismay and doom I usually read and I love it 😻.
#teamlizzy
Happy reading everyone
#teamlizzy
Happy reading everyone
October 7, 2015
I've waited a few years for the third installment of the Lizzy & Diesel series, I almost began to think JE had given up on this storyline. I'm glad she didn't. I know this book is pretty much silly all the way through but its cute. I don't care that its not well-written, I don't care that its nonsense, & I don't care that there were A LOT of similarities in this particular book of the Plum series. I like the characters-->Lizzy, Glo, Carl, & even Wulf. I've been to Salem, Massachusetts so I can picture everything that's happening. And.....I also like that there will be an end to the series and not drag on like the Plum series has! Just a cute book to read on a lazy Saturday:)
**Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
**Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 5, 2015
Oh jeeze, I can't even... This book was just ridiculous. Not ridiculous funny, just ridiculous. The characters are so over the top, the scenes are ludicrous and worse than the antics in the Plum series and the plot lines are just not interesting.
The only reason I even read this one was because my MIL buys the books and gave it to me to read.
Not sure what's happening to Evanovich but I'm growing less and less enthused about what she's been coming out with lately. Maybe it's time to take a break and reevaluate.
The only reason I even read this one was because my MIL buys the books and gave it to me to read.
Not sure what's happening to Evanovich but I'm growing less and less enthused about what she's been coming out with lately. Maybe it's time to take a break and reevaluate.
November 4, 2025
Pirates, magic and mayhem make Wicked Charms a must read. I found it marvelously quirky. Wicked Charms completely rocks the paranormal romance genre with fun, friendship, almost romance and adventure.
I received this ARC copy of Wicked Charms from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine - Bantam in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication June 23, 2015.
I received this ARC copy of Wicked Charms from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine - Bantam in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication June 23, 2015.
July 24, 2023
I adore the Lizzy & Diesel mad-cap humor paranormal mystery series. This third book in the series was just as laugh-out-loud funny as the first two (though I wanted more of Carl the monkey!), but the mystery/adventure fizzled out a bit in the second half of the book. Still a really entertaining light read that I'd definitely recommend.
July 6, 2015
3.5/5
mon avis en Français
my English review
I always enjoy the Janet Evanovich’s novels as they allow me to spend a great time every time. Also, I was curious to read this third volume. It’s true that I perhaps prefer her Stephanie Plum (the Lizzy & Diesel series is the spin off from these books) or the Fox and O’Hare series but this one is still very nice too.
We thus find our heroes, launched on a whole new adventure. Lizzy is equal to herself, trying to live a quiet life despite the upheavals in her life. Yet as soon as Diesel reappears, everything changes and our heroine finds herself, as always, engaged in a strange quest. Indeed, during a museum visit, Lizzy comes to face with a mummified treasure hunter, long disappeared. He is known to have found a highly sought pirate treasure and it seems now that everyone is trying to find it with little chance of success. But this time, it’s up to Lizzy and Diesel to chase the famous treasure, and through their skills, they may well succeed where no one has. And as they embark on this new quest, they will face Wulf who is also determined to get his hands on the loot, as well as a historian or a mad billionaire.
It was a very nice story to follow and it’s always a treat to find all the characters we have come to discover. A bit like for Sptehanie Plum, we remain alert to the relationship that the young woman has with the two men. Yes, because it must be said that they are not devoid of charm and both seem interested in Lizzy. Indeed it may well be that all three need come together to a common goal here and I admit that it was pretty funny to see the whole. I was also curious to discover the treasure, to see what everyone coveted. And it is true that the discovery was pretty epic. After, I think that the execution of the story is perhaps a bit long and may lack of a certain something to make you feel more compared to the novel. But I think it’s a good story for a good time, especially in summer.
mon avis en Français
my English review
I always enjoy the Janet Evanovich’s novels as they allow me to spend a great time every time. Also, I was curious to read this third volume. It’s true that I perhaps prefer her Stephanie Plum (the Lizzy & Diesel series is the spin off from these books) or the Fox and O’Hare series but this one is still very nice too.
We thus find our heroes, launched on a whole new adventure. Lizzy is equal to herself, trying to live a quiet life despite the upheavals in her life. Yet as soon as Diesel reappears, everything changes and our heroine finds herself, as always, engaged in a strange quest. Indeed, during a museum visit, Lizzy comes to face with a mummified treasure hunter, long disappeared. He is known to have found a highly sought pirate treasure and it seems now that everyone is trying to find it with little chance of success. But this time, it’s up to Lizzy and Diesel to chase the famous treasure, and through their skills, they may well succeed where no one has. And as they embark on this new quest, they will face Wulf who is also determined to get his hands on the loot, as well as a historian or a mad billionaire.
It was a very nice story to follow and it’s always a treat to find all the characters we have come to discover. A bit like for Sptehanie Plum, we remain alert to the relationship that the young woman has with the two men. Yes, because it must be said that they are not devoid of charm and both seem interested in Lizzy. Indeed it may well be that all three need come together to a common goal here and I admit that it was pretty funny to see the whole. I was also curious to discover the treasure, to see what everyone coveted. And it is true that the discovery was pretty epic. After, I think that the execution of the story is perhaps a bit long and may lack of a certain something to make you feel more compared to the novel. But I think it’s a good story for a good time, especially in summer.
July 23, 2015
Book 3 of the Lizzie and Diesel series takes us on a chase for the third of the seven stones that are connected with the seven deadly sins and this one is greed.
We are taken on a treasure hunt via the way of tracking down parts of a coin - sounding familiar? - and with the usual mayhem associated with Lizzie and Diesel we know that the hunt will not be straightforward.
The usual suspects all turn up in this novel - Clara, Lizzie's boss in the bakery where she works; Glo, Lizzie's co-worker and friend who thinks she is a witch; Wulf, Diesel's cousin and competitor in the race to find the seven stones.
If you haven't read books 1 and 2 in this series then you really have to read them first. Unlike in the plum books which usually give a full brief about the characters, Evanovich doesn't do a huge back trawl through the previous stories for those who may have picked this up and just be joining the adventure.
With regards to the treasure hunt the whole thing reminded me of an updated version of the movie classic - The Goonies!
I gave the book a four as I enjoyed it as I do with most of what Evanovich turns out. There is a light hearted reasonable pace to her books and a pull that keeps you going until you reach the end.
The reason it wasn't a 5 was I didn't have that many laugh out loud moments that I usually get with Evanovich's books. Hopefully that will come back in the next book.
We are taken on a treasure hunt via the way of tracking down parts of a coin - sounding familiar? - and with the usual mayhem associated with Lizzie and Diesel we know that the hunt will not be straightforward.
The usual suspects all turn up in this novel - Clara, Lizzie's boss in the bakery where she works; Glo, Lizzie's co-worker and friend who thinks she is a witch; Wulf, Diesel's cousin and competitor in the race to find the seven stones.
If you haven't read books 1 and 2 in this series then you really have to read them first. Unlike in the plum books which usually give a full brief about the characters, Evanovich doesn't do a huge back trawl through the previous stories for those who may have picked this up and just be joining the adventure.
With regards to the treasure hunt the whole thing reminded me of an updated version of the movie classic - The Goonies!
I gave the book a four as I enjoyed it as I do with most of what Evanovich turns out. There is a light hearted reasonable pace to her books and a pull that keeps you going until you reach the end.
The reason it wasn't a 5 was I didn't have that many laugh out loud moments that I usually get with Evanovich's books. Hopefully that will come back in the next book.
July 2, 2015
I just can't put my finger on it... Was this book cute? Yes. Did it follow the famous Evanovich formula? Yes. Did it turn out right? Nope.
I hate to think or say it, but I think this maybe was a ghost write for Sutton with J.E advising...All around this one felt forced and rushed. It was missing the J.E magic.
A couple things threw me, like the writing style couldn't seem to decide if the narrative was past or present. There was one spot toward the end that seemed to break "the fourth wall" technically speaking I don't know if it actually did, but it jarred me out of the story so much that I reread it a couple times... I can't remember ever having those thoughts in other J.E books, so I will reread earlier work and see if anything stands out. Maybe her style has always been this way and I'm only noticing now because the other author's name on the cover?
All around everyone felt a little lackluster to me, even Carl, how does a monkey famous for flipping people off fall flat? I have no idea. All around I'm going to say it was a fast, cute read. I'm still feeling conflicted about this one so only time will tell if I pursue the series. I will be more likely to pick it up if J.E does the next one without a coauthor, though.
I hate to think or say it, but I think this maybe was a ghost write for Sutton with J.E advising...All around this one felt forced and rushed. It was missing the J.E magic.
A couple things threw me, like the writing style couldn't seem to decide if the narrative was past or present. There was one spot toward the end that seemed to break "the fourth wall" technically speaking I don't know if it actually did, but it jarred me out of the story so much that I reread it a couple times... I can't remember ever having those thoughts in other J.E books, so I will reread earlier work and see if anything stands out. Maybe her style has always been this way and I'm only noticing now because the other author's name on the cover?
All around everyone felt a little lackluster to me, even Carl, how does a monkey famous for flipping people off fall flat? I have no idea. All around I'm going to say it was a fast, cute read. I'm still feeling conflicted about this one so only time will tell if I pursue the series. I will be more likely to pick it up if J.E does the next one without a coauthor, though.
October 28, 2016
second read, October 2016, and this time it was the audio version as I was driving cross country. at first I was not fond of the reader but she grew on me. this is my least favorite of the 3 so far lizzie and diesel books. it is completely terrible in terms of continuity and repeating scenes. so formulaic.
first read July 2, 2015. Am I annoyed at myself for how I continue reading Evanovich expecting her to suddenly be a good writer? Yes. Yes, I am. The sentences are so short. Everything is very straightforward. The fact that I used "very" in that sentence is like decorating it with flowers. Like MASSIVE amounts of flowers. And yet. I do keep reading them. I kind of continue to like these Lizzie/Diesel ones more than Stephanie Plum. Diesel is far more entertaining as the male lead. Plus there is a Cat which is way better than a hamster. And the storyline is allowed to be a bit more ridiculous because magic is an accepted part of the reality.
first read July 2, 2015. Am I annoyed at myself for how I continue reading Evanovich expecting her to suddenly be a good writer? Yes. Yes, I am. The sentences are so short. Everything is very straightforward. The fact that I used "very" in that sentence is like decorating it with flowers. Like MASSIVE amounts of flowers. And yet. I do keep reading them. I kind of continue to like these Lizzie/Diesel ones more than Stephanie Plum. Diesel is far more entertaining as the male lead. Plus there is a Cat which is way better than a hamster. And the storyline is allowed to be a bit more ridiculous because magic is an accepted part of the reality.
June 22, 2015
3.5 stars
Ridiculous.
Could I leave just that in lieu of my review? Because in this unique case, it might just be enough. Ridiculous. And sort of wonderful, but that goes without saying – after all, we’re dealing with Janet Evanovich, the uncrowned queen of wicked humor and insane sexual tension.
We rejoin our heroes as they continue their search for Seven Stones of Power. The stones reflect seven deadly sins, and with two found in the previous books, it is now time to find the stone of avarice. Lizzy and Diesel are Unmentionables, people with special powers, and although he’s far more experienced (in more ways than one, ahem), Diesel doesn’t stand a chance of finding the stones without Lizzy, who can sense their proximity and authenticity.
The plot is much stronger in Wicked Charms than in the previous two books, but it’s still a far cry from a structured, serious novel. After all, only Janet Evanovich could combine wannabe medieval knights, wannabe pirates, wannabe witches and one very rude monkey into something even close to coherent. Although it’s better plotted, this is still very much reminiscent of Looney Tunes and all the characters are just spectacularly silly. Ridiculous, I tell you.
The sexual tension in this book is insane! We’ve been waiting so long to see Lizzy and Diesel together, but one or both of them could lose their powers if they ever get together. Diesel himself is charming and hilarious, but I find myself even more attracted to his evil cousin and their nemesis Wulf. Everyone loves a bad boy, right?
Aside from his name on the cover, I didn’t notice any differences now that Phoef Sutton joined as co-author, which means that he did so quite seamlessly. I’m not sure how much he’s contributing at this point, but he got the overall tone of Janet’s writing perfectly. And now that he’s here, maybe we won’t have to wait three years for the next book. That last paragraph left me screaming for more.
If you’re looking for something to brighten up your day, you can’t possibly go wrong with one of Janet’s books, and especially not with this series. As long as you don’t expect anything even remotely serious, you’ll find yourself enjoying every word. Also, laughing like a lunatic is good for your abs, soldier. Go for it.
”Why can’t you save the world by yourself?” I asked Diesel. “Why do I have to go along?”
“You have to do your touchy-feely thing. I’m big and strong and smokin’ hot, but I’m not touchy-feely.”
This was all true.
“And I think he was taking pictures of us,” I said to the guard. “Up our skirts.”
“You’re wearing jeans,” the guard said.
“So we outsmarted him!” I said.
“I’m willing to trade this unpleasant monkey for the pieces of eight you’ve acquired and a small service from Ms. Tucker.”
“Get serious,” Diesel said. “Keep the monkey.”
Ridiculous.
Could I leave just that in lieu of my review? Because in this unique case, it might just be enough. Ridiculous. And sort of wonderful, but that goes without saying – after all, we’re dealing with Janet Evanovich, the uncrowned queen of wicked humor and insane sexual tension.
We rejoin our heroes as they continue their search for Seven Stones of Power. The stones reflect seven deadly sins, and with two found in the previous books, it is now time to find the stone of avarice. Lizzy and Diesel are Unmentionables, people with special powers, and although he’s far more experienced (in more ways than one, ahem), Diesel doesn’t stand a chance of finding the stones without Lizzy, who can sense their proximity and authenticity.
The plot is much stronger in Wicked Charms than in the previous two books, but it’s still a far cry from a structured, serious novel. After all, only Janet Evanovich could combine wannabe medieval knights, wannabe pirates, wannabe witches and one very rude monkey into something even close to coherent. Although it’s better plotted, this is still very much reminiscent of Looney Tunes and all the characters are just spectacularly silly. Ridiculous, I tell you.
The sexual tension in this book is insane! We’ve been waiting so long to see Lizzy and Diesel together, but one or both of them could lose their powers if they ever get together. Diesel himself is charming and hilarious, but I find myself even more attracted to his evil cousin and their nemesis Wulf. Everyone loves a bad boy, right?
Aside from his name on the cover, I didn’t notice any differences now that Phoef Sutton joined as co-author, which means that he did so quite seamlessly. I’m not sure how much he’s contributing at this point, but he got the overall tone of Janet’s writing perfectly. And now that he’s here, maybe we won’t have to wait three years for the next book. That last paragraph left me screaming for more.
If you’re looking for something to brighten up your day, you can’t possibly go wrong with one of Janet’s books, and especially not with this series. As long as you don’t expect anything even remotely serious, you’ll find yourself enjoying every word. Also, laughing like a lunatic is good for your abs, soldier. Go for it.
”Why can’t you save the world by yourself?” I asked Diesel. “Why do I have to go along?”
“You have to do your touchy-feely thing. I’m big and strong and smokin’ hot, but I’m not touchy-feely.”
This was all true.
“And I think he was taking pictures of us,” I said to the guard. “Up our skirts.”
“You’re wearing jeans,” the guard said.
“So we outsmarted him!” I said.
“I’m willing to trade this unpleasant monkey for the pieces of eight you’ve acquired and a small service from Ms. Tucker.”
“Get serious,” Diesel said. “Keep the monkey.”
December 25, 2017
I have been waiting for this book to come out for what seems like forever!
These books are so fun to read. I laughed a lot reading this one. Im sad that it’s so long a wait between books. I love this series!
These books are so fun to read. I laughed a lot reading this one. Im sad that it’s so long a wait between books. I love this series!
July 1, 2016
This was another fun read by Janet Evanovich for me. I listened to the audiobook and I have to say that I absolutely love Lorelei King. She narrates a lot of Evanovich's books and always does them so well. I just get sucked into the story and before I realize it, it's over.
Lizzy is on another adventure with Disel hunting for pirate treasure before it falls into the wrong hands. Lizzy is a baker, but when Disel drops in she has to stop what she's doing and help him. She's one of the people who have enhanced abilities and she can sense when objects have magical qualities.
I love that the more Lizzy and Disel hang out, the more things heat up between them. The only problem is that they can't sleep together. If they do, one of them will lose their powers and Lizzy doesn't want to have to save the world all by herself. But that doesn't stop Disel from flirting and making her want to reconsider.
Evanovich really knows how to make me laugh. I couldn't help but laugh at the crazy antics these two got into while driving to school. I'm a huge Evanovich fan. I've read all of her books and love them all, this one included.
Lizzy is on another adventure with Disel hunting for pirate treasure before it falls into the wrong hands. Lizzy is a baker, but when Disel drops in she has to stop what she's doing and help him. She's one of the people who have enhanced abilities and she can sense when objects have magical qualities.
I love that the more Lizzy and Disel hang out, the more things heat up between them. The only problem is that they can't sleep together. If they do, one of them will lose their powers and Lizzy doesn't want to have to save the world all by herself. But that doesn't stop Disel from flirting and making her want to reconsider.
Evanovich really knows how to make me laugh. I couldn't help but laugh at the crazy antics these two got into while driving to school. I'm a huge Evanovich fan. I've read all of her books and love them all, this one included.
July 24, 2015
By far the best in the series!! Super funny, great flow, and FINALLY a little something going on between Lizzy and Diesel!
December 6, 2017
Loved the first book, thought the second in the series was ok, this one though.... nope. nope. nope.
June 15, 2015
This is the third Lizzy and Diesel novel, following on from “Wicked Appetite,” and “Wicked Business.” However, this time around there is another author involved, Phoef Sutton, and it is not clear how much the co-author wrote. However, it is wonderful to have another instalment in this fun series – packed with silly puns, over the top characters and a little romance.
Lizzy Tucker is still living in Salem, in the house she inherited from her Great-Aunt Ophelia, where she lives with Cat and works as a pastry chef at Dazzle’s Bakery. Lizzy and Diesel are still searching for the seven Seligia stones – seven ancient stones that hold the powers of the seven deadly sins. Lizzy is one of two people who have the ability to locate the stones; along with Hatchet – minion to Wulf, Diesel’s cousin.
While visiting a Pirate museum, the mummified body of Peg Leg Dazzle is discovered to hold part of a coin; the pieces of eight allow clues on treasure map to be read and should lead to The Stone of Avarice. As you would expect, it is no easy thing to find all the pieces of the coin and the treasure map – let alone the stone itself. This madcap adventure includes a billionaire megalomaniac (as you would expect in a storyline about greed), a museum guide who thinks his a pirate, an increasingly irate Wulf, a cute coroner called Theodore Nergal, secret tunnels, an obsessed professor and lots of things being blown up…
I really hope that we don’t have to wait so long for the next instalment in this series. I enjoy the interplay between Lizzy and the other characters – not only Diesel, but also her colleagues at the bakery. The novel goes at a breakneck speed, but the book is carried by its own humour – you know it is all unbelievably silly, but you do care about the characters and so are happily carried along on the ride. Lastly, I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, for review.
Lizzy Tucker is still living in Salem, in the house she inherited from her Great-Aunt Ophelia, where she lives with Cat and works as a pastry chef at Dazzle’s Bakery. Lizzy and Diesel are still searching for the seven Seligia stones – seven ancient stones that hold the powers of the seven deadly sins. Lizzy is one of two people who have the ability to locate the stones; along with Hatchet – minion to Wulf, Diesel’s cousin.
While visiting a Pirate museum, the mummified body of Peg Leg Dazzle is discovered to hold part of a coin; the pieces of eight allow clues on treasure map to be read and should lead to The Stone of Avarice. As you would expect, it is no easy thing to find all the pieces of the coin and the treasure map – let alone the stone itself. This madcap adventure includes a billionaire megalomaniac (as you would expect in a storyline about greed), a museum guide who thinks his a pirate, an increasingly irate Wulf, a cute coroner called Theodore Nergal, secret tunnels, an obsessed professor and lots of things being blown up…
I really hope that we don’t have to wait so long for the next instalment in this series. I enjoy the interplay between Lizzy and the other characters – not only Diesel, but also her colleagues at the bakery. The novel goes at a breakneck speed, but the book is carried by its own humour – you know it is all unbelievably silly, but you do care about the characters and so are happily carried along on the ride. Lastly, I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, for review.
November 1, 2016
The good news is that there are no new titles in this series at this time so I don't feel compelled to listen to another installment. Yay!
The bad news is that this one got old, fast. Maybe it's because I listened to all three in a row but maybe not because for volumes one and two, I was rolling my eyes all through the first halves but by the ends, I was smiling a bit, finding I'd enjoyed the reading experience. That flip-flopped for this episode of silliness. It just went on for far too long and the whole last third had me impatiently dialing up the reading speed so I could be done quickly. It was more cartoonish and over-the-top than the others. Maybe it wasn't, maybe I came to November with less patience for fluff. Whatever the case, I didn't end the book smiling in a sheepish fashion, wondering why I'd enjoyed it so much. Instead, I was relieved it was over.
October is also over and now I will move on to more sensical literary fare.
The bad news is that this one got old, fast. Maybe it's because I listened to all three in a row but maybe not because for volumes one and two, I was rolling my eyes all through the first halves but by the ends, I was smiling a bit, finding I'd enjoyed the reading experience. That flip-flopped for this episode of silliness. It just went on for far too long and the whole last third had me impatiently dialing up the reading speed so I could be done quickly. It was more cartoonish and over-the-top than the others. Maybe it wasn't, maybe I came to November with less patience for fluff. Whatever the case, I didn't end the book smiling in a sheepish fashion, wondering why I'd enjoyed it so much. Instead, I was relieved it was over.
October is also over and now I will move on to more sensical literary fare.
January 27, 2016
As usual, very light, fun and quick read.. It's all about the cute witches!
Again as usual, I like Glo!
Lorelei King's narration was just delightful!
Again as usual, I like Glo!
Lorelei King's narration was just delightful!
June 14, 2016
I always hate to finish the books in this series.
They are not one of the great American novels, they are just plain fun.
I do think they have gone a little overboard with Carl the monkey.
But, that's okay...I'll be reading the next one as soon as it is released.
They are not one of the great American novels, they are just plain fun.
I do think they have gone a little overboard with Carl the monkey.
But, that's okay...I'll be reading the next one as soon as it is released.
August 19, 2015
Funny, light and exciting read.
April 3, 2016
Friend recommended this book and also my first by Janet Evanovich. I will have to try another series. This isn't what I expected from NY Times Best Seller.
June 30, 2016
Pretty silly! I loved the pirate theme and the polite bad guy, Rutherford!
December 11, 2016
Didn't enjoy this one as much as the previous books in the series. The plot just wasn't able to hold my attention.
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