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Briarwood Academy #1-3
Bad Wicked Twisted
FOUR RED-HOT BOOKS + BONUS CHAPTERS about the BAD, WICKED and TWISTED characters of Briarwood Academy, featuring a dirty-talking gym owner, a football player, a sexy rock star, and a British bad boy.
1.) VERY BAD THINGS
Leaving behind her mansion and Jimmy Choos, Nora Blakely becomes a girl hell-bent on pushing the limits with alcohol, drugs, and meaningless sex.
Then she meets her soulmate, but he doesn’t want her.
Sexy gym owner Leo Tate has one rule: never fall in love…until Nora shows up with her list of bad things. He resists the pull of their sizzling connection, hung up on their age difference.
2.) VERY WICKED BEGINNINGS (Prequel Novella)
When wicked ballerina Dovey Beckham meets football star Cuba Hudson, she didn’t plan on having her heart shattered into a million pieces. He’s the bad boy with a dark past and when he falls for Dovey, he knows she can’t be part of his future.
Welcome to VERY WICKED BEGINNINGS.
3.) VERY WICKED THINGS
Dovey Beckham is a ballerina from the wrong side of the tracks. Cuba "Hollywood" Hudson is a wealthy football player with fast cars and even faster girlfriends.
Their passion is electric, their connection deep, but once in a lifetime kind of love doesn't come easy, especially when dirty money, past sins, and old flames come calling.
4.) VERY TWISTED THINGS
Violet St. Johns is a talented violinist hiding out in a Hollywood mansion, struggling to forget the devastation of her parent’s sudden death.
Vital Rejects front man Sebastian Tate never imagined his music video would go viral, skyrocketing him to instant fame.
When he sees the elusive girl in the mansion next door playing her violin nude, they begin an erotic game of spying.
When they finally come face-to-face, sparks fly and clothes comes off. But giving his heart to a girl isn’t Sebastian’s plan; falling for a guy who craves attention isn’t Violet’s.
Welcome to Briarwood Academy….Hollywood style….where the best things in life are VERY TWISTED THINGS.
1.) VERY BAD THINGS
Leaving behind her mansion and Jimmy Choos, Nora Blakely becomes a girl hell-bent on pushing the limits with alcohol, drugs, and meaningless sex.
Then she meets her soulmate, but he doesn’t want her.
Sexy gym owner Leo Tate has one rule: never fall in love…until Nora shows up with her list of bad things. He resists the pull of their sizzling connection, hung up on their age difference.
2.) VERY WICKED BEGINNINGS (Prequel Novella)
When wicked ballerina Dovey Beckham meets football star Cuba Hudson, she didn’t plan on having her heart shattered into a million pieces. He’s the bad boy with a dark past and when he falls for Dovey, he knows she can’t be part of his future.
Welcome to VERY WICKED BEGINNINGS.
3.) VERY WICKED THINGS
Dovey Beckham is a ballerina from the wrong side of the tracks. Cuba "Hollywood" Hudson is a wealthy football player with fast cars and even faster girlfriends.
Their passion is electric, their connection deep, but once in a lifetime kind of love doesn't come easy, especially when dirty money, past sins, and old flames come calling.
4.) VERY TWISTED THINGS
Violet St. Johns is a talented violinist hiding out in a Hollywood mansion, struggling to forget the devastation of her parent’s sudden death.
Vital Rejects front man Sebastian Tate never imagined his music video would go viral, skyrocketing him to instant fame.
When he sees the elusive girl in the mansion next door playing her violin nude, they begin an erotic game of spying.
When they finally come face-to-face, sparks fly and clothes comes off. But giving his heart to a girl isn’t Sebastian’s plan; falling for a guy who craves attention isn’t Violet’s.
Welcome to Briarwood Academy….Hollywood style….where the best things in life are VERY TWISTED THINGS.
898 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2015
608 people are currently reading
625 people want to read
About the author
Ilsa Madden-Mills
39 books16.4k followers#1 Amazon Charts, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and USA Today best-selling author Ilsa Madden-Mills pens angsty new adult and contemporary romances.
A former high school English teacher and librarian, she adores all things Pride and Prejudice, and of course, Mr. Darcy is her ultimate hero.
She's addicted to frothy coffee beverages, cheesy magnets, and any book featuring unicorns and sword-wielding females. Feel free to stalk her online. ☺
★ Sign up for her newsletter and receive insider info about new releases and exclusive giveaways
★ You can stalk her/sign up on the contact page: ilsamaddenmills.com
★ Facebook: Author Ilsa Madden-Mills
★ Join her private reader group on FB: Unicorn Girls
★ Instagram @Ilsamaddenmills
New Book News:
Dear Ava is live!
Not My Romeo is live!
I Promise You drops October 12/20
Not My Match drops January 19/21 (pre-order on Amazon)
A former high school English teacher and librarian, she adores all things Pride and Prejudice, and of course, Mr. Darcy is her ultimate hero.
She's addicted to frothy coffee beverages, cheesy magnets, and any book featuring unicorns and sword-wielding females. Feel free to stalk her online. ☺
★ Sign up for her newsletter and receive insider info about new releases and exclusive giveaways
★ You can stalk her/sign up on the contact page: ilsamaddenmills.com
★ Facebook: Author Ilsa Madden-Mills
★ Join her private reader group on FB: Unicorn Girls
★ Instagram @Ilsamaddenmills
New Book News:
Dear Ava is live!
Not My Romeo is live!
I Promise You drops October 12/20
Not My Match drops January 19/21 (pre-order on Amazon)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
January 29, 2019
Great series!
Love this series! These books have such a good story line. I love all the emotions that were put into this series. Really a great read!
Love this series! These books have such a good story line. I love all the emotions that were put into this series. Really a great read!
August 21, 2017
VERY BAD THINGS:
I was so happy to get this book, I had been looking forward to reading it every since I saw the cover then I read the blurb and started to get impatient. Leo, he's protective but in the first scene I didn't know if it was for his brother Sebastian or for Nora, "I didn't pay for this school so you could screw around with girls. You're here to play football and get good grades so you can get into a decent university. Stay away from Buttercup." Nora is quite the entertainer when she's drunk, the crap that comes out of her mouth, "I'm not a virgin, you know. I've been with other guys, some good at effing, some not." I let my eyes run over him slowly. "You're older which means more experienced. I bet you'd blow them right out of the water." I mean the girl is really unfiltered, "you're hard for me. You look bigger than a tree trunk in those shorts," I said. "And you haven't walked out of this bathroom. I think you're a little fascinated with me. I think you like watching me take my -" And Nora does have a point when it comes to dating, "you're just not that in to her if you can't put forth the effort it takes for a real date. Seriously, all you did was run around in the heat, sweat like a pig, and buy her some water." And Nora may be messed up (with good reason) but she really does make a lot of good points, and Leo he's just an idiot for not seeing what the hell is in front of him, "why?" I said. "Because you're jealous? Because you won't have me, so no one can? It doesn't work like that, Leo." Leo has this weird thing about sniffing her as well, like a dog does next thing you know he'll be peeing on her to mark his territory, "breathing you in because you smell so effing good, like peaches. I want to eat you up." I their story really isn't finished I would love to see a follow up story about how they make things work while she goes to college, and maybe see her mom die, or just get brutally injured either way works for me. This is a book I shall be hounding the author for a copy for
VERY WICKED BEGINNINGS:
I'm so excited to see where Cuba and Dovey started things off, I mean Cuba that boy has quite the imagination for that girl, "she wanted me to eff her, her hands urging me up off the ground, to finish what we'd started. I had to give her what she wanted because I wanted her more than I'd ever wanted any girl." I see Cuba trying to hard with this girl and I just thought it was cute, "I sat back down. "And by the way, I've noticed you even before our class this year. You're different." My voice went low. "And I saw you dance." Cuba is a total flirt when it comes to Dovey, "I scratched an eyebrow. "Maybe." I leaned in closer. "Maybe you can come and watch me practice? I could use my own personal cheerleader in the stands." This prequel made me very excited to start the book.
VERY WICKED THINGS:
Cuba is still affected by Dovey even though he doesn't want to admit it, "she curled her lip on one side and shrugged, making the shoulder of her shirt dip down, revealing creamy skin. Her bra strap was a bright pink, I mentally groaned. I wondered if the cups were lacy. She liked lace. "Aren't you going to fix your shirt?" I said in clipped tones." Dovey that girl is holding a damn grudge which I totally don't blame her, "she scowled at me. "Why did you do that? Why do you assume I want your help? And FYI, I don't have the money to pay a mechanic from Highland Park. Call him pack and tell him to forget it. He won't get a dime from me. I can buy my own hose and put it on myself." The boy is still hard for this girl and I felt for him I did, "he rocked me. "Whatever it is that's got you like this, sh**, I swear, I'll fix it. I won't leave you alone. Please, Dovey, talk to me." He tried to tilt my chin and look at me, but I fought him until he sighed and gave up." The boy is possessive of her, but the thing is the boy has no right to be but that doesn't make any difference to Cuba, "come here and kiss me," he demanded, his eyes heavy. "I want to wipe that bast***'s mouth off of you." This book as you can tell is different from the first one as the characters already knew each other and it was about finding yourself and themselves all over again. I have to say I'm really looking forward to Sebastian's story
VERY TWISTED THINGS:
I fell in love with Sebastian when he first met him in "Very Bad Things" and I had to impatiently wait for his story so I was so excited for this book, he's not as alpha as his brother but sometimes when pushed to his limits you see the bossy side of him, "get off that swing, V, or I'll eff you while you're on it." His words although not as sweet as Romeo from Romeo and Juliet still had the same affect, "my c*** is hard enough to chop wood." I don't think Sebastian has trouble expressing his feelings he just does is in his own unique way, "ride my fingers, V, and when this night is over, you're mine in about a million different ways." I hope there's more to come in this series but the way it ended I'm kinda thinking it's the last book
I was so happy to get this book, I had been looking forward to reading it every since I saw the cover then I read the blurb and started to get impatient. Leo, he's protective but in the first scene I didn't know if it was for his brother Sebastian or for Nora, "I didn't pay for this school so you could screw around with girls. You're here to play football and get good grades so you can get into a decent university. Stay away from Buttercup." Nora is quite the entertainer when she's drunk, the crap that comes out of her mouth, "I'm not a virgin, you know. I've been with other guys, some good at effing, some not." I let my eyes run over him slowly. "You're older which means more experienced. I bet you'd blow them right out of the water." I mean the girl is really unfiltered, "you're hard for me. You look bigger than a tree trunk in those shorts," I said. "And you haven't walked out of this bathroom. I think you're a little fascinated with me. I think you like watching me take my -" And Nora does have a point when it comes to dating, "you're just not that in to her if you can't put forth the effort it takes for a real date. Seriously, all you did was run around in the heat, sweat like a pig, and buy her some water." And Nora may be messed up (with good reason) but she really does make a lot of good points, and Leo he's just an idiot for not seeing what the hell is in front of him, "why?" I said. "Because you're jealous? Because you won't have me, so no one can? It doesn't work like that, Leo." Leo has this weird thing about sniffing her as well, like a dog does next thing you know he'll be peeing on her to mark his territory, "breathing you in because you smell so effing good, like peaches. I want to eat you up." I their story really isn't finished I would love to see a follow up story about how they make things work while she goes to college, and maybe see her mom die, or just get brutally injured either way works for me. This is a book I shall be hounding the author for a copy for
VERY WICKED BEGINNINGS:
I'm so excited to see where Cuba and Dovey started things off, I mean Cuba that boy has quite the imagination for that girl, "she wanted me to eff her, her hands urging me up off the ground, to finish what we'd started. I had to give her what she wanted because I wanted her more than I'd ever wanted any girl." I see Cuba trying to hard with this girl and I just thought it was cute, "I sat back down. "And by the way, I've noticed you even before our class this year. You're different." My voice went low. "And I saw you dance." Cuba is a total flirt when it comes to Dovey, "I scratched an eyebrow. "Maybe." I leaned in closer. "Maybe you can come and watch me practice? I could use my own personal cheerleader in the stands." This prequel made me very excited to start the book.
VERY WICKED THINGS:
Cuba is still affected by Dovey even though he doesn't want to admit it, "she curled her lip on one side and shrugged, making the shoulder of her shirt dip down, revealing creamy skin. Her bra strap was a bright pink, I mentally groaned. I wondered if the cups were lacy. She liked lace. "Aren't you going to fix your shirt?" I said in clipped tones." Dovey that girl is holding a damn grudge which I totally don't blame her, "she scowled at me. "Why did you do that? Why do you assume I want your help? And FYI, I don't have the money to pay a mechanic from Highland Park. Call him pack and tell him to forget it. He won't get a dime from me. I can buy my own hose and put it on myself." The boy is still hard for this girl and I felt for him I did, "he rocked me. "Whatever it is that's got you like this, sh**, I swear, I'll fix it. I won't leave you alone. Please, Dovey, talk to me." He tried to tilt my chin and look at me, but I fought him until he sighed and gave up." The boy is possessive of her, but the thing is the boy has no right to be but that doesn't make any difference to Cuba, "come here and kiss me," he demanded, his eyes heavy. "I want to wipe that bast***'s mouth off of you." This book as you can tell is different from the first one as the characters already knew each other and it was about finding yourself and themselves all over again. I have to say I'm really looking forward to Sebastian's story
VERY TWISTED THINGS:
I fell in love with Sebastian when he first met him in "Very Bad Things" and I had to impatiently wait for his story so I was so excited for this book, he's not as alpha as his brother but sometimes when pushed to his limits you see the bossy side of him, "get off that swing, V, or I'll eff you while you're on it." His words although not as sweet as Romeo from Romeo and Juliet still had the same affect, "my c*** is hard enough to chop wood." I don't think Sebastian has trouble expressing his feelings he just does is in his own unique way, "ride my fingers, V, and when this night is over, you're mine in about a million different ways." I hope there's more to come in this series but the way it ended I'm kinda thinking it's the last book
March 16, 2019
Good Series, But Fails To Contemplate Spider's Story
First, I avoided this series based on the description; it seemed to be based on a group of spoiled high school kids. Spider was a fantastic book, however, and I read this series in order to get more background on him. After reading this series, I can say that despite it being largely about a group of high schoolers, there was a lot there, and I found the stories to have more depth than I anticipated. I liked that the first book and last book were about the Tate brothers, and it was nice to finally see Sebastian find his HEA with Violet - a girl who can relate to what he suffered with the loss of his parents. I must mention that Sebastian's earlier attachment to Emma really bothered me, because I couldn't see him falling for someone who treated Nora, his sister-in-law and good friend, so horribly. The epilogue of the last book was appreciated - it was nice to have all the stars of the series brought together, even if only mentioned briefly. Having unfortunately read Spider first, I was disappointed at how his character is played out in the last book in this series - AFTER what we find out in his book to be an incredibly important event for him. Hence it felt like Spider's story was not yet contemplated when this was written, and it cheapens his love story in Spider. The emphasis on and implications of Spider's relationship with Mila, and the missing references to Rose, both by Spider and Mila, were a disappointment. I had expected Spider to be rather numb at this point, not infatuated with Mila. And Mila would have known that his state of mind was messed up, and hence any 'messing around' between the two of them would have been with open eyes and no expectations. It would have been meaningful to have mentioned how truely messed up Spider really was, including that he had family issues, and referencing both Dovey and Rose, and explaining their combined impact on his state of mind. As sweet as Mila is, I would have anticipated that she 'messed around' in part just to help Spider move on (while having a little fun and indulging in a crush at the same time).
First, I avoided this series based on the description; it seemed to be based on a group of spoiled high school kids. Spider was a fantastic book, however, and I read this series in order to get more background on him. After reading this series, I can say that despite it being largely about a group of high schoolers, there was a lot there, and I found the stories to have more depth than I anticipated. I liked that the first book and last book were about the Tate brothers, and it was nice to finally see Sebastian find his HEA with Violet - a girl who can relate to what he suffered with the loss of his parents. I must mention that Sebastian's earlier attachment to Emma really bothered me, because I couldn't see him falling for someone who treated Nora, his sister-in-law and good friend, so horribly. The epilogue of the last book was appreciated - it was nice to have all the stars of the series brought together, even if only mentioned briefly. Having unfortunately read Spider first, I was disappointed at how his character is played out in the last book in this series - AFTER what we find out in his book to be an incredibly important event for him. Hence it felt like Spider's story was not yet contemplated when this was written, and it cheapens his love story in Spider. The emphasis on and implications of Spider's relationship with Mila, and the missing references to Rose, both by Spider and Mila, were a disappointment. I had expected Spider to be rather numb at this point, not infatuated with Mila. And Mila would have known that his state of mind was messed up, and hence any 'messing around' between the two of them would have been with open eyes and no expectations. It would have been meaningful to have mentioned how truely messed up Spider really was, including that he had family issues, and referencing both Dovey and Rose, and explaining their combined impact on his state of mind. As sweet as Mila is, I would have anticipated that she 'messed around' in part just to help Spider move on (while having a little fun and indulging in a crush at the same time).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2020
The best way to read a series is in a box set. No waiting!
I fell in love and Ilsa Madden-Mills did not disappoint me! I love reading series in a box set because there's no waiting. It's like one big book and this one is packed with characters that you'll wish were your high school classmates. Each book focuses on one main couple that will fall in love and an ensemble group that you'll enjoy following through high school to their five year reunion.
Out of the group I fell in love with two of the hotties each making me want to make all of their pain go away and kick their butts when they thought they were protecting the girl by trying to stay away from the girls who they loved. In particular I crushed on one boy in the first book who caught my attention and mesmerized me until the third book when Ilsa Madden-Mills gave me exactly what I wanted a love story that brought a soulmate for this wonderful guy who fell in love but didn't recognize it until he thought he lost it.
Throughout the series we stay in the loop about the rebel nerd who falls in love with the big brother, the popular mean girl who dates the football player(s), the scholarship girl who has to decide what to do when she owes the wrong people money and the two boys who love her, and that boy who recognizes when others are in love but doesn't recognize it when he's spying on his soulmate playing violin while naked. This group will make you laugh, cringe, cry, scream at the book, and reminisce over your high school days and feel complete when you finish the last page.
I highly recommend, ugh, I friggin' loooooved these people and their stories. I can't recommend this highly enough to match my love for this series! Even better it's all included in one box set!
This book does contain violence, sex scenes, foul language, super cute frustrating hotties who hurt the one they love by trying to protect them from their lives only to find out how much better their lives are when they're living it with the one they love.
Thank you Ilsa Madden-Mills for creating a group of young adults who overcame hardships and found love. I'll be liking forward to Spider's story.
I fell in love and Ilsa Madden-Mills did not disappoint me! I love reading series in a box set because there's no waiting. It's like one big book and this one is packed with characters that you'll wish were your high school classmates. Each book focuses on one main couple that will fall in love and an ensemble group that you'll enjoy following through high school to their five year reunion.
Out of the group I fell in love with two of the hotties each making me want to make all of their pain go away and kick their butts when they thought they were protecting the girl by trying to stay away from the girls who they loved. In particular I crushed on one boy in the first book who caught my attention and mesmerized me until the third book when Ilsa Madden-Mills gave me exactly what I wanted a love story that brought a soulmate for this wonderful guy who fell in love but didn't recognize it until he thought he lost it.
Throughout the series we stay in the loop about the rebel nerd who falls in love with the big brother, the popular mean girl who dates the football player(s), the scholarship girl who has to decide what to do when she owes the wrong people money and the two boys who love her, and that boy who recognizes when others are in love but doesn't recognize it when he's spying on his soulmate playing violin while naked. This group will make you laugh, cringe, cry, scream at the book, and reminisce over your high school days and feel complete when you finish the last page.
I highly recommend, ugh, I friggin' loooooved these people and their stories. I can't recommend this highly enough to match my love for this series! Even better it's all included in one box set!
This book does contain violence, sex scenes, foul language, super cute frustrating hotties who hurt the one they love by trying to protect them from their lives only to find out how much better their lives are when they're living it with the one they love.
Thank you Ilsa Madden-Mills for creating a group of young adults who overcame hardships and found love. I'll be liking forward to Spider's story.
February 8, 2018
I love this world and how lush and real and diverse it is. I love these characters, and how well the author sets them up for tragedy and joy. All three stories cut me deep, made me feel things I didn't really want or expect to, and then rewarded me for my patience. I enjoy the writing style, the dialogue and the realistic decisions all these characters make.
Nora and Leo - what a bumpy road! But we get to meet such a wonderful cast of supporting players and really get into this world and I love that. I love them together, and I love the struggle trying to get them there. I wouldn't say or do many of the things either of them do, but that's why it's fiction!
Cuba and Dovey - these two are really frustrating, and define torture. They are amazing together, and good for each other but have to get past their own sh*& to get there. Such a good ride for the reader as we get to meet Spider, get to know Cuba more than we saw in Nora and Leo's story and see that for so many, life is just not simple, even in the years it should be!
Sebastian and V - I have always loved Sebastian. He's just THAT GUY, whether he's a friend or a boyfriend that lights up the whole room. I adore V and her badassery. But again with the torture and terrible decisions! These people just can't get it together... until they do.
I'm very excited to continue with Spider's standalone!
Nora and Leo - what a bumpy road! But we get to meet such a wonderful cast of supporting players and really get into this world and I love that. I love them together, and I love the struggle trying to get them there. I wouldn't say or do many of the things either of them do, but that's why it's fiction!
Cuba and Dovey - these two are really frustrating, and define torture. They are amazing together, and good for each other but have to get past their own sh*& to get there. Such a good ride for the reader as we get to meet Spider, get to know Cuba more than we saw in Nora and Leo's story and see that for so many, life is just not simple, even in the years it should be!
Sebastian and V - I have always loved Sebastian. He's just THAT GUY, whether he's a friend or a boyfriend that lights up the whole room. I adore V and her badassery. But again with the torture and terrible decisions! These people just can't get it together... until they do.
I'm very excited to continue with Spider's standalone!
July 12, 2017
Nice ending to a great series.
After reading the entire series I can't decide which story I liked the most. I did fall in love with Sebastian in the first book about Nora and Leo. I loved how great of a friend to her he was and how he pushed his brother toward her against his instincts.
I really did enjoy this. I wanted Sebastian to get his very own HEA. He deserved it. He's a sweetheart and stand up guy. Initially I was a little worried that he wouldn't find someone as equally awesome but I was wrong. Violet is worthy. And then some. What a perfect couple.
The ending surprised me in one aspect but in others I wasn't really surprised at all. Violet has to be one of the strongest characters I've ever read about. I want to be her friend. I want to hang out with her and protect her and laugh with her. For her to continue on in life after all the trauma she had faced just shows how strong she really is.
Highly recommend this entire series and even this incredible author. Love her style of writing. I don't think I would be disappointed in anything she wrote/writes.
After reading the entire series I can't decide which story I liked the most. I did fall in love with Sebastian in the first book about Nora and Leo. I loved how great of a friend to her he was and how he pushed his brother toward her against his instincts.
I really did enjoy this. I wanted Sebastian to get his very own HEA. He deserved it. He's a sweetheart and stand up guy. Initially I was a little worried that he wouldn't find someone as equally awesome but I was wrong. Violet is worthy. And then some. What a perfect couple.
The ending surprised me in one aspect but in others I wasn't really surprised at all. Violet has to be one of the strongest characters I've ever read about. I want to be her friend. I want to hang out with her and protect her and laugh with her. For her to continue on in life after all the trauma she had faced just shows how strong she really is.
Highly recommend this entire series and even this incredible author. Love her style of writing. I don't think I would be disappointed in anything she wrote/writes.
November 7, 2017
All The Stories Had One Thing In Common -Abuse and Tragedy
Very Bad Things - Nora and Leo
Nora has a nervous breakdown. Her past wants to us bubble out and she cannot contain the rage and grief inside any longer. She finds friends in Sebastian and Leo, who will also turn out to be her soulmate. ****
Very Wicked Beginnings and Very Wicked Things - Cuba and Dove
These two stories were too “dark” for my taste. **
Very Twisted Things - Sebastian and Violet
We finally got Sebastian’s story. Since his disillusionment with Emma, Sebastian has changed. He did not want anymore lies coming from any woman’s mouth. He trust none of them. He wants to be a Hollywood star and he sets himself up to be the romantic interest of a vicious spoiled actress. He has Rock Star status, now he wants more. Until V. He falls in love unknowingly and his life falls about until he acknowledges that the most important things in life are his love for V and his music. ***
Very Bad Things - Nora and Leo
Nora has a nervous breakdown. Her past wants to us bubble out and she cannot contain the rage and grief inside any longer. She finds friends in Sebastian and Leo, who will also turn out to be her soulmate. ****
Very Wicked Beginnings and Very Wicked Things - Cuba and Dove
These two stories were too “dark” for my taste. **
Very Twisted Things - Sebastian and Violet
We finally got Sebastian’s story. Since his disillusionment with Emma, Sebastian has changed. He did not want anymore lies coming from any woman’s mouth. He trust none of them. He wants to be a Hollywood star and he sets himself up to be the romantic interest of a vicious spoiled actress. He has Rock Star status, now he wants more. Until V. He falls in love unknowingly and his life falls about until he acknowledges that the most important things in life are his love for V and his music. ***
November 16, 2019
A must read Highly recommend YA story set.
I absolutely LOVE Ilsa Madden - Mills her books are so well written, they are romantic, sexy, emotional, fantastic strong beautiful broken characters, so much angst it rips your heart out. There's always a little twist hidden in there, and these 4 stories in this Hot collection had all of that and more. I highly recommend you read it, if you haven't already. They not new but they transcend time 😉
I have already read Spider's story, but now that I have read the back history if him, I am going to re-read it 😁❤️.
This was a perfect collection of stories on college kids on how different their childhood was, their coming of age, but the best is them finding a HEA!!!
I absolutely LOVE Ilsa Madden - Mills her books are so well written, they are romantic, sexy, emotional, fantastic strong beautiful broken characters, so much angst it rips your heart out. There's always a little twist hidden in there, and these 4 stories in this Hot collection had all of that and more. I highly recommend you read it, if you haven't already. They not new but they transcend time 😉
I have already read Spider's story, but now that I have read the back history if him, I am going to re-read it 😁❤️.
This was a perfect collection of stories on college kids on how different their childhood was, their coming of age, but the best is them finding a HEA!!!
April 7, 2020
Hhhhmmmm I'm conflicted
I liked Nora. I liked Leo... To a point. And after that point I would have cheerfully throttled him!
I liked Dovey and I liked Cuba....... To a point and then I could have cheerfully throttled both of them!
I loved Sebastian always did & I understood where V was coming from.
But you'll never guess what!?!? I could have throttled him!
I think what happened for me is that each of these tales were unnessecarily drawn out and dare I saw it...... There was too much sex. It got to the point where I was skimming through them which should never be he case.
I do still enjoy this author but I'm glad I didn't start with this series as I don't know if I would have continued reading this author and I would have therefore missed out on some great books.
I liked Nora. I liked Leo... To a point. And after that point I would have cheerfully throttled him!
I liked Dovey and I liked Cuba....... To a point and then I could have cheerfully throttled both of them!
I loved Sebastian always did & I understood where V was coming from.
But you'll never guess what!?!? I could have throttled him!
I think what happened for me is that each of these tales were unnessecarily drawn out and dare I saw it...... There was too much sex. It got to the point where I was skimming through them which should never be he case.
I do still enjoy this author but I'm glad I didn't start with this series as I don't know if I would have continued reading this author and I would have therefore missed out on some great books.
August 15, 2018
LOVE Isla Madden-Mills!!
While you can read Isla Madden-Mills' books as standalones, I recommend starting with the Briarwood Academy Box Set, then reading the Filthy English books. I Dare You was a great book too. I couldn't put these books down. The characters were deep, with real issues and demons. When I read these books I could feel the pain, desire, love, hope, even that empty feeling in your gut when your heart feels broken. I laughed and cried, tears of sadness and tears of joy. Isla Madden-Mills has become one of my favorite authors. I look forward to reading what she writes next.
While you can read Isla Madden-Mills' books as standalones, I recommend starting with the Briarwood Academy Box Set, then reading the Filthy English books. I Dare You was a great book too. I couldn't put these books down. The characters were deep, with real issues and demons. When I read these books I could feel the pain, desire, love, hope, even that empty feeling in your gut when your heart feels broken. I laughed and cried, tears of sadness and tears of joy. Isla Madden-Mills has become one of my favorite authors. I look forward to reading what she writes next.
March 6, 2019
5 over all stars to Bad Wicked Twisted : A briarwood Academy Box Set by Ilsa Madden – Mills .
After reading all of the books in this set , I am not 100% on which one is my favorite .
“Behind every beautiful thing is a world of pain.” I think this quote from Very Bad Things Nora and Leo’s story really digs into what expect from the books . These are all about coming of age, believing in yourself and helping cope with the pains that come from that . I have loved every book I have read by Ilsa Madden -Mills and this set did not disappoint . I am going to say that Very Bad Things was the story that pulled me in the most . I loved every part of these books and Im sure you will too .
After reading all of the books in this set , I am not 100% on which one is my favorite .
“Behind every beautiful thing is a world of pain.” I think this quote from Very Bad Things Nora and Leo’s story really digs into what expect from the books . These are all about coming of age, believing in yourself and helping cope with the pains that come from that . I have loved every book I have read by Ilsa Madden -Mills and this set did not disappoint . I am going to say that Very Bad Things was the story that pulled me in the most . I loved every part of these books and Im sure you will too .
May 10, 2017
Started Strong
Now let me first start by saying awesome cover. I was so excited after the first book then it dwindled the characters started to not matter to me as much to me. Now this is merely my opinion but I couldn't get into the remaining books. It sucks too because I really would have taken the day off just to finish if had been the first couple all the way thru.
I recommend book 1 and stopping there but that's merely my opinion. Also, I gave the book four stars on the first book alone so that should tell you something.
Now let me first start by saying awesome cover. I was so excited after the first book then it dwindled the characters started to not matter to me as much to me. Now this is merely my opinion but I couldn't get into the remaining books. It sucks too because I really would have taken the day off just to finish if had been the first couple all the way thru.
I recommend book 1 and stopping there but that's merely my opinion. Also, I gave the book four stars on the first book alone so that should tell you something.
June 6, 2017
This review is for the first book only. I would have rated it five stars had this couple gotten together sooner. It was too dragged out, although mostly it was an enjoyable string along, but it did not leave much time left for "couple time". Also I do not like YA, however as it was only Nora being 18/19 it was ok. Her immaturity showed at times, but she was a smart girl who had to grow up before her time. I loved her sense of humour and her crazy ways. Loved Sebastian too and look forward to reading his story one day.
January 1, 2018
I LOVED the first book in this series and presently in the middle of the third. Madden-Mills has a fabulous way of making her characters more real then other authors I have read. My favorite is the first book Very Bad Things. It is NOT a happy ending right away-which I like-and I like that the main character, Nora changes from beginning to end and realizes that she needs help from the adults in her life. I would love to read more about Leo and Nora-if her mother comes back into her life-her having a baby. There is so much more that could be explored between the couple!!
March 12, 2017
Overall I liked all three books and their stories, I agree with one of the other reviews that the end felt rushed and there will or could be a story of Clarence aka Spider and Mila. I felt that each of the stories should have had their own epilogue endings to tie things up or leave just enough to build on. I still think all three books had good plots and story lines for love and happily ever after. They are just the kinds of books I enjoy.
March 16, 2017
Couldn't put it down!
I have very few authors that I give 5 stars, but this author blows me away. Her stories rip your heart out the put it back together in a better way. I will admit that the whole guy pushing the girl away thing does get tiring at points, but the plot twists and heartfelt passion are worth powering through a few moments here and there. Editing isn't perfect but not so bad that it distracts you from the tale.
I have very few authors that I give 5 stars, but this author blows me away. Her stories rip your heart out the put it back together in a better way. I will admit that the whole guy pushing the girl away thing does get tiring at points, but the plot twists and heartfelt passion are worth powering through a few moments here and there. Editing isn't perfect but not so bad that it distracts you from the tale.
September 23, 2017
This series collection process to be a very interesting read!! With each story told, I found myself falling for the main characters as their journeys through life proceeded. And in my opinion, Cuba and Dovey's story was the best!! The other two came in as a tie in second place. I would've loved to read about Spider finding his true love💖💖 I highlighted some really funny parts from each story!! These stories are definitely a page turner!!!
February 25, 2018
Absolutely fantastic!
This was such a wonderful box set of three amazing books and s great little prequel novella. Each of the books, "Very Bad Things", "Very Wicked Things" and "Very Twisted Things", were fabulous! The stories went from fairly light to quite dark to light again. But each was wonderful and the endings were great...especially the final epilogue in "Very Twisted Things". Best box set I've ever read! Loved it!
This was such a wonderful box set of three amazing books and s great little prequel novella. Each of the books, "Very Bad Things", "Very Wicked Things" and "Very Twisted Things", were fabulous! The stories went from fairly light to quite dark to light again. But each was wonderful and the endings were great...especially the final epilogue in "Very Twisted Things". Best box set I've ever read! Loved it!
June 24, 2018
Yes
Very bad things: Leo fought for his feelings, he didn't want to love after a tragedy. Nora learned to live after a tragedy. Loved them
Very wicked beginnings/very wicked things: Cuba had smooth moves and dark in motions. Dovey had a dark past and a hard life.
Very twisted things: Sebastian, I've loved since the first story. Violet is incredibly strong.
Loved this whole series!
Very bad things: Leo fought for his feelings, he didn't want to love after a tragedy. Nora learned to live after a tragedy. Loved them
Very wicked beginnings/very wicked things: Cuba had smooth moves and dark in motions. Dovey had a dark past and a hard life.
Very twisted things: Sebastian, I've loved since the first story. Violet is incredibly strong.
Loved this whole series!
June 2, 2020
Great boxset
Really enjoyed this boxset, I fell in love with the characters and it was perfect that the main characters in each book then were also back ground characters in the other books in this boxset. These stories had highs, lows, passionate fights and steamy sex scenes.
Couldn’t ask for any more, Can’t wait to read the next boxset you have written that includes Spider.
Thanks.
Really enjoyed this boxset, I fell in love with the characters and it was perfect that the main characters in each book then were also back ground characters in the other books in this boxset. These stories had highs, lows, passionate fights and steamy sex scenes.
Couldn’t ask for any more, Can’t wait to read the next boxset you have written that includes Spider.
Thanks.
February 5, 2017
So, I'm more of a paranormal/fantasy romance reader but I just couldn't stop reading these books. I actually read her "Dirty English" and "Filthy English" books first then found this set. This set was so good I couldn't stop reading until I was done. Hopefully Ms. Madden-Mills will follow-up with Spider's story and HEA. I lost a lot of sleep reading these books and can't wait for more.
February 8, 2017
It is now 2am and I have finally finished this Boxset. I could not put it down.
Ilsa manages to capture such real emotion in every story you are in for the ride of your life. So glad I found this new (to me) author - am working my way through all her books. Highly recommend for those that love YA with plenty of angst.
Ilsa manages to capture such real emotion in every story you are in for the ride of your life. So glad I found this new (to me) author - am working my way through all her books. Highly recommend for those that love YA with plenty of angst.
June 28, 2017
Just finished all four wow what a ride.
I absolutely love books that actually can make you laugh and cry. I loved all the characters the author makes them so real with the depth of her words giving them all a back story woven into the storytelling. I would love to see more of some of the other characters stories come to life.
I absolutely love books that actually can make you laugh and cry. I loved all the characters the author makes them so real with the depth of her words giving them all a back story woven into the storytelling. I would love to see more of some of the other characters stories come to life.
December 13, 2017
This series was the first that I had read from this author, and I was not disappointed. Loved all the stories and how they connected together! All the characters were well developed, and I loved seeing how both Cuba & Sebastian matured and developed from Book1 through their own stories. Great reads - ones I definitely will read again!
May 5, 2019
School ain't easy
Things at Briarwood academy arent always what they seem. Love, lies and betrayal happen and kts up to the boys or girls to fight for the ones they love even if that means giving up everything to make that happen. This book series was so fun to read. Its hot steamy and melt panty worthy.
Things at Briarwood academy arent always what they seem. Love, lies and betrayal happen and kts up to the boys or girls to fight for the ones they love even if that means giving up everything to make that happen. This book series was so fun to read. Its hot steamy and melt panty worthy.
November 20, 2019
Liked the first in the series, the second was just a no and the last one was a meh. They seemed to follow a pattern of unrequited love from the h and the H acts like duche with extra vinegar while she pines her weak ass away. Would like to see a mix up. This is a trope I tend to be a twat about so take it with a grain of salt.
January 22, 2023
These 4 stories are fantastic! VERY BAD THINGS with Nora and Leo. Hot, hot ,hot! VERY WICKED BEGINNINGS with Cuba and Dovey. Also hot,hot,hot! VERY WICKED THINGS a continuation of Dovey and Cuba. It just gets better and better. And finally VERY TWISTED THINGS with Violet and Sebastian. The ending story is always the best! Such a group of troubled but loving people.
November 25, 2017
llsa Madden-Mills rocks
I must say that my husband is ready to kill me because I can't seem to put her books down. She is truly an amazing writer, and I will truly worthy every night of not sleeping cuz I just can't put the damn book down. Lol. MUST READ!!!!
I must say that my husband is ready to kill me because I can't seem to put her books down. She is truly an amazing writer, and I will truly worthy every night of not sleeping cuz I just can't put the damn book down. Lol. MUST READ!!!!
January 3, 2018
I've had this box set for a while, having read, and loved, the first book as a stand alone title. The other two books are just as good. I'm not sure why it took me so long to read the last book in the series. Christmas holidays are the perfect time!
My new favourite author. Five stars.
My new favourite author. Five stars.
February 27, 2018
This book is fabulous! Or rather books! I’ve read a few of her series so far but I particularly like this one! I never fancied myself someone who’d like these stories, but damn am I in love with them!
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