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Suppressed

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There are strange things out there. Things I thought only existed in fairy tales.

My name is Kailani Ericson and my life pretty much sucks. My mother is an indentured servant in this lonely house, serving a hateful old woman who gets her kicks by terrorizing me. One of my few comforts is the sea in my backyard. Diving into its frigid depths is the one thing that makes me truly happy.

Then he shows up, and my entire world shifts.

Bryce Howell is gorgeous, every girl’s fantasy. He’s also arrogant, insolent, and strictly forbidden. But he’s not normal. He’s something different. Something magical. Our attraction to each other just may be my downfall.

As it turns out, I’m not normal either. I am the stuff of myths and legends. Suddenly, my love of the sea and its pull on me make a lot more sense.

They say legends never die, and I hope that’s true. There are those who want me dead, and if I can’t put a halt to my seemingly inevitable transformation, there will be nothing I can do to stop them.

I love the sea, but ultimately, it might just be what kills me.

318 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 16, 2017

168 people are currently reading
475 people want to read

About the author

Wendi L. Wilson

30 books334 followers
Wendi Wilson is a mother to two rambunctious boys, a fat black cat, two ferrets, and a pup named Izzy. She spends her time watching her boys play baseball and football, volunteering at school, reading and writing.

She enjoys reading YA paranormal romance, NA romance, and dystopian novels. Her first book, Shadowed Strength, is the culmination of 20+ years of work, a dream finally realized.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews128 followers
Want to read
April 7, 2018
💝 FREE on Amazon today (4/7/2018)!💝
Profile Image for Rachel.
2,351 reviews132 followers
February 24, 2018
I have a confession, I have never read a mermaid story outside of fairy-tales. Not a single story and I have no idea why I haven't but I had plan on rectifying that so when Wendi Wilson released Suppressed: A Little Mermaid Retelling it was ninety-nine cents on Kindle and I decided to go for it.

Retellings are my thing especially fairy-tale retellings and I don't know if I would call Suppressed a Little Mermaid retelling, I think that the story is more of a combination of things with a Little Mermaid abstract feeling. However it is a really good story, I loved it and have already pre-ordered the second book in the series.

Wendi didn't really follow the usual troupes in this book something have been totally turned around. For example you know how usually the parents aren't around well that's not the case for Kai. Her mom is around all the time, in fact her mom works as an live-in-maid for a rich old lady (Ms. Caroline) so she is always there. Second it's a Mortal Instruments type of situation where the mom knows all the stuff that is happening and the child is the clueless one. Finally there is the new boy in town situation and it is a weird tension between the two but he doesn't know what is going on either.

So while there are mermaids (among other things ;) ) and yes there is even the classic Ariel look but other than that the story is different. Kailani is also not your typical character description and I love it. Yes she has that troupe of not knowing she is the pretty one put she is short, more on the curvy side and has bright red hair. Another thing I love that Kai doesn't like to take anyone's crap really, she doesn't like to be mistreated (no one does) and wants to stand up for herself, so of course that makes her feisty I mean she is a fiery red-head. However she still loves and respects her mom so she sucks up the nasty comments from Caroline and tries to help her mom out when she can.

Then there is Ana who is Kai's supportive best friend, neither really fit in with the group of people who fit into this small town. Ana is the classic funny supportive best friend that knows all your secrets keeps your secrets and tries to make thing funnier, happier and better for Kai.

I have come to the point when I talk about the boy. His name is Bryce and while things don't start off that smooth they quickly form a nice relationship and then it turns into something more... a very caring type of relationship. Oddly enough I didn't dislike Bryce in the beginning even though he pulled a lot of crap but I liked him a lot more after they got together, he was just to adorable and very supportive. I like the fact that he tries to make sure that she is alright and feels comfortable all the time, he shows that he cares.

Suppressed was a light and quick read, I flew through this book. The story was fun and interesting, emotionally light, not to far off from our world and it kept me coming back to find out what happens next. I don't want to get into more because I don't want to spoil it but there are a few mysteries to solve, ugly plots underway, romance and magic. As I said I have already pre-ordered the next book and I am so looking forward to reading Resurfaced.
Profile Image for J.L. Myers.
Author 22 books312 followers
June 29, 2017
OMG this is one gripping and addictive paranormal romance!

I loved this book. It has it all: characters I loved and characters I loved to hate, romance of the HEA kind, and a story that is unique and addictive. The characters were so real to me that they came right off the page. I loved Kai and Bryce and everything about their relationship. The ending was perfect and now I'm desperate to know what happens next! Can there be a happily ever after when two people are worlds apart?
Profile Image for Robin Wallace.
13 reviews
May 16, 2017
Aaaarrrgh!!! Do I have the patience??!!


I am not one to needlessly sub-divide genres into slivers to create even more niches for book sales. I say this because I am most definitely an adult reader. Despite this, I can still find enjoyment of stories that could be considered beneath my age group for choices in reading material. I discovered Madeleine L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time when I was in my 30s, and I found myself eagerly devouring it, as well the four sequels that came after.

Enter Suppressed, a book written for the 13+ set. The main character is Kailani Ericson (Kai, to those who know her), a Junior at the tiny Santa Lorelei High School that serves the entire population of Santa Lorelei Island, located off the California coast. High school can be bad enough for any teen, but Kai has the additional burden of watching her mom being treated like a slave by the foul, evil-tempered Ms. Coraline, the owner of the house where she and her mom have lived ever since Kai's father left her and her mother when Kai was little. Worse yet, Ms. Coraline constantly belittles Kai, seeming to take pleasure in tormenting her, especially telling the neighbors that Kai is little more than an ungrateful, bratty servant, herself.

When the McCormick place, not far from Ms. Coraline's house, is sold, Kai suddenly comes face-to-face with the handsome Bryce Howell, son of the family that bought the house. Despite the initial interaction between Kai and Bryce, the two become fast friends. But trouble isn't far off when Kai overhears Ms. Coraline threaten to take serious actions if Kai doesn't stay away from Bryce. Why does Ms. Coraline want to keep the pair apart, and what is it that makes Kai's mother unwilling to stick up for Kai, herself, or even leave such an uncomfortable situation? To get the answers for these and other questions, you'll have to read the book yourself.

Wendi Wilson has created characters who resonate with the reader, reflecting situations that any high school student might face today. The pacing was just right, and despite their ages, I just couldn't put the book down. I cheered each time Kai and Bryce had a victory, no matter how small, and I found myself swept away by the events that affected the pair as they moved through everything.

Tolkien did it with The Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings trilogy. James Oliver Rigney, Jr., under his pen name of Robert Jordan, did it with his Wheel of Time series. J.K. Rowling did it with the Harry Potter series. Now Wendi L. Wilson has given us a glimpse into a world that will keep the reader dancing about with anticipation until the arrival of the next book in the series. I have no idea how many volumes this might be, but I, for one, will be twitching in place until I can get my eager paws on book two!


Nota Bene: This is definitely solidly in the PG -13 category, with a special emphasis on the Parental Guidance. The book might be something that you might not want your own personal offspring to read. While not every story is for everyone, in fairness, only you can make that decision, taking into account the maturity level of your own child. I highly recommend that you read the book first, before you dismiss it as unsuitable. Who knows? Chances are that you could very well find yourself a new favorite author in the process, much like those parents who found themselves being drawn in by Harry Potter as they read it to their kids.

All in all, I recommend this book highly, even if you ARE over 13.
Profile Image for Danielle.
385 reviews9 followers
July 17, 2017
Oh my goodness, this book was so spectacular! It was so good that I read it start to finish in one day! That's not very common for me, as I'm currently a SAH mom to a 3 year old, so I really only read during his naptime. So, I don't often find enough time in the day to read through an entire book. But, this one I did! It was such a quick read, and not in a "oh this book isn't very filling, it's a fun light beach read, but there's not much substance" way. It was a quick read in the, "oh my gosh, so much is happening, and I'm reading so fast, and I'm devouring this book because it's so good and I have to know what happens" kind of a way. I'd already read her Shadowed series, and loved it, so I definitely wanted to read this new book. I liked that this book was still just as good as her other series, but had a different feel- in that it wasn't like she was trying to recreate the same thing and change it up just a little bit. The characters and the relationships were completely different.
This book has cinched it for me. Wendi Wilson has joined the group of authors where I will be reading everything she puts out, because it's that good. I am on a serious post book high here, people. I still cannot believe how it ended...what a cliffhanger! I can't wait for the next book! When is it coming out? I have to know, I have to preorder it now!

If you like Paranormal YA, I would highly recommend it to you!
Profile Image for Teri.
3,918 reviews37 followers
May 21, 2017
Kai wondered why her mother endured the rude and nasty overbearing old hag of an employer so often. But when things went south she had no idea what would happen and all of the repercussions. Bryce is her new neighbor and as much as she wants to hate him she is drawn to him and he to her. Who knew their meeting would trigger life altering events.

This is a great read while a little slow in spots it more than makes up for it. This is a clean YA with a nice plot and great characters lead by a strong heroine. I look forward to more from this author and this series. Although this is my first read by this author I look forward to more.
Profile Image for Hannah Earl.
Author 8 books22 followers
May 31, 2017
I loved this book. This is a must read for any YA fan that enjoys paranormal. Kailani is a believable example of an awkward teenage girl. She tries her best to remain invisible. She doesn't want the attention of her mom's boss, Ms. Coraline nor does she want the attention of her classmates that are all rich and snobby. But all her dreams of invisibility are erased when Bryce moves in next door. This book is an exciting roller-coaster ride of mystery with a dash of the supernatural. Be warned: there is a cliffhanger but I'm sure the rest of this series will be just as wonderful. I requested a copy of this book as an ARC at no cost to the author so that I could provide a review.
Profile Image for Tara.
242 reviews
May 17, 2017
I received this book from the We ♥ YA Books! group and the author in exchange for a honest review. My recent reading has been a bit heavier--focusing more on nonfiction and classics, so this was a treat. I found it very easy to get into, and very easy to keep on reading. I was intrigued by the potential "bad-boy" character, and I was pleased with his story. I had my guesses on Kai's secret, and I was pretty accurate. There are some unresolved issues, and I am expecting some twists, but to avoid spoilers, I'll keep my predictions to myself. I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
Profile Image for Laura Witte.
265 reviews5 followers
April 18, 2018
Witches and mermaids and old hags, oh my!

Kailani (Kai) and her mother live with, and are servants of, Ms. Coraline, whom Kai refers to as “the old hag”. She doesn’t know how true her words are! When a hot new guy moves into the house down the beach, she is forbidden to speak to him, or even look at him. Kari can’t understand why her mother allows Ms. Coraline to dictate what happens in their lives. After all, she is her mother’s employer, not her owner. What Kai doesn’t know is that Ms. Coraline holds something more than just a paycheck over her mom’s head.
Profile Image for Jeannie.
1,032 reviews30 followers
June 3, 2017
From page one this book will blow you away. Just when I thought I understood what was going on a new mystery would pop up. From the first until you finish it you'll feel as though you're never sure what's going on, which makes the book amazing in itself. A book that can keep my interest from page 1 on is definitely an amazingly, well written book. I definitely recommend this be read by all.

*I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this advance reader copy and was not compensated in any way.*
Profile Image for Angela Dossett.
145 reviews27 followers
April 16, 2018
What you do for the ones you love

This is a retelling of the "Little Mermaid" in a modern world. It has the great friends and wicked witch and some new characters added.

The characters themselves are absolutely made for their parts in this story. They will face each dilemma with determination and love. They will fight for love of family and friends.

I will definitively read the next book to see what happens next.

I recommend this to all readers who love modern fairy tales with a twist.

Happy Reading!!
22 reviews
May 9, 2017
This was a great book, I loved it!! I love mermaid stories anyway, but this put a different spin on things, so even if you think you know mermaids, this will surprise you. And it's not just about mermaids. I recommend it and I can't wait for the second book to come out!
Profile Image for Alyhana Childs.
1 review
November 30, 2017
Can’t wait until part two

I️ really loved the way this book unraveled. I️ literally read it in one day it was so good. If you like mermaids and you like for your imagination to run away this is a good book for you
Profile Image for Patricia A.Bunn.
230 reviews4 followers
April 13, 2018
Great Book

Great Book I love it so much that I got book 2 and powerful book you will have to read and find out for your self
Thank You For Letting Me Read This Book I love it
Profile Image for Geo.
355 reviews3 followers
May 7, 2018
I received a free arc for an honest review. I usually don't like mermaid stories but this one tugged at my heart strings. I was captivated from the moment I started reading it. I connected with Kai on an emotional level and my heart hurt for her and all she went through. When Bryce came into the picture, I knew things were looking up, for her and for me. Can't resist a good-looking boy. I absolutely cannot wait for the next one. Anywho, if you love merfolk, first loves, and a story with a world that will suck you into the depths of its pages, then you'll love this book. Thank you to Mrs. Wilson for writing such an amazing story.
Profile Image for Danielle (Life of a Literary Nerd).
1,575 reviews290 followers
May 15, 2017
Mermaid stories are always fun. And heading into summer is the perfect time to read one!

Things I Liked :
There was some really good mystery in the story. Bryce, Ms. Coraline, and Kai all had unknowns surrounding them and the story evolved to reveal the answers to our questions.

I like that Bryce is an empath and can sense people emotions. It's such a visceral power that is really well used here.

There was some really great suspense and drama around the climax of the story. It made the story really engaging.

Things I Didn't Like :
The insta-love was a little too much for me. I liked Kai and Bryce's relationship, but it seemed like it got a little too intense too quickly.

The story doesn't really feel complete, it feels more like a part 1. I liked the ending cliffhanger, and the promise of where the story goes, but I wish we got more in this one.

This was a quick and fun summer read. Perfect for the beach, or just an enjoyable way to fill your time!

I received a couple of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Vicki Kline-saunier.
39 reviews2 followers
September 5, 2017
Loved it!

This book grabbed me from the beginning and drew me in. I thought the characters were well rounded and mysterious. I definitely want to read the next book I love a good heroin!
Profile Image for  Mummy Cat Claire.
836 reviews15 followers
May 23, 2017
The cover on this book is fabulous. I have read some of Wilson's books before and I'm always drawn in, this book is no exception.

Kailani Ericson is a student at Santa Lorelei High. Shortly after her school year begins she meets a new student, Bryce Howell. He moved into the home next door to hers and she dislikes him at first glance. When they first meet each other, Kailani catches Bryce looking at her butt.
"I would think it meant he liked what he saw but his words and actions proved otherwise." Bryce wasn't curt and not very nice to Kailani, plus he flirted like mad with the other girls in their class.

Kailani describes herself as "a ginger with small boobs and a big butt." She lives with a crazy old bat named Ms. Coraline. She and her mother live there where they serve Ms. Caroline who is very mean. Kailani's mother is not very forthcoming about why they must stay and work for this nasty woman. Kai just wants to leave but her mother says they need to stay. Ms. Coraline's house is right on the ocean. Kai loves to swim and often does. "I grew up swimming here, and I go out every day if I can. It's my happy place."

Ms. Coraline forbids Kai from seeing, talking or associating with Bryce. Kai tries but their paths keep colliding and they do start to talk. Things get more intense and they create a secret meeting place. Things get even more intense and they start a secret relationship. "Why is it that I've never wanted to see him quite as badly as I do this morning, after I've been warned to never even look at him again? I know the answer to that. It's Ms. Coraline, and that she's the one doing the ordering. I hate her."

Ms. Coraline finds out about their relationship and, because she is a witch, reverses a spell on Kai and her mother, then her mother disappears. Now Kai has to find her mother, figure out what Ms. Caroline has done and why, all while keeping her cool. Answers lead to more questions... yada, yada, yada...

I liked this book. First part felt a bit Hush, Hush for me but things take a better turn and I enjoyed the read. I liked the characters, mostly Bryce. He's patient, considerate, and silly. Kai had a lot going on for a young person but her reactions were sometimes not what I expected. When her mother disappeared she was kinda cool about it.

There is some romantic sexual tension. The book is clean but there are times when the characters make out and talk about stopping before it's too late.

Overall, the reader finds out about some revelations that Kai hadn't previously known. Not all though. There is a huge cliff hanger that left me a bit miffed. I didn't want the book to end. The ending was a bit sudden because Kai just up and does something unexpected. There isn't much that I didn't like about this book. I would love to continue the series to find out more. I cared about the characters and the mystery is intriguing. I would recommend this book and author to those that love paranormal romance. Wilson writes some pretty good stories, IMHO, of course.

Content: animal abuse, minor language

I received a copy of this book from We love YA books in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Amanda Siegrist.
Author 64 books746 followers
May 19, 2017
As always, Wendi Wilson sucks me in from page one. I don't read a lot of YA, but since her Shadowed series, I can't help but grab her books. This one deals with witches and mermaids and it didn't disappoint. I can honestly say I wanted to slap Kai's mother silly. Not sharing her secret with her daughter drove me nuts and I'm not sure I'm a fan of her. Placating her daughter and making her endure the things she did without explanation really irked me. It's gonna take a lot to get me to like her mom again. I enjoyed the chemistry between Bryce and Kai, although, I did wonder about Bryce's hot and cold attitude. It was a little extreme at times and I did forgive him after he explained. lol. Once his secret is out, I really fell in love with the story. By the end, the relationship they had had my heart going pitter patter. I absolutely loved it. I am, however, not a fan of cliffhangers. I did know this would probably happen since it's the first in the series, but it still always makes me sad to see it because now I have to wait. *chuckles as the tears slip out* Can't wait for book 2, although, I hope I like the decisions Kai makes a little more in book 2 because I wasn't happy with her decision at the end. All in all, great book and I highly recommend!
Profile Image for Alisha.
261 reviews13 followers
July 5, 2017
Love, love, love. I loved Wendi Wilson's "Shadowed" series, so I was so excited to see she started another series-"Suppressed". She did not disappoint!

Bryce and Kailani start as the new guy and the school outcast, for lack of a better term. Kailani is the daughter of Merryn, who is a maid for Ms. Coraline. Ms. Coraline is a wicked lady who has no respect for either of them, and Kailani defies her by spending more time with Bryce. Bryce moved into the town, which doesn't see a lot of new visitors, and it takes Kailani a bit to get a handle on his hot-then-cold moods. Sparks ignite when these two are together though!

The storyline involves magical/fantasy elements, but I felt at the heart of it was more of a love story and Kailani learning about (and trying to help) her family. I really enjoyed the plot, and the teenage chemistry of Bryce and Kai. Bryce is seriously swoon-worthy for a teenager, and he cares so deeply for Kai. It left me hoping neither of them end up with a broken heart as the series progresses, but I have hope in the strong bond of their relationship! I can't wait to read the next in the series.

Romance: clean, teenage romance
Language: clean

**I have received the book free from the We ♥ YA Books! group and/or the author in exchange for a honest review. **
Profile Image for Bethany.
Author 22 books98 followers
November 19, 2018
Kai lives with her mom who's a servant to Ms. Coraline, a mean old lady who loves bossing the two of them around. Her only escape is living by the water even though she can't explain why she's drawn to it. She feels free when she swims and it's the perfect stress relief.

When they get a new neighbor, Kai is intrigued. Bryce immediately settles in with the popular crowd at school, but she still can't help but feel drawn to him. However, Bryce has his own secrets. He can feel other people's emotions, especially Kai's. For some reason, Kai's emotions scream the loudest to him and the two of them feel connected.

As they grow closer, Ms. Coraline catches wind of it and forbids Kai from seeing Bryce. What's worse is that her mom doesn't even stand up for her. Instead, she's told to listen to Ms. Coraline. When everything goes south, the truth about her mom and her past comes to light and makes Kai question everything.


Final Verdict: This was a fast paced story that made for an easy read. I would recommend this to fans of The Little Mermaid, fantasy, and romance.
Profile Image for Teralyn Mitchell.
Author 25 books248 followers
July 25, 2018
***I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the author.***
I seriously picked up this book thinking I'd just read the first chapter. A few hours and ten chapters later, I finally put it down to do some other things. It was just so hard to stop once I met Kailani and Bryce. I loved their chemistry right away and they both made me laugh. Add in witches, magic, and mermaids and this book had me hooked. I thought it was well written and the characters were funny and engaging. Even though Bryce and Kai's relationship moved kind of fast, it was done at a natural pace that did not make it feel like an insta-love plot to me. I loved the mystery surrounding everything with Kai and Bryce and Ms. Caroline--that old hag-- and Kai's mother and past. I cannot wait to read the second book to see how everything turns out for Kai and her family and friends.
4,484 reviews21 followers
May 14, 2017
Once I started reading Suppressed, I could not put it down. I had to know the secrets - who really is Bryce and why does he act the way he does to Kailani, why is Kai and her mom trapped in servitude to Ms. Coraline. I was hooked after the first chapter as the writing and plot were amazing. I finished it all in one setting. Even thought it is a YA book, the teenage angst was light and the story clean. I loved the paranormal embedded in the book and cannot wait for the next one to learn more of what Bryce and Kai get into. Plus what about Ms. Coraline, need to know why she is such a horrible person. Great job in hooking me onto the series. Worth reading again! And keeping eye out for the next one.
Profile Image for Alexandra Bessières Dang-Tran.
13 reviews
May 12, 2017
At first, I was afraid it was more young than adult... And I was proved wrong! This book is more complexe than it seems, as the main characters are...
I really loved this book and, once started, couldn't put it down. I had to know their secrets, to follow Kai and Bryce relationship, the slow discovery of a new universe... I wasn't disappointed, for sure!
Mermaids, good looking guy, perfect pace... Some magic too, some life lessons and a lot of love and acceptance: from Kai's mom, Ana and well, you can guess the rest ;)
I can already say I LOVE this series, and I SO want to read the next book!!! Can't wait!
I strongly recommand this book and its building universe!
Profile Image for Linda Levine.
4,641 reviews25 followers
May 27, 2017
This book really captures your interest and is appealing to readers of all ages. I really enjoyed the storyline and the characters. There are many secrets that Kai is just discovering and it is putting her life on a new path. I love the paranormal aspects to the story. There is a great romance between her and Bryce that offers you hope for her having the future she deserves. I am eager for the next book.

I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
Profile Image for Auburn.
719 reviews4 followers
July 5, 2017
Magic?

Not at all what I was expecting but instead a refreshing take on soul mates and the magical community. It gave you a glimpse of what a little mermaid might turn into.
For anyone who enjoys a meet cute that evolves into a good story that could turn into a compelling series.
My only problem was the girl just didn't think anything through. She could have been a bit brighter.
Profile Image for Sara Fitzgerald.
173 reviews4 followers
May 15, 2017
This is a fantastic clean YA fantasy read.
The Story follows a young girl who cannot understand why her mother follows the rules of her employer. We join Kai as he learns who she is and why it is so important that she follow the rules.
Great world building and in depth characters.
Cannot wait to read the next in the series I received this book from We 💖YA books in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Christina Luberts.
2,775 reviews7 followers
May 17, 2017
Wow! Awesome read. I had a hard time putting this book down. I might just buy this book for my students to read. I think preteens, teenagers and young adults would really love this book. So much mystery, feelings, anticipation on what will happen. I can't wait until the next book comes out to see what happens with Kai. I received an arc copy for my honest review
Profile Image for Louise Sawrey.
3 reviews1 follower
May 25, 2017
Wow I loved this book! The story had me hooked from page 1. It is well written and has a great plot. Left on a cliff hanger which leaves you wanting more! I can't wait until the next book is released. A must read for teens and young adults.

*I received this book from the We ♥ YA Books! group and the author in exchange for a honest review.
3 reviews
September 4, 2018
Fun Read

A mix of humans, mermaids and witches.
The kind of story you want to keep reading.
Excited to read the next part. Enjoyed the mystery behind the story. Yes some of it can be figured out right away. A great story to read without having to worry about a long going no where drag out.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews

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