What do you think?
Rate this book
Best Wishes #1
Smoke and Wishes
What do you do when your whole life is a lie? Go to college...
I just found out that I’m a supernatural and now I’m attending Redwood Supernatural University. With its magic and mix of beings from myth and legend, I’m definitely not in the human world anymore.
But not everything is picture perfect. I have the Bitch Crew that are determined to get rid of me, a guy that’s hell-bent on teaching me a lesson, and my past haunting me in my dreams.
It’s not all bad though; I have my quirky roommate Sadie and six guys who seem intent on keeping me around.
I got this...hopefully.
Book 1 of the Best Wishes Series
The Best Wishes Series is a WhyChoose/Reverse Harem saga featuring MMFMMMM meaning there is M/M content, and the female main character doesn't have to choose between her love interests.
This series contains references involving PTSD, sexual assault recollections, domestic violence, and other themes that some readers may find triggering.
I just found out that I’m a supernatural and now I’m attending Redwood Supernatural University. With its magic and mix of beings from myth and legend, I’m definitely not in the human world anymore.
But not everything is picture perfect. I have the Bitch Crew that are determined to get rid of me, a guy that’s hell-bent on teaching me a lesson, and my past haunting me in my dreams.
It’s not all bad though; I have my quirky roommate Sadie and six guys who seem intent on keeping me around.
I got this...hopefully.
Book 1 of the Best Wishes Series
The Best Wishes Series is a WhyChoose/Reverse Harem saga featuring MMFMMMM meaning there is M/M content, and the female main character doesn't have to choose between her love interests.
This series contains references involving PTSD, sexual assault recollections, domestic violence, and other themes that some readers may find triggering.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2019
1907 people are currently reading
3001 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Macey
65 books633 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author A.J. Macey has an addiction to coffee, cats, and swearing. Sucks at adulting and talking to people, so she'll frequently be lost in a book or running away with her imagination when she's not spending time with her husband, daughter, or two cats Thor and Loki. A.J. has a B.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice, and previous coursework in Forensic Science, Behavioral Psychology, and Cybersecurity. Before becoming an author, A.J. worked as a Correctional Officer in a jail where she met her husband. She started writing just for fun when she was little and continued to create stories for years until finally sitting down to finish and publish a book in 2018!
Be sure to keep up with A.J. and her releases at:
https://www.facebook.com/author.ajmacey/
As well as join the reader group for teasers, giveaways, and other random shenanigans at:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/27102...
Be sure to keep up with A.J. and her releases at:
https://www.facebook.com/author.ajmacey/
As well as join the reader group for teasers, giveaways, and other random shenanigans at:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/27102...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 355 reviews
September 21, 2023
But please, do not stop at my review and read others.
Rule number 1:
Do not use the supernatural as a way to solve the unconventionality of polyamorous relationships.
Rule number 2:
Do not lure readers with supernatural if your story basically never revolves around anything remotely magical.
Rule number 3:
Do not set up too high expectations with something different if it's going to be forgotten three pages later.
Rule number 4:
Do no, DO NOT, use stereotypical Barbie Bitches Wannabees as drama bearers and/or a way to make your heroine an obnoxious Mary Sue; it only works in Mean Girls, it's annoying and quite offensive.
~The following review contains very certainly spoilers, although not of real importance in my opinion~
Smoke and Wishes is kinda confusing at first. It sways from mysterious to info dump, needs a new round of edits, and has a hard time finding its own plot.
+ The heroine, Lucie, has been raised as a human and suddenly learns she was adopted and supernatural. Her birth mother left her with a name, a note saying she was in danger, and a necklace.
-> Lucie never asks any question or looks for some kind of answer.
+ She does not know what kind of supernatural she is and is in a special Supe university to learn about her powers.
-> She learns she is one of the only Djinn still alive one chapter later, that she has very powerful and rare magic, has someone make a wish and leave it be. Her powers and magical heritage are not mentioned ever again.
After that, the fantasy part is completely put aside to make room for teenage drama, a bunch of misunderstandings, a little bit of sex, some panic attacks, and quite a few plot holes. The result becomes re-heated, uninteresting, and not really entertaining, but with the lingering expectation of some Genie magic and perhaps a little bit of Aladdin's music in the background.
Definitely not a good read, but Smoke and Wishes kind of reminds me a bit of the first book of the Veil Diaries -which became one of my favorite series ever later on-, so it has to count for something.
You should also like:
+ Born of Embers
+ Trying To Live With The Dead
+ Beg for Mercy
Trigger warnings:
mention of physical abuse
booked.unicorn
March 7, 2019
Well it must be Groundhog Day because I could have sworn I’ve read this story 6 times already...
No wait it can’t be.
Those other times were better.
Don’t get me wrong it was mildly entertaining and I debated to give it a 3star or not. But there was more not to like than the right way round.
If you’re a fan of the college girl with abusive past/PTSD, who takes shelter under multiples guys wings, and are waiting for the next TVD or Bound Spirit, Variant Lost, or Gifted Connections ... (this list could go on btw but we’ll leave it at point made already) then you could probably do worse. But if you haven’t read the aforementioned then maybe go there first.
My biggest peeve was Macey could rewrite the whole thing without the mention of powers, Dijinn or anything else and it would make absolutely no difference. Change “mind shielding class” to Physical Education and no one would know any different! What was the point of the wishes and someone making a wish if you’re just gonna forget about it the rest of the book?
The romance was much too instalove for my liking. Without the “magical bond” the reasons for the guys (and creepy headmasters) instant obsession with Lucie was too shallow. I couldn’t get behind it. The MM was much better written and they were the only characters I enjoyed.
This is Maceys debut so I’d say there is potential there but it needs work. I mean I did finish it so there must have been something there to hold my attention? I couldn’t say if I’ll pick up the sequel or not.. But just encase for my own benefit
Guy Guide
Dante - Shifter, plays some sort of magic sport. Meh
Cam - Vampire, book nerd. The only one worth reading on for
Nik - Blind. Likes Archery. Has potential
Hudson - Dickhead. Needs to work on his wishing
Logan & Landon - Hyper twins. Gave comic relief
No wait it can’t be.
Those other times were better.
Don’t get me wrong it was mildly entertaining and I debated to give it a 3star or not. But there was more not to like than the right way round.
If you’re a fan of the college girl with abusive past/PTSD, who takes shelter under multiples guys wings, and are waiting for the next TVD or Bound Spirit, Variant Lost, or Gifted Connections ... (this list could go on btw but we’ll leave it at point made already) then you could probably do worse. But if you haven’t read the aforementioned then maybe go there first.
My biggest peeve was Macey could rewrite the whole thing without the mention of powers, Dijinn or anything else and it would make absolutely no difference. Change “mind shielding class” to Physical Education and no one would know any different! What was the point of the wishes and someone making a wish if you’re just gonna forget about it the rest of the book?
The romance was much too instalove for my liking. Without the “magical bond” the reasons for the guys (and creepy headmasters) instant obsession with Lucie was too shallow. I couldn’t get behind it. The MM was much better written and they were the only characters I enjoyed.
This is Maceys debut so I’d say there is potential there but it needs work. I mean I did finish it so there must have been something there to hold my attention? I couldn’t say if I’ll pick up the sequel or not.. But just encase for my own benefit
Guy Guide
Dante - Shifter, plays some sort of magic sport. Meh
Cam - Vampire, book nerd. The only one worth reading on for
Nik - Blind. Likes Archery. Has potential
Hudson - Dickhead. Needs to work on his wishing
Logan & Landon - Hyper twins. Gave comic relief
March 5, 2019
2.5... I feel a rant coming.
As a general disclaimer, I have very little patience for YA romance, and while this is classed as NA I believe (as there are sexual situations) its about as juvenile as you can get.
Lucie is a super special snowflake. She's beautiful (but of course she doesn't know it), she's powerful (but of course she doesn't know it), she gains everyone's attention, either positive, such as the 6 guys who all immediately adore her, or the University staff, who bend over backwards to be considerate of her, or they hate her, like Justin the' bully' or the mean girls (more on them later 🙄). Either way, she's special. She's also super damaged. Covered in scars both mental and physical and suffering from anxiety and PTSD.
I'm not usually one to be super picky over grammar or anything in books, but the start in particular had some issues and the overall writing style was just very basic. I didn't like the way huge amounts of time were skipped over. It made the story come across as even more shallow than it was.
I say story because not a whole lot happens really. Lucie is at a University for the supernatural after thinking she was human her whole life. She finds out what she is near the start of the book, which had the potential to be pretty cool, but this was not focused on AT ALL after. Yes she might attend a few classes to develop her powers, but this is all very generic and vague. In fact, the fact they are all supernatural creatures is barely explores at all. There is also almost zero world building. The whole. Plot revolves around her getting to know 'the guys' and the usual bullshitty YA angst of bemoaning bthe fact she has feelings for them all, and how they only see her as a friend, whilst...I don't know about anyone else's platonic relationships with male friends, but I don't tend to sit in the laps of my male friends, let them stroke my feet, thigh, neck etc, hug or touch them constantly, let them go on about their arousal... Its all a bit ridiculous really!
Then, just to put the cherry on top of this shit sundae you have the MEAN girls. You know, the ones who all look like Barbie dolls who are dating two of the guys, so are about as two dimensional as you get get and repeatedly warn Lucie away. The guys are apparently total morons because, despite being totally droolworthy, can't work out their girlfriends are bitches. Cue even more pointless angst.
Lastly, and I don't even really consider this a spoiler, because it's almost immediately obvious, but if you are an teenager, and you live at home, and you have an abusive boyfriend who frequently slams you into walls, pushes you down, beats your body and face and burns you with cigarettes, then you're fucking family are going to notice. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not saying there aren't some evil fuckers out there who abuse their partners and cleverly hide it, but the way his treatment of her is described make it totally unfeasible that he would get away with it as long as he did. But, of course, he does. When she finally comes clean to her mum, what do they do. Go over to the FUCKING HUMAN teenage boy and cut a bitch, or... I don't know, go to the Police considering he beat her so badly he broke her ribs by stamping on her. Oh no, you change her number, reveal she's actually a supernatural and get her to go to a Supernatural university. But wait, there's a flaw to this total logical plan, what if someone from your home town bumps into you and lets him know where you are (which of course totally fucking happens) or he tracks you down in the countless other ways, because, you know, his arzd isn't is fucking PRISON for assault!
As you can tell, it sort of enraged me it was so stupid.
On the positive side, if you like the group dynamic of The Veil Diaries (and I'll admit there's a sort of guilty please about it) then this is pretty similar, or very similar in fact. There is chemistry between them, if not a lack of chatacer development. Plus the two steamy scenes were good.
However, even if you take out all of the tropes I cannot stand, then I still found the story and writing type shallow.
It's rare I bother to write negative reviews, and now I feel a bit bad, because I know how hard authors work to get their stuff out there, however, if, like me, the tropes I mentioned do your head in, then you might want to avoid. However, if you're not quite as picky, and enjot a Virl Diaries style dynamic and a school setting and everything that it entails, then like lots of the other positive reviews, you may well like this a lot better than me!
As a general disclaimer, I have very little patience for YA romance, and while this is classed as NA I believe (as there are sexual situations) its about as juvenile as you can get.
Lucie is a super special snowflake. She's beautiful (but of course she doesn't know it), she's powerful (but of course she doesn't know it), she gains everyone's attention, either positive, such as the 6 guys who all immediately adore her, or the University staff, who bend over backwards to be considerate of her, or they hate her, like Justin the' bully' or the mean girls (more on them later 🙄). Either way, she's special. She's also super damaged. Covered in scars both mental and physical and suffering from anxiety and PTSD.
I'm not usually one to be super picky over grammar or anything in books, but the start in particular had some issues and the overall writing style was just very basic. I didn't like the way huge amounts of time were skipped over. It made the story come across as even more shallow than it was.
I say story because not a whole lot happens really. Lucie is at a University for the supernatural after thinking she was human her whole life. She finds out what she is near the start of the book, which had the potential to be pretty cool, but this was not focused on AT ALL after. Yes she might attend a few classes to develop her powers, but this is all very generic and vague. In fact, the fact they are all supernatural creatures is barely explores at all. There is also almost zero world building. The whole. Plot revolves around her getting to know 'the guys' and the usual bullshitty YA angst of bemoaning bthe fact she has feelings for them all, and how they only see her as a friend, whilst...I don't know about anyone else's platonic relationships with male friends, but I don't tend to sit in the laps of my male friends, let them stroke my feet, thigh, neck etc, hug or touch them constantly, let them go on about their arousal... Its all a bit ridiculous really!
Then, just to put the cherry on top of this shit sundae you have the MEAN girls. You know, the ones who all look like Barbie dolls who are dating two of the guys, so are about as two dimensional as you get get and repeatedly warn Lucie away. The guys are apparently total morons because, despite being totally droolworthy, can't work out their girlfriends are bitches. Cue even more pointless angst.
Lastly, and I don't even really consider this a spoiler, because it's almost immediately obvious, but if you are an teenager, and you live at home, and you have an abusive boyfriend who frequently slams you into walls, pushes you down, beats your body and face and burns you with cigarettes, then you're fucking family are going to notice. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not saying there aren't some evil fuckers out there who abuse their partners and cleverly hide it, but the way his treatment of her is described make it totally unfeasible that he would get away with it as long as he did. But, of course, he does. When she finally comes clean to her mum, what do they do. Go over to the FUCKING HUMAN teenage boy and cut a bitch, or... I don't know, go to the Police considering he beat her so badly he broke her ribs by stamping on her. Oh no, you change her number, reveal she's actually a supernatural and get her to go to a Supernatural university. But wait, there's a flaw to this total logical plan, what if someone from your home town bumps into you and lets him know where you are (which of course totally fucking happens) or he tracks you down in the countless other ways, because, you know, his arzd isn't is fucking PRISON for assault!
As you can tell, it sort of enraged me it was so stupid.
On the positive side, if you like the group dynamic of The Veil Diaries (and I'll admit there's a sort of guilty please about it) then this is pretty similar, or very similar in fact. There is chemistry between them, if not a lack of chatacer development. Plus the two steamy scenes were good.
However, even if you take out all of the tropes I cannot stand, then I still found the story and writing type shallow.
It's rare I bother to write negative reviews, and now I feel a bit bad, because I know how hard authors work to get their stuff out there, however, if, like me, the tropes I mentioned do your head in, then you might want to avoid. However, if you're not quite as picky, and enjot a Virl Diaries style dynamic and a school setting and everything that it entails, then like lots of the other positive reviews, you may well like this a lot better than me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2019
WTF???
I need more asap! Why give me that ending and then make me wait until July for the next book? Ugh I'm at a loss for words right now and my emotions are running wild. This was just simply AMAZING! The storyline was great even though parts broke my heart. I need Smoke and Survival to be done and released like yesterday! Definitely worth 5 stars!
I need more asap! Why give me that ending and then make me wait until July for the next book? Ugh I'm at a loss for words right now and my emotions are running wild. This was just simply AMAZING! The storyline was great even though parts broke my heart. I need Smoke and Survival to be done and released like yesterday! Definitely worth 5 stars!
March 1, 2019
Holy Hot Guys
So, I'll start by saying that you need to read this book. Don't ask questions. Just do it.
A.J. Macey may have just given birth to one of my favorite main characters.
Lucie is super down to earth. One of the things I love the most about her character is how genuine her reactions were written. Never once did I questions how she reacted in a scene. The writing flowed so smoothly and organically that I never felt like the dialogue was forced.
If you want to read a book about a totally loveable/badass in the making MC, then READ this.
If you want to read a book about a bunch of hot guys doing hot (and I mean REALLY hot) things, then READ this.
If you want to read an amazing book, then for the love of all that is holy, READ this.
So, I'll start by saying that you need to read this book. Don't ask questions. Just do it.
A.J. Macey may have just given birth to one of my favorite main characters.
Lucie is super down to earth. One of the things I love the most about her character is how genuine her reactions were written. Never once did I questions how she reacted in a scene. The writing flowed so smoothly and organically that I never felt like the dialogue was forced.
If you want to read a book about a totally loveable/badass in the making MC, then READ this.
If you want to read a book about a bunch of hot guys doing hot (and I mean REALLY hot) things, then READ this.
If you want to read an amazing book, then for the love of all that is holy, READ this.
December 29, 2019
it was not as good as i wanted it to be, but i was okay :) i will read the next one
January 1, 2020
Guys I'm so in love with this series right now that I can't find words to describe it...
This book reminded me a little of that The Veil Diaries vibe, I don't know why, but it did.
It is set in college and the guys are just so yummy, we get twins, MM, and all the feels... and it's not that slow burn because we get some pretty steamy action on this book already ♨♨♨
I can't wait till july for book two!💞
This book reminded me a little of that The Veil Diaries vibe, I don't know why, but it did.
It is set in college and the guys are just so yummy, we get twins, MM, and all the feels... and it's not that slow burn because we get some pretty steamy action on this book already ♨♨♨
I can't wait till july for book two!💞
March 19, 2019
The Veil Diaries meets Harry Potter
Legit a faster paced Vail Diaries mixed with Harry Potter school setting with a knock off quidditch to boot. I gave it 3 stars due to the fact that it was interesting enough to hold my attention and I’m waiting desperately for the next VD book to come out, so I felt like I was getting a small taste of it again.
This book was decent if you are looking for something faster paced with a MC who has issues, a protective group of guys, and a group of mean girls that are always popping up to warn her away.
Legit a faster paced Vail Diaries mixed with Harry Potter school setting with a knock off quidditch to boot. I gave it 3 stars due to the fact that it was interesting enough to hold my attention and I’m waiting desperately for the next VD book to come out, so I felt like I was getting a small taste of it again.
This book was decent if you are looking for something faster paced with a MC who has issues, a protective group of guys, and a group of mean girls that are always popping up to warn her away.
March 11, 2019
Lots of potential
I liked the overall story. The beginning was a little rough to get into; major background information wasn’t brought up until later in the story so it was kind of hard to understand who she was and how/why she came to be at the supernatural college.
Otherwise it was a good start to a series. There was a huge weight on Lucie’s past and her issues, but again, we didn’t find out the whole story until the end of the book. There’s way more that can be fleshed out with respect to her magic, the guys magic and pasts, and her family.
I really see so much potential in this book and love stories with larger love interests. The next book looks like it won’t be out until summer which is a bummer, but I’ll be watching for it.
I liked the overall story. The beginning was a little rough to get into; major background information wasn’t brought up until later in the story so it was kind of hard to understand who she was and how/why she came to be at the supernatural college.
Otherwise it was a good start to a series. There was a huge weight on Lucie’s past and her issues, but again, we didn’t find out the whole story until the end of the book. There’s way more that can be fleshed out with respect to her magic, the guys magic and pasts, and her family.
I really see so much potential in this book and love stories with larger love interests. The next book looks like it won’t be out until summer which is a bummer, but I’ll be watching for it.
August 16, 2025
It got boring. The writing is amateurish. It had a great start, but lost me at 75%.
August 31, 2020
Really Looking Forward to Book Two
I really liked this. I loved that despite what she went through, Lucie didn't let it completely keep her from getting close to others even though she was obviously cautious in the beginning. I think it really helped that Landon and Logan were the ones she met first and that they are so lovable.
The only thing that really bothered me was the stereotypical petty group of girls that seem to be a staple of any book involving a school of some kind. It's a really prevalent trope that likely will never go away, but it gets exhausting watching a heroine constantly defend herself from bullies and then distance herself from her love interest(s) to avoid getting bullied.
Despite that, I still really enjoyed this book. Lucie still has fire in her. I can't wait for her to fight back against Noah because he is clearly coming back. I'm betting he may even be a super and even if he isnt, he will likely discover what Lucie is and that will be one huge problem. I'm really looking forward to Lucie and the guys getting closer and having an actual relationship, too.
I really liked this. I loved that despite what she went through, Lucie didn't let it completely keep her from getting close to others even though she was obviously cautious in the beginning. I think it really helped that Landon and Logan were the ones she met first and that they are so lovable.
The only thing that really bothered me was the stereotypical petty group of girls that seem to be a staple of any book involving a school of some kind. It's a really prevalent trope that likely will never go away, but it gets exhausting watching a heroine constantly defend herself from bullies and then distance herself from her love interest(s) to avoid getting bullied.
Despite that, I still really enjoyed this book. Lucie still has fire in her. I can't wait for her to fight back against Noah because he is clearly coming back. I'm betting he may even be a super and even if he isnt, he will likely discover what Lucie is and that will be one huge problem. I'm really looking forward to Lucie and the guys getting closer and having an actual relationship, too.
February 18, 2021
I was a little apprehensive starting this book because six guys is a lot to have a developed romance with one girl. Normally four is the magic number. However, I did enjoy this book. I know the synopsis has a big trigger warning for PTSD and I'm not triggered with it, but it was a struggle to read those parts when Lucie was having a flashback and panic attack. I skipped those parts. I liked Landon and Logan because they showed that they really cared for Lucie. Dante and Hudson were in relationships during the entire book, so I have mixed feelings about them. I REALLY liked Cam and Nik's relationship. I honestly wanted more scenes like Ch. 10 *smirky face emoji.
In non contemporary books, I prefer more of an information dump than a go with the flow. I just like when I get the full picture about the world and the characters. That didn't happen in this book, so the beginning was a struggle personally for me. We are dropped in a world where humans and Supes (supernaturals) live amongst each other. There are different types of supernaturals such as Daemons, shifters, vampires etc. We didn't get what every boy was either. We know Landon and Logan: Daemon, Cam: Vampire, Dante: Griffin shifter, Nik: no idea (maybe it was explained but idk. I know he controls electricity?, Hudson: empath. We learn what Lucie is but then it is completely forgotten. Shouldn't she be curious or make it a bigger deal that it was?
The ending with Hudson was surprising to me. I didn't guess it which is good I guess. I also liked the Kohl game and learning the sport. I wish Sadie was a bigger part of Lucie's life or Charlie went to the same school as Lucie. Overall, it was great read.
In non contemporary books, I prefer more of an information dump than a go with the flow. I just like when I get the full picture about the world and the characters. That didn't happen in this book, so the beginning was a struggle personally for me. We are dropped in a world where humans and Supes (supernaturals) live amongst each other. There are different types of supernaturals such as Daemons, shifters, vampires etc. We didn't get what every boy was either. We know Landon and Logan: Daemon, Cam: Vampire, Dante: Griffin shifter, Nik: no idea (maybe it was explained but idk. I know he controls electricity?, Hudson: empath. We learn what Lucie is but then it is completely forgotten. Shouldn't she be curious or make it a bigger deal that it was?
The ending with Hudson was surprising to me. I didn't guess it which is good I guess. I also liked the Kohl game and learning the sport. I wish Sadie was a bigger part of Lucie's life or Charlie went to the same school as Lucie. Overall, it was great read.
April 11, 2020
Good, but trigger warning for abuse themes
I really enjoyed this book, and the fact that the author didn’t shy away from the ramifications of what someone may suffer after escaping an abusive relationship. Lucie is dealing with not only the physical remnants of her abuse, but the emotional toll (anxiety, ptsd, etc.). The way the guys support and protect her was more absorbing, to me, than the UF angle.
In regards to the storyline, starting at uni, making new friends - and enemies - and studying, well, it’s just the usual UF fare. Interesting and fast paced, with some memorable characters thanks to the supernatural species we encounter (Benji is so cute). We don’t get a lot of interactions outside the main group, but I’m definitely going on to the next book.
3.75 stars ⭐️
I really enjoyed this book, and the fact that the author didn’t shy away from the ramifications of what someone may suffer after escaping an abusive relationship. Lucie is dealing with not only the physical remnants of her abuse, but the emotional toll (anxiety, ptsd, etc.). The way the guys support and protect her was more absorbing, to me, than the UF angle.
In regards to the storyline, starting at uni, making new friends - and enemies - and studying, well, it’s just the usual UF fare. Interesting and fast paced, with some memorable characters thanks to the supernatural species we encounter (Benji is so cute). We don’t get a lot of interactions outside the main group, but I’m definitely going on to the next book.
3.75 stars ⭐️
August 23, 2021
Lucie was not my favorite. It was scary how extremely trusting she was towards the guys from the onset. She was also abit bland. Apart from the “special identity” the author prescribed to her and a bunch of
godly
timed coincidences, the love interest (imo) could have been anyone.
There were many props , and tropes , and coincidences used to shove them all together. The insta-love? lust? was also scary fast. I remember being on the 3rd chapter and thinking “wowww, that was fast”, look at the guys all star eyed, one-third were already in love (or lust).
Some bits I enjoyed were Sadie and the best friend parts. So not a bad read just not my cup of tea, I guess.
Dnf 77%
There were many props , and tropes , and coincidences used to shove them all together. The insta-love? lust? was also scary fast. I remember being on the 3rd chapter and thinking “wowww, that was fast”, look at the guys all star eyed, one-third were already in love (or lust).
Some bits I enjoyed were Sadie and the best friend parts. So not a bad read just not my cup of tea, I guess.
Dnf 77%
June 6, 2022
Actual Rating: 3.5
Thank you Sharon J for recommending this book to me. This was an enjoyable read. I thought this was a great story but it could have been better. I did get bored at some moments, but I really enjoyed reading this book. I think the romance could have been more developed in the story, and I think the I think it would have been more interesting if we got to see more into the past for the boys. I really like the bond between the boys and Lucie. I can’t wait to see how it grows as the series continues. My favourite boy so far is Cam. I really like his calmness and kindness. The ending was interesting. I think the suspense of the ex-boyfriend coming back will make the series more exciting. I can’t wait to see what happens next for Lucie and the boys. Overall, a great read.
Thank you Sharon J for recommending this book to me. This was an enjoyable read. I thought this was a great story but it could have been better. I did get bored at some moments, but I really enjoyed reading this book. I think the romance could have been more developed in the story, and I think the I think it would have been more interesting if we got to see more into the past for the boys. I really like the bond between the boys and Lucie. I can’t wait to see how it grows as the series continues. My favourite boy so far is Cam. I really like his calmness and kindness. The ending was interesting. I think the suspense of the ex-boyfriend coming back will make the series more exciting. I can’t wait to see what happens next for Lucie and the boys. Overall, a great read.
March 3, 2019
Eh.
I don't really have strong feelings one way or the other about this book. It was interesting enough to finish, but nothing really set it apart from every other RH book out there where the FMC loves coffee and has a shitty, abusive past. We learned absolutely nothing about the type of supe Luci is, which seems like it would be one of the major plot points but at this point is more like a footnote. Nothing is really explained about any of the supe races, really, so that was disappointing. I don't hate this book, but I don't really like it either. I'll probably forget all about it in a few days. I just didn't fall in love, or even like, with any of the characters or the plot.
I don't really have strong feelings one way or the other about this book. It was interesting enough to finish, but nothing really set it apart from every other RH book out there where the FMC loves coffee and has a shitty, abusive past. We learned absolutely nothing about the type of supe Luci is, which seems like it would be one of the major plot points but at this point is more like a footnote. Nothing is really explained about any of the supe races, really, so that was disappointing. I don't hate this book, but I don't really like it either. I'll probably forget all about it in a few days. I just didn't fall in love, or even like, with any of the characters or the plot.
December 16, 2020
Enjoyable and promising.
This book has been on my to-read shelf for some time. I am glad I finally read it. It has so much potential. A.J. Macey has my attention. There are areas that I wished had more meat to them. One example being Lucie finally telling the guys about Noah. But maybe that is addressed in the next book. It was just this big build-up and a major let down with what was given back, in the end.
I am hooked and on to the next book. Crossing my fingers that as the series continues A.J. Macey's writing develops. Allowing her characters to show more than just telling.
This book has been on my to-read shelf for some time. I am glad I finally read it. It has so much potential. A.J. Macey has my attention. There are areas that I wished had more meat to them. One example being Lucie finally telling the guys about Noah. But maybe that is addressed in the next book. It was just this big build-up and a major let down with what was given back, in the end.
I am hooked and on to the next book. Crossing my fingers that as the series continues A.J. Macey's writing develops. Allowing her characters to show more than just telling.
May 19, 2020
While the premise is familiar and several well known tropes are in play, I still enjoyed this enough to want to continue to the next book.
There's a lot happening and not enough questions being asked by the characters or given to the readers at this point.
All that being said, I am looking forward to the next book.
Spoilers below... so I keep up with who is who for future books!
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
..
.
.
.
.
.
• Hudson - fae with elven descent- calls her princess -
• Landon - calls her Lemon Drop -twins - daemon - spice
• Logan - twins - daemon - sugar - calls her love -
• Dante - Griffin shifter - calls her firecracker -
• Nikolai - blind and sees through his familiar Grigori - warlock - MM with Cam - calls her babe - archery - calls Cam King -
• Camden - nerdy with black glasses - vampire - calls her doll - MM with Nik -
• Sadie - pixie [half fae] - precognition via painting -
• Charlie - bff human
• Benji - fox - friend
There's a lot happening and not enough questions being asked by the characters or given to the readers at this point.
All that being said, I am looking forward to the next book.
Spoilers below... so I keep up with who is who for future books!
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
..
.
.
.
.
.
• Hudson - fae with elven descent- calls her princess -
• Landon - calls her Lemon Drop -twins - daemon - spice
• Logan - twins - daemon - sugar - calls her love -
• Dante - Griffin shifter - calls her firecracker -
• Nikolai - blind and sees through his familiar Grigori - warlock - MM with Cam - calls her babe - archery - calls Cam King -
• Camden - nerdy with black glasses - vampire - calls her doll - MM with Nik -
• Sadie - pixie [half fae] - precognition via painting -
• Charlie - bff human
• Benji - fox - friend
August 30, 2024
a little addictive
The FMC is one of the more likeable characters with a ride or die bestie, a roommate a little out of the box and a penchant for collecting hot guys. Throw in the ubiquitous mean girls and the annoying jock, a little magic and mayhem and it’s a slightly addictive story . 4 stars. Highly recommend.
The FMC is one of the more likeable characters with a ride or die bestie, a roommate a little out of the box and a penchant for collecting hot guys. Throw in the ubiquitous mean girls and the annoying jock, a little magic and mayhem and it’s a slightly addictive story . 4 stars. Highly recommend.
March 13, 2019
I liked it
It was a decent start to a new series. The characters were pretty likable and the world building was good.
It was a decent start to a new series. The characters were pretty likable and the world building was good.
March 13, 2019
Review coming soon
August 20, 2022
I’m leaning toward more of a 3.5 or 3.75 (probably the latter) on this one. It was good, just not great. Hopping right into the next book though. Most books go up in rating with a series, so I’m hoping the next one will be 4-5 stars.
March 8, 2019
Totally agree with other two star reviews here.
Also, it badly needs someone to go through and fix the grammar!
Also, it badly needs someone to go through and fix the grammar!
March 29, 2020
So good
The story starts off a little weird. But you get sucked into it so quick after that. Love these characters.
The story starts off a little weird. But you get sucked into it so quick after that. Love these characters.
March 5, 2019
This book was fantastic. Any academy lover would enjoy this RH book. Lucie is an inspirational leading lady with a lot of issues but a bit of backbone. Her emotions seemed very realistic compared to some other books I’ve read with troubled leads. Loved the drama with the guys. They didn’t all just fall into her pants which was nice. It was messy, hard, fun and entertaining. Just like real life but of course with supernatural elements that were not overwhelming. Looking forward to book 2.
April 5, 2020
Amazing beginning....
Great start to the story. Love Lucie and her guys. Hope the mean girls get what’s coming to them! On to the next part of the story.
Great start to the story. Love Lucie and her guys. Hope the mean girls get what’s coming to them! On to the next part of the story.
May 28, 2019
Smoke and Wishes is definitely worth giving a try!
Before I dig into what I liked, because there’s a fair bit of that, I do have two things that I was on the fence about. One was the pacing- the entire book spans about two months of time, starting at the end of August and finishing at the end of October. Really, I wish that it could have been slowed down a biiiiiit more. There’s a lot of action that I felt happened “off-page”, and for a series starter where we are really seeing the foundations of the relationships being built, I’m greedy and want to see more. I feel like that helps strengthen MY understanding of how the characters feel about each other but also helps make the depth of their feelings more real to me.
Second, I wanted a little bit more about Lucie trying to learn her heritage. I think it’s really cool that she’s a djinn and even cooler that she’s a rarity. But we don’t get to focus too much on that. However, it’s realy likely that I’m just being impatient- there’s a lot of important little sprinkles of information about djinn dropped into book one, and I’m sure it’ll come up later.
I really want to know more about the way Macey’s supernaturals work- the guys are an interesting bunch: vampire, warlock, fae, daemon, and gryphon shifter. Some creatures are more traditional than others, and I’m really excited to find out more about how Macey’s twisting and tweaking her monsters to be uniquely hers!
Aside from their supernatural breeds, the guys are already a fun bunch on their own. The twins, and personally I love the whole twins aspect, are flirty and sweet and full of charismatic energy that draws Lucie, and is, like moths to a flame. Nik is intriguing- and while we’re teqsed with little hints of what happened in his past, were left on the edge of our seats, wanting to know more about the secrets that Lucie has yet the learn. Cam is smart and definitely s*xy, and I like the little nudges that he shows towards being a bit dominant. For me, Hudson and Dante are the ones that I haven’t warmed up to as much yet, but I think most readers will understand that once they dig in to the book.
Now Lucie, our leading lady, is a puzzle of all different traits- she’s got some sass, some smarts, some “I don’t give a f*ck”, and some shyness as well. She’s a bit of a wounded bird at the moment, but she’s fighting to make a new life for herself and not let her vulnerabilities become her future. Honestly, I like her.
Overall, Smoke and Wishes was a book that I sped through- not because I hoped it would be over soon but because I wanted to see what would happen next. There’s some steamy fun, and for readers like me who enjoy it, a big plus with some m/m action that looks like it’ll be a consistent part of the series, not just a one timer. Macey’s writing is clear, and although there were some little editing blips that slipped through, it was MUCH cleaner than many other books out there with thousands of readers. The action is engaging, the characters are likable, and the relationships are building in a way that makes sense.
Definitely worth reading!
Before I dig into what I liked, because there’s a fair bit of that, I do have two things that I was on the fence about. One was the pacing- the entire book spans about two months of time, starting at the end of August and finishing at the end of October. Really, I wish that it could have been slowed down a biiiiiit more. There’s a lot of action that I felt happened “off-page”, and for a series starter where we are really seeing the foundations of the relationships being built, I’m greedy and want to see more. I feel like that helps strengthen MY understanding of how the characters feel about each other but also helps make the depth of their feelings more real to me.
Second, I wanted a little bit more about Lucie trying to learn her heritage. I think it’s really cool that she’s a djinn and even cooler that she’s a rarity. But we don’t get to focus too much on that. However, it’s realy likely that I’m just being impatient- there’s a lot of important little sprinkles of information about djinn dropped into book one, and I’m sure it’ll come up later.
I really want to know more about the way Macey’s supernaturals work- the guys are an interesting bunch: vampire, warlock, fae, daemon, and gryphon shifter. Some creatures are more traditional than others, and I’m really excited to find out more about how Macey’s twisting and tweaking her monsters to be uniquely hers!
Aside from their supernatural breeds, the guys are already a fun bunch on their own. The twins, and personally I love the whole twins aspect, are flirty and sweet and full of charismatic energy that draws Lucie, and is, like moths to a flame. Nik is intriguing- and while we’re teqsed with little hints of what happened in his past, were left on the edge of our seats, wanting to know more about the secrets that Lucie has yet the learn. Cam is smart and definitely s*xy, and I like the little nudges that he shows towards being a bit dominant. For me, Hudson and Dante are the ones that I haven’t warmed up to as much yet, but I think most readers will understand that once they dig in to the book.
Now Lucie, our leading lady, is a puzzle of all different traits- she’s got some sass, some smarts, some “I don’t give a f*ck”, and some shyness as well. She’s a bit of a wounded bird at the moment, but she’s fighting to make a new life for herself and not let her vulnerabilities become her future. Honestly, I like her.
Overall, Smoke and Wishes was a book that I sped through- not because I hoped it would be over soon but because I wanted to see what would happen next. There’s some steamy fun, and for readers like me who enjoy it, a big plus with some m/m action that looks like it’ll be a consistent part of the series, not just a one timer. Macey’s writing is clear, and although there were some little editing blips that slipped through, it was MUCH cleaner than many other books out there with thousands of readers. The action is engaging, the characters are likable, and the relationships are building in a way that makes sense.
Definitely worth reading!
April 20, 2019
Gritty and engaging
I could not put this book down and had to read it all afternoon from start to finish. Macey creates an engaging storyline that doesn't shy away from tackling real-world issues, and she never glosses over or makes light of traumatic events or the longstanding affects they can have on people's lives just because those topics might be considered "difficult." Her characters have depth and quirks and personal experiences (along with some pretty cool powers) that will draw you in, and a plot that keeps you wanting to know more.
Lucie is confronted with many unknown factors she must deal with at her university for supes - including learning about what goes on in the world of supernatural beings, how to process the very recent discovery that she has powers of her own, navigating being more social, and dealing with possesive people with anger issues. College is a chance for a fresh start for Lucie, though, a chance to make new friends, figure out her powers, and puzzle her way through what to do when six amazingly hot guys insert themselves into her life.
I highly recommend Smoke and Wishes, and I cannot wait for the release of the next book in the series!
I could not put this book down and had to read it all afternoon from start to finish. Macey creates an engaging storyline that doesn't shy away from tackling real-world issues, and she never glosses over or makes light of traumatic events or the longstanding affects they can have on people's lives just because those topics might be considered "difficult." Her characters have depth and quirks and personal experiences (along with some pretty cool powers) that will draw you in, and a plot that keeps you wanting to know more.
Lucie is confronted with many unknown factors she must deal with at her university for supes - including learning about what goes on in the world of supernatural beings, how to process the very recent discovery that she has powers of her own, navigating being more social, and dealing with possesive people with anger issues. College is a chance for a fresh start for Lucie, though, a chance to make new friends, figure out her powers, and puzzle her way through what to do when six amazingly hot guys insert themselves into her life.
I highly recommend Smoke and Wishes, and I cannot wait for the release of the next book in the series!
January 23, 2020
New author, new series; this was fast paced and keep me interested on the flip side you did have some issues that are typical of new authors that hopefully experience will resolve. The writing was a bit amateurish at times and yes it was a bit predictable. An Academy book being predictable is not that surprising and many people like that about them. Makes for a nice easy read that doesn't require a ton of focus.
The MC has post abuse and trauma problems that are a big part of the background. The story did introduce a fairly cliche mean girl bully situation and another random abusive jerk as plot devices. The guys in the beginning just do not have a lot of reasons to want to be around our MC, its all a little convenient to get the story going but does get smoother as we go although I would like to see more depth on that front. There is a lot of potentials there though and the set up for book two looks like it will be more interesting.
This did have pretty good editing, I know other reviewers have complained that is not the case so I'm thinking a newer file was uploaded before I started reading! Editing can be a struggle for new authors so that gives me lots of hope for future books.
Some people might have a problem reading some of the content because the MC is dealing with past abuse and hiding from her abuser. There are MFM and MM sex scenes
Overall I was entertained and enjoyed the read and will read the next one.
The MC has post abuse and trauma problems that are a big part of the background. The story did introduce a fairly cliche mean girl bully situation and another random abusive jerk as plot devices. The guys in the beginning just do not have a lot of reasons to want to be around our MC, its all a little convenient to get the story going but does get smoother as we go although I would like to see more depth on that front. There is a lot of potentials there though and the set up for book two looks like it will be more interesting.
This did have pretty good editing, I know other reviewers have complained that is not the case so I'm thinking a newer file was uploaded before I started reading! Editing can be a struggle for new authors so that gives me lots of hope for future books.
Some people might have a problem reading some of the content because the MC is dealing with past abuse and hiding from her abuser. There are MFM and MM sex scenes
Overall I was entertained and enjoyed the read and will read the next one.
January 15, 2020
Not exactly paranormal in story.
This is actually really New Adult vs paranormal. Sure there are some paranormal aspects but the entire story does not read like a paranormal romance. A lot of nothing really goes on. We know what Lucie is, but we don’t really see her or anyone else really work their powers. After her special box was opened it was like it wasn’t a big deal. After Hudson talked to her and made his wish, we never really heard about it again. There’s supposed to be negative side effects but those didn’t come to fruition.
I expected just a bit more in terms of plot. Basically it’s a story about Lucie finding her place, more so than the paranormal aspect imo. Yes there are shifters and vamps but it wasn’t prominent or the focal point of the story enough for me to always remember this was paranormal.
Lucie has trauma, but you’d think having new powers and being a supe would help her idk overcome some of her issues. Or that since her ex is human, though I suspect he isn’t at some point to come out, she should be able to defend herself or whatever and I’d have thought make the school would help her learn that. So it bugs me that this her gaining strength and overcoming her fear wasn’t more prevalent. It’s still early though in the series for me to know exactly how this will go down. But I’m going to try the next book.
This is actually really New Adult vs paranormal. Sure there are some paranormal aspects but the entire story does not read like a paranormal romance. A lot of nothing really goes on. We know what Lucie is, but we don’t really see her or anyone else really work their powers. After her special box was opened it was like it wasn’t a big deal. After Hudson talked to her and made his wish, we never really heard about it again. There’s supposed to be negative side effects but those didn’t come to fruition.
I expected just a bit more in terms of plot. Basically it’s a story about Lucie finding her place, more so than the paranormal aspect imo. Yes there are shifters and vamps but it wasn’t prominent or the focal point of the story enough for me to always remember this was paranormal.
Lucie has trauma, but you’d think having new powers and being a supe would help her idk overcome some of her issues. Or that since her ex is human, though I suspect he isn’t at some point to come out, she should be able to defend herself or whatever and I’d have thought make the school would help her learn that. So it bugs me that this her gaining strength and overcoming her fear wasn’t more prevalent. It’s still early though in the series for me to know exactly how this will go down. But I’m going to try the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 355 reviews