I work for the Order of Magica, the supernatural version of the FBI. Sounds fun, right? Except I spend my days chained to my desk, writing reports, and wishing that I was out solving crimes.
Well, be careful what you wish for.
When my best friend is abducted, my life in Chicago turns upside down.
I’ll do anything to get her back—even work with Damian Malek, a wanted criminal, notorious crime lord, and dangerous fallen angel. He’s hot, lethal, and he's the only one who can help me master my dangerous powers. I don't want anyone to know about my magic, but I have no choice if I want to save my friend.
Here's the catch: if the Order finds out that I’m working with Damian, I’ll get canned. Maybe even hunted for what I am. But if I don’t give him what he wants, he’ll reveal my secret to the world.
Veronica Douglas is a duo of professional archaeologists that love writing and digging together. After spending an inordinate amount of time doing painstaking research for academia, they suddenly discovered a passion for letting their imaginations go wild! A cocktail of magic, romance, and ancient mystery (shaken, not stirred), their books are inspired, in part, by their time in Chicago and their archaeological adventures from around the globe.
I am not a fan of Lindsay Hall’s writing and this book was a stark reminder of why. As a side note, I sincerely wish that Amazon would stop recommending her books to me. They frequently seem interesting, but the execution never holds up.
First, the fmc’s name is Nevaeh, which is Heaven spelled backwards. It’s the kind of trendy, trite name reminiscent of Tiffani with an “i”, Krystal with a “K”, Brandy/Brandi, and other stripper-adjacent names. The other characters have names like “Rhiannon” after the Fleetwood Mac song or “Damien Malek” that sounds like the authors hybridized the British actors Damien Lewis and Rami Malek.
Although the book starts with Chicago as the setting, Nevaeh uses British idiomatic English. When she is hungry, she is “famished”. When she is tired, she is “bushed”. When she sees a nice office, she describes it as “posh”.
Despite acting as the introduction to a multi-book series, the authors don’t bother having Nevaeh learn anything or struggle with anything that happens. She is instantaneously an expert in all things the moment she tries for the first time. She is able to locate a specialised book and cast a spell from it in the midst of a massive fight. Even though she has only ever realm-walked once in her life, she reads about it in a book and simply does it. She doesn’t need to think about it, or practise, and she is able to take Malek along with her without a hitch. Then she quickly learns how to fly, wield magic, fight giant ice monsters, and tame a dragon - none of it phasing her in the slightest. The only thing that makes her blink is a dream that she has about Malek. 🙄
As a testament to the dearth of imagination and Mary Sue characteristics, the Air realm that Nevaeh takes Damien to visit has an island named Capri, exactly the same as the island in Italy. Instead of using their own imaginations to develop the AU, the authors draw parallels to other pop culture references including How To Train Your Dragon, Harry Potter, and Raiders of the Lost Ark. Ultimately, all of the creative short cuts make it impossible for me to think of anything other than Stevie Nicks singing RhiiiiAnnnnOooonnn whenever the character is mentioned or envisioning Rami Malek with Damien Lewis’s bright red hair.
First let me say I am going to pick up book 2. There is enough interesting tidbits to make me continue. That being said….In my opinion, there was a ton of filler in this book. Just unnecessary information that could have been filled with action or character interaction.
Neve is an unusual FMC and she saved it for me. Her story is intriguing and she has some spunk and sass. Wish she has not been quite so naive but I think she will be far different in book 2.
Damian is a thief, a lair, and immensely powerful. That’s all we got on him. He felt more blank than mysterious. I’m hoping we get far more about him in book 2 as well.
I started this book with high hopes as I love one writer, and I was hoping the other writer duo would be just as good. I’m pleased to say I was right to be hopeful. Just like Ms. Hall’s books, this one started with a bang and just got better. Neve is a funny, interesting MC, and Damian is a brooding mystery wrapped in an enigma. They go on an adventure to save Neve’s best friend, and it was a wild ride until the end. We learned a little about Neve’s past, but I am anxiously waiting to learn more about her and her family…and to learn more about Damian because I know he has many secrets. Excellent debut book, and I can’t wait to read more. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
Wicked Wish took me for such a wild ride! I totally endorse this book!
After reading the Wolf Bound series by Veronica Douglas I was hooked and I knew I would be reading more of their work. This author duo has a very compelling writing style that urges the reader to want more. I love how down-to-earth and easy-to-read their style is. This series was written alongside Linsey Hall and takes place inside her Dragon's Gift universe. I am not familiar with any of the books in this universe outside of the Wolf Bound series and this book but I really love the imaginative world these authors have created.
I enjoyed the characters in this book though they were rather mysterious. We have only scratched the surface when it comes to both of the main characters. We know what Neve is but we don't know what powers she has or what she can really do. I love her personality though. She kept surprising me with her kind soul and fierceness. Damian is an even greater mystery. We also know what supernatural race he is but that's pretty much it. He definitely kept me guessing throughout the book. I kept wondering what his motivations were and a little bit more about his past. I am looking forward to the next book. I am hoping that some of their mysteries will be solved.
The romance is a little low-key at the moment. Damian and Neve definitely have some chemistry and there is more than enough attraction going on both ways. I don't doubt that there will eventually be a happy ending for them but I am curious how the authors are going to make that happen after what happens at the end of this book. Whatever happens, I am rooting for them.
Overall, this was an action-packed story that thrilled me from start to finish. If you love interesting characters, compelling plots, and immersive world-building, then you will want to pick this one up! I can't wait for the next book!
This was a pretty interesting story and it was exciting to learn about these characters and their world. I do have to say though that I'm a little nervous for the rest of the series. There were parts of this book that felt drawn out and like filler, while also having scenes that felt too rushed and not detailed enough. There seemed to be a lack of discovery when it came to Neve finding out just how powerful she was. It was more like she would randomly learn she had some power and right away she was good at wielding it. Those are the scenes that could have been more drawn out and still really interesting but that's not the way it happened. And while I could forgive that for one book and still enjoy a story, knowing this is going to be another 2 or 3 books is nerve wracking. I'm still going to be jumping right into the next book and can't wait to find out more from the world.
I throughly enjoyed this book, Those two have the chemistry right there but with so many twist and turns it’s hard to read if they will get far together. But wow the storyline sucked in right in the fighting banter everyone and everything and that bloody ending had me in such a shock and wonder so I am onto the next one right away. This was to good a a book to not get into
It appears this is a spin-off of another series, but it's the first book by the authors I've read. I enjoyed it and didn't feel like I missed anything by starting here.
I enjoyed Neve as the MC. She's smart and capable, though unschooled in her powers. She did feel kind of young to me at times. Not sheltered, exactly, but lacking in maturity about some things in the world. I really loved her friendship with Rhiannon, and how she would do anything for her.
Damian was an enigma, dark and mysterious, but also caring and protective. I enjoyed getting to know him through Neve, and I'm curious to see where things go in the next book. I didn't love the way this ended - cliffhanger, ugh - but the world, action, adventure and characters kept me glued to the pages. I'm looking forward to learning more about the world and discovering what's really going on with Damian.
As always, I loved Linsey Hall and Veronica Douglas' new book! Something I really liked about Wicked Wish was that it felt like Linsey's older books with Nix and her sisters--it focused a lot on history and visiting ancient places which were one of the things that drew me to Linsey's books in the first place. I love how she uses her archaeology background in her writing because it adds elements that are different from other Urban Fantasy authors. It feels like I am actually at the places she is describing. Both Linsey and Veronica's voices blend seamlessly in this book, and it reads like it was only written by one author!
Ever since Damian made a cameo appearance in Carrow's story arc, I have been curious about him and wanted to learn more about him, and now I get my wish! ;) Neve and Damian's budding relationship is tantalizing to read about, and I can't wait to see how it progresses in later books.
Another thing I love about Neve's story is the constant presence of books. I am an avid reader myself so it's nice to read about a fellow bookworm. I'm very excited to read more about Neve and Damian's journey!
I was incredibly excited for this book and tying it back into Linsey Halls OG Dragons Gift world . I was immediately intrigued and wanted both characters to have there own books when they were first introduced in the Shadow Guild series and this book DID. NOT. DISAPPOINT. With the combination of Linsey Hall and Veronica Douglas an incredible story was produced. Linsey Hall has always been a one click author for me and after this book Veronica Douglas will most certainly be one too!! Thankfully book 2 will be released in April and I am on pins and needles excited! If your on the fence and not sure if you wanna give this a try.... take the plunge. The story is faced paced with tons of action, mystery and adventure (with a hint of romance and surely foreshadows what’s your come;) ) and keeps you interested every step of the way. Just do it! This book is absolutely worth it.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion and review!
I absolutely loved this first book in the Dragon's Gift: The Storm series! I have loved all the previous Dragon's Gift series, and even though this wasn't a sole Lindsey Hall series, I had high hopes. I was not disappointed! Neveah is a fun and sassy heroine, with powers she has no clue how to use. She is approached by a notorious bad boy for a job, and then craziness ensues! I'm intrigued by Damian, and the relationship between he and Neve is the definition of tension. Add a hilarious best friend with powers she doesn't quite know how to control, a visit to one of our favorite places from previous Dragon's Gift books, and twists and turns, this book is a winner! MY head is still spinning with possibilities after that ending! I can't wait to read the next one!! I highly recommend Wicked Wish! You won't regret it!
Neve rushes to her friends apartment after meeting with the person that left her the note. Neve sees that her apartment is trashed, her friend is missing. Neve sees writing on the wall, no one else can. Neve realizes that she has to work with Damien Malek in order to save her friend. Neve goes to see Damien and sets some ground rules. Neve will have to use her powers in order to get to another realm. Neve has a strong pull to Damien, but she does her best not to forget who he is. Neve and Damien will have a fight on there hands.
This is just a tiny tidbit of what happens in the book. This book will have some major twists and turns. You will be hooked from the start. Some favorite characters make a brief appearance. I highly recommend reading this
Half djinn Neveah Cross found herself, non-willing, in an adventure full of perils and questions. Damian Malek, fallen angel, thief and something more sinister needed Neve and not for matters of the heart. What this mysterious man was up to? Jumping from interest to suspicion and vice versa, Damian kept me intrigued, attentive to clues that reveal something of the mystery that surrounds him but no, I'm still in the dark. Between Neve's own quest and Damian's trickery we have a lot to look forward to. This first book aroused my curiosity with the djinn and the fallen angel, who for something was threw out of heaven. Huh! Neve is not naïve, but she had met the big wolf! Lot of action, adventure, suspense, danger, mystery, magic, some amusing scenes, violence and romance. Love these stories that keep me intrigued trying to guess what’s behind the characters behavior. Voluntarily reviewed this copy that I enjoyed and left me eager for the next book.
This book is a non stop action sequence, with a fun labyrinthine plot and two main worlds to build. The growth of the main character who is half djinn was paced well and fun. And the side, often(physicially) tiny, plot characters are charming, creative, and easy favorites. I will always love a dark and broody bad boy lead male (fallen angel anyone?) BUT the epilogue undid all my assumptions about him. What is happening with him?! Need book 2.
Set in magical Chicago, Turkey, and a magic land, the world building was very fun.
Anxiety alert: Some peril, not too long nor too bad. Good triumphs over evil. The flirtatious romantic interest ends in some measure of mild discord, but it's ok. It was never a done deal. Guess: this will resolve in book 2.
Wicked Wish (Dragon’s Gift: The Storm book 1) has you reeling with the power of the wind, as we follow the enticing adventure of researcher Neve, and her dream of becoming a detective in the city of Magic Side.
She doesn’t realize that her working partner on this first unplanned adventure, Damian, is so much more than the rumors that abound. She finds out soon enough, along with her strengthening romantic feelings towards the Crime Lord.
Adventure, growing magical opportunities and romance. Who could ask for more?
Debut PNR authors Veronica Douglas, and well-established co-author Linsey Hall, connect this newest series to Hall’s existing ones, yet successfully find a niche of their own, so we can enjoy even more fabulous chances to disappear into the clouds!
Absolutely loved Wicked Wish. In this return to the Dragon’s Gift world we get to learn more about Neveah and Magic Side. Neve is fantastic. She’s tough, strong, and independent.
This book is more similar to the Dragon’s Gift series than to the more recent Shadow Guild books. It has a ton of action and adventure, along with a lot of historical content woven in. There are hints of romantic tension, but it’s well done and not overtly prevalent throughout the book. Overall Wicked Wish is fun, entertaining, with some awesome action.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this review is my own opinion.
Set in Magic Side Chicago, Neve and Damian who we’ve met briefly before embark on an adventure that takes them to new lands searching for the Djinn. Old friends Nix and Connor make an appearance. But all is not as it seems and the epilogue leaves us in anticipation for the next instalment. I’ve had the privilege of reading an advance copy of this book and it didn’t disappoint. Intrigue, attraction, an unknown past and possibly a dangerous future! Can’t wait to find out more about Neve and Damian in book two.
Wicked Wish is the start of a new series set in the world of Linsey Hall’s Dragon’s Gift series’s. We meet Neve and follow her adventures with the dark anti-hero Damien as the try to rescue Neve’s best friend from an out of control djinn. The book is very well written with exceptional world building to support the action sequences. The interactions between the characters flows well and at times feels intense. This book was fun to read and flowed very well.
I've read a few books about djinn and liked them all. I really loved this fresh out of the box approach! I mean in this series you created djinn that do things I've never read possible. Not to mention the world you created for them. So mind blowing! The attraction and chemistry these to have is great. It's a real moral concern for Neve because she works for the good guys. Damien is a bad guy, with quite the reputation. I can't wait to read what happens next especially after that ending!
What a satisfying series. Read all the available books nonstop. And waiting for the last one to release. Clean, impressive writing. Content is unique and not typical were/vamp stuff. New category which kept me interested in digging in more and more untill I finished them. Kick-ass heroine who is wise and uses common sense. Basically a character who is NOT foolish and cringey. Romance is subtle. This what we call as slow burn romance and I'm all for it. Clean stuff. Give it a chance. Author Veronica did an amazing job.
Great read! I love the characters and the story, especially all the arabic and middle East mythology. Damian is a very intriguing character and can't wait to find more about him. I was familiar with some secondary characters of Lindsay books like Connor and Nix but it is great to see them again and love the friendship between Neve and Rhiannon . Lots of adventure with a bit of Indiana Jones influence , intriguing characters and amazing sexual tension between Neve and Damian with lots of twists and turns. Highly recommended for Urban Fantasy lovers .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Awesome paranormal/fantasy magical world. This world exists outside Chicago. It has everything!! Each character has special magical gifts. The characters and storyline draw you in. There’s lots of action, drama, suspense, mystery and strong friendships. I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book but chose to write a review.
I have read every book from Cass and onward that Linsey has written for her Dragon Marked world. I have journeyed with each heroine through their trails, familiar findings, and love partners. This was a fun new addition to the world she has created. Flowed perfectly along and has me ready for more.
I recently discovered this author and loved a previous series she wrote. But there was just so much information being constantly dropped, I felt like it took away from the story. It didn’t flow well for me which sucks because I wanted to enjoy it
I found this a fun and fast read that left me with wanting the next book or two. While this is a stand alone book and you do not need to read the connected series (I think you will) the connections to Guild City and Magic Bend are great and offers some insight to those series or simply brings back good memories of characters that you want to see more. The book is well written and edited.
OMG! This book is amazing from start to finish, has so much action in it and the characters are great, I'm so glad some older characters are back makes it intriguing. I can not wait for the second book and see what happens next. I love Linsey Hall she is one of my favourite authors and I only just got to know Veronica Douglas they both are great authors and can't wait to see what they will bring next.
What a great start to this series. Loving the crossover interaction with characters I already know, which made it easy to figure that there will be plenty of action! Collaborations are awesome!
A great introduction to some new characters in Linsey Hall's magical world. There are cameos of some other loved characters from previous books. I can't wait for the second book. ❤️