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Cricket Kendall #3
Wandering Star
Cricket Kendall has learned a lot about herself in the month leading up to her long-awaited eighteenth birthday. Not only is she more powerful than she ever imagined she’d be, she’s also discovered she’s an alpha and most likely soulmates with three hot-ass werewolves.
And now, her birthday is finally here. The day she’ll reach the full potential of her magical power as a witch, and the day she’ll finally see a mate mark on her wrist that proves she belongs with Theo, Hollis, and Cas. Everything should be perfect.
Things don’t go quite as planned, however.
Everyone seems to have been keeping secrets, one of her relationships is crumbling, and Cricket learns even more about herself than she bargained for. Cricket needs her guys by her side to support her. Whether they’re soulmates or not, Theo, Hollis, and Cas are her best friends first.
At least, she hopes they are.
And now, her birthday is finally here. The day she’ll reach the full potential of her magical power as a witch, and the day she’ll finally see a mate mark on her wrist that proves she belongs with Theo, Hollis, and Cas. Everything should be perfect.
Things don’t go quite as planned, however.
Everyone seems to have been keeping secrets, one of her relationships is crumbling, and Cricket learns even more about herself than she bargained for. Cricket needs her guys by her side to support her. Whether they’re soulmates or not, Theo, Hollis, and Cas are her best friends first.
At least, she hopes they are.
482 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2021
257 people are currently reading
443 people want to read
About the author
Willow Hadley
12 books914 followersWillow Hadley is a self-published author who primarily writes sugary sweet reverse harem romance. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, their dog, ferret, and two cars. She started writing in early 2018, and decided to pursue publishing in 2020. She loves character driven stories and fluffy books that give you a warm, fuzzy feeling. She’s also obsessed with Disney movies, and her favorite candy is licorice.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
June 7, 2024
4.5/5 Stars
I LOVE THIS SERIES WHOLEHEARTEDLY !!!!
Willow Hadley’s work is by far my favourite comfort. The Cricket Kendall series just pulls you in from the beginning, blasting you with warm and fuzzy feelings.
Going into this book, I had high hopes and I was not disappointed. Wandering Star immediately picks up after Wildflower.
We get to witness everything that we have been anticipating. The elder visit, Hollis’ party AND Cricket’s birthday.
Being introduced to Rainer was by far one of my top scenes. His character was talked about previously and finally getting to be introduced to him was worth the hype. His POV’s brought about humour but also the complex emotions he is feeling about being subjected to his brothers pack. Also seeing Hawthorne from Rainer’s POV was very eye-opening. Rainer’s fast friendship with Cricket made me feel so elated on his behalf. I can’t wait to see the mischief he gets into with Cricket.
As we progressed in the book, I must say that I was surprised by the amount of angst and conflict. Especially how fast everything escalated after Hollis’ party. My heart broke for Cricket and the guys; with everything going on and the doubts being projected at them, all I wanted was for them to get their HEA.
Wandering Star is a heartwarming read filled with humour, drama and love. I can not wait to see as their story progresses in the future. Willow Hadley’s work will always have a special place in my heart.
I LOVE THIS SERIES WHOLEHEARTEDLY !!!!
Willow Hadley’s work is by far my favourite comfort. The Cricket Kendall series just pulls you in from the beginning, blasting you with warm and fuzzy feelings.
Going into this book, I had high hopes and I was not disappointed. Wandering Star immediately picks up after Wildflower.
We get to witness everything that we have been anticipating. The elder visit, Hollis’ party AND Cricket’s birthday.
Being introduced to Rainer was by far one of my top scenes. His character was talked about previously and finally getting to be introduced to him was worth the hype. His POV’s brought about humour but also the complex emotions he is feeling about being subjected to his brothers pack. Also seeing Hawthorne from Rainer’s POV was very eye-opening. Rainer’s fast friendship with Cricket made me feel so elated on his behalf. I can’t wait to see the mischief he gets into with Cricket.
As we progressed in the book, I must say that I was surprised by the amount of angst and conflict. Especially how fast everything escalated after Hollis’ party. My heart broke for Cricket and the guys; with everything going on and the doubts being projected at them, all I wanted was for them to get their HEA.
Wandering Star is a heartwarming read filled with humour, drama and love. I can not wait to see as their story progresses in the future. Willow Hadley’s work will always have a special place in my heart.
July 11, 2021
Let’s be honest…
This isn’t a good book. Neither was the first or the second. I still added them to my list so I’d know when they were released and I still sped through them. But I can be honest with myself, the series isn’t good.
It reads like a teenagers fantasy. This entire universe revolves around Cricket in a way that makes me want to learn more about the author and her personal life. There is no rhyme or reason to anything in this series except for that Cricket is a very special woman who is loved and adored by everyone. The plot isn’t even a plot, just a series of gushing thoughts about Cricket that spans across a couple of weeks. Personally, I wouldn’t recommend this series to anyone, I wouldn’t even admit to reading it to be honest.
I can’t see anyone above 16 genuinely enjoying this series.
This isn’t a good book. Neither was the first or the second. I still added them to my list so I’d know when they were released and I still sped through them. But I can be honest with myself, the series isn’t good.
It reads like a teenagers fantasy. This entire universe revolves around Cricket in a way that makes me want to learn more about the author and her personal life. There is no rhyme or reason to anything in this series except for that Cricket is a very special woman who is loved and adored by everyone. The plot isn’t even a plot, just a series of gushing thoughts about Cricket that spans across a couple of weeks. Personally, I wouldn’t recommend this series to anyone, I wouldn’t even admit to reading it to be honest.
I can’t see anyone above 16 genuinely enjoying this series.
June 28, 2021
2 stars
I’m really pissed at the moment because this book was not what I expected or wanted at all. There was too much unnecessary drama and not enough development. I’m not trying to just bad talk the book or the author but honestly Willow what were you thinking writing this book.
So let’s start with my first issue with it (I have a few) what’s the authors problem with Cas. Did she not like or did she just not want him to be happy or whatever because that must be why she did him so dirty. He was out of the loop with everything and not at one point did the others think to include him. They figured he knew. BUT HOW WOULD HE? They didn’t even believe it themselves until they talked to each other about it. None of them thought to include him and look where it got you. Then the author makes him cheat. HOW DARE SHE. That’s not something he would do so the author it just wanted him to have a hard time. Let’s not forget the fact that he just accepts that they have been keeping him out and talking about THEIR relationship WITHOUT him.
My next issue is the friends. Why are there so many people and why do we get their pov’s. Like I really don’t care about them. First we have Brennan and i think I dislike him the most. He is so cliche. I really don’t care that he is gay but can he please have a personality except for being the gay best friend that’s just there to make LGBTQ diversity. He annoys me so much and acts like Cricket is a possession. Does he even have a life that doesn’t revolve around her? They had only known each other for a few weeks but acted as if they had know each other their whole life. Then there’s Mildred (I’m not one for name shaming but what kind of name Mildred. Is she 60 or what). Why was she there? Like what good did she do too the plot? The answer is nothing. She was so boring and I honestly didn’t want her there. Did nobody in this book have a life since all they talked about was Cricket and the guys? It was too much for me and so unbelievable.
Then we have the birthday week. My biggest question is why? WHY WOULD THE ELDERS ONLY COME A DAY BEFORE HER BIRTHDAY IF WHAT THEY SAID WAS SO IMPORTANT? I wanted to bang my head against the wall because of the stupidity of their actions. They should have come as soon as possible so they could prepare them for what would happen. Then we have Crickets psycho moment. WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT? I felt so uncomfortable reading it and I cringed so much. Why would Willow write something like that? And why would it even happen? It was so unnecessary and honestly just embarrassing.
We of course can’t forget about the smut. But you may be thinking what smut? Yeah what smut, because what I read was not smut. It was so boring. I waited literally 3 books for them to start jumping each other and this is what I get? Not even a freaking threesome? Then Cricket gets worried about having sex with them right after each other. Like girl weren’t you a slut at your old school why the fuck do you now get anxious about it. And that was after they told her they wanted threesome and foursome action. And Willow you have no problem writing about LGBTQ so why wouldn’t you make m/m content with the guys?
My last complaint is the plot. I read this book because it was cute with little angst and drama. That’s why it really annoyed me that there was all of this drama and that Cricket had to be protected because what would become this almighty witch. Like come on. I bet in the next book she will keep complaining about not wanting to be so strong and have these powers and say that she just want to be normal.
So this has become a bit long and I’m honestly sad that I didn’t like it. But it was too much for me and I really don’t enjoy reading it in the end. I don’t think I’ll continue with the series and I won’t be recommending it either. So that was all:)
I’m really pissed at the moment because this book was not what I expected or wanted at all. There was too much unnecessary drama and not enough development. I’m not trying to just bad talk the book or the author but honestly Willow what were you thinking writing this book.
So let’s start with my first issue with it (I have a few) what’s the authors problem with Cas. Did she not like or did she just not want him to be happy or whatever because that must be why she did him so dirty. He was out of the loop with everything and not at one point did the others think to include him. They figured he knew. BUT HOW WOULD HE? They didn’t even believe it themselves until they talked to each other about it. None of them thought to include him and look where it got you. Then the author makes him cheat. HOW DARE SHE. That’s not something he would do so the author it just wanted him to have a hard time. Let’s not forget the fact that he just accepts that they have been keeping him out and talking about THEIR relationship WITHOUT him.
My next issue is the friends. Why are there so many people and why do we get their pov’s. Like I really don’t care about them. First we have Brennan and i think I dislike him the most. He is so cliche. I really don’t care that he is gay but can he please have a personality except for being the gay best friend that’s just there to make LGBTQ diversity. He annoys me so much and acts like Cricket is a possession. Does he even have a life that doesn’t revolve around her? They had only known each other for a few weeks but acted as if they had know each other their whole life. Then there’s Mildred (I’m not one for name shaming but what kind of name Mildred. Is she 60 or what). Why was she there? Like what good did she do too the plot? The answer is nothing. She was so boring and I honestly didn’t want her there. Did nobody in this book have a life since all they talked about was Cricket and the guys? It was too much for me and so unbelievable.
Then we have the birthday week. My biggest question is why? WHY WOULD THE ELDERS ONLY COME A DAY BEFORE HER BIRTHDAY IF WHAT THEY SAID WAS SO IMPORTANT? I wanted to bang my head against the wall because of the stupidity of their actions. They should have come as soon as possible so they could prepare them for what would happen. Then we have Crickets psycho moment. WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT? I felt so uncomfortable reading it and I cringed so much. Why would Willow write something like that? And why would it even happen? It was so unnecessary and honestly just embarrassing.
We of course can’t forget about the smut. But you may be thinking what smut? Yeah what smut, because what I read was not smut. It was so boring. I waited literally 3 books for them to start jumping each other and this is what I get? Not even a freaking threesome? Then Cricket gets worried about having sex with them right after each other. Like girl weren’t you a slut at your old school why the fuck do you now get anxious about it. And that was after they told her they wanted threesome and foursome action. And Willow you have no problem writing about LGBTQ so why wouldn’t you make m/m content with the guys?
My last complaint is the plot. I read this book because it was cute with little angst and drama. That’s why it really annoyed me that there was all of this drama and that Cricket had to be protected because what would become this almighty witch. Like come on. I bet in the next book she will keep complaining about not wanting to be so strong and have these powers and say that she just want to be normal.
So this has become a bit long and I’m honestly sad that I didn’t like it. But it was too much for me and I really don’t enjoy reading it in the end. I don’t think I’ll continue with the series and I won’t be recommending it either. So that was all:)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2021
Caution: Spoilers Below
2.5 Stars
I was really conflicted over how to rate this book. This is, IMO, the worst of the series so far. I feel like despite all the drama that happens (and there is A LOT of drama) the story line doesn’t really progress. The only thing that really changed was Cricket ended up getting her mate marks.
Multiple things bothered me about this book. The POVs from so many characters was rough. Why are we reading things from side characters POV that might not impact the story much or at all? And it takes time away from characters that are already in Cricket’s circle, like Bren and Erin. It wastes so much page space.
Also, Cricket, at this point, feels like a doormat. I honestly don’t understand the lack of anger and lack of reaction to the manipulation by every adult in the story. The way Aurora, Hawthorne, her parents, and the guys parents all acted was ridiculous, and Cricket had failed to confront any of them. She doesn’t want to upset anyone, doesn’t want to stand up for herself. It made me really reconsider her as a character I used to enjoy reading about. There was little growth in this book.
And lastly, the thing with Cas ‘cheating’ and the psycho behavior that seems to just happen when multiple wolves have one mate was just ridiculous. Both things were completely unnecessary to the story line and were just used for the word count and drama. Anything the author was trying to accomplish with those two plot twists could have been solved in much different, smarter ways. It felt lazy, honestly.
I’m not sure I recommend this book. I really hope the next one knocks it out of the park, because that’s the only way this series will be saved.
2.5 Stars
I was really conflicted over how to rate this book. This is, IMO, the worst of the series so far. I feel like despite all the drama that happens (and there is A LOT of drama) the story line doesn’t really progress. The only thing that really changed was Cricket ended up getting her mate marks.
Multiple things bothered me about this book. The POVs from so many characters was rough. Why are we reading things from side characters POV that might not impact the story much or at all? And it takes time away from characters that are already in Cricket’s circle, like Bren and Erin. It wastes so much page space.
Also, Cricket, at this point, feels like a doormat. I honestly don’t understand the lack of anger and lack of reaction to the manipulation by every adult in the story. The way Aurora, Hawthorne, her parents, and the guys parents all acted was ridiculous, and Cricket had failed to confront any of them. She doesn’t want to upset anyone, doesn’t want to stand up for herself. It made me really reconsider her as a character I used to enjoy reading about. There was little growth in this book.
And lastly, the thing with Cas ‘cheating’ and the psycho behavior that seems to just happen when multiple wolves have one mate was just ridiculous. Both things were completely unnecessary to the story line and were just used for the word count and drama. Anything the author was trying to accomplish with those two plot twists could have been solved in much different, smarter ways. It felt lazy, honestly.
I’m not sure I recommend this book. I really hope the next one knocks it out of the park, because that’s the only way this series will be saved.
June 25, 2021
Cricket Kendalls 18th birthday is finally here and what a wild ride it is. This book was a fantastic addition to the series and I am excited for more of Cricket, her guys, and my main man Rainer.
-This book is my favorite in the series since it introduces us to Rainer, Crickets wolf BFF. I am obsessed with Rainer and so excited to see his story progress.
-This book is more dramatic and angsty than the others and does feature other woman drama.
-We finally get some steamy times and Crickets relationship with the guys grows even further
-I did not love the drama with Cas in this book. In my opinion he has grown too much for what he does in this book but I'm sure Willow has plans for him and the plot
-I am still not a big fan of some of the newer characters and reading their POVs but I'm hopeful as the series progresses, they will grow on me.
-I dislike Alice even more in this book and hope she goes away soon
Things I am excited for: more Rainer (of course), Mabon, more steamy times, further relationship growth, seeing how strong Crickets powers will be now that she's 18, and completion of the mating bond (though I assume it will be a couple books before that happens).
-This book is my favorite in the series since it introduces us to Rainer, Crickets wolf BFF. I am obsessed with Rainer and so excited to see his story progress.
-This book is more dramatic and angsty than the others and does feature other woman drama.
-We finally get some steamy times and Crickets relationship with the guys grows even further
-I did not love the drama with Cas in this book. In my opinion he has grown too much for what he does in this book but I'm sure Willow has plans for him and the plot
-I am still not a big fan of some of the newer characters and reading their POVs but I'm hopeful as the series progresses, they will grow on me.
-I dislike Alice even more in this book and hope she goes away soon
Things I am excited for: more Rainer (of course), Mabon, more steamy times, further relationship growth, seeing how strong Crickets powers will be now that she's 18, and completion of the mating bond (though I assume it will be a couple books before that happens).
June 13, 2022
2.5 stars
(This review will contain underlying spoilers and references you’d understand if you read the book, but hopefullyyyy not any explicit spoilers, so read at your own risk cause there might still be)
The Cricket Kendall series has seriously been a refreshing and amazing freaking shining star in the genre of reverse harem for me: it’s got my perfect trifecta of a strong, kind, and likable female lead; well-written harem characters who love the heroine and also don’t demean or condescend to her (which, although seemingly unintentional, has been the case in a disappointing amount of recent rh books I’ve read); and really, really good world building (it’s Earth, obviously, but I mean like with all their powers and the supernatural societies).
However, when I read the first book, I was pretty freaking surprised that we didn’t get to Cricket’s birthday by the end cause it really seemed like we would for like the entire first half, so then by the end of the second book, I can say I was for sure irritated we STILL hadn’t gotten there, especially since it felt like all of the same drama and insecurities were just being recycled again and again to fill up the content. But all of that cool stuff about her forming her inner circle and being super powerful, along with the adorableeeee scenes with the guys and her friends, was enough to balance it out… until it got drawn out another like 2/3 of a book with book three. So already with the annoyance caused by this, we were looking at a half-star drop in my rating to 4.5 stars. The next .5 drop for me was just that I just didn’t like what was happening for like half of the book.
So, ok, I was at about 4 stars, thinking it was pretty good… until I realized something. I realized that for that half of the book I didn’t like, the author literally thought about it, wrote it, and then published it—all of her own volition. For some reason, before, I was just like “oh, that’s unfortunate and I don’t like that, but that’s what happened and the characters and I just have to deal”. BUT NO!! Someone literally thought that stuff would be good to add to this book and did add it!!!! This stuff could have never happened if the author had simply thought about how terrible it was!!!! The first big terrible thing that happened (if you’ve read the book, it’s the one where people were vomiting lol) literally almost made ME vomit. I will admit it’s pretty impressive the author has gotten me so invested in the characters that I had this visceral reaction, but seriously!!!! I thought I was signing up to read a feel-good book but then this came out of nowhere!! And it’s not even that it made me super upset and depressed because idk maybe I’m just stressed in life and/or being dramatic, it’s that I see NO VALUE WHATSOEVER in that whole thing being added to the book—in fact, I see NEGATIVE value. The people who matter get over it but random people don’t and then readers are in this weird state of “do I forget about it or is it important??” when we all just don’t want it to be important or to even have happened at all!!! Also, I honestly think it was both cliche AND untrue to that person’s character. I will forever associate all these terrible emotions I felt with that character (especially because it keeps being brought up!!!!), so much so that I don’t think I can even reread the first book again for fun because I know this happened later; I definitely won’t be reading the next book. So the first mistake: cliche, untrue to the character in my opinion, blown completely out of proportion but also way too quickly gotten over in some cases, has absolutely NO value that I can see (I mean, c’mon it’s a book with freaking awesome supernatural stuff and instead of choosing to create a plot line and drama around that you choose to do it with an awesome relationship?????????), and just really, really left a bad feeling for me toward the series and character forever.
The next big thing that I was like “what the what???” was that psycho scene. Keep in mind, I freaking would have been fine enough with this and given the book 4 stars if it was JUST this, but since it rode on the back of the crazy train that was the first big thing, I’m really just disappointed. Why the heck did that scene have to be so psycho??? Like I want to trust it’s for a reason but I think it’s just the author wanting to be unique and (after reading that first big thing) I’m think maybe she just wanted to be dramatic and weird. I’m not going to go into more detail cause I don’t want to give spoilers, but like even though it wasn’t a lot, that’s still the kinda stuff you put in a dark romance, serious book not this self-proclaimed fluffy and happy book!!
Sooooo bottom line: the fact that the author knowingly CHOSE to add in these terrible scenes and plot lines is what had me lowering my rating to a 2.5. Honestly, maybe it should be lower but I promise I don’t like wrecking someone’s hard work too bad, I really seriously did love the series before all this, and looking at the other reviews so far, I’m starting to think I could be an outlier. But anyways, not sure if I’d recommend reading this book or not to current fans—I, myself, am definitely the kind of person who can’t just like give up on a good series just cause of a review, but it’s not like this is the last book so you won’t get any closure or anything like that out of reading it. I sadly won’t be continuing the series because I can’t erase these emotions with the series and character and because the pacing is just soooooo slow by now and there’s STILL the same insecurities with the characters that were there ages ago and after they literally have been reassured so much and even seem to have already gotten over these insecurities a long time ago.
So that’s that and if anyone has any recommendations of other rh books that fit my trifecta, please share!!!!
(This review will contain underlying spoilers and references you’d understand if you read the book, but hopefullyyyy not any explicit spoilers, so read at your own risk cause there might still be)
The Cricket Kendall series has seriously been a refreshing and amazing freaking shining star in the genre of reverse harem for me: it’s got my perfect trifecta of a strong, kind, and likable female lead; well-written harem characters who love the heroine and also don’t demean or condescend to her (which, although seemingly unintentional, has been the case in a disappointing amount of recent rh books I’ve read); and really, really good world building (it’s Earth, obviously, but I mean like with all their powers and the supernatural societies).
However, when I read the first book, I was pretty freaking surprised that we didn’t get to Cricket’s birthday by the end cause it really seemed like we would for like the entire first half, so then by the end of the second book, I can say I was for sure irritated we STILL hadn’t gotten there, especially since it felt like all of the same drama and insecurities were just being recycled again and again to fill up the content. But all of that cool stuff about her forming her inner circle and being super powerful, along with the adorableeeee scenes with the guys and her friends, was enough to balance it out… until it got drawn out another like 2/3 of a book with book three. So already with the annoyance caused by this, we were looking at a half-star drop in my rating to 4.5 stars. The next .5 drop for me was just that I just didn’t like what was happening for like half of the book.
So, ok, I was at about 4 stars, thinking it was pretty good… until I realized something. I realized that for that half of the book I didn’t like, the author literally thought about it, wrote it, and then published it—all of her own volition. For some reason, before, I was just like “oh, that’s unfortunate and I don’t like that, but that’s what happened and the characters and I just have to deal”. BUT NO!! Someone literally thought that stuff would be good to add to this book and did add it!!!! This stuff could have never happened if the author had simply thought about how terrible it was!!!! The first big terrible thing that happened (if you’ve read the book, it’s the one where people were vomiting lol) literally almost made ME vomit. I will admit it’s pretty impressive the author has gotten me so invested in the characters that I had this visceral reaction, but seriously!!!! I thought I was signing up to read a feel-good book but then this came out of nowhere!! And it’s not even that it made me super upset and depressed because idk maybe I’m just stressed in life and/or being dramatic, it’s that I see NO VALUE WHATSOEVER in that whole thing being added to the book—in fact, I see NEGATIVE value. The people who matter get over it but random people don’t and then readers are in this weird state of “do I forget about it or is it important??” when we all just don’t want it to be important or to even have happened at all!!! Also, I honestly think it was both cliche AND untrue to that person’s character. I will forever associate all these terrible emotions I felt with that character (especially because it keeps being brought up!!!!), so much so that I don’t think I can even reread the first book again for fun because I know this happened later; I definitely won’t be reading the next book. So the first mistake: cliche, untrue to the character in my opinion, blown completely out of proportion but also way too quickly gotten over in some cases, has absolutely NO value that I can see (I mean, c’mon it’s a book with freaking awesome supernatural stuff and instead of choosing to create a plot line and drama around that you choose to do it with an awesome relationship?????????), and just really, really left a bad feeling for me toward the series and character forever.
The next big thing that I was like “what the what???” was that psycho scene. Keep in mind, I freaking would have been fine enough with this and given the book 4 stars if it was JUST this, but since it rode on the back of the crazy train that was the first big thing, I’m really just disappointed. Why the heck did that scene have to be so psycho??? Like I want to trust it’s for a reason but I think it’s just the author wanting to be unique and (after reading that first big thing) I’m think maybe she just wanted to be dramatic and weird. I’m not going to go into more detail cause I don’t want to give spoilers, but like even though it wasn’t a lot, that’s still the kinda stuff you put in a dark romance, serious book not this self-proclaimed fluffy and happy book!!
Sooooo bottom line: the fact that the author knowingly CHOSE to add in these terrible scenes and plot lines is what had me lowering my rating to a 2.5. Honestly, maybe it should be lower but I promise I don’t like wrecking someone’s hard work too bad, I really seriously did love the series before all this, and looking at the other reviews so far, I’m starting to think I could be an outlier. But anyways, not sure if I’d recommend reading this book or not to current fans—I, myself, am definitely the kind of person who can’t just like give up on a good series just cause of a review, but it’s not like this is the last book so you won’t get any closure or anything like that out of reading it. I sadly won’t be continuing the series because I can’t erase these emotions with the series and character and because the pacing is just soooooo slow by now and there’s STILL the same insecurities with the characters that were there ages ago and after they literally have been reassured so much and even seem to have already gotten over these insecurities a long time ago.
So that’s that and if anyone has any recommendations of other rh books that fit my trifecta, please share!!!!
June 26, 2021
Love, Love!
I so love, love this book series.. It's slow but oh so good! I can't wait to continue on with this series to see what new and exciting adventure our sweet Willow, take us next!
That's all for now.. Until book 4...
Overall Rating:
5* ~ An Awesome Read
I so love, love this book series.. It's slow but oh so good! I can't wait to continue on with this series to see what new and exciting adventure our sweet Willow, take us next!
That's all for now.. Until book 4...
Overall Rating:
5* ~ An Awesome Read
June 20, 2021
Not enough stars. Such and emotional rollercoaster, I wasn't ready for it but man what a rush. You nail it every time Miss Willow.
June 18, 2021
Absolutely LOVED this book! It had everything I’ve been waiting for and more. I am so invested in Cricket’s story and can’t wait to see how they all grow and change. One of my favorite series.
June 25, 2021
SO GOOD
This has been such a slow burn and it has been driving me crazy! I loved this book just as much as the first two, and I can't wait to see what comes next.
This has been such a slow burn and it has been driving me crazy! I loved this book just as much as the first two, and I can't wait to see what comes next.
July 3, 2021
2.5 stars rounded up
This book was better than the second one. More action, shorter and edited slightly better.
Personally, this series intrigues me but there’s a lot of aspects that just don’t fully click for me. While there’s an interesting cast of supporting characters, I could’ve done without half of their POV chapters. It detracts from the main storyline for me.
This book would’ve been way better had there not been a cheating scene. Sure, it wasn’t as bad as it could’ve been, but it completely took away from the romance. Any kind of cheating is gross to me. Sure, Cas is incredibly distraught he did that and endlessly cries and is depressed, but what exactly is that scene supposed to show us? That when he gets his feelings hurt he wants to hurt those around him back? Sucks because he was my favorite until that point too.
Cricket forgives him incredibly easily too. Made her seem pathetic. 🤷🏻♀️ ok, he’s one of her mates, but she ignores him for a few days and then, it’s ok i love you? She barely lets him apologize. The whole school knows what he did to her. It’s like she has to maintain her super “coolest girl” image and that includes a small talk with him and then all is good. Can’t risk getting upset and ruining her manic pixie dream girl image.
And that goes for everyone around them. She never, ever gets upset for more than 5 seconds. And she was first presented as this confident, sexually positive character who in this book CONSTANTLY feels embarrassed about the dumbest things (a leaf in her hair????) or guilty about being with her mates who are aware they are ALL 3 her mates. Like, pick a lane dude.
While most of the book is “light and fluffy,” this one had angst i wasn’t really reading for. Cricket really needs to grow a backbone and stand up for herself, especially around the other witches.
The whole school being less obsessed with her and the guys would also make this more intriguing. It just feels incredibly childish at times. The constant “you’re such a sweetheart” and the so many “i love you’s” start to lose their appeal the 100th time you read about it too. Cricket is the most interesting, most beautiful, most special, sweetest, kindest, amazing girl, etc girl in the whole world, and that’s not coming just from the guys but the whole school. Take from that what you will.
I am intrigued in the paranormal aspects of Mabon and her growing her circle, what is this all leading to with her powers? So I’ll maybe pick up book 4. I hope we start to get more answers.
This book was better than the second one. More action, shorter and edited slightly better.
Personally, this series intrigues me but there’s a lot of aspects that just don’t fully click for me. While there’s an interesting cast of supporting characters, I could’ve done without half of their POV chapters. It detracts from the main storyline for me.
This book would’ve been way better had there not been a cheating scene. Sure, it wasn’t as bad as it could’ve been, but it completely took away from the romance. Any kind of cheating is gross to me. Sure, Cas is incredibly distraught he did that and endlessly cries and is depressed, but what exactly is that scene supposed to show us? That when he gets his feelings hurt he wants to hurt those around him back? Sucks because he was my favorite until that point too.
Cricket forgives him incredibly easily too. Made her seem pathetic. 🤷🏻♀️ ok, he’s one of her mates, but she ignores him for a few days and then, it’s ok i love you? She barely lets him apologize. The whole school knows what he did to her. It’s like she has to maintain her super “coolest girl” image and that includes a small talk with him and then all is good. Can’t risk getting upset and ruining her manic pixie dream girl image.
And that goes for everyone around them. She never, ever gets upset for more than 5 seconds. And she was first presented as this confident, sexually positive character who in this book CONSTANTLY feels embarrassed about the dumbest things (a leaf in her hair????) or guilty about being with her mates who are aware they are ALL 3 her mates. Like, pick a lane dude.
While most of the book is “light and fluffy,” this one had angst i wasn’t really reading for. Cricket really needs to grow a backbone and stand up for herself, especially around the other witches.
The whole school being less obsessed with her and the guys would also make this more intriguing. It just feels incredibly childish at times. The constant “you’re such a sweetheart” and the so many “i love you’s” start to lose their appeal the 100th time you read about it too. Cricket is the most interesting, most beautiful, most special, sweetest, kindest, amazing girl, etc girl in the whole world, and that’s not coming just from the guys but the whole school. Take from that what you will.
I am intrigued in the paranormal aspects of Mabon and her growing her circle, what is this all leading to with her powers? So I’ll maybe pick up book 4. I hope we start to get more answers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2021
Ahhhhhhhh. I cannot believe this. This series was so cute and sweet and now I will never finish it. I cannot stand cheating in the group. Stopped reading immediately. I know she will forgive him and it will all be roses and hearts but it's bullshit. He treated her like crap and I can't deal with a weak Mc. Such a waste.
Decided to skip to the end and see if I was wrong and maybe she wasn't a doormat but no it was all I love you I'm so happy we are mates and I cannot wait to bond with you! Even her brothers laughed it off. Her boyfriend cheated and called her a slut and they just told Cas it would be OK because cricket can't stay mad. I excepted more than this boys will be boys and girls should always forgive them bullshit.
Decided to skip to the end and see if I was wrong and maybe she wasn't a doormat but no it was all I love you I'm so happy we are mates and I cannot wait to bond with you! Even her brothers laughed it off. Her boyfriend cheated and called her a slut and they just told Cas it would be OK because cricket can't stay mad. I excepted more than this boys will be boys and girls should always forgive them bullshit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2021
You can’t not fall in love with this book and these characters. I’m a sucker for sweet guys in an harem and Hollis, Theo and Cas are the sweetest. Things aren’t perfect, but that just adds to the story and makes the characters realistic. They mess up, needs to work on their communication and there are things happening beyond their control. It is not all smooth sailings and you experience all of the feelings along with Cricket and her guys.
Rainer… He is one of my new favourite side characters.
And the heat kicks up in Wandering Star and it is hot!
Rainer… He is one of my new favourite side characters.
And the heat kicks up in Wandering Star and it is hot!
June 18, 2021
There's not much i can say about this book that i haven't already said about book 1 and 2 😂. It's flipping brilliant!! It made me laugh, it made me cry and it also filled my heart with joy! This is one of my most favourite series I've ever read! As far as I'm concerned everybody needs abit of cricket in their lives ❤. Book 4 just can't come quick enough!
June 25, 2021
This book grabbed me and kept me reading from the moment that I picked it up. It moves along at a really nice speen making for a fun read. The characters are amazing and you cant help but love them and the story keeps you interested and you cant put the book down till you reach the end. This is a must read, there is no doubt about it.
June 25, 2021
I have no words to describe how much I love this story. The main characters face some struggles that test their relationship. Is their relationship strong enough to survive? If you have a bad day this series will change that in an instant. I can’t praise this story enough so I’ll just stop here and say how much I’m exited for the fourth book, I give it five out of five stars ⭐️.
June 18, 2021
I love this series. This book is a roller coaster of all the feels. This series just gets more interesting with each book I read. I am so glad the author has multiple books plan. I will alway have a soft spot for this book in particular because of Rainer. Can't wait for more!
June 21, 2021
I absolutely loved this book!
Wandering Star has so much happening but I don’t want to say anything so I don’t spoil anything.
This series is a slow-burn, sweet story and I love all the characters including little Stella. I can’t wait to see what happens next for Cricket and her guys!
Wandering Star has so much happening but I don’t want to say anything so I don’t spoil anything.
This series is a slow-burn, sweet story and I love all the characters including little Stella. I can’t wait to see what happens next for Cricket and her guys!
June 18, 2021
ARC- what can I say except Wandering Star was everything I didn’t know I needed. First to understand why my love for the series is unhealthy, you need to know that I freaking love harems of sweet guys and Theo, Hollis and Cas are the sweetest. My obsession with them is unhealthy but I’m not sorry.
I know some people will have a huge issue for the conflict between Cricket and one of her harem members in this book but honestly, who can stand perfect guys? I can’t. It’s unrealistic and I think the situation in the book is a perfect example of life with three boyfriends/mates.
I also just wanted to hit on how much I love the secondary characters. Seriously! Ralph, Brennan, Mildred, Xavier and let’s not forget my new favorite guy (not naming him. You have to read it for that info!). Oh and let’s not forget the twins! If I had brothers like that I wouldn’t have friends. I would just hang out with them all day.
Hadley just knocked it out of the park with this one. I was totally impressed with the character development. On pins and needles waiting for the next book!
I know some people will have a huge issue for the conflict between Cricket and one of her harem members in this book but honestly, who can stand perfect guys? I can’t. It’s unrealistic and I think the situation in the book is a perfect example of life with three boyfriends/mates.
I also just wanted to hit on how much I love the secondary characters. Seriously! Ralph, Brennan, Mildred, Xavier and let’s not forget my new favorite guy (not naming him. You have to read it for that info!). Oh and let’s not forget the twins! If I had brothers like that I wouldn’t have friends. I would just hang out with them all day.
Hadley just knocked it out of the park with this one. I was totally impressed with the character development. On pins and needles waiting for the next book!
June 19, 2021
I am so happy to have discovered this series and this author. I’ve fallen head over heels in love with Cricket, her wolves, and a charming cast of side characters.
In the Author’s Note, Willow describes this book as a “warm and fuzzy palate cleanser most of us need on bad days”. This is so completely spot on for how I experience this series as a whole. Having read a lot of dark romance, Cricket’s series gives me a sugary dose of super sweetness to break up the heavy. For me, this series is all about the characters and I love them all, including the side characters. In addition to Cricket and her guys, we get some POVs from the side characters which I enjoyed just as much.
Wandering Star is a fun, satisfying read and another amazing addition to this series. Can’t wait for more from these characters and this world!
In the Author’s Note, Willow describes this book as a “warm and fuzzy palate cleanser most of us need on bad days”. This is so completely spot on for how I experience this series as a whole. Having read a lot of dark romance, Cricket’s series gives me a sugary dose of super sweetness to break up the heavy. For me, this series is all about the characters and I love them all, including the side characters. In addition to Cricket and her guys, we get some POVs from the side characters which I enjoyed just as much.
Wandering Star is a fun, satisfying read and another amazing addition to this series. Can’t wait for more from these characters and this world!
June 25, 2021
Incredible.
Sugary sweet, with all the good stuff we've been waiting for!
Birthdays, drama, angst and a whole lotta steam!
The best in the series so far and I'm so excited to read more.
Sugary sweet, with all the good stuff we've been waiting for!
Birthdays, drama, angst and a whole lotta steam!
The best in the series so far and I'm so excited to read more.
June 20, 2021
Another lovely fluffy installment of Cricket and her boys. I love the drama and teenage angst in this book and of course Rainer!!
I've never read a series where I'm just as invested in the side characters as I am the main characters but Willow just has a way of making them as endearing and interesting.
I'm looking forward to book 4 and a certain mating ritual *insert waggy eyebrows here*
I've never read a series where I'm just as invested in the side characters as I am the main characters but Willow just has a way of making them as endearing and interesting.
I'm looking forward to book 4 and a certain mating ritual *insert waggy eyebrows here*
June 28, 2021
Emotional and Pivotal (best series find of 2021!)
Gah! This series is my top favorite find of 2021. I gobbled up books one and two and then proceeded to reread them every other week or so for months, eagerly awaiting this third release.
As I understand it, Willow (author) initially released drafts of her first three books on Wattpad, where she gained quite the following prior to officially publishing her works as an Indie author. Those fans who were following this series in its early days have left reviews that gave me enough of a heads up to know that book three was going to introduce us to new characters (Rainer!) as well as a level of conflict not previously seen in the prior two books. These hints were enough to make me both eager and anxious about what all would go down.
********Minor Spoilers Below************
From a timeline perspective, we get to see the BIG events we have been building towards, namely the BD Party and Crickets actual birthday. We get answers to some substantial questions we have been accumulating, and at least imo, they were very satisfying answers. 😍
We also get a few new, complex questions to add to the building mystery of what really is the destiny for Cricket. I have so many theories!!!
Final thoughts. Willow has a black belt in character and world building. Some have commented that her pace feels too drawn out but I really enjoy the slower approach she is taking to build the characters and the world. We are so immersed in their day and their thoughts that we can't help but form deep attachments to these characters. That makes everything about the story come alive and keeps me locked in my seat (feeding my voyeuristic tendencies).
😲😛😥😍
Ratings by category:
Character building: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
World building: 🌎 🌎 🌎 🌎 🌎
Relationship building: 😍 😍 😍 😍 😍
Romance: 💓 💓 💓 💓 (This series is deeply romantic to me, probably one of the most romantic reads in my library. I'm leaving off one star not because this fails to hit the romance mark, but because I know it's only going to get even more spectacular as the series progresses and I'm waiting for it to smash through the ceiling. Got to hold something back for when it exceeds what came before it. 😄)
Heat/steam: 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥 (We finally get to the smexy times and the wait and build up was delicious. Willow does not disappoint. 🔥)
Drama: 😭 😭 😭 😭 (This one had quite a bit more drama than the prior two. I definitely shed a tear or two watching a few things unfold, but it all felt necessary to help the characters get to the next stage in their ties and acceptance of their unique relationship).
Action: 🍿 🍿
Suspense: 💣 💣 💣
Dark: This is like a zero on the "dark" richter scale, which is a GOOD thing imo. Sometimes you need a break from the dark reads and all the angst. This story still manages to bring all the sweet and smexy tension but we don't have to suffer through any of the common enemy/bully experiences first.
Triggers: There is a bit of OW drama, however, no cheating happens (by my definition of cheating) and there was something specific that led up to it that helps you understand what/why. It didn't cross any lines (for me). I can see why it was important to the overall character and relationship growth.
Length: 350+ pages
POV: Multiple (done very well with smooth transitions and unique voices)
Ending: HFN - no miserable cliffhangers. The author built such complex characters and an immersive world, she doesn't need to leave us hanging off a cliff in order to keep us stalking this story. I love and appreciate that!
Gah! This series is my top favorite find of 2021. I gobbled up books one and two and then proceeded to reread them every other week or so for months, eagerly awaiting this third release.
As I understand it, Willow (author) initially released drafts of her first three books on Wattpad, where she gained quite the following prior to officially publishing her works as an Indie author. Those fans who were following this series in its early days have left reviews that gave me enough of a heads up to know that book three was going to introduce us to new characters (Rainer!) as well as a level of conflict not previously seen in the prior two books. These hints were enough to make me both eager and anxious about what all would go down.
********Minor Spoilers Below************
From a timeline perspective, we get to see the BIG events we have been building towards, namely the BD Party and Crickets actual birthday. We get answers to some substantial questions we have been accumulating, and at least imo, they were very satisfying answers. 😍
We also get a few new, complex questions to add to the building mystery of what really is the destiny for Cricket. I have so many theories!!!
Final thoughts. Willow has a black belt in character and world building. Some have commented that her pace feels too drawn out but I really enjoy the slower approach she is taking to build the characters and the world. We are so immersed in their day and their thoughts that we can't help but form deep attachments to these characters. That makes everything about the story come alive and keeps me locked in my seat (feeding my voyeuristic tendencies).
😲😛😥😍
Ratings by category:
Character building: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
World building: 🌎 🌎 🌎 🌎 🌎
Relationship building: 😍 😍 😍 😍 😍
Romance: 💓 💓 💓 💓 (This series is deeply romantic to me, probably one of the most romantic reads in my library. I'm leaving off one star not because this fails to hit the romance mark, but because I know it's only going to get even more spectacular as the series progresses and I'm waiting for it to smash through the ceiling. Got to hold something back for when it exceeds what came before it. 😄)
Heat/steam: 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥 (We finally get to the smexy times and the wait and build up was delicious. Willow does not disappoint. 🔥)
Drama: 😭 😭 😭 😭 (This one had quite a bit more drama than the prior two. I definitely shed a tear or two watching a few things unfold, but it all felt necessary to help the characters get to the next stage in their ties and acceptance of their unique relationship).
Action: 🍿 🍿
Suspense: 💣 💣 💣
Dark: This is like a zero on the "dark" richter scale, which is a GOOD thing imo. Sometimes you need a break from the dark reads and all the angst. This story still manages to bring all the sweet and smexy tension but we don't have to suffer through any of the common enemy/bully experiences first.
Triggers: There is a bit of OW drama, however, no cheating happens (by my definition of cheating) and there was something specific that led up to it that helps you understand what/why. It didn't cross any lines (for me). I can see why it was important to the overall character and relationship growth.
Length: 350+ pages
POV: Multiple (done very well with smooth transitions and unique voices)
Ending: HFN - no miserable cliffhangers. The author built such complex characters and an immersive world, she doesn't need to leave us hanging off a cliff in order to keep us stalking this story. I love and appreciate that!
February 17, 2022
4.5 stars.
Willow Hadley is relatively new to me but I am completely enamored of her. Wandering Star is the third novel in the Cricket Kendall series, featuring our heroine Cricket and her possible fated mates, Theo, Hollis, and Cas. Fated mates with an adoring and sweet harem? Yes, please.
Wandering Star is mostly fluffy but we encounter a bit of angst and FINALLY some steam. This series has been a bit of a slow burn, and it has worked well, but it was ultra satisfying to finally get some progression in their relationship.
I thought the angst was needed. The previous books have been pretty light and fluffy and it was about time Cricket and her men encountered a problem or conflict. You know I love a good grovel and Willow Hadley delivered.
I loved the addition of the side characters and thought they felt integral to the story. While there are about a million points-of-view in this series, I still enjoy seeing the story through so many eyes and I am enjoying the writing.
Count me in for the next one.
Willow Hadley is relatively new to me but I am completely enamored of her. Wandering Star is the third novel in the Cricket Kendall series, featuring our heroine Cricket and her possible fated mates, Theo, Hollis, and Cas. Fated mates with an adoring and sweet harem? Yes, please.
Wandering Star is mostly fluffy but we encounter a bit of angst and FINALLY some steam. This series has been a bit of a slow burn, and it has worked well, but it was ultra satisfying to finally get some progression in their relationship.
I thought the angst was needed. The previous books have been pretty light and fluffy and it was about time Cricket and her men encountered a problem or conflict. You know I love a good grovel and Willow Hadley delivered.
I loved the addition of the side characters and thought they felt integral to the story. While there are about a million points-of-view in this series, I still enjoy seeing the story through so many eyes and I am enjoying the writing.
Count me in for the next one.
June 25, 2021
Absolutely love this series ❤️❤️❤️ This book gave some long anticipated answers and we finally got some spicy scenes with Cricket and her guys! Anyone who has read books 1 & 2 knows how captivating this story is and how invested you become in the characters. This was definitely not a let down and honestly one of the best slow burn romance series I’ve read. If you are looking for a true love romance story with scenes that will make you laugh out loud, a book that truly gets you invested in the MC and makes you feel like you are a part of their story. You will not be disappointed in picking up this series! A definite must read!
June 25, 2021
Okay, this one is definitely more drama filled than the first two! Plus it’s heating up in there 😏
It’s still the same sweet characters that you love and know, but as we come closer to Cricket’s birthday, things are definitely getting more anxious.
I originally read the rough version on Wattpad, and to see the differences with the cleaned up version is so cool. It’s way better now, and certain scenes are way better worked out (which is logical).
All in all, yet another hit for me!
It’s still the same sweet characters that you love and know, but as we come closer to Cricket’s birthday, things are definitely getting more anxious.
I originally read the rough version on Wattpad, and to see the differences with the cleaned up version is so cool. It’s way better now, and certain scenes are way better worked out (which is logical).
All in all, yet another hit for me!
June 26, 2021
💚💚💚💚
This book was everything in the Cricket saga and I absolutely loved it. We finally get to see Cricket have her birthday , more complications and miscommunications , break ups and hookups , meeting new people and lastly the mating marks and aftermath. I loved the additional POVs from side characters and Rainer...man can I say how much I love him. I can't wait to see what the future holds
This book was everything in the Cricket saga and I absolutely loved it. We finally get to see Cricket have her birthday , more complications and miscommunications , break ups and hookups , meeting new people and lastly the mating marks and aftermath. I loved the additional POVs from side characters and Rainer...man can I say how much I love him. I can't wait to see what the future holds
June 18, 2021
This was an amazing book! It blew my
Mind. I didn’t expect this book to toss me on my but! The emotions and the sadness, anger, love and happiness i experienced, just wow. I loved this book and these characters and I can’t wait For the next book.
Mind. I didn’t expect this book to toss me on my but! The emotions and the sadness, anger, love and happiness i experienced, just wow. I loved this book and these characters and I can’t wait For the next book.
June 25, 2021
Nothing’s ever easy
Cricket and her wolves make for such a great story. Cricket finally turns 18 and drama abounds. Great series and I am so happy with turnout. Can’t wait for more Cricket books.
Cricket and her wolves make for such a great story. Cricket finally turns 18 and drama abounds. Great series and I am so happy with turnout. Can’t wait for more Cricket books.
June 26, 2021
Another awesome book in the series
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this one. I love how everyone is written, and their characters really come to life. Love this series, cannot wait for further books!
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this one. I love how everyone is written, and their characters really come to life. Love this series, cannot wait for further books!
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