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Savage U #1
Soft Like Thunder
Helen. What a sweet name for a girl who is anything but.
The first time I laid eyes on Theo Whitlock, I chased him and his frat boy friends with a bat.
I’m no white knight.
I’m broke. He’s rich. I destroyed his car. He chooses not to rat me out.
I was never supposed to go to college, but especially not one like Savage U, where only the wealthiest need apply. One might call this a lucky break, only I don’t feel so lucky with a drug dealer breathing down my neck, and a gangster threatening to burn my house down.
You have a face that could launch a thousand ships.
Theo and I don’t make sense, but being with him feels good, and I need more than my books and classes to distract me from the chaos and violence in my life.
I know you’re my good girl. Aren’t you, Helen? Tell me.
We’re casual. No complications. We have to be. I’m keeping secrets, and I have a feeling behind Theo Whitlock’s twinkly blue eyes is a whole world of darkness.
Do you think about me?
Too much…
Did I hurt you?
He will...if the other savages don’t get to me first.
(Full blurb to come! The release date will be moved forward. Savage U is a spin-off of The Savage Crew, but can be read as a standalone!)
The first time I laid eyes on Theo Whitlock, I chased him and his frat boy friends with a bat.
I’m no white knight.
I’m broke. He’s rich. I destroyed his car. He chooses not to rat me out.
I was never supposed to go to college, but especially not one like Savage U, where only the wealthiest need apply. One might call this a lucky break, only I don’t feel so lucky with a drug dealer breathing down my neck, and a gangster threatening to burn my house down.
You have a face that could launch a thousand ships.
Theo and I don’t make sense, but being with him feels good, and I need more than my books and classes to distract me from the chaos and violence in my life.
I know you’re my good girl. Aren’t you, Helen? Tell me.
We’re casual. No complications. We have to be. I’m keeping secrets, and I have a feeling behind Theo Whitlock’s twinkly blue eyes is a whole world of darkness.
Do you think about me?
Too much…
Did I hurt you?
He will...if the other savages don’t get to me first.
(Full blurb to come! The release date will be moved forward. Savage U is a spin-off of The Savage Crew, but can be read as a standalone!)
374 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 3, 2022
1838 people are currently reading
11746 people want to read
About the author
Julia Wolf
49 books3,491 followersJulia lives in Maryland with her patient husband and three crazy, beautiful kids!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 516 reviews
March 21, 2022
92%
tolerable
tolerable
dnf
March 31, 2022DNF - not for me. “Badass” h is crass and promiscuous. 🥴😵💫
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2023
Ended up finishing it and it was just ok. Didn’t like the beta H, plot was…where was the plot?🤷🏻♀️
I picked this up, without knowing the plot, because I love bad girl heroines who are not virgins.
Helen, a stunning 20yr old, grew up in the trailer park with her druggie mom and her little sister. To protect her mom and her little sister from loan shark gangsters, and to put herself through college, she works as a waitress at a strip club, but sometimes when things get tough, as in deadly because she can’t make the loan and they will kill her sister or mom, she strips to make the payment. What a ho right? (That was sarcasm for slut shaming readers)
The last time she slept with a guy was 2 years ago, when she was raped. Before this, she only had hook ups. What most H’s do in romance. I loved that this h was so normal.
She meets the H, a pussy (Sorry disliked him), and they get into a f buddy relationship.
H’s dad was rich, H wasn’t, so he had to do whatever daddy wanted, too afraid to lose his posh living.
He does grow some balls at the end, but by this time, I was bored.
Safety spoilers
No cheating
Some ow drama.
MCs met a year before this book started. He had a gf then, so he wasn’t celibate after meeting the h.
It opens with him being broken up. His ex dumped him.
He said he loved his ex Abby, that they dated for 2 years, I didn’t believe that he ever loved her.
I thought this would stir angst, it didn’t.
He said he wasn’t over Abby when the book opened, but he sure got over her fast.
Which made me feel like he was a flake. This guy had no substance or deep feelings. And if he got over his ex that fast, then how deep could his love for the h be?
- love scenes were hot!🥵
As much as I loved this book for being not sexist for once, it didn’t have the right H to make it shine.
I picked this up, without knowing the plot, because I love bad girl heroines who are not virgins.
Helen, a stunning 20yr old, grew up in the trailer park with her druggie mom and her little sister. To protect her mom and her little sister from loan shark gangsters, and to put herself through college, she works as a waitress at a strip club, but sometimes when things get tough, as in deadly because she can’t make the loan and they will kill her sister or mom, she strips to make the payment. What a ho right? (That was sarcasm for slut shaming readers)
The last time she slept with a guy was 2 years ago, when she was raped. Before this, she only had hook ups. What most H’s do in romance. I loved that this h was so normal.
She meets the H, a pussy (Sorry disliked him), and they get into a f buddy relationship.
H’s dad was rich, H wasn’t, so he had to do whatever daddy wanted, too afraid to lose his posh living.
He does grow some balls at the end, but by this time, I was bored.
Safety spoilers
No cheating
Some ow drama.
MCs met a year before this book started. He had a gf then, so he wasn’t celibate after meeting the h.
It opens with him being broken up. His ex dumped him.
He said he loved his ex Abby, that they dated for 2 years, I didn’t believe that he ever loved her.
I thought this would stir angst, it didn’t.
He said he wasn’t over Abby when the book opened, but he sure got over her fast.
Which made me feel like he was a flake. This guy had no substance or deep feelings. And if he got over his ex that fast, then how deep could his love for the h be?
- love scenes were hot!🥵
As much as I loved this book for being not sexist for once, it didn’t have the right H to make it shine.
January 31, 2022
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*
Helen and Theo make a smashing start to this spin-off of the Savage Crew. College is bigger and has more challenges than ever for this young couple.
I was very intrigued to learn more about Helen after the previous series. She just seemed so cool and I love a Skater Girl. Theo is sweet and might seem like a goody goody rich boy, but he has his own drama that he is hiding. They clash together in a steamy fashion in Soft Like Thunder.
I haven't read many characters like Helen, and I loved learning about all her different layers and what makes her tick. She has trauma that she has/is dealing with and Theo comes up against that in some interesting ways.
These two have some serious chemistry and while Helen wants to stay far away from any entanglements.. Theo is all about pulling her closer. He wants to know everything about her and the burdens she is carrying.
I did have a few things that made this book tough for me. And they really have to do with my own preferences. J. Wolf brings her trademark steamy scenes and situations to this book and if you like the previous series, I think you will have a great time.
My area of dislike, again, is totally personal. Substance use and the selling of it are never something I want to read about. I know why they are in this book and most people probably won't care at all. But I just wanted to be clear about why I docked a star. And why it probably won't be an issue for anyone else.
I am very interested in the next entry in the series and the couple that it will be about.
4/5 stars
3.5 on my spice scale.
Helen and Theo make a smashing start to this spin-off of the Savage Crew. College is bigger and has more challenges than ever for this young couple.
I was very intrigued to learn more about Helen after the previous series. She just seemed so cool and I love a Skater Girl. Theo is sweet and might seem like a goody goody rich boy, but he has his own drama that he is hiding. They clash together in a steamy fashion in Soft Like Thunder.
I haven't read many characters like Helen, and I loved learning about all her different layers and what makes her tick. She has trauma that she has/is dealing with and Theo comes up against that in some interesting ways.
These two have some serious chemistry and while Helen wants to stay far away from any entanglements.. Theo is all about pulling her closer. He wants to know everything about her and the burdens she is carrying.
I did have a few things that made this book tough for me. And they really have to do with my own preferences. J. Wolf brings her trademark steamy scenes and situations to this book and if you like the previous series, I think you will have a great time.
My area of dislike, again, is totally personal. Substance use and the selling of it are never something I want to read about. I know why they are in this book and most people probably won't care at all. But I just wanted to be clear about why I docked a star. And why it probably won't be an issue for anyone else.
I am very interested in the next entry in the series and the couple that it will be about.
4/5 stars
3.5 on my spice scale.
December 6, 2024
"I might have been embarrassed if I’d cared about anything but what we were doing. Because I was coming hard on the hand of a guy who drove me to see Shakespeare, had twinkly blue eyes, and kissed me like the sky was falling and I was his only shelter."
Oh my heart, this book was nothing like I expected it to be but was everything I needed. Helen and Theo had such a beautiful love, so much so that you could feel the adoration they had for each other just leap off the page. They both have had hard lives, making it hard for them to trust easily, which causes problems early on in their non relationship, relationship. There were so many times I wanted to throttle Theo (especially during a certain part) but the GROVEL was so fucking epic, and you genuinely feel his remorse & shame for his actions, and I loved how he wanted to redeem himself not just for Helen and her love, but so he could look in the mirror and once again be proud of the man looking back. *cue all the feels!*
"He fucked me like he knew I wasn’t going to break but kissed me like I was a treasure."
Helen may have the spine of steel, but her soft moments with Theo were absolutely everything. They pushed each others buttons for sure, but they always pushed each other to be better as well. Theo was so much more than I expected as well, and my heart just broke for that little boy who was constantly let down by those closest to him. And then comes Helen, a red-lipped, bat-weilding menace who made it possible for him to breathe once more. I could literally go on and on about my love for these two all day!
The side characters stole my heart as well! Zadie the sweet roommate who caught the eye of a mafia man (seriously can't wait for her book!) And then Elena -- God i love that girl. There's so much more to her than meets the eye and I can't wait until we get more of her.. possibly with the Teddy bear of a man Locke? I just know he had a story brewing!!!
As much as I love Julia's Rockstar romances, I have to say her dark high school/college romances are where she shines. I just can't get enough of this world!! AND the glimpses we saw of Bash, Gabe, Penelope and the whole gang was just amazing! *chefs kiss* go do yourselves a favor and go one click this asap!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
Oh my heart, this book was nothing like I expected it to be but was everything I needed. Helen and Theo had such a beautiful love, so much so that you could feel the adoration they had for each other just leap off the page. They both have had hard lives, making it hard for them to trust easily, which causes problems early on in their non relationship, relationship. There were so many times I wanted to throttle Theo (especially during a certain part) but the GROVEL was so fucking epic, and you genuinely feel his remorse & shame for his actions, and I loved how he wanted to redeem himself not just for Helen and her love, but so he could look in the mirror and once again be proud of the man looking back. *cue all the feels!*
"He fucked me like he knew I wasn’t going to break but kissed me like I was a treasure."
Helen may have the spine of steel, but her soft moments with Theo were absolutely everything. They pushed each others buttons for sure, but they always pushed each other to be better as well. Theo was so much more than I expected as well, and my heart just broke for that little boy who was constantly let down by those closest to him. And then comes Helen, a red-lipped, bat-weilding menace who made it possible for him to breathe once more. I could literally go on and on about my love for these two all day!
The side characters stole my heart as well! Zadie the sweet roommate who caught the eye of a mafia man (seriously can't wait for her book!) And then Elena -- God i love that girl. There's so much more to her than meets the eye and I can't wait until we get more of her.. possibly with the Teddy bear of a man Locke? I just know he had a story brewing!!!
As much as I love Julia's Rockstar romances, I have to say her dark high school/college romances are where she shines. I just can't get enough of this world!! AND the glimpses we saw of Bash, Gabe, Penelope and the whole gang was just amazing! *chefs kiss* go do yourselves a favor and go one click this asap!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
April 29, 2023
4 stars
This one was angsty but fun at the same time. It had the rich guy/poor girl trouple, but it had a bit of a twist to it. I loved Helen and Theo grew on me as the book went on.
I love Julia Wolf. A great start to this new adult series. I’m excited to read more! I’m excited to see that Zadie gets a book, as well as Lachlan! Looking forward to reading both of those.
This one was angsty but fun at the same time. It had the rich guy/poor girl trouple, but it had a bit of a twist to it. I loved Helen and Theo grew on me as the book went on.
I love Julia Wolf. A great start to this new adult series. I’m excited to read more! I’m excited to see that Zadie gets a book, as well as Lachlan! Looking forward to reading both of those.
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Valentina Ortiz & Nelson Hobbs
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: New Adult Romance
Length: 10h 27m
January 14, 2022
I’ll admit, I opened this book having already had a giant crush on the heroine. While Soft Like Thunder can ABSOLUTELY be read as a complete standalone, you first meet Helen AKA Hells, in Julia’s Savage Crew series which is set in HS. During those three books, we learn how strong Helen is and the author gives us glimpses of the vulnerability that lies beneath. That said, you truly get a deep dive into what makes Helen who she is today in this story. In typical Julia Wolf fashion, there is SO much more than meets the eye with these characters.
Helen and Theo’s meet-cute is certainly a memorable one and VERY “Hells”. I knew it would take a strong man to be Helen’s other half—which Theo definitely is—but he too, has a soft underbelly that slowly gets exposed as their souls are intertwined. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but as you’ve come to expect from this author, the plot has many layers that are revealed one by one. The sexy times are some of Julia’s hottest. (As is the cover) Soft Like Thunder is a must-read. One-click this baby as soon as it’s released!
*I was given an advanced copy with no expectations from the author.
Helen and Theo’s meet-cute is certainly a memorable one and VERY “Hells”. I knew it would take a strong man to be Helen’s other half—which Theo definitely is—but he too, has a soft underbelly that slowly gets exposed as their souls are intertwined. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but as you’ve come to expect from this author, the plot has many layers that are revealed one by one. The sexy times are some of Julia’s hottest. (As is the cover) Soft Like Thunder is a must-read. One-click this baby as soon as it’s released!
*I was given an advanced copy with no expectations from the author.
August 21, 2023
If there is only one book you read this year, make it this one. Settle yourself in folks this is going to be a long one.
Since reading became more than a hobby for me there have been only 25 books that have made it to my “All the stars” list here on Goodreads. And this one has just jumped onto there without any shadow of a doubt that’s where it belongs, because Julia Wolf she knocks it out of the park with this book.
If you’re unfamiliar with her, before we go into a rambling review (because make no mistake that’s what it will be because I have so many god things today about this book) let me give you a little background. Last year Julia Wolf introduced me to a group of amazing characters, flawed and fabulous, who took up residence in my head and my heart and made me crave a friendship like theirs. Bash & Grace, Asher & Becca, Gabe & Penelope. They all had stories that were beyond good. (Even if I was a little disappointed with Gabe’s). Add in the fact that there was a wildfire of a girl called Helen who made an impression in every story, and I was a goner.
This is Helen’s story.
Helen Ortega is one of the very few female characters that has made me swoon so bad that I want to be her when I grow up. Every broken, strong, vulnerable piece of her.
What Helen won’t do to keep what she loves safe, isn’t much. And she makes no apologies for it. Instead she locks it up tight, never to dwell on it again. Until, that is, she meets Theo Whitlock.
Theo, Theo, Theo. Theo is a lost soul who’s hardly living, wrapped up in a pretty, rich boy package. And his shell of a life is about to be met with the whirlwind that is Helen. And it’s one hell of a storm that paved the way to broken hearts and promises.
There’s so many messages in this book, I needed a moment to collect my thoughts on them all.
Love yourself no matter what, make decisions for you, don’t let anyone make you feel less than you are, don’t let them see you hurt, fight for what you love. Just a few examples of the messages Wolf powerfully tackled in Soft Like Thunder.
Then there’s the characters. Asides from Helen, who’s pure perfection as a character, there’s Theo who is THE perfect hero. There’s Luc, Lock, Zadie, Miranda and even f**king ELENA SANDERSON. Yup, you heard me, the rich bitch mean girl from the first 3 books makes a stunning return in this one. And as much as you hate her, you end up loving the ever living shit out of her in this book. I swear to god if I don’t get a book where her and Lock fall madly in love and knock out a few little Locks, I’m gonna be hella pissed.
Miranda is another character I absolutely adored, Wolf’s refreshing take on the stepmom... **chefs kiss** times a thousand.
There’s so many moments that make you smile, your heart swell and your body feel all warm and tingly. There are some amazing sexy times, made all the better by what Helen is willing to give and what Theo expects. Then there’s the gut wrenching moments you see coming, the ones that you can’t stop from spiralling until your hearts shattered and your resolve is done for.
Finally there’s that epilogue. And if there’s one person that deserves an epilogue like the one you’ll find at the end of Soft Like Thunder, it’s Helen Ortega.
So on that note I’ll leave you with two things. 1) Julia Wolf you are the first author to get 2 posts dedicated to 1 review of a book since I started my account and 2) I present to you Helen Ortega & Theo Whitlock in Soft Like Thunder.
Read it.
Soak it up.
Enjoy the ride.
And trust that Julia Wolf will leave you begging for more from these amazing people she creates.
Since reading became more than a hobby for me there have been only 25 books that have made it to my “All the stars” list here on Goodreads. And this one has just jumped onto there without any shadow of a doubt that’s where it belongs, because Julia Wolf she knocks it out of the park with this book.
If you’re unfamiliar with her, before we go into a rambling review (because make no mistake that’s what it will be because I have so many god things today about this book) let me give you a little background. Last year Julia Wolf introduced me to a group of amazing characters, flawed and fabulous, who took up residence in my head and my heart and made me crave a friendship like theirs. Bash & Grace, Asher & Becca, Gabe & Penelope. They all had stories that were beyond good. (Even if I was a little disappointed with Gabe’s). Add in the fact that there was a wildfire of a girl called Helen who made an impression in every story, and I was a goner.
This is Helen’s story.
Helen Ortega is one of the very few female characters that has made me swoon so bad that I want to be her when I grow up. Every broken, strong, vulnerable piece of her.
What Helen won’t do to keep what she loves safe, isn’t much. And she makes no apologies for it. Instead she locks it up tight, never to dwell on it again. Until, that is, she meets Theo Whitlock.
Theo, Theo, Theo. Theo is a lost soul who’s hardly living, wrapped up in a pretty, rich boy package. And his shell of a life is about to be met with the whirlwind that is Helen. And it’s one hell of a storm that paved the way to broken hearts and promises.
There’s so many messages in this book, I needed a moment to collect my thoughts on them all.
Love yourself no matter what, make decisions for you, don’t let anyone make you feel less than you are, don’t let them see you hurt, fight for what you love. Just a few examples of the messages Wolf powerfully tackled in Soft Like Thunder.
Then there’s the characters. Asides from Helen, who’s pure perfection as a character, there’s Theo who is THE perfect hero. There’s Luc, Lock, Zadie, Miranda and even f**king ELENA SANDERSON. Yup, you heard me, the rich bitch mean girl from the first 3 books makes a stunning return in this one. And as much as you hate her, you end up loving the ever living shit out of her in this book. I swear to god if I don’t get a book where her and Lock fall madly in love and knock out a few little Locks, I’m gonna be hella pissed.
Miranda is another character I absolutely adored, Wolf’s refreshing take on the stepmom... **chefs kiss** times a thousand.
There’s so many moments that make you smile, your heart swell and your body feel all warm and tingly. There are some amazing sexy times, made all the better by what Helen is willing to give and what Theo expects. Then there’s the gut wrenching moments you see coming, the ones that you can’t stop from spiralling until your hearts shattered and your resolve is done for.
Finally there’s that epilogue. And if there’s one person that deserves an epilogue like the one you’ll find at the end of Soft Like Thunder, it’s Helen Ortega.
So on that note I’ll leave you with two things. 1) Julia Wolf you are the first author to get 2 posts dedicated to 1 review of a book since I started my account and 2) I present to you Helen Ortega & Theo Whitlock in Soft Like Thunder.
Read it.
Soak it up.
Enjoy the ride.
And trust that Julia Wolf will leave you begging for more from these amazing people she creates.
Want to read
October 15, 2021Helen's story is coming!
The Savage Crew has scattered, but don't worry, they all show up for their girl.
pre-order now: mybook.to/SoftLikeThunder
Expected release date: Late January 2022!
The Savage Crew has scattered, but don't worry, they all show up for their girl.
pre-order now: mybook.to/SoftLikeThunder
Expected release date: Late January 2022!
May 5, 2022
Helen really beat his car (i8 BMW) with her bat LMAO and so the story unfolds and him calling her Tiger. (She actually came to beat up his roommate and so Theo had to stop her before things escalated-this was one of the first of many encounters)
Theo. Theodore. Hot Guy 🥺
He’s so sweet to Helen who is a badass, working her ass off to make ends meet.
Every time, Theo called her little tiger or tiger, melted my heart :
“Tell me to stop, Tiger,” he murmured against my lips. “Tell me you don’t want me touching you.”
Theo was a knight in shinning armor even though Helen didn’t want that BUT HE PUNCHED THE GUY THAT GOT IN HER BEDROOM WHILST SHE WAS SLEEPING AND HE WAS FEELING HER! THEO PUNCH THE LIVING $h!T out of the guy, that’s hot. AND THE SMUT 😏😏
Theo. Theodore. Hot Guy 🥺
He’s so sweet to Helen who is a badass, working her ass off to make ends meet.
Every time, Theo called her little tiger or tiger, melted my heart :
“Tell me to stop, Tiger,” he murmured against my lips. “Tell me you don’t want me touching you.”
Theo was a knight in shinning armor even though Helen didn’t want that BUT HE PUNCHED THE GUY THAT GOT IN HER BEDROOM WHILST SHE WAS SLEEPING AND HE WAS FEELING HER! THEO PUNCH THE LIVING $h!T out of the guy, that’s hot. AND THE SMUT 😏😏
June 3, 2022
3.75 stars 🌟
February 12, 2022
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Note 2: This is a series. Please read in order as previous characters do make cameos.
Note 3: The Savage Crew series are the prequels to Helen's friends' stories. So read them before you read this. Will probably make more sense if you do.
Trigger Warnings: death, assault, sexual assault, negative words for sexworkers strippers, drug abuse, mental illness, tragic backstories, stealing.
Helen and Theo are an anomaly. I mean it. They're like the epitome of Romeo and Juliet, except with scheming for a girlfriend arrangement by parents, drug-abused mother, and terminal illness taken friend.
Helen comes from the backwater part of the elite world, poor living, drug abused mother, rotten living conditions and her being a stripper and weed dealer by night, caring for her young sister and send to go to Savage U by her terminally ill friend.
Also: Helen of Troy anyone?
Theo comes from a silver-spoon fed world, with parent (dad) threatening to cut him off if he associates with anyone of a lower league and does not work hard to get his grades (thus sent to Savage U because his father is there as well apparently), even though his own father had the first marriage with a girl from backwater lands.
Despite all that - Theo and Helen end up relating to each other, with friends with benefits arrangement, and then falling in love.
BUT AS Y'ALL KNOW - plot twists come a-running! With Helen's secrets soon unravelled, Theo ends up taking a step back because too many similarities with his own childhood and betrayal hurts I guess?
But they reconcile and it's a difficult road to a HEA but they make it.
BUT: It's obviously with the help of Helen's friends, Zadie and Elena (yes I know hard to believe but here we are), and Theo's stepmother (forgot her name whoops) that it all happens.
I loved everything of this novel, even though it's a first time for me reading Julia Wolf but here I am. Absolutely in love and craving more.
Fun fact: Zadie's story is up next, yes with Amir (a brief chapter of you know one of Helen's weed deals going wrong and a henchman sent to make things right - and then there's Zadie and Amir hehe)
Zadie and Amir's story: Bright Like Midnight - coming April 15 2022. OOH I can't wait!!!
insert music notes* a bad boy, all the good girls think they need a bad boy *end music notes
Until the next read,
-TMR
Note 2: This is a series. Please read in order as previous characters do make cameos.
Note 3: The Savage Crew series are the prequels to Helen's friends' stories. So read them before you read this. Will probably make more sense if you do.
Trigger Warnings: death, assault, sexual assault, negative words for sexworkers strippers, drug abuse, mental illness, tragic backstories, stealing.
Helen and Theo are an anomaly. I mean it. They're like the epitome of Romeo and Juliet, except with scheming for a girlfriend arrangement by parents, drug-abused mother, and terminal illness taken friend.
Helen comes from the backwater part of the elite world, poor living, drug abused mother, rotten living conditions and her being a stripper and weed dealer by night, caring for her young sister and send to go to Savage U by her terminally ill friend.
Also: Helen of Troy anyone?
Theo comes from a silver-spoon fed world, with parent (dad) threatening to cut him off if he associates with anyone of a lower league and does not work hard to get his grades (thus sent to Savage U because his father is there as well apparently), even though his own father had the first marriage with a girl from backwater lands.
Despite all that - Theo and Helen end up relating to each other, with friends with benefits arrangement, and then falling in love.
BUT AS Y'ALL KNOW - plot twists come a-running! With Helen's secrets soon unravelled, Theo ends up taking a step back because too many similarities with his own childhood and betrayal hurts I guess?
But they reconcile and it's a difficult road to a HEA but they make it.
BUT: It's obviously with the help of Helen's friends, Zadie and Elena (yes I know hard to believe but here we are), and Theo's stepmother (forgot her name whoops) that it all happens.
I loved everything of this novel, even though it's a first time for me reading Julia Wolf but here I am. Absolutely in love and craving more.
Fun fact: Zadie's story is up next, yes with Amir (a brief chapter of you know one of Helen's weed deals going wrong and a henchman sent to make things right - and then there's Zadie and Amir hehe)
Zadie and Amir's story: Bright Like Midnight - coming April 15 2022. OOH I can't wait!!!
insert music notes* a bad boy, all the good girls think they need a bad boy *end music notes
Until the next read,
-TMR
February 28, 2022
Not good
First of all, I just couldn't like the FMC Helen. I mean just the name gives her away. I think she was supposed to come off tough and street like. But she was more arrogant and ignorant. There was a huge lack of chemistry between her and Theo. There was no angst, no depth, no growth. He's just friend zone till he's not. Theo came off as weak almost like a welcome mat. There was no character build up, so it was hard to like any of them. The street slang was inconsistent so it came off as weird. First and most likely the last book of this author I will read.
First of all, I just couldn't like the FMC Helen. I mean just the name gives her away. I think she was supposed to come off tough and street like. But she was more arrogant and ignorant. There was a huge lack of chemistry between her and Theo. There was no angst, no depth, no growth. He's just friend zone till he's not. Theo came off as weak almost like a welcome mat. There was no character build up, so it was hard to like any of them. The street slang was inconsistent so it came off as weird. First and most likely the last book of this author I will read.
March 19, 2022
Loved it!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: enemies to lovers
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
First book by this author and I absolutely loved it. Wonderfully flawed characters, cute storyline, and the perfect amount of angst. Super excited to read the next book in the series!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: enemies to lovers
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
First book by this author and I absolutely loved it. Wonderfully flawed characters, cute storyline, and the perfect amount of angst. Super excited to read the next book in the series!
April 30, 2023
Free 30 April 2023
February 3, 2022
“I didn’t know I wasn’t breathing until I met you.”
Here I sit, still reeling from my first J Wolf book, and oh my stars! SOFT LIKE THUNDER is ALL THE WOW!!! Deep, dreamy, and devastatingly beautiful, this book blew me away!!! It’s the ultimate college love story: a broken beauty brimming with heart, heat, and heady angst—along with a high-powered heroine and a hero who will bring you to your knees. I was wonderfully wrecked by this romance that’s a direct hit to the heart!!!
Set in the California college world, Soft Like Thunder stars two broken souls who become whole together. I could not help but swoon for the bold and all alpha hero, Theo, who is so much more than the hot playboy perception. Right away, I knew the heroine was a force … so smart and strong who could go toe to toe with any boy in skating and life. Helen is definitely Hells, a fierce fireball of a skater girl I wanted to befriend.
Theo and Helen embark on an explosive journey of heartbreak and healing in a scorching hot and hard fought romance that touches everywhere. Such an addictive clashing of fire and ice. The more I read, the harder I fell. I was head-over-heels in love with the hero and heroine, and their spellbinding story … one I’m still feeling days later.
This college romance wasn’t what I expected; it was sooo much more. Wolf delivers a stunning story of soulmates and survival. Heart-melting and passionately poignant, Soft Like Thunder is a balm for the soul for anyone who has battled stereotypes and self-worth. This beautiful and breathtaking book of two broken souls broke me in the best way.
💋💋💋💋💋 tiger kisses
➡️ https://amzn.to/33UHO69
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
Here I sit, still reeling from my first J Wolf book, and oh my stars! SOFT LIKE THUNDER is ALL THE WOW!!! Deep, dreamy, and devastatingly beautiful, this book blew me away!!! It’s the ultimate college love story: a broken beauty brimming with heart, heat, and heady angst—along with a high-powered heroine and a hero who will bring you to your knees. I was wonderfully wrecked by this romance that’s a direct hit to the heart!!!
Set in the California college world, Soft Like Thunder stars two broken souls who become whole together. I could not help but swoon for the bold and all alpha hero, Theo, who is so much more than the hot playboy perception. Right away, I knew the heroine was a force … so smart and strong who could go toe to toe with any boy in skating and life. Helen is definitely Hells, a fierce fireball of a skater girl I wanted to befriend.
Theo and Helen embark on an explosive journey of heartbreak and healing in a scorching hot and hard fought romance that touches everywhere. Such an addictive clashing of fire and ice. The more I read, the harder I fell. I was head-over-heels in love with the hero and heroine, and their spellbinding story … one I’m still feeling days later.
This college romance wasn’t what I expected; it was sooo much more. Wolf delivers a stunning story of soulmates and survival. Heart-melting and passionately poignant, Soft Like Thunder is a balm for the soul for anyone who has battled stereotypes and self-worth. This beautiful and breathtaking book of two broken souls broke me in the best way.
💋💋💋💋💋 tiger kisses
➡️ https://amzn.to/33UHO69
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
May 12, 2022
super cheesy and cringey dialogue. couldn’t do it. DNF 49%
May 11, 2022
***AVAILABLE NOW***
3 STARS
One of the main reasons that this is 3 stars is because I would in no way categorize this as a dark romance, and it is part of the title of the book on Amazon. I expected dark, and got a sweet hero & savage heroine. I would liken this to more of a Meagan Brandy style book.
What I loved:
1. I loved Helen and the whole girl gang. They were freaking crazy but so supportive of each other. There are times it seemed like they were trying to hard vs. it being authentic but I still loved them.
2. The side characters were amazing. I already know I’ll read more for their stories and want to go back and read the ones I’ve missed.
3. The steam was great, and I loved how much of a simp Theo was for Helen.
4. The writing was overall enjoyable.
What I didn’t love:
1. I need some variation in description. Theo’s tinkling eyes and Helen’s red lips were talked about so much. There were more but these two stayed with me.
2. I have never had such a visceral reaction to when a hero screws up. Like I hated him and I wasn’t sure he would ever redeem himself. While I understand him and what he did, I still felt like his redemption wasn’t big enough. It spanned a long time and he did prove he loved her but that hurt was big.
3. I wanted the story to have a bit more subplot. It truly is a story just about them. I wanted a secondary plot line other than their pasts to shake things up.
4. It isn’t dark. I said that before, but I’m going to say it again.
I probably would have rated this higher if I didn’t expect it to be dark, probably 4 stars, but I did enjoy it overall and will be picking up the next book.
3 STARS
One of the main reasons that this is 3 stars is because I would in no way categorize this as a dark romance, and it is part of the title of the book on Amazon. I expected dark, and got a sweet hero & savage heroine. I would liken this to more of a Meagan Brandy style book.
What I loved:
1. I loved Helen and the whole girl gang. They were freaking crazy but so supportive of each other. There are times it seemed like they were trying to hard vs. it being authentic but I still loved them.
2. The side characters were amazing. I already know I’ll read more for their stories and want to go back and read the ones I’ve missed.
3. The steam was great, and I loved how much of a simp Theo was for Helen.
4. The writing was overall enjoyable.
What I didn’t love:
1. I need some variation in description. Theo’s tinkling eyes and Helen’s red lips were talked about so much. There were more but these two stayed with me.
2. I have never had such a visceral reaction to when a hero screws up. Like I hated him and I wasn’t sure he would ever redeem himself. While I understand him and what he did, I still felt like his redemption wasn’t big enough. It spanned a long time and he did prove he loved her but that hurt was big.
3. I wanted the story to have a bit more subplot. It truly is a story just about them. I wanted a secondary plot line other than their pasts to shake things up.
4. It isn’t dark. I said that before, but I’m going to say it again.
I probably would have rated this higher if I didn’t expect it to be dark, probably 4 stars, but I did enjoy it overall and will be picking up the next book.
January 7, 2024
5⭐️
I hadn’t read a Julia Wolf book in awhile. I also hadn’t forgotten how good her writing was, and how complex and amazing her characters are. This book did not disappoint. ☺️
I liked Helen in the Savage Crew series, and it was so good to see her get her own book. Theo describes Helen as softness behind spikes and it sums up this amazing girl so well.
Theo himself is a pretty amazing character too but has adapted himself to a new life to survive. He has to reach back into himself to earn Helen and find himself again.
There are definitely some ups and downs in this book but the story is emotional and beautiful.
Moving on to book 2.
I hadn’t read a Julia Wolf book in awhile. I also hadn’t forgotten how good her writing was, and how complex and amazing her characters are. This book did not disappoint. ☺️
I liked Helen in the Savage Crew series, and it was so good to see her get her own book. Theo describes Helen as softness behind spikes and it sums up this amazing girl so well.
Theo himself is a pretty amazing character too but has adapted himself to a new life to survive. He has to reach back into himself to earn Helen and find himself again.
There are definitely some ups and downs in this book but the story is emotional and beautiful.
Moving on to book 2.
August 18, 2022
Ksiazka była dobra, ale nie czułam ze to jest ten wieczny rodzaj miłości. Miałam wrażenie ze autorka nie mogła die zdecydować się co zrobić z główna bohaterka, bo była wszystkim po trochuz ogólnie się wciągnęłam ale czytałam lepsze romanse
January 20, 2022
I wish i could give this book more than 5 stars! I don't even know where to begin, I mean Theo is everything you want in a man. The connection between him and Hells, it's just pure fire!! I personally felt more a connection to Helen than any other character in the previous books. The way she had to grow up at such a young age and all that she went through. The bond she has with her sister is like no other. I felt like I was reading my own life. Do yourself a favor and read this book along with all of her other books, you will not be disappointed!!
January 17, 2022
"I didn't know I wasn't breathing until I met you."
There's something I've noticed that I do when I finish a Julia Wolf book; I take a deep breath and let it out. Not a sigh, but a breath that encapsulates the warmth of what I've just read, the feelings Julia's evoked in me, and also some sadness at saying goodbye to friends I've just met.
That likely sounds crazy, but Julia Wolf has a way with words. A way that wraps around your heart and won't let go. If you haven't read her before, why not?! If you have, then you'll know what to expect.
In Soft Like Thunder we return to Savage River, this time we're at Savage U. Whilst you don't have to have read the Savage Crew series, those characters are seen in SLT, so I'd recommend it.
We met Helen 'Hells' Ortega in the previous series at Savage HS. A friend of Bash and Gabe, Helen is a fierce skater chick, but she's a 'real one', as Hells likes to say about people.
A red-lipped, bat-carrying, badass beauty, Helen gets the chance to escape her trailer park life and attend Savage U.
Helen meets Theo Whitlock and his richy rich friends in less than ideal circumstances, but when they are both in the same English class studying The Taming of The Shrew (I like what you did there, Julia), and after several run-ins, they begin getting close.
But both Helen and Theo are closed-off and secretive. Neither is willing to fully open up to the other, and as Theo hasn't long ended a two-year relationship, he is quick to point out that they are casual. He does not want to be responsible for Helen's feelings.
I don't want to delve too deeply into the storyline, but it was quite a journey. Prepare for all the emotions!
I liked Helen coming into this book, but I really fell in love with her here. I cried right along with her at one point, and I could have cheerfully taken her beloved bat to Theo, despite his twinkly eyes.
I must say, with each passing book, I fall more and more for Elena! She's a superstar, and I cannot wait until Julia brings us her book. Her moments comforting Helen had my heart soaring, even as I cried for Helen. ("Theo is hot, I'll give you that. But worthy of tears? No, b1tch. Not even close...Helen is a warrior. Theo is bullsh*t.") I love you, Elena 😍
Theo, Theo, Theo. I was ready to punch him! At one stage I thought I'd lose my love for him and SLT because of quite a bit of OW drama (No cheating!). But just when I was about to give up hope, the blue-eyed boy saw the light and made it his mission to prove himself worthy. Hallelujah!
But even before that, Helen's attitude was the best. She might get down, but she came back fighting. She didn't accept the hot boy's BS, she knew her worth, and I adore her for it.
Also, Julia, your words are so important.
"No."
"Okay."
So simple, but amazing ❤
I loved getting to catch up with the rest of the OG Savage Crew. And I'm so excited about the new characters introduced here. I am already in love with Lock. I don't know who he's meant for in future, but I pray he gets a book. And Zadie is so sweet ("I'm kind of hoping it's my only hostage experience." 🤣) I'm beyond excited for Bright Like Midnight.
Soft Like Thunder is a fantastic start to the Savage U series. Emotional and heart warming, it also brings the heat between Theodore and his tiger. I can't recommend reading it enough. Superb!
Five tiger stars!
🐯🐯🐯🐯🐯
Soft Like Thunder releases on February 3rd. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
There's something I've noticed that I do when I finish a Julia Wolf book; I take a deep breath and let it out. Not a sigh, but a breath that encapsulates the warmth of what I've just read, the feelings Julia's evoked in me, and also some sadness at saying goodbye to friends I've just met.
That likely sounds crazy, but Julia Wolf has a way with words. A way that wraps around your heart and won't let go. If you haven't read her before, why not?! If you have, then you'll know what to expect.
In Soft Like Thunder we return to Savage River, this time we're at Savage U. Whilst you don't have to have read the Savage Crew series, those characters are seen in SLT, so I'd recommend it.
We met Helen 'Hells' Ortega in the previous series at Savage HS. A friend of Bash and Gabe, Helen is a fierce skater chick, but she's a 'real one', as Hells likes to say about people.
A red-lipped, bat-carrying, badass beauty, Helen gets the chance to escape her trailer park life and attend Savage U.
Helen meets Theo Whitlock and his richy rich friends in less than ideal circumstances, but when they are both in the same English class studying The Taming of The Shrew (I like what you did there, Julia), and after several run-ins, they begin getting close.
But both Helen and Theo are closed-off and secretive. Neither is willing to fully open up to the other, and as Theo hasn't long ended a two-year relationship, he is quick to point out that they are casual. He does not want to be responsible for Helen's feelings.
I don't want to delve too deeply into the storyline, but it was quite a journey. Prepare for all the emotions!
I liked Helen coming into this book, but I really fell in love with her here. I cried right along with her at one point, and I could have cheerfully taken her beloved bat to Theo, despite his twinkly eyes.
I must say, with each passing book, I fall more and more for Elena! She's a superstar, and I cannot wait until Julia brings us her book. Her moments comforting Helen had my heart soaring, even as I cried for Helen. ("Theo is hot, I'll give you that. But worthy of tears? No, b1tch. Not even close...Helen is a warrior. Theo is bullsh*t.") I love you, Elena 😍
Theo, Theo, Theo. I was ready to punch him! At one stage I thought I'd lose my love for him and SLT because of quite a bit of OW drama (No cheating!). But just when I was about to give up hope, the blue-eyed boy saw the light and made it his mission to prove himself worthy. Hallelujah!
But even before that, Helen's attitude was the best. She might get down, but she came back fighting. She didn't accept the hot boy's BS, she knew her worth, and I adore her for it.
Also, Julia, your words are so important.
"No."
"Okay."
So simple, but amazing ❤
I loved getting to catch up with the rest of the OG Savage Crew. And I'm so excited about the new characters introduced here. I am already in love with Lock. I don't know who he's meant for in future, but I pray he gets a book. And Zadie is so sweet ("I'm kind of hoping it's my only hostage experience." 🤣) I'm beyond excited for Bright Like Midnight.
Soft Like Thunder is a fantastic start to the Savage U series. Emotional and heart warming, it also brings the heat between Theodore and his tiger. I can't recommend reading it enough. Superb!
Five tiger stars!
🐯🐯🐯🐯🐯
Soft Like Thunder releases on February 3rd. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2022
4.5 STARS - HELEN!! GOSH I LOVED HER!
Soft Like Thunder is a college romance that follows Helen (badass FMC) and Theo. Helen grew up having to take care of herself, and will do anything AND everything to survive and save her sister. She believes Theo was born with a silver spoon in his mouth (opposites attract). They quickly notice that even though they may be different, their chemistry is intense.
The begin a friends with bennys situation and Theo is adamant "no boyfriend stuff," yet he finds himself being protective, possessive, and loving like a boyfriend would be.
They both are holding on to some secrets, and when they are found, things go wrong quickly. I spent a chunk of this book, honestly, hating Theo. He automatically assumed things, and made decisions without thinking anything through (men are dumb), BUT he goes make up for it in BIG ways.
Overall, I love Julia's writing and her stories always seem to hook me in and this one is no different. It was a 4 star read for me until the end few chapters, they were THAT good!
Can't wait for the next one!
**ARC for honest review**
Soft Like Thunder is a college romance that follows Helen (badass FMC) and Theo. Helen grew up having to take care of herself, and will do anything AND everything to survive and save her sister. She believes Theo was born with a silver spoon in his mouth (opposites attract). They quickly notice that even though they may be different, their chemistry is intense.
The begin a friends with bennys situation and Theo is adamant "no boyfriend stuff," yet he finds himself being protective, possessive, and loving like a boyfriend would be.
They both are holding on to some secrets, and when they are found, things go wrong quickly. I spent a chunk of this book, honestly, hating Theo. He automatically assumed things, and made decisions without thinking anything through (men are dumb), BUT he goes make up for it in BIG ways.
Overall, I love Julia's writing and her stories always seem to hook me in and this one is no different. It was a 4 star read for me until the end few chapters, they were THAT good!
Can't wait for the next one!
**ARC for honest review**
February 8, 2022
I really really enjoyed every second of reading this. I know there are books for almost all these characters, so I cant wait to go back and binge because I know this world has me hooked.
Helen is a STRONG ass heroine. She literally doesn’t take shit from anyone and I love her snarky attitude. She def would be a fun ass friend and I know we get to see more of her in her friends book next!
Theo is such a cute hero because you just see how much he would do for Helen. He was hellbent on getting in her good graces from the start and even after fucking up once he turned his whole life upside down just to prove himself worthy of her.
Overall a very entertaining read and I want the next book to come out nowwww!!!
Helen is a STRONG ass heroine. She literally doesn’t take shit from anyone and I love her snarky attitude. She def would be a fun ass friend and I know we get to see more of her in her friends book next!
Theo is such a cute hero because you just see how much he would do for Helen. He was hellbent on getting in her good graces from the start and even after fucking up once he turned his whole life upside down just to prove himself worthy of her.
Overall a very entertaining read and I want the next book to come out nowwww!!!
February 28, 2022
Julia wolf is a one click for me!
I know she’s not gonna do me dirty with cheating a holes or Hs who are unforgivable bullies.
Love the ones where she gives just a little bit of dubcon too! More of that plz!!! 😬🥵
I know she’s not gonna do me dirty with cheating a holes or Hs who are unforgivable bullies.
Love the ones where she gives just a little bit of dubcon too! More of that plz!!! 😬🥵
May 8, 2022
{2.25⭐️} I am dying at the image of Helen skateboarding away after every minor inconvenience.
January 29, 2022
Gripping. Beautiful. Absolutely INCREDIBLE! This book brought all the emotions and has left me utterly speechless. I didn't just love Helen and Theo's story; I absolutely ADORED IT!
I've literally just finished reading this book, and I want to re-live it all over again! Julia never fails in her ability to create a well developed, complex story with characters that are perfectly flawed but also admirably full of an inner strength that one cannot help but fall in love with them. Helen and Theo's story is so exquisitely multilayered and evokes so much emotion that you'll hate to put this book down for even a single moment.
From the very beginning, Helen "Hells" Ortega is going to make an impression on you. Fierce, loyal, stubborn, and snarky...this gal is a red lipped, bat carrying badass. She's a tough as nails skater girl who's already experienced the worst in life and survived. Savage U is her ticket out of the trailer park and a new life for her and her sister Luc. She has way too many complications in her life to add a rich boy like Theo Whitlock into the mix despite her undeniable and unwanted attraction to him. When the reality of her dire situation begins to threaten her present, will he strong enough to stand by her and be the man who will finally make her feel safe enough to drop all of the "hard" that she hides behind.
Theo Whitlock is a rich frat boy who's a little lost and unsure of his life's direction. For years, he's let his dad, coaches, and even friends direct his future. Leaving him drowning in a sea of expectations that were never his own. From the moment he laid eyes on Helen Ortega, she intrigued him. Now at Savage U, the more time he spends with her, his "little tiger" sets a spark
in him for change, making him question his choices and wanting to regain control of his life...only can he be a man who's worthy of standing shoulder to shoulder with his tiger and when push comes to shove, will he be the hero she truly deserves.
GAWD....this story was so DAMN GOOD! Helen and Theo are one of those couples who just steal your heart. From the way, they fill the intrinsic needs in one another to the beautiful ebb and flow of their conversations when they're getting real with one another is just so completely moving. These are two people who on paper, shouldn't work yet complete each other so perfectly. The emotions that they stirred while I was reading were simply amazing.
In my opinion, Soft Like Thunder is one of Julia's best and the perfect beginning for the Savage U series. I loved this couple so much. The way they consistently pushed each other to be their best selves. Never backing down or giving up despite the mistakes and misunderstandings. It's one beautifully heartbreaking yet hopeful and heartfelt ride that I never wanted to end.
*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review *
I've literally just finished reading this book, and I want to re-live it all over again! Julia never fails in her ability to create a well developed, complex story with characters that are perfectly flawed but also admirably full of an inner strength that one cannot help but fall in love with them. Helen and Theo's story is so exquisitely multilayered and evokes so much emotion that you'll hate to put this book down for even a single moment.
From the very beginning, Helen "Hells" Ortega is going to make an impression on you. Fierce, loyal, stubborn, and snarky...this gal is a red lipped, bat carrying badass. She's a tough as nails skater girl who's already experienced the worst in life and survived. Savage U is her ticket out of the trailer park and a new life for her and her sister Luc. She has way too many complications in her life to add a rich boy like Theo Whitlock into the mix despite her undeniable and unwanted attraction to him. When the reality of her dire situation begins to threaten her present, will he strong enough to stand by her and be the man who will finally make her feel safe enough to drop all of the "hard" that she hides behind.
Theo Whitlock is a rich frat boy who's a little lost and unsure of his life's direction. For years, he's let his dad, coaches, and even friends direct his future. Leaving him drowning in a sea of expectations that were never his own. From the moment he laid eyes on Helen Ortega, she intrigued him. Now at Savage U, the more time he spends with her, his "little tiger" sets a spark
in him for change, making him question his choices and wanting to regain control of his life...only can he be a man who's worthy of standing shoulder to shoulder with his tiger and when push comes to shove, will he be the hero she truly deserves.
GAWD....this story was so DAMN GOOD! Helen and Theo are one of those couples who just steal your heart. From the way, they fill the intrinsic needs in one another to the beautiful ebb and flow of their conversations when they're getting real with one another is just so completely moving. These are two people who on paper, shouldn't work yet complete each other so perfectly. The emotions that they stirred while I was reading were simply amazing.
In my opinion, Soft Like Thunder is one of Julia's best and the perfect beginning for the Savage U series. I loved this couple so much. The way they consistently pushed each other to be their best selves. Never backing down or giving up despite the mistakes and misunderstandings. It's one beautifully heartbreaking yet hopeful and heartfelt ride that I never wanted to end.
*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review *
January 19, 2022
“You make it easy to light the match, Tiger. Now watch me make it burn.”
I’m a HUGE fan of Julia Wolf’s rockstar books, but I think the Savage River books might be even better. Soft Like Thunder is an angsty, emotional read that I absolutely LOVED!! Helen and Theo took me on a rollercoaster ride of pain, heartbreak, forgiveness, acceptance, and absolute joy. I couldn’t get enough.
“If you’ve ever decide to give yourself to a man, he’d better be willing to fight for you and over you. Only way he’d be worthy of having you as his woman.”
Helen is a BOSS! I already knew this from the Savage River High books, but she really comes into her own in Soft Like Thunder. We already knew how strong and tough she was and that she will stand up to anyone, but now we see her softness and vulnerability. I want to be her when I grow up!
“I didn’t know I wasn’t breathing until I met you.”
Theo was the perfect match for Helen. He hides his damaged past beneath his rich boy exterior, but there’s a lot of pain buried inside him. He doesn’t let anyone get to close to the real Theo and he had my emotions all over the place. I loved him, then I was so disappointed in him, then I wanted to slap him upside the head, and then I loved him again. He had a lot of growth to do in this book and by the end he was absolutely swoonworthy. He learned his lessons and would do anything to protect those he truly loved.
“When I say I love you, it’s not like anything I’ve experienced. I wish there were different words to describe what I feel for you. It’s something so deep, it pierces my bones.”
These two were FIRE together. Their chemistry leapt off the page and sizzled. I couldn’t get enough of their banter and push and pull.
“What I hope for you, is when you let someone past those spikes, they’re the kind of man who’ll be shoulder to shoulder with you in battle, and when push comes to shove, they’ll step in front of you and take the brunt of it.”
And oh, the angst! I love nothing more than a good angsty, emotional read that rips my heart out and puts it back together. Soft Like Thunder delivered that in spades!!!
Soft Like Thunder was a phenomenal ride that engrosses the reader in the story and doesn’t let go. I cannot wait until the next book in the series comes out. I know it will be worth the wait!
I’m a HUGE fan of Julia Wolf’s rockstar books, but I think the Savage River books might be even better. Soft Like Thunder is an angsty, emotional read that I absolutely LOVED!! Helen and Theo took me on a rollercoaster ride of pain, heartbreak, forgiveness, acceptance, and absolute joy. I couldn’t get enough.
“If you’ve ever decide to give yourself to a man, he’d better be willing to fight for you and over you. Only way he’d be worthy of having you as his woman.”
Helen is a BOSS! I already knew this from the Savage River High books, but she really comes into her own in Soft Like Thunder. We already knew how strong and tough she was and that she will stand up to anyone, but now we see her softness and vulnerability. I want to be her when I grow up!
“I didn’t know I wasn’t breathing until I met you.”
Theo was the perfect match for Helen. He hides his damaged past beneath his rich boy exterior, but there’s a lot of pain buried inside him. He doesn’t let anyone get to close to the real Theo and he had my emotions all over the place. I loved him, then I was so disappointed in him, then I wanted to slap him upside the head, and then I loved him again. He had a lot of growth to do in this book and by the end he was absolutely swoonworthy. He learned his lessons and would do anything to protect those he truly loved.
“When I say I love you, it’s not like anything I’ve experienced. I wish there were different words to describe what I feel for you. It’s something so deep, it pierces my bones.”
These two were FIRE together. Their chemistry leapt off the page and sizzled. I couldn’t get enough of their banter and push and pull.
“What I hope for you, is when you let someone past those spikes, they’re the kind of man who’ll be shoulder to shoulder with you in battle, and when push comes to shove, they’ll step in front of you and take the brunt of it.”
And oh, the angst! I love nothing more than a good angsty, emotional read that rips my heart out and puts it back together. Soft Like Thunder delivered that in spades!!!
Soft Like Thunder was a phenomenal ride that engrosses the reader in the story and doesn’t let go. I cannot wait until the next book in the series comes out. I know it will be worth the wait!
January 28, 2022
Wow. I believe I marked more thoughts and quotes in this book than I have in the last 100 books I read. The thoughts, the emotions, the sentiments, and these absolutely BELOVED characters spoke to me in a way I was not prepared for.
“I know you can fight your own battles, Tiger. I’ve seen you in all your warrior glory, taking vengeance on my car. What I hope for you, is when you let someone past those spikes, they’re the kind of man who’ll be shoulder to shoulder with you in battle, and when push comes to shove, they’ll step in front of you and take the brunt of it.”
Theo and Helen seem like such an unlikely couple at first glance, but as we get to see and know them, we get to recognize their kindred parts, their scars, their darkness, their "warped reflections in the same mirror". These two reached in and carved their names on my heart, and I will never be the same again.
Get ready for a roller-coaster ride of pain, darkness, loss, grief, loyalty, friendship, solidarity, love, and brightness in some of the most unexpected places. You won't be sorry. See you on another page!
“I know you can fight your own battles, Tiger. I’ve seen you in all your warrior glory, taking vengeance on my car. What I hope for you, is when you let someone past those spikes, they’re the kind of man who’ll be shoulder to shoulder with you in battle, and when push comes to shove, they’ll step in front of you and take the brunt of it.”
Theo and Helen seem like such an unlikely couple at first glance, but as we get to see and know them, we get to recognize their kindred parts, their scars, their darkness, their "warped reflections in the same mirror". These two reached in and carved their names on my heart, and I will never be the same again.
Get ready for a roller-coaster ride of pain, darkness, loss, grief, loyalty, friendship, solidarity, love, and brightness in some of the most unexpected places. You won't be sorry. See you on another page!
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