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Shadow Cursed #1

Savage Wolf

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He can have my body but never my heart.

Sold into a life of subjection, my fate has never been mine to control. I'm a princess in name only, a pawn to be sacrificed when it serves the crown.

As word of a coming war spreads throughout the land, the king contracts with a man whose brutal reputation surpasses those coming for the throne. The brute agrees to defend the kingdom, but at a steep price--me.

While our union will ensure the safety of my people, I’m not certain of my own. It is rumored that peace and mercy are not familiar words to the man I'm to marry-a man with an angry golden gaze that follows my every move.

Against all odds, I find myself drawn to him even as he seems determined to forget I exist. However, the more secrets I unearth, the more my terror grows…not of him…but of what I am willing to become in order to be exactly what he needs: a queen.

The first in a pulse-pounding fantasy romance that is perfect for anyone who loves epic adventure, a massive world, and an incredible love story that defies all odds.

412 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 13, 2022

116 people are currently reading
479 people want to read

About the author

Jessica Wayne

84 books694 followers

USA Today Bestselling Author of steamy PNR and fantasy romance.

Ever since my grandmother first handed me a Nora Roberts novel, I KNEW I wanted to write romance.

I love love. Crave it. For me, genre doesn't matter as long as there is a beautifully epic love story woven into the storyline.

Which is exactly why I chose to write across so many genres. Paranormal, fantasy, contemporary, suspense...no matter which of my books you choose you always know what you're getting: a love story for the ages.

And before I was an author, I was a reader! Please be sure to follow me here, or add me as a friend! I love to connect!

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5 stars
211 (35%)
4 stars
191 (32%)
3 stars
133 (22%)
2 stars
44 (7%)
1 star
15 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
Profile Image for Mikky.
979 reviews276 followers
March 26, 2023
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. My weird mood is back and I didn't have high hopes that this one would be an exception. BUT it was and I loved every second of it! The world-building could have been turned up a little bit more but the overall story was incredible and very much made up for it.

The hero was broody and rude to a degree that I wasn't expecting but he did eventually did hear her out and accept her. It's funny looking back because he only went through with what he did because he wanted to protect her. I loved how regardless of if he could safely do it and come out alive on the other side or not that he would burn the world down for her. It was almost irrational. I loved it 🥺

The heroine's story was so damned sad. Her whole life has been one huge tragedy. When things were finally starting to look up the hero decides to treat her with a cold shoulder even though she's never done anything to him. I liked how they eventually warmed up to each other because she could give just as good as she got. Her backbone and smart mouth were a great addition to her personality. I'm very much invested and will be anxiously awaiting the next audiobook release for this series!

The Audio Book:

The narration wasn't a favorite of mine but it wasn't the worst I've ever heard. I wish the narrator had a larger range of male voices. Everything was overall good and there were not weird noises in the background.
Profile Image for april ♡ probably reading smut - safety reviews.
1,477 reviews2,596 followers
September 3, 2022
Five stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“You drive me mad,” he growls, stepping toward me. The water sloshes around his waist as he moves. “And yet, I cannot fathom an existence where you are not here.”

Whew, this was a roller coaster ride but I loved every second! Be warned, this story ends on a cliffhanger.

Kiya is the faux daughter of the king. She's had a hard life and is basically being kept prisoner. The king arranges a marriage between Kira and Merrick, a man who can protect the kingdom. Their marriage starts off with big secrets.

This book had phenomenal world building, action, and intense scenes! Merrick gives off the "touch her and you die" vibes. The king is the evil one in this book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and can't wait for the next book in the series.

"I’m coming for him, and I won’t stop until it’s his fucking head mounted on a spike."

safety:
virgin heroine
small OW drama
no cheating/sharing
safe
cliffhanger! ♡

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for c_g.77.
287 reviews5 followers
September 14, 2022
Let me just say that once in awhile you get those five stars that u just KNOW is going to be a 5star from early in the , well, 2nd, 3rd chapter?! You know that feeling. When you just want to tell SOMEONE, ANYONE how great the book is, but because you are a book-reading, nerdy introvert you realize you have no one to tell that will be half as excited as you so you just HAVE to email the author?!?!!! Yes, that was this book for me. Thank you btw Jessica for answering me back so quickly. 😜

Folks, Merrick is THE new book boyfriend. I'm telling you. And yes, not gonna lie, I shed a few tears when Kiya had some tragedy fall upon her right at the end. My daughter was taken aback when I screamed NOOOO! out loud.

I don’t like to share a lot of details of the book because that’s what blurbs are for for one and two, I suck about doing that without giving away spoilers. So what can I say other than this was written perfectly. Characters were sooo freaking relatable and real (except the shifter part, cuz shifters aren't real - right??maybe?), the story flowed so smoothly and the spicy was muy picante. It was a bit of a slow burn but more like a strip tease. Sexy, believable. The author took such care in sharing the story that I likely won’t forget this one anytime soon. There is nothing I can critique or give constructive criticism on. It was incredible.

I did receive an arc copy of this book to review with my honest opinion, but that just doesn’t drive the point home if you think I’m saying this because I received a free book. I’ve NEVER read a book by this author before. I took a chance and I have never been so extremely happy that I did. Please, if you EVER listen to me, do it now. GO READ THIS!!
Profile Image for ✧ Elle  Jae ✧.
277 reviews22 followers
Read
July 24, 2023
I did not care for this story or the writing. AND it ends on a cliffhanger. #petpeeve

After seeing the high reviews, I'm baffled.

Our FMC is forced to marry a mercenary who doesn't want to marry her, but does, despite not wanting to. MMC has a secret... he's a savage wolf. He won't touch her, she wants him to touch her, eventually they touch. Her horrible evil father has threatened her, and wants to follow through on his threats.. MMC promises he'll keep her safe, but her father is the King, so she's worried that he won't be able to keep his promise... And then it abruptly ends.

I will not be reading the next book, and it's highly likely I won't read another Jessie Wayne.
Profile Image for Arielle stahl.
733 reviews11 followers
September 10, 2022
Savage wolf by Jessica wayne is officially one of my new favorite books and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. Kiya is the fake daughter of a ruthless king who doesn't care what happens to her as long as he benefits from it. He basically sells her to ensure his safety. The man she marries is a savage beast of a man named merrick and at first I wanted to hate him but as the story went on I fell in love with him and couldn't get enough.
This story does contain spicy scenes in it and let me tell you I probably shouldn't of read them when my husband was in the room.
If you love shifter books you will love this one.
Profile Image for Cassie.
152 reviews1 follower
August 29, 2022
3.75⭐️
2🌶

Great world building, good pacing, and gives all the “touch her and die” you could want! Great job dealing with/talking about trauma without swelling on it and the focus is definitely on the present and Kiya’s general understated badassery.

The ending sets up the next book in the series nicely and I can’t wait to find out what happens next!

Was expecting a little more spice given the cover 🥵, but am guessing that’s coming in the next book.

Tropes:
- forced marriage
- enemies to lovers
- only one horse
- only one bed (kind of)
- pauper to princess
- secret identity
- found family

TW: deals with some creepy assholes and attempted SA.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Shea.
248 reviews2 followers
September 10, 2022
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for this amazing story and the way I ate this book up is insane! I read this book in one sitting because I couldn't put it down. Merrick is THE man and Kiya is the strong female lead we all needed. I am so excited for everyone to read this book because I know they will love it as much as I did. I'm so excited for the next book!
Profile Image for The Caffeinated Grimoire.
735 reviews5 followers
April 10, 2023
So Good 😍

I've been in a bit of a PNR slump lately and this book ripped me out. I could barely put it down. Along with Fae war Chronicles this is a fav for me of Jessica's. I loved both Kiya and Merrick. I loved watching Kiya really grow into herself as she was finally out of the clutches of the king. And Merrick was the best growly alpha, with the push and pull between them it was bound the end in delicious spice.

Kiya is no stranger to hardship, she grew up in poverty before she was pulled from the mud and into the castle to be raised as the kings heir though she bore none of his blood. She was merely a bargaining tool for him to use when the time came, she endured hell in the walls of the castle and when the day finally came for her to be used for his gain she welcome the chance to get away from him, for nothing could be worse than living under his thumb. But the man she is being sold to is know throughout her kingdom for being a brute, a savage and perhaps she'll never be free of the hell life has handed her. Her hand in exchange for helping his kingdom the king leaves her with her new husband, a man who barely pays her a second glance. But beneath his hard exterior lays a man cursed and Kiya finally sees what she thought not possible but she doesn't shy away no matter how terrifying. But will she ever truly be free of the king who controlled her? He's not done using her yet, the question is whether her new husband will be able to protect her from what lays ahead.

Definitely Recommend Reading 📚
3,156 reviews
September 1, 2022
A simply riveting shifter, human read that’s action and tragedy and bravery filled

Kira had lived a life of threats, daily assaults and a constant threat of death at any moment as she lives a life that if full of lies, hate and pain and now it seems it is about to grow to even more extremes.

The King who pretends that she is his daughter tells her she is to be married to Merrick is said to be a brutal man, however with the live she has lived in the palace with only two souls that have ever cared for her, adopting her almost and doing all they could to keep her safe.

When she arrives at the home of Merrick she is surprised at the sheer strength and person of the man also at the number of wolves that seem to live in his home with him, as the king leaves after seeing the marriage done that day, she is branded on the wrist with a wolf head, returning the favour to her husband before the minister that marries them both.

Kira soon realises that there is far more going on in the Merrick’s household that she fully understands however his brothers and mother are all kind and treat her as though she is a sister and daughter which is something she has never known before.

However, over the months the threat of the king hangs heavy but the secret that the family have is eventually known and she tells her husband of her true heritage and he admits that he already knew much the king had said was lies. The feelings for her Alpha have changed over the months and she believes that as his Beta he looks at her kindlier now there are no secrets between them.

The story is a gripping read from the very beginning and as you learn the truths behind both Merrick and Kira you are left hating the king and all he stands for with equal fervour. Merrick had up held his part of the marriage agreement and cleared the kings’ lands of the thieves and murderers that had preyed on his gentry, the lower cast he had no care of and yet now he tries to cheat the couple by taking from Kira the only people that had cared for her whilst she had survived in his castle.

This will be a day he will live to regret along with those that assisted him and condoned his actions. However, they couple also need to find a witch that can help with the curse that was placed on Merrick if at all possible.

I cannot wait for the second book in this series it has been a wonderful read, well written and the detail of the characters and their history was wonderfully detailed, I hope to read many more books by this author.

I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nessa.
3,938 reviews72 followers
July 8, 2024
DOVE INTO THIS WITHOUT EXPECTATIONS. STARTED OFF CHOPPY BUT TURNED OUT CUTE AND A LITTLE WHOLESOME. This book is part 1 of a trilogy, and ends in a cliffhanger with a foreseeable war ahead. I'm not too invested in the romance, so I guess I'm stopping here.

The characters were nice, the romance nothing too intense and the plot was subpar. It's good to past the time, nothing taxing on the brain. The heroine was a beautiful fighter despite being controlled and put down by the men in her life. Being married off, she expected her husband to be the ruthless killer he was rumored to be, only to realize that he turned into a literal beast at night.

Had a bit of BATB vibes, and I would have loved it more had everything been more intense. Romance aside, the passion felt stilted sometimes, and the way Merrick treated his wife like a boy who met his first crush in high school gave me severe doubts if I would enjoy this story.

OVERALL enjoyable but nothing I would seriously gush about.
Profile Image for Tifany.
315 reviews16 followers
September 13, 2022
Princess Kiya is told by her father, the King, that she is going to become wife to Merrick. Merrick is a brute of a man with a vicious reputation, one that the King plans to take advantage of. Not that she has a choice, Kiya is willing to do what is needed to ensure the safety of her kingdom.

From the start, Kiya was discomfited by Merrick’s golden gaze. While Merrick agreed to marry her, he simply shows no interest. But Kiya has experienced hardships in her life, and this is just one more for her to deal with—but why does she feel so drawn to Merrick? Merrick is an alphahole with a lot of secrets and a lack of trust.

If you’re in the mood for shifters, enemies to lovers, one horse, forced proximity, arranged marriage, found family, and a bit of spice, then Savage Wolf may fit the bill. This was a quick and enjoyable read for me and I look forward to reading more from this author.

Special thanks to the author for the ARC. All thoughts in this review are honest and my own.
Profile Image for Shayay.
2,802 reviews55 followers
September 13, 2022
Enjoy an enemies to lovers situation; not into the forced marriage scenario, but there is good chemistry and an interesting dynamic going on between Kiya and Merrick. These two need to figure out how to get along and work together; create a partnership that will withstand the devious machinations. Really enjoy Wayne’s writing style and the world she created, and the strength and passion of the characters she writes. Entertaining start to a new series! Excited for book 2!
Profile Image for Hayley Briana.
Author 18 books57 followers
September 13, 2022
5 star! Mild spice with fabulous world building! Jessica had me engaged from the start and I couldn't put it down! Merrick is absolutely yummy and gives off "touch her and you die" vibes. Hello, new book boyfriend alert! I will definitely being giving this a reread. Be warned it ends in a cliffhanger and I can't wait to find out what happens next!
1,537 reviews14 followers
September 12, 2022
Kiya is a prisoner in her own home. Daughter of a King she should be loved but instead she is treated like trash. She is used for leverage and bargained with The Beast, so he and his army can protect the Kings territory.
Merrick, The Beast, doesn’t trust Kiya until she proves herself worthy
This is a really good story. It has depth, energy, romance and sexy scenes. I can’t wait for book two.
1,737 reviews12 followers
September 13, 2022
Wow

A stunning, explosive new romance from Jessica Wayne. She never disappoints and this was a roller coaster ride from the start. Looking forward to the next instalment.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Aly Nicole.
Author 1 book1 follower
September 14, 2022
I cannot put into words the thoughts I have about Merrick!!! I read this entire book in like a matter of hours because I could not put it down! Jessica Wayne you did it again! I’m seriously ready for the next one!
1 review
September 6, 2022
I absolutely love the world created in Savage Wolf. It draws you in and has amazing details. I definitely expected more heat, but I have no doubts there will be more in the next book. The characters had a lot of depth that usually isn't present in a book with only one viewpoint. I cant wait to read more!

With that all said, the beginning was a little hard to get through and I had to reread a bit to make sure I understood what was going on. It would've been helpful to jave one or two other viewpoints. Plus it seems like it goes from "grr, I don't like you" to feeling each other up and hot steamy sex without getting to know each other really fast.

Overall, I'm so glad I read this book and will definitely be waiting for the next one.

Tropes:
-Forced marriage
-Attempted SA
-Enemies to lovers

*I was given this book in exchange for my honest review*
Profile Image for Reading is not enough .
132 reviews2 followers
September 13, 2022
ARC Review: I had the honor to read Savage Wolf by Jessica Wayne. This is my first book from this author and I don’t know why I waited so long. If you like a Possessive Alpha who is willing to unalive anyone who touches his wife then this is for you. Definitely pick this up if you into Shifter romance with a lil tyke plot twist 🥰🥰

🥵🥵🥵

Tik Tok @christynoah101 - I will be posting a quote straight from the book

Amazon - readingisnotenough
Profile Image for Nance.
1,128 reviews17 followers
September 12, 2022
This book was amazing! I loved the world building and the characters. This was an amazing read and can’t wait to see what happens next.
Profile Image for Kaitlyn.
207 reviews
September 20, 2022
When I first started it I was worried I wouldn’t like it, but the further I got into it the more entranced I became with it. The writing is on point and the story is entertaining and keeps your attention. I read it in one night because I couldn’t put it down. Im really looking forward to reading the next one. Does end in a cliffhanger, but I don’t mind that much because it just pulls you in more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,870 reviews33 followers
September 5, 2022
Kiya is a "princess", whom the king neglects and punishes. She is not his daughter, but a hasty replacement when his child dies. He is not a kind ruler and is very selfish. When their kingdom is attacked, he barters Kiya to an adjacent kingdom in exchange for protection.

Merrick has reluctantly agreed to wed Kiya, but ignores her most of the time. Kiya gets the impression that he does not like her. His family is warm and accepting, but where do they go for most of the day and why do they have so many wolves around?

With threats from the king heavy in her heart, can Kiya find happiness?

This story ends on a doozy of a cliffhanger. I am anxiously awaiting the next installment.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,187 reviews28 followers
September 7, 2022
I was so not expecting this Outstanding story that pulled me in so far, I had to finish it before I could put it down! This story of Kiya and Merrick is such an emotional journey for both of them. Kiya finds strength and Merrick finds control. I do not know how I will be able to wait for Fractured Magic, but wait I must. I Loved This So Much!!! No spoilers form me! This has to be read for yourself!
I received an ARC from the Author and I am Leaving this Totally Honest Review because I Choose to and think that this is a GREAT STORY!!!
12.7k reviews189 followers
September 11, 2022
Kira ‘s life has not been easy. Even though she’s a Princess, it hasn’t been recognized. Will she finally find some happiness in her life. Well written.
Profile Image for Kristin .
552 reviews
September 5, 2022
Please bare in mind this is just my opinion and everyone has their own.
I just couldn't get into this new series book at all. No matter how hard I tried. I don't know if it was the plot or the characters.
To be honest, I only read about halfway through and just couldn't read anymore. It saddens me deeply because I have dearly loved every other book written by Jessica Wayne.
Again, I reiterate that I am just one person and you may love the book. So buy if you wish and form your own opinion.
Profile Image for Lori_nt.
192 reviews12 followers
March 2, 2023
Don't let the cheesy title page fool you...this book was really well done. I have read the arranged-marriage trope hundreds of times and this author just made it work so well. The first chapter had me intrigued, with the deal and stakes of marriage.

I also loved the atmosphere. The stone castle with the white wolves made it all so comforting. The two main characters were fun to read. It was not insta love on both ends. I love a good slow burn tbh.

The only reason it is not a 5/5 is because it did get a little slow by the end.
Profile Image for Colleen.
19 reviews
September 5, 2022
After reading this I am just waiting for the next book because warning it does end on a cliffhanger. Both MCs have secrets and pasts that have lead them to the marriage being forced on them.
I enjoyed the story and world building and would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys Arranged Marriage, Cursed Shifters, & Spice.
Profile Image for Marianne.
7,207 reviews85 followers
September 4, 2022
This fantasy romance is absolutely awesome!! I was just totally blown away! These characters feel so real.. Emotional, steamy, dangerous, and just plain magical.. I CAN'T wait for more!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Salena Huss.
24 reviews2 followers
August 30, 2022
I was hooked from page 1. Great characters and excellent plot lines!

Kiya is a heroine that has your heart from the get go and Merrick becomes an unexpected hero that gains your love by the end. A few villains that make you want to throw the book down. Unpredictability runs rampant. And a cliffhanger that leaves you craving book 2!

World building is left a lot to the imagination, but I love that. Not too many details allows creative freedom and so the story along at a great pace. Multiple ups and downs throughout and right up unto the very end.

Unputdownable. Start this book earlier so you're not up until 4am like I was!
Profile Image for Jasmin E Reads.
607 reviews18 followers
September 14, 2022
Kiya &Merrick story has it all!🏰⚔️🩸🥵😇🐺👸👑🏹
!🏰 great world building & the supporting characters are written strongly- theres no laxiety just interest in who they are and how they do.
🐺 Shifters, enemies to lovers, one bed, one horse.
😏🐎 Most masterful One Horse scene-Ever.
💪Merrick - Alphahole,Secretive, Dominant & Possesive (touch her you, & will die vibe) As he is cursed & refuses to let anyone closer.
👸 Kiya the kindhearted, cruelly tormented & undervalued/underestimated she scarifices herself for others to be the Kings Princess offering.
Kiya is very selfless.
Read this to feel!
👸💘🐺 Great Push & Pull
"He can have my body but never my heart."😏 sure famous last words FMC
get into this series!!!!.

I discovered this Author on TT and I first zeroed in on the Hot Cover. Im vibe & feels Arc reviewer. I Still purchase the books as I believe in supporting Indie Authors economic security.
16 reviews
September 1, 2022
This book is absolutely fantastic. I was hooked from the very first page. Every time I saw the percentage going up that I was getting closer to the end, I dreaded it. I genuinely can not wait for book two to be released. This is hands down the best book I’ve read in a long time.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews

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