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Bad Things #7
Wicked and Wild
She was wicked…
Everyone knew that Valerie Storm was the baddest bit—um, witch on the block. She might look like Snow White, but she had the heart of a wicked queen. She turned her enemies to ash, she danced on their graves, and she had to be stopped. But who could stand up to someone so wicked?
He was wild.
Griffin Bastien was the most powerful shifter to ever walk the earth. His claws had sent plenty of his foes to the grave. Bloodlust burned fast and hard within him, and when his beast took over, there was no stopping him.
Then Wicked met Wild.
Neither of them believed in love. And neither of them ever expected the firestorm that ignited when they kissed. But some things—some people—can’t be controlled. The need that Valerie and Griffin feel for each other, the white-hot lust, will change their world.
Even hell doesn’t burn this hot.
Too bad that Griffin has been keeping secrets. Too bad that he is the original assassin sent to destroy Valerie. Because when she finds out the truth, there will be no greater fury than a wicked witch betrayed. Even the biggest, baddest beast might discover that he’s absolutely lost when a witch casts her spell, and he will be willing to do anything to reclaim the mate he never expected.
Buckle up, it’s gonna be a wild ride.
Author's WICKED AND WILD is a complete, stand-alone story that is set in the world of my "Bad Things" paranormal books. Expect a sexy alpha, a very fierce heroine, and hot times ahead.
Everyone knew that Valerie Storm was the baddest bit—um, witch on the block. She might look like Snow White, but she had the heart of a wicked queen. She turned her enemies to ash, she danced on their graves, and she had to be stopped. But who could stand up to someone so wicked?
He was wild.
Griffin Bastien was the most powerful shifter to ever walk the earth. His claws had sent plenty of his foes to the grave. Bloodlust burned fast and hard within him, and when his beast took over, there was no stopping him.
Then Wicked met Wild.
Neither of them believed in love. And neither of them ever expected the firestorm that ignited when they kissed. But some things—some people—can’t be controlled. The need that Valerie and Griffin feel for each other, the white-hot lust, will change their world.
Even hell doesn’t burn this hot.
Too bad that Griffin has been keeping secrets. Too bad that he is the original assassin sent to destroy Valerie. Because when she finds out the truth, there will be no greater fury than a wicked witch betrayed. Even the biggest, baddest beast might discover that he’s absolutely lost when a witch casts her spell, and he will be willing to do anything to reclaim the mate he never expected.
Buckle up, it’s gonna be a wild ride.
Author's WICKED AND WILD is a complete, stand-alone story that is set in the world of my "Bad Things" paranormal books. Expect a sexy alpha, a very fierce heroine, and hot times ahead.
376 pages, Paperback
First published April 28, 2018
215 people are currently reading
933 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Eden
311 books6,813 followersAward-winning author Cynthia Eden writes sexy tales of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and paranormal romance. She is a New York Times, USA Today, Digital Book World, and IndieReader best-seller. Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over one hundred novels and novellas.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
December 13, 2018
If I were a witch, my name would be Valerie…
Absolutely EPIC book!
Absolutely amazing badass heroine! One of the best Cynthia Eden ever wrote!
Love love love!!!
It’s like Cynthia read our discussions about how we’re tired of weak and ‘innocent’ female characters paired with experienced ‘alpha’-holes and wrote this incredible strong heroine…
How often do you read such line told from the female POV?!
Overall very intense, incredibly good written and well-structured story. Maybe a bit OTT even for a paranormal, but as long as the heroine doesn’t turn into the damsel in distress, I can live with OTT *lol*
And this one was a badass! From the 1st page till the last. Bravo!!!
The hero was a good one. He stood in her shadow *cough cough*… see, real life approach in a paranormal story *lol*
I liked him as a dragon… delicious…
I loved this book! Definitely a reread material.
I need a girl night with Valerie and Lana! ;-)
Coming back to the 1st line in my review…
…but I’m a bitch and my name is Alex!
"Didn’t see that coming, did you? You just saw my gorgeous ass and overlooked my scheming mind."
Absolutely EPIC book!
Absolutely amazing badass heroine! One of the best Cynthia Eden ever wrote!
Love love love!!!
"Life is fickle, and pain is inevitable. So if you can take something you want in this world—you do. You grab it tight, and you enjoy the hell out of that ride."
It’s like Cynthia read our discussions about how we’re tired of weak and ‘innocent’ female characters paired with experienced ‘alpha’-holes and wrote this incredible strong heroine…
How often do you read such line told from the female POV?!
"I don’t know what kind of lovers you’re used to, but I enjoy a whole lot of pleasure. Not some one minute deal."
“A line grew between his brows. “You’ve dated other kings?”
“Dude. I’m awesome. Men have literally killed to be with me.”
Overall very intense, incredibly good written and well-structured story. Maybe a bit OTT even for a paranormal, but as long as the heroine doesn’t turn into the damsel in distress, I can live with OTT *lol*
And this one was a badass! From the 1st page till the last. Bravo!!!
The hero was a good one. He stood in her shadow *cough cough*… see, real life approach in a paranormal story *lol*
I liked him as a dragon… delicious…
I loved this book! Definitely a reread material.
I need a girl night with Valerie and Lana! ;-)
Coming back to the 1st line in my review…
…but I’m a bitch and my name is Alex!
April 25, 2018
5 Wicked Valerie stars.
For the first time in my book history with Cynthia that the hero has taken a back seat for me. Don't get me wrong I've always love her heroines but my goodness this one was everything.
I'm in love... with the heroine.
She was so evil and badass with some sweetness in her that she didn't just let anyone see. She was just wicked and I loved it!!! She also had a lot of lovers and for once the hero is the one who has to be jealous of them. She also loved and enjoyed sex before meeting the hero.
"I’m not the type to be intimidated."
"I control my own life. No one tells me what to do. I am an unstoppable force."
"Dude. I’m awesome. Men have literally killed to be with me.”
“We are not fucking.”
“Your loss. And I mean that with absolute honesty. I would have changed your world.”
He believed her.
“One day, you’ll practically beg to have me.” She looked at her nails. “We’ll have to see how I feel then.”
I loved how she was with Rio. Kid made me tear up.
Hero was a bit of an ass with her in the beginning but I think it was because he knew she had a reputation of being the wicked witch, he thought she was just cold.
But he was the usual CE's hero, he was possessive and protective of her. But as much as liked him i also wanted to hit him!!
"She is my darkness.”
“You die, and I will come right after you, do you understand? I’ll fucking find you. I’ll drag you back, and I don’t care who I have to fight. I won’t lose you.”
There's plenty of secondary characters, maybe the author is introducing us to new characters that she will write about? or a spinoff? I sure hope so because I'll be upset if this series ends.
I can't say enough good things about this book. I loved everything even when the hero acted like an ass because the heroine wasn't a doormat, she put him in his place.
Safety:100% safe. No OW drama. No real details of hero past sex life. Heroine was experienced.
For the first time in my book history with Cynthia that the hero has taken a back seat for me. Don't get me wrong I've always love her heroines but my goodness this one was everything.
I'm in love... with the heroine.
She was so evil and badass with some sweetness in her that she didn't just let anyone see. She was just wicked and I loved it!!! She also had a lot of lovers and for once the hero is the one who has to be jealous of them. She also loved and enjoyed sex before meeting the hero.
"I’m not the type to be intimidated."
"I control my own life. No one tells me what to do. I am an unstoppable force."
"Dude. I’m awesome. Men have literally killed to be with me.”
“We are not fucking.”
“Your loss. And I mean that with absolute honesty. I would have changed your world.”
He believed her.
“One day, you’ll practically beg to have me.” She looked at her nails. “We’ll have to see how I feel then.”
I loved how she was with Rio. Kid made me tear up.
Hero was a bit of an ass with her in the beginning but I think it was because he knew she had a reputation of being the wicked witch, he thought she was just cold.
But he was the usual CE's hero, he was possessive and protective of her. But as much as liked him i also wanted to hit him!!
"She is my darkness.”
“You die, and I will come right after you, do you understand? I’ll fucking find you. I’ll drag you back, and I don’t care who I have to fight. I won’t lose you.”
There's plenty of secondary characters, maybe the author is introducing us to new characters that she will write about? or a spinoff? I sure hope so because I'll be upset if this series ends.
I can't say enough good things about this book. I loved everything even when the hero acted like an ass because the heroine wasn't a doormat, she put him in his place.
Safety:100% safe. No OW drama. No real details of hero past sex life. Heroine was experienced.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2018
A huge thank you to Leonor for loaning me this book😘😘😘 I loved it! Valerie is one of the BEST heroines ever! She is strong and smart! Griffin is a wonderful hero too! He is just what Valerie needed! I loved the side characters and it was great to see Leo again! I would love stories for Stefan and Rio! Everyone should read this book!!!
February 17, 2019
4.5 stars! I absolutely adored this delectable read!
April 24, 2018
Wow I loved this!! I think it’s the best book in the series! I highly recommend if you like strong heroines and ott jealous-possessive Heroes!!
What I loved:
- intense j/p H who goes mine-mine-mine
- some good angst with no cheating
- strong heroine!!
- romance stands out even tho book has action scenes
- writing was tight, I could not put the book down and it really kept my interest from start to finish
The best book I’ve read this month!
I’m trying not to put spoilers, but feel free to msg me if you have specific questions!
What I loved:
- intense j/p H who goes mine-mine-mine
- some good angst with no cheating
- strong heroine!!
- romance stands out even tho book has action scenes
- writing was tight, I could not put the book down and it really kept my interest from start to finish
The best book I’ve read this month!
I’m trying not to put spoilers, but feel free to msg me if you have specific questions!
April 21, 2018
What a treat this book was! I love what the author is doing for this series. She is pairing up light to dark with each couple. Don't let that fool you, this isn't a dark series. You'll find the dark characters have some good in them, especially when they focus on their mates.
In Wicked and Wild, Valerie is the most powerful and wicked witch of them all. She is feared by many. The tales of all the wicked things she has done has spread far and wide and I loved her! She is one of the most entertaining heroines I have read. And she has one of the biggest hearts.
Griffin is the king of shifters. A witch killed his parents and he will not be forced in a mating with one. Especially not Valerie. Trouble is, he can't seem to stop thinking about her. With each new threat to her life, he vows to protect her with his own.
I loved this couple and I enjoyed every bit of the chase Valerie led Griffin on. She is a strong, sassy heroine and he is a true alpha protector. ARC provided by NetGalley.
In Wicked and Wild, Valerie is the most powerful and wicked witch of them all. She is feared by many. The tales of all the wicked things she has done has spread far and wide and I loved her! She is one of the most entertaining heroines I have read. And she has one of the biggest hearts.
Griffin is the king of shifters. A witch killed his parents and he will not be forced in a mating with one. Especially not Valerie. Trouble is, he can't seem to stop thinking about her. With each new threat to her life, he vows to protect her with his own.
I loved this couple and I enjoyed every bit of the chase Valerie led Griffin on. She is a strong, sassy heroine and he is a true alpha protector. ARC provided by NetGalley.
August 25, 2018
Holy Wow!!! I abso-freaking-lutely LOVED this book! This is by far my favorite of all the books I’ve read by this author up to date. I am giddy with exhilaration from all that I just read and the amazing journey this couple took me on!
I’m not sure I’ve ever read a story with an anti-heroine. Anti-hero, sure and I love them. But never a heroine like Valerie. She was wicked bad. The MOST wicked. (Think a combination of the Wicked Witch from the Wizard of Oz and the cartoon witch BroomHilda – minus the brooms and green skin.) She did things her own way. And she never, ever followed the rules.
I loved Valerie’s quirky way of proving her bada$$ery to those around her, especially Griffin. And OMG! The way she absolutely drove him crazy in the beginning. He didn’t know which way to turn she had him so tied up with confusion. It was so much fun watching him struggle as she went about things in her own style and fashion. She was driving him mad and no matter how many times he reminded her of the rules or even demanded that she follow them, she’d just smile sweetly and then prove to everyone that she was very wicked indeed.
And yet, everything is not always as it seems and this story begins to peel back layer by layer as lives are changed, hopes are dashed, and nefarious plots come to light. So even as my heart felt light and carefree with all the antics Valerie performed, the author slowly shines a light on the fact that there may be more to her than what’s on the surface. Well, of course as a reader, you’ll know that that’s going to be the case, but the way Cynthia Eden does it is not all in your face and you’re never really sure if what you’re sensing is real to the story or a figment of your own hopes.
Then there’s Griffin. I love a good hero. I want an all alpha, possessive, protective hero who can only see the heroine. Throw in a little jealousy and I’m a very happy reader. And while we definitely get that, Griffin was so much more. He made mistakes and when it was time to face those mistakes, he made the most fantastic apology in the history of groveling! Just a few short lines but oh Lord, he had me not only near tears, but a bit weak in the knees as well. And let’s just be clear here, there is unquestionably nothing he won’t do to keep Valerie with him forever. Swoon, sigh, GASP, no way!!!
This was such an incredible read from all the fun quirky one liners, steamy times between Griffin and Valerie, amazing secondary characters that built the story up rather than used as fillers, and a plot that has so many twists and turns I began to feel like Griffin – not knowing which way was up. I’ve only had one book in my favorites for 2018. I now have two.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Hocus Pocus Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
I’m not sure I’ve ever read a story with an anti-heroine. Anti-hero, sure and I love them. But never a heroine like Valerie. She was wicked bad. The MOST wicked. (Think a combination of the Wicked Witch from the Wizard of Oz and the cartoon witch BroomHilda – minus the brooms and green skin.) She did things her own way. And she never, ever followed the rules.
I loved Valerie’s quirky way of proving her bada$$ery to those around her, especially Griffin. And OMG! The way she absolutely drove him crazy in the beginning. He didn’t know which way to turn she had him so tied up with confusion. It was so much fun watching him struggle as she went about things in her own style and fashion. She was driving him mad and no matter how many times he reminded her of the rules or even demanded that she follow them, she’d just smile sweetly and then prove to everyone that she was very wicked indeed.
And yet, everything is not always as it seems and this story begins to peel back layer by layer as lives are changed, hopes are dashed, and nefarious plots come to light. So even as my heart felt light and carefree with all the antics Valerie performed, the author slowly shines a light on the fact that there may be more to her than what’s on the surface. Well, of course as a reader, you’ll know that that’s going to be the case, but the way Cynthia Eden does it is not all in your face and you’re never really sure if what you’re sensing is real to the story or a figment of your own hopes.
Then there’s Griffin. I love a good hero. I want an all alpha, possessive, protective hero who can only see the heroine. Throw in a little jealousy and I’m a very happy reader. And while we definitely get that, Griffin was so much more. He made mistakes and when it was time to face those mistakes, he made the most fantastic apology in the history of groveling! Just a few short lines but oh Lord, he had me not only near tears, but a bit weak in the knees as well. And let’s just be clear here, there is unquestionably nothing he won’t do to keep Valerie with him forever. Swoon, sigh, GASP, no way!!!
This was such an incredible read from all the fun quirky one liners, steamy times between Griffin and Valerie, amazing secondary characters that built the story up rather than used as fillers, and a plot that has so many twists and turns I began to feel like Griffin – not knowing which way was up. I’ve only had one book in my favorites for 2018. I now have two.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Hocus Pocus Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
September 2, 2023
To re-read 2023 sept
—————
This book had one of the strongest, one of the most kickass and likable h ever.
Absolutely recommend.
Looking for a whiny, insecure virgin h? Not here.
—————
This book had one of the strongest, one of the most kickass and likable h ever.
Absolutely recommend.
Looking for a whiny, insecure virgin h? Not here.
April 24, 2018
3.5 - "Maybe I'm not the monster you think I am..." Stars!
We return to the Bad Things series with book seven; Wicked and Wild putting the baddest witch and the King of the shifters in each other’s paths.
The beast and his wicked queen…
I’ll be honest and say I don’t actually remember either Valerie Storm or Griffin Bastien cropping up in any of the previous books in the series, in my defense it’s been going for a while now, and I do read a lot of books.
"You think you’re the worst foe I ever came across..? Not even close."
But even if they were the fact I don’t remember them basically highlights that they didn’t play any real part in any previous story being told. This book takes a step away from the series in general in that apart from Leo Thorne, none of the original cast really plays a part in its telling. I think that is possibly because the author in this book has set it up to branch the series out further with the introduction of a whole new cast with the potential for a good few more new characters to have books in the future.
"I don’t forget. I don’t forgive… And, you… are now my enemy."
With all the new character introductions and back story, there was an awful lot going on with this book in general, I think the word that best sums up the plot is; busy. Because it pinged off in a lot of different directions, all stemming from Valerie and Griffin’s getting together. Witches and shifters in general it seems do not mix well, especially when one has a price on their head, and the other the expectations of their nation on theirs.
"I think that growly thing you do is oddly hot… I’m wired a little differently from most witches… I know my kind is supposed to be all cold and you know, not into the wild beast thing, but I think it’s a major turn on…"
I think Valerie is the snarkiest character I have read from this author, and I found it in general quite entertaining. Griffin was all growly and alpha, and I liked most of the secondary characters that were introduced along the way, there were more twists and turns than a bowl full of spaghetti as well so it’s a story that keeps you on your toes as a reader as well.
"You’re my witch… Good, bad, and all the stuff in between."
You can absolutely read this book as a standalone, as I said the previous characters in books 1-6 barely have a role, however the epilogue indicates there is more to come with this series in general, and the re-emergence of the Thorne brothers looks to be likely (yum!).
"Size doesn’t matter."
I always enjoy a good paranormal romp from Cynthia, and although I don’t think this is the best book in the series, it was certainly no struggle to read. It makes me happy that we get to spend more time in the Bad Things universe, and I hope to see more books released from it over the coming months.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
We return to the Bad Things series with book seven; Wicked and Wild putting the baddest witch and the King of the shifters in each other’s paths.
The beast and his wicked queen…
I’ll be honest and say I don’t actually remember either Valerie Storm or Griffin Bastien cropping up in any of the previous books in the series, in my defense it’s been going for a while now, and I do read a lot of books.
"You think you’re the worst foe I ever came across..? Not even close."
But even if they were the fact I don’t remember them basically highlights that they didn’t play any real part in any previous story being told. This book takes a step away from the series in general in that apart from Leo Thorne, none of the original cast really plays a part in its telling. I think that is possibly because the author in this book has set it up to branch the series out further with the introduction of a whole new cast with the potential for a good few more new characters to have books in the future.
"I don’t forget. I don’t forgive… And, you… are now my enemy."
With all the new character introductions and back story, there was an awful lot going on with this book in general, I think the word that best sums up the plot is; busy. Because it pinged off in a lot of different directions, all stemming from Valerie and Griffin’s getting together. Witches and shifters in general it seems do not mix well, especially when one has a price on their head, and the other the expectations of their nation on theirs.
"I think that growly thing you do is oddly hot… I’m wired a little differently from most witches… I know my kind is supposed to be all cold and you know, not into the wild beast thing, but I think it’s a major turn on…"
I think Valerie is the snarkiest character I have read from this author, and I found it in general quite entertaining. Griffin was all growly and alpha, and I liked most of the secondary characters that were introduced along the way, there were more twists and turns than a bowl full of spaghetti as well so it’s a story that keeps you on your toes as a reader as well.
"You’re my witch… Good, bad, and all the stuff in between."
You can absolutely read this book as a standalone, as I said the previous characters in books 1-6 barely have a role, however the epilogue indicates there is more to come with this series in general, and the re-emergence of the Thorne brothers looks to be likely (yum!).
"Size doesn’t matter."
I always enjoy a good paranormal romp from Cynthia, and although I don’t think this is the best book in the series, it was certainly no struggle to read. It makes me happy that we get to spend more time in the Bad Things universe, and I hope to see more books released from it over the coming months.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Read
June 16, 2018Loved Valerie. Liked Griffin.
May 13, 2018
the first Cynthia Eden book I became super bored with!!! well, I guess it proves she's only human.
I just didn't connect with the hero or heroine much. Stop TELLING me you're a baddass and SHOW me you're a bad ass.
I just didn't connect with the hero or heroine much. Stop TELLING me you're a baddass and SHOW me you're a bad ass.
September 17, 2020
Reread Sept 18th 2020.
Sometimes when you find yourself DNF-ing book after book, it’s best to reread some favourites. This book is definitely that for me 😍
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What can I say that others haven’t already? I really loved this one. Valerie was my type of heroine and I loved how her and Griffin loved each other. I’ve only read the first book in this series and was going to read the others but got sidetracked. Having said that, I had no problem reading this one without reading all the others.
I heart this author...big time!!
Sometimes when you find yourself DNF-ing book after book, it’s best to reread some favourites. This book is definitely that for me 😍
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What can I say that others haven’t already? I really loved this one. Valerie was my type of heroine and I loved how her and Griffin loved each other. I’ve only read the first book in this series and was going to read the others but got sidetracked. Having said that, I had no problem reading this one without reading all the others.
I heart this author...big time!!
August 3, 2018
"You matter. You. You're the one in my blood. The one in my thorn soul. You're the other part of me. You and your crazy laugh and your damn spells and your sparking fingers. You. And you can't die. You can't leave. Because if you leave, I'll fucking want to follow." He pressed a hot, hard kiss to her lips."I love you."
April 27, 2018
🌟 4.5 🌟
big-ol-nope-from-bonnie
April 25, 2018DNF. So not for me.
December 23, 2021
An entertaining re-read. Somehow I completely forgot about this book in the series.
Valerie is the most powerful and wicked witch of them all. She's feared by the council of witches who are determined to destroy her.
Betrayed by friends she's spent centuries ensuring her enemies pay and those she cares for are protected. They think she has no heart but harm those closest to her and her rage knows no bounds.
Loved how unapologetic Valerie is.
Griffin is the king of shifters. When he finds himself bound to Valerie not will be the same again.
Good chemistry between the MCs.
Valerie is the most powerful and wicked witch of them all. She's feared by the council of witches who are determined to destroy her.
Betrayed by friends she's spent centuries ensuring her enemies pay and those she cares for are protected. They think she has no heart but harm those closest to her and her rage knows no bounds.
Loved how unapologetic Valerie is.
Griffin is the king of shifters. When he finds himself bound to Valerie not will be the same again.
Good chemistry between the MCs.
June 7, 2019
"Mated," Mora pronounced with an air of satisfaction. "The beast and his wicked queen."
~
"No more lies. No more pretending. No more bravado. You show me every part of yourself, and I'll show you who I am."
Valerie gave a quick, negative shake of her head. "This is me. You might not like it, but-"
He kissed her. A deep, hard, claiming kiss. "There is nothing about you that I don't like." And it was true. Unsettling, but true. "Sweetheart, I even think your weird laugh is sexy."
Her eyes had flared wide. She blinked. "I-I don't have a weird laugh."
"You cackle. Like a cartoon witch."
Her cheeks flushed. "I absolutely do not."
"You absolutely do." He kissed her again. "And I like it. I like you. So I want to hear everything you got. If we're in this together, we are in. You tell me your secrets, and I'll tell you mine."
So…I might have a new favorite Bad Things couple. I love me some Luke Thorne, but damn…Griffin Bastien was the total fucking package. Protective and snarly, but with just a bit of sweet and funny. Loved him. And as for Valerie Storm? Definite fucking girl crush. She was snarky and rude, strong but vulnerable. Perfect mix. Together…damn near legendary. In fact, I loved everything about their story. I usually "reserve" my five stars for books I've re-read and still love. If it holds up the second time around, then it gets five. I hardly ever give five on the first read, but this book was everything I love about reading not just PNR, but a book in general. And maybe the best part? I didn't see any of the twists coming. To be honest, if I keep going I'm just going to gush, so I'm just going to say, again, fucking LOVED it, and here's a bunch of scenes.
Spoilers…probably…
"Valerie-"
"But how could you have hurt me?" Valerie continued as her hair began to blow. "You don't mean anything to me. So you don't want to kiss me again. Big deal. It's your loss. And for the record, I never asked to be with you forever." Forever was far too long. Especially since she had plans.
She was going to rule the witches. Destroy their stupid council. Maybe she'd even take over the whole world. Totally just depended on her mood. She didn't have time to stay forever in shifter land. Valerie didn't want to stay there.
"I never said I didn't want to kiss you," Griffin muttered.
He was still lingering.
"Sometimes, it's just best not to take what we want."
Now she laughed. Valerie glanced over her shoulder at him. "Who told you that bunch of crap? Life is fickle, and pain is inevitable. So if you can take something you want in this world - you do. You grab it tight, and you enjoy the hell out of that ride." Because, sooner or later, that ride would end.
~
"I want to sleep with you," Valerie told him.
He stumbled. She steadied him.
"Bad idea," he said. "Very, very bad."
"I have to confess something to you." She didn't like doing it, but oh, well. "I'm a screamer."
He swore.
"Oh, wait, not that kind of screamer. The sex kind? Is that what you think?" She stopped walking. Then considered the matter. "Actually, yes, I am that kind of screamer. If the pleasure is good enough."
"Valerie…"
"But I can also scream at night, when I'm dreaming, in a manner unrelated to sex. Quite powerfully. Quite…terrifyingly, I've been told."
"By lovers?"
She didn't answer him. Instead, Valerie explained, "I may also occasionally do a wee bit of summoning in my sleep."
"What? What in the hell does that even mean?"
"It means when you play with dark magic there's a price. When I'm asleep, sometimes, I pay that price when I dream." She'd thought about this all day. "So if you really want to make sure I don't hurt your precious shifters, you'd better bunk down in the bed with me. If I start screaming or levitating or opening the gateway to hell, you can wake me up."
He shook his head. Over and over.
"I take it that's a yes? We're on for sleeping together?" Valerie pushed.
He swore.
~
He'd just taken his mate in a dungeon. A dungeon.
As the haze of lust surrounding Griffin finally eased, awareness came flooding back in an uncomfortable rush. A dungeon.
His eyes widened as he stared at Valerie in horror. He was still in her. Already getting hard again, and the woman probably though he was the biggest bastard in the world. She'd rail at him. Tell him to get the hell away from her. She'd-
Smile?
Her dimples winked. "That was fun." She leaned forward. Pressed a kiss to his lips. "And you picked our place. That is so romantic."
A dungeon wasn't romantic. Carefully, he eased out of her before he lowered Valerie to her feet. "I'm sorry."
Her hands went to her hips. The move made her glorious breasts thrust toward him. "You had better not apologize for having sex with me."
Never for that. "This wasn't the place. You deserved better. You-" He stopped because Griffin knew he was just a bastard.
She shook her head. "It's our place."
Why was she saying that?
Then she gave him her killer smile. "We met in a dungeon. Fate brought us together there. And, of course…" She batted her lashes at him. "A dungeon is where you looked at me - just took that first, incredible look at me - and realized you would love me forever."
His chest ached.
"You did." Valerie winked at him. "You'll realize that truth, one day."
He would never understand her. But…now he had plenty of time to try. Plenty of time - as in, forever. "We're mated."
"We've been mated. Darling, did you miss that part?"
Why did he like it so much when she called him darling? Griffin cleared his throat. "Forever now. Once our bodies are joined, there is no going back."
Her gaze slid over him. "There was never any going back."
She was still naked. And when he looked at her body…
Griffin licked his lips.
"Someone looks hungry," Valerie murmured as she arched one delicate brow.
The woman had no idea. But he had to hold his control. This time. His people were waiting for him. And there were questions that had to be answered. "Could you…summon clothes?"
Her brows climbed. "Are you asking me to do magic?"
"Yes," he hissed.
She wiggled her fingers. Clothes appeared on his body. Pants. A shirt. Boots.
But she was still stark naked.
He was about to grab her. His hands fisted. "You."
"What about me?" She strolled around him, giving him a perfect view of her front and her back. Valerie hadn't just been boasting before. Her ass was world-class.
He might have to kick the shit out of some guards who'd seen too much of her.
"Clothes," Griffin gritted out. "On you."
"Again, you're showing this weirdly prudish tendency for a shifter, but whatever."
Her fingers did their little shimmy again, and she was suddenly wearing tennis shoes, jeans, and a black shirt. Her hair had magically dried. "Better?"
Actually, no. She was still sexy as all hell.
~
Oh, damn. Her luck could not be this bad. No way. No way in… "You're not Luke."
Luke Thorne. The Lord of the Dark. All around badass and the guy who happened to owe her a long list of favors.
The man on the couch shook his head. He looked like Luke. Same dark hair. Same incredible sex appeal. Same intense, golden eyes. Same drop-dead gorgeous features.
But…
"Dammit, you're the other one." Valerie bounded across the room because she wanted to put some serious space between them. "What are you doing here? Luke will kill when he finds out that you're in his house."
"Yeah…about that…" The guy slowly stood as he rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Guessing you've been out of touch for a while? Not exactly communicating frequently with my brother?"
Brother. Another nail in her coffin. But she'd already worked this part out. "You're Leo." And she was in trouble. Luke Thorne was the all-powerful being who ruled over the so-called "bad" paranormals, but his twin brother - the guy that was standing right in front of her - Leo was the Lord of the Light. Ruler of all the goody-two-shoes and annoyingly perky paranormals.
"Guilty," he confessed.
"What are you doing here?" All of her fine plans were going up in smoke. "I need Luke. He owes me."
Leo's brows lifted. "Does he? Good luck getting him to pay up."
"Where. Is. Luke?"
Leo pointed up.
"He's upstairs?" Relief crashed through her. "Why didn't you just say that crap to begin with? No need for stupid games." She whirled and hurried for the stairs.
"He's way, way up."
Leo's words stopped her.
"We switched places."
She spun back to face him. "This is not some Disney movie. You do not trade places."
His lips twitched. "We did. Sorry."
~
"So if you're going to be jealous-"
"I am." He stalked toward her. Totally naked. All muscle. All sexy. "Very jealous. Because I hate the idea of anyone else having you."
She was not supposed to find that sweet. And it wasn't. It was possessive. Growly. Shifter to the core. "You can't have my past." She lifted her hand and pressed it to his chest. "And I can't have yours." Did she dare say it? Would it reveal too much? Don't say it. Don't say it, but… "You can have my future."
Valerie wished she hadn't said that. He might laugh at her. Might throw out some mocking comment that made her feel like hell. "Forget it," she added quickly as she tried to sound dismissive. "That's not what I meant to say." She pulled her hand away.
He caught her wrist. Brought her hand right back to his chest. Pressed her palm over his heart. "You are my future. You think I don't know that?"
She hadn't realized… "That's good."
"No, I don't think 'good' is the word. 'Good' is too tame for us." He smiled at her. "But our future will be earth shattering. Epic. Incredible. And maybe even a little terrifying."
~
"Don't ever pull that shit again."
Her smile faded. "I did it for you. I didn't want you to be in pain without me."
It hadn't just been pain. It had been hell. "You die, and you take my heart with you."
Her lower lip trembled. "You can say the sweetest things."
"I love you." There. Not sweet. Grim. Primal.
"And I love you."
Now there were murmurs from the crowd. Gasps of surprise. What? Like the baddest witch to live couldn't love? She did love. He knew it. He thought she might love more, and deeper, than anyone else.
~
"No more lies. No more pretending. No more bravado. You show me every part of yourself, and I'll show you who I am."
Valerie gave a quick, negative shake of her head. "This is me. You might not like it, but-"
He kissed her. A deep, hard, claiming kiss. "There is nothing about you that I don't like." And it was true. Unsettling, but true. "Sweetheart, I even think your weird laugh is sexy."
Her eyes had flared wide. She blinked. "I-I don't have a weird laugh."
"You cackle. Like a cartoon witch."
Her cheeks flushed. "I absolutely do not."
"You absolutely do." He kissed her again. "And I like it. I like you. So I want to hear everything you got. If we're in this together, we are in. You tell me your secrets, and I'll tell you mine."
So…I might have a new favorite Bad Things couple. I love me some Luke Thorne, but damn…Griffin Bastien was the total fucking package. Protective and snarly, but with just a bit of sweet and funny. Loved him. And as for Valerie Storm? Definite fucking girl crush. She was snarky and rude, strong but vulnerable. Perfect mix. Together…damn near legendary. In fact, I loved everything about their story. I usually "reserve" my five stars for books I've re-read and still love. If it holds up the second time around, then it gets five. I hardly ever give five on the first read, but this book was everything I love about reading not just PNR, but a book in general. And maybe the best part? I didn't see any of the twists coming. To be honest, if I keep going I'm just going to gush, so I'm just going to say, again, fucking LOVED it, and here's a bunch of scenes.
Spoilers…probably…
"Valerie-"
"But how could you have hurt me?" Valerie continued as her hair began to blow. "You don't mean anything to me. So you don't want to kiss me again. Big deal. It's your loss. And for the record, I never asked to be with you forever." Forever was far too long. Especially since she had plans.
She was going to rule the witches. Destroy their stupid council. Maybe she'd even take over the whole world. Totally just depended on her mood. She didn't have time to stay forever in shifter land. Valerie didn't want to stay there.
"I never said I didn't want to kiss you," Griffin muttered.
He was still lingering.
"Sometimes, it's just best not to take what we want."
Now she laughed. Valerie glanced over her shoulder at him. "Who told you that bunch of crap? Life is fickle, and pain is inevitable. So if you can take something you want in this world - you do. You grab it tight, and you enjoy the hell out of that ride." Because, sooner or later, that ride would end.
~
"I want to sleep with you," Valerie told him.
He stumbled. She steadied him.
"Bad idea," he said. "Very, very bad."
"I have to confess something to you." She didn't like doing it, but oh, well. "I'm a screamer."
He swore.
"Oh, wait, not that kind of screamer. The sex kind? Is that what you think?" She stopped walking. Then considered the matter. "Actually, yes, I am that kind of screamer. If the pleasure is good enough."
"Valerie…"
"But I can also scream at night, when I'm dreaming, in a manner unrelated to sex. Quite powerfully. Quite…terrifyingly, I've been told."
"By lovers?"
She didn't answer him. Instead, Valerie explained, "I may also occasionally do a wee bit of summoning in my sleep."
"What? What in the hell does that even mean?"
"It means when you play with dark magic there's a price. When I'm asleep, sometimes, I pay that price when I dream." She'd thought about this all day. "So if you really want to make sure I don't hurt your precious shifters, you'd better bunk down in the bed with me. If I start screaming or levitating or opening the gateway to hell, you can wake me up."
He shook his head. Over and over.
"I take it that's a yes? We're on for sleeping together?" Valerie pushed.
He swore.
~
He'd just taken his mate in a dungeon. A dungeon.
As the haze of lust surrounding Griffin finally eased, awareness came flooding back in an uncomfortable rush. A dungeon.
His eyes widened as he stared at Valerie in horror. He was still in her. Already getting hard again, and the woman probably though he was the biggest bastard in the world. She'd rail at him. Tell him to get the hell away from her. She'd-
Smile?
Her dimples winked. "That was fun." She leaned forward. Pressed a kiss to his lips. "And you picked our place. That is so romantic."
A dungeon wasn't romantic. Carefully, he eased out of her before he lowered Valerie to her feet. "I'm sorry."
Her hands went to her hips. The move made her glorious breasts thrust toward him. "You had better not apologize for having sex with me."
Never for that. "This wasn't the place. You deserved better. You-" He stopped because Griffin knew he was just a bastard.
She shook her head. "It's our place."
Why was she saying that?
Then she gave him her killer smile. "We met in a dungeon. Fate brought us together there. And, of course…" She batted her lashes at him. "A dungeon is where you looked at me - just took that first, incredible look at me - and realized you would love me forever."
His chest ached.
"You did." Valerie winked at him. "You'll realize that truth, one day."
He would never understand her. But…now he had plenty of time to try. Plenty of time - as in, forever. "We're mated."
"We've been mated. Darling, did you miss that part?"
Why did he like it so much when she called him darling? Griffin cleared his throat. "Forever now. Once our bodies are joined, there is no going back."
Her gaze slid over him. "There was never any going back."
She was still naked. And when he looked at her body…
Griffin licked his lips.
"Someone looks hungry," Valerie murmured as she arched one delicate brow.
The woman had no idea. But he had to hold his control. This time. His people were waiting for him. And there were questions that had to be answered. "Could you…summon clothes?"
Her brows climbed. "Are you asking me to do magic?"
"Yes," he hissed.
She wiggled her fingers. Clothes appeared on his body. Pants. A shirt. Boots.
But she was still stark naked.
He was about to grab her. His hands fisted. "You."
"What about me?" She strolled around him, giving him a perfect view of her front and her back. Valerie hadn't just been boasting before. Her ass was world-class.
He might have to kick the shit out of some guards who'd seen too much of her.
"Clothes," Griffin gritted out. "On you."
"Again, you're showing this weirdly prudish tendency for a shifter, but whatever."
Her fingers did their little shimmy again, and she was suddenly wearing tennis shoes, jeans, and a black shirt. Her hair had magically dried. "Better?"
Actually, no. She was still sexy as all hell.
~
Oh, damn. Her luck could not be this bad. No way. No way in… "You're not Luke."
Luke Thorne. The Lord of the Dark. All around badass and the guy who happened to owe her a long list of favors.
The man on the couch shook his head. He looked like Luke. Same dark hair. Same incredible sex appeal. Same intense, golden eyes. Same drop-dead gorgeous features.
But…
"Dammit, you're the other one." Valerie bounded across the room because she wanted to put some serious space between them. "What are you doing here? Luke will kill when he finds out that you're in his house."
"Yeah…about that…" The guy slowly stood as he rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Guessing you've been out of touch for a while? Not exactly communicating frequently with my brother?"
Brother. Another nail in her coffin. But she'd already worked this part out. "You're Leo." And she was in trouble. Luke Thorne was the all-powerful being who ruled over the so-called "bad" paranormals, but his twin brother - the guy that was standing right in front of her - Leo was the Lord of the Light. Ruler of all the goody-two-shoes and annoyingly perky paranormals.
"Guilty," he confessed.
"What are you doing here?" All of her fine plans were going up in smoke. "I need Luke. He owes me."
Leo's brows lifted. "Does he? Good luck getting him to pay up."
"Where. Is. Luke?"
Leo pointed up.
"He's upstairs?" Relief crashed through her. "Why didn't you just say that crap to begin with? No need for stupid games." She whirled and hurried for the stairs.
"He's way, way up."
Leo's words stopped her.
"We switched places."
She spun back to face him. "This is not some Disney movie. You do not trade places."
His lips twitched. "We did. Sorry."
~
"So if you're going to be jealous-"
"I am." He stalked toward her. Totally naked. All muscle. All sexy. "Very jealous. Because I hate the idea of anyone else having you."
She was not supposed to find that sweet. And it wasn't. It was possessive. Growly. Shifter to the core. "You can't have my past." She lifted her hand and pressed it to his chest. "And I can't have yours." Did she dare say it? Would it reveal too much? Don't say it. Don't say it, but… "You can have my future."
Valerie wished she hadn't said that. He might laugh at her. Might throw out some mocking comment that made her feel like hell. "Forget it," she added quickly as she tried to sound dismissive. "That's not what I meant to say." She pulled her hand away.
He caught her wrist. Brought her hand right back to his chest. Pressed her palm over his heart. "You are my future. You think I don't know that?"
She hadn't realized… "That's good."
"No, I don't think 'good' is the word. 'Good' is too tame for us." He smiled at her. "But our future will be earth shattering. Epic. Incredible. And maybe even a little terrifying."
~
"Don't ever pull that shit again."
Her smile faded. "I did it for you. I didn't want you to be in pain without me."
It hadn't just been pain. It had been hell. "You die, and you take my heart with you."
Her lower lip trembled. "You can say the sweetest things."
"I love you." There. Not sweet. Grim. Primal.
"And I love you."
Now there were murmurs from the crowd. Gasps of surprise. What? Like the baddest witch to live couldn't love? She did love. He knew it. He thought she might love more, and deeper, than anyone else.
April 30, 2018
I KNEW I shouldn’t have read this book. Nothing good could’ve come out of it.
There were 2 options, really; either I wouldn’t have been that into it because I’m not that big a fan of PNR romance, or it would’ve ruined future reading experiences in the whole romance genre and I’d have to take another break from reading romance because of it.
As you can probably tell from my rating, I was into it. Oh, how I was. Hell, I barely managed to stop reading to go pick up my takeaway from downstairs.
But I also hated it. Because…now what? I guess back to reading about the same virginal doormat pathetic heroines of romancelandia until another Valerie or Lana pops up…
I still don't get what's romantic about the mate concept in PNR, but apart from that, I loved pretty much everything about this book. And what I didn't like that much was immediately overshadowed by the awesome MCs (yes, mostly Val) and the very gripping storyline.
There were 2 options, really; either I wouldn’t have been that into it because I’m not that big a fan of PNR romance, or it would’ve ruined future reading experiences in the whole romance genre and I’d have to take another break from reading romance because of it.
As you can probably tell from my rating, I was into it. Oh, how I was. Hell, I barely managed to stop reading to go pick up my takeaway from downstairs.
But I also hated it. Because…now what? I guess back to reading about the same virginal doormat pathetic heroines of romancelandia until another Valerie or Lana pops up…
I still don't get what's romantic about the mate concept in PNR, but apart from that, I loved pretty much everything about this book. And what I didn't like that much was immediately overshadowed by the awesome MCs (yes, mostly Val) and the very gripping storyline.
December 16, 2019
Get this. Get this now. It’s $.99 but buy it even if it isn’t.
If you like smart mouthed and sassy heroines, heroes who are too *good* and need someone to make them loosen up, oh and dragons and magic and bears oh my!
Just, get this book.
Full review to come...
If you like smart mouthed and sassy heroines, heroes who are too *good* and need someone to make them loosen up, oh and dragons and magic and bears oh my!
Just, get this book.
Full review to come...
April 24, 2018
Having been enthralled by the previous books in the Bad Things series I’m so glad the author still has characters to explore. Like many others I’d been concerned that with the Luke/Leo storyline getting resolved that the author would leave this world behind but happily we are getting even more glorious, sexy and maybe ever so bad characters!
Valerie is the baddest, most powerful Witch you could ever meet so just how did she let herself get captured? It doesn’t matter though as she has a cunning plan involving the very fierce Shifter King who just happens to be in the cell next to her . Then things go ever so slightly awry with Valerie ending up stuck in Shifter Town with Griffin insisting no magic allowed but since when did she follow orders?
Griffin is facing certain death when Valerie offers to save him but there’s a cost. Ok Griffin can cope with a temporary bond to the Witch but doesn’t she realise that he saved her ? Griffin needs order and rules but Valerie doesn’t respond well to regulations and just keeps challenging Griffin. She’s a vengeful sort yet at times almost seems soft hearted but that’s not possible as everyone knows Valerie has no heart or does she?
Ok Valerie is officially my favourite Witch. She’s just such an incredible character and I’m sorry Griffin but she steals every scene that she’s in. I did like the protective Griffin and yes he’s got the hots for apparently the most evil Witch around but as a reader we get to see so much more and truly this was an entertaining read. How do I sum up ? Ok if there’s a table that only the cool kids can sit at then Valerie is most definitely sitting at the head of the table ( sorry Luke ! ) .
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Valerie is the baddest, most powerful Witch you could ever meet so just how did she let herself get captured? It doesn’t matter though as she has a cunning plan involving the very fierce Shifter King who just happens to be in the cell next to her . Then things go ever so slightly awry with Valerie ending up stuck in Shifter Town with Griffin insisting no magic allowed but since when did she follow orders?
Griffin is facing certain death when Valerie offers to save him but there’s a cost. Ok Griffin can cope with a temporary bond to the Witch but doesn’t she realise that he saved her ? Griffin needs order and rules but Valerie doesn’t respond well to regulations and just keeps challenging Griffin. She’s a vengeful sort yet at times almost seems soft hearted but that’s not possible as everyone knows Valerie has no heart or does she?
Ok Valerie is officially my favourite Witch. She’s just such an incredible character and I’m sorry Griffin but she steals every scene that she’s in. I did like the protective Griffin and yes he’s got the hots for apparently the most evil Witch around but as a reader we get to see so much more and truly this was an entertaining read. How do I sum up ? Ok if there’s a table that only the cool kids can sit at then Valerie is most definitely sitting at the head of the table ( sorry Luke ! ) .
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
April 27, 2018
I loved the heroine,
She is badass, strong, sarcastic but also vulnerable.
The hero was pretty good but Valerie was just the 'star' of this book.
However I felt there was too much going on in the plot, I wish I got to see them together, like a normal couple.
4/5
She is badass, strong, sarcastic but also vulnerable.
The hero was pretty good but Valerie was just the 'star' of this book.
However I felt there was too much going on in the plot, I wish I got to see them together, like a normal couple.
4/5
November 15, 2018
Another good edition to the Bad Things Series. Valerie is definitely a heroine of a different color and you wonder about her at times but it really ends up being a lovely story. Not my fave of the series but quite enjoyable.
July 6, 2019
This was fantastic! It was fun, exciting, unpredictable, heartbreaking as well as heartwarming, and it was definitely hot. I loved reentering this world, but it honestly felt like a restart to this series. It would be easy to come in at this point (although there will be one major spoiler for the previous six books, so beware of that). I loved this new look at this world and the new characters we were introduced to. I hope to see more of these characters and crossing my fingers for more books in this series. Definitely recommend to paranormal romance fans!
January 19, 2019
It's widely known that witch Valerie Storm is nasty, evil, vile, despicable, loathsome, contemptible, villainous, heartless, and hated by most everyone . Confront her with that information and she'll thank you kindly for the compliments before figuratively, or literally depending on her mood, ripping out your heart or ash you where you stand. Regardless, Valerie has embraced the dark magic arts and isn't afraid to use those skills at her whim.
As is the case for any witch with that sort of reputation, the Witch's Council levels judgement for her crimes, death by fire. She is to be burned at the stake thus ending her reign of terror. If only they realized that Valerie has a vision that it is her fate is to be Queen of all witches. Not something she can do if she dead.
Time for plan B or the fallback plan C, D, E, or whatever letter is the case. Regardless of what letter she's on, Valerie needs to recruit Griffin Bastien, king of all shifters, if she is to succeed.
* * * *
This is the seventh installment in the "Bad Things" series that can be read as a standalone. It's a snarky suspenseful romantic comedy that will appeal to fans of strong female antihero heroine paranormal characters. Bonus is the story includes spicy adult content romance scenes.
The main characters. I'm 50/50 on the two though I LOVED them on the whole. Valerie. The author totally rocked this character's personality to come across as a totally misunderstood evil villain. She's really not evil - she's just misunderstood, snort. Griffin certainly has his hands full dealing with Valerie and I loved being a voyeur as he TRIED. lol. The issue is that I don't know if Griffin deserved Valerie. My girl Valerie is so awesome and evil that it would take someone on par with that level of darkness to work. That's all I'm saying about my concerns.....
Secondary characters could have had more of an impact and affect in the world building and/or actual story. They serve more as a foil similar to how the revolving characters did in the cartoon series 'Scooby Doo'. They were there, they had a reason for being there, may include a mystery guy/girl villain element or two, but in the end, for the most part, forgettable.
What I did appreciate is that this was a multi faceted story that pulls in a mystery to solve, action-suspense to enjoy, suspense to savor, an angsty romance to appreciate, and a warped twisted story line to get pulled into from cover to cover. And. Not to give anything away, because I don't, the ending -what an ending. Left me hanging forever more to debate if I really did get to know the REAL Valerie & Griffin or not. Not often I love and hate an ending as equally. To be clear - the author does provide closure with and absolute meaningful ending. I just am left speechless over it.
Though I did include issues that gave me pause, the overall story is rock solid five star as I really really really want more stories like this one in any and all genre types. Stories that challenge readers with a meaningful story line and hidden elements that blindside. Most importantly, snarky strong female lead characters who don't hide their awesomeness, just needing that special someone who understands, appreciates, and supports them. After all, isn't that what love is anyway.
🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹
As is the case for any witch with that sort of reputation, the Witch's Council levels judgement for her crimes, death by fire. She is to be burned at the stake thus ending her reign of terror. If only they realized that Valerie has a vision that it is her fate is to be Queen of all witches. Not something she can do if she dead.
Time for plan B or the fallback plan C, D, E, or whatever letter is the case. Regardless of what letter she's on, Valerie needs to recruit Griffin Bastien, king of all shifters, if she is to succeed.
* * * *
This is the seventh installment in the "Bad Things" series that can be read as a standalone. It's a snarky suspenseful romantic comedy that will appeal to fans of strong female antihero heroine paranormal characters. Bonus is the story includes spicy adult content romance scenes.
The main characters. I'm 50/50 on the two though I LOVED them on the whole. Valerie. The author totally rocked this character's personality to come across as a totally misunderstood evil villain. She's really not evil - she's just misunderstood, snort. Griffin certainly has his hands full dealing with Valerie and I loved being a voyeur as he TRIED. lol. The issue is that I don't know if Griffin deserved Valerie. My girl Valerie is so awesome and evil that it would take someone on par with that level of darkness to work. That's all I'm saying about my concerns.....
Secondary characters could have had more of an impact and affect in the world building and/or actual story. They serve more as a foil similar to how the revolving characters did in the cartoon series 'Scooby Doo'. They were there, they had a reason for being there, may include a mystery guy/girl villain element or two, but in the end, for the most part, forgettable.
What I did appreciate is that this was a multi faceted story that pulls in a mystery to solve, action-suspense to enjoy, suspense to savor, an angsty romance to appreciate, and a warped twisted story line to get pulled into from cover to cover. And. Not to give anything away, because I don't, the ending -what an ending. Left me hanging forever more to debate if I really did get to know the REAL Valerie & Griffin or not. Not often I love and hate an ending as equally. To be clear - the author does provide closure with and absolute meaningful ending. I just am left speechless over it.
Though I did include issues that gave me pause, the overall story is rock solid five star as I really really really want more stories like this one in any and all genre types. Stories that challenge readers with a meaningful story line and hidden elements that blindside. Most importantly, snarky strong female lead characters who don't hide their awesomeness, just needing that special someone who understands, appreciates, and supports them. After all, isn't that what love is anyway.
🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹
November 1, 2021
When I read reviews that raved about how 'independent, sassy and great heroine' Valerie was, I became more skeptical. Because usually those characteristics mean that the FMC is going to annoy the hell out of me by going toe-to-toe with everyone she meets and be a complete b!tch to the MMC.
I loved Valerie and Griffin, aka the witch and the beast, together. They matched their crazy very well, Griff's was just a little subtler than Val's.
Valerie was definitely NOT bland and had her spunk and a backbone. With that being said, her personality did sometimes get on my nerves but I did end up liking her after all. I ended up enjoying the majority of this book, except for a few parts that didn't sit well with me.
I have been teased for the way I laugh for a very long time and I've been insecure about it. But as of late I've decided that I don't give a flying fu(k about what others think about the way I laugh. Witch (HAHA see what I did there?!) is why I loved how Griffin went from finding Val's cackle crazy to cute to beautiful laughter. That was a major plus point for me. :)
Her laugh was kind of like…a cackle.
She laughed. Cackled. And why was he starting to find that horrible sound to be oddly cute?
She laughed. He would never get tired of that beautiful sound.
See? So damn cute.
Let's play a drinking game! Take a shot everytime Griffin says 'my mate' .
Val has been on earth for a very very long time. And when you're alive for this long, you're bound to have a more than few partners that you've been intimate with. I get that. I totally do. Everyone has a past and you can't hold their past romantic life over their head all the time.
But I don't want to READ about it!!! Almost EVERY single male that we came across had been intimate with Val. Why? Couldn't we have more than 2 platonic relationships? And this isn't because Val's a woman, if the tables were turned and I had to read about Griffin's exes popping up on every page I would still be pissed. No matter the gender, I don't want to read about the main lead's ex lovers. I just don't. Also, you can make Val have past relations with the entire world for all I care, but why LUKE???? Leave him alone with his Mina!
I skipped Leo's book because he just can't be redeemed in my mind and he doesn't do justice to the role of 'Lord of the Dark'. I miss Luke :(
Favourite quotes:
#1 “I’m not worth your kingdom. Or your beasts. I’m a witch who will turn on anyone and everyone near her. Some days, I’m not even sure I’m sane. So you tell me…tell me right now that you did not make a deal with Leo. You didn’t give him your kingdom for me. You didn’t give up your beasts for me. I can’t let you give them up! I won’t.” She’d work magic. She’d get it all back for him. “I’ll get it back,” she promised before Griffin could respond. “I think I’m strong enough. I’ll take out Leo. Never liked him anyway, I was more of a Luke fan. I’ll get everything back for you. I can do this, I swear, I can!”
#2 “He’s going to be a dead asshole,” Griffin promised.
A warm glow spread through her. A glow that calmed some of her desperation. Griffin could say the nicest things.
#3 Valerie cackled when she laughed. And when she looked at Griffin, when she thought no one was watching, her eyes would light up.
I loved Valerie and Griffin, aka the witch and the beast, together. They matched their crazy very well, Griff's was just a little subtler than Val's.
Valerie was definitely NOT bland and had her spunk and a backbone. With that being said, her personality did sometimes get on my nerves but I did end up liking her after all. I ended up enjoying the majority of this book, except for a few parts that didn't sit well with me.
I have been teased for the way I laugh for a very long time and I've been insecure about it. But as of late I've decided that I don't give a flying fu(k about what others think about the way I laugh. Witch (HAHA see what I did there?!) is why I loved how Griffin went from finding Val's cackle crazy to cute to beautiful laughter. That was a major plus point for me. :)
Her laugh was kind of like…a cackle.
She laughed. Cackled. And why was he starting to find that horrible sound to be oddly cute?
She laughed. He would never get tired of that beautiful sound.
See? So damn cute.
Let's play a drinking game! Take a shot everytime Griffin says 'my mate' .
Val has been on earth for a very very long time. And when you're alive for this long, you're bound to have a more than few partners that you've been intimate with. I get that. I totally do. Everyone has a past and you can't hold their past romantic life over their head all the time.
But I don't want to READ about it!!! Almost EVERY single male that we came across had been intimate with Val. Why? Couldn't we have more than 2 platonic relationships? And this isn't because Val's a woman, if the tables were turned and I had to read about Griffin's exes popping up on every page I would still be pissed. No matter the gender, I don't want to read about the main lead's ex lovers. I just don't. Also, you can make Val have past relations with the entire world for all I care, but why LUKE???? Leave him alone with his Mina!
I skipped Leo's book because he just can't be redeemed in my mind and he doesn't do justice to the role of 'Lord of the Dark'. I miss Luke :(
Favourite quotes:
#1 “I’m not worth your kingdom. Or your beasts. I’m a witch who will turn on anyone and everyone near her. Some days, I’m not even sure I’m sane. So you tell me…tell me right now that you did not make a deal with Leo. You didn’t give him your kingdom for me. You didn’t give up your beasts for me. I can’t let you give them up! I won’t.” She’d work magic. She’d get it all back for him. “I’ll get it back,” she promised before Griffin could respond. “I think I’m strong enough. I’ll take out Leo. Never liked him anyway, I was more of a Luke fan. I’ll get everything back for you. I can do this, I swear, I can!”
#2 “He’s going to be a dead asshole,” Griffin promised.
A warm glow spread through her. A glow that calmed some of her desperation. Griffin could say the nicest things.
#3 Valerie cackled when she laughed. And when she looked at Griffin, when she thought no one was watching, her eyes would light up.
April 13, 2021
Wow, a book where the H is secondary to the h. This is so rare I don't even know how to handle it. Griffin was alpha, no doubt about that, but Valerie totally had him beat.
What I loved about Valerie
➤ her badassery
➤ her sass
➤ her confidence
➤ her compassion
➤ her attitude
What I loved about Griffin
➤ his dragon form (why are dragons so hot? no pun intended haha)
➤ his third beast form (the revelation made me go aaaww)
➤ his possessiveness (usually I'd find it over the top but bc this is a paranormal book it's totally fine, I mean he is a shifter)
Why not 5 stars?
Too much was happening even though the book itself has just under 300 pages (293 pages according to GR). The book actually started out relatively slow until at around 35% where all hell breaks loose and the actual plot happens. With everything happening in the last 65% the events felt... crammed. Also, everything felt too calculated. Like if this didn't happen then that wouldn't happen so this had to happen to make the other thing happen. The events were stacking up with no end in sight until the big battle. Drama and more drama for the sake of the big ending.
She'd let him save her. Just this once. It would be good for his self-esteem. - Valerie
What I loved about Valerie
➤ her badassery
➤ her sass
➤ her confidence
➤ her compassion
➤ her attitude
"You'll need to grovel." She let her eyes close. "Prepare for that. I deserve a million apologies. I will get them." – Valerie to Griffin
What I loved about Griffin
➤ his dragon form (why are dragons so hot? no pun intended haha)
➤ his third beast form (the revelation made me go aaaww)
➤ his possessiveness (usually I'd find it over the top but bc this is a paranormal book it's totally fine, I mean he is a shifter)
"I mean, hell, who would want to screw someone so evil?" Elliott raised his hand. Griffin lunged toward him.
Why not 5 stars?
Too much was happening even though the book itself has just under 300 pages (293 pages according to GR). The book actually started out relatively slow until at around 35% where all hell breaks loose and the actual plot happens. With everything happening in the last 65% the events felt... crammed. Also, everything felt too calculated. Like if this didn't happen then that wouldn't happen so this had to happen to make the other thing happen. The events were stacking up with no end in sight until the big battle. Drama and more drama for the sake of the big ending.
May 6, 2018
5 stars and more 😍😍
Review to come! Best PNR characters, plot, book ever!
Review to come! Best PNR characters, plot, book ever!
June 11, 2022
Best. Read. Ever.
Loved this book! Griffin and Valerie were perfection. Loved how their relationship developed...and how all these obstacles got in the way...and yet they were both not liking their attachment to each other. This book is my favourite read of the year so far. It's going to be a definite re-read in the future :)
Loved this book! Griffin and Valerie were perfection. Loved how their relationship developed...and how all these obstacles got in the way...and yet they were both not liking their attachment to each other. This book is my favourite read of the year so far. It's going to be a definite re-read in the future :)
November 4, 2023
The insta love and lust combo I could've gone without for sure, but ultimately this was quite a fun story. Loved the heroine, but the hero was just too much.
ETA 4.11.2023:
BEWARE SPOILERS.
After a couple of days of contemplation, I decided I wanted to write down some additional thoughts.
Early on, I realized that this book was trying very hard to be like Kresley Cole's A Kiss from a Demon King, and kinda failing? I don't know there are many similarities between the two books actually but it didn't really diminish the fun that this book brings. If you've read AKFADK then you'll notice how Wicked and Wild kinda pales in comparison, when it comes to writing, character development and motivation, plot and glaring plot holes. And this is coming from someone who's generally really oblivious to plot holes. Do you know how big that has to be for me to notice it? At this point it's more a like a plot crater than a plot hole.
It's still fun, but you have to just let common sense out the window and not read with your brain at full capacity, like 4 brain cells max.
Another thought I had, Griffin is really ridiculous. His character, I can't really take him seriously. Really. He is a shifter, and he's the king of shifters, but he's not shifting into one beast, not into two, but he's shifting into three beasts. But wait until you find out what those three beasts are.
So first, he's obviously gotta be a dragon. Fine, he's the king, the biggest and the baddest beast is a dragon, for sure.
The second beast is a wolf (?!). Not entirely sure how dragons and wolves are connected, just as species, you know. But wolves are generally a popular choice for shifters, so I get it.
But then the third beast, that one really got me. I expected a bear, a lion, panther, dunno a dingo. Nope, turns out his third beast is a raven. Can you imagine that lineage? I lost it at raven, really.
Anyways, the book is ridiculous. The hero is ridiculous. The heroine is a delight to be honest and she's the one that actually kept me interested in the story and made me turn pages.
ETA 4.11.2023:
BEWARE SPOILERS.
After a couple of days of contemplation, I decided I wanted to write down some additional thoughts.
Early on, I realized that this book was trying very hard to be like Kresley Cole's A Kiss from a Demon King, and kinda failing? I don't know there are many similarities between the two books actually but it didn't really diminish the fun that this book brings. If you've read AKFADK then you'll notice how Wicked and Wild kinda pales in comparison, when it comes to writing, character development and motivation, plot and glaring plot holes. And this is coming from someone who's generally really oblivious to plot holes. Do you know how big that has to be for me to notice it? At this point it's more a like a plot crater than a plot hole.
It's still fun, but you have to just let common sense out the window and not read with your brain at full capacity, like 4 brain cells max.
Another thought I had, Griffin is really ridiculous. His character, I can't really take him seriously. Really. He is a shifter, and he's the king of shifters, but he's not shifting into one beast, not into two, but he's shifting into three beasts. But wait until you find out what those three beasts are.
So first, he's obviously gotta be a dragon. Fine, he's the king, the biggest and the baddest beast is a dragon, for sure.
The second beast is a wolf (?!). Not entirely sure how dragons and wolves are connected, just as species, you know. But wolves are generally a popular choice for shifters, so I get it.
But then the third beast, that one really got me. I expected a bear, a lion, panther, dunno a dingo. Nope, turns out his third beast is a raven. Can you imagine that lineage? I lost it at raven, really.
Anyways, the book is ridiculous. The hero is ridiculous. The heroine is a delight to be honest and she's the one that actually kept me interested in the story and made me turn pages.
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