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Malus Vampire Family #1
Twisted
They say the best way to keep a secret is to take it to the grave. In my case, I know that to be more than true...
Twenty years ago, my parents were killed by vampires. If it wasn't for the demon hunters who swooped in and stopped them, I would be dead too. Yet here I am, a witch raised by hunters, with a burning vendetta to find the vampires responsible for my family's demise.
Just when I think I found a lead, the universe throws me a curveball and I've never wished for the power to summon the dead more than I do now. Because then I'd ask my parents why they sold their youngest daughter to the Malus Mafia, an underground criminal organization that's been run by vampires for the last six hundred years.
I know better than to trust a vampire, but in order to seek my revenge, I need to play the part of the perfect bride-to-be. If it takes until my wedding night, then so be it. Though the more I pretend, the more I start to question my feelings.
Not for my husband...but for his brother.
Twenty years ago, my parents were killed by vampires. If it wasn't for the demon hunters who swooped in and stopped them, I would be dead too. Yet here I am, a witch raised by hunters, with a burning vendetta to find the vampires responsible for my family's demise.
Just when I think I found a lead, the universe throws me a curveball and I've never wished for the power to summon the dead more than I do now. Because then I'd ask my parents why they sold their youngest daughter to the Malus Mafia, an underground criminal organization that's been run by vampires for the last six hundred years.
I know better than to trust a vampire, but in order to seek my revenge, I need to play the part of the perfect bride-to-be. If it takes until my wedding night, then so be it. Though the more I pretend, the more I start to question my feelings.
Not for my husband...but for his brother.
Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2023
427 people are currently reading
3898 people want to read
About the author
Emily Goodwin
95 books3,987 followersEmily Goodwin is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author of over a dozen of romantic titles. Emily writes the kind of books she likes to read, and is a sucker for a swoon-worthy bad boy and happily ever afters.
She lives in the midwest with her husband and two daughters. When she's not writing, you can find her riding her horses, hiking, reading, or drinking wine with friends.
Emily is represented by Julie Gwinn of the Seymour Agency.
www.emilygoodwinbooks.com
facebook.com/emilygoodwinbooks
emily@emilygoodwinbooks.com
She lives in the midwest with her husband and two daughters. When she's not writing, you can find her riding her horses, hiking, reading, or drinking wine with friends.
Emily is represented by Julie Gwinn of the Seymour Agency.
www.emilygoodwinbooks.com
facebook.com/emilygoodwinbooks
emily@emilygoodwinbooks.com
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October 17, 2025Author dedicated this to her ex and shared that he’s pissed about it. I’m here to support her pettiness ✨
January 11, 2026
Holy shit this was excellent, it’s like Supernatural and Trueblood had a baby. Excellent world building magic that’s simple but well done and the yearning and slow burn. Absolutely need book two now!
November 4, 2025
Twisted was so intriguing. I think this is my first paranormal read from Emily Goodwin but she’s not a new author to me. She knows how to get the chemistry sizzling and in Twisted we are getting more than one guy to spike our interest. I don’t want to give too much away as I really enjoyed the mystery of this book.
Wren is a witch but her adopted family are demon hunters. She’s seen as the outsider and struggles to fit in. When a mysterious caller comes for something he believes is his, Wren is thrown into a new reality. She’s made to question everything she thought was true. Wren is given to the Malus mafia as a trade. It’s a deal that was set up too long ago and there’s nothing she can do about it.
Joining the Malus family has opened her eyes, not only to vampires but also the true situation of her adopted family. Can she fine a home to belong in?
The Malus family are really intriguing. They want to keep the bloodline going so they are made up of both vampires and humans. The intention is for Wren to help carry on the Malus line, but the head of the family shows an interest in her and he’s a vampire. I loved getting to know this family every member was interesting.
Wren wants to uncover her own truths and learn more about her witch craft. She has potential to be so much more and maybe the Malus family have the space for a witch in their hearts.
This was such a great read. I loved getting to know all the characters. This is the first book in the Malus Mafia series and I look forward to more. This book is more paranormal than a paranormal romance because the story is more focused on the mystery.
Wren is a witch but her adopted family are demon hunters. She’s seen as the outsider and struggles to fit in. When a mysterious caller comes for something he believes is his, Wren is thrown into a new reality. She’s made to question everything she thought was true. Wren is given to the Malus mafia as a trade. It’s a deal that was set up too long ago and there’s nothing she can do about it.
Joining the Malus family has opened her eyes, not only to vampires but also the true situation of her adopted family. Can she fine a home to belong in?
The Malus family are really intriguing. They want to keep the bloodline going so they are made up of both vampires and humans. The intention is for Wren to help carry on the Malus line, but the head of the family shows an interest in her and he’s a vampire. I loved getting to know this family every member was interesting.
Wren wants to uncover her own truths and learn more about her witch craft. She has potential to be so much more and maybe the Malus family have the space for a witch in their hearts.
This was such a great read. I loved getting to know all the characters. This is the first book in the Malus Mafia series and I look forward to more. This book is more paranormal than a paranormal romance because the story is more focused on the mystery.
December 4, 2025
I read this book based on the instagram ads I kept getting and the dedication.
It’s so poorly written I don’t know why her ex was getting up in arms about it.
Storyline is THIN
character building is nonexistent
Wildly vacillating moods and the characters are written like they belong in a telenovela
I won’t be reading the second book.
Also.
There is SO MUCH FUCKING WAFFLE in this book.
I’m not sure if you guys realise but witches can’t be spellbound!
She only said it 82827934 times in the book but maybe you missed it!
It’s so poorly written I don’t know why her ex was getting up in arms about it.
Storyline is THIN
character building is nonexistent
Wildly vacillating moods and the characters are written like they belong in a telenovela
I won’t be reading the second book.
Also.
There is SO MUCH FUCKING WAFFLE in this book.
I’m not sure if you guys realise but witches can’t be spellbound!
She only said it 82827934 times in the book but maybe you missed it!
December 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️
1.5 🌶
Twisted by Emily Goodwin is a vampire mafia romance set in modern times.
What's inside:
- Arranged Marriage
- Forced Proximity
- Enemies to Lovers
- Lots of paranormal creatures
- Found Family
- Lost History/Identity
In this book we follow Wren who has been raised as a hunter, a human witch that hunts demons and other paranormal creatures, and kills them. Turns out, Wren was found as a baby by the family of hunters that raised her, but the hunter community as a whole doesnt like witches. Wren has been treated as "other" and endured a lot from the hunters because she is a witch, even though she is the best hunter they have.
When a representative from the Malus vampire family arrives to collect a female hunter as a part of a pact they have with the hunters, Wren's "family" offers her up in place of their biological daughter. Wren is then taken from everything and everyone she knows to become a part of continuing the Malus vampire family line.
What happens next is a journey of self discovery mixed with some hot tension between Wren and the Malus family head, Xavier. As secrets are uncovered, Wren begins to learn that what she has been raised to believe about herself, the hunters and the vampires is not the whole truth. Along the way she makes her first real friend and discovers a true family in the house of vampires she was taught were her enemy.
I enjoyed the story overall. It definitely an easy read, there isn't a ton of heavy character development and a lot of the history of the characters is just glazed over. It makes it an easy 'take it for what it is' kind of book. It did have a few editing opportunities, but not enough so that it distracted from the story.
I did enjoy the book overall and will probably read the next book when it releases in January as a good palate cleanser between some more heavy books or series.
1.5 🌶
Twisted by Emily Goodwin is a vampire mafia romance set in modern times.
What's inside:
- Arranged Marriage
- Forced Proximity
- Enemies to Lovers
- Lots of paranormal creatures
- Found Family
- Lost History/Identity
In this book we follow Wren who has been raised as a hunter, a human witch that hunts demons and other paranormal creatures, and kills them. Turns out, Wren was found as a baby by the family of hunters that raised her, but the hunter community as a whole doesnt like witches. Wren has been treated as "other" and endured a lot from the hunters because she is a witch, even though she is the best hunter they have.
When a representative from the Malus vampire family arrives to collect a female hunter as a part of a pact they have with the hunters, Wren's "family" offers her up in place of their biological daughter. Wren is then taken from everything and everyone she knows to become a part of continuing the Malus vampire family line.
What happens next is a journey of self discovery mixed with some hot tension between Wren and the Malus family head, Xavier. As secrets are uncovered, Wren begins to learn that what she has been raised to believe about herself, the hunters and the vampires is not the whole truth. Along the way she makes her first real friend and discovers a true family in the house of vampires she was taught were her enemy.
I enjoyed the story overall. It definitely an easy read, there isn't a ton of heavy character development and a lot of the history of the characters is just glazed over. It makes it an easy 'take it for what it is' kind of book. It did have a few editing opportunities, but not enough so that it distracted from the story.
I did enjoy the book overall and will probably read the next book when it releases in January as a good palate cleanser between some more heavy books or series.
December 26, 2025
If you wished for a Vampire Mafia book this Christmas and didn't get one under the tree... well consider it delivered!
Twisted is a story of witches and paranormal hunters and vampires. The world building is very unique and I loved the storyline.
Check this one out if you love:
Revenge plots
Forced Marriage
Forbidden Romance with hot, hot chemistry
Also, cliffhanger here, so if the season has you stressed and you need some closure, just wait. But this just had me excited for more!
Thank you to Hambright PR and the author for a chance to read this one!
Twisted is a story of witches and paranormal hunters and vampires. The world building is very unique and I loved the storyline.
Check this one out if you love:
Revenge plots
Forced Marriage
Forbidden Romance with hot, hot chemistry
Also, cliffhanger here, so if the season has you stressed and you need some closure, just wait. But this just had me excited for more!
Thank you to Hambright PR and the author for a chance to read this one!
January 3, 2026
From the dedication alone…Yes, the one to the author’s ex❤️
I just HAD to read this book. It is a fun and easy read that is less than 350 pages!
“You have no idea how much it turns me on to think of you magically ripping someone to shreds.”
Wren’s fate is sealed by a centuries-old bargain she never agreed to, binding her to the vampire world through a betrothal that was never meant for her. What was supposed to be a simple arrangement quickly becomes something far more dangerous when loyalties blur, attraction ignites, and the wrong brother changes everything….
If you grew up on Buffy the vampire slayer… Twilight or, better yet, The Vampire Diaries, this one is for you. Especially if you were torn between Team Damon and Team Stefan… because that exact inner conflict will be reactivated. It’s got tension. There’s obsession. And there’s most definitely some morally questionable choices.
And then there’s Xavier. I’m sorry, but the vibes are VIBING. Calm, powerful, dangerously alluring, emotionally restrained in the most devastating way—he is giving Elijah Mikaelson energy from The Originals and I won’t accept any other comparison.
And Emily…. That cliff hanger…! I am eagerly waiting on the next book releasing at the end of this month.. but in the meantime, if you like vampires, witches, and demon hunters with some 🌶️ this one’s for you.😌🖤
I just HAD to read this book. It is a fun and easy read that is less than 350 pages!
“You have no idea how much it turns me on to think of you magically ripping someone to shreds.”
Wren’s fate is sealed by a centuries-old bargain she never agreed to, binding her to the vampire world through a betrothal that was never meant for her. What was supposed to be a simple arrangement quickly becomes something far more dangerous when loyalties blur, attraction ignites, and the wrong brother changes everything….
If you grew up on Buffy the vampire slayer… Twilight or, better yet, The Vampire Diaries, this one is for you. Especially if you were torn between Team Damon and Team Stefan… because that exact inner conflict will be reactivated. It’s got tension. There’s obsession. And there’s most definitely some morally questionable choices.
And then there’s Xavier. I’m sorry, but the vibes are VIBING. Calm, powerful, dangerously alluring, emotionally restrained in the most devastating way—he is giving Elijah Mikaelson energy from The Originals and I won’t accept any other comparison.
And Emily…. That cliff hanger…! I am eagerly waiting on the next book releasing at the end of this month.. but in the meantime, if you like vampires, witches, and demon hunters with some 🌶️ this one’s for you.😌🖤
November 6, 2025
This is the first book in this series and I already want more!!! It does end in a cliffhanger though. There are a lot of my favorite tropes in it and while I’m not normally a paranormal romance type of person I always make an exception for her books!!!
January 15, 2026
Book 1 in the Malus Mafia series: Xavier and Wren. This is an enemies to lovers, found family, supernatural mafia, demon hunter/witch FMC, black sheep MCs, forced arrangement, enemies to lovers, slower burn, forced proximity, “my wife”, touch her/him and d!e, forced marriage/ marriage of convenience, single POV, dark romantasy.
Right from the start this book gave me Buffy the Vampire Slayer/ Supernatural (tv show) vibes and I was immediately hooked! I absolutely loved the FMC. She was strong and bold and tough and I was here for her bada$$ personality. I really enjoyed Xavier and his personality and controlled nature… until it wasn’t and he had to teach those who disrespect his wife a lesson. 10/10 MMC right here.
This book has me hooked from the start. Great pacing, great plot and mystery element, great tension and slower burn, and one heck of a cliffhanger. I 100% recommend this book and I can’t wait for book 2!
Right from the start this book gave me Buffy the Vampire Slayer/ Supernatural (tv show) vibes and I was immediately hooked! I absolutely loved the FMC. She was strong and bold and tough and I was here for her bada$$ personality. I really enjoyed Xavier and his personality and controlled nature… until it wasn’t and he had to teach those who disrespect his wife a lesson. 10/10 MMC right here.
This book has me hooked from the start. Great pacing, great plot and mystery element, great tension and slower burn, and one heck of a cliffhanger. I 100% recommend this book and I can’t wait for book 2!
December 10, 2025
Interesting idea. Love that she based one of the unlikeable characters on her ex and he’s mad about it😂
The writing wasn’t that great though. There was a lot of ‘telling instead of showing.’ The average three star rating comes from the not-so-great writing.
Also, witch ‘energy balls’ are kinda lame. She needed cooler powers.
Not a fan of mafia romance, but that’s my problem. I don’t think I like modern day romantasy. The main character is always referencing at least one of the following 1) Lululemon leggings 2) popular artists and their songs or 3) social media. Then the vampires, fae etc never know what they’re talking about🫠. Probably should just stop reading modern day romantasy, but I’m a sucker for a hot vampire. 😏
The writing wasn’t that great though. There was a lot of ‘telling instead of showing.’ The average three star rating comes from the not-so-great writing.
Also, witch ‘energy balls’ are kinda lame. She needed cooler powers.
Not a fan of mafia romance, but that’s my problem. I don’t think I like modern day romantasy. The main character is always referencing at least one of the following 1) Lululemon leggings 2) popular artists and their songs or 3) social media. Then the vampires, fae etc never know what they’re talking about🫠. Probably should just stop reading modern day romantasy, but I’m a sucker for a hot vampire. 😏
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2025
DNF at 50%.
I couldn’t connect to the main character and didn’t love the overall story. I started this book because I saw something about how the author dedicated the book to an ex and it amused me— and for that reason alone the book has two stars instead of one.
I couldn’t connect to the main character and didn’t love the overall story. I started this book because I saw something about how the author dedicated the book to an ex and it amused me— and for that reason alone the book has two stars instead of one.
November 6, 2025
Come for the dedication. Stay for the story.
What a fun introduction to this world and this author!
This was my first time reading Emily Goodwin. I caught onto the viral story about her dedication and thought, well this is definitely worth the purchase and read. I wasn't wrong at all.
Thoroughly entertaining, I was all in for the journey of Wren and Xavier as they both navigate this new road filled with their attraction yes, but also the realities that come when a Vampire and Witch join forces, when the rest of the world is against them.
Betrayals. Lies. Found family. Self discovery. And enough tension and chemistry to make blood sizzle...and sizzle it does.
I was captivated by the world of witches and hunters and demons and Vamps. I was hooked for the story of Wren and Xavier, and am all in for this series. I cannot wait for part 2 in December!
Team Malus
✌️🫶
What a fun introduction to this world and this author!
This was my first time reading Emily Goodwin. I caught onto the viral story about her dedication and thought, well this is definitely worth the purchase and read. I wasn't wrong at all.
Thoroughly entertaining, I was all in for the journey of Wren and Xavier as they both navigate this new road filled with their attraction yes, but also the realities that come when a Vampire and Witch join forces, when the rest of the world is against them.
Betrayals. Lies. Found family. Self discovery. And enough tension and chemistry to make blood sizzle...and sizzle it does.
I was captivated by the world of witches and hunters and demons and Vamps. I was hooked for the story of Wren and Xavier, and am all in for this series. I cannot wait for part 2 in December!
Team Malus
✌️🫶
December 16, 2025
I love a paranormal romance/ dark romantasy! The plot was fun and quite thrilling, and I loved the characters! I love a 700 year old mafia vampire who gives major “my wife” and “touch her and die” vibes. And Wren was hilarious, I usually love dual pov otherwise I find stuff missing, but I really loved Wrens perspective she’s so funny and chaotic! When you’re a witch, being forced to marry into a mafia vampire family to have their babies and continue the bloodline probably ain’t on your to do list, although it starts as an enemies to lovers, Wren and Xavier’s connection develops into something beautiful, fiery and wonderfully passionate. The mysteries within the order and Wren trying to find out who she really is was a fun additional part, and the main plot was great too. However my problem was that a little after the latest point I started losing interest as the plot slowed down a little. Don’t get me wrong the characters did shine through those parts I just wish there was a little more excitement. However it does pick up again after, and it had a pretty killer ending and cliffhanger! I’m really excited for the next books release! I give this a 3.5/5
January 1, 2026
I picked up Twisted just to see what it was about… and ended up hooked enough to see it through. The world is dark, fast-paced, and packed with vampires, political tension, and morally gray power plays that make it easy to stay invested.
Wren is absolutely the standout. Her sharp tongue and unapologetic F U energy carried the story for me. The plot kept moving and the tension steadily built, making this a genuinely fun ride from start to finish.
That said, I did find myself wishing for a bit more character development, especially beyond Wren. Some dynamics felt like they could have hit harder with more depth and breathing room.
Overall, I enjoyed the experience and I’m curious enough about where the story is headed (hello cliffhanger) that I’ll likely pick up the next book when it releases!
Wren is absolutely the standout. Her sharp tongue and unapologetic F U energy carried the story for me. The plot kept moving and the tension steadily built, making this a genuinely fun ride from start to finish.
That said, I did find myself wishing for a bit more character development, especially beyond Wren. Some dynamics felt like they could have hit harder with more depth and breathing room.
Overall, I enjoyed the experience and I’m curious enough about where the story is headed (hello cliffhanger) that I’ll likely pick up the next book when it releases!
December 28, 2025
Twisted pulled me in fast with its dark paranormal atmosphere, dangerous politics, and simmering enemies-to-lovers tension.
Wren is a witch who has never truly belonged anywhere, and when she’s handed over to the powerful Malus vampire family as part of an ancient pact, her world flips overnight. Being forced into a marriage with Xavier Malus—cold, calculating, and deeply entrenched in vampire politics—sets the stage for a story full of resentment, secrets, and slow-burn attraction.
What I loved most was the tension. The animosity between Wren and Xavier feels real, layered, and earned. This isn’t instant romance—it’s sharp dialogue, power struggles, and emotional walls slowly cracking. The worldbuilding adds real stakes too, with vampire hierarchy, witchcraft, and political maneuvering woven throughout the story in a way that keeps you invested.
That said, the ending is a cliffhanger, and while it absolutely made me want the next book, it may be frustrating for readers who prefer more closure. There were also a few moments where the emotional pacing felt slightly uneven, but overall the story remained gripping.
If you enjoy dark paranormal romance, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, and supernatural politics, Twisted is a compelling start to the series and definitely worth picking up.
✨ Thank you to the author for the ARC. All opinions are my own. ✨
Wren is a witch who has never truly belonged anywhere, and when she’s handed over to the powerful Malus vampire family as part of an ancient pact, her world flips overnight. Being forced into a marriage with Xavier Malus—cold, calculating, and deeply entrenched in vampire politics—sets the stage for a story full of resentment, secrets, and slow-burn attraction.
What I loved most was the tension. The animosity between Wren and Xavier feels real, layered, and earned. This isn’t instant romance—it’s sharp dialogue, power struggles, and emotional walls slowly cracking. The worldbuilding adds real stakes too, with vampire hierarchy, witchcraft, and political maneuvering woven throughout the story in a way that keeps you invested.
That said, the ending is a cliffhanger, and while it absolutely made me want the next book, it may be frustrating for readers who prefer more closure. There were also a few moments where the emotional pacing felt slightly uneven, but overall the story remained gripping.
If you enjoy dark paranormal romance, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, and supernatural politics, Twisted is a compelling start to the series and definitely worth picking up.
✨ Thank you to the author for the ARC. All opinions are my own. ✨
December 17, 2025
This was honestly such an interesting read. A hunter/vampire mafia romance isn’t something I’ve come across before, and that alone made this feel fresh and intriguing right from the start. The first few chapters hooked me immediately — the pacing was quick, the tension was there, and I was fully invested in seeing where the story was headed.
The plot itself is definitely the standout. It felt original and different from a lot of paranormal romances I’ve read, and I really appreciated that it didn’t feel recycled. The world-building and the mix of danger, power, and forbidden dynamics kept me turning pages because I genuinely wanted to know what would happen next.
That said, there were a few things along the way that bugged me and pulled me out of the story at times. Some moments felt a little uneven, and there were spots where I wanted more development or smoother transitions. Nothing that completely ruined the experience, but enough that I noticed.
Overall, though, this was a decent, engaging story with a unique premise and a strong opening that made it easy to get into. If you’re looking for something different in the paranormal romance space — especially with darker elements and an unconventional pairing — this one is worth checking out.
The plot itself is definitely the standout. It felt original and different from a lot of paranormal romances I’ve read, and I really appreciated that it didn’t feel recycled. The world-building and the mix of danger, power, and forbidden dynamics kept me turning pages because I genuinely wanted to know what would happen next.
That said, there were a few things along the way that bugged me and pulled me out of the story at times. Some moments felt a little uneven, and there were spots where I wanted more development or smoother transitions. Nothing that completely ruined the experience, but enough that I noticed.
Overall, though, this was a decent, engaging story with a unique premise and a strong opening that made it easy to get into. If you’re looking for something different in the paranormal romance space — especially with darker elements and an unconventional pairing — this one is worth checking out.
December 31, 2025
I want to give it 4.5 but its Goodreads isnt it. 🙄😂
The only reason I gave it 4.5 ⭐️ instead of 5 ⭐️ was because of a few typos, but thats my preference and personality! 😂
When I saw Vampires, Mafia, Enemies to lovers AND forced proximity. I was like Hello 😍 and it did not disappoint.
I dont want to give too much away but I loved how easy it was read and as the reader I was going through all the same emotions as Wren. Which I absolutely love (and hate 😂) when reading a book! There were Vampires, Hunters, Witches and Humans alongside love, betrayal and drama, what is not to love?
Would definitely reccomend, I feel this would be a good book to get someone out of a book slump as its got a bit of everything in it, and it is written well. 😊
The only reason I gave it 4.5 ⭐️ instead of 5 ⭐️ was because of a few typos, but thats my preference and personality! 😂
When I saw Vampires, Mafia, Enemies to lovers AND forced proximity. I was like Hello 😍 and it did not disappoint.
I dont want to give too much away but I loved how easy it was read and as the reader I was going through all the same emotions as Wren. Which I absolutely love (and hate 😂) when reading a book! There were Vampires, Hunters, Witches and Humans alongside love, betrayal and drama, what is not to love?
Would definitely reccomend, I feel this would be a good book to get someone out of a book slump as its got a bit of everything in it, and it is written well. 😊
December 29, 2025
So I wanted to read this book based on it being a vampire/mafia book. I didn't realize it was also hunters as well.
I enjoyed this book as a whole as it was fast paced and unlike anything else I have read before. A few facts about witches and the FMC were a little repetitive, I still really enjoyed the story. I will 100% be looking to read book 2!
Thanks to Hambright PR and Emily Goodwin for the chance to read this!
I enjoyed this book as a whole as it was fast paced and unlike anything else I have read before. A few facts about witches and the FMC were a little repetitive, I still really enjoyed the story. I will 100% be looking to read book 2!
Thanks to Hambright PR and Emily Goodwin for the chance to read this!
December 31, 2025
A dark paranormal romance after my own dark heart! I love the melding of the two factions and all the chemistry between the characters makes this for a page turning addicting read! You get forbidden romance, betrayal, politics, rage, found family, self discovery and RAGE! I loved it! The plot immediately hooked me and kept me reading to get more. The secrets and intrigue, detailed world building, and well written dialogue will have you being excited for the next book!
November 5, 2025
Ahhhh ok this is my first book by Emily Goodwin but I’m hooked. I couldn’t put this down. The end of this book has me wanting the next book already! The character development was top notch, her writing evoked emotion and I can’t wait to find out what happens to these characters.
I received this book as an ARC and am leaving my honest review.
I received this book as an ARC and am leaving my honest review.
December 30, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️.5
All around it was a good time.
Arranged marriage
Enemies to lovers
Forced prox
Found family
This is what i would say is like an easy read when you’re not looking for something super serious, just a fun time. Not heavy on character building or world building. Cool creatures as well
🌶️.5
All around it was a good time.
Arranged marriage
Enemies to lovers
Forced prox
Found family
This is what i would say is like an easy read when you’re not looking for something super serious, just a fun time. Not heavy on character building or world building. Cool creatures as well
December 28, 2025
Solid 4 star read thank you #HambrightPR and #EmilyGoodwin for the ARC 🖤🖤🖤 The first 50% of this is quite slow, and I was begging for some more action, but I feel like I manifested it because the last 30% was balls to the walls and now I need to read book 2, because what a cliff hanger!
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December 30, 2025No rating
I made it about 60% into this book so I’m counting it as part of my goal.
I just really couldn’t get into it.
I wanted it to be enemies to lovers or hate to love and it wasn’t that. I also didn’t love all the pop culture references in it either.
I made it about 60% into this book so I’m counting it as part of my goal.
I just really couldn’t get into it.
I wanted it to be enemies to lovers or hate to love and it wasn’t that. I also didn’t love all the pop culture references in it either.
January 26, 2026
I don't get the hype of this at all but I'm in a book slump and not interested in much so this filled my time
January 14, 2026
Reading this solely for the reason that author want to execute petty revenge on her ex boyfriend
October 30, 2025
Thank you to Emily Goodwin for the opportunity to ARC read. All opinions are my own.
I was skeptical that this would be a copy and paste of Thorne Hill when I began reading, but I was pleasantly surprised and wrong. Wren is funny and likeable, and while she does align with the FMC in Thorne Hill, she kicks ass in her own ways and blazes her own trail. There are some issues with a couple of the characters names being spelled differently throughout the book, but aside from these errors, I didn’t have any issues with the writing or the book as a whole. The story was easy to follow, Wren’s wit kept me hooked, and there’s just enough spice to make things interesting. This book immediately hooked me and I’m so excited that I’m being reeled in by another Emily Goodwin series. I will absolutely be sat for the next ones.
I was skeptical that this would be a copy and paste of Thorne Hill when I began reading, but I was pleasantly surprised and wrong. Wren is funny and likeable, and while she does align with the FMC in Thorne Hill, she kicks ass in her own ways and blazes her own trail. There are some issues with a couple of the characters names being spelled differently throughout the book, but aside from these errors, I didn’t have any issues with the writing or the book as a whole. The story was easy to follow, Wren’s wit kept me hooked, and there’s just enough spice to make things interesting. This book immediately hooked me and I’m so excited that I’m being reeled in by another Emily Goodwin series. I will absolutely be sat for the next ones.
January 21, 2026
Thanks to Emily Goodwin for the chance at BETA reading and for the free ARC. All opinions are my own in the following ARC Review.
Genres: Paranormal Romance
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Vampire/Witch, Age Gap, Forced Marriage, Forbidden Romance, Magic, Betrayal, Found Family
MC: Wren (FMC), Xavier (MMC)
Setting: US East Coast
Triggers: orphan, kidnapping, outcast, bullying
Epilogue: No, Cliffhanger
Synopsis: Wren, a badass demon hunter and witch, works with her adopted family for the Order of the Mystic Realm, until a shocking betrayal changes everything. When vampires arrive to claim a daughter promised through a centuries-old pact, Wren is handed over in her place. She soon learns her new fate: to bear heirs for one of the oldest and most powerful vampire families. Caught between the charming human descendant, Devon, and the notorious original vampire, Xavier, Wren’s presence as a witch puts a twist to their time-worn custom. Forced into a marriage with Xavier for political gain, she grapples with anger and loss, but gradually forges unexpected bonds within her new family. As feelings deepen with both men, buried secrets about her true origins come to light, revealing a devastating truth that shatters what she thought she knew. Unfortunately, when her old life collides violently with her new one, Wren must confront divided loyalties and the growing threat that could wreck her current reality.
Thoughts: Emily really hit it out of the park with this new series start. I thought this book was the perfect mash-up of Thorne Hill and Grim Gate, her other paranormal romance series. She seamlessly blended the forbidden vampire/witch romance from Thorne Hill with the Order lifestyle from Grim Gate, and sprinkled in the VC politics from both. I was hooked from the opening scene. I felt so many different emotions throughout the story, probably very similar to what Wren was experiencing. I found her to be such a strong, badass female character. She’s really been through the wringer, especially with the family betrayal; I was so mad on her behalf. And my heart absolutely broke for her during the graveyard scene. Xavier is certainly Mr. Mysterious, but I found myself loving him more and more right alongside Wren. He may be a morally gray character, but he has such a sweet, softer side that’s hard to ignore. I’m not sure if I consider this a true love triangle, but I hope this series will continue with just Xavier and Wren as the main couple. I thought they shared undeniable chemistry and an unspoken understanding they both recognized in each other. With regard to Devon, I know she found some of his softer qualities appealing, but felt they had more of a brother/sister or cousin-like relationship. They both grew up in messed up families, and can commiserate in their experiences. Also, I can see Wren and Xavier developing a deep and true love connection that no one else can touch, similar to Callie and Lucas from Thorne Hill. I have so many questions after finishing this book and can’t wait to dive into the rest of the series to see how everything unfolds. AND talk about a nail-biting ending! I’m counting down the days until Book 2.
Genres: Paranormal Romance
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Vampire/Witch, Age Gap, Forced Marriage, Forbidden Romance, Magic, Betrayal, Found Family
MC: Wren (FMC), Xavier (MMC)
Setting: US East Coast
Triggers: orphan, kidnapping, outcast, bullying
Epilogue: No, Cliffhanger
Synopsis: Wren, a badass demon hunter and witch, works with her adopted family for the Order of the Mystic Realm, until a shocking betrayal changes everything. When vampires arrive to claim a daughter promised through a centuries-old pact, Wren is handed over in her place. She soon learns her new fate: to bear heirs for one of the oldest and most powerful vampire families. Caught between the charming human descendant, Devon, and the notorious original vampire, Xavier, Wren’s presence as a witch puts a twist to their time-worn custom. Forced into a marriage with Xavier for political gain, she grapples with anger and loss, but gradually forges unexpected bonds within her new family. As feelings deepen with both men, buried secrets about her true origins come to light, revealing a devastating truth that shatters what she thought she knew. Unfortunately, when her old life collides violently with her new one, Wren must confront divided loyalties and the growing threat that could wreck her current reality.
Thoughts: Emily really hit it out of the park with this new series start. I thought this book was the perfect mash-up of Thorne Hill and Grim Gate, her other paranormal romance series. She seamlessly blended the forbidden vampire/witch romance from Thorne Hill with the Order lifestyle from Grim Gate, and sprinkled in the VC politics from both. I was hooked from the opening scene. I felt so many different emotions throughout the story, probably very similar to what Wren was experiencing. I found her to be such a strong, badass female character. She’s really been through the wringer, especially with the family betrayal; I was so mad on her behalf. And my heart absolutely broke for her during the graveyard scene. Xavier is certainly Mr. Mysterious, but I found myself loving him more and more right alongside Wren. He may be a morally gray character, but he has such a sweet, softer side that’s hard to ignore. I’m not sure if I consider this a true love triangle, but I hope this series will continue with just Xavier and Wren as the main couple. I thought they shared undeniable chemistry and an unspoken understanding they both recognized in each other. With regard to Devon, I know she found some of his softer qualities appealing, but felt they had more of a brother/sister or cousin-like relationship. They both grew up in messed up families, and can commiserate in their experiences. Also, I can see Wren and Xavier developing a deep and true love connection that no one else can touch, similar to Callie and Lucas from Thorne Hill. I have so many questions after finishing this book and can’t wait to dive into the rest of the series to see how everything unfolds. AND talk about a nail-biting ending! I’m counting down the days until Book 2.
November 13, 2025
I liked the storyline overall but the main characters are not fully developed in this book. A lot of glossing over really important things and rushing everything. Makes the writing feel immature and almost like a wattpad book. However, I still read the whole thing and will probably read the sequel.
December 15, 2025
Saw the ad and was intrigued - 2.5★.
Reminded me of "The Marionettes" - a witch and a vampire. Overall totally different setting, but still gave me some of the same vibes.
The concept and idea are interesting, but there were so many plot holes. I initially thought this was a debut novel - then I would have given 3 stars. The writing leaves quite a lot of room for improvement. Nothing really happens. The paranormal concept, the Order, hunters, there was so much promise to go into more detail, to do more with it.
The FMC acts like a 16-year old. She does question her new surroundings but at the same time just accepts it and on day 2 thinks about her hot captor. Sorry what? The twist about her background was superficial at best - there are so many details missing on so many levels.
Unsure if there is supposed to be a love triangle (it's just awkward), but the relationships are unrealistic, the characters extremely shallow, the dialogues often forced and boring.
BUT I will say it was entertaining. I probably will not read book 2, but if you're looking for a vampire-witch-paranormal story mixed with some mafia vibes to cleanse your palette before starting a new high fantasy series - this is a fun read!
Reminded me of "The Marionettes" - a witch and a vampire. Overall totally different setting, but still gave me some of the same vibes.
The concept and idea are interesting, but there were so many plot holes. I initially thought this was a debut novel - then I would have given 3 stars. The writing leaves quite a lot of room for improvement. Nothing really happens. The paranormal concept, the Order, hunters, there was so much promise to go into more detail, to do more with it.
The FMC acts like a 16-year old. She does question her new surroundings but at the same time just accepts it and on day 2 thinks about her hot captor. Sorry what? The twist about her background was superficial at best - there are so many details missing on so many levels.
Unsure if there is supposed to be a love triangle (it's just awkward), but the relationships are unrealistic, the characters extremely shallow, the dialogues often forced and boring.
BUT I will say it was entertaining. I probably will not read book 2, but if you're looking for a vampire-witch-paranormal story mixed with some mafia vibes to cleanse your palette before starting a new high fantasy series - this is a fun read!
December 30, 2025
Paranormal Mafia Romance
Twisted by Emily Goodwin is a gripping, dark paranormal start that completely pulled me in from page one. While this was my first time reading this particular series, Emily Goodwin is not a new author to me, and her ability to create intense chemistry, layered characters, and immersive supernatural worlds shines just as strongly here.
Wren is a witch raised by demon hunters, an identity that has always placed her on the outside of her own family. Her magic is something to be hidden, controlled, and feared rather than embraced. When a centuries-old pact is called in and a daughter must be delivered to a powerful vampire family, Wren never expects her own family to betray her so completely. That moment alone sets the emotional tone for the entire story, and I felt Wren’s anger, grief, and shock deeply.
Being handed over to the Malus family throws Wren into a world she never truly understood, one filled with vampire politics, ancient customs, and unsettling truths about her past. The Malus family itself was one of my favorite aspects of the book. Their structure, motivations, and complicated dynamics made them feel real and dangerous, yet oddly protective. The concept of preserving a bloodline through both humans and vampires added a fascinating layer to the story, especially with Wren’s presence as a witch disrupting traditions that have stood for centuries.
Xavier, the head of the Malus family. He is dark, controlled, and morally gray, but there’s a quiet depth to him that slowly unfolds as the story progresses. What I appreciated most was how he never tries to diminish Wren’s strength. Instead of suppressing her power the way her adoptive family did, he encourages her to grow into it and trusts her to stand on her own. Their relationship is a slow burn that builds through shared understanding, restraint, and unspoken connection and when the tension finally breaks, the payoff is incredibly satisfying.
The unfolding secrets surrounding Wren’s origins, her magic, and the lies she was raised with kept me turning pages late into the night. I felt a wide range of emotions throughout the story, anger, heartbreak, hope, and anticipation and the graveyard scene in particular absolutely shattered me.
The ending is intense and unapologetically a cliffhanger, leaving so many unanswered questions and raising the stakes for what’s to come. Twisted feels like a perfect blend of Emily Goodwin’s previous paranormal worlds, combining forbidden romance, supernatural politics, and emotionally driven storytelling into something fresh and compelling.
Overall, this was a strong, addictive start to the Malus Mafia series. Wren is a powerful, resilient heroine, the world-building is rich, and the emotional stakes are high. I’m beyond ready for book two and can’t wait to see how Wren’s story and her power continues to unfold.
Twisted by Emily Goodwin is a gripping, dark paranormal start that completely pulled me in from page one. While this was my first time reading this particular series, Emily Goodwin is not a new author to me, and her ability to create intense chemistry, layered characters, and immersive supernatural worlds shines just as strongly here.
Wren is a witch raised by demon hunters, an identity that has always placed her on the outside of her own family. Her magic is something to be hidden, controlled, and feared rather than embraced. When a centuries-old pact is called in and a daughter must be delivered to a powerful vampire family, Wren never expects her own family to betray her so completely. That moment alone sets the emotional tone for the entire story, and I felt Wren’s anger, grief, and shock deeply.
Being handed over to the Malus family throws Wren into a world she never truly understood, one filled with vampire politics, ancient customs, and unsettling truths about her past. The Malus family itself was one of my favorite aspects of the book. Their structure, motivations, and complicated dynamics made them feel real and dangerous, yet oddly protective. The concept of preserving a bloodline through both humans and vampires added a fascinating layer to the story, especially with Wren’s presence as a witch disrupting traditions that have stood for centuries.
Xavier, the head of the Malus family. He is dark, controlled, and morally gray, but there’s a quiet depth to him that slowly unfolds as the story progresses. What I appreciated most was how he never tries to diminish Wren’s strength. Instead of suppressing her power the way her adoptive family did, he encourages her to grow into it and trusts her to stand on her own. Their relationship is a slow burn that builds through shared understanding, restraint, and unspoken connection and when the tension finally breaks, the payoff is incredibly satisfying.
The unfolding secrets surrounding Wren’s origins, her magic, and the lies she was raised with kept me turning pages late into the night. I felt a wide range of emotions throughout the story, anger, heartbreak, hope, and anticipation and the graveyard scene in particular absolutely shattered me.
The ending is intense and unapologetically a cliffhanger, leaving so many unanswered questions and raising the stakes for what’s to come. Twisted feels like a perfect blend of Emily Goodwin’s previous paranormal worlds, combining forbidden romance, supernatural politics, and emotionally driven storytelling into something fresh and compelling.
Overall, this was a strong, addictive start to the Malus Mafia series. Wren is a powerful, resilient heroine, the world-building is rich, and the emotional stakes are high. I’m beyond ready for book two and can’t wait to see how Wren’s story and her power continues to unfold.
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