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Savage U #3
Sweet Like Poison
You need a keeper, Elsa.
The first time I laid eyes on the delicious mountain of a man, Lachlan “Lock” Kelly, he walked out of the room without giving me a single glance.
You’re in trouble now.
It’s my junior year at Savage U and life is grand. Except for the fact that Lachlan Kelly lives right next door, he acts like he doesn’t know my name, and he barely acknowledges my existence.
I don’t get it. How can he so easily look away from me when he’s all I see?
The ice queen is melting…
A few angry frat boys and their arm candy make it their mission to ruin my semester and possibly my life. But I show those boys that messing with Elena Sanderson is a fatal mistake, and Lachlan surprisingly backs me up. And when he finally gives me his attention, I greedily soak up everything he has to offer.
You’re arsenic-laced candy.
Lachlan tells me I’m bad for him, but he can’t resist the pull between us anymore.
I don’t break things.
I know he’s not staying. When he goes, he’ll leave me tangled up in memories.
I won’t play games.
His promises have a time limit, even though I’m beginning to wish they didn’t.
Even if it hurts…
We were over before we ever began.
Sweet Like Poison contains dark themes and mature content, including mentions of past assault, depression, mental health treatment, and multiple pregnancy losses for a side character.
The first time I laid eyes on the delicious mountain of a man, Lachlan “Lock” Kelly, he walked out of the room without giving me a single glance.
You’re in trouble now.
It’s my junior year at Savage U and life is grand. Except for the fact that Lachlan Kelly lives right next door, he acts like he doesn’t know my name, and he barely acknowledges my existence.
I don’t get it. How can he so easily look away from me when he’s all I see?
The ice queen is melting…
A few angry frat boys and their arm candy make it their mission to ruin my semester and possibly my life. But I show those boys that messing with Elena Sanderson is a fatal mistake, and Lachlan surprisingly backs me up. And when he finally gives me his attention, I greedily soak up everything he has to offer.
You’re arsenic-laced candy.
Lachlan tells me I’m bad for him, but he can’t resist the pull between us anymore.
I don’t break things.
I know he’s not staying. When he goes, he’ll leave me tangled up in memories.
I won’t play games.
His promises have a time limit, even though I’m beginning to wish they didn’t.
Even if it hurts…
We were over before we ever began.
Sweet Like Poison contains dark themes and mature content, including mentions of past assault, depression, mental health treatment, and multiple pregnancy losses for a side character.
12 pages, Audible Audio
First published August 18, 2022
590 people are currently reading
3697 people want to read
About the author
Julia Wolf
49 books3,481 followersJulia lives in Maryland with her patient husband and three crazy, beautiful kids!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 342 reviews
April 11, 2023
Reread with audio 2023
.
.
Reread for 2022 Favorites
.
.
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*
I am almost too stunned to speak. I am so moved by this book. It was personally so touching and brimming with harsh truth but also filled with such beautiful hope.... I wish I could start it all over for the first time immediately after having finished it. I've genuinely had a great time with every book set in the Savage Universe. From Start a Fire and all the way through but this.. this one hit different.
Elena has had to be hard. She's been bitchy, she's seemed aloof, she has been so many different things to different people. We have slowly seen her soft spots through the books and through other characters stories though and there was beautiful growth there.
Lachlan Kelly has his judgments of her just like everyone else and though he tends to keep his opinions to himself, he does have them. He is at Savage U to get his degree and then get the heck out of California. He does not have time for an ice queen like Elena. No matter how hot their chemistry may burn during a little fling before their friends return for the semester.
They hit it and quit it, so why can't they both stop thinking about each other? How is he making her feel things she hasn't in years? Why does her blonde braid make him want to tug her to him? This addiction has to be toxic, it feels to good and dangerous not to.
It felt like this book was written just for me. Lachlan is exactly the kind of hero that I love and I feel like I NEVER read him in a college or New Adult setting, so he was a breath of fresh air. Stubborn, strong, loyal, speaks the truth, and sometimes... tries to be to good and it leads him into putting his foot in his mouth.
Watching Elena flower for him was... achingly sweet. These two were fire and passion and I can honestly see why it scared them sometimes. I was so afraid of them breaking up, I was reading with one eye open, the other eye on the ticking clock. I wanted these two to find a way so badly and I've never been so glad for an HEA guarantee.
There were some serious issues that J. Wolf takes on with this one. Mental health, trauma, miscarriage (in the family), abuse by an ex, manipulation, it was all here. Watching these two come up against that and talk through it was very powerful. I was extremely moved. I could gush for ages, and probably will to anyone who will listen.
One other thing I want to mention, since I've already seen it asked. Can you just read this one? Well, of course you COULD.... because all you need for this couple is in this book. However, I am so in love with this, BECAUSE I saw where Elena began. Like I said before.. it was her growth and also, finally knowing everything she has been carrying, that makes this so epic for me. But as always, it's your choice. This is a complete story if you want to read this and only this... but you're missing out.
Thank you J. Wolf for writing us such a lovely ending for Elena and her Mountain Man. Their HEA was simple but perfect and I will be smiling all night long.
"You are not responsible for the failures of men. Don't take that on. F*ck the patriarchy, right?"
6 Stars
4 on my spice scale
TW: previous assault, mental health treatment, loss of multiple pregnancies (side character), PTSD
.
.
Reread for 2022 Favorites
.
.
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*
I am almost too stunned to speak. I am so moved by this book. It was personally so touching and brimming with harsh truth but also filled with such beautiful hope.... I wish I could start it all over for the first time immediately after having finished it. I've genuinely had a great time with every book set in the Savage Universe. From Start a Fire and all the way through but this.. this one hit different.
Elena has had to be hard. She's been bitchy, she's seemed aloof, she has been so many different things to different people. We have slowly seen her soft spots through the books and through other characters stories though and there was beautiful growth there.
Lachlan Kelly has his judgments of her just like everyone else and though he tends to keep his opinions to himself, he does have them. He is at Savage U to get his degree and then get the heck out of California. He does not have time for an ice queen like Elena. No matter how hot their chemistry may burn during a little fling before their friends return for the semester.
They hit it and quit it, so why can't they both stop thinking about each other? How is he making her feel things she hasn't in years? Why does her blonde braid make him want to tug her to him? This addiction has to be toxic, it feels to good and dangerous not to.
It felt like this book was written just for me. Lachlan is exactly the kind of hero that I love and I feel like I NEVER read him in a college or New Adult setting, so he was a breath of fresh air. Stubborn, strong, loyal, speaks the truth, and sometimes... tries to be to good and it leads him into putting his foot in his mouth.
Watching Elena flower for him was... achingly sweet. These two were fire and passion and I can honestly see why it scared them sometimes. I was so afraid of them breaking up, I was reading with one eye open, the other eye on the ticking clock. I wanted these two to find a way so badly and I've never been so glad for an HEA guarantee.
There were some serious issues that J. Wolf takes on with this one. Mental health, trauma, miscarriage (in the family), abuse by an ex, manipulation, it was all here. Watching these two come up against that and talk through it was very powerful. I was extremely moved. I could gush for ages, and probably will to anyone who will listen.
One other thing I want to mention, since I've already seen it asked. Can you just read this one? Well, of course you COULD.... because all you need for this couple is in this book. However, I am so in love with this, BECAUSE I saw where Elena began. Like I said before.. it was her growth and also, finally knowing everything she has been carrying, that makes this so epic for me. But as always, it's your choice. This is a complete story if you want to read this and only this... but you're missing out.
Thank you J. Wolf for writing us such a lovely ending for Elena and her Mountain Man. Their HEA was simple but perfect and I will be smiling all night long.
"You are not responsible for the failures of men. Don't take that on. F*ck the patriarchy, right?"
6 Stars
4 on my spice scale
TW: previous assault, mental health treatment, loss of multiple pregnancies (side character), PTSD
July 22, 2023
4 stars
Every book in this series has been great, and Sweet Like Poison was no exception. I can’t sing Julia Wolf’s praises enough. I adore her writing. Lachlan and Elena were great together and I loved seeing more of Elena’s backstory. I’m so excited Julien is getting a book next and can’t wait to read it!
Every book in this series has been great, and Sweet Like Poison was no exception. I can’t sing Julia Wolf’s praises enough. I adore her writing. Lachlan and Elena were great together and I loved seeing more of Elena’s backstory. I’m so excited Julien is getting a book next and can’t wait to read it!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Stefanie Kay & Patrick Zeller
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: NA Romance
Length: 11h 36m
August 18, 2022
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: enemies to lovers, opposites attract
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
"𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒈𝒖𝒚𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒏'𝒕 𝒔𝒐 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔 𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒗𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒊𝒈𝒈𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒔".
Just an all around wonderful read that left me teary (in a good way, lol). Elena Sanderson's redemption arc is EVERYTHING! Tall, beautiful, and snark level: expert, Elena Sanderson, former mean girl, has become a surprising ally of the heroines of the Savage U series. But not everyone is impressed. Lachlan "Lock" Kelly thinks she's as shallow as they come, but he still can't seem to resist the pull between them and when they finally get together, it's explosive. Lock knows this can't go anywhere since he's going to Wyoming after graduation and he knows Elena knows the deal and is good with keeping their relationship a secret from there friends, right? And to not catch feels, because this isn't forever, right? Sometimes it's not so clear cut who the bad guy is.
"𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒅, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝑰 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒔𝒆𝒆 𝒎𝒚𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇 𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒂 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒉𝒆'𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒓𝒚 𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒇𝒇 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒂 𝒄𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒃𝒂𝒓 𝒊𝒇 𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒆𝒑𝒕 𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒘 𝒃𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒎𝒚 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒚 𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒖𝒈𝒍𝒚, 𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆𝒅, 𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒊𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒆."
I really can't express how much I absolutely loved this book. The storyline was great, it was beautifully written, and moved quickly. But it is the characters that really just did it for me. Elena is just the best. Crusty, snarky heroines are my fave, typically because there are "reasons" for the way they are and it's those types of tragic backstories of the girls who have taken hits, but refuse to stop hitting back that pull at my heartstrings the most. Lachlan is the "good guy", he does the right thing, he's a protector and goes as far as buckling her seatbelt for her, lol. I loved how he was not super physically attractive, just a huge, lumbering guy with a bit of a soft belly. Real. Elena and Lachlan work because they have more in common than it first appears and they balance each other in unexpected ways. Just absolutely adored the whole thing and the epilogue had me teary it was so sweet! I really hope Julia continues with this series and we get Julian's story as well ❤️.
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes contain spoilers
Trope: enemies to lovers, opposites attract
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
"𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒈𝒖𝒚𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒏'𝒕 𝒔𝒐 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔 𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒗𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒊𝒈𝒈𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒔".
Just an all around wonderful read that left me teary (in a good way, lol). Elena Sanderson's redemption arc is EVERYTHING! Tall, beautiful, and snark level: expert, Elena Sanderson, former mean girl, has become a surprising ally of the heroines of the Savage U series. But not everyone is impressed. Lachlan "Lock" Kelly thinks she's as shallow as they come, but he still can't seem to resist the pull between them and when they finally get together, it's explosive. Lock knows this can't go anywhere since he's going to Wyoming after graduation and he knows Elena knows the deal and is good with keeping their relationship a secret from there friends, right? And to not catch feels, because this isn't forever, right? Sometimes it's not so clear cut who the bad guy is.
"𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒅, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝑰 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒔𝒆𝒆 𝒎𝒚𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇 𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒂 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒉𝒆'𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒓𝒚 𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒇𝒇 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒂 𝒄𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒃𝒂𝒓 𝒊𝒇 𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒆𝒑𝒕 𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒘 𝒃𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒎𝒚 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒚 𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒖𝒈𝒍𝒚, 𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆𝒅, 𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒊𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒆."
I really can't express how much I absolutely loved this book. The storyline was great, it was beautifully written, and moved quickly. But it is the characters that really just did it for me. Elena is just the best. Crusty, snarky heroines are my fave, typically because there are "reasons" for the way they are and it's those types of tragic backstories of the girls who have taken hits, but refuse to stop hitting back that pull at my heartstrings the most. Lachlan is the "good guy", he does the right thing, he's a protector and goes as far as buckling her seatbelt for her, lol. I loved how he was not super physically attractive, just a huge, lumbering guy with a bit of a soft belly. Real. Elena and Lachlan work because they have more in common than it first appears and they balance each other in unexpected ways. Just absolutely adored the whole thing and the epilogue had me teary it was so sweet! I really hope Julia continues with this series and we get Julian's story as well ❤️.
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes contain spoilers
October 28, 2022
✅Redemption nicely done. This h’s character was vile in the previous books /series.
She’s been suitably “un-villainized”. Without a lobotomy.
She’s still an uppity bitch.
Just a nicer one
✅He’s not jealous per se - more OTT protective, really - that’s different compared to most NA books on late / Caveman-y
“Jealousy wasn’t a problem for me the way it was for Elena. As long as my girl knew who she belonged to and everyone she encountered did too, I was laid back. Watchful, but relaxed.Seeing Elena interact with Penelope set off an unfamiliar wave of jealousy in me, though. She was different with her cousin.”
“Don’t mess with the woman or I’ll get in your face” kinda guy
“If I find out you’re lying, I’m coming for you. If you so much as look in Elena’s direction, you’ll see me there. If you try to talk to her, you’ll find yourself short a tongue. She doesn’t exist to you anymore”
✅She, on the other hand is a jealous shrew
LOVED that about her.
She truly would “cut a bitch”
Sometimes he loved it too:
Him: “You getting worked up over me talking to another girl does something to my primordial brain.”
“You know how most people are sixty percent water? I’m sixty percent jealousy. It’s what fuels me. It’s irrational and vexing as hell, but my mind is bright green and glowy.”He blinked once. Twice. “You were jealous when you saw me talking to her?”“Yes. And if you say something nice about her right now, I might give in to the irrational urges in my head.”
🔔Trigger warning:
“Do you think what I wear or don’t wear will keep me safe? I could have been in a baggy sweat suit and those assholes would have catcalled me. Ask me how I know.” I jabbed at the wall of his chest with my finger. “Layers and layers of clothing won’t keep me safe. A cute summer dress and my ugliest underwear won’t keep me safe. Ask. Me. How. I. Know.”
She’s been suitably “un-villainized”. Without a lobotomy.
She’s still an uppity bitch.
Just a nicer one
✅He’s not jealous per se - more OTT protective, really - that’s different compared to most NA books on late / Caveman-y
“Jealousy wasn’t a problem for me the way it was for Elena. As long as my girl knew who she belonged to and everyone she encountered did too, I was laid back. Watchful, but relaxed.Seeing Elena interact with Penelope set off an unfamiliar wave of jealousy in me, though. She was different with her cousin.”
“Don’t mess with the woman or I’ll get in your face” kinda guy
“If I find out you’re lying, I’m coming for you. If you so much as look in Elena’s direction, you’ll see me there. If you try to talk to her, you’ll find yourself short a tongue. She doesn’t exist to you anymore”
✅She, on the other hand is a jealous shrew
LOVED that about her.
She truly would “cut a bitch”
Sometimes he loved it too:
Him: “You getting worked up over me talking to another girl does something to my primordial brain.”
“You know how most people are sixty percent water? I’m sixty percent jealousy. It’s what fuels me. It’s irrational and vexing as hell, but my mind is bright green and glowy.”He blinked once. Twice. “You were jealous when you saw me talking to her?”“Yes. And if you say something nice about her right now, I might give in to the irrational urges in my head.”
🔔Trigger warning:
“Do you think what I wear or don’t wear will keep me safe? I could have been in a baggy sweat suit and those assholes would have catcalled me. Ask me how I know.” I jabbed at the wall of his chest with my finger. “Layers and layers of clothing won’t keep me safe. A cute summer dress and my ugliest underwear won’t keep me safe. Ask. Me. How. I. Know.”
August 16, 2022
AHHHH the Elena and Lock book I was hoping for!
Julia did not disappoint. Elena's character growth is one of my favorites of all time. We first meet her in Julia's Savage Crew series, which is high school. Elena is the entitled, rich, bully of her high school and I HATED HER. We end with her book, Sweet Like Poison, and she is one of my favorite FMCs ever. She is strong, and isn't afraid to say what she is thinking. But she's also honest, honest about her jealousy and issues that stem from an abusive relationship with her ex. I just wanted to be her best friend, and I'm so happy she got her HEA.
Now on to Lock... my man Lock did not disappoint either. I love the silent broody type but my man took control when he wanted! Think of him as a giant Teddy bear that would easily turn in to a grizzly if anyone touched what was his. He was Elena's rock, her sounding board, her comfort and I loved their dynamic.
I really liked the pacing in this book. I don't want to give anything away but we get spice EARLYYYYYYY hehe.
Overall, I hope this isn't the last in the Savage U series (cough cough Julien cough cough). But If it is it couldn't have ended better.
4.5/5 stars
3/5 spice
tw: mention of prior abusive relationship and prior r*pe, mention side character child losses, violence, bullying, car accident
**ARC for honest review**
Julia did not disappoint. Elena's character growth is one of my favorites of all time. We first meet her in Julia's Savage Crew series, which is high school. Elena is the entitled, rich, bully of her high school and I HATED HER. We end with her book, Sweet Like Poison, and she is one of my favorite FMCs ever. She is strong, and isn't afraid to say what she is thinking. But she's also honest, honest about her jealousy and issues that stem from an abusive relationship with her ex. I just wanted to be her best friend, and I'm so happy she got her HEA.
Now on to Lock... my man Lock did not disappoint either. I love the silent broody type but my man took control when he wanted! Think of him as a giant Teddy bear that would easily turn in to a grizzly if anyone touched what was his. He was Elena's rock, her sounding board, her comfort and I loved their dynamic.
I really liked the pacing in this book. I don't want to give anything away but we get spice EARLYYYYYYY hehe.
Overall, I hope this isn't the last in the Savage U series (cough cough Julien cough cough). But If it is it couldn't have ended better.
4.5/5 stars
3/5 spice
tw: mention of prior abusive relationship and prior r*pe, mention side character child losses, violence, bullying, car accident
**ARC for honest review**
January 13, 2023
3.75 stars
This was actually much better than I expected. I'll definitely be reading the other books in this series.
The only thing that detracted from my rating is that Loch wasn't my favourite H. I didn't really believe in his love for Elena at times. He would constantly do things to break her heart and she would just forgive him way too quickly.
I also wasn't a fan of how he kept calling her other random girls' names?? It was supposed to be like a cute inside joke between them because he pretended not to remember her name in the beginning of the book but nahh I would be pissed if my boyfriend called me some other girl's name. Not cute.
This was actually much better than I expected. I'll definitely be reading the other books in this series.
The only thing that detracted from my rating is that Loch wasn't my favourite H. I didn't really believe in his love for Elena at times. He would constantly do things to break her heart and she would just forgive him way too quickly.
I also wasn't a fan of how he kept calling her other random girls' names?? It was supposed to be like a cute inside joke between them because he pretended not to remember her name in the beginning of the book but nahh I would be pissed if my boyfriend called me some other girl's name. Not cute.
July 29, 2022
AHHH!! After reading The Savage Crew series and now the Savage U series, I am 1000% unequivocally obsessed with Julia Wolf's books. Her writing is so compelling and addicting and her characters are just perfection. They are real and flawed but their emotions and heart make them stand out amongst the crowd. I am so head over heels in love with Elena and Lachlan it isn't even funny. She is strong and sassy, with a take no prisoners attitude and he is the one man who breaks down her walls and provides a soft haven for her to shelter in after she fights her own battles. Together, these two were all spitfire banter and fiery chemistry, with a love that took them both by surprise!! I am CONSUMED by this couple!
The minute I read about Elena in Start a Fire I was obsessed with her. I wanted to read about the badass Princess with the venomous bite who would protect her family at the drop of a hat (or bat. ) Then we saw even more glimpses of her in the first two Savage U books as we learned that there is a soft heart under that prickly exterior but only to those she loves and respects. Wolf knocked it out of the park with this book as we learned even more about Elena and why she was the way she was. Elena's character development was immaculate across both series we saw her in. Her chemistry and compatability with Lachlan topped the charts. I love that he wasn't what she expected but was everything she needed. Likewise, Lachlan never saw Elena and her big personality coming but once addicted to her, he couldn't get her out of his system.
Overall, I love these characters and both these series so so much and hope we get more from them in the future! They are emotional and filled to the brim with friendship, loyalty, chemistry and a deep love that can't be denied. I love them so much! Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula ❤️
The minute I read about Elena in Start a Fire I was obsessed with her. I wanted to read about the badass Princess with the venomous bite who would protect her family at the drop of a hat (or bat. ) Then we saw even more glimpses of her in the first two Savage U books as we learned that there is a soft heart under that prickly exterior but only to those she loves and respects. Wolf knocked it out of the park with this book as we learned even more about Elena and why she was the way she was. Elena's character development was immaculate across both series we saw her in. Her chemistry and compatability with Lachlan topped the charts. I love that he wasn't what she expected but was everything she needed. Likewise, Lachlan never saw Elena and her big personality coming but once addicted to her, he couldn't get her out of his system.
Overall, I love these characters and both these series so so much and hope we get more from them in the future! They are emotional and filled to the brim with friendship, loyalty, chemistry and a deep love that can't be denied. I love them so much! Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula ❤️
December 5, 2022
4.5 stars!!
These books are just getting better and better. This is about two people who kind of hate each other but also really want to hook up so they decide to have a fun, no strings, relationship. This book has convinced me that the brooding but a sweetheart MMC x asshole to everyone but those she loves FMC is the best trope.
Elena is a badass. She was a typical high school mean girl who now only dishes it to those who deserve it. (She was a bully and she feels remorse for what’s she’s done but doesn’t try to fix it or apologize). She shows her love for her friends in a different way than is typical. She’s cold and blunt but she’s never actually cruel or mean. Lock constantly only sees her as this cold hearted person who doesn’t care for anyone but time and time again he is proven wrong.
Lock was a broody, possessive, mountain and the best kind of MMC. He was also a sweetheart and was so good for Elena. He brought out the best in her. He would always do these small, seemingly normal things for her that may not seem like a big deal but had me smiling the whole time. We love a man who takes control and you know will take care of you.
I liked how their conflict didn’t feel like it came out of no where. You could see hints of the issues they had woven into their entire relationship. Then when the MMC messed up, there was some well deserved grovelling. Elena it not a doormat and stood up for herself. I don’t think I’ve ever been so satisfied by how a character has handled their SO messing up. But Lock was not discouraged for a second.
This was a great book and my favourite so far! It was just exactly what I like in a typical contemporary romance and I ate it up.
These books are just getting better and better. This is about two people who kind of hate each other but also really want to hook up so they decide to have a fun, no strings, relationship. This book has convinced me that the brooding but a sweetheart MMC x asshole to everyone but those she loves FMC is the best trope.
Elena is a badass. She was a typical high school mean girl who now only dishes it to those who deserve it. (She was a bully and she feels remorse for what’s she’s done but doesn’t try to fix it or apologize). She shows her love for her friends in a different way than is typical. She’s cold and blunt but she’s never actually cruel or mean. Lock constantly only sees her as this cold hearted person who doesn’t care for anyone but time and time again he is proven wrong.
Lock was a broody, possessive, mountain and the best kind of MMC. He was also a sweetheart and was so good for Elena. He brought out the best in her. He would always do these small, seemingly normal things for her that may not seem like a big deal but had me smiling the whole time. We love a man who takes control and you know will take care of you.
I liked how their conflict didn’t feel like it came out of no where. You could see hints of the issues they had woven into their entire relationship. Then when the MMC messed up, there was some well deserved grovelling. Elena it not a doormat and stood up for herself. I don’t think I’ve ever been so satisfied by how a character has handled their SO messing up. But Lock was not discouraged for a second.
This was a great book and my favourite so far! It was just exactly what I like in a typical contemporary romance and I ate it up.
August 22, 2022
Angry first kiss is always the hottest thing ever!
“His nostrils flared. The sinews in his powerful forearms rippled as he curled his fingers into his palms.“Fuck it.”His hand shot out, fisting the back of my hair and twisting until my head slanted to the side and his mouth came down on mine.”
Smiling kisses makes me giddy
“His kisses slowed, turning languid. These were just as good as the first crushing ones. I grinned into his mouth, and his lips tipped against mine. I kissed the smile off him, licking the edges of it.”
Find you a partner in crime who can lend you his wrench at 3 am for “murder” Please sense the sarcasm:
“Not the tool I was looking for,” she said dryly.
I patted my toolbox. “What do you need a wrench for?”“Do you have one I can use?”
“I do. Tell me what it’s for.”
Through the dark, she leveled me with a glare. “Murder.”
My lips twitched. “Then you’ll need a shovel to bury the body.”
I love Lachlan or Lock most people would call him. He likes being called Lachlan only when Elena says it.
I love Julien! He’s my favorite side character in this entire series. I hope he gets a book!
“His nostrils flared. The sinews in his powerful forearms rippled as he curled his fingers into his palms.“Fuck it.”His hand shot out, fisting the back of my hair and twisting until my head slanted to the side and his mouth came down on mine.”
Smiling kisses makes me giddy
“His kisses slowed, turning languid. These were just as good as the first crushing ones. I grinned into his mouth, and his lips tipped against mine. I kissed the smile off him, licking the edges of it.”
Find you a partner in crime who can lend you his wrench at 3 am for “murder” Please sense the sarcasm:
“Not the tool I was looking for,” she said dryly.
I patted my toolbox. “What do you need a wrench for?”“Do you have one I can use?”
“I do. Tell me what it’s for.”
Through the dark, she leveled me with a glare. “Murder.”
My lips twitched. “Then you’ll need a shovel to bury the body.”
I love Lachlan or Lock most people would call him. He likes being called Lachlan only when Elena says it.
I love Julien! He’s my favorite side character in this entire series. I hope he gets a book!
August 10, 2024
3,5 ⭐
It's unexpected but I really liked it. Especially the FMC. Give me more girls like that please. The MMC... not so much. His reasons were bad, the 3rd act break-up was completely dumb. I almost wish for Elena to be with Julien.
The MMC giving her different names but hers was annoying as fuck. That was kinda funny at first but come on.
It's unexpected but I really liked it. Especially the FMC. Give me more girls like that please. The MMC... not so much. His reasons were bad, the 3rd act break-up was completely dumb. I almost wish for Elena to be with Julien.
The MMC giving her different names but hers was annoying as fuck. That was kinda funny at first but come on.
August 1, 2022
OMG!!!!! Wow, just wow!
💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
Where do I even begin!? I don’t know where to even start with this review. I’m speechless as what to say. This book was absolutely perfect! I read it in one sitting, couldn’t put it down.
Lachlan & Elena were THE PERFECT couple! I couldn’t get enough of them, and I definitely want more! I can honestly say, without a doubt this has been one of my most favorite books ever read. It had no OW drama, no bullying from the H, but it had a h with a sad & unfortunate past and a guy who fell head over heals in love with her and would do absolutely anything for her. We all need a Lachlan Kelly. It wasn’t a slow burn, oh hell no, their HOT and sizzling chemistry was instant! And they literally burned my phone! There have been plenty of book couples I’ve read and wanted more of. But I honestly don’t remember ever loving a couple more than these 2, I didn’t want this book to end.
If Julia reads this review, then please please please consider doing another book on Lachlan & Elena, maybe showing them 2-3 years later getting ready for their second baby!
Thank you Julia for giving us an absolutely amazing and beautiful story!! It’s definitely on my list of books to reread! I wish I could rate this more than 5⭐️ , it deserves a 10!
💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
Where do I even begin!? I don’t know where to even start with this review. I’m speechless as what to say. This book was absolutely perfect! I read it in one sitting, couldn’t put it down.
Lachlan & Elena were THE PERFECT couple! I couldn’t get enough of them, and I definitely want more! I can honestly say, without a doubt this has been one of my most favorite books ever read. It had no OW drama, no bullying from the H, but it had a h with a sad & unfortunate past and a guy who fell head over heals in love with her and would do absolutely anything for her. We all need a Lachlan Kelly. It wasn’t a slow burn, oh hell no, their HOT and sizzling chemistry was instant! And they literally burned my phone! There have been plenty of book couples I’ve read and wanted more of. But I honestly don’t remember ever loving a couple more than these 2, I didn’t want this book to end.
If Julia reads this review, then please please please consider doing another book on Lachlan & Elena, maybe showing them 2-3 years later getting ready for their second baby!
Thank you Julia for giving us an absolutely amazing and beautiful story!! It’s definitely on my list of books to reread! I wish I could rate this more than 5⭐️ , it deserves a 10!
💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
July 28, 2022
Elena! Oh, how I’ve loved you and your anger and ambition and righteous vengeance. And I love you even more now. You’re so much more than anyone bargained for, yet deserving of everything good you can get.
And Lock, man, sometimes I wanted to slap you. You played games. You broke hearts and trusts. And yet you also broke your own heart along the way. It’s a good thing you give excellent grovel.
I knew that Elena would have such a painful tale to tell, but even I was surprised by the depths of her pain and the pressure on her to be everything to people. And I was so glad that Lock finally pulled his head out of a dark place to take a chance. Then another. Then have to try again. And the custom Elena bat made an appearance, but not to knock some sense into Lock. Oh, no. It came out for a much more important reason. Add in the ties that bind these two before they even realized it and I see a fantastic forever ahead for our favorite strong woman and the man who loves her more than life.
And Lock, man, sometimes I wanted to slap you. You played games. You broke hearts and trusts. And yet you also broke your own heart along the way. It’s a good thing you give excellent grovel.
I knew that Elena would have such a painful tale to tell, but even I was surprised by the depths of her pain and the pressure on her to be everything to people. And I was so glad that Lock finally pulled his head out of a dark place to take a chance. Then another. Then have to try again. And the custom Elena bat made an appearance, but not to knock some sense into Lock. Oh, no. It came out for a much more important reason. Add in the ties that bind these two before they even realized it and I see a fantastic forever ahead for our favorite strong woman and the man who loves her more than life.
August 2, 2022
"Sometimes, the ones who look like the good guys aren't so good. And sometimes, the ones viewed as the villain have the biggest hearts."
This book. Wow.
Prepare for an epic journey. I think this might be the most heart-wrenching, emotional, beautiful book in the series. It's certainly become my personal favourite.
You think you know Elena, but you're about to discover that you really don't know her at all.
Elena Sanderson is an iconic character in the Savage River world. From her high school days as the Princess who bullied anyone in her way, beginning in Start A Fire, to her bat wielding at Savage U, she's completely transformed as a character; and the credit for that goes to the superb writing skills of Julia Wolf.
In the first two Savage HS books I couldn't abide her. Then, in Pen's book, we started to see that there was much more to her. However, in the Savage U world, I came to love her, for her support of the other girls, her strength and her acerbic wit.
But as Sweet Like Poison begins, we quickly learn that there's more to Elena than meets the eye. Beneath her Ice Queen persona, there's more depth, more pain than we could ever imagine.
We met Lachlan 'Lock' Kelly through Helen and Theo and I already loved him, but we soon see another side of him. I'll admit, his behaviour at times towards Elena made made want to smack him, but he redeemed himself. And thank goodness for the amazing Julien and his beer can! I can't wait for Julien to get a book 🙏😍
Lock's a sexy, towering bear of a man, who's sweet and affable. But not towards Elena. He actively ignores 'Elsa'. Until they begin a summer fling, enjoying scorching sex; that is until their friends are coming home, and he pulls the plug pretty harshly.
But throughout the book, Lachlan gives good grovel, so hallelujah! And he needs to. He breaks his word, Elena's heart, as well as his own. But again, his background and personal circumstances really are the reason, so there's more to Lock to be discovered, too.
I adore these two together. They really are perfect for each other. Lachlan is protective and supportive of Elena, whilst Elena is much more complex and vulnerable than we could ever imagine.
"Being held by him blocked out the world until there was only the weight of his arms, the solid warmth of his chest, the soft cushion of his middle, and the scent of motor oil, the outdoors, and Lachlan."
They certainly bring the heat with some amazingly steamy scenes, too 🔥🔥🔥 But there's much more to them both, and they share a connection between them that neither realised; these two are fated for each other.
My heart was full when I finished this book. I just couldn't get enough of Elena and Lachlan.
"Elena was in my veins, my lungs, my head, my heart. Whether she was venom or the antidote, I didn't care, not when she was in my arms."
Julia Wolf always manages to make her characters feel real, she immerses the reader in the world they're reading about, and honestly, I could still be reading about these two and I'd be happy. I honestly didn't want it to end! I loved the clever little reference from the poisonous Hamlet, too.
If you are in any doubt because of Elena's previous antics etc, my advice is just don't hesitate. Prepare for a whole other side to Elena; she deserves everything good coming her way. I just wanted to give this girl the biggest hug. You do not want to miss this book. Sweet Like Poison is outstanding. All the stars!
This is a book and characters that will stay with me for a very long time 💚💚💚
☠️☠☠☠☠
This book. Wow.
Prepare for an epic journey. I think this might be the most heart-wrenching, emotional, beautiful book in the series. It's certainly become my personal favourite.
You think you know Elena, but you're about to discover that you really don't know her at all.
Elena Sanderson is an iconic character in the Savage River world. From her high school days as the Princess who bullied anyone in her way, beginning in Start A Fire, to her bat wielding at Savage U, she's completely transformed as a character; and the credit for that goes to the superb writing skills of Julia Wolf.
In the first two Savage HS books I couldn't abide her. Then, in Pen's book, we started to see that there was much more to her. However, in the Savage U world, I came to love her, for her support of the other girls, her strength and her acerbic wit.
But as Sweet Like Poison begins, we quickly learn that there's more to Elena than meets the eye. Beneath her Ice Queen persona, there's more depth, more pain than we could ever imagine.
We met Lachlan 'Lock' Kelly through Helen and Theo and I already loved him, but we soon see another side of him. I'll admit, his behaviour at times towards Elena made made want to smack him, but he redeemed himself. And thank goodness for the amazing Julien and his beer can! I can't wait for Julien to get a book 🙏😍
Lock's a sexy, towering bear of a man, who's sweet and affable. But not towards Elena. He actively ignores 'Elsa'. Until they begin a summer fling, enjoying scorching sex; that is until their friends are coming home, and he pulls the plug pretty harshly.
But throughout the book, Lachlan gives good grovel, so hallelujah! And he needs to. He breaks his word, Elena's heart, as well as his own. But again, his background and personal circumstances really are the reason, so there's more to Lock to be discovered, too.
I adore these two together. They really are perfect for each other. Lachlan is protective and supportive of Elena, whilst Elena is much more complex and vulnerable than we could ever imagine.
"Being held by him blocked out the world until there was only the weight of his arms, the solid warmth of his chest, the soft cushion of his middle, and the scent of motor oil, the outdoors, and Lachlan."
They certainly bring the heat with some amazingly steamy scenes, too 🔥🔥🔥 But there's much more to them both, and they share a connection between them that neither realised; these two are fated for each other.
My heart was full when I finished this book. I just couldn't get enough of Elena and Lachlan.
"Elena was in my veins, my lungs, my head, my heart. Whether she was venom or the antidote, I didn't care, not when she was in my arms."
Julia Wolf always manages to make her characters feel real, she immerses the reader in the world they're reading about, and honestly, I could still be reading about these two and I'd be happy. I honestly didn't want it to end! I loved the clever little reference from the poisonous Hamlet, too.
If you are in any doubt because of Elena's previous antics etc, my advice is just don't hesitate. Prepare for a whole other side to Elena; she deserves everything good coming her way. I just wanted to give this girl the biggest hug. You do not want to miss this book. Sweet Like Poison is outstanding. All the stars!
This is a book and characters that will stay with me for a very long time 💚💚💚
☠️☠☠☠☠
August 6, 2022
For anyone who has read Julia Wolf’s Savage Crew series and the first two books in the Savage U series, you will know Elena, who is the female main character (MC) in Sweet Like Poison. I don’t think I have gone from hating to loving a character as much as I do Elena. Knowing her back story and understanding what drives her, gives the reader a whole new perspective on all things Elena.
Lachlan is the tall, strong silent alpha. He is a protector but was quick to judge and misjudge Elena on first meeting. I’ve been dying to see how their story would unfold since their first meeting. It was as stormy, and tension filled as I expected. These two are strong, stubborn and go toe to toe, but they love hard and fast. I was caught up in their story, I did not want to put the book down, I wanted them to get their HEA…
I think this may be my favorite book of the series so far and Elena is definitely my favorite female MC in the Savage U series. This is a MUST TBR. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Lachlan is the tall, strong silent alpha. He is a protector but was quick to judge and misjudge Elena on first meeting. I’ve been dying to see how their story would unfold since their first meeting. It was as stormy, and tension filled as I expected. These two are strong, stubborn and go toe to toe, but they love hard and fast. I was caught up in their story, I did not want to put the book down, I wanted them to get their HEA…
I think this may be my favorite book of the series so far and Elena is definitely my favorite female MC in the Savage U series. This is a MUST TBR. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 24, 2022
Wow.
This is my favorite book in the series. I loved Elena so much,even from the previous books and it was amazing being inside her head and getting to know her better.
Lachlan was amazing. This book is so different to the previous ones,both in tone and storyline and I am so happy.
The premise, the heat, the chemistry. I absolutely loved it. Top favorite of 2022!
This is my favorite book in the series. I loved Elena so much,even from the previous books and it was amazing being inside her head and getting to know her better.
Lachlan was amazing. This book is so different to the previous ones,both in tone and storyline and I am so happy.
The premise, the heat, the chemistry. I absolutely loved it. Top favorite of 2022!
August 3, 2022
This book was absolutely amazing, I'd even go as far as to say it was more amazing than I thought it would be. Gah! What a journey this author has taken us on with Elena. Don't get me wrong. You could quite easily enjoy this book as a standalone but if you've read the rest of The Savage U books and The Savage Crew series, you are going to be very familiar with Elena. At least you will think you are, but trust me, there is much more to learn. Elena and Lachlan's romance sometimes had my head spinning and my pulse racing and other times I was laughing, and my temperature was soaring. One thing is for sure, whether my heart was melting, aching or breaking I adored this couple, and the exquisite feels they gave me. A skillfully constructed combination of drama, angst, emotion, steam, sweetness, twists, humor, tension, family, heart and friendship make for a potent and powerful romance that will give your heart an Olympic level workout and leave you flat out swooning. I am posting a candid review of my own accord.
July 31, 2022
Elena was the queen bitch in high school, but we got to see her grow in the Savage U series and I don’t think I’ve loved anyone’s character arc more! She became roommates and best friends with Helen during college. Lachlan is Helen’s tall, loyal, quiet friend. He’s the one person you would never put Elena with. They’re way more alike than you’re led to believe in the other books. Elena’s story has been a long time coming and I honestly didn’t think it would be so sweet! Lachlan was everything she needed-Big, kind, stable. Her pillar. Their story is sweet, sexy, and honestly heartbreaking. I laughed and cried and my heart was so incredibly happy with their ending! I’m so lucky I got the read this book early because I’ve been dying for the next Savage Crew installment.
August 1, 2022
I honestly wasn't sure whether I was going to like this one or not. Lachlan was a shoe in. I knew I was going to adore the tall dark and brooding bear (and boy did I EVER! His hunger and filthy mouth were so freakin' hot) but I wasn't convinced I'd be won over by our resident bully, Ms. Thing.
Except I was.
More steam than usual in this book, but I was here for it. They just couldn't get enough of each other. But once you pealed back the layers and got to their vulnerable underbellies, you couldn't help but want for them to make it.
The bully becoming the bullied was a great twist. A painful lesson for someone who hadn't given much thought to the consequences of her actions. Her growth and character ARC was a beautiful thing to watch and at some points I wanted to smack Lock in the head with a book for being such a dope.
This love story went down in a blaze of sex and glory and I was totally here for it. One for the ages. And I'll be snagging a paperback for my shelf, because Lock is just too schmexy not to come home with me!
Except I was.
More steam than usual in this book, but I was here for it. They just couldn't get enough of each other. But once you pealed back the layers and got to their vulnerable underbellies, you couldn't help but want for them to make it.
The bully becoming the bullied was a great twist. A painful lesson for someone who hadn't given much thought to the consequences of her actions. Her growth and character ARC was a beautiful thing to watch and at some points I wanted to smack Lock in the head with a book for being such a dope.
This love story went down in a blaze of sex and glory and I was totally here for it. One for the ages. And I'll be snagging a paperback for my shelf, because Lock is just too schmexy not to come home with me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2022
Wowza! What a truly a spectacular and remarkable read! This author is truly talented when it comes to her masterful storytelling and creation of characters that are relatable. It never fails that when I settle in to read one of her books, I practically devour it in one sitting. Sweet Like Poison consumed me and I am not certain I can accurately put into words just what I am feeling.
Prior to this novel, I wasn’t sure about Elena as I wasn’t a big fan of hers in the Savage Crew series. However, she did start to grow on me as the author peeled back a few of her layers the early Savage U books. As unlikely is it may have seemed, Elena is now my favorite heroine of the series! This saucy little spitfire completely won me over. I enjoyed learning more about her and getting to know just what was behind some of her caustic remarks and actions. I don’t have many triggers, but part of Elena‘s backstory hit really close to home. I feel that the author addressed it in a sensitive and appropriate manner and I was really able to connect with Elena because of this.
Lachlan and Elena may initially appear to be an unexpected pair and yet they fit perfectly together. Elena has her catty little moments, but she does have a huge heart. As for Lachlan, at times I wanted to shake him but underneath that big, silent exterior is this protective man who truly understands Elena. The chemistry between these two is sizzling and their intense connection with each other is palpable.
The story flows seamlessly from one page to the next and kept me engaged from beginning to end. It has that perfect amount of humor, steam, and drama that truly made this an enjoyable read. I also loved being reunited with all of my favorite characters from the previous books in the series and if you read the Savage Crew series, there are a few cameo appearance from of few of those characters as well. All in all, Sweet Like Poison is another fantastic new adult, college romance from this author.
I voluntarily reviewed an early versions of this manuscript. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Prior to this novel, I wasn’t sure about Elena as I wasn’t a big fan of hers in the Savage Crew series. However, she did start to grow on me as the author peeled back a few of her layers the early Savage U books. As unlikely is it may have seemed, Elena is now my favorite heroine of the series! This saucy little spitfire completely won me over. I enjoyed learning more about her and getting to know just what was behind some of her caustic remarks and actions. I don’t have many triggers, but part of Elena‘s backstory hit really close to home. I feel that the author addressed it in a sensitive and appropriate manner and I was really able to connect with Elena because of this.
Lachlan and Elena may initially appear to be an unexpected pair and yet they fit perfectly together. Elena has her catty little moments, but she does have a huge heart. As for Lachlan, at times I wanted to shake him but underneath that big, silent exterior is this protective man who truly understands Elena. The chemistry between these two is sizzling and their intense connection with each other is palpable.
The story flows seamlessly from one page to the next and kept me engaged from beginning to end. It has that perfect amount of humor, steam, and drama that truly made this an enjoyable read. I also loved being reunited with all of my favorite characters from the previous books in the series and if you read the Savage Crew series, there are a few cameo appearance from of few of those characters as well. All in all, Sweet Like Poison is another fantastic new adult, college romance from this author.
I voluntarily reviewed an early versions of this manuscript. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
August 19, 2022
I hate that this author made me fall in love with Elena so much 😭😂 her redemption arc was exquisite and just what I was looking for. Lock was 🤌🏻
August 2, 2022
Loch and Elena are so attracted to one another yet so entwined in caring for their families it is hard to see an end game. They have a hard time being too far from one another as their friend group is the same. Loch and Elena both have baggage and as they begin to share that with one another strong feelings ensue. How they both handle that is different. There were times when I literally wanted to strangle Loch and shake sense into him. But as things progress it is hard not to like him. Elena us a strong, brave amazing woman who I loved from day one! Take the plunge with these two! It’s worth it!
January 21, 2023
I kind of liked this book until the third act break-up. I couldn't stand Lock's behaviour after he broke up with Elena. I didn't think it was cute when he picked her up and carried her wherever he wanted or dictated what she should wear, but Elena was into that, so I could ignore it. But when he continued doing all that after their break-up, when he pursued her after Elena told him that she was hurting, she wanted some space... It infuriated me. It wasn't cute anymore. If my ex tried to manhandle me when I was actively saying "no," I'd either kill him or move to another city.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2024
It's charming when the f*ck boy turns out to be a nice guy. It's not cute when the nice guy turns out to be a f*ck boy.
Even though you get the mmc's POV, so you understand his "complicated feelings" or whatever, his behavior toward the fmc is the epitome of f*ck boy carelessness that there's no way to see this guy as charming, certainly not book boyfriend material.
The writing is good enough to earn a star, but the relationship is a flop. I have never rooted against a book couple so hard in my life.
Even though you get the mmc's POV, so you understand his "complicated feelings" or whatever, his behavior toward the fmc is the epitome of f*ck boy carelessness that there's no way to see this guy as charming, certainly not book boyfriend material.
The writing is good enough to earn a star, but the relationship is a flop. I have never rooted against a book couple so hard in my life.
August 14, 2022
I was really anticipating Elena's story, but I never imagined how it'll play out. Lachlan was present in the previous books, but aside being a protector of Helen’s, he was quite mysterious. I had this idea about his character, but I was pleasantly surprised about the way he turned out to be. He wasn't the good quite guy, falling for the outspoken bad girl turned good. He had flaws I wasn't expecting to see. While some might find this off-putting, I couldn’t imagine Elena ending up with a well behaved guy, who didn't challenged her or had to fight for her acceptance.
"I didn't want to know this man -- but why the hell didn't he want to know me? "
I loved the way she didn't want to want him, but still felt the need to have his attention. She's a very complex character, very loyal to the ones she loves, lives on the edge of right and wrong, has her own way of looking at life, she obviously knows her flaws, but she’s done with trying to fit into a world where she needs to pretend. That's how the most unexpected friendship was born.
"I've never had this, laughing freely with my girls. No jealousy or competition between us. We were just three girls thrown together, finding the randomness of us made the most sense. "
Lachlan is a man with a purpose, he knows what his future looks like, that's why he doesn't need the complications of a relationship while in college. He is a good friend, but he's also a judging Elena based on his knowledge of rich girls. That doesn’t change the fact that he desires her. He put up a good front, but at some point his self restraint snapped.
"I growled at her like a bear. I felt like one. Like a bear, finding his mate, mindless with the need to rut into her."
Their journey to coupledom was paved with many rocks, most of them thrown at each other. It wasn't easy, but in the end they realized that life is easier if you communicate and not presume.
Elena Sanderson was probably the most hated Julia Wolf character a little over a year ago. Had you asked me then, I would have told you I hope she'll move or be expelled, never to hear about her again.
I really admire her growth of character, little by little she made progress, accepting that her copping mechanism with life's difficulties isn't healthy. She was always a person worthy of our love, she was just lost for a short period of time.
The author provided an ARC for this honest review. I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I did!
"I didn't want to know this man -- but why the hell didn't he want to know me? "
I loved the way she didn't want to want him, but still felt the need to have his attention. She's a very complex character, very loyal to the ones she loves, lives on the edge of right and wrong, has her own way of looking at life, she obviously knows her flaws, but she’s done with trying to fit into a world where she needs to pretend. That's how the most unexpected friendship was born.
"I've never had this, laughing freely with my girls. No jealousy or competition between us. We were just three girls thrown together, finding the randomness of us made the most sense. "
Lachlan is a man with a purpose, he knows what his future looks like, that's why he doesn't need the complications of a relationship while in college. He is a good friend, but he's also a judging Elena based on his knowledge of rich girls. That doesn’t change the fact that he desires her. He put up a good front, but at some point his self restraint snapped.
"I growled at her like a bear. I felt like one. Like a bear, finding his mate, mindless with the need to rut into her."
Their journey to coupledom was paved with many rocks, most of them thrown at each other. It wasn't easy, but in the end they realized that life is easier if you communicate and not presume.
Elena Sanderson was probably the most hated Julia Wolf character a little over a year ago. Had you asked me then, I would have told you I hope she'll move or be expelled, never to hear about her again.
I really admire her growth of character, little by little she made progress, accepting that her copping mechanism with life's difficulties isn't healthy. She was always a person worthy of our love, she was just lost for a short period of time.
The author provided an ARC for this honest review. I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I did!
January 16, 2024
I would never, ever have thought that Elena Sanderson would have become my favourite character yet from Julia’s books. This girl was introduced to us in the Savage Crew series and was an absolute menace 😬😈.
The warm up began in Soft Like Thunder with her being Helen’s roommate. Elena is wicked sarcastic but also fiercely loyal. We also met Lock in this book as Helen’s classmate. He is big and broody but also the most sensible person in the room.
I never would have pictured these 2 together but it worked oh so well. Both characters have baggage from their pasts. Elena’s with her past with Nate and her fathers neglect of her mentally ill mother. Lock with his parents bitter divorce and their continuing poor behaviour they drag Lock and his sister into.
When Lock messes up for the second time, Elena makes him earn it.
Love the Wyoming hea and the epilogue was the best 💕☺️
The warm up began in Soft Like Thunder with her being Helen’s roommate. Elena is wicked sarcastic but also fiercely loyal. We also met Lock in this book as Helen’s classmate. He is big and broody but also the most sensible person in the room.
I never would have pictured these 2 together but it worked oh so well. Both characters have baggage from their pasts. Elena’s with her past with Nate and her fathers neglect of her mentally ill mother. Lock with his parents bitter divorce and their continuing poor behaviour they drag Lock and his sister into.
When Lock messes up for the second time, Elena makes him earn it.
Love the Wyoming hea and the epilogue was the best 💕☺️
April 5, 2025
LOVED this sooo much.
Honestly I didn't think I would love this as much as I did.
So I skipped the two previous books in this series but read the first two books. And we were introduced to Elena the FMC in those books.
I honestly hated her, she was a mean girl through and through. And I was hesitant to read a story about her. Especially a redemption arc. I feel like I hate when bullies get a redemption arc because they shouldn't have been assholes in the first place.
However with that being said, I absolutely 💯 LOVED this. Elena was such a likable heroine, loved her 😫🫶 and Lochlan (MMC) and her were perfect together even though Lochlan was a typical idiot of a man who judged her initially or thought he knew what was best for both of them.
BUT They got there in the end and I loved it. 💓
Honestly I didn't think I would love this as much as I did.
So I skipped the two previous books in this series but read the first two books. And we were introduced to Elena the FMC in those books.
I honestly hated her, she was a mean girl through and through. And I was hesitant to read a story about her. Especially a redemption arc. I feel like I hate when bullies get a redemption arc because they shouldn't have been assholes in the first place.
However with that being said, I absolutely 💯 LOVED this. Elena was such a likable heroine, loved her 😫🫶 and Lochlan (MMC) and her were perfect together even though Lochlan was a typical idiot of a man who judged her initially or thought he knew what was best for both of them.
BUT They got there in the end and I loved it. 💓
August 30, 2022
Amazing. This was so utterly satisfying. I love a good redemption arc. I love a flawed character. Elena gives both of those things. Lock ended up being a flawed guy too. Love how into his fluff she was. Love how j/p he was over her. They were so hot together. Loved that super gratifying epilogue. Just super great underrated writing. My favorite in the series and the series before it!!!
August 7, 2022
Every time a new book is released, I think I've met my favorite couple but I think Lock and Elena may just be it. I didn't see them coming but their story swept me off my feet. Elena, the
ice princess who only show her real feelings to a few selected people, the rest just knowing the prickly girl who takes on everything life throws at her head on. Lock, the big burley silent type, may just be the one getting underneath her skin. He was not looking for anything serious and lasting so as long as that was the terms they would fool around. But feelings have a way of sneaking up on you and then it depends on one's bravery if you accept it and fight for it or if you run away. The book is written with so much emotion, you loose yourself in the words, becomes part of their story. Feels like coming home to old friends, characters from previous books intertwined and meeting some new ones, wondering when they'll get their turn for love. This is truly one of my favorite authors. I received an ARC copy and am leaving a voluntary review.
ice princess who only show her real feelings to a few selected people, the rest just knowing the prickly girl who takes on everything life throws at her head on. Lock, the big burley silent type, may just be the one getting underneath her skin. He was not looking for anything serious and lasting so as long as that was the terms they would fool around. But feelings have a way of sneaking up on you and then it depends on one's bravery if you accept it and fight for it or if you run away. The book is written with so much emotion, you loose yourself in the words, becomes part of their story. Feels like coming home to old friends, characters from previous books intertwined and meeting some new ones, wondering when they'll get their turn for love. This is truly one of my favorite authors. I received an ARC copy and am leaving a voluntary review.
February 23, 2025
3.75 stars - elena is my angel and she deserves so much more. lachlan does not deserve her tbh and i love julien for standing up for her. julien and elena are my babies.
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