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Madly & the Jackal (Madly #3)

by M. Leighton (Goodreads Author)

4.37 of 5 stars 4.37 · rating details · 597 ratings · 82 reviews

How deep does love run? Deeper than the ocean? Deeper than memory? Deeper than magic?

Following their plan to save Atlas, Madly and Jackson return the spirit of Wolfhardt to his prison beneath the sea. But even the best laid plans couldn’t account for the surprises they find. This time, Lore aren’t their only challenges.

Madly is special in ways no one could have guessed an...more

Kindle Edition, 277 pages

Published May 29th 2012 by M. Leighton Books

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Community Reviews

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Jun 17, 2012 Melissa rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-reads

I swear ... M. Leighton must have been my soul sister in some other life. I have yet to find any of her books that I haven't LOVED. Her writing just seems to grab me at the cellular level and entertain me, make me laugh sometimes, touch me deeply at times, and so often get my blood pumping with tummy fluttery swooning. With that sort of record I enter each of my reading dates with a Leighton book with super high expectations. I expect to be dazzled each and every time. So it says a lot about the...more I swear ... M. Leighton must have been my soul sister in some other life. I have yet to find any of her books that I haven't LOVED. Her writing just seems to grab me at the cellular level and entertain me, make me laugh sometimes, touch me deeply at times, and so often get my blood pumping with tummy fluttery swooning. With that sort of record I enter each of my reading dates with a Leighton book with super high expectations. I expect to be dazzled each and every time. So it says a lot about the Madly series that I find it to be my absolute favorite of all of her books. I LOVE Madly, and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Jackson, and I get so carried away in their story. It has been awhile since I read Madly and Wolfhardt, the first two books of this series, so I was really on fire waiting for the release of this book, Madly and the Jackal. . . . And I was not disappointed. LOVED IT!

The details: At the end of the last book Madly and Jackson finally admitted their love for one another and decided that that love was more important than the traditions of the Mer people that would have forbidden a match between royalty and a Sentinel. They were heading off for Atlas to put Wolfhardt back in prison and see what evil was in control of the government. At the beginning of book three they arrive in Atlas to find that Madly's mother and sister are being held captive, basically tying the hands of her father so that he can do little to get out of the dilemma he finds himself in. Madly and Jackson are sent to try and rescue her little sister, but things fall apart because of the threat of Leviathan, a big, bad, monster thing. The only way to protect themselves and find a way to get out of Atlas is for Madly and Jackson to go through an area that will bind them to one another in marriage before God. It's a good thing they had already pledged their eternal love for one another or that would have been a bit awkward, right? So now Madly and Jackson are married. Hurray! On a side note, they barely make it out of Atlas, and it is obvious that there is a traitor at the highest ranks of Atlas government. I have my guess as to who this is, and if that is the case . . . well, that is going to be a bit of a bummer for someone in this story. But I'll have to wait for later in the series to see if my theory proves correct. Anyway, back to the story -- Married life is bliss for Jackson and Madly for one amazingly awesome night. Oh Jackson, how I love you! What a good hubby he is to her!

But I've been reading paranormal romance for a long, long time, and I have come to expect that perfect, amazing romances don't stay perfect and amazing for long. There is always something to test and try the couple and tear them apart, and that is the case in this book. And let me just say, their test is a doozy. It was heartbreaking. I couldn't help but put myself in Madly's shoes as Jackson's love was taken away from her. It wasn't just taken away. In its place was indifference and outright hostility. It was just awful, all kinds of awful. I think I would want to just curl up and remove myself from society if the same experience happened to me. I think that Madly feels that way for awhile, but eventually she decides to step up and fight these evil entities on her own if she has to. I think in this action Madly shows her strength as royalty. She is in the middle of her own personal hell, but instead of wallowing in it she stands up and fights, for herself and for Jackson, for her family, and for Atlas. She's awesome!

I got 60% of the way through with the book when the big Jackson dilemma occurred, and it was about midnight. So what do I do? Do I get the sleep that I badly needed, or do I read to find out if Jackson comes back to Madly? Is there really any question? I READ. I could not go to sleep last night without knowing whether Jackson came back to Madly. I HAD to know. Who could sleep when amazing Jackson had been influenced to lose all of that amazing love he has had for Madly for his entire life? Not me. So I read. And the ending? Well, I won't give anything away, but I will say that when I got to the end I had a "Wait . . . What?" moment. Maybe I was suffering from lack of enough functioning neurons due to the early morning hour, but I think at the end it wasn't a cut and dried happy ending. It seemed happy, sort of. But something in the back of my head made me feel like there was something a bit off about this happy ending, like the Jackal and Hyde really did have some sort of backup plan that involved Madly and her emotions somehow. I don't know, but I felt like Jackson and Madly were not quite out of the woods. So now I'm absolutely dying for the next book in the series because I need to see what happens next. Ahhhhhhhhh! Please let things be okay. I mean, I know they will be eventually. Leighton has never let me down in that regard with any of her series. But sometimes the wait to see the happily ever after ending can be a bit agonizing. So I'm sending all my extra happy writing vibe thoughts Michelle's way so that we don't have to wait too long to see the next chapter in the Madly's story.

The villain in Wolfhardt was the wolf from Little Red Riding Hood. This time the villain was from Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde, so it was a bit different. There were two villains, and in the end Madly had to face them basically on her own. This was an interesting encounter because Madly had to decide if it was worth losing Jackson forever in order to save the entire Mer people. She had to decide if she was the type of person who would kill an innocent in order to protect more people. It was an interesting dilemma, and the experience showed just how mature of a leader of her people that Madly was becoming. It wasn't an easy choice, but she made the right one ultimately. The situation also showed just how important it was for Jackson to be by her side to strengthen her, not just through her magic, but also through his intelligent and rational analysis of the things that are thrown her way. Yea for the two of them as an Atlas protecting powerhouse! Now if only her father could figure that out.

So another five amazingly awesome stars for a Leighton book. I highly recommend this story as a fun, original paranormal romance.(less)

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Sep 28, 2012 Jalyn rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 5-star, ya, paranormal, retelling-of-classic, ooh-la-la, will-read-again, reviewed

I looovvvved this book!

Brief summary
This book picks up right were Madly and Wolfhardt ended. Madly and Jackson have to travel to Atlas to imprison Wolfhardt's spirit once more. While there, they talk to the Warden Major (Madly's dad) and they find out things are worse than they feared. Once they're back on the surface they start to look for the Jackal and Hyde. Then Jackson's love for Madly is erased and her heart is broken by his I-couldn't-care-less-about-you attitude.

What I liked
Holy s*** th...more

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Aug 29, 2012 Ellen rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: blog-tours, favorites

In Madly and the Jackal, the story again picks up where the previous book left off. Madly and Jackson have captured the spirit of Wolfhardt and as planned, embark on their quest to return him to his prison and attempt to get into Atlas. They have finally acknowledged their tie and love for one another, no longer denying that which was destined to be between them, and now having just found one another, they risk losing it all to save Atlas and the Mer race. Through Madly's magic and Jackson's str...more In Madly and the Jackal, the story again picks up where the previous book left off. Madly and Jackson have captured the spirit of Wolfhardt and as planned, embark on their quest to return him to his prison and attempt to get into Atlas. They have finally acknowledged their tie and love for one another, no longer denying that which was destined to be between them, and now having just found one another, they risk losing it all to save Atlas and the Mer race. Through Madly's magic and Jackson's strength and wisdom, they are able to get into the city and meet with Madly's father, making a plan to rescue her sister. Something isn't right though. Somehow they have been betrayed. Something much bigger and much worse is after them, and seeks to destroy them. Yet ironically, something that was meant to destroy them, brings them to the place that they commit to one another forever. As they discover and deepen their love for one another, the threat continues and the unthinkable happens. The Lore that they are seeking to capture, use their potions and magic to attempt to erase Jackson's memory of the love he has for Madly. Threatened with the loss of her mate, the one she cannot live without, Madly must pull herself together and capture the Lore, but something dark arises within her, threatening to take over her. Will her love for Jackson and his love for her be enough to pull her through, and can Madly ever recover from the hurt and betrayal that has broken her heart?

Okay, I have to go kind of fan girl with this book. I absolutely and completely loved it. OMG - Jackson is simply to die for. How could I have missed this book and Jackson for so as long as I did. He is absolutely yumtastic. The drama in this book totally blew me away. I can't say too much without spoiling it, but at one point, my heart was so crushed I thought I was going to die. For real. I was riding an emotional roller coaster and could not get off. M. Leighton took this series to a whole new level with Madly and the Jackal. My heart strings were pulled upon until I wasn't sure if they could recover, but Leighton pulled this together in the end and I was finally able to breathe again, that is in between the hot, steamy, sexy scenes. I am still on the edge of my seat, anxious to see what is going to happen to these two and this series in the next installment. If you love paranormal romance and the stories dreams are made of, then Madly and the Jackal is one book you will want to put on the top of your TBR list. I can't wait until I have the time to sit down and read it again.

With that said, let me leave you with this short excerpt from the book:

Cupping the back of my neck with one hand, he pulled me toward him and pressed his lips to my forehead then leaned against it. "You know we can get through anything, right? Whatever it is?" I smiled. "I know. As long as I have you, the rest doesn't matter." "Then the rest will never matter, because you will always have me, Madly. Always." And maybe for the first time ever, I believed him. (less)

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Aug 27, 2012 Tee loves Kyle Jacobson rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-must-reads, atomr-book-tours, aug-2012

Madly and The Jackal picks up right where Wolfhardt ended. They have captured him and are returning him to Atlas back to his prison cell where he belongs. Once they get there a few things have changed and Madly and Jackson will have to fight for their lives. They knew there would be challenges but they never expected what they encountered.

Madly and Jackson find out that Madly possess power beyond her wildest imagination and she will have to use it because someone wants it and they will stop at n...more

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Aug 21, 2012 Charity rated it 5 of 5 stars

I must confess I should have been reading other novels and writing up reviews for those first. But the sweet, sweet siren’s call of M. Leighton’s beautiful and lyrical writing pulled me asunder; deep into the world of Madley James.

Madley and the Jackal is the third installment in M. Leighton’s Madley series, and it does not disappoint. It starts off right where book 2 ends. Jackson and Madley have finally declared their love for one another. And with their combined strength, they make their way...more I must confess I should have been reading other novels and writing up reviews for those first. But the sweet, sweet siren’s call of M. Leighton’s beautiful and lyrical writing pulled me asunder; deep into the world of Madley James.

Madley and the Jackal is the third installment in M. Leighton’s Madley series, and it does not disappoint. It starts off right where book 2 ends. Jackson and Madley have finally declared their love for one another. And with their combined strength, they make their way to atlas to return the first Lore that has escaped. Returning him to his imprisonment. This is the first look the reader gets of Atlas and of the neat little world Ms. Leighton has created.

I won’t spoil what happens in Atlas. But lemme tell you, the end result is swoon worthy...sigh. Yep, I think all women will “heart “ Jackson after reading this book.

Madley has upped it a notch in book 3. Her maturity, strength and confidence really shine through. She really has to suck it up and rely on her own strength in order to save her mate and ultimately the world. She can’t lean on Jackson this time around. Madley has to depend on her years of training and upbringing as a Royal in order to save the day. This is where I really give props to Ms. Leighton in staying true to Madley’s character. At no time do we find Madley sitting in a big pile of emotional mess, all tears and snot. No, not really, not even in her darkest hour of heartache and terror. However, Madley isn’t queen of stoicism either. The way she deals with her emotional struggles, fear and stress seem very realist. This is what makes Madley a very relatable and likable character.

I have just been wow’ed time and time again by M. Leighton’s work. All that I have read thus far has been nothing less then exceptional. Her work is so diverse. Spanning the gamut of YA Paranormal Romance to New Adult Romance. Each series has it’s own voice, tempo and feel. I have yet to read something from one of her series and say, “oh, this is just like what happened in...” or, “ This protag is just like the one she wrote in ...” That is the mark of a smart and creative mind IMHO.

Well folks as you can probably tell, it’s official. I have crossed the line and have gone all fangirl for M. Leighton!
I highly recommend reading anything from her work. If Madley’s world doesn’t sound like your bag, then I know there is defiantly something that Ms. Leighton has written that will appeal to anyone.

I gladly give this book 5 stars! And eagerly anticipate book 4. (less)

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Jul 23, 2012 Mary rated it 5 of 5 stars

review is on www.booknerdsacrossamerica.com

This is how I sum up this book......WHAT!? This book was crazy! (In a very good way)

M. Leighton gives us another twist by using the Jackal and Hyde tale while Madly tries to still save Atlas, her family, and her people. Let's not forget her feelings for Jackson are still grow stronger and now there are more dark forces that are trying to drag her down.

In this part of the series I felt so bad for Madly. As much as she leans on Jackson, she is really sta...more

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Jun 02, 2012 Ginifer rated it 5 of 5 stars

Holy crap! M. Leighton has concocted another incredible story jam-packed with her spin on all kinds of fairytales. Madly & the Jackal starts off right where Madly & Wolfhardt ended. Our lovely Merfolk, Jackson and Madly, are on their way to sneak into Atlas and return the Lore to prison. While they are inside, they also plan to find out what is going on in Atlas. What they discover is not encouraging, to say the least. The Lore Madly has to capture next is actually two spirits, Rumpel an...more

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May 27, 2012 Dani Morales rated it 5 of 5 stars

WOW! Seriously I was so excited to see that I could buy this book early considering it wasn't suppose to be released till the 29th!! Then of course as soon as I bought it today there was no putting it down till it was finished..nope wasn't going to happen lol! Poor Madly! I am so excited to see where she takes us in book 4 and hope that Madly and Jackson do get their happily ever after, because after this book, if any one deserves it, its definitely them! It had me thrilled and ecstatic, to piss...more

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Jul 21, 2012 Katy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: swoon-worthy-men

My emotions. I can't handle it!

First I was all

This is beautiful.

Giggle giggle..

Then. Horrible things. (view spoiler)

THEN.

ANGER. So much anger. Katy SMASH!!!

So many feelings. And I stupid read these before all the books are out. Horrid!

(sorry guys, just getting with the gif program...prepare for gif overload)

Anyways... I like the Madly series a lot. More than I expected. She is a mermaid princess, Jackson is her Sentinel guard (view spoiler)...more

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Jun 05, 2012 Carrie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: kindle

I would probably rate this 4.5 stars...I feel like this installment was a little too short...that's really my only criticism. I would have liked to have seen the mystery and subsequent unfolding of it drawn out a bit more.

This is one of the most original and unique series I have read! I am in love with the Mer world! And Madly and Jackson are terrific characters. The journey their relationship takes in this book is outstanding! Love, love, love the romance in this book! And it gets quite steamy....more

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Jun 11, 2012 Lauren rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal, ebook

4.5 stars

Oh dear, I love Madly and Jackson! They just keep getting hotter. Madly also faces a lot in this book, and it’s clear that she has a lot farther to go before she can fully rescue her people (I think this series will be 6 books!).

Although a lot happened in this story, it definitely felt like a middle book, as there was a lot that was set up for the next one. (view spoiler). And the ending definitely set the reader up for what is t...more

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Jun 02, 2012 Autumn Review rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, review

Where do I even begin? I started this series at the end of last year and completely fell in love with the characters and the story. I admit, I was a bit hesitant about the whole Mermaid story, but let me just say that, the way this story and the characters seep into your heart, leave a permanent mark forever. This series is brilliant. I can honestly say that I've never read anything like it.

Madly , Madly, Madly. She infuriates me at times, but mostly she's one of the best characters I've met. I...more Where do I even begin? I started this series at the end of last year and completely fell in love with the characters and the story. I admit, I was a bit hesitant about the whole Mermaid story, but let me just say that, the way this story and the characters seep into your heart, leave a permanent mark forever. This series is brilliant. I can honestly say that I've never read anything like it.

Madly , Madly, Madly. She infuriates me at times, but mostly she's one of the best characters I've met. I clicked with her immediately. In this story, she continues in her dedication to Atlas and she finally has her man. However, the bad boys come out to play and Madly and Jackson must once again save Atlas and the humans. While they work on putting the pieces together, something bad happens to Jackson. Let me say that I nearly puked. I have so much love for this couple, that I wasn't prepared for this traumatic event. I felt so bad for Madly. They had just shared a spectacular time together and then this happened. Poor Madly was left feeling so lost and devastated. Our girl pulls through and gets the job done though. That dedication and persistence is part of the reason I love her so much.

Now on to the steamy bits. WOW! I was anticipating a bit of serious love, but I dare to say that they exceeded my expectations. I could write a whole blog post on Jackson alone. I mean, this guy is ideal. He's gorgeous, committed to Madly, he's fierce, and he has a secret soft side that we get to see with Madly this time, making him a bit more vulnerable. I just about passed out from all the SWOONY moments. All I have to say is, "shower".

Not only has M. Leighton perfected making you fall in love with her characters, but she also has one of the most creative minds around. This series takes bits and pieces of old children's tales and integrates it into a Mer world. It's truly incredible how she does it.

I have to say, that I really need the next book as soon as possible. The ending left me feeling confused, emotional, and incomplete. That said, I have faith that ML will make things perfect for Madly and Jackson once again. After all, we need a little drama so we can actually get more Jackson! (less)

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Aug 20, 2012 Kelsey Keeton rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

I like this series a lot, but after the third book, this one, I LOVE THEM!!! This book was definitely the hook and sinker. Im in so deep in it now it that i cant help but keep thinkging of Madldy, Jackson and thier little crew. This book took my heart, squashed it to seath, then revived it all in one book.... It definatly took me on a trip, and without the heartache and fight throughout the book that shows the love that wins against it, I couldnt have gotten in as deep as I am. M. Leighton wasa...more

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May 30, 2012 Candace Thompson rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

I just finished Madly and the Jackal! I can only say WOW! That has to be M.Leighton's best book yet! The love scenes were really breath taking and very well done. I had to read one of them in particular THREE times :) And the way she described Atlantis was beautifully done! I was right there with Madly.Hmm.. The emotions were so incredibly real! I felt it right along with them! My poor heart! Sometimes I felt that it might just bust.I have always loved C.S.Lewis' ability to transport you to a di...more

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Jun 11, 2012 Naomi rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya-paranormal

Don't take anything for granted, ever!! BEST of the series yet, an absolute must-read (but not before reading the others first).

I'm not the biggest fan of Ms. Leighton's other series, though I've read most of them, but the Madly series is one of the best on the market today. Madly and the Jackal takes the series to a whole new level. You won't want to miss the interaction between Madly and Jackson, and all of the other beloved characters are back. I will say that I'm extremely upset with the dem...more

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Oct 19, 2012 Christie Palmer rated it 4 of 5 stars

M. Leighton has a new fan in me.
I love this series the characters are very believable. But I have to admit my favorite character is Jersey.
That being said, this was not my favorite of the trio I would have liked the plot behind Jykel and Hyden to have been more fleshed out.
But the love story between Jackson and Madly was wonderful. You really see growth in them that is lacking in some of the other YA transition to adult fiction out there right now. You can believe that they are growing up and c...more

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Sep 01, 2012 Marissa rated it 5 of 5 stars

Wow, this was another suspenseful story in this magical, just fantastic series! I really don't want to give too much, because if you have not read book 1 or book 2, well you have to catch up to read this truly amazing story! I absolutely loved it! We finally get a glimpse into the underwater Kingdom, Atlas. With the descriptions provided, you get amazing visualizations on what this place could be like. We also get some glimpses on a romance that just seems to be meant to be, and how the scenes w...more

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May 28, 2012 Sydney rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Everyone!

Whoa...insane. So much happened in what seemed like such a short amount of time! I just picked up this book last night, and now BAM! I'm finished. Madly was such a strong leader. Jackson was her rock. Watching their relationship escalate left me speechless. And right when I was so in love with them and had become used to them being together, that was violently ripped away! I was so, so angry... And when all is back as it should be, Madly is not the same. I am very confused about her behavior. Wh...more

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Jun 17, 2012 Brittany rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book blew my mind! Seriously I read it in less then 24 hours. I could not put it down. This book is a little more racy then book one and I am 100% ok with that! Madly's world is turned upside down as soon as they get to Atlas and realize how bad things are there for her family and her people. Madly has a strong sense of duty to protect them and do whatever she can for them. She is also very much in love! Jackson gives her incredible strength. Madly is so strong and it is that inner strength...more

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Feb 10, 2013 Ashley Hackney rated it 4 of 5 stars

Just like the other books in this series I couldn't put it down. I can't get enough of Madly and Jackson! I was a little confused with the pace of this book though. The mystery of the Lore in this one just seemed to take too many confusing turns with no reason for them ( or no reason revealed yet ?). Either way I dont think some of the ideas were tied up enough. My only other gripe in this captivating series is Madlys relationship with Jersey. How can she keep so much from her friend? And when d...more

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Oct 28, 2012 Andrea rated it 5 of 5 stars

Madly & The Jackal begins where book 2 left off...Madly and Jackson returning from Atlas continuing on their quest to capture the rest of the escaped Lore, whilst coming to terms with their newly developed relationship. But, like any good book the couple have their share of drama and angst. I love this YA series very much, it's sweet, intense and has enough suspense and mystery to stop it being just a love story. Michelle Leighton proves, yet again that true love knows no bounds and can over...more

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Jun 05, 2012 Reading, Eating & Dreaming rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 3-stars, 4-stars

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS AT READING, EATING AND DREAMING I WAS BLAIR WALDORF

Madly & the Jackal is a great addition the Madly series. At the beginning of this novel, readers are immediately thrown back into the captivating, magical world that M. Leighton first introduced us to in Madly & Wolfhardt. Picking up right where Madly & Wolfhardt left off, Madly & the Jackal begins with Madly and Jackson on a mission to save Atlas. After declaring their forbidden love for one anoth...more

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Aug 27, 2012 Stephanie Ward rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: owned

**SERIES REVIEW**

The 'Madly' series is some of the best mermaid fiction I've ever read. I'm not a huge fan of mermaid fiction, but this series has endeared itself to me. The first book in the series, Madly, is a short novella that introduces the reader to the characters, the world of Atlas and Slumber, and to the back story of the series. Even though the first book is really short, I immediately fell in love with the storyline and the characters. Madly is a fiesty heroine who also happens to be...more **SERIES REVIEW**

The 'Madly' series is some of the best mermaid fiction I've ever read. I'm not a huge fan of mermaid fiction, but this series has endeared itself to me. The first book in the series, Madly, is a short novella that introduces the reader to the characters, the world of Atlas and Slumber, and to the back story of the series. Even though the first book is really short, I immediately fell in love with the storyline and the characters. Madly is a fiesty heroine who also happens to be Mer royalty. Her relationship with Jackson is super intense and only gets better as the series develops.

The second and third books in the series were full length novels, which made me excited. The story continues effortlessly from each book into the next, which makes for great flow. The characters grow and gain more depth with each novel, which makes them all the more realistic and easy to root for. As I mentioned, the romance between Madly and Jackson is really steamy. I normally don't care for a ton of romance in young adult fiction because it comes off as corny, but this relationship was spot on for me. The scenes between Madly and Jackson are so well written that my toes were tingling and I had butterflies in my stomach. I rarely get physical reactions from novels, and when I do - I know that it is something really well done.

I really liked how the author explained the back story of the Mer culture and history, as well as the history of Slumber and its inhabitants. She went above and beyond by not just writing about mermaids, but including other interesting beings - such as the Lore and Seers, which I thought added a ton of uniqueness to the series. The series deals with serious issues that all readers can identify with; ones like family, friends, fate, courage, love, and responsibility. It's definitely a fresh voice in the mermaid and young adult genre. I honestly can't say enough about this series. It captured my imagination, my mind, and my heart early on. I couldn't stop reading the books, and I certainly didn't want them to end. This is honestly one of the best young adult series I've ever read. Highly, highly recommended!

Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.(less)

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Jul 05, 2012 Andrea rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult-paranormal

Picking up immediately where book two left off, MADLY AND THE JACKAL opens with Madly and Jackson headed to Atlas, with a plan to return the captured Lore and free Madly's family. But their journey to Atlas results in events beyond expectation. Jackson and Madly's lives take a truly wonderful, yet unexpected turn. But when more of the evil Lores are unleashed, their love may not survive.

Once again, Leighton gives us her unique spin on fairy tales. I continually find her brand of story-telling i...more Picking up immediately where book two left off, MADLY AND THE JACKAL opens with Madly and Jackson headed to Atlas, with a plan to return the captured Lore and free Madly's family. But their journey to Atlas results in events beyond expectation. Jackson and Madly's lives take a truly wonderful, yet unexpected turn. But when more of the evil Lores are unleashed, their love may not survive.

Once again, Leighton gives us her unique spin on fairy tales. I continually find her brand of story-telling inventive, refreshing and fun. Her ability at descriptive writing is terrific. Even though Atlas is a place that exists only in her imagination, with her words, I could "see" that world under the sea. Beautiful.

Okay, I'm going to assume that the only people reading this review are the those who've read the series, or those who like spoilers, since I have an alert at the top of this review. This means that I can do this: OMSQUEEE!!!! MADLY AND JACKSON!! *tries to calm down* *fails* You guys!! I didn't see that coming!! The "ceremony" at the waterfall! Jackson's Bedroom! Then the shower!! *shoves head in the freezer* Okay, I'm cool now. Ahem. So, what I mean to say is, I really, really hoped Jackson and Madly's story would take the turn it did, but Michelle definitely went above and beyond my expectations. So. Freaking. Happy. And, oh wow, can she ever write a HAWT love scene. That Jackson, he's got skillz, yo. Stories like theirs, of true love and devotion in the face of all obstacles, is why I love romance.

As you can see, I loved MADLY AND THE JACKAL like crazy. With the action, the dramatic twists and turns and gorgeous romance, this story gave me everything I love in a book. I am going to be anxiously awaiting for Madly's next adventure.

Favorite Quote:

" 'There is nothing and no one on the face of the Earth that can take me from you. As long as you want me, I'm yours. Always.'
'But there are-'
'Shh,' he whispered, laying his index finger over my lips to still them. 'Nothing, Madly.'" (ebook, 2%)(less)

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Jun 01, 2012 Alexandria Nicole rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, fiction, indie-author, kindle, mer, paranormal, sexy-time, romance, ya

This book was spectacular and quit a surprise! I loved the firs two Madly books and was patently waiting, what felt like forever, for this one. I was not disappointed. This is one of my favorite worlds by far, simply because it's so original. I enjoy learning about it and we find out new things all the time, just as Madly does.

Madly's crazy adventures of searching for the Lore, her relationship with Jackson, and her family problems all come into play. Her world is chaos and what is better to rea...more This book was spectacular and quit a surprise! I loved the firs two Madly books and was patently waiting, what felt like forever, for this one. I was not disappointed. This is one of my favorite worlds by far, simply because it's so original. I enjoy learning about it and we find out new things all the time, just as Madly does.

Madly's crazy adventures of searching for the Lore, her relationship with Jackson, and her family problems all come into play. Her world is chaos and what is better to read about than someone's life in complete craziness?

The love in this book is great! It doesn't matter what characters because they all have great stories. I think the way the characters act with the opposite sexes are completely real as well. The only thing I wasn't expecting because of the vibes from the first and second book was (slight spoiler) (view spoiler). When that happened I was a bit surprised but it didn't ruin the story for me at all. There was just a lot of talk about sex I wasn't expecting. To me, this shocked me at first because I didn't picture that really in Madly's character, but she is changing, so it makes sense that things happen that I wouldn't expect. If I expected everything, the story wouldn't keep my attention anyways!

I was still confused a little by the way the Lore work and how all the bad guys are working together. But I'm not sure we are supposed to even know all that yet. I need to go back and reread the first two books I think to get a better hang on things. Like the way the 'spirits' or bad guys escaped. When the Lore or the things that visited Madly in the shower in the first book come into play I get a little confused. I think I just want to know who's more powerful and why can't they just stop the bad guys themselves. Stuff like that.

If you liked the first two books on this series you will like this one!! It's a bit different but not in a bad way. In my opinion, Michelle is a genius when it comes to story telling! I eat all her books up!!

FABULOUS.(less)

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May 28, 2012 Gloria Green rated it 5 of 5 stars

Holy merciful HAWT!!! I was not prepared for the sexy. The story continues right where Madly and Wolfhardt left off. Again I LOVED how the author incorporated characters from old school fairy tales. My heart was swelling and my temperature was rising as the romance between Madly and Jackson developed. But I'm warning you there are some rough patches that made me ill. Just keep reading and remember that the author believes in Happy Endings. I'm not happy about having to wait for the next book. I...more

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Nov 11, 2012 Brittany Willett rated it 5 of 5 stars

Oh my goodness!!! I thought this book was amazing just like the other two in this series. I really love Jackson and Madly's relationship it is so sweet and most of the time difficult. But I love the suspense, drama, and action in these books. I absolutely CAN NOT wait until the next one comes out, I want to know what is going on down in the Mer world though because it is absolutely killing me to know what is going on with Madly's Dad, Mother, and Sister. Well loved the book and highly recommend...more

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Aug 26, 2012 Sarah rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: r2r-complete, read-2012

(I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis as part of the ‘Madly’ Blog Tour. Thanks to M. Leighton and AToMR tours.)
This is book 3 in the Madly series and kicks off where book 2 Madly and Wolfhardt left off.
Madly and Jackson are off to visit Atlas – to return Wolfhardt to the prison, and hopefully sneak in and make contact with Madly’s father the warden Major. There’s also the next escaped Lore to track and capture, and Madly and Jackson’s forbidden love affair to...more

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Jun 07, 2012 Bianca rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, fairy-tales

I loved this book. My only complaint... too short, i could read about Madly & Jackson for hours and hours on end. I love the build up of the relations between Madly & Jackson - Jackson has everything you could dream of in a man. There were some unexpected twists in this book so it constantly kept you at the edge of your seat. I really love how the Lore are twists on the fairly tales we know and love. I have my suspicions on who the traitor is so please hurry and finish/release the next b...more

1 like · like · see review

Aug 29, 2012 Krista rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: book-tour, cover-love, fantasy, favorite-ya, favorites, good-vs-evil, indie-author, magic, mermaids, must-have, mythology, paranormal, review-copy, review-on-blog, shifters, smoking-hot-guys, swoony, upper-ya, up-all-night, author-fangirl

This is my favorite book in the series thus far! This book is completely captivating and I could not put it down until I devoured every word. Madly and Jackson are now somewhat together and must journey to Atlas to help her family and all the inhabitants from complete decimation by a man and his monster. But that is just the beginning. Whomever the traitor is, has it out for Madly personally, and will stop at nothing to get to her. But death would be a welcome release from the pain that this Lor...more This is my favorite book in the series thus far! This book is completely captivating and I could not put it down until I devoured every word. Madly and Jackson are now somewhat together and must journey to Atlas to help her family and all the inhabitants from complete decimation by a man and his monster. But that is just the beginning. Whomever the traitor is, has it out for Madly personally, and will stop at nothing to get to her. But death would be a welcome release from the pain that this Lore inflicts upon Madly.

So many things take place in Madly & The Jackal. Madly and Jackson have finally admitted to their feelings and have made a commitment to each other. I can't tell you exactly what happens, but it is HUGE! They are blissfully happy, but in a second, all that is taken away. What is worse is that she can't/won't tell anyone about it. She wanted to keep her relationship with Jackson under wraps for the time being. I think she should have at least confided in Jersey. But despite the soul-crushing, heart-wrenching actions of Jackson, Madly stays (somewhat) strong. She is still determined to find the people who are responsible for releasing the Lore in the first place. I would have curled up in a ball and never come out of my room.

Where in Wolfhardt the evil nemesis was the Red Riding Hood wolf, in Madly & The Jackal it is two sets of villains. The first is Rumple and the monster Leviathan who are terrorizing Atlas. The second is a version of the famed Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde which is a really interesting spin on the old classic. And now there are musings of a Sea Witch who was thought only to be a legend, but is she really? So many questions are left without an answer and I can't even guess what M. Leighton has in store for Madly next. But I have come to expect and accept the cliffhangers...well, not really, but I'll get over it.

This book went from YA to Upper YA/New Adult and was intense - like needling a cold shower intense! Not to mention that I went through the whole emotional gamut: laughing one minute and on the verge of tears the next. Madly is growing up and becoming the woman and ruler that she is destined to be. Her powers are changing and she is finding that what she is able to do isn't quite normal for a mermaid - even a royal one. I can't wait until book four is released. As it is, there isn't even a cover for it yet, but I shall be stalking M. Leighton's site for any updates. I LOVE the covers to these books. I can't wait to see what #4 will look like.

Madly & The Jackal is an outstanding book! M. Leighton is now one of my favorite authors.(less)

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About M. Leighton

I was born and raised in the United States, and I’ve lived in several of the fabulous fifty. Though I currently live in the deep South, I spent much of my childhood up North and hope to return there one day. A few other things about me: I believe that sometimes you have to look really, REALLY hard to find the good in people, but it's there. I believe that I'm shrinking (I swear five years ago I wa...more

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Destined for a Vampire (Blood Like Poison, #2)

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Quotes from Madly & the Jackal

“There are two things I was born to do. One is to protect Atlas,” Jackson began. He paused, tracing a fingertip from my temple to my jaw. “The other is to love you. If you don’t believe in anything else, believe in that. Trust me. Trust in me.” — 4 people liked it

“You are the most amazing man I've ever met and I love you so much I sometimes feel like I can't contain it inside my chest. Don't ever say I deserve better. You are the best there is.” — 4 people liked it

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