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Of Magic and Contempt #2
Held in Contempt
Melody needs to keep Dean and The Apex free from her aunt’s machinations, she simply must escape Coven Bestia. Her aunt is angered by Dean’s continuing absence and wants Melody to return to the compound as soon as possible.
While she might be safer at Adolphus Academy, not everyone is happy to have her there - especially when she’s bonded to a much-desired member of The Apex.
Now Melody must juggle the needs of her new familiar, along with the urgings of six more shifters who wish to bond to her, all while dodging the catty and immature classmates and whatever her aunt is planning.
Then there is the new wolf who’s determined to have her at any cost. Yet another shifter she has to deny - without actually denying him. Her aunt’s punishments for disobedience are getting worse and there’s a good chance that she won’t survive the next one.
Two dragons, three wolves and a very sweet fox are all focussed on becoming her familiars, but Melody is struggling to adjust to her bond with Dean. She’s never been allowed to keep a familiar before.
Their beasts are urging them to claim her, to bond her, to possess her. How long can she resist these men? Freeing them from the academy means enslaving them to her aunt. There are simply no good choices and no easy solution.
All Melody wants is a chance to breathe and be "normal". Is it too much to ask for?
**Warning, this is a dark reverse harem story with elements that may cause some readers distress, including but not limited to descriptions of physical abuse, neglect and battle. Please consider carefully before purchasing.**
While she might be safer at Adolphus Academy, not everyone is happy to have her there - especially when she’s bonded to a much-desired member of The Apex.
Now Melody must juggle the needs of her new familiar, along with the urgings of six more shifters who wish to bond to her, all while dodging the catty and immature classmates and whatever her aunt is planning.
Then there is the new wolf who’s determined to have her at any cost. Yet another shifter she has to deny - without actually denying him. Her aunt’s punishments for disobedience are getting worse and there’s a good chance that she won’t survive the next one.
Two dragons, three wolves and a very sweet fox are all focussed on becoming her familiars, but Melody is struggling to adjust to her bond with Dean. She’s never been allowed to keep a familiar before.
Their beasts are urging them to claim her, to bond her, to possess her. How long can she resist these men? Freeing them from the academy means enslaving them to her aunt. There are simply no good choices and no easy solution.
All Melody wants is a chance to breathe and be "normal". Is it too much to ask for?
**Warning, this is a dark reverse harem story with elements that may cause some readers distress, including but not limited to descriptions of physical abuse, neglect and battle. Please consider carefully before purchasing.**
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 20, 2021
218 people are currently reading
171 people want to read
About the author
Jade Thorn
34 books329 followersHi!
I'm "Jade" (pen name only). I'm a stay at home mother to three gorgeous young children. I've been writing stories since I was a little girl, but I have never had the confidence to share them. Finally a friend talked me into publishing something, so, "Siren" was born.
I ask you to be kind in your reviews. I know that you may not like what I write, but it doesn't mean that you have to be nasty about it. I don't understand people who feel the need to do that. My books cost less than a cup of coffee. If you didn't like the coffee, would you abuse the person who served you?
I like to "meet" my followers and get to know them. You can find me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jade.thorn.944/
I look forward to sharing my journey with you.
Jade
xoxo
I'm "Jade" (pen name only). I'm a stay at home mother to three gorgeous young children. I've been writing stories since I was a little girl, but I have never had the confidence to share them. Finally a friend talked me into publishing something, so, "Siren" was born.
I ask you to be kind in your reviews. I know that you may not like what I write, but it doesn't mean that you have to be nasty about it. I don't understand people who feel the need to do that. My books cost less than a cup of coffee. If you didn't like the coffee, would you abuse the person who served you?
I like to "meet" my followers and get to know them. You can find me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jade.thorn.944/
I look forward to sharing my journey with you.
Jade
xoxo
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
March 2, 2023
Reread: 2/3/2023
4 stars
An amazing continuation of the series. I could not put this book down. The final cliffhanger was very unexpected!!!! Can't wait to find out what happens next.
4 stars
An amazing continuation of the series. I could not put this book down. The final cliffhanger was very unexpected!!!! Can't wait to find out what happens next.
April 19, 2021
Ok last book was boring, this one is worse.
Melody is annoying
Her harem :
Dean ( alpha lion) is whiny af
Justin ( dragon) cant handle his temper, embarrassing, doesnt use his brain only wants to mate
Trent ( fox) who is he?
Oz ( wolf?) He is in her harem but he is barely there and i dont even remember who or what he is
Ryan ( wolf part 2?) same as Oz they should hook up and leave Melody....they should just leave the book cuz they are just there, even the background trees are mentioned more then them.
There is another dude...his name starts with A.. Austin? Ash? Yeah fucking Asher...this dude needs to chill and use his brain. He is more embarrassing than Justin, idk who the fuck made him alpha but he is worse than an omega, he is a fucking doormat with too much temper who doesnt think before doing anything and makes it harder for Melody to protect her ppl.
Nick ( dragon) he is fine...eh
Seriously her harem is useless, all of them, fucking doormats, I would have liked Melody cuz she is strong af but she is annoying. But her harem is more annoying than her, each. One. Of. Them. Literally, they are so fucking useless, they are more useless than my notepads...i dont even use notepads.. they are just there like trees...ok no trees are useful, they are not. Like melody is trying to protect u from her evil coven and all u do want is to mate
Melody is annoying
Her harem :
Dean ( alpha lion) is whiny af
Justin ( dragon) cant handle his temper, embarrassing, doesnt use his brain only wants to mate
Trent ( fox) who is he?
Oz ( wolf?) He is in her harem but he is barely there and i dont even remember who or what he is
Ryan ( wolf part 2?) same as Oz they should hook up and leave Melody....they should just leave the book cuz they are just there, even the background trees are mentioned more then them.
There is another dude...his name starts with A.. Austin? Ash? Yeah fucking Asher...this dude needs to chill and use his brain. He is more embarrassing than Justin, idk who the fuck made him alpha but he is worse than an omega, he is a fucking doormat with too much temper who doesnt think before doing anything and makes it harder for Melody to protect her ppl.
Nick ( dragon) he is fine...eh
Seriously her harem is useless, all of them, fucking doormats, I would have liked Melody cuz she is strong af but she is annoying. But her harem is more annoying than her, each. One. Of. Them. Literally, they are so fucking useless, they are more useless than my notepads...i dont even use notepads.. they are just there like trees...ok no trees are useful, they are not. Like melody is trying to protect u from her evil coven and all u do want is to mate
March 19, 2021
While book 1 in this series got me hooked, this one here made me fall in love.
It picks up straight from the end of book 1 and starts not only amping up the pace but also upping the tension.
The plot thickens and emotions run high, while the characters develop right in front of our eyes.
Melody needs to keep Dean and The Apex free from her aunt and for that she must escape Coven Bestia. Especially since her aunt is angered by Dean’s continuing absence and wants Melody to return to the compound as soon as possible.
The Academy is a different sort of danger for Melody since not everyone is happy to have her there, especially when she’s bonded to a much-desired member of The Apex. And Melody is forced to juggle the needs of her new familiar, along with the urgings of six more shifters who wish to bond to her, all while dodging a cartload of hexes from her immature classmates and whatever her aunt is planning.
Two dragons, three wolves and a very sweet fox are all focussed on becoming her familiars, but Melody is struggling to adjust to her bond with Dean. Their beasts are urging them to claim her, to bond her, to possess her. But how could Melody do it when claiming them would mean delivering them straight into her aunt's hands? She knows she's their ticket out of the confines of the academy, but only if she manages to escape her own living hell.
Granted a very slim chance to escape her aunt's clutches, Melody is determined to make the best of it. But she'll need all the help her shifters can give to succeed.
Just as beautifully written as book 1, this second instalment allows the reader to get a much bigger and better picture of both world, setting and characters. The feelings are even more intense and the characters' growth and easy banter will make you absolutely adore them. My favourite though are by far Dean and his lion.
"Are you purring?"
"No, but my lion is."
"Big cats don't purr..."
Dean huffed a laugh. "Don't tell me," he chuckled. "Tell the big bozo. He shouldn't be able to do it. It shouldn't be possible, but my whole body starts vibrating once he gets going."
And Mrs Hardinger is still the best!
Only she would be bopping an angry roaring lion threatening to eat her with her finger on the nose. 'She'd take it in her stride, tell him not to be stupid, and then ignore his stupid ass until he calmed down.'
Just as with the first in series, this book could do with a few extra details, but for me, that didn't disrupt the flow of the tale.
Of Magic and Contempt is an absolutely unique and unforgettable tale that will appeal to all dark fantasy fans out there. It has a solid and absolutely intriguing edge of the seat plot, great characters, as well as all the feels! It's a very slow burn romance with no insta love and a few steamy hot scenes, jampacked with exquisitely rendered emotion and feeling!
I absolutely loved it and highly recommend it to any and all readers out there in search for a gripping and addictive read.
Happy reading everyone
and
'listen to your heart'
It picks up straight from the end of book 1 and starts not only amping up the pace but also upping the tension.
The plot thickens and emotions run high, while the characters develop right in front of our eyes.
Melody needs to keep Dean and The Apex free from her aunt and for that she must escape Coven Bestia. Especially since her aunt is angered by Dean’s continuing absence and wants Melody to return to the compound as soon as possible.
The Academy is a different sort of danger for Melody since not everyone is happy to have her there, especially when she’s bonded to a much-desired member of The Apex. And Melody is forced to juggle the needs of her new familiar, along with the urgings of six more shifters who wish to bond to her, all while dodging a cartload of hexes from her immature classmates and whatever her aunt is planning.
Two dragons, three wolves and a very sweet fox are all focussed on becoming her familiars, but Melody is struggling to adjust to her bond with Dean. Their beasts are urging them to claim her, to bond her, to possess her. But how could Melody do it when claiming them would mean delivering them straight into her aunt's hands? She knows she's their ticket out of the confines of the academy, but only if she manages to escape her own living hell.
Granted a very slim chance to escape her aunt's clutches, Melody is determined to make the best of it. But she'll need all the help her shifters can give to succeed.
Just as beautifully written as book 1, this second instalment allows the reader to get a much bigger and better picture of both world, setting and characters. The feelings are even more intense and the characters' growth and easy banter will make you absolutely adore them. My favourite though are by far Dean and his lion.
"Are you purring?"
"No, but my lion is."
"Big cats don't purr..."
Dean huffed a laugh. "Don't tell me," he chuckled. "Tell the big bozo. He shouldn't be able to do it. It shouldn't be possible, but my whole body starts vibrating once he gets going."
And Mrs Hardinger is still the best!
Only she would be bopping an angry roaring lion threatening to eat her with her finger on the nose. 'She'd take it in her stride, tell him not to be stupid, and then ignore his stupid ass until he calmed down.'
Just as with the first in series, this book could do with a few extra details, but for me, that didn't disrupt the flow of the tale.
Of Magic and Contempt is an absolutely unique and unforgettable tale that will appeal to all dark fantasy fans out there. It has a solid and absolutely intriguing edge of the seat plot, great characters, as well as all the feels! It's a very slow burn romance with no insta love and a few steamy hot scenes, jampacked with exquisitely rendered emotion and feeling!
I absolutely loved it and highly recommend it to any and all readers out there in search for a gripping and addictive read.
Happy reading everyone
and
'listen to your heart'
July 22, 2021
I'm not sure how much actually time passed in this book but I feel like so many things happened. If you enjoyed the first book, be sure to check out this sequel and learn more about Mel and her harem. I am going to try and be vague but please be aware that there are potential spoilers below
-Book pretty much picks up from where we left off in the first with the potential of Asher's bonding.
-The book gives us more POVs from the harem/potential harem members. I really enjoyed learning more about them and seeing things from their perspectives.
-We learn more about the established characters and meet new ones, learn more about Mel's time at the compound, and learn more about the world in general. Some shocking things are revealed in this book and you don't want to miss it!
-More bonds are formed and we finally get a steamy scene in this book but it is still a slow burn. The MC has a past trauma history though so it is expected things will progress at a slower pace.
.
.
.
.
.
.
POTENTIAL SPOILERS below
Things I didn't enjoy (personal preferences, not anything to do with bad writing or anything like that):
-Justin's attitude in this book. I had high hopes for him but I didn't love how he acted in this book.
-In books I prefer my m/m interaction to be hinted at or already established (i.e. already in a relationship or known to be gay/bi-sexual) and one of the characters in the book is revealed to be bi-sexual and it felt super out of no where to me.
-Book pretty much picks up from where we left off in the first with the potential of Asher's bonding.
-The book gives us more POVs from the harem/potential harem members. I really enjoyed learning more about them and seeing things from their perspectives.
-We learn more about the established characters and meet new ones, learn more about Mel's time at the compound, and learn more about the world in general. Some shocking things are revealed in this book and you don't want to miss it!
-More bonds are formed and we finally get a steamy scene in this book but it is still a slow burn. The MC has a past trauma history though so it is expected things will progress at a slower pace.
.
.
.
.
.
.
POTENTIAL SPOILERS below
Things I didn't enjoy (personal preferences, not anything to do with bad writing or anything like that):
-Justin's attitude in this book. I had high hopes for him but I didn't love how he acted in this book.
-In books I prefer my m/m interaction to be hinted at or already established (i.e. already in a relationship or known to be gay/bi-sexual) and one of the characters in the book is revealed to be bi-sexual and it felt super out of no where to me.
May 1, 2024
DNF- Finished 100% of book one & two, & 76% of book three
**Review shared for series**
TLDR; If you can get past the lack of editing the plot is worth it... but only for the first book. Then the plot becomes a repetition of Melody's bonds being broken and her refusing to bond the familiars she feels are "hers".. The relationships become stunted with absolutely no chemistry, the plot holes start to become more frequent, and antagonists become more and more immature in a way that makes the story unbelievable and completely juvenile.
Buckle in.. The reason this review is so long is because this had the potential to be my new favorite series. And I mean #1! I absolutely loved the idea of this series. The execution was lacking HEAVILY.
Characters:
Melody was the perfect traumatized fmc that was slowly growing into her strength.. except when she wasn't? There were so many instances where she became just as cruel and petty as her bullies. Then all of a sudden she would be a mouse again. Her development wasn't that, it was like it was two personalities and you never knew which one you would get in that chapter. Also.. she went from "knowing they are hers" when it came to her familiars/mates, to refusing to bond with them (even though it would offer strength and protection they needed on both sides) because she wanted to feel free.. She became increasingly selfish and annoying as time went on. I actually agreed when Shawna was yelling at Melody about her wanting to be free when the Dragons had spent HUNDREDS of years being imprisoned at the school...
There were similar issues with the men in the harem.
Nick - Dragon 1 - In the beginning I thought he was going to be a quiet leader that helped keep the shifters in line thanks to being a thousand years old.. but it just doesn't feel like he knows or does enough especially considering his age.
Justin -Dragon two - Supposedly this man is also a dragon that is a thousand years old. But he acts like a teenage boy. He refuses to give Melody a choice or time in the decision to bond him, "pretends" to date some girl to save Melody but doesn't tell her so all she sees is him being with another woman. And he is constantly throwing tantrums when he doesn't get his way... but again he is a thousand years old? *insert rolling eye emoji*
Dean - Lion - In the beginning I didn't like him. He made a game out of challenging Melody without even knowing her.. just assuming she would want him and not taking the hint when she literally avoided him for WEEKS? But.. I will say he definitely became my favorite later on. That being said, it was also clear he was Melody's favorite and I don't like that in the harem stories personally.
Ryan and Oz - The two wolves - I am lumping these two together because half of the time they felt like the same character. They both fall into the background a lot. Making it feel like the author bit off more than she could chew.
Trent - Fox/Kitsune - I don't want to be THAT person, but his submissiveness and weakness in the harem just didn't make sense. Which is too bad because I thought he was the best one for Melody (Kitsune alter-ego aside). Also the fact that he had more of a relationship with Nick than Melody just wasn't it for me.
Asher - Younger wolf - Ugh. This man was legit irredeemable, also it made no sense that Melody was his mate after he said "if it's the case of her dying, or me, I choose her." No "mate" would ever say that. Not to mention the fact that he didn't care about Melody as a person, only a witch that could force him to shift. He took away her choice multiple times even after almost causing her death.
Alexander and Nikolai - potential witch mate and his bear familiar (who only bonded him in hopes he would be with Melody when Alex became her mate) - I didn't really end up getting far enough to know them well. But I will say that I was impressed with the devotion and choice that Alexander kept giving Melody. I think the whole bonding thing between the two was a little weird and forced? They literally came out of nowhere and Melody already had her hands full.
Quinn - shifter (I think he is a wolf) - The story would have been better if he ended up with Melody. They had more chemistry then ANY of her mates/familiars. Melody even admitted that she had wished she could bond him so I was really hoping that was the beginning of something great.
Carla - Melody's witch friend - I never liked her. The fact that she flirted with Quinn and offered to be his second choice when it was obvious that he liked Melody was so weird. I wasn't upset about how she acted later on because she was cursed. But that whole plotline never made sense. Y'all are at an academy for witches and no one realized she was cursed? Okay.. And Melody and the guys knew it was a possibility but waited sooooo long to help her when she was one of the people hurting Melody and it had a simple solution... When the mean Provost said "the foolish girl accepted a charm from someone who from all accounts was unfriendly beforehand. She deserved what she got." I totally agreed.
The bitch squad - aka Melody's bullies (specifically Shawna) - typical academy plot, a group of girls wanted the guys that run the school but then this random girl comes (Melody) and gets them all and the girls are pissed. The only difference was that the shit they were doing was super petty most of the time. Most professors just let it all slide which made NO sense, Melody and her guys hardly ever fought back. Literally all of it was so freaking ridiculous. Also the scene where Jaynie runs into the room and drops to her knees so that Justin cums in her mouth? wtf was that scene. And he just kept finishing? She was nuts and this is another example of Justin sucking.
Provost Aer - Her death made no sense. She is supposedly incredibly strong and runs an entire paranormal academy and yet she dies in .2 seconds at the first battle they face? When she knew she was stepping into it? Made 0 sense.
Misc. - random side characters - The way so many of the characters acted was just so immature and annoying. For example a grown ass man that is on the council saying things like "she needs to get out of bed, the lazy bitch!" or "I said now, you fucking bitch, sit up, get up, right now." and then 20 minutes later he is crying at her feet.. Or entire student body would (for example) listen to Justin's speech and be on their side and then the next day everyone avoided or attacked them all again? These are supposedly adults and it just felt like there was no free thinking at the college and everyone was unbelievably (literally) immature. It REALLY took away from the story and made the writing come off juvenile. There were so many other things going on that if you took that out it would have still been interesting and 10000% times better.
The new Provost - literally the most annoying character to date. How did she even get the position when a councilor kept seeing her overstepping her position. Calling a student "slut" and constantly screaming at everyone? Literally made no sense that she (and some of the professors) could act that way. Again, it also REALLY took away from the writing to have so many adults acting like pre-teens.
So many plot holes -
Melody makes up her own spells which Nick makes it seem like a big deal but she only ever says the one spell out loud and it is never mentioned again.
She said she could bond all the apex but then says it's too much.
When people saw her back when Dean ripped her shirt, but no one commented or reacted at all the scars she had.
Asher hanging out/getting close to Shawna and then it is never mentioned again.
Professor Ludwig gave "bad/weird" vibes but then we never see or hear about what that could have been and she literally disappears from the plot.
After she almost dies when the bond is broken between her and Asher someone mentions bringing outside help to break the curses on Melody.. but no one offered that before, knowing that she was being tortured and putting the apex in danger.
Melody forced Justin's shift but didn't bond him? I assumed it was because he didn't challenge her but he also had so it didn't make sense.
The whole explanation in chapter 29 of book two was a plot hole. Dean and Melody redid the bond RIGHT AFTER it was broken. It was Asher that had to wait days in between.
In the third book she starts to be intimate with Trent and says "Men had touched her there before" but earlier in the series she mentions not even having the chance to even touch herself because she was around the shifters and her "innocence" is mentioned often, like the fact she hadn't kissed anyone before the academy?
The Provost forbids Melody from seeing her familiar for 48 hours as punishment, which is never mentioned and never happens.
When Melody loses all her familiar bonds thanks to the goddess wanting to give her "more options.." but right after Melody is talking about feeling what Nick and Justin are feeling through the bond? The bond with Nick was broken and she had never even bonded Justin.
There are other plot holes or things that didn't make sense but those were just the ones I highlighted.
Also.. I am not trying to be rude but when authors use obscure words like "anathema" but then fails at simple grammar it just comes off as trying too hard. It seems unlikely that someone with the knowledge of such obscure language would struggle so much with simple word use and sentence structure.
**Review shared for series**
TLDR; If you can get past the lack of editing the plot is worth it... but only for the first book. Then the plot becomes a repetition of Melody's bonds being broken and her refusing to bond the familiars she feels are "hers".. The relationships become stunted with absolutely no chemistry, the plot holes start to become more frequent, and antagonists become more and more immature in a way that makes the story unbelievable and completely juvenile.
Buckle in.. The reason this review is so long is because this had the potential to be my new favorite series. And I mean #1! I absolutely loved the idea of this series. The execution was lacking HEAVILY.
Characters:
Melody was the perfect traumatized fmc that was slowly growing into her strength.. except when she wasn't? There were so many instances where she became just as cruel and petty as her bullies. Then all of a sudden she would be a mouse again. Her development wasn't that, it was like it was two personalities and you never knew which one you would get in that chapter. Also.. she went from "knowing they are hers" when it came to her familiars/mates, to refusing to bond with them (even though it would offer strength and protection they needed on both sides) because she wanted to feel free.. She became increasingly selfish and annoying as time went on. I actually agreed when Shawna was yelling at Melody about her wanting to be free when the Dragons had spent HUNDREDS of years being imprisoned at the school...
There were similar issues with the men in the harem.
Nick - Dragon 1 - In the beginning I thought he was going to be a quiet leader that helped keep the shifters in line thanks to being a thousand years old.. but it just doesn't feel like he knows or does enough especially considering his age.
Justin -Dragon two - Supposedly this man is also a dragon that is a thousand years old. But he acts like a teenage boy. He refuses to give Melody a choice or time in the decision to bond him, "pretends" to date some girl to save Melody but doesn't tell her so all she sees is him being with another woman. And he is constantly throwing tantrums when he doesn't get his way... but again he is a thousand years old? *insert rolling eye emoji*
Dean - Lion - In the beginning I didn't like him. He made a game out of challenging Melody without even knowing her.. just assuming she would want him and not taking the hint when she literally avoided him for WEEKS? But.. I will say he definitely became my favorite later on. That being said, it was also clear he was Melody's favorite and I don't like that in the harem stories personally.
Ryan and Oz - The two wolves - I am lumping these two together because half of the time they felt like the same character. They both fall into the background a lot. Making it feel like the author bit off more than she could chew.
Trent - Fox/Kitsune - I don't want to be THAT person, but his submissiveness and weakness in the harem just didn't make sense. Which is too bad because I thought he was the best one for Melody (Kitsune alter-ego aside). Also the fact that he had more of a relationship with Nick than Melody just wasn't it for me.
Asher - Younger wolf - Ugh. This man was legit irredeemable, also it made no sense that Melody was his mate after he said "if it's the case of her dying, or me, I choose her." No "mate" would ever say that. Not to mention the fact that he didn't care about Melody as a person, only a witch that could force him to shift. He took away her choice multiple times even after almost causing her death.
Alexander and Nikolai - potential witch mate and his bear familiar (who only bonded him in hopes he would be with Melody when Alex became her mate) - I didn't really end up getting far enough to know them well. But I will say that I was impressed with the devotion and choice that Alexander kept giving Melody. I think the whole bonding thing between the two was a little weird and forced? They literally came out of nowhere and Melody already had her hands full.
Quinn - shifter (I think he is a wolf) - The story would have been better if he ended up with Melody. They had more chemistry then ANY of her mates/familiars. Melody even admitted that she had wished she could bond him so I was really hoping that was the beginning of something great.
Carla - Melody's witch friend - I never liked her. The fact that she flirted with Quinn and offered to be his second choice when it was obvious that he liked Melody was so weird. I wasn't upset about how she acted later on because she was cursed. But that whole plotline never made sense. Y'all are at an academy for witches and no one realized she was cursed? Okay.. And Melody and the guys knew it was a possibility but waited sooooo long to help her when she was one of the people hurting Melody and it had a simple solution... When the mean Provost said "the foolish girl accepted a charm from someone who from all accounts was unfriendly beforehand. She deserved what she got." I totally agreed.
The bitch squad - aka Melody's bullies (specifically Shawna) - typical academy plot, a group of girls wanted the guys that run the school but then this random girl comes (Melody) and gets them all and the girls are pissed. The only difference was that the shit they were doing was super petty most of the time. Most professors just let it all slide which made NO sense, Melody and her guys hardly ever fought back. Literally all of it was so freaking ridiculous. Also the scene where Jaynie runs into the room and drops to her knees so that Justin cums in her mouth? wtf was that scene. And he just kept finishing? She was nuts and this is another example of Justin sucking.
Provost Aer - Her death made no sense. She is supposedly incredibly strong and runs an entire paranormal academy and yet she dies in .2 seconds at the first battle they face? When she knew she was stepping into it? Made 0 sense.
Misc. - random side characters - The way so many of the characters acted was just so immature and annoying. For example a grown ass man that is on the council saying things like "she needs to get out of bed, the lazy bitch!" or "I said now, you fucking bitch, sit up, get up, right now." and then 20 minutes later he is crying at her feet.. Or entire student body would (for example) listen to Justin's speech and be on their side and then the next day everyone avoided or attacked them all again? These are supposedly adults and it just felt like there was no free thinking at the college and everyone was unbelievably (literally) immature. It REALLY took away from the story and made the writing come off juvenile. There were so many other things going on that if you took that out it would have still been interesting and 10000% times better.
The new Provost - literally the most annoying character to date. How did she even get the position when a councilor kept seeing her overstepping her position. Calling a student "slut" and constantly screaming at everyone? Literally made no sense that she (and some of the professors) could act that way. Again, it also REALLY took away from the writing to have so many adults acting like pre-teens.
So many plot holes -
Melody makes up her own spells which Nick makes it seem like a big deal but she only ever says the one spell out loud and it is never mentioned again.
She said she could bond all the apex but then says it's too much.
When people saw her back when Dean ripped her shirt, but no one commented or reacted at all the scars she had.
Asher hanging out/getting close to Shawna and then it is never mentioned again.
Professor Ludwig gave "bad/weird" vibes but then we never see or hear about what that could have been and she literally disappears from the plot.
After she almost dies when the bond is broken between her and Asher someone mentions bringing outside help to break the curses on Melody.. but no one offered that before, knowing that she was being tortured and putting the apex in danger.
Melody forced Justin's shift but didn't bond him? I assumed it was because he didn't challenge her but he also had so it didn't make sense.
The whole explanation in chapter 29 of book two was a plot hole. Dean and Melody redid the bond RIGHT AFTER it was broken. It was Asher that had to wait days in between.
In the third book she starts to be intimate with Trent and says "Men had touched her there before" but earlier in the series she mentions not even having the chance to even touch herself because she was around the shifters and her "innocence" is mentioned often, like the fact she hadn't kissed anyone before the academy?
The Provost forbids Melody from seeing her familiar for 48 hours as punishment, which is never mentioned and never happens.
When Melody loses all her familiar bonds thanks to the goddess wanting to give her "more options.." but right after Melody is talking about feeling what Nick and Justin are feeling through the bond? The bond with Nick was broken and she had never even bonded Justin.
There are other plot holes or things that didn't make sense but those were just the ones I highlighted.
Also.. I am not trying to be rude but when authors use obscure words like "anathema" but then fails at simple grammar it just comes off as trying too hard. It seems unlikely that someone with the knowledge of such obscure language would struggle so much with simple word use and sentence structure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2021
Held in Contempt is book two in the Of Magic and Contempt series. I love Beneath Contempt and was so excited to read this one. This one picks up where the first one left off so you must read Beneath Contempt first. Melody is still studying hard and dealing with Dean, Ryan, Oz, Nick, and Justin, as well as Trent, Asher. Melody is a super powerful and strong witch and in this one, some are just realizing how powerful she is. The Coven Bestia and her Aunt are making a lot of trouble in this one. I felt like in this one some characters got more time than others. At different times I went back and forth with liking and not liking Justin and Asher. There's a lot more suspense and drama in this one. I hooked on this series and can't wait for the third book to come out.
January 5, 2024
Una serie con una trama molto interessante, ma sviluppata in maniera decisamente mediocre.
Tutto quello che non mi è piaciuto nel libro precedente è stato riproposto in questo.
Altre cose non mi erano piaciute ma mi ero riservata di giudicarle in seguito perché c'erano delle attenuanti, ebbene, anche quelle sono rientrate nelle cose che non mi sono piaciute definitivamente in questo libro.
La protagonista ad esempio, dopo che le sono stati tolti tutti i sigilli e le maledizioni è rimasta la cosina moscia del primo libro, una Mary Sue insopportabile.
Sono molto tentata di non finire questa serie, proverò a leggere il terzo libro per vedere come va, ma sono molto delusa.
Tutto quello che non mi è piaciuto nel libro precedente è stato riproposto in questo.
Altre cose non mi erano piaciute ma mi ero riservata di giudicarle in seguito perché c'erano delle attenuanti, ebbene, anche quelle sono rientrate nelle cose che non mi sono piaciute definitivamente in questo libro.
La protagonista ad esempio, dopo che le sono stati tolti tutti i sigilli e le maledizioni è rimasta la cosina moscia del primo libro, una Mary Sue insopportabile.
Sono molto tentata di non finire questa serie, proverò a leggere il terzo libro per vedere come va, ma sono molto delusa.
February 21, 2021
I am really loving this series. Melody is such a fierce character and I love seeing her explore her freedom. I really loved the new side to Trent, and we get a few answers to things that seemed like holes in book 1. Asher redeemed himself a little, but the campus is still out to get Melody and Justin is taking his turn at being an idiot, although I do feel for him. I can’t wait to see what happens next - I’m kind of sad there is only one book left in Melody’s story...I need it now!
February 17, 2021
More than 5 stars worthy! This book was everything hoped for after the first book. All the feels and plenty of action too. The world building continues to be outstanding and the character development is deep and profound. There’s even some steam to balance things out.
Melody is a stunning FMC and pulls your support and empathy. Her mates and potential mates are cool and meaningful characters that have their own pull. The drama of the plot is heart wrenching and beautifully written. The intrigue and bad guys are believable and well done as well.
There’s nothing lacking in this book or this series. The first book was one of my favorites of the year and this one has ranked right up there alongside it. Highly recommended.
Melody is a stunning FMC and pulls your support and empathy. Her mates and potential mates are cool and meaningful characters that have their own pull. The drama of the plot is heart wrenching and beautifully written. The intrigue and bad guys are believable and well done as well.
There’s nothing lacking in this book or this series. The first book was one of my favorites of the year and this one has ranked right up there alongside it. Highly recommended.
February 21, 2021
Can't wait for the next one
Great book. Very plot focused and only slow in a few places. The relationships mostly feel organic, which gets you more invested in the characters. Glad that the FMC is shows a little backbone. Most books that have a FMC that grew up isolated are very cowering and barely speak up.
Great book. Very plot focused and only slow in a few places. The relationships mostly feel organic, which gets you more invested in the characters. Glad that the FMC is shows a little backbone. Most books that have a FMC that grew up isolated are very cowering and barely speak up.
February 21, 2021
I read this book in one sitting until 6 am, good thing I could sleep in till noon afterward.
I did wait impatiently for this one after reading the first book. I wasn't even excited for past or future sex encounters with her numerous suitors. I just wanted to know what happens with her curses and I wanted to see a way out of her predicament.
So by some great sacrifices, she lets Asher challenge her and gets him, then in a nick of time she manages to refuse her aunt's claim on her only to be attacked severely several times by the same shifters she herself enslaved and took care of. She has some great experience with Trent who also becomes hers and then we understand he is bi, and we are also treated to a scene where Trent's kitsune makes out with Nick (is he bi?) while his dragon has been feverish with want. She ends with new enemies, and 5 claimed shifters by the end.
I'm only sorry that the book finished way too early, we have only one book left and so much more to experience. And I have to wait two more months for book 3.
I did wait impatiently for this one after reading the first book. I wasn't even excited for past or future sex encounters with her numerous suitors. I just wanted to know what happens with her curses and I wanted to see a way out of her predicament.
So by some great sacrifices, she lets Asher challenge her and gets him, then in a nick of time she manages to refuse her aunt's claim on her only to be attacked severely several times by the same shifters she herself enslaved and took care of. She has some great experience with Trent who also becomes hers and then we understand he is bi, and we are also treated to a scene where Trent's kitsune makes out with Nick (is he bi?) while his dragon has been feverish with want. She ends with new enemies, and 5 claimed shifters by the end.
I'm only sorry that the book finished way too early, we have only one book left and so much more to experience. And I have to wait two more months for book 3.
July 4, 2023
Romance:
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Ratings - completed series:
#1 Beneath Contempt: ★★★★☆
#2 Held in Contempt: ★★★★☆
#3 Civil Contempt: ★★★☆☆
#4 Breeding Contempt: ★★★☆☆
#5 Surviving Contempt: ★☆☆☆☆ / DNF
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Ratings - completed series:
#1 Beneath Contempt: ★★★★☆
#2 Held in Contempt: ★★★★☆
#3 Civil Contempt: ★★★☆☆
#4 Breeding Contempt: ★★★☆☆
#5 Surviving Contempt: ★☆☆☆☆ / DNF
June 14, 2022
Why did you read this book?
I liked the first book of the series and wanted to see read more.
What format did you read this book in?
Read it as an ebook on Kindle.
Is this an educational book or a book for entertainment?
I read this book for pure entertainment purposes.
What genres do you think this book belongs to?
Crime, Fantasy, Gay and Lesbian, Horror, Paranormal, Psychology, Romance, Adult
What was your favorite part in the book?
I didn’t like this book as much as the first and I can’t say that I had a favorite scene… I did like that they figured out Carla was being mind controlled.
Who would you suggest this book to?
Anyone who likes HEAVY drama and dark themes in their RH romances.
What is your general opinion/ rating of this book? Spoilers
Groan… The drama in the 2nd book reminds me of a soap opera mixed with dark fantasy. The bullying and lack of intervention from those in charge made reading most of the story annoying. I feel like the author wanted every horrible thing ever to happen to he heroine with very little to not intervention. It’s too bad because the repeated bullying of the heroine for the whole book turned me off the series. I tolerate some bullying to further the story, but that’s all this book is about! Sadly, even though slow burn romances are my favorite, it wasn’t enough to make me stay.
Are there any cliché scenes or concepts?
So many… Mean girls bullying the heroine. Most of the adults/teacher not doing anything to help or stop the abuse. The love interests being the main characters mate, thus wanting to marry/make babies with her.
How intense are the intimacy scenes?
Not intense, except for one scene where the MC goes to 2nd base with Trent. Then there was a spicy make out scene with Trent, Nick, and the main character.
At what “burn” level is the romance?
This one was low-medium burn. There was only one spicy scene that didn’t go past 2nd base.
Love interests, how many of them are there and what gender? Spoilers!
There are 7 love interests, all male. Trent the dual fox and kitsune shifter. Dean the alpha lion shifter. Asher, Ryan, and Oz alpha wolf shifters. Justin and Nick alpha dragon shifters.
Any trigger warnings?
Racial and Religious: Racism, Racial Profiling, Slavery, Talk of Superior Race, Police Brutality(?), Microaggressions, Prejudice,
Mental Health: Scars, PTSD, Emotional Abuse, Guardians Parents, Panic Attacks, Trauma, Nightmares about Traumatic Events, Non-consent behavior
Disabilities: Detailed Medical Talk, Paralyzed,
Sexual Content: Explicit Sexual Scene, Sexual Predator, Sexual Abuse, Human Trafficking, Sex Slaves, Sexual Assault(?)
Violence and Death: Death, Death of a Loved One, Animal Death(?), Graphic Deaths, Mass Death, Murder, Execution, Decapitation, Burning People, Gore, Torture, Threatening baby/child, Violence against Children, Child Abuse, Physical Abuse, Described Blood, Graphic Violence,
Other: Slut Shaming, Body Shaming,
I liked the first book of the series and wanted to see read more.
What format did you read this book in?
Read it as an ebook on Kindle.
Is this an educational book or a book for entertainment?
I read this book for pure entertainment purposes.
What genres do you think this book belongs to?
Crime, Fantasy, Gay and Lesbian, Horror, Paranormal, Psychology, Romance, Adult
What was your favorite part in the book?
I didn’t like this book as much as the first and I can’t say that I had a favorite scene… I did like that they figured out Carla was being mind controlled.
Who would you suggest this book to?
Anyone who likes HEAVY drama and dark themes in their RH romances.
What is your general opinion/ rating of this book? Spoilers
Groan… The drama in the 2nd book reminds me of a soap opera mixed with dark fantasy. The bullying and lack of intervention from those in charge made reading most of the story annoying. I feel like the author wanted every horrible thing ever to happen to he heroine with very little to not intervention. It’s too bad because the repeated bullying of the heroine for the whole book turned me off the series. I tolerate some bullying to further the story, but that’s all this book is about! Sadly, even though slow burn romances are my favorite, it wasn’t enough to make me stay.
Are there any cliché scenes or concepts?
So many… Mean girls bullying the heroine. Most of the adults/teacher not doing anything to help or stop the abuse. The love interests being the main characters mate, thus wanting to marry/make babies with her.
How intense are the intimacy scenes?
Not intense, except for one scene where the MC goes to 2nd base with Trent. Then there was a spicy make out scene with Trent, Nick, and the main character.
At what “burn” level is the romance?
This one was low-medium burn. There was only one spicy scene that didn’t go past 2nd base.
Love interests, how many of them are there and what gender? Spoilers!
There are 7 love interests, all male. Trent the dual fox and kitsune shifter. Dean the alpha lion shifter. Asher, Ryan, and Oz alpha wolf shifters. Justin and Nick alpha dragon shifters.
Any trigger warnings?
Racial and Religious: Racism, Racial Profiling, Slavery, Talk of Superior Race, Police Brutality(?), Microaggressions, Prejudice,
Mental Health: Scars, PTSD, Emotional Abuse, Guardians Parents, Panic Attacks, Trauma, Nightmares about Traumatic Events, Non-consent behavior
Disabilities: Detailed Medical Talk, Paralyzed,
Sexual Content: Explicit Sexual Scene, Sexual Predator, Sexual Abuse, Human Trafficking, Sex Slaves, Sexual Assault(?)
Violence and Death: Death, Death of a Loved One, Animal Death(?), Graphic Deaths, Mass Death, Murder, Execution, Decapitation, Burning People, Gore, Torture, Threatening baby/child, Violence against Children, Child Abuse, Physical Abuse, Described Blood, Graphic Violence,
Other: Slut Shaming, Body Shaming,
June 13, 2024
I tried to keep reading but the issue from the first book are still here and the plot is not as tense for me to want to drudge through them. The main issue is the way this author makes most of the characters over the top assholes.
Women especially, of course, but that is the usual for these types of books. The heroine had one female friend for a moment in the beginning of the first book but she was quickly taken in by the crazy bitchy clique. It is implied she has been coerced magically to turn against the heroine but that plot point is just not moving anywhere fast enough, meaning, there isn’t one girl in the whole school who doesn’t think the heroine is a lying whore. For real, it’s that extreme.
In fact, not one student outside her coven does anything but try to attack her and bully her or avoid her. That’s just ridiculous.
There are even a couple guys in her coven that are not good either. One of them in particular was willing for her to die to be free when he found out how dangerous her situation is and another one went over to the main evil clique girls side for a time with a dumb plan that put the heroine in danger. When he returned to explain the clusterfuck he caused he was focused on running away too. Who needs such pathetic people in their harem? But the author thinks it’s alright if they feel bad and guilty and all is well if now they bring a blanket to take care of her.
This characterization problem extends to adults too. A counselor of some sort came to investigate what happened in the last book and he barged into her room where she was recovering in bed after almost dying like this:
”I’m Councillor Argrum, from the American Council of Witches, and I will not be put off any longer. You have ten seconds to get out of that bed before I arrest you for high treason!” he yelled. “But I’m …” “I said now, you fucking bitch, sit up, get up, right now.”
Ummmm… what? This is not the actual villains of this book, this is just a side character coming in with such heat. After hearing her account he apologized.
”Melody, I can see that I was wrong, and for that I offer my profound apologies and my sincerest condolences. […]” He cleared his throat uncomfortably and shifted in his chair.”
The author seems to think that such behavior can be looked past without addressing the insanity of it. Now we’re supposed to see him as a good guy on the heroines side but I can’t move past it. Same with the harem members. Same with the students and her ex friend. I see nothing but more extreme clumsy melodrama in this series’ future and I’m not up for it.
The initial setup in the first book was interesting though, so maybe it’s still worth a read. See how far you can get before becoming too annoyed 😂
Women especially, of course, but that is the usual for these types of books. The heroine had one female friend for a moment in the beginning of the first book but she was quickly taken in by the crazy bitchy clique. It is implied she has been coerced magically to turn against the heroine but that plot point is just not moving anywhere fast enough, meaning, there isn’t one girl in the whole school who doesn’t think the heroine is a lying whore. For real, it’s that extreme.
In fact, not one student outside her coven does anything but try to attack her and bully her or avoid her. That’s just ridiculous.
There are even a couple guys in her coven that are not good either. One of them in particular was willing for her to die to be free when he found out how dangerous her situation is and another one went over to the main evil clique girls side for a time with a dumb plan that put the heroine in danger. When he returned to explain the clusterfuck he caused he was focused on running away too. Who needs such pathetic people in their harem? But the author thinks it’s alright if they feel bad and guilty and all is well if now they bring a blanket to take care of her.
This characterization problem extends to adults too. A counselor of some sort came to investigate what happened in the last book and he barged into her room where she was recovering in bed after almost dying like this:
”I’m Councillor Argrum, from the American Council of Witches, and I will not be put off any longer. You have ten seconds to get out of that bed before I arrest you for high treason!” he yelled. “But I’m …” “I said now, you fucking bitch, sit up, get up, right now.”
Ummmm… what? This is not the actual villains of this book, this is just a side character coming in with such heat. After hearing her account he apologized.
”Melody, I can see that I was wrong, and for that I offer my profound apologies and my sincerest condolences. […]” He cleared his throat uncomfortably and shifted in his chair.”
The author seems to think that such behavior can be looked past without addressing the insanity of it. Now we’re supposed to see him as a good guy on the heroines side but I can’t move past it. Same with the harem members. Same with the students and her ex friend. I see nothing but more extreme clumsy melodrama in this series’ future and I’m not up for it.
The initial setup in the first book was interesting though, so maybe it’s still worth a read. See how far you can get before becoming too annoyed 😂
February 28, 2021
I just keep falling in love with this series. Jade Thorn has this way of capturing my attention with the characters she creates every. Single. Time. If the first book got to you with all of the trauma and heartache that Melody experienced, just wait for this one. I know I teared up multiple times while reading. It is such an emotional read and it is so easy to connect with these characters in what they are experiencing.
Melody seems to thrive as this series continues despite having everything that could possibly go wrong, go wrong. The best thing about her is that even with everything going against her, she stays strong and still stands up for what she believes, trying to protect those who deserve it even when they have no idea she is doing it. You see her character grow as she gains a freedom she once thought impossible to have. She starts to be more vocal with her needs and her thoughts whereas at the coven she would be punished for speaking or acting out. It was refreshing to see her come into her own and be able to start to flourish.
And the guys. They are pretty perfect. I love seeing their point of view of what is going on and how they acknowledge their feelings for Melody. They are so protective, loyal, and determined to help her even when they know how bad of a situation she is in. Justin is questionable right now, but I think he'll smarten up in the next book, especially when he sees Melody be more accepting of the bonds. He's got a lot of work ahead of him to get to where he needs to be though.
This series has been so crazy with everything going on. It was one thing after the other and just when you think things will settle down for the characters, they get a little bit crazier than before. A good crazy. Well bad for them, good for the reader. There were some things that I predicted would happen and a bunch of other things that totally blew me away. Jade Thorn has an amazing mind to create stories like this. I'm excited to see what she has in store for the third book.
Melody seems to thrive as this series continues despite having everything that could possibly go wrong, go wrong. The best thing about her is that even with everything going against her, she stays strong and still stands up for what she believes, trying to protect those who deserve it even when they have no idea she is doing it. You see her character grow as she gains a freedom she once thought impossible to have. She starts to be more vocal with her needs and her thoughts whereas at the coven she would be punished for speaking or acting out. It was refreshing to see her come into her own and be able to start to flourish.
And the guys. They are pretty perfect. I love seeing their point of view of what is going on and how they acknowledge their feelings for Melody. They are so protective, loyal, and determined to help her even when they know how bad of a situation she is in. Justin is questionable right now, but I think he'll smarten up in the next book, especially when he sees Melody be more accepting of the bonds. He's got a lot of work ahead of him to get to where he needs to be though.
This series has been so crazy with everything going on. It was one thing after the other and just when you think things will settle down for the characters, they get a little bit crazier than before. A good crazy. Well bad for them, good for the reader. There were some things that I predicted would happen and a bunch of other things that totally blew me away. Jade Thorn has an amazing mind to create stories like this. I'm excited to see what she has in store for the third book.
February 21, 2021
So I have to admit that I’m falling in love with the series at this point. I’m not usually a fan of slow-burn books but believe me the plot more than makes up for it. You can feel all of the emotions pouring out of the characters that you can’t help but get invested and intrigued in where their journey might take you. I was in tears at some times because what Melody has gone through pulls at the heart strings and you can feel her pain through the pages.
I’ll start off with telling y’all everything I loved about it. Firstly, I’m so glad to see Melody not so much grow a backbone (since we get glimpses of it in the 1st book) but finally be able to show us it while also confidentially stepping into her personality. The twists and turns kept my attention fixed on the story. This book also shows more POV’s of Melody’s harem which sheds some light on their personalities and thought processes. And while her guys might not have traditional labels (ie. Nerdy, broody, playful) associated with them, it makes figuring out the their roles all the more interesting.
Now for the cons, while reading I did feel that some parts were rushed more than they needed to be. I feel like this would make a better 4 book series rather than a trilogy just because there is so much action and we could see the bonds of the guys drawn out or developed more than they have at this point in the series. And while the bonds are by no means forced I just feel like they could be more! I felt Melody likely needed a little bit of a lull in the action for a chapter or two. To be honest I felt her anxiety through the page (it’s also a compliment to how well written the book is) and just the need for her to have a break.
All in all, it’s a magnificent read and I’d recommend to anyone who asked me for a paranormal RH read. I look forward to seeing how everything plays out for Melody and her bonded in the next book. I’ll literally be counting down the days until it comes out!
I’ll start off with telling y’all everything I loved about it. Firstly, I’m so glad to see Melody not so much grow a backbone (since we get glimpses of it in the 1st book) but finally be able to show us it while also confidentially stepping into her personality. The twists and turns kept my attention fixed on the story. This book also shows more POV’s of Melody’s harem which sheds some light on their personalities and thought processes. And while her guys might not have traditional labels (ie. Nerdy, broody, playful) associated with them, it makes figuring out the their roles all the more interesting.
Now for the cons, while reading I did feel that some parts were rushed more than they needed to be. I feel like this would make a better 4 book series rather than a trilogy just because there is so much action and we could see the bonds of the guys drawn out or developed more than they have at this point in the series. And while the bonds are by no means forced I just feel like they could be more! I felt Melody likely needed a little bit of a lull in the action for a chapter or two. To be honest I felt her anxiety through the page (it’s also a compliment to how well written the book is) and just the need for her to have a break.
All in all, it’s a magnificent read and I’d recommend to anyone who asked me for a paranormal RH read. I look forward to seeing how everything plays out for Melody and her bonded in the next book. I’ll literally be counting down the days until it comes out!
February 28, 2021
Unbelievable. Wow. I can’t even tell you how much I loved this book.
After book 1 ended I was hooked. I needed answers, I needed more Apex, I needed more words on paper because I absolutely loved these characters so much! Going into this one I savored every single word. I absorbed every single moment between Mel and Dean. I loved for every single glance, touch, and second of sexual tension between Mel and her shifters. Five stars is not nearly enough. Saying that I loved this book does not do this book justice. If you love dark PNR RH you MUST read this series! It has everything your heart craves and everything you never knew you needed. In this story Mel is in big trouble. She’s gaining shifter bonds at a rapid pace and the trouble with her coven is only growing stronger. You will be on the edge of your seat the entire time! The more clues you get the more questions you have. Loyalties are tested and bonds are put to the test in this book as Melody’s Aunt G is determined to get what she wants.
Now it’s not just Mel who is in trouble. Can she save all the people she cares about when she can’t even save herself? Again these characters continue to develop. You see Nick and Justin more in this book and wow! Shocking! I love them and I love each shifter and how they battle to bond with her but are always there to protect her. Once again I am dying for book 3 now. I can’t wait! I need it. Read this series but beware.. You will become addicted and you will devour these books and become so emotionally attached to these characters. Buckle up, it’s a bumpy ride.
After book 1 ended I was hooked. I needed answers, I needed more Apex, I needed more words on paper because I absolutely loved these characters so much! Going into this one I savored every single word. I absorbed every single moment between Mel and Dean. I loved for every single glance, touch, and second of sexual tension between Mel and her shifters. Five stars is not nearly enough. Saying that I loved this book does not do this book justice. If you love dark PNR RH you MUST read this series! It has everything your heart craves and everything you never knew you needed. In this story Mel is in big trouble. She’s gaining shifter bonds at a rapid pace and the trouble with her coven is only growing stronger. You will be on the edge of your seat the entire time! The more clues you get the more questions you have. Loyalties are tested and bonds are put to the test in this book as Melody’s Aunt G is determined to get what she wants.
Now it’s not just Mel who is in trouble. Can she save all the people she cares about when she can’t even save herself? Again these characters continue to develop. You see Nick and Justin more in this book and wow! Shocking! I love them and I love each shifter and how they battle to bond with her but are always there to protect her. Once again I am dying for book 3 now. I can’t wait! I need it. Read this series but beware.. You will become addicted and you will devour these books and become so emotionally attached to these characters. Buckle up, it’s a bumpy ride.
March 3, 2021
Melody Bestia is struggling to adapt to her bond with her new familiar, Dean the alpha lion. Since Mel has never been allowed to keep a familiar longer than an hour, it is definitely a new experience for her. But her spiteful Aunt Georgia is angry that she’s been avoiding the compound, and is determined for Dean to swear his fealty to her. To top it off, she now has six other shifters who want to bond to her. Melody is desperate to save them all, especially since she can no longer save Dean, who she’s desperately trying (and failing) not to get attacked to. The rest of the Apex, along with a sweet and kind fox named Trent and an obnoxious alpha wolf named Asher, are trying their hardest to give Melody the space she needs. But it’s hard when their beasts are pining for her, and Melody can hear their cries. Along with this, Melody must deal with catty classmates who try to hex and sabotage her. Will Melody’s sanity finally break? Or will she let go and learn to lean more on her shifters, even if she hasn’t bonded them yet? Find out in “Held in Contempt,” the stunning second book in the Of Magic and Contempt series by Jade Thorn!
This book was just as amazing as the first one! Melody’s confidence grows and she learns to lean on her shifters. I did want to slap Justin sometimes, but he redeemed himself in the end. I absolutely loved shifters Nick the dragon and Trent the fox in this one, I think we got to see Trent’s more dominant side and Nick’s sweet side. I cannot wait for book 3!
I received a free copy of this book from the author, and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was just as amazing as the first one! Melody’s confidence grows and she learns to lean on her shifters. I did want to slap Justin sometimes, but he redeemed himself in the end. I absolutely loved shifters Nick the dragon and Trent the fox in this one, I think we got to see Trent’s more dominant side and Nick’s sweet side. I cannot wait for book 3!
I received a free copy of this book from the author, and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2021
I thought book one was good, this one blew it out of the water. WOW. There was so much happening in this book. I could not put it down. We now see Melody coming out of her shell and finally being herself. And wow, her guys are amazing. We see some new personalities and developments between them and I was there for it..But wow there was so much that happened at the school. They are having to really fight for their livelihood and they are put in such difficult situations. I loved how Trent has progressed with his shifter, that was so amazing (you just have to read to find out), It was so sexy. All in all I know that she is taking the time to realize what she wants but of course for me Im just wanting them to progress physically and emotionally. All of her guys are so protective and I just love that..Her Aunt makes a move in this book and it was so hard and difficult and she is just insane. This book had so much action and it was sad and it was happy and it was devastating all at the same time. I wanted to be happy for her but yet other things I cried about. I don't want to spoil it and with this just one saying one thing may spoil it..All in all this 2nd book tore me apart. I cried a lot in this book. With happiness, sadness, madness, I wanted her to just bond with them all but I know its a process and I cant wait to find out what happens next...I read this one so fast and now im like I NEED MORE>..SO very good
April 29, 2022
Wow!
I don’t know what to feel. I suspected many things that played out the way I thought. There was a Lot of talking… the fmc started off as very naive in the first book, and she’s barely made any progress emotionally. She’s ephathic too many snivelling lil jerks who followed by example the nastiest of women. Shawna needs a good kick in the a$$. She’s the bane of thr fmc existence there. The fmc just gets kicked when she’s down, buried 1000ft below the surface while dumping a weeks worth of academy piss on her grave. Then she mentally checks out on ignoring her mens beasts. Sure she just got rid of the hundreds of geasens and she’s got her freedom but being within touching distance, bonding to newer men than some of the originals while flat out rejecting one of the strongest. Without trying to talk to him about it, she didn’t fight for him like she fought multple times for Carla. She’s all sticking up for others but the ones supposed to be hers, she lacks the mate empathy connection. Otherwise, I loved the dif povs, they were evenly spaced. That she found another adult figure that she could confide in like the previous Provost, was a nice touch. Made me feel the warm and fuzzies to see someone without a romantic entanglement stick up for her. I hope she grows more emotionally in the next book. Her men will only help her fly higher if she’s open to taking a risk. After all, she’s at the centre of a coming revolution!
I don’t know what to feel. I suspected many things that played out the way I thought. There was a Lot of talking… the fmc started off as very naive in the first book, and she’s barely made any progress emotionally. She’s ephathic too many snivelling lil jerks who followed by example the nastiest of women. Shawna needs a good kick in the a$$. She’s the bane of thr fmc existence there. The fmc just gets kicked when she’s down, buried 1000ft below the surface while dumping a weeks worth of academy piss on her grave. Then she mentally checks out on ignoring her mens beasts. Sure she just got rid of the hundreds of geasens and she’s got her freedom but being within touching distance, bonding to newer men than some of the originals while flat out rejecting one of the strongest. Without trying to talk to him about it, she didn’t fight for him like she fought multple times for Carla. She’s all sticking up for others but the ones supposed to be hers, she lacks the mate empathy connection. Otherwise, I loved the dif povs, they were evenly spaced. That she found another adult figure that she could confide in like the previous Provost, was a nice touch. Made me feel the warm and fuzzies to see someone without a romantic entanglement stick up for her. I hope she grows more emotionally in the next book. Her men will only help her fly higher if she’s open to taking a risk. After all, she’s at the centre of a coming revolution!
February 21, 2021
Worth the wait
I've been waiting for book 2 to come out since reading book 1. So far I'm enjoying the series due to the uniqueness of it compared to many others in this genre. To be honest, it's so different that it's a little challenging to get one's head around this particular world.
The first book was intense, and this book was no different. Once again, the heroine's life is at risk while she has to deal with so much maliciousness from so many sources. I did feel that Justin was dealt with a little unfairly, but of course he handles that badly and of course that adds to the drama and we wait to see how he fares in the next book and which side he'll be on initially. Nice little twist about Trent, but there has to be something special there.
The loss of an important character was incredibly sad, followed by the addition of characters determined to cause harm really means that our characters just don't seem to get a break. Glad to we some resolution for Carla's character though.
Dread to see what is planned for book 3, so far away. Interesting to read that there are more planned books with other heroine's post the next book.
I've been waiting for book 2 to come out since reading book 1. So far I'm enjoying the series due to the uniqueness of it compared to many others in this genre. To be honest, it's so different that it's a little challenging to get one's head around this particular world.
The first book was intense, and this book was no different. Once again, the heroine's life is at risk while she has to deal with so much maliciousness from so many sources. I did feel that Justin was dealt with a little unfairly, but of course he handles that badly and of course that adds to the drama and we wait to see how he fares in the next book and which side he'll be on initially. Nice little twist about Trent, but there has to be something special there.
The loss of an important character was incredibly sad, followed by the addition of characters determined to cause harm really means that our characters just don't seem to get a break. Glad to we some resolution for Carla's character though.
Dread to see what is planned for book 3, so far away. Interesting to read that there are more planned books with other heroine's post the next book.
February 21, 2021
That escalated quickly
I tend to not be a fan of slow burns... BUT... woah. I am honestly hating that this is a trilogy, cause me wants more of Melody & the Apex crew
So many allies and enemies revealed. So much growth that has taken place and that still has to take place.
Melody has been hit with one thing after another for 20 years. It is amazing seeing her come into her own and not letting others step on her after all the things she's been through.
There are so many things revolving the guys that it is comical the order they end up bonded to her and why. And those tidbits about Trent. .... Was not expecting that *fans cheeks & cackles* I'd love a bonus scene of the cursing that happened when she threatened the snark inside Trent. Ha!
Honestly can we just get a fourth and fifth book where we get all the fun stuff and they get to be free *sigh* Melody just needs some good loving. in the words of Mrs. Hardinger, relieve some mutual tension but ducking
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
We all need a teacher/counselor/friend like her.
I tend to not be a fan of slow burns... BUT... woah. I am honestly hating that this is a trilogy, cause me wants more of Melody & the Apex crew
So many allies and enemies revealed. So much growth that has taken place and that still has to take place.
Melody has been hit with one thing after another for 20 years. It is amazing seeing her come into her own and not letting others step on her after all the things she's been through.
There are so many things revolving the guys that it is comical the order they end up bonded to her and why. And those tidbits about Trent. .... Was not expecting that *fans cheeks & cackles* I'd love a bonus scene of the cursing that happened when she threatened the snark inside Trent. Ha!
Honestly can we just get a fourth and fifth book where we get all the fun stuff and they get to be free *sigh* Melody just needs some good loving. in the words of Mrs. Hardinger, relieve some mutual tension but ducking
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
We all need a teacher/counselor/friend like her.
February 27, 2021
Wow, that was a roller coaster ride, so much to take in. This book is even better than the first. It is non-stop full of twists, action, fights, and just when you think she might get a break, bam, something else happens that Melody needs to deal with.
I love the world building of this series and I just couldn't put the book down once I started.
Melody is still trapped by her aunt's numerous geas, but now she has allies who are desperately trying to help. The Apex finally start to realise what she has gone through and the restrictions they must work within. She is still dealing with the Academy bullies and their jealous rumours and also the betrayal of her friend.
I loved the slow build of the guys joining as her familiars and possible mates, she wants to have a choice, but sometimes that is taken away.
Melody just breaks my heart, she has gone through so much and yet there is so much more that she needs to overcome, but she has more support and her growing powers.
The ending has me desperately waiting for book 3, I need to know so much!
I love the world building of this series and I just couldn't put the book down once I started.
Melody is still trapped by her aunt's numerous geas, but now she has allies who are desperately trying to help. The Apex finally start to realise what she has gone through and the restrictions they must work within. She is still dealing with the Academy bullies and their jealous rumours and also the betrayal of her friend.
I loved the slow build of the guys joining as her familiars and possible mates, she wants to have a choice, but sometimes that is taken away.
Melody just breaks my heart, she has gone through so much and yet there is so much more that she needs to overcome, but she has more support and her growing powers.
The ending has me desperately waiting for book 3, I need to know so much!
November 12, 2021
I enjoyed most of this book but some things continue to annoy me.
There are big battles, some relationship development although I actually have no clue what any of the characters look like and Asher’s personality is a blank and Dean has been pretty much sidelined. It’s very frustrated that a witch as powerful as Melody keeps fainting even after all the work she’s put in, it’s making me angry every time she does it. Before she was given her freedom she seemed intent to bond all of the shifters and then as soon as she’s free she decides that that’s no longer what she wants, at least not straight away. She should have challenged Shawna way before now and put her in her place and by the time they figured out Carla I didn’t even care anymore. She had been gone from the story for long enough that I had lost interest in her as a character. I get that she’s traumatised but she’s also super powerful. I think it’s about time that more of the power:trauma ratio was levelled out or tipped further in powers favour.
There are big battles, some relationship development although I actually have no clue what any of the characters look like and Asher’s personality is a blank and Dean has been pretty much sidelined. It’s very frustrated that a witch as powerful as Melody keeps fainting even after all the work she’s put in, it’s making me angry every time she does it. Before she was given her freedom she seemed intent to bond all of the shifters and then as soon as she’s free she decides that that’s no longer what she wants, at least not straight away. She should have challenged Shawna way before now and put her in her place and by the time they figured out Carla I didn’t even care anymore. She had been gone from the story for long enough that I had lost interest in her as a character. I get that she’s traumatised but she’s also super powerful. I think it’s about time that more of the power:trauma ratio was levelled out or tipped further in powers favour.
August 24, 2023
Wow what a way to ruin a semi- half decent series.
*Melody NOT IMMEDIATELY BONDING WITH ALL OF THEM THE SECOND SHE WAS FREE FROM BESTIA (dragging it out stupidly even more- makes me not want her with ANY OF them, for THEIR sake at this point. It takes a certain kind of talent to make me despise the main character in book 2)
*Pointless/sudden M/M (IDC IDC IDC that's still cheating! if Trent were a girl in the harem kissing nick, so many would be stark RAVING MAD but have them both be the same gender&it's suddenly a-ok, suddenly hot, suddenly fetishizing bisexuality is all the rage! Not to MENTION- M/M with no warning in a first book... Well, I'll despise you but SUDDEN M/M IN BOOK 2 WHEN I'VE ALREADY INVESTED SO MUCH TIME READING THIS CROCK OF ABSOLUTE BS? THAT MAKES YOU INSTANTLY DIABOLICAL IN MY EYES!)
JFC!
It got so bad I was actively wishing for the ones not bonded to her to abandon her&move away.
I'm done with this series&this author! Cuz who has time to waste on nonsense 😠
*Melody NOT IMMEDIATELY BONDING WITH ALL OF THEM THE SECOND SHE WAS FREE FROM BESTIA (dragging it out stupidly even more- makes me not want her with ANY OF them, for THEIR sake at this point. It takes a certain kind of talent to make me despise the main character in book 2)
*Pointless/sudden M/M (IDC IDC IDC that's still cheating! if Trent were a girl in the harem kissing nick, so many would be stark RAVING MAD but have them both be the same gender&it's suddenly a-ok, suddenly hot, suddenly fetishizing bisexuality is all the rage! Not to MENTION- M/M with no warning in a first book... Well, I'll despise you but SUDDEN M/M IN BOOK 2 WHEN I'VE ALREADY INVESTED SO MUCH TIME READING THIS CROCK OF ABSOLUTE BS? THAT MAKES YOU INSTANTLY DIABOLICAL IN MY EYES!)
JFC!
It got so bad I was actively wishing for the ones not bonded to her to abandon her&move away.
I'm done with this series&this author! Cuz who has time to waste on nonsense 😠
June 19, 2021
A smidge off from perfect
The first 25% is a but of a slog but really picks up after that. This series really pulls at my heart strings and does an exceptional job at fostering a deep rooted hatred of the bad guys.
Its far from perfect but I do think the good parts are exceptional. There are some flaws like plot holes and a few flat characters but its still worth while reading.
In the last book there were many questions left unanswered and some of them were touched on in this book. It by no means explained all of the hinky business from the first book but it was able to smooth it over so the inconsistencies were less glaring.
I have some issues with this series, no doubt, but it's very enjoyable and entertaining as long as you don't focus on the stuff that doesn't quite make total sense. My recommendation is to just roll with it and enjoy the good parts because there are plenty.
The first 25% is a but of a slog but really picks up after that. This series really pulls at my heart strings and does an exceptional job at fostering a deep rooted hatred of the bad guys.
Its far from perfect but I do think the good parts are exceptional. There are some flaws like plot holes and a few flat characters but its still worth while reading.
In the last book there were many questions left unanswered and some of them were touched on in this book. It by no means explained all of the hinky business from the first book but it was able to smooth it over so the inconsistencies were less glaring.
I have some issues with this series, no doubt, but it's very enjoyable and entertaining as long as you don't focus on the stuff that doesn't quite make total sense. My recommendation is to just roll with it and enjoy the good parts because there are plenty.
July 5, 2022
Not Bad
Another decent installment to this series. I still am not sure exactly what the deal is with Shawnna or however she’s spelled it. She’s been there too long. I also dislike how petty and childish everyone is being toward Melody.
The world building with the shifters and covens are not well explained still. I’m still not sure why shifters need witches for their shift, or why they are treated as second class citizens.
Also using editing software will only show misspelled words, not words that are incorrect but spelled correctly. There’s a sentence in which Melody is talking about her coven. But convene is there instead. I’ve highlighted some of these and will post them with my goodreads.
Aside from the editing issues, and the telling style of writing (everything is told), I do enjoy the book. I also hate all the breadcrumbs we can connect but Melody can’t. Overall I do want to see where this is going.
Another decent installment to this series. I still am not sure exactly what the deal is with Shawnna or however she’s spelled it. She’s been there too long. I also dislike how petty and childish everyone is being toward Melody.
The world building with the shifters and covens are not well explained still. I’m still not sure why shifters need witches for their shift, or why they are treated as second class citizens.
Also using editing software will only show misspelled words, not words that are incorrect but spelled correctly. There’s a sentence in which Melody is talking about her coven. But convene is there instead. I’ve highlighted some of these and will post them with my goodreads.
Aside from the editing issues, and the telling style of writing (everything is told), I do enjoy the book. I also hate all the breadcrumbs we can connect but Melody can’t. Overall I do want to see where this is going.
September 30, 2022
Man the amount of times where an adult is the bad guy and the adult is in power and all the other adults around pretend like they can’t do anything about it. The principal has done multiple things that would warrant any institution to fire her on the spot and yet somehow she is still the principal. That’s why I stop reading the stories it’s unrealistic after everything that happened if someone were to I don’t know Expelliarmus her you can’t tell me they wouldn’t be applauded. I’m also a little bit miffed about how she’s treating one of her so cold feet it she shunned him and yelled at him and when someone made the point that they had been waiting for for hundreds of years she’s trying to do and then when she somehow got to the realization she mated the other dragon well still not going to watch the one she picked a fight with about the whole thing a little bit annoying don’t know if I’ll be reading my next book.
February 26, 2021
Wow! This was such an amazing story.
This was such an amazing story, she really didn’t hold back. I really enjoyed every minute of the story. So much depth and character development. I really got a lot of insight into what was going on and could see where things were going. There were definitely some unexpected twists I didn’t anticipate coming and potentially even should have seen coming. It was such a great story. There were a couple of detractors from the story, I feel as if it could of used a more thorough editing. There are definitely some errors that were distracting in the book. Nothing that would make me not want to finish or not want to read the next book, but there are definitely a couple issues there. Overall I absolutely loved the story and will be reading book three.
This was such an amazing story, she really didn’t hold back. I really enjoyed every minute of the story. So much depth and character development. I really got a lot of insight into what was going on and could see where things were going. There were definitely some unexpected twists I didn’t anticipate coming and potentially even should have seen coming. It was such a great story. There were a couple of detractors from the story, I feel as if it could of used a more thorough editing. There are definitely some errors that were distracting in the book. Nothing that would make me not want to finish or not want to read the next book, but there are definitely a couple issues there. Overall I absolutely loved the story and will be reading book three.
February 9, 2022
The 2nd book was better than the first and had more interactions with the guys, but I still didn’t really enjoy it unfortunately.
The guys are mentioned more and we get to know some but now the original 2 are barely there. The book would have been so much better with less men or even more time spent on the male characters cause after 2 books I still know very little about all of them especially Ryan.
Also I don’t understand why Carla was even in either book since she only showed up maybe twice? And then was gone again
Don’t even get me started on Melody, she annoyed me so much in this book. Goes on and on about getting freedom and then she gets it and nothing changes! Other than her STILL refusing the men cause of her “freedom” while she wholes up in the little cottage.
Was missing a lot of parts for me, but glad others enjoyed it!
The guys are mentioned more and we get to know some but now the original 2 are barely there. The book would have been so much better with less men or even more time spent on the male characters cause after 2 books I still know very little about all of them especially Ryan.
Also I don’t understand why Carla was even in either book since she only showed up maybe twice? And then was gone again
Don’t even get me started on Melody, she annoyed me so much in this book. Goes on and on about getting freedom and then she gets it and nothing changes! Other than her STILL refusing the men cause of her “freedom” while she wholes up in the little cottage.
Was missing a lot of parts for me, but glad others enjoyed it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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