Bad Seed

by T.M. Shivener

If you ask October Montgomery, she’d tell you love is for the poor. She is anything but deprived. She lives in her penthouse apartment among the elite in the big city. She uses men the way she uses designer purses. When a new one comes along, she tosses the old one in the trash.

But what will she do when a tragedy leaves her among the poverty-stricken?

Jack Ellis just so happens to live in BFE. Once upon a time, in his teenage years, he was in a boy band. A semi-famous group consisting of him and his brothers. Singing love songs marketed towards teenage girls got old real quick and the group was no longer. With a passion for songwriting, he performs for the patrons at the local winery most every weekend.

But Jack is having a hard time writing anything new. Jack needs a muse.

Contains mature themes and is intended for readers 18+.

Genres: Contemporary

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 4, 2022

Reviews

[Monica Bowling · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get to read this as an ARC instead of impatiently waiting another month for the release. Right out of the gate there were some things totally different than I was expecting based on the teasers and other released information. Full disclosure I may be a little biased and a big fan of the author, but I loved how this book once again had a different feel than all her previous books. I grew up in the same general local areas as the author and it was interesting to recognize some of the real and made up places and things from this book. From names of characters, to locations, to the towns people, several feel like a version of characters from my own life. When I first heard mention of the lyrics and the soundtrack to follow, I thought that was a really unique idea I had not seen before. It just so happens I finished a series recently that did something similar and it was just as cool as I thought it would be. I just wish I could have been listening to these songs as I was reading the book, it would have been perfect. I guess I will save that for my next reading when I get my hands on the hard copy and soundtrack. I'm not one to give teaser so just a few random thoughts: there were definitely a few moments where I thought WTH as with real life, a few scenes made me wanna cry, a few made me mad, many times I laughed out loud, a few key comments were totally swoon worthy, good beats evil again, there were some very steamy adult situations, and one totally epic final line. I waited the whole book for that line and was smiling when it was the very last one, the perfect end.

[Sarah Guzak · Rating 1 out of 5]

Oof I did not like this book. Choppy writing, annoying main characters, weird character dynamics. October’s constant wining just got so old. I felt like the book didn’t have any real resolutions, and the main characters didn’t talk about their bigger problems. They just used sex as a substitute to make everything “better.”

[Leigh Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am quickly falling in love with Shivener's writing style. She is unique, witty, and refreshing. I had no idea what I was getting into when I cracked open Bad Seed, and I was pleasantly surprised. A delightfully original romance without all the mushy stuff.
It took me a while to step in line with October, but that is because she is unlike anyone else. I am not a big romance reader because they are all so predictable and typically end in the same way. However, I was glued to this one till the very last page because October gives you the impression that things are not as they seem. She is all over the place as she tries to find her place in a world she does not belong. You will root for her one minute and roll your eyes at her the next. This is a fun, wild ride that you do not want to miss.

[Katie Canfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jack and October...😍

October is a spoiled rich girl that gets the boot from her normal life in the big city. Shes relocated to a place in Ohio that seems like my hometown, not much going on in it, hours from the nearest big stores, everyone knows everyone. Her dad died, her stepmom is a greedy nightmare, and her real mom has been MIA for the past 5 years.

Jack is from that small town and dating a gorgeous girl...whom he has absolutely zero feelings for. It takes him entirely too long to figure that out and dump her on her corn husk...and she's a stage 5 clinger, so she doesn't go away easily.

October figures out her past with men, straightens it out, and figures out what she wants. Jack does the same. And the story their pats take is heartwarming and frustrating.

I love them to bits and hope there's another book so I get to revisit some of the same characters!

[Heather Rollins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so appreciative and flattered to receive an ARC ebook from the author because I really wanted to read this one and deliver an honest review.

First impression is that beautiful cover art. What a lovely, inviting photo.

I went into the story blind, only knowing it was going to be some type of love story with an underlying musical theme and with a little bit of spice.

What I loved:
•the winery setting
•the fast friendship between Leela and October
•the chicken (poor Gurdy)
•poetical lyrics

What I would have liked more of:
•character development
•deeper conversations
•more backstories

Although we got to know these characters a little bit, I still didn't feel deeply connected the way that I really want to in a love story.

It was an easy read though that I enjoyed, so I'm giving it 4 stars.

[Raven Lynn Spalding · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely brilliant one of the best contemporary romance novels I've ever read it was funny (one part had me in tears) and extreme lovable characters. Shiveners writing is excellent and flows with ease and makes you want to keep reading and reading! Shivener has a real knack for hooking you on the storyline and the characters both! I feel like they were actually friends of mine in real life and im going to sorely miss them!!!! This book made me feel all the feels happy mad frustrated steamy hot feeling and lovable feelings! This writer is going to make it BIG if she continues to write books as brilliant and well put together as this one is!!! I highly highly recommend this book

[Jennifer A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved this story & the characters!

I loved this story and fell in love with the characters. I really hated how superficial October was at the beginning of the book. The way she grew and faced her challenges in her new life humanized her and made me root for her. The ups and downs throughout the story had me unable to put this book down! I read it in a day. I especially loved “
When “Nurse Tanji” made a cameo appearance- I was smiling at that little gem.
Thank you for a great read!! I’m already looking forward to reading the next book Tanji writes 🤩

[Rachel Slusher · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author has done another fantastic job with this one! I love the writing by this author; every novel is unique. I don’t even know where to begin with this review. I’m sad the book is over! I felt transported into the story and found this to be a quick read. I didn’t want to like the main character but couldn’t help it once getting to know her. The friendships and relationships were well developed and left me wanting more when forced to take a break from reading. Music, romance, friendships, family drama, humor…I highly recommend!

*Warning- Steamy scenes 🔥❤️

[Toni H · Rating 5 out of 5]

The character development was great! I felt like I got to know Jack and October fairly quickly - and yet at the same time discovering more as the story unfolded.

I found myself wanting to read often, but work kept getting in my way!

From the first page to the last, the way the author writes drew me in and kept my attention! It had spice, romance, humor.. what more could you ask for?

Pick this book up and read it right away!

[Sharlene Dilks · Rating 5 out of 5]

A super sweet and spicy book that I devoured! The main character October I was a little unsure about in the beginning but quickly loved how much she grew in the book. Every time I read a TM shivener book it feels like I am hanging out with friends. Her books feel like HOME! ☺️ thank you for an advanced readers copy for an honest review!

[Ariel · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I didn’t read a “blurb” and went into this head first with no expectations. I love how the characters in Tanji’s stories come to life and you live their stories with them. I don’t want to give away any spoilers but this truly is a story about learning who you are, and finding that it may surprise you at the end of that journey.

[Shileene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! I won it in a raffle and wasn’t sure what to expect, but was pleasantly surprised! I enjoyed the storyline, the characters, the ending and couldn’t put it down. I also appreciated that there weren’t spelling and grammatical errors in the book. I just downloaded another book of the authors and am excited to read it also. I’m glad to have found a new author to add to my list of likes!

[Christina's Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an absolutely hilarious, thoroughly entertaining romcom that addresses some serious issues too! It had me enthralled in the 1st chapter! A story that proves true love only needs 2 willing hearts. Don't miss out on this one!

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a pretty fun book to read.
October was fun as she learned to be properly poor. Jack was fun as he learned more about October.
The book could have gone deeper in Jack's growing feelings.

I loved her pet chicken, Gurdy.

Very entertaining!!

[Angelika Freeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow wow wow

She has done it again! She has swept me right off my feet! What a great read! This book had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what was going to happen next!!!! Love the style of writing from this author!!! Great job!!!

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

So incredible! I love Tanjis writing style and loves she uses real life feelings and scenarios and doesn’t make it so bizarre and un relatable to normal people. Love that nurse Tanji makes an appearance!

[ShaylaDenise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down! October and Jack’s story was so heartwarming and easy to follow. I felt like I was right there with the characters going through the same emotions. A perfect combination of laughter and tears. Truly, a good romance book!

[Christi Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put this book down... stayed up overnight reading. I didn't want to like October because she behaved in ways that I have been jealous of not being the type of person she is. The recklessness way she behaved.. with promiscuity, and entitled, money doesn't matter life style. From page one, this authors way of writing gripped me in and wouldn't let loose. It was unlike any other I've read... I fell in love with the songs and poems in the book. I cried, laughed, became judgemental (what??!??) , envious, happy, sad, disliking who i viewed as a villian... aroused.lol.. just all the roller coaster emotions... .i feel in love with the characters, themselves. Their names, their personalities... the songs/poems... this author is quickly becoming one of my favorites. The creative names and the ability she had to piece together the stories flow seamlessly and has got you craving for more.

[Melinda Palmer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great love story!
I loved the back and forth between October and Jack. And the personal growth that October encountered during the whole book.
Spicy, steamy, all the things!!

[T.M. Shivener]

AVAILABLE NOW

🎶RomCom with real life issues

🎶Forced Proximity

🎶Small town romance

🎶Dual POV

🎶Forbidden Feelings

🎶Original Lyrics written into the story

🌶 Spicy scenes for 18+ readers

[iris muller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly loved this book so much. It was so good.

[Michelle Amico · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book! Once I picked it up it was hard to put down. Recommend to anyone!!

[Caitlyn Savage · Rating 4 out of 5]

I heard really good reviews about this book. It was very well written. This was my first book by this author.

[Florence Nunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good book! Honestly this gave me drive and reverse vibes meet Schitts Creek. It was a great read. It’s got some spice in it and very lovable characters and a perfect ending!

[Caryl Casanova · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an exceptional read! I love the development of characters ♥️♥️♥️

[Katie Holleran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

The story line is fun and exciting and keeps you wanting more. The characters are super relatable and I felt like the story really let me get to know them. Great read!!!

[Hot Mess Book Lover · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent book. Things were a bit drawn out in areas.

[Erica Ezell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book, leaves you wanting to know what Is gonna happen next.

[Manda · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. It was a fun light read however I didnt love the writing. It was just okay to me.

[Angel Lederhause · Rating 5 out of 5]

First I got this book as an ARC for my honest review.
Now I loved this book! I loved Jack and October and some of the other characters. There was one scene in the book I thought was weird but..I wouldn't change it AT ALL.
There are quite a bit of sexy scenes so if that's not your thing then maybe this book isn't for you but I do have to say it isn't what makes this book so good. the writing the story the characters the author. Those are what makes this story such an amazing story. Go Enjoy!