What do you think?
Rate this book
Wyndham Werewolf #5
Dead and Loving It
The Barnes & Noble Review
The queen of comic, erotic, other-species romance brings her best setups and hottest sex scenes to this four-novella party. Three of them feature the baaad Wyndham werewolves, who find unanticipated love with often reluctant earthlings.
In "Santa Claws," Alec Kilcurt, the most powerful werewolf in Europe, falls for Santa-clad Giselle Smith and wins her over with lots of oral sex and a heavy Scottish accent. In "Monster Love," bad-tempered Janet Lupo is kidnapped by a sexy werewolf. Then there's the story of Doctor Drake Dragon and his unusual encounter with Crescent. Finally, following the events of Undead and Unreturnable, a psychic werewolf, Antonia Wolfton, receives a vision to show up at Queen Betsy's Minneapolis home to help and falls hard for George, the fiend in the basement. It's all pure Davidson fun. Ginger Curwen
The queen of comic, erotic, other-species romance brings her best setups and hottest sex scenes to this four-novella party. Three of them feature the baaad Wyndham werewolves, who find unanticipated love with often reluctant earthlings.
In "Santa Claws," Alec Kilcurt, the most powerful werewolf in Europe, falls for Santa-clad Giselle Smith and wins her over with lots of oral sex and a heavy Scottish accent. In "Monster Love," bad-tempered Janet Lupo is kidnapped by a sexy werewolf. Then there's the story of Doctor Drake Dragon and his unusual encounter with Crescent. Finally, following the events of Undead and Unreturnable, a psychic werewolf, Antonia Wolfton, receives a vision to show up at Queen Betsy's Minneapolis home to help and falls hard for George, the fiend in the basement. It's all pure Davidson fun. Ginger Curwen
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2006
75 people are currently reading
3009 people want to read
About the author
MaryJanice Davidson
145 books5,402 followersMaryJanice Davidson is an American author and motivational speaker who writes mostly paranormal romance, but also young adult and non-fiction. She is the creator of the popular UNDEAD series and the time-traveling historical fiction A CONTEMPORARY ASSHAT AT THE COURT OF HENRY VIII. MaryJanice is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author who writes a bi-weekly column for USA Today and lives in St. Paul with her family. You can reach her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter.
www.maryjanicedavidson.org
@MaryJaniceD
MaryJanice's Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/maryjanicedav...
http://us.macmillan.com/author/maryja...
www.maryjanicedavidson.org
@MaryJaniceD
MaryJanice's Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/maryjanicedav...
http://us.macmillan.com/author/maryja...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 270 reviews
March 21, 2020
My review is only for A Fiend in Need.
A Fiend in Need is a short story of George, the Fiend, and Antonia, a werewolf. Antonia has a very handy ability: she can see into the future. Her premonitions lead her to Betsy’s (sorry… Jessica’s) house, where she meets George, whose real name is Garrett, and they instantly fall in love with each other. So Antonia stays and moves in the mansion.
Very short, very quick, very rough-and-ready, but it is okay.
I’m wondering if who does the title refer to: Garrett or Antonia? Tough Garrett is marked as a ’fiend’, but I think it is actually Antonia who is ‘in need’: she needs friends, family, love, and acceptance. As an outsider among her own kind, now she is welcomed and taken into this extravagant company of vampires and humans.
Antonia is a great addition to Betsy’s team, and I hope I will see her again in the following books.
My favorite quotes.
We shall find no fiend in hell can match the fury of a disappointed woman.
A Fiend in Need is a short story of George, the Fiend, and Antonia, a werewolf. Antonia has a very handy ability: she can see into the future. Her premonitions lead her to Betsy’s (sorry… Jessica’s) house, where she meets George, whose real name is Garrett, and they instantly fall in love with each other. So Antonia stays and moves in the mansion.
Very short, very quick, very rough-and-ready, but it is okay.
I’m wondering if who does the title refer to: Garrett or Antonia? Tough Garrett is marked as a ’fiend’, but I think it is actually Antonia who is ‘in need’: she needs friends, family, love, and acceptance. As an outsider among her own kind, now she is welcomed and taken into this extravagant company of vampires and humans.
Antonia is a great addition to Betsy’s team, and I hope I will see her again in the following books.
My favorite quotes.
August 27, 2009
So many reasons not to like this book :( The main reason is that it is simply poorly written ~ there is no distinction from one character to the next, all of the "voices" sound alike.
Furthmore, the stories are all crappily similar. They all have the same theme of a main character forcing themselves (romantically in the first 3, friendship in the last) on another person. In each story the person being forced upon has no personality besides smartass. Not just your ordinary smartass, but incredibly annoying, never shuts the fuck up smartass. The women Davidson has written about make Anita Blake look fuzzy and cuddly by comparison. At least three people, when wondering when the last time they had sex was, mused, "What year was it?" Oysters were ordered in two different stories. Ok ~ this may seem like nit-picking. But really... how common are oysters? Do people really order them every day? Considering there are only four short stories in this collection, I expected some variety.
But besides all of the bad writing, unlikable characters, and similar plots... the most unbearable aspect of Davidson's collection was the way romantic relationships actually played out. As mentioned ~ everyone falls in love at first sight. In most cases, within hours of meeting the man is convincing the woman to marry him while forcing himself on her sexually. The woman always says no... but always responds physically. For example... in one of the stories, the woman is unable to make her date (her first date with a guy she only met hours ago) Her would-be date doesn't believe her excuse, and is convinced she had plans to stand him up. So he kidnaps her, ties her to his bed and fucks her. Later when she accuses him of raping her, he replies, "I did rape you... at first" Then she blushes with shame, because she did enjoy it so much. WTF?!?! This book was seriously written by a woman? Ugh. That was nearly enough for me to not finish the stupid thing... but I thought, no ~ so many people love this author, she must have written something at least halfway decent. Sadly, I was very mistaken. Don't waste your time on this one.
Furthmore, the stories are all crappily similar. They all have the same theme of a main character forcing themselves (romantically in the first 3, friendship in the last) on another person. In each story the person being forced upon has no personality besides smartass. Not just your ordinary smartass, but incredibly annoying, never shuts the fuck up smartass. The women Davidson has written about make Anita Blake look fuzzy and cuddly by comparison. At least three people, when wondering when the last time they had sex was, mused, "What year was it?" Oysters were ordered in two different stories. Ok ~ this may seem like nit-picking. But really... how common are oysters? Do people really order them every day? Considering there are only four short stories in this collection, I expected some variety.
But besides all of the bad writing, unlikable characters, and similar plots... the most unbearable aspect of Davidson's collection was the way romantic relationships actually played out. As mentioned ~ everyone falls in love at first sight. In most cases, within hours of meeting the man is convincing the woman to marry him while forcing himself on her sexually. The woman always says no... but always responds physically. For example... in one of the stories, the woman is unable to make her date (her first date with a guy she only met hours ago) Her would-be date doesn't believe her excuse, and is convinced she had plans to stand him up. So he kidnaps her, ties her to his bed and fucks her. Later when she accuses him of raping her, he replies, "I did rape you... at first" Then she blushes with shame, because she did enjoy it so much. WTF?!?! This book was seriously written by a woman? Ugh. That was nearly enough for me to not finish the stupid thing... but I thought, no ~ so many people love this author, she must have written something at least halfway decent. Sadly, I was very mistaken. Don't waste your time on this one.
August 27, 2012
This author is just not to my tastes, I guess. Too rude, lewd, crude, and with very weak plots. I don't care for the constant (and creative) cursing, and the 'romance' is anything but. I'll be passing on anything else by this author.
ETA: Oh, and a word of warning to those that hate such; the story "Monster Love" is a trite sample of the "kidnapped and raped repeatedly, she can't help but fall in love with him..." school of 'romance'. I'd avoid it, personally.
ETA: Oh, and a word of warning to those that hate such; the story "Monster Love" is a trite sample of the "kidnapped and raped repeatedly, she can't help but fall in love with him..." school of 'romance'. I'd avoid it, personally.
January 1, 2009
While some of the collection was quite enjoyable, I'm giving this 1 star for the appalling rape fantasies embedded in the sex scenes. The fact that this was written by a female author makes it all the more horrifying.
March 14, 2011
1. I pretty sure a doctor can not practice and be blind.
2. If he did suddenly regain his sight he would not be able to identify colors.
3. I can't believe that a werewolf would fall in love with someone just because they smelled like peaches.
4. All the girls in this book talkl like fifeteen year old girls. Yes Duck fuck is actually said.
5. rape is not cool even if a vampire does it.
6. I have no clue how it feels to be trapped in an exercise machine and no one says yeek.
7. why does everyone one in this book always know what the other person is. Yeah so your incredibly strong and fast you must be a werewolf.. oh your trying to jump off balconies all the time and think you can fly you must be a fairy . . . and so on
2. If he did suddenly regain his sight he would not be able to identify colors.
3. I can't believe that a werewolf would fall in love with someone just because they smelled like peaches.
4. All the girls in this book talkl like fifeteen year old girls. Yes Duck fuck is actually said.
5. rape is not cool even if a vampire does it.
6. I have no clue how it feels to be trapped in an exercise machine and no one says yeek.
7. why does everyone one in this book always know what the other person is. Yeah so your incredibly strong and fast you must be a werewolf.. oh your trying to jump off balconies all the time and think you can fly you must be a fairy . . . and so on
March 30, 2018
Werewolves, romance, sex, vampires, fairies, and more! Steamy romance oh my!
I was over the moon when I spotted this book at the ABC Store's (English book store) bargain department! I have been meaning to read this book for ages, but I never got the time to actually buy it, oh and not to mention that I also had so many other books I wanted!
I will write a short review per book, well, short-ish. :P
But before I do that, I want to say that I liked that each, well with the exception of the last story, switches between the two MCs/lovers. You can see what happens from both perspectives, see their views on it, see their excitement. The last one doesn't feature that but then again... it is George, um sorry Garrett, we are talking about and those who read the Undead series know he is not a big talker/he is still recovering.
Ah, and with the exception of the last story (yes, again), each of the stories also have a cameo appearance for the characters of the previous story. So in Janet/Dick's story we see a cameo for Alec/Giselle, and in Crescent/Drake we get a very impressive cameo from Janet/Dick.
Then there is the fact that I just adored that in two stories the girls were definitely not impressed by their lover's werewolf status. That just made me snigger as the guys were totally startled.
I also want to warn that this book is very graphic, sex-wise. Then again, those of us who have read other books by this author know she loves writing them. This book is chock-full of swoony, sexy, steamy, OH MY scenes.
Santa Claus: 4.5 stars. This was pretty much too adorable, I loved both the Alec and Giselle. They were just too cute together, though, I did feel there could have been a better build-up in regards to the sex. Now it just felt a bit too rushed, too sudden. Plus I would definitely be creeped out with how much ahead planning this guy did. I would be pretty hesitant, even if I knew what had happened during the sex, to just agree with him. But then again, Alec was yummy. Yes, I got a clear visual in my head with regards to how he looks and oh my *fans herself*. Plus I just adored his accent. He was also just too sweet with Giselle.
Giselle was also a wonderful character, though I did feel sorry that she felt the way she did about her body, and then didn't even want to believe she hit the jackpot with Alec. I hope that Alec can convince her that curvy doesn't mean bad, that there are guys that just love girls to have more on their body.
I am very happy with the ending though, I would have loved to see their courtship.
Monster Love: -infinity stars. I am so sorry, but a big fat WARNING WARNING: Rape. Graphic rape.
I was really disgusted and startled when Dick just kidnapped Janet, tied her to his bed, made her his prisoner, didn't believe her when she tried to explain (then again really who the fuck needs to explain that they have a job and had to leave), and then proceeded to rape her. A lot. In graphic details, I didn't read everything as I quickly tried to save my brain (not that it helped as I slept terribly, thanks to the graphicness and the fact my mind likes turning words > pictures. :| I still feel urgh and terrible even though it is now the next day). I skipped through this story, only read continuously when Janet went full werewolf. Sadly I am not happy with the ending. Stockholm syndrome much? So no, I wouldn't recommend this story at all. Avoid at all costs.
There's no Such Thing as a Werewolf: 5 stars. Ah, we are back at the cute/sweet/adorable stories! This time with a blind werewolf named Drake and a girl (who has way more awesomeness in her than we know at the beginning) named Crescent. I just adored this story, it was the best one for me. It was also the tamest out of all the stories. I had lots of fun seeing Drake and Crescent get closer to each other, but also figure out more about what or who Crescent is. I had my suspicions, but I totally overlooked that option. Oopsie. :P
Drake was just too sweet for Crescent. I loved how he went full protective mode and tried to care for her and make her happy. They do make a wonderful match!
A Fiend in Need: 4 stars. Yes, this was the story I was looking forward to, I just adore stories that feature Betsy, and while in this one it isn't Betsy who is the MC, she is still there and making her hilarious snarky remarks, wearing her epic shoes, and more! This time we have Antonia as MC, she is a werewolf who can't change, but she does have something else instead, she has visions. Which were pretty awesome, and I can't wait to see her in book 5 and see what kind of awesome stuff she will do there.
I was quite amused at who turned out to be her lover. I hadn't expected him, and I also found it slightly creepy, mostly because he was still not 100% normal. But then later on, well, I fell in love with this couple and I did think they were made for each other. I am happy that we learn more about him (that backstory *is sad*) and that he seems to be recovering at a steady pace.
Of course next to the romance, sex, more romance, and lots of werewolfiness and vampireness there is also humour. I often had to laugh at the conversations the MCs were having or the situations they got themselves in.
All in all, with the exception of that very NOPE story, I would recommend this book to everyone. I didn't feel like I missed anything in the werewolf stories (though I am planning to read them to find out more about these wolves), but I would recommend that people read the Betsy stories first (up to 4) before starting this one.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
I was over the moon when I spotted this book at the ABC Store's (English book store) bargain department! I have been meaning to read this book for ages, but I never got the time to actually buy it, oh and not to mention that I also had so many other books I wanted!
I will write a short review per book, well, short-ish. :P
But before I do that, I want to say that I liked that each, well with the exception of the last story, switches between the two MCs/lovers. You can see what happens from both perspectives, see their views on it, see their excitement. The last one doesn't feature that but then again... it is George, um sorry Garrett, we are talking about and those who read the Undead series know he is not a big talker/he is still recovering.
Ah, and with the exception of the last story (yes, again), each of the stories also have a cameo appearance for the characters of the previous story. So in Janet/Dick's story we see a cameo for Alec/Giselle, and in Crescent/Drake we get a very impressive cameo from Janet/Dick.
Then there is the fact that I just adored that in two stories the girls were definitely not impressed by their lover's werewolf status. That just made me snigger as the guys were totally startled.
I also want to warn that this book is very graphic, sex-wise. Then again, those of us who have read other books by this author know she loves writing them. This book is chock-full of swoony, sexy, steamy, OH MY scenes.
Santa Claus: 4.5 stars. This was pretty much too adorable, I loved both the Alec and Giselle. They were just too cute together, though, I did feel there could have been a better build-up in regards to the sex. Now it just felt a bit too rushed, too sudden. Plus I would definitely be creeped out with how much ahead planning this guy did. I would be pretty hesitant, even if I knew what had happened during the sex, to just agree with him. But then again, Alec was yummy. Yes, I got a clear visual in my head with regards to how he looks and oh my *fans herself*. Plus I just adored his accent. He was also just too sweet with Giselle.
Giselle was also a wonderful character, though I did feel sorry that she felt the way she did about her body, and then didn't even want to believe she hit the jackpot with Alec. I hope that Alec can convince her that curvy doesn't mean bad, that there are guys that just love girls to have more on their body.
I am very happy with the ending though, I would have loved to see their courtship.
Monster Love: -infinity stars. I am so sorry, but a big fat WARNING WARNING: Rape. Graphic rape.
I was really disgusted and startled when Dick just kidnapped Janet, tied her to his bed, made her his prisoner, didn't believe her when she tried to explain (then again really who the fuck needs to explain that they have a job and had to leave), and then proceeded to rape her. A lot. In graphic details, I didn't read everything as I quickly tried to save my brain (not that it helped as I slept terribly, thanks to the graphicness and the fact my mind likes turning words > pictures. :| I still feel urgh and terrible even though it is now the next day). I skipped through this story, only read continuously when Janet went full werewolf. Sadly I am not happy with the ending. Stockholm syndrome much? So no, I wouldn't recommend this story at all. Avoid at all costs.
There's no Such Thing as a Werewolf: 5 stars. Ah, we are back at the cute/sweet/adorable stories! This time with a blind werewolf named Drake and a girl (who has way more awesomeness in her than we know at the beginning) named Crescent. I just adored this story, it was the best one for me. It was also the tamest out of all the stories. I had lots of fun seeing Drake and Crescent get closer to each other, but also figure out more about what or who Crescent is. I had my suspicions, but I totally overlooked that option. Oopsie. :P
Drake was just too sweet for Crescent. I loved how he went full protective mode and tried to care for her and make her happy. They do make a wonderful match!
A Fiend in Need: 4 stars. Yes, this was the story I was looking forward to, I just adore stories that feature Betsy, and while in this one it isn't Betsy who is the MC, she is still there and making her hilarious snarky remarks, wearing her epic shoes, and more! This time we have Antonia as MC, she is a werewolf who can't change, but she does have something else instead, she has visions. Which were pretty awesome, and I can't wait to see her in book 5 and see what kind of awesome stuff she will do there.
I was quite amused at who turned out to be her lover. I hadn't expected him, and I also found it slightly creepy, mostly because he was still not 100% normal. But then later on, well, I fell in love with this couple and I did think they were made for each other. I am happy that we learn more about him (that backstory *is sad*) and that he seems to be recovering at a steady pace.
Of course next to the romance, sex, more romance, and lots of werewolfiness and vampireness there is also humour. I often had to laugh at the conversations the MCs were having or the situations they got themselves in.
All in all, with the exception of that very NOPE story, I would recommend this book to everyone. I didn't feel like I missed anything in the werewolf stories (though I am planning to read them to find out more about these wolves), but I would recommend that people read the Betsy stories first (up to 4) before starting this one.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
November 15, 2014
One star only for the Betsy story. I was wondering where the other Antonia came from. The rest were terrible. I can't believe it's the same author and that they're part of a series. The vulgarity was appalling. As was the kidnapping/rape story. The Undead series has some swearing but nothing on the level of the Wyndham one. My eyes hurt.
March 11, 2010
WOW.
That was BAD.
That was BAD.
March 23, 2016
Save your money, borrow the book if you can. I read Dead and Loving It and couldn't find anything to love about it. The book seemed to be quickly stitched together like a popular sewing pattern. The stories were predictable, shallow and the characters left a lot to be desired. The typical boy wants girl, boy gets girl seems to be the recurring theme with a foul mouthed she-wolf and rape thrown in for good measure. The stories literally read the same way. She uses the same lines from story to story and doesn't even follow the vampire rules she created in her Undead series when writing Monster. (But that's another bone to pick altogether.)
In Davidson's acknowledgement she thanks her husband for tending the kids while she's holed-up writing. Don't know how much time this book could have taken. The quality of the stories show that they were probably churned out quicker than butter with none of the satisfaction for the end result.
Let this serve as an example to all aspiring writers. If this mess can be published, then there's hope for your novel, no matter how many rejection letters you've received.
In Davidson's acknowledgement she thanks her husband for tending the kids while she's holed-up writing. Don't know how much time this book could have taken. The quality of the stories show that they were probably churned out quicker than butter with none of the satisfaction for the end result.
Let this serve as an example to all aspiring writers. If this mess can be published, then there's hope for your novel, no matter how many rejection letters you've received.
February 27, 2010
So far, not a huge fan. I guess in the realm of the romance genre for a short story to qualify you have to skimp on substance and get right to the "hot" stuff.
Gag.
Gag.
Gag again.
I read this stuff for the quirky characters and skip over the gratuitous sex, it embarrasses me. So, when a 30 page story has 15 pages of werewolf sex....character development and relationships are lacking.
Wow, how prophetic is that ;) (when you focus on the wrong stuff...heh)
So yeah, this collection of short stories has sort of turned me sour on the undead series, but I do have to say that the last story of the book that does feature Betsy and the gang is pretty cute-but I already knew the characters so skipping 10 or so pages wasn't a huge issue.
I really can't recommend this book to anyone I know.
It would reflect poorly on my character ;)
Gag.
Gag.
Gag again.
I read this stuff for the quirky characters and skip over the gratuitous sex, it embarrasses me. So, when a 30 page story has 15 pages of werewolf sex....character development and relationships are lacking.
Wow, how prophetic is that ;) (when you focus on the wrong stuff...heh)
So yeah, this collection of short stories has sort of turned me sour on the undead series, but I do have to say that the last story of the book that does feature Betsy and the gang is pretty cute-but I already knew the characters so skipping 10 or so pages wasn't a huge issue.
I really can't recommend this book to anyone I know.
It would reflect poorly on my character ;)
March 26, 2009
I had to read MaryJanice Davidson's story in this anthology, because I started Book 5, and was like, "Uhhh... who is Garrett, and why are there now two Antonias? Isn't it confusing enough to have two Jons?" So "A Fiend in Need" was a cute little 80 or 90 pages story about George (whose real name is Garrett) and a werewolf chick (Antonia) who can't actually change into a werewolf. It was pretty cute. I liked that it was a nice quick (very quick) read. I read the entire thing at the gym on one day. :)
November 17, 2017
Ugh. I'm not a prude or anything, but this? This is about a half-step from actual porn. I got it because it's listed as being part of the Betsy series (4.5), but only one story (the last one, and, ironically, the least explicit) has anything to do with that universe, and the rest of the stories are so adult in nature that I literally skimmed to see if there was anything not-rapey in them and abandoned them ALL except the Betsy story.
Do not recommend. Unless you're into that kind of thing. Then go for it. Otherwise, expect to be regaled with many penii.
Do not recommend. Unless you're into that kind of thing. Then go for it. Otherwise, expect to be regaled with many penii.
Read
December 17, 2008I found it at the airport and needed something to read.
Always wondered about her books, but I won't be reading anymore! :)
Always wondered about her books, but I won't be reading anymore! :)
March 4, 2019
Read just for A Fiend In Need (Undead #4.5). Cute little tale that gives George his real name and introduces all to Antonia.
October 17, 2024
The queen of comic, erotic, other-species romance brings her best setups and hottest sex scenes to this four-novella party. Three of them feature the bad Wyndham werewolves, who find unanticipated love with often reluctant earthlings.
In "Santa Claws," Alec Kilcurt, the most powerful werewolf in Europe, falls for Santa-clad Giselle Smith and wins her over with lots of oral sex and a heavy Scottish accent. In "Monster Love," bad-tempered Janet Lupo is kidnapped by a sexy werewolf. Then there's the story of Doctor Drake Dragon and his unusual encounter with Crescent. Finally, following the events of Undead and Unreturnable, a psychic werewolf, Antonia Wolfton, receives a vision to show up at Queen Betsy's Minneapolis home to help and falls hard for George, the fiend in the basement. It's all pure Davidson fun. Ginger Curwen
Heather's Notes
These stories were ok. I liked Drake and Crescent's story the most. Although the synopsis is wrong Janet was kidnapped by a vampire. There was some Very dubious consent in that story (in fact really no consent). I also didn't care for Antonia or the way several of the stories called human monkeys. Maybe I just don't get the author's humor.
In "Santa Claws," Alec Kilcurt, the most powerful werewolf in Europe, falls for Santa-clad Giselle Smith and wins her over with lots of oral sex and a heavy Scottish accent. In "Monster Love," bad-tempered Janet Lupo is kidnapped by a sexy werewolf. Then there's the story of Doctor Drake Dragon and his unusual encounter with Crescent. Finally, following the events of Undead and Unreturnable, a psychic werewolf, Antonia Wolfton, receives a vision to show up at Queen Betsy's Minneapolis home to help and falls hard for George, the fiend in the basement. It's all pure Davidson fun. Ginger Curwen
Heather's Notes
These stories were ok. I liked Drake and Crescent's story the most. Although the synopsis is wrong Janet was kidnapped by a vampire. There was some Very dubious consent in that story (in fact really no consent). I also didn't care for Antonia or the way several of the stories called human monkeys. Maybe I just don't get the author's humor.
April 5, 2021
Santa Claws- 2 stars. Monster Love- 0 stars. There is No Such Thing as a Werewolf- 2 stars. A Fiend in Need- 3 stars.
December 11, 2011
Yeah this one was pretty bad. Likely wouldn't have finished reading it if I didn't have to for a group challenge.
My big problem was story two. Monster Love. It really just amounted to a kidnap/rape victim falling in love with her abuser. It was just creepy and you wonder who thought it was a good idea to pass along to the reader.
Santa Claus and A Fiend in Need were what saved this from an even lower rating. Santa Claus was fairly cute for a short story. The characters likable and some funny lines. Nothing really wrong with There's No Such Thing as a Werewolf either. There just wasn't enough story development really in any of them. If you're just looking for a surface read with a HEA and love at first sight/proposals right away have at it.
There were a lot of repetitions between the stories. Characters using the same phrases, discoveries being made in the same way as to who wasn't human, etc. Maybe fine in a longer series to have the similarities show up from time to time but with such short stories all back to back it all meshed together.
Overall a big eh with a side of creepy.
My big problem was story two. Monster Love. It really just amounted to a kidnap/rape victim falling in love with her abuser. It was just creepy and you wonder who thought it was a good idea to pass along to the reader.
Santa Claus and A Fiend in Need were what saved this from an even lower rating. Santa Claus was fairly cute for a short story. The characters likable and some funny lines. Nothing really wrong with There's No Such Thing as a Werewolf either. There just wasn't enough story development really in any of them. If you're just looking for a surface read with a HEA and love at first sight/proposals right away have at it.
There were a lot of repetitions between the stories. Characters using the same phrases, discoveries being made in the same way as to who wasn't human, etc. Maybe fine in a longer series to have the similarities show up from time to time but with such short stories all back to back it all meshed together.
Overall a big eh with a side of creepy.
August 26, 2025
It was an ok 4 in 1 book but not exactly my taste. I did not enjoy the lack of consent and 🍇 in these stories. Also how poorly the women spoke of themselves and their bodies. I felt the stories were all the same in most ways without much variety in the characters.
October 31, 2013
This anthology left a lot to be desired and not in a good way, featuring as it did tough-minded ladies crawling with emotional dysfunctions. These were strong, ornery women, a few capable of throwing men into walls. Yet, one after the other, they fall victims to men who are little better than stalkers and rapists. One of these guys is so taciturn he barely says a dozen words before sucking down a woman’s face. (But apparently she likes her men big and dumb, so it’s not a drawback.)
Admittedly, this is fantasy and the people involved aren’t mortal beings. Thus the reader is forced to accept that, when it comes to courtship and sex, their ways are not our ways. But the roughness, sheer disregard for the women’s safety or rights and downright criminality of some of these male characters just didn’t sit well. Even if the ladies could give as good as they got, I kept wishing they could have gotten a lot better.
Admittedly, this is fantasy and the people involved aren’t mortal beings. Thus the reader is forced to accept that, when it comes to courtship and sex, their ways are not our ways. But the roughness, sheer disregard for the women’s safety or rights and downright criminality of some of these male characters just didn’t sit well. Even if the ladies could give as good as they got, I kept wishing they could have gotten a lot better.
May 11, 2009
I loved this book. MaryJanice Davidson is hilarious!
April 8, 2013
So funny - I love the snark, the set up, everything. I wish I'd written it!
December 3, 2015
not as annoying as other Betsy Taylor books
November 23, 2016
I really miss Antonia and Garrick. This book had a short story about them that really enriched the characters. I hope she brings them back.
July 22, 2019
I liked this for the novella with the Queen Betsy story line, but I couldn’t get into the straight werewolf novellas. Authors seriously need to STOP romanticizing rape culture.
January 12, 2020
Every story was pretty much the same with slight variations. I also don't like "romance" that starts off with assault.
July 23, 2022
SANTA CLAWS
First read in NAUGHTY AND NICE & DEAD AND LOVING IT
I just adore this cute and humorous story. I can read it over and over and still find it funny.
Being lusted after in her Santa suit makes Giselle think Alec has lost his marbles.
Alec gets caught in the scent of peaches wafting from one bell ringing Santa and has no problem waiting till she can go to lunch with him. Shaking down a meanie and some gun toting punks just helps the time go faster.
Loved the bit where Giselle tells Alec she knows all about werewolves.
MONSTER LOVE
KU extended version
The stories in this series are scattered far and wide in different anthologies. Having owned most of the originals in this series for years, I was really excited to see this book in Kindle Unlimited as I assumed the series had been released again. Unfortunately this was not the case, only this book was in KU and book 3, Derik’s Bane, is available for purchase. I am hoping the rest of the series will also be redone and re-released.
Though this still has the same forced sex scene as the shorter version which I am not keen on, the rest of the story really flowed better.
Just needed some formatting and proofreading done to correct some errors.
Read through KU.
ORIGINAL REVIEW for THINGS THAT GO BUMP IN THE NIGHT
Good story spoilt by the wrong type of sex scene.
Janet and Richard are a great couple but once again we have a rape scene in a story. I am not sure why this author likes this theme of “I will rape you but you will fall in love with me.”
Just wrong. This book needs to be rewritten and bought up to a better standard because it was good apart from that scene.
THERES NO SUCH THING AS A WEREWOLF
This is one of the few stories with the right type of sex scene/
Love the blind werewolf doctor and thought Crescent was an interesting character. Loved the carry on with Janet.
Great ending.
A FIEND IN NEED
Doesn’t really add anything except Antonia gets her HEA away from the pack who treat her badly.
Read these years ago but rereading the Wyndham Werewolves again.
May just give the DEAD/QUEEN BETSY series a try.
As I haven’t read that series I know nothing about George/Garrett or Fiends.
First read in NAUGHTY AND NICE & DEAD AND LOVING IT
I just adore this cute and humorous story. I can read it over and over and still find it funny.
Being lusted after in her Santa suit makes Giselle think Alec has lost his marbles.
Alec gets caught in the scent of peaches wafting from one bell ringing Santa and has no problem waiting till she can go to lunch with him. Shaking down a meanie and some gun toting punks just helps the time go faster.
Loved the bit where Giselle tells Alec she knows all about werewolves.
MONSTER LOVE
KU extended version
The stories in this series are scattered far and wide in different anthologies. Having owned most of the originals in this series for years, I was really excited to see this book in Kindle Unlimited as I assumed the series had been released again. Unfortunately this was not the case, only this book was in KU and book 3, Derik’s Bane, is available for purchase. I am hoping the rest of the series will also be redone and re-released.
Though this still has the same forced sex scene as the shorter version which I am not keen on, the rest of the story really flowed better.
Just needed some formatting and proofreading done to correct some errors.
Read through KU.
ORIGINAL REVIEW for THINGS THAT GO BUMP IN THE NIGHT
Good story spoilt by the wrong type of sex scene.
Janet and Richard are a great couple but once again we have a rape scene in a story. I am not sure why this author likes this theme of “I will rape you but you will fall in love with me.”
Just wrong. This book needs to be rewritten and bought up to a better standard because it was good apart from that scene.
THERES NO SUCH THING AS A WEREWOLF
This is one of the few stories with the right type of sex scene/
Love the blind werewolf doctor and thought Crescent was an interesting character. Loved the carry on with Janet.
Great ending.
A FIEND IN NEED
Doesn’t really add anything except Antonia gets her HEA away from the pack who treat her badly.
Read these years ago but rereading the Wyndham Werewolves again.
May just give the DEAD/QUEEN BETSY series a try.
As I haven’t read that series I know nothing about George/Garrett or Fiends.
July 28, 2022
This is a solid collection of 4 short stories set in the Queen Betsy and Wyndham Werewolves universe. I haven't read any of the Wyndham books, and mainly checked this out for the story on George the Fiend. With a few dark spots, it's a quick read. Lots of female-focused sexy times and snarky banter. I rounded down from 3.5 stars, honestly.
Santa Claws: this one is nearly pure sex, with a brief meet cute and first date. Alec is just-this-side of dominating Alpha and Giselle is a body conscious sweetheart. There was too much fixation on her plus size (or even just not anorexic?) but it was mainly positive from Alec. A lot of that is this collection being written in 2006. This was my 3rd of 4 favorites.
Monster Love: this second story needs major trigger warnings. Assault, kidnapping, forced (graphic) sex, whoa. Again, I know it's 2006 and these ARE inhuman creatures...but damn. That aside, if you can, I did enjoy the characters and each of their backstories. It's funny when one supernatural creature doesn't believe in the existence of others. 4th of 4.
There's No Such Thing as a Werewolf: now this was a delightful short story! Drake was a true gentleman, and yet lustful when needed. Crescent was independent and yet eager to love and be loved. I liked the supernatural aspect and the crossover with the previous story. 2nd of 4 but reaaaally close.
A Fiend in Need: this was more of a long chapter in a Betsy book, but I enjoyed Antonia getting her own feature. A werewolf that can't Change, but can see the future? How very cool! Understandably, she has some fitting-in issues, and goes off on a vision-driven quest to find a mate. I LOVED seeing the Queen Betsy group from an outside angle. As well, George--Garrett the Fiend gets the final piece in his rehab puzzle. 1st of 4 and helpful between books!
Santa Claws: this one is nearly pure sex, with a brief meet cute and first date. Alec is just-this-side of dominating Alpha and Giselle is a body conscious sweetheart. There was too much fixation on her plus size (or even just not anorexic?) but it was mainly positive from Alec. A lot of that is this collection being written in 2006. This was my 3rd of 4 favorites.
Monster Love: this second story needs major trigger warnings. Assault, kidnapping, forced (graphic) sex, whoa. Again, I know it's 2006 and these ARE inhuman creatures...but damn. That aside, if you can, I did enjoy the characters and each of their backstories. It's funny when one supernatural creature doesn't believe in the existence of others. 4th of 4.
There's No Such Thing as a Werewolf: now this was a delightful short story! Drake was a true gentleman, and yet lustful when needed. Crescent was independent and yet eager to love and be loved. I liked the supernatural aspect and the crossover with the previous story. 2nd of 4 but reaaaally close.
A Fiend in Need: this was more of a long chapter in a Betsy book, but I enjoyed Antonia getting her own feature. A werewolf that can't Change, but can see the future? How very cool! Understandably, she has some fitting-in issues, and goes off on a vision-driven quest to find a mate. I LOVED seeing the Queen Betsy group from an outside angle. As well, George--Garrett the Fiend gets the final piece in his rehab puzzle. 1st of 4 and helpful between books!
May 13, 2012
There's No Such Thing As a Werewolf is book #4.3 in the Undead Series by MaryJanice Davidson. In this story, we meet 40 year old Dr. Drake Dragon, a blind werewolf living and working with humans. On his way home from work, he was day dreaming about finding his mate and being able to see her face. He was targeted by a group of street thugs and after the failed mugging, yes he kicked their butts, he runs into the beautiful Crescent Muhn. That's her name, Crescent Muhn. She's a homeless, 25 year old woman with an obsession for trying to fly. She's not crazy, but believes she a faery, as in the fae not the princess. He convinces her to stay with him and they begin a friendship that quickly turns into more. This is a hot story, as are all of the Undead shorts. MaryJanice Davidson knows how to write the lusty scenes.
Merged review:
A Fiend in Need is book #4.4 in the Undead Series by MaryJanice Davidson. George the fiend is one of my favourite new characters and I loved hearing his story. We meet werewolf, Antonia Wolfton. Antonia is unable to change into a wolf, but she has the enhanced senses and a psychic gift. Being unable to change makes her an outsider in the pack and her psychic gift makes her pack family fear her. Antonia receives a vision that she will find what she wants (love, a mate) if she helps the Queen in Minnesota. When she arrives, she recognizes George as Garrett Smith. He immediately pounces on her, doesn't hurt her, and continues saying his name. He begins walking taller, speaking more often, and following Antonia around. They form and bond and their relationship turns hot and heavy. Garrett tells the group the story of his turning and Antonia realizes she is meant to stay with Garrett. By moving in, she can help the Queen with her vision and have Garrett, her mate.
Merged review:
Monster Love is book #4.2 in the Undead Series by MaryJanice Davidson. In this story, we meet Janet Lupo, an abrasiveness and often offensive werewolf with a thick outer layer. Every man she's ever known has tried to tone down her rudeness. Richard Will has been a vampire since the 40's and is tall, blonde, and beautiful. When he meets Janet, he's surprised and intrigued. They spend the night getting to know each other at the coffee shop and make a date for the following night. For the first time in decades, he's happy and hopeful of the future. When he finds Janet attempting to flee the city without telling him, he panics and kidnaps her. She wasn't fleeing exactly, but on her way to meet her Alpha after being summoned. Now, it gets a little weird. Janet wakes up, tied to a bed and Richard rapes her. She's willing but tells him no. He spends it getting her off, not him, but its still rape and even though its PNR and not real, its still send the wrong message. You see, he asks her if she wants to keep having sex or be let go. She chooses sex. The character even recognizes that it was rape in the beginning and again, it send the wrong message. Having said that, the sex is HOT and Delicious. She keeps telling him that she wasn't fleeing and that she's a werewolf, but he doesn't believe her. A week later, she turns into a wolf and jumps out a window to flee the small space. She returns to him when her wolf cycle ends and they confess their love. Dick (Richard) does Jane (Janet).
Merged review:
There's No Such Thing As a Werewolf is book #4.3 in the Undead Series by MaryJanice Davidson. In this story, we meet 40 year old Dr. Drake Dragon, a blind werewolf living and working with humans. On his way home from work, he was day dreaming about finding his mate and being able to see her face. He was targeted by a group of street thugs and after the failed mugging, yes he kicked their butts, he runs into the beautiful Crescent Muhn. That's her name, Crescent Muhn. She's a homeless, 25 year old woman with an obsession for trying to fly. She's not crazy, but believes she a faery, as in the fae not the princess. He convinces her to stay with him and they begin a friendship that quickly turns into more. This is a hot story, as are all of the Undead shorts. MaryJanice Davidson knows how to write the lusty scenes.
A Fiend in Need is book #4.4 in the Undead Series by MaryJanice Davidson. George the fiend is one of my favourite new characters and I loved hearing his story. We meet werewolf, Antonia Wolfton. Antonia is unable to change into a wolf, but she has the enhanced senses and a psychic gift. Being unable to change makes her an outsider in the pack and her psychic gift makes her pack family fear her. Antonia receives a vision that she will find what she wants (love, a mate) if she helps the Queen in Minnesota. When she arrives, she recognizes George as Garrett Smith. He immediately pounces on her, doesn't hurt her, and continues saying his name. He begins walking taller, speaking more often, and following Antonia around. They form and bond and their relationship turns hot and heavy. Garrett tells the group the story of his turning and Antonia realizes she is meant to stay with Garrett. By moving in, she can help the Queen with her vision and have Garrett, her mate.
Monster Love is book 4 in the Wyndham Werewolf Series and 4.5 in the Undead Series by MaryJanice Davidson. In this story, we meet Janet Lupo, an abrasiveness and often offensive werewolf with a thick outer layer. Every man she's ever known has tried to tone down her rudeness. Richard Will has been a vampire since the 40's and is tall, blonde, and beautiful. When he meets Janet, he's surprised and intrigued. They spend the night getting to know each other at the coffee shop and make a date for the following night. For the first time in decades, he's happy and hopeful of the future. When he finds Janet attempting to flee the city without telling him, he panics and kidnaps her. She wasn't fleeing exactly, but on her way to meet her Alpha after being summoned. Now, it gets a little weird. Janet wakes up, tied to a bed and Richard rapes her. She's willing but tells him no. He spends it getting her off, not him, but its still rape and even though its PNR and not real, its still send the wrong message. You see, he asks her if she wants to keep having sex or be let go. She chooses sex. The character even recognizes that it was rape in the beginning and again, it send the wrong message. Having said that, the sex is HOT and Delicious. She keeps telling him that she wasn't fleeing and that she's a werewolf, but he doesn't believe her. A week later, she turns into a wolf and jumps out a window to flee the small space. She returns to him when her wolf cycle ends and they confess their love. Dick (Richard) does Jane (Janet).
Merged review:
A Fiend in Need is book #4.4 in the Undead Series by MaryJanice Davidson. George the fiend is one of my favourite new characters and I loved hearing his story. We meet werewolf, Antonia Wolfton. Antonia is unable to change into a wolf, but she has the enhanced senses and a psychic gift. Being unable to change makes her an outsider in the pack and her psychic gift makes her pack family fear her. Antonia receives a vision that she will find what she wants (love, a mate) if she helps the Queen in Minnesota. When she arrives, she recognizes George as Garrett Smith. He immediately pounces on her, doesn't hurt her, and continues saying his name. He begins walking taller, speaking more often, and following Antonia around. They form and bond and their relationship turns hot and heavy. Garrett tells the group the story of his turning and Antonia realizes she is meant to stay with Garrett. By moving in, she can help the Queen with her vision and have Garrett, her mate.
Merged review:
Monster Love is book #4.2 in the Undead Series by MaryJanice Davidson. In this story, we meet Janet Lupo, an abrasiveness and often offensive werewolf with a thick outer layer. Every man she's ever known has tried to tone down her rudeness. Richard Will has been a vampire since the 40's and is tall, blonde, and beautiful. When he meets Janet, he's surprised and intrigued. They spend the night getting to know each other at the coffee shop and make a date for the following night. For the first time in decades, he's happy and hopeful of the future. When he finds Janet attempting to flee the city without telling him, he panics and kidnaps her. She wasn't fleeing exactly, but on her way to meet her Alpha after being summoned. Now, it gets a little weird. Janet wakes up, tied to a bed and Richard rapes her. She's willing but tells him no. He spends it getting her off, not him, but its still rape and even though its PNR and not real, its still send the wrong message. You see, he asks her if she wants to keep having sex or be let go. She chooses sex. The character even recognizes that it was rape in the beginning and again, it send the wrong message. Having said that, the sex is HOT and Delicious. She keeps telling him that she wasn't fleeing and that she's a werewolf, but he doesn't believe her. A week later, she turns into a wolf and jumps out a window to flee the small space. She returns to him when her wolf cycle ends and they confess their love. Dick (Richard) does Jane (Janet).
Merged review:
There's No Such Thing As a Werewolf is book #4.3 in the Undead Series by MaryJanice Davidson. In this story, we meet 40 year old Dr. Drake Dragon, a blind werewolf living and working with humans. On his way home from work, he was day dreaming about finding his mate and being able to see her face. He was targeted by a group of street thugs and after the failed mugging, yes he kicked their butts, he runs into the beautiful Crescent Muhn. That's her name, Crescent Muhn. She's a homeless, 25 year old woman with an obsession for trying to fly. She's not crazy, but believes she a faery, as in the fae not the princess. He convinces her to stay with him and they begin a friendship that quickly turns into more. This is a hot story, as are all of the Undead shorts. MaryJanice Davidson knows how to write the lusty scenes.
A Fiend in Need is book #4.4 in the Undead Series by MaryJanice Davidson. George the fiend is one of my favourite new characters and I loved hearing his story. We meet werewolf, Antonia Wolfton. Antonia is unable to change into a wolf, but she has the enhanced senses and a psychic gift. Being unable to change makes her an outsider in the pack and her psychic gift makes her pack family fear her. Antonia receives a vision that she will find what she wants (love, a mate) if she helps the Queen in Minnesota. When she arrives, she recognizes George as Garrett Smith. He immediately pounces on her, doesn't hurt her, and continues saying his name. He begins walking taller, speaking more often, and following Antonia around. They form and bond and their relationship turns hot and heavy. Garrett tells the group the story of his turning and Antonia realizes she is meant to stay with Garrett. By moving in, she can help the Queen with her vision and have Garrett, her mate.
Monster Love is book 4 in the Wyndham Werewolf Series and 4.5 in the Undead Series by MaryJanice Davidson. In this story, we meet Janet Lupo, an abrasiveness and often offensive werewolf with a thick outer layer. Every man she's ever known has tried to tone down her rudeness. Richard Will has been a vampire since the 40's and is tall, blonde, and beautiful. When he meets Janet, he's surprised and intrigued. They spend the night getting to know each other at the coffee shop and make a date for the following night. For the first time in decades, he's happy and hopeful of the future. When he finds Janet attempting to flee the city without telling him, he panics and kidnaps her. She wasn't fleeing exactly, but on her way to meet her Alpha after being summoned. Now, it gets a little weird. Janet wakes up, tied to a bed and Richard rapes her. She's willing but tells him no. He spends it getting her off, not him, but its still rape and even though its PNR and not real, its still send the wrong message. You see, he asks her if she wants to keep having sex or be let go. She chooses sex. The character even recognizes that it was rape in the beginning and again, it send the wrong message. Having said that, the sex is HOT and Delicious. She keeps telling him that she wasn't fleeing and that she's a werewolf, but he doesn't believe her. A week later, she turns into a wolf and jumps out a window to flee the small space. She returns to him when her wolf cycle ends and they confess their love. Dick (Richard) does Jane (Janet).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2019
Fabulous collection of short stories that will make you howl. The Wyndam werewolves meet Queen Betsy of the Vampires.
MaryJanice Davidson not only writes really good fiction but, really hilarious fiction. In this book, a Santa clanging a bell makes a gorgeous Scottish Laird get down and dirty. A beautiful werewolf who never changes form races across rooftops to stop a suicide, then falls deeply for a fiend who crochet like mad in the basement of a towering mansion. And then of course there are all the regular inhabitants of Betsy and Sinclair's Vampire Central.
MaryJanice Davidson not only writes really good fiction but, really hilarious fiction. In this book, a Santa clanging a bell makes a gorgeous Scottish Laird get down and dirty. A beautiful werewolf who never changes form races across rooftops to stop a suicide, then falls deeply for a fiend who crochet like mad in the basement of a towering mansion. And then of course there are all the regular inhabitants of Betsy and Sinclair's Vampire Central.
July 22, 2020
Enjoyed this novella (fiend in need) much more than the previous ones. Ive always enjoyed the george lol of the jungle that cant be a coincidence lmfao anyway the whole subplot of fiend stuff especially george so this was a great book plus ive been interested in werewolves in this series and im glad so far we get at least a taste of that other supernatural side of things. I really feel betsys pain with the antonia name though ny evil stepmother tarred her name and those eho share it so i fight a cringe everytime i need to use it for others in my life. Yuck.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 270 reviews