Review: Wicked Games

Title: Wicked Games

Author: Jessica Clare

Date of Publication: March 4, 2011

Formats Available: E-Book

Buy This Book: Amazon

Synopsis: Abby Lewis never pictured herself on the survival game show, Endurance Island. She’s just not the ‘survival’ type. But when her boss offers her a spot on the show and the opportunity of a lifetime, she packs her bags and heads to the tropics to be a contestant. Once in the game, though, it’s clear that Abby’s in over her head.

No one’s more competitive than sexy, delicious – and arrogant – Dean Woodall. Sure, he’s clever, strong, good at challenges, and has a body that makes her mouth water. He also hates Abby just as much as she hates him. That’s fine with her; she’ll just ignore the jerk.

But the rules of Endurance Island are working against them. Abby and Dean are teamed up – alone – on the beach. It’s either work together, or go home. Stuck with no one’s company but their own, they learn they might just make a good team after all.

And Abby learns that with just a little bit of kindling, the flames of hate can quickly turn to flames of passion…

My Review:

When I downloaded this book for free of the Kindle store I wasn't expecting much. The description sounded interesting enough but you just never know when you download free books. However, I ended up being pleasantly surprised by how much I LOVED this story! Abby and Dean were perfect for each other and I just love watching them interact and how their relationship changed over time. Along with the tropical setting this novel just came together in a way I never expected it to.

I'm not a fan of short stories and even though I wouldn't exactly call this novel a short story it wasn't long enough to be considered a book either. One of the biggest reasons I dislike short stories is the lack of character development, a short story just doesn't have enough time to develop realistic characters, however the characters of Wicked Games were full of personality and life. Maybe it was because the story was a bit longer or maybe it was Clare's fantastic writing, either way I was surprised by how much I ended up adoring both of the characters as well as the plot.

The idea of a reality game show was a fun one, I loved reading about the cheesey challenges and catty components; I'd never read a book anything like Wicked Games, and I think that was half the reason I loved it so much. Not only was it a delightful read but it was hilarious as well. From the moment each of the contestants had to write down their occupation on a sign and one called herself a "Mareen Biologest" I knew I was going to love this book. From Abby throwing pots of paint at Dean to their constant banter I was constantly laughing out loud.

Along with the developing romance this novel pretty much had it all. I loved watching the relationship between Abby and Dean develop and their romance was only made that much better by how much they hated each other at the beginning of the novel. Even though their relationship followed the typical pattern (hated each other, fell in love, conflict, got back together) it still added a spark to the story and made the whole novel come together.

Overall Wicked Games was one of the best short novels that I've ever read. Fantastic characters, a fun plot, and a steamy romance all came together to create one fantastic story. I can't wait to read more by Clare and get my hands on the standalone sequel that should be coming out soon! I highly, highly, highly recommend this novel to anyone looking for a wonderful romantic comedy!

5/5