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Vancity Villains #3
Wicked Angel
A sinfully hot enemies to lovers romance, about a seductive, a-hole (anti)hero on the brink of self-destruction and the quirky, kind-hearted heroine who discovers his darkest secret—and his heart.
I knew it was a mistake to kiss my best friend’s brother—especially behind my boyfriend’s back.
In my defense, I had a crush on Johnny for years.
But that was before I realized how much I hated him.
Now, thanks to the object of my hate crush, I’ve lost my relationship, my dream job, and my home.
Johnny has no idea it’s mostly his fault that my life has imploded, but the man is a dumpster fire of depravity and I really should’ve known better.
He’s an arrogant rock star, with the body of Adonis and the soul of Hades.
A coldhearted jerk who doesn’t seem to care who he hurts on his climb to the top.
But he’s also on the verge of career meltdown.
When his dirty deeds start catching up with him—and threatening his precious career—he offers me a job that I literally can’t afford to turn down.
As it turns out, it’s not so easy to hate on someone who walks around half-naked all the time looking like my hottest fantasy.
Worse, the more time we spend together… I realize there’s a lot more to my best friend’s brother than meets the eye.
Including a terrible, heartrending secret.
Despite everything, my heart aches for him.
I know I might be his last chance to make amends for the pain he’s caused.
I know we could help each other get our lives back on track.
But Johnny’s hurt me, too. How can I trust him not to do it again?
I knew it was a mistake to kiss my best friend’s brother—especially behind my boyfriend’s back.
In my defense, I had a crush on Johnny for years.
But that was before I realized how much I hated him.
Now, thanks to the object of my hate crush, I’ve lost my relationship, my dream job, and my home.
Johnny has no idea it’s mostly his fault that my life has imploded, but the man is a dumpster fire of depravity and I really should’ve known better.
He’s an arrogant rock star, with the body of Adonis and the soul of Hades.
A coldhearted jerk who doesn’t seem to care who he hurts on his climb to the top.
But he’s also on the verge of career meltdown.
When his dirty deeds start catching up with him—and threatening his precious career—he offers me a job that I literally can’t afford to turn down.
As it turns out, it’s not so easy to hate on someone who walks around half-naked all the time looking like my hottest fantasy.
Worse, the more time we spend together… I realize there’s a lot more to my best friend’s brother than meets the eye.
Including a terrible, heartrending secret.
Despite everything, my heart aches for him.
I know I might be his last chance to make amends for the pain he’s caused.
I know we could help each other get our lives back on track.
But Johnny’s hurt me, too. How can I trust him not to do it again?
512 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 4, 2023
About the author
Jaine Diamond
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Jaine Diamond is a Top 50 Amazon US and a Top 5 international bestselling author. She writes contemporary romance featuring badass, swoon-worthy heroes endowed with massive hearts, strong heroines armed with sweetness and sass, and explosive, page-turning chemistry.
She lives on the beautiful west coast of Canada with her real-life romantic hero and daughter, where she reads, writes and makes extensive playlists for her books while binge drinking tea.
Her books have been translated into French, German and Hebrew.
Join Jaine Diamond’s VIPs!
Jaine Diamond is a Top 50 Amazon US and a Top 5 international bestselling author. She writes contemporary romance featuring badass, swoon-worthy heroes endowed with massive hearts, strong heroines armed with sweetness and sass, and explosive, page-turning chemistry.
She lives on the beautiful west coast of Canada with her real-life romantic hero and daughter, where she reads, writes and makes extensive playlists for her books while binge drinking tea.
Her books have been translated into French, German and Hebrew.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 222 reviews
December 17, 2023
Starting slow and lame... sorry. I'm more than halfway through, and it's just yawn 🥱
Johnny is too whiny 😖😭
Johnny is too whiny 😖😭
May 2, 2023
Wicked Angel is a deliciously tantalizing, heart wrenching, phenomenal read by one of my favorite authors! How could this novel not be amazing when it includes all of my favorite tropes: best friend’s big brother, rockstar, forbidden, and enemies-to-lovers romance AND it can be read as a standalone! Wicked Angel is a fast paced, steamy novel with likable, complex characters possessing great depth and storyline that is sure to tug at your heart strings.
When I discovered that this book was featuring Johnny O, I was ecstatic! He has always been a bit of an enigma for me; his character mentioned in many of this author’s previous books, but I really had no idea what made Johnny tick. With his emotions enshrined behind a steel fortress stronger than Fort Knox, he is a tricky one to get to know; rarely opening up to others even to those closest to him. In earlier novels, I captured glimpses of many people’s negative perception of him, but who is Johnny really? Is he truly that unlikable? An anti-hero, he is a tricky one to get to know, but I marveled in how this author painstakingly peeled back the layers to reveal a man that is broken, strong, and lovable. To say that I adored his character as the story progressed is an understatement as this rocker won me over!
As for Angeline, she is a delightful heroine, but at times she seemed much younger than her chronological age. Initially, I thought she was closer to early 20s as opposed to late 20s given some of her behaviors. Still, I really liked her character and I enjoyed watching her come into her own. Armed with a huge heart and perseverance, can she be the one to break inside Johnny’s fortress of feelings? Will she not only learn that there is more to Johnny that meets the eye but is also a man that is perfect for her?
For me, the romance started off more as a slow burn with a little bit of push - pull between the two of them, as well as a semi-enemies to lovers feel. However, once they got together, my Kindle nearly caught fire with the sheer sparks flying between these two. Dynamite is perhaps a better word for their sensual chemistry. The character growth is nothing short of spectacular as I honestly wasn’t sure about both of them in the beginning of the novel. Beyond the physical aspect of their relationship, these two have the ability to bring out the best in each other and I enjoyed watching their relationship evolve. For me, the last 50% of the book was exceptional and the ending was perfection. This author has nailed it with another solid contemporary romance that elicited all the feels while also making it a beautifully romantic and steamy read.
Of note, in the first 10% of the book, the author introduces a fair number of characters - characters from her Dirty, Players, and Vancity Villains series. If you have read this authors earlier works, then you will revel in seeing cameo appearances from some of your favorite rockstars and billionaires. If you are new to reading this author’s books, stick with it because you will be in for a wild ride with Johnny and Angeline’s story and will also find yourself curious about the other characters mentioned. For reference: Angeline is Elle Delacroix little sister. Johnny is the older brother of Angeline’s best friend, Shayla.
I read an early version of this manuscript. I voluntarily leave this review where all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
When I discovered that this book was featuring Johnny O, I was ecstatic! He has always been a bit of an enigma for me; his character mentioned in many of this author’s previous books, but I really had no idea what made Johnny tick. With his emotions enshrined behind a steel fortress stronger than Fort Knox, he is a tricky one to get to know; rarely opening up to others even to those closest to him. In earlier novels, I captured glimpses of many people’s negative perception of him, but who is Johnny really? Is he truly that unlikable? An anti-hero, he is a tricky one to get to know, but I marveled in how this author painstakingly peeled back the layers to reveal a man that is broken, strong, and lovable. To say that I adored his character as the story progressed is an understatement as this rocker won me over!
As for Angeline, she is a delightful heroine, but at times she seemed much younger than her chronological age. Initially, I thought she was closer to early 20s as opposed to late 20s given some of her behaviors. Still, I really liked her character and I enjoyed watching her come into her own. Armed with a huge heart and perseverance, can she be the one to break inside Johnny’s fortress of feelings? Will she not only learn that there is more to Johnny that meets the eye but is also a man that is perfect for her?
For me, the romance started off more as a slow burn with a little bit of push - pull between the two of them, as well as a semi-enemies to lovers feel. However, once they got together, my Kindle nearly caught fire with the sheer sparks flying between these two. Dynamite is perhaps a better word for their sensual chemistry. The character growth is nothing short of spectacular as I honestly wasn’t sure about both of them in the beginning of the novel. Beyond the physical aspect of their relationship, these two have the ability to bring out the best in each other and I enjoyed watching their relationship evolve. For me, the last 50% of the book was exceptional and the ending was perfection. This author has nailed it with another solid contemporary romance that elicited all the feels while also making it a beautifully romantic and steamy read.
Of note, in the first 10% of the book, the author introduces a fair number of characters - characters from her Dirty, Players, and Vancity Villains series. If you have read this authors earlier works, then you will revel in seeing cameo appearances from some of your favorite rockstars and billionaires. If you are new to reading this author’s books, stick with it because you will be in for a wild ride with Johnny and Angeline’s story and will also find yourself curious about the other characters mentioned. For reference: Angeline is Elle Delacroix little sister. Johnny is the older brother of Angeline’s best friend, Shayla.
I read an early version of this manuscript. I voluntarily leave this review where all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
May 2, 2023
Redemption is to set a prisoner free and discover that prisoner is you
I do believe Jaine Diamond has written her best book to date. I thought Lex had my heart in this series. But, Wicked Angel, the third in the Vancity Villains, is a truly delicious read. I feel honoured to have been chosen to be part of her ARC team and I highly recommend this book. It has all of Jaine’s patented rockstar glamour, replete with voyeuristic peeping into Vancouver’s highlife.
Maybe the thing I love most about this book is that of all the amorphous characters floating around in Diamond’s universe, Johnny O is probably the most unliked. He was crass, a womanizer, a drunk, and grouchy in a non-sexy way. If anyone could write a way to him finding his redemption it is Jaine Diamond. She makes us believe that Johnny is worthy of this book.
Oh Johnny! So shut down and such a one-dimensional caricature of a selfish and self-destructive rockstar — a portrait of how not to be a human being. He was able to understand and respond to Angel’s insatiable nature for dirtiness because his own needs answered hers so well. This book has some steamy and beautifully choreographed sex scenes. For that alone, you should read it!
Johnny and Angeline fill each other’s cracks with gold. A survivor of a horrific trauma that had him cut himself off from feeling much of anything, Johnny was a mess until he finally surrendered and trusted in his attraction to Angeline. And Angeline, well, she grew into a wise, strong, and self-actualized woman in this book; she just kept choosing to believe in him and see him at his best potential, even if he often fell short. She was his Angel.
I never thought Johnny was a terrible human being. Selfish and flawed, like all of us, yes, but everything is magnified when you are a rockstar (right Zane?!). And when Jaine showed me his kind and gentle side, he won me over almost immediately. I believed in him and he did not disappoint.
And maybe that was part of Diamond’s plan all along… to make us believe Flynn and Angeline belonged together, only to rip the rug out from underneath us and then make us believe in the power of redemption.
Don’t get me wrong… Angeline wasn’t Johnny’s redeemer. Redemption comes from forgiving oneself and allowing your light to shine, no matter how dark the path; to being brave enough to show who you truly are — the good and bad, the dark and light. His Angel simply lit his path and showed him the way forward.
* * * * *
Note: I altered this quote by Lewis B. Smedes, “To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.” to more closely reflect my point of view.
I do believe Jaine Diamond has written her best book to date. I thought Lex had my heart in this series. But, Wicked Angel, the third in the Vancity Villains, is a truly delicious read. I feel honoured to have been chosen to be part of her ARC team and I highly recommend this book. It has all of Jaine’s patented rockstar glamour, replete with voyeuristic peeping into Vancouver’s highlife.
Maybe the thing I love most about this book is that of all the amorphous characters floating around in Diamond’s universe, Johnny O is probably the most unliked. He was crass, a womanizer, a drunk, and grouchy in a non-sexy way. If anyone could write a way to him finding his redemption it is Jaine Diamond. She makes us believe that Johnny is worthy of this book.
Oh Johnny! So shut down and such a one-dimensional caricature of a selfish and self-destructive rockstar — a portrait of how not to be a human being. He was able to understand and respond to Angel’s insatiable nature for dirtiness because his own needs answered hers so well. This book has some steamy and beautifully choreographed sex scenes. For that alone, you should read it!
Johnny and Angeline fill each other’s cracks with gold. A survivor of a horrific trauma that had him cut himself off from feeling much of anything, Johnny was a mess until he finally surrendered and trusted in his attraction to Angeline. And Angeline, well, she grew into a wise, strong, and self-actualized woman in this book; she just kept choosing to believe in him and see him at his best potential, even if he often fell short. She was his Angel.
I never thought Johnny was a terrible human being. Selfish and flawed, like all of us, yes, but everything is magnified when you are a rockstar (right Zane?!). And when Jaine showed me his kind and gentle side, he won me over almost immediately. I believed in him and he did not disappoint.
And maybe that was part of Diamond’s plan all along… to make us believe Flynn and Angeline belonged together, only to rip the rug out from underneath us and then make us believe in the power of redemption.
Don’t get me wrong… Angeline wasn’t Johnny’s redeemer. Redemption comes from forgiving oneself and allowing your light to shine, no matter how dark the path; to being brave enough to show who you truly are — the good and bad, the dark and light. His Angel simply lit his path and showed him the way forward.
* * * * *
Note: I altered this quote by Lewis B. Smedes, “To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.” to more closely reflect my point of view.
May 10, 2023
I am so glad I started this, when had no plans, cause boy I would of hated putting this down!
I DEVOURED this. It was absolutely brilliant. Johnny has always been seen as selfish, but I adored seeing his other sides.
Angelique is such a blast. I love her so much.
And these two together - just perfect.
Another amazing read.
I DEVOURED this. It was absolutely brilliant. Johnny has always been seen as selfish, but I adored seeing his other sides.
Angelique is such a blast. I love her so much.
And these two together - just perfect.
Another amazing read.
May 15, 2023
Too much sex.
Emotional growth deserved to be central focus of book.
Emotional growth deserved to be central focus of book.
August 16, 2023
Johnny O'Reilly's band Breakneck is on the verge of ending after Johnny sleeps with his lead singer's girlfriend. Johnny is known for being a conceited asshole and everyone including his manager and lawyer think that he needs a personality make over. Johnny hires Angeline Delacroix as his publicist she is his sister's best friend and she hates him. In the past Johnny and Angeline shared a kiss and now she avoids the sinfully hot guitarist at all costs but after she breaks up with her boyfriend she moves in with her best friend Shayla who lives in a house on her brother's property.
Angeline does everything she can to make Johnny likable and hopes others see the side of him that she sees. She is the darling 'sister' to the members of huge bandmembers of 'Dirty' and 'The Players' so they are naturally worried and protective over her when she starts to appear in public with Johnny. The two of them start a sexual relationship and have to get over their insecurities. Angeline worries she is too much in bed because she has been told that by her ex Flynn. Johnny has never had a relationship with anyone and doesn't think he's capable of one. As the two of them grow closer and need each other Angeline learns of Johnny's tragic childhood incident and understands him more.
I loved Angeline and I actually thought that she and Johnny complimented each other. This book had humor among the angst and I love that Angeline believed in him and was a constant force of positivity in his life. I really was surprised that I liked Johnny in this book because in the other books I was not overly fond of him. I love that Jaine Diamond can make you hate and love the same character in different books.
Angeline does everything she can to make Johnny likable and hopes others see the side of him that she sees. She is the darling 'sister' to the members of huge bandmembers of 'Dirty' and 'The Players' so they are naturally worried and protective over her when she starts to appear in public with Johnny. The two of them start a sexual relationship and have to get over their insecurities. Angeline worries she is too much in bed because she has been told that by her ex Flynn. Johnny has never had a relationship with anyone and doesn't think he's capable of one. As the two of them grow closer and need each other Angeline learns of Johnny's tragic childhood incident and understands him more.
I loved Angeline and I actually thought that she and Johnny complimented each other. This book had humor among the angst and I love that Angeline believed in him and was a constant force of positivity in his life. I really was surprised that I liked Johnny in this book because in the other books I was not overly fond of him. I love that Jaine Diamond can make you hate and love the same character in different books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2023
In Wicked Angel, book 3 in Jaine Diamond's Vancity Villains series, she brings her fans the story of healing and redemption behind one of her most tormented and broken anti- heros, the one and only Johnny O'Reilly. He's the bad boy rockstar with an arrogant reputation that everyone loves to hate, but there's much more to him than you could ever imagine, simmering beneath his public persona.
Due to a twist of fate and his sister's generosity, the sweet angel he's been trying to forget for 3 years, is now living in the house next door, tempting him more and more very day. When trouble with his band explodes all over social media, Johnny drunk hires Angeline to 'put out his dumpster fire of a career'. With all her connections to Vancouver's music scene, he can keep her close while she works her magic on his challenging PR problem. A win, win for all, but mostly for him.
Their new collaboration quickly pushes their mutual attraction to maximum levels. Watching those sparks fly as past mistakes melted away between them, gave Angeline and Johnny a tentative new beginning with many wild, beautiful, but tumultuous moments yet to come.
Angeline was very much a surprise that Johnny did not see coming. She was sweet, caring and smart on the outside, but what was going on in her head, played to the devil on his shoulder and that guy didn't want to be silenced. Intense passion heats up as past mistakes melt away between them, giving Angeline and Johnny a tentative new beginning with wild, beautiful, but tumultuous moments yet to come. Man, this was some super steamy reading!
Fear and darkness controlled Johnny's life for as long as he could remember. He's been hiding something big that even his best friends don't know about. But, he wanted to trust Angeline with his complicated heart and all his many secrets. Would she guard them and still cherish him once he lets her in or will both of them be broken to pieces in the end?
I have officially melted into a puddle of goo for the sweeter side of Johnny O and when you meet the man behind the myth, you will too. He was so loving on a good day and a heartbreaker when he got caught up in his own dark thoughts, but his beautiful Angel sees him, when others have failed to. Who was the real wicked angel in this story? Johnny, the guardian angel or Angeline, the avenging one? You'll have to decide when you meet them yourself.
Wicked Angel reconnected fans with so many beloved characters from Jaine's Dirtyverse but there were new, never before seen additions that added depth and wisdom to this king of emotional stories. One of Jaine's superpowers has always been the ability to dive deep into the heart and soul of her characters, giving them an unforgettable, hard won happily ever before their story ends, as she did so incredibly with Angel and Johnny. This, along with a million other reasons, is why she's one of my favorite authors of all time and her Dirty world is such a special place to be.
I received and read an early copy of this book. My review reflects my honest and freely given opinions.
Due to a twist of fate and his sister's generosity, the sweet angel he's been trying to forget for 3 years, is now living in the house next door, tempting him more and more very day. When trouble with his band explodes all over social media, Johnny drunk hires Angeline to 'put out his dumpster fire of a career'. With all her connections to Vancouver's music scene, he can keep her close while she works her magic on his challenging PR problem. A win, win for all, but mostly for him.
Their new collaboration quickly pushes their mutual attraction to maximum levels. Watching those sparks fly as past mistakes melted away between them, gave Angeline and Johnny a tentative new beginning with many wild, beautiful, but tumultuous moments yet to come.
Angeline was very much a surprise that Johnny did not see coming. She was sweet, caring and smart on the outside, but what was going on in her head, played to the devil on his shoulder and that guy didn't want to be silenced. Intense passion heats up as past mistakes melt away between them, giving Angeline and Johnny a tentative new beginning with wild, beautiful, but tumultuous moments yet to come. Man, this was some super steamy reading!
Fear and darkness controlled Johnny's life for as long as he could remember. He's been hiding something big that even his best friends don't know about. But, he wanted to trust Angeline with his complicated heart and all his many secrets. Would she guard them and still cherish him once he lets her in or will both of them be broken to pieces in the end?
I have officially melted into a puddle of goo for the sweeter side of Johnny O and when you meet the man behind the myth, you will too. He was so loving on a good day and a heartbreaker when he got caught up in his own dark thoughts, but his beautiful Angel sees him, when others have failed to. Who was the real wicked angel in this story? Johnny, the guardian angel or Angeline, the avenging one? You'll have to decide when you meet them yourself.
Wicked Angel reconnected fans with so many beloved characters from Jaine's Dirtyverse but there were new, never before seen additions that added depth and wisdom to this king of emotional stories. One of Jaine's superpowers has always been the ability to dive deep into the heart and soul of her characters, giving them an unforgettable, hard won happily ever before their story ends, as she did so incredibly with Angel and Johnny. This, along with a million other reasons, is why she's one of my favorite authors of all time and her Dirty world is such a special place to be.
I received and read an early copy of this book. My review reflects my honest and freely given opinions.
May 6, 2023
Wow! Johnny & Angie’s Rockstar Romance Is A Deeply Moving Story About Survival, Responsibility, & Family! This Emotional Read Is A Spinoff Of The Dirty and Players Series, So Familiar Names Reappear As Their Story Unfolds. Don’t Forget To Download The Free Bonus Epilogue Via The Link At The Back Of The Book!
ABOUT THIS BOOK:
This is book three in the Vancity Villains series, which is a spinoff of both the Dirty and Players series. These series are all set in the same world with plenty of character overlap. Although this book reads well as a standalone, there is much more appreciation and meaning to be gleaned by those that have previously read the related series.
To date, this series includes:
1. Handsome Devil (Dane & Devi’s story)
2. Rebel Heir (Lexington & Natalia’s story)
3. Wicked Angel (Johnny O’Reilly & Angeline Delacroix’s story)
4. Irresistible Rogue (Shane’s story)
This series follows four high school friends. Dane, Lex, Johnny, and Shane have each gone in a different direction in life, but they have remained loyal friends over the years. Dane dons a suit and works in the business world. Lex chose to join an MC club rather than follow in his mafia father’s footsteps. Johnny pursued his love of music and is a rockstar on the rise. Shane is an underground MMA fighter.
IN THIS BOOK:
The story opens in Vancouver. It is early June. Dirty and the Players are prepping to leave on tour together in September.
Angeline Delacroix, nearly twenty-eight, is loved by everyone she knows. She is full of positive vibes and best described as sweet. She loves wearing pastels and her beauty sometimes comes across as cartoonish. As the little sister of Elle from Dirty – a band that launched to worldwide success several years ago – she has a lot of ties to the music industry. Angie tags along to industry parties and is comfortable hanging out with the rich and the famous. She has a list of rockstars she has crushed on over the years, and though she might be on a first-name basis with them, she has realistic expectations. She is the little sister of a rock star – something very few can truly relate to. She happens to have lucked out in finding three great girlfriends who are in the same boat as her. They call themselves the Lil Brat Society. Angie, Courteney, Larissa, and Shayla lean on one another for support and are the best of friends.
Angie is at a total loss when her three-plus-year boyfriend says he is done. It shouldn’t have come as a surprise to her that her relationship with Flynn was over. It was a rocky ride. Flynn often had an issue when her attention was directed at other men. He thought she tended toward being too sweet and claimed it came across as flirty. In hindsight, the breakup is not a complete surprise, but it does force her to face some hard truths. Angie moved out of her parents’ home and in with Flynn a year ago, so she now needs to find a place of her own to live. But moreover, she doesn’t even have a job. She was dependent upon Flynn for everything. It is eye-opening, and she is determined to finally get her act together and behave like a grown-up. She had been too lazy to finish college, but Elle had recently gotten her an internship at a PR firm and was excited at the prospect of turning it into a career. She was expecting to be offered a paid position, but that blew up in her face as well. With few options available, Angie takes up Shayla’s offer to live with her until she gets on her feet.
Johnny O’Reilly, thirty, is the quintessential bad boy. He is always looking out for himself, and he isn’t known for being loyal. The guitarist and founder of Vancouver’s Breakneck is living the rockstar lifestyle. He isn’t much liked in the music industry. He knows it, but he doesn’t really care. He always has his reasons, and too bad if others don’t understand. He likes his privacy and avoids the media, so he doesn’t even follow what the tabloids write about him. He’s worked hard to get where he is. Johnny got lucky when he landed a high-profile gig at a music festival when he was twenty, garnering him some attention. He then started Breakneck about eight years ago, and after a few lineup changes, the band seemed to get their act together. That isn’t to say they all get along, but they’ve somehow managed to stay together and are finally on the verge of breakout success. They landed a big contract and are writing songs for their upcoming album – their fifth – and they need to wrap up work in the recording studio by mid-August. Johnny is on the precipice of achieving his dreams.
When Johnny’s manager calls him in for a meeting, he is shocked to learn that his singer, JC, is leaving the band. Apparently, JC didn’t like the photos he saw of his girlfriend with Johnny online. Convinced he can still salvage the situation, Johnny refuses to give up. But he has burned a lot of bridges over the years, and his self-righteous attitude doesn’t help the situation. And when his little sister’s best friend Angel moves in next door, he is faced with a different sort of problem. He has always gotten lost in her eyes. He kissed her once three years ago but has been avoiding her ever since. Like an angel, he is drawn to her. She makes him feel things, but he is more comfortable being numb. He’s lived most of his life behind the walls he’s built, separate and apart from the world. There are very few people he really feels comfortable with, and he knows that letting Angel into his world will destroy his carefully constructed reality. The connection he feels with Angel is something he cannot control. Before he can stop himself, he hires her as his new publicist.
Johnny and Angie begin working together, but it soon turns into something more. Their relationship is taboo for a variety of reasons, though. First, Angie now works for him. Perhaps most importantly, Shayla has made it very clear that she doesn’t want any of her friends sleeping with her brother. Both Johnny and Angie have a lot to lose if Shayla doesn’t accept their relationship, or worse if they end up with a messy breakup. Finally, although everyone loves Angie, just about as many people have a bad opinion of Johnny. Almost nobody will approve of them as a couple, so they face an uphill battle. But even if they can get past those issues, they each have some growing up to do before they are ready for a real relationship. They face some challenges along the way, but the couple eventually finds a happy ending.
Don’t forget to download the free bonus epilogue via the link at the back of the book! It has a teaser pointing to Shane’s story in book four, Irresistible Rogue.
Wow! Johnny and Angie’s rockstar romance is a deeply moving story about survival, responsibility, and family. The first half was absolutely fantastic. I love the story overall, but the second half didn’t quite live up to my expectations. When the couple’s relationship turned physical, it began to feel less real to me. It felt more shallow despite the couple’s excellent chemistry, which was a big disappointment. Johnny’s personal story is enthralling throughout. Angie, however, fell flat for me when she began her relationship with Johnny. I wanted more, and at times, I felt like I understood why Flynn broke up with her. I also had a hard time buying the progression because it seemed impossible that Shayla and others hadn’t caught on.
Both Johnny and Angie had some maturity issues to tackle. In Angie’s case, it is rather surprising she survived over three years with Flynn. She had no job, no career, no education, and no real purpose in life. She was simply Elle’s little sister. And she was Flynn’s girlfriend. While not addressed in the book, dating her big sister’s bodyguard was probably a very unhealthy choice to begin with. Angie always felt like she lived in her sister’s shadow, but to date the man that shadows Elle professionally would take that to a new level. Flynn’s responsibility professionally is to Angie’s sister. He sees and hears a lot. It is almost cringeworthy to think about how he then goes home to the little sister and tries to keep things separate. And dating Elle’s bodyguard would be a constant reminder to Angie of her sister’s success, making it harder for her to find her own place in the world. In Johnny’s case, he simply needs to learn to get along with people. For him, though, that is a real challenge. He doesn’t connect well with others – and for good reason. His story is the highlight of this book.
Johnny and Angel’s story is an emotional read. There are seven teary scenes by my count. The story is well written. The plot is somewhat complex. The characters are carefully crafted and real. The story is told in first person. The POV alternates between Johnny and Angel. I rate this book 4.5 stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
ABOUT THIS BOOK:
This is book three in the Vancity Villains series, which is a spinoff of both the Dirty and Players series. These series are all set in the same world with plenty of character overlap. Although this book reads well as a standalone, there is much more appreciation and meaning to be gleaned by those that have previously read the related series.
To date, this series includes:
1. Handsome Devil (Dane & Devi’s story)
2. Rebel Heir (Lexington & Natalia’s story)
3. Wicked Angel (Johnny O’Reilly & Angeline Delacroix’s story)
4. Irresistible Rogue (Shane’s story)
This series follows four high school friends. Dane, Lex, Johnny, and Shane have each gone in a different direction in life, but they have remained loyal friends over the years. Dane dons a suit and works in the business world. Lex chose to join an MC club rather than follow in his mafia father’s footsteps. Johnny pursued his love of music and is a rockstar on the rise. Shane is an underground MMA fighter.
IN THIS BOOK:
The story opens in Vancouver. It is early June. Dirty and the Players are prepping to leave on tour together in September.
Angeline Delacroix, nearly twenty-eight, is loved by everyone she knows. She is full of positive vibes and best described as sweet. She loves wearing pastels and her beauty sometimes comes across as cartoonish. As the little sister of Elle from Dirty – a band that launched to worldwide success several years ago – she has a lot of ties to the music industry. Angie tags along to industry parties and is comfortable hanging out with the rich and the famous. She has a list of rockstars she has crushed on over the years, and though she might be on a first-name basis with them, she has realistic expectations. She is the little sister of a rock star – something very few can truly relate to. She happens to have lucked out in finding three great girlfriends who are in the same boat as her. They call themselves the Lil Brat Society. Angie, Courteney, Larissa, and Shayla lean on one another for support and are the best of friends.
Angie is at a total loss when her three-plus-year boyfriend says he is done. It shouldn’t have come as a surprise to her that her relationship with Flynn was over. It was a rocky ride. Flynn often had an issue when her attention was directed at other men. He thought she tended toward being too sweet and claimed it came across as flirty. In hindsight, the breakup is not a complete surprise, but it does force her to face some hard truths. Angie moved out of her parents’ home and in with Flynn a year ago, so she now needs to find a place of her own to live. But moreover, she doesn’t even have a job. She was dependent upon Flynn for everything. It is eye-opening, and she is determined to finally get her act together and behave like a grown-up. She had been too lazy to finish college, but Elle had recently gotten her an internship at a PR firm and was excited at the prospect of turning it into a career. She was expecting to be offered a paid position, but that blew up in her face as well. With few options available, Angie takes up Shayla’s offer to live with her until she gets on her feet.
Johnny O’Reilly, thirty, is the quintessential bad boy. He is always looking out for himself, and he isn’t known for being loyal. The guitarist and founder of Vancouver’s Breakneck is living the rockstar lifestyle. He isn’t much liked in the music industry. He knows it, but he doesn’t really care. He always has his reasons, and too bad if others don’t understand. He likes his privacy and avoids the media, so he doesn’t even follow what the tabloids write about him. He’s worked hard to get where he is. Johnny got lucky when he landed a high-profile gig at a music festival when he was twenty, garnering him some attention. He then started Breakneck about eight years ago, and after a few lineup changes, the band seemed to get their act together. That isn’t to say they all get along, but they’ve somehow managed to stay together and are finally on the verge of breakout success. They landed a big contract and are writing songs for their upcoming album – their fifth – and they need to wrap up work in the recording studio by mid-August. Johnny is on the precipice of achieving his dreams.
When Johnny’s manager calls him in for a meeting, he is shocked to learn that his singer, JC, is leaving the band. Apparently, JC didn’t like the photos he saw of his girlfriend with Johnny online. Convinced he can still salvage the situation, Johnny refuses to give up. But he has burned a lot of bridges over the years, and his self-righteous attitude doesn’t help the situation. And when his little sister’s best friend Angel moves in next door, he is faced with a different sort of problem. He has always gotten lost in her eyes. He kissed her once three years ago but has been avoiding her ever since. Like an angel, he is drawn to her. She makes him feel things, but he is more comfortable being numb. He’s lived most of his life behind the walls he’s built, separate and apart from the world. There are very few people he really feels comfortable with, and he knows that letting Angel into his world will destroy his carefully constructed reality. The connection he feels with Angel is something he cannot control. Before he can stop himself, he hires her as his new publicist.
Johnny and Angie begin working together, but it soon turns into something more. Their relationship is taboo for a variety of reasons, though. First, Angie now works for him. Perhaps most importantly, Shayla has made it very clear that she doesn’t want any of her friends sleeping with her brother. Both Johnny and Angie have a lot to lose if Shayla doesn’t accept their relationship, or worse if they end up with a messy breakup. Finally, although everyone loves Angie, just about as many people have a bad opinion of Johnny. Almost nobody will approve of them as a couple, so they face an uphill battle. But even if they can get past those issues, they each have some growing up to do before they are ready for a real relationship. They face some challenges along the way, but the couple eventually finds a happy ending.
Don’t forget to download the free bonus epilogue via the link at the back of the book! It has a teaser pointing to Shane’s story in book four, Irresistible Rogue.
Wow! Johnny and Angie’s rockstar romance is a deeply moving story about survival, responsibility, and family. The first half was absolutely fantastic. I love the story overall, but the second half didn’t quite live up to my expectations. When the couple’s relationship turned physical, it began to feel less real to me. It felt more shallow despite the couple’s excellent chemistry, which was a big disappointment. Johnny’s personal story is enthralling throughout. Angie, however, fell flat for me when she began her relationship with Johnny. I wanted more, and at times, I felt like I understood why Flynn broke up with her. I also had a hard time buying the progression because it seemed impossible that Shayla and others hadn’t caught on.
Both Johnny and Angie had some maturity issues to tackle. In Angie’s case, it is rather surprising she survived over three years with Flynn. She had no job, no career, no education, and no real purpose in life. She was simply Elle’s little sister. And she was Flynn’s girlfriend. While not addressed in the book, dating her big sister’s bodyguard was probably a very unhealthy choice to begin with. Angie always felt like she lived in her sister’s shadow, but to date the man that shadows Elle professionally would take that to a new level. Flynn’s responsibility professionally is to Angie’s sister. He sees and hears a lot. It is almost cringeworthy to think about how he then goes home to the little sister and tries to keep things separate. And dating Elle’s bodyguard would be a constant reminder to Angie of her sister’s success, making it harder for her to find her own place in the world. In Johnny’s case, he simply needs to learn to get along with people. For him, though, that is a real challenge. He doesn’t connect well with others – and for good reason. His story is the highlight of this book.
Johnny and Angel’s story is an emotional read. There are seven teary scenes by my count. The story is well written. The plot is somewhat complex. The characters are carefully crafted and real. The story is told in first person. The POV alternates between Johnny and Angel. I rate this book 4.5 stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2023
My new favourite Jaine Diamond novel! Loved it!
May 4, 2024
I absolutely loved Angeline! Omg she’s my favorite. I loved how spicy this book was too! I definitely have to read the rest of the books.
May 3, 2023
I am simultaneously speechless and bubbling with all the feels and things to say. This book is something else. Jaine was going to have to deliver one heck of a story to give Johnny O his redemption arc. And deliver she did.
There has been so much speculation about who the FMC would be. My gut told me Angeline purely because her crush on Johnny had been discussed before. But last we'd seen of her she was happily in a relationship with Flynn. Well this is the story of all Vancity/Dirtyverse stories. This gives all the context you will ever need to Angie's relationship breakdown and Johnny's past behaviour. It is a slow burn with their relationship building and teasing through the first half of the book. And then you are treated to the steamiest and most O-worthy 2nd half of a book I think I've ever read. Angie and Johnny together are a dirty talking, praise-kinking, love-making, "mine", lost in each other, dream to read.
Johnny had a lot of work to do to redeem himself in this world. He had a lot of apologies to make and a lot of wounds to heal. This is him doing the work, overcoming his fears and trauma, healing, growing and trusting. Angie is a little lost. She has made herself smaller in the world. She is used to being in the shadow of fame and being Elle's little sister. This is her reclaiming of herself and realising she is seen and worthy and can find her own happiness and fulfillment without shame. I adored that these two accepted each other, faults and all. She saw beyond his past and he was able to embrace her kinks (I mean she is gorgeous and horny, what self respecting rockstar wouldnt?).
I loved every page of this book and I wish I could read it all again for the first time. Who knew there was such a softie and incredible man underneath the misbehaviour and broken hearts. This had everything, laughter, tears, heartache, romance, love and all the passion you could wish for.
And of course we get a handful of Dirtyverse appearances from our favourites.... Elle, Summer, Seth, Cary, Jude..... and some adorable little bits of extra info on Ashley, Matt and Danica. If you love rockstar romances, this is a must read. You can read this as a standalone as enough context is given. You dont need to know Johnny's past to understand his HEA. I cannot recommend this book more.
There has been so much speculation about who the FMC would be. My gut told me Angeline purely because her crush on Johnny had been discussed before. But last we'd seen of her she was happily in a relationship with Flynn. Well this is the story of all Vancity/Dirtyverse stories. This gives all the context you will ever need to Angie's relationship breakdown and Johnny's past behaviour. It is a slow burn with their relationship building and teasing through the first half of the book. And then you are treated to the steamiest and most O-worthy 2nd half of a book I think I've ever read. Angie and Johnny together are a dirty talking, praise-kinking, love-making, "mine", lost in each other, dream to read.
Johnny had a lot of work to do to redeem himself in this world. He had a lot of apologies to make and a lot of wounds to heal. This is him doing the work, overcoming his fears and trauma, healing, growing and trusting. Angie is a little lost. She has made herself smaller in the world. She is used to being in the shadow of fame and being Elle's little sister. This is her reclaiming of herself and realising she is seen and worthy and can find her own happiness and fulfillment without shame. I adored that these two accepted each other, faults and all. She saw beyond his past and he was able to embrace her kinks (I mean she is gorgeous and horny, what self respecting rockstar wouldnt?).
I loved every page of this book and I wish I could read it all again for the first time. Who knew there was such a softie and incredible man underneath the misbehaviour and broken hearts. This had everything, laughter, tears, heartache, romance, love and all the passion you could wish for.
And of course we get a handful of Dirtyverse appearances from our favourites.... Elle, Summer, Seth, Cary, Jude..... and some adorable little bits of extra info on Ashley, Matt and Danica. If you love rockstar romances, this is a must read. You can read this as a standalone as enough context is given. You dont need to know Johnny's past to understand his HEA. I cannot recommend this book more.
May 6, 2023
There is something about the way Jaine writes that makes me feel this book deep in my soul. It feels like you're waiting and teetering on the edge of a cliff for the wind to blow the wrong way.
I feel like there will be more darkness before we see the light at the end of the tunnel. Angeline's life has basically imploded and Johnny needs to get his act together.
Despite her crush, Angeline is staying professional and not fawning all over Johnny. I really like how these characters are written and the interaction between them.
Angeline doesn't sugar-coat things with him and I think with her, he's getting a real dose of reality. His attitude towards a lot of things need to change. But then, internally he's also struggling with issues that we really don't know about.
Jaine's depiction of this world is brilliant. The more time Johnny and Angel spend together the closer they get. Angel might be a loving soul that cares a lot about people but she's no pushover. I love how she kept pushing Johnny outside of his comfort zone to start doing things differently. His view on everything was tainted by his past, Angel is showing him that he is worthy of having people in his corner , that he someone that others can love.
Johnny is a tortured rockstar if there ever was one. He comes across as an arrogant rock star who has a huge chip on his shoulder. I was really impressed with how the issues in this book were handled and it gives you an insight into the person Johnny is. A person that is so walled up inside himself and has been that way for so long that he doesn't know how to let anyone in. He gives people what they want to see, he treats people so badly so they don't get a chance to get close enough to see the real Johnny. Then he doesn't have to worry about them leaving him.
To me this is a story about not judging someone because you really don't know what is going on in their life. Whys is it that Johnny does the things he does?
Their spicy scenes were Hella spicy! Hot damn! They were some of the hottest scenes I've read this year!
There was a line in this book that said things that are most personal resonate with people. And it's true. This story resonated with me because it was so tragically beautiful and written so perfectly that this felt real. I believed I was reading about a broken rockstar with past trauma that he is trying to deal with. I believed I was reading about a sassy sort of publicist that tells it like it is, that feels everything and is forcing Johnny to as well.
I loved the growth of Johnny's character and I love how raw he was, Jaine did an exceptional job with Johnny, that I just can't put into words, to me, he's one of the best characters to be written.
This book hits on a deeper level and I knew from the start that this would be something special. One of the best books yet, thank you!
I feel like there will be more darkness before we see the light at the end of the tunnel. Angeline's life has basically imploded and Johnny needs to get his act together.
Despite her crush, Angeline is staying professional and not fawning all over Johnny. I really like how these characters are written and the interaction between them.
Angeline doesn't sugar-coat things with him and I think with her, he's getting a real dose of reality. His attitude towards a lot of things need to change. But then, internally he's also struggling with issues that we really don't know about.
Jaine's depiction of this world is brilliant. The more time Johnny and Angel spend together the closer they get. Angel might be a loving soul that cares a lot about people but she's no pushover. I love how she kept pushing Johnny outside of his comfort zone to start doing things differently. His view on everything was tainted by his past, Angel is showing him that he is worthy of having people in his corner , that he someone that others can love.
Johnny is a tortured rockstar if there ever was one. He comes across as an arrogant rock star who has a huge chip on his shoulder. I was really impressed with how the issues in this book were handled and it gives you an insight into the person Johnny is. A person that is so walled up inside himself and has been that way for so long that he doesn't know how to let anyone in. He gives people what they want to see, he treats people so badly so they don't get a chance to get close enough to see the real Johnny. Then he doesn't have to worry about them leaving him.
To me this is a story about not judging someone because you really don't know what is going on in their life. Whys is it that Johnny does the things he does?
Their spicy scenes were Hella spicy! Hot damn! They were some of the hottest scenes I've read this year!
There was a line in this book that said things that are most personal resonate with people. And it's true. This story resonated with me because it was so tragically beautiful and written so perfectly that this felt real. I believed I was reading about a broken rockstar with past trauma that he is trying to deal with. I believed I was reading about a sassy sort of publicist that tells it like it is, that feels everything and is forcing Johnny to as well.
I loved the growth of Johnny's character and I love how raw he was, Jaine did an exceptional job with Johnny, that I just can't put into words, to me, he's one of the best characters to be written.
This book hits on a deeper level and I knew from the start that this would be something special. One of the best books yet, thank you!
March 23, 2024
There is something about the way Jaine writes that makes me feel this book deep in my soul. It feels like you're waiting and teetering on the edge of a cliff for the wind to blow the wrong way.
I feel like there will be more darkness before we see the light at the end of the tunnel. Angeline's life has basically imploded and Johnny needs to get his act together.
Despite her crush, Angeline is staying professional and not fawning all over Johnny. I really like how these characters are written and the interaction between them.
Angeline doesn't sugar-coat things with him and I think with her, he's getting a real dose of reality. His attitude towards a lot of things need to change. But then, internally he's also struggling with issues that we really don't know about.
Jaine's depiction of this world is brilliant. The more time Johnny and Angel spend together the closer they get. Angel might be a loving soul that cares a lot about people but she's no pushover. I love how she kept pushing Johnny outside of his comfort zone to start doing things differently. His view on everything was tainted by his past, Angel is showing him that he is worthy of having people in his corner , that he someone that others can love.
Johnny is a tortured rockstar if there ever was one. He comes across as an arrogant rock star who has a huge chip on his shoulder. I was really impressed with how the issues in this book were handled and it gives you an insight into the person Johnny is. A person that is so walled up inside himself and has been that way for so long that he doesn't know how to let anyone in. He gives people what they want to see, he treats people so badly so they don't get a chance to get close enough to see the real Johnny. Then he doesn't have to worry about them leaving him.
To me this is a story about not judging someone because you really don't know what is going on in their life. Whys is it that Johnny does the things he does?
Their spicy scenes were Hella spicy! Hot damn! They were some of the hottest scenes I've read this year!
There was a line in this book that said things that are most personal resonate with people. And it's true. This story resonated with me because it was so tragically beautiful and written so perfectly that this felt real. I believed I was reading about a broken rockstar with past trauma that he is trying to deal with. I believed I was reading about a sassy sort of publicist that tells it like it is, that feels everything and is forcing Johnny to as well.
I loved the growth of Johnny's character and I love how raw he was, Jaine did an exceptional job with Johnny, that I just can't put into words, to me, he's one of the best characters to be written.
This book hits on a deeper level and I knew from the start that this would be something special. One of the best books yet, thank you!
I feel like there will be more darkness before we see the light at the end of the tunnel. Angeline's life has basically imploded and Johnny needs to get his act together.
Despite her crush, Angeline is staying professional and not fawning all over Johnny. I really like how these characters are written and the interaction between them.
Angeline doesn't sugar-coat things with him and I think with her, he's getting a real dose of reality. His attitude towards a lot of things need to change. But then, internally he's also struggling with issues that we really don't know about.
Jaine's depiction of this world is brilliant. The more time Johnny and Angel spend together the closer they get. Angel might be a loving soul that cares a lot about people but she's no pushover. I love how she kept pushing Johnny outside of his comfort zone to start doing things differently. His view on everything was tainted by his past, Angel is showing him that he is worthy of having people in his corner , that he someone that others can love.
Johnny is a tortured rockstar if there ever was one. He comes across as an arrogant rock star who has a huge chip on his shoulder. I was really impressed with how the issues in this book were handled and it gives you an insight into the person Johnny is. A person that is so walled up inside himself and has been that way for so long that he doesn't know how to let anyone in. He gives people what they want to see, he treats people so badly so they don't get a chance to get close enough to see the real Johnny. Then he doesn't have to worry about them leaving him.
To me this is a story about not judging someone because you really don't know what is going on in their life. Whys is it that Johnny does the things he does?
Their spicy scenes were Hella spicy! Hot damn! They were some of the hottest scenes I've read this year!
There was a line in this book that said things that are most personal resonate with people. And it's true. This story resonated with me because it was so tragically beautiful and written so perfectly that this felt real. I believed I was reading about a broken rockstar with past trauma that he is trying to deal with. I believed I was reading about a sassy sort of publicist that tells it like it is, that feels everything and is forcing Johnny to as well.
I loved the growth of Johnny's character and I love how raw he was, Jaine did an exceptional job with Johnny, that I just can't put into words, to me, he's one of the best characters to be written.
This book hits on a deeper level and I knew from the start that this would be something special. One of the best books yet, thank you!
May 4, 2023
This book is a wild ride and it will leave you fully satisfied. You will love the characters and they have so much to unpack that you will be unable to put this book down once you start it. This book has amazing tropes: best friend's older brother, bad-boy rock star, enemies to lovers, and some fun kinks along the way.
Johnny O'Reilly is a rock star but has he's been struggling and acting out just because he can. He has built a fortress around his heart and his world. He doesn't let anyone in and he is okay with that because it is easier than facing the demons he's been chasing for so many years. He knows the choices he's been making will eventually catch up with him but he is too far removed to care. That is until he realizes that if he doesn't change he may end up with nothing. This terrifies him but what really does it for him is all these emotions and needs he is feeling for his sister's best friend Angeline. She has always been around and he has always noticed her but he was too busy with life to really see her but she was never far from his mind...he just refused to let her in.
Angeline's life is spiraling and she is struggling to figure out what comes next. She is jobless, homeless, and boyfriend less all in the span of 24 hours. She has been hit by all sides and she has no idea what is she going to do. She wants to be a publicists and has been working towards that until she is not. Now she has to dust herself off and begin making her own path. She is the little sister of famous rock star Elle Delacroix and her ex is Elle's bodyguard so that is fun for her. Angeline is a likeable character. She is a little bit naïve at times but she is an intelligent, strong, and beautiful woman who will not let her predicament dictate her future. She loves Shayla like a sister but she wants and needs Johnny like she's never wanted anyone before. He drives her crazy and she will not let him push her away. She will make him see the light even if he drives her insane most days. However, when he calls her "Angel" she is puddle and will do anything he asks. Their love is explosive and very sexy. They have no problem in the bedroom it is when they have to deal with real life that he tries to hide. Angeline will not let him and she will do anything in her power to show the world and Johnny that letting people in is worth it!
You will devour this book in one sitting. It is a beautiful story about redemption and second chances. The characters are amazing and you will thoroughly enjoy their road to their HEA. Happy Reading!
*If you have not read Jaine's other series Vancity Villains and/or Dirty you will get to read more about several characters that were present throughout this novel. They are both amazing series that you will devour.
Johnny O'Reilly is a rock star but has he's been struggling and acting out just because he can. He has built a fortress around his heart and his world. He doesn't let anyone in and he is okay with that because it is easier than facing the demons he's been chasing for so many years. He knows the choices he's been making will eventually catch up with him but he is too far removed to care. That is until he realizes that if he doesn't change he may end up with nothing. This terrifies him but what really does it for him is all these emotions and needs he is feeling for his sister's best friend Angeline. She has always been around and he has always noticed her but he was too busy with life to really see her but she was never far from his mind...he just refused to let her in.
Angeline's life is spiraling and she is struggling to figure out what comes next. She is jobless, homeless, and boyfriend less all in the span of 24 hours. She has been hit by all sides and she has no idea what is she going to do. She wants to be a publicists and has been working towards that until she is not. Now she has to dust herself off and begin making her own path. She is the little sister of famous rock star Elle Delacroix and her ex is Elle's bodyguard so that is fun for her. Angeline is a likeable character. She is a little bit naïve at times but she is an intelligent, strong, and beautiful woman who will not let her predicament dictate her future. She loves Shayla like a sister but she wants and needs Johnny like she's never wanted anyone before. He drives her crazy and she will not let him push her away. She will make him see the light even if he drives her insane most days. However, when he calls her "Angel" she is puddle and will do anything he asks. Their love is explosive and very sexy. They have no problem in the bedroom it is when they have to deal with real life that he tries to hide. Angeline will not let him and she will do anything in her power to show the world and Johnny that letting people in is worth it!
You will devour this book in one sitting. It is a beautiful story about redemption and second chances. The characters are amazing and you will thoroughly enjoy their road to their HEA. Happy Reading!
*If you have not read Jaine's other series Vancity Villains and/or Dirty you will get to read more about several characters that were present throughout this novel. They are both amazing series that you will devour.
May 9, 2023
Firstly, Wicked Angel is a definite five star read. Jaine Diamond is an absolute genius at giving us what we didn’t know we wanted in a storyline and characters. Furthermore, she is one of those rare authors that gets the literary balance absolutely perfect - plot, characters, dialogue, humour, romance, spice, action, angst all balanced so that the reader is submersed into the book world and feeling and experiencing along with the characters.
Wicked Angel is Book 3 in the Vancity Villains series, and we finally get to read about Johnny O'Reilly after being teased for years with cameo appearances and references in other Diamond books. Johnny does NOT disappoint and yet is so different to what I had expected. Johnny is a fully faceted character with numerous flaws but all the more likeable because of them. To be honest, I always expected to like Johnny even if he turned out to be a fully-fledged rock and roll degenerate, but he is so much more than this. His story is one of isolation and tragedy and how he deals with this is manna for a romance reader.
A lot of Jaine’s readers were surprised when it was announced that Angeline would be the female protagonist for this book, and I think this was due to how the readers had perceived these characters from past books. Could Angeline really be the ‘type’ to ‘tame’ Johnny?? They seem like oil and water, OR the good girl and the bad boy. And this is where we experience some of Jaine Diamond’s genius at work.
Angeline is a likeable, interesting, gentle yet feisty character that I could relate to in many ways. As someone who also feels emotions very strongly, and wants to think the best of everyone, I’m also perceived as naive, so I loved reading how she prevails despite this. I enjoyed the glimpse of what life could be like living in the shadow of someone famous and how it could impact your life and your perception of yourself. However, Angeline is also packed full of surprises and isn’t quite the good girl that most readers would have predicted.
Together Johnny and Angeline are fire! The chemistry between the two of them is instantly tangible. Even when they don’t really like each other or are seemingly indifferent, you can tell they want to rip off each other’s clothes. Their spicy scenes are some of the best that I’ve read – especially with the dirty talk from both MC’s.
I loved the relationship development between Johnny and Angeline which was realistic in the way that trust was built, and secrets shared, along with backward steps and mistakes made. Their conversations were what really helped make this book magic.
For die-hard Jaine Diamond fans, yes there are appearances from some of our favourite characters or snippets shared about them which makes you want to read the Dirty and Players series all over again.
This book is one of my favourite Jaine Diamond books. I loved everything about it. I finished it two days ago and I can’t stop thinking about it, so be prepared for a Book Hangover!! This book is absolutely phenomenal, and I will definitely be re-reading it to make sure I capture all the little nuances that I missed the first time.
Wicked Angel is Book 3 in the Vancity Villains series, and we finally get to read about Johnny O'Reilly after being teased for years with cameo appearances and references in other Diamond books. Johnny does NOT disappoint and yet is so different to what I had expected. Johnny is a fully faceted character with numerous flaws but all the more likeable because of them. To be honest, I always expected to like Johnny even if he turned out to be a fully-fledged rock and roll degenerate, but he is so much more than this. His story is one of isolation and tragedy and how he deals with this is manna for a romance reader.
A lot of Jaine’s readers were surprised when it was announced that Angeline would be the female protagonist for this book, and I think this was due to how the readers had perceived these characters from past books. Could Angeline really be the ‘type’ to ‘tame’ Johnny?? They seem like oil and water, OR the good girl and the bad boy. And this is where we experience some of Jaine Diamond’s genius at work.
Angeline is a likeable, interesting, gentle yet feisty character that I could relate to in many ways. As someone who also feels emotions very strongly, and wants to think the best of everyone, I’m also perceived as naive, so I loved reading how she prevails despite this. I enjoyed the glimpse of what life could be like living in the shadow of someone famous and how it could impact your life and your perception of yourself. However, Angeline is also packed full of surprises and isn’t quite the good girl that most readers would have predicted.
Together Johnny and Angeline are fire! The chemistry between the two of them is instantly tangible. Even when they don’t really like each other or are seemingly indifferent, you can tell they want to rip off each other’s clothes. Their spicy scenes are some of the best that I’ve read – especially with the dirty talk from both MC’s.
I loved the relationship development between Johnny and Angeline which was realistic in the way that trust was built, and secrets shared, along with backward steps and mistakes made. Their conversations were what really helped make this book magic.
For die-hard Jaine Diamond fans, yes there are appearances from some of our favourite characters or snippets shared about them which makes you want to read the Dirty and Players series all over again.
This book is one of my favourite Jaine Diamond books. I loved everything about it. I finished it two days ago and I can’t stop thinking about it, so be prepared for a Book Hangover!! This book is absolutely phenomenal, and I will definitely be re-reading it to make sure I capture all the little nuances that I missed the first time.
May 9, 2023
Wicked Angel Review
Couple: Angeline & Johnny
Author: Jaine Diamond
Tropes: best friend’s brother, little sister’s best friend, rockstar romance, wallflower romance, frenemy to lover
Review: Jane has done it again!! I thought Jude was my favorite rockstar in this megaverse of rockstar romances but Johnny O has topped the charts! This book is a swoony dual POV romance that will makes you melt and cry at the same time.
Johnny and Angeline are two should who are PERFECT for one another and truly bring out the best in each other. At first you question how Johnny is but as the book goes on you learn about his past and why he became the closed off version of himself. His love for Angeline is so explosive that you really can’t imagine him with anyone else.
Angeline is an aspiring PR career woman who takes on Johnny after she gets let go of her internship and dumped by her longterm boyfriend Finn. We see her rise up after this and tackle what could be the biggest scandal in the music industry. I enjoyed Angeline’s POV and her drive to be the Queen of PR in the West. I thought that her naivety and intent for seeing the best tin people also made her such a lovable character. The main arc for her is getting over her childhood infatuation with Johnny O wile working closely with him.
Johnny O is the older brother to Angeline’s best friend. He is arrogant, prideful and stubborn. At first we see his ugly side in the band and how careless he is to those who are not his friends. As time goes on we begin to understand why he sabotages everything and we also see that he has a soft spot for Angeline. I really liked Johnny in this story. His character is so layered that you feel like he is always a mystery. I also enjoyed how he admits his failures if only to himself. Johnny’s main arc is overcoming his trauma in childhood and letting go of the scandals he created to keep everyone at an arms length. His story is truly one that you can relate to and it makes him human in the minds of whoever reads this story.
This story is SPICY!! Both characters have intense chemistry and attraction. They both have kinks that border on the taboo side and love to talk DIRTY! The romance is there but we see them fall naturally into the “feels” and then fight it when they see how it may affect the other persons life. I enjoyed the dirty secret lust they had but also really liked how Johnny was the one who wanted everyone to know Angeline was his….even his sister!
This book is a great rockstar romance that will leave you needing more of these two!
Rating: BROKE THE SCALE, swoon-worthy rockstar romance!
Couple: Angeline & Johnny
Author: Jaine Diamond
Tropes: best friend’s brother, little sister’s best friend, rockstar romance, wallflower romance, frenemy to lover
Review: Jane has done it again!! I thought Jude was my favorite rockstar in this megaverse of rockstar romances but Johnny O has topped the charts! This book is a swoony dual POV romance that will makes you melt and cry at the same time.
Johnny and Angeline are two should who are PERFECT for one another and truly bring out the best in each other. At first you question how Johnny is but as the book goes on you learn about his past and why he became the closed off version of himself. His love for Angeline is so explosive that you really can’t imagine him with anyone else.
Angeline is an aspiring PR career woman who takes on Johnny after she gets let go of her internship and dumped by her longterm boyfriend Finn. We see her rise up after this and tackle what could be the biggest scandal in the music industry. I enjoyed Angeline’s POV and her drive to be the Queen of PR in the West. I thought that her naivety and intent for seeing the best tin people also made her such a lovable character. The main arc for her is getting over her childhood infatuation with Johnny O wile working closely with him.
Johnny O is the older brother to Angeline’s best friend. He is arrogant, prideful and stubborn. At first we see his ugly side in the band and how careless he is to those who are not his friends. As time goes on we begin to understand why he sabotages everything and we also see that he has a soft spot for Angeline. I really liked Johnny in this story. His character is so layered that you feel like he is always a mystery. I also enjoyed how he admits his failures if only to himself. Johnny’s main arc is overcoming his trauma in childhood and letting go of the scandals he created to keep everyone at an arms length. His story is truly one that you can relate to and it makes him human in the minds of whoever reads this story.
This story is SPICY!! Both characters have intense chemistry and attraction. They both have kinks that border on the taboo side and love to talk DIRTY! The romance is there but we see them fall naturally into the “feels” and then fight it when they see how it may affect the other persons life. I enjoyed the dirty secret lust they had but also really liked how Johnny was the one who wanted everyone to know Angeline was his….even his sister!
This book is a great rockstar romance that will leave you needing more of these two!
Rating: BROKE THE SCALE, swoon-worthy rockstar romance!
May 5, 2023
I’ve been a fan of Jaine Diamond since she hooked me with Dirty Like Me. I dove right in when Wicked Angel appeared on my kindle. I love the “Dirtyverse”. All books can technically be read on their own but I highly recommend reading them all, from Dirty to the Players to the current Vancity Villains. Each book focuses on one couple and their journey to happily ever after, but this entire cast of characters in very intertwined throughout the series.
Wicked Angel in the 3rd book in the Vancity Villains series. We have a ‘best friend’s brother, rockstar, forbidden romance, enemies to lovers kind of story. Who doesn’t love a bad boy rockstar and his redemption story. Johnny O has been a background character in many books in this series. A troubled playboy, rockstar, heartbreaker, who is trying to make his way to the top. Now we finally get his story. Is he really the bad guy, only out for himself? He’s on the edge, his career possibly about to crash and burn.
Our leading lady, Angeline, is just trying to make a name for herself and find her place in the world. Little sister to famous rockstar (Elle from Dirty Like Seth). She is the sweet good girl who everyone loves. She’s led a privileged life so far but when her love life and job fall apart, Angeline is desperate to prove herself worthy and takes a job from an unlikely person . . . her best friend’s rockstar brother who needs an image makeover.
Their journey to happily ever after wasn’t an easy one. Johnny is very closed off, he doesn’t let anyone get close. He doesn’t seem to care about the repercussions that his actions will have on others. Angeline wants to hate Johnny, blaming him for indirectly losing her job. She fights the attraction that’s between them. He is a bit of an a**. Also, you can’t date your best friend’s brother. That goes against the rules of the “Lil Brat Society”. ( Younger siblings of famous rockstars support group). But when these two finally come together, their chemistry is explosive. 🔥🔥🔥 Their relationship shouldn’t work but surprisingly it does. It’s not just all about the s*x. (Though there is a lot of it, they are highly compatible). They support each other, talk to each other and make each other better, much to the surprise of their friends and family.
I loved the story. Definitely recommend. Read it so fast. Cant wait for more of from this series. As soon as the audiobook is available I will be adding it to my collection.
Wicked Angel in the 3rd book in the Vancity Villains series. We have a ‘best friend’s brother, rockstar, forbidden romance, enemies to lovers kind of story. Who doesn’t love a bad boy rockstar and his redemption story. Johnny O has been a background character in many books in this series. A troubled playboy, rockstar, heartbreaker, who is trying to make his way to the top. Now we finally get his story. Is he really the bad guy, only out for himself? He’s on the edge, his career possibly about to crash and burn.
Our leading lady, Angeline, is just trying to make a name for herself and find her place in the world. Little sister to famous rockstar (Elle from Dirty Like Seth). She is the sweet good girl who everyone loves. She’s led a privileged life so far but when her love life and job fall apart, Angeline is desperate to prove herself worthy and takes a job from an unlikely person . . . her best friend’s rockstar brother who needs an image makeover.
Their journey to happily ever after wasn’t an easy one. Johnny is very closed off, he doesn’t let anyone get close. He doesn’t seem to care about the repercussions that his actions will have on others. Angeline wants to hate Johnny, blaming him for indirectly losing her job. She fights the attraction that’s between them. He is a bit of an a**. Also, you can’t date your best friend’s brother. That goes against the rules of the “Lil Brat Society”. ( Younger siblings of famous rockstars support group). But when these two finally come together, their chemistry is explosive. 🔥🔥🔥 Their relationship shouldn’t work but surprisingly it does. It’s not just all about the s*x. (Though there is a lot of it, they are highly compatible). They support each other, talk to each other and make each other better, much to the surprise of their friends and family.
I loved the story. Definitely recommend. Read it so fast. Cant wait for more of from this series. As soon as the audiobook is available I will be adding it to my collection.
April 30, 2023
Jaine Diamond did it again. 🥰🥰What a book, 10 stars without a doubt. I've been following this author since Dirty Like Me and these characters seem to be part of my life, it's a very special connection that the author has achieved. And the fact that the author manages to introduce small moments of previous characters in the new books only makes my heart warmer and tighter🥺😍Finally Angie and Johnny O get the happy ending they so deserved. When Angie started her relationship with Flynn I was a little disappointed, but I should have known that Jaine would find a way to give Angie the ending she deserved. I came into this book with a love/hate relationship with Johnny O but I should have known by now that he was so much more than what he seemed. What a pleasure it was to be able to watch this character grow,how he went from hated to celebrated and ultimately loved. The way he experienced this journey and all the turmoil of emotions associated with it, just wow.What a real show. I loved the fact that during the book we can see how Angie starts to have more confidence in herself and starts to have the courage to ask for what she wants without apologies and without judgments. This book reinforces my conviction that there are people who are much better together than apart, that there are people who can bring out the best in you and be there for you no matter what. The sex scenes this author writes are just wow🥵🥵 This author has a way of writing these scenes that make it seem like we're there (kink aside). This is one of the very few authors, in my opinion, to manage to convey the intimacy between the characters and the heat of the moment. Hey there are many books with good sex scenes, but no one can convey the emotion, intimacy, vulnerability and heat of the moment like Jaine. And for that she is once again to be congratulated. I can't wait to find out who is the next couple to be entitled to a book, in my head I'm rooting for one person but now it's wait and see.
Thank you Jaine Diamond for giving me the pleasure of being able to orbit around this universe you created. These characters already have a captive place in my heart❤️❤️.
Thank you Jaine Diamond for giving me the pleasure of being able to orbit around this universe you created. These characters already have a captive place in my heart❤️❤️.
May 4, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is an enemies to lovers, best friends brother romance.
This is the story of Johnny and Angeline. She has had a thing for him since she has been best friends with is sister. He is a rock star and the leading man in all of her dreams. However one day she kisses him even though she has a boyfriend. She really thought he would be the man of her dreams until she decides she hates him. All the while still having a crush on him. Now things has gone off the rails for her thanks to him and she has lost not only her boyfriend but her dream job and her home. Johnny however is a walking disaster. He might look like an Adonis but he has the soul of Hades. He doesn't care who he has to step on to get to the top. But, he is on the verge of his career imploding. His misdeeds are really catching up with him and that is the threat to his career. Now he needs help and he offers Angeline a job. A job that she can't really afford to pass up. She soon finds out it is hard to hate someone who is walking around half naked and the man of her dreams. They also have to spend a lot of time together and this is when she begins to realize there is a lot more to him than meets the eye. But he has a huge secret and her traitorous heart really goes out to him. This is his last chance to make amends for all the pain he has caused. He also has hurt her deeply and that makes it almost impossible to trust him and not think that he will do it again.
You have to read to find out what happens but I really loved reading this book. It is a real page turner and you will be sucked into this story so hard you just forget the world around you. Johnny is a mess an absolute mess. But there is a reason for this that you will discover as you are reading. He certainly has the destructive rock star thing going for him. He is a prime example of how not to be a decent human being and is hurting a lot of people along the way. However no matter how hard she tries to not believe in him, she can't help but do just that. I loved these flawed characters and the story they had to tell.
This is an enemies to lovers, best friends brother romance.
This is the story of Johnny and Angeline. She has had a thing for him since she has been best friends with is sister. He is a rock star and the leading man in all of her dreams. However one day she kisses him even though she has a boyfriend. She really thought he would be the man of her dreams until she decides she hates him. All the while still having a crush on him. Now things has gone off the rails for her thanks to him and she has lost not only her boyfriend but her dream job and her home. Johnny however is a walking disaster. He might look like an Adonis but he has the soul of Hades. He doesn't care who he has to step on to get to the top. But, he is on the verge of his career imploding. His misdeeds are really catching up with him and that is the threat to his career. Now he needs help and he offers Angeline a job. A job that she can't really afford to pass up. She soon finds out it is hard to hate someone who is walking around half naked and the man of her dreams. They also have to spend a lot of time together and this is when she begins to realize there is a lot more to him than meets the eye. But he has a huge secret and her traitorous heart really goes out to him. This is his last chance to make amends for all the pain he has caused. He also has hurt her deeply and that makes it almost impossible to trust him and not think that he will do it again.
You have to read to find out what happens but I really loved reading this book. It is a real page turner and you will be sucked into this story so hard you just forget the world around you. Johnny is a mess an absolute mess. But there is a reason for this that you will discover as you are reading. He certainly has the destructive rock star thing going for him. He is a prime example of how not to be a decent human being and is hurting a lot of people along the way. However no matter how hard she tries to not believe in him, she can't help but do just that. I loved these flawed characters and the story they had to tell.
May 4, 2023
A wicked beautiful story
Wicked Angel is a hot new release by Janie Diamond. In this story we finally get to see behind the veil, or in his case, the fortress, that makes Johnny O’Riley he man he is.
Johnny has been a fixture in both the Dirty and Players series. He has a bad reputation. He left emotional scars on Amber in her book with Dylan, Dirty like Dylan.
Angeline has lived in the shadow of her older rock star sister Elle. We see her character interacting from the sideline within the rock star world her sister lives in. Her life implodes around the same time Johnny loses his band.
After he drunkenly hires her as his publicist the moments between them eventually ignite like wildfire. Angeline is different with Johnny and his carefully constructed inner fortress is threatened with emotions he has been detached from since a tragic childhood event. Both of them struggle with their desires , trust, and boundaries.
Anyone who has even been in a relationship with a tortured soul understands Johnny’s struggle as well as Angel’s attempt to support and help him. What I love about reading Janie Diamond’s books is how authentic her writing is around the human condition and struggles. She has either experienced these first had or does an awesome job of doing the research and writing about that information in a way that screams authenticity.
Towards the end of the book the timeline jumps. Typically, I don’t like when authors do this. It feels like they are rushing, or that they are trying to avoid a second story. Surprisingly, I didn’t feel this way once I realized how necessary it was that the characters had that time to get them where she needed them to go. The story required that jump in time for us to experience the events and dialog at the end.
You certainly could read this book as a stand alone, but having read the previous books in her Dirty and Player series, my experience was so much richer because I had the background with the other characters.
This book was wicked beautiful and one I highly recommend. Also- don’t forget to read the bonus epilogue.
Wicked Angel is a hot new release by Janie Diamond. In this story we finally get to see behind the veil, or in his case, the fortress, that makes Johnny O’Riley he man he is.
Johnny has been a fixture in both the Dirty and Players series. He has a bad reputation. He left emotional scars on Amber in her book with Dylan, Dirty like Dylan.
Angeline has lived in the shadow of her older rock star sister Elle. We see her character interacting from the sideline within the rock star world her sister lives in. Her life implodes around the same time Johnny loses his band.
After he drunkenly hires her as his publicist the moments between them eventually ignite like wildfire. Angeline is different with Johnny and his carefully constructed inner fortress is threatened with emotions he has been detached from since a tragic childhood event. Both of them struggle with their desires , trust, and boundaries.
Anyone who has even been in a relationship with a tortured soul understands Johnny’s struggle as well as Angel’s attempt to support and help him. What I love about reading Janie Diamond’s books is how authentic her writing is around the human condition and struggles. She has either experienced these first had or does an awesome job of doing the research and writing about that information in a way that screams authenticity.
Towards the end of the book the timeline jumps. Typically, I don’t like when authors do this. It feels like they are rushing, or that they are trying to avoid a second story. Surprisingly, I didn’t feel this way once I realized how necessary it was that the characters had that time to get them where she needed them to go. The story required that jump in time for us to experience the events and dialog at the end.
You certainly could read this book as a stand alone, but having read the previous books in her Dirty and Player series, my experience was so much richer because I had the background with the other characters.
This book was wicked beautiful and one I highly recommend. Also- don’t forget to read the bonus epilogue.
May 1, 2023
Wow. If you've read other stories by Jaine, especially the Dirty series, you have read about Johnny O. He's a jerk in almost every scene he's in. He definitely fits in as a villain. Angeline is sweet and maybe naive. In the first part of this story, she kind of annoyed me. She was... insecure and adrift. She reallllllly didn't seem like she'd be a good fit for a villain. The story wasn't making sense to me, and I really didn't get it. Until I did. It was all of a sudden and around halfway through that it smacked me in the face why it was written the way it was and why these characters were the way they were. Secrets started to be exposed, both main characters started to really grow, and the story took on this amazing growth. That's not to say the previous story wasn't good. It was well written and interesting but I didn't get it. From that in-my-face moment until the end, I did not stop reading. I didn't engage with my family. I didn't put the book down. I understand the beginning now, I understand the why, and I had to reread it with a different mindset. It all makes so much sense, and it's beautiful. I cried. I bit my nails, I snort laughed like an idiot, and I cried during both read-throughs. I'm sure, if I read it again, I'll find more places where I missed a hint or a nuance or... I won't, but I'll find another thing I love about both main characters.
The characters in all of Jaine's stories become so real, the stories are so visceral, that I feel like I'm really there as I read them, and even after I've put them down. This one, even when I didn't get it, was the same. Johnny O became even larger than Ashley Player, than Jesse or Zane, or Elle, or Summer... Angeline became a character I wanted to see get the happy ending that she wanted and deserved. I devoured the "epilogue" and still want more. The story is complete in every way but I'm not ready to let go... and that's powerful. Just ... wow.
The characters in all of Jaine's stories become so real, the stories are so visceral, that I feel like I'm really there as I read them, and even after I've put them down. This one, even when I didn't get it, was the same. Johnny O became even larger than Ashley Player, than Jesse or Zane, or Elle, or Summer... Angeline became a character I wanted to see get the happy ending that she wanted and deserved. I devoured the "epilogue" and still want more. The story is complete in every way but I'm not ready to let go... and that's powerful. Just ... wow.
May 2, 2023
I just love this author’s writing and her knack for storytelling, I have read and love all her books, and let me tell you this book is no exception. I was immediately enthralled and these characters were beyond special.
I was so excited when it was announced that we were getting Johnny O’s book. To say he left something to be desired during the Dirty and Players series’ is an understatement. He did not always make the best impression on that crew, but you just knew there had to be more to it.
I absolutely loved getting to see a different side of Johnny, there is so much more to his character than you could ever imagine, and I loved every minute of it.
Add in Angeline as our FMC, who also took me by the best surprise-she is more that the sweet sister of a famous rock star. I loved reading about everything that went on in her mind.
My heart broke for Johnny and we dove deeper into this story. You want him to get out of his own head and for him and Angeline to realize their connection. Angie’s confidence is low but she is determined to be independent and is the most caring, understanding person and stronger than she gives herself credit for. I love how well she read Johnny and supported him.
The connection between them is beautiful, and I couldn’t get enough. They are exactly what they both needed and allowed them to be their true selves.
These two also know how to spice up the pages!
I highly recommend this book. It’s a beautiful redemption story and one I couldn’t put down. I think I went through all the emotions with with one. It was a little heavy at times, also so sweet and loving and such a wonderful story that had me rooting for the best outcome for these two.
I was so happy being back in the Dirtyverse world, getting to see past beloved characters. This author always gives us stories we don’t want to leave but I am so happy that these two got their HEA.
5⭐️
**ARC generously provided by this author. This review and it’s opinions are my own**
I was so excited when it was announced that we were getting Johnny O’s book. To say he left something to be desired during the Dirty and Players series’ is an understatement. He did not always make the best impression on that crew, but you just knew there had to be more to it.
I absolutely loved getting to see a different side of Johnny, there is so much more to his character than you could ever imagine, and I loved every minute of it.
Add in Angeline as our FMC, who also took me by the best surprise-she is more that the sweet sister of a famous rock star. I loved reading about everything that went on in her mind.
My heart broke for Johnny and we dove deeper into this story. You want him to get out of his own head and for him and Angeline to realize their connection. Angie’s confidence is low but she is determined to be independent and is the most caring, understanding person and stronger than she gives herself credit for. I love how well she read Johnny and supported him.
The connection between them is beautiful, and I couldn’t get enough. They are exactly what they both needed and allowed them to be their true selves.
These two also know how to spice up the pages!
I highly recommend this book. It’s a beautiful redemption story and one I couldn’t put down. I think I went through all the emotions with with one. It was a little heavy at times, also so sweet and loving and such a wonderful story that had me rooting for the best outcome for these two.
I was so happy being back in the Dirtyverse world, getting to see past beloved characters. This author always gives us stories we don’t want to leave but I am so happy that these two got their HEA.
5⭐️
**ARC generously provided by this author. This review and it’s opinions are my own**
May 8, 2023
“He was good at dirty talk…”🔥🥵🔥
Wicked Angel, the third novel in the Vancity Villains series, tells the story of Angeline and the infamous Johnny O. If you have read Jaine Diamond’s Dirty and Players series you will already be familiar with these two characters due to both making multiple appearances throughout the series. At the beginning of Wicked Angel you may think you know Angeline and Johnny, however, there is so much more to learn about these complex characters.
Angeline’s appearances as Dirty’s bassist Elle’s little sister and a member of the Lil Brats, a group of four friends that bonded over being the little sisters of rock stars, has painted a picture of a sweet girl that is happy with her lot in life. Although, as we delve into Wicked Angel we see a young woman struggling to find herself and her place in life. As Angeline comes to terms with not only accepting her needs and desires (sexually, emotionally, and professionally) but learning it is okay to ask for what she truly wants she learns she has to be honest with herself and those closes to her to be truly happy.
As for Johnny, I can’t believe how much his character grew on me especially considering how easy it was to dislike him in previous books. I loved learning more about the Johnny seen through Ash’s eyes in previous stories verses the dastardly Johnny described by most other characters throughout the series. Johnny’s heartbreaking backstory and journey of self improvement was devastating and emotional as he grew toward becoming the beautiful man he is at the end of Wicked Angel.
The only drawback with Wicked Angel for me is that I loath cheating and as it is an integral part of the characters and story I agonized over possibly removing a star, however, despite this I was so captivated by the story that I couldn’t bring myself to do it. Wicked Angel is definitely a five star story to me.
Wicked Angel, the third novel in the Vancity Villains series, tells the story of Angeline and the infamous Johnny O. If you have read Jaine Diamond’s Dirty and Players series you will already be familiar with these two characters due to both making multiple appearances throughout the series. At the beginning of Wicked Angel you may think you know Angeline and Johnny, however, there is so much more to learn about these complex characters.
Angeline’s appearances as Dirty’s bassist Elle’s little sister and a member of the Lil Brats, a group of four friends that bonded over being the little sisters of rock stars, has painted a picture of a sweet girl that is happy with her lot in life. Although, as we delve into Wicked Angel we see a young woman struggling to find herself and her place in life. As Angeline comes to terms with not only accepting her needs and desires (sexually, emotionally, and professionally) but learning it is okay to ask for what she truly wants she learns she has to be honest with herself and those closes to her to be truly happy.
As for Johnny, I can’t believe how much his character grew on me especially considering how easy it was to dislike him in previous books. I loved learning more about the Johnny seen through Ash’s eyes in previous stories verses the dastardly Johnny described by most other characters throughout the series. Johnny’s heartbreaking backstory and journey of self improvement was devastating and emotional as he grew toward becoming the beautiful man he is at the end of Wicked Angel.
The only drawback with Wicked Angel for me is that I loath cheating and as it is an integral part of the characters and story I agonized over possibly removing a star, however, despite this I was so captivated by the story that I couldn’t bring myself to do it. Wicked Angel is definitely a five star story to me.
June 14, 2023
What can I say? Jaine Diamond has done it again. I’ve been a huge fan of her rockstar romances for years, so her books have become a bit of a comfort read to me. I’ve read so many set in her Dirty universe by now, each new release feels like I’m catching up with old friends. I’ve been curious about Johnny O ever since he was first introduced in ‘Dirty Like Seth’. I knew there was a story there and, man, was I right. Johnny is my favourite type of tortured antihero. He acts like a dick on the outside, but there’s a good reason for that. He holds himself apart from everyone because he carries a dark secret. But sweet Angeline has always been able to see past his walls. Johnny is going through a career crisis. His lead singer has left the band, taking another member with him just before they were set to record a new album. Angeline has broken up with her boyfriend of three years and has just been informed that her internship with a popular PR company isn’t leading to a permanent position. So when her best friend’s older brother drunkenly offers her a job as his new publicist, she jumps on the chance to prove herself. Teaching this closed-off rockstar how to make nice with his friends in order to clean up his public image is a challenge she’s ready to meet. But fighting their mutual attraction feels like an impossibility. Let’s talk about spice. The first 50% of the book had none, but my gosh, did she make up for making us wait in the second half. I actually had to put my kindle down a couple of times because it was overheating 🥵 The mouth on that man should come with it’s own warning label 😅 I loved this book so much and genuinely hope Jaine never ends this series. If they ever announce a tv show or movie adaptation I’d simply die. If you love rockstar romance, please don’t sleep on this author.
What to expect:
- Best friend’s brother
- Emotionally scarred antihero
- Enemies to lovers
- Redemption story
- Dirty-talking Rockstar
What to expect:
- Best friend’s brother
- Emotionally scarred antihero
- Enemies to lovers
- Redemption story
- Dirty-talking Rockstar
September 4, 2023
Tropes: rockstar hero / enemies to lovers / best friend's brother / broken alpha(hole) antihero / workplace romance (publicist & client) / forced proximity / dirty talking MCs / second chance
WHY DID I WAIT TO RETURN TO READ JAINE DIAMOND AGAIN?! Yes, it warranted capitols! I read Jaine's Dirty series years ago, and Handsome Devil (the first book in this series) well over 2 years ago, and I'm not sure why I waited to return to read her books. I am KICKING myself and will be binging her backlist shortly!
This book was so sensational. I loved it and it's easily in my top reads of the year! It had so much depth, was so beautifully written, had one of the best playlists, and I seriously devoured it and refused to put it down!
It follows Angeline, who's always had a bit of a crush on her besties older brother, Johnny. She's surprised when he kisses her one night, but their timing is all off. During a crossroads in both of their life three years later, they find an unlikely ally in each other.
Johnny is my absolute kryptonite. A damaged, broken alpha, who's both sensitive and in tune with his woman. He's patient and even though he's very guarded, once he falls, he falls hard. And while Angeline initially grated on my last nerve, she grew on me so much. I truly loved her by the end! And her love for Johnny? And their love for each other?! So so special!
The inner monologues felt so real to me. Their honest conversations, that were truly deep, and not just surface level, felt so intimate. I loved how they communicated so honestly and the way it incorporated therapy into the dialogue. Johnny's backstory also broke my heart but I LOVED his redemption!
Finally, I need to shout-out the spice. You'll rarely see me commenting on this but it was seriously hot!!! The phone sex and couch scene will undoubtedly live in my mind rent free.
That's it. I obviously highly highly recommend it!
WHY DID I WAIT TO RETURN TO READ JAINE DIAMOND AGAIN?! Yes, it warranted capitols! I read Jaine's Dirty series years ago, and Handsome Devil (the first book in this series) well over 2 years ago, and I'm not sure why I waited to return to read her books. I am KICKING myself and will be binging her backlist shortly!
This book was so sensational. I loved it and it's easily in my top reads of the year! It had so much depth, was so beautifully written, had one of the best playlists, and I seriously devoured it and refused to put it down!
It follows Angeline, who's always had a bit of a crush on her besties older brother, Johnny. She's surprised when he kisses her one night, but their timing is all off. During a crossroads in both of their life three years later, they find an unlikely ally in each other.
Johnny is my absolute kryptonite. A damaged, broken alpha, who's both sensitive and in tune with his woman. He's patient and even though he's very guarded, once he falls, he falls hard. And while Angeline initially grated on my last nerve, she grew on me so much. I truly loved her by the end! And her love for Johnny? And their love for each other?! So so special!
The inner monologues felt so real to me. Their honest conversations, that were truly deep, and not just surface level, felt so intimate. I loved how they communicated so honestly and the way it incorporated therapy into the dialogue. Johnny's backstory also broke my heart but I LOVED his redemption!
Finally, I need to shout-out the spice. You'll rarely see me commenting on this but it was seriously hot!!! The phone sex and couch scene will undoubtedly live in my mind rent free.
That's it. I obviously highly highly recommend it!
May 8, 2023
Hang on for this ride! Jaine Diamond does it again and completely blows my mind. If you’ve read the previous books by Jaine, you know about Johnny O’Reilly and his reputation- womanizer, arrogant, completely self-centered. But now- we get to hear his story.
Enter Angeline Delacroix- sweet, innocent little sister of Elle Delacroix, and best friends with Johnny’s little sister, Shayla. After recently surviving a breakup with her boyfriend, Flynn, we find Angeline questioning everything about her past history with Johnny. A kiss from three years ago, buried feelings that have started to resurface…. Or maybe they never really went away.
Johnny has recently taken his reputation and lit a true dumpster fire- leading to a PR nightmare and severe issues with his band, Breakneck. He definitely needs help in that department. After a drunken night with friends, Johnny offers Angeline the job- be his PR person- her first client- and turn his career around. What does Angeline have to lose? She’s already drowning in her sea of self-doubt thanks to her breakup and career issues- maybe she should just take it?
Johnny has known Angeline for a very long time, but she’s untouchable- too good for him. But now that she’s single, and working for him, Johnny finds himself questioning how much he really wants to stay away from her.
What will happen when Mr. Grumpy- best friend’s brother- gets closer and closer to Miss Sunshine- little sister’s best friend? The fireworks are off the charts! The heart-wrenching truths- secrets and long-hidden scars- that come to light really bring the focus onto the human-ness of Johnny- his faults and his possible redemption… with Angeline holding his hand. This story is beautiful, and heartbreaking, and enlightening, and everything I hoped it would be… and then some. Johnny has become my new favorite in the Dirty-verse. HIGHLY recommend!
Enter Angeline Delacroix- sweet, innocent little sister of Elle Delacroix, and best friends with Johnny’s little sister, Shayla. After recently surviving a breakup with her boyfriend, Flynn, we find Angeline questioning everything about her past history with Johnny. A kiss from three years ago, buried feelings that have started to resurface…. Or maybe they never really went away.
Johnny has recently taken his reputation and lit a true dumpster fire- leading to a PR nightmare and severe issues with his band, Breakneck. He definitely needs help in that department. After a drunken night with friends, Johnny offers Angeline the job- be his PR person- her first client- and turn his career around. What does Angeline have to lose? She’s already drowning in her sea of self-doubt thanks to her breakup and career issues- maybe she should just take it?
Johnny has known Angeline for a very long time, but she’s untouchable- too good for him. But now that she’s single, and working for him, Johnny finds himself questioning how much he really wants to stay away from her.
What will happen when Mr. Grumpy- best friend’s brother- gets closer and closer to Miss Sunshine- little sister’s best friend? The fireworks are off the charts! The heart-wrenching truths- secrets and long-hidden scars- that come to light really bring the focus onto the human-ness of Johnny- his faults and his possible redemption… with Angeline holding his hand. This story is beautiful, and heartbreaking, and enlightening, and everything I hoped it would be… and then some. Johnny has become my new favorite in the Dirty-verse. HIGHLY recommend!
August 15, 2023
🎧📚📚⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rock n Roll Series #dirtyverse @jainediamond 🎧📚📚📚
⚡ Heartfelt ** emotional ** euphoric** soul deep characters you wont forget.⚡⚡
"How long will it take me to get over this? Could take a week, could take the rest of my life"
When i do my look back on 2023 the series that I know I will never get over ..will be the 16 books by @jainediamond starting with #dirtylikeme and up to her latest release #wickedangel the third in the #vancityvillains . Huge thank you to @wordsmithpublicity for my ALC of #wickedangel @leesamuelsvoice killed it ! So glad i listened to the audio , there were nuances the narrators brought out that made the book even more emotional.
Johnny our MMC ..his band is falling apart , and with the disolution all his dreams of his music career. Will he be able to write again?
He suffer from anxiety , PTSD and horrifying nightmares reliving the most horrifying trauma from his childhood . He has built walls to keep everyone out but Angeline is knocking it down brick by brick
⚡Our Female main character its .. a little forbidden Best friends brother trope , and I am so there for it. Angeline remembers a stolen kiss she shared with Johnny many years ago , and still crushes hard. I never believed hpshe hated him , she just hated the persona that he gave out ..the player who never would settle dow. and break her heart. But the chemistry from the very first look...lit the night on fire.
The mental health rep in this book was the most genuine I have read . The friends / found family never gave up on helping and being there for him . Angeline wasnt afraid to communicate and have the hard conversations even when they were being pushed away and walls went up.
. and oh the steam 🌶🌶🌶🌶 its rock and roll my book besties. . Johnny O is my fave character in a rock and roll story to date .fans of Phoenix Walker in the Words ..you need to read !
⚡ Heartfelt ** emotional ** euphoric** soul deep characters you wont forget.⚡⚡
"How long will it take me to get over this? Could take a week, could take the rest of my life"
When i do my look back on 2023 the series that I know I will never get over ..will be the 16 books by @jainediamond starting with #dirtylikeme and up to her latest release #wickedangel the third in the #vancityvillains . Huge thank you to @wordsmithpublicity for my ALC of #wickedangel @leesamuelsvoice killed it ! So glad i listened to the audio , there were nuances the narrators brought out that made the book even more emotional.
Johnny our MMC ..his band is falling apart , and with the disolution all his dreams of his music career. Will he be able to write again?
He suffer from anxiety , PTSD and horrifying nightmares reliving the most horrifying trauma from his childhood . He has built walls to keep everyone out but Angeline is knocking it down brick by brick
⚡Our Female main character its .. a little forbidden Best friends brother trope , and I am so there for it. Angeline remembers a stolen kiss she shared with Johnny many years ago , and still crushes hard. I never believed hpshe hated him , she just hated the persona that he gave out ..the player who never would settle dow. and break her heart. But the chemistry from the very first look...lit the night on fire.
The mental health rep in this book was the most genuine I have read . The friends / found family never gave up on helping and being there for him . Angeline wasnt afraid to communicate and have the hard conversations even when they were being pushed away and walls went up.
. and oh the steam 🌶🌶🌶🌶 its rock and roll my book besties. . Johnny O is my fave character in a rock and roll story to date .fans of Phoenix Walker in the Words ..you need to read !
November 1, 2023
Overall 3.5
Spice 3.5
Cover Model: Chad Hurstt
I have mixed feelings about this book. It was a slow read for me, and at times I had to force myself to continue with the story. It doesn't really pick up until 50% of the way through the book, which was really rough for me. This book is incredibly plot heavy, and I'm learning that I'm not into plot-heavy books like this. 🤷🏻♀️
Johnny, I liked the man. Adored him because as broken as he was, when he spoke the truth to Angeline about how he saw her, how he felt, it was always incredibly sweet.
Angeline on the other hand, couldn't really stand her. She annoyed me; she was a big child. How can someone in their mid-20s not pay for their own bills? Her parents were paying for stuff still. She doesn't know how to live on her own, and honestly, I was kinda happy Flynn broke up with her. How can you be in a committed relationship and always have eyes on other men? And she did it until the end.
The last scene where Johnny is going to propose, she says she knew he would propose, but she starts talking about having babies with Dean Slater and how sexy he is...really? If you know that any moment the man you love and have been with for over a year will propose soon, shouldn't you be on guard? Why would you say that stuff? And why would Johnny say that it's ok because that's how she is? Because, I read this whole book - and maybe I missed that she's like this. So, NO. That's unacceptable. For having to force myself to continue this book, to the annoying Angeline, and to how she ruined his proposal, I had it. Was glad the book ended. I didn't even want to read the epilogue.
I'm glad Johnny came out of his shell, and took the scary step forward. He had a lot of healing, and that was thanks to Angeline and her encouragement, but she's still a bit insufferable to me.
Spice 3.5
Cover Model: Chad Hurstt
I have mixed feelings about this book. It was a slow read for me, and at times I had to force myself to continue with the story. It doesn't really pick up until 50% of the way through the book, which was really rough for me. This book is incredibly plot heavy, and I'm learning that I'm not into plot-heavy books like this. 🤷🏻♀️
Johnny, I liked the man. Adored him because as broken as he was, when he spoke the truth to Angeline about how he saw her, how he felt, it was always incredibly sweet.
Angeline on the other hand, couldn't really stand her. She annoyed me; she was a big child. How can someone in their mid-20s not pay for their own bills? Her parents were paying for stuff still. She doesn't know how to live on her own, and honestly, I was kinda happy Flynn broke up with her. How can you be in a committed relationship and always have eyes on other men? And she did it until the end.
The last scene where Johnny is going to propose, she says she knew he would propose, but she starts talking about having babies with Dean Slater and how sexy he is...really? If you know that any moment the man you love and have been with for over a year will propose soon, shouldn't you be on guard? Why would you say that stuff? And why would Johnny say that it's ok because that's how she is? Because, I read this whole book - and maybe I missed that she's like this. So, NO. That's unacceptable. For having to force myself to continue this book, to the annoying Angeline, and to how she ruined his proposal, I had it. Was glad the book ended. I didn't even want to read the epilogue.
I'm glad Johnny came out of his shell, and took the scary step forward. He had a lot of healing, and that was thanks to Angeline and her encouragement, but she's still a bit insufferable to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2023
Wicked Angel is the third book in the Vancity Villains by the ever-badass, Jaine Diamond. You can read it as standalone but I do recommend reading the series so you get the full effect that is Johnny O. I have read the Vancity Villains, Dirty, and Players series’ and the characters are in all three and I love it! Obsessed really. I do love an antihero so I never fully hated Johnny O. I mean the man is 🔥 and a shameless flirt. Gimme, gimme…
Angeline’s life imploded in just one day. That night it landed her next door to the man she hated but once crushed on. He had no idea how involved he was with her life changes. He most likely didn’t care either. Especially now that his own life was imploding along with his career. The difference? The world was watching. Johnny needed a publicist and Angeline needed a job. She was shocked when he offered her the job but she couldn’t say no. She couldn’t afford to even if that meant she would have to be around a man she hated. A man she hate-lusted. A man who happened to be her best friend’s brother and her new neighbor. Boundaries…that’s what they needed.
Ok, you guys, I can’t spoil anything about this scorching-hot story but holy hotness, Batman! It’s one of the hottest and emotional books of the series. I knew Johnny O was an antihero who was misunderstood but damn, I am in love. In love with him. In love with his angel. In love with their story. It’s complex, beautiful, and inspiring. It’s one I will never forget and I can’t wait for the next one.
P.S. Make sure to read the bonus content!
Quotes:
“You’re a divine phenomenon. I’ve never met a woman like you.”
“I’m going to make you beg for it, and I’m going to savor that, too. ”
Show me who you really are, Johnny O’Reilly.
Angeline’s life imploded in just one day. That night it landed her next door to the man she hated but once crushed on. He had no idea how involved he was with her life changes. He most likely didn’t care either. Especially now that his own life was imploding along with his career. The difference? The world was watching. Johnny needed a publicist and Angeline needed a job. She was shocked when he offered her the job but she couldn’t say no. She couldn’t afford to even if that meant she would have to be around a man she hated. A man she hate-lusted. A man who happened to be her best friend’s brother and her new neighbor. Boundaries…that’s what they needed.
Ok, you guys, I can’t spoil anything about this scorching-hot story but holy hotness, Batman! It’s one of the hottest and emotional books of the series. I knew Johnny O was an antihero who was misunderstood but damn, I am in love. In love with him. In love with his angel. In love with their story. It’s complex, beautiful, and inspiring. It’s one I will never forget and I can’t wait for the next one.
P.S. Make sure to read the bonus content!
Quotes:
“You’re a divine phenomenon. I’ve never met a woman like you.”
“I’m going to make you beg for it, and I’m going to savor that, too. ”
Show me who you really are, Johnny O’Reilly.
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