For those joining the universe now this can be read as a standalone even though the characters have been introduced in the original spin off (Stark Saga) I feel the story is actually fresh from the Sage as I just finished the latest book (Possess me and truly that is the book that should be before this because that is where you meet them) . Honestly you don’t need to read them all in order but I feel the taduhhh, I know that name and woa moments are better just known instead of waiting til the book circles back to the characters if that makes sense?
The pain and mystery you feel of the monster that the babysitter let in the house and the intrigue of the stair man (then later The Cat (same character but as she aged she renamed him)) who has been with her since she (Aria) was a child. I liked that this book had that air of mystery that possess me had. The general focus is over a death of Aria’s friend Jenny.
But Dayna .. how does the world connect? Well easy Aria is friends with Bree who is the Stark’s nanny thus bridging Aria and the MMC Holt together as well as bringing Jenny ‘s death at one of the parties to the conversation. (as Jenny was killed at a party they were all at/invited to because of their connections)<spoiler> But wait.. Aria then interviews to be Holt’s personal assistant.. as in THE CAT!!!!!! (honestly I would count that a spoiler since you learned that in like chapter 3.. but ill tag it just in case </spoiler>
But just as we are putting pieces together .. it kinda drags a bit (aka some filler moments “girl talk”) but I will say Holt doesn’t take baby steps in showing his attractions. So just know those filler moments are short and we move on quickly. This book I feel has more steam than the previous wicked books but maybe im just distracted.
If you liked Stark.. you will love this book because Holt.. ooh lawd he gives Stark vibesss
(for me its a 4.5)

4 Star Review Wicked Fortune (Wicked Nights #5) by J Kenner

This is Matthew Holt and Aria Parker’s story and it was a good addition to the Wicked Nights series.

Such a determined man, he knows what and who he wants and goes after it no matter the cost. He wants his assistant Aria, but she is hiding secrets.

However, the chemistry between them sizzles. What will happen when her secrets come to light? Will it rip them apart or bring them together?

There are equal amounts of romance and suspense and it’s this that drew me in.

I received an ARC through the publisher and Netgalley.

this book had a bit of everything. it was intrigue and twisty and spicy. but also had more tender and depth to it when needed.
i loved the characters need to succeed in their own missions from the start. but then what happens when something or someone changes things for you. and certainly changes what you had could to believe for so long. and were they the truth, where they telling the truth and when does it start to not matter when deeper feeling become involved?
our characters were struggling then powerful. determined then weakened. they had strength together but also needed to hold secrets from eachother.
a great book. a new author for me and from this read one i cant wait to explore.

3.5 stars

Ive been reading Julie Kenner's books for years, and absolutely love all of them, so when Wicked Fortune came up for review I jumped at the chance. Although this story is an extension of the Stark saga, I had a difficult time getting into these two characters, which just isn't like my experience from the past books. Matthew and Aria's story was somewhat predictable for me, so that element of the twist and turns didn't engross me like it has with her past storylines. Still a decent book, just not what I expected out of a JKenner book.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.

I really enjoyed this book. It was steamy and romantic. This is the first time in a long time I've read a book by J.kenner. I'm glad I did. I look forward to reading the next one. I'm grateful that netgalley and the publishers let me read this in exchange for an honest review.

J. Kenner’s Wicked Fortune is a captivating tale that quickly turns an uncertain beginning into a thrilling and addictive read. While the story starts off on an unusual note, it doesn’t take long to pull readers in, delivering an irresistible mix of intrigue, passion, and unexpected twists.

The narrative’s progression is masterful, exceeding expectations as the plot unfolds with a steady rhythm that keeps you hooked. Kenner’s ability to build tension and intrigue leaves readers eager to uncover what’s next, making it hard to put the book down.

The characters are richly drawn, and their complexities add depth to the story. As they navigate their challenges and desires, it’s easy to become fully immersed in their world. Kenner’s skillful storytelling ensures that every moment feels purposeful, creating a seamless blend of romance and suspense.

Wicked Fortune is a testament to J. Kenner’s talent for crafting compelling stories that keep readers engaged. It’s a promising installment that leaves you excited to explore more of her work. For fans of romantic suspense with plenty of surprises, this one is a must-read.

Going undercover in more ways than one, has Aria and Matthew working together but at the same time keeping things from each other. While each has their own motives, the fast paced storyline brings out their inner kinks. Not everyone is exactly who they are portrayed to be. This storyline has loads of twists and turns, high emotions and lots of lies and deception. A great read.

“He’s a man who lives only in my memory. And in my fantasies. A man I can’t control. A shadow. A savior. A fiend.”

When you feel something is off and vow to discover the truth about your friend…regardless what it will cost you or what path it takes you down….

“…a little part of me can’t help but wonder if he’s blind to what’s right in front of him. And if there really is something dark and scary happening at those parties.”

When you want to trust someone so badly…but something in your gut is telling you differently. Is it intuition? Are you protecting your heart? Are you seeing ghost that aren’t there?

“That hidden part of me that knows not to put my trust in anyone or anything because it always falls apart.”

~secrets~tainted~chemistry~betrayal~passion~regret~redemption~jealousy~guilt~loyalty~trust~

“Don’t let the past rob you of your future.”

Aria and Matthew are meant to be. Matthew has always looked after and loved Aria from afar. He can't seem to stay away from her. As the attraction sparks things get heated with them. As Aria is trying to see if Matthew is guilty. She hopes not but she's not sure until she gets to know him better. I loved them and liked this book.

Aria secretly goes undercover, so to speak, to find out the truth behind her friend’s death. Discovering her now boss, Matthew may not be what she thought, Aria embarks on a dangerous journey. Reading their story I couldn’t help but think how brave Aria was to go headfirst into who knows what. The who knows what in this case was so much more than she thought as Aria begins falling for Matthew and Matthew, well he falls hard too. I loved the mystery and suspense tying in very well together with their romance. What a way to start off the year with a great book from Ms. Kenner.

Wicked Fortune by J. Kenner, published by Oliver Heber Books, is book 5 in the Wicked Nights Series, telling Matthew and Aria's story.
Matthew Holt is a powerful man, keeping his emotions and secrtes close to his chest.
Aria Parker is a pa with a secret agenda. She wants to shed light on the death of a friend.
Both meet and soon they fight a draw to each other. Only Matthew isn't what Ari thinks of him at all. Annnd he knows her longer than she thinks. Coming closer, secrets, betrayal and more are revealed.
A fast paced, complex, complicated story where sometimes I felt lost. A great read don't get me wrong, exquistly written and suspenseful mastered. 4.5 stars.

My problem with this one is that I felt out of the loop and like I was missing something from the beginning. I think this is because while this is a standalone it has characters from other novels and it was just confusing since I haven’t read those. If I had read them I probably would have enjoyed this more.

I also felt Aria was a bit annoying. Plus the tarot card things? Yeah…not for me.

J. Kenner has another winner in Wicked Fortune. Fans of her work will love her latest book. Pick this one up.

Another great read by J. Kenner! I adore her writing and this was another one that really hit the mark. Aria is out to discover the truth to what happened for her friend, undercover at Matthew's company. A bit of mystery, some spice, and a real page turner!

This books starts off with a horrible moment that binds two people forever. Little did Aria know how Matthew knew her, but she knew they had an instant connection. Aria is determined to figure out what happens to her friend Jenny and she gets a job at Hardline to snoop and get to the truth. Will she be able to solve the mystery and finally find her place in life that makes her happy? I loved this book and could not put it down. The characters suck you in and you feel what they do. Another great story by J. Kenner. I was given an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I wasn't sure what to think of the story as I was reading and I tended to jump around a bit. For some reason it didn't come together for me. I love the cover and the blurb about the book so I had been intrigued. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.