Dee Ellis's Wicked Wishes is a tantalizing addition to the Halloween Steam series, offering readers a blend of romance, suspense, and a touch of the supernatural. The book is a captivating exploration of love, loss, and the courage it takes to open one's heart again. Set against the backdrop of a small town with its own secrets, the story is both heartwarming and spine-tingling, making it a perfect read for the autumn season.

The protagonist, Harley Lane, is a character who immediately draws readers in with his complex personality. A former marine turned security expert, Harley is a man who has faced his share of battles, both on the field and in his personal life. The loss of his wife has left him emotionally guarded, and he has built walls around his heart to protect himself from further pain. Ellis does a commendable job of portraying Harley's internal struggles, making him a relatable and sympathetic character. His journey from a man who is afraid to love again to someone who is willing to take a chance on happiness is both poignant and inspiring.

Enter Hanna Potter, a woman who is as intriguing as she is enchanting. From the moment she steps into Harley's life, she challenges his perceptions and pushes him out of his comfort zone. Hanna is a breath of fresh air, with a vivacious spirit and a kind heart. Her presence in the story is a catalyst for change, not just for Harley, but for the entire narrative. Ellis crafts Hanna with a perfect balance of strength and vulnerability, making her a character that readers will root for. Her interactions with Harley are charged with chemistry, and their evolving relationship is the heart of the story.

The themes of Wicked Wishes are deeply resonant, particularly the exploration of fear and courage. Harley's fear of opening his heart again is a central theme, and Ellis handles it with sensitivity and depth. The book delves into the idea that true courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to face it. This theme is mirrored in the spooky elements of the story, where the supernatural serves as a metaphor for the unknown and the fears that lurk in the shadows of our hearts.

Ellis's writing is both evocative and engaging, with a style that draws readers into the world she has created. The small-town setting is vividly described, with its own quirks and mysteries that add to the story's charm. The Halloween backdrop is used effectively, enhancing the atmosphere and adding a layer of intrigue to the narrative. The pacing of the story is well-balanced, with moments of tension and suspense interspersed with tender, romantic interludes.

In comparison to other contemporary romance authors who explore similar themes, Ellis stands out for her ability to blend romance with elements of suspense and the supernatural. Authors like Nora Roberts and Lisa Kleypas have also delved into the realm of romantic suspense, but Ellis's unique voice and her focus on emotional depth set her apart. Her characters are well-developed, and their emotional journeys are as compelling as the plot itself.

Overall, Wicked Wishes is a delightful read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance and those who enjoy a touch of the supernatural in their stories. The book is a testament to the power of love and the courage it takes to embrace it, even in the face of fear. Ellis has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the mind long after the last page is turned.

For readers looking for a romance that is both steamy and heartfelt, with a dash of Halloween magic, Wicked Wishes is a must-read. It is a story that reminds us that sometimes, the most wicked wishes are the ones that lead us to our deepest desires.