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Author: J.S. Wonda is a German author known for her dark romance and suspenseful contemporary novels. Writing under a pseudonym, she gained popularity through self-publishing and social media, building a strong fanbase in the German-speaking world. Her books, such as the Black and Misteria series, often feature intense emotions, forbidden love, psychological depth, and morally complex characters. With a focus on powerful female leads and mysterious male protagonists, Wonda blends romance with crime, thriller, and drama elements. Despite her private nature, she’s an influential voice in the indie book scene and a favorite among fans of edgy, emotionally charged stories.

Summary: “Very Bad Kings” is the first installment in the Kingston University dark romance series by J.S. Wonda. The story centers around Mable, a determined and guarded young woman who transfers to Kingston University, a prestigious but secretive institution known for its wealthy students and hidden power structures. Mable is seeking a fresh start, trying to leave her past behind while focusing on her education and independence.

Upon arriving at Kingston, she quickly realizes that the university is dominated by a mysterious and feared group known as the Kings. These elite male students not only control much of the campus socially and politically, but they are also tied to deeper, more dangerous forces beneath the surface. The Kings are untouchable, and their reputation is built on influence, intimidation, and secrecy.

Mable’s path soon crosses with Jaxon, one of the most enigmatic and dominant members of the Kings. Their interactions become central to the plot, unfolding through sharp tension, layered dialogue, and charged encounters. Mable is both drawn to and wary of Jaxon and the dangerous allure of the Kings’ inner world. As she becomes more entangled with them, secrets from both her past and theirs begin to surface.

Throughout the novel, the storyline delves into Mabel’s efforts to navigate this volatile environment while trying to maintain control over her own life. Her interactions with other Kings and fellow students deepen the mystery surrounding the group and hint at larger, more threatening dynamics at play. Layers of manipulation, influence, and hidden connections create an atmosphere of suspense as Mable is forced to make choices that blur the line between survival and submission.

Set against a backdrop of dark academia, wealth, and power, “Very Bad Kings” slowly reveals the web of influence that holds Kingston University together—and the personal cost of getting too close to the truth.


Personal opinion: “Very Bad Kings” by J.S. Wonda is undeniably easy to read, with a writing style that keeps the pace quick and the chapters engaging. It’s a book you can fly through in a short amount of time, which makes it appealing if you’re looking for a fast, intense escape into a dark romance world. However, if you’re searching for emotional or psychological depth, this novel may leave you wanting more.

While there are hints of a deeper psychological struggle and opportunities to interpret the power dynamics at play, the story ultimately leans more into the erotic and dramatic tension between Mable and the Kings – especially Jaxon – than into any meaningful exploration of character growth or trauma. Much of the plot centers on Mable’s repeated humiliation and eventual surrender to the toxic allure of power and desire. The dominance and submission theme overshadows any real empowerment, leaving the story feeling more like a fantasy about giving in than one of overcoming.

For fans of dark academia romance with intense, taboo-driven plots, “Very Bad Kings” might deliver exactly what they’re looking for. But for those hoping for layered characters or a more substantial narrative arc, the book risks feeling repetitive and shallow.