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Color Outside the Lines
Rhett Williams was the gorgeous, popular baseball player everyone fawned over. Most saw him as charming, but I knew what a monster he could be. He tormented me every day and made me hate everything about myself, my body most of all. Yet I fell for him anyway.
One day, he went too far, breaking me beyond repair. I spent years rebuilding my life and learning to love myself, becoming the woman I always wanted to be.
Everything is as it should be…until I run into my tormentor a decade later…. But now I’m his new coworker.
He says he changed—swears he wants to make things right between us… But how can I believe him, let alone forgive him? Can I put my heart in the hands of the man who shattered it?
Color Outside The Lines is a contemporary M/F romance that’s part of the Brighton High School Reunion Series. This story contains dark themes, so check the trigger warnings below:
Bullying
Suicidal ideations/attempt
Depression
Trauma/PTSD
Miscommunication
Emotional abuse
Parental abuse/neglect
Parental death
Alcoholism
Self esteem and body confidence issues
One day, he went too far, breaking me beyond repair. I spent years rebuilding my life and learning to love myself, becoming the woman I always wanted to be.
Everything is as it should be…until I run into my tormentor a decade later…. But now I’m his new coworker.
He says he changed—swears he wants to make things right between us… But how can I believe him, let alone forgive him? Can I put my heart in the hands of the man who shattered it?
Color Outside The Lines is a contemporary M/F romance that’s part of the Brighton High School Reunion Series. This story contains dark themes, so check the trigger warnings below:
Bullying
Suicidal ideations/attempt
Depression
Trauma/PTSD
Miscommunication
Emotional abuse
Parental abuse/neglect
Parental death
Alcoholism
Self esteem and body confidence issues
149 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 13, 2023
19 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
June 13, 2023
This was my first book by M. Bonnet, and I was pleasantly surprised.
Color Outside The Lines is book two in the Brighton High School Reunion series. We meet our MCs Rhett and Olivia. Olivia was bullied throughout high school by many, but Rhett was one of the worst bullies. What made it worse for her was that he would randomly show her kindness throughout the bullying which confused her even more. She moved on with her life and has just got an amazing new job, and guess who works at the new job? Her bully.
This is an enemies to lovers romance which some spice. I really did enjoy Olivia's character. I did like Rhett, and I understand how his trauma was part of why he was so mean in high school... but It doesn't justify how horribly he treated Olivia back then.
Overall, great read. I enjoyed it and would definitely read more by this author.
Color Outside The Lines is book two in the Brighton High School Reunion series. We meet our MCs Rhett and Olivia. Olivia was bullied throughout high school by many, but Rhett was one of the worst bullies. What made it worse for her was that he would randomly show her kindness throughout the bullying which confused her even more. She moved on with her life and has just got an amazing new job, and guess who works at the new job? Her bully.
This is an enemies to lovers romance which some spice. I really did enjoy Olivia's character. I did like Rhett, and I understand how his trauma was part of why he was so mean in high school... but It doesn't justify how horribly he treated Olivia back then.
Overall, great read. I enjoyed it and would definitely read more by this author.
June 13, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️½
“My whole life, I felt like something was missing…and it was you. Whether I knew it or not, I’ve been waiting for you, Liv. We’ve been a long time coming. We’re meant to happen, and I’m willing to do what it takes to prove that to you. I don’t want to lose you again.”
Color Outside the Lines is the second release in the Brighton High School Reunion series of standalone stories. Told through dual POV and a mixture of flashbacks to high school and the present day, it is Olivia and Rhett’s ‘love story’ - Olivia, who was severely bullied in high school for her weight and appearance, and Rhett, her greatest tormentor. Despite the heavy emotional load, I enjoyed M. Bonnet’s writing style and found this an easy read.
I put ‘love story’ in quotes because this read felt like wish fulfillment at its finest and not a realistic love connection between the characters. I needed more convincing that Rhett’s interest in Olivia was beyond the obsession he felt in high school that drove him to extreme bullying. Yes, his behavior changed in a positive direction, but obsession still rode him in his present-day pursuit of Olivia.
On Olivia’s side, she got what every bullying victim dreams of, their tormentor offering extensive apologies for their actions. Her attraction to Rhett in high school, during the most extreme incidents of abuse, did not seem authentic. Her present-day reaction was the most believable, though I thought the rush to the l-word didn’t fit with her persona.
Taking the love connection out of the story, I liked the steam. Rhett’s obsessive and possessive side, coupled with a dirty tongue, leads to some hot scenes. Present-day Rhett can express how much he enjoys how Olivia looks and goes out of his way to help her believe it too.
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tropes/Features: Enemies to Lovers told through flashbacks to high school, hate to love, facing one’s bully, dark bullying elements, fat shaming, wish fulfillment, high school reunion
Narrator: Dual 1st Person POV
Relationship Type: MF, Medium Burn, Steamy
Book Type/Ending: Standalone in Brighton High School Reunion Series with HEA
TW/CW: Multiple, listed in Book. Please review before reading.
“My whole life, I felt like something was missing…and it was you. Whether I knew it or not, I’ve been waiting for you, Liv. We’ve been a long time coming. We’re meant to happen, and I’m willing to do what it takes to prove that to you. I don’t want to lose you again.”
Color Outside the Lines is the second release in the Brighton High School Reunion series of standalone stories. Told through dual POV and a mixture of flashbacks to high school and the present day, it is Olivia and Rhett’s ‘love story’ - Olivia, who was severely bullied in high school for her weight and appearance, and Rhett, her greatest tormentor. Despite the heavy emotional load, I enjoyed M. Bonnet’s writing style and found this an easy read.
I put ‘love story’ in quotes because this read felt like wish fulfillment at its finest and not a realistic love connection between the characters. I needed more convincing that Rhett’s interest in Olivia was beyond the obsession he felt in high school that drove him to extreme bullying. Yes, his behavior changed in a positive direction, but obsession still rode him in his present-day pursuit of Olivia.
On Olivia’s side, she got what every bullying victim dreams of, their tormentor offering extensive apologies for their actions. Her attraction to Rhett in high school, during the most extreme incidents of abuse, did not seem authentic. Her present-day reaction was the most believable, though I thought the rush to the l-word didn’t fit with her persona.
Taking the love connection out of the story, I liked the steam. Rhett’s obsessive and possessive side, coupled with a dirty tongue, leads to some hot scenes. Present-day Rhett can express how much he enjoys how Olivia looks and goes out of his way to help her believe it too.
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tropes/Features: Enemies to Lovers told through flashbacks to high school, hate to love, facing one’s bully, dark bullying elements, fat shaming, wish fulfillment, high school reunion
Narrator: Dual 1st Person POV
Relationship Type: MF, Medium Burn, Steamy
Book Type/Ending: Standalone in Brighton High School Reunion Series with HEA
TW/CW: Multiple, listed in Book. Please review before reading.
June 26, 2023
Okay, so I really loved this book! “Color Outside the Lines” is a bully romance by M. Bonnet. I’m very picky about the bully romances I read, but this one checked off all my boxes and more!!! Rhett spent a lot of time bullying Olivia in high school, but it was because he couldn’t express his emotions in a healthy way. He never forget her, and when he runs into Olivia again as adults, he’s determined to earn her forgiveness and make her see that they’re meant to be together. Rhett definitely made mistakes, but I loved that he was willing to do anything and everything to earn Olivia’s trust. He really was a changed man. And Olivia! She went through so much growing up, but she became a strong, smart, and successful woman despite it all - and I really admire her for it. This was absolutely a 5 star read for me!
June 13, 2023
Great addition to this series, I'm ready for more!
Olivia was bullied very badly through high school. Rhett was one of her main tormentors. They're older now and have crossed paths again. He's trying to convince her that he's changed, but can he get through after everything that he put her through?
This second book in this series is really good. Check your triggers as Olivia speaks of her past with bullying and Rhett had issues as well in his past. I'm so ready for the next boom now. I'm loving how the different authors are able to come together with these characters so far.
Olivia was bullied very badly through high school. Rhett was one of her main tormentors. They're older now and have crossed paths again. He's trying to convince her that he's changed, but can he get through after everything that he put her through?
This second book in this series is really good. Check your triggers as Olivia speaks of her past with bullying and Rhett had issues as well in his past. I'm so ready for the next boom now. I'm loving how the different authors are able to come together with these characters so far.
June 10, 2023
I loved this book so much! I’m not usually a big bully fan but I loved the way it was written and the MMC does some big groveling! Olivia Masters is the FMC, she was bullied all through high school for being plus sized. Rhett Williams is the MMC, he was popular and did a lot of the bullying towards the FMC. It was a page turner and I couldn’t wait to find out how it all turned out! I really connected with the FMC and thought it was a great read!
June 14, 2023
This is definitely a bully romance, I would suggest checking the triggers as there is a lot of humiliation and talks of SH. But over all really great romance story. I really would have loved to see more groveling on behalf of Rhett. But the ending where a Olivia and Rhett get there happily ever after is the best.
spice level : 🌶️🌶️/5
spice level : 🌶️🌶️/5
June 9, 2023
Olivia just got a new job with to redesign the business. While she’s meeting the team in walks Rhett, who she hasn’t seen in ten years. He made her life miserable in high school always tormenting her, but he played head games too and she fell for him. Now he swears he changed and that he wants her, but she doesn’t trust him especially since the ten year reunion is right around the corner. Can Rhett convince Olivia that he’s a different person? Great characters and storyline Highly Recommended Amazing book. Love Olivia and Rhett the character development is great. Great supporting characters. Quick read with a lot of emotion
June 14, 2023
This is the first book I am reading of this series and although I assume cameos from other characters will appear throughout this entire series, you do not need to read the previous book to read the one after since each story is for a brand new couple. I really enjoyed Olivia and Rhett's story. There were a lot of things combined that were really enjoyable--sort of enemies to lovers, bullying, one that got away type of deal, and a full blown redemption arc for the mmc. I also really loved how Bonnet was able to connect to past trauma of both Olivia and Rhett and show how what they were dealing with at the time affected them and how it continues to affect them even as they grow older.
The flashbacks given throughout the book were a nice touch. I enjoyed seeing each character's memories and how they related to what they were currently going through at the time, either showing how much they have grown since the event that happened, the remorse they now feel, or how they may even still experience past feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or anxiety.
There was a lot to get through with this particular couple as the past between them was definitely traumatic and on bad terms the entire time they went to school together. The redemption arc for Rhett in this book was great even if things did seem to move pretty quickly with him and Olivia. I felt like he explained his past pretty well and how it affected how he treated her specifically while in high school. While it doesn't excuse his behavior, it did set him on the correct path of proving to Olivia how much he had changed over the years and showed how sincere he was in his intentions with her now. This was a very cute story and I look forward to reading more about the other characters in this series.
The flashbacks given throughout the book were a nice touch. I enjoyed seeing each character's memories and how they related to what they were currently going through at the time, either showing how much they have grown since the event that happened, the remorse they now feel, or how they may even still experience past feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or anxiety.
There was a lot to get through with this particular couple as the past between them was definitely traumatic and on bad terms the entire time they went to school together. The redemption arc for Rhett in this book was great even if things did seem to move pretty quickly with him and Olivia. I felt like he explained his past pretty well and how it affected how he treated her specifically while in high school. While it doesn't excuse his behavior, it did set him on the correct path of proving to Olivia how much he had changed over the years and showed how sincere he was in his intentions with her now. This was a very cute story and I look forward to reading more about the other characters in this series.
June 16, 2023
The second book in the Brighton High School Reunion series is a redemption story between Olivia and her high school tormentor/bully Rhett. This is my first book by M.Bonnet and I really enjoyed how she addressed so many difficult topics and redeemed the MMC Rhett.
Utilising current and past point of views we are introduced to Olivia who suffers PTSD from severe bullying in high school that has impacted her life since. Her self-confidence and personal growth were hard won and she conducts her romantic life with the concept of leaving before being hurt or left. Whilst out at a club she is approached by an attractive male who turns out to be her most vicious tormentor from school. Despite this she has always been drawn to him and is confused by her attraction.
Rhett dealt with his self-loathing and anger in high school by tormenting the one person he wanted but felt he wasn’t good enough for. In flashbacks we are introduced to a harsh, uncaring bully with moments of insight into his difficult life. In the present we learn that Rhett has never forgotten Olivia and has always regretted the way he treated her. He is very aware he destroyed the woman that could have been his. Now upon finding her, he will do anything to prove he has changed and is worthy of loving her.
This ended up being a sweet and lovely romance despite the difficult topics addressed. I enjoyed watching Rhett prove his devotion and watching Olivia become confident about their relationship. I look forward to reading more in this series and to future books by this author.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Utilising current and past point of views we are introduced to Olivia who suffers PTSD from severe bullying in high school that has impacted her life since. Her self-confidence and personal growth were hard won and she conducts her romantic life with the concept of leaving before being hurt or left. Whilst out at a club she is approached by an attractive male who turns out to be her most vicious tormentor from school. Despite this she has always been drawn to him and is confused by her attraction.
Rhett dealt with his self-loathing and anger in high school by tormenting the one person he wanted but felt he wasn’t good enough for. In flashbacks we are introduced to a harsh, uncaring bully with moments of insight into his difficult life. In the present we learn that Rhett has never forgotten Olivia and has always regretted the way he treated her. He is very aware he destroyed the woman that could have been his. Now upon finding her, he will do anything to prove he has changed and is worthy of loving her.
This ended up being a sweet and lovely romance despite the difficult topics addressed. I enjoyed watching Rhett prove his devotion and watching Olivia become confident about their relationship. I look forward to reading more in this series and to future books by this author.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2023
The second book to release in the Brighton High School reunion series focuses on the story of Olivia and Rhett.
Olivia was the art student in high school who was constantly bullied by the baseball team and some of the girls who always hung around them. Rhett was one of those baseball players who participated in the bullying.
Ten years after high school, Olivia runs her own personal company where she incorporates murals along with interior designing work. She goes out with her friends when she runs into no other than Rhett Williams. Rhett can't believe after all this time he has come across Olivia, wanting nothing more than to apologize for the way he treated her and make her his. When he gets to work the following Monday, there and behold is Olivia, the newly hired designer for the dealership he works at. Rhett sets in motion his plans to get Olivia to hear him out. Do you think she will hear him out? He has a lot of groveling to do to get her to take a chance on him. A LOT of groveling!
The story is in Dual POV of the FMC and MMC so you get to see into each character's head. The story goes back and forth between the present (2023) and to moments in high school for both characters. You will see the bullying and the hardships both characters went through and no lie, it's rough.
If you enjoy an obsessive alphahole MMC who is crazy only for her and a curvy, sassy FMC, you will like Olivia and Rhett.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶
Olivia was the art student in high school who was constantly bullied by the baseball team and some of the girls who always hung around them. Rhett was one of those baseball players who participated in the bullying.
Ten years after high school, Olivia runs her own personal company where she incorporates murals along with interior designing work. She goes out with her friends when she runs into no other than Rhett Williams. Rhett can't believe after all this time he has come across Olivia, wanting nothing more than to apologize for the way he treated her and make her his. When he gets to work the following Monday, there and behold is Olivia, the newly hired designer for the dealership he works at. Rhett sets in motion his plans to get Olivia to hear him out. Do you think she will hear him out? He has a lot of groveling to do to get her to take a chance on him. A LOT of groveling!
The story is in Dual POV of the FMC and MMC so you get to see into each character's head. The story goes back and forth between the present (2023) and to moments in high school for both characters. You will see the bullying and the hardships both characters went through and no lie, it's rough.
If you enjoy an obsessive alphahole MMC who is crazy only for her and a curvy, sassy FMC, you will like Olivia and Rhett.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶
June 19, 2023
Book two in the Brighton High School series (all by different authors, so getting different writing styles) featured Rhett and Olivia. Both come from pretty terrible childhoods and meet again on what was supposed to be a celebratory night for Liv as she lands a lucrative contract in her design business. Having been bullied for being overweight as a youth, Olivia discovers the guy she is dancing with at the club is none other than her former bully from the baseball team.
Rhett can't believe the girl he teased relentlessly as a way to get over his crap homelife, the girl he secretly had feelings for, is the one who runs into at the club and runs away from him in a panic. He wants to make amends but she pretty quickly shuts that down. They later run into eachother again when that contract turns out to be his uncle's dealership, for which he's a managing partner. Olivia initial rebuffs him, and hard, but he works to get back into her good graces and show he's no longer the jerk he was in high school.
The book is a good read, especially as you get some of the background from their high school days, to show what they both went through as teens to make them what they are today. I enjoyed the character development and found they were both very relatable. I'm excited to see what else the series has in store!
Rhett can't believe the girl he teased relentlessly as a way to get over his crap homelife, the girl he secretly had feelings for, is the one who runs into at the club and runs away from him in a panic. He wants to make amends but she pretty quickly shuts that down. They later run into eachother again when that contract turns out to be his uncle's dealership, for which he's a managing partner. Olivia initial rebuffs him, and hard, but he works to get back into her good graces and show he's no longer the jerk he was in high school.
The book is a good read, especially as you get some of the background from their high school days, to show what they both went through as teens to make them what they are today. I enjoyed the character development and found they were both very relatable. I'm excited to see what else the series has in store!
June 12, 2023
Curvy fmc
Grovelling
🔥🔥
Olivia is a strong, successful interior designer. She is a beautiful, confident, curvy woman. Things weren’t always like this for Olivia at High School she was the butt of all jokes and bullying as she was seen as the uncool, big kid.
Olivia wins a new job and decides a night out with her friends. Her path collides with an attractive man and as times goes on she realises she knows this person, he is someone from her past, someone from her high school days. At first Rhett doesn’t recognise Olivia but to Olivia he is one of the main culprits that tortured her in high school. But was Rhett hiding behind a persona, acting like this for a reason. Olivia wants nothing to do with Rhett, how could she, but Rhett wants Olivia he knows she is his everything, he can’t let her go again.
Fait has other plans for these two and Olivia’s new job is at Rhett’s uncles dealership where he works.
Rhett had a secret crush on Olivia in High School but never thought he was good enough, and made her life miserable. Fast forward to present day when their paths cross again and Rhett makes it known he wants Olivia but can she trust him and forgive him for how he treated her in their past.
June 14, 2023
This book is so much!
From Dedication (trust me read it! ) to the end of the Epilogue… a beautiful story that will be relatable in ways for many but full of emotion. Prepare to get attached to these characters. They are beautifully developed. The flashbacking through their history in high school and bouncing back to the present helps see things through the characters' lenses soo clearly as events unfold. I loved how snippets of the past were withheld for a while and they were used in just the right moments. Anyone that has been bullied or regretted being the bully this book you will find hitting in some ways close to home. Even so beautiful.
The world building has been fabulous in this series thus far. I truly enjoyed the fact that the multiple authors have taken in what they are doing with the characters they are focusing on so anything that would cross over into another character’s story is there. Specifically in book 1 of this series you meet a female character that is the ceo of Bloom Beauty. The MFC in this book is using some bloom beauty products.
Despite the trauma and bullying that is seen within this book there is a HEA. And I will just say I would have felt cruel and unusual punishment if that Epilogue wasn’t available!
From Dedication (trust me read it! ) to the end of the Epilogue… a beautiful story that will be relatable in ways for many but full of emotion. Prepare to get attached to these characters. They are beautifully developed. The flashbacking through their history in high school and bouncing back to the present helps see things through the characters' lenses soo clearly as events unfold. I loved how snippets of the past were withheld for a while and they were used in just the right moments. Anyone that has been bullied or regretted being the bully this book you will find hitting in some ways close to home. Even so beautiful.
The world building has been fabulous in this series thus far. I truly enjoyed the fact that the multiple authors have taken in what they are doing with the characters they are focusing on so anything that would cross over into another character’s story is there. Specifically in book 1 of this series you meet a female character that is the ceo of Bloom Beauty. The MFC in this book is using some bloom beauty products.
Despite the trauma and bullying that is seen within this book there is a HEA. And I will just say I would have felt cruel and unusual punishment if that Epilogue wasn’t available!
June 14, 2023
As a reader, this book let's you see the dark consequences that bullying can inflict on the person it's directed at. But it also shows that people can grow and change.
Ollie is a woman with curves in all the right places who is working on getting her design business to be the best it can be. When she lands a high profile job, she heads out to celebrate with her friends. While dancing the night away, she approached by a man who likes what he sees. Unfortunately this man turns out to be her former high school bully and tormentor Rhett Williams.
It doesn't end there for our sexy female protagonist, on Monday morning at her new job she realises she'll be stuck working closely with Rhett.
Rhett is determined to prove to Ollie he's not the horrible little sh*t he was in school. He wants to prove to her that he's changed, that he's sorry for what he did and that he wants her for the beautiful woman she is, and for the beautiful woman she always was. Even though his actions back then never showed her that.
I quite enjoyed this book, it addressed how truly horrible bullying can be. It also showed how to ignore what others say about you and realise the only voice that matters is your own. The story was a beautiful second chance for both Ollie and Rhett.
Ollie is a woman with curves in all the right places who is working on getting her design business to be the best it can be. When she lands a high profile job, she heads out to celebrate with her friends. While dancing the night away, she approached by a man who likes what he sees. Unfortunately this man turns out to be her former high school bully and tormentor Rhett Williams.
It doesn't end there for our sexy female protagonist, on Monday morning at her new job she realises she'll be stuck working closely with Rhett.
Rhett is determined to prove to Ollie he's not the horrible little sh*t he was in school. He wants to prove to her that he's changed, that he's sorry for what he did and that he wants her for the beautiful woman she is, and for the beautiful woman she always was. Even though his actions back then never showed her that.
I quite enjoyed this book, it addressed how truly horrible bullying can be. It also showed how to ignore what others say about you and realise the only voice that matters is your own. The story was a beautiful second chance for both Ollie and Rhett.
June 14, 2023
Overall- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Story- ⭐️⭐️⭐️.3 (romance felt a little rushed but still good)
Back story- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Character Development- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
**I received an ARC of this book. All thoughts are my own without any outside influences** contains possible comments some may take as spoilers **
Bully/second chance romance. One thing I LOVED about this book were the flash backs and the length of them. You actually got to compare how the characters grew as people over 10 years. The the two MC’s go though some pretty heavy emotional and psychological abuse at home which can be hard and triggering for anyone who has gone though it personally. So be very aware of that going in. As always check your TW. Rhett and Olivia’s story was an interesting one. I liked it a lot but Rhett’s obsession from high school is basically the same in adult hood, 10 years is a long time to be obsessed with someone, as he’s grown as a person and gone though therapy he’s able to finally express his feeling correctly and Liv is able to love herself despite the torment and trauma she went though. They get together quite quickly. I feel like Rhett could have grovelled a bit more but hey. It was a good read.
Story- ⭐️⭐️⭐️.3 (romance felt a little rushed but still good)
Back story- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Character Development- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
**I received an ARC of this book. All thoughts are my own without any outside influences** contains possible comments some may take as spoilers **
Bully/second chance romance. One thing I LOVED about this book were the flash backs and the length of them. You actually got to compare how the characters grew as people over 10 years. The the two MC’s go though some pretty heavy emotional and psychological abuse at home which can be hard and triggering for anyone who has gone though it personally. So be very aware of that going in. As always check your TW. Rhett and Olivia’s story was an interesting one. I liked it a lot but Rhett’s obsession from high school is basically the same in adult hood, 10 years is a long time to be obsessed with someone, as he’s grown as a person and gone though therapy he’s able to finally express his feeling correctly and Liv is able to love herself despite the torment and trauma she went though. They get together quite quickly. I feel like Rhett could have grovelled a bit more but hey. It was a good read.
June 17, 2023
This is the second book in the Brighton High school reunion. I have read this authors work before and was excited to see what she wrote.
This follows popular golden boy Rhett and Olivia the girl that was constantly bullied. During high school Rhett was one of Olivia's worst bullies but then at times he was sweet and showed compassion leaving Olivia never knowing when the next strike would hit.
10 Yeats later the 2 cross paths when Olivia an artist and designer takes a job at a dealership that she finds out is run by Rhett's uncle and Rhett himself works there as well.
I loved seeing the flashbacks of these 2 from high school and how that shaped both of them in their adult life now more confident Olivia doesn't take anything Rhett says as genuine and constantly blows him off, but Rhett knows that Olivia is the one and is willing to do anything to get her to love him like he loves her. There is alot of grovelling which is very deserved and it's get to see Rhett really try and make amends. The spice is on the lower sidebut the tension between them makes all the moment together that much better
This follows popular golden boy Rhett and Olivia the girl that was constantly bullied. During high school Rhett was one of Olivia's worst bullies but then at times he was sweet and showed compassion leaving Olivia never knowing when the next strike would hit.
10 Yeats later the 2 cross paths when Olivia an artist and designer takes a job at a dealership that she finds out is run by Rhett's uncle and Rhett himself works there as well.
I loved seeing the flashbacks of these 2 from high school and how that shaped both of them in their adult life now more confident Olivia doesn't take anything Rhett says as genuine and constantly blows him off, but Rhett knows that Olivia is the one and is willing to do anything to get her to love him like he loves her. There is alot of grovelling which is very deserved and it's get to see Rhett really try and make amends. The spice is on the lower sidebut the tension between them makes all the moment together that much better
June 19, 2023
I love the angst Color Outside the Lines has. It's not too brooding. Rhett being a complex character with a very sad and conflicting past is a "reformed" bully and finds Olivia in a nightclub one night. He didn't realize the Olivia he's enamored with is the same girl he used to bully in high school. Olivia is a character who is still dealing with the trauma of being bullied by Rhett and the baseball team in high school, but has grown to be a successful interior designer. Learning about the past of both characters and neither really truly understanding what each other was going through in high school or currently is really fascinating to read. With Pretty Ruthless starting off the series with a fun and lighthearted swing, Color Outside the Lines takes a darker turn. But it's turned out tone one of my favorite books I read this summer of 2023. I enjoyed the characters and the story. I will definitely be reading this book again. I love a bully evolved into a enemies to lovers romance with characters who have depth to them.
June 10, 2023
MF bully to lovers romance. It's more hurt/comfort than spice. The high school bullying is told through flashbacks so there are time jumps throughout the book.
Heed the triggers since this can be dark for some. Olivia and Rhett both come from abusive and broken households, so their childhood and background was pretty bad, though Rhett didn't have the additional abuse from school like Olivia did. Despite having a secret crush on Olivia in high school, Rhett and his friends (as well as other people in school) bullied Olivia pretty bad so she has lingering trauma from that when she sees Rhett again 11 years later.
Not sure I buy the love connection between them though. I feel like he needed to do more groveling and the rest of the old classmates (besides Olivia's friends) are still immature and terrible when they're adults as well. Quick-ish read surrounding the Brighton High School Reunion.
Heed the triggers since this can be dark for some. Olivia and Rhett both come from abusive and broken households, so their childhood and background was pretty bad, though Rhett didn't have the additional abuse from school like Olivia did. Despite having a secret crush on Olivia in high school, Rhett and his friends (as well as other people in school) bullied Olivia pretty bad so she has lingering trauma from that when she sees Rhett again 11 years later.
Not sure I buy the love connection between them though. I feel like he needed to do more groveling and the rest of the old classmates (besides Olivia's friends) are still immature and terrible when they're adults as well. Quick-ish read surrounding the Brighton High School Reunion.
June 13, 2023
This is book 2 of the Brighton High School Reunion Series and it is just getting even better. This time it’s Olivia and Rhett’s story. It’s been 10 years and Olivia is enjoying her night out celebrating landing a new client only to run into her high school bully Rhett. Even though Rhett is no longer the kid he once was he still wants to do whatever it takes to win over Olivia and prove to her he worth taking a chance on. I’m going to be completely honest and upfront when I say please please please read your TW before reading this because it is most definitely not an easy read. There is some sensitive topics and I would hate to recommend a book and it hurts someone. I really did fall in love with their story and even reading all the fucked up shit Rhett did I still found myself rooting for him. Now the best part of this series is the little tiny cameos from characters we got introduced to from book 1.
June 14, 2023
Can we start with the gorgeousness that is this book cover?! 😍
⭐️⭐️⭐️½
TW: bullying, thoughts of suicide, eating disorder, child abuse
Book two of 12 in the Brighton High School Reunion series introduces us to Rhett and Olivia. These two have a complicated rollercoaster of a relationship that started 10 years ago in high school. Told from dual POV, you'll hear both sides of their story - past and present.
High school Olivia - My heart hurts for you. Your moments of feeling like you weren't enough; I've been there.
Present day Olivia - I strive to be the confident, strong, bad ass you are.
High school Rhett - I despise you.
Present day Rhett - I adore you... and your possessiveness 🔥
Some moments felt a little forced or excessively dramatic for my taste, which is why I didn't round up to the full 4th star.
There was so much turmoil, build up, and adolescent trauma that I wasn't sure how it was going to end, but it truly was a great ending.
⭐️⭐️⭐️½
TW: bullying, thoughts of suicide, eating disorder, child abuse
Book two of 12 in the Brighton High School Reunion series introduces us to Rhett and Olivia. These two have a complicated rollercoaster of a relationship that started 10 years ago in high school. Told from dual POV, you'll hear both sides of their story - past and present.
High school Olivia - My heart hurts for you. Your moments of feeling like you weren't enough; I've been there.
Present day Olivia - I strive to be the confident, strong, bad ass you are.
High school Rhett - I despise you.
Present day Rhett - I adore you... and your possessiveness 🔥
Some moments felt a little forced or excessively dramatic for my taste, which is why I didn't round up to the full 4th star.
There was so much turmoil, build up, and adolescent trauma that I wasn't sure how it was going to end, but it truly was a great ending.
June 19, 2023
This was a very emotional read. Check the trigger warnings please and thank you. This story I feel a lot of people can relate to. Olivia our main character was bullied in high school. She also had to deal with a crap home life. Rhett is one of the boys who used to bully Olivia. Olivia is a successful businesswoman now. She owns her own business. She has had help dealing with all the trauma from her past. She lands a new job. While out with friends she meets a guy. Turns out the guy is Rhett her bully from school. She runs away from him plagued with memories from her past. Rhett wants to show and prove to Olivia he’s not the same person he was in high school. Olivia’s new job just happens to be at Rhett’s place of work. He wants to date Olivia. Will he prove to her that he has changed? Will Olivia forgive him for what he has done. Will Rhett get a second chance? Read the story to find out.
June 29, 2023
After years of therapy to recover being bullied mercilessly in high school by the baseball team and their cheerleaders olivia is finally in a good place, accepting and loving her larger figure and owning her star power. That it until one of her biggest bullies, Rhett, doesn’t recognise her and comes on to her at a bar. Rhett is gutted that Olivia runs from him, he has always had a crush on her and feels like he just missed his second chance because they will never see each other again, right? Not unless Olivia gets employed by Rhett’s uncle and the two end up working in the same office. But can they now reveal their feelings for each other or are the wounds of high school still too raw?
I love a good bully romance and this was the perfect short one. The use of flashbacks helped the plot move along quickly and build up the relationship between the poor troubled Rhett and the strong Olivia.
I love a good bully romance and this was the perfect short one. The use of flashbacks helped the plot move along quickly and build up the relationship between the poor troubled Rhett and the strong Olivia.
June 9, 2023
Olivia and Rhett's story
There was humor, angst, found family and a little steam. This book also brought out lots of emtions.
My heart really went out to Olivia, with all of the bullying she suffered.
I loved seeing the growth in her character as well as her taking back some of her confidence. She truly was a beautiful character inside and out.
I'll be honest I wasn't a fan of Rhett at first because of how he treated Olivia in school. Rest assured though, the author does a wonderful job of making us fall in love with him. I love that he fell first and that he was so persistent to win Olivia. He was also a little j/p, which I love.
Both characters were treated bad in some way by their own family as well.
In the end, I think they both fit really well together and I'm glad they got their HEA!
There was humor, angst, found family and a little steam. This book also brought out lots of emtions.
My heart really went out to Olivia, with all of the bullying she suffered.
I loved seeing the growth in her character as well as her taking back some of her confidence. She truly was a beautiful character inside and out.
I'll be honest I wasn't a fan of Rhett at first because of how he treated Olivia in school. Rest assured though, the author does a wonderful job of making us fall in love with him. I love that he fell first and that he was so persistent to win Olivia. He was also a little j/p, which I love.
Both characters were treated bad in some way by their own family as well.
In the end, I think they both fit really well together and I'm glad they got their HEA!
June 11, 2023
Warning off the top, always read the Trigger Warnings first. Flashbacks of bullying can be hard for many to read and possibly remember their own.
Rhett had a hard life and of course he dealt with it by bullying Olivia in high school. He couldn’t deal with feelings he felt, and caused a young girl horrible trauma and heartache.
Fast forward 10 years, a reconnection brings them back in the same place and the same time. Will this be where the wounds start to be healed and love can finally conquer all?
I hated seeing what Olivia went through, I was bullied myself in high school for not being skinny and perfect. I loved seeing her growth, and I hope someone else out there can find their own healing.
These characters are relatable for sure, a great read, and I can’t wait to see what the rest of this series from a great list of authors brings.. 2 down… 10 to go.
Rhett had a hard life and of course he dealt with it by bullying Olivia in high school. He couldn’t deal with feelings he felt, and caused a young girl horrible trauma and heartache.
Fast forward 10 years, a reconnection brings them back in the same place and the same time. Will this be where the wounds start to be healed and love can finally conquer all?
I hated seeing what Olivia went through, I was bullied myself in high school for not being skinny and perfect. I loved seeing her growth, and I hope someone else out there can find their own healing.
These characters are relatable for sure, a great read, and I can’t wait to see what the rest of this series from a great list of authors brings.. 2 down… 10 to go.
June 14, 2023
The second book to the Brighton High School Reunion Series introduces us to Olivia and Rhett. Their story is told through dual POV and multiple flashbacks about their time in high school. Through these flashbacks we learn that Olivia was severely bullied by her classmates and that the person who did the most damage was Rhett. However in these same flashbacks we learn the heartbreaking reason behind Rhett’s behavior. It doesn’t excuse him for the things he did I to her but maybe, just maybe, Rhett can show Olivia the real him, the the person he was in the past.
Can Rhett prove to Olivia that he is not the same person he was in the past? Can Olivia learn to trust that Rhett is telling the truth when he says he loves her as she is? Will their live be strong enough to overcome their insecurities and past trauma?
This book is a 4/5 for me because while I do love the story, I feel like it was a little rushed and I would have loved to read more of Olivia and Rhett’s story.
Can Rhett prove to Olivia that he is not the same person he was in the past? Can Olivia learn to trust that Rhett is telling the truth when he says he loves her as she is? Will their live be strong enough to overcome their insecurities and past trauma?
This book is a 4/5 for me because while I do love the story, I feel like it was a little rushed and I would have loved to read more of Olivia and Rhett’s story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2023
A Reunion of Second Chances
Book Two of the Brighton High Reunion reunites artist Olivia with the guy who made her high school experience completely miserable, Rhett. The author gives us a dual pov with two time lines, helping the reader to understand their history. A history where Rhett bullied Olivia non stop, while at the same time confusing her with his constant attention.
Ten years later, Rhett is a different guy except for one thing. He’s still obsessed with Olivia and wants a chance with her. Can she overcome the trauma from their past and give Rhett a chance?
Plenty of heat packed into this perfect read for summer. This is a alpha man who only has eyes for one curvy woman. There are some trigger warnings since the story deals with bullying. The story is shorter so you get right into the meat of it without a bunch of unwanted filler.
Book Two of the Brighton High Reunion reunites artist Olivia with the guy who made her high school experience completely miserable, Rhett. The author gives us a dual pov with two time lines, helping the reader to understand their history. A history where Rhett bullied Olivia non stop, while at the same time confusing her with his constant attention.
Ten years later, Rhett is a different guy except for one thing. He’s still obsessed with Olivia and wants a chance with her. Can she overcome the trauma from their past and give Rhett a chance?
Plenty of heat packed into this perfect read for summer. This is a alpha man who only has eyes for one curvy woman. There are some trigger warnings since the story deals with bullying. The story is shorter so you get right into the meat of it without a bunch of unwanted filler.
June 8, 2023
This was book 2 in the Brighton High School Reunion Series and it was much more Emotional than the first book. Rhett and Olivia's story is an enemies to lovers/bully romance. Rhett was Olivia's bully in high school, he teased her mercilessly about her weight and appearance. To the point she dreaded going to school, and her home life wasn't much better. Neither of them had a great upbringing and while hers made her emotional and kind, his made him angry. Fast forward 10 years and they meet again at a club. Turns out the job offer Olivia had got to do a redesign on a dealership was the same place that Rhett worked with his uncle. It was a whirlwind getting inside both their heads. The emotions were high and heavy at times, but the way they fell for each other was incredible.
June 13, 2023
I really enjoyed Olivia and Rhett's story. It really tugs at my emotions, though, seeing how Olivia was treated in high school by Rhett and his baseball friends.
This is told in dual POV, and we also have flashbacks of the pair's time in high school.
Rhett was a troubled teen, and although he quietly obsessed over Olivia, his outward treatment of her was appalling. Reading of how he savagely bullied her and then secretly pined made me not like him in parts. Although he did grovel now, he's 10 years on and realising his costly mistakes.
I really liked Olivia. She's been through some horrendous bullying in high school and after copious amounts of therapy, is finally at a place in her life where she has confidence.
Both of them had crushes on each other in high school and the chemistry between them 10 years on was instant. Once Rhett begins to atone for his past, these two are absolute fire together.
This was an enjoyable read and a great addition to the Brighton High series.
This is told in dual POV, and we also have flashbacks of the pair's time in high school.
Rhett was a troubled teen, and although he quietly obsessed over Olivia, his outward treatment of her was appalling. Reading of how he savagely bullied her and then secretly pined made me not like him in parts. Although he did grovel now, he's 10 years on and realising his costly mistakes.
I really liked Olivia. She's been through some horrendous bullying in high school and after copious amounts of therapy, is finally at a place in her life where she has confidence.
Both of them had crushes on each other in high school and the chemistry between them 10 years on was instant. Once Rhett begins to atone for his past, these two are absolute fire together.
This was an enjoyable read and a great addition to the Brighton High series.
June 10, 2023
Loved this book! Olivia is an interior designer hired to redesign a car dealership sales floor. Unbeknownst to her, the man that hired her is the uncle of her worst high school bully, Rhett. After a chance encounter, Rhett wants to make things right with Olivia but she won’t give him the time of day, rightfully so. Can they patch things up and find a happily ever after together?
I loved how Olivia survived her traumatic childhood and grew up stronger, but still didn’t let her fear of a broken heart prevent her from being vulnerable. I love how Rhett showed how his character changed over time and was willing to do anything to rectify his past mistakes.
Only critique was that the book was so short!
I loved how Olivia survived her traumatic childhood and grew up stronger, but still didn’t let her fear of a broken heart prevent her from being vulnerable. I love how Rhett showed how his character changed over time and was willing to do anything to rectify his past mistakes.
Only critique was that the book was so short!
June 14, 2023
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Romance, High School Classmates, Second Chance, High School Bully
𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: 💜💜💜
𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗟𝗼𝘀𝘁: 💧💧
𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: 🖊️🖊️
𝗣𝗢𝗩: Dual
𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁: Ebook
𝗧𝗪: Child Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Bullying
“𝗢𝗿𝗴𝗮𝘀𝗺𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗵𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗮𝘄,”
This book definitely falls under the darker side of a bully romance. Rhett was not a nice kid when he was in high school, and his main individual to take his anger out on was Olivia. This story does contain multiple flashbacks to both Olivia and Rhett when they are younger, and many do include what happened between these two in the past.
Fast forward 10 years and Olivia has started her own successful business and her latest job lands her with her high school tormentor right again. Can she ever possibly forgive her tormentor and give him a chance at her heart?
Rhett has done a whole lot of growing up since high school & he has never forgiven himself for how he treated Olivia. Plus he never got to apologies to her. Now with her back in his life can he not only earn her forgiveness but her heart?
𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: 💜💜💜
𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗟𝗼𝘀𝘁: 💧💧
𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: 🖊️🖊️
𝗣𝗢𝗩: Dual
𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁: Ebook
𝗧𝗪: Child Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Bullying
“𝗢𝗿𝗴𝗮𝘀𝗺𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗵𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗮𝘄,”
This book definitely falls under the darker side of a bully romance. Rhett was not a nice kid when he was in high school, and his main individual to take his anger out on was Olivia. This story does contain multiple flashbacks to both Olivia and Rhett when they are younger, and many do include what happened between these two in the past.
Fast forward 10 years and Olivia has started her own successful business and her latest job lands her with her high school tormentor right again. Can she ever possibly forgive her tormentor and give him a chance at her heart?
Rhett has done a whole lot of growing up since high school & he has never forgiven himself for how he treated Olivia. Plus he never got to apologies to her. Now with her back in his life can he not only earn her forgiveness but her heart?
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