Tourner

Ironside Academy #2

by Jane Washington

Isobel Carter is making headlines. Some of them good, some of them bad, and some of them … astounding . She started at the bottom and now she’s near the top with everything she never wanted, but the Ironside Show doesn’t care, because she’s just become one of the most interesting students at the academy, and everyone seems to have big plans for her. The only thing the Ironside fans can’t decide on is which Alpha she looks best with, because of course it all goes back to them. The precious, cherished, formidable Alphas of Ironside. The ten reasons why she’s in this mess to begin with. And what a beautiful, brutal mess it is. Beware the pretty liars, because this social media game just went from dangerous to deadly.

Genres: Omegaverse, Fantasy, Romance, Why Choose, Paranormal, Slow Burn, New Adult

490 pages, Paperback

First published August 7, 2023

About the author

Jane is a Wall-Street Journal bestselling author who spends all her time writing books and then telling people not to read them.
Find her here: https://linktr.ee/janewashingtonbooks

Reviews

[SK · Rating 5 out of 5]

I AM OBSESSED

Oh my gosh this is such an underrated series. Reverse harem being done right in a paranormal romance brings me such peace and joy 😌😌

Ten guys and one girl is such a challenge to pull off but the author is doing it right and although we have had some steamy scenes, it is such a painful slow burn.. It's basically torture 😭😭 The chemistry and angst am feeling is INSANE.

Also, calling dibs on Mikel and Kalen 👀😤🥵 Like I adore, Theodore, Oscar, Elijah, Cian and Kilian but the way Mikel and Kalen have me in a chokehold is something else entirely, which am gonna keep to myself 🫣 I can't wait for Isobel to start bonding with them all. I love the character growth for all these characters, Isobel's in particular. Some of them could use a little more screen time tho for me to form a connection with them, but am positive that will happen in the next book.

The ending was so good. I knew something was fishy about the friend 🧐 But the cliffhanger was so good, am gonna dive right into the next book ASAP 😩😩

~•~•~
Idk about her but I definitely bonded with her mates. I NEED more of that slow burn 😩😩

[Keya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Minor spoiler but without context

This book is by no measure amazing but the entertainment it's providing 😂🤌 I can't stop. It's like a bad movie with the most unreasonable and craziest things happening, but you still can't stop watching it.

Some of the things in this book were so unrealistic, it's genuinely funny to me. I mean, I know it's fantasy and it's supposed to be unrealistic but this was something else 😂 I mean, what do you mean she needs constant physical contact and someone to cuddle during night or there's a chance she'll die? Her teleporting and ending up in her professor's lap lmaooo i can't-
But him sleeping almost naked to her while she was unconscious did make me cringe a bit, ngl.

And the thing with Killian is so weird to me for some reason 😭😭 Like I get it, he's gay and she only sees him as a friend but what friend would strip you down and bathe you inch by inch...like sir?
I would run, even if he was my closest friend.

And that ending omggg I CALLED IT! When I tell you, I saw it coming from page one...I knew it!!

Starting the next book immediately 😭 Rationally, it's not even that good but it's so fun and entertaining...my heart does a flappity flop when it comes to the alphas 🤭 Check out the cheat sheet and you'll know what I mean, the art and these alphas ARE SO HOT 🥵

***

Ready to binge this one as well 🤭🤭

[shania · Rating 4 out of 5]

omg i DEVOURED this😋😋 running to start the next one🏃🏼‍♀️‍➡️

[Laura Jane ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

SO, I AM DECEASED FROM THAT ENDINGGGG!!!
Hi. My names Laura and I’m addicted to Ironside Academy 🙋🏼‍♀️

Listen to meeeee, I would crawl through broken glass, 10 times over for this slow burn to finally end!!!!!!!! Istg if they don’t start some horizontal refreshments soon, I will need to be put in straight jacket.

Anyway, did I read this within 24 hours? Yes.
Am I obsessed with 10 broody, possessive alpha men still? YES.
Am I EATING up all the jealousy? Yes.
Am I in an unhealthy relationship with words on paper? Yes.
Did I crash out? Maybe. Potentially.
Will I dream about professor Kalen tonight? No comment (yes).
That’s all. No judgment accepted at this time. Thank you.

[Grace Btrs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who needs sleep when you have 10 Alphas who will tell you they don’t want you, but still:
• cuddle you 🤍
• hold your hand 🫶
• cook for you 🍳
• shower you 🚿
• scent you 🌿
• defend you 🛡️
• break bones for you 💥
• hold you while you sleep 🌙
• take care of you when you’re sick 🩺
• train you 🥊
• heal you ✨
• push you to break out of the shackles society told you that you belong in 🔓
Oh, and kiss you the most drugging kisses there are…..
Kiss you like you’re theirs 🫦
Then immediately follow it up with this attitude:
Nope. You’re a free woman. Reserve your powers. You don’t need to take care of me… but I will absolutely take care of you.
All in the most non-committal way possible 🙃
Totally normal.
Definitely not obsession.
We’re all lying to ourselves here. 😇

🎤 Survival Games, But Make It Sexy
I gotta admit, this one really started giving me Hunger Games x America’s Got Talent vibes.
The political intrigue isn’t fully at the forefront yet, but it’s clearly driving the plot behind the scenes. I’m genuinely curious how Jane will bring this to fruition, especially since it currently feels more like a light, romance-focused series rather than a full rebellion-heavy, politics-first narrative.

🧩 Ten Alphas, Zero Neglect
I was so glad Jane gave proper screen time to the other Alphas without minimising the rapport Isobel had already established with the first ones.
She genuinely built the connections in such a layered, intentional way, giving us bits and pieces of every MMC without ever forgetting the others.
That balance is hard, and she nailed it. I seriously commend her for the amazing job she did here.

🔪 Resilience, Thrills, and Zero Chill
I also really enjoyed the thrilling aspects and how well Isobel is handling everything.
The resilience on this girl??
Absolutely unreal.
I am fully hooked and do not want to leave this world at all.

🍿 Elite Snack-Level Addiction
This journey has been better than a bowl of caramel popcorn, brownies, M&Ms, Reese’s cups, BBQ chips, and fresh kiwi lemonade all put together.
And honestly? That’s saying something.

--
Pre-read:
Hah, you thought I was gona stick to my TBR, didn't you?
Surprise to both of us lol, these 10 MMCs took me by force🤭

[Morwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short review:
Is Miss Washington fucking with us? Yes, she is!
Do I mind? NOT IN THE LEAST.

Somebody get me a PAINTING of that absurdly beautiful kiss scene with Sato and the magical golden chains.
😳🤯😵😭🥵🖼️

And of Moses. Doing anything.
It's always gonna be Moses 🫠

Long review:
This book boosts my endorphins so much that it makes me feel like I will never be sad again. 🫠

We have been properly teased, but now the foundations are set, and I feel we are about to be shaken up in the next book.
I get it that for many it's taking too long to get the point, but I'm really loving the slow pace, and it's building my anticipation oh so sweetly.

The Mate Finder tour was brilliant. It was the perfect way to have a dating "Victors Tour" (Hunger Games), where we both see how Isobel is being abused by her father, how the Gifted are being secluded by the humans, and a deeper insight about the state of the world issues outside the academy. So far we have had glimpses about the boys' deeper motivations, but this tour shows us rather than just tells us.

And that ending!! Damn I had my suspicions, but Miss Jane waited until I convinced myself I was a paranoid bitch, before proving me right when I wasn't expecting it anymore. Chapeau! 🧎‍♀️

Nicknames-wise — Kilian’s "baby" aside (ugh) — this is how you do it properly! (obedient) Puppy 🐶, (scared) Rabbit 🐰 etc all have that specificity that represents how the guy sees her, and that's something unique to both parties and the relationship itself —basically insider jokes. Love it!
Even Ashton's choice of "doll" is significant of his attempts to dispel any feelings. We see this of him, not only in relation to Isobel, but in general —I'm pretty sure his decision not to take girlfriends is not as shallow as he wants the world to believe.
For the same reason, sorry Kilian, you have now become my least favorite, beating Niko, who actually gained some points with the self-defence training. Using "baby" for a nickname is generic AF, and It's just an horrible pet peeve of mine that gets me as dry as the Sahara.

~~~~~~
If you've read this book/series, and you stumble on this review, I hope you will drop your favourites in the comments. I'll always be interested.
Today, tomorrow, in 5 years time. Whenever you get to it ✨
~~~~~~

Most memorable scenes:

Moses talking about consent and teaching us all a lesson

🔖“Just for breaking into Sato’s room?” she asked, her brows flinching into a confused frown.
“Just?” Moses laughed darkly, and Sato dropped his leg—the only barrier between her and Moses. Moses stalked forward, stopping an inch from her, his eyes darkening with anger. “What if the roles were reversed, Sigma? What if a guy had broken into her room? What if she had woken up with him on top of her? Groping her? Grinding on her? Trying to force her to fuck him?”

🔖“What would you do?” Moses pressed, closing the distance between them again. “If it was Theodore she had assaulted. Tell me.” Alpha voice.
She answered without thinking. “Ruin her.” Theodore was precious.
Moses narrowed his eyes, the storm in them churning. “Prove it. Consider this my initiation.”

🔖“I’m a Sigma!” she shot back. “You’re asking me to go against my genetic fucking make-up.”
Moses smirked at her. “Yeah, you’re a Sigma. You always do what you’re told, don’t you?”
She didn’t answer.
“You never fight back?” Moses continued. “You’re completely and utterly subservient? Why don’t you kneel right now? Why aren’t you curled up at our feet like a good little Sigma pet?”

🔖She wasn’t sure what happened. Just that her hand stung, her mind was full of noise that sounded like rage, and Moses’ lip was split, blood staining the teeth he flashed in a sudden, surprised smile. Sato was laughing, a glittering light sparking to life in his eyes. Moses licked at the blood on his lip before crowding her against the counter.

🔖“You are the one who acts like Sigmas are weak and pathetic, not us. We think Sigmas are the strongest of us all and we know what’s inside you.” His hand was suddenly right in the middle of her chest, pressing up against her ribcage with his palm as he forced her to bend slightly over the island behind her.
“Such pretty darkness and nowhere to wear it, right?”
“Your choice,” Sato suggested mildly, leaving the rooftop. His voice lingered behind like a haunting echo.
“This is it,” Moses added quietly, still pressing her in place. “Tonight is all you have. Embrace your darkness, or you’re out before you even get in.”

Sato's gold chains scene

🔖As soon as he felt her fingers against his, he turned his palm, pushing his fingers through hers, locking their hands tightly together. The chains glinted happily, lit from within by a familiar golden glow. Isobel gasped, her fear disappearing entirely. She could feel them everywhere now. Cool and smooth against her skin, a contrast to the burning of Sato’s hand when it cupped her jaw, drawing her mouth to his. It was the most natural thing in the world to sigh into his kiss, to embrace this new way of surrendering, to open to him and answer the firm demand of his tongue as the glossy, satin feel of metal smoothing over her skin brought her so tight up against his body that there was no room left for fear or anger.

🔖She twisted her arms around his neck as he released her hand, the chains slipping away and reforming as he cupped both hands to either side of her face, groaning into her mouth. His kiss changed, becoming less exploratory and more dominating. He tasted like the sweetest poison mixed with cherry. A bittersweet brandy, like the fancy desserts the cooks would make for her family on special occasions. She never really craved those desserts, but now she wondered how she had ever gone a day without them. She sucked on Sato’s tongue, trying to savour their combined taste, and he rewarded her with a growl that vibrated all the way through her body, making her desperate to rub up against him.

🔖The chains dripped between her fingers like water as she gripped his hair, his hands falling from her face. He caught her thighs, pulling them up around his waist, the chains securing her against his body so that she wouldn’t fall. Finally, she had something to rub against, and she fit her aching core against the stiff, throbbing cock that was stuck up against his stomach.

🔖She had just kissed Sato.
Sato had just kissed her.
Grinding had been involved.
She could still feel how hard he was, throbbing beneath her thighs almost in time with the throbbing between her own legs.
What the fuck.
What the fuck.
She screamed.

🔖“I’m scared,” she admitted.
Sato’s eyes blinked open. They both considered her.
“Of what?” Cian finally asked, though there was a note of trepidation in his voice. A hint of defensiveness too. On behalf of Sato, who—true to Reed’s word—hadn’t actually hurt her.
She gulped, a realisation crashing into her. They made out in front of Sato’s father.
His dead father.
She hadn’t even noticed the ghosts disappearing.
“Of gold things and glittery, glowing things,” she admitted, casting her eyes over the pile of delicate chains poking out of her bag.

_____________

Pre-read
Get ready for another wave of obsessive update-posting everyone. Please don't hate me.
If I die for expected reasons, at any moment during this book, know I've loved you all. 🫡🖤

[bookluvr · Rating 4 out of 5]

oh. OOOOOOH!!! y’all, i’m so hooked! what is in these?! i’ll admit: i was a bit unsure of where i’d land on a rating for this while reading the first half because it was a bit slow and not much was going on so i thought that this may be sophomore slumping, but the second half had me flying through it and eating up everything that was going on - begging for more!

the way the story developed, especially in that second half was so gooooooood. i’m so invested! the plot, all the weird stuff going on, the supernatural and magic elements coming in, the way the relationships are evolving - everything had me sat and SEATED!

on the romance front, the burn is sloooooooow - the tension is going CRAZY. maybe a bit too slow? idk. and i’m from the school of people that enjoy a good mz book (iykyk), so i’m no weak soldier when it comes to slow burns but the progress of the romantic relationships in here is crawling haha. the entirety of this book is all still building up to the inevitable and am i ready? i don’t know but i guess i’m about to find out because obvi, i need to read the third book immediately. what DOES happen though has me chomping at the bit - and maybe it all needed to go this way. it’s really not what i was expecting but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

on the character development front, i did really like how we got some more on some of the mmcs who weren’t a particular focus in the first book - so i’m enjoying getting to know more and more about each one of them and how more of them are getting page time interacting with isobel. we’re getting some backstories, some more tidbits, the view is expanding - and i’m living for it. some people were still favoured in this book over others so i wouldn’t say it’s equitable at the moment or anything, but i am at a place where i feel like i can at least tell all the guys apart and discern their personalities here and their abilities there 🤣 and i absolutely have my favourites! but also some developments since the first book! kalen is still the father of my children, but kilian needs to fight back because oscar has been promoted to vice-president!

the ending!!!!!!!! no words - just on to the next. expeditiously. i need to start book 3 right now!

this is a very chaotic (unhelpful maybe?) review from me, i’m so sawri - but that’s all i got right now 😝






i need to say something that may point towards something in the end so click off now if you plan to read this and you’re still here



‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️
















when i catch that eve…it’s on sight!!! on site!!! ALL OF IT! i need to get her!!!

[⊹ Gabriela | Asternyx ⊹ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was even better than the first book! Once I started, I couldn't put it down 🥹

⇢ What to expect:
∘ New Adult
∘ Paranormal Romance
∘ Alternative Omega Verse
∘ Multiple POV
∘ Gifted Academy x Reality TV Show
∘ Reverse-Harem (large)
∘ Strong FMC
∘ Morally Grey/Bankrupt & Loveable MMCs
∘ Great character development
∘ Delicious Banter
∘ Tension & Angst
∘ A drop of spice
∘ Secrets & Betrayal
⇢ Tropes:
∘ Strangers to Friends to Lovers
∘ Rejected Mates
∘ Slowburn
∘ Professor x Student
∘ "Who did this to you?"
∘ "Touch her and die"

I would like to start by thanking the author for sharing their book with me as an ARC ❤️. It's important to me to be transparent and let readers know that my review is honest and unbiased.

⤏ Summary
The second book picks up right where the first one left off. As Isobel wakes up and realizes she has a mate, she devises a cover-up story with the help of the ten Alphas, using the sudden storm to their advantage.

When her father shows up at the academy and takes it upon himself to make the world aware of her situation, Isobel's freedom becomes jeopardized. The support of the Alphas in this situation is greatly appreciated, even though she remains oblivious to the real reason behind their attention. Isobel is forced by her father to embark on a tour to seek her mysterious mate, an idea she is far from thrilled about.

⤏ Plot & Writing
This book is nothing short of addictive, filled with tension and action, it was everything I expected and more. Trying to navigate the scenario she finds herself in, Isobel is faced with even more dangers than before. Finding herself with a mate, or even just searching for one, was never part of her plans. As it turns out, having a mate really complicates things.

This book provided us with additional information about the Alphas, offering us a glimpse into their lives and, in some cases, past experiences. Those details were a delightful treat.

Moreover, I appreciate how this installment unraveled some of the mysteries, sparing us from the anticipation of waiting for future installments to reveal those answers. It feels like Jane took pity on us, and I couldn't be happier about it.

⤏ Worldbuilding
While the tour Isobel was forced to undertake wasn't my favorite aspect, I did appreciate the opportunity to explore more of the settlements and gain insight into the lives of those on the other side. It was enlightening to witness the outsiders' opinions about their inhabitants, which was easy since the accompanying humans treated Isobel more like a decoration than an actual person and spoke around her without any filter.

This perspective shed light on the dynamics and perceptions between different groups in the world created by Jane.

⤏ Characters
∘ Isobel
In addition to dealing with bullying and the complications that came with the news of having a mate, Isobel is also struggling with her powers and their ongoing development.
She's coming out of her shell more and more, and I find myself constantly cheering her on. She is experiencing both the positive and negative aspects of the world and other people.

The way things were left at the end ... it was equal parts heartbreaking and exciting because that turn of events is bound to leave a mark on our FMC and I can't wait to see her sure progression in the following books.

∘ The Alphas
It was heartening to witness the Alphas' unity as they came together to protect the truth from Isobel and take care of her. Once again, it highlighted the trust they had in each other and the depth of their friendship.

I think it's safe to say that Cian & Oscar ran the show here. Although the other characters weren't neglected, I just feel like their presence was more impactful.
Oscar with his stalkerish behavior and Cian with his protectiveness. Also, we got to see another side of Oscar that would honestly make your heart melt!
Niko had a more significant presence in this book, and despite being closed-off and dissagreeing with their forced situation, his good intentions made me like him.
Theo & Killian remained their sweet selves, though Theo seemed a bit more affected by the events because of his previous friendship with Isobel.
Elijah & Gabriel continue to be a mystery, especially Gab - there's something there, he's such an intriguing character.
I was pleasantly surprised by the professors' attitudes, as I expected them to treat her poorly, but their actions turned out differently.
All the while Moses was still in denial.

Overall, all the characters were involved in the action, and I hope their presence remains strong because they have already captured my interest. While Isobel is the main character, the boys have also become central to the story, and I eagerly anticipate more of their involvement.

I think my favorite thing about this book were the group chat conversations. They were hilarious! I was eagerly looking forward to every one of them and even reread a few.

⤏ Romance
Things are moving slow and so far, there were minimal hints at a romance. There's tension of the best kind, with delicious angst, and even a drop of jealousy. It's clear there is attraction but none of them are willing to take a risk and actually act on it.
The natural flow of events is why I adore slow burn romances so much. It's precisely the kind of slow burn that Jane excels in, and that's why I find myself loving it so much.

⤏ Conclusion
There's something about this series that deeply resonates with a part of my soul, though I can't quite put my finger on what it is. Since The Bonds That Tie - another favorite of mine - I haven't felt such a strong attachment to a series. Looking ahead, I anticipate even more heartbreak in the future, as that seems to be Jane's signature style.

[cha · Rating 5 out of 5]

SPECTACULAR GIVE ME 14 OF THEM RIGHT NOW



Starting to question my love for slowburn romances because there's slowburn and there's whatever this book was. I got heartburn from the tension alone.



The first half was a little boring because it was more of a filler. It was needed tho bc I'd rather have boring chapters that provided a lot of context than a lot of action with no context. There are a lot of main characters and Jane took her time building Isobel's relationship with each of the guys. Their individual "relationship" (or lack of? lol the slow burn is KILLING me can you tell) with her all have their own meaning.

The last half, on the other hand, holy fu-



I loved LOVED loved the little glimpses of the guys' lives outside Ironside. Some of them ripped my damn heart out and made me love them even more. (Oskie? OSKIE?!) My favorite alpha seems to be changing every chapter. (jk I love you Gabriel Spade)

I know when you hear RH with 10 guys you think this might be the trashiest, raunchiest book but I swear it's NOTHING like that. The plot is actually amazing, the worldbuilding is incredible, and the romance(s?) are burning extremely slowly. I can tell Jane is taking this project seriously and with so much care and love. The writing is beautiful. The extra content provided (like the cheat sheet) is helpful.

Anyways I'm silently panicking because I only have two books left and then I'll have to wait till December for the next one LORD why must u punish me this way

[Mel B. · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not getting better…

I LOVED the first Ironsides Academy book. I was soooo stoked to read book two. Now I almost wish I hadn’t *sigh*

**SPOILERS**

I’m a huge fan of Jane Washington, and her books. I was so excited to start this series, and I’m happy to say that book one did not disappoint! It was a fabulous introduction to a dystopian (think hunger games) world where it’s a dog eat dog world! We’re introduced to our FMC, Isobel, who is a Sigma by designation. Sigmas are considered to be worthless in the power and “gifts” department. Isobel is beginning her 5 year stint at Ironside Academy, a school that Alphas and Betas go to that is literally one big reality television show. Isobel is the only Sigma and she is being forced to participate by her Alpha father, who had once won the “competition” at Ironside Academy and had gone on to live the “high life” all the while abusing his wife and daughter. She just wants to survive her time at Ironside, she doesn’t care about the 5 year competition at the school that if you win you become an “Icon” and live in luxury for the rest of your days (while the rest of the world lives in poverty). She thinks she’ll be able to fly under the radar and at least she’ll be away from her abusive father. But alas, it’s not meant to be. She “garners” the attention of the Alphas of Ironside Academy, all of whom are on the “Icon track,” they’re all playing the “game” to win the competition, each one for a different reason, but most of them because it’ll elevate their life and the lives of their family members. Only one of the Alphas really takes a shine to her, Theo, (she helps him and cares for him genuinely) the rest are suspicious, nasty, cruel, and basically they suck at being potential harem members. But of course, it ends up that Isobel is the mate, the “tether” of all 10 Alphas at Ironside. The book ends with them all agreeing (because of course the 10 Alphas are in this “boys club,” that makes them best friends, brothers, who have one another’s backs) NOT TO TELL Isobel that they’re her mates and leave her in the dark, even though prolonged absence of her mate, her “anchor” will make her very sick.

**SPOILERS**

I couldn’t delve into book two fast enough. Unfortunately I was really disappointed with this book. There were a myriad of issues with “Tourner.” The most prevalent issue…the guys, her MATES were all portrayed as pretty awful human beings in book one, but you’re left with hope that they’ll open their stupid eyes and get closer to Isobel. But by the end of book two, you literally only have 2 out of the 10 guys admitting to even liking her in a “romantic” way…and oh, one of those guys just so happens to have a boyfriend we never heard about back home (but hey, he’s still her mate). The boyfriend is introduced at THE VERY END of book two, after the reader has JUST begun to warm up to suitor number 2, Killian. Now it turns out that Killian is this awful “fraud” who has been portrayed as giving Isobel major “mixed signals,” and actively getting close to her all the while he has a committed boyfriend back home, huh? It makes the reader really dislike him, and we only just warmed up to him. I believed his friendship and romantic interest was real…only to have that illusion ripped away when I learned he had a boyfriend. Doesn’t bother me that he’s, gay, or bisexual…it bothers me that he never told Isobel, has been Pursuing her, and is her MATE, but isn’t telling her he’s her mate, and actually actively telling her that he has no interest in her, but still flirts outrageously with her. It means that he’s apparently stringing his boyfriend along by telling him she means nothing to him, while also playing with Isobel feelings. Yuck.

So we have one guy who has a fake girlfriend, and another that has a boyfriend, and the other 8 guys are either ignoring her, or being cruel, and heartless towards her (even knowing she’s their mate, and could die without their connection to her). I’ve read plenty of enemies to friends books, and I enjoy them if the characters are fleshed out well, and they’re at least mildly sympathetic (if they’re going to be total a-holes to the FMC). None of these guys are likable, and that’s a real problem. Even the “nice” guys turn out to have an agenda and are just using Isobel and toying with her feelings. Isobel DIES for them (one of them, but they’re all linked) and they are still complete a-holes ALL THROUGH BOOK TWO!! And not only are they not likable, but more than a few are downright hostile, and outright cruel or written as totally disinterested in Isobel completely!! With how book one progressed, and book two started, I expected a lot more “headway” into turning Isobel’s 10 harem members into members you’d actually like to be in her harem and don’t actively despise. Book two sees the “same old Isobel,” meek and “broken,” with barely a spine to her. Again, I liked her character is book one, but thought in book two we would see a little “growth” in her character. I was hoping that along with developing more mate bonds we’d get more “character” out of her. But book two is even lacking any artistic endeavors i.e. you don’t even really get a chance to see any of Isobel in her element, the arts, because you’re too busy reading about how much these guys hate her and despise the bond *sigh* It becomes rather exhausting.

Then you have the end…the end of book two is terrible. Yes, yes, you get a major plot twist that ends with a huge cliffhanger…but it’s awful. Isobel is attacked, has her bonds cut out of her, and is left to die by someone she trusted, and their accomplice (who just so happens to be intimately connected to one of Isobel’s harem members). The issue here; it just isn’t believable. It’s actually an annoying head scratcher. The harem rushes to “save” her. They’re desperate to put her bond ropes back inside of her to connect her to them again…why? The reader has spent so much time reading about 8 guys who actively work against their mate, going so far as out right hate her, it just doesn’t read as believable that they’re all so anguished over the thought of “losing her.” Heck, a few of them had even mentioned “offing her,” when they realized she was tethered to them…sooooo after reading two books about how they hate her, we’re just suddenly supposed to accept that they’re ALL so despondent and worried about losing the bond. Clearly we’re being set up for book three…

Will Isobel survive *eye roll* and if she does, will she still be tethered to the Alphas? I think we can all guess what happens, and it isn’t the demise of the female main character, or her men.

**addendum**

Thank you for pointing out that in Plier the author writes about Aron and Killian having “broken things off,” with one another. But still the way he’s introduced back into the main thread of the plot at the very end makes Killian really less likable IMO. Again, this is just my opinion. But I truly didn’t feel a REAL connection between any of the guys, save Theo and Isobel

[G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow that cliffhanger tho

[Ti · Rating 4 out of 5]

OMG OMG OMG OMG OMGGGGGG THIS SERIES IS SO FUCKING GOOD 😭😭😭😭😭😭 AHHHHHH

ONTO BOOK 3 STATTTT


4.5 STARS

[lilly ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐

wasn't my fav book but still definitely liked it!! rtc

--

i'm very intrigued 👀

[Madison Lee Mesz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I made a slight error in judgment. (But WOW did it feel good)

It has taken me a few days to sit down to write a review for Tourner and that's mostly because I wasn't quite ready to put all my thoughts down on how absolutely INCREDIBLE this book is and why you should being reading it. I wasn't suppose to have read this book early, but the simp in me took over and I begged for my goddamn life until I was given the opportunity to read Tourner (so thank you so much to everyone involved in making a grown woman's dreams come true - you deserve only good things in life <3).

However, I sometimes look back at the ignorant version of myself 6 days ago and say to her, "Why? Why did you have to have this book so bad? Why did you beg on your knees for it weeks before its release date? Now you are back in the same position of having to wait for the next book only now you have to wait even LONGER for book 3. Great decision making skills Madison. Real top notch. I like to think of myself as someone who makes good choices but desperate times call for desperate measures, so here I am having finished Tourner about 2 weeks before it has even been officially released and OH MAN (x10 *wink wink* ) am I not doing well.

I went into this book blind having come off of the Plier high and to be frank I think you should too. I am assuming that you are reading my review after having finished Plier and are looking to see what this one is about, but I will not be telling you. Why? Because the feelings you will experience while reading Tourner is not one that I can write down. So, instead what I am going to do is give you guys three gifs of emotional reactions I had while reading this book:







Can I make myself anymore clear???? So stop what you are doing and go read this book. If you have already read Plier than this is not a difficult request because honestly you are probably already counting down the days until Tourner is released. So god speed and have the best time ever. Truly no hype will ever compare to the reading high you will have while reading Tourner.

Is it better than Plier? Maybe. Does it make my heart sing? Yes. Am I having a psychotic break? Quite possibly.

Choosing to read Tourner and continue Isobel's adventure within the Ironside Academy will be the best judgement call you will make.

[Clarice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not me blowing through these books at the speed of light 👀👀👀👀


Read:
4.5 stars (that ending thoooooo)

Alright this isn’t quality literature, but I’m loving all of the characters and their personalities. I’m happy to see that we got a bit of background and emotional depth for all the Alphas. I’m very excited to see where this series goes. And who Isobel ends up with 👀

I wish there was more to the world, but at least we got to see some of it in this book. That’s one thing I really want more from this series is more world building.

[Serena Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't even make a coherent thought right now
First: WHAT THE FLIP??? I TRUSTED YOU EVIE I GAVE YOU MY TRUST AND YOU JUST DID ME SO FLIPPING DIRTY
Second: I just fell in love with Every. Single. Alpha. I love them all, but Killian is still my favorite...I think? I don't even know at this point my brain is spinning
Third: I have a problem sticking to a series, but after this book I don't think that will be a problem. Ohmygawsh I did not expect any of this to happen but I'm so happy it did💃
Fourth: my brain is still spinning so forgive me for this pitiful review all I know is that I need to read the next one right now.

[Isabelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m literally pacing the floor, gnawing at the bars of my enclosure because this was so good. The ending??? Diabolical 🤌



*Tbr? What tbr? There is only this 🙂‍↕️*

[•°Dahlia ( hiatus ) · Rating 5 out of 5]

𓏲 ๋࣭  ࣪ ˖4.75 🌟
yes am addicted, sending my candidature to join the cult rn 🤭🤭

The slow burn , THE SLOW BURN is so good but pure fucking torture , am begging just end it now and give me them , give me all of them .
Somehow am reading so fast I don't even know how , I just want more and more and more of them , they are so addictive I can't 😩😭
Kalen is so qgagqqgqgayaha , actually all of them , ALL OF THEM 💔

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⤿Pre-Read:
starting book 2 rn cuz why hot , and hello Killian is such a sweetheart 🙈

[Youssra (semi ia) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you kidding me??? When i tell you not even Alpha Voice(iykyk) could pry the book away from my hands, I mean it!!!! I physically could not stop reading, it is too addictive😭😭

I am having so much fun 😭😭😭 the tension is DELICIOUS I TELL YOU!
Isobel you sweet girl I feel so bad for her🥲
As always Sato owns my heart i love that psycho meanie.
But also, Ashford??? Stop im so in love with all of the boys now its not even funny😭
Obviously jumping to book 3 IMMEDIATELY.

[Rayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reread: July 7, 2025



Reread: Dec. 12, 2024



First Read: Oct. 22, 2024

I’m addicted. I just realized the series isn’t finished yet and now I’m panicking because I’m loving it. I can see why people compare this to The Ties That Bind series and The Zodiac Academy series. It gives the same vibes but it is its own story completely. The characters are so well done and I’m loving how the relationships are developing. Everything is just done so well that every big moments hits perfectly. There were parts that felt a bit slow but there were other parts that were sped up well. Like the tour. I’m glad the author didn’t spend too much time on the parts that didn’t move the plot forward. I need to cancel all my plans this week and read the next two books right now.

[hailey&#x1f940;&#x1f9a2;✮˖°. · Rating 5 out of 5]

reread #1:

the group chats are iconic and undoubtedly one of the best parts of these books. i need this series injected into my veins it’s just so! addicting! my #1 guilty pleasure. kilian 🤭🤭 and also oscar and elijah! they’re my top 3 as of this moment having read the 5 published books, and i’m appreciate elijah and oscar more in book 2 upon the reread.

first read:

absolutely devouring this series. i’m obsessed. kilian is my favorite and he didn’t get enough page time in this book, so praying he’s in the next book more. also kalen and mikel please ! student x professor is just elite. i saw the betrayal coming from a mile away yet i was still gasping. immediately reading the next one

update: fuck it! 5 stars! i love this series so much it deserves nothing less. it may not be everyones cup of tea but it was perfect for ME

[Milica · Rating 4 out of 5]

i need answers, stat

but did i get answers? some, yes, but there’s always so much happening all over that more questions keep piling onto those👀
and that bitch! omg i hated her from the start, there was always smth off about her😤 when she finally reveled her true self in the end, i jumped from my seat and almost yelled hot damn captain holt style👏🏼🤣

[literarilylizzy ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE ENDINGGGGGGGG OMGGGG?!?!?? please i loved this book so much!!! i loved getting to know more of the mmcs! theyre all so feral for isobel 😩 the group texts were absolutely hilarious and yall… this is making me realize i like omegaverse books 🫣 also what i would give for this to be an hbo show!!

[mikayla ✿ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ⭐️ i am shamelessly addicted to ironside academy and fast approaching fiend territory with this one. the slow burn is TORTURE but i'm having the best time. p.s still loving kilian 💖

[shei · Rating 4 out of 5]

—— 4.25.✰ stars.

“Calling yourself weak is the only true weakness you’ll ever have.”

oh motherfucker, THE SCREAM I LET OUT. I had a feeling that this was gonna happen but still I screamed.

the way this book has CONSUMED ME i couldn’t put it down and i was WAY too invested on this. the plot of this book continues exactly where it was left the first book, and goes straight to the point, the world building expands, which was so appreciated.

After what happened in the end of book 1, Isobel and the alphas have to deal with the consequences, not letting anyone know the truth. And let me tell you, it’s a ride. A ride full of fucking tension, I felt like I was intruding half of the time.

Isobel and the alphas are so fun to read about, I love them all, and the ones we don’t know much about, I’m infinitely intrigued by them. GIVE ME ONE BESTIE YOU HAVE 10!!!!

As I’m writing this im side eyeing the book 3, which is what im gonna proceed to read right now. im that invested.


⋆｡‧˚ʚ pre read ɞ˚‧｡⋆

this has me by the throat

[Hot Mess Sommelière ~ Caro · Rating 3 out of 5]

if you ever looked at a crack addict you know crack isn't good

but it's very addictive and people wreck their bodies for it

like I wreck my sleep cycle for this book

[sashenka &#x1f5a4; · Rating 3 out of 5]

Do I objectively find this series good?
Not sure.
Am I still very entertained?
Totally.

[Caitlin_ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

Like a good 3.5 stars but book 1 left big shoes to fill.

RTC…brb must immediately binge book 3…I have a feeling it’s gonna be 😍🤩😍🤩😍



********************************************************************************

……I can’t wait to see who cracks first 😈

[Alexa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m down BAD for this series

Screaming at the ending!!!!

Book 3 is already open bye!!!!

[Caroline · Rating 3 out of 5]

I KNEW it was Eve.