Mistaken Prejudice

Bad Inceptions #1

by Tal Lewin

Some will say we’re trash, and others will call us criminals, but what we are is a family.
All connected by a shared past and a promised future.
Four bad boys in a rich kids’ high school.
It sounds like the beginning of a bad joke. Only it isn’t.
It’s our senior year At Beverly Bay High, the school for the rich and privileged kids of the even richer and more privileged parents.
Without drawing unnecessary attention, I planned for us to get through this year with no trouble.
But then I met him. And I fell in love.
And our love drew fire from all sides involved.
Prejudices? We were used to being on the receiving end, overlooked, and dismissed our whole lives.
My mistake was to think I was above it.
Our story is not about love but all that it touches. One relationship is built while others collapse. And our love is only the beginning of the story.


***Mistaken Prejudice is the first in a series of 5 interconnected books (not standalones). The story becomes darker and darker throughout the rest of the series. So if you like Rich kids, Bad boys, High School settings, Found family that goes through troubles, Lots of lies, Instant chemistry, Accents, and first times… You might enjoy it.
***Not suitable for anyone under 18 years of age
***Triggers are listed inside the book ( they contain spoilers )

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Dark Romance, High School, Dark, Contemporary, Found Family

361 pages, Paperback

Published September 3, 2023

Reviews

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

This was such a wonderful debut book! It felt fresh and different and I really enjoyed it. I loved all the different characters and I can’t wait to read more about them in the future books.

The time we did in juvie followed us like the mark of Cain. We were stained forever, damaged, marked—forever prejudiced by society.

The book starts out with Andrei and his foster/adoptive brothers starting senior year at a new high school. The school is full of very affluent kids so Andrei and his family are immediately cast as outsiders. They are a bunch of (mostly) reformed bad boys. While trying to find his way to lunch one day, Andrei stumbles upon Miles taking care of his horse. They are instantly attracted to one another.

“So when will I see you again?” he asked as I climbed into the driver’s seat. As soon as I closed the door, he leaned his body through the open window. “We can have lunch on Monday?” He shook his head. “That’s not soon enough.” God, did this boy know what to say.

Miles and Andrei are smitten with one another and just want to spend more time together. It is so sweet. I loved seeing Miles show up at Andrei’s job with Elliot. It was a great introduction to his relationship with his Papa.

Andrei is more experienced than Miles sexually and he is very sweet and patient with Miles. Their surfing date was adorable and then Andrei brought him back to his house to meet his family. Loved all of that.

Andrei kissed me as no one had before. It wasn’t a battle but a need for connection. It is everything I ever dreamed of for a kiss.

Shay-Lee. What a bully. This guy is the worst, but I’m really kind of hoping for a redemption arc in the future for him. He is clearly dealing with his own issues. My one small complaint would be that I wished Andrei and Miles had communicated a bit better in the third act. That being said, they are in high school, so I guess it does make sense here.

I just adored Miles’ parents and how open they were with Miles and vice versa. I’m also really intrigued by Chief and hope to learn more about him. I’m really looking forward to the next book featuring Jessie, Levi and Jordan.

What we did tonight was by far the most intense experience of my life. Our sex wasn’t just a physical connection. It went far deeper than that. It was as if our bodies and souls had melted into each other.

*** I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest opinion. ***

[Renae Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mistaken Prejudice is the first entry in the new adult Bad Inceptions series. This story focuses on opposites attract romance focusing on Miles and Andrei. Their differences are one of my favorite aspects of this story. They both have vastly different family structures, experiences, and opportunities, which makes them the perfect balance for each other.

What creates the conflict in this story is the group of friends each has. Miles's group of friends are rich, entitled, and snobby, whereas Andrei's are rougher, less refined, and humble. These two groups are immediate rivals, which creates most of the drama throughout this story.

What isn't dramatic is the relationship between Miles and Andrei. They instantly share a connection and this connection slowly grows from a friendship into a sweet relationship. They are so patient, kind, and willing to share so much with each other. I was genuinely surprised at some of the character developments in this story and look forward to seeing how they play out throughout the series.

Overall this is a great first entry for the series. It was a great romance, with intense drama, and lovable characters. I look forward to reading the next one.

*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***

[Kati *☆･ﾟ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5***** stars


Holy mother of teenage drama. *still gasping for air

God, this was intense (!!!) and you know how I love me a good intense story. I was riveted from the first moment and enjoyed every fucking second of it.

I’m super impressed by this debut. Tal Lewin is an illustrator and when you visit her socials you come across A LOT of covers she created for books we’ve read or at least know about.


The love story was a fairly easy one at the beginning (until it wasn’t anymore) but what was astounding was that it was not really the romance that had me captivated so strongly but all the characters’ stories (I can’t even express my love for Daniel and Elliot, Miles’ dads), their relations and actions, all the nasty stuff that went on and all the love that spread around. It was epic.

“I know I said we’ll study first and then eat dinner, but instead we’ll have lunch.”
“Oh, that’s okay.”
“With my parents.”
Oh, fuck. “Parents, as in with your cute French dad?”

“Parents, as in my cute French dad and my less cute American lawyer dad.”

*lol



And it’s not that I’m not interested in Levi and Jessie next, but I’m dying with anticipation for book 3 already.


⇢ please heed TW’s and note that these books are not standalones and have to be read in order

***********
Bad Inceptions Series

Book 1 - Mistaken Prejudice - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Unexpected Prejudice - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Explosive Prejudice - 4.75 stars ♡
Book 4 - Forgotten Prejudice - 4.5 stars
Book 5 - Dissolving Prejudice - 4.5 stars

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked Andrei! He felt believable as an 18/19 year old, but Miles annoyed me for being blind and naïve to the actions of people around him.

There was SO MUCH going on that the first half of the book felt too dense because there was so much background, world building and character introduction and it felt hard to keep track of.

I liked meeting the characters but it felt like there was too much of other characters and future storytelling being setup (Diesel, I'm looking at you), when I'd rather find out about them from their own POVs. I'm intrigued to read more in this series, particularly about Jessie because I feel like he's entirely different from characters featured heavily in this book.

I do think some parts could have been condensed because they didn't really add anything except making Elliot upset - his brother could have just been at the wedding and the effect would still have come across. I didn't understand the inclusion of the Paris trip or what it added, but I really enjoyed the second half when things started to happen, even if the bullies felt a bit unbelievable.

The relationship between Andrei and Miles felt like it was between two teenagers which was a massive plus, because a lot of the time teenage couples still feel written like adults if that makes sense? It was refreshing to see insecurities and ignorance in both MCs and their friends - no one had their life 'together' and they were all just trying to get through high school.

Excited to see what happens in the next installment!

*ARC Review*

[martina (the life of a chaotic reader)]

7%

this isn’t good bad, it’s bad bad

[ivy]

DNF @ 68% - I was really loving this a lot, I was so invested in it and loved Miles and Andrei soooo much, until some of the OTT drama started and it was putting me in a bad mental state. They didn’t deserve all that and I gotta take care of my head.

[L Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have never encountered a romance in which so much of the drama and angst that actually drove the plot had so little to do with the actual couple that the story was about. Andrei and Miles started falling in love with each other almost immediately after they met. They fell HARD, and their feelings never wavered. They had a great relationship and, even though they hadn’t shared the darker or more complicated aspects of their pasts with each other (they were, after all, still a new couple), there is no doubt in my mind that had they been given more time, all of those secrets would have been revealed and openly discussed.

The drama came mostly from Miles’ friend, Shay-Lee. It was obvious from the beginning that he was dealing with some personal issues and as a way to cope with them and developed an unhealthy attachment to Miles. His possessiveness was disgusting, and I was frustrated by how naive Miles was when it came to him. Shay-Lee was an absolutely loathsome person. He treated everyone like trash - literally, going out of his way to antagonize people - and often Miles was right there witnessing it. His excuse was always Oh, well, he isn’t really like that. He’s just putting up a front because he doesn’t want people to know the real him. He’s actually a pretty sweet guy once you get to know him. Ugh. It was so frustrating. Shay-Lee didn’t want Andrei to be with “his Miles” and he and his lackeys did everything they could to intimidate him, going so far as to threaten his family. It didn’t work, of course, but it was hard seeing how low he was willing to go and how clueless Miles remained the entire time.

This kind of story, with its unrealistic levels of ott drama involving privileged high schoolers or college students, can usually be counted on to be an entertaining un-put-down-able story, regardless of how stupid it actually is. I’m not saying this story was stupid or anything, but it definitely had the drama and it definitely kept me reading. I liked all of Andrei’s friends and may check out their stories in the future. I wish they were standalones because I am dying to read Diesel and Shay-Lee’s story. If ever there was a set up a for an actual enemies to lovers story, it would be theirs. 4.25 stars

[Emna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hmmmmmmmm ....... VERY INTERESTING
[Rtc]

[Dani (Daniiireads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Andrei and his brothers are starting their senior at Beverly Bay High, where all the spoiled rich kids go. He and his brother's are the outsiders, a bunch of criminals with pasts they don't want anyone knowing. There Andrei meets Miles, his total opposite in all the ways that count, but there's something about him he can't resist.

Overall I really enjoyed Mistaken Prejudice, Andrei and Miles's story is sweet, a little angsty, with lots of drama, and some spice. The characters are so different and wonderfully written, and can't wait for more of this series!

[Angelina · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was… fine. The premise had potential and there were moments I enjoyed, but overall it didn’t quite click for me. The chemistry existed, the drama was there, and yet I never fully bought into the emotional payoff.
The Russian element caught me completely off guard (note to self: read the annotations next time), and since that’s not my thing, it took me out of the story more than it added to it. The conflict mostly hinges on misunderstandings, which get wrapped up a little too neatly once everything’s out in the open.
Not a bad book by any means — just not my vibe. If the tropes and themes work for you, you’ll probably have a better time than I did, but for me it was a solid “okay” read.

[Dana | Rainbow Romance Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reread 19/01/24 - Upgrading my rating to 5 stars because this was even better the second time around! The characters, the plot, the pacing, the chemistry, the foreshadowing/easter eggs... it's all just *chefs kiss*. And I have an even greater appreciation for Elliot now - he is precious and he needs his own book immediately!

Original review:

|| 4.5 Stars ||

Reading this book was an EXPERIENCE. I did not expect it to be so full of drama, heat, and emotions.

Although this story focuses on Miles and Andrei, there is such a rich cast of complex characters alongside them. The whole book is peppered with little breadcrumbs for each of them, and I can't wait to see where the rest of this series takes them.

Miles and Andrei were so sweet together, and hot too. The spice in this book really was unexpected given that it's a high school romance, but it was sooo good. Despite being a fairly fast-burn, they had great chemistry and a palpable connection.

I loved the writing too. Tal Lewin made me constantly change my perception of the characters from one scene to the next (which seems fitting given the book title), and made each of them feel nuanced. This book felt funny and light, whilst also tense and heartbreaking. The perfect combination, if you ask me.

So once again, I can't wait to read more of these characters, especially Jess and Levi in the next book. Although, NGL, I am kinda shipping Shay-Lee and Diesel too...

'And that's the thing about being with him. Everything felt excessive. Every emotion was ardent. The slightest exchange of words stayed with me much longer than needed. Touching him felt torrid. I was vibrant and passionate, and I could barely recognise myself.' - Andrei

[Tonya ✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was definitely not what I expected and I liked it. At one point it felt like alot was going on and when that happens in books it's hard for me to keep focus. I'm not use to books with drama filled plots but I could look past it for for Andrei and Miles.

Overall I did like this book & can't wait for Jessie, Jordan and Levi story next.

3.75/4 ⭐

[Musi ✨Vegacrux’s first child✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Entire time I wanted to kill both Shay lee and Diesel so…. Their book should be fun?

[Bettina · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+ ⭐️ This book was beautiful - fantastic! We are introduced to four guys, Andrei, Diesel, Levi and Jessie, as their journey begin when they have to change schools. With their rough background, starting at Bey High for the rich and famous is not the easiest transition. But when Andrei meets the sweet and kind Miles, he can't seem to stay away. As their relationship grows, they are faced with different obstacales and challanges that seems to do whatever they can to break them apart. At times I felt as if I was reading a modern Romeo and Juliet-novel.

The depiction of mental health in this story is done in a heartbreaking, but yet graceful way. The transition - IYKYK - I thought was so well done, and for me, it elevated the book from good to simply fantastic!

Not only is Tal Lewin an incredible illustrator, their writing is also beautiful. This book made me smile, laugh and cry till my face hurt from all the different feelings. I'm so glad I read this book, and I'm very much looking forward to continue this series. Overall - a great story that I had an amazing time with, and truly recommend!

[LifeReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely debut for this author and a start of what will be a feisty series.

Two different groups of boys, spoilt rich versus the bad boys and of course they hate eachother. Apart from Miles and Andrei who fall fast and hard, much to the annoyance of friends. It certainly doesn’t make you miss school.

There is something for everyone in this as you have the drama of friends, sexy times and life lessons. I did like how all the characters were so different, they are all memorable in different ways and that’s great for a series as with so many characters you don’t want them to blend. That certainly isn’t the case with these boys.

[ash[hearts]angst · Rating 4 out of 5]

This combined so many elements that I loved and it actually worked??

- “broken boy” meets “perfect kid”
- class difference
- high school
- MMC with odds stacked against him but stays focused and positive
- found family
- tons of drama


Miles and Andrei were so freaking cute. From that first meeting, you could feel their chemistry. Their little flirty comebacks and one liners in the beginning were everything. The way they both had so much confidence and were like “oh I like you, you like me? Let’s fucking DATE”. It was so cute.

I loved how Andrei could be himself around Miles. Like the person he’s becoming and not the boy from his past that some of his friends *cough cough fucking Diesel* like to constantly drag him back to.

My heart went out to Miles. Such an amazing job of that mental health rep. The signs are all there but it’s so subtle you don’t realize it until it’s in your face. I cried for Miles and I understood him.

Loved the found family here as well! I’m like can Chief get a book? I want to know how one surf shack owner fosters four boys out of juvie and their origin stories.


But honestly? The standouts of this book to me were Miles’ parents!! His dads were EVERYTHING. The relationship he had with his Papa? Swoon. So fucking sweet and wholesome. How hilarious Papa Elliott was? I want to have French onion soup with that man. And Daddy Daniel seems like the perfect balance. The way he loves his husband, even after their own drama from the past. They need a book immediately.

Something I love about reading about high schoolers is all the drama lol because that’s really what it’s like for
Most. Just drama drama drama and this book didn’t disappoint!

Looking forward to continuing this series!

[Carol (§CoverLoverGirl§) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartbreaking and Scary

Having read ‘Blue Gold‘ as an introduction to author Tal Lewin and absolutely adored it, I jumped into his series ‘Bad Inceptions’ Book 1, ‘Mistaken Prejudice’. Initially I was thrilled to see it still featured Elliot and Daniel, now married and having raised a son Miles.

So the book is really about a grown up Miles at college, a very prestigious college ghat has recently taken in a group of ex juvenile offenders whose school in a down and out area of town was recently burnt down.

Andrew, Diesel, Levi and Jess have been best buddies since ‘juvie’, they look out for each other, because they know the horrors of each others young lives and it broke my heart as I read this part. Of course acceptance into such an elite establishment caused mayhem, and jealousies, especially when Andrei became best friends with Miles and it quickly escalated into a very fierce burning relationship.

This was the spark that fires up some truly awful fights and threats to the foursome from an individual who has long wanted Miles himself.

For a while it was a joy to see Miles and Andrew’s relationship flourish so genuinely, the ripple effect of another’s jealousy and the damage it caused had me stop reading it for a few days. Violence like this scares me. But I just couldn’t not know how Andrei and Miles, plus Daniel and Elliott, would survive the events that took place and the damage caused.

There are several books in this series giving each of Andrei’s friends and their Mentor ‘Chief’ a book of their own.

I’m building up a few defences in preparation for some more heartbreaking tales. Even though it was painful reading at times I engaged quickly with the ‘juvie friends’ and adored the life Daniel and Elliot made together, I want each of them to find a happiness they deserve after the awful start in their young lives.

** There has to be TW’s listed by the author which I didn’t see, but there is heavy Mental Health issues, Eating Disorders, graphic Violence on page. There is possible parental physical abuse/abusive control on a highly featured character (not an MC) which I guess will come out in future book in series.

A gripping story no doubt about it, but be prepared for some crying binges as you get hooked on these four broken souls in ‘Mistaken Prejudice’.

[Tare · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was dramatic AF but I still ate it up. This felt like some 90210 Beverly Hills BS lol (does that age me?! 🙈)

I will say the first half of this dragged for me. I was still interested in all the characters and was continuously picking it up - but once the plot (and DRAMAA) picked up I couldn't put it down.

Andrei and Miles were very sweet (and also dumb teenage boys).

I am looking forward to continuing on in this series because I have questionssss.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a fucking whirlwind. I picked it up because of how much I love the author’s artwork, but I didn’t expect such an emotional read. I was skeptical in the first 10% of this book — it felt a bit too cheesy 90210 at first. Once I got past the introductions though, I was kicking my feet and giggling at how cute Miles and Andrei are together. If you decide to read it, don’t dnf before 10%. Trust me. The drama in this book is intense and plentiful, but mind your trigger warnings. I don’t know how I will ever like Shay-Lee, but I need to see his backstory.

[Leigh Gaskill · Rating 4 out of 5]

BH 90210

Wow. There is so much going on in this book. Like so much. My number one question is: where are these kids parents? (Mainly Shay-Lee’s gang). They all need an a$$ whooping (is what my dad would say).

Miles and Andrei. So sweet together. Can’t escape the third act break up though. I saw it coming. I saw the signs. I have an unfair advantage though. Like a train wreck you can’t stop it. I do applaud Tal for weaving that in pretty seamlessly, building its intensity until it’s staring you in the face and you have no choice but to acknowledge it. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, it’s ok, you will when you read the book.

The parallels between the four brothers and the group of Shay-Lee’s thugs are obvious. The lines are drawn in the sand, the only thing separating them is money, connections and prejudice.

I STRONGLY ADVISE you to read the TWs for this book.

[Katkejt ☾. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Andrei (Chica) • Miles (Zaychik)

Out of context spoilers ahead:

- Jess (Kotik), Levi (babydoll), Ashton (Chief).
- Diesel: “A brutal, harsh, sometimes cruel wall that no one seemed to be able to break. I didn’t break it; I was allowed in.”
- .
- Blanc.
- “two beauty spots under his left eye.”
- Shay-Lee. (there is a story there! And it will hurt…)
- .
- .
- “Andrei was just as curious about me as I was about him, and it thrilled me.”
- Game on.
- Speak French to me (!!!)
- “I’m the new guy with the pretty face.” 🥹.
- .
- Mon lapin 🥹. (Bunny)
- Zaychik. (Bunny)
- Sunsets (💛🧡❤️.)
- .
- “It wasn’t a battle but a need for connection.”
- Diesel, Diesel….
- .
- “That’s not soon enough.” (!!!)
- .
- “My little Zaychik.” 😭.
- .
- “I had no doubt this was what it felt like to be loved by your parents.”
- .
- Yup. Dirty. That visual.
- “We are who we are.”
- .
- “It will always be too soon, too little, too much, too something, and before you know it, it will be too late.”
- .
- “You were as perfect tonight as the first time I saw you. My heart will never cease to miss a beat at your mercy.” ���🥲. Wishing for an E&D novella.
- .
- Jordan…👀.
- Daddy Chief…👀.
- “Don’t Zaychik me now.”
- .
- When authors mention smells in books I am a smell slut just saying 😂. I don’t care it can be mentioned in every sentence.
- .
- “Some were old, while others were new, and I loved each and every one of them.”
- .
- A 💔.
- .
- .
- “I was not giving up on him, even if it broke me.”
- ……
- ……
- Go Diesel 🩶.
- A & D 💔😭.
- .
- “You don’t need to cry again, Chica. From now on, you’re no longer alone. You’ve got me.”
- E&D 🩶. I love them as parents.
- .
- .
- Oh boys. Silly boys.
- Miles 🥺 how could you…
- Oh….
- .
- .
- 💔
- .
- .
- Jess…
- .
- Jordan?
- I’m a mess all over.
- D&SL?
- .
- .
- 💔.
- .
- “His beating heart.” 😭.
- “I smiled and sealed the deal with a small kiss to his nose.” Too precious.
- My Andrei.
- Jess. Levi. Jordan. (Jess and Levi are end game for me but I don’t mind a little trouble in paradise…)

….

You know the feeling of wanting to continue being part of a world? Tal made me long for that feeling.

The art / moodboard created for this story for me was the best form of promotion you could do for a book. I mean whatever Tal draws I am in - and to draw a storyboard for her own story? You do not have to convince me twice.

This is a debut novel from Tal and all I have to say is congratulations. I am definitely staying for the long ride and can’t wait for the second book and witness the growth you’ll make because if you debuted with this writing and story idea - only great things are to come our way.

While reading I had to create my chart flow board for the characters - who with whom and what. I can’t wait to see if my predictions will be correct. (I see beautiful “tragic” love stories ahead…)

If I could describe with a few words the first pair that we met closely - Andrei and Miles:

Patient
Kind
Worthy
(My) Beloved
(A little) Filthy

How both of them loved. Truly. Hard. Beautiful. All consuming. Themselves and their closest.

This review is all over the place but I’ll summarize it this way: the story felt authentic, the decisions made and world created with teenagers felt like decisions made by teenagers with immaturity, flaws, miscommunication and mistakes. Characters created in a way you want to learn and want more. A lesson to look deeper than what’s on the surface level. A book about friendships and family. Can’t wait for the next part and love the idea of Bad Inceptions being interconnected not standalone stories. The originality how it was written and told - like watching a movie or series. Tal’s vibe hit my jackpot.

.

Coldplay - Hypnotised.

.

🐰.

[ʚ⋅ɞ .ᐟㅤem. · Rating 5 out of 5]

₊˚⊹ | 4.5 ★ read .ᐟ

Do I even have to mention all the feelings this book unleashed inside me until the very last chapter? I think the best way to describe this story would be that it felt like a hot summer love, and when you thought it was ending, you find out they're meant for each other, and nothing would tear them apart.

Scorching hot, that's how Andrei and Miles' relationship was, from start to end. But when stronger feelings like actual love started to get involved, it made their story ten times enjoyable. The chemistry was there, and they were made for each other, but this type of complicated love was my absolute favorite! I was indeed hoping the pace would slow down at some points, maybe explore some topics like Miles' mental health problems, or Andrei's past, but I can't complain about the outcome or about their evolution, both individually and as a couple.

I also maintain my main and only vendetta about this book: Shay-Lee. He's the worst and deserves nothing but the worst until proven otherwise! I don't think I've hated a character this much in my life, but oh well, he made a point just by simply existing.

My heart beat as I was getting close to the ending??? Over the limit, and that's illegal for making me go through that much sadness and stress!!! 🤧 But I forgive the author for that priceless, precious ending. ♥

Edit: P.S.: I'm obsessed with Miles' parents. I love them so much, Elliot is a sweetheart and Daniel treats him so right and beautifully, I need their story!!! I hope Elliot speaks more french in their book. 😭😭❤️

[Michelle Elman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book brought on all my anger issues and I wanted to DNF out of spite. I've never wanted to punch someone so badly as I do with Shay-Lee... he made me throw my kindle a few times.

This book was all over the place crazy with so much going on. I loved Andrei and Miles!!! The story telling was done really well... Some parts I wanted to just jump up and scream and be like, ARE YOU KIDDING ME RIGHT NOW!!!! How is this happening and why isn't Andrei stepping up more?!?!!?! He's so lucky they are such a sweet and hot couple!!! This book had a lot of angst and twist & turns. I’m so curious to see what happens next with Levi, Jess, and Jordan!!!

[Pablito · Rating 4 out of 5]

This high school romance between a two 18-year-olds is powerful because of the undertow of Andrei and Miles' attraction that as a reader I never doubted. Theirs is a cross-tracks story that feels like an obstacle course before we get the HEA, Just be aware that, along their journey, violent forces are at work. Indeed, if this were a movie, there's one scene I would have blocked my eyes for. Yet, my belief in the main characters got me through the violence.

I found this novel compelling and hard to put down. Though at points, I had to.

[Willow P · Rating 5 out of 5]

This brought so many emotions out that it’s hard to explain how I feel
Andrei and Miles were so perfect for each other and I could see how much they care and loved one another from the moment they met.

It brought so much happiness and love but also pain and sadness.

For some characters, specifically one I am interested in his story and his background, however after everything that was said and done, there truly is not redeeming him in my eyes.
I could see the author possibly attempting to show us hidden parts of him or something but what he did to so many characters will never be forgiven for me. No amount of hurt and tragedy someone has should give them a pass to do what this character does.

I love the found family even though it comes with a lot more drama that I would usually appreciate.
The connection that Miles has with his parents, particularly Elliot is so heartbreakingly beautiful.

Overall I do enjoy the different interesting choices made throughout the book.
The discussion on perfectionism is such a vital discussion that so many people are affected by.

[Amanda Quarles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mistaken Prejudice

Andrei and Miles

I almost didn't read this one. But boy, am I glad I did. I was honestly drawn in right from the beginning. I couldn't put it down. I loved all of the characters. Well, Shay and his buddies have some work to do, but I feel like there is definitely more to his character. Diesel too... there's a ton depth to uncover with those two. Loved Andrei... he tried to be the voice of reason and keep the peace. Miles was such a sweetheart. He broke me. There's Levi and Jessie who I'm thrilled to have pov's from in book two, plus Jordan. Miles parents and Chief were wonderful. Can't wait for book two's release!

[HecAph · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5
Que odio los personajes, arruinaron el libro, es que nosé, el principio estuvo bien? Aunque hay insta lust e insta love y yo como 😩. Aparte de que odie a ese Shay lee, hay mucha violencia en este libro. Cómo siempre el gran problema es la falta de comunicación y querer guardarle información al otro, el nombre tiene completamente sentido y está bien puesto.
No quiero que haya un 3 entre Levi y Jess 😭.
Sinceramente no creo leer el 2 libros, no es para mi

[✶ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was SO much fun!! I loved all of the characters and their teenage drama. So messy and chaotic. Andrei and Miles are adorable together, even if at times I wanted to shake them for being dumb but they’re teens so I’ll let it slide.
Shay-Lee is a devil and I’m so excited to read his book. I know there has to be something redeemable about him (can’t yet see it) and I can’t wait to see Diesel put him in his place.
Needless to say, Elliot and Daniel are my favorites 🫶

[VILLAINSDOITBEST · Rating 3 out of 5]

🌟3.5

[gabireadsromance]

i am leaving this with no rating at the moment because i am..unsure how to feel?

the first half was hard to get through. i struggle with books set in a HS setting and there were a *lot* of characters introduced so reading felt like a chore to me at times.

shay-lee…i’m convinced i will never like you! truly not sure how this character will be redeemed. diesel was annoying as shit too.

levi and jessie, i’m extremely intrigued by. if book 2 is filled with as much drama though, i don’t know if i’ll last lol.

i’m settling on a tentative 3 star rating. the pacing was good, albeit a little jammed in certain areas. the dialogue often felt stiff, something was off at times which took me out of the headspace for reading. the introduction of so many characters on top of so much happening in the plot was a massive mind fuck at times.

tl;dr - this was a dumpster fire throughout but it was kinda like reality tv. it has you hooked and you can’t stop reading. 😂 i have so many questions still but that’s a tomorrow problem. i’m going to bed. 🫠