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Halston U #2
Wicked Minds
I may have escaped their house but there is no running from Grayson, Royce, and Logan.
Not when Royce knows my most precious secret, Logan refuses to let me go, and Grayson hates to see me remotely happy.
As if I don’t have enough to deal with already, between worrying about my daughter and dodging my sleazy boss, not to mention keeping up my grades, now I have to worry about what Royce might do with my secret while attempting to get over Logan and avoid Grayson at all costs.
Except Halston is a small campus, and at least one of them keeps showing up in my life. It makes forgetting they exist impossible.
However, when shit hits the fan, they’re the ones I end up turning to. The only ones I can trust.
Who knew my life would only get more complicated second semester?
Not when Royce knows my most precious secret, Logan refuses to let me go, and Grayson hates to see me remotely happy.
As if I don’t have enough to deal with already, between worrying about my daughter and dodging my sleazy boss, not to mention keeping up my grades, now I have to worry about what Royce might do with my secret while attempting to get over Logan and avoid Grayson at all costs.
Except Halston is a small campus, and at least one of them keeps showing up in my life. It makes forgetting they exist impossible.
However, when shit hits the fan, they’re the ones I end up turning to. The only ones I can trust.
Who knew my life would only get more complicated second semester?
628 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 17, 2024
1145 people are currently reading
2095 people want to read
About the author
R.A. Smyth
30 books1,515 followersMy name is Rachel. I live in the UK with my husband and two golden retrievers, and I am an author of dark, contemporary reverse harem romance.
If you love a story with a well thought out plot and good character development that will give you all the feels, then why not give one of my series a go?
Crescentwood - high school, stalker, bully, enemies to lovers
- Three Divisions: https://books2read.com/threedivisions
- Two Forces: https://books2read.com/twoforces
- One Family: https://books2read.com/onefamily
Pacific Prep - academy, assassin FMC, brothers best friends, taboo, bully
- Broken Trust: https://books2read.com/brokentrust
- Brutal Lies: https://books2read.com/Brutallies
- Beyond Vengeance: https://books2read.com/beyondvengeance
- Break Free: https://books2read.com/BreakfreePP4
- Blurred Lines (novella): https://books2read.com/Blurredlines
Black Creek - Gang/Mafia, enemies to lovers, MM, Forced marriage
- Rebels & Rejects: https://books2read.com/rebelsandrejects
- Murder & Mayhem: https://books2read.com/murderandmayhe...
- Damaged & Deadly: https://books2read.com/damagedanddeadly
- Chaos & Carnage: https://books2read.com/chaosandcarnage
Ruthless Boys of Ridgeway - Second chance romance, Friends-enemies-lovers, college, secret society, stalker, fake dating
- Pretty Spiteful: https://books2read.com/TRBoR1
- Pretty Vile: https://books2read.com/TRBoR2
- Pretty Lethal: https://books2read.com/TRBoR3
If you love a story with a well thought out plot and good character development that will give you all the feels, then why not give one of my series a go?
Crescentwood - high school, stalker, bully, enemies to lovers
- Three Divisions: https://books2read.com/threedivisions
- Two Forces: https://books2read.com/twoforces
- One Family: https://books2read.com/onefamily
Pacific Prep - academy, assassin FMC, brothers best friends, taboo, bully
- Broken Trust: https://books2read.com/brokentrust
- Brutal Lies: https://books2read.com/Brutallies
- Beyond Vengeance: https://books2read.com/beyondvengeance
- Break Free: https://books2read.com/BreakfreePP4
- Blurred Lines (novella): https://books2read.com/Blurredlines
Black Creek - Gang/Mafia, enemies to lovers, MM, Forced marriage
- Rebels & Rejects: https://books2read.com/rebelsandrejects
- Murder & Mayhem: https://books2read.com/murderandmayhe...
- Damaged & Deadly: https://books2read.com/damagedanddeadly
- Chaos & Carnage: https://books2read.com/chaosandcarnage
Ruthless Boys of Ridgeway - Second chance romance, Friends-enemies-lovers, college, secret society, stalker, fake dating
- Pretty Spiteful: https://books2read.com/TRBoR1
- Pretty Vile: https://books2read.com/TRBoR2
- Pretty Lethal: https://books2read.com/TRBoR3
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 332 reviews
March 27, 2024
After that ending in the previous book I’m keen to jump back into this world!
Yet again I’m thankful I took a chance on this series because now I’m hooked. These boys held their own in this book, each brought their own individuality.
Holy crap! This was a whirlwind of angst as the boys went above and beyond as they begged her for their forgiveness, twists and turns, dark shady occurs shit as her mother turns to Craigslist striking a deal to sell on the black market as they boys tried to race against the clock to bring her down. That went into a direction I wasn’t prepared for, now here I am pulling up my big girls panties after screaming that the next book is months away.
August 29, 2025
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Delicious groveling, crazy situations, hilarious moments, sad and heartbreaking developments. This sequel really has it all!!
Logan is still very likable for a golden retriever, that is usually very much not my type, and Royce constantly reaches new peaks of perfection... That kiss to steal the taste was so unexpected and floored me!
I’m very happy to see Grayson on the redemption road, and even happier to see he doesn’t become a simp for it, while still groveling his own way. His character remains unique and distinct from Logan and Royce in the most satisfying way!
I loved his parts so much towards the end of this one!
That cliffy though?? I’m glad I found this series when it was already completed!
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5 Things I loved about this book
1 Royce (yes, again!)
2 Grayson after he got rid of that misplaced resentment and denial
3 Some lines were so brilliantly hilarious and balanced the dark moments perfectly
4 The “wear my jersey” trope always works for me, the “wear your name” was even better
5 I was on the edge of my seat reading as I was for the first book!
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Pre-read
Gosh I'm so hyped for this one 🤩🤩🤩
Delicious groveling, crazy situations, hilarious moments, sad and heartbreaking developments. This sequel really has it all!!
Logan is still very likable for a golden retriever, that is usually very much not my type, and Royce constantly reaches new peaks of perfection... That kiss to steal the taste was so unexpected and floored me!
I’m very happy to see Grayson on the redemption road, and even happier to see he doesn’t become a simp for it, while still groveling his own way. His character remains unique and distinct from Logan and Royce in the most satisfying way!
I loved his parts so much towards the end of this one!
That cliffy though?? I’m glad I found this series when it was already completed!
[image error]
5 Things I loved about this book
1 Royce (yes, again!)
2 Grayson after he got rid of that misplaced resentment and denial
3 Some lines were so brilliantly hilarious and balanced the dark moments perfectly
4 The “wear my jersey” trope always works for me, the “wear your name” was even better
5 I was on the edge of my seat reading as I was for the first book!
"With a scoff, he says, “You think I don’t hear all about the best lunches of his life every night when he gets home?”
“He does not!” I gape.
“Oh, he does. In excruciating detail and with far too many emotions involved. He’s worse than a girl. If he had his way, he’d probably have us painting on our nails and devouring gallons of ice cream while we brainstorm ways to make it up to you.”
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Pre-read
Gosh I'm so hyped for this one 🤩🤩🤩
February 18, 2024
Just No
I had read the first book and wasn't sure how I felt so thought I would give book 2 a go. Someone really needs to help this author with the editing process. I hadn't even got to 12% of the book on my kindle when I thought why am I wasting my life on this. This book reads as if it was pieced together from therapy sessions. At only 12% the same set of emotions had already been articulated about 15 times and you actually got to a point where you just don't care how the characters feels anymore. The impression is that this is a woman who has overcome her trauma when it reality her trauma is still dictating every choice she makes and she takes no real control anywhere. Again, another female author writing weak women which in the 21st century when women need their wits and wisdom about them more than ever it is just disappointing to see.
I had read the first book and wasn't sure how I felt so thought I would give book 2 a go. Someone really needs to help this author with the editing process. I hadn't even got to 12% of the book on my kindle when I thought why am I wasting my life on this. This book reads as if it was pieced together from therapy sessions. At only 12% the same set of emotions had already been articulated about 15 times and you actually got to a point where you just don't care how the characters feels anymore. The impression is that this is a woman who has overcome her trauma when it reality her trauma is still dictating every choice she makes and she takes no real control anywhere. Again, another female author writing weak women which in the 21st century when women need their wits and wisdom about them more than ever it is just disappointing to see.
February 17, 2024
Wicked Minds
Christmas Day changed everything for Royce where Riley was concerned. Grayson, however, was clinging to his hatred, unable to accept anything besides what he thought he knew. Meanwhile, Riley was fortifying herself for the future.
Wicked Minds proves to be an emotional and difficult chapter in the Halston U story. While secrets were revealed and questions answered, there are many more issues to resolve before Riley and the guys can get their HEA.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🥺😠🥵😳😲
Ending: 🧗🏻♀️ {Cliffy}
POV: 👨🏼🤝👨🏻👫🏻 {Multiple}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Dark Themes, New Adult, Sports, Suspense
✨ Tropes: Billionaire/Rich AF, Enemies-to-Lovers, Family Saga, Forbidden, Forced Proximity, Found Family, Revenge, Rich Boy/Poor Girl, Why Choose
💫 Microtropes: Alphahole, Athlete, College, Pet Name, Pierced 🐓, Touch-Her-and-💀, Tracking/Spying,
💋 Kinks: Biting/Marking, 🩸 Play, Cum Jammer, Degradation (Mild), Finger Licking Good, 🔪 Play, Panty Thief, Somnophilia-ish
⚠️ Warning: This steamy read will leave your panties wet and reaching for BOB.
🚩 Safety Squad: Attempted Așșault (Not by MMC, On-Page), 🍇 Attempted Așșault (Not by MMC, Mostly Off- Page, Past), Self Harm, Traffìckíng (Threat of), Vìolençe,
and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Wicked Minds is part of the Halston U series and ends on a cliffhanger. This series must be read in order.
Christmas Day changed everything for Royce where Riley was concerned. Grayson, however, was clinging to his hatred, unable to accept anything besides what he thought he knew. Meanwhile, Riley was fortifying herself for the future.
Wicked Minds proves to be an emotional and difficult chapter in the Halston U story. While secrets were revealed and questions answered, there are many more issues to resolve before Riley and the guys can get their HEA.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🥺😠🥵😳😲
Ending: 🧗🏻♀️ {Cliffy}
POV: 👨🏼🤝👨🏻👫🏻 {Multiple}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Dark Themes, New Adult, Sports, Suspense
✨ Tropes: Billionaire/Rich AF, Enemies-to-Lovers, Family Saga, Forbidden, Forced Proximity, Found Family, Revenge, Rich Boy/Poor Girl, Why Choose
💫 Microtropes: Alphahole, Athlete, College, Pet Name, Pierced 🐓, Touch-Her-and-💀, Tracking/Spying,
💋 Kinks: Biting/Marking, 🩸 Play, Cum Jammer, Degradation (Mild), Finger Licking Good, 🔪 Play, Panty Thief, Somnophilia-ish
⚠️ Warning: This steamy read will leave your panties wet and reaching for BOB.
🚩 Safety Squad: Attempted Așșault (Not by MMC, On-Page), 🍇 Attempted Așșault (Not by MMC, Mostly Off- Page, Past), Self Harm, Traffìckíng (Threat of), Vìolençe,
and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Wicked Minds is part of the Halston U series and ends on a cliffhanger. This series must be read in order.
March 17, 2024
This book was okay
The split was okay, but I feel like this story is being drawn out more than when it needs to be
The split was okay, but I feel like this story is being drawn out more than when it needs to be
February 19, 2024
I am so disappointed, but frankly, what I’d been afraid of in the first book, happened in the second. The first had me interested enough to want to know what would happen next, this is a strategy the author imports in this second book also.
The first 100 or so pages is a production of repeating thoughts, feelings and happenings from multiple POVS. I really don’t want to be a bitch, but it had me bored out of my mind. But I really wanted to know what would happen next (a great writing tactic!) so I decided to start skimming. I did that for the rest of the book. There’s A LOT of stuff I didn’t read and I don’t feel like I’ve missed out on anything. I did read one/two sentences on every (small ereader sized) page, to not miss too much. That’s why I can say confidently there’s very little character development and definitely not enough relationship development that isn’t based on sex.
There’s some banter I had a laugh about, but that’s not enough to enjoy such a thick book.
There’s a whole lotta nothin’ in the middle of the book. Very little happening other than sex, groveling, traumarespons and extra trauma. Again, I was bored.
The last 100 pages is where the book gets more interesting with what’s happening with Grayson, Aurora, etc. but it actually falls flat because the ending is a cliffhanger that tries to tease me into thinking I want to read the third book, just to see what happened to little Aurora (and honestly, at this point I can guess). I won’t be reading the next book though.
I think the author lost sight of what’s really important in this book. Every book has ‘fillers’, but mostly it is to enhance a relationship, character or world you’re creating. But it does have to mean something, it has to bring something extra to the table and there has to be a balance between these fillers and plotdevelopment. There are such little really important plot point in this book that were necessary for understanding the story - that makes this book imo a waste of time. It could’ve been done is 150-200 pages maybe, if the author hadn’t used these tactics.
A story can be great if multiple facets are done good. Because I couldn’t connect with the characters enough emotionally, because I didn’t like to drawing-out of the plot so much so the book became boring, because I get teased and manipulated into wanting to buy book 3 - I am of the opinion this book isn’t good for me. Unfortunately, because the plot is awesome enough!
As I said, I liked the banter at some points. I also liked the way Grayson reacted to Aurora. How Logan interacted with Aurora. The way the guys try to take care of Riley. That Logan had a free hockeytraining program, really loved that. And the quiet safety that Royce brings to the story.
But it’s not enough for me.
The first 100 or so pages is a production of repeating thoughts, feelings and happenings from multiple POVS. I really don’t want to be a bitch, but it had me bored out of my mind. But I really wanted to know what would happen next (a great writing tactic!) so I decided to start skimming. I did that for the rest of the book. There’s A LOT of stuff I didn’t read and I don’t feel like I’ve missed out on anything. I did read one/two sentences on every (small ereader sized) page, to not miss too much. That’s why I can say confidently there’s very little character development and definitely not enough relationship development that isn’t based on sex.
There’s some banter I had a laugh about, but that’s not enough to enjoy such a thick book.
There’s a whole lotta nothin’ in the middle of the book. Very little happening other than sex, groveling, traumarespons and extra trauma. Again, I was bored.
The last 100 pages is where the book gets more interesting with what’s happening with Grayson, Aurora, etc. but it actually falls flat because the ending is a cliffhanger that tries to tease me into thinking I want to read the third book, just to see what happened to little Aurora (and honestly, at this point I can guess). I won’t be reading the next book though.
I think the author lost sight of what’s really important in this book. Every book has ‘fillers’, but mostly it is to enhance a relationship, character or world you’re creating. But it does have to mean something, it has to bring something extra to the table and there has to be a balance between these fillers and plotdevelopment. There are such little really important plot point in this book that were necessary for understanding the story - that makes this book imo a waste of time. It could’ve been done is 150-200 pages maybe, if the author hadn’t used these tactics.
A story can be great if multiple facets are done good. Because I couldn’t connect with the characters enough emotionally, because I didn’t like to drawing-out of the plot so much so the book became boring, because I get teased and manipulated into wanting to buy book 3 - I am of the opinion this book isn’t good for me. Unfortunately, because the plot is awesome enough!
As I said, I liked the banter at some points. I also liked the way Grayson reacted to Aurora. How Logan interacted with Aurora. The way the guys try to take care of Riley. That Logan had a free hockeytraining program, really loved that. And the quiet safety that Royce brings to the story.
But it’s not enough for me.
February 21, 2024
You will never experience how truly crazy someone is willing to get, until they mess with their children && in this case.. book three will be the craziest of them all!!
** All hell will be let loose **
Between Aurora && and Grayson Dad, this next installment will be emotional and action-packed (I can already tell)
BUT for part two!! At first, I thought Riley was going to raise hell, but she took it and it made her strong. && she made them all grovel.. and she took what she wanted!! I absolutely loved this second book. && holy smokes.. those smut scenes.. goodness gracious.. had me blushing like it was my 1st time lol.
** All hell will be let loose **
Between Aurora && and Grayson Dad, this next installment will be emotional and action-packed (I can already tell)
BUT for part two!! At first, I thought Riley was going to raise hell, but she took it and it made her strong. && she made them all grovel.. and she took what she wanted!! I absolutely loved this second book. && holy smokes.. those smut scenes.. goodness gracious.. had me blushing like it was my 1st time lol.
September 26, 2024
I skimmed through the book so hard! I was literally scrolling past all the confessions and monologues. I pushed myself because I wanted to know what happens in the end. Only to find out that it ends in a cliffhanger and the next book won’t release anytime soon. All that work and what did it get me? Nothing.
If you find out that your girlfriend’s mother is trying to sell her daughter (girlfriend’s daughter), what do you do with the infinite options you have being rich as fuck? Inform the police and make sure they take it seriously with your connections? Or hire an assassin or something? (A bit extreme I know but I WOULD!!!)
No! What they do is act as if they are willing to buy little kids and make a deal with the bitch! And what happened!? The bitch betrayed them and sold the little girl to someone who gave her more money!!! LIKE WHAT THE FUCK!? DO YOU NOT HAVE WORKING BRAINS YOU LITTLE SHITS!?!?
Don’t get me started on the asshole Grayson. I don’t even know what to say. He does not deserve to have friends, a girlfriend or anything. If I was Riley, I would have murdered him. I think Logan was redeemable, only a little. Royce was okay I guess.
I would not recommend this book to anyone.
If you find out that your girlfriend’s mother is trying to sell her daughter (girlfriend’s daughter), what do you do with the infinite options you have being rich as fuck? Inform the police and make sure they take it seriously with your connections? Or hire an assassin or something? (A bit extreme I know but I WOULD!!!)
No! What they do is act as if they are willing to buy little kids and make a deal with the bitch! And what happened!? The bitch betrayed them and sold the little girl to someone who gave her more money!!! LIKE WHAT THE FUCK!? DO YOU NOT HAVE WORKING BRAINS YOU LITTLE SHITS!?!?
Don’t get me started on the asshole Grayson. I don’t even know what to say. He does not deserve to have friends, a girlfriend or anything. If I was Riley, I would have murdered him. I think Logan was redeemable, only a little. Royce was okay I guess.
I would not recommend this book to anyone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2024
omg. OMG. This book!! What a freaking behemoth & totally Unputdownable!
A College Reverse-Harem romance with dark themes, book 2 in series, I'd been so freaking excited for this. It was everything I wanted & I want MORE SOON 'cause that cliffhanger is brutal! Hah I like it 😈. Shit's hitting the fan 😭. But this book was fun, adorable, & emotional—I teared up but didn't sob so it's a win lol—Riley deserves the goodness, Royce & Logan are happy to give her that. We'll see about Grayson hm! I was enamored by the story, devoured my #ARC in 3 days (within 13hrs 😉).
We pick up the story right from where book 1 left off. The boys, Logan & Royce, have a lot of grovelling to do to be back in Riley's good graces, now that they know & believe her truth. They're so swoony, I just totally fell from em there 🥺❤️. Royce is Ry's protective shadow; Logan's sweet, fun everyday & big gestures. We have tons of adorable & great relationship development, the chemistry is off the charts too! I loved that now Riley's no longer alone, she has the boys.
Grayson, dude's default's asshole i'mma say, he's life unravelling yet he's infuriating as ever! 🖕🖕 For him. He's a possessive fucker tho. I was screaming to not make me sympathize with him but oh well. He & Ry's fire 🔥. I'm happy to inform, us readers get to see what we wanted to. Tho G still has a long way to go if he wants to be R's bf 👀.
The villains. Man, I want to unspeakable horrifying things to Ry's mom & G's dad. They're such bastards!! Ry's boss already got it, they better get tortured!! I want REVENGE 😈.
I even dreamed of these MCs, so hah, I need the next book like ASAP. RTC. The writing is beautiful.
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Multiple POV
1) Overall Enjoyment—> 5+/5
2) The Characters: 5/5
3) Top feels: 🤭😳🥰😏🥺😩😤🖕🤣🤬👀😈🥰😅🥵😁🤯😱
4) Steamy scenes: 4/5
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4.25/5
Angst: 3/5 🥺
Dark: 3.5/5 (past & villains)
6) Creativity + world: 4.6/5
7) Plot arc: (Grovelling, truths, Love, Ache) 4.5/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.8/5
A College Reverse-Harem romance with dark themes, book 2 in series, I'd been so freaking excited for this. It was everything I wanted & I want MORE SOON 'cause that cliffhanger is brutal! Hah I like it 😈. Shit's hitting the fan 😭. But this book was fun, adorable, & emotional—I teared up but didn't sob so it's a win lol—Riley deserves the goodness, Royce & Logan are happy to give her that. We'll see about Grayson hm! I was enamored by the story, devoured my #ARC in 3 days (within 13hrs 😉).
We pick up the story right from where book 1 left off. The boys, Logan & Royce, have a lot of grovelling to do to be back in Riley's good graces, now that they know & believe her truth. They're so swoony, I just totally fell from em there 🥺❤️. Royce is Ry's protective shadow; Logan's sweet, fun everyday & big gestures. We have tons of adorable & great relationship development, the chemistry is off the charts too! I loved that now Riley's no longer alone, she has the boys.
Grayson, dude's default's asshole i'mma say, he's life unravelling yet he's infuriating as ever! 🖕🖕 For him. He's a possessive fucker tho. I was screaming to not make me sympathize with him but oh well. He & Ry's fire 🔥. I'm happy to inform, us readers get to see what we wanted to. Tho G still has a long way to go if he wants to be R's bf 👀.
The villains. Man, I want to unspeakable horrifying things to Ry's mom & G's dad. They're such bastards!! Ry's boss already got it, they better get tortured!! I want REVENGE 😈.
I even dreamed of these MCs, so hah, I need the next book like ASAP. RTC. The writing is beautiful.
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Multiple POV
1) Overall Enjoyment—> 5+/5
2) The Characters: 5/5
3) Top feels: 🤭😳🥰😏🥺😩😤🖕🤣🤬👀😈🥰😅🥵😁🤯😱
4) Steamy scenes: 4/5
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4.25/5
Angst: 3/5 🥺
Dark: 3.5/5 (past & villains)
6) Creativity + world: 4.6/5
7) Plot arc: (Grovelling, truths, Love, Ache) 4.5/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.8/5
February 19, 2024
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I was really excited to get back to this story and dying to see the guys realize how stupid they were in the first book so I jumped on this book as soon as it was released. And I did really enjoy the boys coming to their realizations that they were idiots, especially Royce. But I will say I'm kinda disappointed that this is now a trilogy. No, I'm not an author and I'm not this author so that decision isn't mine and I'm not trying to tell any author how they should write. But for me personally this story felt very drawn out and I really didn't get the feeling that it needed an extra book.
Though, that cliffhanger again has me dying to get my hands on more of the story so you know I'll be reading it as soon as it's out. Overall, I still liked these characters, yes even the asshole (if you know you know) and I enjoyed getting to see them together and can't wait to see how they'll get their ending.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I was really excited to get back to this story and dying to see the guys realize how stupid they were in the first book so I jumped on this book as soon as it was released. And I did really enjoy the boys coming to their realizations that they were idiots, especially Royce. But I will say I'm kinda disappointed that this is now a trilogy. No, I'm not an author and I'm not this author so that decision isn't mine and I'm not trying to tell any author how they should write. But for me personally this story felt very drawn out and I really didn't get the feeling that it needed an extra book.
Though, that cliffhanger again has me dying to get my hands on more of the story so you know I'll be reading it as soon as it's out. Overall, I still liked these characters, yes even the asshole (if you know you know) and I enjoyed getting to see them together and can't wait to see how they'll get their ending.
February 17, 2024
First of all make sure you check your triggers. But I’m so glad we are getting 3 books now. Be prepared for your emotions to be toyed with and be ready for a cliffhanger. I need book 3 now. RA Smyth has done it again.
November 30, 2024
ᨳ᭬ ⭑ ࿐ྂ
“You’re always welcome in my room, Ry. I’d hide away from the world with you any day.”
Damn, i give up i don't have the energy to finish this Series. It's so stupid and it makes me aggressive, but i have to admit i started to like Logan & Royce a little bit (still does not excuse their actions in the first book.)
btw i still hate Grayson with my whole Heart i‘m convinced even if i did finish the series i would never like him.
but of course he had to show himself from his good side again:
He stops, gaze snapping to mine. “What?” he barks. “Why?” “Why? Are you fucking kidding me? There are a million reasons why, the least of which being that the last time we were in the same room together, you knicked at my skin with a knife while fucking me and ignoring my protests for you to stop.” “You didn’t,” he argues indignantly. “I did.” Frown lines bunch along his forehead. “You didn’t mean it.” “You were being a psycho, Grayson!” “You didn’t!” he practically yells.
“You wanted it,” he hisses. “Just because you can’t come to terms with that doesn’t give you the right to place the onus on me. But thanks for the reminder of exactly what type of girl you are.”
Hmm such a gentleman 😍
and them later this happens:
“Even knowing the truth, you still have a hard-on for me.” “Shut up,” he hisses, eyes snapping open and blazing with rampant emotions too raw and exposed for him to navigate.
(Context: She told him that his father raped her and he also got her pregnant.)
i seriously can’t do this anymore..
the just start fucking right after admitting this..
started: 30.11.24
stopped:30.11.24
“You’re always welcome in my room, Ry. I’d hide away from the world with you any day.”
Damn, i give up i don't have the energy to finish this Series. It's so stupid and it makes me aggressive, but i have to admit i started to like Logan & Royce a little bit (still does not excuse their actions in the first book.)
btw i still hate Grayson with my whole Heart i‘m convinced even if i did finish the series i would never like him.
but of course he had to show himself from his good side again:
He stops, gaze snapping to mine. “What?” he barks. “Why?” “Why? Are you fucking kidding me? There are a million reasons why, the least of which being that the last time we were in the same room together, you knicked at my skin with a knife while fucking me and ignoring my protests for you to stop.” “You didn’t,” he argues indignantly. “I did.” Frown lines bunch along his forehead. “You didn’t mean it.” “You were being a psycho, Grayson!” “You didn’t!” he practically yells.
“You wanted it,” he hisses. “Just because you can’t come to terms with that doesn’t give you the right to place the onus on me. But thanks for the reminder of exactly what type of girl you are.”
Hmm such a gentleman 😍
and them later this happens:
“Even knowing the truth, you still have a hard-on for me.” “Shut up,” he hisses, eyes snapping open and blazing with rampant emotions too raw and exposed for him to navigate.
(Context: She told him that his father raped her and he also got her pregnant.)
i seriously can’t do this anymore..
the just start fucking right after admitting this..
started: 30.11.24
stopped:30.11.24
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
February 17, 2024Grayson at least called himself his father's son and the female lead didn't disagree, so I'll give credit where it's due. The books tries to soften the comparison by only referring the the scene in the first book where Like, call a spade a spade, you know? Otherwise I think the trauma being treated with sex was a little too frequent for me and I couldn't get into it.
February 16, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
“I’ve waited my whole life for you. I fucked up, and I have my dues to pay; I get that. I’ll happily pay them, seeing as the alternative… losing you altogether is not an option. So maybe you’re right. Maybe you’re not mine, but I am most certainly yours.”
THIS is what I needed after the ending of book one! The groveling! The contrition! *chef’s kiss* It is not an easy read, though I loved every minute of it. I felt so many emotions, like I was being put back together, then ripped apart, then patched up again. And it didn’t let up.
Riley has so much strength despite her trauma. A fact that Logan and Royce finally understand and praise her for. A bit of hurt/comfort: they are there to support her and let her know she is no longer alone.
I HATED the MMCs by the end of Frozen Hearts (Part One), but Logan and Royce made it hard to keep hating them here. They said and did all the right things to gain Riley’s (and my) forgiveness. I loved their oh shit moments when they found out how incredibly they screwed things up. Hello, redemption arcs!
Greyson, on the other hand. That boy still deserves a swift kick to the head (or nuts). I don’t care how much sexual chemistry he and Riley share; he needs to pull his head out of his ass. There are glimpses of his true nature, but he has held so much pain that breaking through that wall is almost impossible.
This book is medium/fast burn and spicy with LOADS of dirty talk.
I was not prepared for that cliffhanger – in fact, I was flabbergasted, left looking at that last page wondering, “How can we be left like that, here?!” I will be hard-pressed to think of anything but that ending for some time.
I highly recommend this whole series.
Genre: Dark College Bully Romance
Tropes/Features: Very dark elements, elite college, bully, redemption, secrets, rich vs. poor MCs, chosen family, revenge plot, trauma survivor FMC, golden retriever hockey player, former football player turned fighter, stepbrother, kidnapping, dubcon/noncon
Narrator: Multiple 1st Person POV
Relationship Type: Why Choose MFMM, medium/fast burn, spicy (lots of sexual tension, kinks)
Book Type/Ending: Halston U Part Two, cliffhanger
TW/CW: Extensive list in book
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
“I’ve waited my whole life for you. I fucked up, and I have my dues to pay; I get that. I’ll happily pay them, seeing as the alternative… losing you altogether is not an option. So maybe you’re right. Maybe you’re not mine, but I am most certainly yours.”
THIS is what I needed after the ending of book one! The groveling! The contrition! *chef’s kiss* It is not an easy read, though I loved every minute of it. I felt so many emotions, like I was being put back together, then ripped apart, then patched up again. And it didn’t let up.
Riley has so much strength despite her trauma. A fact that Logan and Royce finally understand and praise her for. A bit of hurt/comfort: they are there to support her and let her know she is no longer alone.
I HATED the MMCs by the end of Frozen Hearts (Part One), but Logan and Royce made it hard to keep hating them here. They said and did all the right things to gain Riley’s (and my) forgiveness. I loved their oh shit moments when they found out how incredibly they screwed things up. Hello, redemption arcs!
Greyson, on the other hand. That boy still deserves a swift kick to the head (or nuts). I don’t care how much sexual chemistry he and Riley share; he needs to pull his head out of his ass. There are glimpses of his true nature, but he has held so much pain that breaking through that wall is almost impossible.
This book is medium/fast burn and spicy with LOADS of dirty talk.
I was not prepared for that cliffhanger – in fact, I was flabbergasted, left looking at that last page wondering, “How can we be left like that, here?!” I will be hard-pressed to think of anything but that ending for some time.
I highly recommend this whole series.
Genre: Dark College Bully Romance
Tropes/Features: Very dark elements, elite college, bully, redemption, secrets, rich vs. poor MCs, chosen family, revenge plot, trauma survivor FMC, golden retriever hockey player, former football player turned fighter, stepbrother, kidnapping, dubcon/noncon
Narrator: Multiple 1st Person POV
Relationship Type: Why Choose MFMM, medium/fast burn, spicy (lots of sexual tension, kinks)
Book Type/Ending: Halston U Part Two, cliffhanger
TW/CW: Extensive list in book
February 18, 2024
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
This was ah-mazing. Simply amazing. This book is about 15 hours long and considering I read the whole thing in 3 days when normally I read about 2,5-3 hours a day, proves just how good this story is. I could not put it down.
This book was so slow and it was perfection. There's something special about books that are slow and not much happening but still it had me at the edge of my seat. I was completely enthralled from start to finish.
To me the author who is the queen of slow is Pepper Winters. There's a reason she my favorite author. Her writing is incredible. And this book, no kidding reads like a Pepper Winters book. Considering how highly I regard her as an author, me comparing this book is about the highest compliment I could give.
I loved both Logan and Royce. What incredible men. I went back and forth between who was my favorite. I thought it was gonna be Logan but then Royce opened his mouth. And when I thoughts it was gonna be Royce then Logan went and did one of his 50 swoon worthy things.
I did feel for Grayson. The truth he'd grown up with his entire life was crumbling around him, and he was all alone in it.
I thought this book was gonna be my most anticipated release this year but no it's gonna be the next book. Cause holy heck that ending and an extra holy heck for that epilogue.
This was ah-mazing. Simply amazing. This book is about 15 hours long and considering I read the whole thing in 3 days when normally I read about 2,5-3 hours a day, proves just how good this story is. I could not put it down.
This book was so slow and it was perfection. There's something special about books that are slow and not much happening but still it had me at the edge of my seat. I was completely enthralled from start to finish.
To me the author who is the queen of slow is Pepper Winters. There's a reason she my favorite author. Her writing is incredible. And this book, no kidding reads like a Pepper Winters book. Considering how highly I regard her as an author, me comparing this book is about the highest compliment I could give.
I loved both Logan and Royce. What incredible men. I went back and forth between who was my favorite. I thought it was gonna be Logan but then Royce opened his mouth. And when I thoughts it was gonna be Royce then Logan went and did one of his 50 swoon worthy things.
I did feel for Grayson. The truth he'd grown up with his entire life was crumbling around him, and he was all alone in it.
I thought this book was gonna be my most anticipated release this year but no it's gonna be the next book. Cause holy heck that ending and an extra holy heck for that epilogue.
February 1, 2025
Sigh. I really hoped book 2 would be better but, alas no. Honestly, these books are so long for no reason but, the author makes you want to know what happens despite how awfully written these characters are. So I just started skimming through.
Insane how Grayson believes Riley lied about his father raping her and that's she's vindictive, narcissistic, and manipulative - never even tries to listen to her or her story and blames her for his father's actions. He convinces his best friends who got to know Riley and were falling for her that she's evil and they need to get revenge on her so they kidnap her, force her to strip for them and give them blowjobs, he essentially sexually assaults her himself and last book she just accepted it all because she "had a crush on him as a kid and thought he was hot" and I was like "ok so maybe it's like stockholm syndrome and book 2 now she's away she'll make them, but especially him grovel". And in the first few chapters she acts like she will. Then she..doesn't. She forces Logan to bend over backwards to grovel for her forgiveness even though he was the first to believe her and have her back. She can't bring herself to sleep with him. But, 50% through the book she's back in bed with Grayson?? After he choked her out of anger, after he cut, bit and fucked her til she bled while she tried to get him off her. After he ignored her for weeks after she left and then cornered her in the library trying to fuck her again and when she put a stop to it THAT time (after he fingered her?) and she told him "hey you pretty much assaulted me last time" he had the audacity to tell her "no I didn't" then get pissy with her and say she must be trying to accuse him of rape like she did his father. She finds him drunk outside her rooms and Logan begs her to let him stay cause he doesn't trust Gray alone with her - she sends him on his way cause she can "handle" Grayson..then wakes up to him going down on her (again no consent) and then he fucks her and while she at first tries to say no, she relents because "I can't stop myself from wanting him, my body just gets so needy". The fuck? Even as Grayson is learning that his father is probably the actual liar and has more secrets then just raping his 15 year old stepdaughter, even as his best friends tell him "listen, you are wrong" - he STILL keeps blaming Riley, calling her all these names, trying to hurt and break her and she just lets it happen. And as he's still questioning if his dad is bad and watches his father lie to get on parole - after fucking her again and claiming he doesn't hate her and she's his escape from everything, he then finds her and cruelly tells her "guess my good news? dad is getting released". Knowing there's a very real chance his father did in fact rape her. He throws that in her face and when he sees her terror and Royce tells him to leave he STILL calls her names and degrades her.
I love morally grey/black men, I love bully romances. This is not it. Grayson is trash and it shouldn't take 2 full books to even make you remotely tolerate him.
There has been NOTHING redeeming about Grayson in book 1 and most of book 2. Riley lets him walk all over her but, makes Logan who is trying his hardest to apologize and make things up to her bend over backwards and jump thru every hoop imaginable while letting Grayson treat her like dirt but, will throw her morales and backbone out the window just to have sex with him.
And don't get me started on Riley's mother and how blind and ignorant Riley is to that whole situation. She claims her daughter is her number 1 priority but, she won't let the guys help her to get Aurora back, she doesn't truly fight her mom for visitations. Go to her house? She won't let you see or talk to your daughter but, you LET her. You see her dressed up in designer things and looking put together while constantly begging you for money and leaving your daughter in small/torn clothes and looking like she lives on the streets and you don't question or investigate?
Insane how Grayson believes Riley lied about his father raping her and that's she's vindictive, narcissistic, and manipulative - never even tries to listen to her or her story and blames her for his father's actions. He convinces his best friends who got to know Riley and were falling for her that she's evil and they need to get revenge on her so they kidnap her, force her to strip for them and give them blowjobs, he essentially sexually assaults her himself and last book she just accepted it all because she "had a crush on him as a kid and thought he was hot" and I was like "ok so maybe it's like stockholm syndrome and book 2 now she's away she'll make them, but especially him grovel". And in the first few chapters she acts like she will. Then she..doesn't. She forces Logan to bend over backwards to grovel for her forgiveness even though he was the first to believe her and have her back. She can't bring herself to sleep with him. But, 50% through the book she's back in bed with Grayson?? After he choked her out of anger, after he cut, bit and fucked her til she bled while she tried to get him off her. After he ignored her for weeks after she left and then cornered her in the library trying to fuck her again and when she put a stop to it THAT time (after he fingered her?) and she told him "hey you pretty much assaulted me last time" he had the audacity to tell her "no I didn't" then get pissy with her and say she must be trying to accuse him of rape like she did his father. She finds him drunk outside her rooms and Logan begs her to let him stay cause he doesn't trust Gray alone with her - she sends him on his way cause she can "handle" Grayson..then wakes up to him going down on her (again no consent) and then he fucks her and while she at first tries to say no, she relents because "I can't stop myself from wanting him, my body just gets so needy". The fuck? Even as Grayson is learning that his father is probably the actual liar and has more secrets then just raping his 15 year old stepdaughter, even as his best friends tell him "listen, you are wrong" - he STILL keeps blaming Riley, calling her all these names, trying to hurt and break her and she just lets it happen. And as he's still questioning if his dad is bad and watches his father lie to get on parole - after fucking her again and claiming he doesn't hate her and she's his escape from everything, he then finds her and cruelly tells her "guess my good news? dad is getting released". Knowing there's a very real chance his father did in fact rape her. He throws that in her face and when he sees her terror and Royce tells him to leave he STILL calls her names and degrades her.
I love morally grey/black men, I love bully romances. This is not it. Grayson is trash and it shouldn't take 2 full books to even make you remotely tolerate him.
There has been NOTHING redeeming about Grayson in book 1 and most of book 2. Riley lets him walk all over her but, makes Logan who is trying his hardest to apologize and make things up to her bend over backwards and jump thru every hoop imaginable while letting Grayson treat her like dirt but, will throw her morales and backbone out the window just to have sex with him.
And don't get me started on Riley's mother and how blind and ignorant Riley is to that whole situation. She claims her daughter is her number 1 priority but, she won't let the guys help her to get Aurora back, she doesn't truly fight her mom for visitations. Go to her house? She won't let you see or talk to your daughter but, you LET her. You see her dressed up in designer things and looking put together while constantly begging you for money and leaving your daughter in small/torn clothes and looking like she lives on the streets and you don't question or investigate?
February 22, 2024
Genuinely, I hope every single one of those boys rot
3.5
3.5
February 29, 2024
Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost from the publisher/author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. I am leaving a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
This is such an intense series that hits in all the right spots. There is something about this author's writing that draws you in. The plot is so compelling and the twists and turns keep you glued to the pages. The characters are so complex and there is so much going on. I love that each character had a distinct voice that sets them apart from other characters. The connections and dynamics between the various characters are so entertaining. Reverse Harem romance is hit or miss with me but this one delivers a believable poly-style romance. I loved the plethora of emotions that this book put me through. That ending has left me yearning for the next book with a fierceness. Overall, this was an emotional story brimming with dark themes that had me hanging on every word. If you are a fan of Reverse Harem books then you should snap this series up!
BLOG FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM GOODREADS TIKTOK TWITTER BOOKBUB AMAZON PINTEREST KO-FI
My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers.
This is such an intense series that hits in all the right spots. There is something about this author's writing that draws you in. The plot is so compelling and the twists and turns keep you glued to the pages. The characters are so complex and there is so much going on. I love that each character had a distinct voice that sets them apart from other characters. The connections and dynamics between the various characters are so entertaining. Reverse Harem romance is hit or miss with me but this one delivers a believable poly-style romance. I loved the plethora of emotions that this book put me through. That ending has left me yearning for the next book with a fierceness. Overall, this was an emotional story brimming with dark themes that had me hanging on every word. If you are a fan of Reverse Harem books then you should snap this series up!
BLOG FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM GOODREADS TIKTOK TWITTER BOOKBUB AMAZON PINTEREST KO-FI
My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers.
December 1, 2025
Okay, so the plot thickens and Logan and Royce are working their way into good graces. By the end Logan is making up for his mistakes in book one as is Royce. Though I’m still partial to Logan’s personality surprisingly. He’s the light in her dark. Royce is the protector, he’s character just needs more development for me. Grayson can still eat a bag of dicks, but he’s finally got his head out of his ass. Now let his groveling begin. Riley was SA’ed by Grayson’s dad when she was 15. Grayson was her stepbrother at the time. When she came forward she wouldn’t give proof (her daughter, bc she was pregnant) she wanted to protect her daughter from him and her being taken away. Which her POS mother did anyway. Now that the guys believe Riley they are working on a way for Riley to get back custody and mend their relationships. Though Riley’s POS mother is trying to sell her..yes this bitch is trying to sell off her granddaughter to the highest bidder. And we end with Grayson’s dad being released early from prison, (he didn’t go for SA but embezzlement), on their doorstep the night after Riley’s mom selling Rora to someone. The guys were trying to play her and have them buy her to keep things under wraps and shit goes wrong. Now I need therapy until book threes audio release!
Read: Audible🎧/Ebook📱
MMC: Logan Astor, Grayson Van Doren, Royce King
FMC: Riley James
Spice: 3🌶️
Tropes: Why Choose, Stepbrother, Stepbrothers BF, Hockey, Golden Retriever, He Falls First, Stalker/Obsessed MMCs, Enemies to Lovers, Jock/Nerd
Read: Audible🎧/Ebook📱
MMC: Logan Astor, Grayson Van Doren, Royce King
FMC: Riley James
Spice: 3🌶️
Tropes: Why Choose, Stepbrother, Stepbrothers BF, Hockey, Golden Retriever, He Falls First, Stalker/Obsessed MMCs, Enemies to Lovers, Jock/Nerd
February 15, 2024
*Reverse Harem
*Contemporary
*Multi-PoV
*Dark themes
*Uni setting
*Fresh Start
*Hockey
*Kidnapping
*established harem (3)
*mid-burn
*2/3
Grief, grovelling and gobsmacking moments 😮
What a ride, there’s so many emotions throughout this book to keep you ok the edge of your pages!
Riley is absolutely incredible - her strength at enduring all she has gone through in her past and then with the guys, but then the compassion and empathy she shows as they process the truth is remarkable 🥰 Royce is he silent shadow adhering to her wishes whilst also realising what his emotions are all about - enjoyed the intrigue and development in his character story aswell 💪 Logan is honestly like a golden retriever, his need to take care of Riley is next level and he’s not afraid to show his feelings anymore - plus how he’s determined to earn her forgiveness is 😆 then we have Grayson whose whole world has been flipped upside down when he finally realises the truth - yet he still can’t let go of his @?!&head demeanour 😡 as hot as the 🔥 is in this book it can’t fix everything lol! Riley really has got her hands full managing these threes protective and obsessive qualities especially when she’s not even sure she can forgive them! Yet it’s clear they would do anything for their girl when they take on her problems one by one 😍😍 including tackling the mother witch from hell and honesty did not see that coming 😮 need the next one ASAP!
*Contemporary
*Multi-PoV
*Dark themes
*Uni setting
*Fresh Start
*Hockey
*Kidnapping
*established harem (3)
*mid-burn
*2/3
Grief, grovelling and gobsmacking moments 😮
What a ride, there’s so many emotions throughout this book to keep you ok the edge of your pages!
Riley is absolutely incredible - her strength at enduring all she has gone through in her past and then with the guys, but then the compassion and empathy she shows as they process the truth is remarkable 🥰 Royce is he silent shadow adhering to her wishes whilst also realising what his emotions are all about - enjoyed the intrigue and development in his character story aswell 💪 Logan is honestly like a golden retriever, his need to take care of Riley is next level and he’s not afraid to show his feelings anymore - plus how he’s determined to earn her forgiveness is 😆 then we have Grayson whose whole world has been flipped upside down when he finally realises the truth - yet he still can’t let go of his @?!&head demeanour 😡 as hot as the 🔥 is in this book it can’t fix everything lol! Riley really has got her hands full managing these threes protective and obsessive qualities especially when she’s not even sure she can forgive them! Yet it’s clear they would do anything for their girl when they take on her problems one by one 😍😍 including tackling the mother witch from hell and honesty did not see that coming 😮 need the next one ASAP!
February 21, 2024
Is it September yet?? I need book 3 asap!!
In true R.A. Smyth fashion the last 20% of this book had me on the edge of my seat and scared, trying to figure out what was going to happen and of course she delivered one heck of a cliffy. Now I’m impatiently waiting until September for book 3.
This book picks up right after the end of book 1, Riley had convinced Royce to let her go home instead of taking her back to their home. Royce has promised Riley he will keep away and make sure that Logan and Grayson stay away from her as well. He keeps to his word for the other two but goes back to his stalker ways to make sure she is safe. Eventually Logan and Royce get back on her good side but not before she makes them grovel. Grayson I’m still on the fence about, he definitely has a lot more groveling to do before she can forgive him. Of course there is plenty of chemistry between all four of them and definitely the spice we can always expect from Rachel’s books. But the plot twist and the suspense there at the end leaves me wanting more and I’ll just be impatiently waiting for the next book to come out, because of course I need to know what happened next as soon as possible.
While I love all of R.A. Smyth’s series this series is quickly becoming my favorite. I highly recommend this series if you like why choose with lots is suspense and spice.
In true R.A. Smyth fashion the last 20% of this book had me on the edge of my seat and scared, trying to figure out what was going to happen and of course she delivered one heck of a cliffy. Now I’m impatiently waiting until September for book 3.
This book picks up right after the end of book 1, Riley had convinced Royce to let her go home instead of taking her back to their home. Royce has promised Riley he will keep away and make sure that Logan and Grayson stay away from her as well. He keeps to his word for the other two but goes back to his stalker ways to make sure she is safe. Eventually Logan and Royce get back on her good side but not before she makes them grovel. Grayson I’m still on the fence about, he definitely has a lot more groveling to do before she can forgive him. Of course there is plenty of chemistry between all four of them and definitely the spice we can always expect from Rachel’s books. But the plot twist and the suspense there at the end leaves me wanting more and I’ll just be impatiently waiting for the next book to come out, because of course I need to know what happened next as soon as possible.
While I love all of R.A. Smyth’s series this series is quickly becoming my favorite. I highly recommend this series if you like why choose with lots is suspense and spice.
May 23, 2024
Well shit, that is is some cliff hanger.
Admittedly I was sucked right in to this series from the moment I picked up the first book. The author created such chemistry between the characters that I was just hooked and didn't want it to end. I was defintely in the mind of...just one more page, just one more chapter. I liked how the side characters were well developed too and not just a tick box or after thought. I am hoping it left it open to series spin offs!
I must admit that I am still not a Grayson fan, I don't like his character or his personality at all and don't feel like he has any redeeming qualities for me. Very much team Royce and Logan though! And whilst it felt like they worked hard to earn the FMCs forgiveness, it didn't feel like Grayson did at all and he still just kept taking what he wanted. He just gave me the ick. Perhaps book 3 will be where he works HARD to grovel, because that boy has a lot of apologising to do.
Whilst the chemistry and build up between the characters felt OFF THE CHARTS, the actual smut scenes felt a little quick and disappointing...it kind of felt like an "is this it?" moment for me. All the steamy, agonisingly slow build up to a few pumps and rubs and then it was done 😅.
I did get confused on some of the timelines, and not 100% they totaled up but honestly I really loved this read overall.
Admittedly I was sucked right in to this series from the moment I picked up the first book. The author created such chemistry between the characters that I was just hooked and didn't want it to end. I was defintely in the mind of...just one more page, just one more chapter. I liked how the side characters were well developed too and not just a tick box or after thought. I am hoping it left it open to series spin offs!
I must admit that I am still not a Grayson fan, I don't like his character or his personality at all and don't feel like he has any redeeming qualities for me. Very much team Royce and Logan though! And whilst it felt like they worked hard to earn the FMCs forgiveness, it didn't feel like Grayson did at all and he still just kept taking what he wanted. He just gave me the ick. Perhaps book 3 will be where he works HARD to grovel, because that boy has a lot of apologising to do.
Whilst the chemistry and build up between the characters felt OFF THE CHARTS, the actual smut scenes felt a little quick and disappointing...it kind of felt like an "is this it?" moment for me. All the steamy, agonisingly slow build up to a few pumps and rubs and then it was done 😅.
I did get confused on some of the timelines, and not 100% they totaled up but honestly I really loved this read overall.
February 18, 2024
I can’t wait for the next book!
Spoilers! I write this for me when the next book comes out to remember and to help others get a quick cliff notes reminder!
So
Don’t
Read
Further
Unless
You
Want
Spoilers.
This was such a good follow up to the first book. Royce already knowing about Aurora starting out. How he kept the guys from her to give her the two weeks. The groveling from Logan. The way Logan reacted to learning about her daughter. Everything was amazing. Watching Grey slowly learn more and more from his Gran over time. His dad beating and possibly killing his mother! I’d say I’m shocked but I’m not that man is TRASH. Ohh and Grey and Royce going up against Ben the Lux Manager! Whew BABY! Learning her Mother was trying to sell that baby girl and Royce jumping head first to try and save her and BY GOD the baby ACTUALLY getting sold to god knows who. Then we end the last page with Greys dad at the door step free from prison 2 months early! I’m drooling for the next book!
Spoilers! I write this for me when the next book comes out to remember and to help others get a quick cliff notes reminder!
So
Don’t
Read
Further
Unless
You
Want
Spoilers.
This was such a good follow up to the first book. Royce already knowing about Aurora starting out. How he kept the guys from her to give her the two weeks. The groveling from Logan. The way Logan reacted to learning about her daughter. Everything was amazing. Watching Grey slowly learn more and more from his Gran over time. His dad beating and possibly killing his mother! I’d say I’m shocked but I’m not that man is TRASH. Ohh and Grey and Royce going up against Ben the Lux Manager! Whew BABY! Learning her Mother was trying to sell that baby girl and Royce jumping head first to try and save her and BY GOD the baby ACTUALLY getting sold to god knows who. Then we end the last page with Greys dad at the door step free from prison 2 months early! I’m drooling for the next book!
April 12, 2024
After the massive cliffhanger from Book one, I could not wait to dive into this book and it did not disappoint. Poor Riley, she just cannot catch a break in life. She has been through so much and she just keeps on going.
Let the groveling begin. At some point each one of the guys realizes how wrong they were about Riley and the terrible way they treated her. Eventually they all began to make amends for their bad behavior and judgement.
Riley is a strong, independent woman, Who doesn’t need a man to help her through life. Somewhere along the way she found three very different guys who are obsessed with her. These three men are unwilling to leave her be. I love how each of them are fighting to stay in her life.
Unfortunately, these characters' lives have not been easy and it’s about to get even tougher. We are left with another massive cliffhanger and many questions. If I had to make a prediction, I believe Greyson’s father is behind all the terrible things that have happened to Riley and her men. I can’t wait to see how things wrap up in book three.
Let the groveling begin. At some point each one of the guys realizes how wrong they were about Riley and the terrible way they treated her. Eventually they all began to make amends for their bad behavior and judgement.
Riley is a strong, independent woman, Who doesn’t need a man to help her through life. Somewhere along the way she found three very different guys who are obsessed with her. These three men are unwilling to leave her be. I love how each of them are fighting to stay in her life.
Unfortunately, these characters' lives have not been easy and it’s about to get even tougher. We are left with another massive cliffhanger and many questions. If I had to make a prediction, I believe Greyson’s father is behind all the terrible things that have happened to Riley and her men. I can’t wait to see how things wrap up in book three.
June 25, 2025
Review for the whole trilogy.
Trying not to give spoilers. You can tell the author is not from the US because she doesn't understand how much of anything works here. The hockey in the book is very surface-level and written by someone who really doesn't know much about hockey. The NHL parts were a real hot mess and not how it works. There are many instances where the police should have been involved, but it is as if they don't exist except for that one scene at the beginning of the series, and it also doesn't work like that here. So much inner dialogue, I think all 3 books could have been shortened for the better by just removing that drag on the story. I can go on and on, but mostly if you can suspend a lot of disbelief on how basic things work in the US, you can let the drama carry you, but don't expect all the loose ends to be tied up, and it will have an abrupt ending.
Trying not to give spoilers. You can tell the author is not from the US because she doesn't understand how much of anything works here. The hockey in the book is very surface-level and written by someone who really doesn't know much about hockey. The NHL parts were a real hot mess and not how it works. There are many instances where the police should have been involved, but it is as if they don't exist except for that one scene at the beginning of the series, and it also doesn't work like that here. So much inner dialogue, I think all 3 books could have been shortened for the better by just removing that drag on the story. I can go on and on, but mostly if you can suspend a lot of disbelief on how basic things work in the US, you can let the drama carry you, but don't expect all the loose ends to be tied up, and it will have an abrupt ending.
December 11, 2025
Nah, Grayson is trash
This book is 600 pages of trash
I love a bully romance because I love the grovel and a burn the world down for you Hero, but this wasn’t it.
Logan and Royce are head and shoulders above that other clown
Logan:
“I’ve waited my whole life for you. I fucked up, and I have my dues to pay; I get that. I’ll happily pay them, seeing as the alternative… losing you altogether is not an option. So maybe you’re right. Maybe you’re not mine, but I am most certainly yours.”
Royce
“I’m saying we’re inevitable, but you should absolutely make me work to earn your forgiveness. Only then can we enter this on equal footing, with no regrets or self-doubt.”
And then Grayson:
I am not a fucking groveler and I haven’t even decided if I want anything to do with her, let alone earn any fucking forgiveness.
I won’t be moving on to book 3
This book is 600 pages of trash
I love a bully romance because I love the grovel and a burn the world down for you Hero, but this wasn’t it.
Logan and Royce are head and shoulders above that other clown
Logan:
“I’ve waited my whole life for you. I fucked up, and I have my dues to pay; I get that. I’ll happily pay them, seeing as the alternative… losing you altogether is not an option. So maybe you’re right. Maybe you’re not mine, but I am most certainly yours.”
Royce
“I’m saying we’re inevitable, but you should absolutely make me work to earn your forgiveness. Only then can we enter this on equal footing, with no regrets or self-doubt.”
And then Grayson:
I am not a fucking groveler and I haven’t even decided if I want anything to do with her, let alone earn any fucking forgiveness.
I won’t be moving on to book 3
February 27, 2024
Royce, Logan, and Grayson…glad I don’t have to pick a fave because my head is SPINNING.
First of all, this book picks up where the first one stopped. Royce has allowed Riley to return home, but like that little stalker he is, she isn’t really alone.
There really is absolutely no way to review this book without giving spoilers because it’s THAT packed with twists and emotions, but PLEASE, if you don’t read another series this year, PICK THIS ONE. It honestly will tick every single box you have. And the spice is always top tier with R.A. Smyth’s guys.
There is a cliffhanger that will have you wanting to throw your kindle across the room, but I promise you’ll love it!!! Don’t wait!! Do it now!!
First of all, this book picks up where the first one stopped. Royce has allowed Riley to return home, but like that little stalker he is, she isn’t really alone.
There really is absolutely no way to review this book without giving spoilers because it’s THAT packed with twists and emotions, but PLEASE, if you don’t read another series this year, PICK THIS ONE. It honestly will tick every single box you have. And the spice is always top tier with R.A. Smyth’s guys.
There is a cliffhanger that will have you wanting to throw your kindle across the room, but I promise you’ll love it!!! Don’t wait!! Do it now!!
January 2, 2025
This book wrecked me—in the best way. "Wicked Minds" by R.A. Smyth is fast, filthy, and full of twists that had me flipping pages like I couldn’t breathe until I knew what happened next. Riley’s story is messy and raw, and Grayson, Logan, and Royce? They’re walking storms, and I couldn’t look away.
And that cliffhanger? Absolutely brutal. I’m still reeling. I already have book three pulled up because I need to know how this ends. If you love dark, angsty romances that keep you on edge, this series is a must.
And that cliffhanger? Absolutely brutal. I’m still reeling. I already have book three pulled up because I need to know how this ends. If you love dark, angsty romances that keep you on edge, this series is a must.
February 28, 2024
It was good to be back with these characters. I mean with Riley, Royce and Logan. I still don't like Grayson that much. I hope it will change in next book. I liked how Royce and Logan were there for Riley and how they made sure she had everything fine. They were so good for her. I think Royce is my fave right now. Can't wait to read next book after that cliffy.
An ARC was provided in exhange for an honest review.
An ARC was provided in exhange for an honest review.
September 7, 2024
Pérdida de tiempo.
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