Broken Rivalry

Silverbrook University #1

by R.G. Angel

Poppy:
Once, I walked the halls of privilege, but in a heartbeat, I watched my world crumble. Now, as I stand at the threshold of Silverbrook University, I'm armed with nothing but a scholarship and a determination to reclaim a semblance of my former life.
But fate has a cruel sense of humor. Ethan Hawthorne, the golden boy of my former elite world and my ex-rival, is here. His every smirk is a reminder that the past is not easily outrun.

Ethan:
At Silverbrook, I'm the guy with the world at his feet—star athlete, heir to a legacy, the guy who always wins. But Poppy? She was the one challenge I never conquered, the one competitor who never played by my rules.
Her return in my life is a curveball I never saw coming. She's changed, hardened by life's twists, and now she captivates me more than ever. Our history wasn't just competition; it was a clash of hearts and egos. Now, the rules have changed. I'm not just out to win a petty game. This time, I'm playing for her heart.

In the elite corridors of Silverbrook University, a tale of passion, redemption, and undeniable attraction unfolds. Poppy and Ethan, bound by their tumultuous past, are caught in a dance of denial and desire. Can an alpha athlete truly humble himself for love? And can a strong-willed girl find forgiveness in her heart? Dive into a steamy saga of love, scars, and second chances.

Genres: Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Sports Romance, College, Sports, Contemporary Romance, College Romance

336 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 22, 2024

About the author

On top of being an International Bestselling Author, I’m a trained lawyer, world traveller, coffee addict and cheese aficionado.

When I’m not busy doing all my lawyerly mayhem or writing Contemporary Romance with heart, heat and a little darkness, alpha heroes and strong heroines and because I’m living in rainy (yet beautiful) Britain, I mostly enjoy indoor activities such as reading, watching TV, playing with my crazy puppies.

I hope my stories will make you dream and will bring you as much joy as they brought me by writing them.

If you want to know any of the latest news join my reader group R.G.’s Angels on facebook or subscribe to my newsletter!

Reviews

[❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌺 𝐁𝐑𝐎𝐊𝐄𝐍 𝐑𝐈𝐕𝐀𝐋𝐑𝐘 🌺 Is the first full length romance book within the (Silverbrook University) series by new to me author R.G. Angel. Spoken in dual perspectives. ❥ Ehan & Poppy ❥

First my eyes were drawn to the cover, then the blurb sealed the deal. One minute I'd one clicked, the next minute I'd inhaled it..This was very easy to get into, likeable characters which you connect with fully.

These two had a deep rooted past, he used to bully her relentlessly, but the reason why might surprise you, it was his way to make her notice him.

One day she had the world at her feet, flash cars, money at her disposal, until in the blink of an eye she arrives home to her father being carted away in handcuffs.

From that day onwards life became harder than she could've ever comprehended. She had to step up and help her mother and two youngest brothers by juggling a low paying job she was also lucky enough to get a scholarship at Silverbrook University a place where no one knew her past, living with two other girls for the next four years.

These two girls become her rock, they too are harbouring secrets, secrets they vowed to not even share with their roommates.

Getting a feel for the place she stumbles across Ethan, they guy to rubbed it in about her fall from grace.

She had Ethan pegged so wrong, I loved his character, he'd harboured a deep seated crush for Poppy for years and now that they are back in each others lives he's going to prove to her that she belongs to him. He was a fixer, with a heart of gold, she was a strong proud independent female. These two together were perfection.

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[Samantha (bookgramsaga reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (ARC)

''The real journey is only beginning''

Safety warnings:
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Mention of s*icide
- Loss of loved ones
- HEA

Poppy and Ethan's story is complex and riddled with history, not only between them, but between their families.

We find out really quickly what went down in the past and why things changed so much for Poppy and her family. Everything crumbled and they were left to pick up the pieces while navigating life with the aftermath.

Ethan and Poppy spent years prior to meeting again enamored with each other but sadly never claiming it and they ended up being rivals instead.

I really liked Ethan; he was different than what I expected when I read the blurb. I expected a lot more anger from him and enemy vibes but in reality he was the sweetest and genuinely cared for Poppy and her family. His efforts to help and be there were endearing.

Poppy was strong-willed and took on a lot, all I wanted was for her and her mom/brothers to get a break and get more stability in their life.

The side characters also made this book so much more fun and made me even more excited for the rest of this series! I love the different tropes we will be getting with each couple!

[Steph ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to RG Angel for sending me an ARC copy of Broken Rivalry to review.

In this book we're following Poppy and Ethan. Poppy's family has lost their fortune and some years have past at the point that we meet her. She's now grated a scholarship to Silverbrook University and moving in with Eva and Nessa, two other girls also on the same scholarship. Each of them holding their own reasons as to why they're in this situation close to their chest with the agreement they will not force the other to discuss. Building an incredible bond between the girls that I adored. First day on campus, and Poppy bumps into Ethan, her rival from school, and she's not a happy gal! The story goes from here.

I really enjoyed this story, the backstory of Poppy's families downfall playing a huge part and making the story incredibly interesting. Also, as mentioned, the fierce women friendship in here was brilliant and I loved it. I loved the interactions between Poppy and Ethan and getting their full story including the history was great. I did find myself rolling my eyes a couple of times with some of the corny things Ethan was saying but I do think it adds to the story and his personality.

I'm excited to revisit Silverbrook University and get the rest of Eva and Nessa's stories. I'm so incredibly intrigued to learn more about both of them and find out their stories.

Thank you again to the author, I cannot wait to continue the series and pick more of your books up. Would definitely recommend this one to those of you that are fans of sports romance, rivals to lovers, fierce women friendships, and even the cute edition of found family as well.

[Medollga · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was sort of sweet and interesting, but severely lacking in execution 🧐

I couldn't give a damn about the couple somewhere after the 35% mark, which is...sad.

Also, the hero started the rumour about the heroine having numerous STDs in highschool to "keep the competition away" and she just laughed after finding out about it 😅🤷🏼‍♀️🆘

[Sue Miz · Rating 5 out of 5]

HAPPY RELEASE DAY

Are you looking for a feel-good series? College romance? an alpha A-hole who wants his love so bad he is willing to grovel and grovel and grovel?
look no further
Yall! When I tell you I devoured this book in one sitting! I couldn't put it down and stayed up till 3 am reading !!!

⚜Theme: Second-Chance College romance
⚜Characters: Poppy / Ethan with a side of Eva / Colt
⚜TW: not much - mature content - mention of suicide
⚜ tropes: Rivals to lovers (enemies from Poppy's side) - grovel - Riches to rags
⚜ POV: Double
⚜ spice 🌶🌶 🌶
⚜ rating 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
⚜standalone: yes, but it's part of a series
⚜Ending: setting the mood for the next book

Poppy, our strong-willed heroine - has undergone a tragic change of status when her father is accused by Ethan's dad of fraud, put in jail, and taking his own life. She, with her also strong-willed mother, has to work hard to provide for their family. She gets a scholarship to Silverbrook University only to find her highschool rival, Ethan, there.


Ethan is our cocky, alpha athlete. He has it all, the money, the looks, the talents. What he doesn't have but desperately wants is Poppy, who is unwilling to give him the time of day. Add to that, he thinks her father was stealing from his father, and she blames his father for the downfall of her family creating a complication.


Secrets and twists are revealed and Ethan has to work overtime if he has to earn Poppy's trust

what I loved about this book and made it stand out from other similar ones is the way the women were written.
They do not cower before the men
they do not let the severe circumstances break them
what they do on the other hand is grow stronger with every hardship and look the storm in the eye

"In our previous life of luxury, women were seen as soft. Unprepared for the world. yet, faced with adversity, we learned not to sink, but we learned to swim against the current. We built walls, sometimes so high that even we couldn't scale them, but they were our protection, our fortress"

OH, and Eva and Colt totally stole the show and I cannot wait to read their book

A big thank you to the author for trusting me with a still-under-editing copy
but if this is the unedited copy, and it is 5 stars, just imagine how amazing the final edition will be.

[atomickitten · Rating 3 out of 5]

3-3.5 stars?

I honestly dunno how to rate this book.



On the one hand, I did like that it wasn't a dark read, and the hero wasn't a crazy, fucked up, obsessively deranged psycho stalking the heroine.

But on the other hand, I really hated that it wasn't a dark read and the hero wasn't a crazy, fucked up, obsessively deranged psycho stalking the heroine.



It was a sweet romance.
And the characters were quite likeable but it was all a tad too juvenile for me.

The heroine, Poppy could've been a bit less dramatic and less of a martyr but I kinda understood where she was coming from.

The hero was a sweet, cinnamon roll hero, not an alpha manwhore or any of the things i'm usually so drawn to.

And I think that was why i liked it and didn't like it at the same time.



I think I would've given it 4 stars if the ending was a tad different, because it felt rather flat and uneventful tbh.

But I did like it overall.
Didn't love it, nope, but it was an okay read i think.

I am, however, really intrigued to read book 2, which is Eva and Cole's story.

These two seem more fucked up than Ethan and Poppy.

And I dig that.

Although, I gotta admit that Eva sounded more like Poppy's mother so I only hope this will not be the case in her own book.

Fingers crossed, guys! 😉🤞🤞😂

[Miranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this book expecting an easy read college romance, and it delivered! I have to say though, I am SUPER excited for the next couple in book two. I'm already obsessed with Cole!

[Sarah♡books · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐️

🤍 Virgin heroine
🤍 No manwhore
🤍 Obsessed hero
🤍 Rich x poor
🤍 Second chance
🤍 Enemies to lovers
🚩 No cheating or sharing, no OW/OM

A pretty quick read with nice characters 🫶

𝑷𝒐𝒑𝒑𝒚 - 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒆

Really liked her 🦋 she was rich and then her life turned upside down & she and her family are poor. I love how she still carried everything and helped her mom 🥹🤍
She is really sweet and pure!

𝑬𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 - 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒐

Soooo he is pretty obsessed and for him she is it 🔥✨️
He always wanted her attention so he started to 'bully' her... Liked how he wasn't a bad person but a really nice man who just wanted to help and love her 🫂🤍
But the thing is for me ... he says that she is it for him & he loved her since day one... then why didn't he just wait for her ??? He is not a virgin & to be honest I would have loved it in this book 🤭🫠😅



Still R. G Angel did not disappoint 🦋🥹✨️🤍💥

[Intel Chicky Reads Romance (Kara Merideth) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Trope: enemies to lovers
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥

I really loved this story and am super excited for what's to come with this series! When it first started, I thought for sure it was going to be a bully read, but we ended up more with a cinnamon roll hero who was definitely all in for his girl. Poppy and Ethan have a complex past that added a lot of dimension to their story. It moved well, was well written, and definitely had no problem keeping my interest till the end. Absolutely loved the whole cast of characters and there were the perfect amount of breadcrumbs for what’s coming next!

⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers

[ceci · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book so much than i expected.
This book follows Poppy, who years prior was living and wealthy life but it ended when his father was sent to prison and her family loses everything.
We also have the MMC, who is Ethan, they knew each other before everything happened and his father was the one who had the fault that her family loses everything.

They meet again because she finds a second chance in Silverbrook University, and even that he wants to keep seeing her, she doesn´t want to see him.
I loved their story so much, because they realized what mattered to them, while she did everything in her power to help her family, he started doing the same and helping her.

I can´t wait for the next book, because with what we know, It´s going to be everything to me.

Thanks to Wildfire Marketing Solutions for the Arc.

[AJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

This is the first book in the Silverbrook University series, and my first read by R.G. Angel. It’s a beautifully emotional and heartfelt NA romance with strong themes of family, redemption and forgiveness, and I loved this story.

Poppy’s privileged life fell apart when her father was arrested and her family’s possessions seized. She, her mother and her younger brothers were suddenly thrust into poverty and, all alone, they have scraped by to support themselves. Poppy has just been granted a scholarship to Silverbrook University, and though it’s a year later than she should have started college, she is ready to get her life back on track.

Ethan is a star soccer player at Silverbrook and a bit of a golden boy. From a wealthy family, he wants for nothing, and being the gorgeous success that he is, he can (and usually does) get whatever he wants. And then Poppy enters his world. They went to high school together, and were bitter adversaries, but for Ethan, Poppy was the one who got away. She’s different than how she used to be, but she’s suddenly back in his life, and he wants to keep her there permanently. There’s just a small problem – she hates him with a passion. Not only was he cruel to her in high school, but Ethan’s father is responsible for the downfall of Poppy’s father, and she wants nothing to do with him. But he is determined to win her heart.

Something inside me clicks, settling with a certainty that’s almost frightening. I want Poppy in my life, and I want to be in hers.

It’s a great set-up, and from the very first moment, I could feel the intensity between Ethan and Poppy. She is justifiably furious, he genuinely longs for her, It’s a great dynamic, and watching Ethan go about winning Poppy over is just gorgeous.

“I wanted to be here.”
“To watch me lose my mind?” I retort, a playful edge to my voice.
“No,” he whispers, his breath caressing my skin, “to see you let go and to be here in case you need someone to hold on to afterward.”

Ethan is sweet and patient, but he’s also persistent as he inserts himself into Poppy’s life at every opportunity, and I loved their interactions. From snarky bickering to heartfelt conversations, friendship, flirting, banter, and open-hearted declarations, it felt so natural and I was there for all of it, and loved watching these two come together.

I’m already suspecting that letting her go won’t be an option for me.

Their past is complicated, and they have challenges to face, and though there is some drama along the way, I loved watching Ethan and Poppy fall so hard for each other. They are open with each other, and don’t hide what they’re feeling, and their relationship develops beautifully.

There’s a great cast of side characters in this book. Ethan has two best friends who just happen to pair up perfectly with Poppy’s two roommates. Such an eclectic group, each with secrets in their past, I cannot wait to get to explore these characters more in future books.

I loved this one, 4 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by author for an honest review.

[Travelogged Blogs · Rating 4 out of 5]

"She’s always been untouchable, even back in high school when I’d watch her from afar. But here I am, years later, still trapped in her enigmatic pull, still wanting things from her that I can’t quite name."

This was a fast paced, fun and short book. I enjoyed reading it and the characters were well fleshed out. Poppy & Ethan knew each other since highschool and something happened to Poppy's family because of Ethan's father, which made them go from riches to rags. Now it just happens that Ethan goes to the same college as her and he wants to correct his wrongs. Poppy was firm on her opinions and I liked that she was strong, smart and capable and Ethan was relentless, I liked how he realised his mistakes and did ever possible thing to make Poppy's life better. But at the end of the day, this was just another typical predictable college romance tbh. Overall, it was an easy read and the writing was engaging, I'd rare it a solid 3.5 stars. The side characters were good and their own sub plots were interesting too. So I'm looking forward to see who is going to be the main character in the next book.

I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review

[P · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rich Boy/poor girl
Rivals to lovers
He falls first
Virgin MFC
Found Family

“It’s okay to accept kindness, Poppy. It doesn’t make you weak or pitiable. It makes you human.”

[[ ( I personally needed this reminder 😭)]]


This was the perfect mixture of sad and sweet loved seeing a strong female heroine doing what she must to help her family. 😭 liked seeing Ethan fall first, wish we could have witnessed their antics in high school more so it's light on the Rivals part IMO since it happened off page. I'm super intrigued by the other secondary characters that we see in this book, even tho I felt they play a little bit to much of a part in this book. I felt like it should've stayed a bit more of a mystery. But that's my opinion. Other than that it was a good start to a series.


ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing all opinions are my own.

[Vanessa Gayle ⚔️ Fangirl Faction · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

I was completely sucker punched by this book! I didn't really have many expectations going into this book because this was a new author for me but I was blown away. I wanted to read this book primarily because the blurb sounded so intriguing. I wasn't disappointed!

R.G. Angel's writing style really spoke to me. I immediately felt a kinship with the writing and was sucked into the story. The plot was very compelling and I was totally immersed the entire time.

I love the uniqueness and complexity of the characters. Each character was distinct and made an impression on me. I love all the family drama and dynamics involved with the characters. It made things interesting. The supporting characters stood out as well. I love the friendships and bonds that the characters share. I am very excited to continue this series and see the other characters and their journeys.

Poppy and Ethan have a compelling relationship. They have a shared past which made things interesting. They have obvious and intense chemistry but so many things are coming between them. I enjoyed the evolution of their relationship.

Overall, this was an angsty, entertaining, fast-paced story that really impressed me. I fell hard for these characters and I am eager to read more books in this series.


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My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers.

[Sherry Fundin · Rating 3 out of 5]

First off, I want to say, I loved the first R G Angel book I read, Hades’ Game. It told me that she is an author on my automatic read list. That means, I see it, I read it. But, Broken Rivalry was not my favorite. It read like a young adult, teenage angst novel, with some steam sex thrown it. Poppy was a character that peaked my interest and I would like to know what is in story for her next.

But, in Broken Rivalry by R G Angel, we have a rich, have it all girl who loses it all. I cannot imagine what it would feel like to go from living in a mansion and having designer everything to living in a trailer park and shopping, if you can afford it that week, at the thrift store.

I liked the idea of the three girls and the three guys, and we will have to hang around for the next book in the series to see how all that pans out.

Poppy is a character that stands out. She sacrifices for the needs and the happiness of her mother and two brothers. Even with all the hardship, she managed to get a scholarship to Silverbrook University, where she met her two best friends. They all have their own tragic story to tell, holding secrets close.

The story was pretty predictable, but it still pulled out a lot of the feels that I look for in a romance. Anger at those who wield their power, chopping down those who get in their way. Sorrow for the innocents who get caught in the middle, through no fault of their own. Respect for the ones who pick themselves up and make a new life for themselves. Love, loyalty, forgiveness, passion, second chances, sacrifice…and a happy ever after.

[katsbookfixation · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️
i did receive this as an arc but this is my honest review

first off i love all of R.G. angels books shes truly an amazing writer this book was amazing im not usually a rich v poor fan but this was written so well i love ethan hes such a sweet heart and the side characters were amazing too usually side characters can be lack luster but these ones were funny and had great personality and were actually interesting this book did have some miscommunication which im not a fan of but it was resolved well and fairly quickly overall i very much enjoyed the book and i can’t wait to see what’s next🫶

[KelsBookstagram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, passion, lies, chemistry and history is always a comination i know I'm going to devour! What a outstanding start to this series by R.G Angel and I'm completely hooked and invested.

Poppy and Ethan journey is riddled and laced with history not just theirs but their families too and the twists and secrecy plays a huge element of this story and i am all friggin for it.

Ethan & Poppy are drawn to eachother and despite her intial hatred, we all know their is fine line between love and hate and let me tell you their passionate moment's are addictive!! Both characters were completely unique and not what i expected at all from when i signed up and i am loving that aspect.

For me the secondary characters played a vital role and i love how all these characters including Poppy & Ethan are vunerable in a sense and have their own unique stories to tell with different tropes.

I am completely invested in this series and cannot wait to read more from this author!

[Susana Sousa · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars! The paths of life....

Broken Rivalry is the first installment in the Silverbrook U Series and can be read as a standalone.

Poppy Donavan and Ethan (I love his name!!!) Hawthorne's journey was a bit sinuous, but always sincere and truly felt.
As the tittle itself, more of a rivalry, that ended up broken, than any adolescent animosity between the two, like 'if you don't notice me by my good, notice me by the bad, but do notice me!' kind of bond, forged in pranks and one ups until that faithful day when everything went down for Poppy's family....

Fast forward two years, they reunite again at Silverbrook University, under very different living circumstances, worlds appart in every aspect of their lives, save for the fact that they are both College attendants in different years, Ethan one year ahead of Poppy.

This story has bit of everything that was ingeniously combined, resulting in a feel good narrative with a great slew of secondary characters, sweet moments as much as angsty ones and two new tales in preparation. It's a coming of age College romance with a bit of angsty common past/differents worlds at present and touch of sport that gave energy to the plot and some nostalgia too.

The formula was simple, but well executed: three girls that come from differents contexts, bond over the only one choice they have that is Silverbrook U on a scholarship and become one another' supporters and fierce defenders.
Poppy has the chance to finally get superior education and seek a brighter future for herself and her family after the hard obstacles life threw at them, but what she wasn't counting on was to find the boy of a past she wants to forget, but one that made her the young woman she is today, a fighter and go-getter, fierce and ready to do what's necessary to help her mother supporting the house.
Ethan's attendance at Silverbrook has its owns motivations and he was surprised and suspicious about seeing Poppy again, but most of all, internally thrilled because his feelings hit the surface, once more, and he was ready to finally get the girl.

Carefully approaches, lots of banter and spicy inuendos, a will to challenge and a bigger one to act and do fair, their feelings were internally convoluted, but pure and undiluted love.
Ethan was a good guy at heart and I was happy that the girls and Poppy, even with some resistence due to the past, were able to recognize and give effort to his acceptance.
The guys were a nice addition, one group of three for a group of three, that weren't strangers at all and with some great deals to settle in the shadows, for now, made for a genuine commitment to this buble of friends, their lives and relationships, their past and present and the battles to come.

This is only the beginning, an amazing one at that, and I can't wait to get more!
At this point, I really think Poppy had it smooth with Ethan, but Cole is certainly going to be on another whole level, so Eva get your claws ready!

[~lil maso~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed by Robyn for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner

This book surprised me… in a good way, though. When I first started reading it, I was a tad underwhelmed, thinking it was another NA bratty college drama. Oh, how wrong I was on all counts!

*This book has some interesting characters who intrigue and, at times, do unpredictable things. (I love unpredictability in a story)
*This book has a very tricky romance, tricky because the characters don’t fit on paper and shouldn’t in real life, but they do. With lots of passionate and steamy scenes the couple share, it’s safe to say they are more than compatible.*This book has an underlying darkish theme about white-collar crime where you immediately start thinking things might not be as kosher as they appear.
*This book has a wonderful family rapport, especially when things quickly go downhill. Ethan’s family and Poppy’s are vastly different—now! I love how time allows these positives to surface.

The lead characters, Poppy and Ethan, are fantastic together. I love their banter; sometimes, it’s a tug-of-war between them, and at others, it’s fun and playful. Poppy is such a caring and supportive daughter, sister and friend. I wonder if the devastation that hit her family hadn’t happened… would she have realised her true potential as a person? Or would she have continued in her ‘spoilt miss’ attitude? Hmm, maybe the disaster, although shocking, helped? As for Ethan, I like him and think he, too, grew up much faster due to the incident. However, I also believe he was a victim of the ‘teenage’ years… I suppose, like Poppy. Ethan is one thing for sure—not his father, phew! 😮‍💨

This story is fast paced and with a solid storyline, I found it hard to put down. I am excited to read the whole series, especially knowing some of the other characters who are beyond interesting. I can’t recommend this book enough to everyone.

*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*

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[DeeReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic book by RG Angel!

If you'd ever tell me I would love a college romance story, I'd probably look at you funny. Well, R.G changed my mind with this one, and if that's the introduction to Silverbrook University world, I can't wait to see what's coming next!

Poppy and Ethan have known each other since their school years, both born and raised in wealthy and prestigious families. But things would change for Poppy's family and her life would only go downhill from that point on. Now everything's changed and she's holding on to her only chance of University studies thanks to a scholarship in Silverbrook uni.

The last person she expected to see there, is Ethan Hawthorne, star athlete and every girl's crush in high school. But Ethan and Poppy have unfinished business and although I would expect him to be a bully, he turns out to be the sweetest, most caring guy for her...

""My fingers curl into fists at my sides, nails digging into my palms as I see them together. Her laughter, light and free, is meant for him and not me and leaves a sour note hanging in the air.""

The grovel is sweet and swoon worthy, all the other characters are AMAZING and I can't wait to meet them again, overall I LOVED this book!

I'd like to add that i truly enjoyed the sense of sisterhood R.G built in this story. Poppy and her friends are unique individuals and that's why I wouldn't name them """side""" characters. Each person we met in the book is interesting and I think this says a lot about the author's skills.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND 💜💜1

[Robyn Corcoran · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wrote this review for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner.
This book surprised me… in a good way, though. When I first started reading it, I was a tad underwhelmed, thinking it was another NA bratty college drama. Oh, how wrong I was on all counts!

*This book has some interesting characters who intrigue and, at times, do unpredictable things. (I love unpredictability in a story)
*This book has a very tricky romance, tricky because the characters don’t fit on paper and shouldn’t in real life, but they do. With lots of passionate and steamy scenes the couple share, it’s safe to say they are more than compatible.*This book has an underlying darkish theme about white-collar crime where you immediately start thinking things might not be as kosher as they appear.
*This book has a wonderful family rapport, especially when things quickly go downhill. Ethan’s family and Poppy’s are vastly different—now! I love how time allows these positives to surface.

The lead characters, Poppy and Ethan, are fantastic together. I love their banter; sometimes, it’s a tug-of-war between them, and at others, it’s fun and playful. Poppy is such a caring and supportive daughter, sister and friend. I wonder if the devastation that hit her family hadn’t happened… would she have realised her true potential as a person? Or would she have continued in her ‘spoilt miss’ attitude? Hmm, maybe the disaster, although shocking, helped? As for Ethan, I like him and think he, too, grew up much faster due to the incident. However, I also believe he was a victim of the ‘teenage’ years… I suppose, like Poppy. Ethan is one thing for sure—not his father, phew! 😮‍💨

This story is fast paced and with a solid storyline, I found it hard to put down. I am excited to read the whole series, especially knowing some of the other characters who are beyond interesting. I can’t recommend this book enough to everyone.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is very different from the other books I have read by R.G. Angel. Her Ruthless Warrior was my first and is still my favorite. Broken Rivalry is about Poppy and Ethan who are college age. Poppy grew up wealthy until her father was sent to jail and her family lost everything. Despite her experience she is positive and helps support her family. She has the opportunity to attend college. She meets and becomes friends with two girls.

Ethan also grew up wealthy. He and Poppy had gone to school together until her life changed. He does not know what Poppy experienced in the years since they were in High School together. Ethan falls quickly for Poppy, but she is less trusting. Their relationship and the challenges they have to overcome make for an interesting read.

Ethan is a cinnamon roll hero. This book was a nice pallet cleanse from all of the dark romance, reverse harem, enemies-to-lovers romances. Ethan loves Poppy, treats her well, and cares for her and her family.

I was lucky enough to get an ARC, but my review is freely given.

[Christina · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a cute story. The plot was good but it could’ve done with being a bit longer. Some bits of this story felt a bit rushed. I would’ve liked some of it to go into a bit more depth. Nevertheless, I enjoyed it. I don’t think I’ll continue the series though.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am in love. I have never been so emotionally invested in a book as I had been with this one. From the beginning I was hooked and the angst had me on my knees. Ethan Hawthorne. I have no words that can encapsulate the perfection that is Ethan Hawthorne. He was patient and understanding and willing to do anything for Poppy. And Poppy, such a strong girl after all that had happened to her and how much her life shifted with the aftermath involving her father and Ethan’s. To see her open herself up to Ethan and let him help her and be there for her was huge and so precious. Seeing their relationship develop and not rush after they admitted their feelings for each other was great. It gave them time to come to terms with their emotions and overall just amazing to see. There were some rough patches here and there that had my anxiety rising but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!

[Cristina]

DNF

Lost interest quickly, both MCs were quite young… early twenty’s maybe but their story sounded more like high school. Anyway, it wasn’t for me.

[Karina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely a 5-star read for me.
This book exceeded my expectations on so many levels and I truly didn't expect it to hit me so hard.
For me it wasn't just a fun and steamy sports romance, tough I did laugh and blush and giggle and loved every single interaction between main characters.

But the writing was so beautiful, and the hardships/struggles described so relatable. I haven't been so invested in characters in a while and it's an absolutely fantastic experience. I did cry and smile a lot, I felt such a warmth and joy spread through me, because of that rawness and vulnerability and hope of the moment.

And Ethan... I'm definitely his number 1 fan. I really wish there would be more Ethans in real life (but that's just me & my wishful thinking)

[Kate Berger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tropes- rich Vs Poor, slow burn, it’s always been you, ex rivals, emotional scars, shared past, inexperienced heroine, lovers in denial, star athlete




Poppy- Poppy had it all, she was on top of the world. She was one of the elite and couldn’t want for anything. But then, everything was taken away in the blink of an eye and her life drastically changed. Poppy, her mother, and siblings were catapulted into extreme poverty. Poppy’s mother worked herself to the bone to help her family stay above water. Poppy only being a teenager did all she could to help. She got a job to help pay the bills, gave her mother every dollar she had. Helped with her siblings. If there was a way, Poppy figured it out. Her family was everything and she did all she could to help her family survive. Poppy pushed back college as it just wasn’t possible for her to go. After two years, things were finally looking up. Poppy was able to get a scholarship and was finally able to go to college. She stepped into Silverbrook University with the determination to change everything, to better the life for her and her family. What she didn’t expect was to see Ethan Hawthorne, her rival and the son of the man that helped to destroy her family.


Ethan- Ethan is a star athlete, the man on top, he has the world at his fingertips and the heir to a multi-million dollar company. Ethan is always used to getting his way and winning anything he wants. He was expected to go to Harvard, where he would have been a legacy but decided to go to Silverbrook instead. He did not expect to see a blast from his past, Poppy on the first day of his junior year in college. She’s been hardened by the life she was thrown into.


This book- OMG I just could not put it down. Ethan is THE GOLDEN RETRIEVER. The king of groveling. He knew what he wanted- Poppy and would do anything to get her. I absolutely adore him and he had me swooning. At the end, seeing all the things he was willing to do for her and her family (even in secret) and all the things he did in the past! Ahh it was just amazing. With Poppy I just loved her character development, her pride, and her determination to do anything and everything for her family. How she battled what to do and how to forgive Ethan and what his family stood for. I was very surprised at her families reaction to Ethan, it just speaks volumes to their souls and growth. I also really loved all the friends! I’m hoping the next book touches on their stories a bit more. I was cackling when Nessa was referred to as Morticia! If you want a really good, feel good book this is the one for you. I truly did not want this book to end. I simply cannot wait for the next book in the series!

[The Dragon Den Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review of Broken Rivalry by R.G. Angel
* * * * *
Hidden feelings begin to reveal themselves between two lovers with some dramatic history! She was the Pauper, he was the guy who loved her more than she knew, and someone is about to use their feelings to get what they want.

Poppy used to have it all.
A life of luxury, a a brank-spanking new Audi, cheerleader at a prestigious school.
Until her father was caught embezzling, and his boss made sure everything was taken from her life.
Her father. Their money. Their home. Their status.
Years later she is making it work. Now on scolarship at an ivy league university, she is going to make sure she gets where she needs to go and save her family from their current sticky situation.
She never expected to run into Ethan...the son of her father's boss and someone who haunts her memories.
He won't leave her alone now.
He's everywhere she tries not to be.
What happens when she starts to open up and fall for him...when he could only be playing her?

Thumbs up! A great start to the series and we are already introduced to a few new characters whom we know will have their time to shine!
Poppy and Ethan were technically never enemies, but they were not besties either, especially after Poppy's family downfall. Ethan's family sucks, Poppy's family - minus daddy dearest - is innocent and sweet.
Ethan is incredible compassionate when it comes to Poppy's situation, even if he stuffs up a few times - the rage room was still a great idea. I am dying to try one out! Their sweet and steamy moments were the spice we needed for their characters.
Cannot wait to get to Eva and Nessa's stories!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poppy is a tough cookie. After a scandal, her family is left with nothing and Poppy must do what she can to help keep her family afloat. She has also become very guarded and doesn’t open up easily, but she finds sisters in Eva and Nessa as they navigate their first year at Siverbrooke.

Ethan deep down is a cinnamon roll. He wears his heart on his sleeve and wants to help out when he can. He is a budding businessman and soccer player as well. He has trustworthy friends in Cole and Liam even when they got on each other’s nerves. He also can be relentless for things that matter to him.

These two! They’ve had a rivalry in high school and would constantly prank each other. After 2 years they unwillingly reunite when Poppy starts her first year at Silverbrooke. We can see right away that Ethan is all in and wants to reconnect. He might push her in some ways but also remains respectful and is always seeing to her needs. Poppy is resistant and cautious but we see this is due to having hardened herself because of her circumstances. But we also see that she just wants to be able to open up and trust Ethan wholeheartedly as he seems to be attuned to her in every way. Poppy also brings comfort to Ethan and helps him to express himself. We also can feel their connection leaping off the page and it pulls on the heart strings. These two definitely are a one true pairing and we cheer for them along the way.

We also get hints of intertwined storylines with Eva, Nessa, Cole and Liam. These friend packs definitely are people you want by your side, and the chemistry we see among the pairings tease you enough that you want to read their books asap. We also get heart with Poppy’s family and we see how Ethan’s family comes into play. There was one part that I felt remained unanswered but maybe we follow Poppy’s example and move on.

Overall, this was definitely a read that pulls you in from page one and doesn’t let you go. Even after the covers close and we get our HEA, we want to know more about these characters and see what their future holds. I look forward to reading the next book.

[Camille (bookish.cami) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first time reading a book by RG Angel and it definitely won’t be my last I really enjoyed reading Poppy and Ethan’s story.

Poppy was a very independent and strong character she won’t allow her past to become part of her future she is looking forward to college and she’s very protective of her family. Her family is put in a bad situation and her story unfolds really well bring Ethan her rival and he wants nothing more than to be apart of Poppy’s life after being her Rival for so long he wants to make his feelings known. Ethan definitely falls first and falls hard.

This story was so good I devoured it in one day, the side characters I had so many lol moments. 🙌🏻🙌🏻

Keeping my review spoiler free was tough but y’all this book Chefs kiss AMAZING