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Blackmoor Heirs #1
Cruel Lord
Saint might be my last name, but they’re determined to make me into a sinner.
My father is dead. My home is ash. And my mother and I are one step away from death ourselves. Our only protection against the Devil’s Sons MC? The St. Vincent family, who rule Blackmoor.
When I run into Cayde, Dean, and Jaxon for the first time on the steps of my new prep school, I don’t think twice about it. Even with all the rumors surrounding them, I know how to take care of myself.
But when I embarrass Cayde St. Vincent, I wind up with a target on my back. A target that, unbeknownst to me, is going to follow me way past high school.
When I wake up in their house on the university campus on the first day of the semester with no memory of how I got there, all I want to do is leave. But they’ve got me under contract.
A contract that threatens my life, and my mother’s life, if I break it.
Soon enough, I realize they want to break me.
Cayde St. Vincent. Dean Blackmoor. Jaxon King.
The three heirs to the town of Blackmoor.
And now? My worst nightmare.
Cruel Lord is the first book in the Blackmoor Heirs series. It is a bully series. It contains material that may be sensitive to some readers. There are no heroes in this series, only deliciously devious villains. It will get much darker before the dawn. This book is for those who like their men cruel and damaged, their romance dark and questionable, and their emotions toyed with until the very end.
My father is dead. My home is ash. And my mother and I are one step away from death ourselves. Our only protection against the Devil’s Sons MC? The St. Vincent family, who rule Blackmoor.
When I run into Cayde, Dean, and Jaxon for the first time on the steps of my new prep school, I don’t think twice about it. Even with all the rumors surrounding them, I know how to take care of myself.
But when I embarrass Cayde St. Vincent, I wind up with a target on my back. A target that, unbeknownst to me, is going to follow me way past high school.
When I wake up in their house on the university campus on the first day of the semester with no memory of how I got there, all I want to do is leave. But they’ve got me under contract.
A contract that threatens my life, and my mother’s life, if I break it.
Soon enough, I realize they want to break me.
Cayde St. Vincent. Dean Blackmoor. Jaxon King.
The three heirs to the town of Blackmoor.
And now? My worst nightmare.
Cruel Lord is the first book in the Blackmoor Heirs series. It is a bully series. It contains material that may be sensitive to some readers. There are no heroes in this series, only deliciously devious villains. It will get much darker before the dawn. This book is for those who like their men cruel and damaged, their romance dark and questionable, and their emotions toyed with until the very end.
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2023
1002 people are currently reading
2211 people want to read
About the author
Ivy Thorn
39 books107 followersIvy Thorn's motto is the more hero's the better. She writes dark, delicious, romance with kick but heroines and the ruthless anti heroes who fall for them. Her books will leave you on the edge of a cliff begging for more, but a happily-ever-after is guaranteed every time—they’re just going to have to fight for it.
She lives for the sleepless nights of New York City, writing until dawn in efforts to express her darkest illusions and cheeky personality. Accompanied by her favorite cocktail, she finds herself consumed by her novels, ready to take on a new persona. When she’s not writing, she enjoys her evenings off, exploring the late nights of New York City.
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She lives for the sleepless nights of New York City, writing until dawn in efforts to express her darkest illusions and cheeky personality. Accompanied by her favorite cocktail, she finds herself consumed by her novels, ready to take on a new persona. When she’s not writing, she enjoys her evenings off, exploring the late nights of New York City.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
December 18, 2021
DNF @ 60%
This book felt like it was just a poorly written attempt at trying to copy ‘Lords of Pain’
- even from the very beginning this book was reminding me of Lords of Pain in which the girl was also forced to her knees for them in the first chapter.
- 3 ‘heirs’ in college that will eventually take over the shady family business after they graduate.
- they compete in a stupid competition to see which one of them can take the girls virginity.
- the girl is contractually obligated to obey every demand, no matter what.
- they like controlling how she dresses, what she eats etc
- even the 3 boys are shitty copies of the boys from Lords of Pain. 1 angry beef head that plays a rough sport, is obsessed with the girl, is overly mean and cruel to her. 1 posh douche that has his nose in the air about everything and is the first to force himself on the girl in a public place. And 1 that ‘really isn’t like the other 2’ he ‘doesn’t care about the competition’ he just wants to fuck her, and save her.
The difference with this book and Lords of Pain was that the girl chose to be there. She signed the contract, she knew what she was getting herself into and she could leave at any time. In this book the girl is drugged and forced to sign this ridiculous contract (that apparently is for life?!) and if she tries to ever leave then her mother will lose her job and probably die.
The characters have no personality. They don’t think about anything other than sex. The story jumps from one sexual situation to the next and the stuff in between is just glossed over and very rushed like the author just couldn’t wait to get back to the kinky stuff. And honestly I enjoy books with a lot of smut, but not when the rest of the book is utter garbage.
I recommend Lords of Pain if you’re looking for a much better written version of this book.
This book felt like it was just a poorly written attempt at trying to copy ‘Lords of Pain’
- even from the very beginning this book was reminding me of Lords of Pain in which the girl was also forced to her knees for them in the first chapter.
- 3 ‘heirs’ in college that will eventually take over the shady family business after they graduate.
- they compete in a stupid competition to see which one of them can take the girls virginity.
- the girl is contractually obligated to obey every demand, no matter what.
- they like controlling how she dresses, what she eats etc
- even the 3 boys are shitty copies of the boys from Lords of Pain. 1 angry beef head that plays a rough sport, is obsessed with the girl, is overly mean and cruel to her. 1 posh douche that has his nose in the air about everything and is the first to force himself on the girl in a public place. And 1 that ‘really isn’t like the other 2’ he ‘doesn’t care about the competition’ he just wants to fuck her, and save her.
The difference with this book and Lords of Pain was that the girl chose to be there. She signed the contract, she knew what she was getting herself into and she could leave at any time. In this book the girl is drugged and forced to sign this ridiculous contract (that apparently is for life?!) and if she tries to ever leave then her mother will lose her job and probably die.
The characters have no personality. They don’t think about anything other than sex. The story jumps from one sexual situation to the next and the stuff in between is just glossed over and very rushed like the author just couldn’t wait to get back to the kinky stuff. And honestly I enjoy books with a lot of smut, but not when the rest of the book is utter garbage.
I recommend Lords of Pain if you’re looking for a much better written version of this book.
May 29, 2022
3.5 stars
These guys were pretty vile and brutal. I almost liked one until I didn't. I don't feel like any of them have a shred of good in them. Especially towards Athena.
Cayde is dangerously close to becoming a full fledged psycho. Dean wants her only because of the power that would bring. Jaxon is so wishy washy and goes along with just about everything.
These three have A LOT to do to get onto my good side. Not redeemable at this time.
This had a Forsyth University and Everlake Prep kinda vibe. I enjoyed parts of the story and then other parts were shockingly heartbreaking. I don't feel like our heroine has what it takes to stand up against these families. Still so meek and timid.
Hope she finds that badass chick that must be inside her somewhere. The ending of this read caught my interest so I'll be starting book 2 to see how something plays out.
These guys were pretty vile and brutal. I almost liked one until I didn't. I don't feel like any of them have a shred of good in them. Especially towards Athena.
Cayde is dangerously close to becoming a full fledged psycho. Dean wants her only because of the power that would bring. Jaxon is so wishy washy and goes along with just about everything.
These three have A LOT to do to get onto my good side. Not redeemable at this time.
This had a Forsyth University and Everlake Prep kinda vibe. I enjoyed parts of the story and then other parts were shockingly heartbreaking. I don't feel like our heroine has what it takes to stand up against these families. Still so meek and timid.
Hope she finds that badass chick that must be inside her somewhere. The ending of this read caught my interest so I'll be starting book 2 to see how something plays out.
November 28, 2021
SA trigger warning
"Dark College Bully Romance" more like "Twisted College Blackmail Domestic and Mental Abuse Romance". I've read my fair share of "Dark College Bully Romances", one thing they do really well is build the bullies up even as the bullies tear down the FMC. They flesh them out in a way that makes you hate how they act, but be sympathetic to why they act that way. For example, a Mafia Prince is set to take over the family business but doesn't want to so his father beats him into submission and he takes his anger out on the new girl who makes him realize how much he hates himself. The bullying is not okay, it's the relatability and chance to redeem themselves that make you keep reading. We love and hate the bully because they're relatable. Who hasn't lashed out at someone who doesn't deserve it because they felt inadequate or because they were upset? And we can relate to the FMC because they're strong-willed, resilient and confident despite their vulnerabilities. We all hope that when bullies try to tear us down that we fight back in the best way we can, which is being ourselves confidently and unapologetically. This book has none of that. Athena is supposedly from the wrong side of the tracks that doesn't take anyone's shit. She broke a guy's nose for calling her Mom a whore. That sounds like someone that stands up for herself and her family. Upon interaction with the 'gang', she seems to have no backbone anymore. Cayde targets her in school after he tries to assault her at his party and she whispers at him that she wasn't consenting. If she'd have threatened him, it'd be more consistent with her past behavior. The plot that includes her Dad being a rat from a biker gang holds no weight because it's never explained. It's just held over her head as a piece of blackmail. If the book started with her in the past when her father dies then explained at least of few months of the interaction with her and the gang that would help flesh out the plot. But without the attempted assault at the beginning.
Two years after the attempted assault, she becomes the 'gang's' slave smh. It's not dub con, it's full on assault and abuse at this point. She supposedly signed an 'ironclad contract' when she was drugged. Contracts really don't matter when abuse is occurring because of them. These people supposedly own the town yet she was able to run away and didn't keep running to another city where she could press charges? She "fights back" by making sarcastic remarks to Cayde that the little bitch boy doesn't like. That's it. Cayde is a fucking predator, at his party in high school, he tried to force Athena to give him head and when she said no and threw up on him because she'd drank too much, he was humiliated. That's attempted assault, not dub con and not fucking cute. He continues treating her like shit when she becomes his pet because he obviously has confidence issues. Dean is a 1-dimensional dumbass with the personality of a wet tissue and Jaxon can shove it as far as I'm concerned. His friends and family are garbage, but instead of pushing back, he just goes along with it like he has no choice. These three pricks are not redeemable at all, they're predators with a penchant for the unwilling. This book needs a better trigger warning in the beginning. The plot is non-existent, the characters are the least fleshed out fictional people I've read, the 'smut' is borderline or more assault and abuse.
"Dark College Bully Romance" more like "Twisted College Blackmail Domestic and Mental Abuse Romance". I've read my fair share of "Dark College Bully Romances", one thing they do really well is build the bullies up even as the bullies tear down the FMC. They flesh them out in a way that makes you hate how they act, but be sympathetic to why they act that way. For example, a Mafia Prince is set to take over the family business but doesn't want to so his father beats him into submission and he takes his anger out on the new girl who makes him realize how much he hates himself. The bullying is not okay, it's the relatability and chance to redeem themselves that make you keep reading. We love and hate the bully because they're relatable. Who hasn't lashed out at someone who doesn't deserve it because they felt inadequate or because they were upset? And we can relate to the FMC because they're strong-willed, resilient and confident despite their vulnerabilities. We all hope that when bullies try to tear us down that we fight back in the best way we can, which is being ourselves confidently and unapologetically. This book has none of that. Athena is supposedly from the wrong side of the tracks that doesn't take anyone's shit. She broke a guy's nose for calling her Mom a whore. That sounds like someone that stands up for herself and her family. Upon interaction with the 'gang', she seems to have no backbone anymore. Cayde targets her in school after he tries to assault her at his party and she whispers at him that she wasn't consenting. If she'd have threatened him, it'd be more consistent with her past behavior. The plot that includes her Dad being a rat from a biker gang holds no weight because it's never explained. It's just held over her head as a piece of blackmail. If the book started with her in the past when her father dies then explained at least of few months of the interaction with her and the gang that would help flesh out the plot. But without the attempted assault at the beginning.
Two years after the attempted assault, she becomes the 'gang's' slave smh. It's not dub con, it's full on assault and abuse at this point. She supposedly signed an 'ironclad contract' when she was drugged. Contracts really don't matter when abuse is occurring because of them. These people supposedly own the town yet she was able to run away and didn't keep running to another city where she could press charges? She "fights back" by making sarcastic remarks to Cayde that the little bitch boy doesn't like. That's it. Cayde is a fucking predator, at his party in high school, he tried to force Athena to give him head and when she said no and threw up on him because she'd drank too much, he was humiliated. That's attempted assault, not dub con and not fucking cute. He continues treating her like shit when she becomes his pet because he obviously has confidence issues. Dean is a 1-dimensional dumbass with the personality of a wet tissue and Jaxon can shove it as far as I'm concerned. His friends and family are garbage, but instead of pushing back, he just goes along with it like he has no choice. These three pricks are not redeemable at all, they're predators with a penchant for the unwilling. This book needs a better trigger warning in the beginning. The plot is non-existent, the characters are the least fleshed out fictional people I've read, the 'smut' is borderline or more assault and abuse.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2021
This book is a horrendous page for page remake of Lords of Pain. What’s even more disappointing is that this series came out after LoP and the author didn’t even bother trying to make it more interesting. The writing isn’t as good, the characters are more bland and even though the plot is almost identical, still doesn’t even hold a candle to LoP. I’d give 0 stars if possible.
September 25, 2021
Bully, university, founding fathers & heirs, cult like rituals what’s not to like?!
This was probably a two star for me but because of the writing it go bumped up. The writing itself wasnt filled with grammatical errors and flowed nicely. But in the beginning I just couldn’t get into it. I pushed myself to finish. Although towards the ending I got into it.
The fmc just fell flat and threw wasn’t really any interaction or emotional development/connection with the guys in the harem. Even the one she did latch onto was superficial. One just like her style, ones obsessed with revenge & the other just wants her for a means to an end in getting what he wants. I still don’t understand how two of the guys want her even though through the years they were in school and despite living in ones home there was no interaction between any of the characters except one fateful day when they meet. Fast forward two years later she’s forced into a founding fathers university with their heirs taking part of an antiquated patriarchal ritual of taking her virginity.
Her one and only friendship felt like a story filler.
No don’t get me wrong there’s some things I did like. For example jaxon does end up actually liking her (why again idk since none of them really have meaningful interactions besides one night & some streamy punishments) but he’s troubled about his past with a former love. Also he’s the lesser of the guys
Cayden: where to begin. Ideally I’m usually all for the brutes with their rage demons. I’m really interested to see which direction his character development ends up going with. Is he going to have feelings for the fmc & figure out why she actually intrigued him besides the shock of being denied his sexual advances?
And then there’s Dean who has the weight of restoring his family legacy. His cold and unfeeling.
The storyline itself is a generic trope with many RH’s but still enjoyable. If your first getting into the genre I think this would be a better match or if your really into bully and want to get a quick fix.
This was probably a two star for me but because of the writing it go bumped up. The writing itself wasnt filled with grammatical errors and flowed nicely. But in the beginning I just couldn’t get into it. I pushed myself to finish. Although towards the ending I got into it.
The fmc just fell flat and threw wasn’t really any interaction or emotional development/connection with the guys in the harem. Even the one she did latch onto was superficial. One just like her style, ones obsessed with revenge & the other just wants her for a means to an end in getting what he wants. I still don’t understand how two of the guys want her even though through the years they were in school and despite living in ones home there was no interaction between any of the characters except one fateful day when they meet. Fast forward two years later she’s forced into a founding fathers university with their heirs taking part of an antiquated patriarchal ritual of taking her virginity.
Her one and only friendship felt like a story filler.
No don’t get me wrong there’s some things I did like. For example jaxon does end up actually liking her (why again idk since none of them really have meaningful interactions besides one night & some streamy punishments) but he’s troubled about his past with a former love. Also he’s the lesser of the guys
Cayden: where to begin. Ideally I’m usually all for the brutes with their rage demons. I’m really interested to see which direction his character development ends up going with. Is he going to have feelings for the fmc & figure out why she actually intrigued him besides the shock of being denied his sexual advances?
And then there’s Dean who has the weight of restoring his family legacy. His cold and unfeeling.
The storyline itself is a generic trope with many RH’s but still enjoyable. If your first getting into the genre I think this would be a better match or if your really into bully and want to get a quick fix.
October 13, 2023
4⭐️
There were a few points in this book that went from dark to black imo 🫣🥺. That being said I like to walk the line sometimes and am thoroughly invested in this series.
I hope our girl gives those boys exactly what they deserve in book 2.
There were a few points in this book that went from dark to black imo 🫣🥺. That being said I like to walk the line sometimes and am thoroughly invested in this series.
I hope our girl gives those boys exactly what they deserve in book 2.
May 6, 2024
Cruel lord was a good read! I enjoyed the FMC Athena. The plot was interesting, if you are a fan of bully romance,reverse harem, and secret society I would definitely recommend it. My favorite male character is Jaxon. Jaxon grew on me and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series to see what happens!
Tropes:
Dark romance
Reverse harem
Secret society
Bully romance
College
Spicy
Tropes:
Dark romance
Reverse harem
Secret society
Bully romance
College
Spicy
April 20, 2022
Clearly I have issues because I actually liked the book. In fact I started it on Sunday night and by the end of Monday night I was already midway through Book 3.
Trigger Warning: Very Dark, Bullying, Nonconsensual Drug Use, Abuse, Humiliation, Degrading/Demeaning Sex and Violence.
Athena Saint is a transfer student at Blackmoor Academy. On her first day she ran into Cayde St. Vincent, Dean Blackmoor and Jaxon King also known as the 3 Heirs of Blackmoor. Athena didn’t really pay the three High School gods any attention despite the rumors she heard about them. After embarrassing Cayde at a party thrown at his house, she had a target on her back throughout the remainder of her High School years.
This is where things take a horrible turn for the worst. On the first day of college Athena wakes up in a strange place and finds out that she signed a contract to be the “Pet” of the Blackmoor Heirs. Bound to this contract Athena learns that she no longer has any say so in her life or life decisions. The Blackmoor Heirs controls every facet of her life including her body for the rest of her natural life. Unbeknownst to Athena she was chosen as a sacrifice to crown the new leader of the Blackmoor town. All “Pets” are virgins and the Heir with whom the virgin chooses to lose her virginity too becomes the rightful leader. This is a practice that has been going on for centuries with the Founding Families of Blackmoor: The Blackmoors, St Vincents and the Kings.
Cayde, Dean and to a lesser extent Jaxon are absolutely deplorable. The things they did to Athena was unimaginable from forcing her to perform gross and demeaning sexual acts, making her eat her food on a plate off the floor with no utensils, humiliating her in public, physically abusing her and finding immense pleasure in it. These young men wanted to break her until she was a shell of a woman and once she chose which heir to take her virginity the plan is to discard her upon graduation or keep her as a mistress or discard her altogether.
Athena suffers from a serious case of Stockholm Syndrome and Cayde, Dean and Jaxon has absolutely no redeeming qualities, this is a very difficult book to read and if you have a lot of triggers this book is definitely not for you because this series is very dark and the bullying is on another level.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Trigger Warning: Very Dark, Bullying, Nonconsensual Drug Use, Abuse, Humiliation, Degrading/Demeaning Sex and Violence.
Athena Saint is a transfer student at Blackmoor Academy. On her first day she ran into Cayde St. Vincent, Dean Blackmoor and Jaxon King also known as the 3 Heirs of Blackmoor. Athena didn’t really pay the three High School gods any attention despite the rumors she heard about them. After embarrassing Cayde at a party thrown at his house, she had a target on her back throughout the remainder of her High School years.
This is where things take a horrible turn for the worst. On the first day of college Athena wakes up in a strange place and finds out that she signed a contract to be the “Pet” of the Blackmoor Heirs. Bound to this contract Athena learns that she no longer has any say so in her life or life decisions. The Blackmoor Heirs controls every facet of her life including her body for the rest of her natural life. Unbeknownst to Athena she was chosen as a sacrifice to crown the new leader of the Blackmoor town. All “Pets” are virgins and the Heir with whom the virgin chooses to lose her virginity too becomes the rightful leader. This is a practice that has been going on for centuries with the Founding Families of Blackmoor: The Blackmoors, St Vincents and the Kings.
Cayde, Dean and to a lesser extent Jaxon are absolutely deplorable. The things they did to Athena was unimaginable from forcing her to perform gross and demeaning sexual acts, making her eat her food on a plate off the floor with no utensils, humiliating her in public, physically abusing her and finding immense pleasure in it. These young men wanted to break her until she was a shell of a woman and once she chose which heir to take her virginity the plan is to discard her upon graduation or keep her as a mistress or discard her altogether.
Athena suffers from a serious case of Stockholm Syndrome and Cayde, Dean and Jaxon has absolutely no redeeming qualities, this is a very difficult book to read and if you have a lot of triggers this book is definitely not for you because this series is very dark and the bullying is on another level.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 3, 2024
wow. this was bad! this was emotional & physical abuse. Why does it say romance and contemporary romance on the genre list??? 🤨
I'm actually being nice by giving this book a 1 star. Do yourself a favor and don't read this. You're welcome!
all three of those imbeciles need homeschool training 😮💨
I'm actually being nice by giving this book a 1 star. Do yourself a favor and don't read this. You're welcome!
all three of those imbeciles need homeschool training 😮💨
November 5, 2021
This is stupid. Maybe if I hadn’t read Lords of Pain first I’d be mildly interested? This is a cheap knockoff. “Lords” at a university with a girl under contract that they’re competing with eachother to take her virginity. Are you serious? I’m a firm believer in taking inspiration from other works ones admired, but to completely steal and then bastardize someone else’s intellectual property?
LoP was a suspension of disbelief, but this is book Cruel Lords is fucking ridiculous. The decision of who rules the town is hinged on.. a rando’s virginity? That doesn’t even make any sense. At least LoP was an ‘innocent’ (notsoinnocent) sidegame.. not destiny based. Also.. having a points system for the winner made sense and backed their cruelty. This book it doesn’t make sense that they’re so vile and also wanting her to give up her virginity willingly. If that’s the goal.. maybe just try giving her a bunch of orgasms then edging her until she begs instead of denying her pleasure and making her suck you cock?? I’m super down for cruelty, but pls have some rhyme&reason.. or at least don’t add counterproductive reasons?
The weirdest part is that there’s nothing original here. The title is a mix of Lords of Pain and Cruel Kings, the content is LoP, the cover looks like the Cruel Kings cover and authors name is so similar to the Cruel Kings author that I honestly think it might the same author Ivy Clyde (Thorne)
Either that or this is just fanfiction where the writer forgot to mention her source!
The only reason I gave it more than one star was because I read it all the way through.
LoP was a suspension of disbelief, but this is book Cruel Lords is fucking ridiculous. The decision of who rules the town is hinged on.. a rando’s virginity? That doesn’t even make any sense. At least LoP was an ‘innocent’ (notsoinnocent) sidegame.. not destiny based. Also.. having a points system for the winner made sense and backed their cruelty. This book it doesn’t make sense that they’re so vile and also wanting her to give up her virginity willingly. If that’s the goal.. maybe just try giving her a bunch of orgasms then edging her until she begs instead of denying her pleasure and making her suck you cock?? I’m super down for cruelty, but pls have some rhyme&reason.. or at least don’t add counterproductive reasons?
The weirdest part is that there’s nothing original here. The title is a mix of Lords of Pain and Cruel Kings, the content is LoP, the cover looks like the Cruel Kings cover and authors name is so similar to the Cruel Kings author that I honestly think it might the same author Ivy Clyde (Thorne)
Either that or this is just fanfiction where the writer forgot to mention her source!
The only reason I gave it more than one star was because I read it all the way through.
November 23, 2021
TW: ⚠️
Dark RH with kinky scenes… what’s not to love? Oh right how about no consent whatsoever!! This may be a fictional book but their has to be some line, that shouldn’t be crossed.
I would like to point out, this is my opinion of the story. While others might not agree and are able to handle the story… Go For It!! I just particularly did not like this book.
XoXo
Sav
Dark RH with kinky scenes… what’s not to love? Oh right how about no consent whatsoever!! This may be a fictional book but their has to be some line, that shouldn’t be crossed.
I would like to point out, this is my opinion of the story. While others might not agree and are able to handle the story… Go For It!! I just particularly did not like this book.
XoXo
Sav
January 6, 2024
2.5 stars
Intriguing until it wasn’t. Just felt drawn out and on top of having several themes similar to the Lords of Forsyth, which was so much better, I lost interest early on. I loved the cruel, bully, ahole aspects to the story, which for me, weren’t even dark, but the character dynamics fell short. Typically, even if there’s animosity between the main characters, there is some kind of magnetism between them. I felt little of anything between Athena Saint and Cayde St. Vincent, Jaxon King, or Dean Blackmoor. Maybe something for Jaxon, but with the others their relationship felt perfunctory.
Multiple points of view, which would ordinarily have enhanced the reading experience, but I didn’t feel a strong connection. And to arrive at 70% and know very little about the characters, to fell very little for them, other than the one motivation and the a hint of something in Jaxons past with his former girlfriend, Natalie. Then, the secret society felt just thrown in. The book didn’t emit the gothic vibe of something so ritualistic.
There was some steam (2.5/5), but it lacked tangible sexual tension and attraction, which could have been part of the story with more character development. I don’t mean the book needed to be longer or a slower burn because the pace was fairly good. The push and pull between the guys felt like time wasted that Athena could have used to strategize, time spent that she could have use her personal power against them. Instead, she simply came across as making impetuous decisions that would not further her interests. I think it all comes down to the writing style in not being very seasoned. (Not that I’m claiming I could do better, but it is what it is.) Elements felt commingled without any glue. Also, the storyline premise might have been good if a similar, better written book hadn’t already existed and the writing of this one were stronger. Still, while I find myself pausing at 70%, I am curious how it all turns out.
Intriguing until it wasn’t. Just felt drawn out and on top of having several themes similar to the Lords of Forsyth, which was so much better, I lost interest early on. I loved the cruel, bully, ahole aspects to the story, which for me, weren’t even dark, but the character dynamics fell short. Typically, even if there’s animosity between the main characters, there is some kind of magnetism between them. I felt little of anything between Athena Saint and Cayde St. Vincent, Jaxon King, or Dean Blackmoor. Maybe something for Jaxon, but with the others their relationship felt perfunctory.
Multiple points of view, which would ordinarily have enhanced the reading experience, but I didn’t feel a strong connection. And to arrive at 70% and know very little about the characters, to fell very little for them, other than the one motivation and the a hint of something in Jaxons past with his former girlfriend, Natalie. Then, the secret society felt just thrown in. The book didn’t emit the gothic vibe of something so ritualistic.
There was some steam (2.5/5), but it lacked tangible sexual tension and attraction, which could have been part of the story with more character development. I don’t mean the book needed to be longer or a slower burn because the pace was fairly good. The push and pull between the guys felt like time wasted that Athena could have used to strategize, time spent that she could have use her personal power against them. Instead, she simply came across as making impetuous decisions that would not further her interests. I think it all comes down to the writing style in not being very seasoned. (Not that I’m claiming I could do better, but it is what it is.) Elements felt commingled without any glue. Also, the storyline premise might have been good if a similar, better written book hadn’t already existed and the writing of this one were stronger. Still, while I find myself pausing at 70%, I am curious how it all turns out.
October 15, 2021
Thank you to Booksirens and the author, Ivy Thorn, for providing a copy of Cruel Lord (book 1). I have reviewed honestly.
Cruel Lord features, but is not limited to, the following themes:
○ Dark romance
○ Bully romance
○ Dub con/non con
○ College
○ Reverse harem
○ Secret Society
My overall rating for Cruel Lord is…
4 Stars!
What a disgustingly delicious ride! This book was despicable, dark and damaging yet so unbelievably devine! I loved the raw emotion each character displayed in their own ways, though I definitely did not agree with their short minded tendencies. I did struggle with the writing style at first, but it definitely grew on me. I think the entire premise of this story is solid, disturbing as it is. It'll definitely be interesting to see where the author will take this tale, especially with those last three lines leaving me so charged!
Cruel Lord features, but is not limited to, the following themes:
○ Dark romance
○ Bully romance
○ Dub con/non con
○ College
○ Reverse harem
○ Secret Society
My overall rating for Cruel Lord is…
4 Stars!
What a disgustingly delicious ride! This book was despicable, dark and damaging yet so unbelievably devine! I loved the raw emotion each character displayed in their own ways, though I definitely did not agree with their short minded tendencies. I did struggle with the writing style at first, but it definitely grew on me. I think the entire premise of this story is solid, disturbing as it is. It'll definitely be interesting to see where the author will take this tale, especially with those last three lines leaving me so charged!
December 3, 2021
I would like to thank BookSirens for providing me with an ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Honestly, I thought this book was going to be a 3-star read, but the ending made me change my mind. The plot of the book is not as basic as most reverse harem books. The three love interests in this book are basically a part of a weird family cult thing that has been going on for generations. And I loved the whole concept of that.
The thing that I didn't like as much was that the writer basically repeated the whole plot of the book or summarised the previous chapter every time the POV changed. I feel like those parts were unnecessary.
Overall, I am intrigued by this series and I honestly can't wait to read the sequel.
Honestly, I thought this book was going to be a 3-star read, but the ending made me change my mind. The plot of the book is not as basic as most reverse harem books. The three love interests in this book are basically a part of a weird family cult thing that has been going on for generations. And I loved the whole concept of that.
The thing that I didn't like as much was that the writer basically repeated the whole plot of the book or summarised the previous chapter every time the POV changed. I feel like those parts were unnecessary.
Overall, I am intrigued by this series and I honestly can't wait to read the sequel.
July 6, 2022
lords of pain rip off
This book is literally Lords of Pain by Angel Lawson and Samantha Rue. It’s the same storyline with a ton of the same situations. I understand writing the same trope and idea, but this is literally the same! It became hard to read because of how similar the story is. While it has a different twist, it’s still the same. I know I’ve said “it’s the same” a lot, but it blows my mind! The writing was fine and the story flowed but I just can’t ignore how it’s a rip off of a different story. Even the chick cover model is the same as LoP!! It’s like the author isn’t even trying to be discrete about it.
This book is literally Lords of Pain by Angel Lawson and Samantha Rue. It’s the same storyline with a ton of the same situations. I understand writing the same trope and idea, but this is literally the same! It became hard to read because of how similar the story is. While it has a different twist, it’s still the same. I know I’ve said “it’s the same” a lot, but it blows my mind! The writing was fine and the story flowed but I just can’t ignore how it’s a rip off of a different story. Even the chick cover model is the same as LoP!! It’s like the author isn’t even trying to be discrete about it.
November 14, 2021
DnF...
I just.. I have no idea what the writer was thinking...literally the worst scene imaginable (spoiler below)...and as the reader we are supposed to find these guys attractive or redeemable? Rofl. No way.
I had to check who was supposed to be the love interests in this book because it was so unbelievable.
*spoiler*
The guys try to force the drunk MC to suck their dick (not consensual or even dubcon)..just whips it out and puts it in her face and she throws up on the dick. Then they curse, call her disgusting and toss her out into the grass.
I just.. I have no idea what the writer was thinking...literally the worst scene imaginable (spoiler below)...and as the reader we are supposed to find these guys attractive or redeemable? Rofl. No way.
I had to check who was supposed to be the love interests in this book because it was so unbelievable.
*spoiler*
The guys try to force the drunk MC to suck their dick (not consensual or even dubcon)..just whips it out and puts it in her face and she throws up on the dick. Then they curse, call her disgusting and toss her out into the grass.
Want to read
January 26, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/2/2022)! 🎁
March 16, 2022
Is this book plagiarized? Because it’s the same exact concept of Lords of Pain by Angel Lawson. With the h’s mom being a housekeeper to the guys actions.
January 31, 2025
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
3 🌶🔥🥵
This is the first book in the Blackmoor Heirs series. It's definitely an emotional roller-coaster ride. The best way to describe this book is think of Mean Girls, but instead of girls, they are young adult men, meets The Ritual.
The things they do to Athena are downright dirty. The Lords do not make it easy for her. She can't say no. She is forced into this position she didn't want but she has to stay to protect her mom.
I can't wait to read the second book. Athena learns the truth and I am ready to see the hell she is about to release on her 3 Lords, Dean, Cayde, and Jaxon.
3 🌶🔥🥵
This is the first book in the Blackmoor Heirs series. It's definitely an emotional roller-coaster ride. The best way to describe this book is think of Mean Girls, but instead of girls, they are young adult men, meets The Ritual.
The things they do to Athena are downright dirty. The Lords do not make it easy for her. She can't say no. She is forced into this position she didn't want but she has to stay to protect her mom.
I can't wait to read the second book. Athena learns the truth and I am ready to see the hell she is about to release on her 3 Lords, Dean, Cayde, and Jaxon.
January 27, 2022
A FMC I Actually Liked
I enjoy bully romances and reverse harems but all too often I find the FMC to be annoying or I don’t feel like I really connect with her. That’s not the case in Cruel Lord. I really like Athena and the way she is always trying to find a loophole around the rules that are imposed on her and finding different ways to stick up for herself.
As far as the three guys go Jaxon easily has my heart I just wish he’d grow more of a spine. The other two have a lot of catching up to do in the next books to redeem themselves.
I enjoy bully romances and reverse harems but all too often I find the FMC to be annoying or I don’t feel like I really connect with her. That’s not the case in Cruel Lord. I really like Athena and the way she is always trying to find a loophole around the rules that are imposed on her and finding different ways to stick up for herself.
As far as the three guys go Jaxon easily has my heart I just wish he’d grow more of a spine. The other two have a lot of catching up to do in the next books to redeem themselves.
December 5, 2024
If you love this genre and these tropes then you will love this book
This dark romance delivers all the drama, angst, and steam. Cruel Lord hits all the right notes with its brooding alpha male and fiery heroine combo. It’s your classic dark romance formula, intense, addictive, and perfect for a binge-read. It’s got plenty of tension and spice to keep you hooked. If you love your romance dark and a little dangerous this one’s worth checking out. Not life-changing, but definitely satisfying.
This dark romance delivers all the drama, angst, and steam. Cruel Lord hits all the right notes with its brooding alpha male and fiery heroine combo. It’s your classic dark romance formula, intense, addictive, and perfect for a binge-read. It’s got plenty of tension and spice to keep you hooked. If you love your romance dark and a little dangerous this one’s worth checking out. Not life-changing, but definitely satisfying.
January 25, 2022
Two and a half stars
Don't think these assholes are redeemable. Undecided about reading the next book.
Don't think these assholes are redeemable. Undecided about reading the next book.
January 9, 2024
Loved this
Intense, hot, dark, exciting and fast paced. Really enjoyed this world and the characters. Very much looking forward to reading the next book!
Intense, hot, dark, exciting and fast paced. Really enjoyed this world and the characters. Very much looking forward to reading the next book!
December 27, 2025
TW: bullying/noncon SA/harmful remarks
I read a lot of bully romance but not to this extent. 💩
Definitely NO. One MMC made a homophobic/misogynistic remark or calling them the D word to demean the FMC its GG for you buddy, cause she got drunk and puke on his thing 💩 automatic DNF. Do not read list you go. ☠️
I read a lot of bully romance but not to this extent. 💩
Definitely NO. One MMC made a homophobic/misogynistic remark or calling them the D word to demean the FMC its GG for you buddy, cause she got drunk and puke on his thing 💩 automatic DNF. Do not read list you go. ☠️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2022
This book was different than the normal Reverse harem books that I read. There is ALOT of bullying in this book, so if you have any triggers that are related to that I would skip this book. I had a hard time getting into this book. The first 100ish pages I was asking myself “why am I still reading this?’ I was originally going to give this book 2 stars but because of the writing style (it flows nicely) and the ending I gave it 3 stars. I would recommend this book for people that are into hardcore bullying. I’m not 100% if I will read the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free From book siren, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free From book siren, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 18, 2021
Would recommend only to those readers who are specifically looking for hard core bully book content. If you are looking for romantic gestures and redeemable actions, you will be disappointed. With that said, the writing overall is fantastic. There are a few minor errors within the writing (example would be "his" when a "her" is meant). I typically do not read bully love stories, though occasionally I find myself curious. My curiosity was sated in that the story-line was unique and interesting, leaving me intrigued enough to venture into the next book when it is released. I would strongly warn against reading this book for any people who have trauma history or are easily activated by violence/assault/alpha male to the extreme misogyny. When I initially accessed this book, I found it tagged with "reverse harem" ; though I am far from an expert reader of this genre--I would caution expectations of reverse harem--at least for this first installment--simply because our leading MC is not empowered in the slightest, nor is she cared for in the most basic ways. The book reminded me so much of the way older Kdramas (think like Boys Over Flowers, Playful Kiss...) would have elaborate though exciting schemes to put a heroine in the power of their bullies--hinting at future potential for love; though this comparison is perhaps not fair, as the violence and violation in the book toward the MC is far more brutal then a kdrama. Regardless, I found myself rooting for redeemable moments and look forward to the further development of our MC in her growth as a person in the next book. I would be lying if I said I didn't run to watch a Kdrama after the ending of this book. The beginning of this book was a tad difficult for me to get through, but I am not unhappy that I finished it and find myself going back to specific scenes that are in my head. It's also worth noting that I was easily able to read this in a day.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 14, 2022
I've Been Here Before
I read a series a few months ago from another author with same storyline, just different names. Even the title 'Lords' were the same.
Spoiler Alert
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Three entitled boys from well to do families goes to college ,plays the game of trying to be the first to sleep with the virgin. The winner gets to carry on the family name and take over the town. You know the drill. The heirs are downright mean to the FMC. She has to live with them and do whatever they tell her to do. They degrade her at every turn. They even take her to the basement with the pledges so they continue to do more degrading things because she belongs to them. I wonder if authors borrow other authors books and change names and places? For instance in another book one of heirs played football, but in this book he plays rugby. The other book had a party, guy get drunk and take a willing female upstairs to get in on...just like this one. They even make the FMC perform a sexual act in the study just like the other book. I'll go one step further, the other book had a female who managed the house...this one has a male. Time will tell with the next installment. I'm not giving up just yet.
I read a series a few months ago from another author with same storyline, just different names. Even the title 'Lords' were the same.
Spoiler Alert
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Three entitled boys from well to do families goes to college ,plays the game of trying to be the first to sleep with the virgin. The winner gets to carry on the family name and take over the town. You know the drill. The heirs are downright mean to the FMC. She has to live with them and do whatever they tell her to do. They degrade her at every turn. They even take her to the basement with the pledges so they continue to do more degrading things because she belongs to them. I wonder if authors borrow other authors books and change names and places? For instance in another book one of heirs played football, but in this book he plays rugby. The other book had a party, guy get drunk and take a willing female upstairs to get in on...just like this one. They even make the FMC perform a sexual act in the study just like the other book. I'll go one step further, the other book had a female who managed the house...this one has a male. Time will tell with the next installment. I'm not giving up just yet.
July 11, 2022
DNF @ 42%
I found this book because of a tiktok that said “hey if you liked Lords of Pain, read Cruel Lord” and I did love Lords of Pain, so I thought why not?
I didn’t expect this book to be so similar that I feel like Angel Lawson and Samantha Rue could sue for plagiarism.
The plot is the same, the three guys are the same, even some of the scenes are pretty much the same.
The only thing that’s actually different is Athena and how she gets stuck serving the Lords. Athena thinks of herself as this badass, don’t take no shit girl, but everything about her actions negates that. And whereas in LoP, Story willingly signs up to be Lady and it’s only for a year, Athena is drugged and forced into signing a contract that means she belongs to the Lords for life??
And I saw another review pointing this out, but the fact that the “lordship” of Blackmoor is decided by who a random girl decides to let devirginize her? That’s insane.
My advice? If you are considering reading this and haven’t read the Lords of Pain trilogy yet, read that. If you have read LoP, just read that again instead of this.
I found this book because of a tiktok that said “hey if you liked Lords of Pain, read Cruel Lord” and I did love Lords of Pain, so I thought why not?
I didn’t expect this book to be so similar that I feel like Angel Lawson and Samantha Rue could sue for plagiarism.
The plot is the same, the three guys are the same, even some of the scenes are pretty much the same.
The only thing that’s actually different is Athena and how she gets stuck serving the Lords. Athena thinks of herself as this badass, don’t take no shit girl, but everything about her actions negates that. And whereas in LoP, Story willingly signs up to be Lady and it’s only for a year, Athena is drugged and forced into signing a contract that means she belongs to the Lords for life??
And I saw another review pointing this out, but the fact that the “lordship” of Blackmoor is decided by who a random girl decides to let devirginize her? That’s insane.
My advice? If you are considering reading this and haven’t read the Lords of Pain trilogy yet, read that. If you have read LoP, just read that again instead of this.
October 7, 2021
Wow.
This was quite a read! First, this is full of triggers (for some), and situations that made me cringe, but I couldn't put it down! The pages turned themselves, and I found myself knowing that I need more of this story, I need to know what happens now.
Several times in this read I was angry, disgusted and disappointed with all three of the guys… and so sad for Athena! (This book has serious heat too!) This author certainly pulled many different emotions from me throughout this book.
I do recommend this read, as it was entertaining. And, I look forward to reading more about this situation.
I received an advance copy of this book for free and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was quite a read! First, this is full of triggers (for some), and situations that made me cringe, but I couldn't put it down! The pages turned themselves, and I found myself knowing that I need more of this story, I need to know what happens now.
Several times in this read I was angry, disgusted and disappointed with all three of the guys… and so sad for Athena! (This book has serious heat too!) This author certainly pulled many different emotions from me throughout this book.
I do recommend this read, as it was entertaining. And, I look forward to reading more about this situation.
I received an advance copy of this book for free and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 4, 2022
Before going into this book I was really apprehensive due to the reviews left before my own mind could be made.
While I do feel this book was similar to Lords of Pain, I feel there wasn't any sort or copying done and it was definitely well written, there was a lot of emotion poured into this book.
I cried, I smiled and more. I do wish that there were some differences in the behaviour toward the MC but it added to the whole ideology surrounding the storyline and I rather enjoyed this read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
While I do feel this book was similar to Lords of Pain, I feel there wasn't any sort or copying done and it was definitely well written, there was a lot of emotion poured into this book.
I cried, I smiled and more. I do wish that there were some differences in the behaviour toward the MC but it added to the whole ideology surrounding the storyline and I rather enjoyed this read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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