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Evermore University #1
This Is War
This war of hearts will have no victor.
JAXON
Messing with Logan Kent at a college rager is the perfect way to get under his skin.
But when I steal my stepbrother’s girl, it becomes a different ball game.
Changing the play might be the dumbest thing I’ve ever done.
RYA
Kissing Jaxon Ledger to get over my best friend should solve all my problems.
But when I discover they’re rivals, our dynamic becomes complicated.
Falling for stepbrothers might be the dumbest thing I’ve ever done.
LOGAN
Crushing on Rya Monroe is a secret I keep close to my chest.
But when I see my best friend with the guy I love to hate, feelings get tangled.
Craving them both might be the dumbest thing I’ve ever done.
Welcome to Evermore University.
This Is War is shaping up to be an 80K+ word novel, the first in duet, centering around two men and one woman. By the end of the duet the relationship will be classified as MMF. It ends on a cliffhanger.
This duet contains dark elements, graphic content, and situations that some readers may be particularly sensitive to. If you have triggers or are even remotely unsure, please check my website, which you can access through Leila's author page, for a full list.
JAXON
Messing with Logan Kent at a college rager is the perfect way to get under his skin.
But when I steal my stepbrother’s girl, it becomes a different ball game.
Changing the play might be the dumbest thing I’ve ever done.
RYA
Kissing Jaxon Ledger to get over my best friend should solve all my problems.
But when I discover they’re rivals, our dynamic becomes complicated.
Falling for stepbrothers might be the dumbest thing I’ve ever done.
LOGAN
Crushing on Rya Monroe is a secret I keep close to my chest.
But when I see my best friend with the guy I love to hate, feelings get tangled.
Craving them both might be the dumbest thing I’ve ever done.
Welcome to Evermore University.
This Is War is shaping up to be an 80K+ word novel, the first in duet, centering around two men and one woman. By the end of the duet the relationship will be classified as MMF. It ends on a cliffhanger.
This duet contains dark elements, graphic content, and situations that some readers may be particularly sensitive to. If you have triggers or are even remotely unsure, please check my website, which you can access through Leila's author page, for a full list.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2024
173 people are currently reading
537 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
October 18, 2024
Part of me wants to continue this series when the next book comes out to see where it goes. Problem is, I really truly disliked two-thirds of this triangle.
Rya: Logan "broke her trust" by not telling her he had a step-brother. Excuse me?
He wanted to move on and leave a toxic relationship in the past, and she makes it all about her? It shouldn't matter that her relationship with Logan was platonic, when your best friend tells you that somebody has it out for them and is actively tormenting them, you believe them. You protect them. It doesn't matter if the other guy is hot or that your vagina wants to make excuses for him. You take your friend's side. Period. When your best friend, who's always been reliable, tells you he missed meeting up for dinner because somebody locked him in a PT room and that same somebody was waiting outside the building to conveniently step in, you believe your friend. This stupid girl spent the entire book questioning Logan's motives and siding with a complete stranger. She never wonders about Jaxon's sudden interest in her. And if that wasn't enough, she . This girl is complete garbage as a friend, and does not deserve Logan in any capacity. I want so much for her to discover the string of messages on Jaxon's phone to Logan and to realize how much he played her from the start. That she was just another tool used to bully her friend. I want her to wallow in the idea that she drove away the guy she loved. But I won't hold my breath. Even if she does learn the truth, she'll just shrug it off, because to do otherwise would be to hold Jaxon accountable.
Jaxon I find him completely unsympathetic. He wages war on Logan for the crime of...attending the same college? That's it. There's no big bad secret trauma. There's no deep dark betrayal. He's just an asshole who gets off on hurting others. I might empathize with him more if he ever suffered for his actions. But nope. Karma's on vacation, please leave a message. You can tell he's the author's favorite, because he always wins. And that makes me dislike him more.
Logan - I love this guy, but I just really need to see him grow a backbone and demand better for himself. I was proud of him for avoiding Rya, but then he turned around and searched for her after the party game. I understand that he needed to be there to set up the next book, but she destroyed the friendship and she should be the one following him around and begging for forgiveness.
At the very least, the spice was good. Rya and Jaxon felt slimy to me, and mostly took place offscreen. But both of them were very hot in their scenes with Logan.
How I expect the next book will go: Jaxon and Logan will work together to find out who did the thing at the end of the first book (Azreal, obviously). Jaxon realizes he has real feelings for Logan. Logan forgives and forgets because he has no standards. Rya never learns the truth about Jaxon, never has to acknowledge what a terrible friend she was. Jaxon never pays for his actions, and the three live happily ever after.
How I wish it would go: Rya learns the truth and dumps Jaxon. Logan refuses to give either of them any more of his time or energy, finds a new throuple, and lives happily ever after without them.
Rya: Logan "broke her trust" by not telling her he had a step-brother. Excuse me?
He wanted to move on and leave a toxic relationship in the past, and she makes it all about her? It shouldn't matter that her relationship with Logan was platonic, when your best friend tells you that somebody has it out for them and is actively tormenting them, you believe them. You protect them. It doesn't matter if the other guy is hot or that your vagina wants to make excuses for him. You take your friend's side. Period. When your best friend, who's always been reliable, tells you he missed meeting up for dinner because somebody locked him in a PT room and that same somebody was waiting outside the building to conveniently step in, you believe your friend. This stupid girl spent the entire book questioning Logan's motives and siding with a complete stranger. She never wonders about Jaxon's sudden interest in her. And if that wasn't enough, she . This girl is complete garbage as a friend, and does not deserve Logan in any capacity. I want so much for her to discover the string of messages on Jaxon's phone to Logan and to realize how much he played her from the start. That she was just another tool used to bully her friend. I want her to wallow in the idea that she drove away the guy she loved. But I won't hold my breath. Even if she does learn the truth, she'll just shrug it off, because to do otherwise would be to hold Jaxon accountable.
Jaxon I find him completely unsympathetic. He wages war on Logan for the crime of...attending the same college? That's it. There's no big bad secret trauma. There's no deep dark betrayal. He's just an asshole who gets off on hurting others. I might empathize with him more if he ever suffered for his actions. But nope. Karma's on vacation, please leave a message. You can tell he's the author's favorite, because he always wins. And that makes me dislike him more.
Logan - I love this guy, but I just really need to see him grow a backbone and demand better for himself. I was proud of him for avoiding Rya, but then he turned around and searched for her after the party game. I understand that he needed to be there to set up the next book, but she destroyed the friendship and she should be the one following him around and begging for forgiveness.
At the very least, the spice was good. Rya and Jaxon felt slimy to me, and mostly took place offscreen. But both of them were very hot in their scenes with Logan.
How I expect the next book will go: Jaxon and Logan will work together to find out who did the thing at the end of the first book (Azreal, obviously). Jaxon realizes he has real feelings for Logan. Logan forgives and forgets because he has no standards. Rya never learns the truth about Jaxon, never has to acknowledge what a terrible friend she was. Jaxon never pays for his actions, and the three live happily ever after.
How I wish it would go: Rya learns the truth and dumps Jaxon. Logan refuses to give either of them any more of his time or energy, finds a new throuple, and lives happily ever after without them.
February 7, 2025
I normally like Leila James books but this one didn't work for me. Mostly because Rya is just not a likable FMC, she is TSTL, not really a good friend, and generally annoying. Jaxon is just an ass and there isn't a real good reason for it. Logan just exists wringing his hands. Many of the plot points have seemed very contrived. Overall I was disappointed by this one.
September 25, 2024
Have you ever read a book you were almost scared to turn the page or start a new chapter because you don't know if it is going to be full of heartbreak, suspense or that it will be intensely anxiety ridden? Well, that's how I felt almost right from the beginning of this amazing book.
The dynamic between all of the characters was undeniably on point. They all have special things that bond them together. And the more we delve into those?... Hold onto your hats because Leila takes us on one hell of a rollercoaster ride. The animosity between Logan and Jaxon had my anxiety going through the roof throughout this whole book. Add in Rya, and we'll, you get the perfection that is Leila's words.
A few times, I had to just put the book down and let my feelings settle in. I couldn't help but fall for these characters. You love them, dislike them, hurt with them, and even hope for them. This book really did give me all the feels, and if you're a walking tear duct like me, watch out! Leila does a number on us.
Leila, you sure know how to leave us on edge! What a cliffhanger hanger! I'm so sad I have to wait so long for the conclusion of this story. 5⭐️'s doesn't seem like enough. This was absolutely fantastic!
The dynamic between all of the characters was undeniably on point. They all have special things that bond them together. And the more we delve into those?... Hold onto your hats because Leila takes us on one hell of a rollercoaster ride. The animosity between Logan and Jaxon had my anxiety going through the roof throughout this whole book. Add in Rya, and we'll, you get the perfection that is Leila's words.
A few times, I had to just put the book down and let my feelings settle in. I couldn't help but fall for these characters. You love them, dislike them, hurt with them, and even hope for them. This book really did give me all the feels, and if you're a walking tear duct like me, watch out! Leila does a number on us.
Leila, you sure know how to leave us on edge! What a cliffhanger hanger! I'm so sad I have to wait so long for the conclusion of this story. 5⭐️'s doesn't seem like enough. This was absolutely fantastic!
September 24, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Characters: 4.5/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Spice: 3/5
MMF
Love Triangle (or is it?)
Friends To Lovers
Enemies To Lovers
Stepbrothers
Untouched Dancer FMC
Baseball Player MMCs
University Setting
Mystery
Revenge
Dark
Rya is a freshman dance major at Evermore University. She’s excited to be starting her second semester and practicing to audition for a coveted school ballet role. Her happy existence is turned upside down when she discovers that her best friend and secret crush, Logan, has a secret stepbrother who will become their resident advisor.
Jaxon and Logan are more than just rivals, on and off the baseball field, they loathe each other. Jaxon has made it his mission to take anything that Logan holds dear and destroy it - including Rya. Unfortunately for him, he begins to fall under not only her’s but also Logan’s spell.
Jaxon is not the only one with ulterior motives at the university. Someone with more sinister intentions has targeted Rya and the threats and danger escalate.
Characters: 4.5/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Spice: 3/5
MMF
Love Triangle (or is it?)
Friends To Lovers
Enemies To Lovers
Stepbrothers
Untouched Dancer FMC
Baseball Player MMCs
University Setting
Mystery
Revenge
Dark
Rya is a freshman dance major at Evermore University. She’s excited to be starting her second semester and practicing to audition for a coveted school ballet role. Her happy existence is turned upside down when she discovers that her best friend and secret crush, Logan, has a secret stepbrother who will become their resident advisor.
Jaxon and Logan are more than just rivals, on and off the baseball field, they loathe each other. Jaxon has made it his mission to take anything that Logan holds dear and destroy it - including Rya. Unfortunately for him, he begins to fall under not only her’s but also Logan’s spell.
Jaxon is not the only one with ulterior motives at the university. Someone with more sinister intentions has targeted Rya and the threats and danger escalate.
February 4, 2025
Oh my god…that cliffhanger. Thank god I waited to read this until the second book was out. It’s so good. I’m starting the next one right now!!!
September 24, 2024
**Book Review:**
*This War of Hearts* presents a tangled web of emotions, secrets, and forbidden desires, creating a compelling story filled with drama and intrigue. The story centers on Jaxon, Rya, and Logan, three college students caught in a love triangle that tests their loyalties and shakes their identities.
Jaxon’s rebellious nature shines through as he attempts to get under Logan’s skin by pursuing Rya, but things spiral out of control when real feelings emerge. Meanwhile, Rya, trying to move on from her unrequited love for her best friend, finds herself in over her head as she becomes entangled with stepbrothers. Logan’s secret crush on Rya, combined with his ongoing rivalry with Jaxon, only complicates matters further.
Its a gripping emotional ride, where each character is pushed to their limits, making decisions that might change the course of their relationships forever. The romantic tension between Jaxon and Logan, and their shared connection to Rya, promises readers an intense and unpredictable love triangle.
For fans of angst-filled romances and complex character dynamics, *This War of Hearts* delivers a mix of passion, rivalry, and heartache. It’s a story where no victory is easy, and love can feel as dangerous as war.
*This War of Hearts* presents a tangled web of emotions, secrets, and forbidden desires, creating a compelling story filled with drama and intrigue. The story centers on Jaxon, Rya, and Logan, three college students caught in a love triangle that tests their loyalties and shakes their identities.
Jaxon’s rebellious nature shines through as he attempts to get under Logan’s skin by pursuing Rya, but things spiral out of control when real feelings emerge. Meanwhile, Rya, trying to move on from her unrequited love for her best friend, finds herself in over her head as she becomes entangled with stepbrothers. Logan’s secret crush on Rya, combined with his ongoing rivalry with Jaxon, only complicates matters further.
Its a gripping emotional ride, where each character is pushed to their limits, making decisions that might change the course of their relationships forever. The romantic tension between Jaxon and Logan, and their shared connection to Rya, promises readers an intense and unpredictable love triangle.
For fans of angst-filled romances and complex character dynamics, *This War of Hearts* delivers a mix of passion, rivalry, and heartache. It’s a story where no victory is easy, and love can feel as dangerous as war.
September 30, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️ and 3/5 🌶️
Ok this book is exciting! Two stepbrothers who cannot stand each other are now faced with an interesting situation! Rya is Logan’s best friend but Logan’s stepbrother Jaxon has been hanging around Rya and showing a lot of interest in her. Which brother gets her VCard?? And to make things a little more interesting, both brothers play on the college baseball team. Is their interest in Rya going to bring them together or drive them further apart??
Ok this book is exciting! Two stepbrothers who cannot stand each other are now faced with an interesting situation! Rya is Logan’s best friend but Logan’s stepbrother Jaxon has been hanging around Rya and showing a lot of interest in her. Which brother gets her VCard?? And to make things a little more interesting, both brothers play on the college baseball team. Is their interest in Rya going to bring them together or drive them further apart??
December 4, 2024
*spoilers+
This book had potential.....is Rya wasn't such a freaking idiot. She is hands down the worst female lead EVER. So the book starts at a party where they play a game and Rya gets paired with Jaxson whom she does not know. There is visibly a lot of tension between Jaxon and Logan (her best friend), but she plays the game and spends time with Jaxon, and then she decides she's into Jaxon while also being into Logan. She can't be with Logan because she thinks he's 'gay'- despite never asking him about it or even thinking of the concept of bisexuality. Logan ofc has a huge crush on her and tells her about his issues with his stepbrother Jaxon. Rya gets mad at Logan for not letting her know that they're brothers and blah blah blah. Jaxon is actually such a d!ck to Logan for no reason (Jax doesn't like that their parents are married) and is always talking smack to him but when he's around Rya he does a complete 360. The ENTIRE book is Rya picking Jaxon over Logan despite Logan being her 'best friend. Logan tells her Jax is mean and sh!tty she does not care and hangs out with him more bc he 'makes her feel things' and he can give her what she can't have with Logan. Like whenever Jaxon and Logan speak its literally just Jaxon saying really mean things to him and Logan just bein like 'what tf did I do'? At one point Jaxon locked him up somewhere to make it seem like Logan ditched Rya when they were hanging out. Not only that the only reason Jaxon got close to Rya was to 'steal' her from Logan, and that was his resolve for 95% of the book. Up until the very end, he kept coming up with different methods to make Logan suffer by using Rya
MOREOVER, at one point, during one of Logan and Rya many arguments that lasted days, someone trashes her room so she runs to Logan to tell him. She cries he comforts her and then she's like 'Logan I need you'. She sleeps with him and then the NEXT DAY the two brothers are off to this sports thing and they share a room. SHE HAS PHONE S*X WITH JAXON.... and then the day after she tells Logan 'I can't be with you blah blah blah...it's too confusing' (she also accuses Logan of going into her room and trashing it to make her stay away from Jaxon which he ofc did not do) ..... and then a couple of hours later Jaxon goes like 'haha babe ur so hot and sexy let's date' and she's like 'yes ofc jaxon poo I wud luv that'. Like beee so freaken FRRR.
THE ONLY TWO PEOPLE WHO HAD AN OUNCE OF CHEMISTRY WERE JAXON AND LOGAN. OH- and right after Jax and Rya get together they go to a party. A party in which Jaxon CHEATS on her with Logan. The only good people in this book are Logan and Hazel.
I REST MY CASE. I'm so thrown off bc I've read like 7-9 of her other books and LOOOOVED them LOOVED the female leads too.
This book had potential.....is Rya wasn't such a freaking idiot. She is hands down the worst female lead EVER. So the book starts at a party where they play a game and Rya gets paired with Jaxson whom she does not know. There is visibly a lot of tension between Jaxon and Logan (her best friend), but she plays the game and spends time with Jaxon, and then she decides she's into Jaxon while also being into Logan. She can't be with Logan because she thinks he's 'gay'- despite never asking him about it or even thinking of the concept of bisexuality. Logan ofc has a huge crush on her and tells her about his issues with his stepbrother Jaxon. Rya gets mad at Logan for not letting her know that they're brothers and blah blah blah. Jaxon is actually such a d!ck to Logan for no reason (Jax doesn't like that their parents are married) and is always talking smack to him but when he's around Rya he does a complete 360. The ENTIRE book is Rya picking Jaxon over Logan despite Logan being her 'best friend. Logan tells her Jax is mean and sh!tty she does not care and hangs out with him more bc he 'makes her feel things' and he can give her what she can't have with Logan. Like whenever Jaxon and Logan speak its literally just Jaxon saying really mean things to him and Logan just bein like 'what tf did I do'? At one point Jaxon locked him up somewhere to make it seem like Logan ditched Rya when they were hanging out. Not only that the only reason Jaxon got close to Rya was to 'steal' her from Logan, and that was his resolve for 95% of the book. Up until the very end, he kept coming up with different methods to make Logan suffer by using Rya
MOREOVER, at one point, during one of Logan and Rya many arguments that lasted days, someone trashes her room so she runs to Logan to tell him. She cries he comforts her and then she's like 'Logan I need you'. She sleeps with him and then the NEXT DAY the two brothers are off to this sports thing and they share a room. SHE HAS PHONE S*X WITH JAXON.... and then the day after she tells Logan 'I can't be with you blah blah blah...it's too confusing' (she also accuses Logan of going into her room and trashing it to make her stay away from Jaxon which he ofc did not do) ..... and then a couple of hours later Jaxon goes like 'haha babe ur so hot and sexy let's date' and she's like 'yes ofc jaxon poo I wud luv that'. Like beee so freaken FRRR.
THE ONLY TWO PEOPLE WHO HAD AN OUNCE OF CHEMISTRY WERE JAXON AND LOGAN. OH- and right after Jax and Rya get together they go to a party. A party in which Jaxon CHEATS on her with Logan. The only good people in this book are Logan and Hazel.
I REST MY CASE. I'm so thrown off bc I've read like 7-9 of her other books and LOOOOVED them LOOVED the female leads too.
September 30, 2024
As soon as this landed on my kindle, I spent all night reading until I got to the end, and omfg it is so good!! Leila's writing is so addicting, and even though I'm angry at all our characters and don't trust anyone else (looking at a certain roommate & frat brother) I cannot wait until I have part two in my hands!!
So here we have Rya and Logan who are the best of friends, and secretly in love with one another, but refuses to let the other know. This makes for some delicious angst and the tender moments between them are just *chefs kiss* but with all of that comes a lot of misunderstanding and miscommunication, and boy do these two do both epically.
Then enters Jaxon, Logan's stepbrother (but shh, it's a secret!) who immediately sets sights on the captivating Rya, but is it really all to rile up Logan? Or will Jax truly fall for her and convince her that every moment was real between them? And then there's all that pent up sexual chemistry between Jax and Logan, and so much bitterness and resentment -- can these three figure out their tenuous relationship and stay alive while doing so? I guess we'll find out with part two!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
So here we have Rya and Logan who are the best of friends, and secretly in love with one another, but refuses to let the other know. This makes for some delicious angst and the tender moments between them are just *chefs kiss* but with all of that comes a lot of misunderstanding and miscommunication, and boy do these two do both epically.
Then enters Jaxon, Logan's stepbrother (but shh, it's a secret!) who immediately sets sights on the captivating Rya, but is it really all to rile up Logan? Or will Jax truly fall for her and convince her that every moment was real between them? And then there's all that pent up sexual chemistry between Jax and Logan, and so much bitterness and resentment -- can these three figure out their tenuous relationship and stay alive while doing so? I guess we'll find out with part two!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
April 8, 2025
jaxon + rya + logan
duet | 1st book in All's Fair Duet | MF / MM / MMF | Evermore University | ballet dancer x baseball player x baseball player | love triangle | stepbrothers | enemies to lovers | bi-awakening | best friends to lovers | stepbrother's "girlfriend" | rivals | mystery/suspense | nicknames "baby", "tiny dancer", and "pretty girl" | "Who the fck made you cry?" -Jaxon | jaxon has a tattoo + nose rings | cliffhanger
🎵If U Think I'm Pretty - Artemas🎵
⚠️Check trigger warnings before diving in because there are some hard topics woven into this story⚠️
Leila is known for writing emotional, angsty, and dark as fck romance with unique characters and plot twists. And she delivered just that with this story!
Logan and Rya are best friends from high school that find themselves as freshman at Evermore University. Rya is a ballet dancer and Logan is a pitcher for the university's baseball team. Upon arriving at college, Rya and Logan attend a party at the Tri-Beta frat house. They are blindsided with the game "Friend and a Fifth". This is where Rya meets Jaxon, a sophomore, who becomes her partner for the game. And come to find out Jaxon is Logan's estranged stepbrother.
Jaxon's dad and Logan's mom got together after a nasty divorce between Jaxon's parents and the death of Logan's dad from an on duty car accident (he was a cop). Logan's stepdad, also Jaxon's father, favors Logan over Jaxon which causes Jaxon to exact revenge on Logan and all he's taken from him. And the ultimate revenge? Going after Rya.
Rya's a ballet dancer going after a coveted spot in the spring showcase, but a night of overdrinking with Jaxon creates some *memorable moments* in the bathroom (IYKYK)! Leila had me cackling with the baseball pun tshirt that Jaxon lent to Rya (balls deep and 3rd base references got me!). Jaxon is also a pitcher for the university's team and after Logan finds out about his stepbro going after Rya? It's game freakin' on between these enemies/rivals. Jaxon stops at nothing to get between Logan and Rya even going as far as becoming an RA for their dorm. But little does Jaxon know that he's about to find out a lot about himself as he gets closer to Rya and Logan.
I loved Rya's "Little Miss Fix It" personality because she just couldn't help herself with the dilemma between Logan and Jaxon. She wants so badly to fix it and bring them together and boy, oh boy DOES SHE. The amount of hot scenes jammed into this book were hngggg *drools on keyboard*. From the shower to the locker room to the hotel and the dorm rooms, even in the backseat of the car - these three GOT IT ON. And the side characters/roomies for this trio - Levi and Hazel - couldn't have been written better.
But it wouldn't be a Leila James story without some tragedy and mystery now would it? Jaxon's family story, Logan's past trauma from his father's passing, Rya's turmoil from pining after her best friend....emotional x 100000. The mystery aspect had me gritting my teeth trying to figure out who was behind it all and the Leila left me hanging....!
A 5 star favorite that I enjoyed despite the cliffhanger (immediately started the next book ha!)
duet | 1st book in All's Fair Duet | MF / MM / MMF | Evermore University | ballet dancer x baseball player x baseball player | love triangle | stepbrothers | enemies to lovers | bi-awakening | best friends to lovers | stepbrother's "girlfriend" | rivals | mystery/suspense | nicknames "baby", "tiny dancer", and "pretty girl" | "Who the fck made you cry?" -Jaxon | jaxon has a tattoo + nose rings | cliffhanger
🎵If U Think I'm Pretty - Artemas🎵
⚠️Check trigger warnings before diving in because there are some hard topics woven into this story⚠️
Leila is known for writing emotional, angsty, and dark as fck romance with unique characters and plot twists. And she delivered just that with this story!
Logan and Rya are best friends from high school that find themselves as freshman at Evermore University. Rya is a ballet dancer and Logan is a pitcher for the university's baseball team. Upon arriving at college, Rya and Logan attend a party at the Tri-Beta frat house. They are blindsided with the game "Friend and a Fifth". This is where Rya meets Jaxon, a sophomore, who becomes her partner for the game. And come to find out Jaxon is Logan's estranged stepbrother.
Jaxon's dad and Logan's mom got together after a nasty divorce between Jaxon's parents and the death of Logan's dad from an on duty car accident (he was a cop). Logan's stepdad, also Jaxon's father, favors Logan over Jaxon which causes Jaxon to exact revenge on Logan and all he's taken from him. And the ultimate revenge? Going after Rya.
Rya's a ballet dancer going after a coveted spot in the spring showcase, but a night of overdrinking with Jaxon creates some *memorable moments* in the bathroom (IYKYK)! Leila had me cackling with the baseball pun tshirt that Jaxon lent to Rya (balls deep and 3rd base references got me!). Jaxon is also a pitcher for the university's team and after Logan finds out about his stepbro going after Rya? It's game freakin' on between these enemies/rivals. Jaxon stops at nothing to get between Logan and Rya even going as far as becoming an RA for their dorm. But little does Jaxon know that he's about to find out a lot about himself as he gets closer to Rya and Logan.
I loved Rya's "Little Miss Fix It" personality because she just couldn't help herself with the dilemma between Logan and Jaxon. She wants so badly to fix it and bring them together and boy, oh boy DOES SHE. The amount of hot scenes jammed into this book were hngggg *drools on keyboard*. From the shower to the locker room to the hotel and the dorm rooms, even in the backseat of the car - these three GOT IT ON. And the side characters/roomies for this trio - Levi and Hazel - couldn't have been written better.
But it wouldn't be a Leila James story without some tragedy and mystery now would it? Jaxon's family story, Logan's past trauma from his father's passing, Rya's turmoil from pining after her best friend....emotional x 100000. The mystery aspect had me gritting my teeth trying to figure out who was behind it all and the Leila left me hanging....!
A 5 star favorite that I enjoyed despite the cliffhanger (immediately started the next book ha!)
September 16, 2024
To say that Leila James is the Queen of Steam is quite an understatement. This is War, the first book in the All's Fair Duet has my temperature rising in all the good ways. This stepbrother love triangle will have your heart racing and your mind blown with all the strife, angst, and mischief.
Jaxon is the resident bad boy that will do what ever it takes to get under his stepbrother's skin. Including stealing his stepbrother's best friend/love interest. He's definitely the definition of a bad boy with a mean streak.
Logan is the boy next door type of guy who is secretly in love with his best friend. He's made it his mission to always be there for Rya, no matter the cost. But under that boy next door persona, hides a passion and a longing that is bursting at the seams.
Rya is the sweet girl who becomes torn between the good guy and the wild unknown. She has fallen for both stepbrothers. One who has been her tried and true confidant and the new and dangerous guy intent on having her.
Underneath this love triangle resides a new passion dying to emerge from the surface that has these stepbrothers confused and angry. Fighting for the same girl and fighting from each other, This is War will have your head turning this way and that. One minute I'm rooting for one, the next minute I'm rooting for the other. And in the end, I'm left with a cliffhanger that has me needing book 2 sooner than yesterday.
Jaxon is the resident bad boy that will do what ever it takes to get under his stepbrother's skin. Including stealing his stepbrother's best friend/love interest. He's definitely the definition of a bad boy with a mean streak.
Logan is the boy next door type of guy who is secretly in love with his best friend. He's made it his mission to always be there for Rya, no matter the cost. But under that boy next door persona, hides a passion and a longing that is bursting at the seams.
Rya is the sweet girl who becomes torn between the good guy and the wild unknown. She has fallen for both stepbrothers. One who has been her tried and true confidant and the new and dangerous guy intent on having her.
Underneath this love triangle resides a new passion dying to emerge from the surface that has these stepbrothers confused and angry. Fighting for the same girl and fighting from each other, This is War will have your head turning this way and that. One minute I'm rooting for one, the next minute I'm rooting for the other. And in the end, I'm left with a cliffhanger that has me needing book 2 sooner than yesterday.
September 28, 2024
Whatever you're expecting for this duet, throw away your expectations. Trust me, they're not what you think.
I fell in love with Logan and Rya right away. They have an obvious and deep connection. Especially when you realize how much they love each other but refuse to share their feelings. Logan feels protective of Rya, and will do anything for her. Rya loves him and feels safe with him. It's easy to rely on someone you know to treat you a certain way. When some of that variety of feelings pop up, it gets super interesting!
Then when you bring in Jaxon and Rya together, you see that instant connection. Whereas her connection with Logan has been building for a while, this one is instantaneous. One part, one encounter, and BOOM like fireworks going off. I found it fascinating that Jaxon's original plan got fouled up when he developed feelings for Miss Rya too. Their feelings, interactions, and the mix of Logan in there make things get even MORE interesting!
Logan and Jaxon? Well, well, well....that was explosive and unexpected! Their hatred for each other shows through. Their feelings are strong, no matter what they are. The tug of war they sort of feel for each other fascinated me.
This whole book was pretty intense on and off. I feel like there's great development and we're set up for an ending that has you going what the heck was that? Please send me the next one, RIGHT NOW!
Totally pumped for book 2 and the conclusion and aftermath of this one.
I fell in love with Logan and Rya right away. They have an obvious and deep connection. Especially when you realize how much they love each other but refuse to share their feelings. Logan feels protective of Rya, and will do anything for her. Rya loves him and feels safe with him. It's easy to rely on someone you know to treat you a certain way. When some of that variety of feelings pop up, it gets super interesting!
Then when you bring in Jaxon and Rya together, you see that instant connection. Whereas her connection with Logan has been building for a while, this one is instantaneous. One part, one encounter, and BOOM like fireworks going off. I found it fascinating that Jaxon's original plan got fouled up when he developed feelings for Miss Rya too. Their feelings, interactions, and the mix of Logan in there make things get even MORE interesting!
Logan and Jaxon? Well, well, well....that was explosive and unexpected! Their hatred for each other shows through. Their feelings are strong, no matter what they are. The tug of war they sort of feel for each other fascinated me.
This whole book was pretty intense on and off. I feel like there's great development and we're set up for an ending that has you going what the heck was that? Please send me the next one, RIGHT NOW!
Totally pumped for book 2 and the conclusion and aftermath of this one.
October 4, 2024
This is absolutely gripping and intense, and it makes you feel in experience everything like you’re with them and it is just breathtaking!! The back-and-forth with Logan and his stepbro Jaxon, is so powerful…. Leila is an absolute gifted writer because she can make you feel things with the way she writes that not many authors can do which is absolutely why I love her and this story is my favorite so far the cliffy is killing me. I need the second half tomorrow because I’m so hooked, but when you read it, you’ll understand why it is impossible not to fall in love with these characters! And appreciate the unique way that Leila James speaks for the characters. Everything is just so genuine feeling I love her and I am crazy in love with Logan and Rya and Jaxon!!!!
September 26, 2024
This Is War by Leila James is a sizzling, tension-filled ride that throws you straight into the chaos of Evermore University, where three hearts clash in a dangerous game of love and hate.
Rya Monroe has always been Logan’s best friend, harboring secret feelings for him while struggling to keep things platonic. Everything changes when she meets Jaxon, Logan’s stepbrother and bitter rival. What starts as a playful kiss to get over Logan quickly spirals out of control as she’s drawn into the complicated dynamic between the two men. Jaxon’s relentless need to destroy everything Logan loves becomes more complicated when he realizes he might be falling for Rya—and for Logan.
This book takes you on a wild rollercoaster of emotions with its blend of friends-to-lovers, enemies-to-lovers, and MMF romance. It’s a complex dance of attraction, jealousy, and raw emotion. Rya’s innocence and ambition are tested as she navigates the storm brewing between the stepbrothers, each vying for her heart in their own way.
And let’s talk about that cliffhanger. It’s the kind of ending that makes you want to throw your Kindle across the room. You’ll be desperate to know what happens next as the story shifts from a simple love triangle to something far deeper and darker.
Final Thoughts: If you’re a fan of dark, twisty romances with intense love triangles, then This Is War will be right up your alley. Leila James masterfully weaves together angst, passion, and intrigue, leaving you breathless and craving more. Be sure to check this one out—but beware of the emotional rollercoaster!
Rating: 4/5
October 1, 2024
Another great book by Leila. This one was still in a college setting. This featured Rya and Logan. They met in high school and were both freshman at the same college. Rya was in school for dance. She was paired up with Hazel as a roommate who was also in dance. Logan and Levi were roommates as well. Logan liked Rya but he never said anything. He didn’t want to ruin their friendship. Rya felt the same way. One night at a frat party Rya met Jaxon who turned out to be Logan’s step brother which he never told Rya about. She was losing trust in him since he was keeping secrets from her. She ended up staying in Logan’s room one night after her room was broken into and everything was torn apart and some stuff was broken. They got into a fight a few days later and were avoiding each other. This drive Rya back towards Jaxon. The book ended with another party at the frat house and ended on a cliffhanger.
October 10, 2024
Leila does it again, I always go into her books knowing they’re going to take me on an emotional ride and have me hooked wanting more.
Rya is a freshmen dance major who gets tangled up with two step brothers who loathe each other.
Jaxon is set out to destroy anything that Logan holds dear but what he doesn’t expect is to fall under Rya’s spell but not just hers Logan’s. As feelings become confusing and more entangled Jaxon’s icy exterior starts to melt but not only just for Rya.
Logan has been harboring secret feelings for Rya for years but he doesn’t want to ruin their relationship so keeps it a secret from her. We get to watch him deal with his inner turmoil over the fact that Jaxon has gotten Rya’s attention.
As the story progresses someone more sinister has set their sights on Rya threats and danger begin to escalate.
Leila knows how to write a dark and antsy college romance and keep you stuck from the very first sentence. Unexpected twists and turns, spice and danger what more could you ask for. Be forewarned it does end on a cliffhanger that’s gonna make you bite your nails waiting for the next book.
Rya is a freshmen dance major who gets tangled up with two step brothers who loathe each other.
Jaxon is set out to destroy anything that Logan holds dear but what he doesn’t expect is to fall under Rya’s spell but not just hers Logan’s. As feelings become confusing and more entangled Jaxon’s icy exterior starts to melt but not only just for Rya.
Logan has been harboring secret feelings for Rya for years but he doesn’t want to ruin their relationship so keeps it a secret from her. We get to watch him deal with his inner turmoil over the fact that Jaxon has gotten Rya’s attention.
As the story progresses someone more sinister has set their sights on Rya threats and danger begin to escalate.
Leila knows how to write a dark and antsy college romance and keep you stuck from the very first sentence. Unexpected twists and turns, spice and danger what more could you ask for. Be forewarned it does end on a cliffhanger that’s gonna make you bite your nails waiting for the next book.
September 29, 2024
I went into this book completely blind. I saw the cover and the author and said sold! Didn't need more information. Just hand over the book.
The drama between Logan, Jaxon, and Rya was off the charts. Logan and Jaxon are stepbrothers who don't get along. Jaxon delights in trying to get under Logan's skin. What better way to watch him unravel than to go after Rya? Rya is Logan's best friend secretly pining away for him but knowing that nothing will ever come from it. Logan has feelings for Rya but can't bear the thought of ruining their friendship. Will he be pushed to act now that Jaxon seems to be making a move on Rya?
I devoured this book!!! There's so much animosity and tension between Logan and Jaxon. Poor Rya is stuck in the middle. Can I just say the 🌶 in this book was 🥵. Like oh my. Now, what the heck was that ending?!!! I need book 2!!!
The drama between Logan, Jaxon, and Rya was off the charts. Logan and Jaxon are stepbrothers who don't get along. Jaxon delights in trying to get under Logan's skin. What better way to watch him unravel than to go after Rya? Rya is Logan's best friend secretly pining away for him but knowing that nothing will ever come from it. Logan has feelings for Rya but can't bear the thought of ruining their friendship. Will he be pushed to act now that Jaxon seems to be making a move on Rya?
I devoured this book!!! There's so much animosity and tension between Logan and Jaxon. Poor Rya is stuck in the middle. Can I just say the 🌶 in this book was 🥵. Like oh my. Now, what the heck was that ending?!!! I need book 2!!!
September 28, 2024
This book drove me absolutely insane, but in the best way. I was so mad throughout this whole dang book. It only made me want more. I love Logan. He is my favorite character in this book. I can't stand Jaxon. And for the first time ever, I can't stand the FMC. She drives me crazy. She really can't see what is right directly in front of her eyes. Jaxon is just a douche. I really think by book two everything will all come together. I really couldn't put this one down. Leila really out did herself with this one. When a book makes you so mad but so mad, you can't put it down. That's this book. Logan is amazing. Always there, yet somehow gets pegged the bad one. I will go nuts waiting for book two.
September 25, 2024
Ok, I’m Obsessed. Seriously! I have loved everything that Leila James writes and this book is no exception. I couldn’t put it down!
This is War was full of drama, tension, angst, and spice…
Rya and Logan have been best friends since their senior year of high school and now they both freshman at Evermore University. They both have feelings for each other, but neither one has said anything.
One night, they go to a party, where Rya meets Jaxon, who she thinks is a random guy, and hooks up with him. Jaxon is actually Logan’s step brother and knows exactly who Rya is. He is purposely getting with her to try and mess with Logan. Logan and Jaxon have been rivals ever since their parents got together and Rya has no idea that Logan even has a step brother.
When Logan finds out about Rya & Jaxon things get complicated for them. This puts a huge strain on Rya & Logan’s friendship, which was Jaxon’s goal. He wanted to get between them.
Tension builds and eventually Rya finds out the truth about who Jaxon is and how Logan feels. Rya is so sweet and innocent and she isn’t sure what to do. She is actually falling for both of them!
“…in completely different ways, they each give me what I need. Jaxon has a knack for taking my mind off things. He’s fun to be around. Exciting. Logan is like a soothing bomb to my soul. So kind and caring. My person.” -Rya
Jaxon is hilarious. I know he’s supposed to be the “instigator” or the villain at the moment, but I absolutely love him!
Logan is the sweetest guy and truly has Rya’s best interest at heart… he loves her, but he also loves to hate Jaxon. Logan doesn’t want to admit it but he is totally drawn to Jaxon. These two, although rivals, are definitely hot together.
This Is War is book 1 in a duet and ends on a cliffhanger.
This is War was full of drama, tension, angst, and spice…
Rya and Logan have been best friends since their senior year of high school and now they both freshman at Evermore University. They both have feelings for each other, but neither one has said anything.
One night, they go to a party, where Rya meets Jaxon, who she thinks is a random guy, and hooks up with him. Jaxon is actually Logan’s step brother and knows exactly who Rya is. He is purposely getting with her to try and mess with Logan. Logan and Jaxon have been rivals ever since their parents got together and Rya has no idea that Logan even has a step brother.
When Logan finds out about Rya & Jaxon things get complicated for them. This puts a huge strain on Rya & Logan’s friendship, which was Jaxon’s goal. He wanted to get between them.
Tension builds and eventually Rya finds out the truth about who Jaxon is and how Logan feels. Rya is so sweet and innocent and she isn’t sure what to do. She is actually falling for both of them!
“…in completely different ways, they each give me what I need. Jaxon has a knack for taking my mind off things. He’s fun to be around. Exciting. Logan is like a soothing bomb to my soul. So kind and caring. My person.” -Rya
Jaxon is hilarious. I know he’s supposed to be the “instigator” or the villain at the moment, but I absolutely love him!
Logan is the sweetest guy and truly has Rya’s best interest at heart… he loves her, but he also loves to hate Jaxon. Logan doesn’t want to admit it but he is totally drawn to Jaxon. These two, although rivals, are definitely hot together.
This Is War is book 1 in a duet and ends on a cliffhanger.
September 19, 2024
Leila James does it again! This is an author that is an automatic read to me for good reason! How she manages to make you hate her characters, all the while rooting for, and falling in love with them is her biggest superpower! I fell in love with these characters almost immediately and couldn't stop reading until I knew what happened! In true Leila james fashion, we have to wait for the 2nd book in the duet, but it's 1000% worth the wait! This is the first book in the All's Fair Duet. Leila succeeds in her goal again-I was definitely up past my bedtime lost in the beautifully broken world that she created for me!
Logan and Rya are best friends with secret feelings for each other. Cue Logan's Stepbrother, Jaxon, that Rya doesn't know existed because Logan and Jaxon can't stand each other!
Jaxon has some not so "brotherly" plans for the friends. But as the saying what goes around comes around, and Jaxon gets quite a dose of karma.
Then the ending! Omg the cliffhanger will have you crossing the days off your calendar until book 2 releases!
What you can expect
Love Triangle to MMF by the end of the duet
Stepbrothers
Virgin
Bi-awakening
Ruthless games
All the angst
Friends-to-Lovers
Enemies-to-Lovers
Story ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶🌶.5
Angst 🩶🩶🩶🩶
Logan and Rya are best friends with secret feelings for each other. Cue Logan's Stepbrother, Jaxon, that Rya doesn't know existed because Logan and Jaxon can't stand each other!
Jaxon has some not so "brotherly" plans for the friends. But as the saying what goes around comes around, and Jaxon gets quite a dose of karma.
Then the ending! Omg the cliffhanger will have you crossing the days off your calendar until book 2 releases!
What you can expect
Love Triangle to MMF by the end of the duet
Stepbrothers
Virgin
Bi-awakening
Ruthless games
All the angst
Friends-to-Lovers
Enemies-to-Lovers
Story ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶🌶.5
Angst 🩶🩶🩶🩶
September 19, 2024
This book was so good right up to that cliffhanger!
Rya seems so innocent but has a spunky side to her. She’s loyal and loves her best friend she’s so anything for him. Their relationship was perfect throughout the book even in her doubts at times I loved them.
Logan is like a golden retriever the best kind of friend someone can have. His protective side was perfect with this book. He an his stepbrother are like oil and water an he’s not happy about them in the same vicinity. It leads to some tense moments throughout the book even
Jaxson he’s the bad boy we love to hate. An he’s everything Logan desperately hates. Their relationship is perfect with the hatred the have for each other and throughout the book we get some glimpses why they can’t stand each other. Jaxson an Rya start hanging out a that irritates Logan one hundred percent.
I’m excited to see how the cliffhanger plays out in book two an how the dynamics play out with the three of them a the mystery surrounding the cliffhanger.
Rya seems so innocent but has a spunky side to her. She’s loyal and loves her best friend she’s so anything for him. Their relationship was perfect throughout the book even in her doubts at times I loved them.
Logan is like a golden retriever the best kind of friend someone can have. His protective side was perfect with this book. He an his stepbrother are like oil and water an he’s not happy about them in the same vicinity. It leads to some tense moments throughout the book even
Jaxson he’s the bad boy we love to hate. An he’s everything Logan desperately hates. Their relationship is perfect with the hatred the have for each other and throughout the book we get some glimpses why they can’t stand each other. Jaxson an Rya start hanging out a that irritates Logan one hundred percent.
I’m excited to see how the cliffhanger plays out in book two an how the dynamics play out with the three of them a the mystery surrounding the cliffhanger.
September 19, 2024
Oh my God! What in the ever loving heck was that ending? Always love a good cliffy… But my goodness! I am so sad I have to wait until next year for more of the story. I don’t know what it is about Leila’s books… But I devour them in one sitting and when I come upon the ending of the book, I feel like no time has passed and I’m devastated that there is no more to read. Her writing is freaking phenomenal and I am completely obsessed with every single world of hers that I have read and this book is no different. I am loving the absolutely devastating tension and heartbreak between these three… Who doesn’t love a good enemies to lovers story? This was so spicy 🥵
I was on the edge of my seat for this entire book… I’m only sad that it wasn’t longer. I cannot wait for the second half of the duet. All of the things that I needed to get over my reading slump.
I was on the edge of my seat for this entire book… I’m only sad that it wasn’t longer. I cannot wait for the second half of the duet. All of the things that I needed to get over my reading slump.
September 15, 2024
So here I am, staring at my screen, trying to find a way to describe the emotional rollercoaster these characters are on without giving away all the juicy details.
Let’s start with Rya and Logan—besties for years, but apparently allergic to confessing their true feelings. The pining? Off the charts. The angst? We're talking soap opera levels. Then, out of nowhere, Jaxon swoops in like a human plot twist—oh, did I mention he’s Logan’s step-brother? Because of course he is. Unknownest to Rya.
Ah, Jaxon. Cue dramatic sigh. He’s got a plan, and spoiler alert: it’s not exactly wholesome, steal the girl. But as we all know, karma's got a sense of humor, and his evil genius scheme totally blows up in his face. Suddenly, he’s got real feelings for Rya, and things get... complicated. Think emotional blender on high speed with a sprinkle of chaos. Buckle up, because the angst is about to hit a whole new level.
What to Expect:
🔥New Adult College Romance
🔥Enemies-to-Lovers / Bully
🔥Friends-to-Lovers
🔥Love Triangle to MMF
🔥Angsty, Emotion-driven plot
🔥Bi-awakening
🔥V!rgin
🔥Stepbrother
Written in multiple 1st POV.
Story ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 (rounded up to 5)
Spice 🌶️🌶️.5
Angst ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Darkness 🩶
Let’s start with Rya and Logan—besties for years, but apparently allergic to confessing their true feelings. The pining? Off the charts. The angst? We're talking soap opera levels. Then, out of nowhere, Jaxon swoops in like a human plot twist—oh, did I mention he’s Logan’s step-brother? Because of course he is. Unknownest to Rya.
Ah, Jaxon. Cue dramatic sigh. He’s got a plan, and spoiler alert: it’s not exactly wholesome, steal the girl. But as we all know, karma's got a sense of humor, and his evil genius scheme totally blows up in his face. Suddenly, he’s got real feelings for Rya, and things get... complicated. Think emotional blender on high speed with a sprinkle of chaos. Buckle up, because the angst is about to hit a whole new level.
What to Expect:
🔥New Adult College Romance
🔥Enemies-to-Lovers / Bully
🔥Friends-to-Lovers
🔥Love Triangle to MMF
🔥Angsty, Emotion-driven plot
🔥Bi-awakening
🔥V!rgin
🔥Stepbrother
Written in multiple 1st POV.
Story ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 (rounded up to 5)
Spice 🌶️🌶️.5
Angst ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Darkness 🩶
January 8, 2025
Oh, gosh! Where to start….
I know this duet hasn’t fully come out yet, but I can’t believe I have already finished book one in like three days? What! I’m usually a very slow reader. I can’t quite believe I read this in three days. I was like at 75% in just two days. I COULDN’T GET ENOUGH. This is War….is my everything and more. This duet….I don’t know how any other books are going to compare. To say I loved it would be the understatement of the year and yes I know the year just started! I ADORED THIS BOOK. 😍💯💘
I’ve been looking for a book just like this…where it starts off as a love triangle and the guy’s hate each other’s guts but then end up falling for each other and the same girl???
I have BEEN SEARCHING. So when I discovered this book, I almost couldn’t believe it! Leila, you’ve written the book I’ve been dreaming, wishing and hoping for!
I have also been recommending it to every person I’ve talked to since I’ve started it.
If what I said above doesn’t grab your attention maybe listing a few tropes will:
Love triangle to more?
Possessive/Protective Baseball pitcher MMC’s
Dancer FMC (and this book actually has full scenes with baseball and dance, not just a mention of it which I highly appreciated and was totally refreshing)
Revenge Era
University
Keeps you on the edge 👀 I couldn’t turn these pages fast enough.
Friends to ???
Stepbrothers
Enemies to ???
3x the Spice but not the way you might expect (because why not? Even though I had expectations and how this book might turn out, it wasn’t how I exactly thought it would! Which I appraise Leila for as well)
What else can I say to entice you or make you read this? Because I seriously need to chat about it.
Oh gosh! The cover and have you seen book two’s, This is Love?
Now if you’re not into model covers…shame. But if this was an object cover/discreet cover I would have to say…two pitcher gloves and a ballet slipper in each with the same colours as the model cover: pink (ballet slipper and ribbon) and black (pitcher gloves) gray ish (university logo/crest in the background) and then for book 2, get this… have the ballet slipper ribbon tying the two pitcher gloves together forming a heart. Is anyone seeing this? No? Okay. Just me. 😅
Still not convinced? Such a shame.
Convinced? Read it and then come chat about it with me or better yet give me a play by play of your thoughts while reading please. 😂
I know this duet hasn’t fully come out yet, but I can’t believe I have already finished book one in like three days? What! I’m usually a very slow reader. I can’t quite believe I read this in three days. I was like at 75% in just two days. I COULDN’T GET ENOUGH. This is War….is my everything and more. This duet….I don’t know how any other books are going to compare. To say I loved it would be the understatement of the year and yes I know the year just started! I ADORED THIS BOOK. 😍💯💘
I’ve been looking for a book just like this…where it starts off as a love triangle and the guy’s hate each other’s guts but then end up falling for each other and the same girl???
I have BEEN SEARCHING. So when I discovered this book, I almost couldn’t believe it! Leila, you’ve written the book I’ve been dreaming, wishing and hoping for!
I have also been recommending it to every person I’ve talked to since I’ve started it.
If what I said above doesn’t grab your attention maybe listing a few tropes will:
Love triangle to more?
Possessive/Protective Baseball pitcher MMC’s
Dancer FMC (and this book actually has full scenes with baseball and dance, not just a mention of it which I highly appreciated and was totally refreshing)
Revenge Era
University
Keeps you on the edge 👀 I couldn’t turn these pages fast enough.
Friends to ???
Stepbrothers
Enemies to ???
3x the Spice but not the way you might expect (because why not? Even though I had expectations and how this book might turn out, it wasn’t how I exactly thought it would! Which I appraise Leila for as well)
What else can I say to entice you or make you read this? Because I seriously need to chat about it.
Oh gosh! The cover and have you seen book two’s, This is Love?
Now if you’re not into model covers…shame. But if this was an object cover/discreet cover I would have to say…two pitcher gloves and a ballet slipper in each with the same colours as the model cover: pink (ballet slipper and ribbon) and black (pitcher gloves) gray ish (university logo/crest in the background) and then for book 2, get this… have the ballet slipper ribbon tying the two pitcher gloves together forming a heart. Is anyone seeing this? No? Okay. Just me. 😅
Still not convinced? Such a shame.
Convinced? Read it and then come chat about it with me or better yet give me a play by play of your thoughts while reading please. 😂
February 10, 2025
Triangles mannnn
🩷 This Is War 🩷 (Book 1 in the Alls Fair Duet) by Leila James
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
🩷 I kept reading only because I was promised the duet will end in MMF. Meaning it will be HEA for all. Because I cannot handle a love triangle. I always end up choosing someone and then get mad when the FMC doesn’t choose the one I want 🤣. So yes, going into this I suggest not getting too attached over 1 MMC. - cause well I did (TEAM LOGAN).
🩷 This one was such a ride. Such a pull of angst, anger, annoyance, shock, etc all rolled into one. My heart hurt so much during this book - but I honestly didn’t know who to be hurt for.
🩷 Let me tell you this - all 3 characters are flawed. All 3 of them the cause of their own miseries so don’t get it twisted - they all really kind of deserve the h3ll they are being put through emotionally - but I will say this - Rya realllllllly made me wanna bop bop. To say she has this friendship with Logan but the moment someone says something to her she immediately thinks he’s this “bad guy” and ya know what girly pop - you deserve to feel like 💩. Idk she made me angry 🤣🤣 but like I still love her cause she’s such a sweet human and she isn’t prepared for all the disasters that are piling up around her.
🩷 Jaxon is definitely one you’ll hate to love and love to hate and I truly think that’s the whole point. There’s a moment in this book where I truly was on his team - and then he pulled some 💩 and I was sad about it. Like idk what’s a game to this man and what’s real it’s so hard to like him but then he makes it so hard to hate him.
🩷 Logan. Oh sweet Logan. This man has been pining and hoping for so long, that I swear instead of truly showing Rya what he wants (her) he’s ruining it with this need and jealousy over his step-brother. As much as he feels like he’s protecting Rya from Jaxon I feel like he’s just combusting the whole thing. I just wanted to hug him.
🩷 Also - this book is a bit twisty and the cliff will have you like - WTAF is happening???
📖
🩷 This Is War 🩷 (Book 1 in the Alls Fair Duet) by Leila James
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
🩷 I kept reading only because I was promised the duet will end in MMF. Meaning it will be HEA for all. Because I cannot handle a love triangle. I always end up choosing someone and then get mad when the FMC doesn’t choose the one I want 🤣. So yes, going into this I suggest not getting too attached over 1 MMC. - cause well I did (TEAM LOGAN).
🩷 This one was such a ride. Such a pull of angst, anger, annoyance, shock, etc all rolled into one. My heart hurt so much during this book - but I honestly didn’t know who to be hurt for.
🩷 Let me tell you this - all 3 characters are flawed. All 3 of them the cause of their own miseries so don’t get it twisted - they all really kind of deserve the h3ll they are being put through emotionally - but I will say this - Rya realllllllly made me wanna bop bop. To say she has this friendship with Logan but the moment someone says something to her she immediately thinks he’s this “bad guy” and ya know what girly pop - you deserve to feel like 💩. Idk she made me angry 🤣🤣 but like I still love her cause she’s such a sweet human and she isn’t prepared for all the disasters that are piling up around her.
🩷 Jaxon is definitely one you’ll hate to love and love to hate and I truly think that’s the whole point. There’s a moment in this book where I truly was on his team - and then he pulled some 💩 and I was sad about it. Like idk what’s a game to this man and what’s real it’s so hard to like him but then he makes it so hard to hate him.
🩷 Logan. Oh sweet Logan. This man has been pining and hoping for so long, that I swear instead of truly showing Rya what he wants (her) he’s ruining it with this need and jealousy over his step-brother. As much as he feels like he’s protecting Rya from Jaxon I feel like he’s just combusting the whole thing. I just wanted to hug him.
🩷 Also - this book is a bit twisty and the cliff will have you like - WTAF is happening???
📖
September 28, 2024
Once more, I’m sucked into the addicting world that Leila James creates in her dark bully romance books, with a humdinger of a cliffhanger. This is book 1 of 2. Logan, Rya and Jaxon are college students living in the same dorm. Logan and Rya are best friends who have been secretly pining for each other. But when Jaxon, Logan’s step brother, shows interest in Rya, jealousy roars into the picture. Jaxon’s hate for Logan A hate that fuels a different passion that surprises them.
The tension that is building in this book is so tight and astronomical that it is a page-turner. Lord, the animosity and hate between Jaxon and Logan is thick… is it bad to want to relish in the final explosion of anger…or maybe it’s sexual tension. Add to that Rya’s conflicting emotions as she’s struggling with feelings for both guys. I have to say her behavior toward Logan near the end broke my heart. I wanted to kick her in the butt, yet I know the author will work her magic as always and make everything right in the world. And let me just say…. oh Lordy, the steamy hotness between these 3 is epic, and specifically the tension building between Logan & Jaxon is off the charts. That build up is something Leila James is a master at.
This book is such a wild ride, layers of mystery and answers that lead to more questions. That ending will stick with me until book 2 and leaves my mind swirling with all sorts of possibilities. I loved that we have a whole new world to discover in James’ college universe. When I am up for 2 nights straight until the wee hours of the morning it’s definitely a 5-star read.
The tension that is building in this book is so tight and astronomical that it is a page-turner. Lord, the animosity and hate between Jaxon and Logan is thick… is it bad to want to relish in the final explosion of anger…or maybe it’s sexual tension. Add to that Rya’s conflicting emotions as she’s struggling with feelings for both guys. I have to say her behavior toward Logan near the end broke my heart. I wanted to kick her in the butt, yet I know the author will work her magic as always and make everything right in the world. And let me just say…. oh Lordy, the steamy hotness between these 3 is epic, and specifically the tension building between Logan & Jaxon is off the charts. That build up is something Leila James is a master at.
This book is such a wild ride, layers of mystery and answers that lead to more questions. That ending will stick with me until book 2 and leaves my mind swirling with all sorts of possibilities. I loved that we have a whole new world to discover in James’ college universe. When I am up for 2 nights straight until the wee hours of the morning it’s definitely a 5-star read.
September 26, 2024
Review:
🖤This Is War🖤
All’s Fair Duet #1
Evermore University
By Leila James
⭐5/5 ❤️5/5 🌶️4/5
🖤 Stepbrothers
🖤 MMF Romance
🖤 College Romance
This is fantastic
Rya
A dancer torn between step brothers
Logan
A boy torn between want and hate
Jaxon
A boy torn between new feelings
A delicious, tension filled battle of wills and wants.
Emotions wonderfully mixed and composed as a symphony for a war of hearts.
A girl between two guys, stepbrothers. And stepbrothers battling over one girl and, for or against, each other. Or the hot attraction laced with hate.
Logan has secrets that his best friend, Rya, doesn’t know about. And while some might break their friendship, others might be a reason to develop a new level.
Rya is attracted to her best friend Logan, but for a reason she cannot act on her feelings. It might break their friendship if she would tell.
Jaxon is so determined to hurt Logan because he thinks that he has and gets all he wants.
Jealousness, wants, attraction and feelings put together can only end in a disaster in that case.
So Rya ends up between the bad boy and the good one. For now. But there is a lot more to discover.
Logan is such a sweetheart, in every way. He has his secrets, but they are not bad ones. I like him very much, he is so far my favorite character here.
Rya is a good girl, but her feelings clearly let her make some decisions that she should have put more thoughts into. But she gots confused and overwhelmed.
Jaxon is on a path of hurting someone he despises and who gets under his skin. But as always the best laid plans go wrong, exactly the other way they were not supposed to.
We have angst, pining, spice and more. Can’t wait for their conclusion. The cliffhanger was unexpected and made me curious. As does the story itself, of course.
🖤This Is War🖤
All’s Fair Duet #1
Evermore University
By Leila James
⭐5/5 ❤️5/5 🌶️4/5
🖤 Stepbrothers
🖤 MMF Romance
🖤 College Romance
This is fantastic
Rya
A dancer torn between step brothers
Logan
A boy torn between want and hate
Jaxon
A boy torn between new feelings
A delicious, tension filled battle of wills and wants.
Emotions wonderfully mixed and composed as a symphony for a war of hearts.
A girl between two guys, stepbrothers. And stepbrothers battling over one girl and, for or against, each other. Or the hot attraction laced with hate.
Logan has secrets that his best friend, Rya, doesn’t know about. And while some might break their friendship, others might be a reason to develop a new level.
Rya is attracted to her best friend Logan, but for a reason she cannot act on her feelings. It might break their friendship if she would tell.
Jaxon is so determined to hurt Logan because he thinks that he has and gets all he wants.
Jealousness, wants, attraction and feelings put together can only end in a disaster in that case.
So Rya ends up between the bad boy and the good one. For now. But there is a lot more to discover.
Logan is such a sweetheart, in every way. He has his secrets, but they are not bad ones. I like him very much, he is so far my favorite character here.
Rya is a good girl, but her feelings clearly let her make some decisions that she should have put more thoughts into. But she gots confused and overwhelmed.
Jaxon is on a path of hurting someone he despises and who gets under his skin. But as always the best laid plans go wrong, exactly the other way they were not supposed to.
We have angst, pining, spice and more. Can’t wait for their conclusion. The cliffhanger was unexpected and made me curious. As does the story itself, of course.
May 2, 2025
i wish i liked this more. it's not that it's bad, it's just that the plot is finicky and the longer this book goes on, the more unlikable rya gets. she gets more and more selfish as time goes on. first it's feeling entitled to logan's experience with his stepbrother, when he already explains that he didn't think they'd ever meet and he didn't want to talk about it. then it's the fact that she clearly sees that there's some bad blood there and instead of just saying, "you're my best friend and if you say this guy is bad news, then i trust you," she sneaks around behind logan's back the entire time while actively throwing a little bitch fit that he didn't tell her about him in the first place.
not to mention her whole suspicion about him being the one to break into her room. clearly you don't like or respect him enough as your "best friend" if you think he'd do that to you, even though at this point i wouldn't even blame him.
this entire book is rya being a bitch to logan, and then she even has the audacity to beg him to have sex with her simply because something bad happened to her and she has to pull the incredibly cliche "make me forget, i don't want to think about this" which i always hate in books. there's something that deeply undercuts the romance of a story if the only reason the couple is sleeping together is so that a character can "forget" a traumatic experience. it automatically leaves the reader to infer "if this bad thing wouldn't have happened to her, this wouldn't be happening," and that's not romantic or sexy.
not to mention her whole suspicion about him being the one to break into her room. clearly you don't like or respect him enough as your "best friend" if you think he'd do that to you, even though at this point i wouldn't even blame him.
this entire book is rya being a bitch to logan, and then she even has the audacity to beg him to have sex with her simply because something bad happened to her and she has to pull the incredibly cliche "make me forget, i don't want to think about this" which i always hate in books. there's something that deeply undercuts the romance of a story if the only reason the couple is sleeping together is so that a character can "forget" a traumatic experience. it automatically leaves the reader to infer "if this bad thing wouldn't have happened to her, this wouldn't be happening," and that's not romantic or sexy.
September 30, 2024
If there is one thing that author Leila James is the queen of, it's her ability to writing compelling stories full of suspense and drama, emotions, secrets and forbidden desires, insane chemistry and spice, and lots of intrigue. If you like any of the above, you need to check out the first book in her new "All's Fair" duet, This is War.
This story centers around Jaxon, Rya, and Logan. It's a love triangle that tests their loyalties to each other and begins to shake up who they really are:
Jaxon - a rebellious spirit that takes joy in getting under Logan's skin when he's pursuing Rya. The last things that he expects is for things to spiral out of control and for very real feelings to emerge.
Rya - throughout this first part of the duet, Rya spends a good amount of trying to move on her unrequited feeling for her best friend. But ends up finds herself entangled between two stepbrothers and comes to find she's in WAY over her head with them.
Logan - for him, in the whole situation these three find themselves in, he's harboring a secret crush on Rya alongside an ongoing rivalry with Jaxon, which only complicates the situation.
This story is one emotional and gripping ride that is just getting going. It's gripping and me on the end edge of my set from start to finish. I can't wait to see what happens in book two in this intense and unpredictable triangle.
This story centers around Jaxon, Rya, and Logan. It's a love triangle that tests their loyalties to each other and begins to shake up who they really are:
Jaxon - a rebellious spirit that takes joy in getting under Logan's skin when he's pursuing Rya. The last things that he expects is for things to spiral out of control and for very real feelings to emerge.
Rya - throughout this first part of the duet, Rya spends a good amount of trying to move on her unrequited feeling for her best friend. But ends up finds herself entangled between two stepbrothers and comes to find she's in WAY over her head with them.
Logan - for him, in the whole situation these three find themselves in, he's harboring a secret crush on Rya alongside an ongoing rivalry with Jaxon, which only complicates the situation.
This story is one emotional and gripping ride that is just getting going. It's gripping and me on the end edge of my set from start to finish. I can't wait to see what happens in book two in this intense and unpredictable triangle.
September 25, 2024
This Is War ( All’s Fair In Love And War Duet ) Evermore University Book 1 ) Have you ever come across a book or a series that just hooked you in a way no other has for a very long time ? That you found yourself not only falling completely in love with from the very first page but had the ability to make you feel so many different emotions you never saw coming?Everything from being utterly speechless, to yelling outta pure frustration, to smiling and laughing to sobbing like a baby and rooting so freaking hard , Kinda like being on the craziest ride at the amusement park !!! you know that feeling you get in your stomach from being excited and nervous at the same time - the anticipation of whats to come next ? Well every single time I pick up one of Leila’s books I experience All of the above in spades . This Is War is no different, in fact I literally just spent what was most of the evening devouring every single second of Ryas, Logan’s and Jaxon’s emotional rollercoaster of a journey . And phew does the relationship between them become well let’s just say complicated and complex at times . Prepare yourself for the unexpected, prepare yourself for one heck of a ride and prepare yourself for a very long night of reading because I can guarantee once you start these is absolutely no way you’ll be able to stop .
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