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The Syndicate Academy #2
Cruel Bully
I’ve spent years trying to avoid Elias Morales, King of the syndicate academy.
He hated me on first sight, and I learned to hate him.
A hatred that never had any cause, but defined us both.
Elias may be the most devastatingly handsome boy at the academy, but he’s cruel to the core. Senior year is finally here, and my escape is in sight.
I’ll never have to see my tormentor again once I graduate.
But, Elias doesn’t intend to let me go that easily.
He wants to make sure I’ll never forget him, no matter how hard I try. He blackmails me when he finds dirt on my family.
Information that could tear our world apart.
I will not let him destroy the one thing I care about.
Which means I have to be his pet for the rest of the year. He intends to own me and claim my innocence on his terms.
He wants to leave me broken and destroyed in ways I never imagined were possible.
I thought he hated me, but his actions don't make any sense.
They say there is a fine line between love and hate.
I can already feel the line blurring as my tormentor lays his claim.
The question is, will I walk out of the academy free or will Elias finally break me?
Cruel Bully is the second book in the Syndicate Academy Series. This book can be read as a standalone and has a happily ever after ending. This is a dark bully romance story and has dark themes, hot scenes, violence, content some readers may find upsetting, and bad language.
He hated me on first sight, and I learned to hate him.
A hatred that never had any cause, but defined us both.
Elias may be the most devastatingly handsome boy at the academy, but he’s cruel to the core. Senior year is finally here, and my escape is in sight.
I’ll never have to see my tormentor again once I graduate.
But, Elias doesn’t intend to let me go that easily.
He wants to make sure I’ll never forget him, no matter how hard I try. He blackmails me when he finds dirt on my family.
Information that could tear our world apart.
I will not let him destroy the one thing I care about.
Which means I have to be his pet for the rest of the year. He intends to own me and claim my innocence on his terms.
He wants to leave me broken and destroyed in ways I never imagined were possible.
I thought he hated me, but his actions don't make any sense.
They say there is a fine line between love and hate.
I can already feel the line blurring as my tormentor lays his claim.
The question is, will I walk out of the academy free or will Elias finally break me?
Cruel Bully is the second book in the Syndicate Academy Series. This book can be read as a standalone and has a happily ever after ending. This is a dark bully romance story and has dark themes, hot scenes, violence, content some readers may find upsetting, and bad language.
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Published August 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
July 24, 2022
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Dark Bully Mafia Romance (High School)
Story: 4/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
Dark Level: 2/5
Sexual Level: D.R.I.P (Don’t Read In Public)
Triggers: Yes
Violence: Yes
Male: Bully, Popular & Sexy
Series: Book 2
Pages: loc.3713
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
WHAT I LIKED:
I’ve been reading the Chicago Mafia Don series by the author which is current and has one book remaining to be release. Reading this series, I think I complained and I had a small tantrum to get something from the (SA) Syndicate Academy. I got it and I was not disappointed. I’ve started reading this author’s last two series recently, so for the SA series, my excitement stems from the characters in this series, as they are in some way connected to someone within the last 2 series. Familiarity is part of what excites me.
Book 2 merges with Book 1 as certain scenes may seem familiar. Elias belongs to the cartel mafia, while Natalya belongs to the Russian mafia. I thought Elias was straight savage in the beginning of this story. He's been bullying Natalya for the last 5 years. Their final and 6th year in the SA, he upped the ante by blackmailing her sexually, which still was bullying verbally and physically. I like that the blackmail had a long lifespan for half the book as it was fueling Elias to get whatever he wanted form Natalya. Over time we started seeing Elias feelings change for Natalya and it morphs in to obsession mixed with possessiveness and an addiction he was not able to control. Natalya, loved her in book 1 and she was still likable. Her innocence and submissiveness was appealing and was a good combo when interacting with Elias’ dominating personality. Her quick decision in the story in regards to Finn was questionable, like girl, ummm, noooooooooooo.
This was dark, but definitely dark leaning more to the bullying the way it was done. This could offend some so be mindful and the forced intimacy may not be pleasing to all so know your limits as it’s not your typical Romeo and Juliet romance.
WHAT WAS SO SO:
I really didn’t find myself having any issues. It was read in one sitting and I personally enjoyed it, especially if you are looking for certain things when choosing dark books:
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY
Can we have a moment of silence for the sex-capades in this one…………………………..………..ok, for a moment, and only a quick moment, I thought Elias and Natalya put these adults to shame. I gave them a sex rating of D.R.I.P. as it’s not anything special but it’s the way it was done. I would classify Natalya as a masochist, someone who gets off and finds pleasure from degrading and submissiveness, but not hardcore. There was throat grabbing, forced intimacy, dirty talk, a bit of roughness and some degrading action. This story was filled with sex scenes, but I did not find the plot lacking if you are familiar with the author’s other series.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
Love the besties Eva, Camilla, Adrianna and even Giorgia. Camilla is next and I’m excited for that. I like Rizzo, Elias’ friend, hoping to see something with him, don’t want to say with who. Coach Daniels, he will be paired with one of the girls. I have one word for him, THIRSTY. Lila, Elias’ cousin, she didn’t have a big role but she should be paired with Nik.
OVERALL:
Was I entertained? Yes
Did I like the story? Yes
Would I read the other books in the series? Yes, still want to.
TRIGGERS: Forced intimacy, bullying verbal and physical and sexually.
NOTES: No om/ow, virgin heroine, no cheating.
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
Style: Dark Bully Mafia Romance (High School)
Story: 4/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
Dark Level: 2/5
Sexual Level: D.R.I.P (Don’t Read In Public)
Triggers: Yes
Violence: Yes
Male: Bully, Popular & Sexy
Series: Book 2
Pages: loc.3713
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
WHAT I LIKED:
I’ve been reading the Chicago Mafia Don series by the author which is current and has one book remaining to be release. Reading this series, I think I complained and I had a small tantrum to get something from the (SA) Syndicate Academy. I got it and I was not disappointed. I’ve started reading this author’s last two series recently, so for the SA series, my excitement stems from the characters in this series, as they are in some way connected to someone within the last 2 series. Familiarity is part of what excites me.
Book 2 merges with Book 1 as certain scenes may seem familiar. Elias belongs to the cartel mafia, while Natalya belongs to the Russian mafia. I thought Elias was straight savage in the beginning of this story. He's been bullying Natalya for the last 5 years. Their final and 6th year in the SA, he upped the ante by blackmailing her sexually, which still was bullying verbally and physically. I like that the blackmail had a long lifespan for half the book as it was fueling Elias to get whatever he wanted form Natalya. Over time we started seeing Elias feelings change for Natalya and it morphs in to obsession mixed with possessiveness and an addiction he was not able to control. Natalya, loved her in book 1 and she was still likable. Her innocence and submissiveness was appealing and was a good combo when interacting with Elias’ dominating personality. Her quick decision in the story in regards to Finn was questionable, like girl, ummm, noooooooooooo.
This was dark, but definitely dark leaning more to the bullying the way it was done. This could offend some so be mindful and the forced intimacy may not be pleasing to all so know your limits as it’s not your typical Romeo and Juliet romance.
WHAT WAS SO SO:
I really didn’t find myself having any issues. It was read in one sitting and I personally enjoyed it, especially if you are looking for certain things when choosing dark books:
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY
Can we have a moment of silence for the sex-capades in this one…………………………..………..ok, for a moment, and only a quick moment, I thought Elias and Natalya put these adults to shame. I gave them a sex rating of D.R.I.P. as it’s not anything special but it’s the way it was done. I would classify Natalya as a masochist, someone who gets off and finds pleasure from degrading and submissiveness, but not hardcore. There was throat grabbing, forced intimacy, dirty talk, a bit of roughness and some degrading action. This story was filled with sex scenes, but I did not find the plot lacking if you are familiar with the author’s other series.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
Love the besties Eva, Camilla, Adrianna and even Giorgia. Camilla is next and I’m excited for that. I like Rizzo, Elias’ friend, hoping to see something with him, don’t want to say with who. Coach Daniels, he will be paired with one of the girls. I have one word for him, THIRSTY. Lila, Elias’ cousin, she didn’t have a big role but she should be paired with Nik.
OVERALL:
Was I entertained? Yes
Did I like the story? Yes
Would I read the other books in the series? Yes, still want to.
TRIGGERS: Forced intimacy, bullying verbal and physical and sexually.
NOTES: No om/ow, virgin heroine, no cheating.
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
August 5, 2022
In general, I liked the book more than the first one. I wasn't bored reading.. The characters are young and behave standard for their age.
They have known each other for six years, first met when she was 12, he was 13. They study at the same closed school and go home only for school holidays. The hero hated the heroine very much, he has a reason for this, I will not spoiler. He hates her so much that even when she was 15-16 years old, he stabbed her in the thigh with a knife. But at some point, his feelings began to develop into obsession and lust. That's where the story begins. He is not a virgin, but there are no descriptive scenes or women in the frame with whom he used to do this. There is a girl who claims to be him, but he had nothing with her. As soon as the hero begins to pursue the heroine sexually, he is faithful only to her. The heroine is a virgin and belongs only to the hero.
They have known each other for six years, first met when she was 12, he was 13. They study at the same closed school and go home only for school holidays. The hero hated the heroine very much, he has a reason for this, I will not spoiler. He hates her so much that even when she was 15-16 years old, he stabbed her in the thigh with a knife. But at some point, his feelings began to develop into obsession and lust. That's where the story begins. He is not a virgin, but there are no descriptive scenes or women in the frame with whom he used to do this. There is a girl who claims to be him, but he had nothing with her. As soon as the hero begins to pursue the heroine sexually, he is faithful only to her. The heroine is a virgin and belongs only to the hero.
September 5, 2022
I can’t believe I liked this book, but i did. Its definitely not safe and It’s an ACTUAL bully romance, not a fake bully as so many are with this trope. The hero hates the heroine, blames her family for something horrific that happened to him as a child. And so starts a 6 year relationship with him tormenting her until their last year in HS when he blackmails her.
But as their relationship changes into something sexual and they cross those lines of intimacy, the hero’s feelings for the heroine change. He finds his obsession growing deeper and his hatred melting away. Until he realizes he loves her and wants her forgiveness. He wants her forever.
This isn’t a sweet romance, so beware. The hero is an anti-hero. He’s cruel and vicious to the heroine and there isn’t any lines he won’t cross. But he falls hard. I wasn’t happy that he fucked other women after knowing the heroine but it wouldn’t have made much sense for him not to. He didn’t have any romantic interest in the heroine before they begin a physical relationship and he truly believed he hated her. But once they cross into physical intimacy, he’s only with her and there’s never any explicit details of his past, only that had one.
Not safe. Hero was a manwhore before heroine. Heroine is a virgin and belongs only to her hero. No others, no cheating once together, he was her bully and blackmailer so yes to abuse. Hero grovels and begs for forgiveness.. HEA with epilogue almost a year out, and h pregnant.
But as their relationship changes into something sexual and they cross those lines of intimacy, the hero’s feelings for the heroine change. He finds his obsession growing deeper and his hatred melting away. Until he realizes he loves her and wants her forgiveness. He wants her forever.
This isn’t a sweet romance, so beware. The hero is an anti-hero. He’s cruel and vicious to the heroine and there isn’t any lines he won’t cross. But he falls hard. I wasn’t happy that he fucked other women after knowing the heroine but it wouldn’t have made much sense for him not to. He didn’t have any romantic interest in the heroine before they begin a physical relationship and he truly believed he hated her. But once they cross into physical intimacy, he’s only with her and there’s never any explicit details of his past, only that had one.
Not safe. Hero was a manwhore before heroine. Heroine is a virgin and belongs only to her hero. No others, no cheating once together, he was her bully and blackmailer so yes to abuse. Hero grovels and begs for forgiveness.. HEA with epilogue almost a year out, and h pregnant.
July 18, 2022
“I know everything, which means you’ll give me your innocence without complaint when I demand it or everything daddy worked for will be gone.”
I haven't read a good bully romance in a long time. This one checked off everything I like! OTT, possessive, manipulative H with an innocent virgin h who just wants to make it through school. Elias blackmails Natalya and her family, so she becomes his 'pet'. Do they fall in love? CAN they fall in love?
"She has always belonged to me in a sick and twisted way. It just took me a long time to realize that I love her, even if I can’t tell her that to her face."
Four stars. There's lots of heat in this book!! I recommend it and Bianca's other books as well.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I haven't read a good bully romance in a long time. This one checked off everything I like! OTT, possessive, manipulative H with an innocent virgin h who just wants to make it through school. Elias blackmails Natalya and her family, so she becomes his 'pet'. Do they fall in love? CAN they fall in love?
"She has always belonged to me in a sick and twisted way. It just took me a long time to realize that I love her, even if I can’t tell her that to her face."
Four stars. There's lots of heat in this book!! I recommend it and Bianca's other books as well.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2022
I don’t get it. All of the 4/5 star reviews…I was about 1/4 of the way through this and read back through the reviews confused.
I couldn’t relate to characters or connect with them. MMC was beyond cruel and there is a line between bully/sexual relationship that sizzles and…sexual assault/rape. This leaned heavily to the latter.
No character development.
Too many cliches.
No aesthetic and no world-building.
Sexy can be fun and enticing.
Sacrificing good writing just to have tons of sex in a story is not worth my TBR.
This is a no from me.
I couldn’t relate to characters or connect with them. MMC was beyond cruel and there is a line between bully/sexual relationship that sizzles and…sexual assault/rape. This leaned heavily to the latter.
No character development.
Too many cliches.
No aesthetic and no world-building.
Sexy can be fun and enticing.
Sacrificing good writing just to have tons of sex in a story is not worth my TBR.
This is a no from me.
September 13, 2022
Despite of how cruel Elias is with her i couldn't not like him.
I love how possessive ,obsessive and devoted he is with her.
I didn't give the last star only because we had 10 months of them off page before the epilogue :(
i wanted to see them back to school, how the others reacted to the engagement,etc.
I also loved when he called her nena and bonita , every freaking time.
I love how possessive ,obsessive and devoted he is with her.
I didn't give the last star only because we had 10 months of them off page before the epilogue :(
i wanted to see them back to school, how the others reacted to the engagement,etc.
I also loved when he called her nena and bonita , every freaking time.
May 22, 2023
3.75 🌟
October 4, 2022
i really love that it was a real bully romance not a little bully romance when the h always loved the woman in his head. this was a revenge bully romance like we love !
June 21, 2023
3/5⭐⭐⭐
4/5🌶🌶🌶🌶
4/5🌶🌶🌶🌶
June 5, 2024
Tags: bully, dirty-talking, hero-hurts-heroine, high-school, mafia-cartel-romance, mean-mean-girls, obsession, over-the-years, possessive-mine-mine-mine, read, teenage-romance, virgin-heroine
July 31, 2022
Cruel Bully is the second story in The Syndicate Academy series and wow to date they have both been thoroughly riveting.
Firstly, an explanation about the Syndicate Academy. It is actually a secret educational facility that educates the next generation of families that belong to the Mafia, Bratva and Cartels from around the world, and any other family that holds a strong arm over any part of society willing to educate at a very high price. So, don't expect the usual subjects of chemistry, Science and languages but subjects that will prepare the students for their future roles within their
(dark) family social standings. Interestingly they say environment makes a character, so not sure what that means this type of institution will do to young minds.
This story, Cruel Bully can very much be read on its own from the previous title, Corrupt Educator and be enjoyed without the feeling of missing out on vital background points, and I say that as I read this book first then searched out for the first book and didn't lose any book appeal.
So this time the story revolves around the primary couple of Mexican cartel member Elias Morales and Bratva originated Natalya Gurin. It is literally hatred at first sight for these two but after six years together at the Academy things change for both. Both have secrets that rule over their lives and create the obstacles that create their unhealthy relationship between the two.
I loved the character of Natalya even though all the bullying she experienced through the actions of Elias she was still a strong female character and prepared to do whatever was needed to protect her family.
The character of Elias is portrayed as a typical hot shot young Alpha and leader with his own emotional baggage that has helped create him the way he is.
So the story highlights their final year at the Academy and Elias' plan to make Natalya's a living nightmare and making her become Elias' pet for the year.
The sequences between these two are varied, usually leaning towards the uncomfortable "hot" and sultry and certainly delving into the genre of erotic and dark romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Firstly, an explanation about the Syndicate Academy. It is actually a secret educational facility that educates the next generation of families that belong to the Mafia, Bratva and Cartels from around the world, and any other family that holds a strong arm over any part of society willing to educate at a very high price. So, don't expect the usual subjects of chemistry, Science and languages but subjects that will prepare the students for their future roles within their
(dark) family social standings. Interestingly they say environment makes a character, so not sure what that means this type of institution will do to young minds.
This story, Cruel Bully can very much be read on its own from the previous title, Corrupt Educator and be enjoyed without the feeling of missing out on vital background points, and I say that as I read this book first then searched out for the first book and didn't lose any book appeal.
So this time the story revolves around the primary couple of Mexican cartel member Elias Morales and Bratva originated Natalya Gurin. It is literally hatred at first sight for these two but after six years together at the Academy things change for both. Both have secrets that rule over their lives and create the obstacles that create their unhealthy relationship between the two.
I loved the character of Natalya even though all the bullying she experienced through the actions of Elias she was still a strong female character and prepared to do whatever was needed to protect her family.
The character of Elias is portrayed as a typical hot shot young Alpha and leader with his own emotional baggage that has helped create him the way he is.
So the story highlights their final year at the Academy and Elias' plan to make Natalya's a living nightmare and making her become Elias' pet for the year.
The sequences between these two are varied, usually leaning towards the uncomfortable "hot" and sultry and certainly delving into the genre of erotic and dark romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2022
This is a great steamy addition to the Syndicate Academy Series where we get Natalys and Elias’s story. Natalya has been attending the Academy for years with the thought she’d take over the Bravta for her family. One day Elias starts as a new student speaking little English and turns Natalya’s life upside down upon making eye contact. He torments, embarrasses, physically hurts her all based on his beliefs about why his mother was killed. At the start to their senior year Elias decides he wants all of Natalya and boy does he takes every little part of her. In the beginning she’s against it but how can she not want him as from the moment she made eye contact with him she thought he was attractive. Being the King of the Academy gives Elias power that others want from him so when he is challenged he puts them in their place. These two are mortal enemies with him being a mean bully and once Elias is told the story behind his moms death he starts to see Natalya in a different light especially after they become intimate and him taking her innocence. When Elias goes out on a limb to check on Natalya you hope she’ll be able to move beyond their horrible beginnings. Beware of the trigger warnings for this story. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2022
Natalya thought she could get through to one more year of torture, but what she didn't expect was to be blackmailed by Elias into being his slave. They both attend Syndicate Academy (school of kids related to Mafia or criminal organizations ties). He knows her family's biggest secret and is scared that he'll expose it, so she agrees to be his play thing. Elias left Mexico at a young age when his father murder his mother on orders of his uncle. Yeah, f*** up right? He blamed Natalya's family at the beginning, but once he learned the truth, not so much.
This book is off the charts when it comes to sex, on a 🔥 level. Yes, I find it hard to believe they're high school kids. However, as I always say, the author is always right (it's their story and respect to them).
Steamy/hot: 10 💕
Characters: 9 (sometimes it was like ugh)
Honestly, the bully was mild, Elias wasn't an unlikeable bully. He tripped her and humiliated her (in a sexual way that she liked). There wasn't anything major that made me dislike him where I was tempted to be part of the story and throw huevos (eggs) at him.
Recommend: Yes, mild drama, teenage love, and HEA (marriage and a baby 💕).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is off the charts when it comes to sex, on a 🔥 level. Yes, I find it hard to believe they're high school kids. However, as I always say, the author is always right (it's their story and respect to them).
Steamy/hot: 10 💕
Characters: 9 (sometimes it was like ugh)
Honestly, the bully was mild, Elias wasn't an unlikeable bully. He tripped her and humiliated her (in a sexual way that she liked). There wasn't anything major that made me dislike him where I was tempted to be part of the story and throw huevos (eggs) at him.
Recommend: Yes, mild drama, teenage love, and HEA (marriage and a baby 💕).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 17, 2022
2.5 stars
Natalya was 14 when Elias showed up at her school, transferring from Mexico. Once he learns her name, he immediately sets about making her life a living hell for the next 6 years. Their senior year, he leans a secret about her family and uses this to blackmail her into being his 'pet'. This was my first read by this author and I'm disappointed. I spent most of the story wishing Natalya was stronger. She literally tried nothing to fight back or look for another way out. She just lies down and takes his abuse and public humiliation. So much secondhand embarrassment. Can't believe she though her brother was going to make her their mafia head. She was far too soft to lead anyone anywhere. I found Elias' reason for hating Natalya flimsy. The book needed more editing to make the dialogue more natural and tighten up the writing. Many of the characters lacked depth especially her best friends. We're told they're so close but not really shown. The sex scenes together was hot, I'll admit but things got repetitive. I did like Nitkin and I'm curious about him and his sinister ways but don't know if it's enough to read his book.
Natalya was 14 when Elias showed up at her school, transferring from Mexico. Once he learns her name, he immediately sets about making her life a living hell for the next 6 years. Their senior year, he leans a secret about her family and uses this to blackmail her into being his 'pet'. This was my first read by this author and I'm disappointed. I spent most of the story wishing Natalya was stronger. She literally tried nothing to fight back or look for another way out. She just lies down and takes his abuse and public humiliation. So much secondhand embarrassment. Can't believe she though her brother was going to make her their mafia head. She was far too soft to lead anyone anywhere. I found Elias' reason for hating Natalya flimsy. The book needed more editing to make the dialogue more natural and tighten up the writing. Many of the characters lacked depth especially her best friends. We're told they're so close but not really shown. The sex scenes together was hot, I'll admit but things got repetitive. I did like Nitkin and I'm curious about him and his sinister ways but don't know if it's enough to read his book.
December 10, 2022
Such a sexy read. Really enjoyed it!
August 4, 2022
This book is on par with many other books in Bianca Cole’s various series’, but I must make a note, there is quite a bit of bullying and some of it gets questionable, but if you are familiar with Ms. Cole’s work, then you know it will all work out in the end.. I mean, as much as it can for Mafioso’s.
Elias was kind of a jerk, and I didn’t like him for quite a bit of the story, but he eventually became the dark love interest I was expecting, so all’s well that ends well.
5 ⭐️s= Perfect story, exciting, engrossing, well developed complex characters, solid plot with few to no holes, descriptive environments and place settings, great mystery elements, realistic dialogue, believable reactions and behaviors, loved this story so much I’d buy it.
4 ⭐️s= Great story, highly entertaining and enjoyable, exciting storyline, well developed characters and settings, a few discrepancies but nothing that can’t be overlooked. Believable actions and reactions, realistic dialogue, a book I would consider buying.
3 ⭐️s= Good but not great story, noticeable discrepancies, grammatical and or spelling errors, undeveloped characters or unbelievable behaviors but still readable. Nothing majorly wrong with the story, just not interesting enough for me to continue. Would not buy the book.
2 ⭐️s= Not offended by the story, but not interested enough to finish. Unbelievable characters, poor writing, many mistakes, big holes or discrepancies, many spelling or grammatical errors, characters not believable, unlikeable or TSTL.
1 ⭐️= Offensive, extremely poor writing, horrible characters, victimization, gaslighting, blatant abuse, unnecessary violence, child endangerment, or any other highly objectionable behaviors by Main characters. Would never buy this book, and do not recommend it to anyone.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elias was kind of a jerk, and I didn’t like him for quite a bit of the story, but he eventually became the dark love interest I was expecting, so all’s well that ends well.
5 ⭐️s= Perfect story, exciting, engrossing, well developed complex characters, solid plot with few to no holes, descriptive environments and place settings, great mystery elements, realistic dialogue, believable reactions and behaviors, loved this story so much I’d buy it.
4 ⭐️s= Great story, highly entertaining and enjoyable, exciting storyline, well developed characters and settings, a few discrepancies but nothing that can’t be overlooked. Believable actions and reactions, realistic dialogue, a book I would consider buying.
3 ⭐️s= Good but not great story, noticeable discrepancies, grammatical and or spelling errors, undeveloped characters or unbelievable behaviors but still readable. Nothing majorly wrong with the story, just not interesting enough for me to continue. Would not buy the book.
2 ⭐️s= Not offended by the story, but not interested enough to finish. Unbelievable characters, poor writing, many mistakes, big holes or discrepancies, many spelling or grammatical errors, characters not believable, unlikeable or TSTL.
1 ⭐️= Offensive, extremely poor writing, horrible characters, victimization, gaslighting, blatant abuse, unnecessary violence, child endangerment, or any other highly objectionable behaviors by Main characters. Would never buy this book, and do not recommend it to anyone.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 29, 2025
With tension at hand and Truth revealed they both keep coming back for more
So this is a high school Mafia academy and both main characters are 18. Elias has hated Natalia since he came to the school because he thought her family was the reason for all of his troubles so after 6 years of being cruel to her and obsessing over her he finally like finds out the truth that oh her family had nothing to do with why his family moved or why he lost his mom.
So with that all being said I normally do not do high school Romance I can find it sometimes very immature but this was very much two people who didn't really know who they were and they were overshadowed by their families that they ended up growing so much in their own roles and who they were by being together.
Elias is very much a cruel person but he sees Natalia as his weakness and Natalia for the life of her cannot seem to understand why she is growing a liking to Elias I do feel like there is manipulation in this book and I also feel like there is a stronghold of dubcon and non-con in this book as well . The book for me was a 4.5 star the spice is not a slow burn and it is about a 3.5 for me there is so much tension and so much hatred between the two main characters that it just builds more suspense for the book itself and for the over growing plot that is there. I can say that side characters helped a bunch in this book and I'm so excited to see how their stories unravel I also will say that I did enjoy Natalia's brother and him being able to have a cameo in this as well as his own story I would definitely say if you're wanting something that's a little bit more spicier and more on edge for a high school romance this would be it because it is very dominated with the mafia world and with the manipulation trope ☺️
So this is a high school Mafia academy and both main characters are 18. Elias has hated Natalia since he came to the school because he thought her family was the reason for all of his troubles so after 6 years of being cruel to her and obsessing over her he finally like finds out the truth that oh her family had nothing to do with why his family moved or why he lost his mom.
So with that all being said I normally do not do high school Romance I can find it sometimes very immature but this was very much two people who didn't really know who they were and they were overshadowed by their families that they ended up growing so much in their own roles and who they were by being together.
Elias is very much a cruel person but he sees Natalia as his weakness and Natalia for the life of her cannot seem to understand why she is growing a liking to Elias I do feel like there is manipulation in this book and I also feel like there is a stronghold of dubcon and non-con in this book as well . The book for me was a 4.5 star the spice is not a slow burn and it is about a 3.5 for me there is so much tension and so much hatred between the two main characters that it just builds more suspense for the book itself and for the over growing plot that is there. I can say that side characters helped a bunch in this book and I'm so excited to see how their stories unravel I also will say that I did enjoy Natalia's brother and him being able to have a cameo in this as well as his own story I would definitely say if you're wanting something that's a little bit more spicier and more on edge for a high school romance this would be it because it is very dominated with the mafia world and with the manipulation trope ☺️
August 13, 2022
Cruel Bully is the second book in the Syndicate Academy Series. This book can be read as a standalone and has a happily ever after ending. This is a dark bully romance story and has dark themes, hot scenes. An enemies-to-lovers, hate-to-love feels, forced proximity, revenge, blackmail, pain, anger, hatred, resentment, misunderstanding, coercion, drama, suspense, violence, drama, obsession, non-consensual and, debasement, bullying, possessive, and love. This is Elias and Natalya story. Elias is part of the Mexican Cartel and Natalya is from the Russian Mafia two mortal enemies. He new student on campus instantly he decided to hate Natalya on sight and she learned to hate him too. It was a hatred that didn't have any reason, it defined them both. He came Syndicate Academy and became an evil s.o.b. he was king and running school.
Elias bullied and tormented Natalya for five years to no end. She thought that she could get away from him in their senior year and she will never have to see her tormentor again once she graduates. Oh boy, was she wrong he wasn't going to let her off so easy. He wanted to make sure that she doesn't forget him even if she tries. He up the madness with some good old blackmail of some dirt on her family. Some information that if expose would tear their world apart. Natalya couldn't let him destroy her family, this means she had to do his bidding by being his pet for the rest of the year. He intends to claim her virginity. He wants to break her and destroy her. Will Elias fall in love in quest to break Natalya?Will Natalya break or walk away free?
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elias bullied and tormented Natalya for five years to no end. She thought that she could get away from him in their senior year and she will never have to see her tormentor again once she graduates. Oh boy, was she wrong he wasn't going to let her off so easy. He wanted to make sure that she doesn't forget him even if she tries. He up the madness with some good old blackmail of some dirt on her family. Some information that if expose would tear their world apart. Natalya couldn't let him destroy her family, this means she had to do his bidding by being his pet for the rest of the year. He intends to claim her virginity. He wants to break her and destroy her. Will Elias fall in love in quest to break Natalya?Will Natalya break or walk away free?
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 29, 2022
Elias’ and Natalya’s story is filled with angst, bullying, secrets, passion, lust, dominance and all that leads to love!
Elias has bullied Nat since he stepped foot on the Academy grounds. Nat never knew why he hated her so and she had come to expect the harsh treatment and nasty encounters like it was second nature to her. Everything changed senior year when Elias made her a deal she couldn’t refuse and she became his for the entire year. The level of hotness that radiates off these pages will leave you weak in the knees and raving more.
Elias learns some insightful information about his past and he begins to see Nat in a totally new light. He needs her forgiveness but 6 years of torturing someone is a long time and he’s not sure if she can ever forgive him. Watching these two find their true selfs and discovering what each other means to them is quite an experience. You will love the hot and extra dominating scenes and their passion radiates off the page. Another amazing addition to this series by Bianca Cole. Camilla’s book is next and it is going to be dark and intense! I can’t wait! Happy Reading!
Elias has bullied Nat since he stepped foot on the Academy grounds. Nat never knew why he hated her so and she had come to expect the harsh treatment and nasty encounters like it was second nature to her. Everything changed senior year when Elias made her a deal she couldn’t refuse and she became his for the entire year. The level of hotness that radiates off these pages will leave you weak in the knees and raving more.
Elias learns some insightful information about his past and he begins to see Nat in a totally new light. He needs her forgiveness but 6 years of torturing someone is a long time and he’s not sure if she can ever forgive him. Watching these two find their true selfs and discovering what each other means to them is quite an experience. You will love the hot and extra dominating scenes and their passion radiates off the page. Another amazing addition to this series by Bianca Cole. Camilla’s book is next and it is going to be dark and intense! I can’t wait! Happy Reading!
July 30, 2022
Elias and Natalya met in sixth grade, and he hated her instantly for the pain her family had caused his. By senior year, he pledged to make her as miserable and tortured as possible before they parted ways for good after leaving the academy. Natalya decides to endure his wrath because Elias has information to destroy her family.
However, he learns that his hatred of her family may be misplaced. That leaves him with powerful and inexplicable feelings for Nat. The big question for him becomes what will he do now and how far will he go for forgiveness?
I love that the Syndicate Academy series is a little spin-off/mashup of the other mafia series Bianca writes. It is so easy to jump between all of them because the different series mention characters from the others…it comes down to a matter of do you want to read about the mafiosos in Boston, Chicago, or the younger generation that’s made to attend the same boarding school before they’re officially mobsters?
This book is enemies-to-lovers/ bully romance, mafia elements and mild violence, coercion, blackmail, and a HEA.
However, he learns that his hatred of her family may be misplaced. That leaves him with powerful and inexplicable feelings for Nat. The big question for him becomes what will he do now and how far will he go for forgiveness?
I love that the Syndicate Academy series is a little spin-off/mashup of the other mafia series Bianca writes. It is so easy to jump between all of them because the different series mention characters from the others…it comes down to a matter of do you want to read about the mafiosos in Boston, Chicago, or the younger generation that’s made to attend the same boarding school before they’re officially mobsters?
This book is enemies-to-lovers/ bully romance, mafia elements and mild violence, coercion, blackmail, and a HEA.
July 25, 2022
I haven’t read too many bully romances, but this one was excellent. Elias Morales is from the Mexican Cartel and he blames Natalya for his mother’s death. He shows up at the academy barely speaking English and he quickly become the king of the academy where most everyone is afraid of him. He’s been bulling her for the last five years, but their last year at the academy is different than before, his tactic have changed, he wants her as his slave under his complete power. Natalya is quite surprisingly bratty to him, even as she gives in to his demands. I love how they evolve into more than the tormentor abuser and innocent prey to two people who understand each other, but not quite know where these feelings are coming from or where things are going to end up. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
dnf
October 5, 2022❌DNF at 66%❌
I basically never leave notes for DNF, but I wanted to point out that this book felt like it was unfortunately leading up to one of my bigger nopes and I had to spoil the ending myself to confirm it:
I was already on the verge of DNFing because I think this book had way too much repetition (like, within the same page the character would repeat sentences.) and I couldn't shake off the feeling that the book needed more editing because this did not need to be anywhere close to 350+ pages if it was going to be so repetitive. I did like the bullying, but yeah.
I basically never leave notes for DNF, but I wanted to point out that this book felt like it was unfortunately leading up to one of my bigger nopes and I had to spoil the ending myself to confirm it:
I was already on the verge of DNFing because I think this book had way too much repetition (like, within the same page the character would repeat sentences.) and I couldn't shake off the feeling that the book needed more editing because this did not need to be anywhere close to 350+ pages if it was going to be so repetitive. I did like the bullying, but yeah.
July 20, 2022
This story is not for the faint of heart so be sure to read the trigger warnings before reading. If you have no triggers, hang on, you're in for a heckuva ride! The Syndicate Academy is where evil resides apparently. At least in this case it is. Elias Morales is evil incarnate. His goal from the very first day at the Academy has been to make life for Natalya Gurin a living h*l^. He started his reign as King of the Academy his first year there and that was the beginning of his torment for Natalya. Cruel Bully is definitely the perfect title for this book. It's a fantastic, dark, delicious, enemy to lovers, bully story, heavy on the bully. This story is full of emotion, chaos, twists and turns. It's intriguing from beginning to end and holds your attention all the way through.
July 20, 2022
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wow I absolutely loved this book, the story was amazing and the characters were sensational. I had some OMG moments and also some WTF why. I was on the edge of my seat while reading this story Elias Morales his first day at The Syndicate Academy he honed in on a student for revenge. Natalya has been at The Syndicate Academy for a few years, while sitting with her good friends, they had a new guy come to sit with them he then refused until someone else goes. Natalya and her brother Mikhail was told a family secret by their father their life will be in danger if it ever got out.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wow I absolutely loved this book, the story was amazing and the characters were sensational. I had some OMG moments and also some WTF why. I was on the edge of my seat while reading this story Elias Morales his first day at The Syndicate Academy he honed in on a student for revenge. Natalya has been at The Syndicate Academy for a few years, while sitting with her good friends, they had a new guy come to sit with them he then refused until someone else goes. Natalya and her brother Mikhail was told a family secret by their father their life will be in danger if it ever got out.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2022
This is the second book in The Syndicate Academy series and since it is available on Kindle Unlimited, you can read both the first two books for free. Elias and Natalya met in grade school. He hated her for the pain her family had caused his. He has made her life miserable as much as he can over the years. Now they are in the final year at the SA, he is blackmailing her for s*x, bullying her, and abusing her. As bad as he is to her, she is doing all this to protect her brother and her family. Eventually Elias desire for revenge change into something else. Fast paced, sizzling, steamy, brutal, action packed, and more. Great read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 9, 2022
I was shocked that none of the reviews mentioned the typos and errors. But maybe it was just my brain that was in the wrong.
If my rating were to be based on smut only, it would have been five stars. Because holy hell it was smoking! Though I found some of Nat's dirty talk to be a bit cringey.
There was more dialogue between the main characters and their friends. Than dialogue between the two main characters together that didn't include dirty talk.
At times Elias's "tough guy" routine got annoying.
What was with Natalya constantly spitting on or in Elias's face (3x's in the first 48% of the book). No offense but that gross. If she was spitting into his mouth like he did to her that would have been a different story.
If my rating were to be based on smut only, it would have been five stars. Because holy hell it was smoking! Though I found some of Nat's dirty talk to be a bit cringey.
There was more dialogue between the main characters and their friends. Than dialogue between the two main characters together that didn't include dirty talk.
At times Elias's "tough guy" routine got annoying.
What was with Natalya constantly spitting on or in Elias's face (3x's in the first 48% of the book). No offense but that gross. If she was spitting into his mouth like he did to her that would have been a different story.
December 4, 2024
I don’t think I could have loved Natalya and Elias more. Mafia academy romances are always a favorite of mine and this book was really good.
For every moment Elias bullied Natalya in the beginning and was a little cruel, it just made the moments in the end when he so incredibly sweet and caring worth it. It was great watching him go from bullying her and doing something mean and then immediately feeling regret, and when he realized how wrong he was and that her family had nothing to do with what happened to his, I couldn’t wait to see how he was going grovel.
This was a great read and all the side characters were equally enjoyable- well except Jeanie! But Natalya had some great girls around her!
For every moment Elias bullied Natalya in the beginning and was a little cruel, it just made the moments in the end when he so incredibly sweet and caring worth it. It was great watching him go from bullying her and doing something mean and then immediately feeling regret, and when he realized how wrong he was and that her family had nothing to do with what happened to his, I couldn’t wait to see how he was going grovel.
This was a great read and all the side characters were equally enjoyable- well except Jeanie! But Natalya had some great girls around her!
July 22, 2022
Let's start with the good part.
The smegsi scenes.
YUMMM-O 😂💃
This book have perfect raunchy smegsi!
Seriously, the smegsi scenes are filthy, raunchy, down right dirty.
There's shaming and praise kink.
There's breeding kink.
There's little breath, dominant play.
There's rough deflowering.
Lots of hate f**ck.
Public segs are in play too.
So yeah buckle up you segs kitten for it's 🔥🔥🔥ride💃
Only one thing bothering me in the smegsi department. When Elias wants her to call him master.
Yeah that just not doing it for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The smegsi scenes.
YUMMM-O 😂💃
This book have perfect raunchy smegsi!
Seriously, the smegsi scenes are filthy, raunchy, down right dirty.
There's shaming and praise kink.
There's breeding kink.
There's little breath, dominant play.
There's rough deflowering.
Lots of hate f**ck.
Public segs are in play too.
So yeah buckle up you segs kitten for it's 🔥🔥🔥ride💃
Only one thing bothering me in the smegsi department. When Elias wants her to call him master.
Yeah that just not doing it for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 22, 2022
This title ticks all the boxes if you like dark, mafia, academy, bully, enemies to lovers tropes. I always love a Bianca Cole read and this one is no different. The age of these characters is much younger than her other book's I've read but Bianca's style shines through.
Nat and Elias' story is a quick spicy read with all the angst and twists you need. This one is a firm enemies to lovers romance though. The storyline is interesting and engaging. I can see story arc's forming with supporting characters which will be great.
A great read for those looking for something quick and entertaining.
Nat and Elias' story is a quick spicy read with all the angst and twists you need. This one is a firm enemies to lovers romance though. The storyline is interesting and engaging. I can see story arc's forming with supporting characters which will be great.
A great read for those looking for something quick and entertaining.
July 29, 2022
I enjoyed this book, well written with plenty of action, drama and steamy too. This is Natalia and Elias story. Natalya has been bullied by Elias ever since he transferred to her academy for reasons she is bit aware of. Elias blames Natalya’s family for his misfortunes and as a result takes it out on her. Elias finds some information about Natalya’s family to further his cause to have her. Their story starts off as quite messy initially, however this changes as the book progresses. There is definite character growth for Elias before prior to the couples HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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